The new projects of these would be intemperate; and, in the zeal of rivalship, the present evils of comparatively sober dealing would be aggravated beyond all estimate in this new and heated auction of bidders for life and limb.

We might indeed by regulation give an example of new principles of policy and of justice; but if we were to withdraw suddenly from this commerce, like Pontius Pilate, we should wash our hands indeed, but we should not be innocent as to the consequences.
On the first agitation of this business, Mr.Wilberforce had spoken confidently of other nations following our example.

But had not the National Assembly of France referred the Slave-trade to a select committee, and had not that committee rejected the measure of its abolition?
By the evidence it appeared, that the French and Spaniards were then giving bounties to the Slave-trade; that Denmark was desirous of following it; that America was encouraging it; and that the Dutch had recognized its necessity, and recommended its recovery.

Things were bad enough indeed as they were, but he was sure this rivalship would make them worse.
He did not admit the disorders imputed to the trade in all their extent.
Pillage and kidnapping could not be general, on account of the populousness of the country; though too frequent instances of it had been proved.

Crimes might be falsely imputed.