[6] Preserves.
[7] In the South, a rain is called a "season," not only by the negroes, but by many white farmers.
[8] It is a far-away sound that might be identified with one of the various undertones of silence, but it is palpable enough (if the word may be used) to have attracted the attention of the humble philosophers of the old plantation.
[9] Measuring.
[10] Compliments.
[11] That is, from the foundation, or beginning.
[12] To pine or long for anything. This is a good old English word, which has been retained in the plantation vocabulary.
[13] A corruption of "aye, aye." It is used as an expression of triumph and its employment in this connection is both droll and picturesque.
[14] Southern readers will recognize this and "han'-roomance" as terms used by negroes in playing marbles,—a favorite game on the plantations Sunday afternoons. These terms were curt and expressive enough to gain currency among the whites.
[15] Levy.