THE

DISMAL SWAMP

AND

LAKE DRUMMOND. 

EARLY RECOLLECTIONS. 

VIVID PORTRAYAL OF AMUSING SCENES. 

BY

ROBT. ARNOLD. 

SUFFOLK, VA. 

NORFOLK, VA. GREEN, BURKE & GREGORY, PRINTERS. 1888. 

Entered according to act of Congress in the year 1888, by R. Arnold, in the office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington. 

INTRODUCTION

This little volume is launched upon the sea of public favor. If itshould stem the tide of criticism and reach a haven, my object in thewriting of it will be accomplished. Being partially blind andphysically unable to labor, I have adopted this as a means by which Imight gain an honest assistance, a double object presented itself:

1st. That I might give to its readers some idea of the Dismal Swampand Lake Drummond as they were and as they now are. 

2d. That I may from the sale of my book receive an amount that willplace me beyond penury. The work will contain some interestingincidents, and in many instances will give the real names of personsnow living who will be acquainted with the subject of which I write. Having said this much introductory of my book, I will now proceed withmy task. 

When I determined to indite the lines which compose this volume, Ihad, as has been stated, a double purpose in view. I thought I couldnot employ a portion of my leisure hours more profitably, certainlynot more pleasantly, than by recounting some of the scenes, incidentsand associations which carries my mind back to the days of "Auld LangSyne. " What more natural, then, than that my thoughts should revert tothe friend of my early manhood--one who, by the uprightness of hischaracter, geniality of his disposition, the chivalric impulses of hisnature, deserves, as it is my greatest pleasure to accord, thededication of this little volume; and I have said all when I mentionthe name of my esteemed friend Robert Riddick, Esq. , of Suffolk, Va. 

 Suffolk, Va. , January 1, 1888. THE AUTHOR. 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER PAGE

I. DESCRIPTION AND SITUATION OF THE SWAMP--WASHINGTON THE OWNER. 5

II. TO GROW UP AGAIN IN A JUNGLE. 8

III. HEALTHFULNESS AT THE SWAMP. 10

IV. ORIGIN OF THE LAKE DISCUSSED. 16

V. THE VISIT OF TOM. MOORE, AS RELATED BY TONY. 20

VI. PORTE CRAYON'S VISIT, INCIDENTS, ETC. 22

VII. MANY CHANGES HAVE TAKEN PLACE. 30

VIII. THE FUTURE FOR THE DISMAL SWAMP. 35

IX. SUFFOLK AND EARLY DAYS. 45

X. ENTERPRISE AND PROSPERITY. 50

XI. THE OLD BRICK CHURCH AT BENN'S--SUFFOLK'S FIRST RAILROAD, ETC. 52

XII. BEAR HUNTING IN THE DISMAL SWAMP--COLONEL GODFREY'S VISIT TO SOUTHAMPTON. 56

XIII. THE ADVENTURES OF SMITH, JONES AND BROWN--JONES, HEARING THAT A SNAKE IS IN THE BOAT, JUMPS INTO THE CANAL. 76

CHAPTER I. 

DESCRIPTION AND SITUATION OF THE SWAMP--WASHINGTON THE OWNER. 

The Dismal Swamp, of which but little is known, is a large body ofdense woods, being situated and laying in Nansemond county, Virginia, and the county of Gates, in North Carolina. It contains, by survey, about 100, 000 acres. I have been told by H. E. Smith, Esq. , our countytreasurer, that 45, 000 acres were listed in the county of Nansemond. It is thickly set with juniper, cypress and other timber, which makesit very valuable. It came into the possession of General GeorgeWashington, and after the Revolutionary War a company known as theDismal Swamp Land Company was formed, and arrangements made tomanufacture the timber; hands were put in the Swamp and it wasregularly opened. A large quantity of timber was manufactured, andWashington found it necessary to find some outlet for it, which couldonly be done by a canal or ditch. A suitable place was soon found, andWashington commenced in person to survey the route known as theWashington Ditch. He commenced at the northwest of the Lake, on landsknown as "Soldiers' Hope, " belonging to the estate of Col. JosiahRiddick, deceased, and running west to what is called the "ReeseFarm, " on the Edenton road, about seven miles from Suffolk. A largequantity of juniper timber was brought through this ditch, which washauled to the Nansemond river for shipment. We were told by one of theagents of the company, W. S. Riddick, Esq. , that at one time all thebusiness of the company was transacted at the "Reese Farm, " that beingthe point at which the Ditch ended. This mode of getting the lumber tomarket was found too slow and tedious, and a more direct way sought. How long the Washington Ditch was used for bringing out the timber, wehave never heard. That will make no difference, for after the JerichoCanal was cut the Ditch was abandoned, and a direct communicationopened to Nansemond river by the way of Shingle creek. Millions offeet of timber was shipped annually. The shareholders at that timewere few in number, and their profits were very large. The companyconsisted of a president, agent and inspector, he living at or nearSuffolk, and had charge of the work in the Swamp. He employed thehands, furnished all the supplies, sold the lumber, received allmonies, and paid all bills. He was, in fact, the principal officer ofthe company. At a stated period, annually, a meeting would be held fora general settlement of the year's accounts. The president wouldpreside, and as there were no banks at that time in which to depositmoney, the agent would have a very large amount to turn over to thestockholders. That place is no longer of much value to its owners, asit is a source of but little revenue. The shares have been dividedand sub-divided, until some of its holders get barely enough to paythe postage on a letter. Ex-Senator Wm. Mahone is probably the largestshareholder. The Swamp has been leased to Jno. L. Roper, Esq. , ofNorfolk, for several years, during which he has had employed a largenumber of hands, consequently most of the valuable timber has been cutoff. When this Swamp was first opened, it became a harbor and saferefuge for runaway slaves, and when one reached that dense place, unless he was betrayed, it would be a matter of impossibility to catchhim. Long before the war you could not take up a newspaper publishedin this part of the State but what you would see several cuts of anegro absconding with a stick on his shoulder and a pack on one end ofit, with the following advertisement:

 "Notice! $500 Reward! Ran away from the subscriber, on the night of June 18th, my negro man, Simon. He had on, when last seen, a pair of light pants, with a black patch on the seat of the same. He is slue-footed, knock-kneed, and bends over a little when walking. He may be making his way to the Dismal Swamp. I will pay the above reward for his apprehension, or his lodgment in some jail, so that I can get him again. 

 "JOE JONES. "

I knew of an instance just before the late war where a gentleman bythe name of Augustus Holly, Bertie county, N. C. , had a slave to runaway, who was known to be a desperate character. He knew that he hadgone to the Dismal Swamp, and to get him, his master offered a rewardof $1, 000 for his apprehension, dead or alive. The person who caughthim is still living. I saw the negro when he was brought to Suffolkand lodged in jail. He had been shot at several times, but was littlehurt. He had on a coat that was impervious to shot, it being thicklywadded with turkey feathers. Small shot were the only kind used toshoot runaway slaves, and it was very seldom the case that any everpenetrated far enough to injure. I know three persons now living whowere runaway slave catchers, but the late war stripped them of theiroccupation. They were courageous and men of nerve. 

CHAPTER II. 

TO GROW UP AGAIN IN A JUNGLE. 

But little work is now done in the Dismal Swamp, and it will againsoon become a howling wilderness, a hiding place for the bears, wild-cats, snakes and everything hideous. The bamboo and rattan willrule supreme, and, like the banyan tree, will form an impenetrablejungle. But a few years will be required for its accomplishment, andwithout an axe you could not move a foot. 

G. P. R. James, the British Consul, who was stationed at Norfolk whenhe wrote his novel entitled "The Old Dominion, " and which was ahistory of "Nat Turner's War, " (as it is called) in Southamptoncounty, states that a young mother, with her infant, fled to theDismal Swamp for safety. Mr. James must have drawn heavily on hisimagination for a figure, to make the situation more horrible. I donot think any mother with an infant would flee to such a wild anddesolate place as the Dismal Swamp, but, on the contrary, would keepfar away. 

I could relate many interesting stories that I have heard about theSwamp, but as I am writing from my own observation, will discard allsuch from my task. It is true that some very mysterious things havebeen seen at various times. I will, digressing a little from my story, relate one circumstance that was told me by a gentlemen who lived inSuffolk and was stopping at Lake Drummond Hotel, situated near thelake shore, and which was visited at that time by many persons fromNew York and other places. This gentleman remarked to me that he wasstanding near the Lake one morning, and happening to look across theLake, to his great astonishment, saw come out of the woods, at a pointso thick with reeds, bamboo and rattan, that you could not get threefeet from the shore, a beautiful, finely-dressed lady; she walked outon a log about twenty feet into the Lake, with a fishing pole in herhand. I saw her bait her hook and throw it out into the Lake. He saidhe could also tell the color of the ribbon on her bonnet. He watchedthe same place every day for several days, and at the same hour eachday the lady appeared as before. I told my friend that he must havebeen laboring under an optical delusion at the time, as the Lake wasfive miles wide at that place, and that it was impossible for one todistinguish objects at so great a distance with the naked eye. Hereplied that every part of the story was true. 

On another occasion, a gentleman, now living in Suffolk, told me thathe was out hunting in the Swamp, and chancing to look to the front sawsnakes coming from every direction, and quite near him he saw a lumpof them that looked to be as large as a barrel. He supposed that theremust have been as many as five hundred, all so interwoven that theylooked like a ball of snakes. He said he was too close on them toshoot, so stepping back, he fired both barrels of his gun at thebunch. An untangling at once commenced, and he said, "consarned if heever saw so many snakes before. " Upon going to the place where he hadshot, he found 150 snakes dead, and as many more wounded. He carriedsome of the largest of the dead out, procured a ten-foot rod, and onmeasuring found one that measured twenty-three feet. I have relatedthis snake story several times, but was always very particular to knowthat the gentleman who told me was at some other place. 

CHAPTER III. 

HEALTHFULNESS AT THE SWAMP. 

Although the Dismal Swamp is so uninviting, it is one of thehealthiest places in the United States. Death from disease has neverbeen known in that place, and it is impossible to tell what age onewould attain if they would take up their abode in it. I have been toldthat instances were known where persons were found who were so oldthat they had moss growing on their backs, and who could give no ideaof their age. I once knew a family by the name of Draper, who lived inthe Swamp near the edge of the Lake. What became of them I do notknow; the spot where the house stood now forms a part of the Lake. Theconstant washing of the western shore causes rapid encroachments, andit is only a question of time when it will reach the high lands. It isin the Dismal Swamp that Lake Drummond was discovered, by whom I donot know, but is said to have been found by a man named Drummond, whose name it bears; that will make no difference with me, thequestion is, how came it there? Was it a freak of nature, or was itcaused by warring of the elements, is a question for the considerationof those who visit it? That it was the effect of fire caused bylightning setting fire to the turf, or some dead tree, there can be nodoubt. At what time in the Christian era this eventful period was, itis not, nor never will be, known. Suffice it to say, that it was foundand is the wonder and admiration of all that have ever visited it. Itis a broad sheet of water, covering an area of five by seven miles, and is surrounded by a dense growth of woods, so thick that you cannotsee the Lake until you are within a few feet of it. Many visitors havevisited it, all of whom were struck with astonishment at the sight. It is ten miles southeast of Suffolk. I will now relate some of theadventures of my first trip. It was on a bright morning, early in themonth of May, 1832, that my father and I started for "Lake Drummond, "or the Lake of the "Dismal Swamp, " as some call it; and as allpreparations had been made the night before, there was nothing toprevent us from making an early start. The idea of my going to theLake had driven sleep from my eyes, and I was ready to start at anytime; but it was not until the grey dawn of day that my father beganto stir. He was soon ready, and providing himself with fishing poles, bait, lunch, and such other articles as were necessary for a two orthree days' fishing excursion, then taking our leave of my mother andthe other members of the family, we were off. The Portsmouth andRoanoke railroad (now the Seaboard and Roanoke railroad) was at thattime graded as far as Suffolk. We followed the line of it as far as aplace known as Peter Jones, where we left it and passed through "BullField, " to the company's mill, which is but a short distance from thebasin of the Canal, at which place we were to take a skiff for theLake. On arriving at the basin we found Mr. James Woodward, grandfather of Hersey Woodward, Esq. , of Suffolk, Va. He was inspectorof lumber for the "Dismal Swamp Land Company, " and was on his way tothe Lake. The drivers of the skiff, Tony Nelson and Jim Brown, wereready, and it being now about sunrise, Mr. Woodward and my father soongot their traps aboard, then lifting me in, all was ready. Thedrivers adjusted their poles and away we went, all being a novelty tome, who had never before been in a boat on water. Everything appearedvery strange, being but a very small boy as I was. Nothing happened toimpede our progress, and in about five hours from the time of startingwe arrived at the Lake. Then it was that our young soul began tothrill with joy, for we were at the Lake and would soon launch on itsbroad bosom. The gates of the Lock were opened and the skiff shovedin, then the first gate being closed behind us another gate opened. The water rushed in and soon our boat was on a level with the Lake. The drivers then took up the oars and were ready to cross to Jack'sLanding, which was on the opposite side of the Lake. It being veryrough at the time, some fears were expressed, but Mr. Woodward, whowas well acquainted with the situation, said that he did not apprehendany danger, and the skiff was put in motion. As I said before, it wasvery rough, and when we had gotten about half-way across, it becamemore so: the waves began to break over the skiff and all thought thatit would fill. Fortunately, two large wooden shovels or scoops werefound in the skiff, and with them Mr. Woodward and my father kept herfree, "Tony" and "Jim, " in the meantime, plying their oars manfully. We soon arrived at "Jack's Landing, " and disembarking proceeded toJack's camp, which was but a short distance away, and known to everyperson who had ever visited the Lake. On our arrival the pious Mr. Woodward offered up to the Great Ruler of wind and water a prayer forour safe deliverance from a watery grave. As we had not partaken ofany nourishment since early morning, it was proposed that we shouldeat something, which was readily agreed to, and in a short time we hadgotten through that part of our work, whereupon my father said hewould try his luck fishing. So taking a small boat, which he found at"Jack's Landing, " placing me in it and then getting in himself, hestarted for some good place to commence. He fished awhile at the"Forked Gum" without any success; moved to the "Stooping Pine" with alike result. He began to think that it was the wrong moon, and leavingthat place he paddled for the "Three Cypresses, " where he caught somevery fine fish. It was now getting late in the afternoon, and as heexpected to make an early start the next morning, he thought it bestto return to the camp, heading his boat in that direction he soonreached the landing: having but a short distance to walk, we were notlong in reaching it. Mr. Woodward had gone out to inspect some lumberand it was getting time for his return. We did not have long to wait. He soon came in, and looking at my father's "Fish Gourd, " remarked:"Neddie, you have had fine sport; where did you catch so many suchlarge Frenchmen?" "Friend Jimmy, " my father replied, "when I startedmy first experiment was at the 'Forked Gum, ' and I did not get anibble. I left it and stopped at the 'Stooping Pine' with the samesuccess. I began to think that I was fishing on the wrong moon. " "Oh!Neddie, " rejoined Mr. Woodward, "there is nothing in the phases ofthe moon. You are not a good fisherman. I can take you to the 'ForkedGum' and 'Stooping Pine' and astonish you. " "After leaving the'Stooping Pine, '" continued my father, "I made for the 'ThreeCypresses, ' and it was there that I caught these fine perch. ""Neddie, " said Mr. Woodward, "you are not such a bad fisherman afterall. Your success would do credit to the best. " My father proposed toMr. W. That we should have some of the fish cleaned and cooked forsupper. The necessary order being given, in a short time a sufficientnumber were ready for the pan. A hot fire was made of juniper logs, and frying of fish commenced. In a short time we were told to get ourshingles ready, that being the only kind of plate used in the "DismalSwamp. " And it is a well known fact that fish eat sweeter off ashingle than any plate on which it can be placed. The fish were veryfine and greatly enjoyed by all. 

Supper being disposed of, a general conversation was indulged in aboutthe Lake and Swamp, but no one present could tell anythingsatisfactory about the origin of the Lake. One idea was announced andthen another, throwing but little light upon the subject. "Tony" and"Jim, " the drivers of the skiff, were sitting near the embers nodding, when Mr. Woodward, to have a little fun, said: "Tony, what is youropinion of the origin of the Lake?"

CHAPTER IV. 

ORIGIN OF THE LAKE DISCUSSED. 

Old Uncle "Tony" made a rake in the embers with his pipe and said:"Yas, sar; my 'pinion 'bout dat place, boss, am dat it was dug out. "Here Uncle Jim broke in. "What de matter wid you, Tony? How manyniggers do you 'spose 'twould take tu dig a hole big nuff tu hole alldat water?" "Dats a fac, Jim, " cried Uncle Tony, "I forgot 'bout dewater. "

"Well, Jim, " queried Mr. Woodward, "how do you account for it?" "MarseJames, " Uncle Jim sagely replied, "it 'pears to me dat somebody gotunder de groun' and dig de dirt out and de water mashed it down. "

"Jim, " exclaimed Tony, "you am de biggist fool dat I ebber seed. How'sanybody gwine tu git under de groun' to dig. Whar's dey gwine tu putde dirt, and whar is de water to cum fum to mash it down?" Yah, yah, yah. "Go 'way nigger, I 'spec you bin mole huntin'. " "Dat am fac', Tony, I didn't tink 'bout dat, " said Uncle Jim, with an apologetic andcrestfallen air. Here Tony gave his pipe another rake in the embers, took a few puffs, and fell off his log fast asleep. 

It was now getting late, and preparations were being made to put me tobed, which was done by placing some hay on the floor of the camp andspreading some bed clothing which we had brought along. The bed wassoon ready, and I was snugly placed upon it, although I could not goto sleep, knowing that we were to go out early in the morning to seethe sun rise on the Lake. I was called at the first dawn of day andtold to get up: we soon had eaten our breakfast and everything madeready to leave for the Lake. We soon reached the landing, finding ourboat ready. My father placed me in and getting in himself took up hispaddle and shoved off for a position in the Lake where we might seethe great Orb of Day bathe his face in the cloudy water of "LakeDrummond. " We did not have to wait long. By the glow of light thatbegan to show just under the eastern horizon, we were satisfied thatour anticipations would soon be realized. 

The morning was misty, just enough so as to hide the dense woods whichstood on the eastern shore of the Lake, and at the same time served asa back ground to the grand display of nature, and make it appear as ifthe sun actually came up out of the water as it were. The mist infront was dispelled, and the rays of sun playing on the rippling waterwould cause you to think that it was one vast cluster of diamonds. Thesight was grand beyond my power to describe it, and I never expect tobehold such a scene again. Everything was lovely on that Maymorning--the balmy breeze, the air filled with perfume of the wildflowers, which grew around the Lake: birds carrolled forth sweet musicas they flitted from limb to limb; squirrels could be seen and heardchattering among the trees. The shore of the Lake was spread with avelvety green, and you would think that nature had done her best tomake that morning lovely. Meditating on the beauty and grandeur thatsurrounded us on the broad bosom of the Lake, suddenly we wereawakened from our reverie by the hoarse growl and lapping of thebears, and horrid cries of the wild cats, which would cause the bloodto curdle in the veins. Thus with the sweet some sour always will befound. Occasionally, at the Lake, a noble stag will emerge from thetrees, showing a stately head of horns, approach to the water andsurvey the prospect, then plunge in the Lake to swim to the othershore. He settles very low, and if you did not know you would take itfor a floating bush. They are frequently caught when attempting tocross the Lake. Having reached a good place for fishing, my fatherstopped at the place known as the "Apple Trees, " where he caught somevery pretty fish. His bait getting scarce, he moved around the Lake to"Draper's Landing. " Running the bow of the canoe upon the wharf log, which was nearly on a level with the water, left her, without tying, to look for some angle worms. It being rough on the Lake at the time, the rolling of the waves caused the boat to work off, and before hecould return she had drifted well out on the broad waters of the Lake. We were too small to realize our situation. Not knowing how to paddle, we were left to the mercy of the waves. On the return of my father, seeing the great peril I was in, required but a single thought for himto know what to do. Being a good swimmer he boldly plunged into thewater, reached the boat and swimming towed it to the shore. Had he notreturned in time, our fate could not have been told. We would havebeen capsized in the Lake and drowned, or have drifted ashore to bedevoured by bears and other wild animals, or stung to death by thevenomous reptiles that hung in clusters on trees around the shores ofthe Lake. This accident put an end to fishing for that day. My fatherwas wet, and not having a change of clothing with him, proceeded tothe camp, so that he could dry. We soon arrived at Jack's Landing, andon reaching the camp found Mr. Woodward, who remarked: "What is thematter, Neddie? Did a big fish pull you overboard?" He saw that myfather was wet, and ordered a fire to be made, so that he could dryhis clothes. A hot fire was soon made of juniper logs, and he was notlong in drying. 

Feeling no inconvenience from his ablution, and drinking a cup of hotcoffee, he related the circumstances as detailed above. "Well, Neddie;" said Mr. W. , "you should at once return thanks to the Giverof all Good for this miraculous escape. " The pious Mr. Woodward joinedwith him. It was now nearly dark, and preparations were made to havesupper. When at the Lake it is expected that you will catch fishenough upon which to subsist, and my father being a good hand atangling, always had a good supply, and no one on the trip wanted forfish. The supper, which consisted of fish, bread and hot coffee, wassoon ready. About this time Tony and Jim, who had been loading theirskiff at the landing, returned to the camp, and taking their seats atthe ends of some juniper logs, were soon fast asleep. We ate oursupper and were then ready for any kind of story that was told. 

CHAPTER V. 

THE VISIT OF TOM. MOORE, AS RELATED BY TONY. 

As Uncle Tony was, perhaps, the oldest person, and knew more about theLake than any person then engaged at it, he was awakened, and Mr. Woodward said: "Uncle Tony, I want you to tell us about the man whomyou said you brought to the Lake in 1821. " "Who tole you 'bout datboss?" inquired Uncle Tony, with an air of conscious pride. "It willmake no difference, go on and tell us, " returned Mr. Woodward. Tonyscratched his head, then putting some tobacco in his pipe, took outhis flint and steel (matches not being known in the swamp at thatday, ) and soon had fire enough to light his pipe. Drawing on it enoughto get his "nigger head" tobacco to burn, and fixing himself on theend of his log, he commenced: "Boss, I shall nebber forgit dat time. One mornin' as I war gittin' my skiff ready to go to de Lake, a mitynice lookin' man cum up to me an' said: 'Buck, ar' you de man dat willcarry me to de Lake ob de Dismal Swamp, for which I will pay you onepound?' De gemman talked so putty, dat I tole him to git in my skiff, an' I wud carry him to de Lake. I notice' dat he kep' writin' all deway. When I got to de horse camps I stopped to get somfin to eat. Hecum outen de skiff an' ax me what I stop for. I tole him I stop to eatsome meat an' bread. He ax me if I wud hav' a drink. I tuk off my hatan' tole him dat I wud be much obleged to him for it. He foched asilber jug, wid a silber cup for a stopper, and said: 'My man, dis isIrish whiskey. I brung it all de way from home. ' He tole me dat hisname was Thomas Moore, an' dat he cum fom 'way ober yonder--I dunforgot de name of de place--an' was gwine to de Lake to write 'bout aspirit dat is seed dar paddlin' a kunnue. De har 'gin tu rise on myhed an' I ax him ef dat was a fac'. He sed dat he was told so inNorfolk. It was gin out dar dat a mity putty gal had loss hersweethart, an' had dun gone crazy, an' had gone to de Lake ob deDismal Swamp an' drown herself, an' dat she ken be seen ebery night byde lite ob some sort ob fli. " "I tell you, boss, " continued the oldman, "when he tole me 'bout dat gal paddlin' dat bote on de Lake atnite, I diden' want to go any furder wid him, but he tole me dar wudbe no danger. I cud not see hur, so I carrid him on to de Lake. He ritlike de gal had run away an' had been drowned rite here. I shal nebberforget dat gentman. I fotch him back an' he gin me de poun', which warfive dollars, an' he lef' for Norfolk, bein' mitey glad dat I hadcarrid him to de Lake. "

"Tony, did he tell you anything about his trip?" inquired Mr. Woodward. 

"Yas, sar, " replied the old man. "He tole me dat he had trabbled an'seen sites, but dat he nebber was so 'stonish befo'; he did not spec'to see at de end ob de kunel such a putty place; an' dat I wud hearsom time what he was gwine tu say 'bout it. " "That was Tom Moore, theIrish poet, " said Mr. W. "De who?" interrupted Tony. "He came to thiscountry, " continued Mr. W. "to visit the Lake, as being one of thewonders of nature, and you were fortunate in having to wait on such adistinguished person. "

Tom Moore, after he had arrived in this country, no doubt heard of theLake of the Dismal Swamp, and when he reached Norfolk, Va. , and thestory of the fair maiden and her lover being fresh, might have inducedhim to visit it, and it was on that occasion that he penned thefollowing lines:

 "They made her a grave that was too cold and damp, For a soul so warm and true. "

His poem on the "Lake of the Dismal Swamp, " no doubt, is familiar withevery person of ordinary information, and can be found in everylibrary, and should be read by every person who has never done so. 

CHAPTER VI. 

PORTE CRAYON'S VISIT, INCIDENTS, ETC. 

At a much later date the Lake was visited by Porte Crayon, who was atthat time writing for Harper's Monthly. The account given of histrip, with his illustrations, are very life-like and interesting, andin the February or March number of that valuable book, for the year1857, you will be greatly amused at the description there given. Twodarkies, Eli Chalk and Jim Pearce, were the drivers of the pleasureboat furnished by W. S. Riddick, Esq. , the then agent of the DismalSwamp Land Company, in which he was carried to the Lake. He was theresome two or three days, and his writings should be read to beappreciated. It was at the Lake that we saw Uncle "Alek, " of whom afac-simile likeness is given in the book above referred to. Uncle"Alek" was a superanuated old colored man, belonging to the ReverendJacob Keeling, Rector of the Episcopal Churches in Nansemond county, Virginia. He was quite old, and retained his memory to a remarkabledegree. He was called the "Bee Hunter" of the Dismal Swamp, and, if Iam not mistaken, had a bag of bees in his hand when Porte first methim. He would follow bees for a long distance, cutting his way throughthe reeds for miles in a straight line, until he came to the tree inwhich was the hollow. Then he would take out the bees, put them into abag and bring them out. In going to the Lake you could see numberlesspaths cut by Uncle Alek for that purpose. The opening through thereeds would look to be about two feet wide and ten feet high, whichwas almost the length of the reeds. Uncle Alek worked in the swampnearly all his life, was a faithful hand, and in his old age thecompany gave him a house and a piece of land, as a home during hisnatural life. A mule was also given to him by the company, which muleI had the honor of riding at a tournament at Suffolk, Va. , in 1860. How old he was no one could tell at that time. No account is given ofany mules being in the Ark at the time that she settled on dry land, and where that mule came from will never be known. It is very certainthat he appeared on this mundane sphere at some period after theflood. If he is dead I have heard nothing of it. He may be wanderingabout the Dismal Swamp. Old Uncle Alek and his mule were greatcuriosities, and whenever he came to town on his mule they attracted agreat deal of attention. He was an exhorter in the Methodist Churchesfor colored people, and always had in his pocket a Testament or hymnbook. He was perfectly conversant with the Bible, and could referreadily to any passage of Scripture that you might mention. He wasborn in 1783, and died a few years ago, having attained the age of onehundred years, his mind being as vivid and active as at any time. Weshall never forget Uncle Alek and his mule. They were things of ourearliest recollection, and, like many of the landmarks at the "Lake ofthe Dismal Swamp, " have been washed away. I have been to it frequentlysince my first visit, and would notice the changes made by the rudehand of time. 

I have examined several writers that have written about "Uncle Alek'sMule, " and am satisfied that it was the same one that "Nat Turner"rode when on his raid of murder in Southampton county, Va. , in 1831. Looking over the diary of Colonel Godfrey for thirty years, we noticethat he said "Nat Turner, " when he appeared in the avenue of Dr. Blount, on that fatal night, he rode at the head of the column, mounted on a sorrel mule, with flax mane and tail. But the questionarises, how that mule got into the Dismal Swamp, and how he came inpossession of the Dismal Swamp Land Company. Col. Godfrey states thatthere were several guns in the house of Dr. Blount, and severalvisitors there at the time; that the young Blount loaded the guns, andthat a strong fire was kept up on the advancing column. Nat Turner wasthrown from his mule, then they became panic-stricken, and weredispersed. For the bravery displayed by young Blount on that occasion, he received a midshipman's warrant in the United States Navy. I willnow quote from G. P. R. James' book, called the "Old Dominion, " inwhich he states that a "young mother with her infant fled to theDismal Swamp for safety. " It was several miles away, and it may bethat she drove that same mule, and the probability is that she leftthe mule in the Swamp, and that he wandered about until he foundJack's Camp, where he was secured and became the property of theDismal Swamp Land Company. How long the company worked him before hebecame the property of Uncle Alek, I do not know, but am satisfiedthat it was several years, and that his wind was injured byoverloading. I have the testimony of a gentleman well-known inSuffolk, now living, who stated that he saw a cymling vine at jack'sCamp which was of spontaneous growth, and which covered more junipertrees than he could count, and from that vine there was gathered twohundred and fifty cart loads of cymlings. It may be that the haulingaway of these cymlings so injured the mule that he was no longer ofservice to the company. There is no doubt he was turned over to UncleAlek, which must have been during the year 1832. I was in the Swampduring that year and saw the cymling vine above alluded to, and no onecould tell how it came to grow there. It will be impossible for me totell how old Uncle Alek's mule was or what became of him. I have neverheard that he died or was killed. He was no doubt the most remarkablemule that ever lived. The last that I heard from him was related byUncle Alek himself, and which was no doubt true. I will relate as nearas I can what the old man told me. He came to Suffolk one day and Inoticed that he was very much excited. I said to him: "Uncle Alek, what has happened to you?" He answered: "Marse Robert I neber was insich a fix befo' in all my life. I hav' fit bars, rattlesnakes, wildcats and bees, but I tell you sumfin' has happened to me to-day datneber bin known to befall any one. " "What was that Uncle Alek?" Iinquired. "I'm terribly upsot, and I dunno what to do. I shall hab tomov' 'way frum my place; a whirlwind struc' my well dis mornin' an'has twisted it so dat I can't git de bucket down in de well, an' Ican't git no water, an' what is wuss den all, my mule has bintranslated. He wus a good mule, and his loss ruins me. " I saw UncleAlek some time after that, when he told me that he was out in theSwamp hunting bees, when lo and behold! he heard his mule bray. Hecast his eyes up and saw him lodged in the forks of a large tree. There was no way by which he could get him down, and left him as hethought to die. But his surprise can be imagined when he heardnuzzling at the door one morning, when, upon opening, what should hesee but his mule. How he came down he could not tell, but said heshould always believe that his mule could climb a tree. I said it musthave been a Providential interference, and that the same Power whichlanded him in the tree was able to lift him out. "Dat is so, " said theold man, "an' I will nebber agin' complain at de ways ob anOver-Rulin' Providence. " I often think of Col. Godfrey and his remark, when he said that what best conduces to the happiness of mankind isright. Uncle Alek, knowing that his mule was at home with his headwell in the crib, and he in the Swamp fighting bears and bees, wasperfectly happy. Uncle Alek and his mule are both now dead, and Ishall always have a lively recollection of them. I often think ofthem, and that I rode Uncle Alek's mule as Knight of the Dismal Swampat a tournament, won the first honor, and was ruled out on account ofmy mule not making time, much to the mortification of Uncle Alek. AsUncle Alek and his mule will appear again, I will leave them for thepresent and relate an interesting conversation with Mr. RichardHosier, who now lives in Suffolk, and who is as well acquainted withthe Dismal Swamp as any one now living. He is perfectly familiar withevery part of it, and is, no doubt, correct in many of his statements. He informed me that long before the Lake was discovered by Drummond, two gentlemen from Elizabeth City, N. C. , left for the Dismal Swamp ona hunting expedition, and having lost their way, wandered about untilthey came to what they discovered to be a large body of water. From itthey traveled a due west course and came out at a farm on the Desertroad, known as Mossy Swamp, and one of the men was taken sick anddied; the other one returned to Elizabeth City. Mr. Hosier did notstate when this was, but said it was long before Drummond made knownthat he had discovered a lake in the Dismal Swamp. It will beremembered that Mr. Hosier was arrested in Norfolk in 1863 by order ofthe Federal general then commanding that department, and was beingcarried toward the Indian Pole Bridge to be put to work on thedefences of Norfolk. He was not disposed to do work in that way, andwhen well out from Norfolk he eluded the guard that had him, anddirected his steps toward the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth river. On his arrival, seeing boats passing up and down, he secreted himselfuntil the darkness of night had fallen, then making a bundle of hisclothes and placing it on his head, he entered the river and swam tothe other shore. He then pursued his way to the Deep Creek Canal, which he forded. Arriving at the "Feeder, " he was not far from theLake, and was at a place with which he was well acquainted, and outof the reach of all danger of being recaptured. Resting himself awhile, he then started for the Lake, and it was at that place heperformed his great feat. He could not procure a boat, and theprospect before him was gloomy indeed. If he remained there he would, in all probability, have been devoured by bears and other wild animalsin the Swamp, or perhaps, starve. Not being in the least daunted, heprepared himself to reach the western shore, which could only be doneby swimming. It was seven miles across, but he nerved himself to theaccomplishment of his object. He prepared himself as before by makinga bundle of his clothes, which he placed on the top of his head, andwas then ready to swim across or perish in the attempt. When he wasabout half-way across he was attacked by a large serpent, and had itnot been for a school of gars that was following him, he would nodoubt have been devoured. He reached the shore only to meet a moreformidable enemy. It was a large black bear. In his scuffle with theserpent he had lost his bundle of clothes and had nothing but a largeknife, which was buckled around his waist. Drawing his knife, herushed forward and was met by the bear, when a regular hand-to-handfight was commenced. He did not wrestle long before he found anopportunity to use his knife, and plunging it up to the hilt, he soonhad the bear lying prostrate at his feet. Having lost all his clothes, it became necessary that he should do something in his nude state. Thebear's skin was the only thing that he could get, so with his knifehe skinned him, and getting inside the skin, he started to find somesettlement. But his condition was as bad as before. The idea of hisbeing able to get near enough to any person to tell of his conditionwas absurd. The very sight of him would scare every man, woman andchild off the plantation. He could not get a living soul to come tohim, and it was not until he had reached his own home, some few milesfrom Suffolk, that he could present himself as Mr. Hosier. I couldwrite many very interesting incidents connected with the life of Mr. Hosier, which, in many instances, are thrilling. But as we are writingour own recollections, I shall only notice in a few cases what I havebeen told by others. 

CHAPTER VII. 

MANY CHANGES HAVE TAKEN PLACE. 

It is pleasant to me that I can take a retrospective view of the pastand note the many changes that have taken place within myrecollection. Many sad changes have taken place within the past fiftyyears. Dynasties have arisen, lived and have had their day; they havefallen, and are known as things that were. But four of the companionsof my school-boy days are living, and it is only now and then that wemeet with one. The Rev. R. H. Jones, of Norfolk, is the only one thatwe have seen or known away from Suffolk. The honored landmarks of thetown are few, and soon must be less. Benjamin Riddick, the presentmayor of the town, is perhaps the oldest citizen in it. Judge P. B. Prentice, the polished gentleman--his manly form can be seen on ourstreets, as he, with intrepid steps, passes along; he is the oldestnative citizen and possesses a mind as active and vigorous as whenyoung. John Hoffman, Esq. , is another of the landmarks of the town. Hehas lived nearly his four-score years. Whitmill Jones, Esq. , isanother of our old friends. His steps are feeble and trembling. Thelast of the old pioneers of Suffolk whom we shall notice is James B. Norfleet, Esq. He is perhaps more generally known than any man who hasever lived in the place. He conducted for many years a very extensivemercantile and lumber business, but fell a victim to his generousimpulses. The cypress that was known as the "apple tree, " which stoodin the Lake a short distance to the left of the "Lock, " has been blowndown or washed up with its roots, and in a short time nothing will beseen of it. The house which stood not very far from the western shoreof the Lake and occupied by a family known as Draper, has been washedaway and nothing left to show that a human habitation ever had anyexistence there. Before the late war a pleasure boat was kept by thecompany for the accommodation of parties that wished to visit theLake, and it was customary for several parties to go in early Spring, commencing about the first of May, that being the most pleasant timeand nature about to put on her coat of green. But few parties nowventure in, owing to the inconvenience that attend, and when they dogo they have to get in the best way they can. The pleasure boat andother boats in the canal were cut up by order of General Peck, commanding the United States forces at Suffolk, Va. , and carried tothe Black water river to be used as pontoons across that stream. But Idoubt if they were ever used for that purpose. After the surrender sogreat was the demand for boats by strangers that wished to visit theLake of the Dismal Swamp that Capt. Busby, an energetic citizen ofNansemond county, Virginia, had erected near the Lake a hotel known asthe Lake Drummond Hotel, and to invite visitors he had built abeautiful gondola, which was run daily to the Lake during the season. That old trojan, Capt. Jack Robinson, being in charge of the hotel, caused it to be well filled. It was very frequently the case thatparties would come from Norfolk to go on from Suffolk, they havingheard that the gondola left her wharf every day for the Lake. Irecollect a party of three young gentlemen that came from Norfolk whowished to visit Lake Drummond. They stopped at the Exchange Hotel andmade known the fact. The polite manager, Eddie S. Riddick, Esq. , soonsaw Capt. Busby, and his gondola was chartered to carry the party tothe Lake. Mr. Riddick made every preparation necessary for them, butone of the parties heard that an alligator was on exhibition near thehotel, and thinking that it was brought from the Lake, at onceprovided himself with a rifle and a large quantity of fixedammunition. All were then ready and they left for the canal, wherethey would take the gondola. She was then at her wharf, and everythingbeing placed in, Capt. Busby took his stand at the wheel and gaveorders to the first mate to have the gondola cast loose, which was atonce obeyed, and, like a swan, she was gliding on in the canal at thefearful rate of about two miles an hour. To prevent any confusion ifattacked, one of the most daring young men of the party, being one ofthe three from Norfolk, Va. , placed himself in the bow of the gondolawith rifle in hand and a box of ammunition conveniently nigh, awaitingan attack from any quarter. When passing what is known as "ParadiseOld Field, " one of the party cried alligator! The young man at the bowat once opened fire, and it was not until he had shot away a whole boxof ammunition that he discovered the supposed alligator to be nothingmore dangerous than a floating log. Quiet having been restored thecaptain struck two bells, and the gondola was on her way again, butunfortunately had not proceeded many miles when a snake fell in off anoverhanging limb of a tree, and so near one of the young men that itcaused him to jump over into the canal. The mate ordered one of thedeck hands to throw the snake out, whilst others were fishing out theyoung man who had jumped overboard. Captain Busby, fearing that someother accident might happen before reaching the hotel, thought it bestthat passengers should occupy their state-rooms until a landing wasmade at the hotel. He said with so much confusion it would beimpossible for him to land his gondola safely. Captain Jack, of thehotel, was watching the movements of Captain Busby, and complimentedhim for his dexterity. He walked down from the hotel and escorted theguests up who had just arrived. The hotel is of the Irish style ofarchitecture, with parlor, kitchen, dining and bedroom all in the sameroom, the whole being heated by a hot air furnace. I have not been tothe Lake for some time, but hear that great improvements have beenmade, and it is the object of the proprietor of the hotel to turn theattention of Northern visitors to Florida every Winter in thatdirection, believing that it is the healthiest place in the UnitedStates. It is very accessible--the Norfolk and Western railroadpassing through its northern boundary, and the Suffolk and CarolinaShort Line or Grand Trunk railroad on its western, which by running arailroad from Skinnerville, on the Grand Trunk, would bring the LakeHotel within a few minutes' ride from Suffolk, and with little or noinconvenience to invalids coming from the rigid climate of the North. I am told that all snakes remain in a torpid state during the winter, and no danger might be expected from them, and as the floors of thehotel would be kept tight no vermin could crawl through. There can beno doubt that the Lake of the Dismal Swamp must become the greatcentre of health-seekers, and that at an early day. Its location andadvantages, the known healthliness of the place, to say nothing of itsbeauty and former renown, is sufficient to attract the attention ofpersons that seek the Sunny South from the cold and rigorous climateof the extreme Northern States of the Union. It is true that somewriters pronounce the warm and genial climate of the Sunny South to bea fraud, practiced to allure the unsuspecting. That cannot be so. Itis universally known that the Dismal Swamp is the healthiest place inthe known world. Where can you find a location in which a death hasnot occurred in a hundred years? It cannot be named. 

CHAPTER VIII. 

THE FUTURE FOR THE DISMAL SWAMP. 

The Dismal Swamp in Virginia is the only place where a death fromdisease has never occurred. Railroads, like hog paths, are being runin every direction, and the time is not far distant when a railroadwill be run direct to the beautiful Lake of the Dismal Swamp, andNorthern invalids will flock to its beautiful shores, there to bathein its juniper water and be healed from all diseases. True, at thistime it is in a rude and wild condition, but with the Suffolk andCarolina Grand Trunk Railroad stretching across its western front, civilization must tend toward it, and when a communication direct isopened a city, Cincinnatus like, will spring along its shores, and itsinhabitants can, by the light of the glow worm of fire fly, watch thepaddling of the white canoe, so beautifully described by Moore in hispoem. Another very interesting place near the Swamp is a farm which atone time belonged to General Washington. It is at the extreme south, and is now owned by Mrs. John Trotman, and she has in her possessionthe original title deeds of every person who has owned the place atvarious times, from Washington down to the last purchaser, who wasBurrell Brothers, Esq. , of Gates county, N. C. , and an uncle of theabove-named lady. At his death it fell to his widow, who gave it toMrs. John Trotman, its present owner. I have visited the place severaltimes, and the cellars can now be seen where stood the first house. Itis very certain that it was settled many years ago, from the fact thatI saw a tombstone of a doctor from Waterbury, Connecticut, who diedthere in 1800. This stone has been seen by many persons. There isanother place of some note that adjoins the Washington farm, it isknown as Hamburgs. At this place a ditch or canal was dug, runningeast to the northwest Lock of the Dismal Swamp Canal, through which avast quantity of grain and other produce raised by the farmers ofGates county, was shipped to Norfolk. An extensive mercantile businesswas carried on at Hamburg by Col. T. W. Smith, so well known, whoafterwards removed to and now resides in Suffolk, Va. It was atHamburg that so many refugees ran the blockade during the late warfrom Norfolk and other places, and a number of incidents could berelated of persons that sought that place to get in and out of theConfederate lines. Hamburg is a beautiful place and is owned by Mrs. S. C. Voight, who resides upon the premises. It was at this place thatBeast Butler, of the Federal Army, carried on a very extensive bartertrade with the Rebs. It adjoins the Washington farm, as I said before, and may have been at one time a part of it. I knew nothing of thefirst settlement of the place. It has the appearance of being veryancient--no doubt dates back many years before the Revolution, or itmay have been the headquarters of a roving tribe of Indians, as manyarrow points and tomahawks have been ploughed up on the place. To myfriend, T. H. Lassiter, Esq. , of Gates county, North Carolina, I amindebted for much of the information gained of that locality, and Icould relate a good deal told me by that gentleman which might be veryinteresting. Mr. Lassiter lives at a beautiful farm, on the mainEdenton road, near the Silver Spring, a place of great resort forpersons living in that part of the county. 

I will relate a very interesting conversation which I had with a veryold colored man that I met in the road near the Orapeake Mill, inGates county, North Carolina, when on my way to Suffolk, Va. , and notfar from the beautiful village of Jonesville, lying on both sides ofthe Suffolk and Carolina Short Line or Grand Trunk Railroad. I said tothe old man, "Uncle, where do you live?" "Boss, you ax me a hardquestion, " replied the old man. "Git off your hoss an sot down, I'mgwine tell you sumfin. Do you smoke de pipe, boss?" I replied that Idid, and handed him my bag of tobacco. He took from his pocket what Isupposed he called a pipe. It was the butt end of a corn cob hollowedout, with something protruding at a right angle, which he called astem. What it really was, I could not tell. He filled it with tobacco. I then handed him a match, when thanking me very kindly, he lightedhis pipe, drawing it a few times to see that it was well lighted, said: "Boss, I will now tol you sumfin dat happen many years ago. Doyou see dat mill pon' yonder?" alluding to the Orapeake. I repliedthat I did. "Well, boss, dat pon' was de cause of my trouble. One darknite I was in dar strikin' at fish. I had just hit a large chub, whena white man, who was in dar strikin', cum up and sed: 'Boy, dat is myfish. ' I tole him dat I kilt de fish, an dat it was mine. 'Bout dattime he was gwine to take de fish, an den I took up my hatchet dat Ihad in de bote, whar I split liteard wid and hit him on de head. Hedrapped down in de bote, and I seed dat I had done sumfin bad. De manwas dead, and I wood be hung if dey cotched me. So I drug de man oberde side of de bote into the water, and mashed him down in the mud, andat man never cum up any more. I didn't go home any more. An arter awhile de white man was missin', an de peple gin to talk, an I gin togit skared. Do you see dat house up dar?" I said I did. "Well, MarseLuke Sumner libbed dar. De big house dat he libbed in is done torndown, and de small one made outen it. He is done ded now, and when helibbed dar is mor'n a hundred years ago. His gran-son, Marse JoeRiddick, now own de place and libs at it. He mus be ni eighty yearold. Well, dey fine de white man was done missin, an it bin dat I wasstrikin' fish in de mill pon' de same nite, dey 'gin to look for me, an my daddy tole me dat I had better go into the desart, which was deDismal Swamp. I took his 'vice and lef. De runaway ketchers cum in darto look for me, but didn't get me. I staid dar 'til de war was ober. Icum out and hab been lookin' 'bout dis place to see if I node anybody, but dey all gone ded, an nobody nose me. I tell you, boss, when yougit in de desart ef nobody ses nuffin, de runaway ketchers can't kotchyou. I am berry ole now, and my home folks are all ded an gone an I nonobody. De ghost ob de white man dat I kilt hants me all de time, wharebber I go, an I is a misable man. I am now on my way to de desartto hide myself an die. " I asked him who he belonged to at the time hecommitted the murder. Replying, he said: "I longed to Capt. RichardBrothers, in de desert. " "Well, " I said, "did he ever know what becameof you?" "I nebber heard any more from him arter I got in the desart. I heard dat he dide in 1817 ob de cole plague, or black tongue. " "Youare correct in what you have said, uncle, " I replied. "I do not wishto interview you any longer on that subject. He was my grandfather andlived at the place mentioned by you. I hear the old people speak ofthe circumstances. You were his carriage driver at the time, and yourname is 'Long Davy. '" "Yas, sar, dat is my name, but don't tellanybody 'bout it. I had a brudder libbing in de low parrish ofNansemond county, but he is ded. His name was George. " I said, "UncleDavy, you are correct. On one occasion, being at Driver's Store, inlower parrish of Nansemond, I saw a tall and very polite colored mandrive up. I was struck with his appearance, and asking him his name, he said George W. Coston, sir. Then you are from Sunsbury, Gatescounty, North Carolina. " "I was from that place, " he replied, "buthave been living in the lower parish since the breaking out of thewar. " "Were you a slave or free-born, " I inquired. "I was a slave, " heresponded. "Who was your first owner that you recollect. " "Capt. Richard Brothers, on the desart road, Nansemond county, Va. , who diedwith the cold plague in 1817, " he readily answered. He appeared to bevery much pleased when I told him that his first master was mygrandfather. He looked at me very straight and asked me my mother'sname, and upon my answering Margaret, he said he thought he could seea family likeness, and said my mother was the first mistress he everhad, she "drawing" him in the division of my grandfather's property. Ileft him at Driver's Store and never saw him again. I have since heardthat he was dead. I often thought of the circumstances of the meeting. Such frequently occurs and brings up recollections that are buried inoblivion. The corroborative testimony of George satisfied me that"Davy" was true in what he related to me about what happened atOrapeake Mill Pond, in Gates county, North Carolina, near thebeautiful village of Jonesville, on the Grand Trunk Railroad. 

That the Lake of the Dismal Swamp is to become the great centre ofattraction there can be no reasonable doubt. Recent demonstrations inthat direction go to prove beyond cavil the fact. The visit of JohnBoyle O'Reilly, editor of the Boston Herald, Mr. Mosely, ofWashington, and several other distinguished persons, go to prove thefact. Contiguous as it is to the celebrated Magnolia Springs, with itsvast hunting grounds, will be a sufficient inducement to invitesportsmen from all sections. It is certain that a railroad will besurveyed and constructed, commencing at or near Magnolia Springs, which will tap the Lake near the famous apple tree, and as a grandhotel will be constructed at the Lake visitors will have the privilegeof stopping there or at the Springs. A sufficient amount of capitalcan be had for all purposes necessary, and as the hotel will be builtabout one mile from the shore of the Lake, it will be free from yellowflies, fleas, mosquitos, snakes, alligators, bears, pole cats andother annoyances which more or less infest the hotel. The hotel beingbuilt on piles out in the Lake, could be reached by a bridge startingfrom the shore, with a sufficient number of draws, which, if left openat night, would prevent snakes, bears, alligators, pole cats, etc. , from entering the hotel. A strict watch will be kept, and if byaccident the draws should be left closed and an alligator, bear orsnake should enter the hotel, or should a snake be found coiled up inbed with some sleeper, no alarm should be given, it might cause somenervous person to jump overboard and be devoured by alligators, snakes, etc. By giving notice at the office of the hotel theseannoyances would be removed with but little or no excitement. Theobject of the company is to direct the attention of Northern invalidsto Lake Drummond and Magnolia Springs, the medicinal qualities ofwhose waters have been tested and are pronounced to be superior to anyknown in this country. After drinking of these waters all that youhave to do is to go to Lake Drummond, bathe in its waters and behealed. You will then be prepared to hunt bears, quail, deer, etc. , atthe Springs, and your sport will then commence. Before entering intothe hunt you will supply yourself with a pole cat arrangement, whichis furnished free by the company and will probably be of service toyou. It is not expected that you will engage in any bear hunt on yourfirst arrival, but will wait until you know something about the modeof hunting them. It frequently happens on the hunt that you come incontact with a rattlesnake. He will give you timely notice byspringing his rattles, which you will do well to heed. It is awell-known fact that Northern invalids are not afraid of alligators, bears, snakes, pole cats or any of the poisonous insects that infestthe Swamp and Lake. There are a few timid persons living near theLake, on the edge of the Swamp, who are sometimes driven out of theirhouses by the appearance of bears and snakes, but they are few innumber, and seldom or ever visit the Lake. The great bug bear thatdeter most of the visitors is the fear of snakes falling in thegondola, as she passes along, from overhanging limbs of trees. Ifpassengers would keep in their state-rooms on the gondola, snakesmight fall into it and they would know nothing about it, as they wouldbe thrown out as soon as found. Lizzards sometimes run up thepantaloons leg of some who are not on the lookout for such things; butthat causes a fellow to run out of his trousers so quick that very fewever get bitten. 

I have visited the Lake at various times and under differentcircumstances, but do not recollect that anything unaccountablehappened to me but once, which I will relate: On one occasion as I wasgoing down the canal, toward the Lake, the driver of the skiffexclaimed, "Boss, did you see dat?" "No, " I exclaimed; "What was it?""It was a ball of fire. " "A what?" I said. "A jack-mer-lantern, " saidhe. "And what is that?" I asked. "It's a sperit. I ceed dem eberynite, an' when I go to kotch one dey ain't nobody. " "Then you believein spirits?" "Yes, sar; dat I dus. When I pass Paradise Old Field Ikin always see dem. " "Have you ever been told anything about the ballof fire and Jack-mer-lantern, as you call them?" "Yes, sir; dat Ihab. " "Then let me hear what you have been told. " "Yes, sir; Boss, I'se gwine tu tell you de God's trufe. " "Well, proceed. " "Boss, I'mgwine to tole you dey tole me dat long time 'go dat a man by de nameof Pluter was come up dar in dat field wid a 'omun, an' dat dey lossdemselves, an' hab neber bin seed since; and dat ebery nite wen you goby dar you kin see somfin. One nite as I was gwine 'long I thort data ball of fire wus gwine tu hit me in de face. I axed who wus dat;nobody said nuffin. I hit at it an' it turned to a Jack-mer-lantern. ""And what was that, " I asked. "I 'spec dat it wus dat man Pluter, an'de ball ob fire wus de 'omun dat wus wid him. " "And they are what youcall 'sperits?' Then you are a natural born fool; if you do not shovethis boat along I will break your head with this pole. " "Boss, I shallalways blebe in dem sperits. "

It is very true that some very mysterious and unaccountable thingswere seen when passing Paradise Old Field, by the side of the canal, by persons on their way to the Lake of the Dismal Swamp, but in veryfew instances, and then only by nervous persons of diseased minds. Youmight travel up and down the canal as often as you choose and outsideof snakes and pole cats nothing would ever appear. Do not let snakestories deter you from visiting this wonderful and beautiful place, the Lake of the Dismal Swamp. As the boat was being driven along, thedriver said: "Boss, did I nebber told you about de big watermillionthat Mars. Caleb Busby foun' near dis place?" "No; let me hearsomething about it. " "Well, sir, I will tole you. One day as Mars. Busby was gwine tu de Lake, an' wen he got rite here he ceed on deside ob de cunnel a big snake trien tu swallow a raccoon. He tuk upsumfin' to flro at de snake, an' jes' den he ceed in de bushes a nalekeg, an' wus glad dat he had foun' a keg ob nales. But wen he got darit was a watermillion. " "How do you suppose that melon came to growthere?" I asked. "My 'pinion 'bout dat, Boss, dat some nigger stole awatermillion frum sum farmer's patch, an' wen he got here he busted itgin a tree. Sum ob de seed fell on de ground an' de watermillion grudar. " "That is very probable. What did Mr. Busby do with it?" "Hekarid it home, planted sum ob de seed and his million weighed oberfifty pounds. He sole sum ob de seed, an' frum dem seed farmers rosede biggest watermillions ob eny in dis kintry. " "Dat will do prettywell for you; drive the boat along. " "Dus yu think dat I tole yu astory, Boss?" "Oh, no; I only thought that one of your'Jack-mer-lanterns' had been after you, or that somebody had beenthrowing a 'ball of fire' at your head. "

CHAPTER IX. 

SUFFOLK AND EARLY DAYS. 

I will take the above railroad and return to Suffolk, when I will saysomething of my early recollections of that place. It was in the year1830 that my father, with his family, moved to it. I was quite smallat that time, but I recollect the time well. Suffolk was then a smallvillage, situated on the Nansemond river, with a population of aboutfive hundred, and increased very slowly in population until after thesurrender, which was in April, 1865. Since that it has increased veryrapidly in population and growth. It was in Suffolk that Henry Hermancommenced his business career; moved to Norfolk in 1832; and becameone of her successful merchants. At his death his remains were broughtto Suffolk, and now quietly rest in Cedar Hill Cemetery. I couldmention many instances of successful business men of that town were itnecessary. I will now write of things of more recent date--somethingwithin the recollection of many persons yet living. It will berecollected that a fire broke out in June, 1837, that destroyed thelower part of the town. There were no engines in the place and theflames raged with great fury. The Allen residence, at Rose Hill, aboutone half mile distant, was set on fire several times by the flyingdebris, and it was with difficulty that the house was saved. It was atRose Hill that a large mercantile business was carried on, and nodoubt a large quantity of juniper lumber was shipped from that pointbelonging to private individuals. A wharf was built at the mouth ofShingle creek (I imagine long before the Jericho canal was dug), andlarge quantities of lumber was hauled to it by persons living on theedge of the Dismal Swamp. I knew of several persons who owned largejuniper glades on the edge of Dismal Swamp one in particular. His namewas Thomas Swepston and lived not far from Suffolk, on the line of theSeaboard railroad, which divides his farm. He was agent of the DismalSwamp Land Company for several years, and may have been the firstafter the Jericho canal was opened. The last agent, of whom I have anyknowledge, was W. S. Riddick, Esq. , who died several years ago. Thelast inspector of lumber was J. E. Bonnewell, of whom it is mypleasure to notice particularly. Perhaps no man was more generallyknown and respected in Suffolk than he. He was a true friend, benevolent and kind, never refusing to bestow charity when calledupon. He succeeded Mr. Joseph Hill as inspector for the company, whichoffice he held until his death. It was during his term of office thatit was made so pleasant to visit the Lake. By giving timely notice hewould always give the parties the best boats and the most trusty handsas drivers, and would always be present when the boat left its landingand when it returned, and was anxious to know if any mishaps hadoccurred to any of the party. And if it should be reported that somelady had fallen into the canal, he would always very politely ask thatshe be carried into his house to be made more comfortable. Capt. BabelIons, of Philadelphia, was his bosom friend. When the Captain was inSuffolk, they could always be found together. They both have passedaway, and a generous people will do justice to their memory. CaptainConnewell died leaving a rich heritage behind--a name that will liveas long as it is called. But few have lived and died who was so muchbeloved and respected as he. He was proud but not haughty, andflexible to kind impulses. He was the soul of honor, and no one cansay that he even failed to accord to every one their just dues. I knewhim from my boyhood up and never knew a better man. He left aninteresting family--Mrs. H. R. Culley being his eldest daughter. Icould write many noble traits in the character of that good man, butit is not necessary. There are but few of his compeers now living, andsoon they will all have passed away. Such is the march of time. 

Nothing very important transpired in Suffolk from 1837 until after theclose of the late war, when she awoke from her slumbering condition;her watchword being progress. She brushed the dust from her eyes, andher advancement in every branch of industry can be seen in her rapidgrowth. She stands second to no town in a commercial point of view. Her manufacturing interests are considerable, and being a railroadcentre she must prosper and grow. The disastrous fire which occurredJune 7th, 1885, impeded business for a few months, but our men ofcapital at once commenced to repair the breach, and she is again onthe road to fame and wealth. And it is to the Suffolk and Carolina orShort Line railroad that Suffolk is mostly indebted for her presentprosperous condition. Penetrating as it does a country that is richand fertile, she has already felt its influence and it should befostered as one of the main arteries to her prosperity. 

The Gay Manufacturing Company, before noticed, is perhaps the mostgigantic enterprise ever projected at Suffolk. It has extended itsoperations as far South as Chowan county, N. C. , and the amount ofcapital invested is no doubt the largest investment of its kind inVirginia, if not in the entire South. It has made large purchases ofland in and around Suffolk and has bought all the timbered lands onthe Suffolk and Carolina Short Line or Grand Trunk railroad, givingemployment to hundreds of hands, at fair wages, that would otherwiseeke out a miserable existence. It also enables the landowners, fromthe sale of their timber, to free themselves from debt and otherwiseimprove their condition. Under the direction of President W. N. Camp, it has had erected near Suffolk, on the line of the S. & C. R. R. , oneof the most extensive saw mills in Eastern Virginia, and with the aidof the Atlantic and Danville railroad penetrating the primeval forestsof Southampton, Greensville and other counties of Virginia. Millionsof logs will be brought on that road and manufactured for shipment toNorthern markets. The company consists principally of Baltimoreans, who will reap a harvest commensurate with the capital invested. And inmany instances it is owing to the mature judgment of President Campthat the efforts to establish this great enterprise has been crownedwith such signal success. The advantages this company possesses, byits intimate connections with the S. & C. R. R. , and A. & D. R. R. , cannot be estimated, but it can be truly said that their intimate andclose relations with each other, while each is a separate and distinctcorporation, forms one of the grandest and far-reaching enterprises ofits kind in the South. 

The Gay Manufacturing Company consists of William N. Camp, president;Charles F. Pitt, Jr. , Chauncy Brooks, S. P. Ryland, John M. Denisonand William N. Camp, directors; George L. Barton, treasurer; CharlesF. Pitt, Jr. , secretary. 

The A. & D. R. R. Has made great internal improvement under themanagement of Major Charles B. Peck, of New York, and has progressedmore rapidly than any road of which we have any knowledge. Itsstarting point is at West Norfolk, on the Elizabeth river, at themouth of its western branch, the great trucking region of the State ofVirginia which will supply it with thousands of dollars worth offreight annually. It runs diagonally across the Norfolk and Westernand Seaboard and Roanok, railroads, both of which have already feltits effects, and when it shall have reached Danville the Richmond andDanville will then feel its withering influence, for this being theshortest and most speedy route to deep water, in one of the finestharbors in the world, it is natural that all produce will seek such aroute and such a favorable shipping point. 

CHAPTER X. 

ENTERPRISE AND PROSPERITY. 

This railroad was projected by the energetic and far-seeing W. H. Gay, Esq. , of Suffolk, as a lumber road, who pushed it rapidly as far southas Sunsbury, in Gates county, N. C. He soon saw that it was a grandenterprise, and associated with him several gentlemen of the city ofBaltimore in its construction, who afterwards bought out Mr. Gay'sinterest, and have constructed a road that will soon become one ofthe leading lines, connecting as it does, by a line of steamboats, thewaters of Albermarle Sound and the Atlantic ocean, and bringingeastern North Carolina in direct communication with the city ofBaltimore. Under the able management of Mr. H. B. Hubbell, theefficient vice-president of the company, and R. H. Thompson, Esq. , asgeneral manager, with the assistance of Colonel Harry McCleary, theroad has been brought to its present flourishing condition, and theGay Manufacturing Company, under President Camp, is one of its chiefadjuncts. This road now connects with the Norfolk and Western and theAtlantic and Danville railways, and soon large quantities of freightwill be transferred from it to the above-named roads. 

Suffolk is more particularly noted for her schools, colleges and otherinstitutions of learning, all of which are in a very prosperouscondition. The Suffolk Military Academy, under the direction of JosephKing, principal, with its professorship, is no doubt the best schoolfor young men in Tidewater, Virginia. The character and standing ofit, with its location for health, is a recommendation that must tendgreatly to its success. 

Another school of high grade is the Suffolk Collegiate Institute, under the professorship of P. J. Kernodle. It is an institution thathas been established for several years, and has received a liberalsupport from its friends. The course at this institution is thorough. Young ladies are taught the higher branches and are instructed inmusic, drawing, &c. 

The West End Female Seminary under the direct supervision of Col. W. H. Darden, formerly of Isle of Wight county, Va. , with Miss NovellaDarden as principal, with the assistance of Miss Lizzie J. King, givesto the school a reputation that must add greatly to its success. Youngladies at this school are instructed in all the higher branches, music, painting and drawing. It is eligibly located on College Avenue. 

The Suffolk Female Institute, under the direction of the MissesFinney, is too well known to require a notice. It is the oldestestablished school in Suffolk, and enjoys a reputation that isenviable. It has probably received more favor than any other schoolwhich I have noticed. 

The Nansemond Seminary, of which Mrs. Quimby is principal, is a schoolthat recommends itself. It is limited in the number of its pupils. This should not be so. Throw open your doors wide and let your mottobe "the greatest good to the greatest number. " It has gained quite areputation. 

CHAPTER XI. 

THE OLD BRICK CHURCH AT BENN'S--SUFFOLK'S FIRST RAILROAD, ETC. 

It is interesting to read of relics of the olden times and bring upassociations connected therewith. I will now notice an antiquated oldbuilding in Isle of Wight county, Va. , on the main road leading fromSuffolk to Smithfield, and about five miles from the latter place. Itis called Old Benn's Church. At what time it was built I have neverheard, but it must have been soon after the settlement of thiscountry. The rude hand of time has reduced it to bare walls, andnothing is left of its interior to show that it was ever a place ofworship. That it was built when this country was a colony there can beno question. There is a burying ground at the place, on which can beseen tomb stones of very ancient date, and if I mistake not, the firstrector of the church or some of his family was buried in it. A tablet, noting the fact, could be seen set in the building. Bishop Meade, inhis history of the Episcopal Churches in Virginia, mentions Benn'sChurch as being one of, if not the oldest, church in the State. It hasbeen snatched from further decay by some benevolent ladies and willsoon again become a place of worship. Let the names of these ladiesform the future history of that sacred old church, and let futuregenerations know that it was at one time from decay reduced to barewalls, and that by the humane efforts of some ladies it has beenreclaimed and once more presents the appearance of a house of worship, standing as a monument to its former renown and greatness. There areseveral Episcopal churches in this county that should not be allowedto go to decay. They stand as landmarks in Virginia; built long beforethe recollection of any one now living. I know of several places inthis county that I have been told were Glebe property, and at one timewere, and had erected on them, Episcopal churches. In many placesthese churches have gone down, the land escheated and are now occupiedby churches of other denominations. And it may have been so, as theyare just such places as old Episcopal churches now stand, on elevatedsites near running streams. I could state some very interesting factsconnected with many places in this county which might appear verymeritorious, nevertheless they are true, and form a part of thehistory of the county. 

I will now mention Mount Pleasant, the home of the Meades, ofVirginia. This was at one time a very beautiful estate, on the westbank of what is now known as Smith's Creek, and is the southern branchof the Nansemond river. Long before the revolution this place wassettled, and at the time very large vessels could navigate the creekas far as Mount Pleasant, it then being a wide and deep river, and Ihave been told that a direct foreign trade was carried on with thatplace. A grave yard can be seen at Mount Pleasant which is verysingular, and has some curiously inscribed tomb stones in it ofpersons who died there many years ago. By the ruthless hand of timemany of the tombs were mutilated, and it may be that little is left ofthem. I had the inscriptions of some of them, but gave them to agentleman from Westmoreland county, Virginia. He wanted them onaccount of their singularity, and he being an antiquarian he said theywould be quite an acquisition to his cabinet of curiosities. It ishighly probable that Mount Pleasant was settled long before the DismalSwamp was known or heard of, and I doubt if any one thought thatthere could be found such a place as really was existing, and havinghid in its dark foliage such a beautiful place as Lake Drummond. 

The first great enterprise that was commenced in Suffolk after thesurrender, was the building of the railroad of the Suffolk LumberCompany, which runs from Suffolk to Asher, in Gates county, NorthCarolina, where is the home of the Hon. C. A. Whaley. As soon as theroad was completed as far as Whaleyville, in Nansemond county, Va. , atown soon sprung up, and a mercantile business was commenced, whichfor time paralyzed business in Suffolk. It stopped the channel throughwhich flowed the life-blood of the town from where it started. Thisroad is owned by Governor Eliew Jackson, Co. & Brothers, of Maryland, and has from its commencement done a heavy business. It has been ablymanaged by W. M. Whaley, Esq. , and Mr. D. B. Cannon. Whether it hasbeen of any great good to Suffolk is a question that we are notprepared to answer, though the land holders through which it haspassed have been benefitted. It brought their pine timber into market, which otherwise would have remained a primeval forest and a deadexpense to its owners. The sale of it to Jackson & Co. Has clearedmany of debt, and to that extent the road has been a benefit. Thecompany has bought large landed possessions in Alabama and Georgia, and will soon move their field of operations to those points. Thequantity of wood and timber that has been transported over the roadis incredible. To say the least of Jackson & Brothers they started aspirit of enterprise, which, to some extent, has been a benefit. Newideas have been infused into the minds of our people, and instead ofkeeping their capital locked up they have invested it in variousdirections for the improvement and benefit of trade, thereby causingto spring up factories and machine shops, to say nothing of the manyother advantages that are derived through patriotic motives. 

CHAPTER XII. 

BEAR HUNTING IN THE DISMAL SWAMP--COLONEL GODFREY'S VISIT TOSOUTHAMPTON. 

It is customary in the fall season to have what is called bear huntsin the Dismal Swamp, and parties are frequently made up to go on suchhunts. Before going it is necessary that some preparation should bemade. Bear hunting is very dangerous, and is sometimes attended withdifficulty. Before starting you should provide yourself with a cowboysuit, a good rifle, a pair of revolvers, a bowie knife (16 inch blade)and sub-marine armor. When thus equipped you can enter the Swamp. Youproceed cautiously along listening to hear the bears lapping, when yougo in the direction of the sound. Bears move very cautiously, and youshould be sure to keep a good lookout in your rear, as it sometimeshappens that when you are going forward a drove of them are followingyou, and when least expected they make the attack, and if the partiesshould be the least separated, it often happens that all perish. I wastold of a party that were out on a bear hunt in the Dismal Swamp, whosupposed that they could face anything. The party consisted of eightgood men. They had not proceeded very far in the Swamp when they heardin the distance the lapping of bears. Of course it is very exciting, and if one has any courage he is apt to show it at the time. A haltwas made and the question asked, what should be done? They were notthinking of the danger that surrounded them. They did not think thatbears were on their path. But it was too late. Whilst discussing whatto do they were sprung upon from the rear, and six were badlylacerated, one rode off on the back of a bear and the last oneretreated to the Lake for safety. Should you at any time go to theDismal Swamp to hunt bears be exceedingly careful to have your rearwell guarded. 

Researches among old papers often bring to light subjects that longhave been forgotten, and which, if cultivated, tends in many ways tothe benefit of the rising generation. We often hear of events thathave long since transpired, which at the time we pass unnoticed, butsomehow or other an impression is made, and sooner or later somethingtranspires that brings to our recollection a circumstance whichrefreshes our memory of some important event of which we have a slightremembrance. Looking over the fourteenth volume of Col. Godfrey'swork entitled "Important Discoveries, " to see if we could findanything therein written by which we could identify "Uncle Alek'sMule, " and if possible to define him, that there could be noreasonable doubt but that it was the same mule rode by Nat Turner, andthat he was driven by the young mother in her flight with her infantto the Dismal Swamp, and if what G. P. R. James said in his OldDominion be true, we must believe that Uncle Alek and Nat Turner rodethe same mule. No other account was ever given that ever came to ourknowledge, but it will make no difference as everybody knew that UncleAlek had a mule. But as we have stated before, looking over thefourteenth volume of Col. Godfrey's work on Important Discoveries, many years ago we read in it an account of his first visit to thecounty of Southampton, Virginia, and the many important discoveriestherein made. His visit to that county was on very important business, and being a man of great observation, he was careful and cautious. Hewas tracing some titles, and it was necessary that he should make manyinquiries. The country was wild and sparsely settled at that time; itwas extremely difficult for one to get accommodation for man andhorse. He was fearful at times that he would not be able to reach ashelter for the night. He had crossed at the South Quay Ferry at anearly hour, and had been in the saddle all day and was very muchfatigued and exhausted, besides he had ate nothing. Night was fastapproaching and he in a strange country. He reined up his horse, which caused him to increase his gait. He had not ridden many milesfurther when he thought he heard a cock crow. He listened and soon heheard the sound repeated. He was then satisfied that he was near somehuman habitation. What must have been his feelings, when he knew thathe would soon reach a place where he probably would be able to stayfor the night to rest and refresh himself. He rode on and in a shorttime came in sight of a very neat and comfortable looking house notmany rods from the road. He arrived in front of it and found thateverything about the house had the appearance of neatness and comfort, and that he would probably be accommodated for the night. So hedismounted from his horse and opened the gate and proceeded to thehouse. The proprietor must have been very fond of fox hunting from thenumber of hounds that made an attack on him as he rode up the avenue, and which was so sudden that it brought out the entire household. Itwas getting dark, but sufficiently light to see one approaching onhorse back. The dogs were called off, and he heard a voice exclaimride up. A very handsome picket fence surrounded the house, and uponarriving at the gate he was met by a fine looking old Englishgentleman, who invited him to dismount and have his horse stabled. Thanking him for his kindness, he at once dismounted, and taking theextended hand of the old gentleman, said: "Sir, I am a benightedtraveller, and a stranger in this section, and have sought yourkindness for shelter for the night. " "You are heartily welcome, " saidthe old gentleman. "Strangers, if gentlemen, are always welcomevisitors to my house. So without any further ceremony walk in and restyourself, for I imagine that you have been in your saddle for severalhours and must feel quite fatigued. " "I have been riding since earlymorning and was surprised to find the country so thinly settled. Thisis the first place that I have seen at which I could venture to stop. ""Very true, " he replied, "but you will, as you advance, find thecountry more thickly settled. " We walked into the house and were metin the hall by a very fine looking and matronly old lady. Giving hisname as Godfrey, the old gentleman grasped his had and said: "Col. Godfrey, this is indeed a pleasure. Let me introduce you to my wife, Mrs. Ridley. " "Ridley did you say?" "The same. " "This is indeed mostfortunate. " "Say no more, Col. Godfrey; walk into the sitting room. You will find a cheerful fire, and as the air is a little chilly, aseat by the fire will cause you to feel more comfortable. Makeyourself perfectly at home. You will excuse me for a short time whileI give some directions to my head man, when I will rejoin you. " "Youare very excusable, Col. Ridley, " replied Col. Godfrey, "I do not wishyou to let my appearance interfere in the least with your businessarrangements. " The Colonel was not long away, and on re-entering theroom remarked to Col. Godfrey: "This unexpected meeting is verymysterious to me, and the more so because my wife remarked but a veryshort time ago that some stranger was coming; that she knew it fromthe incessant crowing of the chickens and the fierce howl of thehounds. I shall always hereafter believe in such signs. But Colonel, our supper is quite ready. You will be shown to a room where you mayarrange your toilet. " Having performed this duty he was met in thehall by Col. Ridley, who said: "Colonel, it has been the custom at myhouse since my earliest manhood, just before eating to take a toddy, made of the juice of the Cider Berry, prepared in this county, and isthe only medicine used in my family. The farmers of this county have apeculiar way of preparing it, and everybody that has used it speak ofthe good qualities which it possesses. Some say that its use, when youfeel badly, will cause you to feel good, and to use it when you feelgood will make you feel bad. It always makes me feel good, and I amremarkably fond of it. The oftener you take this medicine the betteryou will like it. There is sugar and honey; a little of either addedwill make it much more palatable, as honey is soothing and acts wellfor the lungs. I will try the honey. " This being disposed of theyproceed to supper, Colonel Ridley leading the way to the supper-room, and on entering found the family all standing, waiting. They were soonseated, and on the table before them was placed a good old-fashionedVirginia supper. Addressing himself to Mrs. Ridley, Col. Godfrey said:"Madame, I fear that you have, on this occasion, put yourself to someunnecessary trouble on my account. " "Not in the least, " graciouslyresponded that lady. Then turning to Col. Ridley, Colonel Godfreysaid, "You were quite right, Colonel, when you said that the 'juice'would make one feel good; it has had that effect on me already, and Ifeel that I can do ample justice to this fine supper. " "I am glad youthink so, " returned Colonel Ridley; "nothing pleases me more than tosee my visitors eat heartily; help yourself, it does appear to me thatone who has been riding all day would not require any artificial meansof inducing an appetite. " "Colonel, " said Mrs. Ridley, "I suppose thisis your first visit to the county?" "No, madame, " replied Col. Godfrey, "I passed through a portion of it several years ago to locatesome lands on the Nottoway river, and as there appears to be somedispute about the titles, I am on my way to look after it. " "Yes, " shesaid, "I heard you were coming and am truly glad you made itconvenient to come this way, and besides you are on the direct road;do you apprehend any trouble?" "Not the least; my papers areauthenticated, and I have only to present them. " "I hope, " she said, "that you will find it as you have stated. " Supper being over they allrepaired to the sitting-room. Colonel Ridley had a daughter whosehusband, a colonel of infantry, had been killed in the war of theRevolution and large tracts of land had been made by the Government tohis heirs. "What was the name of the soldier?" inquired ColonelGodfrey. "Col. G. Bradley, " answered Colonel Ridley. "Yes, sir; thatwas his name. " "That is a part of the business which caused my visitin this direction, and Mrs. Bradley need have no fears as to thevalidity of her title. I have the papers with me that will place herin full possession of the estate. Besides, she is entitled to a largeamount from the Government as half-pay for her husband's servicesduring the Revolution, which she will receive on application throughthe proper channel. " It was now getting late, and Col. Godfrey wastold that his room was ready if he wished to retire. Feeling a littlesleepy, after eating a hearty supper, and as he had to make an earlystart in the morning, he thought it best to go to his room, so biddingthe family good night he followed a boy, who carried a lighted candleto the room to which he had been assigned for the night, in which acheerful fire was burning. The boy entered the room, closing the doorbehind him, and said: "Mass boss, mammy told me to ax you of you wareny kin to de man dat made the baby medicin?" "Who is your mammy?"inquired the now thoroughly interested Colonel. "She's de 'oman datnusses all de babies on de plantashun. " "Tell your mammy that I willsee her in the morning. " "Yas, sir, " he said, and left the room. TheColonel soon retired, as he felt somewhat jaded. He awoke at an earlyhour, and having some moments leisure got up and dressed himself. About this time he heard a tapping at his door, and at the same timethe voice of the boy exclaiming: "Ise got a pitcher of fresh water foryou. " "Bring it in, " said the Colonel. The boy entered, showing tworows of white ivory. "Boss, will you hab a fire made?" "No, " said theColonel, "I will soon be ready to go down; is the Colonel up?" "Yas, sir, an' is waiting for you. " "Then I will go down, " said the Colonel, which he did and was met at the foot of the stairs by Col. Ridley, whobade him a cheerful good morning, and expressed the hope that he feltmuch better after his night's rest. "Thank you, sir; I am glad to saythat I feel very much refreshed. " "If you feel disposed, " said Col. Ridley, "we will take a walk out, the air is bracing and a little walkwill give you an appetite for your breakfast, which will soon beready. " They started, and as the old nurse of the plantation wished tosee Colonel Godfrey, he proposed to his host that they should go toher quarters. They had but a short distance to go, as her house wasvery conveniently situated. When they arrived they found the old ladywith a baby in her lap, evidently for some purpose. "Good morning, aunty, " said Col. Godfrey. The old woman looked very much excited; shewore a pair of spectacles, the lenses of which looked like twosaucers. "Mornin', sir, " she replied. "What are you going to do withyour baby?" inquired the Colonel. "I'm gwine to feed it, sir; itsmammy is ded, an' I hab to feed it myself. " "What do you give it toeat?" "I char 'tater, spit it out on my finger an' wipe 'cross dechile's mouf, arter dat I make a sugar rag, put some sweet flag in it, put de rag in de chile's mouf and lay it down; it goes to sleep, an'wen it wakes up ef it cries I gin it some more 'tater. " "But, " queriedthe Colonel, "suppose it is sick?" "I kin always tell dat; ef it drawsup its legs and kicks, I kno dat sumthin' is de matter, an' I den gibsum ciderberry juice wid nutmeg grated ober it, an' in no time debaby cries fer more ob de juice. Sum folks gib dar babies 'Godfrey'sCordial, ' but I dus not blebe in doctors' fisic; nine times out ob tendey will kill de baby. I thort dat you war sum kin to Mr. Godfrey datmade de medicin', and wood ax you 'bout it. " "No, aunty, I am no kinto him. "

Being informed that breakfast was ready, Colonel Ridley proposed thatthey should return to the house, and that a little of the ciderberryjuice would add much to the enjoyment of the meal, and as everythingwas convenient proposed that they should indulge. Col. Godfrey tooksome of the juice with honey, as before, and was then ready forbreakfast. Col. Ridley led the way, and on entering found a hotsmoking breakfast. Mrs. Ridley remarked, "Colonel, you are an earlyriser I see; I fear you did not rest well last night. " "I assure you, madame, " the Colonel gallantly replied, "I could not have been morecomfortable. My business being urgent, it was necessary that I shouldrise early. " "You do not think of leaving this early?" "Yes, madame;you know that delays are dangerous. I have spent a very pleasant time, and hope, not long hence, to make a more extended visit. I was verymuch amused this morning at seeing the nurse of the plantation feedinga baby. It was quite a novel sight to me. The old woman does notappear to have much confidence in doctors. " "No, sir, " replied thelady, "we have been living here a long time and no doctor has everbeen called, professionally, to see any one at the place. The oldwoman, with her tater, sweet flag, sugar rags, ciderberry juice andBlack Jack, keeps every one in a healthy condition. " "She must be veryvaluable to you, " said the Colonel. "Yes, sir", said Mrs. Ridley; "wecould not do without her, and her loss could not be replaced. " "It isgetting late and I am admonished I must leave, " said the Colonel, "forI have some distance yet to ride. " He said it would be a greatpleasure for him to remain longer under the hospitable roof of hiskind host and hostess, but that it would not be possible for him to doso. He said further that he had some papers which he would hand overto Col. Ridley which would be of great service to his daughter, Mrs. Bradley, as they would secure her right to certain disputed property, and that he must bid them adieu. Then addressing himself to Col. Ridley, said: "These papers are valuable; take them and entrust themonly into the hands of Mrs. Bradley, and that if he would now orderhis horse he would proceed on his way. " Col. Ridley assured him thathe would like to have him stay longer, but that of course he best knewhis business; that it had been his custom to welcome all visiting andspeed all departing guests. That should he happen to come that wayagain he would be delighted to have him stop, as he would always finda hearty welcome. Col. Godfrey thanked his new friend and said thatshould it be his fortune again to visit that neighborhood he promisednot to pass him by. His horse was waiting, so giving the Colonel ahearty shake of the hand and bidding good-bye to all, he mounted androde away. 

After Col. Godfrey had left, a general conversation was commencedabout his visit. It was evident that his business was with Mrs. Bradley, but he did not know at the time that she was the daughter ofCol. Ridley, or he would have made known to her the object of hisvisit. She was absent at the time. As his papers were all properlyavouched for he could leave them in the hands of her father, Col. Ridley. The old medicine woman of the plantation was much interestedin the visit of the Colonel to her quarters, and was anxious to knowif he was related to Mr. Godfrey that made the cordial. She was toldthat he was not. The old woman broke in and said: "Missus, I thort datde gemman who axed me what I was doin' wid de baby in my lap, was adoctor, an' some kin to de man what made de Godfrey's cordial, but hetole me dat he was not. He like de way dat I doctered de chile, an'sed dat he would rite about it. He sed dat he had tried sum of dejuice hisself an' dat it was good for babies. I tole him dat I did notblebe in doctors' physic; dey did not no what to do for babies. I tolehim dat nex to de cider berry juice an' sugar rag, dat de Black Jackwas de bes medcin dat I could use. He sed dat de Black Jack seldomfailed. Missus, when dat gemman 'peared at my do, I thort dat he was aspecalader, an' dat you was gwine to sell me. " "No, Aunt Barbara, "said Mrs. Ridley, "if all the money of all the negro buyers were addedtogether, it would not make an amount sufficient to buy you. Nothingbut death can separate us. You are a part of my very existence. Ihave left in my bosom a spark of gratitude yet, which kindles into aflame when I remember what you have done for the family. I have notforgotten that it was you that gave the timely warning of the approachof Nat Turner and his column. By so doing you probably saved the livesof the household. On another occasion you saved the life of my darlingbabe by a miracle wrought in your own way. Aunt Barbara, I would notgive you and your nostrums, such as 'Cider Berry Juice, ' 'Sweet Flag, ''Taters' 'Sugar Rags' and 'Black Jack' for all the doctors inChristendom. " "Missus, I'm glad dat you tink so much ob me. I hasalways done de bes dat I could. You know dat de chillun on deplantashun was bad, but wid my Black Jack I always made dem havedeyself. " "That is very true, Aunt Barbara, and they all love you forit. You know, Aunt Barbara, that the Good Book tells us, 'spare therod and you spoil your child. '" "Missus, dats what I 'luded to all detime. I nebber struc' one ob dem little niggers a lic' amiss in mylife, unless I struc' at him and didn't toch him. " The old woman heresaw a little nigger coming at full tilt, and knew that something waswrong. When he came up, she asked: "What on earth is de matter?" Theboy was quite out of breath and couldn't speak at the time. The oldwoman gave him a rake with her Black Jack and said: "What is de matterwid you?" "I cum to tell you dat Judy's baby is mos ded, an' want youto cum 'mediately. " "When I cum to de house, " said the old woman, "Iseed dat de chile was bad off. I took it up an' seed dat it had dedry gripes. I give it some Cider Berry Juice an' tole its mudder tofotch me a tater. I give de chile sum tater an' handed it to itsmudder, an' tole her to put a sugar rag in its mouf with sum SweetFlag an' lay it down, an' den I lef to jine de old folks at de house. ""Well, Aunt Barbara, I suppose there was nothing very serious thematter with the child, " said Mrs. Ridley. "Yas dar was, missus, an' Igot dar jus in time. De chile was taken wid de dry gripes. I gin itsum Cider Berry Juice an' tole its mudder to fotch me a tater. I ginit sum of de tater an' put a sugar rag in its mouf. Dat chile has donegone sleep. " "Barbara, " said Col. R. , "I suppose that if you were toldthat a child was dead and you were sent for in time you could, withyour Cider Berry Juice, Tater, Sugar Rags, Sweet Flag and your BlackJack, bring the little sleeper to life. You talk of dry gripes; whoever heard of such a thing? What are they, and how is a person taken?""Massa, " said the old woman, "I tole you 'bout dem when dey got holdob you. You ses nuffin to nobody, but you goes to de side-bode an' gitsum Cider Berry Juice. Dat ma'e you feel good, an' arter a while youtake sum mo' ob de juice. De baby dus not know dat, so it draws up itslegs an' kicks like wrath. Den I know dat it has de dry gripes. " "AuntBarbara, " said Col. R. , "I did not take it in that light before. Yourphilosophy is good, and I shall say nothing about the practice of yourprofession again. I admit that I take the juice quite often, but it isnot for the dry gripes. " "Yas, sir, dat medcin is good for alldiseases, an' I take sum mysef when dar is nuffin de matter wid me. "Mrs. Ridley, who was sitting listening to the conversation, happenedto look toward the road gate, and saw some one coming in. All eyeswere now turned toward the approaching stranger, and all were anxiousto know who it could be. One said that it must be a preacher, anotherthat it was a book agent. Aunt Barbara put on her specs, took a surveyand said: "I spec dat it is a doctor cummin' here to sell sum ofGodfrey's Cordial for de baby. " "You are all wrong, " said Col. Ridley, "it is our good friend, Col. Godfrey. " He was right. The Colonel hadadvanced near enough for all to see. Col. R. Advanced to the yard gateas Col. Godfrey rode up. A boy was in waiting to take his horse. "Colonel, we are all glad to see you back again. Dismount and let youranimal be stabled. " Having dismounted, Col. R. Took him by the handand walked in the house. Mrs. R. Was standing on the portico, and asCol. G. Walked up she said "Sir, I assure you that we are all veryglad to see you. We had been talking about you at the time that youappeared at the road gate. Walk in. We will talk about that later. Take off your overcoat and wrappings. " "Thank you, madam, " he replied. 

"Colonel, " said Col, Ridley, "to use a commonplace expression, whichis, 'talk about the devil and his imp will appear, ' we had just beenwondering who the rider could be. One said that he was a preacher;another that he was a book agent. Old Aunt Barbara, the plantationnurse, said that he was a doctor coming to sell some of Godfrey'sCordial for the children. And I see I first discovered that it wasyou. I am rather disposed to think that you feel bad. I have some ofthe same Cider Berry Juice, and as everything is ready you will, without any further ceremony, walk up and take a little for thestomach's sake. " "Thank you, " said Col. G. "Since travelling over thecounty of Southampton I have had frequent occasions to try the juice. It is prepared and kept by most of the farmers, and the use of it actslike a charm. " "If you would like to arrange your toilet, the boy willshow you to your room. In the meantime I will see to having your horseproperly cared for. " The boy was the same that waited on Col. G. Before, and was the son of the nurse of the plantation. "Well, Buck, how is your mammy now? How much Black Jack and Taters has she givenyou since I left?" "He, he, he, " giggled the boy. "I tell you what itis, boss, mammy wars me out mos every day, but she gibs me plentytaters an' I doan mine it. " "Is Mrs. Bradly here?" "No sir. She didnot stay here long arter marster gib her de papers dat you lef, an' Ispec when she cum back she will hab lots o' money. " "She will, nodoubt, as she will only have to present the papers. I should like verymuch to see her. Is she handsome?" "I doan no what dat is, sar. " "Imean is she pretty?" "Yas, sar, dat she is. It is gin out dat she isde puttiest 'oman in dis settlement, and I git so tired taking horsesob gemmen dat cum to see her. " "Then I expect she is bethrothed. " "Idoan no 'bout dat, but she ses dat de rite gemman hab not cum yit. " "Imust go down now, the Colonel may be waiting for me. Here is a dollarfor you. Be sure to come to my room to-night. " "Yas, sar, I will bedar sure. " He had finished his toilet and proceeded down stairs. Hewas met by Col. R. , who said: "Colonel, you will find a happyhousehold. Your return has put a new phase on everything. The oldnurse is perfectly happy since she found out that you are no negrobuyer, and that you did not come to sell Godfrey's Cordial. " "The oldwoman must be averse to doctors. She no doubt is right, as nine timesout of ten, but very few of them know what they are doing. " "Thinkingthat you had not dined, Mrs. R. Has prepared something for you. Try alittle more of the Cider Berry Juice and honey. You will feel betterprepared to enjoy what the madam has set before you. " "I assure you, Col. R. , that since travelling in this county I have becomeparticularly fond of the juice. I have called at several places whereI was told they did not use the medicine, but always like to see itsitting convenient. " "The juice that you are now mixing was preparedwhen our first child was born. It is very exhilarating in its effects, and you are fortunate in having the pleasure of testing it at thistime. It is an honor that is extended to but few. " "Col. R. , allow meto drink to the very good health of your first born. Was it a male orfemale?" "It was a female, and I am glad to inform you that it wasMrs. Bradley. She is away at present, but I hope that you may make itconvenient to stay until her return, which may be in a few days. " Avery neat and polite negro man made his appearance from thedining-room, and bowing very politely, said: "Marster, you can invitethe Colonel in; everything is ready. " "Colonel, walk this way. It israther late for breakfast, but you will no doubt be able to make arepast of what is before you. " "Make no excuses, Col. R. , about whatis before me, for it would satisfy the appetite of a king. That is thebesetting sin of the Old Virginia matrons. They will load the tablewith everything that is good and palatable and say that they are sorrythat they have nothing you can eat. " "Col. Godfrey, " said Mrs. Ridley, "I see that you are disposed to indulge in a little flattery. It istrue that we extend our hospitality to visiting strangers and friends, but not to that extent which you ascribe to us. " "It has been myexperience, madam, at every place at which I have had business in thisneighborhood, and I infer that it was a general thing. " "Then, Colonel, " said Mrs. R. , "you have had a very pleasant time since youleft our house?" "I cannot say that it has been altogether pleasant, madam. When on the road I cannot say that it was pleasant, butanything else I assure you. My trip has been an exceedingly dangerousone. I found treachery lurking about, and I at once put myself on myguard. " Having finished eating, the Colonel was invited into thesitting-room, where Col. R. Was found reading a paper just receivedfrom Washington, in which was announced the arrival of his daughter, Mrs. Bradley, of Virginia, and her son. Mrs. B. , it will berecollected, was the widow of a distinguished revolutionary officer, and was in Washington on business with the Office of the Interior. "Take the paper, Colonel, " said Col. Ridley, "you may find somethingwhich might be of interest to you. " When scanning over its pages hiseyes rested on the following:

 "Arrived in this city to-day, by way of stage from Richmond, Virginia, the beautiful and accomplished Mrs. Col. Bradley, of Va. She is the widow of the brave and gallant Col. Bradley, who so distinguished himself during the revolution, being twice brevetted on the field for bravery. She is the daughter of Col. Ridley, of Southampton county, Va. , so well known for his hospitality. Every attention will be paid to this distinguished lady. She will remain in the city for several days, as she has important business with the Secretary of the Interior. That functionary has already called on her, and she will have no trouble in that direction. "

Col. R. , having finished his out-door operations, returned to thehouse, and on entering the sitting-room found Col. Godfrey stilllooking over the paper. "Colonel, " he remarked, "I imagine that youhave been much interested in reading the papers. " "Yes, sir. I noticethat your daughter, Mrs. Col. Bradley, had arrived in the city ofWashington, and had received much attention. " "Yes, sir, and it wasvery gratifying to me to know that such was the case. I only hope thatshe will meet with no very serious difficulty in the prosecution ofher business. " "I assure you, sir, that she can have not the leastdifficulty; besides, she will have no trouble. The Secretary of theInterior has been informed of her visit, and she will be aided by himin every way. " "I hope that it may be as you have stated. " "Restassured, Colonel, what I tell you is so. " Mrs. Ridley, having finishedher domestic arrangements, entered the room, when the conversation atonce ceased. Addressing herself to Col. R. , she said: "It is rathercold in the room, had you not better order some wood placed on thefire. " "Excuse me, my dear, I was so much interested in theconversation of our distinguished guest that I paid but littleattention to the fire. I will order the wood immediately. " The woodwas brought in, and soon the room was made very comfortable. Mrs. R. Said: "Col. Godfrey, at the table just now you said that your journeyafter you left us, was in many instances, not very pleasant. You haverather raised my curiosity. I would like to have you give an accountof your mishaps as you journeyed along. It will be very interesting, no doubt. " "It is a great pleasure to me to impart to others anythingthat I may know that would prove of interest to them, and I do mostwillingly grant the request made by you. "

CHAPTER XIII. 

THE ADVENTURES OF SMITH, JONES AND BROWN--JONES, HEARING THAT A SNAKEIS IN THE BOAT, JUMPS INTO THE CANAL. 

In getting up a party to visit Lake Drummond, you will always findmore or less of the party who are afraid of snakes. On this occasionthe party consisted of only three--Smith, Jones and Brown--allcitizens of Suffolk. They prepared themselves with the necessaryoutfit and started for the canal. Their boat being ready they embarkedand soon were on the way. Smith being the most expert took the wheel, Brown placed himself at the bow, so that he could ward off approachingdanger, and Jones, who was the timid one of the party, was putamidship the boat, with his back to Brown. I knew the parties well;they are all living, and I will narrate the snake story as I was toldby Brown, who will vouch for its authenticity. They had not passed thegreat terror to all who go to the Lake (Paradise Old Fields), wherecan be seen everything that is hideous; a place that is dreaded, andif it could, would be shunned by every one who visits the Lake. Thingsof most unquestionable shapes have been seen by persons when passingit. No one has ever given any account of the history of the Field, which you are compelled to pass going to Lake Drummond, and which hasdeterred many from venturing to it. Owing to the many snake storiesthat has been told by persons who said they were born to see spirits, there can be no doubt that there is a legend connected with thatField. Some have argued that the Field was at one time filled withgrottos, and that the fairies of Lake Drummond would leave their realmand by a subterranean passage into it to bask in the beauties whichsurrounded it. Profane history informs us that it was at this placethat Pluto and Proserpine left for the infernal regions. That willmake no difference about the snake story that I will relate. A snakeis a wonderful reptile, and it is not necessary for one to be seenthat one should be frightened. The very mention, in some instances, issufficient to scare those who are the least timid. So it was in thisinstance. Jones, as I have said before, was one of a party that weregoing to the Lake. He was afraid of snakes. Smith and Brown knew itand they determined to have a little sport at his expense. Jones washighly delighted with the grandeur of the scenery by the side of thecanal, as they rode along, and was expatiating upon the wonders ofnature. Smith was charmed with the romantic effusions of Jones, andpaid no attention to Brown, who was sitting at the bow of the boat, here looked toward him, and seeing that he was intently searching forsomething, asked what was the matter. Brown answered that a snake wasin the boat and that he was trying to find it. Here Jones commenced totwist and squirm. "Hallo!" said Brown: "here's another!" No sooner hadhe said another when Jones sprang into the canal. He made severallunges and, Peter like, looked as if he was walking on the water. Smith added more steam to the boat and Jones was overhauled and takeninto the boat, very much frightened. They had not gone very far whenBrown said: "I believe that snake is in the boat yet, " and at the sametime threw at Jones a piece of rattan, which is good to scare onewith--it's a veritable snake. He was again taken into the boat, quiteexhausted and cold from his ablutions. Brown prepared some ciderberryjuice for him, with some pepper and other things that they had alongwhich, after taking, Jones became more quiet. Brown says that when hethinks about that snake story it fills him so with laughter that hehas to buckle a strap around him to support his physical organization. Jones has not ventured to the Lake since that time, and Brown isafraid to tell him that the snake in the boat was only a piece ofrattan. If you want to see snakes come to Suffolk and get Brown to gowith you to the Lake of the Dismal Swamp, and he will amuse you toyour heart's content. 

To be continued, introducing several thrilling stories connected withthe Dismal Swamp and Lake Drummond, together with bear hunting and thefearful consequences attending, and later accounts of the whereaboutsof Uncle Alek's mule. 

 * * * * *

SUFFOLK MILITARY ACADEMY. 

ESTABLISHED 1875. 

The following constitute an able and experienced Faculty: JOSEPH KING, A. M. , Principal (with 27 years' experience as a teacher). REV. ROWLAND DOGGETT, A. M. , (Randolph-Macon) Associate. P. ST. JULIENWILSON (Virginia Military Institute). DR. W. W. MURRAY (DublinUniversity). DR. A. W. ELEY, DR. E. D. PHILLIPS, Attending Physicians. 

The testimonals (see catalogue) from distinguished educators at theUniversity of Virginia, the Virginia Military Institute and otherinstitutions--from leading members of the Virginia Conference--fromits patrons in different States, and from the leading citizens ofSuffolk, are a sufficient guarantee of the high character and standingof the school and the practical ability and fidelity of the teachers. 

Boys and Young Men are here prepared for business or for college, andare surrounded by the best social and religious influences. 

The military exercises (which take no time from regular study hours)are only intended to make boys healthy and strong, and to give them anerect and graceful bearing. 

The Academy is supplied with Chemical and Philosophical Apparatus forScientific Illustration; with Charts, Globes and Magic Lantern, toillustrate Geography, Physiology, Natural History and Astronomy; withnew instruments for field work in Land Surveying and CivilEngineering; with two telegraph instruments and batteries for practicein Telegraphy, and other educational appliances for different branchesof study. Handsome nickel-plated rifles and accoutrements furnished bythe State. 

All our arrangements are home-like, and conducive to health, comfortand mental and moral development. 

Total expenses for one year, including neat navy blue uniform, from$175 to $190. 

For twenty page catalogue, with view of buildings and grounds, address

 JOSEPH KING, A. M. , Principal, Or REV. ROWLAND DOGGETT, A. M. , Associate, SUFFOLK, VA. 

CHARTERED 1872. 

SUFFOLK COLLEGIATE INSTITUTE!

SUFFOLK, --VA. 

=PREPARATORY, PRACTICAL OR FINISHING=

--IN--

=Classics, Mathematics, Sciences and the Fine Arts!=

ADEQUATE FACULTY. 

DISCIPLINE--Self-acting under Parental and Christian direction. _Character_ is primary. _Conduct_ is resultant. 

DOMESTIC ARRANGEMENTS. --Economical, substantial, home-like. 

TERMS. --Reasonable. Both sexes admitted. 

Sessions begin middle of September and end the following June. ForCatalogues and other information address

 =PROF. P. J. KERNODLE, A. M. , = PRINCIPAL. 

CHARTERED 1881. 

SUFFOLK

=Female Institute=

FOR

YOUNG LADIES AND LITTLE GIRLS. 

=BOARD AND LITERARY TUITION $160 A YEAR=

The Charter authorizes the Faculty to confer the regular CollegiateDegrees. 

The eighteenth annual session opened in September, 1887, and closesthe second Wednesday in June, 1888. 

Students received at any time, but are advised to enter at thebeginning of a term. 

Suffolk is one of the healthiest and most accessible towns inVirginia. 

The corps of teachers is efficient and experienced. The home training, moral and attractive. Fine advantages in Music, Art and Languages, atmodern rates. 

For catalogue apply to

 =MISSES FINNEY, =Box 146. SUFFOLK, VA. 

WEST END

SEMINARY

FOR

YOUNG LADIES AND GIRLS. 

SUFFOLK, VA. 

The first session of this institution commenced its exercisesSeptember 20th, 1887, with flattering prospects, being attended byyoung ladies from Surry, Southampton, Isle of Wight and Nansemondcounties. 

The large and commodious brick building, recently erected on Kilbystreet, by Dr. Skiles, has been secured for the purpose. 

The course of instruction is such as to prepare young ladies for thevarious duties of life. 

Special attention paid to moral and religious training, as well associal cultivation, thereby rendering this a home-like school. 

Terms very moderate. 

For any desired information address

 COL. WM. H. DARDEN, MISS NOVELLA S. DARDEN, Principals. Or MISS LIZZIE J. KING, Associate. 

 * * * * *

Transcriber's Notes:

Table of Contents does not appear in the original book. It has beenadded for readers' convenience. 

Some punctuation and typographical errors have been corrected toreflect the author's intention.