Proof 1st. The militia were not called out during Christmas holidays. _Before_ emancipation, martial law invariably prevailed on the holidays, but the very first Christmas after emancipation, the Governor made a proclamation stating that _in consequence of the abolition of slavery_ it was no longer necessary to resort to such a precaution. There has not been a parade of soldiery on any subsequent Christmas.[B] [Footnote B: This has been followed by a measure on the part of the Legislature, which is further proof of the same thing. It is "an Act for amending and further continuing the several Acts at present in force for better organizing and ordering the militia." The preamble reads thus: "WHEREAS the abolition of slavery in this island renders it expedient to provide against an unnecessary augmentation of the militia, and the existing laws for better organizing and ordering that local force require amendment." The following military advertisement also shows the increasing confidence which is felt in the freed men: "RECRUITS WANTED.--The free men of Antigua are now called on to show their gratitude and loyalty to King WILLIAM, for the benefits he has conferred on them and their families, by volunteering their services as soldiers in his First West India Regiment; in doing which they will acquire a still higher rank in society, by being placed on a footing of perfect equality with the other troops in his Majesty's service, and receive the same bounty, pay, clothing, rations and allowances. None but young men of good character can be received, and all such will meet with every encouragement by applying at St. John's Barracks, to H. DOWNIE, _Capt. 1st W.I. Regt_. _September 15th_, 1836." ] 2d. The uniform declaration of planters and others: "Previous to emancipation, many persons apprehended violence and bloodshed as the consequence of turning the slaves all loose. But when emancipation took place, all these apprehensions vanished. The sense of personal security is universal. We know not of a single instance in which the negroes have exhibited a _revengeful spirit_." _S. Bourne, Esq., of Millar's.--Watkins, Esq., of Donovan's._ "It has always appeared to me self-evident, that if a man is peaceable while a _slave_, he will be so when a _free man_." _Dr. Ferguson._ "There is no possible danger of personal violence from the slaves; should a foreign power invade our island, I have no doubt that the negroes would, to a man, fight for the planters. I have the utmost confidence in all the people who are under my management; they are my friends, and they consider me their friend." _H. Armstrong, Esq., of Fitch's Creek._