trace it to the interference of meddling, and unprincipled men. They excite
the minds of the slaves, and render these laws necessary for the very
protection of our lives. But without this interference, there would be no
such necessity. In this Walsh's Appeal, which is now open before me, you
will find, where Abel left off reading, these remarks, which show that not
only the health and comfort of the slaves, but also their feelings, are
greatly considered. 'The master who would deprive his negro of his
property--the product of his poultry-house or his little garden; who would
force him to work on holidays, or at night; who would deny him common
recreations, or leave him without shelter and provision, in his old age,
would incur the aversion of the community, and raise obstacles to the
advancement of his own interest and external aims.'"

"Then," said Mr. Hubbard, "you mean to say, he is kind from self-interest
alone."

"No, I do not," replied Arthur; "that undoubtedly, actuates men at the
South, as it does men at the North; but I mean to say, so universal is it
with us to see our slaves well treated, that when an instance of the
contrary nature occurs, the author of it is subject to the dislike and
odium of his acquaintances."

"But," said Mr. Hubbard, "that does not always protect the slaves--which
shows that your laws are sometimes ineffectual. They are not always secure
from ill-treatment."

"But, do your laws always secure you from ill-treatment?" said Arthur.

"Of course," said Mr. Hubbard, "the poorest person in New England is as
safe from injustice and oppression, as the highest in the land."