"The Captain of this brig is the agent; he represents the government, and is obliged to find places for the prisoners." "Yes; I know that.

We are billed like so much livestock; he must account for every head." "Well, Uncle Roger went to him yesterday, and made a bid for you.
Finally they came to terms.

That is one reason why you are left alone here on deck tonight.

The officers are no longer responsible for you--you are already indentured." I drew a deep breath, and in the sudden impulse of relief which swept over me, my own fingers closed tightly about her hands.
"You tell me I am to accompany your party up the Chesapeake ?" "Yes." "I owe this to you; I am sure I must owe this to you--tell me ?" Her eyes drooped, and in the dim light I could mark the heaving of her bosom, as she caught her breath.
"Only--only the suggestion," she managed to say in a whisper.

"He--he was glad of that.