For what is it that awakens the abilities of men, and distinguishes them from the common herd?
Is it not often the amiable hope of becoming serviceable to individuals, or the state?
Is it not often the hope of riches, or of power?
Is it not frequently the hope of temporary honours, or a lasting fame?
These principles have all a wonderful effect upon the mind.

They call upon it to exert its faculties, and bring those talents to the publick view, which had otherwise been concealed.

But the unfortunate Africans have no such incitements as these, that they should shew their genius.

They have no hope of riches, power, honours, fame.

They have no hope but this, that their miseries will be soon terminated by death.
And here we cannot but censure and expose the murmurings of the unthinking and the gay; who, going on in a continual round of pleasure and prosperity, repine at the will of Providence, as exhibited in the shortness of human duration.