ice is
a species of servitude, often a servitude to inferiors, for doubtful
reward. Politics is better, but not the best."

"What is the best?"

"That depends upon the man. Some are easily contented. But I am not
sure that contentment is a trait of a noble mind. I used to own negro
slaves in New York. They were contented. To rest satisfied is the
virtue of slaves."

"Yes, the niggers are contented, generally speaking. You were about to
say what you think the best profession."

"The best for an ignorant African may be bondage to a good master; the
best for you would be something more aspiring. I regard military
life--the profession of arms, as the highest and most independent."

"Not in times of peace."

"This is not a time of peace, Mr. Morgan. We are on the eve of war and
stupendous conquests. I speak advisedly. I am a soldier myself. You
have heard rumors of war on the Sabine?"

"Yes; rumors. The Morgans are a military family, also; and I feel
fighting blood stir in me when I read about the Spaniards."

"Does the red stuff boil? Your blood is right. You can't help it. If
you, or your younger brother--I believe you have a brother besides
the general?"

"Yes, George. My name is Thomas. They call me Tom."

"Tom, eh? Well, then, Tom, I was about to say if you and your brother
George--"

"Spur up, gentlemen, we are leaving you behind," shouted General
Morgan, looking back. "We are within half a mile of father's
residence."

"More talk another time," said Burr, not finishing his sentence, and
the pair, urging their horses to a faster gait came up with the
others. Just then the party met a robust countryman who saluted the
Morgans, as he trotted by on a skittish colt.

"What a fine-looking fellow! I wish I had ten thousand just such
vigorous young giants!"

"What would you do with them?" the general asked. "Ten thousand would
form a large colony. That is one of the farm hands. Those are our
barns and the house is just beyond."

On their arrival, Colonel George Morgan stood on the porch to receive
his guests. A well-preserved old gentleman, he might have said:

"My age is as a lusty winter,
Frosty, but kindly."

His career had been eventful, aggressive, venturesome, and romantic.
At the close of the Revolutionary War he felt aggrieved because of the
non-payment of claims he held against the Government. Odium attached
to his name on account of his procuring from Spain a grant of lands
w