The slave Patrols on the plantations did not dare resist at all. Three large plantations nearby were soon brought under the control of the "Florida Royal Army." A group of fierce-looking Black soldiers announced to the Plantation Owners gathered in the open that the Governor of Florida had granted freedom to every Black slave here. The plantations were obligated to provide the slaves with at least three months' living expenses. At the same time, the Royal Army would protect the plantations' property and safety, and the newly freed slaves were not to damage the plantations.
In an instant, more than 290 Black slaves were so overwhelmed that they hugged one another and wept, desperately trying to kiss the Black soldiers' boots.
Yes, this was completely different from the situation during Booker's uprising.
Back then, the rebel army had no ability to provide the slaves with shelter, much less let them see hope for the future. Following the rebels around the United States to raid plantations and slaughter Whites indiscriminately would most likely end with suppression by the U.S. government, so most Black slaves had taken a negative attitude toward the rebels.
But now, the Florida army from the "Runaway Slave Paradise" had declared in the name of the King of Spain that they had gained freedom. From now on, they could head to Florida openly and honorably to live there. The Americans could never go there to seize them.
Nearly every Black slave had heard of Florida's runaway slaves. It was the paradise of their dreams—there was freedom, food, wages, and they could even rest for several hours every day.
This time, the Royal Army had even thoughtfully made the Plantation Owners give them travel money. Three months—even crawling, they would have enough time to crawl to Florida. Meanwhile, from