"By the laws of Georgia these children, instead of being his heirs, are my slaves.

Their mother was a slave before them, and they were born slaves; and if they were in Savannah, I could sell them both to-morrow.

On the whole, I think I've made you a very fair offer, and I'd advise you to think of it." "No, Mr.Stevens; I shall accept no such paltry sum.

If you wish a quick and peaceful possession of what you are pleased to regard as your rights, you must tender something more advantageous, or I shall feel compelled to bring this thing into court, even at the risk of loss; and there, you know, we should be obliged to make a clear statement of _everything_ connected with this business.

It might be advantageous to _us_ to bring the thing fully before the court and public--but I'm exceedingly doubtful whether it would advance _your_ interest." Stevens winced at this, and asked, "What would you consider a fair offer ?" "I should consider _all_ a just offer, half a fair one, and a quarter as little as you could have the conscience to expect us to take." "I don't see any use in this chaffering, Mr.Balch," said Stephens; "you can't expect me to give you any such sums as you propose.