"Howdy, marster?" said Free Joe, taking off his hat.
"Who are you?" exclaimed Calderwood abruptly, halting and staring at the negro.
"I'm name' Joe, marster. I'm Lucindy's ole man."
"Who do you belong to?"
"Marse John Evans is my gyardeen, marster."
"Big name—gyardeen. Show your pass."
Free Joe produced that document, and Calderwood read it aloud slowly, as if he found it difficult to get at the meaning:
"To whom it may concern: This is to certify that the boy Joe Frampton has my permission to visit his wife Lucinda."
This was dated at Hillsborough, and signed "John W. Evans."
Calderwood read it twice, and then looked at Free Joe, elevating his eyebrows, and showing his discolored teeth.