The Descent of Man

that an Indian Thug conscientiously regretted
that he had not robbed and strangled as many
travellers as did his father before him. In a rude
state of civilisation the robbery of strangers is,
indeed, generally considered as honourable.
Slavery, although in some ways beneficial during
ancient times (34. See Mr. Bagehot, 'Physics
and Politics,' 1872, p. 72.), is a great crime;
yet it was not so regarded until quite recently,
even by the most civilised nations. And this
was especially the case, because the slaves belonged
in general to a race different from that
of their masters. As barbarians do not regard
the opinion of their women, wives are commonly
treated like slaves. Most savages are
utterly indifferent to the sufferings of strangers,
or even delight in witnessing them. It is well
known that the women and children of the
North-American Indians aided in torturing
their enemies. Some savages take a horrid plea-