CHAPTER XIX
THE BAMBOULA
DOCTOR FOUCHÈRE returned shortly after dark. He expressed himself as delighted at seeing his guest.
This man was by far the most brilliant Haytian of Dessalines' acquaintance; his life had been spent largely in the capitals of Europe; the later association with his wife had done much to give him polish. The element which raised him most above his compatriots was the fact that he came of higher caste. There are caste grades among the African negro as with any other great race, and Fouchère was descended from the highest of these. He was a Marabout of direct descent; a breed distinct by virtue of both physical and mental superiority; his maternal grandmother was still alive; she was a mama-loi, at least eighty years of age; in appearance, forty.
Dessalines, fatigued by his long journey, retired early; the Fouchères did the same. Haytians retire early when they retire at all. Dessalines' sleep was deep and refreshing; at dawn he awoke brimming with strength. Jules shaved him, laid out ultra-English riding clothes, and when Dessalines descended for déjeuner the effect he produced upon his host and hostess was flatteringly noticable.
226
