Chapter 34

“I lied,” said Mpingu, “but they made me.” “Who made you?” demanded Praeclarus. “The officers of Caesar and Caesar’s son,” replied Mpingu. “They dragged me to the palace of the Emperor and held me down upon my back and brought tongs to tear out my tongue and hot irons to burn out my eyes. Oh, master, what else could I do? I am only a poor slave and I was afraid and Caesar is very terrible.” “I understand,” said Praeclarus. “I do not blame you, Mpingu.” “They promised to give me my liberty,” said the black, “but ins…