ABSTRACT

THE independence of Hayti was declared on the 1st of January, 1804, and the first step taken by Dessalines, who had been vested with the chief com· mand, was to endeavour to stop the emigration which was going on, and remove the delusion under which the blacks were labouring. For this purpose he caused it to be made generally known, that all previous opinions would be buried in oblivion, and those who had been allured to take part with the enemies of the colony, and had been induced to emigrate from apprehension of the consequences which such conduct might entail upon them, were invited to return to their homes, being assured of protection and security; at the same time, however, he gave it out, that all those who were disposed to accompany the French army were at liberty to do so, and should be allowed to depart unmolested. This augured favourably, and many took advantage

of this declaration of clemency, who afterwards had to regret their credulity and condemn their own want of foresight and discretion.