APRIL 30.
A free mulatto of the name of Rolph had frequently been
mentioned to me by different magistrates, as remarkable for the
numerous complaints brought against him for cruel treatment of
his negroes. He was the son of a white ploughman, who at his
death left him six or seven slaves, with whom he resides in the
heart of the mountains, where the remoteness of the situation
secures him from observation or control. His slaves, indeed,
every now and then contrive to escape, and come down to Savannah la
Mar to lodge their complaints ; but the magistrates,
hitherto, had never been able to get a legal hold upon him.
However, a few days ago, he entered the house of a Mrs. Edgins,
when she was from home, and behaving in an outrageous manner to her
slaves he was desired by the head-man to go away.
Highly incensed, be answered, " that if the fellow dared to speak
another word, it should be the last that he should ever utter."
The negro dared to make a rejoinder; upon which Rolph aimed
a blow at him with a stick, which missed his intended victim,
but struck another slave who was interposing to prevent a scuffle
and killed him, upon the spot. The murder was committed in
the presence of several negroes ; but negroes are not allowed to
give evidence, and as no free person was present, there are not
only doubts whether the murderer will be punished, but whether
he can even be put upon his trial.
