There is now a most fearful case in the city,--a negro
belonging to Mr. Grabguy has become mad with disobedience: they have
chained him to the floor, but he sets everything at defiance,
threatens the lives of all who come near him,--says he will die or be
free. Against this there is little hope for old Bob; his crooked
story will not suit the high considerations of these amiable
worthies of state: he must be siezed and dragged to the workhouse,
there to await the result. It is a profitable morning's work for Mr.
Ford Fosdick, who makes a large note in his ledger, and will soon
carry out a very acceptable item on behalf of his dear self. So,
while Bob eats his corn-grits in a cell, and his heart beats high
with purity, Mr. Ford Fosdick revels in luxury he thinks not
ill-gotten.
Due notice, in accordance with the statutes, is given to all persons
whomsoever may claim a piece of property answering the description
of Daddy Bob, as herein set forth. Weeks pass, but no one comes to
claim Bob. In the eyes of an ignoble law he is a cast out, homeless
upon the world; and as such must be sold. He is put up at the
man-shambles, and, by order of Mr. Ford Fosdick, sold to Mr. Cordes
Kemp for the sum of two hundred and fifty dollars, one half of which
sum is the state's own, the other Mr. Ford Fosdick's. Mr. Cordes
Kemp had seen Bob working about the wharf, and learned that the old
man was of more value than his outward appearance indicated,
inasmuch as he was a good carpenter; which we have not before
informed the reader.
Pages:
673
674
675
676
677
678
679
680
681
682
683
684
685
686
687
688
689
690
691
692
693
694
695
696
697