There have been those who've talked freely that have been advised to keep still or harm would come of it." "And did harm come of it ?" asked the judge.
"They always kept still." "What do you mean by talking freely ?" "Like asking how so and so got the money to buy his last batch of niggers," explained Mr.Saul rather vaguely.
"And Colonel Fentress is one of those about whose affairs it is best not to show too much curiosity ?" "He is, decidedly.

His friends appear to set a heap by him.

Another of his particular intimates is a gentleman by the name of Murrell." The judge nodded.
"I've met him," he said briefly.

"Does he belong hereabouts ?" "No, hardly; he seems to hold a sort of roving commission.

His home is, I believe, near Denmark, in Madison County." "What's his antecedents ?" "He's as common a white man as ever came out of the hills, but he appears to stand well with Colonel Fentress." "Colonel Fentress!" The judge spat in sheer disgust.
"You don't appear to fancy the colonel--" said Mr.Saul.
"I don't fancy wearing a gag--and damned if I do!" cried the judge.
"Oh, it ain't that exactly; it's just minding your own business.