The two grand divisions of this work proposed at the outset, were, first, a delineation of slavery in a theoretic view, as a legal institution; and secondly, a delineation of the state in respect of its practical nature and effects. The former part of my task has been performed; the latter has been long retarded, and still remains to be accomplished.

While many readers of my former volume, have expressed some impatience of desire for the appearance of the present; others, perhaps, have thought that this part of my plan might be conveniently and properly laid aside; considering how much the practice of slavery has, during the last five years, been discussed before the public by other writers, whose principles are in accordance with my own.—To a large part of the community, it may seem that the great objects of my labours, the mitigation and gradual abolition of slavery, are virtually attained or secured; and that the Parliamentary resolutions of May, 1823, with the consequent measures of Government, have made this sequel of my work useless, at least, if not even adverse to my purpose.