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THE NEGRO.

nobility less shining than that of heroes, but surely more useful, and whose title is not sullied with the tears of humanity.

My mother died in giving me birth; and, as I was the only fruit of their union, my father lavished the whole affections of his heart on me. Sufficiently rich, he quitted commerce, and turned all his attention to the care of my education.

Nature gave me a happy figure, the fiery character of my countrymen, their swift imagination, and all the ardour of their passions. I would not have spoken thus of my capacity, did I not think it a homage due to my fellow citizens: know, then, I was altogether a provencal; and that is to say much.

At the time of my birth our commerce with the Levant was on the decline. The mean abilities of the consuls distributed in the sea-ports there, was supposed to be the cause. The chamber of commerce at Marseilles cast their eyes on my father, as a person capable of repairing the evil. Such an honour interfered with his views, but the love of his country rose superior to his private wishes. He was appointed to the place of consul at Smyrna. The king confirmed the nomination, and he prepared for his departure.

Being too young to accompany him, my father committed me to the care of a beloved

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THE NEGRO.

friend; and having taken every precaution which he thought would contribute to my happiness, he embarked for Smyrna. 

My education was that of all the young men of my condition and fortune, that is to say, my talents were assiduously cultivated, and my morals neglected. They talked to me of virtue and religion, because they must talk of them; but they dwelt on my future riches, on the charms of my figure, and the honours which awaited me. 

Thus had I false notions of every thing. I took reputation for virtue; enjoyment for happiness; and glory for my only aim.

At eighteen I was entirely formed, and was the inhabitant of Marseilles; that is to say, I was sufficiently corrupted. My father was eager to see me: and the curiosity of youth and yet more the respect paid my father's rank, which I flattered myself to partake, met his wishes. I was in haste to proceed to him. I departed, and was soon in his arms.

The novelty of every thing which was before my eyes, the honours which were paid me, the first impressions of filial affection, the pleasures, the luxury of our modes of life, these occupied all my delightful moments; and I passed six months if not happy at least imagining myself to be so.

One morning, carelessly walking without
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