Chapter 2 : En Virginie, épisode de la guerre de sécession…

The author introduces the work by asserting a commitment to absolute historical truth, arguing that exploring difficult or delicate subjects is essential for understanding the evolution of modern civilisation and human morals. Addressing potential critics, the author maintains that depicting natural facts and raw historical realities without artificial prudery is far more honest and morally sound than engaging in hypocritical censorship or affected literary modesty. The text explicitly warns readers who might seek unwholesome excitement to discard the volume immediately, clarifying that the study is written strictly for mature admirers of nature and historical truth rather than casual purveyors of vice. A significant portion of the introduction critiques English societal prudery and the intrusive influence of foreign moral policing bodies, such as a London-based vigilance society that presumes to judge continental literature and manners. The author condemns the hypocrisy of critics from across the English Channel, arguing that rigid puritanical suppression breeds extreme hypocrisy rather than genuine virtue, and criticises French legal authorities for yielding to foreign denunciations. To further support this literary stance, the author incorporates an extended excerpt from Jean Richepin regarding the Chanson des Gueux, which champions unvarnished, robust language and natural artistic nudity over the refined corruption found in veiled, prudish literature. The author concludes these preliminary remarks by reiterating that the upcoming narrative is intended exclusively for discerning bibliophiles and amateurs who appreciate frank artistic expression. Following this introductory essay and defense, the publication promises to provide a detailed historical study examining the specific practices and customs surrounding the corporal punishment and flagellation of enslaved people in America before the commencement of the main historical narrative set in Virginia.