THE SAVAGE ISLAND
scarcely say. You have heard of course of the destruction of the Crête-à-Pierrot?"
"Yes, yes."
"Since that event it is said that Firmin is losing ground. One says that he has enemies here." The eyes of the mulatto grew catlike. "I doubt if he will continue his efforts. Jean Jumeau, his general, still occupies Gonaïves, and as long as he can hold that place Nord Alexis is walled up in the north. Fouchard, in the south, has sent an expedition against Firmin. They will probably meet at Petit Goâve, where there will no doubt be a bloody encounter."
"And at Port au Prince?"
"The Chamber has elected Boisrund Canal as President of the Provisional Government. Really, my dear comte, poor Hayti is at the mercy of the strongest arm. One cannot hold political opinions. Myself, I mind my business and sell my coffee for as much as I can get, which is little enough, God knows!"
Dessalines turned away to hide his exultation.
"You are proceeding to Port au Prince, of course," said Calisthène presently. "I do not think that the captain of this vessel will get any coffee to carry; the trade is practically controlled by the Holland and German lines; the freights are very low. In that case I beg that you will honor me by being my guest until to-morrow."
Dessalines bowed. "I shall be delighted! I am most fortunate; and now if you will excuse me I will attend to the landing of my horse. Could you procure me a lighter, my dear friend. He is a very fine animal; I dislike to swim him to the beach."
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