"You forget," said Mr. Villars, "that Washington, Jefferson, and indeed all the wisest and best men who assisted to frame the government under which we have been so prospered, were anti-slavery men."
"Wal, I know, some on 'em hadn't got enlightened on the subject," Mr. Ropes admitted.
"And do you know that if a stranger, endowed with all the virtues of those patriots, should come among you and preach the political doctrines of Washington and Jefferson, you would serve him as you served Penn Hapgood last night?"
"Shouldn't wonder the least mite if we should!" Silas grinned. "But that's nothing to the purpose. We claim the right to carry our slaves into the territories, and Lincoln's party is pledged to keep 'em out, and that's cause enough for secession."
"How many slaves do you own, Mr. Ropes?" Mr. Villars, still leaning on his daughter's arm, smiled as he put this mild question.
"I—wal—truth is, I don't own nary slave myself—wish I did!" said Silas.
"How many friends have you with you?"
"'Lev'n," said Gad, rapidly counting his companions.
"Well, of the eleven, how many own slaves?"
"I do!" "I do!" spoke up two eager voices.