Undoubtedly there were blacks in the town, both slaves and free negroes, with whom Sam could easily establish an acquaintance.

By this means we would soon be able to identify that particular preacher into whose care I hoped to confide Rene.

Of course, the girl might refuse to enter into the game, might decline to assume the role assigned her, however innocent I intended it to be--indeed, I felt convinced she would meet the suggestion with indignation.

But why worry about that now?
Let this be kept as a last resort.

There was no necessity for me to even mention this part of my plan until after our approach to Beardstown; then the necessity of our going forward with it might be so apparent, she could not refuse to carry out her part.