Chapter-17
Eventually, I was sold to a corn-dealer. The Governor had left me there, for he thought that I would be well fed there.
Although the food was much yet the work was too much. I had to pull carriages loaded with sacks.
My carter Jakes had often protested but in vain.
It was difficult to move with the bearing rein for long distances. Besides, I had to apply all my strength to pull the loaded carts.
I wanted some rest, so I had to pause every now and then. Jakes was too irritated and whipped me for halting.
Seeing me being whipped, a lady asked Jakes to stop. She said that the load seemed too heavy for me to pull it over the steep road. Trying to help me she asked him to remove the bearing rein which hindered me from applying my full strength.
Jakes loosened the rein as much as possible. Then I pulled the cart with full strength. Using every ounce of my strength I pulled the load uphill and was soon at the top. Both the lady and Jakes were happy to see my will power.
The lady told Jakes not to use the rein again but Jakes said that he could loosen the rein but not remove it.
“But people have left using reins nowadays. So, I’m sure that you can go without a rein,” said the lady.
Jakes agreed with her and promised that he wouldn’t use the bearing rein again at least while going uphill.
But the load was no less any day. Since I got exhausted too soon, another horse was brought to substitute me. I was sold to a man who owned a number of cabs and horses.
It was good for me because there was no source of light in the corn merchant’s stable, except a small window. It adversely affected my sight. Thus I found it difficult to open my eyes when I came out in daylight. So, I left the dark stable at the right time before my eyes got permanently damaged.