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[Page 6]
in that horrible transaction, [indeciphertable] his brother members in that very assembly which a short time since endeavoured to procure for his crimes that punishment which they merited - these very men thus elevated to the rank of Legislators are most active in promoting the multiplication of new, & often highly exceptionable laws, while the old Laws of the island which were prominently distinquished for their wisdom, are neglected, violated, & forgotten - It is supposed by many, & not without reason that colonial laws can only be enforced for 12 months from the date of their enactment, unless ratified by the Jury: yet an act passed some few years since, & the very Title of which is objectionable, is yet in force - it is an act to prevent The Emancipation of Slaves. I have already observed that Old Mr Huggins & his two eldest Sons are Legislators of this island, & as such should undoubtely set an example of strict obedience to the laws - yet I regret to say, that an event has occurred which proves this not to the case: One of these Legislators - Mr Edwd. Huggins Junr. perpetrated on the night of the 30th. or morning of the 31st. one of the most deliberate & unprovoked murders, which ever was recorded; this murder shortly after its commission, he confessed to a Magistrate, who yet neglected to take him into custody, & was after a warrant was issued in consequence of the Coroners verdict, Mr Huggins visited Charlestown with impunity - & upon the Monday following, without ever having been arrested, was bailed by the Chief Justice & two of his assistant Judges, Two of the Crown Lawyers, having attended on his part from St Kitts, & the only Crown Lawyer in this island, Mr John Paterson, who ought to have appeard on behalf of his Majesty to prosecute keeping aloof - thro' fear I should suppose of the Culprits family - For the person shot was a Negro, & his Master