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+The Project Gutenberg eBook, Elsie's Motherhood, by Martha Finley
+
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+
+
+
+Title: Elsie's Motherhood
+
+Author: Martha Finley
+
+Release Date: January 3, 2005  [eBook #14566]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-646-US (US-ASCII)
+
+
+***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ELSIE'S MOTHERHOOD***
+
+
+E-text prepared by Juliet Sutherland, Mary Meehan, and the Project
+Gutenberg Online Distributed Proofreading Team
+
+
+
+ELSIE'S MOTHERHOOD
+
+A Sequel to _Elsie's Womanhood_
+
+by
+
+MARTHA FINLEY (FARQUHARSON)
+
+Author of _The Story of Elsie_, _Casella_, _Wanted, a Pedigree_,
+_Old-Fashioned Boy_, etc.
+
+1876
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+"Sweet is the image of the brooding dove!
+Holy as heaven a mother's tender love!
+The love of many prayers and many tears,
+Which changes not with dim declining years--
+The only love which, on this teeming earth,
+Asks no return for passion's wayward birth."
+
+MRS. NORTON.
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+
+In compliance with the expressed desire of many of Elsie's friends and
+admirers, the story of her life is continued in this, the fifth volume
+of the series.
+
+When about to undertake its preparation the suggestion was made to the
+author that to bring in the doings of the Ku Klux would add interest to
+the story, and at the same time give a truer picture of life in the
+South during the years 1867-68 in which its events take place.
+
+The published reports of the Congressional Committee of Investigation
+were resorted to as the most reliable source of information, diligently
+examined, and care taken not to go beyond the facts there given as
+regards the proceedings of the Klan, the clemency and paternal acts of
+the Government, or the kindly, fraternal feelings and deeds of the
+people of the North toward their impoverished and suffering brethren of
+the South.
+
+These things have become matters of history: vice and crime should be
+condemned wherever found; and naught has been set down in malice; for
+the author has a warm love for the South as part and parcel of the dear
+land of her birth.
+
+May this child of her brain give pain to none, but prove pleasant and
+profitable to all who peruse its pages, and especially helpful to young
+parents,
+
+M. F.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter First.
+
+"Meantime a smiling offspring rises round,
+And mingles both their graces. By degrees
+The human blossom blows, and every day,
+Soft as it rolls along, shows some new charm,
+The father's lustre, and the mother's bloom."
+--Thomson's Seasons
+
+
+"Mamma! Papa too!" It was a glad shout of a chorus of young voices as
+four pairs of little feet came pattering up the avenue and into the
+veranda; then as many ruby lips were held up for the morning kiss from
+the children's dearly loved father.
+
+They had already had their half hour with mamma, which made so sweet a
+beginning of each day, yet she too must have a liberal share of the
+eagerly bestowed caresses; while Bruno, a great Newfoundland, the pet,
+playfellow, and guardian of the little flock, testified his delight in
+the scene by leaping about among them, fawning upon one and another,
+wagging his tail, and uttering again and again a short, joyous bark.
+
+Then followed a merry romp, cut short by the ringing of the breakfast
+bell, when all trooped into the house, Harold riding on papa's shoulder,
+mamma following with Elsie, Eddie and Vi; while Dinah, with Baby Herbert
+in her arms; brought up the rear.
+
+The children had been very gay, full of laughter and sweet innocent
+prattle, but a sudden hush fell upon them when seated about the table in
+the bright, cheerful breakfast parlor; little hands were meekly folded
+and each young head bent reverently over the plate, while in a few
+simple words which all could understand, their father gave God thanks
+for their food and asked his blessing upon it.
+
+The Ion children were never rude even in their play, and their table
+manners were almost perfect; made the constant companions of cultivated,
+refined parents--whose politeness springing from genuine unselfishness,
+was never laid aside, but shown on all occasions and to rich and poor,
+old and young alike--and governed with a wise mixture of indulgence and
+restraint, mildness and firmness, they imitated the copies set before
+them and were seldom other than gentle and amiable in their deportment,
+not only toward their superiors, but to equals and inferiors also.
+
+They were never told that "children should be seen and not heard," but
+when no guests were present, were allowed to talk in moderation; a
+gentle word or look of reproof from papa or mamma being quite
+sufficient to check any tendency to boisterousness or undue loquacity.
+
+"I think we should celebrate this anniversary, Elsie," remarked Mr.
+Travilla, stirring his coffee and gazing with fond admiration into the
+sweet face at the opposite end of the table.
+
+"Yes, sir, though we are rather late in thinking of it," she answered
+smilingly, the rose deepening slightly on her cheek as delicately
+rounded and tinted as it had been ten years ago.
+
+Little Elsie looked up inquiringly. "What is it, papa? I do not
+remember."
+
+"Do you not? Ten years ago to-day there was a grand wedding at the Oaks,
+and your mamma and I were there."
+
+"I too?" asked Eddie.
+
+"Yes, course, Eddie," spoke up five year old Violet, "grandpa would
+'vite you and all of us; and I b'lieve I 'member a _little_ about it."
+
+"Me too," piped the baby voice of Harold, "me sat on papa's knee."
+
+There was a general laugh, the two little prattlers joining in right
+merrily.
+
+"I really don't remember that part of it, Harold," said papa, while wee
+Elsie--as she was often called by way of distinguishing her from mamma,
+for whom she was named--shook her curly head at him with a merry "Oh,
+you dear little rogue, you don't know what you are talking about;" and
+mamma remarked, "Vi has perhaps a slight recollection of May Allison's
+wedding."
+
+"But this one at the Oaks must have been before I was born," said Elsie,
+"because you said it was ten years ago, and I'm only nine. O, mamma, was
+it _your_ wedding?"
+
+"Yes, daughter. Shall we invite our friends for this evening, Edward?"
+
+"Yes, wife; suppose we make it a family party, inviting only relatives,
+connections and very intimate friends."
+
+After a little more discussion it was decided they would do so; also
+that the children should have a full holiday, and while their mother was
+giving orders and overseeing the necessary preparations for the
+entertainment, papa should take them all in the roomy family carriage
+and drive over to the Oaks, Roselands, Ashlands and Pinegrove to give
+the invitations. Beside these near friends only the minister and his
+wife were to be asked; but as Adelaide and her family were at this time
+paying a visit to Roselands, and Lucy Ross was doing the same at her old
+home, and all the younger generation except the mere babies, were to be
+included in the invitation, should all accept it would be by no means a
+small assemblage.
+
+Early hours were named for the sake of the little ones; guests to come
+at six, refreshments to be served at eight, and the Ion children, if
+each would take a nap in the afternoon, to be allowed to stay up till
+nine.
+
+How delighted they were: how the little eyes danced and sparkled, and
+how eagerly they engaged to fulfill the conditions, and not to fret or
+look cross when summoned at nine, to leave the drawing-room and be put
+to bed.
+
+"O, mamma, won't you wear your wedding dress?" cried little Elsie; "do,
+dear mamma, so that we may all see just how you looked when you were
+married."
+
+Elsie smiled, "You forget, daughter, that I am ten years older now, and
+the face cannot be quite the same."
+
+"The years have robbed it of none of its beauty," said Mr. Travilla.
+
+"Ah, love is blind," she returned with a blush and smile as charming as
+those of her girlhood's days. "And the dress is quite out of date."
+
+"No matter for that. It would gratify me as well as the children to see
+you in it."
+
+"Then it shall be worn, if it fits or can be altered in season."
+
+"Veil and all, mamma," pleaded Elsie, "it is so beautiful--Mammy showed
+it to me only the other day and told me you looked so, _so_ lovely; and
+she will put the orange blossoms in your hair and on your dress just as
+they were that night; for she remembers all about it."
+
+The children, ready dressed for their drive, were gathered in a merry
+group on the veranda, Eddie astride of Bruno, waiting for papa and the
+carriage, when a horse came cantering up the avenue, and Mr. Horace
+Dinsmore alighted and stepped into their midst.
+
+"Oh, grandpa, what you turn for?" cried Harold in a tone of
+disappointment, "we was dus doin to 'vite you!"
+
+"Indeed!"
+
+"Yes, grandpa, it's a 'versary to-day" explained Vi.
+
+"And mamma's going to be married over again," said Eddie.
+
+"No, no; only to have a party and wear her wedding dress," corrected
+Elsie.
+
+"Papa, good morning," cried their mother, coming swiftly through, the
+hall, "I'm so glad, always so glad to see you."
+
+"I know it," he said, pressing a fatherly kiss on the sweet lips, then
+holding her off for an instant to gaze fondly into the fair face. "And
+it is ten years to-day since I gave Travilla a share in my treasure. I
+was thinking of it as I rode over and that you should celebrate this
+anniversary at your father's house."
+
+"No, no, Dinsmore, you must be our guest," said Travilla, coming out and
+shaking hands cordially with his old friend. "We have it all
+arranged,--a family gathering, and Elsie to gratify us by wearing her
+bridal robes. Do you not agree with me that she would make as lovely a
+bride to-day as she did ten years ago?"
+
+"Quite. I relinquish my plan for yours; and don't let me detain you and
+these eager children."
+
+"I thank you: I will go then, as the invitations will be late enough
+with all the haste we can make."
+
+The carriage was at the door and in a trice grandpa and papa had helped
+the little ones in: not even Baby Herbert was left behind, but seated on
+his mammy's lap crowed and laughed as merrily as the rest.
+
+"Ah, mamma, you come too!" pleaded the little voices, as their father
+took his place beside them. "Can't mammy and Aunt Dicey and the rest
+know what to do without you to tell them?"
+
+"Not this time, dears; and you know I must make haste to try on the
+dress, to see if it fits."
+
+"Oh, yes, mamma!" and throwing a shower of kisses, they drove off.
+
+"A carriage load of precious jewels," Elsie said, looking after it as it
+rolled away: "how the ten years have added to my wealth, papa."
+
+She stood by his side, her hand on his arm, and the soft sweet eyes
+lifted to his were full of a content and gladness beyond the power of
+words to express.
+
+"I thank God every day for my darling's happiness," he said low and
+tenderly, and softly smoothing her shining hair.
+
+"Ah, it is very great, and my father's dear love forms no small part of
+it. But come in, papa, I want to consult you about one or two little
+matters; Edward and I rely very much upon your taste and judgment."
+
+"To Roselands first," was Mr. Travilla's order to the coachman.
+
+The old home of the Dinsmores, though shorn of the glory of its grand
+old trees, was again a beautiful place: the new house was in every
+respect a finer one than its predecessor, of a higher style of
+architecture, more conveniently arranged, more tastefully and handsomely
+furnished; lawns, gardens and fields had become neat and trim as in the
+days before the war, and a double row of young, thrifty trees bordered
+the avenue.
+
+Old Mr. Dinsmore now resided there and gave a home to his two widowed
+and impoverished daughters--Mrs. Louise Conly, and Mrs. Enna
+Johnson--and their families.
+
+These two aunts loved Elsie no better than in earlier years: it was gall
+and wormwood to them to know that they owed all these comforts to her
+generosity; nor could they forgive her that she was more wealthy,
+beautiful, lovely and beloved than themselves. Enna was the more bitter
+and outspoken of the two, but even Louise seldom treated her niece to
+anything better than the most distant and frigid politeness.
+
+In a truly Christian spirit Elsie returned them pity and compassion,
+because of their widowhood and straitened circumstances, invited them to
+her house, and when they came received them with kindness and
+cordiality.
+
+Her grandfather had grown very fond of her and her children, was often
+at Ion, and for his sake she occasionally visited Roselands. Adelaide's
+presence had drawn her there more frequently of late. The invitation Mr.
+Travilla carried was to the grandfather, three aunts and all their
+children.
+
+Adelaide and Enna were in the drawing-room when the Ion carriage drew up
+at the door.
+
+"There's Travilla, the old scalawag: how I hate him! Elsie too, I
+presume," exclaimed the latter, glancing from the window; "I'll leave
+you to entertain them," and she hastily left the room.
+
+Adelaide flashed an indignant look after her, and hurried out to meet
+and welcome the callers. Mr. Travilla had alighted and was coming up the
+steps of the veranda.
+
+"How d'ye do. I'm _very_ glad to see you," cried Adelaide, extending her
+hand, "but where is Elsie?"
+
+"Left at home for once," he answered gayly, "but I come this morning
+merely as her ladyship's messenger."
+
+"But won't you come in; you and the children?"
+
+"Thanks, no, if you will permit me just to deliver my message and go;
+for I am in haste."
+
+Mrs. Allison accepted the invitation for herself and children with
+evident pleasure, engaged that her sisters would do the same; then went
+to the carriage window for a moment's chat with the little ones, each of
+whom held a large place in her warm heart. "Aunt Addie," said Elsie in
+an undertone, "mamma's going to wear her wedding dress to-night, veil
+and all."
+
+"Is she? why that's an excellent idea. But don't tell it anywhere else
+that you go; it will be such a nice surprise to the rest if we can keep
+it a secret."
+
+"That was a good suggestion of Aunt Addie's," Mr. Travilla remarked as
+they drove down the avenue. "Suppose we carry it out. How many of you
+can refrain from telling what mamma is to wear to-night? how many can I
+trust to keep a secret?"
+
+"All of us, papa!" "Me, papa, me, I won't tell," cried the little voices
+in chorus.
+
+"Yes, I believe I can trust you all," he answered in his bright cheery
+way. "Now on to the Oaks, Solon, then to Pinegrove, Springbrook, and
+Ashlands. That will be the last place, children, and as our hurry will
+then be over, you shall get out of the carriage and have a little time
+to rest before we start for home."
+
+Re-entering the house Mrs. Allison went to the family sitting-room where
+she found both her sisters and several of the younger members of the
+household. "So they have asked for us?" exclaimed Louise in a tone of
+vexation, "at such an unreasonable hour too. Well," with a sigh of
+resignation, "I suppose we must show ourselves or papa will be
+displeased: so wonderfully fond of Elsie as he has grown of late."
+
+"As well he may," returned Adelaide pointedly; "but Elsie is not here
+nor has any one inquired for you."
+
+"No, I presume not," interrupted Enna with a sneer, "we are not worth
+inquiring for."
+
+Indignation kept Adelaide silent for a moment, she was sorely tempted to
+administer a severe and cutting rebuke. But Enna was no longer a child,
+and controlling herself she calmly delivered Mr. Travilla's message.
+
+"Oh, delightful! Cousin Elsie always does give such splendid parties,
+such elegant refreshments!" cried Virginia and Isadore Conly, girls of
+ten and twelve, "mamma, you'll never think of declining?"
+
+"No, your grandfather wouldn't like it," said Louise, as anxious as her
+daughters to enjoy the entertainment, yet glad to save her pride, by
+putting her acceptance on the score of pleasing her father.
+
+"And you'll go too, and take us, mamma, won't you?" anxiously queried
+Molly Percival, who was between her cousins in age.
+
+"Of course I'll go; we all want our share of the good things, and the
+pleasure of seeing and being seen," answered Enna, scorning Louise's
+subterfuge; "and if you and Dick will promise to make me no trouble,
+I'll take you along. But Bob and Betty may stay at home, I'm not going
+to be bothered with them,--babies of five and three. But what shall we
+wear, Lu? I do say it's real mean in them to give us so short a notice.
+But of course Elsie enjoys making me feel my changed circumstances. I've
+no such stock of jewels, silks and laces as she, nor the full purse that
+makes it an easy matter for her to order a fresh supply at a moment's
+warning."
+
+"You have all, and more than the occasion calls for," remarked Adelaide
+quietly; "it is to be only a family gathering."
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Second.
+
+"Though fools spurn Hymen's gentle powers,
+We, who improve his golden hours,
+By sweet experience know
+That marriage, rightly understood,
+Gives to the tender and the good
+A paradise below."
+--Cotton
+
+
+Mr. Allison had fully kept his promise to Sophie, and Ashlands was again
+the fine old place it had been prior to the war. The family, consisting
+of the elder Mrs. Carrington, a young man, named George Boyd, a nephew
+of hers who had taken charge of the plantation, Sophie and her four
+children, had now been in possession for over a year.
+
+Sophie, still an almost inconsolable mourner for the husband of her
+youth, lived a very retired life, devoting herself to his mother and his
+orphaned little ones.
+
+Mrs. Ross, expecting to spend the fall and winter with them, had brought
+all her children and a governess, Miss Fisk, who undertook the tuition
+of the little Carringtons also during her stay at Ashlands, thus leaving
+the mothers more at liberty for the enjoyment of each other's society.
+
+It was in the midst of school-hours that the Ion carriage came driving
+up the avenue, and Philip Ross, lifting his head from the slate over
+which he had been bending for the last half hour, rose hastily, threw
+down his pencil and hurried from the room, paying no attention to Miss
+Fisk's query, "Where are you going, Philip?" or her command, "Come back
+instantly: it is quite contrary to rules for pupils to leave the
+school-room during the hours of recitation, without permission." Indeed
+he had reached the foot of the staircase before the last word had left
+her lips; she being very slow and precise in speech and action, while
+his movements were of the quickest.
+
+"What now is to be done in this emergency?" soliloquized the governess,
+unconsciously thinking aloud. "Miss Gertrude Ross," turning to a girl
+of nine whose merry blue eyes were twinkling with fun, "follow your
+brother at once and inform him that I cannot permit any such act of
+insubordination; and he must return instantly to the performance of his
+duties."
+
+"Yes ma'am," and Gertrude vanished; glad enough of the opportunity to
+see for herself who were the new arrivals. "Phil," she said, entering
+the drawing-room where the guests were already seated, "Miss Fisk says
+you're an insubordination and must come back instantly."
+
+"Gertude," said her mother, laughing "come and speak to Mr. Travilla and
+your little friends. Why yes, Phil, to be sure; how came you here when
+you ought to be at your lessons?"
+
+"Because I wanted to see Elsie Travilla," he answered nonchalantly.
+
+"Yes, but you should have asked for permission. I ought to send you
+back."
+
+"But you won't, ma, you know that as well as I do. I'll not go back a
+step while Elsie stays."
+
+"Well, well, it seems you are bound to have your own way, as usual,"
+Lucy answered, half laughing, half sighing, then resumed her talk with
+Mr. Travilla.
+
+Seeing that the little Travillas had listened to this colloquy in blank
+amazement, she felt much mortified at Phil's behavior, and on receiving
+the invitation threatened to leave him at home as a punishment. But this
+only made matters worse: he insisted that go he would, and if she
+refused permission he should never, never love her again as long as he
+lived. And she weakly yielded.
+
+"Lucy," said her mother, when the guests were gone, and the children had
+left the room, "you are ruining that boy."
+
+"Well, I don't see how I can help it, mamma how could I bear to lose his
+affection?"
+
+"You are taking the very course to bring that about; it is the weakly
+indulged, not the wisely controlled, children who lose, first respect,
+and then affection for their parents. Look at Elsie's little family for
+instance; where can you find children ruled with a firmer hand, or more
+devotedly attached to their parents?"
+
+Eddie was at that moment saying to his father, "Papa, isn't Phil Ross a
+very, _very_ naughty boy, to be so saucy and disobedient to his mamma?"
+
+"My son," answered Mr. Travilla with gentle gravity, "when you have
+corrected all Eddie Travilla's faults it will be time enough to attend
+to those of others." And the child hung his head and blushed for shame.
+
+It was Mr. and Mrs. Horace Dinsmore who did the honors at Ion early in
+the evening, receiving and welcoming each bevy of guests, and replying
+to the oft repeated inquiry for the master and mistress of the
+establishment, that they would make their appearance shortly.
+
+Elsie's children, most sweetly and becomingly dressed, had gathered
+about "Aunt Rosie," in a corner of the drawing-room, and seemed to be
+waiting with a sort of intense but quiet eagerness for the coming of
+some expected event.
+
+At length every invited guest had arrived. All being so thoroughly
+acquainted, nearly all related, there was an entire absence of stiffness
+and constraint, and much lively chat had been carried on; but a sudden
+hush fell upon them, and every eye turned toward the doors opening into
+the hall, expecting--they knew not what.
+
+There were soft foot-falls, a slight rustle of silk, and Adelaide
+entered followed by Mr. Travilla with Elsie on his arm, in bridal
+attire. The shimmering satin, rich, soft lace and orange blossoms became
+her well; and never, even on that memorable night ten years ago, had she
+looked lovelier or more bride-like; never had her husband bent a
+prouder, fonder look upon her fair face than now as he led her to the
+centre of the room, where they paused in front of their pastor.
+
+A low murmur of surprise and delight ran round the room, but was
+suddenly stilled, as the venerable man rose and began to speak.
+
+"Ten years ago to-night, dear friends, I united you in marriage. Edward
+Travilla, you then vowed to love, honor and cherish till life's end the
+woman whom you now hold by the hand. Have you repented of that vow? and
+would you be released?"
+
+"Not for worlds: there has been no repentance, but my love has grown
+deeper and stronger day by day."
+
+"And you, Elsie Dinsmore Travilla, also vowed to love, honor and obey
+the man you hold by the hand. Have you repented?"
+
+"Never, sir; never for one moment." The accents were low, sweet, clear,
+and full of pleasure.
+
+"I pronounce you a faithful man and wife: and may God, in his good
+providence, grant you many returns of this happy anniversary."
+
+Old Mr. Dinsmore stepped up, kissed the bride and shook hands with the
+groom. "Blessings on you for making her so happy," he said in quivering
+tones.
+
+His son followed, then the others in their turn, and a merry scene
+ensued.
+
+"Mamma, it was so pretty, _so_ pretty," little Elsie said, clasping her
+arms about her mother's neck, "and now I just feel as if I'd been to
+your wedding. Thank you, dear mamma and papa."
+
+"Mamma, you are so beautiful, I'll just marry you myself, when I'm a
+man," remarked Eddie, giving her a hearty kiss, then gazing into her
+face with his great dark eyes full of love and admiration.
+
+"I too," chimed in Violet. "No, no, I forget, I shall be a lady myself:
+so I'll have to marry papa."
+
+"No, Vi, oo tan't have my papa; he's dus' my papa always," objected
+Harold, climbing his father's knee.
+
+"What a splendid idea, Elsie," Lucy Ross was saying to her friend, "you
+have made me regret, for the first time, not having kept my wedding
+dress; for I believe my Phil and I could go through that catechism
+quite as well as you and Mr. Travilla. The whole thing, I suppose, was
+quite original?"
+
+"Among us: my namesake daughter proposed the wearing of the dress: and
+the ceremony," turning to the minister, "was your idea, Mr. Wood, was it
+not?"
+
+"Partly, Mrs. Travilla; your father, Mrs. Dinsmore, and I planned it
+together."
+
+"Your dress is as perfect a fit as when made, but I presume you had it
+altered," observed Lucy, making a critical examination of her friend's
+toilet.
+
+"No, not in the least," answered Elsie, smiling.
+
+The banquet to which the guests were presently summoned, though gotten
+up so hastily, more than fulfilled the expectation of the Misses Conly,
+who as well as their mother and Aunt Enna did it ample justice; there
+was a good deal of gormandizing done by the spoiled children present,
+spite of feeble protests from their parents; but Elsie's well trained
+little ones ate contentedly what was given them, nor even asked for the
+rich dainties on which others were feasting; knowing that papa and mamma
+loved them too dearly to deny them any real good.
+
+"Holloa, Neddie and Vi, why you've been overlooked!" said Philip Ross,
+coming toward the two little ones with a plate heaped up with rich
+viands, "you've nothing but ice cream and plain sugar biscuit; here,
+take some of this pound cake and these bonbons. They're delicious, I
+tell you!"
+
+"No, no, thank you: mamma says pound cake is much too rich for us, and
+would make us sick," said Eddie.
+
+"'Specially at night," added Vi, "and we're to have some bonbons
+to-morrow."
+
+"Goodest little tots ever I saw," returned Philip laughing. "Ma wanted
+me to let 'em alone, but I told her I'd risk the getting sick," he added
+with a pompous grown-up air.
+
+"Phil, you certainly are an insubordination, as Miss Fisk said,"
+remarked his sister Gertrude, standing near, "I believe you think you're
+'most a man, but it's a great mistake."
+
+"Pooh, Ger! people that live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones. I
+heard you telling ma you wouldn't wear the dress she'd laid out for you.
+Elsie Travilla, allow me the pleasure of refilling your saucer."
+
+"No, thank you, Phil, I've had all mamma thinks good for me."
+
+"Time to go to bed, chillens," said mammy, approaching the little group,
+"de clock jes gwine strike nine. Here, Uncle Joe, take dese empty
+saucers."
+
+Promptly and without a murmur the four little folks prepared to obey the
+summons, but cast wistful longing glances toward mamma, who was gayly
+chatting with her guests on the other side of the room. Just then the
+clock on the mantel struck, and excusing herself she came quickly toward
+them. "That is right, dears; come and say good-night to papa and our
+friends; then go with mammy and mamma will follow in a few moments."
+
+"What dear sweet creatures they are! perfect little ladies and
+gentlemen," remarked Mrs. Wood, as, after a courteous good-night to all,
+they went cheerfully away with their mammy.
+
+"I wish mine were half as good," said Mrs. Ross.
+
+"Now ma, don't expose us," cried Phil. "I've often heard you say Mrs.
+Travilla was a far better little girl than you; so of course her
+children ought to be better than yours."
+
+"Some children keep their good behavior for company," sneered Enna, "and
+I've no doubt these little paragons have their naughty fits as well as
+ours."
+
+"It is quite true that they are not always good," Elsie said with
+patient sweetness. "And now I beg you will all excuse me for a few
+moments, as they never feel quite comfortable going to bed without a
+last word or two with mamma."
+
+"Before I'd make myself such a slave to my children!" muttered Enna,
+looking after her as she glided from the room. "If they couldn't be
+content to be put to bed by their mammies, they might stay up all
+night."
+
+"I think Mrs. Travilla is right," observed the pastor; "the
+responsibilities of parents are very great. God says to each one, 'Take
+this child and nurse it for me, and I will give thee thy wages.'"
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Third.
+
+"Delightful task! to rear the tender thought,
+To teach the young idea how to shoot,
+To pour the fresh instruction o'er the mind,
+To breathe the enlivening spirit and to fix
+The generous purpose in the glowing breast!"
+--THOMSON'S SEASONS.
+
+
+The Ion little folks were allowed an extra nap the next morning, their
+parents wisely considering plenty of sleep necessary to the healthful
+development of their mental and physical powers. They themselves,
+however, felt no necessity for a like indulgence, their guests having
+departed in season to admit of their retiring at the usual hour, and
+were early in the saddle, keenly enjoying a brisk canter of several
+miles before breakfast.
+
+On their return Elsie went to the nursery, Mr. Travilla to the field
+where his men were at work. Half an hour later they and their children
+met at the breakfast table.
+
+Solon came in for orders.
+
+"You may leave Beppo saddled, Solon," said Mr. Travilla, "and have
+Prince and Princess at the door also, immediately after prayers."
+
+The last named were a pair of pretty little grey ponies belonging
+respectively to Eddie and his sister Elsie. They were gentle and well
+trained for both saddle and harness.
+
+Nearly every day the children rode them, one on each side of their
+father, mounted on Beppo, his beautiful bay; and occasionally they drove
+behind them in the phaeton with their mother or some older person; and
+one or the other of the children would often be allowed to hold the
+reins when on a straight and level road; for their father wished them to
+learn to both ride and drive with ease and skill.
+
+Little Elsie's great ambition was "to be like mamma" in the ease and
+grace with which she sat her horse, as well as in every thing else;
+while Eddie was equally anxious to copy his father.
+
+Violet and Harold ran out to the veranda to watch them mount and ride
+away.
+
+"Papa," said Vi, "shall we, too, have ponies and ride with you, when
+we're as big as Elsie and Eddie?"
+
+"I intend you shall, little daughter, and if you and Harold will be here
+with your hats on, all ready to start at once when we come back, I will
+give you each a short ride before the ponies are put away."
+
+"Oh, thank you, papa! we'll be sure to be ready," they answered, and
+ran in to their mother to tell her of papa's kind promise, and to have
+their hats put on.
+
+Elsie, who was in the sitting-room with Herbert on her lap, rejoiced in
+their joy, and bade Dinah prepare them at once for their ride.
+
+"Bress dere little hearts! dey grows hansomer ebery day," exclaimed an
+elderly negress, who had just come in with a basket on her arm.
+
+"Don't say such things before them, Aunt Sally," said her mistress in a
+tone of gentle reproof, "their young hearts are only too ready to be
+puffed up with vanity and pride. Now what is your report from the
+quarter."
+
+"Well, missus, dere's lots ob miseries down dere dis mornin'; ole Lize
+she's took wid a misery in her side; an' Uncle Jack, he got um in his
+head; ole Aunt Delie's got de misery in de joints wid de rheumatiz, an'
+ole Uncle Mose he's 'plainin ob de misery in his back; can't stan' up
+straight no how: an' Hannah's baby got a mighty bad cold, can't hardly
+draw its breff; 'twas took dat way in de night; an' Silvy's boy tore his
+foot on a nail."
+
+"Quite a list," said Elsie. And giving her babe to Aunt Chloe, she
+selected a key from a bright bunch lying in a little basket, held by a
+small dusky maid at her side, unlocked a closet door and looked over her
+medical store. "Here's a plaster for Uncle Mose to put on his back, and
+one for Lize's side," she said, handing each article in turn to Aunt
+Sally, who bestowed it in her basket. "This small bottle has some drops
+that will do Uncle Jack's head good; and this larger one is for Aunt
+Delia. Tell her to rub her joints with it. There is medicine for the
+baby, and Hannah must give it a warm bath. If it is not better directly
+we must send for the doctor. Now, here is a box of salve, excellent for
+cuts, burns and bruises; spread some on a bit of rag, and tie it on
+Silvy's boy's foot. There, I think that is all. I'll be down after a
+while, to see how they are all doing," and with some added directions
+concerning the use of each remedy, Aunt Sally was dismissed.
+
+Then Aunt Dicey, the housekeeper, came for her orders for the day, and
+such supplies from pantry and storehouse as were needed in carrying them
+out.
+
+In the meantime the riding party had returned, Harold and Violet had
+been treated to a ride about the grounds, the one in his father's arms,
+Beppo stepping carefully as if he knew he carried a tender babe, the
+other on one of the ponies close at papa's side and under his watchful
+eye.
+
+It was a rosy merry group mamma found upon the veranda, chatting to each
+other and laughing gayly as they watched their father cantering down
+the avenue on his way to the fields to oversee the work going on there.
+
+They did not hear their mother's step till she was close at hand asking
+in her own sweet, gentle tones, "My darlings, had you a pleasant time?"
+
+"O, yes, mamma, so nice!" and they gathered about her, eager to claim
+her ever ready sympathy, interested in their joys no less than their
+sorrows.
+
+They had been taught to notice the beauties of nature--the changing
+clouds, the bright autumn foliage, plants and flowers, insects, birds,
+stones; all the handiwork of God; and the elder ones now never returned
+from walk or ride without something to tell of what they had seen and
+enjoyed.
+
+It was surprising how much they learned in this easy pleasant way, how
+much they gained almost imperceptibly in manners, correctness of speech,
+and general information, by this habit of their parents of keeping them
+always with themselves and patiently answering every proper question.
+They were encouraged not only to observe, but to think, to reason, and
+to repeat what they had learned; thus fixing it more firmly in their
+minds. They were not burdened with long tasks or many studies, but
+required to learn thoroughly such as were set them, and trained to a
+love for wholesome mental food; the books put into their hands being
+carefully chosen by their parents.
+
+Though abundantly able to employ a governess, Elsie preferred teaching
+her darlings her self. There was a large, airy room set apart for the
+purpose, and furnished with every suitable appliance, books, maps,
+globes, pictures, an orrery, a piano, etc., etc. There were pretty
+rosewood desks and chairs, the floor was a mosaic of beautifully
+grained and polished woods, the walls, adorned with a few rare
+engravings, were of a delicate neutral tint, and tasteful curtains
+draped each window.
+
+Thither mother and children now repaired, and spent two happy hours in
+giving and receiving instruction.
+
+Harold had not yet quite mastered the alphabet. His task was, of course,
+soon done, and he was permitted to betake himself to the nursery or
+elsewhere, with his mammy to take care of him; or if he chose to submit
+to the restraint of the school-room rather than leave mamma and the
+others, he might do so.
+
+Violet could already read fluently, in any book suited to her years, and
+was learning to spell, write and sew.
+
+Eddie was somewhat further advanced, and Elsie had begun arithmetic,
+history and geography; music, also, and drawing; for both of which she
+already shown decided talent.
+
+School over, she had a half hour of rest, then went to the piano for an
+hour's practice, her mamma sitting by to aid and encourage her.
+
+Mr. Travilla came in, asking, "Where is Eddie?"
+
+"Here, papa," and the boy came running in with face all aglow with
+delight. "O, are you going to teach me how to shoot? I saw you coming
+with that pistol in your hand, and I'm so glad."
+
+"Yes," his father answered, smiling at the eager face. "You will not be
+anxious, little wife?" turning to her with a tender loving look.
+
+"No, my husband; surely I can trust him with you, his own wise, careful,
+loving father;" she answered with a confiding smile.
+
+"O papa, mayn't I go along with you? and won't you teach me too?" cried
+Violet, who was always ready for any excitement.
+
+"Not to-day, daughter: only Eddie and I are going now; but sometime I
+will teach you all. It is well enough for even ladies to handle a pistol
+on occasion, and your mamma is quite a good shot."
+
+Vi looked disappointed but did not fret, pout, or ask a second time; for
+such things were not allowed in the family by either parent.
+
+"Mamma's good little girl," the mother said, drawing her caressingly to
+her side, as Mr. Travilla and Eddie left the room. "I am going to walk
+down to the quarter this afternoon and will take you and your brother
+and sister with me, if you care to go."
+
+"O, mamma, thank you! yes indeed, I do want to go," cried the little
+one, her face growing bright as its wont. "May we be there when the bell
+rings? 'cause I do like to see the dogs." And she clapped her tiny hands
+with a laugh like the chiming of silver bells.
+
+Her sister laughed too, saying, "O, yes, mamma, do let us."
+
+The Ion negroes were paid liberal wages, and yet as kind and generously
+cared for as in the old days of slavery; even more so, for now Elsie
+might lawfully carry out her desire to educate and elevate them to a
+higher standard of intelligence and morality.
+
+To this end Mr. Travilla had added to the quarter a neat school-house,
+where the children received instruction in the rudiments during the day,
+the adults in the evening, from one of their own race whose advantages
+had been such as to qualify him for the work. There, too, the master and
+mistress themselves held a Sunday school on Sabbath afternoons.
+
+Aunt Sally, the nurse, also instructed the women in housewifely ways,
+and Dinah taught them sewing; Elsie encouraging and stimulating them to
+effort by bestowing prizes on the most diligent and proficient.
+
+Eddie came in from his first lesson in the use of firearms, flushed
+and excited.
+
+"Mamma, I did shoot," he cried exultingly, "I shooted many times, and
+papa says I'll make a good shot some day if I keep on trying."
+
+"Ah! did you hit the mark?"
+
+"Not quite this time, mamma," and the bright face clouded slightly.
+
+"Not quite," laughed Mr. Travilla, drawing his boy caressingly toward
+him. "If you please, mamma, do not question us too closely; we expect to
+do better another time. He really did fairly well considering his age
+and that it was his first lesson."
+
+"Papa," asked Vi, climbing his knee, "were you 'fraid Eddie would shoot
+us if we went along?"
+
+"I thought it safer to leave you at home."
+
+"Papa, mamma's going to take us walking down to the quarter this
+afternoon; we're to be there when the bell rings, so we can see those
+funny dogs."
+
+"Ah, then I think I shall meet you there and walk home with you."
+
+This announcement was received with a chorus of exclamations of delight;
+his loved companionship would double their enjoyment; it always did.
+
+'Twas a pleasant, shady walk, not too long for the older children, and
+Harold's mammy would carry him when he grew weary. They called at the
+school-room, witnessed the closing exercises, then visited all the aged
+and ailing ones, Elsie inquiring tenderly concerning their "miseries,"
+speaking words of sympathy and consolation and giving additional advice;
+remedies too, and some little delicacies to whet the sickly appetites
+(these last being contained in a basket, carried by a servant).
+
+As they left the last cabin, in the near vicinity of the post where hung
+the bell, which summoned the men to their meals, and gave notice of the
+hour for quitting work, they saw the ringer hurrying toward it.
+
+"Oh, mamma, we're just in time!" cried Vi, "how nice!"
+
+"Yes," said her sister, "mamma always knows how to make things come out
+right."
+
+Every negro family owned a cur, and at the first tap of the bell they
+always, with a united yelp, rushed for the spot, where they formed a
+ring round the post, each seated on his haunches and brushing the ground
+with his tail, with a rapid motion, from side to side, nose in the air,
+eyes fixed upon the bell, and throat sending out a prolonged howl so
+long as the ringing continued. The din was deafening, and far from
+musical, but it was a comical sight, vastly enjoyed by the young
+Travillas, who saw it only occasionally.
+
+Mr. and Mrs. Travilla were walking slowly homeward, the children and
+Bruno frolicking, jumping, dancing, running on before. After a while the
+two little girls grew somewhat weary, and subsided into a soberer pace.
+
+"Vi," said Elsie, "Don't you believe Aunt Delia might get better of
+those 'miseries' in her bones, if she had some nice new red flannel
+things to wear?"
+
+"Yes; let's buy her some," and a pretty dimpled hand went into her
+pocket, and out came a dainty, silken purse, mamma's gift on her last
+birthday, when she began to have a weekly allowance, like Elsie and
+Eddie.
+
+"Yes, if mamma approves."
+
+"'Course we'll 'sult mamma 'bout it first, and she'll say yes; she
+always likes us to be kind and--char--char--"
+
+"Charitable? yes, 'specially to Jesus' people, and I know Aunt Delia's
+one of his. How much money have you, Vi?"
+
+"I don't know; mamma or papa will count when we get home."
+
+"I have two dollars and fifty cents; maybe Eddie will give some if we
+haven't enough."
+
+"Enough of what?" queried Eddie, over-hearing the last words as he and
+Bruno neared the others in their gambols.
+
+Elsie explained, asking, "Would you like to help?"
+
+"Yes, and I'm going to buy some 'baccy' as he calls it, for old Uncle
+Jack."
+
+Mamma was duly consulted, approved of their plans, took them the next
+day to the nearest village, let them select the goods themselves, then
+helped them to cut out and make the garments. Eddie assisted by
+threading needles and sewing on buttons, saying "that would do for a boy
+because he had heard papa say he had sometimes sewed on a button for
+himself when he was away at college."
+
+To be sure the work might have been given to the seamstress, but it was
+the desire of these parents to train their little ones to give time and
+effort as well as money.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Fourth.
+
+"O, what a state is guilt! how wild! how wretched!"
+--HAVARD.
+
+
+The war had wrought many changes in the neighborhood where our friends
+resided; some who had been reared in the lap of luxury were now in
+absolute want, having sacrificed almost their last dollar in the cause
+of secession; to which also in numerous instances, the husbands, sons
+and brothers had fallen victims.
+
+Though through the clemency of the Government there had been no
+executions for treason, no confiscation of property, many plantations
+had changed hands because of the inability of the original owners to
+work them, for lack of means to pay the laborers.
+
+Elsie's tender sympathies were strongly enlisted for these old friends
+and acquaintances, and their necessities often relieved by her bounty
+when they little guessed whence help had come. Her favors were doubled
+by the delicate kindness of the manner of their bestowal.
+
+The ability to give largely was the greatest pleasure her wealth
+afforded her, and one in which she indulged to the extent of disposing
+yearly in that way, of the whole surplus of her ample income; not
+waiting to be importuned, but constantly seeking out worthy objects upon
+whom to bestow that of which she truly considered herself but a steward
+who must one day render a strict account unto her Lord.
+
+It was she who had repaired the ravages of war in Springbrook, the
+residence of Mr. Wood, her pastor; she who, when the Fosters of
+Fairview, a plantation adjoining Ion, had been compelled to sell it, had
+bought a neat cottage in the vicinity and given them the use of it at a
+merely nominal rent. And in any another like deed had she done; always
+with the entire approval of her husband, who was scarcely less generous
+than herself.
+
+The purchaser of Fairview was a Mr. Leland, a northern man who had been
+an officer in the Union army. Pleased with the southern climate and the
+appearance of that section of country, he felt inclined to settle there
+and assist in the development of its resources; he therefore returned
+some time after the conclusion of peace, bought this place, and removed
+his family thither.
+
+They were people of refinement and culture, quiet and peaceable, steady
+attendants upon Mr. Wood's ministry, and in every way conducted
+themselves as good citizens.
+
+Yet they were not popular: the Fosters, particularly Wilkins, the only
+son, hated them as their supplanters, and saw with bitter envy the rapid
+improvement of Fairview under Mr. Leland's careful cultivation. It was
+no fault of his that they had been compelled to part with it, and he had
+paid a fair price: but envy and jealousy are ever unreasonable; and
+their mildest term of reproach in speaking of him was "carpet-bagger."
+
+Others found fault with Mr. Leland as paying too liberal wages to the
+negroes (including Mr. Horace Dinsmore and Mr. Travilla in the same
+charge), and hated him for his outspoken loyalty to the Government; for
+though he showed no disposition to seek for office or meddle in any way
+with the politics of others, he made no secret of his views when
+occasion seemed to call for their expression. It was not a prudent
+course under existing circumstances, but accorded well with the frank
+and fearless nature of the man.
+
+Messrs. Dinsmore and Travilla, themselves strong Unionists, though the
+latter was more discreet in the utterance of his sentiments, found in
+him a kindred spirit. Rose and Elsie were equally pleased with Mrs.
+Leland, and pitying her loneliness, called frequently, inviting a return
+of their visits, until now the three families had become tolerably
+intimate.
+
+This state of things was extremely displeasing to Louise and Enna;
+scarcely less so to their father; but the others, convinced that they
+were in the path of duty in thus extending kindness and sympathy to
+deserving strangers, who were also "of the household of _faith_," were
+not to be deterred by remonstrances or vituperation. "Scalawags"--a term
+of reproach applied by the Democrats of the South to the Republicans,
+who were natives of that section--was what Enna called her brother, his
+son-in-law and daughter, when out of hearing of her father, who though
+vexed at their notice of the Lelands, was too strongly attached to his
+only remaining son, and too sensible of the kindness he had received at
+the hands of Mr. Travilla and Elsie, to permit anything of that sort.
+
+The Lelands had several young children, well-bred and of good
+principles, and it angered Louise and Enna that Elsie evidently
+preferred them to their own rude, deceitful, spoiled offspring as
+companions and playmates for her little ones.
+
+Elsie and her husband were very desirous to live on good terms with
+these near relatives, but not to the extent of sacrificing their
+children's morals; therefore did not encourage a close intimacy with
+their Roselands cousins; yet ever treated them politely and kindly, and
+made a valuable present to each on every return of his or her birthday,
+and on Christmas; always managing to select something specially desired
+by the recipient of the favor.
+
+Mr. and Mrs. Dinsmore pursued a similar course; Rosie was allowed to be
+as intimate as she chose at Ion, and with her Aunt Sophie's children,
+but never visited Roselands except with her parents or sister; nor were
+the Roseland cousins ever invited to make a lengthened stay at the Oaks.
+
+One afternoon, several weeks subsequent to the events related in the
+last chapter, Mary and Archie Leland came over to Ion to spend an hour
+with their young friends.
+
+The weather was delightful, and the children preferred playing out of
+doors; the girls took their dolls to a summer-house in the garden, while
+with kite, ball and marbles, the boys repaired to the avenue.
+
+"Who are those?" asked Archie, as looking up at the sound of approaching
+footsteps he saw two boys, a good deal older than themselves, coming
+leisurely toward them.
+
+"My cousins, Wal Conly and Dick Percival," answered Eddie. "I wish they
+hadn't come, they always tease me so."
+
+"Hilloa!" cried Dick, "what! Ed Travilla, you play with carpet-baggers,
+eh? fie on you! I wouldn't be seen with one."
+
+"That's not polite, Dick. Archie's a good boy; mamma and papa says so;
+and I like him for a playfellow."
+
+"You do? ah, that's because you're a scalawag."
+
+"What's that?"
+
+"What your father is and your grandfather too."
+
+"Then I don't care; I want to be just like my papa."
+
+"But it isn't nice," put in Walter, laughing, "a scalawag's the meanest
+thing alive."
+
+"Then you shall not call papa that, nor grandpa!" and the child's great
+dark eyes flashed with anger.
+
+"Whew! I'd like to see you hinder me. Look here, Ed," and Dick pulled
+out a pistol, "what d'ye think o' that? don't you wish you had one?
+don't you wish you could shoot?"
+
+"I can," returned Eddie, proudly, "papa's been teaching me, and he's
+given me a better pistol than that."
+
+"Hey! a likely story!" cried the two tormentors, with an incredulous
+laugh. "Let's see it now?"
+
+"It's in the house, but papa said I should never touch it 'cept when he
+gives it to me; not till I grow a big boy."
+
+"Nonsense!" cried Dick, "if 'twas there, you'd bring it out fast
+enough. I sha'n't believe a word of the story until I see the pistol."
+
+"I'll show you if I'm not telling the truth;" exclaimed Eddie, flushing
+hotly, and turning about as if to go into the house.
+
+But Archie laid a hand on his arm, and speaking for the first time since
+the others had joined them, "Don't, Eddie," he said persuasively, "don't
+disobey your father; I know you'll be sorry for it afterwards."
+
+"Hold your tongue, you young carpet-bagger," said Dick. "Run and get it,
+Ed."
+
+"No, never mind about his pistol, he can't shoot," said Walter,
+mockingly. "If he can, let him take yours and prove it."
+
+Eddie remembered well that his father had also forbidden him to touch
+firearms at all, except when with him; but the boy was naturally proud
+and wilful, and spite of all the careful training of his parents, these
+faults would occasionally show themselves.
+
+He did not like to have his word doubted, he was eager to prove his
+skill, which he conceived to be far greater than it was, and as his
+cousins continued to twit and tease him, daring him to show what he
+could do, he was sorely tempted to disobey.
+
+They were slowly walking on farther from the house as they talked, and
+finally when Dick said, "why, Ed, you couldn't hit that big tree yonder,
+I dare you to try it," at the same time offering him the pistol, the
+little fellow's sense of duty suddenly gave way, and snatching the
+weapon from Dick's hand, he fired, not allowing himself time, in his
+haste and passion, to take proper aim.
+
+In their excitement and pre-occupation, none of the boys had noticed Mr.
+Travilla riding into the avenue a moment before, closely followed by his
+body servant Ben. Almost simultaneously with the report of the pistol
+the former tumbled from the saddle and fell heavily to the ground.
+
+With a cry, "O, Mass Edard's killed!" Ben sprang from his horse and bent
+over the prostrate form, wringing his hands in fright and grief. He was
+his master's foster-brother and devotedly attached to him.
+
+The fall, the cry, the snorting and running of the frightened horses,
+instantly told the boys what had happened, and Eddie threw himself on
+the ground screaming in an agony of grief and remorse, "O, I've killed
+my father, my dear, dear father! O, papa, papa! what shall I do? what
+shall I do?"
+
+Mr. Leland coming in search of his children, the men passing the gate
+returning from their work, all heard and rushed to the spot. The blacks
+crowded about the scene of the accident, sobbing like children at the
+sight of their loved master and friend lying there apparently lifeless.
+
+Mr. Leland, his features working with emotion, at once assumed the
+direction of affairs.
+
+"Catch the horses," he said, "and you, Ben, mount the fleetest and fly
+for the doctor. And you," turning to another, "take the other and hurry
+to the Oaks for Mr. Dinsmore. Now the rest of you help me to carry your
+master to the house. I will lift his head, there gently, gently, my good
+fellows, I think he still breathes. But Mrs. Travilla!" he added,
+looking toward the dwelling, "all seems quiet there; they have not
+heard, I think, and she should be warned. I wish--"
+
+"I will go, I will tell mamma," interrupted a quivering child voice at
+his side.
+
+Little Elsie had pushed her way through the crowd and dropping on her
+knees on the grass was raining kisses and tears upon the pale,
+unconscious face.
+
+"You? poor child!" Mr. Leland began in piteous tones; but she had
+already sprung to her feet and was flying toward the house with the
+fleetness of the wind.
+
+One moment she paused in the spacious entrance hall, to recover her
+breath, calm her features, and remove the traces of her tears. "Mamma,
+mamma," she was saying to herself, "O Lord Jesus give me the right words
+to speak to her."
+
+She hardly knew to which apartment to direct her steps, but "Hark! there
+was the sound of the piano and mamma's sweet voice singing a song papa
+had brought home only the other day, and that he liked. Ah would she
+ever sing again now that he--"
+
+But no, not even in thought could she say that dreadful word; but she
+knew now that mamma was in the music room; and earnestly repeating her
+silent petition for help, she hurried thither.
+
+The door was open; with swift, noiseless steps she gained her mother's
+side; passing an arm about her neck, and half averting her own pale,
+agitated face, "Mamma," she said in low, tremulous tones, "'God is our
+refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble!' Mamma, Jesus loves
+you, Jesus loves you! He will help you to bear--"
+
+"My daughter, what is it?" asked the mother in a tone of forced
+calmness, a terrible pang shooting through her heart, "your father?
+Eddie? Vi?"--then starting up at a sound as of the feet of those who
+bore some heavy burden, she ran into the hail.
+
+For a moment she stood as one transfixed with grief and horror.
+
+"He breathes, he lives," Mr. Leland hastened to say.
+
+Her lips moved but no words came from them. Silently motioning them to
+follow her, she led the way to his room and pointed to the bed. They
+laid him on it and at that instant consciousness returned.
+
+"Dear wife, it is nothing," he faintly murmured, lifting his eyes to
+her face as she bent over him in speechless anguish.
+
+She softly pressed her lips to his brow, her heart too full for
+utterance.
+
+The words sent a thrill of gladness to the heart of little Elsie, who
+had crept in behind the men, and stood near the bed silently weeping;
+her father lived; and now Eddie's frantic screams seemed to ring in her
+ears (in her fear for her father she had scarcely noticed them before)
+and she must go and tell him the glad news. She was not needed here;
+mamma was not conscious of her presence, and she could do nothing for
+the dear injured father. She stole quietly from the room.
+
+On the veranda she found Violet crying bitterly, while Mary Leland
+vainly tried to comfort her.
+
+"Don't cry so, little sister," Elsie said, going to her and taking her
+in her arms in tender motherly fashion, "our dear papa is not killed;
+I saw him open his eyes, and heard him say to mamma, 'Dear wife, it is
+nothing.'"
+
+Vi clung to her sister with a fresh burst of tears, but this time they
+were tears of joy. "O, I'm so glad! I thought I had no papa any more."
+
+A few more soothing words and caresses and Elsie said, "Now I must go
+and tell poor Eddie. Do you know where he is?"
+
+"Hark! don't you hear him crying way off in the grounds?" said Mary, "I
+think he's just where he was."
+
+"O, yes, yes!" and Elsie hastened in the direction of the sounds.
+
+She found him lying on the grass still crying in heart-broken accents,
+"Oh, I've killed my father, my dear, dear father! what shall I do! what
+shall I do!"
+
+Dick and Walter were gone; like the guilty wretches they were, they had
+fled as soon as they saw what mischief they had caused. But Archie too
+kind-hearted and noble to forsake a friend in distress, was still there.
+
+"You didn't mean to do it, Eddie," he was saying, as Elsie came within
+hearing.
+
+"No, no," burst out the half distracted child, "I wouldn't hurt my dear
+papa one bit for all the world! but it was 'cause I disobeyed him. He
+told me never to touch firearms when he wasn't by to help me do it
+right. Oh, oh, oh, I didn't think I'd ever be such a wicked boy! I've
+killed my father, oh! oh!"
+
+"No, Eddie, no, you haven't; papa opened his eyes and spoke to mamma,"
+said his sister hurrying to his side.
+
+"Did he? O Elsie, is he alive? Isn't he hurt much?" asked the child,
+ceasing his cries for the moment, and lifting his tear-swollen face to
+hers.
+
+"I don't know, Eddie dear, but I hope not," she said, low and
+tremulously, the tears rolling fast down her own cheeks, while she took
+out her handkerchief and gently wiped them away from his.
+
+He dropped his head again, with a bitter, wailing cry. "O, I'm afraid he
+is, and I shooted him! I shooted him!"
+
+Fortunately Dr. Burton's residence was not far distant, and Ben urging
+Beppo to his utmost speed and finding the doctor at home, had him at Mr.
+Travilla's bedside in a wonderfully short space of time.
+
+The doctor found the injury not nearly so great as he had feared: the
+ball had struck the side of the head and glanced off, making a mere
+scalp-wound, which, though causing insensibility for a time, would have
+no very serious or lasting consequences; the blood had been already
+sponged away, and the wound closed with sticking plaster.
+
+But the fall had jarred the whole system and caused some bruises; so
+that altogether the patient was likely to have to keep his bed for some
+days, and the doctor said must be kept quiet and as free from excitement
+as possible.
+
+Elsie, leaving Aunt Chloe at the bedside, followed the physician from
+the room.
+
+"You need give yourself no anxiety, my dear Mrs. Travilla," he said
+cheerily, taking her hand in his for a moment, in his kind fatherly
+way--for he was an old man now, and had known her from her early
+childhood--"the injuries are not at all serious, and there is no reason
+why your husband should not be about again in a week or so. But how did
+it happen? What hand fired the shot?"
+
+"Indeed I do not know, have not asked," she answered, with an emotion
+of surprise at herself for the omission. "It seems strange I should not,
+but I was so taken up with grief and fear for him, and anxiety to
+relieve his suffering that I had room for no other thought. Can you
+tell us, sir?" turning to Mr. Leland, who was standing near.
+
+"I--did not see the shot," he replied with some hesitation.
+
+"But you know; tell me, I beg of you."
+
+"It was an accident, madam, entirely an accident: there can be no
+question about that."
+
+"But tell me all you know," she entreated, growing very pale. "I see you
+fear to wound me, but it were far better I should know the whole truth."
+
+"I suppose your little son must have been playing with a pistol," he
+answered, with evident reluctance. "I heard him screaming, 'O, I've
+killed my father, my dear, dear father!'"
+
+"Eddie!" she groaned, staggering back against the wall, and putting her
+hand over her eyes.
+
+"My dear madam!" "My dear Mrs. Travilla," the gentlemen exclaimed
+simultaneously, "do not let it distress you so, since it must have been
+the merest accident, and the consequences are not so serious as they
+might have been."
+
+"But he was disobeying his father, and has nearly taken his life," she
+moaned low and tremulously, the big tears coursing down her cheeks. "Oh,
+my son, my son!"
+
+The gentlemen looked uneasily at each other, scarcely knowing what
+consolation to offer; but a well known step approached, hastily, yet
+with caution, and the next instant Elsie was clasped in her father's
+arms.
+
+"My darling, my poor darling!" he said with emotion, as she laid her
+head on his breast, with a burst of almost hysterical weeping.
+
+He caressed her silently. How could he ask the question trembling on his
+lips? what meant this bitter weeping? His eye sought that of the
+physician, who promptly answered the unspoken query with the same
+cheering report he had just given her.
+
+Mr. Dinsmore was intensely relieved. "Thank God that it is no worse!" he
+said in low, reverent tones. "Elsie, daughter, cheer up, he will soon be
+well again."
+
+Mr. Leland, taking leave, offered to return and watch by the sick bed
+that night; but Mr. Dinsmore, while joining Elsie in cordial thanks,
+claimed it as his privilege.
+
+"Ah, well, don't hesitate to call upon me whenever I can be of use,"
+said Mr. Leland, and with a kindly "Good evening," he and the doctor
+retired, Mr. Dinsmore seeing them to the door.
+
+Returning, he found Elsie still in the parlor where he had left her.
+
+She was speaking to a servant, "Go, Prilla, look for the children, and
+bring them in. It is getting late for them to be out."
+
+The girl went, and Elsie saying to her father that Prilla had brought
+word that Mr. Travilla was now sleeping, begged him to sit down and talk
+with her for a moment. The tears fell fast as she spoke. It was long
+since he had seen her so moved.
+
+"Dear daughter, why distress yourself thus?" he said, folding her in his
+arms, and drawing her head to a resting place upon his breast; "your
+husband's injuries are not very serious. Dr. Burton is not one to
+deceive us with false hopes."
+
+"No, papa, oh, how thankful I am to know he is not in danger; but--oh,
+papa, papa! to think that Eddie did it! that my own son should have so
+nearly taken his father's life! I grow sick with horror at the very
+thought!"
+
+"Yet it must have been the merest accident, the child almost idolizes
+his father."
+
+"I had thought so, but he must have been disobeying that father's
+positive command else this could not have happened. I could never have
+believed my son could be so disobedient, and it breaks my heart to think
+of it all."
+
+"The best of us do not always resist temptation successfully, and
+doubtless in this case it has been very strong. And he is bitterly
+repenting; I heard him crying somewhere in the grounds as I rode up the
+avenue, but could not then take time to go to him, not knowing how much
+you and Travilla might be needing my assistance."
+
+"My poor boy; he does love his father," she said, wiping her eyes.
+
+"There can be no question about that, and this will be a life-long
+lesson to him."
+
+"Papa, you always bring me comfort," she said gratefully. "And you will
+stay with us to-night?"
+
+"Yes; I could not leave you at such a time. I shall send a note to Rose,
+to relieve her anxiety in regard to Edward's accident, and let her know
+that she need not expect me home till morning. Well, Prilla," as the
+girl reappeared, "what is it? why have you not brought the children as
+your mistress directed?"
+
+"Please, sah, Massa Dinsmore, Mars Eddie won't come; he jes' lie on de
+ground an' scream an' cry, 'O, I've killed my fader, my dear, dear
+fader,' an Miss Elsie she comfortin' an' coaxin', an' pleadin', but he
+won't pay no pretention to nobody."
+
+Elsie wept anew. "My poor child! my poor little son! what am I to do
+with him?"
+
+"I will go to him; trust him to me," Mr. Dinsmore said, leaving the room
+with a quick firm step.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Fifth.
+
+"If hearty sorrow
+Be a sufficient ransom for offence,
+I tender it here; I do as truly suffer,
+As e'er I did commit."
+--SHAKESPEARE.
+
+
+"O Eddie, dear, do get up and come into the house!" entreated his
+sister. "I must leave you if you don't, for Prilla said mamma had sent
+for us; and you know we must obey."
+
+"Oh I can't, I can't go in! I can't see mamma! she will never, never
+love me any more!"
+
+"Yes, she will, Eddie; nothing will ever make her stop loving us; and if
+you're really sorry for having disobeyed poor, dear papa, you'll not go
+on and disobey her now."
+
+"But oh I've been such a wicked, wicked boy. O Elsie, what shall I do?
+Jesus won't love me now, nor mamma nor anybody."
+
+"O Eddie," sobbed his sister, "don't talk so. Jesus does love you and
+will forgive you, if you ask him; and so will mamma and papa; for they
+both love you and I love you dearly, dearly."
+
+The two were alone, Archie having gone home with his father.
+
+A step drew near, and Mr. Dinsmore's voice spoke close at hand in tones
+sterner and more peremptory than he really meant them to be.
+
+"Edward, get up from that damp grass and come into the house
+immediately. Do you intend to add to your poor mother's troubles by
+your disobedience, and by making yourself sick?"
+
+The child arose instantly. He was accustomed to yield to his
+grandfather's authority quite as readily as to that of his parents.
+
+"O grandpa, please don't be hard to him! His heart's almost broken, and
+he wouldn't have hurt papa on purpose for all the world," pleaded little
+Elsie, hastening to Mr. Dinsmore's side, taking his hand in both hers,
+and lifting her tear-dimmed eyes beseechingly to his face.
+
+"Yes, grandpa ought," sobbed Eddie, "I've been such a wicked, wicked
+boy, I deserve the dreadfulest whipping that ever was. And papa can't do
+it now!" he cried with a fresh burst of grief and remorse, "and mamma
+won't like to. Grandpa, it'll have to be you. Please do it quick, 'cause
+I want it over."
+
+"And has all this distress been for fear of punishment?" asked Mr.
+Dinsmore, taking the child's hand, and bending down to look searchingly
+into his face.
+
+"Oh no, no, no, grandpa! I'd rather be whipped any day than to know
+I've hurt my dear papa so. Grandpa, won't you do it quick?"
+
+"No, my son, I am not fond of such business and shall not punish you
+unless requested to do so by your father or mother. The doctor hopes
+your father will be about again in a week or two, and he can then attend
+to your case himself."
+
+"Oh then he won't die! he won't die, our dear, dear papa!" cried both
+children in a breath.
+
+"No; God has been very good to us all in causing the ball to strike
+where it could do but little injury. And Edward, I hope this will be
+such a lesson to you all your life as will keep you from ever disobeying
+again."
+
+They were passing up the avenue, Eddie moving submissively along by his
+grandfather's side, but with tottering steps; for the dreadful
+excitement of the last hour had exhausted him greatly. Perceiving this
+Mr. Dinsmore presently took him in his arms and carried him to the
+house.
+
+Low pitiful sobs and sighs were the only sounds the little fellow made
+till set down in the veranda; but then clinging to his grandfather's
+hand, he burst out afresh, "O grandpa, I can't go in! I can't, I can't
+see mamma, for she can't love me any more."
+
+The mother heard and came quickly out. The tears were coursing down her
+cheeks, her mother heart yearned over her guilty, miserable child:
+stooping down and stretching out her arms, "Eddie, my little son," she
+said in tender tremulous accents, "come to mother. If my boy is truly
+sorry for his sin, mamma has no reproaches for him: nothing but
+forgiveness and love."
+
+He threw himself upon her bosom, "Mamma, mamma, I am sorry, oh, _so_
+sorry! I will never, never disobey papa or you again."
+
+"God helping you, my son; if you trust in your own strength you will be
+sure to fall."
+
+"Yes mamma; oh, mamma, I've been the wickedest boy! I disobeyed my
+father and shooted him; and oughtn't I to have a dreadful whipping?
+Shall grandpa do it?"
+
+Mrs. Travilla lifted her full eyes inquiringly to her father's face.
+
+"It is all his own idea," said Mr. Dinsmore with emotion, "I think he
+has already had a worse punishment by far in his grief and remorse."
+
+Elsie heaved a sigh of relief. "I think his father would say so too; it
+shall be decided by him when he is able. Eddie, my son, papa is too ill
+now to say what shall be done with you. I think he does not even know of
+your disobedience. You will have to wait some days. The suspense will be
+hard to bear, I know, but my little boy must try to be patient,
+remembering that he has brought all this suffering on himself. And in
+the meantime he has mamma's forgiveness and love," she added folding him
+to her heart with a tender caress.
+
+Sorely the children missed their precious half hour with mamma that
+night, and every night and morning of their papa's illness; she could
+leave him only long enough each time to give them a few loving words and
+a kiss all round, and they scarcely saw her through the day--were not
+admitted to their father's room at all.
+
+But they were very good; lessons went on nearly as usual, little Elsie
+keeping order in the school-room, even wilful Eddie quietly submitting
+to her gentle sway, and grandpa kindly attending to the recitations. He
+rode out with them too, and he, Aunt Rosie or their mammies, took them
+for a pleasant walk every fine day.
+
+Friends and neighbors were very kind and attentive, none more so than
+the Lelands. Archie told his father how, and by whom, poor Eddie had
+been teased, provoked and dared into firing the pistol; Mr. Leland told
+Mr. Dinsmore the story, and he repeated it to his father and sisters.
+
+The old gentleman was sufficiently incensed against the two culprits to
+administer a severe castigation to each, while Elsie was thankful to
+learn that her son had not yielded readily to the temptation to
+disobedience. She pitied him deeply, as she noted how weary to him were
+these days of waiting, how his gay spirits had forsaken him, how anxious
+he was for his father's recovery; how he longed for the time when he
+should be permitted to go to him with his confession and petition for
+pardon.
+
+At length that time came. Mr. Travilla was so much better that Dr.
+Burton said it would do him no harm to see his children, and to hear all
+the details of his accident.
+
+The others were brought in first and allowed to spend a few minutes in
+giving and receiving caresses, their little tongues running very fast in
+their exuberant joy over their restored father.
+
+"Elsie, Vi, Harold, baby--but where is Eddie?" he asked, looking a
+little anxiously at his wife; "not sick, I hope?"
+
+"No, my dear, he will be in presently," she answered, the tears starting
+to her eyes, "no one of them all has found it harder to be kept away
+from you than he. But there is something he has begged me to tell you
+before he comes."
+
+"Ah!" he said with a troubled look in his eyes, a suspicion of the truth
+dawning upon him. "Well, darlings, you may go now, and mamma will let
+you come in again before your bedtime."
+
+They withdrew and Elsie told her story, dwelling more particularly upon
+the strength of the temptation and the child's agony of grief and
+remorse.
+
+"Bring him here, wife," Mr. Travilla said, his eyes full, his voice
+husky with emotion.
+
+There was a sound of sobs in the hall without as she opened the door.
+"Come, son," she said, taking his hand in hers, "papa knows it all now."
+
+Half eagerly, half tremblingly he suffered her to lead him in.
+
+"Papa," he burst out sobbingly, scarcely daring to lift his eyes from
+the floor, "I've been a very wicked, bad boy; I disobeyed you
+and--and--"
+
+"Come here to me, my little son." How gentle and tender were the tones.
+
+Eddie lifted his head and with one joyous bound was in his fathers arms,
+clinging about his neck and sobbing out upon his breast his grief, his
+joy, his penitence. "Papa, papa, can you forgive such a naughty
+disobedient boy? I'm so sorry I did it! I'm so glad you didn't die,
+dear, dear papa! so glad you love me yet."
+
+"Love you, son? I think if you knew how much, you would never want to
+disobey again."
+
+"I don't, papa, oh, I don't! I ask God earnestly every day to give me
+a new heart, and help me always to be good. But mustn't I be punished?
+mamma said it was for you to say, and grandpa didn't whip me and he
+won't 'less you ask him."
+
+"And I shall not ask him, my son. I fully and freely forgive you,
+because I am sure you are very sorry and do not mean to disobey again."
+
+How happy the child was that at last his father knew and had forgiven
+all.
+
+Mr. Travilla improved the occasion for a short but very serious talk
+with him on the sin and danger of disobedience, and his words, so
+tenderly spoken, made a deep and lasting impression.
+
+But Eddie was not yet done with the pain and mortification consequent
+upon his wrong doing. That afternoon the Ashland ladies called bringing
+with them the elder children of both families. While their mammas
+conversed in the drawing-room the little people gathered in the veranda.
+
+All was harmony and good-will among them till Philip Ross, fixing his
+eyes on Eddie, said with a sneer, "So, Master Ed, though you told me one
+day you'd never talk to your mamma as I did to mine, you've done a good
+deal worse. I don't set up for a pattern good boy, but I'd die before
+I'd shoot my father."
+
+Eddie's eyes sought the floor while his lips trembled and two great
+tears rolled down his burning cheeks.
+
+"Phil Ross," cried Gertrude, "I'm ashamed of you! of course he didn't do
+it a-purpose."
+
+"May be not; he didn't disobey on purpose? hadn't his father--"
+
+But catching a reproachful, entreating look from Elsie's soft, brown
+eyes, he stopped short and turning away, began to whistle carelessly,
+while Vi, putting her small arms about Eddie's neck, said, "Phil Ross,
+you shouldn't 'sult my brother so, 'cause he wouldn't 'tend to hurt
+papa; no, not for all the world;" Harold chiming in, "'Course my Eddie
+wouldn't!" and Bruno, whom he was petting and stroking with his chubby
+hands, giving a short, sharp bark, as if he too had a word to say in
+defence of his young master.
+
+"Is that your welcome to visitors, Bruno?" queried a young man of
+eighteen or twenty, alighting from his horse and coming up the steps
+into the veranda.
+
+"You must please excuse him for being so ill-mannered, Cousin Cal,"
+little Elsie said, coming forward and offering her hand with a graceful
+courtesy very like her mamma's. "Will you walk into the drawing-room?
+our mammas are all there."
+
+"Presently, thank you," he said, bending down to snatch a kiss from the
+sweet lips.
+
+She shrank from the caress almost with aversion.
+
+"What's the use of being so shy with a cousin?" he asked, laughing, "why
+Molly Percival likes to kiss me."
+
+"I think Molly would not be pleased if she knew you said that," remarked
+the little girl, in a quiet tone, and moving farther from him as she
+spoke.
+
+"Holding a levee, eh?" he said, glancing about upon the group. "How
+d'ye, young ladies and gentlemen? Holloa, Ed! so you're the brave fellow
+that shot his father? Hope your grandfather dealt out justice to you in
+the same fashion that Wal and Dick's did to them."
+
+Eddie could bear no more, but burst into an agony of tears and sobs.
+
+"Calhoun Conly, do you think it very manly for a big fellow like you to
+torment such a little one as our Eddie?" queried Elsie, with rising
+indignation.
+
+"No, I don't," he said frankly. "Never mind, Eddie, I take it all back,
+and own that the other two deserve the lion's share of the blame, and
+punishment too. Come, shake hands and let's make up."
+
+Eddie gave his hand, saying in broken tones, "I was a naughty boy, but
+papa has forgiven me, and I don't mean ever to disobey him any more."
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Sixth.
+
+"So false is faction, and so smooth a liar,
+As that it never had a side entire."
+--DANIEL.
+
+
+By the first of December Mr. Travilla had entirely recovered from the
+ill effects of his accident--which had occurred early in November--and
+life at Ion resumed its usual quiet, regular, but pleasant routine,
+varied only by frequent exchange of visits with the other families of
+the connection, and near neighbors, especially the Lelands.
+
+Because of the presence among them of their northern relatives, this
+winter was made a gayer one than either of the last two, which had seen
+little mirth or jovialty among the older ones, subdued as they were by
+recent, repeated bereavements. Time had now somewhat assuaged their
+grief, and only the widowed ones still wore the garb of mourning.
+
+A round of family parties for old and young filled up the holidays; and
+again just before the departure of the Rosses and Allisons in the early
+spring, they were all gathered at Ion for a farewell day together.
+
+Some of the blacks in Mr. Leland's employ had been beaten and otherwise
+maltreated only the previous night by a band of armed and disguised men,
+and the conversation naturally turned upon that occurrence.
+
+"So the Ku Klux outrages have begun in our neighborhood," remarked Mr.
+Horace Dinsmore, and went on to denounce their proceedings in unmeasured
+terms.
+
+The faces of several of his auditors flushed angrily. Enna shot a fierce
+glance at him, muttering "scalawag," half under her breath, while his
+old father said testily, "Horace, you speak too strongly. I haven't a
+doubt the rascals deserved all they got. I'm told one of them at least,
+had insulted some lady, Mrs. Foster, I believe, and that the others had
+been robbing hen-roosts and smoke-houses."
+
+"That may perhaps be so, but at all events every man has a right to a
+fair trial," replied his son, "and so long as there is no difficulty in
+bringing such matters before the civil courts, there is no excuse for
+Lynch law, which is apt to visit its penalties upon the innocent as well
+as the guilty."
+
+At this, George Boyd, who, as the nephew of the elder Mrs. Carrington
+and a member of the Ashlands household, had been invited with the
+others, spoke warmly in defence of the organization, asserting that its
+main object was to defend the helpless, particularly in guarding against
+the danger of an insurrection of the blacks.
+
+"There is not the slightest fear of that," remarked Mr. Travilla, "there
+may be some few turbulent spirits among them, but as a class they are
+quiet and inoffensive."
+
+"Begging your pardon, sir," said Boyd, "I find them quite the
+reverse;--demanding their wages directly they are due, and not satisfied
+with what one chooses to give. And that reminds me that you, sir, and
+Mr. Horace Dinsmore, and that carpet-bagger of Fairview are entirely too
+liberal in the wages you pay."
+
+"That is altogether our own affair, sir," returned Mr. Dinsmore,
+haughtily. "No man or set of men shall dictate to me as to how I spend
+my money. What do you say, Travilla?"
+
+"I take the same position; shall submit to no such infringement of my
+liberty to do as I will with my own."
+
+Elsie's eyes sparkled: she was proud of her husband and father. Rose,
+too, smiled approval.
+
+"Sounds very fine," growled Boyd, "but I say you've no right to put up
+the price of labor."
+
+"Papa," cried young Horace, straightening himself and casting a
+withering look upon Boyd, "I hope neither you nor Brother Edward will
+ever give in to them a single inch. Such insolence!"
+
+"Let us change the subject," said old Mr. Dinsmore, "it is not an
+agreeable one."
+
+It so happened that a few days after this Messrs. Dinsmore, Travilla and
+Leland were talking together just within the entrance to the avenue at
+Ion when Wilkins Foster, George Boyd and Calhoun Conly came riding by.
+
+They brought their horses to a walk as they neared the gate, and Foster
+called out sneeringly, "Two scalawags and a carpet-bagger! fit company
+for each other."
+
+"So we think, sir," returned Travilla coolly, "though we do not accept
+the epithets you so generously bestow upon us."
+
+"It is an easy thing to call names; any fool is equal to that," said Mr.
+Leland, in a tone of unruffled good-nature.
+
+"True; and the weapon of vituperation is generally used by those who
+lack brains for argument or are upon the wrong side," observed Mr.
+Dinsmore.
+
+"Is that remark intended to apply to me sir?" asked Foster, drawing
+himself up with an air of hauteur and defiance.
+
+"Not particularly: but if you wish to prove yourself skilled in the
+other and more manly weapon, we are ready to give you the opportunity."
+
+"Yes; come in, gentlemen, and let us have a free and friendly
+discussion," said Mr. Travilla.
+
+Boyd and Conly at once accepted the invitation, but Foster, reining in
+his horse in the shade of a tree at the gate, said, "No, thank you; I
+don't care to alight, can talk from the saddle as well as anyway. I call
+you scalawags, Messrs. Dinsmore and Travilla, because though natives of
+the South, you have turned against her."
+
+"Altogether a mistake," observed Travilla.
+
+"I deny the charge and call upon you to prove it," said Mr. Dinsmore.
+
+"Easy task; you kept away and took no part in our struggle for
+independence."
+
+"That is we (I speak for Travilla as well as myself) had no share in the
+effort to overthrow the best government in the world, the hope of the
+down-trodden and oppressed of all the earth a struggle which we foresaw
+would prove, as it has, the almost utter destruction of our beloved
+South. They who inaugurated secession were no true friends to her."
+
+"Sir!" cried Boyd, with angry excitement, "ours was as righteous a cause
+as that of our Revolutionary fathers."
+
+Mr. Dinsmore shook his head. "They fought against unbearable tyranny;
+and that after having exhausted every other means of obtaining a redress
+of their grievances; and we had suffered no oppression at the hands of
+the general government."
+
+"Hadn't we?" interrupted Foster fiercely. "Were the provisions of the
+Fugitive Slave Law carried out by the North? didn't some of the Northern
+States pass laws in direct opposition to it? and didn't Yankee
+abolitionists come down here interfering with our institutions and
+enticing our negroes to run away, or something worse?"
+
+"Those were the acts of private individuals, and individual states,
+entirely unsanctioned by the general government, which really had always
+rather favored us than otherwise."
+
+"But uncle," said Conly, "there would have been no secession but for the
+election of Lincoln, an abolition candidate."
+
+"And who elected him? who but the Democrats of the South? They made a
+division in the Democratic party, purposely to enable the Republicans to
+elect their man, that they might use his election as a pretext for
+secession."
+
+A long and hot discussion followed, each one present taking more or less
+part in it. It was first the causes of the war, then the war itself;
+after that the reconstruction policy of Congress, which was bitterly
+denounced by Foster and Boyd.
+
+"Never was a conquered people treated so shamefully!" cried the former,
+"it is a thing hitherto unheard of in the history of the world, that
+gentlemen should be put under the rule of their former slaves."
+
+"Softly, softly, sir," said Leland, "surely you forget that the terms
+proposed by the fourteenth amendment, substantially left the power of
+the State governments in your hands, and enabled you to limit suffrage
+and office to the white race. But you rejected it, and refused to take
+part in the preliminary steps for reorganizing your State governments.
+So the blacks acquired the right to vote and hold office: they were, as
+a class, well meaning, but ignorant, and their old masters refusing to
+accept office at their hands, or advise them in regard to their new
+duties, they fell an easy prey to unscrupulous white men, whose only
+care was to enrich themselves by robbing the already impoverished
+states, through corrupt legislation.[A] Now, sir, who was it that really
+put you under the rule of your former slaves, if you are there?"
+
+[Footnote A: See report of Congressional Committee of Investigation]
+
+Foster attempted no reply, but merely reiterated his assertion that
+no conquered people had ever been so cruelly used; to which Messrs.
+Travilla, Dinsmore and Leland replied with a statement of facts, i.e.,
+that before the war was fairly over, the Government began to feed,
+clothe, shelter and care for the destitute of both colors, and millions
+were distributed in supplies; that in 1865 a bureau was organized for
+this purpose, and expended in relief, education and aid to people of
+both colors, and all conditions, thirteen millions, two hundred and
+thirty thousand, three hundred and twenty-seven dollars, and forty
+cents; while millions more were given by charitable associations and
+citizens of the North: that the Government sold thousands of farm
+animals in the South, at low rates, and large quantities of clothing and
+supplies at merely nominal prices, that there had been no executions for
+treason, no confiscation of lands, but that some estates abandoned by
+the owners during the war, and taken possession of and cultivated by the
+Government, had been returned in better condition than they would have
+been in if permitted to lie idle; that the railroads of the South were
+worn out by the war, woodwork rotted, rails and machinery worn out; that
+the Government forces as they advanced, captured the lines, repaired the
+tracks, rebuilt bridges and restored and renewed the rolling stock; that
+at the close of the war the Government might have held all these lines,
+but instead turned them over to the stockholders, sold them the rolling
+stock at low rates, and on long time, and advanced millions of dollars
+to the southern railroads; that there were debts estimated, when the war
+began, at three hundred millions of dollars due the merchants of the
+North; that they compounded with their southern debtors, abating more
+than half their dues, and extending time for the payment of the
+remainder; that a bankrupt act was passed enabling those hopelessly
+involved to begin business anew. Sound institutions took the places of
+the old broken banks, and United States currency that of Confederate
+notes, etc. etc.[B]
+
+[Footnote B: See Reports of Congressional Committee of Investigation.]
+
+Foster attempted no denial of these facts, but spoke bitterly of
+corruption among the state government officials, resulting in ruinous
+taxation etc.
+
+His antagonists freely admitted that there had been frauds and great
+extravagance, yet claimed that neither party was responsible for these,
+but members of both and persons belonging to neither who cared only for
+their own gains.[C] "And who," they asked, "are responsible for their
+success in obtaining the positions which enable them thus to rob the
+community?"
+
+[Footnote C: See Reports of Congressional Committee of Investigation.]
+
+"They had no vote from me," said Foster. "But, I say it again, we have
+been shamefully treated; if they'd confiscated my property and cut off
+my head, I'd have suffered less than I have as things have gone."
+
+"Why not petition Congress for those little favors? Possibly it may not
+yet be too late;" returned Leland, laughing.
+
+This ended the talk, Foster put spurs to his horse and rode off in a
+rage.
+
+"Come, Conly, we've surely had enough of this Republican discourse: let
+us go also," said Boyd, and with a haughty wave of his hand to the
+others, he hurried into the road and remounted.
+
+But Conly did not follow. Elsie joined the group at that moment and
+laying her hand on his arm, said with one of her sweetest smiles, "Don't
+go, Cal, you must stay and take tea with us; it is already on the
+table."
+
+"Thank you, I will," he said with a pleased look.
+
+He was one of his cousin's ardent admirers, thinking her the most
+beautiful, intelligent, fascinating woman he had ever seen.
+
+She extended her invitation to Leland and Boyd, Mr. Travilla seconding
+it warmly, but it was courteously declined by both, and each went his
+way.
+
+"Papa, you will not forsake us?" Elsie said gayly, putting both hands
+into his and smiling up into his face, her sweet soft eyes, brimful of
+fond, filial affection; "but you know you are at home and need no
+invitation."
+
+"Yes," he said, returning the smile, and holding the hands fast for a
+moment, "I am at home and shall stay for an hour or so."
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Seventh.
+
+"Disguise, I see thou art a wickedness,
+Wherein the pregnant enemy does much."
+--SHAKESPEARE'S TWELFTH NIGHT.
+
+
+"Will you walk into the library, gentlemen? I have just received a
+package of new books, which, perhaps, you would like to examine," said
+Mr. Travilla to his guests as they left the tea-table.
+
+"Presently, thank you," Mr. Dinsmore answered, catching Elsie's eye, and
+perceiving that she had something for his private ear.
+
+She took his arm and drew him out to her flower garden, while her
+husband and Calhoun sought the library.
+
+"Papa, I want a word with you about Cal. I do not like Foster and Boyd;
+that is, they seem to me to be unprincipled men, of violent temper and
+altogether very bad associates for him; and you must have noticed how
+intimate he is with them of late."
+
+"Yes, I regret it, but have no authority to forbid the intimacy."
+
+"I know; but, papa, you have great influence; he is proud to be known
+as your nephew; and don't you think you might be able to induce him to
+give them up for some better friend; my brother, for instance? Papa, he
+is twenty-one now, and are not his principles sufficiently fixed to
+enable him to lead Cal and Arthur, doing them good instead of being
+injured by association with them?"
+
+"Yes, you are right; Horace is not one to be easily led, and Calhoun is.
+I am glad you have spoken and reminded me of my duty."
+
+"My dear father, please do not think I was meaning to do that," she
+cried, blushing, "it would be stepping out of my place. But Edward and I
+have had several talks about Cal of late, and decided that we will make
+him very welcome here, and try to do him good. Edward suggested, too,
+what a good and helpful friend Horace might be to him, if you approved,
+and I said I would speak to you first, and perhaps to my brother
+afterward."
+
+"Quite right. I think Horace will be very willing. I should be loth to
+have him drawn into intimacy with Boyd or Foster, but as he likes
+neither their conduct nor their principles, I have little fear of that."
+
+They sauntered about the garden a few moments longer, then rejoined the
+others, who were still in the library.
+
+The children were romping with each other and Bruno on the veranda
+without; the merry shouts, the silvery laughter coming pleasantly in
+through the open windows.
+
+"How happy they seem, Cousin Elsie," remarked Calhoun, turning to her.
+
+"Yes, they are," she answered, smiling. "You are fond of children, Cal?"
+
+"Yes; suppose you let me join them."
+
+"Suppose we all do," suggested Mr. Dinsmore, seeing Travilla lay aside
+his book, and listen with a pleased smile to the glad young voices.
+
+"With all my heart," said the latter as he rose and led the way, "I find
+nothing more refreshing after the day's duties are done, than a romp
+with my children."
+
+For the next half hour they were all children together; then Aunt Chloe
+and Dinah came to take the little ones to bed, and Elsie, after seeing
+her guests depart, followed to the nursery.
+
+Mr. Dinsmore rode over to Roselands with his nephew, conversing all the
+way in a most entertaining manner, making no allusion to politics or to
+Boyd or Foster.
+
+Calhoun was charmed, and when his uncle urged him to visit the Oaks more
+frequently, observing that he had been there but once since Horace's
+return from college, and proposing that he should begin by coming to
+dinner the next day and staying as long as suited his convenience, the
+invitation was accepted with alacrity and delight.
+
+On returning home Mr. Dinsmore explained his views and wishes, with
+regard to Calhoun, to his wife and son, who at once cordially fell in
+with them in doing all they could to make his visit enjoyable. In fact,
+so agreeable did he find it that his stay was prolonged to several days.
+
+The morning papers one day brought news of several fresh Ku Klux
+outrages, beatings, shootings, hanging.
+
+Mr. Dinsmore read the account aloud at the breakfast table, and again
+made some remarks against the organization.
+
+Calhoun listened in silence, then as Mr. Dinsmore laid the paper down,
+"Uncle," said he doubtfully, and with downcast troubled look, "don't you
+think the reconstruction acts form some excuse for the starting of such
+an organisation?"
+
+"Let the facts answer," returned Mr. Dinsmore: "the organization existed
+as early as 1866; the reconstruction acts were passed in March,
+1867."[D]
+
+[Footnote D: See Reports of Congressional Committee of Investigation.]
+
+"Ah, yes, sir, I had forgotten the dates; I've heard that reason given;
+and another excuse is the fear of a conspiracy among the negroes to rob
+and murder the whites: and I think you can't deny that they are
+thievish."
+
+"I don't deny, Cal, that some individuals among them have been guilty of
+lawless acts, particularly stealing articles of food; but they are poor
+and ignorant; have been kept in ignorance so long that we cannot
+reasonably expect in them a very strong sense of the rights of property
+and the duty of obedience to law; yet I have never been able to discover
+any indications of combined lawlessness among them. On the contrary they
+are themselves fearful of attack."
+
+"Well, sir, then there were those organizations in the other--the
+Republican party; the Union Leagues and Redstrings. I've been told the
+Ku Klux Klan was gotten up in opposition to them."
+
+"I presume so, but Union Leaguers and Redstrings do not go about in
+disguise, robbing, beating, murdering."
+
+"But then the carpet-baggers," said Calhoun, waxing warm, "putting
+mischief into the negroes' heads, getting into office and robbing the
+state in the most shameless wholesale manner; they're excuse enough for
+the doings of the Ku Klux."
+
+"Ah!" said his uncle, "but you forget that their organization was in
+existence before the robberies of the state began: also that they do not
+trouble corruptionists: and why? because they are men of both parties;
+some of them men who direct and control, and might easily suppress the
+Klan. No, no, Cal, judged out of their own mouths, by their words to
+their victims, with some of whom I have conversed, their ruling motives
+are hostility to the Government, to the enjoyment of the negro of the
+rights given him by the amendments to the Constitution, and by the laws
+which they are organized to oppose.[E] Their real object is the
+overthrow of the State governments and the return of the negro to
+bondage. And tell me, Cal, do you look upon these midnight attacks of
+overpowering numbers of disguised men upon the weak and helpless, some
+of them women, as manly deeds? Is it a noble act for white men to steal
+from the poor ignorant black his mule, his arms, his crops, the fruit of
+his hard labor?"
+
+[Footnote E: See Reports of Congressional Committee of Investigation.]
+
+"No, sir," returned Calhoun half-reluctantly, his face flushing hotly.
+
+"No, emphatically no, say I!" cried Horace, Jr., "what could be more
+base, mean, or cowardly?"
+
+"You don't belong, do you, Cal?" asked Rosie, suddenly.
+
+He dropped his knife and fork, his face fairly ablaze, "What--what could
+make you think that, Rosie? No, no, I--don't belong to any organization
+that acknowledges that name."
+
+A suspicion for the first time flashed upon Mr. Dinsmore, a suspicion of
+the truth. Calhoun Conly was already a member of the White Brotherhood,
+the name by which the Klan was known among themselves, Ku Klux being the
+one given to the world at large; that thus they might avail themselves
+of the miserable, Jesuitical subterfuge Calhoun had just used.
+
+He had been wheedled into joining it by Foster and Boyd, who utterly
+deceived him in regard to its objects. He had never taken part in the
+outrages and was now fully determined that he never would; resolving
+that while keeping its secrets, the penalty of the exposure of which was
+death, he would quietly withdraw and attend no more of its meetings. He
+understood the language of the searching look Mr. Dinsmore gave him and
+seized the first opportunity for a word in private, to vindicate
+himself.
+
+"Uncle," he said with frank sincerity, "I am not free to tell you
+everything, as I could wish, but I hope you will believe me when I
+assure you that I never had any share in the violent doings of the Ku
+Klux, and never will."
+
+Mr. Dinsmore bent upon him a second look of keen scrutiny. Conly bore it
+without flinching; and extending his hand, his uncle replied, "I think I
+understand the situation: but I will trust you, Cal, and not fear that
+in entertaining you here I am harboring a hypocrite and spy who may
+betray my family and myself into the hands of midnight assassins."
+
+"Thanks, uncle, you shall never have cause to repent of your
+confidence," the lad answered with a flush of honest pride.
+
+He returned to Roselands the next day, and went directly to an upper
+room, at some distance from those usually occupied by the family, from
+whence came the busy hum of a sewing machine.
+
+The door was securely fastened on the inner side, but opened immediately
+in response to three quick, sharp taps of a pencil which Calhoun took
+from his pocket.
+
+It was his mother's face that looked cautiously out upon him. "Oh, you
+have returned," she said in an undertone; "well, come in. I'm glad to
+see you."
+
+He stepped in, and she locked the door again, and sitting down, resumed
+the work, which it seemed had been laid aside to admit him. She was
+making odd looking rolls of cotton cloth; stuffing them with cotton
+wool.
+
+Mrs. Johnson, the only other person present, was seated before the
+sewing machine, stitching a seam in a long garment of coarse, white
+linen.
+
+"How d'ye do, Cal?" she said, looking up for an instant to give him a
+nod.
+
+He returned the greeting, and taking a chair by Mrs. Conly's side, "All
+well, mother?" he asked.
+
+"Quite. You're just in time to tell me whether these are going to look
+right. You know we've never seen any, and have only your description to
+go by."
+
+She held up a completed roll. It looked like a horn, tapering nearly to
+a point.
+
+"I think so," he said; "but, mother, you needn't finish mine: I shall
+never use it."
+
+"Calhoun Conly, what do you mean?" she cried, dropping the roll into her
+lap, and gazing at him with kindling eyes.
+
+"You're not going to back out of it now?" exclaimed Enna, leaving her
+machine, and approaching him in sudden and violent anger. "You'd better
+take care, coward, they'll kill you if you turn traitor; and right they
+should too."
+
+"I shall not turn traitor," he said quietly, "but neither shall I go any
+farther than I have gone. I should never have joined, if Boyd and Foster
+hadn't deceived me as to the objects of the organization."
+
+"But you have joined, Cal, and I'll not consent to your giving it up,"
+said his mother.
+
+"I don't like to vex you, mother," he answered, reddening, "but--"
+
+"But you'll have your own way, whether it displeases me or not? A
+dutiful son, truly."
+
+"This is Horace's work, and he's a scalawag, if he is my brother,"
+cried Enna, with growing passion, "but if I were you, Cal Conly, I'd be
+man enough to have an opinion of my own, and stick to it."
+
+"Exactly what I'm doing, Aunt Enna. I went into the thing blindfold;
+I have found out what it really is--a cruel, cowardly, lawless
+concern--and I wash my hands of it and its doings."
+
+Bowing ceremoniously he unlocked the door, and left the room.
+
+Enna sprang to it and fastened it after him. "If he was my son, I'd turn
+him out of the house."
+
+"Father would hardly consent," replied her sister, "and if he did, what
+good would it do? Horace or Travilla would take him in of course."
+
+"Well, thank heaven, Boyd and Foster are made of sterner stuff and our
+labor's not all lost," said Enna, returning to her machine.
+
+The two ladies had been spending many hours every day in that room for
+a week past, no one but Calhoun being admitted to their secrets, for
+whether in the room or out of it they kept the door always carefully
+locked.
+
+The curiosity of servants and children was strongly excited, but vain
+had been all their questions and coaxing, futile every attempt to solve
+the mystery up to the present time.
+
+But three or four days after Calhoun's return from the Oaks, the thought
+suggested itself to mischievous, prying Dick and his coadjutor Walter,
+that the key of some other lock in the house might fit that of the door
+they so ardently desired to open. They only waited for a favorable
+opportunity to test the question in the temporary absence of their
+mothers from that part of the building, and to their great joy
+discovered that the key of the bedroom they shared together was the
+duplicate of the one which had so long kept their masculine curiosity
+at bay.
+
+It turned readily in the lock and with a smothered exclamation of
+delight they rushed in and glanced eagerly about.
+
+At first they saw nothing in any way remarkable--the familiar furniture,
+the sewing machine, the work-table and baskets of their mothers, a few
+shreds of white cotton and linen, a scrap here and there of red braid
+littering the carpet near the machine, and the low rocking-chair used by
+Mrs. Conly.
+
+"Pooh! nothing here to be so secret about," cried Walter, but Dick,
+nodding his head wisely said, "Let's look a little further. What's in
+that closet?"
+
+They ran to it, opened the door, and started back in sudden momentary
+affright.
+
+"'Taint alive," said Dick, the bolder of the two, quickly recovering
+himself; "horrid thing! I reckon I know what 'tis," and he whispered a
+few words in his companion's ear.
+
+Walter gave a nod of acquiescence of the opinion.
+
+"Here's another 'most finished," pursued Dick, dragging out and
+examining a bundle he found lying on the closet floor. (The one which
+had so startled them hung on the wall.) "We'll have some fun out of 'em
+one of these times when it's ready, eh, Wal?"
+
+"Yes, but let's put 'em back, and hurry off now, for fear somebody
+should come and catch us. I'm afraid those folks in the drawing-room may
+go, and our mothers come up to their work again."
+
+"So they might, to be sure," said Dick, rolling up the bundle and
+bestowing it in its former resting place. "We must be on the watch, Wal,
+or we'll miss our chance; they'll be sending them out o' this about as
+soon as they're finished."
+
+"Yes. Who do you think they're for?"
+
+(The boys scorned the rules of English grammar, and refused to be
+fettered by them. Was not theirs a land of free speech--for the
+aristocratic class to which they undoubtedly belonged?)
+
+"Cal and Art, of course."
+
+"Don't you believe it, Art cares for nothing but his books and
+Silverheels. Wasn't that a jolly birthday present, Dick? I wish Travilla
+and Cousin Elsie would remember ours the same way."
+
+"Reckon I do. There, everything's just as we found it. Now let's
+skedaddle."
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Eighth.
+
+"A horrid spectre rises to my sight,
+Close by my side, and plain, and palpable
+In all good seeming and close circumstance
+As man meets man."
+--JOANNA BAILLIE.
+
+
+It was a sultry summer night, silent and still, not a leaf stirring,
+hardly so much as the chirp of an insect to be heard. The moon looked
+down from a cloudless sky upon green lawns and meadows, fields and
+forests clothed in richest verdure; gardens, where bloomed lovely
+flowers in the greatest variety and profusion, filling the air in their
+immediate vicinity with an almost overpowering sweetness; a river
+flowing silently to the sea; cabins where the laborer rested from his
+toil, and lordlier dwellings where, perchance, the rich man tossed
+restlessly on his more luxurious couch.
+
+Mr. and Mrs. Travilla had spent the earlier part of the evening at the
+Oaks, and after their return, tempted by the beauty of the night, had
+sat conversing together in the veranda long after their usual hour for
+retiring. Now they were both sleeping soundly.
+
+Perhaps the only creature awake about the house or on the plantation,
+was Bungy the great watch dog, who, released from the chain that bound
+him during the day, was going his rounds keeping guard over his master's
+property.
+
+A tiny figure, clothed in white, stole noiselessly from the house,
+flitted down the avenue, out into the road beyond, and on and on till
+lost to view in the distance. So light was the tread of the little bare
+feet, that Bungy did not hear it, nor was Bruno, sleeping on the
+veranda, aroused.
+
+On and on it glided, the little figure, now in the shadow of the trees
+that skirted the road-side, now out in the broad moonbeams where they
+fell unimpeded upon dew-laden grass and dusty highway alike.
+
+Ion had been left more than a mile behind, yet farther and farther the
+bit feetie were straying, farther from home and love, and safety, when a
+grotesque, hideous form suddenly emerged from a wood on the opposite
+side of the road.
+
+Seemingly of gigantic stature, it wore a long, white garment, that,
+enveloping it from head to foot, trailed upon the ground, rattling as it
+moved, and glistening in the moonlight; the head was adorned with three
+immense horns, white, striped with red, a nose of proportional size,
+red eyes and eyebrows, and a wide, grinning red mouth, filled with
+horrible tusks, out of which roiled a long red tongue.
+
+Catching sight of the small white form gliding along on the other side
+of the road, it uttered a low exclamation of mingled wonder, awe and
+superstitious dread.
+
+But at that instant a distant sound was heard like the rumble of
+approaching wheels, and it stepped quickly behind a tree.
+
+Another minute or so and a stage came rattling down the road, the
+hideous monster stepped boldly out from the shadow of the tree, there
+was the sharp crack of a rifle, and the driver of the stage tumbled from
+his high seat into the road. The horses started madly forward, but some
+one caught the reins and presently brought them to a standstill.
+
+"Ku Klux!" exclaimed several voices, as the trailing, rattling white
+gown disappeared in the recesses of the wood.
+
+The stage door was thrown open, three or four men alighted, and going to
+the body stooped over it, touched it, spoke to it, asking, "Are you
+badly hurt, Jones?"
+
+But there was no answer.
+
+"Dead, quite dead," said one.
+
+"Yes, what shall we do with him?"
+
+"Lift him into the stage and take him to the next town."
+
+The last speaker took hold of the head of the corpse, the others
+assisted, and in a few moments the vehicle was on its way again with its
+load of living and dead.
+
+No one had noticed the tiny white figure which now crouched behind a
+clump of bushes weeping bitterly and talking to itself, but, in a
+subdued way as if fearful of being overheard.
+
+"Where am I? O mamma, papa, come and help your little Vi! I don't know
+how I got here. Oh, where are you, my own mamma?" A burst of sobs; then
+"Oh, I'm so 'fraid! and mamma can't hear me, nor papa; but Jesus can;
+I'll ask him to take care of me; and he will."
+
+The small white hands folded themselves together and the low sobbing
+cry went up, "Dear Jesus, take care of your little Vi, and don't let
+anything hurt her; and please bring papa to take her home."
+
+At Ion little Elsie woke and missed her sister. They slept together in
+a room opening into the nursery on one side, and the bedroom of their
+parents on the other. Doors and windows stood wide open and the moon
+gave sufficient light for the child to see at a glance that Vi was no
+longer by her side.
+
+Slipping out of bed, she went softly about searching for her, thinking
+to herself the while, "She's walking in her sleep again, dear little
+pet, and I'm afraid she may get hurt; perhaps fall down stairs."
+
+She had heard such fears expressed by her papa and mamma since of late
+Violet had several times risen and strayed about the house in a state of
+somnambulism.
+
+Elsie passed from room to room growing more and more anxious and alarmed
+every moment at her continued failure to find any trace of the missing
+one. She must have help.
+
+Dinah, who had care of the little ones, slept in the nursery. Going up
+to her bed, Elsie shook her gently.
+
+"What's de matter, honey?" asked the girl, opening her eyes and raising
+herself to a sitting posture.
+
+"Where's Violet? I can't find her."
+
+"Miss Wi'let? aint she fas' asleep side o' you, Miss Elsie?"
+
+"No, no, she isn't there, nor in any of mamma's rooms. I've looked
+through them all. Dinah where is she? We must find her: come with me,
+quick!"
+
+Dinah was already out of bed and turning up the night lamp.
+
+"I'll go all ober de house, honey," she said, "but 'spect you better
+wake yo' pa. He'll want to look for Miss Wi'let hisself."
+
+Elsie nodded assent, and hastening to his side softly stroked his face
+with her hand, kissed him, and putting her lips close to his ear,
+whispered half sobbingly, "Papa, papa, Vi's gone: we can't find her."
+
+He was wide awake instantly. "Run back to your bed, darling," he said:
+"and don't cry; papa will soon find her."
+
+He succeeded in throwing on his clothes and leaving the room without
+rousing his wife. He felt some anxiety, but the idea that the child had
+left the house never entered his mind until a thorough search seemed to
+give convincing proof that she was not in it.
+
+He went out upon the veranda. Bruno rose, stretched himself and uttered
+a low whine.
+
+"Bruno, where is our little Violet?" asked Mr. Travilla, stooping to pat
+the dog's head and showing him the child's slipper, "lead the way, sir;
+we must find her." There was a slight tremble in his tones.
+
+"Dinah," he said, turning to the girl, who stood sobbing in the doorway,
+"if your mistress wakes while I am gone, tell her not to be alarmed; no
+doubt with Bruno's help I shall very soon find the child and bring her
+safely back. See he has the scent already," as the dog who had been
+snuffing about suddenly started off at a brisk trot down the avenue.
+
+Mr. Travilla hurried after, his fatherly heart beating with mingled hope
+and fear.
+
+On and on they went closely following in the footsteps of the little
+runaway. The dog presently left the road that passed directly in front
+of Ion, and turned into another, crossing it at right angles, which was
+the stage route between the next town and the neighboring city.
+
+It was now some ten or fifteen minutes since the stage had passed this
+spot bearing the dead body of the driver who had met his tragical end
+some quarter of a mile beyond.
+
+The loud rumble of the wheels had waked little Vi, and as in a flash she
+had seen the whole--the horrible apparition in its glistening, rattling
+robes, step out from behind a tree and fire, and the tumble of its
+victim into the dusty road. Then she had sunk down upon the ground
+overpowered with terror.
+
+But the thought of the almighty Friend who, she had been taught, was
+ever near and able to help, calmed her fears somewhat.
+
+She was still on her knees sobbing out her little prayer over and over
+again, when a dark object bounded to her side, and Bruno's nose was
+thrust rather unceremoniously into her face.
+
+"Bruno, you good Bruno!" she cried clasping her arms about his neck,
+"take me home! take me home!"
+
+"Ah, papa will do that, now he has found his lost darling," said a loved
+voice, as a strong arm put aside the bushes, and grasped her slight form
+with a firm, but tender hold. "How came my little pet here so far away
+from home?" he asked, drawing her to his breast.
+
+"I don't know, papa," she sobbed, nestling in his arms and clinging
+about his neck, her wet cheek laid close to his, "that carriage waked
+me, and I was 'way out here, and that dreadful thing was over there by a
+tree, and it shooted the man, and he tumbled off on the ground. O papa,
+hurry, hurry fast, and let's go home; it might come back and shoot us
+too."
+
+"What thing, daughter?" he asked, soothing her with tender caresses, as
+still holding her to his breast, he walked rapidly toward home.
+
+"Great big white thing, with horns, papa."
+
+"I think my pet has been dreaming?"
+
+"No, no, papa, I did see it, and it fired, and the man tumbled off, and
+the horses snorted and ran so fast; then they stopped, and the other
+mans came back, and I heard them say, 'He's killed; he's quite dead.' O
+papa, I'm so frightened!" and she clung to him with convulsive grasp,
+sobbing almost hysterically.
+
+"There, there, darling: papa has you safe in his arms. Thank God for
+taking care of my little pet," he said, clasping her closer, and
+quickening his pace, while Bruno wagging his tail and barking joyously,
+gamboled about them, now leaping up to touch his tongue to the little
+dusty toes now bounding on ahead, and anon returning to repeat his
+loving caress; and so at last they arrived at home.
+
+Mr. Travilla had scarcely left the house, ere the babe waked his mother.
+She missed her husband at once, and hearing a half smothered sob coming
+from the room occupied by her daughters; she rose and with the babe in
+her arms, hastened to ascertain the cause.
+
+She found Elsie alone, crying on the bed with her face half hidden in
+the pillows.
+
+"My darling, what is it?" asked the mother's sweet voice. "But where is
+Vi?"
+
+"O, mamma, I don't know; that is the reason I can't help crying," said
+the child, raising herself and putting her arms about her mother's neck,
+as the latter sat down on the side of the bed. "But don't be alarmed,
+mamma, for papa has gone to find her."
+
+"Where, daughter? she cannot have gone out of the house, surely?"
+
+At this instant Dinah appeared and delivered her master's message.
+
+To obey his injunction not to be alarmed, was quite impossible to the
+loving mother heart, but she endeavored to conceal her anxiety and to
+overcome it by casting her care on the Lord. The babe had fallen asleep
+again, and laying him gently down, she took Elsie in her arms and
+comforted her with caresses and words of hope and cheer.
+
+"Mamma," said the little girl, "I cannot go to sleep again till papa
+comes back."
+
+"No, I see you can't, nor can I so we will put on our dressing-gowns and
+slippers, and sit together at the window, to watch for him, and when we
+see him coming up the avenue with Vi in his arms, we will run to meet
+them."
+
+So they did, and the little lost one, found again, was welcomed by
+mother and sister, and afterward by nurse and mammy, with tender, loving
+words, caresses and tears of joy.
+
+Then Dinah carried her to the nursery, washed the soiled, tired little
+feet, changed the draggled night-gown for a fresh and clean one, and
+with many a hug and honeyed word, carried her back to bed, saying, as
+she laid her down in it, "Now, darlin', don't you git out ob heyah no
+mo' till mornin'."
+
+"No, I'll hold her fast; and papa has locked the doors so she can't get
+out of these rooms," said Elsie, throwing an arm over Vi.
+
+"Yes, hold me tight, tight" murmured Vi, cuddling down close to her
+sister, and almost immediately falling asleep, for she was worn out with
+fatigue and excitement.
+
+Elsie lay awake some time longer, her young heart singing for joy over
+her recovered treasure, but at length fell asleep also, with the murmur
+of her parents' voices in her ears.
+
+They were talking of Violet, expressing their gratitude to God that
+no worse consequences had resulted from her escapade, and consulting
+together how to prevent a repetition of it.
+
+Mr. Travilla repeated to his wife the child's story of her awaking and
+what she had seen and heard.
+
+"Oh my poor darling, what a terrible fright for her!" Elsie exclaimed,
+"but do you not think it must have been all a dream?"
+
+"That was my first thought; but on further consideration I fear it may
+have been another Ku Klux outrage. I dare say, the disguise worn by them
+may answer to her description of 'the horrible thing that shooted the
+man;' I judge so from what I have heard of it."
+
+"But who could have been the victim?" she asked with a shudder.
+
+"I do not know. But her carriage was probably the stage: it was about
+the hour for it to pass."
+
+Day was already dawning and they did not sleep again.
+
+Mr. Travilla had gone on his regular morning round over the plantation,
+and Elsie stole softly into the room of her little daughters.
+
+Though past their usual hour for rising they still slept and she meant
+to let them do so as long as they would. They made a lovely picture
+lying there clasped in each other's arms. Her heart swelled with tender
+emotions, love, joy and gratitude to Him who had given these treasures
+and preserved them thus far from all danger and evil. She bent over them
+pressing a gentle kiss upon each round rosy cheek.
+
+Little Elsie's brown eyes opened wide, and putting her arm about her
+mother's neck, "Mamma," she whispered, with a sweet, glad smile, "was
+not God very good to give us back our Vi?"
+
+"Yes, dearest, oh, so much better than we deserve!"
+
+Violet started up to a sitting posture. "Mamma, oh mamma, I did have a
+dreadful, dreadful dream!--that I was 'way off from you and papa, out in
+the night in the woods, and I saw--"
+
+She ended with a burst of frightened sobs and tears, hiding her face on
+the bosom of her mother who already held her closely clasped to her
+beating heart.
+
+"Don't think of it, darling, you are safe now in your own dear home with
+papa and mamma and sister and brothers." Tender soothing caresses
+accompanied the loving words.
+
+"Mamma, did I dream it?" asked the child lifting her tearful face, and
+shuddering as she spoke.
+
+The mother was too truthful to say yes, though she would have been glad
+her child should think it but a dream.
+
+"Perhaps some of it was, daughter," she said, "though my pet did walk
+out in her sleep; but papa is going to manage things so that she can
+never do it again. And God will take care of us, my darling."
+
+The sobs grew fainter and softly sighing, "Yes mamma," she said, "I
+asked him to send papa to bring me home, and he did."
+
+"And papa came in here this morning and kissed both his girls before he
+went down stairs. Did you know that?"
+
+"Did he? Oh I wish I'd waked to give him a good hug!"
+
+"I too;" said Elsie, "Papa loves us very much, doesn't he, mamma?"
+
+"Dearly, dearly, my child; you and all his little ones."
+
+Vi's tears were dried and when her father came in she met him with a
+cheerful face, quite ready for the customary romp, but days passed ere
+she was again her own bright, merry self, or seemed content unless
+clinging close to one or the other of her parents.
+
+While the family were at the breakfast table, Uncle Joe came in with the
+mail, his face full of excitement and terror.
+
+"Dem Ku Kluxes dey's gettin' awful dangerous, Massa," he said, laying
+down the bag with a trembling hand, "dey's gone an' shot the stage
+drivah an' killed 'um dead on the spot. Las' night, sah, jes ober
+yondah in de road todder side o' Mars Leland's place, and--"
+
+Mr. Travilla stopped him in the midst of his story, with a warning
+gesture and an anxious glance from one to another of the wondering,
+half frightened little faces about the table.
+
+"Another time and place, Uncle Joe."
+
+"Yes, sah, beg pardon, sah, Massa Edard," and the old man, now growing
+quite infirm from age, hobbled away talking to himself. "Sure nuff, you
+ole fool, Joe, might 'a knowed you shouldn't tole no such tings fo' de
+chillum."
+
+"Was it 'bout my dream, papa?" Vi asked with quivering lip and fast
+filling eyes.
+
+"Never mind, little daughter; we needn't trouble about our dreams," he
+said cheerily, and began talking of something else, in a lively strain
+that soon set them all to laughing.
+
+It was not until family worship was over and the children had left the
+room that he said to his wife, "The Ku Klux were abroad last night and
+I have no doubt Uncle Joe's story is quite true, and that our poor little
+Vi really saw the murder."
+
+Elsie gave him a startled, inquiring look. "You have other proof?"
+
+"Yes; Leland and I met in going our rounds this morning, and he told me
+he had found a threatening note, signed 'K.K.K,' tacked to his gate, and
+had torn it down immediately, hoping to conceal the matter from his
+wife, who, he says is growing nervously fearful for his safety."
+
+"Oh, what a dreadful state of things! Do these madmen realize that they
+are ruining their country?"
+
+"Little they care for that, if they can but gain their ends,--the
+subversion of the Government, and the return of the negro to his former
+state of bondage."
+
+She was standing by his side, her hand on his arm. "My husband," she
+said in trembling tones, looking up into his face with brimming eyes,
+"what may they not do next? I begin to fear for you and my father and
+brother."
+
+"I think you need not, little wife," he said, drawing her head to a
+resting place on his shoulder, and passing his hand caressingly over her
+hair, "I think they will hardly meddle with us, natives of the place,
+and men of wealth and influence. And," he added low and reverently, "are
+we not all in the keeping of Him without whom not one hair of our heads
+can fall to the ground?"
+
+"Yes, yes, I will trust and not be afraid," she answered, smiling
+sweetly through her tears. Then catching sight, through the open window,
+of a couple of horsemen coming up the avenue, "Ah, there are papa and
+Horace now!" she cried, running joyfully out to meet them.
+
+"Have you heard of last night's doings of the Ku Klux?" were the first
+words of Horace Jr. when the greetings had been exchanged.
+
+"Run away, dears, run away to your play," Elsie said to her children,
+and at once they obeyed.
+
+"Uncle Joe came in this morning with a story that Jones, the stage
+driver had been shot by them last night in this vicinity," Mr. Travilla
+answered, "but I stopped him in the midst of it, as the children were
+present. Is it a fact?"
+
+"Only too true," replied Mr. Dinsmore.
+
+"Yes," said Horace, "I rode into the town, before breakfast, found it
+full of excitement; the story on everybody's tongue, and quite a large
+crowd about the door of the house where the body of the murdered man
+lay."
+
+"And is the murderer still at large," asked Elsie.
+
+"Yes; and the worst of it is that no one seems to have the least idea
+who he is."
+
+"The disguise preventing recognition, of course," said Mr. Travilla.
+
+Then the grandfather and uncle were surprised with an account of little
+Vi's escapade.
+
+"If Violet were my child," said Mr. Dinsmore, "I should consult Dr.
+Burton about her at once. There must be undue excitement of the brain
+that might be remedied by proper treatment."
+
+Elsie cast an anxious look at her husband.
+
+"I shall send for the doctor immediately," he said, and summoning a
+servant dispatched him at once upon the errand.
+
+"Don't be alarmed, daughter," Mr. Dinsmore said; "doubtless a little
+care will soon set matters right with the child."
+
+"Yes; I do not apprehend any thing serious, if the thing is attended to
+in time," Mr. Travilla added cheerfully; then went on to tell of the
+notice affixed to Fairview gate.
+
+They were all of the opinion that these evil doers, should, if possible,
+be brought to justice; but the nature and extent of the organization
+rendered it no easy matter for the civil courts to deal with them. The
+order being secret, the members were known as such only among
+themselves, when strangers, recognizing each other by secret signs. They
+were sworn to aid and defend a brother member under all circumstances;
+were one justly accused of crime, others would come forward and prove an
+alibi by false swearing; were they on the jury, they would acquit him
+though perfectly cognizant of his guilt. In some places the sheriff and
+his deputies were members, perhaps the judge also[F]. Thus it happened
+that though one or two persons who had been heard to talk threateningly
+about Jones, as "a carpet-agger and Republican, who should be gotten rid
+of, by fair means or foul," were arrested on suspicion, they were soon
+set at liberty again, and his death remained unavenged.
+
+[Footnote F: See Reports of Congressional Committee of Investigation.]
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Ninth.
+
+"I feel my sinews slackened with the fright,
+And a cold sweat thrills down o'er all my limbs
+As if I were dissolving into water."
+--DRYDEN.
+
+
+Early one evening, a few days subsequent to the tragical death of Jones,
+the Ion family carriage, well freighted, was bowling along the road
+leading toward the Oaks.
+
+A heavy shower had laid the dust and cooled the air, and the ride past
+blooming hedgerows, and fertile fields was very delightful. The parents
+were in cheerful mood, the children gay and full of life and fun.
+
+"Oh, yonder is grandpa's carriage coming this way!" cried Eddie as they
+neared the cross-road which must be taken to reach Roselands in the one
+direction, and Ashlands in the other.
+
+"Yes, turn out here, Solon, and wait for them to come up," said Mr.
+Travilla.
+
+"On your way to the Oaks?" Mr. Dinsmore queried as his carriage halted
+along side of the other. "Well, we will turn about and go with you."
+
+"No, we were going to Roselands but will put off the call to another
+day, if you were coming to Ion," Mr. Travilla answered.
+
+"No, the Dinsmores had not set out for Ion, but to visit Sophie at
+Ashlands; Daisy, her youngest child, was very ill."
+
+"I wish you would go with us, Elsie," Rose said to Mrs. Travilla. "I
+know it would be a comfort to Sophie to see you."
+
+"Yes, we have plenty of room here," added Mr. Dinsmore, "and your
+husband and children can certainly spare you for an hour or so."
+
+Elsie looked inquiringly at her husband.
+
+"Yes, go, wife, if you feel inclined," he said pleasantly. "The children
+shall not lose their ride. I will go on to Roselands with them, make a
+short call, as I have a little business with your grandfather, then take
+them home."
+
+"And we will have their mother there probably shortly after," said Mr.
+Dinsmore.
+
+So the exchange was made and the carriages drove on, taking opposite
+directions when they came to the cross-road.
+
+Arrived at Roselands, Mr. Travilla found only the younger members of the
+family at home, the old gentleman having driven out with his daughters.
+Calhoun thought however that they would return shortly, and was
+hospitably urgent that the visitors should all come in and rest and
+refresh themselves.
+
+The younger cousins joined in the entreaty, and his own children
+seeming desirous to accept the invitation, Mr. Travilla permitted them
+to do so.
+
+They, with Aunt Chloe and Dinah, were presently carried off to the
+nursery by Molly Percival and the Conly girls, while their father walked
+into the grounds with Calhoun and Arthur.
+
+"Wal," whispered Dick to his cousin, drawing him aside unnoticed by the
+rest, who were wholly taken up with each other, "now's our time for some
+fun with those Ku Klux things. They must be about done, and I reckon
+will be packed off out o' the house before long."
+
+Walter nodded assent; they stole unobserved from the room, flew up to
+their own for the key, hurried to the sewing-room of their mothers, and
+finding there two disguises nearly completed, sufficiently so for their
+purpose, arrayed themselves in them, slipped unseen down a back
+staircase, and dashing open the nursery door, bounded with a loud whoop,
+into the midst of its occupants.
+
+Children and nurses joined in one wild shriek of terror, and made a
+simultaneous rush for the doors, tumbling over each other in their haste
+and affright.
+
+But fortunately for them, Mr. Travilla and Calhoun had come in from the
+grounds, were on their way to the nursery, and entered it from the hall
+but a moment later than the boys did by the opposite door.
+
+Mr. Travilla instantly seized Dick, (Calhoun doing the same by Walter),
+tore off his disguise, and picking up a riding-whip, lying conveniently
+at hand, administered a castigation that made the offender yell and roar
+for mercy.
+
+"You scoundrel!" replied the gentleman, still laying on his blows,
+"I have scant mercy for a great strong boy who amuses himself by
+frightening women and helpless little children."
+
+"But you're not my father, and have no right, oh, oh, oh!" blubbered
+Dick, trying to dodge the blows and wrench himself free, "I'll--I'll sue
+you for assault and battery."
+
+"Very well, I'll give you plenty while I'm about it, and if you don't
+want a second dose, you will refrain from frightening my children in
+future."
+
+It was an exciting scene, Walter getting almost as severe handling from
+Calhoun, nurses and children huddling together in the farthest corner of
+the room, Baby Herbert screaming at the top of his voice, and the others
+crying and sobbing while shrinking in nervous terror from the hideous
+disguises lying in a heap upon the floor.
+
+"O, take them away! take them away, the horrid things!" screamed
+Virginia Conly, shuddering and hiding her face. "Wal and Dick, you
+wicked wretches, I don't care if they half kill you."
+
+"Papa, papa, please stop. O, Cal, don't whip him any more. I'm sure
+they'll never do it again," pleaded little Elsie amid her sobs and
+tears, holding Vi fast and trying to soothe and comfort her.
+
+"There, go," said Calhoun, pushing Walter from the room, "and if ever
+I catch you at such a trick again, I'll give you twice as much."
+
+Dick, released by his captor with a like threat, hastened after his
+fellow delinquent, blubbering and muttering angrily as he went.
+
+Calhoun gathered up the disguises, threw them into a closet, locked the
+door and put the key into his pocket.
+
+"There!" said he, "they're out of sight and couldn't come after us if
+they were alive; and there's no life in them; and little else but linen
+and cotton."
+
+Baby Herbert ceased his cries and cuddled down on Aunt Chloe's shoulder;
+the other four ran to their father.
+
+He encircled them all in his arms, soothing them with caresses and words
+of fatherly endearment. "There, there, my darlings, dry your tears; papa
+will take care of you; nothing shall hurt you."
+
+"Papa, they's like that horrid thing that shooted the man," sobbed Vi,
+clinging to him in almost frantic terror. "Oh don't let's ever come
+here any more!"
+
+"I so frightened, papa, I so frightened; p'ease tate Harold home,"
+sobbed the little fellow, the others joining in the entreaty.
+
+"Yes, we will go at once," said Mr. Travilla, rising, Vi in one arm
+Harold in the other; and motioning to the servants to follow, he was
+about to leave the room, when Calhoun spoke.
+
+"Do not go yet, Mr. Travilla: I think grandpa and the ladies will be
+here directly."
+
+"Thanks, but I will see Mr. Dinsmore at another time. Now my first duty
+is to these terrified little ones."
+
+"I am exceedingly sorry for what has occurred; more mortified than I can
+express--"
+
+"No need for apology, Conly; but you must see the necessity for our
+abrupt departure. Good evening to you all."
+
+Calhoun followed to the carriage door, helped to put the children in,
+then addressing Mr. Travilla, "I see you doubt me, sir," he said, "and
+not without reason, I own; yet I assure you I have no property in those
+disguises, never have worn, and never will wear such a thing: much less
+take part in the violence they are meant to protect from punishment."
+
+"I am glad to hear you say so, Cal. Good evening." And the carriage
+whirled away down the avenue.
+
+The rapid motion and the feeling that the objects of their affright
+were being left far behind, seemed to soothe and reassure the children,
+yet each sought to be as near as possible to their loved protector.
+
+Harold and the babe soon fell asleep, and on reaching home were carried
+directly to bed; but the older ones begged so hard to be allowed to
+"stay with papa till mamma came home" that he could not find it in his
+heart to refuse them.
+
+The Dinsmore party found Sophie devoting herself to her sick child; the
+attack had been sudden and severe, and all the previous night the mother
+had watched by the couch of the little sufferer with an aching heart,
+fearing she was to be taken from her; but now the danger seemed nearly
+over, a favorable change having taken place during the day.
+
+Daisy had fallen into a quiet slumber, and leaving the nurse to watch at
+the bedside, the mother received and conversed with her friends in an
+adjoining room.
+
+Though evidently very glad to see them, she seemed, after the first few
+moments, so depressed and anxious, that at length her sister remarked
+it, and asked if there were any other cause than Daisy's illness.
+
+"Yes, Rose," she said, "I must own that I am growing very timid in
+regard to these Ku Klux outrages. Since they have taken to beating and
+shooting whites as well as blacks, women as well as men, who shall say
+that we are safe? I a Northern woman too and without a protector."
+
+"I do not think they will molest a lady of your standing," said Mr.
+Dinsmore, "the widow too of a Confederate officer. But where is Boyd,
+that you say you are without a protector?"
+
+A slight shudder ran over Sophie's frame. "Boyd?" she said, drawing her
+chair nearer and speaking in an undertone, "he is my great dread, and
+for fear of wounding mother's feelings I have had to keep my terrors to
+myself. I know that he is often out, away from the plantation, all
+night. I have for weeks past suspected that he was a Ku Klux, and last
+night, or rather early this morning, my suspicions were so fully
+confirmed that they now amount almost to certainty. I had been up all
+night with Daisy, and a little before sunrise happening to be at the
+window, I saw him stealing into the house with a bundle under his
+arm,--something white rolled up in the careless sort of way a man would
+do it."
+
+"I am not surprised," said Mr. Dinsmore, "he is just the sort of man one
+would expect to be at such work,--headstrong, violent tempered, and
+utterly selfish and unscrupulous. Yet I think you may dismiss your fears
+of him, and feel it rather a safeguard than otherwise to have a member
+of the Klan in your family."
+
+"It may be so," she said, musingly, the cloud of care partially lifting
+from her brow.
+
+"And at all events you are not without a protector, dear sister,"
+whispered Rose, as she bade adieu. "'A father of the fatherless, and a
+judge of the widows is God in his holy habitation.'"
+
+Elsie too had a word of sympathy and hope for her childhood's friend,
+and with warm invitations to both the Oaks and Ion as soon as Daisy
+could be moved with safety, they left her, greatly cheered and refreshed
+by their visit.
+
+"My heart aches for her," Elsie said as they drove away, "what a sad,
+sad thing to be a widow!"
+
+"Yes;" responded Rose, "and to have lost your husband so,--fighting
+against the land of your birth and love."
+
+There was a long pause broken by a sudden, half frightened exclamation
+from Rosie. "Papa! what if we should meet the Ku Klux!"
+
+"Not much danger, I think: they are not apt to be abroad so early. And
+we are nearing Ion."
+
+"I presume Edward has reached home before us," remarked Elsie, "I wonder
+how my little ones enjoyed their first visit to Roselands without their
+mother."
+
+She soon learned; for she had scarcely set foot in the veranda ere they
+were clinging about her and pouring out the story of their terrible
+fright.
+
+She pitied, soothed and comforted them, trying to dispel their fears and
+lead them to forgive those who had so ill-used them, though it cost no
+small effort to do so herself.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Tenth.
+
+"Forgive, and ye shall be forgiven."
+--Luke vi, 87.
+
+
+Calhoun Conly was much perturbed by the occurrences of the evening. He
+was fond of his cousin Elsie and her children, and very sorry, for both
+her sake and theirs, that they had suffered this fright; he greatly
+respected and liked Mr. Travilla too, and would fain have stood well
+in his esteem; he had hoped that he did; and also with his Uncle
+Horace,--he had been so kindly treated, especially of late, at both Ion
+and the Oaks; but now this unfortunate episode had placed him in a false
+position, and he could hardly expect to be again trusted or believed in.
+
+Such were his cogitations as he sat alone in the veranda, after the Ion
+carriage had driven away. "What shall I do?" he asked himself, "what
+shall I do to recover their good opinion?"
+
+Just then Walter appeared before him, looking crestfallen and angry.
+
+"I say, Cal, it's bad enough for you to have thrashed me as you did,
+without bringing mother and Aunt Enna, and maybe grandfather too, down
+on me about those wretched masks and things; so give 'em up and let Dick
+and me put 'em back before they get home."
+
+"Of course put them back as fast as you can; pity you hadn't let them
+alone," said Calhoun, rising and with a quick step leading the way
+toward the nursery, "and," he added, "we must see what we can do to keep
+the young ones from blabbing; else putting them back will help your case
+very little."
+
+"Oh we'll never be able to do that!" exclaimed Walter, despairingly,
+"one or another of 'em is sure to let it out directly. And there come
+the folks now," as the rolling of wheels was heard in the avenue. "It's
+of no use; they'll know all about it in five minutes."
+
+"Yes, sir, you and Dick have got yourselves into a fine box, beside all
+the trouble you've made for other people," said Calhoun angrily. Then
+laying his hand on Walter's arm as he perceived that he was meditating
+flight, "No, sir, stay and face the music like a man; don't add
+cowardice to all the rest of it."
+
+They heard the clatter of little feet running through the house and out
+upon the veranda, the carriage draw up before the door, then the voices
+of the children pouring out the story of their fright, and the
+punishment of its authors, and the answering tones of their grandfather
+and the ladies; Mr. Dinsmore's expressing surprise and indignation,
+Enna's full of passion, and Mrs. Conly's of cold displeasure.
+
+"Let go o' me! they're coming this way," cried Walter, trying to wrench
+himself free.
+
+But the inexorable Calhoun only tightened his grasp and dragged him on
+to the nursery.
+
+Dick was there trying to pick the lock of the closet door with his
+pocket knife.
+
+"What are you about, sir? No more mischief to-day, if you please,"
+exclaimed Calhoun, seizing him with the free hand, the other having
+enough to do to hold Walter.
+
+"Give me that key then," cried Dick, vainly struggling to shake off his
+cousin's strong grip.
+
+The words were hardly on the boy's tongue, when the door was thrown
+open, and Mr. Dinsmore and his daughters entered hastily, followed by
+the whole crowd of younger children.
+
+"Give you the key indeed! I'd like to know how you got hold of mine, and
+how you dared to make use of it as you have, you young villain! There,
+take that, and that and that! Hold him fast, Cal, till I give him a
+little of what he deserves," cried Mrs. Johnson, rushing upon her son,
+in a towering passion, and cuffing him right and left with all her
+strength.
+
+"Let me alone!" he roared; "'taint fair; old Travilla's half killed me
+already."
+
+"I'm glad of it! You ought to be half killed, and you won't get any
+sympathy from me, I can tell you."
+
+"And you had a share in it too, Walter?" Mrs. Conly was saying in
+freezing tones. "If you think he deserves any more than you gave him,
+Cal, you have my full permission to repeat the dose."
+
+"Where is the cause of all this unseemly disturbance?" demanded Mr.
+Dinsmore severely. "Calhoun, if you have the key of that closet and
+those wretched disguises are there, produce them at once."
+
+The young man obeyed, while Enna, holding Dick fast, turned a half
+frightened look upon her sister; to which the latter, standing with her
+arms folded and her back braced against the wall, replied with one of
+cold, haughty indifference.
+
+Calhoun drew out the obnoxious articles and held them up to view, a
+flush of mortification upon his face.
+
+The children screamed and ran.
+
+"Be quiet! they can't hurt you," said the grandfather, stamping his
+foot; then turning to Calhoun, "Ku Klux--your property and Arthur's, I
+presume, you are members doubtless?" and he glanced from one to the
+other of his older grandsons in mingled anger and scorn; Arthur having
+just entered the room to ascertain the cause of the unusual commotion.
+
+He flushed hotly at his grandsire's words and look. "I, sir! I a Ku
+Klux?" he exclaimed in a hurt, indignant tone, "I a midnight assassin
+stealing upon my helpless victims under cover of darkness and a hideous
+disguise? No, sir. How could you think so ill of me? What have I done to
+deserve it?"
+
+"Nothing, my boy; I take it all back," said the old gentleman, with a
+grim smile, "it is not like you--a quiet bookish lad, with nothing of
+the coward or the bully about you. But you, Calhoun?"
+
+"I have no property in these, sir; and I should scorn to wear one, or to
+take part in the deeds you have spoken of."
+
+"Right. I am no Republican, and was as strong for secession as any man
+in the South, but I am for open, fair fight with my own enemies or those
+of my country; no underhand dealings for me; no cowardly attacks in
+overwhelming numbers upon the weak and defenceless. But if these
+disguises are not yours, whose are they? and how came they here?"
+
+"I must beg leave to decline answering that question, sir," replied
+Calhoun respectfully.
+
+His mother and aunt exchanged glances.
+
+"Ah!" exclaimed their father, turning to Enna, as with a sudden
+recollection, "I think I heard you claiming some property in these
+scarecrows speak out; are they yours?"
+
+"No, sir; but I'm not ashamed to own that I helped to make them, and
+that if I were a man, I would wear one."
+
+"You? you helped make them? and who, pray, helped you? Louise--"
+
+"Yes, sir, Louise it was," replied Mrs. Conly drawing herself up to her
+full height, "and she is no more ashamed to own it, than is her sister.
+And if Calhoun was a dutiful son he would be more than willing to wear
+one."
+
+"If you were a dutiful daughter, you would never have engaged in such
+business in my house without my knowledge and consent," retorted her
+father, "and I'll have no more of it, let me tell you, Madams Conly and
+Johnson; no aiding or abetting of these midnight raiders."
+
+Then turning to a servant he ordered her to "take the hideous things
+into the yard and make a bonfire of them."
+
+"No, no!" cried Enna. "Papa, do you understand that you are ordering the
+destruction of other men's property?"
+
+"It makes no difference," he answered coolly, "they are forfeit by
+having been brought surreptitiously into my house. Carry them out,
+Fanny, do you hear? carry them out and burn them."
+
+"And pray, sir, what am I to say to the owners when they claim their
+property?" asked Enna with flashing eyes.
+
+"Refer them to me," replied her father leaving the room to see that his
+orders were duly executed.
+
+Calhoun and Arthur had already slipped away. Dick was about to follow,
+but his mother again seized him by the arm, this time shaking him
+violently; she must have some one on whom to vent the rage that was
+consuming her.
+
+"You--you bad, troublesome, wicked boy! I could shake the very life out
+of you!" she hissed through her shut teeth, suiting the action to the
+word. "A pretty mess you've made of it, you and Walter. Your birthday
+coming next week too; there'll be no presents from Ion for you, you may
+rest assured. I hoped Mr. Travilla would send you each a handsome suit,
+as he did last year; but of course you'll get nothing now."
+
+"Well, I don't care," muttered Dick, "it's your fault for making the
+ugly things." And freeing himself by a sudden jerk, he darted from the
+room.
+
+Children and servants had trooped after Mr. Dinsmore to witness the
+conflagration, and Dick's sudden exit left the ladies sole occupants of
+the apartment.
+
+"I declare it's too bad! too provoking for endurance!" exclaimed Enna,
+bursting into a flood of angry tears.
+
+"What's the use of taking it so hard?" returned her sister.
+
+"You're a perfect iceberg," retorted Enna.
+
+"That accounts for my not crying over our misfortune, I presume; my
+tears being all frozen up," returned Mrs. Conly with an exasperating
+smile. "Well there is comfort in all things: we may now congratulate
+ourselves that Foster and Boyd did not wait for these but supplied
+themselves elsewhere."
+
+There was a difference of two years in the ages of Dick Percival and
+Walter Conly, but they were born on the same day of the same month, and
+their birthday would occur in less than a week.
+
+"I say, Wal, what precious fools we've been," remarked Dick as the two
+were preparing to retire that night; "why didn't we remember how near it
+was to our birthday? Of course, as mother says, there'll be no presents
+from Ion this time."
+
+"No, and I wish I'd never seen the hateful things," grumbled Walter,
+"but there's no use crying over spilt milk."
+
+"No; and we'll pretend we don't care a cent. Mother sha'n't have the
+satisfaction of knowing that I do anyhow;" and Dick whistled a lively
+tune as he pulled off his boots and tossed them into a corner.
+
+At about the same time Elsie and her husband, seated alone together in
+their veranda, were conversing on the same subject. Mr. Travilla
+introduced it. They had been regretting the effect of the fright of the
+evening upon their children--Vi especially as the one predisposed to
+undue excitement of the brain--yet hoping it might not prove lasting.
+
+Elsie had just returned from seeing them to bed. "I left them much
+calmed and comforted," she said, "by our little talk together of God's
+constant watch over us, His all-power and His protecting care and love;
+and by our prayer that He would have them in his keeping."
+
+He pressed her hand in silence; then presently remarked, "The birthday
+of those boys is near at hand. They certainly deserve no remembrance
+from us; but how do you feel about it?"
+
+"Just as my noble, generous husband does," she said, looking up into his
+face with a proud, fond smile.
+
+"Ah! and how is that?"
+
+"Like giving them a costlier and more acceptable present than ever
+before; thus 'heaping coals of fire upon their heads.'"
+
+"And what shall it be?"
+
+"Whatever you think they would prefer, and would not that be a pony
+a-piece?"
+
+"No doubt of it; and I will try to procure two worth having, before the
+day comes round."
+
+Talking with her little ones the next morning, Elsie told them of the
+near approach of the birthday of Dick and Walter, spoke of the duty of
+forgiveness and the return of good for evil, and asked who of them
+would like to make their cousins some nice present.
+
+"I should, mamma," said little Elsie.
+
+Eddie looked up into his mother's face, dropped his head, and blushing
+deeply muttered, "I'd rather flog them like papa and Cal did."
+
+"So would I; they're naughty boys!" cried Vi, the tears starting to her
+eyes at the remembrance of the panic of fear their conduct had cost
+herself, brothers and sister.
+
+Their mother explained that it was papa's duty to protect his children
+from injury, and that that was why he had flogged naughty Dick; but now
+he had forgiven him and was going to return good for evil, as the Bible
+bids us. "And you must forgive them too, dears, if you want God to
+forgive you," she concluded; "for Jesus says, 'If you forgive not men
+their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.'"
+
+"I can't, mamma: I don't love them," said Eddie, stoutly.
+
+"Ask God to help you, then, my son."
+
+"But mamma, I can't ask him with my heart, 'cause I don't want to love
+them or forgive them."
+
+"Can my boy do without God's forgiveness? without Jesus' love?" she
+asked, drawing him to her side. "You feel very unhappy when papa or
+mamma is offended with you, and can you bear your heavenly Father's
+frown?"
+
+"Don't look so sorry, dear mamma: I love you ever so much," he said,
+putting his arms about her neck and kissing her again and again.
+
+"I cannot be happy while my dear little son indulges such sinful
+feelings," she said, softly smoothing his hair, while a tear rolled down
+her cheek.
+
+"Mamma, how can I help it?"
+
+"Try to think kind thoughts of your cousins, do them all the kindness
+you can, and ask God to bless them, and to help you to love them. I want
+my little Vi to do so too," she added, turning to her.
+
+"Mamma, I will; I don't 'tend to say cross things 'bout 'em any more,"
+Violet answered impulsively; "and I'll give 'em the nicest present I can
+get with all my pocket-money."
+
+"Mamma, must I give them presents?" asked Eddie.
+
+"No, son, I do not say must; you shall decide for yourself whether you
+ought, and whether you will."
+
+"Mamma, they made me hurt my dear father."
+
+"No, Eddie, no one can _make_ us do wrong; we choose for ourselves
+whether we will resist temptation or yield to it."
+
+"Mamma, what shall we give," asked the little girls.
+
+"Talk it over between yourselves, daughters, decide how much you are
+willing to spend on them, and what your cousins would probably like
+best. I want my children to think and choose for themselves, where it
+is proper that they should."
+
+"But mamma, you will 'vise us."
+
+"Yes, Vi, you may consult me, and shall have the benefit of my opinion."
+
+The little girls held several private consultations during the day, and
+in the evening came with a report to their mother. Elsie was willing to
+appropriate five dollars to the purpose, Vi three, and the gifts were to
+be books, if mamma approved, and would help them select suitable ones.
+
+"I think you have decided wisely," she said, "and as it is too warm for
+us to drive to the city, we will ask papa to order a variety sent out
+here, and he and I will help you in making a choice."
+
+Eddie was standing by. Nothing had been said to him on the subject,
+since his morning talk with his mother, but all day he had been
+unusually quiet and thoughtful.
+
+"Mamma," he now said, coming close to her side, "I've been trying to
+forgive them, and I'm going to buy two riding whips, one for Dick, and
+one for Wal; if you and papa like me to."
+
+Her smile was very sweet and tender as she commended his choice, and
+told him his resolve had made her very happy.
+
+The birthday found Dick and Walter in sullen, discontented mood, spite
+of their resolve not to care for the loss of all prospect of gifts in
+honor of the anniversary.
+
+"What's the use of getting up?" growled Dick, "it's an awful bore, the
+way we've been sent to Coventry ever since we got into that scrape with
+the young ones. I've a great mind to lie a-bed and pretend sick; just to
+scare mother and pay her off for her crossness."
+
+"Maybe you might get sick in earnest," suggested Walter. "I'm going to
+get up anyhow," and he tumbled out upon the floor, "for it's too hot to
+lie in bed. Hark! there's Pomp coming up the stairs to call us now. Why,
+what's all that, Pomp?" as the servant rapped, then pushing open the
+door, handed in a number of brown paper parcels.
+
+"Dunno, Mars Wal," replied the man grinning from ear to ear; "somethin'
+from Ion, an de rest's down stairs; one for each ob you."
+
+"One what?" queried Dick, starting up and with one bound placing himself
+at Walter's side.
+
+"Birthday present, sahs. Wish you many happy returns, Mars Wal and Mars
+Dick, an' hope you'll neber wear no mo' Ku Klux doins."
+
+But the lads were too busily engaged in opening the parcels and
+examining their contents, to hear or heed his words.
+
+"Two riding whips--splendid ones--and four books!" exclaimed Walter;
+"and here's a note."
+
+"Here let me read it," said Dick. "I declare, Wal, I'm positively
+ashamed to have them send me anything after the way I've behaved."
+
+"I too. But what do they say?"
+
+"It's from Travilla and Cousin Elsie," said Dick turning to the
+signature. "I'll read it out."
+
+He did so. It was very kind and pleasant, made no allusion to their
+wrong doing, but congratulated them on the return of the day, begged
+their acceptance of the accompanying gifts, stating from whom each came,
+the largest a joint present from themselves; and closed with an
+invitation to spend the day at Ion.
+
+"I'm more ashamed than ever, aren't you, Wal?" Dick said, his face
+flushing hotly as he laid the note down.
+
+"Yes, never felt so mean in my life. To think of that little Ed sending
+us these splendid whips, and the little girls these pretty books. I
+'most wish they hadn't."
+
+"But where's 'the larger gift' they say is 'a joint present from
+themselves'?"
+
+"Oh that must be what Pomp called the rest left down stairs. Come, let's
+hurry and get down there to see what it is."
+
+Toilet duties were attended to in hot haste and in a wonderfully short
+time the two were on the front veranda in eager quest of the mysterious
+present.
+
+Each boyish heart gave a wild bound of delight as their eyes fell upon a
+group in the avenue, just before the entrance;--two beautiful ponies,
+ready saddled and bridled, in charge of an Ion servant; old Mr.
+Dinsmore, Calhoun and Arthur standing near examining and commenting upon
+them with evident admiration.
+
+"O, what beauties!" cried Dick, bounding into the midst of the group.
+"Whose are they, Uncle Joe?"
+
+"Well, sah," answered the old negro, pulling off his hat and bowing
+first to one, then to the other, "dey's sent heyah, by Massa Travilla
+and Miss Elsie, for two boys 'bout de size o' you, dat don' neber mean
+to frighten young chillen no mo'."
+
+The lads hung their heads in silence, the blush of shame on their
+cheeks.
+
+"Do you answer the description?" asked Calhoun, a touch of scorn in his
+tones.
+
+"Yes; for we'll never do it again," said Walter. "But it's too much:
+they're too kind!" and he fairly broke down, and turned away his head to
+hide the tears that would come into his eyes.
+
+"That's a fact!" assented Dick, nearly as much moved.
+
+"You don't deserve it," said their grandfather, severely, "and I'm much
+inclined to send them back, with a request that if they're offered you
+again it shall not be till a year of good conduct on your part has
+atoned for the past."
+
+"O, grandpa, you couldn't be so hard, so very hard!" cried Dick
+imploringly, stroking and patting the pony nearest to him, "they're
+such beauties."
+
+"I should think you'd be ashamed to accept such gifts after the way
+you've behaved," said Arthur.
+
+"So we are; but wouldn't it be worse to send 'em back? Awful rude, I
+should say." And Dick turned a half saucy, half beseeching look upon his
+grandfather.
+
+The old gentleman smiled in spite of himself, and consented, in
+consideration of the boys' penitence for the past, and fair promises
+for the future, to allow them to accept the generous gifts.
+
+Uncle Joe explained which was for Dick, and which for Walter, and
+springing into their saddles, they were off like a shot, their
+grandfather calling after them to be back in ten minutes if they wanted
+any breakfast.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Eleventh.
+
+"If thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst give him drink;
+for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not
+overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."
+--ROMANS XII. 20, 21.
+
+
+"Splendid!" cried Dick, wheeling about toward home, now half a mile
+away, "but we must hurry back or grandpa will be mad. I say Wal, what
+_do_ you s'pose makes Travilla and Cousin Elsie so different from us?
+I mean all of us at Roselands."
+
+"I don't know," returned Walter reflectively; "maybe because they're
+Christians. You know it says in the Bible we're to return good for
+evil."
+
+"Yes, and so heap coals of fire on our enemies' heads. And, Wal, I feel
+'em burn now. I'd give anything not to have coaxed and teased Ed into
+shooting that time, and not to have scared him and the others with those
+frightful disguises."
+
+"So would I: and we'll never do the like again, Dick, never; will we?"
+
+"I reckon not: and we must ride over to Ion after breakfast, and tell
+'em so, and thank 'em for these beauties and the other things."
+
+"Yes; didn't the note invite us to spend the day there?"
+
+"Why so it did! But I'd forgot; the sight of the ponies knocked it all
+out of my head."
+
+So great was the delight of the lads in their new acquisitions, that not
+even the repeated assertions of their mothers and other members of the
+family--seconded by the reproaches of their own consciences--that they
+did not deserve it, could materially damp their joy.
+
+An ungracious permission to accept the invitation to Ion, was granted
+them with the remark that Calhoun and Arthur, who were included in it,
+would be there to keep them in order, and also to report upon their
+conduct.
+
+Calhoun, troubled and mortified by the suspicions which he imagined must
+have been entertained against him at both the Oaks and Ion since the
+escapade of Dick and Walter, had kept himself closely at home during the
+past week, and studiously avoided meeting either his uncle or Travilla:
+but this invitation, as the holding out of the olive branch of peace,
+was joyfully accepted.
+
+The four rode over to Ion together, directly after breakfast, and found
+themselves greeted with the greatest kindness and cordiality by Mr.
+Travilla, Elsie and the children, all gathered in the veranda awaiting
+their coming.
+
+The two culprits, shame-faced in view of their ill-deserts, yet
+overflowing with delight in their ponies, poured out mingled thanks and
+apologies, and promises for the future.
+
+"Never mind, my lads, we'll say nothing more about it," Mr. Travilla
+said in his kind, cheery way, Elsie adding, "You are very welcome, and
+we are sure you do not intend ever again to try to alarm our darlings,
+or tempt them to do wrong."
+
+She led the way to her beautiful summer parlor, a large, lofty
+apartment, with frescoed walls and ceiling; the floor a mosaic of
+various colored marbles; a bubbling fountain in the centre, gold and
+silver fish swimming in its basin, windows draped with vines, and at the
+farther end a lovely grotto, where a second fountain threw showers of
+spray over moss-grown rocks and pieces of exquisite statuary.
+
+Here they were presently joined by their Cousin Horace. Ices and fruits
+were served, and the morning passed in a most agreeable manner,
+enlivened by music, conversation, and a variety of quiet games; Mr. and
+Mrs. Travilla laying themselves out for the entertainment of their
+guests.
+
+Their children had been excused from lessons in honor of the day, and
+with their sweet prattle, and merry pretty ways, contributed not a
+little to the enjoyment of their elders.
+
+Mr. Dinsmore came to dinner. Calhoun fancied his manner rather cool
+toward him, while Dick and Walter were left in no doubt of his stern
+disapproval of them, until their Cousin Elsie said a few words to him in
+a quiet aside, after which there was a decided change for the better.
+
+Calhoun watched his cousin furtively, as he had of late formed a habit
+of doing: and as he studied her character, his respect, admiration, and
+affection grew apace; he found her so utterly unselfish and sincere, so
+patient and forbearing, yet firm for the right, so unaffectedly gay and
+happy.
+
+Something of this he remarked to her when for a few moments they chanced
+to be alone together.
+
+"Ah," she said smiling and blushing, "it is not lover love alone that is
+blind; you have been looking at me through rose colored spectacles, as
+so many of my relatives and friends do."
+
+"But are you not really happy, cousin?"
+
+"Happy? Ah yes, indeed! Have I not everything to make me so? the best of
+husbands and fathers, five darling children; comparative youth, health,
+wealth that enables me to prove in my own sweet experience the truth of
+those words of the Lord Jesus, 'It is more blessed to give than to
+receive'; and the best of all" she added low and reverently, the soft
+eyes shining through glad tears, "His love and tender care surrounding
+me. His strong arm to lean upon; His blood to wash away my sins. His
+perfect righteousness put upon me. These, cousin, are more than all the
+rest, and you and every one may have them if you will; for His own words
+are, 'Ask, and ye shall receive; seek and ye shall find.' 'Him that
+cometh unto me, I will in no wise cast out.'"
+
+"You give me a new view of religion," he said after a moment's
+surprised, thoughtful silence. "I have been accustomed to look upon it
+as something suitable, perhaps desirable, for old age, and certainly
+very necessary for a death bed; but too great a restraint upon youthful
+pleasures."
+
+"Sinful pleasures must indeed be given up by those who would follow
+Christ; but they are like apples of Sodom,--beautiful in appearance, but
+bitter and nauseous to the taste; while the joys that he gives are pure,
+sweet, abundant and satisfying. 'Godliness is profitable unto all
+things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to
+come.' 'They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatness of thy
+house; and thou shalt make them drink of the river of thy pleasures.'
+Ah, Cal, if one might safely die without the Christian's faith and hope,
+I should still want them to sweeten life's journey."
+
+Another thoughtful pause; then the young man said, frankly, "Cousin
+Elsie, I'm afraid I'm very stupid, but it's a fact that I never have
+been quite able to understand exactly what it is to be a Christian, or
+how to become one."
+
+She considered a moment, her heart going up in silent prayer for help to
+make the matter plain to him, and for a blessing on her words; for well
+she knew that without the influence of the Holy Spirit they would avail
+nothing.
+
+"To be a Christian," she said, "is to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ,
+receiving and resting upon him alone for salvation. 'He hath made him to
+be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness
+of God in him.' 'God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten
+Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have
+everlasting life.' Do not these texts answer both your queries? We have
+broken God's holy law, but Jesus, the God man, has borne the penalty in
+our stead; 'all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags'; we dare not
+appear before the King clothed in them; but Jesus offers to each of us
+the pure and spotless robe of his righteousness, and we have only to
+accept it as a free gift; we can have it on no other terms. It is
+believe and be saved; look and live."
+
+"But there is something beside for us to do surely? we must live
+right."
+
+"Yes, true faith will bring forth the fruits of holy living; but good
+works are the proofs and effects of our faith, not the ground of the
+true Christian's hope; having nothing whatever to do with our
+justification."
+
+The entrance of Arthur and young Horace put an end to the conversation.
+
+Horace was not less devoted to his elder sister now than in childhood's
+days; Arthur, distant and reserved with most people, had of late learned
+to be very frank and open with her, sure of an attentive hearing, of
+sympathy, and that his confidence would never be betrayed.
+
+She never sneered, never laughed in contempt, nor ever seemed to think
+herself better or wiser, than others. Her advice, when asked, was given
+with sweet simplicity and humility, as of one not qualified, in her own
+estimation, to teach, or desirous to usurp authority over others: yet
+she had a clear intellect and sound judgment, she opened her mouth with
+wisdom and in her tongue was the law of kindness. There seemed a sort of
+magnetism about her, the attraction of a loving, sympathetic nature,
+that always drew to her the young of both sexes, and the large majority
+of older people also.
+
+The three young men gathered round her, hanging upon her sweet looks,
+her words, her smiles, as ardent lovers do upon those of their
+mistress.
+
+Somehow the conversation presently turned upon love and marriage, and
+she lectured them, half-playfully, half seriously, upon the duties of
+husbands.
+
+She bade them be careful in their choice, remembering that it was for
+life, and looking for worth rather than beauty or wealth; then after
+marriage not to be afraid of spoiling the wife with too much care and
+thoughtfulness for her comfort, and happiness, or the keeping up of the
+little attentions so pleasant to give and receive, and so lavishly
+bestowed in the days of courtship.
+
+"Ah, Elsie, you are thinking of your own husband, and holding him up as
+a model to us," said Horace laughingly.
+
+"Yes," she answered, with a blush and smile, a tender light shining in
+the soft brown eyes, "that is true. Ah, the world would be full of happy
+wives if all the husbands would copy his example! He is as much a lover
+now as the day he asked me to be his wife; more indeed, for we grow
+dearer and dearer to each other as the years roll on. Never a day passes
+that he does not tell me of his love by word and deed, and the story is
+as sweet to me now, as when first I heard it."
+
+"Ah, good wives make good husbands," said Mr. Travilla, who had entered
+unobserved, just in time to hear the eulogy upon him. "Boys, let each
+of you get a wife like mine, and you can not fail to be good husbands."
+
+"Good husbands make good wives," she retorted, looking up into his face
+with a fond smile as he came to her side.
+
+"The trouble is to find such," remarked Horace, regarding his sister
+with tender admiration.
+
+"True enough," said Travilla, "I know not of her like in all the length
+and breadth of the land."
+
+Catching sight of Mr. Dinsmore pacing the veranda alone, Calhoun slipped
+quietly away from the rest and joined him.
+
+"Uncle," he said, coloring and dropping his eyes, "I think you doubt
+me."
+
+"Have I not reason, Calhoun?" Mr. Dinsmore asked, looking searchingly
+into the lad's face.
+
+"Yes, sir, I own that appearances are strongly against me, and I can not
+disprove the tale they tell; but--oh, if you could trust me still,
+uncle!"
+
+He lifted his head, and gazed fearlessly into the keen dark eyes still
+bent searchingly upon him.
+
+Mr. Dinsmore held out his hand, and cordially grasped the one Calhoun
+placed in it.
+
+"Well, my boy, I will try: it is far pleasanter than to doubt you. But
+there is some one at Roselands who is disposed to aid and abet the Ku
+Klux in their lawless proceedings."
+
+"I can not deny that," said the nephew, "yet it would ill become me to
+say who it is; and I think, sir, since grandpa has set down his foot so
+decidedly in opposition, there will be no more of it. Travilla and
+Cousin Elsie have given me their confidence again, and I assure you,
+sir, I am deeply grateful to you all."
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Twelfth.
+
+"If thou neglect'st, or dost unwillingly
+What I command, I'll rack thee with old cramps,
+Fill all thy bones with aches; make thee roar,
+That beasts shall tremble at thy din."
+--SHAKESPEARE'S TEMPEST.
+
+
+The Ion family were spending the day at the Oaks. It was now early in
+the fall of 1868 and political excitement ran high over the coming
+presidential election. There had been as yet no effectual check given to
+the lawless proceedings of the Ku Klux, and their frequent raids and
+numerous deeds of violence had inaugurated a reign of terror that was a
+shame and reproach to our boasted civilization and free institutions.
+
+Many of the poorer class, both blacks and whites, dared not pass the
+night in their houses, but when darkness fell, fled for safety to the
+shelter of the nearest woods, carrying their beds with them, and
+sleeping in the open air.
+
+That the Ku Klux Klan was a political organization working in the
+interests of the Democratic party, their words to their victims left no
+doubt. The latter were told that they were punished for belonging to
+the Union League or for favoring the Republican party or using their
+influence in its behalf, and threatened with severer treatment if they
+dared vote its ticket or persuade others to do so.
+
+The outrages were highly disapproved by all Republicans and by most of
+the better class in the opposite party; but many were afraid to express
+their opinions of the doings of the Klan, lest they should be visited
+with its terrors; while for the same reason, many of its victims
+preferred to suffer in silence rather than institute proceedings, or
+testify against their foes.
+
+It was a state of things greatly deplored by our friends of the Oaks and
+Ion, and Messrs. Dinsmore and Travilla, who were not of the timid sort,
+had been making efforts to bring some of the guilty ones to justice;
+though thus far with very little success.
+
+Such an errand had taken them to the town on this particular day.
+
+They were returning late in the afternoon and were still several miles
+from home, when, passing through a bit of woods, a sudden turn of the
+road brought them face to face with a band of mounted men, some thirty
+or forty in number, not disguised but rough and ruffianly in appearance
+and armed with clubs, pistols and bowie knives.
+
+The encounter was evidently a surprise to both parties, and reining in
+their steeds, they regarded each other for a moment in grim silence.
+
+Then the leader of the band, a profane, drunken wretch, who had been a
+surgeon in the Confederate army, scowling fiercely upon our friends and
+laying his hand on a pistol in his belt, growled out, "A couple of
+scalawags! mean dirty rascals, what mischief have you been at now, eh?"
+
+Disdaining a reply to his insolence, the gentlemen drew their revolvers,
+cocked them ready for instant use, and whirling their horses half way
+round and backing them out of the road so that they faced it, while
+leaving room for the others to pass, politely requested them to do so.
+
+"Not so fast!" returned the leader, pouring out a torrent of oaths and
+curses; "we've a little account to settle with you two, and no time's
+like the present."
+
+"Yes, shoot 'em down!" cried a voice from the crowd.
+
+"Hang 'em!" yelled another, "the ---- ---- rascals!"
+
+"Yes," roared a third, "pull 'em from their horses and string 'em up to
+the limb o' that big oak yonder."
+
+Our friends faced them with dauntless air.
+
+"You will do neither," said Mr. Dinsmore, in a firm, quiet tone; "we are
+well armed and shall defend ourselves to the last extremity."
+
+Travilla threw his riding whip into the road a foot or two in front of
+his horse's head, saying, as he looked steadily into the leader's eyes,
+"The first one who passes that to come nearer to us is that instant a
+dead man."
+
+The two were well known in the community as men of undoubted courage and
+determination; also as excellent marksmen.
+
+A whisper ran along the lines of their opponents.
+
+"He's a dead shot; and so's Dinsmore; and they're not afraid o' the
+devil himself. Better let 'em go for this time."
+
+The leader gave the word, "Forward!" and with hisses, groans and a
+variety of hideous noises, they swept along the road and passed out of
+sight, leaving our friends masters of the field.
+
+"Cruelty and cowardice go hand in hand," observed Mr. Travilla, as they
+resumed their homeward way.
+
+"Yes, those brave fellows prefer waging war upon sleeping unarmed men,
+and helpless women and children, to risking life and limb in fair and
+open fight with such as you and I," returned his companion.
+
+"They are Ku Klux, you think?"
+
+"I am morally certain of it, though I could not bring proof to convict
+even that rascally Dr. Savage."
+
+They agreed not to mention the occurrence in presence of their wives:
+also that it would be best for Travilla to take his family home early,
+Mr. Dinsmore and Horace Jr. accompanying them as an escort.
+
+This they could readily do without arousing the fears of the ladies, as
+both were constantly coming and going between the two places.
+
+The sun was nearing the horizon when they reached the Oaks.
+
+Rose and Elsie were in the veranda awaiting their coming in some
+anxiety.
+
+"Oh," they cried, "we are so rejoiced to see you! so thankful that you
+are safe. We feared you had met some of those dreadful Ku Klux."
+
+"Yes, little wife, we are safe, thanks to the protecting care which is
+over us all in every place," Mr. Travilla said, embracing her as though
+they had been long parted.
+
+"Ah yes," she sighed, "how I have been forgetting to-day the lessons of
+faith and trust I have tried to impress upon Mrs. Leland. It is far
+easier to preach than to practice."
+
+Little feet came running in from the grounds, little voices
+shouted, "Papa has come! Papa and grandpa too," and a merry scene
+ensued--hugging, kissing, romping--presently interrupted by the call
+to tea.
+
+There was nothing unusual in the manner of either gentleman and the
+wives had no suspicion that they had been in peril of their lives.
+
+"I think it would be well to return home early to-night," Mr. Travilla
+remarked to Elsie.
+
+"Yes," she said, "on account of the children."
+
+So the carriage was ordered at once, and shortly after leaving the table
+they were on their way--Elsie, children and nurses in the carriage, with
+Mr. Travilla, Mr. Dinsmore and son, all well armed, as their mounted
+escort.
+
+Horace had been taken aside by his father and told of the afternoon's
+adventure, and in his indignation was almost eager for "a brush with the
+insolent ruffians."
+
+None appeared, however; Ion was reached in safety, they tarried there an
+hour or more, then returned without perceiving any traces of the foe.
+
+The hush of midnight has fallen upon the Oaks, Ion, Fairview and all the
+surrounding region; the blinking stars and young moon, hanging a golden
+crescent just above the horizon, look down upon a sleeping world; yet
+not all asleep, for far down the road skirting yonder wood, a strange
+procession approaches;--goblin-like figures, hideous with enormous
+horns, glaring eye-balls and lolling red tongues, and mounted upon
+weird-looking steeds, are moving silently onward.
+
+They reach a small house hard by the road-side, pause before it, and
+with a heavy riding whip the leader thunders at the door.
+
+The frightened inmates, startled from their sleep, cry out in alarm,
+and a man's voice asks, "Who's there?"
+
+"Open the door," commands the leader in a strange sepulchral voice.
+
+"I must know first who is there and what's wanted," returns the other,
+hurrying on his clothes.
+
+A shot is fired, and penetrating the door, strikes the opposite wall.
+
+"Open instantly, or we'll break in, and it'll be the worse for you,"
+thunders the leader; and with trembling hands, amid the cries of wife
+and children, the man removes the bars, draws back the bolts, and looks
+out, repeating his question, "What's wanted?"
+
+"Nothing, this time, Jim White, but to warn you that if you vote the
+Republican ticket, we'll call again, take you to the woods, and flog you
+within an inch of your life--Beware! Forward, men!" and the troop sweeps
+onward, while White closes and bars the door again, and creeps back to
+bed.
+
+"Ku Klux!" says the wife shuddering. "Jim, we'll have to hide o' nights
+now, like the rest. Hush, hush, children, they're gone now; so go to
+sleep; nothing'll hurt ye. Jim, ye'll mind?"
+
+"Yes, yes, Betsy, though it galls me to be ordered round like a nigger;
+me with as white a skin as any o' them."
+
+Onward, still onward sweeps the goblin train, and again and again the
+same scene is enacted, the victim now a poor white, and now a freedman.
+
+At length they have reached Fairview; they pause before the gate, two
+dismount, make off into the woods, and presently reappear bearing on
+their shoulders a long dark object; a little square of white visible on
+the top.
+
+They pass through the gate, up the avenue, and silently deposit their
+burden at the door, return to their companions, and with them repair to
+the negro quarter.
+
+Dismounting, they tie their horses to the fence, and leaving them in
+charge of one of their number, betake themselves to the nearest cabin,
+surround it, break open the door, drag out the man, carry him to a
+little distance, and with clubs and leathern straps, give him a terrible
+beating.
+
+Leaving him half dead with pain and fright, they return to his cabin,
+threaten his wife and children, rob him of his gun, and pass on to
+repeat their lawless deeds; menacing some, beating and shooting others;
+not always sparing women or children; the latter perhaps, being hurt
+accidentally in the melee.
+
+From the quarter at Fairview, they passed on to that of Ion, continuing
+there the same threats and acts of violence; winding up by setting fire
+to the school-house, and burning it to the ground.
+
+The bright light shining in at the open windows of her room, awoke the
+little Elsie. She sprang from her bed, and ran to the window. She could
+see the flames bursting from every aperture in the walls of the small
+building, and here and there through the roof, curling about the
+rafters, sending up volumes of smoke, and showers of sparks; and in
+their light the demon-like forms of the mischief-doers, some seated upon
+their horses and looking quietly on, others flitting to and fro in the
+lurid glare; while the roar and crackling of the flames, and the sound
+of falling timbers came distinctly to her ear.
+
+At the sight a panic terror seized the child. She flew into the room
+where her parents lay sleeping, but with habitual thoughtfulness for
+others, refrained from screaming out in her fright, lest she should
+rouse the little ones.
+
+She went to her father's side, put her lips to his ear, and said in low
+tremulous tones, "Papa, papa, please wake up, I'm so frightened; there's
+a fire and the Ku Klux are there. O papa, I'm afraid they'll come here
+and kill you!" and she ended with a burst of almost hysterical weeping,
+rousing both father and mother.
+
+"What is it, darling?" asked Mr. Travilla, starting up to a sitting
+posture, and throwing an arm about the child, "what has alarmed my
+pet?" while the mother, exclaiming "Vi! is she gone again?" sprang out
+upon the floor, and hastily threw on a dressing-gown.
+
+"No, no, no, mamma; Vi's safe in bed, but look at that red light on the
+wall yonder! it's fire, and the Ku Klux!"
+
+In another moment all three were at the window overlooking the scene.
+
+"The school-house!" exclaimed Mr. Travilla. "I am not surprised; for the
+Klan is greatly opposed to the education of the negro, and has burned
+down buildings used for that purpose in other places. Do you see them,
+wife? those frightful looking horned animals."
+
+"Yes," she said with a shudder, followed by a deep sigh, "and O Edward
+what may they not be doing to our poor people? can we do anything to
+save them?"
+
+He shook his head sadly.
+
+"No: they are out in considerable force, and I could do nothing,
+single-handed, against twenty or thirty armed men."
+
+"O papa, mamma, I am so frightened!" cried little Elsie, clinging to
+them both. "Will they come here and hurt us?"
+
+"I think not, daughter," her father said soothingly; "their raids have
+hitherto been almost entirely confined to the blacks, and poor whites,
+with now and then one of those from the North whom they style
+carpet-baggers."
+
+"Be calm, dearest, and put your trust in the Lord," the mother said,
+folding the trembling, sobbing child to her breast. "'The beloved of the
+Lord shall dwell in safety by him, and the Lord shall cover him all the
+day long.' 'Not an hair of your head shall fall to the ground without
+your Father.'"
+
+"Yes, sweet words," said Mr. Travilla; "and remember what the Lord Jesus
+said to Pilate, 'Thou couldst have no power at all against me, except it
+were given thee from above.'"
+
+A short pause, in which all three gazed intently at the scene of
+conflagration, then, "Do you see how the walls are tottering?" said Mr.
+Travilla, and even as he spoke they tumbled together into one burning
+mass, the flames shot up higher than before, burning with a fierce heat
+and roar, while by their lurid light the Ku Klux could be seen taking up
+their line of march again.
+
+The two Elsies watched in almost breathless suspense till they saw them
+turn in a direction to take them farther from Ion.
+
+"Thank God they are not coming here!" ejaculated Mrs. Travilla, in low,
+reverent, grateful tones.
+
+"Hark, mamma, papa, I hear cries and screams!" exclaimed little Elsie.
+"Oh it must be some of the poor women and children coming up from the
+quarter!"
+
+As the child spoke there came a quick sharp tap, that seemed to tell of
+fright and excitement, at the outer door of the suite of apartments, and
+an old servant, hardly waiting for the permission to enter, thrust in
+his head, saying in tremulous tones, "Mars Ed'ard, de people's all
+comin' up from de quarter, an' knockin' an' cryin' to get in. Dere's
+been awful times down dere; de Ku Klu--"
+
+"Yes, yes, Jack, I know; but be quiet or you'll wake the children. Open
+the hall door and let the poor things in, of course," said Mr. Travilla,
+"and I'll be down in a moment."
+
+"Plenty room on de back veranda, Mars Ed'ard, an' 'tween dat an' de
+kitchen."
+
+"Very well, they'll be safe there, but if they don't feel so let them
+into the hall."
+
+"Yes, sah."
+
+The head was withdrawn, the door closed, and Jack's shuffling feet could
+be heard descending the stairs.
+
+Mr. and Mrs. Travilla, having each completed a hasty toilet, were about
+to go down; but little Elsie clung to her mother.
+
+"Mamma, mamma, don't go and leave me! please let me go too."
+
+"My darling, you would be quite safe here; and it is much earlier than
+your usual hour for rising."
+
+"But day is breaking, mamma, and I could not sleep any more: besides
+maybe I could help to comfort them."
+
+"I think she could," said her father, and mamma gave consent at once.
+
+They found the back veranda, the kitchen, and the space between, filled
+with an excited crowd of blacks, old and young, talking, gesticulating,
+crying, moaning and groaning.
+
+"De Ku Klux, de Ku Klux!" was on every tongue.
+
+"Tell ye what, darkies," one was saying, "dey's debbils! why two ob dem
+stop befo' my doah an' say 'You black rascal, give us some watah! quick
+now fo' we shoot you tru the head': den I hand up a gourd full--'bout a
+quart min' yo',--an de fust snatch it an' pour it right down his troat,
+an' hand de gourd back quick's a flash; den he turn roun' an' ride off,
+while I fill de gourd for de udder, an' he do jes de same. Tell ye what
+dey's debbils! didn't you see de horns, an' de big red tongues waggin'?"
+
+There was a murmur of assent, and a shudder ran through the throng. But
+Mr. Travilla's voice was heard in cheerful reassuring tones.
+
+"No, boys, they are men, though they do the work of devils. I have seen
+their disguise, and under that long red tongue, which is made of
+flannel, and moved by the wearer's real tongue, there is a leather bag,
+inside of the disguise--and into it they pour the water; not down their
+throats."
+
+"Dat so, Mars Ed'ard?" cried several, drawing a long breath of relief.
+
+"Yes, that is so, boys. And they've been threatening and abusing you
+to-night?"
+
+"Yes, sah, dat dey hab!" cried a score of voices, and one after another
+showed his wounds, and told a piteous tale.
+
+Elsie and her namesake daughter wept over their losses and sufferings:
+the medicine closet was unlocked and its stores liberally drawn upon for
+materials to dress their wounds, both master and mistress attending to
+them with their own hands; and at the same time speaking soothing,
+comforting words, and promising help to repair the damage to their
+property, and make good their losses: also to bring their enemies to
+justice if that might be possible.
+
+It was broad daylight ere the work was finished.
+
+The veranda was nearly empty now, the people slowly returning to their
+homes--Mr. Travilla having assured them the danger was past for the
+present--when Elsie caught sight of a woman whom she had not observed
+till that moment.
+
+The poor creature had dropped down upon a bench at the kitchen door. Her
+right arm hung useless at her side; with the left she held the bloody
+corpse of a puny infant to her breast, and the eyes she lifted to the
+face of her mistress were full of a mute, tearless agony.
+
+Elsie's overflowed at the piteous sight. "O my poor Minerva," she said,
+"what is this they have done to you and poor little Ben?"
+
+"Oh, oh, oh, Miss Elsie! de Ku Kluxes dey shot tru de doah, an' de balls
+flyin' all roun', an'--an'--one hit me on de arm, an' killed my baby!"
+she sobbed, "oh! oh! oh! de doctah mend de arm, but de baby,
+he--he--done gone foreber;" and the sobs burst forth with renewed
+violence, while she hugged the still form closer, and rocked herself to
+and fro in her grief.
+
+"Gone to heaven, my poor Minerva, to be forever safe and happy with the
+dear Lord Jesus," her mistress said in quivering tones, the tears
+rolling fast down her own cheeks.
+
+"An' he neber hab no mo' miseries, honey," said Aunt Dicey, drawing
+near; "no Ku Klux come into de garden ob de Lord to scare him or hurt
+him; bress his little heart!"
+
+"Wish we all dere, safe an' happy like he! Let me wash off de blood an'
+dress him clean for de grave," said Aunt Sally, the nurse of the
+quarter, gently taking the child, while Mr. Travilla and Elsie bound up
+the wounded arm, speaking soothingly to the sufferer, and promising the
+doctor's aid as soon as it could be procured.
+
+Aunt Sally sat near attending to the last offices for the tiny corpse,
+little Elsie looking on, with big tears coursing down her cheeks.
+Presently going to her mother's side, she whispered a few words in her
+ear.
+
+"Yes, dear, you may go to the bureau drawer and choose it yourself," was
+the prompt reply, and the child ran into the house, returning directly
+with a baby's slip of fine white muslin, delicately embroidered.
+
+"Put this on him, Aunt Sally," she said; "mamma gave me leave to get
+it."
+
+Then going to the bereaved mother, and clasping the dusky, toil-worn
+hand with her soft, white fingers, "Don't cry, Minerva," she said, "you
+know poor little Ben was always sick, and now he is well and happy. And
+if you love Jesus, you will go to be with him again some day."
+
+Evidently much gratified by the honor done her dead babe, Minerva sobbed
+out her thanks for that, and the dressing of her wounded arm, and
+dropping a courtesy, followed Aunt Sally as she bore the corpse into
+Aunt Dicey's cabin close by.
+
+The scanty furniture of Minerva's own had been completely demolished by
+the desperadoes, and her husband terribly beaten.
+
+He and one or two others had not come up with the crowd, presumably from
+inability to do so, and Mr. Travilla now mounted his horse and went in
+search of them.
+
+They had been left by their assailants in the woods, where one--"Uncle
+Mose"--dreadfully crippled by rheumatism, still lay on the ground half
+dead with bruises, cuts, and pistol shot wounds.
+
+Another had crawled to his cabin and fainted upon its threshold; while a
+third lay weltering in his gore some yards distant from his.
+
+Mr. Travilla had them all carried into their houses, and made as
+comfortable as circumstances would permit, and a messenger was
+dispatched in all haste for Dr. Barton.
+
+The family at Fairview had slept through the night undisturbed by the
+vicinity, or acts of the raiders. Mr. Leland's first intimation of their
+visit was received as he opened the front door at his usual early hour
+for beginning his morning round of the plantation.
+
+He almost started back at the sight of a rude pine coffin directly
+before him; but recovering himself instantly, stooped to read a label
+affixed to the lid.
+
+"Beware, odious carpet-bagger! this is your third and last warning.
+Leave the country within ten days, or your carcass fills this."
+
+He read it deliberately through, carefully weighing each word, not a
+muscle of his face moving, not a tremor agitating his nerves.
+
+Turning to his overseer, who at that moment appeared before him, "Bring
+me a hatchet," he said in stern, calm tones, "and be quick, Park; I
+would not have your mistress see this on any account."
+
+Stepping upon the lid as he spoke, he broke it in with a crash,
+finishing his work when the hatchet came, by quickly chopping and
+splitting the coffin up into kindling-wood.
+
+"There!" he said, bidding the man gather up the fragments and carry them
+to the kitchen, "they'll not put me into that, at all events. What
+mischief have they been at in the quarter, I wonder?" he added,
+springing into the saddle.
+
+"Dreffle bad work, sah; mos' killed two ob de boys; scared de rest to
+deff," said Park, hastily obeying the order to gather up the bits of
+wood, "jes' gwine tell ye, sah, when you tole me go for de hatchet."
+
+"Indeed! hellish work! Follow me, Park, as quickly as you can. And mind,
+not a word of this," pointing to the demolished coffin, "to any one,"
+and putting spurs to his horse, he galloped off in the direction of the
+quarter.
+
+But presently catching sight of the still smoking embers of the Ion
+school-house, he drew rein for an instant with a sudden exclamation of
+surprise and regret. "The wretches, what will they do next? burn our
+houses about our ears?" and sighing, he pursued his way.
+
+Indignant anger, and tender pity and compassion filled his breast by
+turns, on reaching the quarter and discovering the state of things
+there; worse even than Park's report had made it.
+
+He rode from cabin to cabin inquiring into the condition of the inmates
+and speaking words of pity and of hope.
+
+Finding several badly bruised and cut, and others suffering from gunshot
+wounds, he sent to the house for lint, salve and bandages, and directed
+a lad to run to the stables, saddle a horse; and go immediately for Dr.
+Barton.
+
+"De doctah ober to Ion now, sah," returned the boy, "debbils dore las'
+night, too, sah."
+
+"Run over to Ion, then, and ask the doctor to come here when he is
+through there," said Mr. Leland.
+
+Mr. Travilla came with the doctor and the two planters compared notes,
+in regard to damages, Mr. Leland also telling the story of the coffin
+laid at his door.
+
+"What do you intend doing?" asked Mr. Travilla.
+
+"Inclination says, 'Stay and brave it out;' but I have not yet fully
+decided. I have invested all my means in this enterprise, and have a
+wife and family of helpless little ones to support."
+
+"That makes it hard indeed; yet I fear your life is in great danger. But
+come what may, Leland, I stand your friend. If you should be attacked,
+fly to Ion; you will find an open door, a hearty welcome, and such
+protection as I am able to give. I think we could conceal you so that
+it would be a matter of difficulty for your foes to find you."
+
+"A thousand thanks! God bless you for your kindness, sir!" exclaimed
+Leland, with emotion, warmly grasping the hand held out to him; and the
+two parted, each wending his homeward way.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Thirteenth.
+
+"Humble love,
+And not proud reason, keeps the door of heaven;
+Love finds admission, where proud science fails."
+--Young
+
+
+Elsie was on the veranda looking for her husband's return to breakfast;
+for it was already past the usual hour.
+
+"All alone, little wife?" he asked as he dismounted and came up the
+steps.
+
+"Not now," she answered, putting her arms about his neck and looking up
+at him with her own fond, beautiful smile. "But your face is sad, my
+husband! What news?"
+
+"Sad enough, my little friend; poor old Uncle Mose has been so
+barbarously handled that he cannot live through the day, Dr. Barton
+says: and two of the others are suffering very much."
+
+Elsie's eyes were full. "Does Uncle Mose know it?" she asked.
+
+"Yes, I told him, as tenderly as I could, and asked if he was ready to
+go. 'Yes, Mars Edard,' he said, with a triumphant smile, 'for I'se
+got fast hold ob Jesus.'"
+
+Elsie's head was laid on her husband's shoulder, the bright drops were
+coming fast down her cheeks.
+
+"I have sent word to Mr. Wood," he went on, "the poor old fellow is
+anxious to see him; and you also."
+
+"Yes, yes, I will go down directly after prayers," she said.
+
+Then he told her of the coffin laid at the door of Fairview, and the
+threatening words on its lid.
+
+She heard it with a shudder and a sigh. "Oh poor Mr. Leland! Edward,
+don't you think it would be wise in him to leave for the present?"
+
+"Perhaps so. I fear they will really attempt his life if he stays; but
+all his means being invested in Fairview makes it very hard. Where are
+our children?"
+
+"They went to deck the corpse of Baby Ben with flowers. Ah, here they
+come, the darlings!" as little feet came pattering through the hall.
+
+They hastened to their father for their usual morning kiss, and hung
+about him with tender loving caresses; but their manner was subdued, and
+Vi and Harold told with a sort of wondering awe of the poor little dead
+baby so still and cold.
+
+"Are you going out, mamma?" asked little Elsie an hour later, as Mrs.
+Travilla appeared, dressed in walking costume, in the midst of the
+group of children and nurses gathered under a tree on the shady side of
+the house.
+
+"Yes, daughter, I am going down to the quarter to see poor old Uncle
+Mose who is very ill; and I want you to be mother to the little ones
+while I am away."
+
+"O mamma, mayn't we go with you?" cried Eddie and Vi in a breath, Harold
+chiming in, "And me too, mamma, me too!"
+
+"No, dears, not to-day, but some other time you shall," the mother
+answered, giving each a good-bye kiss.
+
+"Mamma, stay wis us; I'se 'f'aid de Kluxes get 'oo!" said Harold
+coaxingly, clinging about her neck with his chubby arms, while the big
+tears gathered in his great dark eyes.
+
+"No, dear, they don't come in the day-time. And God will take care of me.
+Papa is down at the quarter, too; and Uncle Joe and mammy will go with
+me;" and with another tender caress, she gently released herself from
+his hold and turned away.
+
+The children gazed wistfully after her graceful figure as it disappeared
+among the trees, Uncle Joe holding a great umbrella over her to shield
+her from the sun, while mammy and Aunt Sally followed, each with a
+basket on her arm.
+
+Uncle Mose was rapidly nearing that bourne whence no traveler returns.
+As his mistress laid her soft white hand on his, she felt that the
+chill of death was there.
+
+"You are almost home, Uncle Mose," she said, bending over him, her sweet
+face full of tender sympathy.
+
+"Yes, my dear young Missus, I'se in de valley," he answered, speaking
+slowly and with difficulty, "but bress de Lord, it's not dark!"
+
+"Jesus is with you?"
+
+"Yes, Missus, he is my strength and my song: de riber's deep, but he'll
+neber let me sink. De pain in dis ole body's dreffle, but I'll neber hab
+no mo', bress de Lord!"
+
+"Do your good works give you this comfortable assurance that you are
+going to heaven, Uncle Mose?"
+
+"Bress yo' heart, honey, I ain't neber done none; but de bressed Lord
+Jesus covers me all ober wid his goodness, and God de Fader 'cepts me
+for his sake."
+
+"Yes, that is it, 'He hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin;
+that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.' 'There is none
+other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved;' and
+'he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.'"
+
+"Yes, honey, dose de words ob de good book. Now will you please sing de
+twenty-third Psalm, an' den ask de Lord Jesus keep fas' hold dis ole
+niggah, till Jordan am past, an' de gate into de city."
+
+The request was granted; the sweet voice that had thrilled the hearts
+of many of the rich and noble of earth, freely poured forth its richest
+strains to soothe the dying throes of agony of a poor old negro.
+
+Then kneeling by the humble couch, in a few simple, touching words she
+commended the departing spirit to the almighty love and care of Him who
+had shed His blood to redeem it, earnestly pleading that the dying one
+might be enabled to cast himself wholly on Jesus, and in doing so be
+granted a speedy and abundant entrance into His kingdom and glory.
+
+The fervent "Amen!" of Uncle Mose joined in with hers; then low and
+feebly he added, "De good--Lord--bress you--my dear--young--Missus."
+
+A shadow had fallen on Elsie, and as she rose from her knees, she turned
+her head to find her father standing at her side.
+
+He drew her to him and pressed his lips tenderly to her forehead. "You
+must go now; the heat of the sun is already too great for you to be out
+with safety."
+
+The low quiet tone was one of authority as of old.
+
+He only waited for her good-bye to Uncle Mose, and to speak a few kindly
+words of farewell himself, then led her out and placed her in his
+carriage, which stood at the door.
+
+Mr. Travilla rode up at that instant. "That's right," he said. "Little
+wife, I am loth to have you exposed to the heat of this sultry day."
+
+"And you, Edward? can you not come home now?" she asked.
+
+"Not yet, wife; there are several matters I must attend to first, and
+I want to speak to Mr. Wood, who, I see, is just coming."
+
+He kissed his hand to her with the gallantry of the days of their
+courtship, and cantered off, while the carriage rolled on its way toward
+the mansion.
+
+"Daughter, if you must visit the quarter during this sultry weather, can
+you not choose an earlier hour?" asked Mr. Dinsmore.
+
+"I think I can after this, papa;" and she went on to explain how her
+time had been taken up before breakfast that morning. "Do you know about
+Mr. Leland?" she asked in conclusion.
+
+"Yes; their next outrage will, I fear, be an attack upon him."
+
+"Then upon you and Edward!" she said, her cheek growing very pale, and
+her eyes filling. "Papa I am becoming very anxious."
+
+"'I would have you without carefulness,'" he answered taking her hand in
+his. "They can have no power at all against us except it be given them
+from above. My child, God reigns, and if God be for us, who can be
+against us?"
+
+"Yes, dear papa, and with David let us say, 'In the shadow of thy wings
+will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast.'"
+
+Mr. Dinsmore was still with his daughter when Mr. Travilla returned with
+the news that Uncle Mose's sufferings were over, and it had been
+arranged that he and Baby Ben should be buried that evening at dusk.
+
+The children begged to be permitted to attend the double funeral; but
+their parents judged it best to deny them, fearing an onslaught by the
+Ku Klux; of which there was certainly a possibility.
+
+"I have been talking with Leland," Mr. Travilla remarked aside to his
+friend, "and he proposes that we accompany the procession as a mounted
+guard."
+
+"Good!" said Mr. Dinsmore, "Horace and I will join you: and let us all
+go armed to the teeth."
+
+"Certainly, and I accept your offer with thanks. Some of the boys
+themselves are pretty fair marksmen but they were all robbed of their
+arms last night."
+
+"Let us supply them again, Edward," exclaimed Elsie, with energy "and
+have them practice shooting at a mark."
+
+Her husband assented with a smile. "You are growing warlike in your
+feelings," he said.
+
+"Yes, I believe in the privilege and duty of self-defence."
+
+Toward evening Mr. Dinsmore rode back to the Oaks, returning to Ion with
+his son, shortly before the appointed hour for the obsequies.
+
+Elsie saw them and her husband ride away in the direction of the
+quarter, not without some fluttering of the heart, and with a silent
+prayer for their safety, retired with her children, to the observatory
+at the top of the house, from whence a full view might be obtained of
+the whole route from the cabin of Uncle Mose to the somewhat distant
+place of sepulture; the spot chosen for that purpose in accommodation to
+the superstitious feelings of the blacks, which led them to prefer to
+lay their dead at a distance from their own habitations.
+
+The children watched with deep interest as the procession formed, each
+man carrying a blazing pine-knot, passed down the one street of the
+quarter, and wound its slow way along the road that skirted two sides of
+the plantation, then half way up a little hill, where it gathered in a
+circle about the open grave.
+
+Twilight was past, thick clouds hid the moon and the torches shone out
+like stars in the darkness.
+
+"Mamma, what dey doin' now?" asked Harold.
+
+"Listen! perhaps you may hear something," she answered, and as they
+almost held their breath to hear, a wild, sweet negro melody came
+floating upon the still night air.
+
+"They're singing," whispered Vi, "singing Canaan, 'cause Uncle Mose, and
+little Baby Ben have got safe there."
+
+No one spoke again till the strains had ceased with the ending of the
+hymn.
+
+"Now Mr. Wood is talking, I suppose," remarked Eddie, in a subdued tone,
+"telling them we must all die, and which is the way to get to heaven."
+
+"Else praying," said Vi.
+
+"Mamma, what is die?" asked Harold leaning on her lap.
+
+"If we love Jesus, darling, it is going home to be with him, and oh, so
+happy."
+
+"But Baby Ben die, and me saw him in Aunt Dicey's house."
+
+"That was only his body, son; the soul--the part that thinks and feels
+and loves--has gone away to heaven, and after a while God will take the
+body there too."
+
+For obvious reasons the services at the grave were made very short, and
+in another moment they could see the line of torches drawing rapidly
+nearer, till it reached the quarter and broke into fragments.
+
+"We will go down now," Elsie said, rising and taking Harold's hand,
+"papa, grandpa and Uncle Horace will be here in a moment."
+
+"Mamma," whispered her namesake daughter, "how good God was to keep them
+safe from the Ku Klux!"
+
+"Yes, dearest, let us thank him with all our hearts."
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Fourteenth.
+
+"The more the bold, the bustling, and the bad,
+Press to usurp the reins of power, the more
+Behooves it virtue, with indignant zeal,
+To check their combination."
+--THOMSON
+
+
+The spirit of resistance was now fully aroused within the breasts of
+our friends of Ion and the Oaks. Mr. Travilla's was a type of the
+American character; he would bear long with his injuries, vexations,
+encroachments upon his rights, but when once the end of his forbearance
+was reached, woe to the aggressor; for he would find himself opposed by
+a man of great resources, unconquerable determination and undaunted
+courage.
+
+His measures were taken quietly, but with promptness and energy. He had
+been seeking proofs of the identity of the raiders, and found them in
+the case of one of the party; whose gait had been recognized by several,
+his voice by one or two, while the mark of his bloody hand laid upon the
+clothing of one of the women as he roughly pushed her out of his way,
+seemed to furnish the strongest circumstantial evidence against him.
+
+George Boyd's right hand had been maimed in a peculiar manner during the
+war, and this bloody mark upon the woman's night-dress was its exact
+imprint.
+
+Already Mr. Travilla had procured his arrest, and had him imprisoned for
+trial, in the county jail.
+
+Yet this was but a small part of the day's work: lumber had been
+ordered, and men engaged for the rebuilding of the school-house;
+merchandise also to replace the furniture and clothing destroyed; and
+arms for every man at the quarter capable of using them.
+
+All this Elsie knew and approved, as did her father and brother. For
+Mrs. Carrington's sake they deeply regretted that Boyd was implicated in
+the outrage; but all agreed that justice must have its course.
+
+The question had been mooted in both families whether any or all of them
+should leave the South until the restoration of law and order should
+render it a safe abiding place for honest, peaceable folk, but
+unanimously decided in the negative.
+
+The gentlemen scorned to fly from the desperadoes and resign to their
+despotic rule their poor dependents and the land of their love; nay they
+would stay and defend both to the utmost of their power; and the wives
+upheld their husbands in their determination and refused to leave them
+to meet the peril alone.
+
+Returning from the burial of Uncle Mose, Mr. Dinsmore and Horace spent
+an hour at Ion before riding back to the Oaks.
+
+The three gentlemen were in the library earnestly discussing the state
+of affairs, when Elsie, coming down from seeing her little ones settled
+for the night, heard the sound of wheels in the avenue, and stepping to
+the door saw the Ashlands carriage just drawing up in front of it.
+
+The vehicle had scarcely come to a standstill ere its door was thrown
+hastily open and the elder Mrs. Carrington alighted.
+
+Elsie sprang to meet her with outstretched arms, and the exclamation,
+"My dear old friend!" though her heart beat quickly, her cheek
+crimsoned, and tears filled her eyes.
+
+The old lady, speechless with grief, fell upon her neck and wept there
+silently for a moment; then low and gaspingly, in a voice broken with
+sobs, "I--have--come to--ask about--George," she said, "can it, oh can
+it be that he has done this dreadful thing?" and shuddering she hid her
+face on Elsie's shoulder her slight frame shaken with the sobs she
+vainly strove to suppress.
+
+"Dear Mrs. Carrington, I am so sorry, so _very_ sorry to think it,"
+Elsie said, in a voice full of tears, "my heart aches for you who love
+him so; you who have been so sorely afflicted: may the Lord give you
+strength to bear up under this new trial."
+
+"He will! he does! My sister's son! oh tis sad, 'tis heart-breaking! But
+the proofs: what are they?"
+
+Elsie named them; first drawing her friend to a seat where she supported
+her with her arm.
+
+"Yes, yes, his voice, his gait are both peculiar, and--his hand. Let me
+see that--that garment."
+
+Leading her into a private room, and seating her comfortably there Elsie
+had it brought and laid before her.
+
+Mrs. Carrington gave it one glance, and motioning it away with a look
+and gesture of horror, dropped her face into her hands and groaned
+aloud.
+
+Elsie kneeling by her side, clasped her arms about her and wept with
+her.
+
+"A slayer of the weak and helpless--a murderer--a midnight assassin!"
+groaned the half distracted aunt.
+
+"May there not possibly be some mistake. Let us give him the benefit of
+the doubt," whispered Elsie.
+
+"Alas there seems scarcely room for doubt!" sighed Mrs. Carrington,
+then, with a determined effort to recover her composure, "But don't
+think, dear Elsie, that I blame you or your husband. Can I see him? and
+your father if he is here?"
+
+"Yes, they are both here and will rejoice if they can be of any comfort
+or service to you. Ah, I hear papa's voice in the hall, asking for me!"
+and stepping to the door, she called to him and her husband, "Please
+come in here," she said, "Mrs. Carrington wishes to see you both."
+
+"You here and alone at this late hour, my dear madam!" Mr. Dinsmore
+exclaimed, taking the old lady's hand in a cordial grasp, "your courage
+surprises me."
+
+"Ah, my good friend, they who have little to lose, need not have much to
+do with fear," she answered. "That was what I told Sophie who would have
+had me defer my call till to-morrow."
+
+"My dear madam, you are surely right in thinking that no one would
+molest you--a lady whom all classes unite in loving and honoring," Mr.
+Travilla said, greeting her with almost filial respect and affection.
+
+She bowed in acknowledgment. "Do not think for a moment that I have come
+to upbraid you, gentlemen. Justice demands that those who break the laws
+suffer the penalty, and I have nothing to say against it; though the
+criminal be my own flesh and blood. But I want to hear all about this
+sad affair."
+
+They told her briefly all they knew, she listening with calm though sad
+demeanor.
+
+"Thank you," she said when they had finished. "That George is guilty, I
+dare hardly doubt, and I am far from upholding him in his wickedness. As
+you all know, I was strong for accession, and am no Republican now, but
+I say perish the cause that can be upheld only by such measures as
+these. I would have every member of this wicked, dreadful conspiracy
+brought to punishment; they are ruining their country; but their deeds
+are not chargeable upon the secessionists of the war time, as a class."
+
+"That is certainly true, madam."
+
+"We are fully convinced of that, Mrs. Carrington," the gentlemen
+replied.
+
+She rose to take leave. Mr. Travilla requested her to delay a little
+till his horse could be brought to the door, and he would see her home.
+
+"No, no, Travilla," said Mr. Dinsmore, "Horace and I will do that, if
+Mrs. Carrington will accept our escort."
+
+"Many thanks to you both, gentlemen," she said, "but I assure you I am
+not in the least afraid; and it would be putting you to unnecessary
+trouble."
+
+"On the contrary, my dear madam, it would be a pleasure; and as our
+horses are already at the door, we need not delay you a moment," said
+Mr. Dinsmore. "It will not take us so very far out of our way, either:
+and I should like to have a word with Sophie."
+
+Upon that Mrs. Carrington gratefully accepted his offer, and the three
+went away together.
+
+Convinced of his guilt, Mrs. Carrington made no effort to obtain the
+release of her nephew, but several of his confederates having perjured
+themselves to prove an alibi in his favor, he was soon at large again.
+
+He showed his face no more at the Oaks or Ion, and upon occasion of an
+accidental meeting with Travilla or either of the Dinsmores, regarded
+him with dark, scowling looks, sometimes adding a muttered word or two
+of anger and defiance.
+
+In the meantime damages had been repaired in the quarters at Fairview
+and Ion, and the men at the latter, secretly supplied with arms; also
+the rebuilding of the school-house was going rapidly forward.
+
+A threatening notice was presently served upon Mr. Travilla, ordering
+him to desist from the attempt, as the teaching of the blacks would not
+be allowed by the Ku Klux.
+
+He however paid no attention to the insolent demand, and the work went
+on as before.
+
+Mr. Leland had succeeded in keeping the affair of the coffin from his
+wife thus saving her much anxiety and distress.
+
+To leave just at this time would be a great pecuniary loss, and he
+had decided to remain; but had laid his plans carefully for either
+resistance or escape in case of an attack.
+
+A couple of large, powerful, and very fine watch dogs were added to his
+establishment, and a brace of loaded pistols and a bowie knife were
+always within reach of his hand.
+
+One night the family were aroused by the furious barking of the dogs.
+Instantly Mr. Leland was out upon the floor hastily throwing on his
+clothes, while his wife, with the frightened cry. "The Ku Klux!" ran to
+the window.
+
+"Yes it is! they are surrounding the house! O Robert, fly for your
+life!" she cried in the wildest terror. "O God save my poor husband from
+these cruel foes!" she added, dropping upon her knees and lifting hands
+and eyes to heaven.
+
+"He will, Mary, never fear, wife," Mr. Leland said almost cheerfully,
+snatching up his weapons as he spoke. "Pray on, it's the best thing you
+can do to help me."
+
+"You must fly!" she said, "you can't fight twenty men and I think there
+are at least that many."
+
+"I'll slip out at the back door then, and make for the woods," he
+answered, rushing from the room.
+
+Children and servants were screaming with affright, the ruffians
+thundering at the front door, calling loudly upon Mr. Leland to come
+out, and threatening to break it down if he did not immediately appear.
+
+Summoning all her courage, the wife went again to the window and called
+to them, asking what was wanted.
+
+"Leland. Tell him to come out here at once or it will be the worse for
+him," returned the leader, in a feigned, unnatural voice.
+
+"He is not here," she said.
+
+"He'd better show himself at once," returned the ruffian, "he'll not
+escape by refusing to do so; we'll search every corner till we find
+him."
+
+"That will be as God pleases," she said in a calm, firm tone, her
+courage rising with the emergency.
+
+She was answered with a yell of rage, and a repeated order to come down
+and open the door.
+
+"I shall do no such thing," she said; "and what is more, I shall shoot
+down the first man that sets foot on the stairs."
+
+It was a sudden resolution that had come to her. Encouraged by Mrs.
+Travilla's precept and example, she had been, for months past,
+industriously training herself in the use of firearms, and kept her
+loaded revolver at hand; and now she would create a diversion in her
+husband's favor, keeping the raiders at bay at the front of the building
+while he escaped at the back; they believed him to be in the upper
+story: if she could prevent it, they should not learn their mistake,
+till he had had time to gain the woods and distance pursuit.
+
+The door could not much longer withstand the heavy blows dealt it;
+already there were sounds as if it were about to give way.
+
+"Archie," she said, turning to her son and speaking very rapidly, "those
+men are here to kill your father; you must help me to prevent them from
+coming up to hunt him. The rest of you children stop that loud crying,
+which won't do any good. Kneel down and pray, pray, _pray_ to God to
+help your father to get away from them. Archie, throw this black cloak
+round you. Here are two loaded pistols. I will take one, you the other;
+we will station ourselves on the landing at the head of the first flight
+of stairs. It is darker in the house than out of doors, and they will
+not be able to see us, but as the door falls and they rush in we can see
+them in their white gowns, and against the light. Come!"
+
+They hurried to the landing.
+
+"Now we must not be in too great haste," she whispered in his ear; "keep
+cool, take sure aim, and fire low."
+
+The words had scarcely left her lips when the door fell with a crash,
+and with a yell like an Indian war whoop several disguised men rushed
+into the hall and hastily advanced toward the stairway; but the instant
+the foremost set foot upon it, two shots were fired from above,
+evidently not without effect; for with an oath he staggered back and
+fell into the arms of his comrades.
+
+He was borne away by two of them, while the others returned the fire at
+random, for they could not see their adversaries.
+
+The balls whistled past Mrs. Leland and her son, but they stood their
+ground bravely, and as two of their assailants attempted to ascend the
+stairs; fired again and again driving them back for a moment.
+
+At the same time sounds of conflict came from the rear of the
+dwelling,--an exchange of shots, whoops and yells, the hurried tramp of
+many feet, and the yelping, barking and howling of the dogs--and
+instantly the hall was cleared, every man there hastening to join in
+this new struggle, apparently satisfied that their intended victim was
+endeavoring to make his escape in that direction.
+
+Seeing this, Mrs. Leland and her son ran to a window overlooking the new
+scene of contest, their hearts beating between hope and fear.
+
+Mr. Leland had slipped cautiously out of the back door, and, revolver in
+hand, stepped into the yard, but only to find himself surrounded by his
+foes.
+
+They attempted to seize him, but eluding their grasp, he fired right and
+left, several shots in succession, the others returning his fire, and
+following in hot pursuit.
+
+There was no moon that night, and the darkness and a simple suit of
+black, were favorable to Leland, for while the long white gowns of the
+Ku Klux not only trammelled their movements, but rendered each an easy
+target for his shot, they could take but uncertain aim at him, and on
+gaining the woods, he was soon lost to their view in the deepened gloom
+of its recesses.
+
+But the balls had been falling about him like hailstones, and as the
+sounds of pursuit grew fainter, he found himself bleeding profusely from
+a wound in the leg. He dropped behind a fallen tree, and partially
+stanched the wound with some leaves which he bound on with a
+handkerchief, fortunately left in his coat pocket on retiring that
+night.
+
+This was scarcely accomplished, when sounds of approaching footsteps and
+voices told him the danger was not yet over.
+
+He crouched close in his hiding place, and hardly dared breathe as they
+passed and repassed, some almost stepping on him. But he remained
+undiscovered, and at length they abandoned the search, and returning to
+the vicinity of the house, gathered up their wounded and went away.
+
+Yet Leland felt that it was not safe for him to venture back to his
+home, as they might return at any moment; but to remain where he was
+with his wound undressed was almost certain death.
+
+He resolved to accept Mr. Travilla's offered hospitality, if his
+strength would carry him so far, and was rising to make the attempt,
+when the cracking of a dead branch told him that some living thing was
+near, and he fell back again, listening intently for the coming
+footsteps.
+
+"Robert! Robert!" called a low tremulous voice.
+
+"O Mary, is it you?" he responded, in low but joyous accents, and the
+next moment his wife's arms were about his neck, her tears warm upon his
+cheek, while Archie stood sobbing beside them.
+
+"Thank God, thank God that you are alive!" she said, "But are you
+unhurt?"
+
+"No, I am bleeding fast from a wound in my leg," Leland answered
+faintly.
+
+"I've brought lint and bandages," she said, "let me bind it up as well
+as I can in the dark."
+
+"Daren't we strike a light?" asked Archie.
+
+"No, my son, it might bring them on us again, and we must speak low
+too."
+
+"Yes, father; but oh what will you do? you can't come back home again?"
+
+"No; I must go to Ion at once, while I can do so under cover of the
+darkness. Travilla has offered to hide me there. Archie, my brave boy,
+I can trust you with this secret."
+
+"Father, they shall kill me before I'll tell it."
+
+"I trust you will not be tried so far," Leland said with emotion. "I
+would not save my life at the sacrifice of yours. I leave your mother in
+your care, my boy; be dutiful and affectionate to her, and kind to your
+little brother and sisters. Mary, dear, you and Archie will have to
+manage the plantation in my absence," and he went on to give some
+directions.
+
+"I will do my best," she said tearfully, "and as we have been for
+months past frequent visitors at Ion, I can surely go to see you there
+occasionally without exciting suspicion."
+
+"Yes, I think so."
+
+"Father," said Archie, "you can never walk to Ion; let me bring my pony
+and help you to mount him; then I will lead him to Ion and bring him
+back again."
+
+"That is a bright thought; we will do so, if you can saddle him in the
+dark and bring him here very quietly."
+
+"I'll try, father," and the boy hastened away in the direction of the
+stables.
+
+He returned sooner than they dared hope, with the pony saddled and
+bridled. Husband and wife bade a mournful adieu. Mr. Leland mounted with
+his son's assistance, and silently they threaded their way through the
+woods to Ion.
+
+"Hoo! hoo! hoo!" the cry came in loud and clear through the open windows
+of the bedroom of the master and mistress of Ion, and startled them both
+from their slumbers.
+
+"Hoo, hoo! hoo!" it came again, and with a light laugh, Elsie said, "Ah
+it is only an owl; but to my sleeping ear it seemed like a human cry of
+distress. But Edward--"
+
+He had sprung from the bed and was hurrying on his clothes. "I doubt if
+it is not, little wife," he said. "It is the signal of distress Leland
+and I had agreed upon, and he may be in sore need of aid."
+
+"Let me go with you!" she cried tremulously, hastening to don
+dressing-gown and slippers. "Shall I strike a light?"
+
+"No, not till we go down below where the shutters are closed. There is
+no knowing what foe may be lurking near."
+
+Seizing his revolvers, he left the room as he spoke, she following close
+behind, a pistol in one hand, a lamp and match-box in the other.
+
+Silently they groped their way over the stairs, through the halls and
+corridors, till they reached a side door, which Mr. Travilla cautiously
+unbarred.
+
+"Who is there?" he asked scarcely above his breath.
+
+"I, sir," and Mr. Leland stepped in and fell fainting to the floor.
+
+Elsie had set her lamp upon a table, and laid her pistol beside it, and
+while her husband carefully secured the door again, she struck a light
+and brought it near.
+
+Together they stooped over the prostrate form.
+
+"He is not dead?" she asked with a shudder.
+
+"No, no: only a faint; but, see, he is wounded! Your keys, wife!"
+
+"Here," she said, taking them from her pocket, where, with rare presence
+of mind, she had thrust them ere leaving her room.
+
+They hastened to apply restoratives, and bind up the wound more
+thoroughly than Mrs. Leland had been able to do it.
+
+Restored to consciousness, Leland gave a brief account of the affair,
+refreshed himself with food and drink set before him by Elsie's fair
+hands, and then was conducted by Mr. Travilla to an upper room in a wing
+of the building, dating back to the old days of Indian warfare. It was
+distant from the apartments in use by the family, and had a large closet
+entered by a concealed door in the wainscoting.
+
+"Here I think you will be safe," remarked his host. "No one but my wife
+and myself yet knows of your coming, and it shall be kept secret from
+all but Aunt Chloe and Uncle Joe, two tried and faithful servants.
+Except Dr. Barton; he is safe and will be needed to extract the ball."
+
+"Yes; and my wife and boy and the Dinsmores," added Leland with a faint
+smile. "Travilla, my good friend, I can never thank you enough for this
+kindness."
+
+"Tut, man! 'tis nothing! are we not told to lay down our lives for the
+brethren? Let me help you to bed; I fear that leg will keep you there
+for some days."
+
+"I fear so indeed, but am sincerely thankful to have gotten off so
+well," replied Leland, accepting the offered assistance.
+
+"A most comfortable, nay luxurious prison cell," he remarked cheerily,
+glancing about upon the elegant and tasteful furniture, "truly the lines
+have fallen to me in pleasant places."
+
+Mr. Travilla smiled. "We will do what we can to make amends for the loss
+of liberty. It can not be far from daybreak now: I will remove the
+light, throw open the shutters and leave you to rest. You must of course
+be anxious about your family. I will ride over to Fairview and bring you
+news of them within the hour."
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Fifteenth.
+
+"It gives me wonder, great is my content,
+To see you here before me."
+--SHAKESPEARE'S OTHELLO.
+
+"Sir, you are very welcome to our house."
+--SHAKESPEARE
+
+
+Day had fully dawned when Mr. Travilla re-entered his sleeping apartment
+to find Elsie in bed again, but lying there with wide open eyes.
+
+"How very quietly you came in; careful not to disturb me I suppose, my
+good, kind husband," she said greeting him with a loving look and smile,
+as he drew near her couch.
+
+"Yes," he answered, bending over her and fondly stroking her hair. "I
+hoped you were taking another nap."
+
+"No, I feel as if I should never be sleepy again. I'm thinking of poor
+Mrs. Leland. How troubled, anxious and distressed she must feel."
+
+"Yes; I shall ride over there directly."
+
+"And take me with you?"
+
+"Gladly, if you like to go. You will do her more good than I."
+
+"I doubt it; but perhaps both together may be better than either one
+alone. Didn't she act bravely?"
+
+"Yes; she's a noble woman."
+
+They spent some moments in consulting together how to make their guest
+comfortable and at the same time effectually conceal his presence in the
+house.
+
+They rejoiced in the fact that no one but themselves--his own son
+excepted--had been cognizant of his arrival, and Elsie agreed with her
+husband that it should be kept secret from the children; servants also
+save Aunt Chloe and Uncle Joe, whose services would be needed, and who
+could be trusted not to divulge the matter.
+
+"Mammy will manage about his meals, I know," said Elsie, "and Dr.
+Barton's visits may be supposed to be paid to Violet. The darling! how
+glad and thankful I am that she seems to be losing her inclination to
+sleep-walking."
+
+"And I," said her husband; "thankful to God for his blessing on the
+means used, and to Barton, who is certainly an excellent physician."
+
+Their talk ended, husband and wife separated to their different
+dressing-rooms.
+
+Elsie rang for her maid and Aunt Chloe appeared in answer to the
+summons.
+
+Aunt Chloe was no longer young, or even elderly, but had attained to a
+healthy and vigorous old age and still so delighted in her old pleasant
+task of busying herself about the person of her young mistress, that
+she would only occasionally resign it to other hands. She was a
+household dignitary, head tire-woman, and head nurse, and much looked
+up to by the younger servants.
+
+She came in quietly and dropping a courtesy said, "Good mornin', Miss
+Elsie, I hope you's well, honey, but you's up so mighty early."
+
+"Ah, mammy, I'm glad it is you, for I have something to tell you. Yes,
+I'm quite well, thank you," Elsie answered, then while making a rapid
+toilet, went on to relate the occurrences of the last few hours, winding
+up by putting the wounded guest in charge of Aunt Chloe and her husband.
+
+The faithful old creature accepted the trust with evident pride in the
+confidence reposed in her.
+
+"Dis chile an' Uncle Joe'll take care of him, honey, neber fear," she
+said, carefully adjusting the folds of her mistress's riding habit.
+"I'll nuss him to de best ob my disability, an' de good Lord'll soon
+make um well, I hope."
+
+"And you and Uncle Joe will be careful not to let any of the other
+servants know that he's here?"
+
+"Dat we will, darlin', for shuah."
+
+The sun was just peeping above the horizon, as Mr. and Mrs. Travilla
+drew rein before the main entrance to the Fairview mansion.
+
+Mrs. Leland came out to welcome them. She was looking pale and worn,
+yet met them with a smile, and words of grateful appreciation of all
+their kindness, then, with the quick tears springing to her eyes, asked
+anxiously after her husband's welfare.
+
+"I think he is safe and will do well," Mr. Travilla said. "It seems to
+be only a flesh wound, and will soon heal with proper treatment and good
+nursing. I shall go from here to Dr. Barton's; calling for my wife on my
+return. But first what can I do for you? Ah, I see your door is quite
+demolished. We must have it replaced with a new and stronger one before
+night."
+
+"Yes, that is the most pressing need just now," said Mrs. Leland. "Come
+in and look; there is really no other damage except a few bullet holes
+in the walls, and these blood-stains on the matting," she said with a
+slight shudder; "and I am truly thankful to have escaped so well."
+
+They stepped into the hall, (their talk so far had been on the veranda,)
+and gazed with interest upon the marks of the night's conflict, Mrs.
+Leland meanwhile giving a graphic account of it.
+
+A servant was diligently at work cleaning the matting, and had nearly
+obliterated the stains left by the wounded Ku Klux.
+
+"And you shot him, Mrs. Leland?" Elsie said inquiringly.
+
+"Archie or I, or perhaps both of us," Mrs. Leland answered, leading the
+way to the parlor.
+
+They sat there a few moments, conversing still upon the same theme.
+
+"You will hardly dare stay here at night now?" Elsie remarked.
+
+"Yes; where else? I should feel very little safer from the Ku Klux in
+the woods, and the malaria might rob us all of health and even life."
+
+"Come to Ion," said both her visitors in a breath, "you will be most
+welcome."
+
+"A thousand thanks," she answered with emotion. "I do not doubt my
+welcome; yet fear to give a clue to my husband's hiding place."
+
+"There might be danger of that," Mr. Travilla said thoughtfully, "but
+what better, my dear madam, can you do?"
+
+"Stay here and put my trust in the Lord. He will take care of me and my
+helpless little ones.
+
+"I have been thinking of one of our noble pioneer women of the West,
+whose husband was killed by the Indians, leaving her alone in the
+wilderness with six small children, no white person within several
+miles.
+
+"Her friends urged her to leave the dangerous spot, but she said, 'No,
+this farm is all I have for my own and my children's support, and I must
+stay here. God will protect and help us.' And he did; the Indians,
+though they knew she was alone, never attacked her. She lay sometimes
+all night with a broadax in her hands, ready to defend her babes; but
+though she could see the savages come into her yard and light their
+pipes at her brushwood fire, they never approached the house?"
+
+Elsie's eyes kindled with enthusiastic admiration, then filled with
+tears. "Dear, brave Christian woman! and you will emulate her courage
+and faith."
+
+"I shall try; the hearts of the Ku Klux of to-day are no less in His
+hands than those of the Indians of that day or this."
+
+"That is certainly true and he never fails those who put their trust in
+him," Mr. Travilla said, rising. "Now, wife, I will leave you here while
+I go for Barton."
+
+"Oh stay a moment, Edward," she exclaimed, "a thought has struck me: it
+is not usual for you to go for the doctor yourself: might it not excite
+suspicion? And can you not trust Uncle Joe as your messenger?"
+
+"Your plan is best," he said with a pleased smile. "Let us then hasten
+home and dispatch him on the errand at once."
+
+Dr. Barton found the wound not dangerous, extracted the ball with little
+difficulty, and left the patient doing well.
+
+The attack on Fairview and the disappearance of its owner, caused
+considerable excitement in the neighborhood; there was a good deal of
+speculation as to what had become of him: some thought it probable that
+he had hidden in the woods and died there of his wounds; others that he
+had gone North to stay until the reign of terror should be over.
+
+No one, perhaps, suspected the truth, yet the wrath of the Ku Klux was
+excited against the Travillas, and the Dinsmores of the Oaks, by the
+kindness they showed to Leland's wife and children; and threatening
+notices were sent ordering them to desist from giving aid and comfort to
+"the carpet-bagger's family."
+
+They however paid no heed to the insolent demand, but exerted themselves
+to discover who were the men wounded in the raid; for that more than one
+had been hurt, was evidenced by the bloody tracks in and around the
+house at Fairview.
+
+In this they were not successful; doubtless because the men were from a
+distance, it being the custom for the organization so to arrange matters
+that thus they might the more readily escape recognition.
+
+The Ion children were at play in the front veranda one morning shortly
+after breakfast, when a strange gentleman came riding leisurely up the
+avenue.
+
+Harold was the first to notice his approach. "Mammy, mammy! see who's
+tumin! dat one de Kluxes?" he asked, running in affright to Aunt Chloe,
+who sat in their midst with the babe on her lap.
+
+"Spect not, honey; don't be 'fraid," she said soothingly, putting her
+arm about the little trembler.
+
+The little girls were dressing their dolls, Eddie and Bruno racing back
+and forth, in and out, having a grand romp: but at Harold's question,
+Eddie suddenly stood still, with an imperative, "Down, Bruno! down sir!
+be quiet now!" and turned to look at the stranger.
+
+The gentleman, now close at hand, reined in his horse, lifted his hat,
+and with a winning smile, said "Good morning, my little lads and lasses.
+Is your mother in?"
+
+"No, sir, she and papa have gone out riding," replied Eddie, returning
+the bow and smile.
+
+Elsie laid aside her doll and stepping forward, said with a graceful
+little courtesy, "Good morning, sir, will you dismount and come in? Papa
+and mamma will probably be here in a few minutes."
+
+"Ah, ha! um h'm; ah ha! Yes, my little lady, I will do so, thank you,"
+returned the gentleman, giving his horse into the care of a servant,
+summoned by Eddie.
+
+"Will you walk into the drawing-room sir?" Elsie asked.
+
+"No, thank you," he replied seating himself among them, and sending a
+glance of keen interest from one to another.
+
+One look into the pleasant, genial face, banished Harold's fears, and
+when the stranger held out his hand, saying, "I am your mamma's cousin,
+won't you come and sit on my knee?" the child went to him at once; while
+the others gathered eagerly about.
+
+"Mamma's cousin! then she will be very glad to see you," said Elsie.
+
+"But she never told us about you," observed Eddie.
+
+"Ah ha, ah ha! um h'm! ah ha! But did she ever tell you about any of her
+mother's kin?"
+
+"No, sir," said Elsie, "I asked her once, and she said she didn't know
+anything about them; she wished she did."
+
+"Ah ha! ah ha, um h'm! ah ha! Well, she soon will. Child, you look very
+like a picture of your great-grandmother that hangs in my house in
+Edinburgh. A bonny lassie she must have been when it was taken."
+
+"Yes, sir; and she's the picture of mamma;" remarked Eddie; "everybody
+says so."
+
+"Ah ha, ah ha! um h'm, ah ha!"
+
+"Has you dot any 'ittle boys and dirls at your house?" asked Harold.
+
+"Yes, my man, a quiver full of them."
+
+"Are they good? do they love Jesus?" asked Vi. "Please tell us about
+them."
+
+"If you like to, sir," said Elsie, with a sweet and gentle gravity.
+"Vi, dear, you know we mustn't tease."
+
+"No, I didn't mean to tease," Vi answered, blushing. "Please excuse me,
+sir, and don't tell it 'less you want to."
+
+"No, no; it will give me pleasure, my dear. I enjoy talking of my
+darlings; especially now when they are so far away."
+
+He seemed about to begin, when Elsie, blushing deeply, said, "Excuse me,
+sir, I have been very remiss in my hospitalities. It is early, and
+perhaps you have not breakfasted."
+
+"Yes, thank you my dear, I took breakfast at the village hotel, where I
+arrived last night."
+
+"But you will take a cup of coffee and some fruit--"
+
+Her sentence was broken off; for at that instant a lady and gentleman
+came galloping up the avenue and the little ones hailed them with a
+joyous shout, "Papa and mamma!"
+
+Another moment and Mr. Travilla had dismounted, gallantly assisted his
+wife to do the same and together they stepped into the veranda. Both
+bowed politely to the stranger, and the children running to them cried,
+"Mamma, mamma, it is your cousin from Scotland."
+
+She turned inquiringly to him, a flush of pleasure on her face.
+
+He had risen from his seat, and was coming toward her with outstretched
+hand and earnest, admiring gaze. "My name is Ronald Lilburn; your
+maternal grandmother and mine were sisters," he said, "your
+grandmother's marriage was displeasing to her father and all intercourse
+between her and the rest of the family was broken off in obedience to
+his stern command; and thus they lost sight of each other. I have
+brought proofs of--"
+
+But Elsie's hand was already laid in his, while glad tears sprang to her
+eyes.
+
+"You shall show us them at another time if you will; but I could never
+doubt such a face as yours, and can not tell you how glad I am to have
+at last found a relative on my mother's side of the house. Cousin, you
+are welcome, welcome to Ion!" And she turned to her husband.
+
+"Yes," he said, offering his hand with the greatest cordiality, "welcome
+indeed, and not more so to my little wife than to myself."
+
+"Thanks to you both," he said with a bow and smile. "Cousin," with an
+earnest look at his hostess, "you are _very_ like a picture I have of
+your grandmother. But," with a glance at the wide-eyed little ones,
+looking on and listening in wonder and surprise, "can it be that you
+are the mother of all these? yourself scarce more than a bairn in
+appearance."
+
+Elsie laughed lightly. "Ah, cousin, you have not examined me closely yet
+I have not been a bairn for many years. How glad papa will be, Edward,
+to see a relative of my mother's!"
+
+"No doubt of it, wife, and we must send him word immediately."
+
+Mr. Lilburn had no reason to complain of his reception: he was treated
+with the utmost hospitality, and his coming made the occasion of general
+rejoicing in the household. Refreshments were promptly set before him, a
+handsome suite of apartments appropriated to his use, and a man-servant
+directed to attend upon his person.
+
+A note was sent to the Oaks inviting the whole family to Ion; the
+children were given a holiday, and Elsie, her husband, and father, spent
+the morning in conversation with their guest, and in examining family
+records, miniatures and photographs which he had brought with him.
+
+The day passed most agreeably to all; the new found relatives were
+mutually pleased and interested in each other.
+
+Mr. Lilburn was evidently a gentleman of intelligence, polish and
+refinement; seemed to be an earnest Christian, too, and in easy
+circumstances.
+
+The little folks made friends with him at once, and as children are apt
+to be quick at reading character, the older ones felt this to be a
+confirmation of the good opinion he had already won from them.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Sixteenth.
+
+"I know that there are angry spirits
+And turbulent mutterers of stifled treason,
+Who lurk in narrow places, and walk out
+Muffled to whisper curses to the night.
+Disbanded soldiers, discontented ruffians
+And desperate libertines who lurk in taverns."
+--BYRON.
+
+
+A bright, warm day, some hours after sunrise. A man of rather
+gentlemanly appearance, well, though not handsomely dressed, is riding
+leisurely along the public highway. He wears a broad-brimmed straw hat
+as a protection from the sun, and a linen duster somewhat soiled by the
+dust of travel. He has a shrewd though not unkindly face, and a keen
+grey eye whose quick glances seem to take in everything within its range
+of vision.
+
+It is a lonely bit of road he is traveling and he moves with caution
+evidently on the alert for any appearance of danger.
+
+Presently he perceives another solitary horseman approaching from the
+opposite direction, and at the sight lays his hand on the pistols in
+his belt concealed by the duster, to make sure that they are ready for
+instant use; but at the same time keeping steadily on his way.
+
+The new comer is a slender boy of eighteen or twenty, not at all
+dangerous looking.
+
+As the two near each other each lifts his hat with a courteous, "Good
+morning, sir," the lad at the same time carelessly sliding his right
+hand down the left lappel of his coat.
+
+The movement, slight as it was, had not escaped the watchful grey eyes,
+and instantly their owner replied by sliding his left hand in the same
+manner down the right lappel of his coat.
+
+The lad then ran his fingers lightly through his hair; the other
+imitated his action; the lad opened his coat and seemed to be searching
+for a pin; the man opened his, took out a pin and handed it to him with
+a polite bow.
+
+"Thanks! all right sir; I perceive you are one of us," said the boy,
+drawing a paper from his pocket and presenting it to the man. "Miller's
+Woods!" and touching his hat he galloped away.
+
+There was a twinkle in the grey eyes as they shot one swift glance after
+him; then the paper was opened and examined with minute care.
+
+On it was a half moon with several dates written in different places
+about it, and that was all; yet its new possessor regarded it with great
+satisfaction, and after a careful scrutiny bestowed it safely in his
+breast pocket.
+
+"I'll be on hand without fail," he said, in a low, confidential tone,
+perhaps addressing his horse, as there was no one else within hearing.
+"To-night! they're late serving my notice; but better late than never;
+for me, though perhaps not for themselves," he added with a grim smile.
+"Well, my preparations won't take long: dress-suit's all ready."
+
+He kept on his way at the old leisurely pace, presently came in sight of
+Fairview, passed it, then Ion, diligently using his eyes as he went,
+made a circuit of several miles and returned to the town which he had
+left some hours previously.
+
+Dismounting at the village tavern, he gave his horse into the care of
+the hostler, and joined a group of idlers about the bar-room door. They
+were talking politics and one appealed to him for his opinion.
+
+"Don't ask me," he said with a deprecatory gesture! "I'm no party man
+and never meddle with politics."
+
+"On the fence, hey? Just the place for a coward and a sneak," returned
+his interlocutor contemptuously.
+
+The other half drew his bowie knife, then thrusting it back again, said
+good-humoredly, "I'll let that pass, Green; you've taken a drop too
+much and are not quite compos mentis just now."
+
+"Be quiet, will you, Green;" spoke up one of his companions, "you know
+well enough Snell's no coward. Why didn't he risk his life the other
+day, to save your boy from drowning?"
+
+"Yes; I'd forgot. I take that back, Snell. Will you have a glass?"
+
+"Thank you, no, it's too hot, and your wife and babies need the money,
+Green."
+
+The words were half drowned in the clang of the dinner bell, and the
+group scattered, Snell, and most of the others hurrying into the
+dining-room in answer to the welcome call.
+
+After dinner Snell sauntered out in the direction of the stable, passed
+with a seemingly careless glance in at the door, and strolled onward;
+but in that momentary glimpse had noted the exact position of his horse.
+
+About ten o'clock that night he stole quietly out again, made his way
+unobserved to the stable, saddled and bridled his steed, all in the
+dark, mounted and rode away, passing through the village streets at a
+very moderate pace, but breaking into a round trot as soon as he had
+fairly reached the open country.
+
+He pressed on for several miles, but slackened his speed as he neared
+the forest known as Miller's Woods.
+
+For the last mile or more he had heard, both in front and rear, the
+thumping of horses' hoofs, and occasionally a word or two spoken in an
+undertone, by gruff voices.
+
+He was anxious to avoid an encounter with their owners, and on reaching
+the outskirts of the wood, suddenly left the road, and springing to the
+ground, took his horse by the bridle, and led him along for some rods
+under the trees; then fastening him securely, opened a bundle he had
+brought with him, and speedily arrayed himself in the hideous Ku Klux
+disguise.
+
+He stood a moment intently listening. The same sounds still coming from
+the road; evidently many men were traveling it that night; and Snell
+reflected with grave concern, though without a shadow of fear, that if
+seen and recognized by any one of them his life would speedily pay the
+forfeit of his temerity; for spite of his acquaintance with their secret
+signs, he was not a member of the order.
+
+He was, in fact, a detective in pursuit of evidence to convict the
+perpetrators of the outrages which had been so frequent of late in that
+vicinity.
+
+Making sure that his arms were in readiness for instant use, he hastened
+on his way, threading the mazes of the wood with firm, quick, but light
+step.
+
+He had proceeded but a short distance, when he came upon a sentinel who
+halted him.
+
+Snell slapped his hands together twice, quick and loud.
+
+The sentinel answered in the same manner, and permitted him to pass; the
+same thing was repeated twice, and then a few steps brought him into the
+midst of the assembled Klan; for it was a general meeting of all the
+camps in the county which together composed a Klan.
+
+Snell glided, silently and unquestioned, to a place among the others,
+the disguise and the fact of his having passed the sentinels, lulling
+all suspicion.
+
+Most of those present were in disguise, but some were not, and several
+of these the officer recognized as men whom he knew by name and by
+sight, among them Green and George Boyd.
+
+A good deal of business was transacted; several raids were decided upon,
+the victims named, the punishment to be meted out to each prescribed,
+and the men to execute each order appointed.
+
+One member after another would mention the name of some individual who
+had become obnoxious to him personally, or to the Klan, saying that he
+ought to be punished; and the matter would be at once taken up, and
+arrangements made to carry out his suggestion.
+
+Boyd mentioned the name of "Edward Travilla, owner of Ion," cursing him
+bitterly as a scalawag, a friend of carpet-baggers, and of the
+education and elevation of the negroes.
+
+"Right! his case shall receive prompt attention!" said the chief.
+
+"Let it be a severe whipping administered to-morrow night, between the
+hours of twelve and two," proposed Green, and the motion was put to vote
+and carried without a dissenting voice.
+
+"And let me have a hand in it!" cried Boyd, fiercely.
+
+"You belong to the neighborhood and might be recognized," objected the
+chief.
+
+"I'll risk it. I owe him a sound flogging, or something worse," returned
+Boyd.
+
+"We all do, for he'd have every mother's son of us sent to jail or
+hanged, if he could," growled another voice on Snell's right, while from
+a mask on the left there came in sepulchral tones, the words, "It had
+better be hands off with you then, man," the speaker pointing
+significantly to Boyd's maimed member.
+
+"It shall!" cried he, "but I flatter myself this right hand, mutilated
+though it be, can lay on the lash as vigorously as yours, sir."
+
+After a little more discussion, Boyd's wish was granted, his fellow
+raiders were named, and presently the meeting was closed, and the
+members began to disperse.
+
+Snell thought he had escaped suspicion thus far, but his heart leaped
+into his mouth as a man whom he had heard addressed as Jim Blake,
+suddenly clapped his hand on his shoulder, exclaiming, "Ah, ha, I know
+you, old chap!"
+
+"You do? who am I then?" queried the spy in a feigned, unnatural voice,
+steady and cool, spite of the terrible danger that menaced him.
+
+"Who? Hal Williams, no disguise could hide you from me."
+
+Snell drew a breath of relief. "Ha! ha! Jim, I didn't think you were so
+cute," he returned in his feigned voice, and glided away presently
+disappearing, as others were doing, in the deeper shadows of the wood.
+
+He thought it not prudent to go directly to the spot where he had left
+his horse, but reached it by a circuitous route, doffing his disguise
+and rolling it into a bundle again as he went.
+
+He paused a moment to recover breath and listen. All was darkness and
+silence; the conspirators had left the vicinity.
+
+Satisfied of this, he led his horse into the road, mounted and rode back
+to the town.
+
+There every one seemed to be asleep except in a drinking saloon, whence
+came sounds of drunken revelry, and the bar room of the tavern where he
+put up. A light was burning there, but he avoided it attended to his
+horse himself, returning it to the precise spot where he had found it,
+then slipped stealthily up to his room, and without undressing threw
+himself upon the bed and almost immediately fell into a profound
+slumber.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Seventeenth.
+
+"Abate the edge of traitors, gracious lord,
+That would reduce these bloody days again,
+And make poor England weep in streams of blood."
+--SHAKESPEARE
+
+
+The sun had just risen above the tree-tops as Solon led Beppo, ready
+saddled and bridled for his master's use, from the stables to the front
+of the mansion.
+
+A moment later Mr. Travilla came out, gave some orders to the servant,
+and was about to mount, when his attention was attracted by the approach
+of a man on horseback who came cantering briskly up the avenue.
+
+"Good morning," he said, as the stranger drew near. "Solon, you may
+hitch Beppo and go to your work."
+
+"Good morning, Mr. Travilla, sir," returned the horseman, lifting his
+hat and bowing respectfully, as Solon obeyed the order in regard to
+Beppo, and with a backward glance of curiosity, disappeared around the
+corner of the building.
+
+"You bring news, Martin?" said Mr. Travilla, stepping nearer to the
+stranger and looking earnestly into his face.
+
+"Yes, sir and very bad, I'm sorry to say, unless," and he bent low over
+his saddle-bow and spoke in an undertone, "unless you can defend
+yourself against a band of thirty-five or forty ruffians."
+
+"Fasten your horse to that post yonder and come with me to my private
+room," said Travilla, in calm, quiet tones.
+
+Martin, alias Snell, immediately complied with the request, and as soon
+as he found himself closeted with Mr. Travilla, proceeded to give a full
+account of his last night's adventure.
+
+"I assure you, sir," he concluded, "I look upon it as a piece of rare
+good fortune that I came upon that lad yesterday, and that he mistook me
+for one of the Klan; as otherwise you'd have had no warning."
+
+"It was a kind providence, Martin," returned Mr. Travilla, with grave
+earnestness, "'If God be for us who can be against us?'"
+
+"Nobody, sir; and that's the most Christian way of looking at the thing,
+no doubt. But, if I may ask, what will you do? fight or fly?"
+
+"How do you know that I shall do either?" Mr. Travilla asked with a
+slight twinkle in his eye.
+
+"Because you're not the man to tamely submit to such an outrage."
+
+"No, as my wife says, 'I believe in the duty and privilege of
+self-defense;' and for her sake and my children's, even more than my
+own, I shall attempt it. I am extremely obliged to you, Martin."
+
+"Not at all, sir; it was all in the way of business, and in the
+interests of humanity, law and order. No, no, sir, thank you; I'm not to
+be paid for doing my duty!" he added, hastily putting back a check which
+his host had filled out and now handed him.
+
+"I think you may take it without scruple," said Mr. Travilla; "it is
+not a bribe, but simply a slight expression of my appreciation of an
+invaluable service you have already rendered me."
+
+"Still I'd rather not, sir, thank you," returned the detective rising to
+go. "Good morning. I shall hope to hear to-morrow that the raiders have
+got the worst of it."
+
+Left alone, Mr. Travilla sat for a moment in deep thought; then hearing
+Mr. Lilburn's voice in the hall, stepped out and exchanged with him the
+usual morning salutations.
+
+"So you are not off yet?" remarked the guest.
+
+"No, but am about to ride over to the Oaks. Will you give me the
+pleasure of your company?"
+
+"With all my heart."
+
+Elsie was descending the stairs.
+
+"Wife," Mr. Travilla said, turning to her, "your cousin and I are going
+to ride over to the Oaks immediately; will you go with us?"
+
+"Yes, thank you," she answered brightly, as she stepped to the floor;
+then catching sight of her husband's face, and seeing something unusual
+there, "What is it, Edward?" she asked, gliding swiftly to his side and
+laying her hand upon his arm, while the soft eyes met his with a loving,
+anxious look.
+
+He could scarce refrain from touching the sweet lips with his own.
+
+"My little friend, my brave, true wife," he said, with a tender sadness
+in his tone, "I will conceal nothing from you; I have just learned
+through a detective, that the Ku Klux will make a raid upon Ion
+to-night, between twelve and two; and my errand to the Oaks is to
+consult with your father about the best means of defense--unless your
+voice is for instant flight for ourselves, our children, and guests."
+
+Her cheek paled, but her eye did not quail, and her tones were calm and
+firm as she answered, "It is a question for you and papa to decide; I am
+ready for whatever you think best."
+
+"Bravo!" cried her cousin, who had listened in surprise to Mr.
+Travilla's communication, "there's no coward blood in my kinswoman's
+veins. She is worthy of her descent from the old Whigs of Scotland; eh,
+Travilla?"
+
+"Worthy of anything and everything good and great," returned her
+husband, with a proud, fond glance at the sweet face and graceful form
+by his side.
+
+"Ah ha! um h'm! so I think. And they are really about to attack
+you,--those cowardly ruffians? Well, sir, my voice is for war; I'd
+like to help you give them their deserts."
+
+"It would seem cowardly to run away and leave our wounded friend and
+helpless dependents at their mercy," Elsie exclaimed, her eye kindling
+and her cheek flushing, while she drew up her slender figure to its full
+height; "our beautiful land, too, given up to anarchy and ruin; this
+dear sunny South that I love so well."
+
+Her voice trembled with the last words, and tears gathered in her eyes.
+
+"Yes, that is it," said her husband; "we must stay and battle for her
+liberties, and the rights guaranteed by her laws to all her citizens."
+
+Horses were ordered, Elsie returned to her apartments to don a riding
+habit, and in a few minutes the three were on their way to the Oaks.
+
+The vote there also was unanimous in favor of the policy of resistance.
+Mr. Dinsmore and Horace, Jr. at once offered their services, and Arthur
+Conly, who happened to be spending a few days at his uncle's just at
+that time, did the same.
+
+"I was brought up a secessionist and my sympathies are still with the
+Democratic party," he said, "but these Ku Klux outrages I cannot
+tolerate; especially," he added, looking at Elsie with an affectionate
+smile, "when they are directed against the home and husband if not the
+person of my sweet cousin."
+
+"You are to me 'a kinsman born, a clansman true,' Art," she said,
+thanking him with one of her sweetest smiles.
+
+"That's right, old fellow!" cried Horace, clapping his cousin on the
+shoulder. "We shall muster pretty strong;--papa, Brother Edward, Mr.
+Lilburn, you and I--six able-bodied men within the fortress, with plenty
+of the best small arms and ammunition; all of us fair shots, too, some
+excellent marksmen--we ought to do considerable execution among our
+assailants."
+
+"And God being on our side," said Mr. Lilburn, reverently, "we may have
+strong hope of being able to beat them back."
+
+"Yes, 'the race is not always to the swift, nor the battle to the
+strong,'" remarked Mr. Dinsmore. "'Some trust in chariots, and some in
+horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.'"
+
+"And if we do so truly, fully, he will take hold of shield and buckler
+and stand up for our help," added Mr. Travilla.
+
+The plan of defense was next discussed, but not fully decided upon; it
+was agreed that that could be done most readily upon the spot, and that
+accordingly Mr. Dinsmore and the two young men should ride over to Ion
+shortly after breakfast, to view the ground and consult again with the
+other two.
+
+"Why not return with us and breakfast at Ion?" asked Elsie.
+
+"Why not stay and breakfast with us?" said Rose.
+
+"Certainly," said her husband. "Take off your hat, daughter, and sit
+down to your father's table as of old."
+
+"Ah, my little ones! I know they are watching now for mamma and
+wondering at her long delay."
+
+"Then I shall not detain, but rather speed you on your way," he said,
+leading her out and assisting her to mount her horse.
+
+The children had thought mamma's ride a long one that morning, and much
+they wondered at papa's unusual silence and abstraction. He quite forgot
+to romp with them, but indeed there was scarcely time, as he did not
+come in from the fields till the breakfast bell had begun to ring.
+
+Grace had just been said, every one was sitting silent, quietly waiting
+to be helped (the children were all at the table, for "Cousin Ronald"
+who had been with them for a week, was now considered quite one of the
+family). Mr. Travilla took up the carving knife and fork with the
+intent to use them upon a chicken that lay in a dish before him; but the
+instant he touched it with the fork, a loud squawk made every body
+start, and Harold nearly tumbled from his chair.
+
+"Why dey fordot to kill it!" he cried breathlessly.
+
+"But its head's off!" said Eddie, gazing into the dish in wide-eyed
+astonishment.
+
+"Ah ha nn h'm! is that the way your American fowls behave at table?"
+asked Cousin Ronald, gravely, but with a slight twinkle in his eye,
+pushing back his chair a little while keeping his eyes steadily fixed
+upon the ill-mannered bird, as if fearful that its next escapade might
+be to fly in his face; "a singular breed they must be."
+
+Elsie and her husband began to recover from their momentary surprise and
+bewilderment, and exchanged laughing glances, while the latter, turning
+to his guest, said, "Capitally done, cousin! wouldn't have disgraced
+Signor Blitz himself or any of his guild. But I had no suspicion that
+ventriloquism was one of your many accomplishments. What part shall I
+help you to?"
+
+"The leg, if you please; who knows but I may have use for more than two
+to-night?"
+
+A gleam of intelligence lighted up little Elsie's face. "Oh! I
+understand it now," she said, with a low silvery laugh; "cousin is a
+ventriloquist."
+
+"What's that?" asked Vi.
+
+"Oh I know!" cried Eddie. "Cousin Ronald, don't you have a great deal
+of fun doing it?"
+
+"Well, my boy, perhaps rather more than I ought, seeing it's very apt to
+be at other folks' expense."
+
+The guest, mamma and Elsie having been helped, it was now Vi's turn to
+claim papa's attention.
+
+"What shall I send you, daughter?" he asked.
+
+"Oh nothing, papa, please! no, no, I can't eat live things," she said
+half shuddering.
+
+"It is not alive my child."
+
+Violet looked utterly bewildered: she had never known her father to say
+anything that was not perfectly true, yet how could she disbelieve the
+evidence of her own senses?
+
+"Papa, could it hollow so loud when it was dead?" she asked
+deprecatingly.
+
+"It did not, my little darling; 'twas I," said Cousin Ronald, preventing
+papa's reply, "the chick seemed to make the noise but it was really I."
+
+Papa and mamma both confirmed this statement and the puzzled child
+consented to partake of the mysterious fowl.
+
+Minna, standing with her basket of keys at the back of her mistress's
+chair, Tom and Prilla, waiting on the table, had been as much startled
+and mystified by the chicken's sudden outcry as Vi herself, and seized
+with superstitious fears, turned almost pale with terror.
+
+Mr. Lilburn's assertion and the concurrent assurance of their master and
+mistress, relieved their fright; but they were still full of
+astonishment, and gazed at the guest with wonder and awe.
+
+Of course the story was told in the kitchen and created much curiosity
+and excitement there.
+
+This excitement was, however, soon lost in a greater when the news of
+the expected attack from the Ku Klux circulated among them an hour or
+two later.
+
+It could not be kept from the children, but they were calmed and soothed
+by mamma's assurance, "God will take care of us, my darlings, and help
+papa, grandpa and the rest to drive the bad men away."
+
+"Mamma," said Vi, "we little ones can't fight, but if we pray a good
+deal to God, will that help?"
+
+"Yes, daughter, for the Bible tells us God is the hearer and answerer of
+prayer."
+
+Elsie herself seemed entirely free from agitation and alarm; full of
+hope and courage, she inspired those about her with the same feelings;
+the domestic machinery moved on in its usual quiet, regular fashion.
+
+The kitchen department it is true, was the scene of much earnest talk,
+but the words were spoken with bated breath, and many an anxious glance
+from door and window, as if the speakers feared the vicinity of some
+lurking foe.
+
+Aunt Dicey was overseeing the making of a huge kettle of soft soap.
+
+"Tears like dis yer's a long time a comin'," she said, giving the liquid
+a vigorous stir, then lifting her paddle and holding it over the kettle
+to see if it dripped off in the desired ropy condition; "but dere, dis
+ole sinnah no business growlin' 'bout dat; yah! yah!" and dropping the
+paddle, she put her hands on her hips, rolled up her eyes and fairly
+shook with half suppressed laughter.
+
+"What you larfin' at, Aunt Dicey? 'pears you's mighty tickled 'bout
+suffin'," remarked the cook, looking up in wonder and curiosity from the
+eggs she was beating.
+
+"What's de fun, Aunt Dicey?" asked Uncle Joe, who sat in the doorway
+busily engaged in cleaning a gun.
+
+"Why, don't you see, darkies? de soap ain't gwine to come till 'bout de
+time de Kluxes roun' heyah; den dis chile gib 'em a berry warm
+deception, yah! yah! yah!"
+
+"A powerful hot one," observed the cook, joining in the laugh; "but dey
+won't min' it; dey's cobered up, you know."
+
+"'Taint no diffence," remarked Uncle Joe, "de gowns an' masks, dey's
+nuffin but cotton cloth, an' de hot soap'll permeate right tru, an'
+scald de rascal's skins!"
+
+"Dat's so; an' take de skin off too."
+
+Uncle Joe stopped work and mused a moment, scratching his head and
+gazing into vacancy.
+
+"'Clar to goodness dat's a splendid idea, Aunt Dicey!" he burst out at
+length. "An' let's hab a kettle ob boilin' lye to tote up stairs in da
+house, 'bout de time we see de Kluxes comin' up de road; den Aunt Chloe
+an' Prilla can expense it out ob de windows; a dippah full at a time.
+Kin you git um ready fo' den?"
+
+"Dat I kin," she replied with energy, "dis consecrated lye don't take no
+time to fix. I'll hab it ready, sho' as you lib."
+
+Meanwhile the party from the Oaks had arrived according to appointment,
+and with Mr. Travilla and his guest, were busy with their arrangements
+for the coming conflict, when quite unexpectedly old Mr. Dinsmore and
+Calhoun Conly appeared upon the scene.
+
+"We have broken in upon a conference, I think," remarked the old
+gentleman, glancing from one to another and noticing that the entrance
+of himself and grandson seemed to thrown a slight constraint over them.
+
+"Rest assured, sir, that you are most welcome," replied Mr. Travilla.
+"We were conferring together on a matter of importance, but one which I
+am satisfied need not be concealed from you or Cal. I have had certain
+information that the Ku Klux--"
+
+"Stay!" cried Calhoun, springing to his feet, a burning flush rising to
+his very hair, "don't, I beg of you, cousin, say another word in my
+presence. I--I know I'm liable to be misunderstood--a wrong construction
+put upon my conduct," he continued glancing in an agony of shame and
+entreaty from one astonished face to another, "but I beg you will judge
+me leniently and never, _never_, doubt my loyalty to you all," and
+bowing courteously to the company he hastily left the room, and hurrying
+out of the house, mounted his horse and galloped swiftly down the
+avenue.
+
+For a moment those left behind looked at each other in dumb surprise;
+then old Mr. Dinsmore broke the silence by a muttered exclamation, "Has
+the boy gone daft?"
+
+"I think I understand it, sir," said his son, "poor Cal has been
+deceived and cajoled into joining that organization, under a
+misapprehension of its deeds and aims, but having learned how base,
+cruel, and insurrectionary they are, has ceased to act with them--or
+rather never has acted with them--yet is bound by oath to keep their
+secrets and do nothing against them."
+
+"Would be perilling his life by taking part against them," added Mr.
+Travilla. "I think he has done the very best he could under the
+circumstances."
+
+He then went on with his communication to the old gentleman, who
+received it with a storm of wrath and indignation.
+
+"It is time indeed to put them down when it has come to this!" he
+exclaimed, "The idea of their daring to attack a man of your standing,
+an old family like this,--of the best blood in the country! I say it's
+downright insolence, and I'll come over myself and help chastise them
+for their temerity."
+
+"Then you counsel resistance, sir?" queried his son.
+
+"Counsel it? of course I do! nobody but a coward and poltroon would
+think of anything else. But what are your plans, Travilla?"
+
+"To barricade the verandas with bags of sand and bales of cotton,
+leaving loopholes here and there, post ourselves behind these defenses,
+and do what execution we can upon the assailants."
+
+"Good! Who's your captain?"
+
+"Your son, sir."
+
+"Very good; he has had little or no experience in actual warfare, but I
+think his maiden effort will prove a success."
+
+"If on seeing our preparations they depart peaceably, well and good,"
+remarked Travilla. "But if they insist on forcing an entrance, we shall
+feel no scruples about firing upon them."
+
+"Humph! I should think not, indeed!" grunted the old gentleman;
+"'Self-defense is the first law of nature.'"
+
+"And we are told by our Lord, 'all they that take the sword, shall
+perish with the sword,'" observed his son.
+
+The arrangements completed, the Dinsmores returned to their homes for
+the rest of the day.
+
+About dusk the work of barricading was begun, all the able-bodied men on
+the plantation, both house-servants and field-hands, being set to work
+at it. The materials had been brought up to the near vicinity of the
+house during the day. The men's hearts were in the undertaking (not one
+of them but would have risked his own life freely in defense of their
+loved master and mistress), and many hands made light and speedy work.
+
+While this was in progress, old Mr. Dinsmore and the whole family from
+the Oaks arrived; Rose and her daughter preferring to be there rather
+than left at home without their natural protectors.
+
+Elsie welcomed them joyfully and at once engaged their assistance in
+loading for the gentlemen.
+
+The little ones were already in bed and sleeping sweetly, secure in the
+love and protecting care of their earthly and their heavenly Father.
+Little Elsie, now ten years old, was no longer required to retire quite
+so early, but when her regular hour came she went without a murmur.
+
+She was quite ready for bed, had just risen from her knees, when her
+mother came softly in and clasped her in a tender embrace.
+
+"Mamma, dear, dear mamma, how I love you! and papa too!" whispered the
+child, twining her arms about her mother's neck. "Don't let us be afraid
+of those wicked men, mamma. I am sure God will not let them get papa,
+because we have all prayed so much for his help; all of us together in
+worship this morning and this evening, and we children up here; and
+Jesus said, 'If two of you shall agree on earth, as touching anything
+that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in
+heaven.'"
+
+"Yes, darling, and he will fulfill his word; he will not suffer anything
+to befall but what shall be for his glory and our good. Now, dear
+daughter, lie down and take that promise for a pillow to sleep upon; and
+if waked by sounds of conflict, lift up your heart to God for your dear
+father, and mine, and all of us."
+
+"I will, mamma, I will."
+
+Leaving a loving kiss on the sweet young lips, and another on the brow
+of her sleeping Violet, the mother glided noiselessly from the room.
+
+"What is it, mammy?" she asked on finding her faithful old nurse waiting
+to speak with her in the outer room.
+
+"Miss Elsie, honey, is you willin' to let us scald dem Kluxes wid
+boilin' soap an' lye?"
+
+"Scald them, mammy?" she exclaimed with a slight shudder. "I can hardly
+bear the thought of treating a dog so cruelly!"
+
+"But dey's worse dan dogs. Miss Elsie; dogs neber come and detack folks
+dat's sleepin' quietly in dere beds; does dey now?"
+
+"No; and these men would take my husband's life. You may all fight them
+with any weapon you can lay hands on."
+
+Aunt Chloe returned her thanks and proceeded to give an account of the
+plan concocted by Aunt Dicey and Uncle Joe.
+
+Elsie, returning to the dining-room, repeated it there.
+
+"Excellent!" exclaimed her brother. "Come, Art, let's hang a bell in the
+kitchen and attach a string to it, taking the other end up to the
+observatory."
+
+The suggestion was immediately carried out. It had been previously
+arranged that the two young men should repair to the observatory, and
+there watch for the coming of the foe, and on their first appearance,
+probably a mile or more distant, give the alarm to those below, by
+pulling a wire attached to that from which the front door bell was
+suspended; thus setting it to ringing loudly. Now they were prepared to
+sound the tocsin in the kitchen, also, thus giving time for the removal
+of the boiling lye from the fire there to the second story of the
+mansion, where it was to be used according to Uncle Joe's plan.
+
+The detective had reported the assailing party as numbering from
+thirty-five to forty; but the Ion force, though much inferior in point
+of numbers, even with the addition of eight or ten negro men belonging
+to the Oaks and Ion, who were tolerably proficient in the use of
+firearms, certainly had the advantage of position, and of being on the
+side of right and justice.
+
+The gentlemen seemed full of a cheerful courage, the ladies calm and
+hopeful. Yet they refused to retire, though strongly urged to do so,
+insisting that to sleep would be simply impossible.
+
+It was but ten o'clock when all was ready, yet the young men deemed it
+most prudent to betake themselves at once to their outlook, since there
+might possibly have been some change in the plans of the enemy.
+
+The others gathered in one of the lower rooms to while away the tedious
+time of waiting as best they could. Conversation flagged; they tried
+music, but it had lost its charms for the time being; they turned away
+from the piano and harp and sank into silence; the house seemed
+strangely silent, and the pattering of Bruno's feet as he passed slowly
+down the whole length of the corridor without, came to their ears with
+almost startling distinctness.
+
+Then he appeared in the doorway, where he stood turning his eyes from
+one to another with a wistful, questioning gaze: then words seemed to
+come from his lips in tones of wonder and inquiry.
+
+"What are you all doing here at this time o' night, when honest folk
+should be a-bed?"
+
+"Just what I've been asking myself for the last hour," gravely remarked
+a statue in a niche in the opposite wall.
+
+The effect was startling even to those who understood the thing; more so
+to the others, Rosie screamed and ran to her father for protection.
+
+"Why, why, why!" cried old Mr. Dinsmore, in momentary perplexity and
+astonishment.
+
+"Don't be afraid Miss Rosie; I'm a faithful friend, and the woman over
+there couldn't hurt you if she would," said Bruno, going up to the young
+girl, wagging his tail and touching his cold nose to her hand.
+
+She drew it away with another scream.
+
+"Dear child," said her sister, "it is only a trick of ventriloquism."
+
+"Meant to amuse, not alarm," added Mr. Lilburn.
+
+Rosie, nestling in her father's arms, drew a long breath of relief, and
+half laughing, half crying, looked up saucily into Mr. Lilburn's face.
+
+"And it was you, sir? oh, how you scared me!"
+
+"I beg your pardon, my bonnie lassie," he said, "I thought to relieve,
+somewhat, the tediousness of the hour."
+
+"For which accept our thanks," said Mr. Dinsmore. "But I perceive it is
+not the first time that Travilla and Elsie have been witnesses of your
+skill."
+
+"No," said Elsie, laughing. "My dear, you are good at a story, tell them
+what happened at breakfast this morning."
+
+Mr. Travilla complied with the request. He was an excellent story-teller
+and made his narrative very entertaining.
+
+But in the midst of their mirth a sudden awe-struck silence fell upon
+them. There was a sound as of the rattling of stiffly starched robes;
+then a gruff voice from the hall exclaimed, "There he is, the old
+scalawag! Dinsmore too. Now take good aim, Bill, and let's make sure
+work."
+
+Rosie was near screaming again, but catching sight of Mr. Lilburn's
+face, laughed instead; a little hysterical nervous laugh.
+
+"Oh t's you again, sir!" she cried. "Please don't frighten me any more."
+
+"Ah, no, I will not," he said, and at that moment a toy man and woman
+on the table began a vastly amusing conversation about their own private
+affairs.
+
+In the kitchen and the domiciles of the house-servants, there was the
+same waiting and watching; old and young, all up and wide awake,
+gathered in groups and talked in undertones, of the doings of the Ku
+Klux, and of the reception they hoped to give them that night. Aunt
+Dicey glorying in the prospect of doing good service in the defense of
+"her family" as she proudly termed her master, mistress and the
+children, kept her kettles of soap and lye at boiling heat, and two
+stalwart fellows close at hand to obey her orders.
+
+Aunt Chloe and Dinah were not with the others, but in the nursery
+watching over the slumbers of "de chillens." Uncle Joe was with Mr.
+Leland, who was not yet able to use the wounded limb and was to be
+assisted to his hiding place upon the first note of alarm.
+
+In the observatory the two young men kept a vigilant eye upon every
+avenue of approach to the plantation. There was no moon that night, but
+the clear bright starlight made it possible to discern moving white
+objects at a considerable distance. Horace was full of excitement and
+almost eager for the affray, Arthur calm and quiet.
+
+"This waiting is intolerable!" exclaimed the former when they had been
+nearly an hour at their post. "How do you stand it, Art?"
+
+"I find it tedious, and there is in all probability, at least an hour of
+it yet before us. But my impatience is quelled by the thought that it
+may be to me the last hour of life."
+
+"True; and to me also. A solemn thought, Art, and yet might not the same
+be said of any day or hour of our lives?"
+
+From that they fell into a very serious conversation in which each
+learned more of the other's inner life than he had ever known before:
+both were trusting in Christ and seeking to know and do his will, and
+from that hour their hearts were knit together as the hearts of David
+and Jonathan.
+
+Gradually their talk ceased till but a word or two was dropped now and
+then, while the vigilance of their watch was redoubled; for the hour of
+midnight had struck--the silver chimes of a clock in the hall below
+coming distinctly to their ears--and any moment might bring the raiders
+into view.
+
+Below stairs too a solemn hush had fallen upon each with the first
+stroke of the clock, and hearts were going up in silent prayer to God.
+
+Horace was gazing intently in the direction of Fairview but at a point
+somewhat beyond.
+
+"Look, Art!" he cried in an excited whisper, "do my eyes deceive me? or
+are there really some white objects creeping slowly along yonder road?"
+
+"I--I think--yes, yes it is they!" returned Arthur, giving a rigorous
+pull to the string attached to the bell in the kitchen, while Horace did
+the same by the wire connected with the other; then springing to the
+stairway they descended with all haste.
+
+Loudly the alarm pealed out in both places, bringing all to their feet,
+and paling the cheeks of the ladies.
+
+Mr. Dinsmore's orders were given promptly, in calm, firm tones, and each
+repaired to his post.
+
+Aunt Dicey, assuming command in the kitchen, delivered her orders with
+equal promptness and decision.
+
+"Yo' Ben an' Jack, tote dis yer pot ob lye up stairs quick as lightnin',
+an' set it whar Aunt Chloe tells yo'. An' yo' Venus, stan' by de pot ob
+soap wid a dippah in yo' hand, an' fire away at de fust Klux dat shows
+his debbil horns an' tongue at de do'. Min' now, yo' take um in de eye,
+an' he neber come roun' heyah no mo' tryin' to kill Marse Ed'ard."
+
+Mr. Leland had fallen asleep in the early part of the evening, but woke
+with the ringing of the alarm bells.
+
+"Ah, they must be in sight, Uncle Joe," he said; "help me to my hiding
+place and leave me there. You will be needed below."
+
+"Yes, Massa Leland, dey's coming" said the old man, instantly complying
+with his request, "an' dis niggah's to demand de boilin' lye compartment
+ob dis army ob defense."
+
+A narrow couch had been spread in the little concealed apartment, and in
+a trice Mr. Leland found himself stretched upon it.
+
+"There, I'm quite comfortable, Uncle Joe," he said; "lay my pistols
+here, close to my hand; then close the panel with all care, and when you
+leave the room, lock the door behind you and hide the key in the usual
+place."
+
+"Yes, sah; an' please, sah, as yo's got nuffin' else for to do, keep
+askin' de Lord ob armies to help de right."
+
+"That I will," answered Leland heartily.
+
+Uncle Joe, moving with almost youthful alacrity, obeyed the orders
+given, and hastened to join his wife and Dinah whom he found on the
+upper veranda in front of the nursery windows, standing ladle in hand,
+one by the kettle of lye, the other leaning over the railing watching
+for the coming of the foe.
+
+The old man, arming himself also with a ladle of large capacity, took
+his station beside the latter.
+
+"Aunt Chloe," said he, "yo' bettah go back to de chillens, fear dey
+might wake up an' be powerful scared."
+
+"Yes, spect I bettah; dere ole mammy do best to be wid de darlins," she
+replied, resigning her ladle to Prilla, who joined them at that moment,
+and hurrying back to her charge.
+
+She found her mistress bending over the crib of the sleeping babe. "I am
+so thankful they were not roused by the noise, mammy," she said softly,
+glancing at the bed where the older two lay in profound slumber, "but
+don't leave them alone even for a moment."
+
+"Deed I won't, darlin'; de bressed little lambs! dere ole mammy'd fight
+de Kluxes to her last breff, fo' dey should hurt a hair ob deir heads.
+But don't ye fret, Miss Elsie, honey; dey'll not come yere; de good Lord
+'ll not let dem get into de house," she added, big tears filling her old
+eyes, while she clasped her idolized mistress in her arms as if she were
+still the little girl she had so loved to caress and fondle years ago.
+
+Elsie returned the embrace, gave a few whispered directions, and glided
+into the next room, there to linger a moment by the couch of her little
+girls, who were also sleeping sweetly, then hastened to rejoin Mrs.
+Dinsmore and Rosie, in one of the rooms opening upon the lower front
+veranda.
+
+They sat at a table covered with arms and ammunition. Rose was a little
+pale, but calm and composed, as was Elsie also; Rosie, making a great
+effort to be brave, could not still the loud beating of her heart as she
+sat listening intently for sounds from without.
+
+Elsie placing herself beside her young sister and taking her hand,
+pressed it tenderly, whispering with a glad smile, "'They that trust in
+the Lord shall be as Mount Zion, which can not be removed, but abideth
+forever.'"
+
+Rosie nodded a half-tearful assent.
+
+Horace looked in. "They are just entering the avenue. Mother and
+sisters, be brave and help us with your prayers," he said, low and
+earnestly, and was gone.
+
+The ladies exchanged one swift glance, then bent forward in a listening
+attitude and for the next few moments every other sense seemed lost in
+that of hearing.
+
+The raiders, as was their usual custom, had dismounted at the gate, and
+leaving their horses in the care of two of their number, approached the
+house on foot. They came on three abreast, but as they neared the
+dwelling, one line branched off and passed around it in the direction of
+the kitchen.
+
+In an instant more the double column, headed by the leader of the troop,
+had reached the steps of the veranda, where it came to a sudden halt, a
+sort of half smothered grunt of astonishment coming from the captain as
+he hastily ran his eye along the barricade, which till that moment had
+been concealed from himself and comrades, by the semi-darkness and a
+profusion of flowering vines.
+
+The darkness and silence of death seemed to reign within: yet each one
+of the little garrison was at his post, looking out through a loophole,
+and covering one or another of the foe with his revolver, while with his
+finger upon the trigger, he only awaited the word of command to send the
+bullet to its mark.
+
+Young Horace found it hard to restrain his impatience. "What a splendid
+opportunity his father was letting slip! why did he hesitate to give the
+signal?" For, perhaps, the first time in his life, the young man thought
+his father unwise.
+
+But Mr. Dinsmore knew what he was about; blood should not be shed till
+the absolute necessity was placed beyond question.
+
+A moment of suspense, of apparent hesitation on the part of the raiders,
+then in stentorian tones the leader, stepping back a little, called;
+"Edward Travilla!"
+
+No answer.
+
+An instant of dead silence; then the call was repeated.
+
+Elsie shuddered and hid her face, faltering out a prayer for her
+husband's safety.
+
+Still no reply, and the third time the man called, adding, with a volley
+of oaths and curses, "We want you, sir: come out at once or it'll be the
+worse for you."
+
+Then Mr. Dinsmore answered in calm, firm tones, "Your purpose is known;
+your demand is unreasonable and lawless, and will not be complied with;
+withdraw your men at once or it will be the worse for you."
+
+"Boys!" cried the leader, turning to his men, "up with your axes and
+clubs, we've got to batter down this breastwork, and it must be done!"
+
+With a yell of fury the hideous forms rushed forward to the attack.
+
+"Fire!" rang out Mr. Dinsmore's voice in clarion tones, and instantly
+the crack of half a dozen revolvers was heard, a light blaze ran along
+the line of loopholes, and at the same instant a sudden, scalding shower
+fell upon the assailants from above.
+
+Several of them dropped upon the ground and as many more threw away
+their clubs, and ran screaming and swearing down the avenue.
+
+But the others rallied and came on again yelling with redoubled fury;
+while simultaneously similar sounds came from the sides and rear of the
+dwelling.
+
+The scalding shower was descending there, also; Uncle Joe and his
+command were busy, and bullets were flying and doing some execution,
+though sent with less certain aim than from the front.
+
+Aunt Dicey, too, and her satellites were winning the laurels they
+coveted.
+
+As she had expected, several of the assailants came thundering at her
+door, loudly demanding admittance, at the same time that the attack was
+made in front.
+
+"Who dar? What you want?" she called.
+
+"We want in; open the door instantly!"
+
+"No, sah! dis chile don' do no sich ting! Dis Marse Ed'ard's kitchen,
+an' Miss Elsie's."
+
+Then in an undertone, "Now Venus an' Lize, fill yo' dippahs quick! an'
+when dis niggah says fire, slam de contentions--dat's de bilin' soap,
+min'--right into dar ugly faces."
+
+"An' Sally Ann, yo' creep up dem stairs, quick as lightnin' an' hide
+under the bed. It's yo' dey's after; somebody mus' a tole 'em yo' sleeps
+yere sense de night dat bloody hand ben laid on yo' shouldah."
+
+These orders were scarcely issued and obeyed when the door fell in with
+a loud crash, and a hideous horned head appeared in the opening; but
+only to receive three ladles-full of the boiling soap full in its face,
+and fall back with a terrible, unearthly yell of agony and rage, into
+the arms of its companions, who quickly bore it shrieking away.
+
+"Tank de Lord, dat shot tole!" ejaculated Aunt Dicey. "Now stan' ready
+for de nex'."
+
+The party in front were received with the same galling fire as before,
+and at the same moment a sound, coming apparently from the road beyond
+the avenue, a sound as of the steady tramp, tramp of infantry, and the
+heavy rumbling and rolling of artillery, smote upon their ears.
+
+There had been a report that Federal troops were on the march to
+suppress the outrages, and protect the helpless victims, and seized with
+panic terror, the raiders gathered up their dead and wounded and fled.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Eighteenth.
+
+"Thus far our fortune keeps an onward course
+And we are grac'd with wreaths of victory."
+
+
+"Victory!" shouted Horace, Jr., waving his handkerchief about his head,
+"victory, and an end to the reign of terror! Hurrah for the brave troops
+of Uncle Sam that came so opportunely to the rescue! Come, let us sally
+forth to meet them. Elsie, unlock your stores and furnish the
+refreshments they have so well earned."
+
+"They draw nearer!" cried Arthur, who had been listening intently.
+"Haste! they must be about entering the avenue. They will meet the
+raiders. Travilla, uncle, shall we make an opening here in our
+breastworks?"
+
+"Yes," answered both in a breath, then, as if struck by a sudden
+thought, "No, no, let us reconnoitre first!" cried Mr. Dinsmore.
+"Horace, run up to the observatory, take a careful survey, and report as
+promptly as possible."
+
+Horace bounded away, hardly waiting to hear the conclusion of the
+sentence.
+
+"I counsel delay," said old Mr. Dinsmore who was peering through a
+loophole, "the troops have not entered the avenue, the Ku Klux may
+return; though I do not expect it after the severe repulse we have twice
+given them; but 'discretion is the better part of valor.'"
+
+"Right, sir," said Mr. Lilburn, "let us give them no chance for a more
+successful onslaught."
+
+"Oh, yes, do be careful!" cried the ladies, joining them, "don't tear
+down the least part of our defences yet."
+
+"Have they really fled? Are you all unhurt?" asked Rose in trembling
+tones.
+
+"Edward! papa!" faltered Elsie.
+
+"Safe and sound," they both answered.
+
+"Thank God! thank God!" she cried as her husband folded her in his arms,
+and her father took her hand in his, while with the other arm he
+embraced Rose.
+
+"We have indeed cause for thankfulness," said Arthur, returning from a
+hurried circuit of the verandas, "not one on our side has received a
+scratch. But I have ordered the men to remain at their posts for the
+present."
+
+Horace came rushing back. "I can not understand it! I see no sign of
+troops, though--"
+
+"The darkness," suggested his mother.
+
+"Hark! hark! the bugle call; they are charging on the Ku Klux!"
+exclaimed Arthur, as a silvery sound came floating on the night breeze.
+
+"Oh they have come! they have come!" cried Rosie, clapping her hands
+and dancing up and down with delight. "Now our troubles are over and
+there will be no more of these dreadful raids." And in the exuberance of
+her joy she embraced first her mother, then her sister, and lastly threw
+herself into her father's arms.
+
+"Ah I wish it were so," he said caressing her, "but I begin to fear that
+the sounds we have heard with so much relief and pleasure, were as
+unreal as Bruno's talking a while ago."
+
+"Oh, was it you, Mr. Lilburn?" she cried in a tone of sore
+disappointment.
+
+"Ah well, my bonnie lassie, the Ku Klux are gone at all events: let us
+be thankful for that," he answered.
+
+"What, what does it all mean?" asked the two young men in a breath,
+"what strange deception has been practiced upon us?"
+
+"My cousin is a ventriloquist," replied Elsie, "and has done us good
+service in using his talent to help in driving away the Ku Klux."
+
+He instantly received a unanimous vote of thanks, and the young people
+began pouring out eager questions and remarks:
+
+"Another time; my work is but half done! I must pursue!" he cried,
+hastily leaving them to seek an exit from the house.
+
+Elsie hurried away to see if her little ones still slept. All did but
+little Elsie, and she was full of joy and thankfulness that her dear
+papa's cruel foes had been driven away.
+
+"Ah, mamma, God has heard our prayers and helped us out of this great
+trouble!" she said, receiving and returning a tender embrace.
+
+"Indeed he has, daughter, let us thank him for his goodness, and ever
+put our trust in him. Have you been long awake?"
+
+"It was their dreadful screams that waked me, mamma. I couldn't help
+crying for one man; it seemed as if he must be in such an agony of pain.
+Uncle Joe says Aunt Dicey and the others threw boiling soap into his
+eyes, and all over his face and head. Mamma aren't you sorry for him?"
+
+"Yes, indeed!" and the child felt a great tear fall on her head, resting
+on her mother's bosom, "poor, poor fellow! he finds the way of
+transgressors hard, as the Bible says it is. Now, darling, lie down
+again and try to sleep, I think the danger is all over for to-night."
+
+Returning she met her husband in the hall, "I have been to tell Leland
+the good news!" he said; "he is very happy over it. And now, dear wife,
+go to bed and sleep, if you can; you are looking very weary, and I think
+need fear no further disturbance. Your grandfather, Mrs. Dinsmore and
+Rosie have yielded to our persuasions and retired."
+
+"And you and papa?"
+
+"Can easily stand the loss of one night's sleep, but may perhaps get an
+hour or so of repose upon the sofas. But we will keep a constant watch
+till sunrise. Arthur and Horace are going up to the observatory again,
+while the rest of us will pace the veranda by turns."
+
+Morning found the Ion mansion wearing much the appearance of a recently
+besieged fortress. How many of the Klan had lost their lives it was
+impossible to tell, but probably only a small number, as the aim of the
+party of defense had been, by mutual agreement, to disable and not to
+slay; but it was thought the assailants had suffered a sufficiently
+severe punishment to deter them from a renewal of the attack. Also Mr.
+Lilburn's pursuit keeping up the delusion that troops were at hand, had
+greatly frightened and demoralized them. So the barricades were
+presently taken down, and gradually the dwelling and its surroundings
+resumed their usual aspect of neatness, order, and elegance.
+
+All the friends remained to breakfast, but their presence did not
+exclude the children from the table.
+
+While the guests were being helped, there was a momentary silence broken
+by a faint squeal that seemed to come from under Eddie's plate.
+
+"Mousie at de table!" cried Harold; then "Oh me dot a bird!" as the
+notes of a canary came from underneath his plate.
+
+"Pick up your plates and let us see the mouse and the bird," said their
+papa, smiling.
+
+They obeyed.
+
+"Ah, I knew there was nothing there," said Eddie, laughing and looking
+at Cousin Ronald, while Harold gazing at the table-cloth in disappointed
+surprise, cried, "Ah it's gone! it must have flewed away."
+
+Calhoun Conly, knowing nothing, but suspecting a great deal, and full of
+anxiety, repaired to Ion directly after breakfast. Blood-stains on the
+ground without and within the gate, and here and there along the avenue
+as he rode up to the house, confirmed his surmise that his friends had
+been attacked by the Ku Klux the previous night. He found them all in
+the library talking the matter over.
+
+"Ah, sir! like a brave man and a true friend, you come when the fight is
+over," was his grandfather's sarcastic greeting.
+
+"It was my misfortune, sir, to be unable in this instance, to follow my
+inclination," returned the young man, coloring to the very roots of his
+hair with mortification. "But"--glancing around the circle--"heaven be
+thanked that I find you all unhurt," he added with a sigh that told that
+a great load had been taken from his heart. "May I hear the story? I see
+the men are tearing down a breastwork and I suppose the attacking party
+must have been a large one."
+
+"Not too large, however, for us to beat back and defeat without your
+assistance," growled his grandfather.
+
+"Ah, grandpa, he would have helped if he could," said Mrs. Travilla.
+"Sit down, Cal, we are very glad to see you."
+
+His uncle and Travilla joined in the assurance, but Horace and Arthur
+regarded him rather coldly, and "Cousin Ronald" thought he deserved some
+slight punishment.
+
+As he attempted to take the offered seat, "Squeal! squeal! squeal!" came
+from his coat pocket, causing him to start and redden again, with
+renewed embarrassment.
+
+"O Cousin Cal! _has_ you dot a wee little piggie in your pocket? Let me
+see him," cried Harold, running up and trying to get a peep at it; then
+starting back with a cry of alarm, at a sudden loud barking, as of an
+infuriated dog, at Calhoun's heels.
+
+Bruno came bounding in with an answering bark; Calhoun thrusting his
+hand into his pocket with purpose to summarily eject the pig, and at the
+same time wheeling about to confront his canine antagonist, looked
+utterly confounded at finding none there, while to add to his confusion
+and perplexity, a bee seemed to be circling round his head, now buzzing
+at one ear, now at the other.
+
+He tried to dodge it, he put up his hand to drive it away, then wheeled
+about a second time, as the furious bark was renewed in his rear but
+turned pale and looked absolutely frightened at the discovery that the
+dog was still invisible; then reddened again at perceiving that
+everybody was laughing.
+
+His cousin Elsie was trying to explain, but could not make herself heard
+above the furious barking. She looked imploringly at Mr. Lilburn, and it
+ceased on the instant.
+
+Calhoun dropped into a chair and glanced inquiringly from one to
+another.
+
+His uncle answered him in a single word, "Ventriloquism."
+
+"Sold!" exclaimed the youth, joining faintly in the mirth. "Strange
+I did not think of that, though how could I suppose there was a
+ventriloquist here?"
+
+"An excellent one, is he not? You must hear what good service he did
+last night," said Mr. Travilla, and went on to tell the story of the
+attack and defense.
+
+Elsie and Eddie listened to the account with keen interest. Vi, who had
+been devoting herself in motherly fashion to a favorite doll, laid it
+aside to hear what was said; but Harold was playing with Bruno, who
+seemed hardly yet to have recovered from his wonder at not finding the
+strange canine intruder who had so roused his ire.
+
+Harold had climbed upon his back, and with his arms around his neck,
+was talking to him in an undertone. "Now you's my horse, Bruno; let's go
+ridin' like papa and Beppo."
+
+The dog started toward the door. "With all my heart, little master;
+which way shall we go?"
+
+"Why, Bruno, you s'prise me! can you talk?" cried the little fellow in
+great delight. "Why didn't you begin sooner? Mamma, oh mamma, did you
+hear Bruno talk?"
+
+Mamma smiled, and said gently, "Be quiet, son, while papa and the rest
+are talking: or else take Bruno out to the veranda."
+
+Cousin Ronald was amusing himself with the children. Vi's doll presently
+began to cry and call upon her to be taken up, and she ran to it in
+surprised delight, till she remembered that it was "only Cousin Ronald
+and not dolly at all."
+
+But Cousin Ronald had a higher object than his own or the children's
+amusement: he was trying to divert their thoughts from the doings of the
+Ku Klux, lest they should grow timid and fearful.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Nineteenth.
+
+"Revenge at first though sweet,
+Bitter ere long, back on itself recoils."
+--MILTON.
+
+
+George Boyd, who was of most vindictive temper, had laid his plans for
+the night of the raid upon Ion, to wreak his vengeance not upon Travilla
+only, but also upon the woman on whose clothing he had left the impress
+of his bloody hand.
+
+With this in view, he went first to the kitchen department where, as he
+had learned through the gossip of the servants, she now passed the
+night, intending afterward to have a hand in the brutal flogging to be
+meted out to Mr. Travilla. He headed the attacking party there, and it
+was he who received upon his person the full broadside from Aunt Dicey's
+battery of soap ladles.
+
+The pain was horrible, the scorching mass clinging to the flesh and
+burning deeper and deeper as he was borne shrieking away in the arms of
+his comrades.
+
+"Oh take it off! take it off! I'm burning up, I tell you!" he yelled as
+they carried him swiftly down the avenue; but they hurried on,
+seemingly unmindful of his cries, mingled though they were with oaths
+and imprecations, nor paused till they had reached the shelter of the
+woods at some little distance on the opposite side of the road.
+
+"Curse you!" he said between his clenched teeth, as they laid him down
+at the foot of a tree, "curse you! for keeping me in this agony. Help me
+off with these--duds. Unbutton it, quick! quick! I'm burning up, I tell
+you; and my hands are nearly as bad as my face. Oh! oh! you fiends! do
+you want to murder me outright? you're bringing all the skin with it!"
+he roared, writhing in unendurable torture, as they dragged off the
+disguise. "Oh kill me! Bill, shoot me through the head and put me out of
+this torment, will you?"
+
+"No, no, I daren't. Come, come, pluck up courage and bear it like a
+man."
+
+"Bear it indeed! I only wish you had it to bear. I tell you it can't be
+borne! Water, water, for the love of heaven! carry me to the river and
+throw me in. My eyes are put out; they burn like balls of fire."
+
+"Stop that yelling, will you!" cried a voice from a little distance,
+"you'll betray us. We're whipped, and there's troops coming up too."
+
+"Sure, Smith?"
+
+"Yes, heard their tramp, tramp distinctly ramble of artillery too.
+Can't be more'n a mile off, if that. Hurry, boys, no time to lose! Who's
+this groaning at such an awful rate? What's the matter?"
+
+"Scalded; horribly scalded."
+
+"He ain't the only one, though maybe he's the worst. And Blake's killed
+outright; two or three more, I believe; some with pretty bad pistol-shot
+wounds. Tell you they made warm work for us. There's been a traitor
+among us; betrayed our plans and put 'em on their guard."
+
+He concluded with a torrent of oaths and fearful imprecations upon the
+traitor, whoever he might be.
+
+"Hist!" cried the one Boyd had addressed as Bill, "hist boys! the bugle
+call! they're on us. Stop your noise, Boyd, can't you!" as the latter,
+seized, and borne onward again, not too gently, yelled and roared with
+redoubled vigor: "Be quiet or you'll have 'em after us in no time."
+
+"Shoot me through the head then: it's the only thing that'll help me to
+stop it."
+
+Mr. Lilburn, keeping well in the shadow of the trees, had hurried after
+the retreating foe, and concealing himself behind a clump of bushes
+close to the gate, caused his bugle note to sound in their ears as if
+coming from a point some half a mile distant.
+
+Convinced that a detachment of United States troops were almost upon
+them, those carrying the dead and wounded dashed into the wood with
+their burdens, while in hot haste the others mounted and away, never
+drawing rein until they had put several miles between them and the scene
+of their attempted outrage.
+
+Meantime those in the wood, moving as rapidly as possible under the
+circumstances, were plunging deeper and deeper into its recesses.
+
+There was an occasional groan or half suppressed shriek from others of
+the wounded, but Boyd's cries were incessant and heart-rending, till a
+handkerchief was suddenly thrust into his mouth with a muttered
+exclamation, "Necessity knows no law! it's to save your own life and
+liberty as well as ours."
+
+At length, well nigh spent with their exertions, the bearers paused,
+resting their burdens for a moment upon the ground, while they listened
+intently for the sounds of pursuit.
+
+"We've baffled 'em, I think," panted Bill, "I don't hear no more of
+that--tramp, tramp, and the bugle's stopped too."
+
+"That's so and I reckon we're pretty safe now," returned another voice.
+"But what's to be done with these fellows? where'll we take 'em?"
+
+"To Rood's still-house," was the answer. "It's about half a mile further
+on, and deep in the woods. And I say you, Tom Arnold, pull off your
+disguise and go after Dr. Savage as fast as you can. Tell him to come to
+the still-house on the fleetest horse he can get hold of; and bring
+along everything necessary to dress scalds and pistol-shot wounds. Say
+there's no time to lose or Boyd'll die on our hands. Now up with your
+load, boys, and on again."
+
+The voice had a tone of command and the orders were instantly obeyed.
+
+The still-house was an old, dilapidated frame building, whose rude
+accommodations differed widely from those to which, save during his army
+life, Boyd had been accustomed from infancy.
+
+They carried him in and laid him down upon a rough pallet of straw
+furnished with coarse cotton sheets and an army blanket or two, not over
+clean.
+
+But in his dire extremity of pain he heeded naught of this, and his
+blinded eyes could not see the bare rafters overhead, the filthy
+uncarpeted floor, the few broken chairs and rude board seats, or the
+little unpainted pine table with its bit of flickering, flaming tallow
+candle, stuck in an old bottle.
+
+His comrades did what they could for his relief; but it was not much,
+and their clumsy handling was exquisite torture to the raw, quivering
+flesh, and his entreaties that they would put him out of his misery at
+once, by sending a bullet through his brain, were piteous to hear. They
+had taken his arms from him, or he would have destroyed himself.
+
+The room was filled with doleful sounds,--the groans and sighs of men in
+sore pain, but his rose above all others.
+
+Dr. Savage arrived at length, but half drunk, and, an unskillful surgeon
+at his best, made but clumsy work with his patients on this occasion.
+
+Yet the applications brought, in time, some slight alleviation of even
+Boyd's unendurable agony; his cries grew fainter and less frequent, till
+they ceased altogether, and like the other wounded he relieved himself
+only with an occasional moan or groan.
+
+The doctor had finished his task, and lay in a drunken sleep on the
+floor. The uninjured raiders had followed his example, the candle had
+burned itself out and all was darkness and silence save the low, fitful
+sounds of suffering.
+
+To Boyd sleep was impossible, the pain of his burns was still very
+great; especially in his eyes, the injury to which he feared must result
+in total blindness. How could he bear it? he asked himself, to go
+groping his way through life in utter darkness? Horrible! horrible! he
+would _not_ endure it; they had put the means of self-destruction out of
+his way now, but on the first opportunity to get hold of a pistol, he
+would blow his own brains out and be done with this agony. The Bible
+was a fable; death an eternal sleep; he had been saying it for years,
+till he thought his belief--or more correctly unbelief--firmly fixed:
+but now the early teachings of a pious mother came back to him and he
+trembled with the fear that they might be true.
+
+"It is appointed unto men once to die, but after that the judgment."
+"Every one of us shall give an account of himself to God." "These shall
+go away into everlasting punishment." "Where their worm dieth not, and
+the fire is not quenched." Fire, fire! oh how unendurable he had found
+it! dare he risk its torment throughout the endless ages of eternity?
+Self-destruction might be but a plunge into deeper depths of anguish:
+from which there could be no return.
+
+For days and weeks he lay in his miserable hiding place, almost untended
+save for the doctor's visits, and the bringing of his meals by one or
+another of his confederates, who would feed him with a rough sort of
+kindness, then go away again, leaving him to the solitary companionship
+of his own bitter thoughts.
+
+He longed for the pleasant society and gentle ministrations of his aunt,
+and he knew that if sent for she would come to him, and that his secret
+would be safe with her; but alas, how could he bear that she should know
+of his crime and its punishment? She who had so earnestly besought him
+to forsake his evil ways and live in peace and love with all men: she
+who had warned him again and again that "the way of transgressors is
+hard," and that "though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be
+unpunished." She who had loved, cared for, and watched over him with
+almost a mother's undying, unalterable tenderness and devotion.
+
+How ungrateful she would deem his repeated attempt against the home and
+husband of one whom she loved as her own child. She would not reprove
+him, she would not betray him, but he would know that in her secret
+heart she condemned him as a guilty wretch, a disgrace to her and all
+his relatives; and that would be worse, far worse to his proud spirit
+than the dreary loneliness of his present condition, and the lack of the
+bodily comforts she would provide.
+
+No, he would bear his bitter fate as best he might, and though he had
+proved the truth of her warning words, she should never know it, if he
+could keep it from her.
+
+Troops had arrived in the neighborhood the day after the raid on Ion; so
+to Boyd's other causes of distress was added the constant fear of
+detection and apprehension. This was one reason why the visits of his
+confreres were few and short.
+
+The Klan was said to have disbanded and outrages had ceased, but an
+investigation was going on and search being made for the guilty parties;
+also United States revenue officers were known to be in quest of illicit
+distilleries; to which class this one of Rood's belonged.
+
+"What's the news?" asked Boyd one morning while Savage was engaged in
+dressing his hurts.
+
+"Very bad; you'll have to get out of this at once if you don't want to
+be nabbed. A jail might be more comfortable in some respects, eh, old
+boy? but I s'pose you prefer liberty.
+
+"'Better to sit in Freedom's hall,
+With a cold damp floor, and a mouldering wall,
+Than to bend the neck or to bow the knee
+In the proudest palace of Slavery.'
+
+"Fine sentiment, eh, Boyd?"
+
+The doctor was just drunk enough to spout poetry without knowing or
+caring whether it was exactly apropos or not.
+
+"Very fine, though not quite to the point, it strikes me," answered
+Boyd, wincing under the not too gentle touch of the inebriate's shaking
+hand. "But how am I to get out of this? blind and nearly helpless as I
+am?"
+
+"Well, sir, we've planned it all out for you--never forsake a brother
+in distress, you know. There's a warrant out for Bill Dobbs and he has
+to skedaddle too. He starts for Texas to-night, and will take charge of
+you."
+
+Savage went on to give the details of the plan, then left with a promise
+to return at night-fall. He did so, bringing Dobbs and Smith with him.
+Boyd's wounds were attended to again, Dobbs looking on to learn the
+_modus operandi_; then the invalid, aided by Smith on one side and Dobbs
+on the other, was conducted to an opening in the woods where a horse and
+wagon stood in readiness, placed in it, Dobbs taking a seat by his side
+and supporting him with his arm, and driven a few miles along an
+unfrequented road to a little country station, where they took the night
+train going south.
+
+The conductor asked no questions; merely exchanged glances with Dobbs,
+and seeing him apparently in search of a pin in the inside of his coat,
+opened his own and handed him one, then passed on through the car.
+
+Boyd was missed from the breakfast table at Ashlands on the morning
+after the raid upon Ion. His aunt sent a servant to his room to see if
+he had overslept himself.
+
+The man returned with the report that "Marse George" was not there and
+that his bed had certainly not been occupied during the night.
+
+Still as his movements were at all times rather uncertain, and the
+ladies, having had no communication with the Oaks or Ion on the
+previous day, were in ignorance of all that had transpired there, his
+absence occasioned them no particular anxiety or alarm. The meal went
+on, enlivened by cheerful chat.
+
+"Mamma," said Herbert, "it's a lovely morning: do give us a holiday and
+let's drive over to the Oaks; we haven't seen Aunt Rose and the rest for
+ever so long."
+
+The other children joined in the petition; grandma put in a word of
+approval, and mamma finally consented, if the truth were told nothing
+loth to give, or to share the treat.
+
+The carriage was ordered at once, and they set out shortly after leaving
+the table.
+
+Arrived at their destination they found Mrs. Murray on the veranda,
+looking out with an eager, anxious face.
+
+"Ah!" she said, coming forward as the ladies alighted, "I didna
+expect--my sight is no so keen as in my younger days, and I thocht till
+this moment 'twas Mr. Dinsmore's carriage, bringing them hame again
+after their dreadfu' nicht at Ion."
+
+Both ladies turned pale, and old Mrs. Carrington leaned heavily upon her
+daughter-in-law for support. Her lips moved but no sound same from them,
+and she gasped for breath.
+
+"Oh tell us!" cried Sophie, "what, what has happened?"
+
+The children too were putting the same question in varying tones and
+words.
+
+"The Ku Klux," faltered the housekeeper. "An' ye hadna heard aboot it,
+my leddies?"
+
+"No, no, not a word," exclaimed Sophie, "but see, my mother is fainting.
+Help me to carry her into the house."
+
+"No, no, I can walk: I am better now, thank you," said Mrs. Carrington,
+in low, faltering tones, "Just give me the support of your arm, Mrs.
+Murray."
+
+They led her in between them, and laid her on a sofa.
+
+"And that's where George was!" she sighed, closing her eyes wearily.
+Then half starting up, "Tell me, oh tell me, was--was--Mr. Travilla
+injured?"
+
+"No, my leddy, he had been warned, and was ready for them."
+
+"Thank God! thank God!" came faintly from the white quivering lips, as
+she sank back upon her pillow again, and two great tears stealing from
+beneath the closed eyelids rolled slowly down the furrowed cheeks.
+
+"You have heard the particulars then?" said Sophie, addressing the
+housekeeper. "And my brother and sister were there?"
+
+"Yes, ma'am, and Master Horace, and Miss Rosie too. Yes; and some of the
+men-servants. Mr. Dinsmore's man John was one o' them, and he's come
+back, and frae him I learned a' was richt with our friends."
+
+"Oh call him in and let me hear all he can tell!" entreated the old
+lady.
+
+The request was immediately complied with, and John gave a graphic and
+in the main correct account of the whole affair.
+
+His tale was to all his auditors one of intense, thrilling, painful
+interest. They lost not a word and when he had finished his story the
+old lady cross-questioned him closely. "Did he know who had warned Mr.
+Travilla? were any of the raiders recognized?"
+
+Both of these questions John answered in the negative. "At least," he
+corrected himself, "he had not heard that any one was recognized: they
+were all completely disguised, and they had carried away their dead and
+wounded; both the shot and the scalded."
+
+At that moment Mr. Dinsmore's family carriage drove up, and John bowed
+and retired.
+
+There were tearful embraces between the sisters and other relatives, and
+between Rose and the elder Mrs. Carrington.
+
+"I feel as if you had been in terrible danger." said Sophie, wiping her
+eyes. "John has just been telling us all about it. What a mercy that Mr.
+Travilla was warned in time!"
+
+"By whom, Horace? if it be not an improper question," asked the old
+lady, turning to Mr. Dinsmore.
+
+"By a detective, Mrs. Carrington, who was secretly present at their
+meeting and heard all the arrangements."
+
+"He then knew who were the members appointed to be of the attacking
+party?"
+
+Mr. Dinsmore bowed assent.
+
+"Was George one?"
+
+"My dear madam I did not see the detective, but their raids are usually
+made by men coming from a distance."
+
+"You are evading my question. I implore you to tell me all you know.
+George did not come down to breakfast; had evidently not occupied his
+bed last night, and this seems to explain his absence. I know, too, that
+he has bitterly hated Travilla since--since his arrest and imprisonment.
+Will you not tell me? Any certainty is to be preferred to this--this
+horrible suspense. I would know the worst."
+
+Thus adjured Mr. Dinsmore told her George had been appointed one of the
+party, but that he could not say that he was actually there. Also he
+suppressed the fact that the appointment had been by George's own
+request.
+
+She received the communication in silence, but the anguish in her face
+told that she felt little doubt of her nephew's guilt. And as days and
+weeks rolled on bringing no news of him, her suspicions settled into a
+sad certainty; with the added sorrowful doubt whether he were living or
+dead.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Twentieth.
+
+"Before
+We end our pilgrimage, 'tis fit that we
+Should leave corruption, and foul sin behind us.
+But with washed feet and hands, the heathen dared not
+Enter their profane temples: and for me
+To hope my passage to eternity
+Can be made easy, till I have shook off
+The burthen of my sins in free confession,
+Aided with sorrow and repentance for them,
+Is against reason."
+--MASSINGER.
+
+
+It began to be noticed that Wilkins Foster also had disappeared. It was
+said that he had not been seen since the raid upon Fairview, and the
+general supposition was that he had taken part in the outrage, received
+a wound in the affray and, on the advent of the troops, had fled the
+country.
+
+His mother and sisters led a very retired life seldom going from home
+except to attend church and even there they had been frequently missing
+of late.
+
+Elsie had been much engaged in efforts to comfort her old friend, Mrs.
+Carrington, and to entertain Mr. Lilburn, who was still at Ion; little
+excursions to points of interest in the vicinity, and visits to the
+plantations of the different families of the connection, who vied with
+each other in doing him honor, filled up the time to the exclusion of
+almost everything else, except the home duties which she would never
+allow herself to neglect.
+
+Baskets of fruit and game, accompanied by kind messages, had found their
+way now and again from Ion to the cottage home of the Fosters, but weeks
+had passed since the sweet face of Ion's mistress had been seen within
+its walls.
+
+Elsie's tender conscience reproached her for this, when after an absence
+of several Sabbaths Mrs. Foster again occupied her pew in the church of
+which both were members.
+
+The poor lady was clad in rusty black, seemed to be aging fast, and the
+pale, thin face had a weary, heart-broken expression that brought the
+tears to Elsie's eyes.
+
+When the service closed she took pains to intercept Mrs. Foster, who was
+trying to slip away unnoticed, and taking her hand in a warm clasp,
+kindly inquired concerning the health of herself and family.
+
+"About as usual, Mrs. Travilla," was the reply.
+
+"I am glad to hear it. I feared you were ill. You are looking weary; and
+no wonder after your long walk. You must let us take you home. There is
+plenty of room in the carriage, as the gentlemen came on horseback; and
+it will be a real pleasure to me to have your company."
+
+The sincere, earnest, kindly tone and manner quite disarmed the pride
+of the fallen gentlewoman, and a momentary glow of grateful pleasure
+lighted up her sad face.
+
+"But it will take you fully a mile out of your way," she said,
+hesitating to accept the proffered kindness.
+
+"Ah, that is no objection; it is so lovely a day for a drive," said
+Elsie, leading the way to the carriage.
+
+"This seems like a return of the good old times before the war!" sighed
+Mrs. Foster leaning back upon the softly cushioned seat, as they bowled
+rapidly along. "Ah Mrs. Travilla, if we could but have been content to
+let well enough alone! I have grown weary, inexpressibly weary of all
+this hate, bitterness and contention; and the poverty--Ah well, I will
+not complain!" and she closed her lips resolutely.
+
+"It was a sad mistake," Elsie answered; echoing the sigh, "and it will
+take many years to recover from it."
+
+"Yes, I shall not live to see it."
+
+"Nor I, perhaps; not here, but yonder in the better land," Elsie
+answered with a smile of hope and gladness.
+
+Mrs. Foster nodded assent; her heart too full for utterance, nor did she
+speak again till the carriage drew up before her own door.
+
+Then repeating her thanks, "You have not been here for a long time, Mrs.
+Travilla," she said, "I know I have not returned your calls, but--" she
+paused seemingly again overcome with emotion.
+
+"Ah, that shall not keep me away, if you wish me to come," returned
+Elsie.
+
+"We would be very glad; hardly any one else so welcome."
+
+"I fear I have neglected you, but shall try to come soon. And shall be
+pleased at any time to see you at Ion," Elsie answered as the carriage
+drove on.
+
+A day or two afterward she fulfilled her promise, and was admitted by
+Annie, the eldest daughter.
+
+She, too, looked pale and careworn, and had evidently been weeping.
+
+"O, Mrs. Travilla!" she exclaimed, and burst into a fresh flood of
+tears.
+
+Elsie, her own eyes filling with sympathetic drops, put her arm about
+her, whispering, "My poor dear child! what can I do to comfort you?"
+
+"Nothing! nothing!" sobbed the girl, resting her head for a moment on
+Elsie's shoulder; "But come into the parlor, dear Mrs. Travilla, and let
+me call mamma."
+
+"Ah, stay a moment," Elsie said, detaining her, "are you sure, quite
+sure that I can do nothing to help you?"
+
+Annie shook her head. "This trouble is beyond human help. Yes, yes, you
+can pray for us, and for him."
+
+The last words were almost inaudible from emotion, and she hurried away,
+leaving the guest sole occupant of the room.
+
+Involuntarily Elsie glanced about her, and a pang went to her heart as
+she noticed that every article of luxury, almost of comfort, had
+disappeared; the pictures were gone from the walls, the pretty ornaments
+from mantel and centre-table; coarse cheap matting covered the floor in
+lieu of the costly carpet of other days, and rosewood and damask had
+given place to cottage furniture of the simplest and most inexpensive
+kind.
+
+"How they must feel the change!" she thought within herself, "and yet
+perhaps not just now; these minor trials are probably swallowed up in a
+greater one."
+
+Mrs. Foster came in looking shabbier and more heart-broken than at their
+last interview.
+
+"My dear Mrs. Travilla, this is kind!" she said making a strong effort
+to speak with composure but failing utterly as she met the tender
+sympathizing look in the sweet soft eyes of her visitor.
+
+Elsie put her arms about her and wept with her. "Some one is ill, I
+fear?" she said at length.
+
+"Yes--my son. O Mrs. Travilla, I am going to lose him!" and she was well
+nigh convulsed with bitter, choking sobs.
+
+"While there is life there is hope," whispered Elsie, "who can say what
+God may do for us in answer to our prayers?"
+
+The mother shook her head in sad hopelessness.
+
+"The doctor has given him up; says nothing more can be done."
+
+"Dr. Barton?"
+
+"No, no, Savage. Oh if we could but have had Barton at first the result
+might have been different. I have no confidence in Savage, even when
+sober, and he's drunk nearly all the time now."
+
+"Oh then things may not be so bad as he represents them. Let me send
+over for Dr. Barton at once."
+
+"Thank you, but I must ask Wilkins first. He was wounded some weeks ago;
+injured internally, and has been suffering agonies of pain ever since. I
+wanted Dr. Barton sent for at once, but he would not hear of it, said
+the risk was too great and he must trust to Savage. But now--" she
+paused, overcome with grief.
+
+"But now the greater risk is in doing without him," suggested Elsie.
+"May I not send immediately?"
+
+"Excuse me one moment, and I will ask," the mother said, leaving the
+room.
+
+She returned shortly to say that Wilkins had consented that Dr. Barton
+should be summoned; accepted Mrs. Travilla's kind offer with thanks.
+
+Elsie at once sent her servant and carriage upon the errand, and
+meanwhile engaged in conversation with her hostess. It was principally
+an account by the latter of her son's illness.
+
+His sufferings, she said, had been intense: at first borne with fierce
+impatience and muttered imprecations upon the hand that had inflicted
+the wound. He had likened himself to a caged tiger, so unbearable was
+the confinement to him,--almost more so than the torturing pain--but of
+late a great change had come over him; he had grown quiet and
+submissive, and the bitter hate seemed to have died out of his heart.
+
+"As it has out of mine, I hope," continued the mother, the big tears
+rolling down her cheeks.
+
+"I am now sensible that the feelings I have indulged against some
+persons--the Lelands principally--were most unchristian, and I hope the
+Lord has helped me to put them away. It has been hard for us to see
+strangers occupying our dear old home; and yet it was certainly no fault
+of theirs that we were compelled to give it up."
+
+"That is all true," Elsie said, "I think I can understand both your
+feelings and theirs, but they are dear good Christian people, and I
+assure you bear you no ill-will."
+
+"Ah, is that so? I am told Leland has not really gone North, as was
+supposed, but has returned to the plantation since--since the coming of
+the troops."
+
+"He has, and is nearly recovered from his wound."
+
+"He was wounded, then?"
+
+"Yes, pretty badly."
+
+"And was in hiding somewhere; and his wife staying on alone with her
+children and servants? I wonder she had the courage."
+
+"She put her trust in the Lord, as I believe both you and I do, my dear
+Mrs. Foster; and he has not failed her."
+
+Mrs. Foster mused sadly for a moment. "I have felt hard to her," she
+murmured at length, in low, trembling tones; "and she a Christian, whom
+I should love for the Master's sake, and it was quite natural for her
+to--defend her husband and children. I should have done the same for
+mine."
+
+She had not mentioned when or where Wilkins had received his wound, but
+Elsie knew now that it was at Fairview and that Mrs. Leland's or
+Archie's hand had sped the bullet that had done such fearful work.
+
+Dr. Barton came: Mrs. Foster went with him to the sick-room and Elsie
+lingered, anxious to hear his opinion of the case.
+
+But Annie came hurrying in with her tear-swollen face. "Dear Mrs.
+Travilla, won't you come too?" she sobbed. "Mamma will be so glad;
+and--and Wilkins begs you will come."
+
+Elsie rose and put her arm about the waist of the weeping girl. "I will
+gladly do all I can for him, your mamma or any of you," she whispered.
+
+There was no want of comfort or luxury in the sick-room. Mother and
+sisters had sacrificed every such thing to this idol of their hearts,
+this only son and brother. He lay propped up with pillows, his face pale
+as that of a corpse, and breathing with great difficulty.
+
+Dr. Barton sat at the bedside with his finger on the patient's pulse
+while he asked a few brief questions, then relapsed into a thoughtful
+silence.
+
+All eyes were turned upon him with intense anxiety, waiting in almost
+breathless suspense for his verdict; but his countenance betrayed
+nothing.
+
+"O doctor!" sighed the mother at length, "have you no word of hope to
+speak?"
+
+"Let us have none of false hope, doctor," gasped the sufferer, "I would
+know--the--worst."
+
+"My poor lad," said the kind-hearted old physician, in tender, fatherly
+tones, "I will not deceive you. Whatever preparation you have to make
+for your last long journey, let it be made at once."
+
+With a burst of uncontrollable anguish the mother and sisters fell upon
+their knees at the bedside.
+
+"How--long--doctor?" faltered the sick man.
+
+"You will hardly see the rising of another sun."
+
+The low, gently-spoken words pierced more than one heart as with a
+dagger's point.
+
+"Was--this--wound--mortal in the--first place?" asked Wilkins.
+
+"I think not if it had had prompt and proper attention. But that is a
+question of little importance now: you are beyond human skill. Is there
+anything in which I can assist you?"
+
+"Yes--yes--pray for--my guilty soul."
+
+It was no new thing for Dr. Barton to do: an earnest Christian, he
+ministered to the souls as well as the bodies of his patients. He knelt
+and offered up a fervent prayer for the dying one, that repentance and
+remission of sins might be given him, that he might have a saving faith
+in the Lord Jesus, and trusting only in His imputed righteousness, be
+granted an abundant entrance into His kingdom and glory.
+
+"Thanks--doctor," gasped Wilkins, "I--I've been a bad man; a--very bad,
+wicked--man; can there be any hope for--me?"
+
+"'Whosoever _will_ let him take the water of life freely.' 'Him that
+cometh unto me I will in no wise cast out.'"
+
+"Isn't it--too--late?" The hollow eyes gazed despairingly into the
+doctor's face.
+
+"'Whosoever will': you may come if you will; so long as death has not
+fixed your eternal state."
+
+"I will! Lord, help--save me! me a poor--lost--vile--helpless--sinner!"
+he cried, lifting his eyes and clasped hands to heaven, while great
+tears coursed down his sunken cheeks. "I cast myself--at--thy feet; oh
+pardon, save me or--I am--lost--lost forever."
+
+The eyes closed, the hands dropped, and for a moment they thought he had
+passed away with that agonized cry for mercy and forgiveness; but a deep
+sigh heaved his breast, his lips moved, and his mother bent over him to
+catch the words.
+
+"Leland; send--for--him."
+
+With streaming eyes she turned to Elsie and repeated the words, adding,
+"Do you think he would come?"
+
+"I am quite sure of it. I will go for him at once."
+
+The white lips were moving again.
+
+The mother explained, amid her choking sobs. "He says the wife too,
+and--and your husband and father. Oh, will they come? Tell them my boy
+is dying and would go at peace with all the world."
+
+"I will; and they will come," Elsie answered, weeping, and hurried away.
+
+She drove directly to Fairview and was so fortunate as to find her
+husband and father there conversing with Mr. and Mrs. Leland.
+
+Her sad story was quickly told, and listened to by all with deep
+commiseration for the impoverished and afflicted family.
+
+"You will not refuse the poor dying man's request, papa? Edward?" she
+said in conclusion.
+
+"Certainly not!" they answered, speaking both together, "we will set out
+immediately. And you, Leland?"
+
+"Will gladly accompany you. I bear the poor man no malice, and would
+rejoice to do him any good in my power. What do you say, Mary?"
+
+She looked at him a little anxiously, "Is it quite safe for you?"
+
+"Quite, I think," he replied, appealing to the other gentlemen for their
+opinion.
+
+They agreed with him, Mr. Dinsmore adding, "I have no doubt the man is
+sincere; and I have still more confidence in his mother, whom I have
+long looked upon as a truly Christian woman."
+
+"Besides," remarked Mr. Travilla, "the Ku Klux would hardly dare
+venture an outrage now. The most desperate have fled the country, and
+the rest stand in wholesome awe of the troops."
+
+"I am quite, quite sure there is no risk in going," said Elsie
+earnestly, "but whatever is done must be done quickly, for Wilkins is
+evidently very near his end; may, perhaps, expire before we arrive, even
+though we make all haste."
+
+At that there was a general, hurried movement, and in less time than it
+takes to tell it, they were on their way; Mrs. Leland in the carriage
+with Elsie, and the gentlemen on horseback.
+
+Under the influence of restoratives administered by Dr. Barton, great
+apparent improvement had taken place in Wilkins' condition; he was in
+less pain, breathed more freely, and spoke with less difficulty.
+
+At sight of his visitors his pale face flushed slightly, and an
+expression of regret and mortification swept over his features.
+
+"Thank you all for coming;" he said feebly. "Please be seated. I am at
+the very brink of the grave, and--and I would go at peace with all men.
+I--I've hated you every one. And you--Leland, I would have killed if I
+could. It was in the attempt to do so that I--received my own death
+wound at the hands of your wife."
+
+Mrs. Leland started, trembled and burst into tears. That part of the
+story Elsie had omitted, and she now heard it for the first time.
+
+"Don't be disturbed," he said, "you were doing right--in defending
+yourself, husband and children."
+
+"Yes, yes," she sobbed, "but oh, I would save you now if I could! Can
+nothing be done?"
+
+He shook his head sadly. "Will you, can you all forgive me?" he asked in
+tones so faint and low, that only the death-like silence of the room
+made the words audible.
+
+"With all my heart, my poor fellow, as I hope to be forgiven my
+infinitely greater debt to my Lord," Mr. Leland answered with emotion,
+taking the wasted hand and clasping it warmly in his.
+
+Foster was deeply touched. "God bless you for the words," he whispered.
+"How I've been mistaken in you, sir!"
+
+His eyes sought the faces of Dinsmore and Travilla, and drawing near the
+bed, each took his hand in turn and gave him the same assurance he had
+already received from Leland.
+
+Then the last named said, "I ask your forgiveness, Foster, for any
+exasperating word I may have spoken, or anything else I have done to
+rouse unkind feelings toward me."
+
+In reply the dying man pressed Leland's hand in moved silence.
+
+Mrs. Leland rose impetuously and dropped on her knees at the bedside.
+"And me!" she cried, with a gush of tears, "will you forgive me your
+death? I cannot bear to think it was my work, even though done in lawful
+self-defense, and to save my dear ones."
+
+"It is--all--right between us," he murmured, and relapsed into
+unconsciousness.
+
+"We are too many here," said the physician, dismissing all but the
+mother.
+
+Elsie remained in an adjoining room, trying to comfort the sisters,
+while Mrs. Leland and the gentlemen repaired to the veranda, where they
+found Mr. Wood, who had just arrived; having been sent for to converse
+and pray with the dying man.
+
+"How does he seem?" he asked, "can I go at once to the room?"
+
+"Not now; he is unconscious," said Mr. Dinsmore and went on to describe
+Foster's condition, mental, moral, and physical, as evidenced in his
+interview with them and the earlier one with Dr. Barton; of which Elsie
+had given them an account.
+
+"Ah, God grant he may indeed find mercy, and be enabled to lay hold upon
+Christ to the saving of his soul, even at this eleventh hour!"
+ejaculated the pastor. "A death-bed repentance is poor ground for hope.
+I have seen many of them in my fifty years ministry, but of all those
+who recovered from what had seemed mortal illness, but one held fast to
+his profession.
+
+"The others all went back to their former evil ways, showing
+conclusively that they had been self-deceived and theirs but the hope of
+the hypocrite which 'shall perish: whose hope shall be cut off, and
+whose trust shall be a spider's web.'
+
+"Yet with our God all things are possible, and the invitation is to all
+who are yet on praying ground; 'Whosoever will.'"
+
+At this moment Elsie glided into their midst, and putting her hand into
+that of her pastor, said in low, tearful tones, "I am so glad you have
+come! He is conscious again, and asking for you."
+
+He went with her to the bedside.
+
+The glazing eyes grew bright for an instant.
+
+"You have--come: oh tell me--what--I must--do--to--be saved!"
+
+"I can only point you to 'the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of
+the world,'" returned the pastor, deeply moved: "only repeat his
+invitation, 'Look unto me, and be ye saved all ye ends of the earth.'"
+
+"I--am--trying--trying," came faintly from the pale lips, while the
+hands moved slowly, feebly, from side to side as if groping in the dark,
+"Lord save--"
+
+A deep hush filled the room, broken presently by the mother's wail as
+she fell on her knees at the bedside, and taking the cold hand in hers
+covered it with kisses and tears.
+
+With the last word the spirit had taken its flight; to him time should
+be no longer, eternity had begun.
+
+Few and evil had been his days; he was not yet thirty, and, possessed of
+a fine constitution and vigorous health, had every prospect of long life
+had he been content to live at peace with his fellow-men; but by violent
+dealing he had passed away in the midst of his years.
+
+"Bloody and deceitful men shall not live out half their days." "The
+wages of sin is death."
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Twenty-first.
+
+"Kindness has resistless charms."
+--Rochester.
+
+
+Through all the trying scenes that followed, Elsie was with the Fosters,
+giving aid and comfort such as the tenderest sympathy and most delicate
+kindness could give. She and her husband and father took upon themselves
+all the care and trouble of the arrangements for the funeral, quietly
+settled the bills, and afterward sent them, receipted, to Mrs. Foster.
+
+Wilkins had been the chief support of the family, the ladies earning a
+mere pittance by the use of the needle and sewing-machine. Nothing had
+been laid by for a rainy day, and the expenses of his illness had to be
+met by the sale of the few articles of value left from the wreck of
+their fortunes. And now, but for the timely aid of these kind friends,
+absolute want had stared them in the face.
+
+They made neither complaint nor parade of their poverty, but it was
+unavoidable that Elsie should learn much of it at this time, and her
+heart ached for them in this accumulation of trials.
+
+The girls were educated and accomplished, but shrank with timidity and
+sensitive pride from exerting themselves to push their way in the world.
+
+"I think they could teach," Mrs. Poster said to Elsie, who, calling the
+day after the funeral, had with delicate tact made known her desire to
+assist them in obtaining some employment more lucrative and better
+adapted to their tastes and social position; "I think they have the
+necessary education and ability, and I know the will to earn an honest
+livelihood is not lacking; but where are pupils to be found?"
+
+"Are you willing to leave that to Mr. Travilla and me?" asked Elsie,
+with gentle kindliness.
+
+"Ah, you are too good, too kind," said Mrs. Foster, weeping.
+
+"No, no, my dear friend," returned Elsie; "does not the Master say,
+'This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you?'
+Now tell me, please, what sort of situations they would like, and what
+branches they feel competent to teach."
+
+"Annie is a good musician and draws well. She would be glad indeed to
+get a class of pupils in the neighborhood to whom she might give
+lessons, here or at their own homes, in drawing and on the piano and
+harp. Lucinda thinks she could teach the English branches, the higher
+mathematics, and French.
+
+"But, indeed, my dear Mrs. Travilla, they will be thankful for anything:
+especially if it does not take them away from me."
+
+"We will see what can be done,--my husband, papa, and I," Elsie said,
+rising to take leave. "And do not be anxious; remember those precious
+words, 'Casting all your care on Him for He careth for you.'"
+
+"Do not go yet!" entreated Mrs. Foster, taking and holding fast the hand
+held out to her, "if you only knew what a comfort your presence is--Ah,
+dear, kind friend, God has made you a daughter of consolation to his
+bereaved, afflicted ones!"
+
+Elsie's eyes filled. "It is what I have prayed that he would do for me,"
+she whispered. "But I think I must go now: my husband was to call for
+me, and I see him at the gate."
+
+Elsie repeated the conversation to her husband as they rode homeward,
+and consulted him in regard to a plan which had occurred to her.
+
+He approved, and instead of stopping at Ion they rode on to Roselands.
+
+Arrived there, Mr. Travilla joined the gentlemen in the library, while
+Elsie sought her aunts in the pretty parlor usually occupied by them
+when not entertaining company.
+
+After a little desultory chat on ordinary topics, she spoke of the
+Fosters, their indigent circumstances, and her desire to find
+employment for the girls in teaching.
+
+"Always concerning yourself in other people's business;" remarked Enna.
+"Why don't you do like the rest of us, and leave them to mind their own
+affairs?"
+
+"Because I see that they need help, and we are told, 'Look not every man
+on his own things but every man also on the things of others.' And
+again, 'As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men,
+especially unto them who are of the household of faith.'
+
+"I heard you, not long since, Aunt Louise, wishing you could afford a
+day governess and knew of a suitable person. Would you--would you be
+willing to employ one at my expense, and give the situation to Lucinda
+Foster?"
+
+"And let her give it out among our acquaintance that you were paying for
+the education of my children!" exclaimed Louise, coloring angrily. "No,
+I thank you."
+
+"Not at all; she need know nothing of the arrangement except that you
+employ her to instruct your children, and pay her for it. You and Enna,
+if she will accept the same from me, for herself."
+
+"Dear me," exclaimed Enna, "how you're always spending money on
+strangers, when your own relations could find plenty of use for it!"
+
+Elsie smiled slightly at this peculiar view taken of her generous
+offer, but only added, "I would, if you would accept--"
+
+"I'm no object of charity," interrupted Louise, coldly.
+
+"Certainly not," Elsie said, coloring, "yet why should you object to
+giving so near a relative the pleasure of--But in this instance 'tis I
+who am asking a favor of you. I want to help the Fosters and cannot do
+so directly, without wounding their honest pride of independence."
+
+"You will of course employ Lucinda to teach your own?"
+
+"No, I am not in want of a governess. Would you like to have Anna give
+lessons to your girls in music and drawing?"
+
+"Is she to teach yours?" asked Enna.
+
+"No; M. Reboul has them under his instruction, and as he gives entire
+satisfaction, I could not feel it right to turn him away."
+
+"H'm! teachers that are not good enough for your children, are not good
+enough for ours."
+
+"If I were in want of teachers, I should employ the Misses Foster," was
+Elsie's quiet reply.
+
+Nothing more was said for a moment, then rising to go, "I am then to
+consider my proposition declined?" she remarked, inquiringly.
+
+"Well no, since you put it on the ground of a favor to yourself, I
+should be sorry to refuse to gratify you," said Louise.
+
+"Thank you. And you, Enna?"
+
+"She can teach mine if she wants to, and if I could afford it, Annie
+should give music lessons to Molly; drawing too; but if I can't, I
+can't."
+
+"It need be no expense to you," said Elsie.
+
+"Very well then, you can engage her and fix the terms to suit yourself."
+
+"Thank you; I shall enjoy their pleasure in hearing that they have so
+many pupils already secured."
+
+Elsie's benevolent kindness did not stop here; she called on a number of
+families in the vicinity, and succeeded in obtaining almost as many
+pupils for the girls as they could well attend to.
+
+Then another difficulty arose:--the distances were too great for the
+young ladies to traverse on foot, and they had no means of conveyance.
+
+But this was obviated for the present by giving them the use of Prince
+and Princess, either with or without the phaeton, during the hours of
+the day that such help was needed.
+
+The ponies were sent over to the cottage every morning, after the
+children had had their ride, by an Ion servant, who returned for them in
+the afternoon.
+
+Mrs. Leland heard of her friend's efforts, and going over to Ion, asked,
+"Why did you not call on me? my children need instruction."
+
+"I hardly liked to ask it of you."
+
+"And I feel a delicacy about proposing the thing to the Fosters, but--I
+would be very glad to help them; and if you can learn that they would
+not mind coming to Fairview for the sake of several more scholars, I
+authorize you to make the engagement for me."
+
+Elsie undertook the errand and did it so well that the Fosters were
+deeply touched by this kindness on the part of one whom they had
+formerly hated and reviled, and whose husband their brother had tried
+to kill.
+
+The offer was gratefully accepted, the young Lelands became the pupils
+of these former foes, little courtesies and kind offices were exchanged,
+and in the end warm friendship took the place of enmity.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Twenty-second.
+
+"The mother, in her office holds the key
+Of the soul; and she it is who stamps the coin
+Of character, and makes the being who would be a savage,
+But for her gentle cares, a Christian man.
+Then crown her queen of the world."
+--OLD PLAY
+
+
+The families from the Oaks and Ashlands had been spending the day at
+Ion.
+
+It was late in the afternoon and while awaiting the call to tea, they
+had all gathered in the drawing-room, whose windows overlooked the
+avenue and lawn on one side, on the other a very beautiful part of the
+grounds, and a range of richly wooded hills beyond.
+
+A pause in the conversation was broken by Mr. Travilla. "Wife," he said,
+turning to Elsie, "Cousin Ronald should see Viamede: our old friend
+here, Mrs. Carrington, needs change of scene and climate; two good
+things that would not hurt any one present: shall we not invite them all
+to go and spend the winter with us there?"
+
+"O, yes, yes indeed! what a delightful plan!" she cried with youthful
+enthusiasm. "Ah, I hope you will all accept; the place is almost a
+paradise upon earth, and we would do all in our power to make the time
+pass agreeably. Cousin Ronald, don't refuse. Papa dear, don't try to
+hunt up objections."
+
+"Ah ha! um h'm! I've not the least idea of it, cousin," said the one.
+
+"I am not," said the other, smiling fondly upon her, "but must be
+allowed a little time to consider."
+
+"O papa, don't say no!" cried Rosie. "Mamma, coax him quick before he
+has time to say it."
+
+"I think there's no need," laughed Rose. "Can't you see that he is
+nearly as eager as the rest of us? and how could he do a whole winter
+without your sister? How could any of us, for that matter?"
+
+"You have advanced an unanswerable argument, my dear," said Mr.
+Dinsmore, "and I may as well give consent at once."
+
+"Thank you, mamma," said Elsie, "thank you both. Now if the rest of you
+will only be as good!" and she glanced persuasively from one to another.
+
+"As good!" said Sophie smiling, "if to be ready to accept the kindest
+and most delightful of invitations be goodness, then I am not at all
+inclined to be bad. Mother, shall we not go?"
+
+"O grandma, you will not say no?" cried the young Carringtons who had
+listened to the proposition with eager delight.
+
+"No, please don't," added little Elsie, putting her arms coaxingly about
+the old lady's neck. "Mamma, papa, grandpa and mammy all say it is so
+lovely there, and we want you along."
+
+"Thanks, dear, thanks to your papa and mamma too," said the old lady,
+clasping the little girl close, while tears filled her aged eyes, "yes,
+yes, I'll go; we will all go; how could I reject such kindness!"
+
+The children, from Rosie Dinsmore--who would hardly have consented to be
+put into that list--down to Harold Travilla, were wild with delight, and
+for the rest of the evening could scarce speak or think of anything else
+than Viamede and the pleasures they hoped to enjoy there.
+
+"Now all have spoken but you, brother mine," Elsie said, turning to
+Horace Jr. "You surely do not intend to reject our invitation?"
+
+"Not entirely, sister, but papa seems to have left the considering for
+me, and I've been at it. There should be some one to look after the
+plantations here, and upon whom but myself should that duty devolve?"
+
+"We all have good overseers."
+
+"Yes, but there should be some one to take a general supervision over
+them. I think I will go with you, make a short visit and return; if you
+all like to trust me with the care of your property."
+
+"You're welcome to take care of Ashlands, Cousin Horace, and I'll be
+obliged to you too," spoke up young Herbert Carrington "and so will
+mother and grandma, I know."
+
+"Indeed we will," said the old lady.
+
+"And it will leave us quite free from care, you good boy," added the
+younger.
+
+Mr. Travilla expressed similar sentiments in regard to Horace's offer as
+it concerned Ion, and Mr. Dinsmore was quite as willing to leave the
+Oaks in his son's care.
+
+As it was now late in the fall and no very extensive preparations were
+needed, it was agreed that they would start in a few days.
+
+"We shall make a large party," remarked Sophie, "Are you sure, Elsie,
+that you will have room for so many?"
+
+"Abundance; the house is very large; and the more the merrier. I wish I
+could persuade Aunt Wealthy, May and Harry to come, with their babies
+too, of course. I shall write to Lansdale to-night."
+
+"That would be a delightful addition to the party," remarked Mr.
+Dinsmore; "but aunt is now in her eightieth year, and I fear will think
+herself much too old for so long a journey."
+
+"Ah, yes, papa, but she is more active than most women of seventy and
+can go nearly all the way by water;--down the Ohio and the Mississippi
+and along the Gulf. At all events I shall do my best to persuade her."
+
+"And you are so great a favorite that your eloquence will not be wasted,
+I think," said Mr. Travilla.
+
+He was right; the old lady could not resist the urgent entreaties of her
+dearly loved grand-niece, joined to the pleasant prospect of spending
+some months with her and the other relatives and friends, each of whom
+held a place in her warm, loving heart.
+
+An answering letter was sent from Lansdale by return of mail, promising
+that their party would follow the other to Viamede at an early day.
+
+May too was enchanted with the thought of a winter in that lovely spot,
+and the society of her two sisters, and Elsie, who was almost as near.
+
+But to return. As soon as the children learned that the winter was
+really to be spent at Viamede, and that they would set off in a few
+days, the whole flock--leaving their elders to settle the dry
+details--hastened in quest of "mammy."
+
+They found her in the nursery, seated before a crackling wood fire, with
+little Herbert in her arms.
+
+Quickly their news was told, and gathering round her, they plied her
+with questions about her old Louisiana home.
+
+"Well, chillins," she said, her old eyes growing bright with joy at the
+thought of soon seeing it again--for of course she would be included in
+the party--"it's jes lubly as lubly kin be! de grand ole house, an' de
+lawn, an' de shrubbery, an' de gardens, an' fields, an' orchards, an'
+eberyting:--yes, it am de lubliest place dis chile eber see."
+
+"Horses to ride," said Eddie.
+
+"Yes, Mars Eddie, hosses to ride, an' kerridges to drive out in; 'sides
+a beautiful boat on de bayou, an' fish dere dat you kin ketch wid a hook
+an' line. Ole Uncle Joe he kotch dem mos' ebery day for de table, an
+Massa Ed'ard an' Miss Elsie say dey's bery fine."
+
+"And what else?" asked the eager voice of little Daisy Carrington.
+
+"Oranges! ripe oranges growing out of doors on the trees!" cried her
+brother Harry, clapping his hands and capering about the room, smacking
+his lips in anticipation of the coming feast.
+
+"Yes, chillins, orange trees on de lawn, an' a 'mense orchard wid
+hundreds an' millions ob dem on de branches an' on de ground. An' den de
+gardens full ob roses an' all lubly flowers, an' vines climbin' ober de
+verandas an' roun' de pillahs an' de windows, an' clar up to de roof."
+
+"Oh how sweet!" cried the children, their eyes dancing with delight.
+"But Aunt Chloe, will there be room for us all?" asked Meta Carrington,
+who was next to Herbert in age.
+
+"Yes, chile: dere's rooms, an' rooms an' rooms in dat house."
+
+"A play-room, mammy?" asked Eddie.
+
+"Yes, chillins, a big room whar yo' grandma used to play when she was a
+little chile."
+
+Mammy's voice grew low and husky for a moment, and great tears stood in
+her eyes. But she struggled with her emotion and went on, "Her dolls are
+dere yet, an' de baby house ole marster hab made for her; an' de
+beautiful sets ob little dishes, an' a great many tings mo'; for she hab
+lots ob toys an' neber destroyed nuffin. An' nobody eber goes dar but
+Aunt Phillis when she hab a clarin' up time in dat part ob de house."
+
+"Yes," said little Elsie, who had been as silent and intent a listener
+as though the tale were quite new to her, "mamma has told us about those
+things, and that they are always to be kept very carefully because they
+belonged to her dear mamma."
+
+"And we can't ever play with them!" exclaimed Vi, "but mamma will show
+them all to us; she said she would when she takes us to Viamede."
+
+"Oh I'd like to play with them!" exclaimed Meta, "Doesn't anybody ever?"
+
+"No, chile," said mammy, shaking her head gravely, "dere ain't nobody
+eber 'lowed to go in dat room but Aunt Phillis, when Miss Elsie not dar.
+But run away now, chillins, dere's de tea-bell a ringin'."
+
+Mamma, too, on coming up at the usual hour to see her darlings safe in
+bed, had many questions put to her on the same subject.
+
+They were all patiently answered, some further details given, and sweet
+sympathy shown in their gladness over the pleasant prospect before them;
+then with the accustomed tender good-night kiss, and with a parting
+injunction not to lie awake talking, she left them.
+
+"Did anybody ever have such a dear mamma as ours!" exclaimed Vi,
+nestling close to her sister.
+
+"No, I think not," replied Elsie in a tone of grave consideration. "But
+now we mus'n't talk anymore; because she bade us not: and I've come to
+bed early to-night to please you--"
+
+"Yes, you dear, good sister, you very dearest girl in all the world!"
+interrupted Vi, rising on her elbow for a moment to rain a perfect
+shower of kisses upon the sweet face by her side.
+
+Elsie laughed low and musically and hugging her tight returned the
+caresses, then went on, "But I mus'n't keep you awake. So now let's lie
+down and not say one word more."
+
+"No; not a single one," returned Vi, cuddling down again.
+
+"Mamma," said Eddie, coming into the school-room next morning with a
+slight frown on his usually pleasant face, "why do you call us to
+lessons? can't we have holidays now that we are going away so soon?"
+
+"No, my son; I think it best to attend now to our regular duties. You
+will have a rest from study while taking the journey, and for a few days
+after we reach Viamede. Will not that be better?" she asked, with a
+motherly smile, as she softly smoothed back the dark clustering curls
+from his broad open brow.
+
+"But I don't want to say lessons to-day," he answered with a pout, and
+resolutely refusing to meet her glance.
+
+"My little son," she said, with tender gravity, "were we sent into this
+world to please ourselves?"
+
+"No, mamma."
+
+"No; 'even Christ pleased not himself,' and we are to try to be like
+him. Whose will did he do?"
+
+"His Father's, mamma."
+
+"Yes, and whose will are you to do?"
+
+"God's will, you've taught me, mamma, but--"
+
+"Well, son?"
+
+"Mamma, will you be angry if I say my thought?"
+
+"I think not: let me hear it."
+
+"Mamma, isn't--isn't it your will this time? About the lessons I mean.
+Please mamma, don't think I want to be naughty, asking it?"
+
+She drew him closer, and bending down pressed her lips to his forehead.
+"No, my son, you want it explained, and I am glad you told me your
+thought. Yes, it is my will this time, but as God bids children honor
+and obey their parents, is it not his will also?"
+
+"I s'pose so, mamma. But I wish it didn't be your will to have me learn
+lessons to-day."
+
+Elsie was forced to smile in spite of herself. With another slight
+caress she asked, "Do you think I love you, Eddie?"
+
+"Oh yes, yes mamma, I know you do, and I love you too: indeed I do
+dearly, dearly!" he burst out, throwing his arms about her neck. "And I
+know you just want to make me good and happy and that your way's always
+best. So I won't be naughty any more."
+
+At that there was a general exclamation of delight from the other three,
+who had been silent, but deeply interested listeners, and all crowded
+round mamma vying with each other in bestowing upon her tender caresses
+and words of love.
+
+Each had felt more or less disinclination for the regular routine of
+work, but that vanished now, and they went through their allotted tasks
+with more than usual spirit and determination.
+
+Ah what a sweetener of toil is love! love to a dear earthly parent, and
+still more love to Christ: there is no drudgery in the most menial
+employment where that is the motive power.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Twenty-third.
+
+"Put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite."
+--PROVERBS xxiii. 2.
+
+
+The happy day came, full soon to the fathers and mothers, at long last
+to the eager expectant children.
+
+Old Mr. Dinsmore had accepted a pressing invitation from his
+granddaughter and her husband, to join the party, and with the addition
+of servants it was a large one.
+
+As they were in no haste, and the confinement of a railroad car would be
+very irksome to the younger children, it had been decided to make the
+journey by water.
+
+It was late in the afternoon of an unusually warm, bright November day
+that they found themselves comfortably established on board a fine
+steamer bound for New Orleans.
+
+There were no sad leave-takings to mar their pleasure, the children were
+in wild spirits, and all seemed cheerful and happy as they sat or stood
+upon the deck watching the receding shore as the vessel steamed out of
+the harbor.
+
+At length the land had quite disappeared; nothing could be seen but the
+sky overhead and a vast expanse of water all around, and the passengers
+found leisure to turn their attention upon each other.
+
+"There are some nice looking people on board," remarked Mr. Travilla, in
+an undertone, to his wife.
+
+"Beside ourselves," added Cousin Ronald, laughing.
+
+"Yes," she answered; "that little group yonder: a young minister and his
+wife and child, I suppose. And what a dear little fellow he is just
+about the age of our Harold, I should judge."
+
+"Yes, mamma," chimed in the last named young gentleman, "he's a nice
+little boy. May I go speak to him? May I, papa?"
+
+Permission was given and the next moment the two stood close together
+each gazing admiringly into the other's face.
+
+"Papa," remarked the little stranger, looking up at his father, "I very
+much wish I had a face like this little boy's."
+
+"Do you, son?" was the smiling rejoinder. "He certainly looks like a very
+nice little boy. Suppose you and he shake hands, Frank."
+
+"Yes, sir," said the child, holding out a small, plump hand, "What's
+your name, little boy?"
+
+"Harold Travilla, and yours is Fank?"
+
+"Yes, Frank Daly. Don't you like this nice big boat?"
+
+"Yes I do. Won't you come wis me and speak to my mamma and papa?"
+
+Frank looked inquiringly at his father.
+
+"Yes, you may go if you wish," returned the latter, and the two started
+off hand in hand.
+
+"Mamma, see! isn't he a dear little boy?" asked Harold, leading his new
+friend up before her with an air of proud ownership.
+
+"Yes indeed," she said, bending down to kiss Frank and stroke his hair.
+
+"I think he's a good boy, 'cause he didn't come till his papa told him
+to," continued Harold.
+
+"A very good way to judge of a boy," said Cousin Ronald.
+
+"His name is Fank," said Harold. "Fank, that's Cousin Ronald, and this
+is papa, and this is grandpa," and so on, leading him from one to
+another till he had introduced him to the whole party, not even omitting
+Baby Herbert and mammy.
+
+Then Frank's papa came for him, saying the air was growing very cool,
+and it was time to go in.
+
+Our friends were of the same opinion and all repaired to the ladies'
+saloon, where, through the children, they and the Dalys soon made
+acquaintance.
+
+Mr. Daly was a minister going South for the winter for the sake of his
+own and his wife's health.
+
+Cousin Ronald took Frank on his knee and asked, "What are you going to
+do, my little fellow, when you get to be a man."
+
+"Preach the gospel, sir."
+
+"Ah ha, ah ha! um h'm, um h'm! and what will you say?"
+
+"I'll tell the people we'll sing the twenty-third piece of ham. How will
+that sound?"
+
+"Rather comical, I think, my man. Are ye no afraid the folk might
+laugh?"
+
+"No sir: they don't laugh when papa says it."
+
+"Ah ha, ah ha! um h'm!"
+
+Mr. Daly smiled. "I never knew before," said he, "that my boy intended
+to follow my profession."
+
+The ladies were weary, and retired to their state rooms shortly after
+tea, but the gentlemen sought the open air again and paced the deck for
+some time.
+
+"Have a cigar, sir?" asked Mr. Lilburn, addressing Mr. Daly.
+
+"Thank you, no; I don't smoke."
+
+"Ah ha! um h'm! In that you seem to be of one mind with my friends here,
+the Dinsmores and Travilla," remarked Lilburn, lighting one for himself
+and placing it between his lips. "I wonder now if you know what you miss
+by your abstinence?"
+
+"Well, sir, as to that, I know what some of my friends and acquaintance
+would have missed if they had abstained from the use of the weed. One
+would have missed a terrible dyspepsia that laid him in his grave in the
+prime of life; another cancer of the lip which did the same by him after
+years of horrible suffering."
+
+"Ah ha! um h'm! ah ha! But surely those were rare cases?"
+
+"I think not very."
+
+"You don't think the majority of those who use it feel any ill effects?"
+
+"I do indeed; though probably comparatively few are aware that tobacco
+is the cause of their ailments."
+
+"Doubtless that is the case," remarked Mr. Dinsmore. "I was a moderate
+smoker for years before I discovered that I was undermining my
+constitution by the indulgence; at length, however, I became convinced
+of that fact, and gave it up at once: for that reason and for the sake
+of the example to my boy here, who has been willing to profit by his
+father's experience, and abstain altogether."
+
+"I have never used the weed in any way," said Horace, Jr.
+
+"And I," remarked Travilla, "abandoned its use about the same time that
+Dinsmore did, and for the same reasons. By the way, I met with a very
+strong article on the subject, lately, which I cut out and placed in my
+pocket-book."
+
+"Ah ha! um h'm! suppose you give us the benefit of it," suggested
+Lilburn good naturally, "I'm open to conviction."
+
+"With all my heart, if you will step into the gentlemen's cabin where
+there's a light."
+
+He led the way, the others all following, and taking out a slip of paper
+read from it in a distinct tone, loud enough to be heard by those about
+him, without disturbing the other passengers.
+
+"'One drop of nicotine--extract of tobacco--placed on the tongue of a
+dog, will kill him in a minute; the hundredth part of a grain picked
+under the skin of a man's arm, will produce nausea and fainting. That
+which blackens old tobacco pipes is empyreumatic oil, a grain of which
+would kill a man in a few seconds.
+
+"'The half dozen cigars which most smokers use a day, contain six or
+seven grains--enough, if concentrated and absorbed, to kill three men,
+and a pound of tobacco, according to its quality, contains from
+one-quarter to one and a quarter ounces.
+
+"'Is it strange, then that smokers and chewers have a thousand ailments?
+that German physicians attribute one half of the deaths among the young
+men of that country to tobacco? that the French Polytechnic Institute
+had to prohibit its use on account of its effects on the mind? that men
+grow dyspeptic, hypochondriac, insane, delirious from its use?
+
+"'One of the direct effects of tobacco is to weaken the heart. Notice
+the multitude of sudden deaths and see how many are smokers and chewers.
+In a small country town seven of these 'mysterious providences' occurred
+within the circuit of a mile, all directly traceable to tobacco; and any
+physician, on a few moments' reflection, can match this fact by his own
+observation.
+
+"'And then such powerful acids produce intense irritation and
+thirst--thirst which water does not quench. Hence a resort to cider and
+beer. The more this thirst is fed, the more insatiate it becomes, and
+more fiery drink is needed.
+
+"'Out of seven hundred convicts examined at the New York state prison,
+six hundred were confined for crimes committed under the influence of
+liquor, and five hundred said they had been led to drink by the use of
+tobacco."[G]
+
+[Footnote G: J.E. Vose, in the "Family Christian Almanac," for 1876.]
+
+"Ah ha, ah ha! um h'm! ah ha! that's strongly put," remarked Mr.
+Lilburn, reflectively. "I'm afraid I'll have to give it up. What say
+you, sir?" turning to Mr. Daly, "has a man a right to a choice in such a
+matter as this? a right to injure his body--to say nothing of the
+mind--by a self-indulgence the pleasure of which seems to him to
+overbalance the possible or probable suffering it may cause?"
+
+"No, sir; 'What! know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy
+Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
+For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and
+in your spirit which are God's.'"
+
+"Right, sir, I was thinking of those words of the apostle, and also
+of these other, 'If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God
+destroy: for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.'
+
+"We certainly have no right to injure our bodies either by neglect or
+self-indulgence. 'Know ye not that your bodies are the members of
+Christ?' and again, 'I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies
+of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable
+unto God, which is your reasonable service.'"
+
+"It must require a good deal of resolution for one who has become fond
+of the indulgence to give it up," remarked Mr. Daly.
+
+"No doubt, no doubt," returned Mr. Lilburn, "but, 'If thy right eye
+offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee, for it is profitable
+for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole
+body should be cast into hell.'"
+
+There was a pause broken by young Horace, who had been watching a group
+of men gathered about a table at the further end of the room.
+
+"They are gambling yonder, and I'm afraid that young fellow is being
+badly fleeced by that middle aged man opposite."
+
+The eyes of the whole party were at once turned in that direction.
+
+"I'm afraid you're right, Horace," said Mr. Travilla, recalling with an
+inward shudder, the scene he had witnessed in a gambling hell many years
+ago, in which the son of his friend Beresford so nearly lost his life.
+"What can be done to save him? some effort must be made!" and he started
+up as if with the intention of approaching the players.
+
+"Stay a moment," exclaimed Lilburn in an undertone, and laying a
+detaining hand upon Travilla's arm, but with his gaze intently fixed
+upon the older gamester. "Ah ha! um h'm! that fellow is certainly
+cheating. I saw him slip a card from his coat sleeve."
+
+The words had scarcely passed his lips when a voice spoke apparently
+close at the villain's side.
+
+"Ah ha, I zees you vell, how you runs de goat shleeve down mit de gards
+and sheats dat boor poy vat ish blay mit you. Yoh, sir, you ish von pig
+sheat!"
+
+"How dare you, sir? who are you?" cried the rascal, starting up white
+with rage and turning to face his accuser.
+
+"Who was it? where is that Dutch scoundrel that dared accuse me of
+cheating?" he cried, sending a fierce glance about the room.
+
+"Vat ish dat you galls me? von Dutch scoundrel? you man mit de proken
+nose; I say it again: you ish von pig sheat."
+
+This time the voice seemed to come from a stateroom behind the gambler.
+Towering with rage, he rushed to the door and tried to open it. Failing
+in that, he demanded admittance in loud angry tones, at the same time
+shaking the door violently, and kicking against it with a force that
+seemed likely to break in the panels.
+
+There was an answering yell, a sound as of some one bouncing out of his
+berth upon the floor, the key turned hastily in the lock, the door was
+thrown wide open, and a little Frenchman appeared on its threshold in
+night attire, bowie knife and pistol in hand, and black eyes flashing
+with indignant anger.
+
+"Sir, Monsieur, I vil know vat for is dis disturbance of mine slumbers?"
+
+"Sir!" said the other, stepping back, instantly cooled down at sight of
+the weapons, "I beg pardon: was looking for a scoundrel of a Dutchman
+who has been abusing me, but I see he's not here."
+
+"No sir, he is not here!" and the door was slammed violently to.
+
+"Ha, ha! man mit de proken nose, you vake up de wrong bassenger. Ha, ha!
+I dells you again you ish von pig sheat!"
+
+Now the voice came from the skylight overhead, apparently, and with a
+fierce imprecation the irate gamester rushed upon deck, and ran hither
+and thither in search of his tormentor.
+
+His victim, who had been looking on during the little scene and
+listening to the mysterious voice in silent wide-eyed wonder and fear,
+now rose hastily, his face deathly pale, with trembling hands gathered
+up the money he had staked, and hurrying into his state room, locked
+himself in.
+
+The remaining passengers looked at each other.
+
+"What does it mean?" cried one.
+
+"A ventriloquist aboard, of course," returned another. "Let's follow and
+see the fun."
+
+"I wonder which of us it is!" remarked the first, looking hard at our
+party.
+
+"I don't know, but come on. That fellow Nick Ward, is a noted blackleg
+and ruffian: had his nose broken in a fight and is sensitive on the
+subject; was cheating of course."
+
+They passed out, our party close in their rear.
+
+"Where's that Dutch villain?" Ward was screaming, following up his
+question with a volley of oaths.
+
+"Who?" asked the mate, "I've seen none up here; though there are some in
+the steerage."
+
+Down to the steerage flew the gambler without waiting to reply, and
+bounding into the midst of a group of German emigrants seated there,
+quietly smoking their pipes, angrily demanded which of them it was who
+had been on the upper deck just now, abusing him, and calling him a
+cheat, and a man with a broken nose.
+
+They heard him in silence, with a cool, phlegmatic indifference most
+exasperating to one in his present mood.
+
+Drawing his revolver, "Speak!" he shouted, "tell me which one it was, or
+I'll--I'll shoot every mother's son of you!"
+
+His arms were suddenly pinioned from behind while a deep voice grunted,
+"You vill, vill you? I dinks not; you ish mine brisoner. Dere ish
+nopody here as did gall you names, and you vill put up dat leetle gun."
+
+A man of giant size and herculean strength, had laid aside his pipe and
+slowly rising to his feet, seized the scoundrel in his powerful grasp.
+
+"Let me go!" yelled Ward, making a desperate effort to free his arms.
+
+"Ha, ha! man mit de proken nose, you ish vake up de wrong bassenger
+again," came mockingly from above. "It ish me as galls you von pig
+sheat; and I dells you it again."
+
+"There, the villain's up on the deck now!" cried Ward, grinding his
+teeth in impotent rage. "Let go my arms I let go, I say, and I'll teach
+him a lesson."
+
+"I dinks no; I dinks I deach you von lesson," returned his captor, not
+relaxing his grasp in the least.
+
+But the captain's voice was heard asking in stern tones, "What's the
+cause of all this disturbance? what are you doing down here, Ward? I'll
+have no fighting aboard."
+
+The German released his prisoner, and the latter slunk away with
+muttered threats and imprecations upon the head of his tormentor.
+
+Both that night and the next day there was much speculation among the
+passengers in regard to the occurrence; but our friends kept their own
+counsel, and the children, cautioned not to divulge Cousin Ronald's
+secret, guarded it carefully, for all had been trained to obedience, and
+besides were anxious not to lose the fun he made for them.
+
+Mr. Lilburn and Mr. Daly each at a different time, sought out the young
+man, Ward's intended victim, and tried to influence him for good.
+
+He thought he had been rescued by the interposition of some supernatural
+agency, and solemnly declared his fixed determination never again to
+approach a gaming table, and throughout the voyage adhered to his
+resolution, spite of every influence Ward could bring to bear upon him
+to break it.
+
+Yet there was gambling again the second night, between Ward and several
+others of his profession.
+
+They kept it up till after midnight. Then Mr. Lilburn, waking from his
+first sleep, in a stateroom near by, thought he would break it up once
+more.
+
+A deep stillness reigned in the cabin: it would seem that every one on
+board the vessel, except themselves and the watch on deck, was wrapped
+in profound slumber.
+
+An intense voiceless excitement possessed the players, for the game was
+a close one, and the stakes were very heavy. They bent eagerly over the
+board, each watching with feverish anxiety his companion's movements,
+each casting, now and again, a gloating eye upon the heap of gold and
+greenbacks that lay between them, and at times half stretching out his
+hand to clutch it.
+
+A deep groan startled them and they sprang to their feet, pale and
+trembling with sudden terror, each holding his breath and straining his
+ear to catch a repetition of the dread sound.
+
+But all was silent, and after a moment of anxious waiting, they sat down
+to their game again; trying to conceal and shake off their fears with a
+forced, unnatural laugh.
+
+But scarcely had they taken the cards into their hands when a second
+groan, deeper, louder and more prolonged than the first, again started
+them to their feet.
+
+"I tell you this is growing serious," whispered one in a shaking voice,
+his very lips white with fear.
+
+"It came from under the table," gasped Ward, "look what's there."
+
+"Look yourself."
+
+"Both together then," and simultaneously they bent down and peered into
+the space underneath the board.
+
+There was nothing there.
+
+"What can it have been?" they asked each other.
+
+"Oh, nonsense! what fools we are! of course somebody's ill in one of the
+state-rooms." And they resumed their game for the second time.
+
+But a voice full of unutterable anguish, came from beneath their feet,
+"'Father Abraham have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the
+tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue: for I am tormented in
+this flame," and in mortal terror they sprang up, dashed down their
+cards and fled, not even waiting to gather up the "filthy lucre" for
+which they wore selling their souls.
+
+It was the last game of cards for that trip.
+
+The captain coming in shortly after the sudden flight of the gamblers,
+took charge of the money, and the next day restored it to the owners.
+
+To Elsie's observant eyes it presently became evident that the Dalys
+were in very straitened circumstances. They made no complaint, but with
+her warm sympathy and delicate tact, she soon drew from the wife all the
+information she needed to convince her that here was a case that called
+for the pecuniary assistance Providence had put it in her power to give.
+
+She consulted with her husband, and the result was a warm invitation to
+the Dalys to spend the winter at Viamede, where they would have all the
+benefit of the mild climate, congenial society, use of the library,
+horses, etc., and be at no expense.
+
+"Oh how kind, how very kind!" Mrs. Daly said with tears of joy and
+gratitude, "we have hardly known how we should meet the most necessary
+expenses of this trip, but have been trying to cast our care upon the
+Lord, asking him to provide. And how wonderfully he has answered our
+petitions. But--it seems too much, too much for you to do for
+strangers."
+
+"Strangers, my dear friend!" Elsie answered, pressing her hand
+affectionately, "art we not sisters in Christ? 'Ye are all the children
+of God by faith in Christ Jesus.' 'Ye are all one in Christ Jesus.'
+
+"We feel, my husband and I, that we are only the stewards of his bounty;
+and that because he has said, 'Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of
+the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me,' it is the
+greatest privilege and delight to do anything for his people."
+
+Mr. Travilla had already expressed the same sentiments to Mr. Daly, and
+so the poor minister and his wife accepted the invitation with glad and
+thankful hearts, and Harold and Frank learned with delight that they
+were to live together for what to their infant minds seemed an almost
+interminable length of time.
+
+The passage to New Orleans was made without accident or detention.
+
+As our party left the vessel a voice was heard from the hold, crying in
+dolorous accents, and a rich Irish brogue, "Och captin dear, help me
+out, help me out! I've got fast betwane these boxes here, bad cess to
+'em! an' can't hilp mesilf at all, at all!"
+
+"Help you out, you passage thief!" roared the captain in return, "yes
+I'll help you out with a vengeance, and put you into the hands of the
+police."
+
+"Ah ha! um h'm ah ha, you'll have to catch him first," remarked Mr.
+Lilburn with a quiet smile; stepping from the plank to the wharf as he
+spoke.
+
+"Ah, cousin, you are incorrigible!" said Elsie, laughingly.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Twenty-fourth.
+
+"The fields did laugh, the flowers did freshly spring,
+The trees did bud and early blossoms bear,
+And all the quire of birds did sweetly sing,
+And told that garden's pleasures in their caroling."
+--SPENSER'S FAERY QUEEN
+
+
+Nothing could be lovelier than was Viamede as they found it on their
+arrival.
+
+The children, one and all, were in an ecstasy of delight over the orange
+orchard with its wealth of golden fruit, glossy leaves, and delicate
+blossoms, the velvety lawn with its magnificent shade trees, the variety
+and profusion of beautiful flowers, and the spacious lordly mansion.
+
+They ran hither and thither jumping, dancing, clapping their hands and
+calling to each other with shouts of glee.
+
+The pleasure and admiration of the older people were scarcely less,
+though shown after a soberer fashion. But no check was put upon the
+demonstrations of joy of the younger ones: they were allowed to gambol,
+frolic, and play, and to feast themselves upon the luscious fruit to
+their hearts' content.
+
+Nor was the gladness all on the side of the new arrivals: to the old
+house servants, many of whom still remained, the coming of their beloved
+young mistress and her children had been an event looked forward to with
+longing for years.
+
+They wept for joy as they gathered about her, kissed her hand and
+clasped her little ones in their arms, fondling them and calling them by
+every endearing name known to the negro vocabulary.
+
+And the children, having heard a great deal, from both mamma and mammy,
+about these old people and their love and loyalty to the family, were
+neither surprised, nor displeased, but quite ready to receive and return
+the affection lavished upon them.
+
+The party from Lansdale arrived only a few days after the others, and
+were welcomed with great rejoicings, in which even Bruno must have a
+share: he jumped and gamboled about Harry and May, tried to kiss the
+babies, and finally put his nose into Aunt Wealthy's lap, saying, "Ye're
+a dear auld leddy, ma'am, and I'm glad ye've come!"
+
+"Ah," she answered, patting his head and laughing her low, sweet silvery
+laugh, "you betray your Scotch accent, my fine follow; and I'm too old a
+chaff to be caught with a bird."
+
+Mr. Mason was still chaplain at Viamede, and with his wife and children
+occupied a pretty and commodious cottage which had been built on the
+estate expressly for their use.
+
+When he and Mr. Daly met they instantly and delightedly recognized each
+other as former classmates and intimate friends, and the Dalys, by
+urgent invitation, took up their abode for the winter in the cottage;
+but Mr. and Mrs. Travilla were careful that it should still be entirely
+at their expense.
+
+A suite of apartments in the mansion was appropriated to each of the
+other families, and it was unanimously agreed that each should feel at
+perfect liberty to withdraw into the privacy of these, having their
+meals served to them there, if they so desired; or at their pleasure to
+mingle with the others in the breakfast parlor, dining-room,
+drawing-rooms, library, etc.
+
+The first fortnight was made a complete holiday to all, the days being
+filled up with games, walks, rides, drives and excursions by land and
+water.
+
+In consequence of the changes occasioned by the war, they found but
+little society in the neighborhood now, yet scarcely missed it; having
+so much within themselves.
+
+But at length even the children began to grow somewhat weary of constant
+play. Harry Duncan and Horace Jr. announced their speedy departure to
+attend to business, and the other adults of the party felt that it was
+time to take up again the ordinary duties of life.
+
+Mr. Daly, anxious to make some return for the kindness shown him,
+offered to act as tutor to all the children who were old enough for
+school duties; but Rosie put her arms about her father's neck and
+looking beseechingly into his eyes, said she preferred her old
+tutor;--at which he smiled, and stroking her hair, said she should keep
+him then, for he would be quite as loth to give up his pupil,--and
+Elsie's children, clinging about her, entreated that their lessons might
+still be said to mamma.
+
+"So they shall, my darlings," she answered, "for mamma loves to teach
+you."
+
+The young Carringtons too, and their mother preferred the old way.
+
+So Mr. Daly's kind offer was declined with thanks: and perhaps he was
+not sorry; being weak and languid and in no danger of suffering from
+ennui with horses to ride and plenty of books at hand.
+
+A school-room was prepared, but only the Travillas occupied it, Sophie
+preferring to use her dressing-room, and Rosie studying in her own room,
+and reciting to her papa in his or the library.
+
+Elsie expected her children to find it a little hard to go back to the
+old routine; but it was not so. They came to her with bright, happy
+faces, were quiet and diligent and when the recitations were over,
+gathered about her for a little chat before returning to their play.
+
+"Mamma," said Eddie, "we've had a nice long holiday, and it's really
+pleasant to get back to lessons again."
+
+"So it is!" said Vi, "don't you think so, Elsie?"
+
+"Yes, indeed! nice to get back to our books, but we've had lessons
+almost every day, grandpa and papa and mamma teaching us so much about
+the birds, insects, and all sorts of living things, and the flowers and
+plants, trees, stones and oh, I don't know how many things that are
+different here from what we have at home."
+
+"At home! why this is home; isn't it, mamma?" exclaimed Eddie.
+
+"Yes, my son, one of our homes."
+
+"Yes, and so beautiful," said Vi; "but Ion 'pears the homest to me."
+
+"Does it, darling?" asked mamma, giving her a smile and a kiss.
+
+"Yes, mamma; and I love Ion dearly: Viamede 'most as well, though,
+because you were born here, and your dear mamma."
+
+"And because that dear grandma is buried here;" remarked her sister,
+"and because of all those dear graves. Mamma, I do like those lessons I
+was speaking of, and so do Eddie and Vi; but Herbert and Meta and Harry
+don't; they say they think them very stupid and dull."
+
+"I am glad, my children, that you love knowledge," their mother said,
+"because it is useful; the more knowledge we have the more good we can
+do if we will."
+
+"And then it is a lasting pleasure. God's works are so wonderful that we
+can never learn all about them while we live in this world, and I
+suppose throughout the endless ages of eternity, we shall be ever
+learning, yet always finding still more to learn."
+
+"Mamma, how pleasant that will be," said Elsie thoughtfully.
+
+"And oh, mamma!" cried Vi, "that reminds me that we've been out of doors
+'most all the day-times, and haven't seen grandma's play-room and things
+yet. Won't you show them to us?"
+
+"Yes, we will go now."
+
+"Me too, mamma?" asked Harold.
+
+"Yes, all of you come. I want you all to see everything that I have that
+once belonged to my dear mother."
+
+"Aunt Rosie wants to see them too," said Vi.
+
+"And Herbert and Meta and the others," added Elsie.
+
+"They shall see them afterwards. I want no one but my own little
+children now," replied mamma, taking Harold's hand, and leading the way.
+
+She led them to the room, a large and very pleasant one, light and airy,
+where flowers were blooming and birds singing, vines trailing over and
+about the windows, lovely pictures on the walls, cosy chairs and
+couches, work-tables, well supplied with all the implements for sewing,
+others suited for drawing, writing or cutting out upon, standing here
+and there, quantities of books, games and toys; nothing seemed to have
+been forgotten that could give pleasant employment for their leisure
+hours, or minister to their amusement.
+
+There was a burst of united exclamations of wondering delight from the
+children, as the door was thrown open and they entered. Now they
+understood why mamma had put them off when several times they had asked
+to be brought to this room: she was having it fitted up in a way to give
+them a joyful surprise.
+
+"Do you like it, my darlings?" she asked with a pleased smile.
+
+"Oh, yes, yes! yes indeed!" they cried, jumping, dancing and clapping
+their hands, "dear, dear mamma, how good, how good you are to us!" and
+they nearly smothered her with caresses.
+
+Releasing herself, she opened another door leading into an adjoining
+room which, to Eddie's increased delight, was fitted up as a work-room
+for boys, with every sort of tool used by carpenters and cabinet makers.
+He had such at Ion and was somewhat acquainted with their use.
+
+"Oh what nice times Herbert and Harry and I shall have!" he exclaimed.
+"What pretty things we'll make! Mamma, I don't know how to thank you and
+my dear father!" he added, catching her hand and pressing it to his lips
+with passionate affection.
+
+"Be good and obedient to us, kind and affectionate to your brothers,
+sisters and playmates," she said, stroking his hair: "that is the kind
+of thanks we want, my boy; we have no greater joy than to see our
+children good and happy."
+
+"If we don't be, it's just our own fault, and we're ever so wicked and
+bad!" cried Vi, vehemently.
+
+Mamma smiled at her little girl's impetuosity, then in grave, tender
+tones, said, "And is there not some One else more deserving of love and
+thanks than even papa and mamma?"
+
+"God, our kind heavenly Father," murmured little Elsie, happy, grateful
+tears shining in her soft eyes.
+
+"Yes, it is from his kind hand all our blessings come."
+
+"I love God," said Harold, "and so does Fank: Mamma, can Fank come up
+here to play wis me?"
+
+"Yes, indeed: Frank is a dear, good little boy, and I like to have you
+together."
+
+Mamma unlocked the door of a large light closet, as she spoke, and the
+children, looking eagerly in, saw that its shelves were filled with
+beautiful toys.
+
+"Grandma's things!" they said softly.
+
+"Yes, these are what my dear mother played with when she was a little
+girl like Elsie and Vi" said mamma. "You may look at them."
+
+There was a large babyhouse, beautifully furnished; there were many
+dolls of various sizes, and little chests and trunks full of nicely made
+clothes for them to wear--night-clothes, morning wrappers, gay silks and
+lovely white dresses, bonnets and hats, shoes and stockings too, and
+ribbons and laces, for the lady dolls; and for the gentlemen, coats,
+hats, vests, cravats and everything that real grown-up men wear; and for
+the baby dolls there were many suits of beautiful baby clothes; and all
+made so that they could be easily taken off and put on again.
+
+There were cradles to rock the babies in, and coaches for them to ride
+in; there were dinner and tea-sets of the finest china and of solid
+silver; indeed almost everything in the shape of toys that the childish
+heart could desire.
+
+The lonely little girl had not lacked for any pleasure that money could
+procure: but she had hungered for that best earthly gift--the love of
+father, mother, brothers and sisters--which can be neither bought nor
+sold.
+
+The children examined all these things with intense interest and a sort
+of wondering awe, then begged their mother to tell them again about
+"dear grandma."
+
+They had heard the story--all that mamma and mammy could tell--many
+times, but it never lost its charm.
+
+"Yes, dears, I will: I love to think and speak of her," Elsie said,
+sitting down in a low chair while they gathered closely round her, the
+older two, one on each side, the others leaning upon her lap.
+
+"Mamma, it is a sad story; but I love it," little Elsie said, drawing a
+deep sigh, as the tale came to an end.
+
+"Yes, poor little girl, playing up here all alone," said Eddie.
+
+"'Cept mammy," corrected Vi.
+
+"Yes, mammy to love her and take care of her, but no brother or sister
+to play with, and no dear mamma or papa like ours."
+
+"Yes, poor dear grandma!" sighed little Elsie. "And it was almost as
+hard for you, mamma, when you were a little girl: didn't you feel very
+sad?"
+
+"Ah, daughter, I had Jesus to love me, and help me in all my childish
+griefs and troubles," the mother answered, with a glad smile; "and mammy
+to hug and kiss and love me just as she does you."
+
+"But oh, didn't you want your mamma and papa?"
+
+"Yes, sorely, sorely at times; but I think no little child could be
+happier than I was when at last; my dear father came home, and I found
+that he loved me dearly. Ah, I am so glad, so thankful that my darlings
+have never suffered for lack of love."
+
+"I too, mamma."
+
+"And I."
+
+"And I," they exclaimed, clinging about her and loading her with
+caresses.
+
+"Hark!" she said, "I hear your dear grandpa's step, and there, he is
+knocking at the door."
+
+Eddie ran to open it.
+
+"Ah, I thought I should find you here, daughter," Mr. Dinsmore said,
+coming in. "I, too, want to see these things; it is long since I looked
+at them."
+
+She gave him a pleased look and smile, and stepping to the closet he
+stood for some moments silently gazing upon its treasures.
+
+"You do well to preserve them with care as mementoes of your mother," he
+remarked, coming back and seating himself by her side.
+
+"O grandpa, you could tell us more about her, and dear mamma too, when
+she was a little girl!" said little Elsie, seating herself upon his
+knee, twining her arms about his neck, and looking coaxingly into his
+face.
+
+"Ah, what a dear little girl your mamma was at your age!" he said,
+stroking her hair and gazing fondly first at her and then at her
+mother, "the very joy of my heart and delight of my eyes! though not
+dearer than she is now."
+
+Elsie returned the loving glance and smile, while her namesake daughter
+remarked, "Mamma couldn't be nicer or sweeter than she is now; nobody
+could."
+
+"No, no! no indeed!" chimed in the rest of the little flock. "But
+grandpa please tell the story. You never did tell it to us."
+
+"No," he said, half sighing, "but you shall have it now." Then went on
+to relate how he had first met their mother's mother, then a very
+beautiful girl of fifteen.
+
+An acquaintance took him to call upon a young lady friend of his, to
+whom Elsie Grayson was paying a visit, and the two were in the
+drawing-room together when the young men entered.
+
+"What did you think the first minute you saw her, grandpa?" asked Eddie.
+
+"That she had the sweetest, most beautiful face and perfect form I had
+ever laid eyes on, and that I would give all I was worth to have her for
+my own."
+
+"Love at first sight," his daughter remarked, with a smile, "and it was
+mutual."
+
+"Yes she told me afterward that she had loved me from the first; though
+the longer I live the more I wonder it should have been so, for I was a
+wild, wayward youth. But she, poor thing, had none to love or cherish
+her but her mammy."
+
+"Grandpa, I think you're very nice," put in little Vi, leaning on his
+knee, and gazing affectionately into his face.
+
+"I'm glad you do," he said, patting her soft round cheek.
+
+"But to go on with my story. I could not keep away from my charmer, and
+for the next few weeks we saw each other daily.
+
+"I asked her to be my own little wife and she consented. Then early one
+morning we went to a church and were married; no one being present
+except the minister, the sexton, and her friend and mine, who were
+engaged to each other, and her faithful mammy.
+
+"Her guardian was away in a distant city and knew nothing about the
+matter. He was taken sick there and did not return for three months, and
+during that time Elsie and I lived together in a house she owned in New
+Orleans.
+
+"We thought that now that we were safely married, no one could ever
+separate us, and we were very, very happy.
+
+"But one evening her guardian came suddenly upon us, as we sat together
+in her boudoir, and in a great passion ordered me out of the house.
+
+"Elsie was terribly frightened and I said, 'I will go to-night for peace
+sake; but Elsie is my wife, and to-morrow I shall come and claim her as
+such, and I think you'll find I have the law on my side.' Elsie clung to
+me and wept bitterly; but I comforted her with the assurance that the
+parting was only for a few hours."
+
+Mr. Dinsmore's voice faltered. He paused a moment, then went on in tones
+husky with emotion.
+
+"We never saw each other again. When I went back in the morning the
+house was closed and quite deserted; not even a servant in it, and I
+knew not where to look for my lost wife.
+
+"I went back to my hotel and there found my father waiting for me in my
+room. He was very angry about my marriage, the news of which had brought
+him from home. He made me go back with him at once and sent me North to
+college. I heard nothing of my wife for months, and then only that she
+was dead and had left me a little daughter."
+
+"And that was our mamma!" cried the children, once more crowding about
+her to lavish caresses upon her.
+
+They thanked their grandfather for his story, and Vi looking in at the
+closet door again, said in her most coaxing tones, "Mamma, I should so,
+_so_ like to play a little with some of those lovely things; and I would
+be very careful not to spoil them."
+
+"Not now, daughter, though perhaps I may allow it some day when you are
+older. But see here! will not these do quite as well?"
+
+And rising, Mrs. Travilla opened the door of another closet displaying
+to the children's delighted eyes other toys as fine and in as great
+profusion and variety as those she considered sacred to her mother's
+memory.
+
+"Oh, yes, yes, mamma! how lovely! how kind you are! are they for us?"
+they exclaimed in joyous tones.
+
+"Yes," she said, "I bought them for you while we were in New Orleans,
+and you shall play with them whenever you like. And now we will lock the
+doors and go down to dress for dinner. The first bell is ringing."
+
+After dinner the play-room and the contents of the two closets were
+shown to Mrs. Dinsmore, Rosie, and the Carringtons: then Mrs. Travilla
+locked the door of the one that held the treasured relics of her
+departed mother, and carried away the key.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Twenty-fifth.
+
+"She'd lift the teapot lid
+To peep at what was in it,
+Or tilt the kettle if you did
+But turn your back a minute."
+
+
+Meta Carrington had many excellent traits of character; was frank,
+generous, unselfish and sincere; but these good qualities were offset by
+some very serious faults; she was prying and full of desire for whatever
+was forbidden.
+
+The other children played contentedly with the toys provided for them;
+but Meta secretly nursed a great longing for those Mrs. Travilla had
+chosen to withhold; and was constantly endeavoring to devise some plan
+by which to get possession of them.
+
+She attempted to pick the lock with a nail, then with a knife, but
+failing in that, seized every opportunity of doing so unobserved, to try
+the keys from other doors in different parts of the house, till at
+length she found one that would answer her purpose; then she watched her
+chance to use it in the absence of her mates.
+
+At length such a time came. The ladies had all gone out for an airing,
+the little ones, too, in charge of their nurses, Vi and the boys were
+sporting on the lawn, and Elsie was at the piano practicing; certain,
+faithful little worker that she was, not to leave it till the allotted
+hour had expired.
+
+Having satisfied herself of all this, Meta flew to the play-room, and
+half trembling at her own temerity, admitted herself to the forbidden
+treasures.
+
+There was no hesitancy in regard to her further proceedings; for weeks
+past, she had had them all carefully arranged in her mind; she would
+have a tea-party, though, unfortunately, there could be no guests
+present but the dolls; yet at all events, she could have the great
+pleasure of handling that beautiful china and silver and seeing how a
+table would look set out with them. A pleasure doubled by the fact that
+she was enjoying it in opposition to the known wishes and commands of
+her mother and the owner; for in Meta's esteem 'stolen waters were
+sweet' indeed.
+
+She selected a damask table cloth from a pile that lay on one of the
+lower shelves, several napkins to match, slipping each of these last
+into a silver ring taken from a little basket that stood alongside, and
+proceeded with quiet glee, to deck a table with them, and the sets of
+china and silver she most admired.
+
+"Beautiful! beautiful! I never saw anything so pretty!" she exclaimed
+half aloud, as, her task finished, she stood gazing in rapt delight at
+the result of her labors. "Oh I think it's real mean in Aunt Elsie, to
+say we sha'n't play with these, and to lock them up away from us. But
+now for the company!" and running into the closet again, she brought out
+several of the largest dolls.
+
+"I'll dress them for dinner," she said, still talking to herself in an
+undertone: "that'll be fun. What lots of lovely things I shall find in
+these trunks; I'll look them over and select what I like best to have
+them wear. I'll have time enough: it isn't at all likely anybody will
+come to disturb me for an hour:" and as she opened the first trunk, she
+glanced hastily at the clock on the mantel.
+
+She was mistaken. Time flew away much faster than she was aware of, and
+scarce half an hour had passed when a pair of little feet came dancing
+along the hall, the door--which in her haste and pre-occupation Meta had
+forgotten to lock--flew open, and Vi stood before her.
+
+The great blue eyes turning toward the table opened wide with
+astonishment. "Why, why, Meta!"
+
+Meta's face flushed deeply for a moment, but thinking the best plan
+would be to brave it out, "Isn't it pretty?" she asked, as unconcernedly
+as she could.
+
+"Yes, oh lovely! but--where did you--aren't they my grandma's things? O
+Meta, how could you ever dare--"
+
+"Pooh! I'm not going to hurt 'em. And why should you think they were
+hers? can't other people have pretty things?"
+
+"Yes, but I know they're grandma's, I rec--recog--recognize them. Oh
+what shall we do? I wouldn't venture to touch 'em, even to put them
+back."
+
+"What a big word that was you used just now," said Meta, laughing, "It
+'most choked you."
+
+"Well when I'm bigger it won't," returned Vi, still gazing at the table.
+"Oh how lovely they are! I do wish mamma would let us play with them."
+
+"So do I: and these dolls too. It's just delightful to dress and undress
+them. Here, Vi, help me put this one's shoes on."
+
+The temptation to handle the tiny, dainty shoes and see how well they
+fitted the feet of the pretty doll, was great, and not giving herself
+time to think, Violet dropped down on the carpet by Meta's side and
+complied with the request. "Just to slip on those lovely shoes, now that
+they were there right before her, was not much," so said the tempter:
+then, "Now having done a little, what difference if she did a little
+more?"
+
+Thoughtless and excitable, she presently forgot mamma and her commands,
+and became as eagerly engaged as Meta herself in the fascinating
+employment of looking over the contents of the trunks, and trying now
+one, and now another suit upon the dollies.
+
+"Now this one's dressed, and I'll set her up to the table," said Meta,
+jumping up. "Oh my!"
+
+Something fell with a little crash on the lid of the trunk by Vi's side,
+and there at her feet lay one of the beautiful old china plates broken
+into a dozen pieces.
+
+The child started up perfectly aghast, the whole extent of her
+delinquency flashing upon her in that instant. "Oh, oh! what have I
+done! what a wicked, wicked girl I am! what will mamma say!" And she
+burst into an agony of grief and remorse.
+
+"You didn't do it, nor I either," said Meta; stooping to gather up the
+fragments, "the doll kicked it off. There, Vi, don't cry so; I'll put
+the things all back just as they were, and never, never touch one of
+them again."
+
+"But you can't; because this one's broken. Oh dear, oh dear! I wish you
+had let them alone, Meta. I wish, I wish I'd been a good girl and obeyed
+mamma!"
+
+"Never mind: if she goes to whip you, I'll tell her it was 'most all my
+fault. But she needn't know: it won't be a story to put them back and
+say nothing about it. And most likely it won't be found out for years
+and years; maybe never. You see I'll just put this plate between the
+others in the pile and it won't be noticed at all that it's broken;
+unless somebody takes them all down to look."
+
+"But I must tell mamma," sobbed Violet. "I couldn't hide it; I always
+tell her everything; and I'd feel so wicked."
+
+"Violet Travilla, I'd never have believed you'd be so mean as to tell
+tales," remarked Meta, severely. "I'd never have played with you if I'd
+known it."
+
+"I'll not; I didn't mean that. I'll only tell on myself."
+
+"But you can't do that without telling on me too, and I say it's real
+mean. I'll never tell a story about it, but I don't see any harm in just
+getting the things away and saying nothing. 'Taint as if you were
+throwing the blame on somebody else," pursued Meta, gathering up the
+articles abstracted from the closet and replacing them, as nearly as
+possible as she had found them.
+
+"Come, dry your eyes, Vi," she went on, "or somebody'll see you've been
+crying and ask what it was about."
+
+"But I must tell mamma," reiterated the little girl, sobbing anew.
+
+"And make her feel worried and sorry because the plate's broken, when it
+can't do any good, and she needn't ever know about it. I call that real
+selfishness."
+
+This, to Vi, was a new view of the situation. She stopped crying to
+consider it.
+
+It certainly would grieve mamma to know that the plate was broken, and
+perhaps even more to hear of her child's disobedience, and if not told
+she would be spared all that pain.
+
+But on the other hand, mamma had always taught her children that wrong
+doing should never be concealed. The longer Vi pondered the question the
+more puzzled she grew.
+
+Meta perceived that she wavered and immediately seized her advantage.
+
+"Come now, Vi, I'm sure you don't want to give pain to your mamma, or to
+get me into trouble. Do you?"
+
+"No, Meta, indeed I don't, but--"
+
+"Hush! somebody's coming," exclaimed Meta, locking the closet door,
+having just finished her work, and hastily dropping the key into her
+pocket.
+
+"Come, girls, come quick! we're sending up a balloon, from the lawn!"
+cried Eddie throwing open the door to make his announcement, then
+rushing away again.
+
+The girls ran after him, in much excitement, and forgetting for the
+time the trouble they were in; for spite of Meta's sophistry her
+conscience was by no means easy.
+
+The ladies had returned and in dinner dress were gathered on the
+veranda. Mr. Travilla seemed to be managing the affair, with Mr.
+Dinsmore's assistance, while the other gentlemen, children and servants,
+were grouped about them on the lawn.
+
+Meta and Violet quickly took their places with the rest and just at that
+moment the balloon, released from its fastenings, shot up into the air.
+
+There was a general shout and clapping of hands, but instantly hushed by
+a shrill sharp cry of distress from overhead.
+
+"Oh! oh! pull it down again! pull it down! pull it down! I only got in
+for fun, and I'm so frightened! I shall fall out! I shall be killed! oh!
+oh! oh!"
+
+The voice grew fainter and fainter, till it quickly died away in the
+distance as the balloon rose rapidly higher and higher into the deep
+blue of the sky.
+
+A wild excitement seized upon the little crowd.
+
+"Oh, oh, oh I which ob de chillins am up dar?" the mammies were asking,
+each sending a hasty glance around the throng to assure herself of the
+safety of her own particular charge.
+
+"Who is it? who is it?" asked the children, the little girls beginning
+to sob and cry.
+
+"Oh it's Fank! it's Fank!" screamed Harold. "Papa, papa, please stop it
+quick. Fank, don't cry, any more: papa will get you down. Won't you,
+papa?" And he clung to his father's arm, sobbing bitterly.
+
+"Son, Frank is not there," said Mr. Travilla; taking the little weeper
+in his arms. "There is no one in the balloon; it is not big enough to
+hold even a little boy like you or Frank."
+
+"Isn't it, papa?" returned the child, dropping his head on his father's
+shoulder with a sigh of relief.
+
+"Oh it's Cousin Ronald, it's just Cousin Ronald!" exclaimed the
+children, their tears changing at once to laughter.
+
+"Ah ha, ah ha! um h'm, um h'm! so it is, bairnies, just Cousin Ronald at
+his old tricks again," laughed Mr. Lilburn.
+
+"Oh there's nobody in it; so we needn't care how high it goes," cried
+Eddie, jumping and clapping his hands, "See! see! it's up in the clouds
+now, and doesn't look as big as my cap."
+
+"Not half so big, I should say," remarked Herbert. "And there, it's
+quite gone."
+
+The dinner bell rang and all repaired to the dining-room.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Twenty-sixth.
+
+"Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old,
+he will not depart from it."
+--PROVERBS, xxii: 6.
+
+
+As naturally as the helianthus to the sun, did the faces of Elsie's
+little ones turn to her when in her loved presence. At the table, at
+their sports, their lessons, everywhere and however employed, it was
+always the same, the young eyes turning ever and anon to catch the
+tender, sympathetic glance of mamma's.
+
+But at dinner to-day, Vi's great blue orbs met hers but once and
+instantly dropped upon her plate again, while a vivid blush suffused the
+fair face and neck.
+
+And when the meal was ended and all gathered in the drawing-room, Vi
+still seemed to be unlike her usual gay, sunny self, the merriest
+prattler of all the little crowd of children, the one whose sweet
+silvery laugh rang out the oftenest. She stood alone at a side table
+turning over some engravings, but evidently with very little interest.
+The mother, engaged in conversation with the other ladies, watched her
+furtively, a little troubled and anxious, yet deeming it best to wait
+for a voluntary confidence on the part of her child.
+
+Longing, yet dreading to make it, Vi was again puzzling her young brain
+with the question whether Meta was right in saying it would be selfish
+to do so. Ah, if she could only ask mamma which was the right way to do!
+This was the first perplexity she had not been able to carry to her for
+disentanglement.
+
+Remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, "Sanctify them through thy
+truth: thy word is truth," Elsie had been careful to store her
+children's minds with the blessed teachings and precious promises of
+God's holy Book. She had also taught them to go to God their heavenly
+Father, with every care, sorrow, doubt and difficulty.
+
+"I'll ask Jesus," thought Vi; "he'll help me to know, because the Bible
+says, 'If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God that giveth to all
+men liberally and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.'"
+
+She slipped into an adjoining room, where she was quite alone, and
+kneeling down, whispered softly, with low sobs and many tears, "Dear
+Father in heaven, I've been a very, very naughty girl; I disobeyed my
+dear mamma; please forgive me for Jesus' sake and make me good. Please
+Lord Jesus, help me to know if I ought to tell mamma."
+
+A text--one of the many she had learned to recite to her mother in that
+precious morning half hour--came to her mind as she rose from her knees.
+"He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and
+forsaketh them shall have mercy."
+
+"I didn't cover them;" she said to herself, "I told God: but then God
+knew all about it before; he sees and knows everything; but mamma
+doesn't know. Perhaps it means I musn't cover them from her. I think
+Jesus did tell me."
+
+Wiping away her tears she went back into the drawing-room. The gentlemen
+were just leaving it, her father among the rest. A sudden resolution
+seized her and she ran after them.
+
+"Papa!"
+
+He turned at the sound of her voice. "Well daughter?"
+
+"I--I just want to ask you something."
+
+"Another time then, pet, papa's in a hurry now."
+
+But seeing the distress in the dear little face he came to her and
+laying his hand on her head in tender fatherly fashion, said, "Tell papa
+what it is that troubles you. I will wait to hear it now."
+
+"Papa," she said, choking down a sob, "I--I don't know what to do."
+
+"About what, daughter?"
+
+"Papa, s'pose--s'pose I'd done something naughty, and--and it would
+grieve dear mamma to hear it; ought I to tell her and--and make her
+sorry?"
+
+"My dear little daughter," he said bending down to look with grave,
+tender eyes into the troubled face, "never, _never_ conceal anything
+from your mother; it is not safe for you, pet; and she would far rather
+bear the pain of knowing. If our children knew how much, how very much
+we both love them, they would never want to hide anything from us."
+
+"Papa, I don't; but--somebody says it would be selfish to hurt mamma
+so."
+
+"The selfishness was in doing the naughty thing, not in confessing it.
+Go, my child, and tell mamma all about it."
+
+He hastened away, and Violet crept back to the drawing-room.
+
+The other children were leaving it. "Come, Vi," they said, "we're going
+for a walk."
+
+"Thank you, I don't wish to go this time," she answered with gravity.
+"I've something to attend to."
+
+"What a grown up way of talking you have, you little midget," laughed
+Meta. Then putting her lips close to Vi's ear, "Violet Travilla," she
+whispered, "don't you tell tales, or I'll never, never play with you
+again as long as I live."
+
+"My mamma says it's wicked to say that;" returned Vi, "and I don't tell
+tales."
+
+Then as Meta ran away, Violet drew near her mother's chair.
+
+Mamma was talking, and she must not interrupt, so she waited, longing to
+have the confession over, yet feeling her courage almost fail with the
+delay.
+
+Elsie saw it all, and at length seized an opportunity while the rest
+were conversing among themselves, to take Vi's hand and draw her to her
+side.
+
+"I think my little girl has something to say to mother," she whispered
+softly, smoothing back the clustering curls, and looking tenderly into
+the tear-stained face.
+
+Violet nodded assent; her heart was so full she could not have spoken a
+word without bursting into tears and sobs.
+
+Mamma understood, rose and led her from the room; led her to her own
+dressing-room where they could be quite secure from intrusion. Then
+seating herself and taking the child on her lap, "What is wrong with my
+dear little daughter?" she asked.
+
+"O, mamma, mamma, I'm so sorry, so sorry!" cried the child, bursting
+into a passion of tears and sobs, putting her arms about her mother's
+neck and hiding her face on her breast.
+
+"Mamma is sorry, too, dear, sorry for anything that makes her Vi
+unhappy. What is it? what can mother do to comfort you."
+
+"Mamma I don't deserve for you to be so kind, and you'll have to punish,
+'stead of comforting. But I just want to tell about my own self; you
+know I can't tell tales, mamma."
+
+"No, daughter, I do not ask, or wish it; but tell me about yourself."
+
+"Mamma, it will make you sorry, ever so sorry."
+
+"Yes, dear, but I must bear it for your sake."
+
+"O mamma, I don't like to make you sorry I--I wish I hadn't, hadn't been
+naughty, oh so naughty, mamma! for I played with some of your mamma's
+things that you forbade us to touch, and--and one lovely plate got
+broken all up."
+
+"I am very sorry to hear that," returned the mother, "yet far more
+grieved by my child's sin. But how did you get the door open and the
+plates off the shelf?"
+
+"I didn't, mamma: they were out."
+
+"Some one else did it?"
+
+"Yes, mamma; but you know I can't tell tales. It wasn't any of our
+children, though, none of them were naughty but just me."
+
+"Were you playing with the plate? did you break it?"
+
+"No mamma, I didn't touch the plates, but I was dressing one of the
+dollies. They are all locked up again now, mamma, and I don't think
+anybody will touch them any more."
+
+A little tender, serious talk on the sin and danger of disobedience to
+parents, and the mother knelt with her child, and in a few simple words
+asked God's forgiveness for her. Then telling Vi she must remain alone
+in that room till bedtime, she left her.
+
+Not one harsh or angry word had been spoken, and the young heart was
+full of a passionate love to her mother that made the thought of having
+grieved her a far bitterer punishment than the enforced solitude, though
+that was at any time irksome enough to one of Vi's social, fun-loving
+temperament.
+
+It cost the mother a pang to inflict the punishment and leave the
+darling alone in her trouble; but Elsie was not one to weakly yield to
+inclination when it came in conflict with duty. Hers was not a selfish
+love; she would bear any present pain to secure the future welfare of
+her children.
+
+She rejoined her friends in the drawing-room apparently as serenely
+happy as her wont, but through all the afternoon and evening her heart
+was with her little one in her banishment and grief, yearning over her
+with tenderest mother love.
+
+Little Elsie, too, missed her sister, and returning from her walk, went
+in search of her. She found her at last in their mamma's dressing-room
+seated at the window, her cheek resting on her hand, the tears coursing
+slowly down, while her eyes gazed longingly out over the beautiful
+fields and lovely orange groves.
+
+"Oh my own Vi, my darling little sister! what's the matter?" asked
+Elsie, clasping her in her arms, and kissing the wet cheek.
+
+A burst of bitter sobs, while the small arms clung about the sister's
+neck, and the golden head rested for an instant on her shoulder, then
+the words, "Ah I'd tell you, but I can't now, for you must run right
+away, because mamma said I must stay here all alone till bedtime."
+
+"Then I must go, pet; but don't cry so: if you've been naughty and are
+sorry, Jesus, and mamma too, will forgive you and love you just the
+same," Elsie said, kissing her again, then releasing her, hurried from
+the room, crying heartily in sympathy.
+
+On the upper veranda, whither she went to recover her composure, before
+rejoining her mates, she found her mother pacing slowly to and fro.
+
+"Is my Elsie in trouble, too?" Mrs. Travilla asked, pausing in her walk
+and holding out her hand.
+
+"For my Vi, mamma," sobbed Elsie, taking the hand and pressing it to her
+lips.
+
+"Yes, poor little pet! mother's heart aches for her too," Mrs. Travilla
+answered, her own eyes filling. "I am glad my little daughters love and
+sympathize with each other."
+
+"Mamma, I would rather stay with Vi, than be with the others. May I?"
+
+"No, daughter, I have told her she must spend the rest of the day
+alone."
+
+"Yes, mamma, she told me so and wouldn't let me stay even one minute to
+hear about her trouble."
+
+"That was right."
+
+Time crept by very slowly to Violet. She thought that afternoon the
+longest she had ever known. After a while she heard a familiar step, and
+almost before she knew it papa had her in his arms.
+
+With a little cry of joy she put hers around his neck and returned the
+kiss he had just given her.
+
+"Oh I'm so glad!" she said, "but, papa, you'll have to go away, because
+nobody must stay with me; I'm--"
+
+"Papa may," he said, sitting down with her on his knee. "So you told
+mamma about the naughtiness?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"I am glad you did. Always tell mamma everything. If you have disobeyed
+her never delay a moment to go and confess it."
+
+"Yes, papa: but if it's you?"
+
+"Then come to me in the same way. If you want to be a happy child have
+no concealment from father or mother."
+
+"Shall I tell you about it now, papa?"
+
+"You may do as you like about that since your mother knows it all."
+
+"Papa, I'm afraid you wouldn't love such a naughty girl any more."
+
+"Mamma loves you quite as well, and so shall I; because you are our own,
+own little daughter. There were tears in mamma's eyes when she told me
+that she had had to punish our little Vi."
+
+"Oh I'm so sorry to have made mamma cry," sobbed the child.
+
+"Sin always brings sorrow and suffering sooner or later, my little girl;
+remember that; and that it is because Jesus loves us that he would save
+us from our sins."
+
+After a little more talk, in which Violet repeated to him the same story
+of her wrong doing that she had already told her mother, her papa left
+her and she was again alone till mammy came with her supper--a bowl of
+rich sweet milk and bread from the unbolted flour, that might have
+tempted the appetite of an epicure.
+
+"Come, honey, dry dose wet eyes an' eat yo' supper," said mammy, setting
+it out daintily on a little table which she placed before the child and
+covered with a fine damask cloth fresh from the iron. "De milk's mos' all
+cream, an' de bread good as kin be: an' you kin hab much as eber you
+want ob both ob dem."
+
+"Did mamma say so, mammy?"
+
+"Yes, chile; an' don't shed no mo' dose tears now; ole mammy lubs you
+like her life."
+
+"But I've been very naughty, mammy," sobbed the little girl.
+
+"Yes, Miss Wi'let, honey: an' we's all been naughty, but de good Lord
+forgib us for Jesus' sake if we's sorry an' don't 'tend neber to do so
+no mo'."
+
+"Yes, mammy, Oh I wish you could stay with me I but you musn't: for
+mamma said I must be all alone."
+
+"Yes, darlin'; an' if you wants mo' supper, jes ring dis, an' mammy'll
+come."
+
+She placed a small silver bell on the table beside Vi, and with a
+tender, compassionate look at the tear-swollen face, went away.
+
+The young Travillas were sometimes denied dainties because of
+misconduct, but always allowed to satisfy their youthful appetites with
+an abundance of wholesome, nourishing food.
+
+Vi ate her supper with a keen relish, and found herself greatly
+comforted by it. How much one's views of life are brightened by a good
+comfortable meal that does not overtax the digestive organs. Vi suddenly
+remembered with a feeling of relief that the worst of her trouble--the
+confession--was over, and the punishment nearly so.
+
+It was only a little while till mamma came, took her on her lap, kissed
+and forgave her.
+
+"Mamma, I'm so, _so_ sorry for having disobeyed and grieved you!"
+whispered the child, weeping afresh: "for I do love you very, very much,
+my own mamma."
+
+"I know it, dearest; but I want you to be far more sorry for having
+disobeyed God, who loves you more, a great deal, than your parents do,
+and has given you every good thing you have."
+
+"Yes, mamma, I've asked God many times to forgive me for Jesus's sake,
+and I think he has."
+
+"Yes, if you asked with your heart, I am sure he has; for Jesus said,
+'Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in
+my name, he will give it you.'"
+
+There was a little pause, Vi nestling close in her mother's arms; then
+with a quiver in her voice, "Mamma," she sighed, "will you ever trust me
+again?"
+
+"Just the same as before, my child; because I believe you are truly
+sorry for your sin against God and against me."
+
+"Thank you, dear, dear mamma! oh I hope God will help me to keep from
+ever being naughty any more."
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Twenty-seventh.
+
+"Conscience makes cowards of us all."
+
+
+Meta was not in a cheerful or companionable mood during the walk that
+afternoon; the stings of conscience goaded her and she was haunted by
+the fear that Violet, so young and innocent, so utterly unused to
+concealments, would betray her share in the mischief done, even without
+intending to do so.
+
+"Meta, what's the matter with you?" Herbert asked at length; "you
+haven't spoken a pleasant word since we came out."
+
+"I'm not ill," was the laconic reply.
+
+"Then you must be in the sulks, and ought to have staid at home,"
+returned the plain-spoken brother.
+
+"Oh don't tease her," said little Elsie. "Perhaps she has a headache,
+and I know by myself that that makes one feel dull, and sometimes even
+cross."
+
+"You cross! I don't believe you ever were in your life," said Herbert.
+"I've never seen you any thing but pleasant as a May morning."
+
+"Don't quarrel, children, but help me to gather some of these lovely
+flowers to scatter over the graves up there on the hill," said Rosie
+Dinsmore.
+
+"Our graves," said Eddie, softly. "Yes I'd like to; but, Aunt Rosie, I
+don't believe we can get in."
+
+"Yes, we can," she answered. "Uncle Joe's up there at work, weeding and
+trimming the rosebushes."
+
+"Then I'll gather plenty of these beauties," said Eddie, stooping to
+pluck the lovely, many-hued blossoms that spangled the velvety grass at
+their feet in every direction.
+
+"How beautiful! how beautiful they are! and some of them so fragrant!"
+exclaimed Elsie, rapidly filling a pretty basket she carried in her
+hand. "How good God is to give us so many lovely things!"
+
+"Yes," returned Rosie, "it seems a pity to pluck them from their stems
+and make them wither and die; but there is such a profusion that what we
+take can hardly be missed."
+
+"And it's honoring our graves to scatter flowers over them: isn't it,
+Aunt Rosie?" Eddie asked.
+
+"Why do you say our graves? just as if you were already buried there,"
+laughed Herbert.
+
+"Come," said Rosie, "I think we have enough now."
+
+"O Aunt Rosie, down in that little dell yonder they are still thicker
+than here, and more beautiful, I think," exclaimed Elsie.
+
+"But we have enough now; your basket is full. We'll go to that dell as
+we come back, and gather some to take home to our mammas."
+
+"Oh yes, that will be best," Elsie said, with cheerful acquiescence.
+
+"I shall go now and get some worthy to honor the dead," said Meta,
+starting off in the direction of the dell.
+
+"Meta likes to show her independence," said Rosie, smiling; "we won't
+wait for her."
+
+They climbed the hill, pushed open the gate of the little enclosure and
+passed in; very quietly, for their youthful spirits were subdued by the
+solemn stillness of the place, and a feeling of awe crept over them at
+thought of the dead whose dust lay sleeping there.
+
+Silently they scattered the flowers over each lowly resting place,
+reserving the most beautiful for that of her who was best known to them
+all--the first who had borne the name of Elsie Dinsmore.
+
+"Our dear grandma!" whispered Elsie and Eddie, softly.
+
+"I can't help feeling as if she was some relation to me too," said
+Rosie, "because she was my sister's mother, and papa's wife."
+
+The breeze carried the words to the ear of Uncle Joe, who was at work on
+the farther side of the enclosure, and had not till that moment been
+aware of the vicinity of the young people.
+
+He rose and came hobbling toward them, pulling off his hat and bowing
+respectfully.
+
+"Dat's so, Miss Rosie, ef you lubs de Lord, like she did, de dear young
+Missus dat lays heyah; for don't de 'postle say ob de Lord's chillen dat
+dey's all one in Christ Jesus? all one, Miss Rosie: heirs ob God and
+joint heirs wid Christ."
+
+"Yes, Uncle Joe, that is true."
+
+"Ah, she was lubly an' lubbed de Master well," he went on, leaning upon
+his staff and gazing fixedly at the name engraved on the stone, "She's
+not dead, chillen: her soul's wid de Lord in dat land ob light an'
+glory, an' de body planted heyah till de mornin' ob de resurrection."
+
+"And then she will rise more beautiful than ever," said little Elsie.
+"Mamma has told me about it. 'The dead in Christ shall rise first.'"
+
+"Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them
+in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with
+the Lord," repeated Rosie.
+
+"Yes, Miss Rosie. Bressed hope." And Uncle Joe hobbled back to his work.
+
+"Here, look at these!" said Meta hurrying up, heated and out of breath
+with running, "Aren't they beauties?"
+
+She emptied her apron upon the grave as she spoke, then pulled out her
+handkerchief with a jerk, to wipe the perspiration from her face
+Something fell against the tombstone with a ringing, metallic sound.
+
+"A key! a door key!" cried Herbert, stooping to pick it up. "Why, Meta,
+what key is it? and what are you doing with it?"
+
+"I never heard that it had any particular name," she answered tartly,
+snatching it from him and restoring it to her pocket, while her cheeks
+flushed crimson.
+
+The others exchanged surprised glances, but said nothing.
+
+"But what door does it belong to? and what are you doing with it?"
+persisted Herbert.
+
+"Talk of the curiosity of women and girls!" sneered Meta: "men and boys
+have quite as much; but it's against my principles to gratify it."
+
+"Your principles!" laughed Herbert "You, prying, meddling Meta; talking
+about other people's curiosity! Well, that's a good one!"
+
+"You insulting boy! I'll tell mamma of you," retorted Meta, beginning to
+cry.
+
+"Ha! ha! I wish you would! tell her my remarks about the key, and she'll
+soon make you explain where it belongs, and how it came into your
+possession."
+
+At that Meta, deigning no reply, put her handkerchief to her eyes and
+hurried away toward the house.
+
+"There, she's gone to tell mamma," said Harry.
+
+"Not she," said Herbert, "she knows better; she'd only get reproved for
+telling tales, and be forced to tell all about that key. She's been at
+some mischief, I haven't a doubt: she's always prying, and meddling with
+what she's been told not to touch. Mamma says that's her besetting sin."
+
+"And what does she say is yours?" asked Rosie, looking him steadily in
+the eye.
+
+Herbert colored and turned away.
+
+His mother had told him more than once or twice, that he was quite too
+much disposed to domineer over, and reprove his younger brother and
+sisters.
+
+"Well, I don't care!" he muttered to himself, "'tisn't half so mean a
+fault as Meta's. I'm the oldest, and Harry and the girls ought to be
+willing to let me tell them of it when they go wrong."
+
+The key, which belonged to a closet in Mr. Lilburn's dressing-room,
+seemed to burn in Meta's pocket. She was frightened that Herbert and the
+others had seen it.
+
+"They all looked as if they knew something was wrong," she said to
+herself, "and to be sure what business could I have with a door-key.
+Dear me! why wasn't I more careful. But it's like 'murder will out;' or
+what the Bible says; 'Be sure your sin will find you out.'"
+
+She was afraid to meet her mother with the key in her possession, so
+took so circuitous a route to reach the house, and walked so slowly that
+the others were there some time before her.
+
+Her mother was on the veranda looking out for her. "Why, how late you
+are, Meta," she said. "Make haste to your room and have your hair and
+dress made neat; for the tea-bell will soon ring."
+
+"Yes, ma'am," and Meta flew into the house and up to her room, only too
+glad of an excuse for not stopping to be questioned.
+
+She was down again barely in time to take her seat at the table with the
+others. She glanced furtively at the faces of her mother, grandmother,
+and Aunt Elsie, and drew a sigh of relief as she perceived that they had
+evidently learned nothing yet of her misconduct.
+
+After tea she watched Mr. Lilburn's movements and was glad to see him
+step into the library, seat himself before the fire, and take up a book.
+
+"He's safe to stay there for awhile," she thought, "so fond of reading
+as he is," and ran up to her room for the key, which she had left there
+hidden under her pillow.
+
+She secured it unobserved and stole cautiously to the door of his
+dressing-room. She found it slightly ajar, pushed it a little wider
+open, crept in, gained the closet door, and was in the act of putting
+the key into the lock, when a deep groan, coming from within the closet,
+apparently, so startled her that she uttered a faint cry, and dropped
+the key on the floor; then a hollow voice said, "If you ever touch that
+again, I'll--"
+
+But Meta waited to hear no more; fear seemed to lend her wings, and she
+flew from the room in a panic of terror.
+
+"Ah ha! ah ha! um h'm! ah ha! you were at some mischief, no doubt, my
+lassie. 'The wicked flee when no man pursueth,' the good Book tells us,"
+said the occupant of the room, stepping out from the shadow of the
+window-curtain.
+
+He had laid down his book almost immediately, remembering that he had
+some letters to write, and had come up to his apartments in search of
+one he wished to answer.
+
+It was already dark, except for the light of a young moon, but by some
+oversight of the servants the lamps had not yet been lighted here.
+
+He was feeling about for matches, when hearing approaching footsteps he
+stepped behind the curtain and waited to see who the intruder was.
+
+He recognized Meta's form and movements, and sure that no legitimate
+errand had brought her there at that time, resolved to give her a fright.
+
+Tearing down the hall, Meta suddenly encountered her mother, who, coming
+up to her own apartments, had reached the head of the stairs just in
+time to witness Meta's exit from those of Mr. Lilburn.
+
+"Oh I'm so frightened! so frightened, mamma!" cried the child, throwing
+herself into her mother's arms.
+
+"As you richly deserve to be," said Mrs. Carrington, taking her by the
+hand and leading her into her dressing-room. "What were you doing in Mr.
+Lilburn's apartments?"
+
+Meta hung her head in silence.
+
+"Speak, Meta; I will have an answer," her mother said, with
+determination.
+
+"I wasn't doing any harm; only putting away something that belonged
+there."
+
+"What was it?"
+
+"A key."
+
+"Meddling again! prying even into the affairs of a strange gentleman!"
+groaned her mother. "Meta, what am I to do with you? this dreadful fault
+of yours mortifies me beyond everything. I feel like taking you back to
+Ashlands at once, and never allowing you to go from home at all; lest
+you should bring a life-long disgrace upon yourself and me."
+
+"Mother, I wasn't prying or meddling with Mr. Lilburn's affairs," said
+Meta, bursting into sobs and tears.
+
+"What were you doing there? tell me all about it without any more ado."
+
+Knowing that her mother was a determined woman, and seeing that there
+was now no escape from a full confession, Meta made it.
+
+Mrs. Carrington was much distressed.
+
+"Meta, you have robbed your Aunt Elsie, your Aunt Elsie who has always
+been so good, so kind to me and to you: and I can never make good her
+loss; never replace that plate."
+
+"Just that one tiny plate couldn't be worth so very much," muttered the
+offender.
+
+"Its intrinsic value was perhaps not very great," replied Mrs.
+Carrington, "but to my dear friend it was worth much as a memento of her
+dead mother. Meta, you shall not go with us to-morrow, but shall spend
+the day locked up in your own room at home."
+
+An excursion had been planned for the next day, in which the whole
+party, adults and children, were to have a share. They were to leave at
+an early hour in the morning, travel several miles by boat, and spend
+the day picnicking on a deserted plantation--one Meta had not yet seen,
+but had heard spoken of as a very lovely place.
+
+She had set her heart on going, and this decree of her mother came upon
+her as a great blow. She was very fond of being on the water, and of
+seeing new places, and had pictured to herself the delights of roaming
+over the large old house, which she had heard was still standing,
+peeping into the closets, pulling open drawers, perhaps discovering
+secret stairways and--oh delightful thought!--possibly coming upon some
+hidden treasure forgotten by the owners in their hasty flight.
+
+She wept bitterly, coaxed, pleaded, and made fair promises for the
+future, but all in vain. Her mother was firm.
+
+"You must stay at home, Meta," she said. "It grieves me to deprive you
+of so great a pleasure, but I must do what I can to help you to overcome
+this dreadful fault. You have chosen stolen pleasures at the expense of
+disobedience to me, and most ungrateful, wicked behavior toward my kind
+friend; and as a just and necessary punishment you must be deprived of
+the share you were to have had in the innocent enjoyments planned for
+to-morrow. You shall also make a full confession to your Aunt Elsie and
+ask her forgiveness."
+
+"I won't!" exclaimed Meta angrily; then catching the look of pained
+surprise in her mother's face, she ran to her and throwing her arms
+about her neck, "O mamma! mamma! forgive me!" she cried. "I can't bear
+to see you look so grieved: I will never say that again; I will do
+whatever you bid me."
+
+Mrs. Carrington kissed her child in silence, then taking her by the
+hand, "Come and let us have this painful business over," she said, and
+led the way to Mrs. Travilla's boudoir.
+
+Elsie had no reproaches for Meta, but kindly forgave her, and even
+requested that she might be permitted to share in the morrow's
+enjoyment, but Mrs. Carrington would not hear of it.
+
+
+
+
+Chapter Twenty-eighth.
+
+"Mature I'll court in her sequester'd haunts,
+By mountain, meadow, streamlet grove or cell."
+--SMOLLET.
+
+
+Mr. Dinsmore was pacing the front veranda, enjoying the cool, fresh
+morning air, when little feet came pattering through the hall and a
+sweet child voice hailed him with, "Good morning, my dear grandpa."
+
+"Ah, grandpa's little cricket, where were you last evening?" he asked,
+sitting down and taking her on his knee.
+
+It was his pet name for Vi, because she was so merry.
+
+The fair face flushed, but putting her arms about his neck, her lips to
+his ear, "I was in mamma's dressing-room, grandpa," she whispered. "I
+was 'bliged to stay there, 'cause I'd been naughty and disobeyed mamma."
+
+"Ah, I am sorry to hear that I but I hope you don't intend to disobey
+any more."
+
+"No, indeed, grandpa."
+
+"Are you considered good enough to go with us to-day?"
+
+"Yes, grandpa, mamma says I was punished yesterday, and I don't be
+punished twice for the same thing."
+
+"Mamma is quite right," he said, "and grandpa is very glad she allows
+you to go."
+
+"I don't think I deserve it, grandpa, but she's such a dear, kind
+mamma."
+
+"So she is, pet, and I hope you will always be a dear good daughter to
+her," said grandpa, holding the little face close to his.
+
+Meta was not allowed to come down to breakfast. Vi missed her from the
+table, and at prayers, and going up to Mrs. Carrington, asked, "Is Meta
+sick, Aunt Sophie?"
+
+"No, dear, but she has been too naughty to be with us. I have said she
+must stay in her own room all day."
+
+"And not go to the picnic? Oh please let her go, auntie!"
+
+The other children joined their entreaties to Vi's, but without avail;
+and with streaming eyes Meta, at her window, saw the embarkation, and
+watched the boats glide away till lost to view in the distance.
+
+"Too bad!" she sobbed, "it's too, too bad that I must stay here and
+learn long hard lessons while all the rest are having such a good time!"
+
+Then she thought remorsefully of her mother's sad look, as she bade her
+good-bye and said how sorry she was to be obliged to leave her behind,
+and as some atonement set to work diligently at her tasks.
+
+The weather was very fine, the sun shone, the birds filled the air with
+melody, and a delicious breeze danced in the tree-tops, rippled the
+water, and played with the brown and golden ringlets of little Elsie and
+Vi, and the flaxen curls of Daisy Carrington.
+
+The combined influences of the clear, pure air, the pleasant motion, as
+the rowers bent to their oars, and the lovely scenery meeting the eye at
+every turn, were not to be resisted; and all, old and young, were soon
+in gayest spirits. They sang songs, cracked jokes, told anecdotes, and
+were altogether a very merry company.
+
+After a delightful row of two hours or more the rounding of a point
+brought suddenly into view the place of their destination.
+
+The boats were made fast and the party stepped ashore, followed by the
+men servants bearing rugs and wraps and several large well-filled
+hampers of provisions.
+
+With joyous shouts the children ran hither and thither; the boys tumbled
+on the grass, the girls gathered great bouquets of the beautiful
+flowers, twisted them in their curls, and wore garlands for their hats.
+
+"Walk up to de house, ladies an' gentlemen; Massa an' Missus not at home
+now, but be berry glad to see you when dey gets back," said a pleasant
+voice close at hand.
+
+All but Mr. Lilburn looked about for the speaker, wondered at seeing no
+one, then laughed at themselves for being so often and so easily
+deceived.
+
+"Suppose we accept the invitation," said Mr. Travilla, leading the way.
+
+The two old ladies preferred a seat under a wide-spreading tree on the
+lawn; but the others accompanied him in a tour of the deserted mansion
+already falling rapidly to decay.
+
+They climbed the creaking stairs, passed along the silent corridors,
+looked into the empty rooms, and out of the broken windows upon the
+flower gardens, once trim and gay, now choked with rubbish, and
+overgrown with weeds, and sighed over the desolations of war.
+
+Some of the lower rooms were still in a pretty good state of
+preservation, and in one of these the servants were directed to build
+a fire and prepare tea and coffee.
+
+Plenty of dry branches strewed the ground in a bit of woods but a few
+rods distant. Some of these were quickly gathered and a brightly blazing
+fire presently crackled upon the hearth and roared up the wide chimney.
+
+Leaving the house, which in its loneliness and dilapidation inspired
+only feelings of sadness and gloom, our party wandered over the
+grounds, still beautiful even in their forlornly neglected state.
+
+The domain was extensive, and the older boys having taken an opposite
+direction from their parents, were presently out of their sight and
+hearing, the house being directly between. Uncle Joe, however, was with
+the lads, so no anxiety was felt for their safety.
+
+Wandering on, they came to a stream of limpid water flowing between high
+grassy banks, and spanned by a little rustic bridge.
+
+"Let's cross over," said Herbert, "that's such a pretty bridge, and it
+looks lovely on the other side."
+
+"No, no, 'tain't safe, boys, don't you go for to try it," exclaimed
+Uncle Joe.
+
+"Pooh! what do you know about it?" returned Herbert, who always had
+great confidence in his own opinion. "If it won't bear us all at once,
+it certainly will one at a time. What do you say, Ed?"
+
+"I think Uncle Joe can judge better whether it's safe than little boys
+like us."
+
+"Don't you believe it: his eyes are getting old and he can't see half so
+well as you or I."
+
+"I kin see dat some ob de planks is gone, Marse Herbert; an' de ole
+timbahs looks shaky."
+
+"Shaky! nonsense! they'll not shake under my weight, and I'm going to
+cross."
+
+"Now, Herbie, don't you do it," said his brother. "You know mamma
+wouldn't allow it if she was here."
+
+"'Twon't be disobedience though; as she isn't here, and never has
+forbidden me to go on that bridge," persisted Herbert.
+
+"Mamma and papa say that truly obedient children don't do what they know
+their parents would forbid if they were present," said Eddie.
+
+"I say nobody but a coward would be afraid to venture on that bridge,"
+said Herbert, ignoring Eddie's last remark. "Suppose it should break and
+let you fall! the worst would be a ducking."
+
+"De watah's deep, Marse Herbert, and you might git drownded!" said Uncle
+Joe. "Or maybe some ob de timbahs fall on you an' break yo' leg or yo'
+back."
+
+They were now close to the bridge.
+
+"It's very high up above the water," said Harry, "and a good many boards
+are off: I'd be afraid to go on it."
+
+"Coward!" sneered his brother. "Are you afraid too, Ed?"
+
+"Yes, I'm afraid to disobey my father; because that's disobeying God."
+
+"Did your father ever say a word about not going on this bridge?"
+
+"No; but he's told me never to run into danger needlessly; that is when
+there's nothing to be gained by it for myself or anybody else."
+
+"Before I'd be such a coward!" muttered Herbert, deliberately walking on
+to the bridge.
+
+The other two boys watched his movements in trembling, breathless
+silence, while Uncle Joe began looking about for some means of rescue in
+case of accident.
+
+Herbert picked his way carefully over the half-rotten timbers till he
+had gained the middle of the bridge, then stopped, looked back at his
+companions and pulling off his cap, waved it around his head, "Hurrah!
+here I am: who's afraid? who was right this time?"
+
+Then leaning over the low railing, "Oh!" he cried, "you ought just to see
+the fish! splendid big fellows. Come on, boys, and look at 'em!"
+
+But at that instant the treacherous railing gave way with a loud crack,
+and with a wild scream for help, over he went, headforemost, falling
+with a sudden plunge into the water and disappearing at once beneath the
+surface.
+
+"Oh he'll drown! he'll drown!" shrieked Harry, wringing his hands, while
+Eddie echoed the cry for help.
+
+"Run to de house, Marse Ed, an' fotch some ob de boys to git him out,"
+said Uncle Joe, hurrying to the edge of the stream with an old
+fishing-rod he had found lying among the weeds on its bank.
+
+But a dark object sprang past him, plunged into the stream, and as
+Herbert rose to the surface, seized him by the coat-collar, and so
+holding his head above water, swam with him to the shore.
+
+"Good Bruno! brave fellow! good dog!" said a voice near at hand, and
+turning to look for the speaker, Uncle Joe found Mr. Daly standing by
+his side.
+
+Leaving his gayer companions, the minister had wandered away, book in
+hand, to this sequestered spot. Together he and Uncle Joe assisted the
+dog to drag Herbert up the bank, and laid him on the grass.
+
+The fall had stunned the boy, but now consciousness returned. "I'm not
+hurt," he said, opening his eyes. "But don't tell mother: she'd be
+frightened half to death."
+
+"We'll save her as much as we can; and I hope you've learned a lesson,
+young sir, and will not be so foolhardy another time," said Mr. Daly.
+
+"P'raps he'll tink ole folks not such fools, nex' time," remarked Uncle
+Joe. "Bless de Lord dat he didn't get drownded!"
+
+The men and boys came running from the house, bringing cloaks and shawls
+to wrap about the dripping boy. They would have carried him back with
+them, but he stoutly resisted, declaring himself quite as able to walk
+as anybody.
+
+"Let him do so, the exercise will help to prevent his taking cold
+provided he is well wrapped up;" said Mr. Daly, throwing a cloak over
+the lad's shoulders and folding it carefully about him.
+
+"Ill news flies fast," says the proverb. Mrs. Carrington met them upon
+the threshold, pale and trembling with affright. She clasped her boy in
+her arms with a heart too full for utterance.
+
+"Never mind, mother," he said, "I've only had a ducking, that's all."
+
+"But it may not be all: you may get your death of cold," she said,
+"I've no dry clothes for you here."
+
+By this time the whole party had hurried to the spot.
+
+"Here's a good fire; suppose we hang him up to dry before it," said old
+Mr. Dinsmore with a grim smile.
+
+"His clothes rather; rolling him up in cloaks and shawls in the
+meantime," suggested Herbert's grandmother. "Let us ladies go back to
+the lawn, and leave his uncle to oversee the business."
+
+Herbert had spoiled his holiday so far as the remainder of the visit to
+this old estate was concerned: he could not join the others at the feast
+presently spread under the trees on the lawn, or in the sports that
+followed; but had to pass the time lying idly on a pallet beside the
+fire, with nothing to entertain him but his own thoughts and watching
+the servants, until, their work done, they too wandered away in search
+of amusement.
+
+Most of the afternoon was spent by the gentlemen in fishing in that same
+stream into which Herbert's folly and self-conceit had plunged him.
+
+Eddie had his own little fishing-rod, and with it in his hand sat on a
+log beside his father, a little apart from the rest, patiently waiting
+for the fish to bite. Mr. Travilla had thrown several out upon the
+grass, but Eddie's bait did not seem to attract a single one.
+
+He began to grow weary of sitting still and silent, and creeping closer
+to his father whispered, "Papa, I'm tired, and I want to ask you
+something. Do you think the fish will hear if I speak low?"
+
+"Perhaps not; you may try it if you like," returned Mr. Travilla,
+looking somewhat amused.
+
+"Thank you, papa. Well, Herbert said nobody but a coward would be afraid
+to go on that bridge. Do you think he was right, papa?"
+
+"No, my boy; but if you had gone upon it to avoid being laughed at or
+called a coward, I should say you showed a great lack of true courage.
+He is a brave man or boy who dares to do right without regard to
+consequences."
+
+"But, papa, if you'd been there and said I might if I wanted to?"
+
+"Hardly a supposable case, my son."
+
+"Well, if I'd been a man and could do as I chose?"
+
+"Men have no more right to do as they please than boys; they must obey
+God. If his will is theirs, they may do as they please, just as you may
+if it is your pleasure to be good and obedient."
+
+"Papa, I don't understand. Does God say we must not go into dangerous
+places?"
+
+"He says, 'Thou shalt not kill;' we have no right to kill ourselves, or
+to run the risk of doing so merely for amusement or to be considered
+brave or dexterous."
+
+"But if somebody needs us to do it to save them from being hurt or
+killed, papa?"
+
+"Then it becomes quite a different matter: it is brave, generous, and
+right to risk our own life or limbs to save those of others."
+
+"Then I may do it, papa?"
+
+"Yes, my son; Jesus laid down his life to save others, and in all things
+he is to be our example."
+
+A hand was laid lightly on the shoulder of each, and a sweet voice said,
+"May my boy heed his father's instructions in this and in every thing
+else."
+
+"Wife!" Mr. Travilla said, turning to look up into the fair face bent
+over them.
+
+"Mamma, dear mamma, I do mean to," said Eddie.
+
+"Is it not time to go home?" she asked. "The little ones are growing
+weary."
+
+"Yes, the sun is getting low."
+
+In a few moments the whole party had reembarked; in less exuberant
+spirits than in the morning, yet perhaps not less happy: little disposed
+to talk, but with hearts filled with a quiet, peaceful content.
+
+Viamede was reached without accident, a bountiful supper awaiting them
+there partaken of with keen appetites, and the little ones went gladly
+to bed.
+
+Returning from the nursery to the drawing-room, Elsie found her namesake
+daughter sitting apart in a bay window, silently gazing out over the
+beautiful landscape sleeping in the moonlight.
+
+She looked up with a smile as her mother took a seat by her side and
+passed an arm about her waist.
+
+"Isn't it lovely, mamma? see how the waters of our lakelet shine in the
+moonbeams like molten silver! and the fields, the groves, the hills! how
+charming they look in the soft light."
+
+"Yes, darling: and that was what you were thinking of, sitting here
+alone?"
+
+"Yes, mamma; and of how good God is to us to give us this lovely home
+and dear, kind father and mother to take care of us. It is always so
+sweet to come back to my home when I've been away. I was enjoying it all
+the way coming in the boat to-night; that and thinking of the glad time
+when we shall all be gathered into the lovelier home Jesus is preparing
+for us."
+
+"God grant we may!" said the mother, with emotion, "it is my heart's
+desire and prayer to God for all my dear ones, especially my children.
+'Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart
+of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.'"
+
+
+
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