“'Yes, sir; but my will was strong. I managed to get books, now one way, now another. I have read considerable, sir.'
“This he said with some pride.
“'Have you ever read Shakespeare?'
“'In part, sir; but I never could get hold of “Hamlet.” I have always wanted to read that play.'
“I drew him out, and was astonished at the extent of his information, and the intelligent judgment which he expressed.
“'I wonder that, with your acquirements, you should have been content to remain in a state of slavery.'
“'Content!' he repeated bitterly. 'Do you think I have been content? No, sir. Twice I attempted to escape. Each time I was caught, dragged back, and cruelly whipped. Then I was sold to the father of these little ones. He treated me so well, and I was getting so old, that I gave up the idea of running away.'
“'And where is he now?'
“'He became a colonel in the Confederate service, and was killed at Antietam. Yesterday my mistress died, as I have told you.'
“'And are you left in sole charge of these little children?'