Page:A Chapter on Slavery.djvu/116

From Wikisource
Jump to navigation Jump to search
This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
102
A CHAPTER ON SLAVERY.

that which the intellects of the Caucasian race have ever yet exhibited. There is more of the child, of unsophisticated nature, in the Negro race than in the European, — a circumstance, however, which must always lower them in the estimation of a people whose natural distinction is a manly and proud bearing, and an extreme proneness to artificial society and social institutions. If the Caucasian race is destined, as would appear from the precocity of their genius, and their natural quickness, and extreme aptitude to the arts, to reflect the lustre of the Divine wisdom, or, to speak more properly, of science — shall we envy the Negro, if a later but far nobler civilization await him, — to return the splendor of the Divine attributes of mercy and benevolence, in the practice and exhibition of all the milder and gentler virtues? It is true, the present rude lineaments of the race might seem to give little warrant for the indulgence of hopes so romantic; but yet those who will reflect upon the natural constitution of the African may see some ground even for such anticipations. Can we not read an aptitude for this species of civilization I refer to, in that singular light-heartedness which distinguishes the whole race, — in their natural want of solicitude about the future — in them~ a vice at present, but yet the natural basis of a virtue — and, especially, in that natural talent for music with which they are preeminently endowed; — to say nothing of that willingness to serve, the most beautiful trait of humanity, which we, from our innate love of dominion, and in defiance of the Christian religion, brand with the name of servility, and abuse, not less to our. own dishonor