It is probable that the actual condition of the negroes in Jamaica, is but little if any better than it was during slavery.

The amount of punishment inflicted by the special magistrates, cannot fall much short of that usually perpetrated by the drivers.

In addition to this, the apprentices are robbed of the _time_ allowed them by law, at the will of the magistrate, who often deprives them of it on the slightest complaint of the overseer.

The situation of the _free children_[A] is often very deplorable.

The master feels none of that interest in them which he formerly felt in the children that were his property, and consequently, makes no provision for them.