and on the back of each label was printed:
6½ᴰ
He fastened a label to each twin's neck, to their riotous delight. Then they sat on the open space by the roadside awaiting customers. But it seemed to be a slack time for the slave trade. Only three people passed, and they did not even look at the patient group of four eager small boys.
The procedure had been explained to George and John, as far as their infant intelligences could absorb it, and they expressed themselves willing and anxious to be sold and rescued.
At last, when they were tired of waiting, a fourth passer-by appeared, an old man, walking very slowly. William, taking his courage in both hands, approached him.
"Do you want a slave?" he asked.
"Eh?" said the old man.
"Do you want a slave?"
"What?" said the old man.