JULES, "THE RAVEN"
where they hung, elbows bent from the tonic contraction of the heavy biceps. "Who," Jules continued, "has such a magnificent presence for the council chamber; such wisdom for the laws of statecraft?" Dessalines' eyes brightened. "Such honesty, such goodness, to endear him to his people!" The negro face assumed an expression of ineffable good nature. "Such a figure to follow into the combat!" Dessalines drew himself to his full height, the flat nostrils began to dilate. "Or," continued the valet, "such a voice with which to hurl forth his battle cry and lead his victorious troops!"
"Holà!" cried Dessalines. His bulging eyes were bright; the whole expression, was exultant. He turned to his valet. "You give me courage, my good Jules! What should I do without you, camarade? You show me things in their real light!" He threw his great arms above his head, fists clenched; drew the sweet evening air deeply into his spacious lungs. "Courage, Dessalines! Courage, mon ami! God willing, you shall yet lead your troops to glorious victory!" The tears gushed from his eyes; he threw both hands upward with a gesture of adoration.
"Leave me, Jules. I wish to pray."
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