Then oldest of the negroes was named Tom . His age , as well as his energetic character , and his experience , often put to the proof during a long life of labor , made him the natural head of the companions who were engaged with him .
Тогда самого старшего из негров звали Том. Его возраст, а также энергичный характер и опыт, часто подтверждавшиеся в течение долгой трудовой жизни, сделали его естественным главой товарищей, которые работали с ним.