* The "patrol" or local police who formerly had the
surveillance of slaves.

"I don't know," returned Courtland calmly, ignoring his overseer's
manner. "But if they did you must comply with the local regulations
unless they conflict with the Federal laws, when you must appeal to the
Federal authorities. I prefer you should avoid any trouble until you are
sure."

"I reckon they won't try any games on me," said the negro with a short
laugh.

Courtland looked at him intently.

"I thought as much! You're carrying arms, Cato! Hand them over."

The overseer hesitated for a moment, and then unstrapped a revolver from
his belt, and handed it to Courtland.

"Now how many of you are in the habit of going round the town armed like
this?"

"Only de men who've been insulted, sah."

"And how have YOU been insulted?"

"Marse Tom Highee down in de market reckoned it was high time fancy
niggers was drov into de swamp, and I allowed that loafers and beggars
had better roost high when workin' folks was around, and Marse Tom said
he'd cut my haht out."