They are foolish enough to think they are just as good as any
body, and can be gentlemen in their profession. They, poor fools!
mistake the south in their love of happy New England and its
society, as they call it.
Having completed his bargain, he hesitates, as if there is something
more he would like to have. "Graspum!" he says, "What for trade? can
we strike for that imp o' yours at Mrs. Tuttlewill's?" Without
waiting for Graspum's reply, he adds-"That chap 's goin to make a
tall bit of property one of these days!"
"Ought to," rejoins Graspum, stoically; "he's got right good stock
in him." The man of business gives his head a knowing shake, and
takes a fresh quid of tobacco. "Give that 'sprout' a chance in the
world, and he'll show his hand!" he adds.
"That's what I wants," intimates our tradesman. He has had his eye
on the fellow, and knows he's got a head what 'll make the very best
kind of a workman. But it will be necessary to take the stubborn out
without injuring the "larning" part. Mr. Grabguy, with great
unconcern, merely suggests these trifling matters for the better
regulating of Mr. Graspum's price.
"Can do that easy enough, if you only study the difference between a
nigger's hide and head. Can put welts on pretty strong, if you
understand the difference a'tween the too," intimates our man of
business, as he places his thumbs in his vest, and commences humming
a tune. Then he stops suddenly, and working his face into a very
learned contortion, continues-"Ye see, Grabguy, a man has to study
the human natur of a nigger just the same as he would a mule or a
machine.
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