"And of course you will carry out the Governor's orders?" asked Barron, smiling pleasantly.
"At any cost, sir," replied Mr. Johnson.
"So you say," remarked Barron, still smiling.
"So I'll do," replied Mr. Johnson coloring a little at Barron's remark. "If you doubt me, sir, try me," and he looked about him for his men who now came straggling up.
"No offence, sir," put in Barron, quickly. "I merely repeated a remark said to have been made quite often in the society at court—a remark expressing doubt in the mind of the person making it, without reflecting in any manner upon the sincerity of the person telling of the supposed event."
"At any rate, you certainly will allow us time to collect my people and attend to my scattered property. Also, you will allow us to make what necessary changes in our personal attire we see fit?" I asked.
"Certainly, sir," replied the officer, "the frigate will anchor for the night in the broad reach a few miles below the bend, and you shall have plenty of time, not only to pack your effects, but to send for whatever relatives you wish to accompany you. The men, meanwhile, can collect your slaves and send them on ahead of us."
"We shall make our preparations," I answered shortly, and then I led the way into the Hall.