carry four more than could be put in without trespassing upon the room
allotted to the rest; for we see that the bodies of the slaves, except just
at the head of the vessel, already touch each other, and that no deduction
has been made for tubs or stanchions to support the platforms and decks.

Such was the picture, which the committee were obliged to draw, if they
regarded mathematical accuracy, of the room allotted to the slaves in this
vessel. By this picture was exhibited the nature of the Elysium, which Mr.
Norris and others had invented for them during their transportation from
their own country. By this picture were seen also the advantages of Sir
William Dolben's bill; for many, on looking at the plate, considered the
regulation itself as perfect barbarism. The advantages however obtained by
it were considerable; for the Brookes was now restricted to four hundred
and fifty slaves, whereas it was proved that she carried six hundred and
nine in a former voyage.

The committee, at the conclusion of the session of parliament, made a
suitable report. It will be unnecessary to detail this for obvious reasons.
There was, however, one thing contained in it, which ought not to be
omitted. It stated, with appropriate concern, the death of the first
controversial writer, and of one of the most able and indefatigable
labourers, in their cause. Mr. Ramsay had been for some time indisposed.
The climate of the West Indies, during a residence of twenty years, and the
agitation in which his mind had been kept for the last four years of his
life, in consequence of the virulent attacks on his word and character by
those interested in the continuance of the trade, had contributed to
undermine his constitution. During his whole illness he was cheerful and
composed; nor did he allow it to hinder him, severe as it was, from taking
any opportunity which offered of serving those unhappy persons, for whose
injuries he had so deeply felt. A few days only before he died, I received