Benito Cereno.

A New England captain sails near the coast of Chile. He comes upon a Spanish ship that flies no flag. Its sails hang loose. The captain rows across with supplies. On board he finds the Spanish commander seated on deck. The man speaks little and moves with effort. African slaves stand in groups. The ship carries cargo from Buenos Aires. Days pass with repairs and shared meals. The captain watches the crew and passengers. Small events accumulate without clear pattern. The American notes the arrangement of people on deck. He asks questions that receive partial answers. The Spanish captain keeps a servant close at all times. The two men discuss their voyages in brief exchanges.