Benito Cereno

Francesco, a young servant of multiracial heritage, approaches Delano, Cereno, and Babo and announces lunch in the cabin. Delano notices the boy’s elegance, grace, and pleasant voice, contrasting sharply with Babo’s small frame. Impressed, he asks Cereno if Francesco has proven himself to be a worthy individual. Cereno reluctantly answers that he has. Delano then expresses his belief that mixing white blood with African blood enhances the latter’s quality. Cereno agrees and adds that similar comments are made about the blending of Spanish and Indigenous American blood.

Delano and Cereno make their way into the cabin, taking their seats on opposite sides of the table. The meal is frugal, made from Delano’s provisions. Delano notices that Babo is standing behind him rather than behind Cereno and presumes this position allows him to better anticipate his master’s needs. Delano praises Babo’s intelligence for such foresight. Intrigued by the San Dominick’s voyage, Delano queries Cereno about the disproportionate deaths from scurvy and fever among the white sailors compared to the Black passengers. This question unsettles Cereno, who appears shaken and terrified. Cereno then explains that the constitution of Black people is stronger than that of white people, rendering them more resistant to disease.