An interesting letter appears in Wednesday's papers signed by the
deputation from the Anti-Slavery Society which recently visited Lisbon. On the day of their arrival the formation of an Anti-Slavery Society in Portugal was announced,the Committee consisting of Army and Navy officers, together with leading representatives of the Law, the Press, commerce, and industry. What is more important, it enjoys the full approval and support of the Republican Government, and has expressed its earnest desire to work in co-operation with the British Anti- Slavery Society. The deputation were received by the new Minister of Foreign Affairs, Senhor Bernardine Machado, who assured them of the Government's resolve to deal adequately with the question, and urged them to continue to work upon British public opinion, which would certainly make its influ- ence felt upon public opinion in Portugal. In view of these assurances, which were confirmed by the Minister of the Marine and Colonies, the members of the deputation believe they are entitled to rely on the Portuguese Government's genuine intention to abolish San Thome slavery. They add, and we cordially support their view, an expression of confidence that "in proportion as this resolution is carried into effect the people of this country will join in welcoming the new regime, and wishing it all prosperity for the future."
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