•222 
THE CONFERENCE. 
Obi. — I believe everything you have said, and I once 
more consent to give up the slave-trade. 
Some of the presents were now brought in, which 
Obi looked at with evident pleasure. His anxiety to 
examine them completed his inattention to the remainder 
of the palaver. 
Commissioners. — These arc not all the presents that 
will be given to you. We wish to know if you are 
willing to stop boats carrying slaves through the 
waters of your dominions ? 
Obi. — Yes, very willing; except those I do not see. 
Commissioners. — Also to prevent slaves being carried 
over your land ? 
Obi. — Certainly ; but the English must furnish me 
and my people with arms, as my doing so will involve 
me in war with my neighbours. 
Obi then retired for a short time to consult with his 
headmen. 
Commissioners — (ora his return). — Have you power 
to make an agreement with the Commissioners in the 
name of all your subjects? 
Obi. — I am the King. What I say is law. Are 
there two Kings in England ? There is only one here. 
Commissioners. — Understanding you have sovereign 
power, can you seize slaves on the river ? 
Obi. — Yes. 
Commissioners. — You must set them free. 
Obi. — Yes, {snapping his fingers several times). 
Commissioners. — The boats must be destroyed. 
