nvicts in order to prevent the
introduction of them.

It was finally agreed nem: contrad: to make the clause read "but
a tax or duty may be imposed on such importation not exceeding
ten dollars for each person", and then the 2d. part as amended
was agreed to.

Sect 5--art--VII was agreed to nem: con: as reported.

Sect 6. art. VII. in the Report was, postponed.

Section 9. The Migration or Importation of such Persons as any of
the States now existing shall think proper to admit, shall not be
prohibited by the Congress prior to the Year one thousand eight
hundred and eight, but a Tax or duty may be imposed on such
Importation, not exceeding ten dollars for each Person.[565]

James McHenry said before the Maryland House of Delegates in November
29, 1787:

Conventions were anxious to procure a perpetual decree against
the importation of Slaves; but the Southern States could not be
brought to consent to it--All that could possible be obtained was
a temporary regulation which the Congress may vary
hereafter.[566]

In 1787 James Wilson said before the Convention called in
Pennsylvania to ratify the constitution:

With respect to the clause restricting Congress from prohibiting
the migration or importation of such persons as any of the States
now existing shall think proper to admit, prior to the year 1808,
the honorable gentleman says that this clause is not only dark,
but intended to grant to Congress, for that time, the power to
admit the importation of slaves. No such thing was intended; but
I will tell you what was done, and it gives me high pleasure that
so much was done. Under the present confederation, the States may
admit the importation of the slaves as long as they please; but
by this article, after the year 1808, the Congress will have
power to prohibit such importation, notwithstanding the
disposition of any State to the contrary. I consider this as
laying the foundation for banishing slavery out of this country;
and though the period is more distant than I could wish, yet it
will produce the same kind, gradual change which was pursued in
Pennsylvania. It is with much satisfaction I view this power in
the general government, where by they may lay an interdiction on
this reproachful trade. But an immediate advantage is also