farmer that the Southern farmer is today practically at the mercy of his keener and more intelligent fellows. And of all people, Robert, your people need trained intelligence to cope with this problem of farming here. Without intelligence and training and some capital it is the wildest nonsense to think you can lead your people out of slavery. Look round you.” She told him of the visitors. “Are they not hard working honest people?”
“Yes, ma’am.”
‚ÄúYet they are slaves‚ÅÝ‚Äîdumb driven cattle.‚Äù
“But they have no education.”
‚ÄúAnd you have a smattering; therefore are ready to pit yourself against the organized plantation system without capital or experience. Robert, you may succeed; you may find your landlord honest and the way clear; but my advice to you is‚ÅÝ‚Äîfinish your education, develop your talents, and then come to your life work a full-fledged man and not a half-ignorant boy.‚Äù
“I’ll think of it,” returned the boy soberly. “I reckon you’re right. I know Miss Taylor don’t think much of us. But I’m tired of waiting; I want to get to work.”
Miss Smith laid a kindly hand upon his shoulder.
“I’ve been waiting thirty years, Robert,” she said, with feeling, and he hung his head.
“I wanted to talk about it,” he awkwardly responded, turning slowly away. But Miss Smith stopped him.
“Robert, where is the land Cresswell offers you?”
“It’s on the Tolliver place.”