Page:Neuroomia.djvu/247

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HE ADDRESSES LARGE AUDIENCES.
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slavery, which was the principal cause of the war. Of course I knew that at first they were horror-stricken at the cruelty of a section of my countrymen who prospered by trading in human bones and flesh; but on the other hand, I knew that they could appreciate the magnanimity of the philanthropists, their sacrifices and final triumph in the cause of outraged humanity.

At the close I did not forget to point out that among the civilized nations slavery as a recognised institution had ceased to exist. Then I referred to the black-labour question, still to be solved, and strongly advised them, even if it were possible, never to import "coloured" labour, for it would lead to no end of troubles; and, above all, never to have anything to do with "black-birding." There was no interruption, and no questions were asked; indeed, that vast crowd listened with a silence that was commendable.

During the lecture I noticed several of my friends and acquaintances present. Among them were Onneyubla, Yeyema, Vandalia, Alvarez, Delemia, Yondozi, Hitomlik, Moro, Estas, Arizenda, Banyaba, Folbrizzio, Ilaclatella, Golonzola, Fontin, Unaloplo, Fudelora, and many others.

When I sat down, I was heartily applauded, and,