Why this delay? What’s happening? The slaves

Leagued in rebellion!... Cut them into strips!

[Voices are heard of people approaching. A crowd gathers. There is great general excitement.]

Bystanders.

[Cry.]

Soldiers! Here come the townclerk, magistrate! [Enter Soldiers, Townclerk, Magistrate and others.]

The Townclerk.

[Arriving first, and stuttering with excitement.]

Wh-what’s the matter? [He grasps the situation.]

What, a gang of slaves