"--Benson J. Lossing's _Life of George
Washington_, vol. iii., p. 537.
THIS INTERESTING DIALOGUE WAS WRITTEN BY AN AMERICAN ABOUT 1800
The following dialogue took place between Mr. Jackson the master of a
family, and the slave of one of his neighbors who lived adjoining the
town, on this occasion. Mr. Jackson was walking through the common and
came to a field of this person's farm. He there saw the slave leaning
against the fence with a book in his hand, which he seemed to be very
intent upon; after a little time he closed the book, and clasping it
in both his hands, looked upwards as if engaged in mental prayer;
after this, he put the book in his bosom, and walked along the fence
near where Mr. Jackson was standing. Surprised at seeing a person of
his color engaged with a book, and still more by the animation and
delight that he observed in his countenance; he determines to enquire
about it, and calls to him as he passes.
_Mr. J_. So I see you have been reading, my lad?
_Slave_. Yes, sir.
_Mr. J_. Well, I have a great curiosity to see what you were reading
so earnestly; will you show me the book?
_Slave_. To be sure, sir.
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