that I entirely disapprove of flogging, and will have none of it on the
estate. I hope you understand me."

"That's plain English and easy understood, Miss Dinsmore, and Dinsmore,
and of course you have a right to dictate in the matter; but I tell you
what, these darkies o' yours are a dreadful lazy set, specially that Suse;
and it's mighty hard for folks that's been used to seein' things done up
spick and span and smart to put up with it."

"But some amount of patience with the natural slowness of the negro is a
necessary trait in the character of an overseer who wishes to remain in my
employ."

"Well, miss, I always calculate to do the very best I can by my employers,
and when you come to look round the estate, I guess you'll find things in
prime order; but I couldn't ha' done it without lettin' the darkies know
they'd got to toe the mark right straight."

"They must attend to the work, of course, and if they won't do so
willingly, must under compulsion; but there are milder measures than this
brutal flogging."

"What do you prescribe, Miss Dinsmore?"

"Deprive them of some privilege, or lock them up on bread and water for a
few days," Elsie answered; then turned an appealing look upon her father,
who had as yet played the part of a mere listener.

"I have never allowed any flogging on my estate," he observed, addressing
Spriggs, "and I cannot think it at all necessary."