Introduction

As Mankind from one Parent are divided into many Families, and as Trading to Sea is greatly increased within a few Ages past; amidst this extended Commerce how necessary is it that the professed Followers of Christ keep sacred his Holy Name, and be employed about Trade and Traffick no farther than Justice and Equity evidently accompanies? That we may give no just Cause of Offence to any, however distant, or unable to plead their own Cause; and may continually keep in View the Spreading of the true and saving Knowledge of God, and his Son Jesus Christ, amongst our Fellow Creatures, which through his infinite Love some feel to be more precious than any other Treasure.

Humanity has spread from one parent into many families. Sea trade has greatly increased over the past few centuries. Amid this expanded commerce, how necessary it is for those who profess to follow Christ to honor his holy name. They should trade only where justice and fairness clearly accompany their dealings. In this way, we may give no one just cause for offense, however distant they may be or unable to plead their own cause. We should also keep in mind the spread of the true and saving knowledge of God and his Son Jesus Christ among our fellow creatures. Through his infinite love, some feel this knowledge to be more precious than any other treasure.