206 UGANDA AND THE EGYPTIAN SOUDAN.

been as a fact entirely depopulated by the ravages of the slave-dealer.

In my judgment, the time has passed for advocating the total abolition of slavery on the ground of the hardships which the natives are supposed to endure as domestic slaves. When once sold, they are not badly treated. As far as my observation goes, domestic slaves are happy and contented, sufficient food and clothing are provided, and they usually live a lazy, sleepy life, admirably suited to their normal habits. They cannot be expected in such circumstances to make advances either morally or intellectually, but it must be conceded that their condition is not one of suffering or even of toil. A favourite slave is frequently treated with more kindness and consideration than his master's own children.

My reason for urging the sup2:)ression of domestic slavery is, that as long as the demand for slaves exists, so long will it be supplied. We do not need to go to Egypt to learn this. In Europe—in our own country— there is a demand for the means of gratifying vice, and it is supplied. All over the world there are, sad to say, those to be found who, for the sake of money, will risk all ; and it appears to me that the only effectual way to prevent the capture of slaves in the interior, is to put an end to their sale in the towns and ports of Lower Egypt.

The marches of these unhappy beings, the thirst.