My master being a political demagogue, soon found those who were ready to put him into office, for the favors he could render them; and a few years after his arrival in Missouri, he was elected to a seat in the Legislature.

In his absence from home, everything was left in charge of Mr.Cook, the overseer, and he soon became more tyrannical and cruel.

Among the slaves on the plantation, was one by the name of Randall.

He was a man about six feet high, and well-proportioned, and known as a man of great strength and power.

He was considered the most valuable and able-bodied slave on the plantation; but no matter how good or useful a slave may be, he seldom escapes the lash.