human
I charge myself with the defence of the town, said Toussaint.
gpt
Your part, Commissary, is to sign the new proclamation instantly; and to prepare to sail for France, with as many persons as desire to accompany you. On your promise to do this, I will guarantee the public peace. In this case, you incur no further dishonour than that of not understanding the temper and the affairs of the blacks. If you refuse to go, I shall arrest you here, and denounce you to the government of France, as the cause of the insurrection which will undoubtedly ensue. You will not choose to incur this infamy. Therefore, he continued, turning to Captain Meronet,
human
You shall be protected to the latest possible moment, for the convenience of making your arrangements. When I can protect you no longer, I will cause the alarm gun on the height behind the barracks to be fired. At that signal, you will hasten to the boats, and be gone. Assure yourself of my justice, and render me an equal measure at the court of France. Farewell!
gpt
What is to be done?
human
It is true enough, said Hedouville,
gpt
Most pressing, there is no doubt.
human
Then I have done with this mongrel colony; and I am not sorry. At home I shall find means to vindicate my honour.
gpt
You mean to depart, then, Commissary?
human
When we hear the alarm gun. Not sooner. It is possible that it may be a mere threat.
gpt
If so, it will be the first mere threat in which this black has been detected.
human
That is true. He usually acts first, and speaks afterwards. Gentlemen, we shall have to go. I must first see about this proclamation, and discover whether anything else can be done. If not, Captain, au revoir!