“Did you say a slave, sir, perhaps an African cannibal?”
“Exactly. This gives a most extraordinary account of the fellow on shipboard. Ship’s Captain says he’s educated.”
“I can’t believe it, sir.”
“Um—would be very strange, if true. But who would be bringing him over here?” The American Revolution had not yet become a mellowed memory. Americans—white or black—would bear watching.
“Nevins!”
“Yes, sir.”
“I should like you to attend this meeting.”
“I, sir?”
“Find out what this slave has to say and what’s behind him.”