The Slave Auction

[HAWEIS, spoken]
John, your father never let anyone else run the auctions

[JOHN, spoken]
Haweis, you never get anywhere in life if you play by the rules

[HAWEIS, spoken]
Bring it down

[JOHN, spoken]
Gentleman!

(sung)
The Royal Africa Company is privileged to offer today
The pick of the crop, a lifetime of work
And a price you’ll be happy to pay
They live to serve, this is what they're meant to be
But don’t take my word, inspect them yourself
I’m sure you will agree

We have a male of thirty years from the Ivory Coast
Understand twelve commands, so he's smarter than most
Open your mouth
His teeth and gums show he survived the journey well
And there's a half-year guarantee on every specimen we sell

(spoken)
Where should we start?
Perhaps at 30 pounds, 30 pounds
30, yes, on the side! Thank you!
30 and a crown now? 30 and a crown?
Come on people, this one is strong as an ox. Thank you
32 now? Anyone? 32? 32? No? Going once, twice?
Sold, 30 and a crown. Thank you, sir

[HAWEIS, spoken]
Your wife will be very pleased, Mr. Helms
This will make how many for you?

[MR. HELMS, spoken]
Three

[JOHN, sung]
Every now and again
We get a true two for one
Twice the help for your wife
Twice the work to be done
Come on, dear friends
What’s your money for?
40 pounds
Your time is valuable

(spoken)
Thank you, sir

[?, spoken]
The captain is absent, but his son is in charge. Why don’t we kill the boy?

[?, spoken]
No, no one gets hurt. You wait for my signal

[HAWEIS, spoken]
Something's going on. This doesn't feel right!

[JOHN, spoken]
What! Everything's fine
Come on, if you don’t bid now, someone else will get her
Give me 42 quid
42, here in the blue cravat? Yes sir!
44 now, I’m taking her off the block and I’m keeping her myself

[HAWEIS, spoken]
I think I should fetch the captain and the militia

[JOHN, spoken]
No! I can handle this. We’re doing well! I'll make more money than father ever dreamed!
44? Thank you. 46, anyone? 46? No? 46?
Going once, twice? Sold, 44 pounds. Sir, congratulations