"He is already sold," repeated Hull exultingly. He despised Robert Stevens for his wealth and popularity. To have purchased a slave whom Robert Stevens wanted, was great glory for Hull.
"Fear not, good man," said Robert to the unfortunate slave. "I have money enough to purchase your freedom."
Unfortunately those words fell on the ears of Thomas Hull, and he answered:
"It is the order of the king that all serve their term out, and none be allowed to purchase their freedom."
"I will give you one hundred pounds for the slave," cried Robert.
"No."
"A thousand!"
"Robert Stevens, for some reason you want this slave restored to liberty."
"No. Sell him to me, and he shall serve out his term."
"I understand your plan. You would make his servitude a luxury. You cannot have the slave for a hundred times the sum you offer. By law, the convict is fairly mine until he hath fully served his term. I am not so heartless as you deem me. His child can go to my house, where she will be cared for."