He tried his best to be cheerful, but there were times when despair assailed him in spite of all his courage and natural buoyancy.
"Better reconsider," said the slaver one day, catching the look upon his face.

"As I've told you, Peter, the life on the plantations is hard and they don't last long, no matter how strong they are.

There's peril in the life I lead, I'll admit, but at least there's freedom also.

Sport's to be found among the islands, and along the Spanish Main." "I couldn't think of it," said Robert.
"Well, it's the second time I've made you the offer, and the last.

I perceive you're bent on a life in the sugar cane, and you'll have your wish." Robert, seeing no chance of escape from the ship now, began to hope for rescue from without.