The planters softened down, the system of slavery as much as possible.

_They were exceedingly anxious to put a stop to discussion and investigation._ Having obtained a letter of introduction from an American merchant here to a planter residing about four miles from town, we drove out to his estate.

His mansion is pleasantly situated on a small eminence, in one of the coolest and most inviting retreats which is to be seen in this clime, and we were received by its master with all the cordiality and frankness for which Barbados is famed.

He introduced us to his family, consisting of three daughters and two sons, and invited us to stop to dinner.

One of his daughters, now here on a visit, is married to an American, a native of New York, but now a merchant in one of the southern states, and our connection as fellow countrymen with one dear to them, was an additional claim to their kindness and hospitality.
He conducted us through all the works and out-buildings, the mill, boiling-house, caring-house, hospital, store-houses, &c.