In a message dated 9/14/2006 1:41:33 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes: >It appears that an argument >could be made that Twain was aware of the derogatory nature of the >term and was using it to create characters of low education or social >standing. >John Evans That's the infernal trouble with arguments--they're like beds which can be made or unmade any number of ways and are just as useful for a good snore session. Your point here is taken, save for that little detail that Huck is the great moral compass of the book--going against all societal norms for what is in the heart (note: not conscience, which Sam believed was little more than the voices of authority). DHF