 [ N ] o citizen or citizens of the United States , or any other person or persons , shall , after the passing of this act , as aforesaid , for himself , themselves , or any other person or persons whatsoever , either as master , factor , or owner , build , fit , equip , load , or otherwise prepare , any ship or vessel , in any port or place within the jurisdiction of the United States , nor cause any such ship or vessel to sail from any port or place <unk> , within the jurisdiction of the same , for the purpose of procuring any negro , mulatto , or person of colour , from any foreign kingdom , place , or country , to be transported to any port or place whatsoever , to be held , sold , or otherwise disposed of , as slaves , or to be held to service or labour ; and if any ship or vessel shall be so built , fitted out , equipped , laden , or otherwise prepared , for the purpose aforesaid , every such ship or vessel , her tackle , apparel , furniture , and lading , shall be forfeited , one moiety to the use of the United Slates , and the other to the use of the person , or persons who shall sue for said forfeiture , and prosecute the same to effect ; and such ship or vessel shall be liable to be seized , prosecuted , and condemned , in any court of the United States having competent jurisdiction . 
