“Don’ want no wages,” said Quashy.
“Besides,” resumed Lawrence, “even if I were willing to take you, Senhor Pedro might object.”
“I no care for Senhor Pedro one brass buttin,” retorted the negro.
The Peruvian smiled rather approvingly at this candid expression of opinion.
“Where you gwine?” asked Quashy, abruptly.
“To Buenos Ayres.”
“I’s gwine to Bens Airies too. I’s a free nigger, an’ no mortial man kin stop me.”
As Quashy remained obdurate, and, upon consultation, Lawrence and Pedro came to the conclusion that such a sturdy, resolute fellow might be rather useful in the circumstances, it was finally arranged, to the poor fellow’s inexpressible delight, that he should accompany them in their long journey to the far east.