"I beg your pardon," resumed Dalhousie, with a supercilious air; "I only meant that your mind was satisfied—relieved from a painful anxiety."
"A very painful anxiety," replied Jaspar.
"I understand, sir, you own a large plantation."
"Well."
"Perhaps you need an overseer?"
Jaspar acknowledged that he did need an overseer.
"I should be happy to make an engagement with you," said the other, in complaisant tones.
"I don't think you would suit me. You are too genteel, by half," returned Jaspar, bluntly.
"I have been in a better position, it is true. I was born in France, but I understand the business."
"Did you ever manage a gang of niggers?"