So far is this
carried out, that in many districts a rivalry for the largest amount
of crop on a given space is carried on among the slaves, who not
unfrequently "chafe" each other upon the superior wealth and talent
of their masters. It is a well-known fact, that John C. Calhoun's
slaves, in addition to being extremely fond of him, were proud and
boastful of his talent.
Daddy Bob is an exemplification. The faithful old slave had become
sensible of something wrong on the plantation: he saw the sheriff
seizing upon the families, secreted himself in the corn crib, and
fled to the woods when they were out of sight. Here, sheltered by
the myrtle, he remained until midnight, intently watching the
mansion for signs of old mas'r. Suddenly a light glimmers from the
window; the old slave's feelings bound with joy; he feels it an
invitation for him to return, and, leaving his hiding-place,
approaches the house stealthily, and descries his master at the
window. Confidence returns, his joy is complete, his hopes have not
misled him. Hungry and wet, he has found his way back to master,
whose face at the window gladdens his heart,--carries him beyond the
bounds of caution. Hence the cordial greeting between the old slave
and his indulgent master. We hear the oft-expressed words-"Master! I
love ye, I do!" Marston gets a candle, lights the old man to a bed
in the attic, bids him good night, and retires.
CHAPTER XIV.
IN WHICH THE EXTREMES ARE PRESENTED.
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