MAN. By whom can we send this?
PED. (examining the note.) It must go immediately. The appointment is only two days off and Lafitte cannot be trusted to be found at the last moment. He is said to be frequently away from Barataria for days.
MAN. How about that nigger of Darblee? He is thought to be very much en rapport with Lizbette, the old witch of the island, who is Lafitte’s staunch friend.
PED. Just the man! Frighten him sufficiently with portents and he would as soon think of dying as of proving faithless. (enter Baptiste at back.)
MAN. Isn’t that he?
PED. Baptiste. (Baptiste starts; comes forward bowing.) You are in great danger.
BAP. Yes, sah.
PED. It behooves you to be careful.—Do you know Lizbette?
BAP. Naw, sah, I ain’t—