In reality, he was being removed to prevent him from revealing details of the agreement in a moment of weakness. Antônio’s removal created more instability in the group. The remaining slaves understood they could be discarded at any moment if they represented a threat to the secret. Fear began to dominate the encounters, creating an even more tense and oppressive atmosphere.
Dona Esperança’s second pregnancy proceeded, but everyone knew that the birth of another mixed-race child would make it impossible to maintain appearances. The agreement that was supposed to have solved the Colonel’s problems was transforming into the cause of his social and family ruin.
The complete destruction of the Ferreira da Costa dynasty began in March 1866, with the birth of Dona Esperança’s second child. Joaquim Augusto Ferreira da Costa was born even more visibly mixed-race than his sister, with physical characteristics that made any attempt at disguise impossible. Dr. Henrique Almeida, upon examining the newborn, could not hide his surprise.
Two children with such distinctly African characteristics, born to white elite parents, surpassed any medical explanation of the time. The doctor maintained professional silence but began to decline social invitations to the Ferreira da Costa home. The reaction of local society was immediate and devastating. Within weeks, the entire elite of Ouro Preto was commenting on the peculiar situation of the Colonel’s family.
Speculations ranged from adultery to practices considered demonic by the religious mentality of the time. In April 1866, the local parish priest, Father Antônio Nogueira, requested a private meeting with Colonel Augusto. During the meeting in the church sacristy, the clergyman expressed concerns about the disturbing rumors circulating in the community.
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