"The truth is, a depth of cunning that enables them to over-reach, conceal, deceive, is the only province of the mind left for them, as slaves, to occupy."
— Ramsay, James (1733-1789)
Author
Place of Publication
London
Publisher
Printed and Sold by James Phillips
Date
1784
Metaphor
"The truth is, a depth of cunning that enables them to over-reach, conceal, deceive, is the only province of the mind left for them, as slaves, to occupy."
Metaphor in Context
The truth is, a depth of cunning that enables them to over-reach, conceal, deceive, is the only province of the mind left for them, as slaves, to occupy. And this they cultivate, and enjoy the fruits of, to a surprizing degree. I have, as a magistrate, heard examinations and defences of culprits, that for quibbling, subterfuges, and subtilty, would have done credit to the abilities of an attorney, most notoriously conversant in the villainous tricks of his profession. Their command of countenance is so perfect, as not to give the least clue for discovering the truth; nor can they be caught tripping in a story. Nothing in the turn or degree of their mental faculties, distinguishes them from Europeans, though some difference must appear, if they were of a different or an inferior race.
(pp. 245-6)
(pp. 245-6)
Categories
Provenance
Searching in Google Books
Citation
James Ramsay, An Essay on the Treatment and Conversion of African Slaves in the British Sugar Colonies (London: printed and sold by James Phillips, 1784). <Link to Google Books>
Date of Entry
07/29/2011
