Graham was the first to speak. His voice was loud and dictatorial. “What is this I hear?” he asked. “Are you bringing negroes here—to keep the people down?”
“It is none too soon,” said Ostrog. “They have been getting out of hand more and more, since the revolt. I under-estimated—”
“Do you mean that these infernal negroes are on the way?”
“On the way. As it is, you have seen the people—outside?”
“No wonder! But—after what was said. You have taken too much on yourself, Ostrog.”
Ostrog said nothing, but drew nearer.
“These negroes must not come to London,” said Graham. “I am Master and they shall not come.”
Ostrog glanced at Lincoln, who at once came towards them with his two attendants close behind him. “Why not?” asked Ostrog.
“White men must be mastered by white men. Besides—”
“The negroes are only an instrument.”