The trade was not one calculated to develop the highest qualities of honor, and to swindling the captains usually added theft and murder.

Any negro who came near the ship to trade, or through motives of curiosity, was promptly seized and thrust below.

Dealers who came on board with kidnapped negroes were themselves kidnapped after the bargain was made.

Never was there any inquiry into the title of the seller.

Any slave offered was bought, though the seller had no right--even under legalized slavery--to sell.
A picturesque story was told in testimony before the English House of Commons.