THE GARIES

AND

THEIR FRIENDS

Frank J. Webb

1857

Preface by Harriet Beecher Stowe

TO THE

LADY NOEL BYRON

THIS BOOK

IS, BY HER KIND PERMISSION, MOST AFFECTIONATELY INSCRIBED, WITH PROFOUND RESPECT, BY HER GRATEFUL FRIEND, THE AUTHOR. 

PREFACE. 

The book which now appears before the public may be of interest in relationto a question which the late agitation of the subject of slavery has raisedin many thoughtful minds; viz. --Are the race at present held as slavescapable of freedom, self-government, and progress?

The author is a coloured young man, born and reared in the city ofPhiladelphia. 

This city, standing as it does on the frontier between free and slaveterritory, has accumulated naturally a large population of the mixed andAfrican race. 

Being one of the nearest free cities of any considerable size to the slaveterritory, it has naturally been a resort of escaping fugitives, or ofemancipated slaves. 

In this city they form a large class--have increased in numbers, wealth, and standing--they constitute a peculiar society of their own, presentingmany social peculiarities worthy of interest and attention. 

The representations of their positions as to wealth and education arereliable, the incidents related are mostly true ones, woven together by aslight web of fiction. 

The scenes of the mob describe incidents of a peculiar stage ofexcitement, which existed in the city of Philadelphia years ago, when thefirst agitation of the slavery question developed an intense form ofopposition to the free coloured people. 

Southern influence at that time stimulated scenes of mob violence inseveral Northern cities where the discussion was attempted. By prompt, undaunted resistance, however, this spirit was subdued, and the right offree inquiry established; so that discussion of the question, so far frombeing dangerous in Free States, is now begun to be allowed in the SlaveStates; and there are some subjects the mere discussion of which is ahalf-victory. 

The author takes pleasure in recommending this simple and truthfully-toldstory to the attention and interest of the friends of progress and humanityin England. 

(Signed) H. B. Stowe. 

ANDOVER, U. S. , _August_ 17, 1857. 

FROM LORD BROUGHAM. 

I have been requested by one who has long known the deep interest I haveever taken in the cause of Freedom, and in the elevation of the colouredrace, to supply a few lines of introduction to Mr. Webb's book. 

It was the intention of Mrs. Harriet Beecher Stowe to introduce this workto the British public, but I am truly sorry to learn that a severe domesticaffliction, since her return to America, has postponed the fulfilment ofher promise. 

I am, however, able to state her opinion of the book, expressed in a letterto one of her friends. 

She says:--"There are points in the book of which I think very highly. Thestyle is simple and unambitious--the characters, most of them faithfullydrawn from real life, are quite fresh, and the incident, which is also muchof it fact, is often deeply interesting. 

"I shall do what I can with the preface. I would not do as much unless Ithought the book of worth _in itself_. It shows what I long have wanted toshow; what the _free people of colour do attain_, and what they can do inspite of all social obstacles. "

I hope and trust that Mr. Webb's book will meet with all the success towhich its own merit, and the great interest of the subject, so well entitleit. On this, Mrs. Stowe's authority is naturally of the greatest weight;and I can only lament that this prefatory notice does not come accompaniedwith her further remarks and illustrations. 

4, Grafton-street, _July_ 29, 1857. 

 * * * * *

Note. --Since the above was written, the preface by Mrs. Stowe has beenreceived. It was deemed best, however, to still retain the introduction sokindly given by Lord Brougham, whose deep interest in the freedom andwelfare of the African race none feel more grateful for than does theauthor of the following pages. 

CONTENTS

1. --In which the Reader is introduced to a Family of PeculiarConstruction

2. --A Glance at the Ellis Family

3. --Charlie's Trials

4. --In which Mr. Winston finds an Old Friend

5. --The Garies decide on a Change

6. --Pleasant News

7. --Mrs. Thomas has her Troubles

8. --Trouble in the Ellis Family

9. --Breaking up

10. --Another Parting

11. --The New Home

12. --Mr. Garie's Neighbour

13. --Hopes consummated

14. --Charlie at Warmouth

15. --Mrs. Stevens gains a Triumph

16. --Mr. Stevens makes a Discovery

17. --Plotting

18. --Mr. Stevens falls into Bad Hands

19. --The Alarm

20. --The Attack

21. --More Horrors

22. --An Anxious Day

23. --The Lost One Found

24. --Charlie distinguishes himself

25. --The Heir

26. --Home again

27. --Sudbury

28. --Charlie seeks Employment

29. --Clouds and Sunshine

30. --Many Years after

31. --The Thorn rankles

32. --Dear Old Ess again

33. --The Fatal Discovery

34. --"Murder will out"

35. --The Wedding

36. --And the Last

CHAPTER I. 

In which the Reader is introduced to a Family of peculiar Construction. 

It was at the close of an afternoon in May, that a party might have beenseen gathered around a table covered with all those delicacies that, in thehousehold of a rich Southern planter, are regarded as almost necessaries oflife. In the centre stood a dish of ripe strawberries, their plump redsides peeping through the covering of white sugar that had been plentifullysprinkled over them. Geeche limes, almost drowned in their own rich syrup, temptingly displayed their bronze-coloured forms just above the rim of theglass that contained them. Opposite, and as if to divert the gaze fromlingering too long over their luscious beauty, was a dish of peachespreserved in brandy, a never-failing article in a Southern matron'scatalogues of sweets. A silver basket filled with a variety of cakes was inclose proximity to a plate of corn-flappers, which were piled upon it likea mountain, and from the brown tops of which trickled tiny rivulets ofbutter. All these dainties, mingling their various odours with the aroma ofthe tea and fine old java that came steaming forth from the richly chasedsilver pots, could not fail to produce a very appetising effect. 

There was nothing about Mr. Garie, the gentleman who sat at the head of thetable, to attract more than ordinary attention. He had the ease of mannerusual with persons whose education and associations have been of a highlyrefined character, and his countenance, on the whole, was pleasing, andindicative of habitual good temper. 

Opposite to him, and presiding at the tea-tray, sat a lady of markedbeauty. The first thing that would have attracted attention on seeing herwere her gloriously dark eyes. They were not entirely black, but of thatseemingly changeful hue so often met with in persons of African extraction, which deepens and lightens with every varying emotion. Hers wore a subduedexpression that sank into the heart and at once riveted those who saw her. Her hair, of jetty black, was arranged in braids; and through herlight-brown complexion the faintest tinge of carmine was visible. As sheturned to take her little girl from the arms of the servant, she displayeda fine profile and perfectly moulded form. No wonder that ten years before, when she was placed upon the auction-block at Savanah, she had brought sohigh a price. Mr. Garie had paid two thousand dollars for her, and was theenvy of all the young bucks in the neighbourhood who had competed with himat the sale. Captivated by her beauty, he had esteemed himself fortunate inbecoming her purchaser; and as time developed the goodness of her heart, and her mind enlarged through the instructions he assiduously gave her, hefound the connection that might have been productive of many evils, hadproved a boon to both; for whilst the astonishing progress she made in hereducation proved her worthy of the pains he took to instruct her, shereturned threefold the tenderness and affection he lavished upon her. 

The little girl in her arms, and the boy at her side, showed no tracewhatever of African origin. The girl had the chestnut hair and blue eyes ofher father; but the boy had inherited the black hair and dark eyes of hismother. The critically learned in such matters, knowing his parentage, might have imagined they could detect the evidence of his mother's race, bythe slightly mezzo-tinto expression of his eyes, and the rather Africanfulness of his lips; but the casual observer would have passed him bywithout dreaming that a drop of negro blood coursed through his veins. Hisface was expressive of much intelligence, and he now seemed to listen withan earnest interest to the conversation that was going on between hisfather and a dark-complexioned gentleman who sat beside him. 

"And so you say, Winston, that they never suspected you were coloured?"

"I don't think they had the remotest idea of such a thing. At least, ifthey did, they must have conquered their prejudices most effectually, forthey treated me with the most distinguished consideration. Old Mr. Priestlywas like a father to me; and as for his daughter Clara and her aunt, theywere politeness embodied. The old gentleman was so much immersed inbusiness, that he was unable to bestow much attention upon me; so he turnedme over to Miss Clara to be shown the lions. We went to the opera, thetheatre, to museums, concerts, and I can't tell where all. The Sundaybefore I left I accompanied her to church, and after service, as we werecoming out, she introduced me to Miss Van Cote and her mamma. Mrs. Van Cotewas kind enough to invite me to her grand ball. "

"And did you go?" interrupted Mr. Garie. 

"Of course, I did--and what is more, as old Mr. Priestly has given upballs, he begged me to escort Clara and her aunt. "

"Well, Winston, that is too rich, " exclaimed Mr. Garie, slapping his handon the table, and laughing till he was red in the face; "too good, by Jove!Oh! I can't keep that. I must write to them, and say I forgot to mention inmy note of introduction that you were a coloured gentleman. The old manwill swear till everything turns blue; and as for Clara, what will becomeof her? A Fifth-avenue belle escorted to church and to balls by a colouredgentleman!" Here Mr. Garie indulged in another burst of laughter soside-shaking and merry, that the contagion spread even to the little girlin Mrs. Garie's arms, who almost choked herself with the tea her mother wasgiving her, and who had to be hustled and shaken for some time before shecould be brought round again. 

"It will be a great triumph for me, " said Mr. Garie. "The old man prideshimself on being able to detect evidences of the least drop of Africanblood in any one; and makes long speeches about the natural antipathy ofthe Anglo-Saxon to anything with a drop of negro blood in its veins. Oh, Ishall write him a glorious letter expressing my pleasure at his greatchange of sentiment, and my admiration of the fearless manner in which hedisplays his contempt for public opinion. How he will stare! I fancy I seehim now, with his hair almost on end with disgust. It will do him good: itwill convince him, I hope, that a man can be a gentleman even though he hasAfrican blood in his veins. I have had a series of quarrels with him, "continued Mr. Garie; "I think he had his eye on me for Miss Clara, and thatmakes him particularly fierce about my present connection. He ratherpresumes on his former great intimacy with my father, and undertakes tolecture me occasionally when opportunity is afforded. He was greatlyscandalized at my speaking of Emily as my wife; and seemed to think mecracked because I talked of endeavouring to procure a governess for mychildren, or of sending them abroad to be educated. He has a holy horror ofeverything approaching to amalgamation; and of all the men I ever met, cherishes the most unchristian prejudice against coloured people. He says, the existence of "a gentleman" with African blood in his veins, is a moraland physical impossibility, and that by no exertion can anything be made ofthat description of people. He is connected with a society for thedeportation of free coloured people, and thinks they ought to be all sentto Africa, unless they are willing to become the property of some goodmaster. "

"Oh, yes; it is quite a hobby of his, " here interposed Mr. Winston. "Hemakes lengthy speeches on the subject, and has published two of them inpamphlet form. Have you seen them?"

"Yes, he sent them to me. I tried to get through one of them, but it wastoo heavy, I had to give it up. Besides, I had no patience with them; theyabounded in mis-statements respecting the free coloured people. Why evenhere in the slave states--in the cities of Savanah and Charleston--they aremuch better situated than he describes them to be in New York; and sincethey can and do prosper here, where they have such tremendous difficultiesto encounter, I know they cannot be in the condition he paints, in a statewhere they are relieved from many of the oppressions they labour underhere. And, on questioning him on the subject, I found he was entirelyunacquainted with coloured people; profoundly ignorant as to the real factsof their case. He had never been within a coloured church or school; didnot even know that they had a literary society amongst them. Positively, I, living down here in Georgia, knew more about the character and condition ofthe coloured people of the Northern States, than he who lived right in themidst of them. Would you believe that beyond their laundress and a drunkennegro that they occasionally employed to do odd jobs for them, they wereactually unacquainted with any coloured people: and how unjust was it forhim to form his opinion respecting a class numbering over twenty thousandin his own state, from the two individuals I have mentioned and the negroloafers he occasionally saw in the streets. "

"It is truly unfortunate, " rejoined Mr. Winston, "for he covers hisprejudices with such a pretended regard for the coloured people, that aperson would be the more readily led to believe his statements respectingthem to be correct; and he is really so positive about it, and apparentlygo deaf to all argument that I did not discuss the subject with him to anyextent; he was so very kind to me that I did not want to run a tilt againsthis favourite opinions. "

"You wrote me he gave you letters to Philadelphia; was there one amongstthem to the Mortons?"

"Yes. They were very civil and invited me to a grand dinner they gave tothe Belgian Charge d'Affaires. I also met there one or two scions of thefirst families of Virginia. The Belgian minister did not seem to be awarethat slavery is a tabooed subject in polite circles, and he was continuallybringing it forward until slaves, slavery, and black people in generalbecame the principal topic of conversation, relieved by occasionaldiscussion upon some new book or pictures, and remarks in praise of theviands before us. A very amusing thing occurred during dinner. Abright-faced little coloured boy who was assisting at the table, seemed totake uncommon interest in the conversation. An animated discussion hadarisen as to the antiquity of the use of salad, one party maintaining thatone of the oldest of the English poets had mentioned it in a poem, and theother as stoutly denying it. At last a reverend gentleman, whose remarksrespecting the intelligence of the children of Ham had been particularlydisparaging, asserted that nowhere in Chaucer, Spencer, nor any of the oldEnglish poets could anything relating to it be found. At this, the littlewaiter became so excited that he could no longer contain himself, and, despite the frowns and nods of our hostess, exclaimed, 'Yes it can, it's inChaucer; here, ' he continued, taking out a book from the book-case, 'hereis the very volume, '[*] and turning over the leaves he pointed out thepassage, to the great chagrin of the reverend gentleman, and to theamusement of the guests. The Belgian minister enjoyed it immensely. 'Ah, 'said he, 'the child of Ham know more than the child of Shem, dis time. 'Whereupon Mrs. Morton rejoined that in this case it was not so wonderful, owing to the frequent and intimate relations into which ham and salad werebrought, and with this joke the subject was dismissed. I can't say I wasparticularly sorry when the company broke up. "

[Footnote * See Chaucer, "Flower and the Leaf. "]

"Oh, George, never mind the white people, " here interposed Mrs. Garie. "Never mind them; tell us about the coloured folks; they are the ones Itake the most interest in. We were so delighted with your letters, and soglad that you found Mrs. Ellis. Tell us all about that. "

"Oh, 'tis a long story, Em, and can't be told in a minute; it would takethe whole evening to relate it all. "

"Look at the children, my dear, they are half asleep, " said Mr. Garie. "Call nurse and see them safe into bed, and when you come back we will havethe whole story. "

"Very well;" replied she, rising and calling the nurse. "Now remember, George, you are not to begin until I return, for I should be quite vexed tolose a word. "

"Oh, go on with the children, my dear, I'll guarantee he shall not say aword on the subject till you come back. "

With this assurance Mrs. Garie left the room, playfully shaking her fingerat them as she went out, exclaiming, "Not a word, remember now, not aword. "

After she left them Mr. Garie remarked, "I have not seen Em as happy as sheis this afternoon for some time. I don't know what has come over herlately; she scarcely ever smiles now, and yet she used to be the mostcheerful creature in the world. I wish I knew what is the matter with her;sometimes I am quite distressed about her. She goes about the house lookingso lost and gloomy, and does not seem to take the least interest inanything. You saw, " continued he, "how silent she has been all tea time, and yet she has been more interested in what you have been saying than inanything that has transpired for months. Well, I suppose women will be sosometimes, " he concluded, applying himself to the warm cakes that had justbeen set upon the table. 

"Perhaps she is not well, " suggested Mr. Winston, "I think she looks alittle pale. "

"Well, possibly you may be right, but I trust it is only a temporarylowness of spirits or something of that kind. Maybe she will get over it ina day or two;" and with this remark the conversation dropped, and thegentlemen proceeded to the demolition of the sweetmeats before them. Andnow, my reader, whilst they are finishing their meal, I will relate to youwho Mr. Winston is, and how he came to be so familiarly seated at Mr. Garie's table. 

Mr. Winston had been a slave. Yes! that fine-looking gentleman seated nearMr. Garie and losing nothing by the comparison that their proximity wouldsuggest, had been fifteen years before sold on the auction-block in theneighbouring town of Savanah--had been made to jump, show his teeth, shoutto test his lungs, and had been handled and examined by professed negrotraders and amateur buyers, with less gentleness and commiseration thanevery humane man would feel for a horse or an ox. Now do not doubt me--Imean that very gentleman, whose polished manners and irreproachableappearance might have led you to suppose him descended from a long line ofillustrious ancestors. Yes--he was the offspring of a mulatto field-hand byher master. He who was now clothed in fine linen, had once rejoiced in atow shirt that scarcely covered his nakedness, and had sustained life on apeck of corn a week, receiving the while kicks and curses from a tyrannicaloverseer. 

The death of his master had brought him to the auction-block, from which, both he and his mother were sold to separate owners. There they took theirlast embrace of each other--the mother tearless, but heart-broken--the boywith all the wildest manifestations of grief. 

His purchaser was a cotton broker from New Orleans, a warm-hearted, kindold man, who took a fancy to the boy's looks, and pitied him for hisunfortunate separation from his mother. After paying for his new purchase, he drew him aside, and said, in a kind tone, "Come, my little man, stopcrying; my boys never cry. If you behave yourself you shall have fine timeswith me. Stop crying now, and come with me; I am going to buy you a newsuit of clothes. "

"I don't want new clothes--I want my mammy, " exclaimed the child, with afresh burst of grief. 

"Oh dear me!" said the fussy old gentleman, "why can't you stop--I don'twant to hear you cry. Here, " continued he, fumbling in his pocket--"here'sa picayune. "

"Will that buy mother back?" said the child brightening up. 

"No, no, my little man, not quite--I wish it would. I'd purchase the oldwoman; but I can't--I'm not able to spare the money. "

"Then I don't want it, " cried the boy, throwing the money on the ground. "If it won't buy mammy, I don't want it. I want my mammy, and nothingelse. "

At length, by much kind language, and by the prospect of many fabulousevents to occur hereafter, invented at the moment by the old gentleman, theboy was coaxed into a more quiescent state, and trudged along in the rearof Mr. Moyese--that was the name of his purchaser--to be fitted with thenew suit of clothes. 

The next morning they started by the stage for Augusta. George, seated onthe box with the driver, found much to amuse him; and the driver's merrychat and great admiration of George's new and gaily-bedizened suit, went agreat way towards reconciling that young gentleman to his new situation. 

In a few days they arrived in New Orleans. There, under the kind care ofMr. Moyese, he began to exhibit great signs of intelligence. The atmosphereinto which he was now thrown, the kindness of which he was hourly therecipient, called into vigour abilities that would have been stifled forever beneath the blighting influences that surrounded him under his formermaster. The old gentleman had him taught to read and write, and his aptnesswas such as to highly gratify the kind old soul. 

In course of time, the temporary absence of an out-door clerk causedGeorge's services to be required at the office for a few days, aserrand-boy. Here he made himself so useful as to induce Mr. Moyese tokeep him there permanently. After this he went through all the grades fromerrand-boy up to chief-clerk, which post he filled to the full satisfactionof his employer. His manners and person improved with his circumstances;and at the time he occupied the chief-clerk's desk, no one would havesuspected him to be a slave, and few who did not know his history wouldhave dreamed that he had a drop of African blood in his veins. He wasunremitting in his attention to the duties of his station, and gained, byhis assiduity and amiable deportment, the highest regard of his employer. 

A week before a certain New-year's-day, Mr. Moyese sat musing over somepresents that had just been sent home, and which he was on the morrow todistribute amongst his nephews and nieces. "Why, bless me!" he suddenlyexclaimed, turning them over, "why, I've entirely forgotten George! Thatwill never do; I must get something for him. What shall it be? He has afine watch, and I gave him a pin and ring last year. I really don't knowwhat will be suitable, " and he sat for some time rubbing his chin, apparently in deep deliberation. "Yes, I'll do it!" he exclaimed, startingup; "I'll do it! He has been a faithful fellow, and deserves it. I'll makehim a present of himself! Now, how strange it is I never thought of thatbefore--it's just the thing;--how surprised and delighted he will be!" andthe old gentleman laughed a low, gentle, happy laugh, that had in it solittle of selfish pleasure, that had you only heard him you must have lovedhim for it. 

Having made up his mind to surprise George in this agreeable manner, Mr. Moyese immediately wrote a note, which he despatched to his lawyers, Messrs. Ketchum and Lee, desiring them to make out a set of free papers forhis boy George, and to have them ready for delivery on the morrow, as itwas his custom to give his presents two or three days in advance of thecoming year. 

The note found Mr. Ketchum deep in a disputed will case, upon the decisionof which depended the freedom of some half-dozen slaves, who had beenemancipated by the will of their late master; by which piece of posthumousbenevolence his heirs had been greatly irritated, and were in consequenceendeavouring to prove him insane. 

"Look at that, Lee, " said he, tossing the note to his partner; "if that oldMoyese isn't the most curious specimen of humanity in all New Orleans! Heis going to give away clear fifteen hundred dollars as a New-year's gift!"

"To whom?" asked Mr. Lee. 

"He has sent me orders, " replied Mr. Ketchum, "to make out a set of freepapers for his boy George. "

"Well, I can't say that I see so much in that, " said Lee; "how can heexpect to keep him? George is almost as white as you or I, and has themanners and appearance of a gentleman. He might walk off any day withoutthe least fear of detection. "

"Very true, " rejoined Ketchum, "but I don't think he would do it. He isvery much attached to the old gentleman, and no doubt would remain with himas long as the old man lives. But I rather think the heirs would have towhistle for him after Moyese was put under ground. However, " concluded Mr. Ketchum, "they won't have much opportunity to dispute the matter, as hewill be a free man, no doubt, before he is forty-eight hours older. "

A day or two after this, Mr. Moyese entertained all his nephews and niecesat dinner, and each was gratified with some appropriate gift. The old mansat happily regarding the group that crowded round him, their faces beamingwith delight. The claim for the seat of honour on Uncle Moyese's knee wasclamorously disputed, and the old gentleman was endeavouring to settle itto the satisfaction of all parties, when a servant entered, and delivered aportentous-looking document, tied with red tape. "Oh, the papers--now, mydears, let uncle go. Gustave, let go your hold of my leg, or I can't getup. Amy, ring the bell, dear. " This operation Mr. Moyese was obliged tolift her into the chair to effect, where she remained tugging at thebell-rope until she was lifted out again by the servant, who came runningin great haste to answer a summons of such unusual vigour. 

"Tell George I want him, " said Mr. Moyese. 

"He's gone down to the office; I hearn him say suffin bout de nordern mailas he went out--but I duno what it was"--and as he finished he vanishedfrom the apartment, and might soon after have been seen with his mouth inclose contact with the drumstick of a turkey. 

Mr. Moyese being now released from the children, took his way to theoffice, with the portentous red-tape document that was to so greatly changethe condition of George Winston in his coat pocket. The old man sat down athis desk, smiling, as he balanced the papers in his hand, at the thought ofthe happiness he was about to confer on his favourite. He was thus engagedwhen the door opened, and George entered, bearing some newly-arrived ordersfrom European correspondents, in reference to which he sought Mr. Moyese'sinstructions. 

"I think, sir, " said he, modestly, "that we had better reply at once toDitson, and send him the advance he requires, as he will not otherwise beable to fill these;" and as he concluded he laid the papers on the table, and stood waiting orders respecting them. 

Mr. Moyese laid down the packet, and after looking over the papers Georgehad brought in, replied: "I think we had. Write to him to draw upon us forthe amount he requires. --And, George, " he continued, looking at himbenevolently, "what would you like for a New-year's present?"

"Anything you please, sir, " was the respectful reply. 

"Well, George, " resumed Mr. Moyese, "I have made up my mind to make you apresent of----" here he paused and looked steadily at him for a fewseconds; and then gravely handing him the papers, concluded, "of yourself, George! Now mind and don't throw my present away, my boy. " George stoodfor some moments looking in a bewildered manner, first at his master, thenat the papers. At last the reality of his good fortune broke fully uponhim, and he sank into a chair, and unable to say more than: "God bless you, Mr. Moyese!" burst into tears. 

"Now you are a pretty fellow, " said the old man, sobbing himself, "it'snothing to cry about--get home as fast as you can, you stupid cry-baby, andmind you are here early in the morning, sir, for I intend to pay you fivehundred dollars a-year, and I mean you to earn it, " and thus speaking hebustled out of the room, followed by George's repeated "God bless you!"That "God bless you" played about his ears at night, and soothed him tosleep; in dreams he saw it written in diamond letters on a golden crown, held towards him by a hand outstretched from the azure above. He fanciedthe birds sang it to him in his morning walk, and that he heard it in theripple of the little stream that flowed at the foot of his garden. So hecould afford to smile when his relatives talked about his mistakengenerosity, and could take refuge in that fervent "God bless you!"

Six years after this event Mr. Moyese died, leaving George a sufficientlegacy to enable him to commence business on his own account. As soon as hehad arranged his affairs, he started for his old home, to endeavour to gainby personal exertions what he had been unable to learn through the agencyof others--a knowledge of the fate of his mother. He ascertained that shehad been sold and re-sold, and had finally died in New Orleans, not morethan three miles from where he had been living. He had not even themelancholy satisfaction of finding her grave. During his search for hismother he had become acquainted with Emily, the wife of Mr. Garie, anddiscovered that she was his cousin; and to this was owing the familiarfooting on which we find him in the household where we first introduced himto our readers. 

Mr. Winston had just returned from a tour through the Northern States, where he had been in search of a place in which to establish himself inbusiness. 

The introductions with which Mr. Garie had kindly favoured him, had enabledhim to see enough of Northern society to convince him, that, amongst thewhites, he could not form either social or business connections, should hisidentity with, the African race be discovered; and whilst, on the otherhand, he would have found sufficiently refined associations amongst thepeople of colour to satisfy his social wants, he felt that he could notbear the isolation and contumely to which they were subjected. He, therefore, decided on leaving the United States, and on going to somecountry where, if he must struggle for success in life, he might do itwithout the additional embarrassments that would be thrown in his way inhis native land, solely because he belonged to an oppressed race. 

CHAPTER II. 

A Glance at the Ellis Family. 

"I wish Charlie would come with that tea, " exclaimed Mrs. Ellis, who satfinishing off some work, which had to go home that evening. "I wonder whatcan keep him so long away. He has been gone over an hour; it surely cannottake him that time to go to Watson's. "

"It is a great distance, mother, " said Esther Ellis, who was busily plyingher needle; "and I don't think he has been quite so long as you suppose. "

"Yes; he has been gone a good hour, " repeated Mrs. Ellis. "It is now sixo'clock, and it wanted three minutes to five when he left. I do hope hewon't forget that I told him half black and half green--he is soforgetful!" And Mrs. Ellis rubbed her spectacles and looked peevishly outof the window as she concluded. --"Where can he be?" she resumed, looking inthe direction in which he might be expected. "Oh, here he comes, and Caddywith him. They have just turned the corner--open the door and let them in. "

Esther arose, and on opening the door was almost knocked down by Charlie'sabrupt entrance into the apartment, he being rather forcibly shoved in byhis sister Caroline, who appeared to be in a high state of indignation. 

"Where do you think he was, mother? Where _do_ you think I found him?"

"Well, I can't say--I really don't know; in some mischief, I'll be bound. "

"He was on the lot playing marbles--and I've had such a time to get himhome. Just look at his knees; they are worn through. And only think, mother, the tea was lying on the ground, and might have been carried off, if I had not happened to come that way. And then he has been fighting andstruggling with me all the way home. See, " continued she, baring her arm, "just look how he has scratched me, " and as she spoke she held out theinjured member for her mother's inspection. 

"Mother, " said Charlie, in his justification, "she began to beat me beforeall the boys, before I had said a word to her, and I wasn't going to standthat. She is always storming at me. She don't give me any peace of mylife. "

"Oh yes, mother, " here interposed Esther; "Cad is too cross to him. I mustsay, that he would not be as bad as he is, if she would only let himalone. "

"Esther, please hush now; you have nothing to do with their quarrels. I'llsettle all their differences. You always take his part whether he be rightor wrong. I shall send him to bed without his tea, and to-morrow I willtake his marbles from him; and if I see his knees showing through his pantsagain, I'll put a red patch on them--that's what I'll do. Now, sir, go tobed, and don't let me hear of you until morning. "

Mr. And Mrs. Ellis were at the head of a highly respectable and industriouscoloured family. They had three children. Esther, the eldest, was a girl ofconsiderable beauty, and amiable temper. Caroline, the second child, wasplain in person, and of rather shrewish disposition; she was a mostindefatigable housewife, and was never so happy as when in possession of adust or scrubbing brush; she would have regarded a place where she couldhave lived in a perpetual state of house cleaning, as an earthly paradise. Between her and Master Charlie continued warfare existed, interrupted onlyby brief truces brought about by her necessity for his services aswater-carrier. When a service of this character had been duly rewarded by aslice of bread and preserves, or some other dainty, hostilities wouldmost probably be recommenced by Charlie's making an inroad upon the newlycleaned floor, and leaving the prints of his muddy boots thereon. 

The fact must here be candidly stated, that Charlie was not a tidy boy. Hedespised mats, and seldom or never wiped his feet on entering the house; hewas happiest when he could don his most dilapidated unmentionables, as hecould then sit down where he pleased without the fear of his mother beforehis eyes, and enter upon a game of marbles with his mind perfectly freefrom all harassing cares growing out of any possible accident to theaforesaid garments, so that he might give that attention to the game thatits importance demanded. 

He was a bright-faced pretty boy, clever at his lessons, and a favouriteboth with tutors and scholars. He had withal a thorough boy's fondness forplay, and was also characterised by all the thoughtlessness consequentthereon. He possessed a lively, affectionate disposition, and was generallyat peace with all the world, his sister Caddy excepted. 

Caroline had recovered her breath, and her mind being soothed by thejudgment that had been pronounced on Master Charlie, she began to bustleabout to prepare tea. 

The shining copper tea-kettle was brought from the stove where it had beenseething and singing for the last half-hour; then the tea-pot of chinareceived its customary quantity of tea, which was set upon the stove tobrew, and carefully placed behind the stove pipe that no accidental touchof the elbow might bring it to destruction. Plates, knives, and teacupscame rattling forth from the closet; the butter was brought from the placewhere it had been placed to keep it cool, and a corn-cake was soon smokingon the table, and sending up its seducing odour into the room over-head towhich Charlie had been recently banished, causing to that unfortunate younggentleman great physical discomfort. 

"Now, mother, " said the bustling Caddy, "it's all ready. Come now and sitdown whilst the cake is hot--do put up the sewing, Esther, and come!"

Neither Esther nor her mother needed much pressing, and they wereaccordingly soon seated round the table on which their repast was spread. 

"Put away a slice of this cake for father, " said Mrs. Ellis, "for he won'tbe home until late; he is obliged to attend a vestry meeting to-night. "

Mrs. Ellis sat for some time sipping the fragrant and refreshing tea. Whenthe contents of two or three cups one after another had disappeared, andsundry slices of corn-bread had been deposited where much corn-bread hadbeen deposited before, she began to think about Charlie, and to imaginethat perhaps she had been rather hasty in sending him to bed without hissupper. 

"What had Charlie to-day in his dinner-basket to take to school with him?"she inquired of Caddy. 

"Why, mother, I put in enough for a wolf; three or four slices of bread, with as many more of corn-beef, some cheese, one of those little pies, andall that bread-pudding which was left at dinner yesterday--he must have hadenough. "

"But, mother, you know he always gives away the best part of his dinner, "interposed Esther. "He supplies two or three boys with food. There is thatdirty Kinch that he is so fond of, who never takes any dinner with him, anddepends entirely upon Charlie. He must be hungry; do let him come down andget his tea, mother?"

Notwithstanding the observations of Caroline that Esther was justpersuading her mother to spoil the boy, that he would be worse than ever, and many other similar predictions. Esther and the tea combined won asignal triumph, and Charlie was called down from the room above, where hehad been exchanging telegraphic communications with the before-mentionedKinch, in hopes of receiving a commutation of sentence. 

Charlie was soon seated at the table with an ample allowance of corn-breadand tea, and he looked so demure, and conducted himself in such anexemplary manner, that one would have scarcely thought him given to marblesand dirty company. Having eaten to his satisfaction he quite ingratiatedhimself with Caddy by picking up all the crumbs he had spilled during tea, and throwing them upon the dust-heap. This last act was quite a stroke ofpolicy, as even Caddy began to regard him as capable of reformation. 

The tea-things washed up and cleared away, the females busied themselveswith their sewing, and Charlie immersed himself in his lessons for themorrow with a hearty goodwill and perseverance as if he had abjured marblesfor ever. 

The hearty supper and persevering attention to study soon began to producetheir customary effect upon Charlie. He could not get on with his lessons. Many of the state capitals positively refused to be found, and he wasbeginning to entertain the sage notion that probably some of thelegislatures had come to the conclusion to dispense with them altogether, or had had them placed in such obscure places that they could not be found. The variously coloured states began to form a vast kaleidoscope, in whichthe lakes and rivers had been entirely swallowed up. Ranges of mountainsdisappeared, and gulfs and bays and islands were entirely lost. In fact, hewas sleepy, and had already had two or three narrow escapes from buttingover the candles; finally he fell from his chair, crushing Caddy'snewly-trimmed bonnet, to the intense grief and indignation of that younglady, who inflicted summary vengeance upon him before he was sufficientlyawake to be aware of what had happened. 

The work being finished, Mrs. Ellis and Caddy prepared to take it home toMrs. Thomas, leaving Esther at home to receive her father on his return andgive him his tea. 

Mrs. Ellis and Caddy wended their way towards the fashionable part of thecity, looking in at the various shop-windows as they went. Numberless werethe great bargains they saw there displayed, and divers were thediscussions they held respecting them. "Oh, isn't that a pretty calico, mother, that with the green ground?"

"'Tis pretty, but it won't wash, child; those colours always run. "

"Just look at that silk though--now that's cheap, you mustacknowledge--only eighty-seven and a half cents; if I only had a dress ofthat I should be fixed. "

"Laws, Caddy!" replied Mrs. Ellis, "that stuff is as slazy as a washedcotton handkerchief, and coarse enough almost to sift sand through. Itwouldn't last you any time. The silks they make now-a-days ain't worthanything; they don't wear well at all. Why, " continued she, "when I was agirl they made silks that would stand on end--and one of them would last alife-time. "

They had now reached Chestnut-street, which was filled with gaily-dressedpeople, enjoying the balmy breath of a soft May evening. Mrs. Ellis andCaddy walked briskly onward, and were soon beyond the line of shops, andentered upon the aristocratic quarter into which many of its residents hadretired, that they might be out of sight of the houses in which theirfathers or grandfathers had made their fortunes. 

"Mother, " said Caddy, "this is Mr. Grant's new house--isn't it a splendidplace? They say it's like a palace inside. They are great people, themGrants. I saw in the newspaper yesterday that young Mr. Augustus Grant hadbeen appointed an attache to the American legation at Paris; the newspaperssay he is a rising man. "

"Well, he ought to be, " rejoined Mrs. Ellis, "for his old grand-daddy madeyeast enough to raise the whole family. Many a pennyworth has he sold me. Laws! how the poor old folk do get up! I think I can see the old man now, with his sleeves rolled up, dealing out his yeast. He wore one coat forabout twenty years, and used to be always bragging about it. "

As they were thus talking, a door of one of the splendid mansions they werepassing opened, and a fashionably-dressed young man came slowly down thesteps, and walked on before them with a very measured step and peculiargait. 

"That's young Dr. Whiston, mother, " whispered Caddy; "he's courting youngMiss Morton. "

"You don't say so!" replied the astonished Mrs. Ellis. "Why, I declare hisgrandfather laid her grandfather out! Old Whiston was an undertaker, andused to make the handsomest coffins of his time. And he is going to marryMiss Morton! What next, I'd like to know! He walks exactly like the oldman. I used to mock him when I was a little girl. He had just thathop-and-go kind of gait, and he was the funniest man that ever lived. I'veseen him at a funeral go into the parlour, and condole with the family, andtalk about the dear departed until the tears rolled down his cheeks; andthen he'd be down in the kitchen, eating and drinking, and laughing, andtelling jokes about the corpses, before the tears were dry on his face. Howhe used to make money! He buried almost all the respectable people abouttown, and made a large fortune. He owned a burying-ground in Coates-street, and when the property in that vicinity became valuable, he turned the deadfolks out, and built houses on the ground!"

"I shouldn't say it was a very pleasant place to live in, if there are suchthings as ghosts, " said Caddy, laughing; "I for one wouldn't like to livethere--but here we are at Mr. Thomas's--how short the way has seemed!"

Caroline gave a fierce rap at the door, which was opened by old AuntRachel, the fat cook, who had lived with the Thomases for a fabulous lengthof time. She was an old woman when Mrs. Ellis came as a girl into thefamily, and had given her many a cuff in days long past; in fact, notwithstanding Mrs. Ellis had been married many years, and had childrenalmost as old as she herself was when she left Mr. Thomas, Aunt Rachelcould never be induced to regard her otherwise than as a girl. 

"Oh, it's you, is it?" said she gruffly, as she opened the door; "don'tyou think better break de door down at once-rapping as if you was guine totear off de knocker--is dat de way, gal, you comes to quality's houses? Youlived here long nuff to larn better dan dat--and dis is twice I've been tode door in de last half-hour--if any one else comes dere they may stayoutside. Shut de door after you, and come into de kitchen, and don't keepme standin' here all night, " added she, puffing and blowing as she waddledback into her sanctum. 

Waiting until the irate old cook had recovered her breath, Mrs. Ellismodestly inquired if Mrs. Thomas was at home. "Go up and see, " was thesurly response. "You've been up stars often enuff to know de way--go longwid you, gal, and don't be botherin' me, 'case I don't feel like bein'bothered--now, mind I tell yer. --Here, you Cad, set down on dis stool, andlet that cat alone; I don't let any one play with my cat, " continued she, "and you'll jest let him alone, if you please, or I'll make you go sit inde entry till your mother's ready to go. I don't see what she has you bratstugging after her for whenever she comes here--she might jest as well leaveyer at home to darn your stockings--I 'spect dey want it. "

Poor Caddy was boiling over with wrath; but deeming prudence the betterpart of valour, she did not venture upon any wordy contest with AuntRachel, but sat down upon the stool by the fire-place, in which a brightfire was blazing. Up the chimney an old smoke-jack was clicking, whirling, and making the most dismal noise imaginable. This old smoke-jack was AuntRachel's especial _protege_, and she obstinately and successfully defendedit against all comers. She turned up her nose at all modern inventionsdesigned for the same use as entirely beneath her notice. She had beenaccustomed to hearing its rattle for the last forty years, and would assoon have thought of committing suicide as consenting to its removal. 

She and her cat were admirably matched; he was as snappish and cross asshe, and resented with distended claws and elevated back all attempts onthe part of strangers to cultivate amicable relations with him. In fact, Tom's pugnacious disposition was clearly evidenced by his appearance; oneside of his face having a very battered aspect, and the fur being torn offhis back in several places. 

Caddy sat for some time surveying the old woman and her cat, in evident aweof both. She regarded also with great admiration the scrupulously clean andshining kitchen tins that garnished the walls and reflected the red lightof the blazing fire. The wooden dresser was a miracle of whiteness, andranged thereon was a set of old-fashioned blue china, on which wasdisplayed the usual number of those unearthly figures which none but theChinese can create. Tick, tick, went the old Dutch clock in the corner, andthe smoke-jack kept up its whirring noise. Old Tom and Aunt Rachel wereboth napping; and so Caddy, having no other resource, went to sleep also. 

Mrs. Ellis found her way without any difficulty to Mrs. Thomas's room. Hergentle tap upon the door quite flurried that good lady, who (we speak itsoftly) was dressing her wig, a task she entrusted to no other mortalhands. She peeped out, and seeing who it was, immediately opened the doorwithout hesitation. 

"Oh, it's you, is it? Come in, Ellen, " said she; "I don't mind you. "

"I've brought the night-dresses home, " said Mrs. Ellis, laying her bundleupon the table, --"I hope they'll suit. "

"Oh, no doubt they will. Did you bring the bill?" asked Mrs. Thomas. 

The bill was produced, and Mrs. Ellis sat down, whilst Mrs. Thomas countedout the money. This having been duly effected, and the bill carefullyplaced on the file, Mrs. Thomas also sat down, and commenced her usuallamentation over the state of her nerves, and the extravagance of theyounger members of the family. On the latter subject she spoke veryfeelingly. "Such goings on, Ellen, are enough to set me crazy--so manynurses--and then we have to keep four horses--and it's company, companyfrom Monday morning until Saturday night; the house is kept upside-downcontinually--money, money for everything--all going out, and nothing comingin!"--and the unfortunate Mrs. Thomas whined and groaned as if she had notat that moment an income of clear fifteen thousand dollars a year, and asister who might die any day and leave her half as much more. 

Mrs. Thomas was the daughter of the respectable old gentleman whom Dr. Whiston's grandfather had prepared for his final resting-place. Herdaughter had married into a once wealthy, but now decayed, Carolina family. In consideration of the wealth bequeathed by her grandfather (who was amaker of leather breeches, and speculator in general), Miss Thomas hadreceived the offer of the poverty-stricken hand of Mr. Morton, and hadaccepted it with evident pleasure, as he was undoubtedly a member of one ofthe first families of the South, and could prove a distant connection withone of the noble families of England. 

They had several children, and their incessant wants had rendered itnecessary that another servant should be kept. Now Mrs. Thomas had long hadher eye on Charlie, with a view of incorporating him with the Thomasestablishment, and thought this would be a favourable time to broach thesubject to his mother: she therefore commenced by inquiring--

"How have you got through the winter, Ellen? Everything has been so dearthat even we have felt the effect of the high prices. "

"Oh, tolerably well, I thank you. Husband's business, it is true, has notbeen as brisk as usual, but we ought not to complain; now that we have gotthe house paid for, and the girls do so much sewing, we get on verynicely. "

"I should think three children must be something of a burthen--must be hardto provide for. "

"Oh no, not at all, " rejoined Mrs. Ellis, who seemed rather surprised atMrs. Thomas's uncommon solicitude respecting them. "We have never found thechildren a burthen, thank God--they're rather a comfort and a pleasure thanotherwise. "

"I'm glad to hear you say so, Ellen--very glad, indeed, for I have beenquite disturbed in mind respecting you during the winter. I really severaltimes thought of sending to take Charlie off your hands: by-the-way, whatis he doing now?"

"He goes to school regularly--he hasn't missed a day all winter. You shouldjust see his writing, " continued Mrs. Ellis, warming up with a mother'spride in her only son--"he won't let the girls make out any of the bills, but does it all himself--he made out yours. "

Mrs. Thomas took down the file and looked at the bill again. "It's veryneatly written, very neatly written, indeed; isn't it about time that heleft school--don't you think he has education enough?" she inquired. 

"His father don't. He intends sending him to another school, aftervacation, where they teach Latin and Greek, and a number of otherbranches. "

"Nonsense, nonsense, Ellen! If I were you, I wouldn't hear of it. Therewon't be a particle of good result to the child from any such acquirements. It isn't as though he was a white child. What use can Latin or Greek be toa coloured boy? None in the world--he'll have to be a common mechanic, or, perhaps, a servant, or barber, or something of that kind, and then what usewould all his fine education be to him? Take my advice, Ellen, and don'thave him taught things that will make him feel above the situation he, inall probability, will have to fill. Now, " continued she, "I have a proposalto make to you: let him come and live with me awhile--I'll pay you well, and take good care of him; besides, he will be learning something here, good manners, &c. Not that he is not a well-mannered child; but, you know, Ellen, there is something every one learns by coming in daily contact withrefined and educated people that cannot but be beneficial--come now, makeup your mind to leave him with me, at least until the winter, when theschools again commence, and then, if his father is still resolved to sendhim back to school, why he can do so. Let me have him for the summer atleast. "

Mrs. Ellis, who had always been accustomed to regard Mrs. Thomas as amiracle of wisdom, was, of course, greatly impressed with what she hadsaid. She had lived many years in her family, and had left it to marry Mr. Ellis, a thrifty mechanic, who came from Savanah, her native city. She hadgreat reverence for any opinion Mrs. Thomas expressed; and, after somefurther conversation on the subject, made up her mind to consent to theproposal, and left her with the intention of converting her husband to herway of thinking. 

On descending to the kitchen she awoke Caddy from a delicious dream, inwhich she had been presented with the black silk that they had seen in theshop window marked eighty-seven and a half cents a yard. In the dream shehad determined to make it up with tight sleeves and infant waist, thatbeing the most approved style at that period. 

"Five breadths are not enough for the skirt, and if I take six I must skimpthe waist and cape, " murmured she in her sleep. 

"Wake up, girl! What are you thinking about?" said her mother, giving heranother shake. 

"Oh!" said Caddy, with a wild and disappointed look--"I was dreaming, wasn't I? I declare I thought I had that silk frock in the window. "

"The girls' heads are always running on finery--wake up, and come along, I'm going home. "

Caddy followed her mother out, leaving Aunt Rachel and Tom nodding at eachother as they dozed before the fire. 

That night Mr. Ellis and his wife had a long conversation upon the proposalof Mrs. Thomas; and after divers objections raised by him, and set asideby her, it was decided that Charlie should be permitted to go there for theholidays at least; after which, his father resolved he should be sent toschool again. 

Charlie, the next morning, looked very blank on being informed of hisapproaching fate. Caddy undertook with great alacrity to break the dismaltidings to him, and enlarged in a glowing manner upon what times he mightexpect from Aunt Rachel. 

"I guess she'll keep you straight;--you'll see sights up there! She iscross as sin--she'll make you wipe your feet when you go in and out, if noone else can. "

"Let him alone, Caddy, " gently interposed Esther; "it is bad enough to becompelled to live in a house with that frightful old woman, without beingannoyed about it beforehand. If I could help it, Charlie, you should notgo. "

"I know you'd keep me home if you could--but old Cad, here, she alwaysrejoices if anything happens to me. I'll be hanged if I stay there, " saidhe. "I won't live at service--I'd rather be a sweep, or sell apples on thedock. I'm not going to be stuck up behind their carriage, dressed up like amonkey in a tail coat--I'll cut off my own head first. " And with thissanguinary threat he left the house, with his school-books under his arm, intending to lay the case before his friend and adviser, the redoubtableand sympathising Kinch. 

CHAPTER III. 

Charlie's Trials. 

Charlie started for school with a heavy heart. Had it not been for hisimpending doom of service in Mr. Thomas's family, he would have been thehappiest boy that ever carried a school-bag. 

It did not require a great deal to render this young gentleman happy. Allthat was necessary to make up a day of perfect joyfulness with him, was adozen marbles, permission to wear his worst inexpressibles, and to bethoroughly up in his lessons. To-day he was possessed of all theserequisites, but there was also in the perspective along array of skirmisheswith Aunt Rachel, who, he knew, looked on him with an evil eye, and who hadfrequently expressed herself regarding him, in his presence, in terms by nomeans complimentary or affectionate; and the manner in which she hadintimated her desire, on one or two occasions, to have an opportunity ofreforming his personal habits, were by no means calculated to produce ahappy frame of mind, now that the opportunity was about to be afforded her. 

Charlie sauntered on until he came to a lumber-yard, where he stopped andexamined a corner of the fence very attentively. "Not gone by yet. I mustwait for him, " said he; and forthwith he commenced climbing the highestpile of boards, the top of which he reached at the imminent risk of hisneck. Here he sat awaiting the advent of his friend Kinch, the absence ofdeath's head and cross bones from the corner of the fence being a clearindication that he had not yet passed on his way to school. 

Soon, however, he was espied in the distance, and as he was quite acharacter in his way, we must describe him. His most prominent feature wasa capacious hungry-looking mouth, within which glistened a row of perfectteeth. He had the merriest twinkling black eyes, and a nose so small andflat that it would have been a prize to any editor living, as it would havebeen a physical impossibility to have pulled it, no matter what outrage hehad committed. His complexion was of a ruddy brown, and his hair, entirelyinnocent of a comb, was decorated with divers feathery tokens of his lastnight's rest. A cap with the front torn off, jauntily set on one side ofhis head, gave him a rakish and wide-awake air, his clothes were patchedand torn in several places, and his shoes were already in an advanced stageof decay. As he approached the fence he took a piece of chalk from hispocket, and commenced to sketch the accustomed startling illustration whichwas to convey to Charlie the intelligence that he had already passed thereon his way to school, when a quantity of sawdust came down in a shower onhis head. As soon as the blinding storm had ceased, Kinch looked up andintimated to Charlie that it was quite late, and that there was aprobability of their being after time at school. 

This information caused Charlie to make rather a hasty descent, in doingwhich his dinner-basket was upset, and its contents displayed at the feetof the voracious Kinch. 

"Now I'll be even with you for that sawdust, " cried he, as he pocketed twoboiled eggs, and bit an immense piece out of an apple-tart, which he wouldhave demolished completely but for the prompt interposition of its owner. 

"Oh! my golly! Charlie, your mother makes good pies!" he exclaimed withrapture, as soon as he could get his mouth sufficiently clear to speak. "Give us another bite, --only a nibble. "

But Charlie knew by experience what Kinch's "nibbles" were, and he verywisely declined, saying sadly as he did so, "You won't get many moredinners from me, Kinch. I'm going to leave school. " "No! you ain'tthough, are you?" asked the astonished Kinch. "You are not going, are you, really?"

"Yes, really, " replied Charlie, with a doleful look; "mother is going toput me out at service. "

"And do you intend to go?" asked Kinch, looking at him incredulously. 

"Why of course, " was the reply. "How can I help going if father and mothersay I must?"

"I tell you what I should do, " said Kinch, "if it was me. I should act sobad that the people would be glad to get rid of me. They hired me out tolive once, and I led the people they put me with such a dance, that theywas glad enough to send me home again. "

This observation brought them to the school-house, which was but a triflingdistance from the residence of Mrs. Ellis. 

They entered the school at the last moment of grace, and Mr. Dicker lookedat them severely as they took their seats. "Just saved ourselves, "whispered Kinch; "a minute later and we would have been done for;" and withthis closing remark he applied himself to his grammar, a very judiciousmove on his part, for he had not looked at his lesson, and there were butten minutes to elapse before the class would be called. 

The lessons were droned through as lessons usually are at school. There wasthe average amount of flogging performed; cakes, nuts, and candy, confiscated; little boys on the back seats punched one another as littleboys on the back seats always will do, and were flogged in consequence. Then the boy who never knew his lessons was graced with the fool's cap, andwas pointed and stared at until the arrival of the play-hour relieved himfrom his disagreeable situation. 

"What kind of folks are these Thomases?" asked Kinch, as he sat besideCharlie in the playground munching the last of the apple-tart; "what kindof folks are they? Tell me that, and I can give you some good advice, may-be. "

"Old Mrs. Thomas is a little dried-up old woman, who wears spectacles anda wig. She isn't of much account--I don't mind her. She's not the trouble;it's of old Aunt Rachel, I'm thinking. Why, she has threatened to whip mewhen I've been there with mother, and she even talks to her sometimes as ifshe was a little girl. Lord only knows what she'll do to me when she has methere by myself. You should just see her and her cat. I really don't know, "continued Charlie, "which is the worst looking. I hate them both likepoison, " and as he concluded, he bit into a piece of bread as fiercely asif he were already engaged in a desperate battle with aunt Rachel, and wasbiting her in self-defence. 

"Well, " said Kinch, with the air of a person of vast experience indifficult cases, "I should drown the cat--I'd do that at once--as soon as Igot there; then, let me ask you, has Aunt Rachel got corns?"

"Corns! I wish you could see her shoes, " replied Charlie. "Why you couldsail down the river in 'em, they are so large. Yes, she has got corns, bunions, and rheumatism, and everything else. "

"Ah! then, " said Kinch, "your way is clear enough if she has got corns. Ishould confine myself to operating on them. I should give my wholeattention to her feet. When she attempts to take hold of you, do you jistcome down on her corns, fling your shins about kinder wild, you know, andlet her have it on both feet. You see I've tried that plan, and know byexperience that it works well. Don't you see, you can pass that off as anaccident, and it don't look well to be scratching and biting. As for thelady of the house, old Mrs. What's-her-name, do you just manage to knockher wig off before some company, and they'll send you home at once--they'llhardly give you time to get your hat. "

Charlie laid these directions aside in his mind for future application, andasked, "What did you do, Kinch, to get away from the people you were with?"

"Don't ask me, " said Kinch, laughing; "don't, boy, don't ask me--myconscience troubles me awful about it sometimes. I fell up stairs withdishes, and I fell down stairs with dishes. I spilled oil on the carpet, and broke a looking-glass; but it was all accidental--entirelyaccidental--they found I was too ''spensive, ' and so they sent me home. "

"Oh, I wouldn't do anything like that--I wouldn't destroy anything--butI've made up my mind that I won't stay there at any rate. I don't mindwork--I want to do something to assist father and mother; but I don't wantto be any one's servant. I wish I was big enough to work at the shop. "

"How did your mother come to think of putting you there?" asked Kinch. 

"The Lord alone knows, " was the reply. "I suppose old Mrs. Thomas told herit was the best thing that could be done for me, and mother thinks what shesays is law and gospel. I believe old Mrs. Thomas thinks a coloured personcan't get to Heaven, without first living at service a little while. "

The school bell ringing put an end to this important conversation, and theboys recommenced their lessons. 

When Charlie returned from school, the first person he saw on entering thehouse was Robberts, Mrs. Thomas's chief functionary, and the presidinggenius of the wine cellar--when he was trusted with the key. Charlielearned, to his horror and dismay, that he had been sent by Mrs. Thomas toinquire into the possibility of obtaining his services immediately, as theywere going to have a series of dinner parties, and it was thought that hecould be rendered quite useful. 

"And must I go, mother?" he asked. 

"Yes, my son; I've told Robberts that you shall come up in the morning, "replied Mrs. Ellis. Then turning to Robberts, she inquired, "How is AuntRachel?"

At this question, the liveried gentleman from Mrs. Thomas's shook his headdismally, and answered: "Don't ask me, woman; don't ask me, if you please. That old sinner gets worse and worse every day she lives. These dinnerswe're 'spectin to have has just set her wild--she is mad as fury 'bout'em--and she snaps me up just as if I was to blame. That is an awful oldwoman, now mind I tell you. "

As Mr. Robberts concluded, he took his hat and departed, giving Charlie thecheering intelligence that he should expect him early next morning. 

Charlie quite lost his appetite for supper in consequence of hisapproaching trials, and, laying aside his books with a sigh of regret, satlistlessly regarding his sisters; enlivened now and then by some cheerfulremark from Caddy, such as:--

"You'll have to keep your feet cleaner up there than you do at home, oryou'll have aunt Rach in your wool half a dozen times a day. And youmustn't throw your cap and coat down where you please, on the chairs ortables--she'll bring you out of all that in a short time. I expect you'llhave two or three bastings before you have been there a week, for she don'tput up with any nonsense. Ah, boy, " she concluded, chuckling, "you'll havea time of it--I don't envy you!"

With these and similar enlivening anticipations, Caddy whiled away the timeuntil it was the hour for Charlie to retire for the night, which he, didwith a heavy heart. 

Early the following morning he was awakened by the indefatigable Caddy, andhe found a small bundle of necessaries prepared, until his trunk of apparelcould be sent to his new home. "Oh, Cad, " he exclaimed, rubbing his eyes, "how I do hate to go up there! I'd rather take a good whipping than go. "

"Well, it is too late now to talk about it; hurry and get your clotheson--it is quite late--you ought to have been off an hour ago. "

When he came down stairs prepared to go, his mother "hoped that he wasgoing to behave like a man, " which exhortation had the effect of settinghim crying at once; and then he had to be caressed by the tearful Esther, and, finally, started away with very red eyes, followed to the door by hismother and the girls, who stood looking after him for some moments. 

So hurried and unexpected had been his departure, that he had been unableto communicate with his friend Kinch. This weighed very heavily on hisspirits, and he occupied the time on his way to Mrs. Thomas's in devisingvarious plans to effect that object. 

On arriving, he gave a faint rap, that was responded to by Aunt Rachel, whosaluted him with--

"Oh, yer's come, has yer--wipe your feet, child, and come in quick. Shutthe door after yer. "

"What shall I do with this?" timidly asked he, holding up his package ofclothes. 

"Oh, dem's yer rags is dey--fling 'em anywhere, but don't bring 'em in mykitchen, " said she. "Dere is enuff things in dere now--put 'em down here onthis entry table, or dere, long side de knife-Board--any wheres but in dekitchen. "

Charlie mechanically obeyed, and then followed her into her sanctuary. 

"Have you had your breakfast?" she asked, in a surly tone. "'Cause if youhaven't, you must eat quick, or you won't get any. I can't keep thebreakfast things standing here all day. "

Charlie, to whom the long walk had given a good appetite, immediately satdown and ate a prodigious quantity of bread and butter, together withseveral slices of cold ham, washed down by two cups of tea; after which herested his knife and fork, and informed Aunt Rachel that he had done. 

"Well, I think it's high time, " responded she. "Why, boy, you'll breed afamine in de house if you stay here long enough. You'll have to do a heapof work to earn what you'll eat, if yer breakfast is a sample of yerdinner. Come, get up, child! and shell dese 'ere pease--time you get 'emdone, old Mrs. Thomas will be down stairs. "

Charlie was thus engaged when Mrs. Thomas entered the kitchen. "Well, Charles--good morning, " said she, in a bland voice. "I'm glad to see youhere so soon. Has he had his breakfast, Aunt Rachel?"

"Yes; and he eat like a wild animal--I never see'd a child eat more in mylife, " was Aunt Rachel's abrupt answer. 

"I'm glad he has a good appetite, " said Mrs. Thomas, "it shows he has goodhealth. Boys will eat; you can't expect them to work if they don't. But itis time I was at those custards. Charlie, put down those peas and go intothe other room, and bring me a basket of eggs you will find on the table. "

"And be sure to overset the milk that's 'long side of it--yer hear?" addedAunt Rachel. 

Charlie thought to himself that he would like to accommodate her, but hedenied himself that pleasure; on the ground that it might not be safe to doit. 

Mrs. Thomas was a housekeeper of the old school, and had a scientificknowledge of the manner in which all sorts of pies and puddings werecompounded. She was so learned in custards and preserves that even AuntRachel sometimes deferred to her superior judgment in these matters. Carefully breaking the eggs, she skilfully separated the whites from theyolks, and gave the latter to Charlie to beat. At first he thought it greatfun, and he hummed some of the popular melodies of the day, and kept timewith his foot and the spatula. But pretty soon he exhausted his stock oftunes, and then the performances did not go off so well. His arm commencedaching, and he came to the sage conclusion, before he was relieved from histask, that those who eat the custards are much better off than those whoprepare them. 

This task finished, he was pressed into service by Aunt Rachel, to pick andstone some raisins which she gave him, with the injunction either to singor whistle all the time he was "at 'em;" and that if he stopped for amoment she should know he was eating them, and in that case she wouldvisit him with condign punishment on the spot, for she didn't care a figwhose child he was. 

Thus, in the performance of first one little job and then another, the daywore away; and as the hour approached at which the guests were invited, Charlie, after being taken into the dining-room by Robberts, where he wasgreatly amazed at the display of silver, cut glass, and elegant china, wasposted at the door to relieve the guests of their coats and hats, whichduty he performed to the entire satisfaction of all parties concerned. 

At dinner, however, he was not so fortunate. He upset a plate of soup intoa gentleman's lap, and damaged beyond repair one of the elegant chinavegetable dishes. He took rather too deep an interest in the conversationfor a person in his station; and, in fact, the bright boy alluded to by Mr. Winston, as having corrected the reverend gentleman respecting thequotation from Chaucer, was no other than our friend Charlie Ellis. 

In the evening, when the guests were departing, Charlie handed Mr. Winstonhis coat, admiring the texture and cut of it very much as he did so. Mr. Winston, amused at the boy's manner, asked--

"What is your name, my little man?"

"Charles Ellis, " was the prompt reply. "I'm named after my father. "

"And where did your father come from, Charlie?" he asked, looking very muchinterested. 

"From Savanah, sir. Now tell me where _you_ came from, " replied Charles. 

"I came from New Orleans, " said Mr. Winston, with a smile. "Now tell me, "he continued, "where do you live when you are with your parents? I shouldlike to see your father. " Charlie quickly put his interrogator inpossession of the desired information, after which Mr. Winston departed, soon followed by the other guests. 

Charlie lay for some time that night on his little cot before he could getto sleep; and amongst the many matters that so agitated his mind, was hiswonder what one of Mrs. Thomas's guests could want with his father. Beingunable however, to arrive at any satisfactory conclusion respecting it, heturned over and went to sleep. 

CHAPTER IV. 

In which Mr. Winston finds an old Friend. 

In the early part of Mr. Winston's career, when he worked as a boy on theplantation of his father, he had frequently received great kindness at thehands of one Charles Ellis, who was often employed as carpenter about thepremises. 

On one occasion, as a great favour, he had been permitted to accompanyEllis to his home in Savanah, which was but a few miles distant, where heremained during the Christmas holidays. This kindness he had neverforgotten; and on his return to Georgia from New Orleans he sought for hisold friend, and found he had removed to the North, but to which particularcity he could not ascertain. 

As he walked homewards, the strong likeness of little Charlie to his oldfriend forced itself upon him, and the more he reflected upon it the morelikely it appeared that the boy might be his child; and the identity ofname and occupation between the father of Charlie and his old friend led tothe belief that he was about to make some discovery respecting him. 

On his way to his hotel he passed the old State House, the bell of whichwas just striking ten. "It's too late to go to-night, " said he, "it shallbe the first thing I attend to in the morning;" and after walking on ashort distance farther, he found himself at the door of his domicile. 

As he passed through the little knot of waiters who were gathered about thedoors, one of them turning to another, asked, "Ain't that man a Southerner, and ain't he in your rooms, Ben?"

"I think he's a Southerner, " was the reply of Ben. "But why do you ask, Allen?" he enquired. "Because it's time he had subscribed something, "replied Mr. Allen. "The funds of the Vigilance Committee are very lowindeed; in fact, the four that we helped through last week have completelydrained us. We must make a raise from some quarter, and we might as welltry it on him. "

Mr. Winston was waiting for a light that he might retire to his room, andwas quickly served by the individual who had been so confidentially talkingwith Mr. Allen. 

After giving Mr. Winston the light, Ben followed him into his room andbusied himself in doing little nothings about the stove and wash-stand. "Let me unbutton your straps, sir, " said he, stooping down and commencingon the buttons, which he was rather long in unclosing. "I know, sir, datyou Southern gentlemen ain't used to doing dese yer things for youself. Iallus makes it a pint to show Southerners more 'tention dan I does to deseyer Northern folk, 'cause yer see I knows dey'r used to it, and can't geton widout it. "

"I am not one of that kind, " said Winston, as Ben slowly unbuttoned thelast strap. "I have been long accustomed to wait upon myself. I'll onlytrouble you to bring me up a glass of fresh water, and then I shall havedone with you for the night. "

"Better let me make you up a little fire, the nights is werry cool, "continued Ben. "I know you must feel 'em; I does myself; I'm from theSouth, too. "

"Are you?" replied Mr. Winston, with some interest; "from what part!"

"From Tuckahoe county, Virginia; nice place dat. "

"Never having been there I can't say, " rejoined Mr. Winston, smiling; "andhow do you like the North? I suppose you are a runaway, " continued he. 

"Oh, no sir! no sir!" replied Ben, "I was sot free--and I often wish, " headded in a whining tone, "dat I was back agin on the old place--hain't gotno kind marster to look after me here, and I has to work drefful hardsometimes. Ah, " he concluded, drawing a long sigh, "if I was only back onde old place!" "I heartily wish you were!" said Mr. Winston, indignantly, "and wish moreover that you were to be tied up and whipped once a day forthe rest of your life. Any man that prefers slavery to freedom deserves tobe a slave--you ought to be ashamed of yourself. Go out of the room, sir, as quick as possible!"

"Phew!" said the astonished and chagrined Ben, as he descended the stairs;"that was certainly a great miss, " continued he, talking as correctEnglish, and with as pure Northern an accent as any one could boast. 

"We have made a great mistake this time; a very queer kind of Southernerthat is. I'm afraid we took the wrong pig by the ear;" and as he concluded, he betook himself to the group of white-aproned gentlemen before mentioned, to whom he related the incident that had just occurred. 

"Quite a severe fall that, I should say, " remarked Mr. Allen. "Perhaps wehave made a mistake and he is not a Southerner after all. Well he isregistered from New Orleans, and I thought he was a good one to try it on. "

"It's a clear case we've missed it this time, " exclaimed one of the party, "and I hope, Ben, when you found he was on the other side of the fence, youdid not say too much. "

"Laws, no!" rejoined Ben, "do you think I'm a fool? As soon as I heard himsay what he did, I was glad to get off--I felt cheap enough, now mind, Itell you any one could have bought me for a shilling. "

Now it must be here related that most of the waiters employed in this hotelwere also connected with the Vigilance Committee of the Under-groundRailroad Company--a society formed for the assistance of fugitive slaves;by their efforts, and by the timely information it was often in their powerto give, many a poor slave was enabled to escape from the clutches of hispursuers. 

The house in which they were employed was the great resort of Southerners, who occasionally brought with them their slippery property; and itfrequently happened that these disappeared from the premises to partsunknown, aided in their flight by the very waiters who would afterwardsexhibit the most profound ignorance as to their whereabouts. Such of theSoutherners as brought no servants with them were made to contribute, unconsciously and most amusingly, to the escape of those of their friends. 

When a gentleman presented himself at the bar wearing boots entirely toosmall for him, with his hat so far down upon his forehead as almost toobscure his eyes, and whose mouth was filled with oaths and tobacco, he wasgenerally looked upon as a favourable specimen to operate upon; and if hecursed the waiters, addressed any old man amongst them as "boy, " and wascontinually drinking cock-tails and mint-juleps, they were sure of theirman; and then would tell him the most astonishing and distressing tales oftheir destitution, expressing, almost with tears in their eyes, their deepdesire to return to their former masters; whilst perhaps the person fromwhose mouth this tale of woe proceeded had been born in a neighbouringstreet, and had never been south of Mason and Dixon's[*] line. Thisflattering testimony in favour of "the peculiar institution" generally hadthe effect of extracting a dollar or two from the purse of the sympatheticSoutherner; which money went immediately into the coffers of the VigilanceCommittee. 

[Footnote *: The line dividing the free from the slave states. ]

It was this course of conduct they were about to pursue with Mr. Winston;not because he exhibited in person or manners any of the before-mentionedpeculiarities, but from his being registered from New Orleans. 

The following morning, as soon as he had breakfasted, he started in searchof Mr. Ellis. The address was 18, Little Green-street; and, by diligentlyinquiring, he at length discovered the required place. 

After climbing up a long flight of stairs on the outside of an old woodenbuilding, he found himself before a door on which was written, "CharlesEllis, carpenter and joiner. " On opening it, he ushered himself into thepresence of an elderly coloured man, who was busily engaged in planing offa plank. As soon as Mr. Winston saw his face fully, he recognized him ashis old friend. The hair had grown grey, and the form was also a triflebent, but he would have known him amongst a thousand. Springing forward, hegrasped his hand, exclaiming, "My dear old friend, don't you know me?" Mr. Ellis shaded his eyes with his hand, and looked at him intently for a fewmoments, but seemed no wiser from his scrutiny. The tears started to Mr. Winston's eyes as he said, "Many a kind word I'm indebted to you for--I amGeorge Winston--don't you remember little George that used to live on theCarter estate?"

"Why, bless me! it can't be that you are the little fellow that used to gohome with me sometimes to Savanah, and that was sold to go to New Orleans?"

"Yes, the same boy; I've been through a variety of changes since then. "

"I should think you had, " smilingly replied Mr. Ellis; "and, judging fromappearances, very favourable ones! Why, I took you for a white man--and youare a white man, as far as complexion is concerned. Laws, child!" hecontinued, laying his hand familiarly on Winston's shoulders, "how you havechanged--I should never have known you! The last time I saw you, you werequite a shaver, running about in a long tow shirt, and regarding a hat andshoes as articles of luxury far beyond your reach. And now, " said Mr. Ellis, gazing at him with admiring eyes, "just to look at you! Why, you areas fine a looking man as one would wish to see in a day's travel. I'veoften thought of you. It was only the other day I was talking to my wife, and wondering what had become of you. She, although a great deal older thanyour cousin Emily, used to be a sort of playmate of hers. Poor Emily! weheard she was sold at public sale in Savanah--did you ever learn whatbecame of her?" "Oh, yes; I saw her about two months since, when on myway from New Orleans. You remember old Colonel Garie? Well, his son boughther, and is living with her. They have two children--she is very happy. Ireally love him; he is the most kind and affectionate fellow in the world;there is nothing he would not do to make her happy. Emily will be sodelighted to know that I have seen your wife--but who is Mrs. Ellis?--anyone that I know?"

"I do not know that you are acquainted with her, but you should rememberher mother, old Nanny Tobert, as she was called; she kept a littleconfectionery--almost every one in Savanah knew her. "

"I can't say I do, " replied Winston, reflectively. 

"She came here, " continued Mr. Ellis, "some years ago, and died soon afterher arrival. Her daughter went to live with the Thomases, an oldPhiladelphia family, and it was from their house I married her. "

"Thomases?" repeated Mr. Winston; "that is where I saw your boy--he is theimage of you. "

"And how came you there?" asked Ellis, with a look of surprise. 

"In the most natural manner possible. I was invited there to dinneryesterday--the bright face of your boy attracted my attention--so Iinquired his name, and that led to the discovery of yourself. "

"And do the Thomases know you are a coloured man?" asked Mr. Ellis, almostspeechless with astonishment. 

"I rather think not, " laughingly rejoined Mr. Winston. 

"It is a great risk you run to be passing for white in that way, " said Mr. Ellis, with a grave look. "But how did you manage to get introduced to thatset? They are our very first people. "

"It is a long story, " was Winston's reply; and he then, as briefly as hecould, related all that had occurred to himself since they last met. "Andnow, " continued he, as he finished his recital, "I want to know all aboutyou and your family; and I also want to see something of the colouredpeople. Since I've been in the North I've met none but whites. I'm notgoing to return to New Orleans to remain. I'm here in search of a home. Iwish to find some place to settle down in for life, where I shall notlabour under as many disadvantages as I must struggle against in theSouth. "

"One thing I must tell you, " rejoined Mr. Ellis; "if you should settle downhere, you'll have to be either one thing or other--white or coloured. Either you must live exclusively amongst coloured people, or go to thewhites and remain with them. But to do the latter, you must bear in mindthat it must never be known that you have a drop of African blood in yourveins, or you would be shunned as if you were a pestilence; no matter howfair in complexion or how white you may be. "

"I have not as yet decided on trying the experiment, and I hardly think itprobable I shall, " rejoined Winston. As he said this he took out his watch, and was astonished to find how very long his visit had been. He thereforegave his hand to Mr. Ellis, and promised to return at six o'clock andaccompany him home to visit his family. 

As he was leaving the shop, Mr. Ellis remarked: "George, you have not saida word respecting your mother. " His face flushed, and the tears started inhis eyes, as he replied, in a broken voice, "She's dead! Only think, Ellis, she died within a stone's throw of me, and I searching for her all thewhile. I never speak of it unless compelled; it is too harrowing. It was agreat trial to me; it almost broke my heart to think that she perishedmiserably so near me, whilst I was in the enjoyment of every luxury. Oh, ifshe could only have lived to see me as I am now!" continued he; "but Heordered it otherwise, and we must bow. 'Twas God's will it should be so. Good bye till evening. I shall see you again at six. "

Great was the surprise of Mrs. Ellis and her daughters on learning from Mr. Ellis, when he came home to dinner, of the events of the morning; andgreat was the agitation caused by the announcement of the fact, that hisfriend was to be their guest in the evening. 

Mrs. Ellis proposed inviting some of their acquaintances to meet him; butto this project her husband objected, saying he wanted to have a quietevening with him, and to talk over old times; and that persons who wereentire strangers to him would only be a restraint upon them. 

Caddy seemed quite put out by the announcement of the intended visit. Shedeclared that nothing was fit to be seen, that the house was in a state ofdisorder shocking to behold, and that there was scarce a place in it fit tosit down in; and she forthwith began to prepare for an afternoon's vigorousscrubbing and cleaning. 

"Just let things remain as they are, will you, Caddy dear, " said herfather. "Please be quiet until I get out of the house, " he continued, asshe began to make unmistakeable demonstrations towards raising a dust. "Ina few moments you shall have the house to yourself, only give me time tofinish my dinner in peace. "

Esther, her mother, and their sewing were summarily banished to an upstairsroom, whilst Caddy took undivided possession of the little parlour, whichshe soon brought into an astonishing state of cleanliness. The ornamentswere arranged at exact distances from the corners of the mantelpiece, thelooking-glass was polished, until it appeared to be without spot orblemish, and its gilt frame was newly adorned with cut paper to protect itfrom the flies. The best china was brought out, carefully dusted, and setupon the waiter, and all things within doors placed in a state offorwardness to receive their expected guest. The door-steps were, however, not as white and clean as they might be, and that circumstance pressed uponCaddy's mind. She therefore determined to give them a hasty wipe beforeretiring to dress for the evening. 

Having done this, and dressed herself to her satisfaction, she came downstairs to prepare the refreshments for tea. In doing this, she continuallyfound herself exposing her new silk dress to great risks. She thereforedonned an old petticoat over her skirt, and tied an old silk handkerchiefover her head to protect her hair from flying particles of dust; and thusarrayed she passed the time in a state of great excitement, frequentlylooking out of the window to see if her father and their guest wereapproaching. 

In one of these excursions, she, to her intense indignation, found a beggarboy endeavouring to draw, with a piece of charcoal, an illustration of ahorse-race upon her so recently cleaned door-steps. 

"You young villain, " she almost screamed, "go away from there. How dare youmake those marks upon the steps? Go off at once, or I'll give you to aconstable. " To these behests the daring young gentleman only returned acontemptuous laugh, and put his thumb to his nose in the most provokingmanner. "Ain't you going?" continued the irate Caddy, almost choked withwrath at the sight of the steps, over which she had so recently toiled, scored in every direction with black marks. 

"Just wait till I come down, I'll give it to you, you audacious villain, you, " she cried, as she closed the window; "I'll see if I can't move you!"Caddy hastily seized a broom, and descended the stairs with the intentionof inflicting summary vengeance upon the dirty delinquent who had so rashlymade himself liable to her wrath. Stealing softly down the alley beside thehouse, she sprang suddenly forward, and brought the broom with all herenergy down upon the head of Mr. Winston, who was standing on the placejust left by the beggar. She struck with such force as to completely crushhis hat down over his eyes, and was about to repeat the blow, when herfather caught her arm, and she became aware of the awful mistake she hadmade. 

"Why, my child!" exclaimed her father, "what on earth, is the matter withyou, have you lost your senses?" and as he spoke, he held her at arm'slength from him to get a better look at her. "What are you dressed up inthis style for?" he continued, as he surveyed her from head to foot; andthen bursting into a loud laugh at her comical appearance, he released her, and she made the quickest possible retreat into the house by the way shecame out. 

Bushing breathless upstairs, she exclaimed, "Oh, mother, mother, I've doneit now! They've come, and I've beat him over the head with a broom!"

"Beat whom over the head with a broom?" asked Mrs. Ellis. 

"Oh, mother, I'm so ashamed, I don't know what to do with myself. I struckMr. Winston with a broom. Mr. Winston, the gentleman father has broughthome. "

"I really believe the child is crazy, " said Mrs. Ellis, surveying thechagrined girl. "Beat Mr. Winston over the head with a broom! how came youto do it?"

"Oh, mother, I made a great mistake; I thought he was a beggar. "

"He must be a very different looking person from what we have been led toexpect, " here interrupted Esther. "I understood father to say that he wasvery gentlemanlike in appearance. "

"So he is, " replied Caddy. 

"But you just said you took him for a beggar?" replied her mother. 

"Oh, don't bother me, don't bother me! my head is all turned upside down. Do, Esther, go down and let them in--hear how furiously father is knocking!Oh, go--do go!"

Esther quickly descended and opened the door for Winston and her father;and whilst the former was having the dust removed and his hat straightened, Mrs. Ellis came down and was introduced by her husband. She laughinglyapologized for the ludicrous mistake Caddy had made, which afforded greatamusement to all parties, and divers were the jokes perpetrated at herexpense during the remainder of the evening. Her equanimity having beenrestored by Winston's assurances that he rather enjoyed the joke thanotherwise--and an opportunity having been afforded her to obliterate theobnoxious marks from the door-steps--she exhibited great activity inforwarding all the arrangements for tea. 

They sat a long while round the table--much time that, under ordinarycircumstances, would have been given to the demolition of the food beforethem, being occupied by the elders of the party in inquiries after mutualfriends, and in relating the many incidents that had occurred since theylast met. 

Tea being at length finished, and the things cleared away, Mrs. Ellis gavethe girls permission to go out. "Where are you going?" asked their father. 

"To the library company's room--to-night is their last lecture. "

"I thought, " said Winston, "that coloured persons were excluded from suchplaces. I certainly have been told so several times. "

"It is quite true, " replied Mr. Ellis; "at the lectures of the whitelibrary societies a coloured person would no more be permitted to enterthan a donkey or a rattle-snake. This association they speak of is entirelycomposed of people of colour. They have a fine library, a debating club, chemical apparatus, collections of minerals, &c. They have been having acourse of lectures delivered before them this winter, and to-night is thelast of the course. "

"Wouldn't you like to go, Mr. Winston?" asked Mrs. Ellis, who had amother's desire to secure so fine an escort for her daughters. 

"No, no--don't, George, " quickly interposed Mr. Ellis; "I am selfish enoughto want you entirely to myself to-night. The girls will find beaux enough, I'll warrant you. " At this request the girls did not seem greatly pleased, and Miss Caddy, who already, in imagination, had excited the envy of allher female friends by the grand _entree_ she was to make at the Lyceum, leaning on the arm of Winston, gave her father a by no means affectionatelook, and tying her bonnet-strings with a hasty jerk, started out incompany with her sister. 

"You appear to be very comfortable here, Ellis, " said Mr. Winston, lookinground the apartment. "If I am not too inquisitive--what rent do you pay forthis house?"

"It's mine!" replied Ellis, with an air of satisfaction; "house, ground, and all, bought and paid for since I settled here. "

"Why, you are getting on well! I suppose, " remarked Winston, "that you aremuch better off than the majority of your coloured friends. From all I canlearn, the free coloured people in the Northern cities are very badly off. I've been frequently told that they suffer dreadfully from want andprivations of various kinds. "

"Oh, I see you have been swallowing the usual dose that is poured downSouthern throats by those Northern negro-haters, who seem to think it aduty they owe the South to tell all manner of infamous lies upon us freecoloured people. I really get so indignant and provoked sometimes, that Iscarcely know what to do with myself. Badly off, and in want, indeed! Why, my dear sir, we not only support our own poor, but assist the whites tosupport theirs, and enemies are continually filling the public ear with themost distressing tales of our destitution! Only the other day theColonization Society had the assurance to present a petition to thelegislature of this State, asking for an appropriation to assist them insending us all to Africa, that we might no longer remain a burthen upon theState--and they came very near getting it, too; had it not been for thetimely assistance of young Denbigh, the son of Judge Denbigh, they wouldhave succeeded, such was the gross ignorance that prevailed respecting ourreal condition, amongst the members of the legislature. He moved apostponement of the vote until he could have time to bring forward facts tosupport the ground that he had assumed in opposition to the appropriationbeing made. It was granted; and, in a speech that does him honour, hebrought forward facts that proved us to be in a much superior condition tothat in which our imaginative enemies had described us. Ay! he did more--heproved us to be in advance of the whites in wealth and generalintelligence: for whilst it was one in fifteen amongst the whites unable toread and write, it was but one in eighteen amongst the coloured (I won'tpretend to be correct about the figures, but that was about the relativeproportions); and also, that we paid, in the shape of taxes upon our realestate, more than our proportion for the support of paupers, insane, convicts, &c. "

"Well, " said the astonished Winston, "that is turning the tablescompletely. You must take me to visit amongst the coloured people; I wantto see as much of them as possible during my stay. "

"I'll do what I can for you, George. I am unable to spare you much timejust at present, but I'll put you in the hands of one who has abundance ofit at his disposal--I will call with you and introduce you to Walters. "

"Who is Walters?" asked Mr. Winston. 

"A friend of mine--a dealer in real estate. "

"Oh, then he is a white man?"

"Not by any means, " laughingly replied Mr. Ellis. "He is as black as a mancan conveniently be. He is very wealthy; some say that he is worth half amillion of dollars. He owns, to my certain knowledge, one hundred brickhouses. I met him the other day in a towering rage: it appears, that heowns ten thousand dollars' worth of stock, in a railroad extending fromthis to a neighbouring city. Having occasion to travel in it for somelittle distance, he got into the first-class cars; the conductor, seeinghim there, ordered him out--he refused to go, and stated that he was ashareholder. The conductor replied, that he did not care how much stock heowned, he was a nigger, and that no nigger should ride in those cars; so hecalled help, and after a great deal of trouble they succeeded in ejectinghim. " "And he a stockholder! It was outrageous, " exclaimed Winston. "Andwas there no redress?"

"No, none, practically. He would have been obliged to institute a suitagainst the company; and, as public opinion now is, it would be impossiblefor him to obtain a verdict in his favour. "

The next day Winston was introduced to Mr. Walters, who expressed greatpleasure in making his acquaintance, and spent a week in showing himeverything of any interest connected with coloured people. 

Winston was greatly delighted with the acquaintances he made; and thekindness and hospitality with which he was received made a most agreeableimpression upon him. 

It was during this period that he wrote the glowing letters to Mr. And Mrs. Garie, the effects of which will be discerned in the next chapter. 

CHAPTER V. 

The Garies decide on a Change. 

We must now return to the Garies, whom we left listening to Mr. Winston'sdescription of what he saw in Philadelphia, and we need not add anythingrespecting it to what the reader has already gathered from the lastchapter; our object being now to describe the effect his narrativeproduced. 

On the evening succeeding the departure of Winston for New Orleans, Mr. AndMrs. Garie were seated in a little arbour at a short distance from thehouse, and which commanded a magnificent prospect up and down the river. Itwas overshadowed by tall trees, from the topmost branches of which dependedlarge bunches of Georgian moss, swayed to and fro by the soft spring breezethat came gently sweeping down the long avenue of magnolias, laden with thesweet breath of the flowers with which the trees were covered. 

A climbing rose and Cape jessamine had almost covered the arbour, and theirintermingled blossoms, contrasting with the rich brown colour of thebranches of which it was constructed, gave it an exceedingly beautiful andpicturesque appearance. 

This arbour was their favourite resort in the afternoons of summer, as theycould see from it the sun go down behind the low hills opposite, castinghis gleams of golden light upon the tops of the trees that crowned theirsummits. Northward, where the chain of hills was broken, the waters of theriver would be brilliant with waves of gold long after the other parts ofit were shrouded in the gloom of twilight. Mr. And Mrs. Garie sat lookingat the children, who were scampering about the garden in pursuit of a petrabbit which had escaped, and seemed determined not to be caught upon anypretence whatever. 

"Are they not beautiful?" said Mr. Garie, with pride, as they bounded pasthim. "There are not two prettier children in all Georgia. You don't seemhalf proud enough of them, " he continued, looking down upon his wifeaffectionately. 

Mrs. Garie, who was half reclining on the seat, and leaning her head uponhis shoulder, replied, "Oh, yes, I am, Garie; I'm sure I love themdearly--oh, so dearly!" continued she, fervently--"and I only wish"--hereshe paused, as if she felt she had been going to say something that hadbetter remain unspoken. 

"You only wish what, dear? You were going to say something, " rejoined herhusband. "Come, out with it, and let me hear what it was. "

"Oh, Garie, it was nothing of any consequence. "

"Consequence or no consequence, let me hear what it was, dear. "

"Well, as you insist on hearing it, I was about to say that I wish theywere not little slaves. "

"Oh, Em! Em!" exclaimed he, reproachfully, "how can you speak in thatmanner? I thought, dear, that you regarded me in any other light than thatof a master. What have I done to revive the recollection that any suchrelation existed between us? Am I not always kind and affectionate? Did youever have a wish ungratified for a single day, if it was in my power tocompass it? or have I ever been harsh or neglectful?"

"Oh, no, dear, no--forgive me, Garie--do, pray, forgive me--you arekindness itself--believe me, I did not think to hurt your feelings bysaying what I did. I know you do not treat me or them as though we wereslaves. But I cannot help feeling that we are such--and it makes me verysad and unhappy sometimes. If anything should happen that you should betaken away suddenly, think what would be our fate. Heirs would spring upfrom somewhere, and we might be sold and separated for ever. Respectingmyself I might be indifferent, but regarding the children I cannot feelso. "

"Tut, tut, Em! don't talk so gloomily. Do you know of any one, now, who hasbeen hired to put me to death?" said he, smiling. 

"Don't talk so, dear; remember, 'In the midst of life we are in death. ' Itwas only this morning I learned that Celeste--you remember Celeste, don'tyou?--I cannot recall her last name. "

"No, dear, I really can't say that I do remember whom you refer to. "

"I can bring her to your recollection, I think, " continued she. "Oneafternoon last fall we were riding together on the Augusta-road, when youstopped to admire a very neat cottage, before the door of which two prettychildren were playing. "

"Oh, yes, I remember something about it--I admired the children soexcessively that you became quite jealous. "

"I don't remember that part of it, " she continued. "But let me tell you mystory. Last week the father of the children started for Washington; thecars ran off the track, and were precipitated down a high embankment, andhe and some others were killed. Since his death it has been discovered thatall his property was heavily mortgaged to old MacTurk, the worst man in thewhole of Savannah; and he has taken possession of the place, and thrown herand the children into the slave-pen, from which they will be sold to thehighest bidder at a sheriff's sale. Who can say that a similar fate maynever be mine? These things press upon my spirit, and make me so gloomy andmelancholy at times, that I wish it were possible to shun even myself. Lately, more than ever, have I felt disposed to beg you to break up here, and move off to some foreign country where there is no such thing asslavery. I have often thought how delightful it would be for us all to beliving in that beautiful Italy you have so often described to me--or inFrance either. You said you liked both those places--why not live in one ofthem?"

"No, no, Emily; I love America too much to ever think of living anywhereelse. I am much too thorough a democrat ever to swear allegiance to a king. No, no--that would never do--give me a free country. "

"That is just what I say, " rejoined Mrs. Garie; "that is exactly what Iwant; that is why I should like to get away from here, because this is_not_ a free country--God knows it is not!"

"Oh, you little traitor! How severely you talk, abusing your native land insuch shocking style, it's really painful to hear you, " said Mr. Garie in ajocular tone. 

"Oh, love, " rejoined she, "don't joke, it's not a subject for jesting. Itis heavier upon my heart than you dream of. Wouldn't you like to live inthe free States? There is nothing particular to keep you here, and onlythink how much better it would be for the children: and Garie, " shecontinued in a lower tone, nestling close to him as she spoke, and drawinghis head towards her, "I think I am going to--" and she whispered somewords in his ear, and as she finished she shook her head, and her longcurls fell down in clusters over her face. 

Mr. Garie put the curls aside, and kissing her fondly, asked, "How longhave you known it, dear?"

"Not long, not very long, " she replied. "And I have such a yearning that itshould be born a free child. I do want that the first air it breathesshould be that of freedom. It will kill me to have another child born here!its infant smiles would only be a reproach to me. Oh, " continued she, in atone of deep feeling, "it is a fearful thing to give birth to an inheritorof chains;" and she shuddered as she laid her head on her husband's bosom. 

Mr. Garie's brow grew thoughtful, and a pause in the conversation ensued. The sun had long since gone down, and here and there the stars werebeginning to show their twinkling light. The moon, which had meanwhile beencreeping higher and higher in the blue expanse above, now began to shed herpale, misty beams on the river below, the tiny waves of which broke inlittle circlets of silver on the shore almost at their feet. 

Mr. Garie was revolving in his mind the conversation he had so recentlyheld with Mr. Winston respecting the free States. It had been suggested byhim that the children should be sent to the North to be educated, but hehad dismissed the notion, well knowing that the mother would beheart-broken at the idea of parting with her darlings. Until now, thethought of going to reside in the North had never been presented for hisconsideration. He was a Southerner in almost all his feelings, and hadnever had a scruple respecting the ownership of slaves. But now the factthat he was the master as well as the father of his children, and thatwhilst he resided where he did it was out of his power to manumit them;that in the event of his death they might be seized and sold by his heirs, whoever they might be, sent a thrill of horror through him. He had knownall this before, but it had never stood out in such bold relief until now. 

"What are you thinking of, Garie?" asked his wife, looking up into hisface. "I hope I have not vexed you by what I've said. "

"Oh, no, dear, not at all. I was only thinking whether you would be anyhappier if I acceded to your wishes and removed to the North. Here you livein good style--you have a luxurious home, troops of servants to wait uponyou, a carriage at your disposal. In fact, everything for which you expressa desire. "

"I know all that, Garie, and what I am about to say may seem ungrateful, but believe me, dear, I do not mean it to be so. I had much rather live oncrusts and wear the coarsest clothes, and work night and day to earn them, than live here in luxury, wearing gilded chains. Carriages and fineclothes cannot create happiness. I have every physical comfort, and yet myheart is often heavy--oh, so very heavy; I know I am envied by many for myfine establishment; yet how joyfully would I give it all up and accept themeanest living for the children's freedom--and your love. "

"But, Emily, granted we should remove to the North, you would findannoyances there as well as here. There is a great deal of prejudiceexisting there against people of colour, which, often exposes them to greatinconveniences. "

"Yes, dear, I know all that; I should expect that. But then on the otherhand, remember what George said respecting the coloured people themselves;what a pleasant social circle they form, and how intelligent many of themare! Oh, Garie, how I have longed for friends!--we have visitors now andthen, but none that I can call friends. The gentlemen who come to see youoccasionally are polite to me, but, under existing circumstances, I feelthat they cannot entertain for me the respect I think I deserve. I knowthey look down upon and despise me because I'm a coloured woman. Then therewould be another advantage; I should have some female society--here I havenone. The white ladies of the neighbourhood will not associate with me, although I am better educated, thanks to your care, than many of them, soit is only on rare occasions, when I can coax some of our more cultivatedcoloured acquaintances from Savannah to pay us a short visit, that I haveany female society, and no woman can be happy without it. I have noparents, nor yet have you. We have nothing we greatly love to leavebehind--no strong ties to break, and in consequence would be subjected tono great grief at leaving. If I only could persuade you to go!" said she, imploringly. 

"Well, Emily, " replied he, in an undecided manner, "I'll think about it. Ilove you so well, that I believe I should be willing to make any sacrificefor your happiness. But it is getting damp and chilly, and you know, " saidhe, smiling, "you must be more than usually careful of yourself now. "

The next evening, and many more besides, were spent in discussing theproposed change. Many objections to it were stated, weighed carefully, andfinally set aside. Winston was written to and consulted, and though heexpressed some surprise at the proposal, gave it his decided approval. Headvised, at the same time, that the estate should not be sold, but beplaced in the hands of some trustworthy person, to be managed in Mr. Garie's absence. Under the care of a first-rate overseer, it would not onlyyield a handsome income, but should they be dissatisfied with theirNorthern home, they would have the old place still in reserve; and with theknowledge that they had this to fall back upon, they could try theirexperiment of living in the North with their minds less harassed than theyotherwise would be respecting the result. 

As Mr. Garie reflected more and more on the probable beneficial results ofthe project, his original disinclination to it diminished, until he finallydetermined on running the risk; and he felt fully rewarded for thisconcession to his wife's wishes when he saw her recover all her wontedserenity and sprightliness. 

They were soon in all the bustle and confusion consequent on preparing fora long journey. When Mr. Garie's determination to remove became known, great consternation prevailed on the plantation, and dismal forebodingswere entertained by the slaves as to the result upon themselves. 

Divers were the lamentations heard on all sides, when they were positivelyconvinced that "massa was gwine away for true;" but they were somewhatpacified, when they learned that no one was to be sold, and that the placewould not change hands. For Mr. Garie was a very kind master, and hisslaves were as happy as slaves can be under any circumstances. Not muchless was the surprise which the contemplated change excited in theneighbourhood, and it was commented on pretty freely by his acquaintances. One of them--to whom he had in conversation partially opened his mind, andexplained that his intended removal grew out of anxiety respecting thechildren, and his own desire that they might be where they could enjoy theadvantages of schools, &c. --sneered almost to his face at what he termedhis crack-brained notions; and subsequently, in relating to another personthe conversation he had had with Mr. Garie, spoke of him as "a soft-headedfool, led by the nose by a yaller wench. Why can't he act, " he said, "likeother men who happen to have half-white children--breed them up for themarket, and sell them?" and he might have added, "as I do, " for he was wellknown to have so acted by two or three of his own tawny offspring. 

Mr. Garie, at the suggestion of Winston, wrote to Mr. Walters, to procurethem a small, but neat and comfortable house, in Philadelphia; which, whenprocured, he was to commit to the care of Mr. And Mrs. Ellis, who were tohave it furnished and made ready to receive him and his family on theirarrival, as Mr. Garie desired to save his wife as much as possible, fromthe care and anxiety attendant upon the arrangement of a new residence. 

One most important matter, and on which depended the comfort and happinessof his people, was the selection of a proper overseer. On its becomingknown that he required such a functionary, numbers of individuals whoaspired to that dignified and honourable office applied forthwith; and asit was also known that the master was to be absent, and that, inconsequence, the party having it under his entire control, could cut andslash without being interfered with, the value of the situation was greatlyenhanced. It had also another irresistible attraction, the absence of themaster would enable the overseer to engage in the customary picking andstealing operations, with less chance of detection. 

In consequence of all these advantages, there was no want of applicants. Great bony New England men, traitors to the air they first breathed, cameanxiously forward to secure the prize. Mean, weasen-faced, poor whiteGeorgians, who were able to show testimonials of their having producedlarge crops with a small number of hands, and who could tell to a fractionhow long a slave could be worked on a given quantity of corn, also put intheir claims for consideration. Short, thick-set men, with fierce faces, who gloried in the fact that they had at various times killed refractorynegroes, also presented themselves to undergo the necessary examination. 

Mr. Garie sickened as he contemplated the motley mass of humanity thatpresented itself with such eagerness for the attainment of so degrading anoffice; and as he listened to their vulgar boastings and brutal language, he blushed to think that such men were his countrymen. 

Never until now had he had occasion for an overseer. He was not ambitiousof being known to produce the largest crop to the acre, and his hands hadnever been driven to that shocking extent, so common with his neighbours. He had been his own manager, assisted by an old negro, called Ephraim--mostgenerally known as Eph, and to him had been entrusted the task ofimmediately superintending the hands engaged in the cultivation of theestate. This old man was a great favourite with the children, and Clarence, who used to accompany him on his pony over the estate, regarded him as themost wonderful and accomplished coloured gentleman in existence. 

Eph was in a state of great perturbation at the anticipated change, and heearnestly sought to be permitted to accompany them to the North. Mr. Gariewas, however, obliged to refuse his request, as he said, that it wasimpossible that the place could get on without him. 

An overseer being at last procured, whose appearance and manners betokeneda better heart than that of any who had yet applied for the situation, andwho was also highly-recommended for skill and honesty; nothing now remainedto prevent Mr. Garie's early departure. 

CHAPTER VI. 

Pleasant News. 

One evening Mr. Ellis was reading the newspaper, and Mrs. Ellis and thegirls were busily engaged in sewing, when who should come in but Mr. Walters, who had entered without ceremony at the front door, which had beenleft open owing to the unusual heat of the weather. 

"Here you all are, hard at work, " exclaimed he, in his usual hearty manner, accepting at the same time the chair offered to him by Esther. 

"Come, now, " continued he, "lay aside your work and newspapers, for I havegreat news to communicate. "

"Indeed, what is it?--what can it be?" cried the three females, almost in abreath; "do let us hear it!"

"Oh, " said Mr. Walters, in a provokingly slow tone, "I don't think I'lltell you to-night; it may injure your rest; it will keep till to-morrow. "

"Now, that is always the way with Mr. Walters, " said Caddy, pettishly; "healways rouses one's curiosity, and then refuses to gratify it;--he is sotantalizing sometimes!"

"I'll tell you this much, " said he, looking slily at Caddy, "it isconnected with a gentleman who had the misfortune to be taken for a beggar, and who was beaten over the head in consequence by a young lady of myacquaintance. "

"Now, father has been telling you that, " exclaimed Caddy, looking confused, "and I don't thank him for it either; I hear of that everywhere I go--eventhe Burtons know of it. "

Mr. Walters now looked round the room, as though he missed some one, andfinally exclaimed, "Where is Charlie? I thought I missed somebody--where ismy boy?"

"We have put him out to live at Mrs. Thomas's, " answered Mrs. Ellis, hesitatingly, for she knew Mr. Walters' feelings respecting the commonpractice of sending little coloured boys to service. "It is a very goodplace for him, " continued she--"a most excellent place. "

"That is too bad, " rejoined Mr. Walters--"too bad; it is a shame to make aservant of a bright clever boy like that. Why, Ellis, man, how came you toconsent to his going? The boy should be at school. It really does seem tome that you people who have good and smart boys take the very course toruin them. The worst thing you can do with a boy of his age is to put himat service. Once get a boy into the habit of working for a stipend, and, depend upon it, when he arrives at manhood, he will think that if he cansecure so much a month for the rest of his life he will be perfectly happy. How would you like him to be a subservient old numskull, like that oldRobberts of theirs?"

Here Esther interrupted Mr. Walters by saying, "I am very glad to hear youexpress yourself in that manner, Mr. Walters--very glad. Charlie is such abright, active little fellow; I hate to have him living there as a servant. And he dislikes it, too, as much as any one can. I do wish mother wouldtake him away. "

"Hush, Esther, " said her mother, sharply; "your mother lived at service, and no one ever thought the worse of her for it. "

Esther looked abashed, and did not attempt to say anything farther. 

"Now, look here, Ellen, " said Mr. Walters. (He called her Ellen, for he hadbeen long intimate with the family. ) "If you can't get on without the boy'searning something, why don't you do as white women and men do? Do you everfind them sending their boys out as servants? No; they rather give them astock of matches, blacking, newspapers, or apples, and start them out tosell them. What is the result? The boy that learns to sell matches soonlearns to sell other things; he learns to make bargains; he becomes a smalltrader, then a merchant, then a millionaire. Did you ever hear of any onewho had made a fortune at service? Where would I or Ellis have been had webeen hired out all our lives at so much a month? It begets a feeling ofdependence to place a boy in such a situation; and, rely upon it, if hestays there long, it will spoil him for anything better all his days. "

Mrs. Ellis was here compelled to add, by way of justifying herself, that itwas not their intention to let him remain there permanently; his fatheronly having given his consent for him to serve during the vacation. 

"Well, don't let him stay there longer, I pray you, " continued Walters. "Agreat many white people think that we are only fit for servants, and I mustconfess we do much to strengthen the opinion by permitting our children tooccupy such situations when we are not in circumstances to compel us to doso. Mrs. Thomas may tell you that they respect their old servant Robbertsas much as they do your husband; but they don't, nevertheless--I don'tbelieve a word of it. It is impossible to have the same respect for the manwho cleans your boots, that you have for the man who plans and builds yourhouse. "

"Oh, well, Walters, " here interposed Mr. Ellis, "I don't intend the boy toremain there, so don't get yourself into an unnecessary state of excitementabout it. Let us hear what this great news is that you have brought. "

"Oh, I had almost forgotten it, " laughingly replied Walters, at the sametime fumbling in his pocket for a letter, which he at length produced. "Here, " he continued, opening it, "is a letter I have received from a Mr. Garie, enclosing another from our friend Winston. This Mr. Garie writes methat he is coming to the North to settle, and desires me to procure them ahouse; and he says also that he has so far presumed upon an earlyacquaintance of his wife with Mrs. Ellis as to request that she will attendto the furnishing of it. You are to purchase all that is necessary to makethem comfortable, and I am to foot the bills. "

"What, you don't mean Emily Winston's husband?" said the astonished Mrs. Ellis. 

"I can't say whose husband it is, but from Winston's letter, " replied Mr. Walters, "I suppose he is the person alluded to. "

"That is news, " continued Mrs. Ellis. "Only think, she was a little mite ofa thing when I first knew her, and now she is a woman and the mother of twochildren. How time does fly. I must be getting quite old, " concluded she, with a sigh. 

"Nonsense, Ellen, " remarked Mr. Ellis, "you look surprisingly young, youare quite a girl yet. Why, it was only the other day I was asked if youwere one of my daughters. "

Mrs. Ellis and the girls laughed at this sally of their father's, who askedMr. Walters if he had as yet any house in view. 

"There is one of my houses in Winter-street that I think will just suitthem. The former tenants moved out about a week since. If I can call foryou to-morrow, " he continued, turning to Mrs. Ellis, "will you accompany methere to take a look at the premises?"

"It is a dreadful long walk, " replied Mrs. Ellis. "How provoking it is tothink, that because persons are coloured they are not permitted to ride inthe omnibuses or other public conveyances! I do hope I shall live to seethe time when we shall be treated as civilized creatures should be. "

"I suppose we shall be so treated when the Millennium comes, " rejoinedWalters, "not before, I am afraid; and as we have no reason to anticipatethat it will arrive before to-morrow, we shall have to walk toWinter-street, or take a private conveyance. At any rate, I shall call foryou to-morrow at ten. Good night--remember, at ten. " "Well, this is astrange piece of intelligence, " exclaimed Mrs. Ellis, as the door closedupon Mr. Walters. "I wonder what on earth can induce them to move on here. Their place, I am told, is a perfect paradise. In old Colonel Garie's timeit was said to be the finest in Georgia. I wonder if he really intends tolive here permanently?"

"I can't say, my dear, " replied Mrs. Ellis; "I am as much in the dark asyou are. "

"Perhaps they are getting poor, Ellis, and are coming here because they canlive cheaper. "

"Oh, no, wife; I don't think that can be the occasion of their removal. Irather imagine he purposes emancipating his children. He cannot do itlegally in Georgia; and, you know, by bringing them here, and letting themremain six months, they are free--so says the law of some of the SouthernStates, and I think of Georgia. "

The next morning Mrs. Ellis, Caddy, and Mr. Walters, started forWinter-street; it was a very long walk, and when they arrived there, theywere all pretty well exhausted. 

"Oh, dear, " exclaimed Mrs. Ellis, after walking upstairs, "I am so tired, and there is not a chair in the house. I must rest here, " said she, seatingherself upon the stairs, and looking out upon the garden. "What a largeyard! if ours were only as large as this, what a delightful place I couldmake of it! But there is no room to plant anything at our house, the gardenis so very small. "

After they were all somewhat rested, they walked through the house andsurveyed the rooms, making some favourable commentary upon each. 

"The house don't look as if it would want much cleaning, " said Caddy, witha tone of regret. 

"So much the better, I should say, " suggested Mr. Walters. 

"Not as Caddy views the matter, " rejoined Mrs. Ellis. "She is so fond ofhouse-cleaning, that I positively think she regards the cleanly state ofthe premises as rather a disadvantage than otherwise. " They were all, however, very well pleased with the place; and on their way home theysettled which should be the best bedroom, and where the children shouldsleep. They also calculated how much carpet and oilcloth would benecessary, and what style of furniture should be put in the parlour. 

"I think the letter said plain, neat furniture, and not too expensive, didit not?" asked Mrs. Ellis. 

"I think those were the very words, " replied Caddy; "and, oh, mother, isn'tit nice to have the buying of so many pretty things? I do so love to shop!"

"Particularly with some one else's money, " rejoined her mother, with asmile. 

"Yes, or one's own either, when one has it, " continued Caddy; "I like tospend money under any circumstances. "

Thus in conversation relative to the house and its fixtures, they beguiledthe time until they reached their home. On arriving there, Mrs. Ellis foundRobberts awaiting her return with a very anxious countenance. He informedher that Mrs. Thomas wished to see her immediately; that Charlie had beengiving that estimable lady a world of trouble; and that her presence wasnecessary to set things to rights. 

"What has he been doing?" asked Mrs. Ellis. 

"Oh, lots of things! He and aunt Rachel don't get on together at all; andlast night he came nigh having the house burned down over our heads. "

"Why, Robberts, you don't tell me so! What a trial boys are, " sighed Mrs. Ellis. 

"He got on first rate for a week or two; but since that he has been raisingSatan. He and aunt Rachel had a regular brush yesterday, and he hasactually lamed the old woman to that extent she won't be able to work for aweek to come. "

"Dear, dear, what am I to do?" said the perplexed Mrs. Ellis; "I can't goup there immediately, I am too tired. Say to Mrs. Thomas I will come upthis evening. I wonder, " concluded she, "what has come over the boy. ""Mother, you know how cross aunt Rachel is; I expect she has beenill-treating him. He is so good-natured, that he never would behaveimproperly to an old person unless goaded to it by some very harsh usage. "

"That's the way--go on, Esther, find some excuse for your angel, " saidCaddy, ironically. "Of course that lamb could not do anything wrong, and, according to your judgment, he never does; but, I tell you, he is as bad asany other boy--boys are boys. I expect he has been tracking over the floorafter aunt Rachel has scrubbed it, or has been doing something equallyprovoking; he has been in mischief, depend upon it. "

Things had gone on very well with Master Charlie for the first two weeksafter his introduction into the house of the fashionable descendant of theworthy maker of leathern breeches. His intelligence, combined with thequickness and good-humour with which he performed the duties assigned him, quite won the regard of the venerable lady who presided over thatestablishment. It is true she had detected him in several attempts upon thepeace and well-being of aunt Rachel's Tom; but with Tom she had littlesympathy, he having recently made several felonious descents upon herstores of cream and custards. In fact, it was not highly probable, if anyof his schemes had resulted seriously to the spiteful _protege_ of auntRachel, that Mrs. Thomas would have been overwhelmed with grief, ordisposed to inflict any severe punishment on the author of the catastrophe. 

Unfortunately for Mrs. Thomas, Charlie, whilst going on an errand, hadfallen in with his ancient friend and adviser--in short, he had met no lessa person than the formerly all-sufficient Kinch. Great was the delight ofboth parties at this unexpected meeting, and warm, indeed, was the exchangeof mutual congratulations on this auspicious event. 

Kinch, in the excess of his delight, threw his hat several feet in the air;nor did his feelings of pleasure undergo the least abatement when thatdilapidated portion of his costume fell into a bed of newly-mixed lime, from which he rescued it with great difficulty and at no little personalrisk. 

"Hallo! Kinch, old fellow, how are you?" cried Charlie; "I've been dying tosee you--why haven't you been up?"

"Why, I did come up often, but that old witch in the kitchen wouldn't letme see you--she abused me scandalous. I wanted to pull her turban off andthrow it in the gutter. Why, she called me a dirty beggar, and threatenedto throw cold water on me if I didn't go away. Phew! ain't she an oldbuster!"

"Why, I never knew you were there. "

"Yes, " continued Kinch; "and I saw you another time hung up behind thecarriage. I declare, Charlie, you looked so like a little monkey, dressedup in that sky-blue coat and silver buttons, that I liked to have dieda-laughing at you;" and Kinch was so overcome by the recollection of theevent in question, that he was obliged to sit down upon a door-step torecover himself. 

"Oh, I do hate to wear this confounded livery!' said Charlie, dolefully--"the boys scream 'Johnny Coat-tail' after me in the streets, and call me'blue jay, ' and 'blue nigger, ' and lots of other names. I feel that allthat's wanting to make a complete monkey of me, is for some one to carry meabout on an organ. "

"What do you wear it for, then?" asked Kinch. 

"Because I can't help myself, that's the reason. The boys plague me to thatextent sometimes, that I feel like tearing the things into bits--but mothersays I must wear it. Kinch, " concluded he, significantly, "something willhave to be done, I can't stand it. "

"You remember what I told you about the wig, don't you?" asked Kinch; and, on receiving an affirmative reply, he continued, "Just try that on, and seehow it goes--you'll find it'll work like a charm; it's a regularfootman-expatriator--just try it now; you'll see if it isn't the thing todo the business for you. " "I'm determined to be as bad as I can, "rejoined Charlie; "I'm tired enough of staying there: that old aunt Rach isa devil--I don't believe a saint from heaven could get on with her; I'mexpecting we'll have a pitched battle every day. "

Beguiling the time with this and similar conversation, they reached thehouse to which Charlie had been despatched with a note; after which, heturned his steps homeward, still accompanied by the redoubtable Kinch. 

As ill luck would have it, they passed some boys who were engaged in a gameof marbles, Charlie's favourite pastime, and, on Kinch's offering him thenecessary stock to commence play, he launched into the game, regardless ofthe fact that the carriage was ordered for a drive within an hour, and thathe was expected to fill his accustomed place in the rear of that splendidvehicle. 

Once immersed in the game, time flew rapidly on. Mrs. Thomas awaited hisreturn until her patience was exhausted, when she started on her drivewithout him. As they were going through a quiet street, to her horror andsurprise, prominent amidst a crowd of dirty boys, she discovered her littlefootman, with his elegant blue livery covered with dirt and sketches inwhite chalk; for, in the excitement of the game, Charlie had not observedthat Kinch was engaged in drawing on the back of his coat his favouriteillustration, to wit, a skull and cross-bones. 

"Isn't that our Charlie?" said she to her daughter, surveying the crowd ofnoisy boys through her eye-glass. "I really believe it is--that iscertainly our livery; pull the check-string, and stop the carriage. "

Now Robberts had been pressed into service in consequence of Charlie'sabsence, and was in no very good humour at being compelled to air hisrheumatic old shins behind the family-carriage. It can therefore be readilyimagined with what delight he recognized the delinquent footman amidst thecrowd, and with what alacrity he descended and pounced upon him just at themost critical moment of the game. Clutching fast hold of him by thecollar of his coat, he dragged him to the carriage-window, and held himbefore the astonished eyes of his indignant mistress, who lifted up herhands in horror at the picture he presented. "Oh! you wretched boy, " saidshe, "just look at your clothes, all covered with chalk-marks andbespattered with lime! Your livery is totally ruined--and your knees, too--only look at them--the dirt is completely ground into them. "

"But you haven't seed his back, marm, " said Robberts; "he's got thepirate's flag drawn on it. That boy'll go straight to the devil--I know hewill. "

All this time Charlie, to his great discomfiture, was being shaken andturned about by Robberts in the most unceremonious manner. Kinch, with hisusual audacity, was meanwhile industriously engaged in tracing on Robbert'scoat a similar picture to that he had so skilfully drawn on Charlie's, tothe great delight of a crowd of boys who stood admiring spectators of hisartistic performances. The coachman, however, observing this operation, brought it to a rather hasty conclusion by a well directed cut of the whipacross the fingers of the daring young artist. This so enraged Kinch, thatin default of any other missile, he threw his lime-covered cap at the headof the coachman; but, unfortunately for himself, the only result of hisexertions was the lodgment of his cap in the topmost bough of aneighbouring tree, from whence it was rescued with great difficulty. 

"What _shall_ we do with him?" asked Mrs. Thomas, in a despairing tone, asshe looked at Charlie. 

"Put him with the coachman, " suggested Mrs. Morton. 

"He can't sit there, the horses are so restive, and the seat is onlyconstructed for one, and he would be in the coachman's way. I suppose hemust find room on behind with Robberts. "

"I won't ride on the old carriage, " cried Charlie, nerved by despair; "Iwon't stay here nohow. I'm going home to my mother;" and as he spoke heendeavoured to wrest himself from Robberts' grasp. "Put him in here, "said Mrs. Thomas; "it would never do to let him go, for he will run homewith some distressing tale of ill-treatment; no, we must keep him until Ican send for his mother--put him in here. "

Much to Mrs. Morton's disgust, Charlie was bundled by Robberts into thebottom of the carriage, where he sat listening to the scolding of Mrs. Thomas and her daughter until they arrived at home. He remained in disgracefor several days after this adventure; but as Mrs. Thomas well knew thatshe could not readily fill his place with another, she made a virtue ofnecessity, and kindly looked over this first offence. 

The situation was, however, growing more and more intolerable. Aunt Racheland he had daily skirmishes, in which he was very frequently worsted. Hehad held several hurried consultations with Kinch through the grating ofthe cellar window, and was greatly cheered and stimulated in the plans heintended to pursue by the advice and sympathy of his devoted friend. MasterKinch's efforts to console Charlie were not without great risk to himself, as he had on two or three occasions narrowly escaped falling into theclutches of Robberts, who well remembered Kinch's unprecedented attemptupon the sacredness of his livery; and what the result might have been hadthe latter fallen into his hands, we cannot contemplate without a shudder. 

These conferences between Kinch and Charlie produced their natural effect, and latterly it had been several times affirmed by aunt Rachel that, "Datair boy was gittin' 'tirely too high--gittin' bove hissef 'pletely--dat hewas gittin' more and more aggriwatin' every day--dat she itched to git athim--dat she 'spected nothin' else but what she'd be 'bliged to take holdo' him;" and she comported herself generally as if she was crazy for theconflict which she saw must sooner or later occur. 

Charlie, unable on these occasions to reply to her remarks withoutprecipitating a conflict for which he did not feel prepared, sought torevenge himself upon the veteran Tom; and such was the state of hisfeelings, that he bribed Kinch, with a large lump of sugar and the leg of aturkey, to bring up his mother's Jerry, a fierce young cat, and they hadthe satisfaction of shutting him up in the wood-house with the belligerentTom, who suffered a signal defeat at Jerry's claws, and was obliged to beata hasty retreat through the window, with a seriously damaged eye, and withthe fur torn off his back in numberless places. After this Charlie had thepleasure of hearing aunt Rachel frequently bewail the condition of herfavourite, whose deplorable state she was inclined to ascribe to hisinfluence, though she was unable to bring it home to him in such a manneras to insure his conviction. 

CHAPTER VII. 

Mrs. Thomas has her Troubles. 

Mrs. Thomas was affected, as silly women sometimes are, with an intensedesire to be at the head of the _ton_. For this object she gave granddinners and large evening parties, to which were invited all who, being twoor three removes from the class whose members occupy the cobbler's bench orthe huckster's stall, felt themselves at liberty to look down upon the restof the world from the pinnacle on which they imagined themselves placed. Atthese social gatherings the conversation never turned upon pedigree, and ifany of the guests chanced by accident to allude to their ancestors, theyspoke of them as members of the family, who, at an early period of theirlives, were engaged in mercantile pursuits. 

At such dinners Mrs. Thomas would sit for hours, mumbling dishes thatdisagreed with her; smiling at conversations carried on in villanousFrench, of which language she did not understand a word; and admiring themanners of addle-headed young men (who got tipsy at her evening parties), because they had been to Europe, and were therefore considered quite men ofthe world. These parties and dinners she could not be induced to forego, although the late hours and fatigue consequent thereon would place her onthe sick-list for several days afterwards. As soon, however, as sherecovered sufficiently to resume her place at the table, she would consoleherself with a dinner of boiled mutton and roasted turnips, as a slightcompensation for the unwholesome French dishes she had compelled herself toswallow on the occasions before mentioned. Amongst the other modernfashions she had adopted, was that of setting apart one morning of the weekfor the reception of visitors; and she had mortally offended several of heroldest friends by obstinately refusing to admit them at any other time. Twoor three difficulties had occurred with Robberts, in consequence of thisnew arrangement, as he could not be brought to see the propriety of sayingto visitors that Mrs. Thomas was "not at home, " when he knew she was atthat very moment upstairs peeping over the banisters. His obstinacy on thispoint had induced her to try whether she could not train Charlie so as tofit him for the important office of uttering the fashionable and truthless"not at home" with unhesitating gravity and decorum; and, after a series ofmishaps, she at last believed her object was effected, until an unluckyoccurrence convinced her to the contrary. 

Mrs. Thomas, during the days on which she did not receive company, wouldhave presented, to any one who might have had the honour to see thatvenerable lady, an entirely different appearance to that which she assumedon gala days. A white handkerchief supplied the place of the curling wig, and the tasty French cap was replaced by a muslin one, decorated with animmense border of ruffling, that flapped up and down over her silverspectacles in the most comical manner possible. A short flannel gown and adimity petticoat of very antique pattern and scanty dimensions, completedher costume. Thus attired, and provided with a duster, she would makeunexpected sallies into the various domestic departments, to see thateverything was being properly conducted, and that no mal-practices wereperpetrated at times when it was supposed she was elsewhere. She showed anintuitive knowledge of all traps set to give intimation of her approach, and would come upon aunt Rachel so stealthily as to induce her to declare, "Dat old Mrs. Thomas put her more in mind of a ghost dan of any other libinanimal. "

One morning, whilst attired in the manner described, Mrs. Thomas had beenparticularly active in her excursions through the house, and had driven theservants to their wits' ends by her frequent descents upon them at the mostunexpected times, thereby effectually depriving them of the short breathingintervals they were anxious to enjoy. Charlie in particular had beengreatly harassed by her, and was sent flying from place to place until hislegs were nearly run off, as he expressed it. And so, when Lord Cutanrun, who was travelling in America to give his estates in England an opportunityto recuperate, presented his card, Charlie, in revenge, showed him into thedrawing-room, where he knew that Mrs. Thomas was busily engaged trimming anoil-lamp. Belying on the explicit order she had given to say that she wasnot at home, she did not even look up when his lordship entered, and as headvanced towards her, she extended to him a basin of dirty water, saying, "Here, take this. " Receiving no response she looked up, and to herastonishment and horror beheld, not Charlie, but Lord Cutanrun. In theagitation consequent upon his unexpected appearance, she dropped the basin, the contents of which, splashing in all directions, sadly discoloured hislordship's light pants, and greatly damaged the elegant carpet. 

"Oh! my lord, " she exclaimed, "I didn't--couldn't--wouldn't--" and, unableto ejaculate further, she fairly ran out of the apartment into the entry, where she nearly fell over Charlie, who was enjoying the confusion hisconduct had created. "Oh! you limb!--you little wretch!" said she. "Youknew I was not at home!"

"Why, where are you now?" he asked, with the most provoking air ofinnocence. "If you ain't in the house now, you never was. "

"Never mind, sir, " said she, "never mind. I'll settle with you for this. Don't stand there grinning at me; go upstairs and tell Mrs. Morton to comedown immediately, and then get something to wipe up that water. O dear! mybeautiful carpet! And for a lord to see me in such a plight! Oh! it'sabominable! I'll give it to you, you scamp! You did it on purpose, "continued the indignant Mrs. Thomas. "Don't deny it--I know you did. Whatare you standing there for? Why don't you call Mrs. Morton?" she concluded, as Charlie, chuckling over the result of his trick, walked leisurelyupstairs. "That boy will be the death of me, " she afterwards said, onrelating the occurrence to her daughter. "Just to think, after all thetrouble I've had teaching him when to admit people and when not, that heshould serve me such a trick. I'm confident he did it purposely. " Alas! forpoor Mrs. Thomas; this was only the first of a series of annoyances thatCharlie had in store, with which to test her patience and effect his owndeliverance. 

A few days after, one of their grand dinners was to take place, and Charliehad been revolving in his mind the possibility of his finding someopportunity, on that occasion, to remove the old lady's wig; feelingconfident that, could he accomplish that feat, he would be permitted toturn his back for ever on the mansion of Mrs. Thomas. 

Never had Mrs. Thomas appeared more radiant than at this dinner. All theguests whose attendance she had most desired were present, a new set ofchina had lately arrived from Paris, and she was in full anticipation of agrand triumph. Now, to Charlie had been assigned the important duty ofremoving the cover from the soup-tureen which was placed before hismistress, and the little rogue had settled upon that moment as the mostfavourable for the execution of his purpose. He therefore secretly affixeda nicely crooked pin to the elbow of his sleeve, and, as he lifted thecover, adroitly hooked it into her cap, to which he knew the wig wasfastened, and in a twinkling had it off her head, and before she couldrecover from her astonishment and lay down the soup-ladle he had left theroom. The guests stared and tittered at the grotesque figure shepresented, --her head being covered with short white hair, and her face asred as a peony at the mortifying situation in which she was placed. As sherose from her chair Charlie presented himself, and handed her the wig, withan apology for the _accident_. In her haste to put it on, she turned itwrong side foremost; the laughter of the guests could now no longer berestrained, and in the midst of it Mrs. Thomas left the room. EncounteringCharlie as she went, she almost demolished him in her wrath; not ceasing tobelabour him till his outcries became so loud as to render her fearful thathe would alarm the guests; and she then retired to her room, where sheremained until the party broke up. 

It was her custom, after these grand entertainments, to make nocturnalsurveys of the kitchen, to assure herself that none of the delicacies hadbeen secreted by the servants for their personal use and refreshment. Charlie, aware of this, took his measures for an ample revenge for thebeating he had received at her hands. At night, when all the rest of thefamily had retired, he hastily descended to the kitchen, and, by someprocess known only to himself, imprisoned the cat in a stone jar thatalways stood upon the dresser, and into which he was confident Mrs. Thomaswould peep. He then stationed himself upon the stairs, to watch the result. He had not long to wait, for as soon as she thought the servants wereasleep, she came softly into the kitchen, and, after peering about invarious places, she at last lifted up the lid of the jar. Tom, tired of hislong confinement, sprang out, and, in so doing, knocked the lamp out of herhand, the fluid from which ignited and ran over the floor. 

"Murder!--Fire!--Watch!" screamed the thoroughly frightened old woman. "Oh, help! help! fire!" At this terrible noise nearly every one in the householdwas aroused, and hurried to the spot whence it proceeded. They found Mrs. Thomas standing in the dark, with the lid of the jar in her hand, herselfthe personification of terror. The carpet was badly burned in severalplaces, and the fragments of the lamp were scattered about the floor. 

"What has happened?" exclaimed Mr. Morton, who was the first to enter thekitchen. "What is all this frightful noise occasioned by?"

"Oh, there is a man in the house!" answered Mrs. Thomas, her teethchattering with fright. "There was a man in here--he has just sprung out, "she continued, pointing to the bread-jar. 

"Pooh, pooh--that's nonsense, madam, " replied the son-in-law. "Why aninfant could not get in there, much less a man!"

"I tell you it was a man then, " angrily responded Mrs. Thomas; "and he isin the house somewhere now. "

"Such absurdity!" muttered Mr. Morton; adding, in a louder tone: "Why, mydear mamma, you've seen a mouse or something of the kind. "

"Mouse, indeed!" interrupted the old lady. "Do you think I'm in my dotage, and I don't know a man from a mouse?"

Just then the cat, whose back had got severely singed in the _melee_, setup a most lamentable caterwauling; and, on being brought to light from thedepths of a closet into which he had flown, his appearance immediatelydiscovered the share he had had in the transaction. 

"It must have been the cat, " said Robberts. "Only look at his back--whyhere the fur is singed off him! I'll bet anything, " continued he, "that airboy has had something to do with this--for it's a clear case that the catcouldn't git into the jar, and then put the lid on hissef. "

Tom's inability to accomplish this feat being most readily admitted on allsides, inquiry was immediately made as to the whereabouts of Charlie; hisabsence from the scene being rather considered as evidence ofparticipation, for, it was argued, if he had been unaware of what was totranspire, the noise would have drawn him to the spot at once, as he wasalways the first at hand in the event of any excitement. Robberts wasdespatched to see if he was in his bed, and returned with the intelligencethat the bed had not even been opened. Search was immediately instituted, and he was discovered in the closet at the foot of the stairs. He wasdragged forth, shaken, pummelled, and sent to bed, with the assurance thathis mother should be sent for in the morning, to take him home, and keephim there. This being exactly the point to which he was desirous ofbringing matters, he went to bed, and passed a most agreeable night. 

Aunt Rachel, being one of those sleepers that nothing short of anearthquake can rouse until their customary time for awaking, had sleptsoundly through the stirring events of the past night. She came down in themorning in quite a placid state of mind, expecting to enjoy a day of rest, as she had the night before sat up much beyond her usual time, to setmatters to rights after the confusion consequent on the dinner party. Whatwas her astonishment, therefore, on finding the kitchen she had left in astate of perfect order and cleanliness, in a condition that resembled thepreparation for an annual house-cleaning. 

"Lord, bless us!" she exclaimed, looking round; "What on yarth hashappened? I raly b'lieve dere's bin a fire in dis 'ere house, and I neverknowed a word of it. Why I might have bin burnt up in my own bed! Dere's delamp broke--carpet burnt--pots and skillets hauled out of the closet--eberyting turned upside down; why dere's bin a reg'lar 'sturbance down here, "she continued, as she surveyed the apartment. 

At this juncture, she espied Tom, who sat licking his paws before the fire, and presenting so altered an appearance, from the events of the night, asto have rendered him unrecognizable even by his best friend. 

"Strange cat in de house! Making himself quite at home at dat, " said auntRachel, indignantly. Her wrath, already much excited, rose to the boilingpoint at what she deemed a most daring invasion of her domain. She, therefore, without ceremony, raised a broom, with which she belaboured theastonished Tom, who ran frantically from under one chair to another tillhe ensconced himself in a small closet, from which he pertinaciouslyrefused to be dislodged. "Won't come out of dere, won't you?" said she. "I'll see if I can't make you den;" and poor Tom dodged behind pots andkettles to avoid the blows which were aimed at him; at last, thoroughlyenraged by a hard knock on the back, he sprang fiercely into the face ofhis tormentor, who, completely upset by the suddenness of his attack, fellsprawling on the floor, screaming loudly for help. She was raised up byRobberts, who came running to her assistance, and, on being questioned asto the cause of her outcries, replied:--

"Dere's a strange cat in de house--wild cat too, I raly b'lieve;" andspying Tom at that moment beneath the table, she made another dash at himfor a renewal of hostilities. 

"Why that's Tom, " exclaimed Robberts; "don't you know your own cat?"

"Oh, " she replied, "dat ar isn't Tom now, is it? Why, what's the matter widhim?"

Robberts then gave her a detailed account of the transactions of theprevious night, in which account the share Charlie had taken was greatlyenlarged and embellished; and the wrathful old woman was listening to theconclusion when Charlie entered. Hardly had he got into the room, when, without any preliminary discussion, aunt Rachel--to use her ownwords--pitched into him to give him particular fits. Now Charlie, not beingdisposed to receive "particular fits, " made some efforts to return the hardcompliments that were being showered upon him, and the advice of Kinchprovidentially occurring to him--respecting an attack upon theunderstanding of his venerable antagonist--he brought his hard shoes downwith great force upon her pet corn, and by this _coup de pied_ completelydemolished her. With a loud scream she let him go; and sitting down uponthe floor, declared herself lamed for life, beyond the possibility ofrecovery. At this stage of the proceedings, Robberts came to the rescue ofhis aged coadjutor, and seized hold of Charlie, who forthwith commencedso brisk an attack upon his rheumatic shins, as to cause him to beat ahurried retreat, leaving Charlie sole master of the field. The noise thatthese scuffles occasioned brought Mrs. Thomas into the kitchen, and Charliewas marched off by her into an upstairs room, where he was kept in "durancevile" until the arrival of his mother. 

Mrs. Thomas had a strong liking for Charlie--not as a boy, but as afootman. He was active and intelligent, and until quite recently, extremelytractable and obedient; more than all, he was a very good-looking boy, andwhen dressed in the Thomas livery, presented a highly-respectableappearance. She therefore determined to be magnanimous--to look over pastevents, and to show a Christian and forgiving spirit towards hisdelinquencies. She sent for Mrs. Ellis, with the intention of desiring herto use her maternal influence to induce him to apologize to aunt Rachel forhis assault upon her corns, which apology Mrs. Thomas was willing toguarantee should be accepted; as for the indignities that had beeninflicted on herself, she thought it most politic to regard them in thelight of accidents, and to say as little about that part of the affair aspossible. 

When Mrs. Ellis made her appearance on the day subsequent to the eventsjust narrated, Mrs. Thomas enlarged to her upon the serious damage thataunt Rachel had received, and the urgent necessity that something should bedone to mollify that important individual. When Charlie was brought intothe presence of his mother and Mrs. Thomas, the latter informed him, that, wicked as had been his conduct towards herself, she was willing, for hismother's sake, to look over it; but that he must humble himself in dust andashes before the reigning sovereign of the culinary kingdom, who, makingthe most of the injury inflicted on her toe, had declared herself unfit forservice, and was at that moment ensconced in a large easy-chair, listeningto the music of her favourite smoke-jack, whilst a temporary cook wasgetting up the dinner, under her immediate supervision and direction. "Charlie, I'm quite ashamed of you, " said his mother, after listening toMrs. Thomas's lengthy statement. "What has come over you, child?"--Charliestood biting his nails, and looking very sullen, but vouchsafed them noanswer. --"Mrs. Thomas is so kind as to forgive you, and says she will lookover the whole affair, if you will beg aunt Rachel's pardon. Come, now, "continued Mrs. Ellis, coaxingly, "do, that's a good boy. "

"Yes, do, " added Mrs. Thomas, "and I will buy you a handsome new suit oflivery. "

This was too much for Charlie; the promise of another suit of the detestedlivery quite overcame him, and he burst into tears. 

"Why, what ails the boy? He's the most incomprehensible child I ever saw!The idea of crying at the promise of a new suit of clothes!--any otherchild would have been delighted, " concluded Mrs. Thomas. 

"I don't want your old button-covered uniform, " said Charlie, "and I won'twear it, neither! And as for aunt Rachel, I don't care how much she ishurt--I'm only sorry I didn't smash her other toe; and I'll see herskinned, and be skinned myself, before I'll ask her pardon!"

Both Mrs. Thomas and Charlie's mother stood aghast at this unexpecteddeclaration; and the result of a long conference, held by the two, was thatCharlie should be taken home, Mrs. Ellis being unable to withstand histears and entreaties. 

As he passed through the kitchen on his way out, he made a face at auntRachel, who, in return, threw at him one of the turnips she was peeling. Itmissed the object for which it was intended, and came plump into the eye ofRobberts, giving to that respectable individual for some time thereafterthe appearance of a prize-fighter in livery. 

Charlie started for home in the highest spirits, which, however, becameconsiderably lower on his discovering his mother's view of his lateexploits was very different from his own. Mrs. Ellis's fondness andadmiration of her son, although almost amounting to weakness, were yetinsufficient to prevent her from feeling that his conduct, even aftermaking due allowance for the provocation he had received, could not bewholly excused as mere boyish impetuosity and love of mischievous fun. Sheknew that his father would feel it his duty, not only to reprimand him, butto inflict some chastisement; and this thought was the more painful to herfrom the consciousness, that but for her own weak compliance with Mrs. Thomas's request, her boy would not have been placed in circumstances whichhis judgment and self-command had proved insufficient to carry him through. The day, therefore, passed less agreeably than Charlie had anticipated; fornow that he was removed from the scene of his trials, he could not disguisefrom himself that his behaviour under them had been very different fromwhat it ought to have been, and this had the salutary effect of bringinghim into a somewhat humbler frame of mind. When his father returned in theevening, therefore, Charlie appeared so crest-fallen that even Caddy couldscarcely help commiserating him, especially as his subdued state during theday had kept him from committing any of those offences against tidinesswhich so frequently exasperated her. Mr. Ellis, though very strict on whathe thought points of duty, had much command of temper, and was anaffectionate father. He listened, therefore, with attention to the detailsof Charlie's grievances, as well as of his misdemeanours, and some creditis due to him for the unshaken gravity he preserved throughout. Although hesecretly acquitted his son of any really bad intention, he thought itincumbent on him to make Charlie feel in some degree the evil consequencesof his unruly behaviour. After giving him a serious lecture, and pointingout the impropriety of taking such measures to deliver himself from thebondage in which his parents themselves had thought fit to place him, without even appealing to them, he insisted on his making the apologies dueboth to Mrs. Thomas and aunt Rachel (although he was fully aware that bothhad only got their deserts); and, further, intimated that he would not bereinstated in his parents' good graces until he had proved, by his goodconduct and docility, that he was really sorry for his misbehaviour. It wasa severe trial to Charlie to make these apologies; but he well knew thatwhat his father had decided upon must be done--so he made a virtue ofnecessity, and, accompanied by his mother, on the following day performedhis penance with as good a grace as he was able; and, in consideration ofthis submission, his father, when he came home in the evening, greeted himwith all his usual kindness, and the recollection of this unlucky affairwas at once banished from the family circle. 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Trouble in the Ellis Family. 

Since the receipt of Mr. Garie's letter, Mrs. Ellis and Caddy had beenbusily engaged in putting the house in a state of preparation for theirreception. Caddy, whilst superintending its decoration, felt herself inElysium. For the first time in her life she had the supreme satisfaction ofhaving two unfortunate house-cleaners entirely at her disposal;consequently, she drove them about and worried them to an extentunparalleled in any of their former experience. She sought for anddiscovered on the windows (which they had fondly regarded as miracles ofcleanliness) sundry streaks and smears, and detected infinite small spotsof paint and whitewash on the newly-scrubbed floors. She followed themupstairs and downstairs, and tormented them to that extent, that Charliegave it as his private opinion that he should not be in the leastsurprised, on going up there, to find that the two old women had made awaywith Caddy, and hidden her remains in the coal-bin. Whilst she was thusengaged, to Charlie was assigned the duty of transporting to Winter-streether diurnal portion of food, without a hearty share of which she found itimpossible to maintain herself in a state of efficiency; her labours inchasing the women about the house being of a rather exhausting nature. 

When he made the visits in question, Charlie was generally reconnoitred byhis sister from a window over the door, and was compelled to put his shoesthrough a system of purification, devised by her for his especial benefit. It consisted of three courses of scraper, and two of mat; this beingconsidered by her as strictly necessary to bring his shoes to such a stateof cleanliness as would entitle him to admission into the premises of whichshe was the temporary mistress. 

Charlie, on two or three occasions finding a window open, made stealthydescents upon the premises without first having duly observed thesequarantine regulations; whereupon he was attacked by Caddy, who, with theassistance of the minions under her command, so shook and pummelled him asto cause his precipitate retreat through the same opening by which he hadentered, and that, too, in so short a space of time as to make the wholemanoeuvre appear to him in the light of a well-executed but involuntaryfeat of ground and lofty tumbling. One afternoon he started with hissister's dinner, consisting of a dish of which she was particularly fond, and its arrival was therefore looked for with unusual anxiety. Charlie, having gorged himself to an almost alarming extent, did not make the hastethat the case evidently demanded; and as he several times stopped to act asumpire in disputed games of marbles (in the rules of which he was regardedas an authority), he necessarily consumed a great deal of time on the way. 

Caddy's patience was severely tried by the long delay, and her temper, atno time the most amiable, gathered bitterness from the unprecedented lengthof her fast. Therefore, when he at length appeared, walking leisurely upWinter-street, swinging the kettle about in the most reckless manner, andsetting it down on the pavement to play leap-frog over the fire-plugs, herwrath reached a point that boded no good to the young trifler. 

Now, whilst Charlie had been giving his attention to the difficultiesgrowing out of the games of marbles, he did not observe that one of thedisputants was possessed of a tin kettle, in appearance very similar to hisown, by the side of which, in the excitement of the moment, he depositedhis own whilst giving a practical illustration of his view of the pointunder consideration. Having accomplished this to his entire satisfaction, he resumed what he supposed was his kettle, and went his way rejoicing. 

Now, if Caddy Ellis had a fondness for one dish more than any other, it wasfor haricot, with plenty of carrots; and knowing she was to have this forher dinner, she, to use her own pointed expression, "had laid herself outto have a good meal. " She had even abstained from her customary lunch thatshe might have an appetite worthy of the occasion; and accordingly, longere the dinner hour approached, she was hungry as a wolf. Notwithstandingthis fact, when Charlie made his appearance at the door, she insisted onhis going through all the accustomed forms with the mat and scraper beforeentering the house; an act of self-sacrifice on her part entirely uncalledfor, as the day was remarkably fine, and Charlie's boots unusually clean. 

He received two or three by no means gentle shoves and pokes as he entered, which he bore with unusual indifference, making not the slightest effort atretaliation, as was his usual practice. The fact is, Charlie was, as lionsare supposed to be, quite disinclined for a fight after a hearty meal, sohe followed Caddy upstairs to the second story. Here she had got up anextempore dining-table, by placing a pasting board across two chairs. Seating herself upon a stool, she jerked off the lid of the kettle, and, toher horror and dismay, found not the favourite haricot, but a piece ofcheese-rind, a crust of dry bread, and a cold potatoe. Charlie, who wasamusing himself by examining the flowers in the new carpet, did not observethe look of surprise and disgust that came over the countenance of hissister, as she took out, piece by piece, the remains of some schoolboy'srepast. 

"Look here, " she at last burst forth, "do you call this _my_ dinner?"

"Yes, " said Charlie, in a deliberate tone, "and a very good one too, Ishould say; if you can't eat that dinner, you ought to starve; it's one ofmother's best haricots. " "You don't call this cold potatoe andcheese-rind haricot, do you?" asked Caddy, angrily. 

At this Charlie looked up, and saw before her the refuse scraps, which shehad indignantly emptied upon the table. He could scarcely believe his eyes;he got up and looked in the kettle, but found no haricot. "Well, " said he, with surprise, "if that don't beat me! I saw mother fill it with haricotmyself; I'm clean beat about it. "

"Tell me what you've done with it, then, " almost screamed the angry girl. 

"I really don't know what has become of it, " he answered, with a bewilderedair. "I saw--I saw--I--I--"

"You saw--you saw, " replied the indignant Caddy, imitating his tone; andtaking up the kettle, she began to examine it more closely. "Why, thisisn't even our kettle; look at this lid. I'm sure it's not ours. You'vebeen stopping somewhere to play, and exchanged it with some other boy, that's just what you've done. "

Just then it occurred to Charlie that at the place where he had adjustedthe dispute about the marbles, he had observed in the hands of one of theboys a kettle similar to his own; and it flashed across his mind that hehad then and there made the unfortunate exchange. He broke his suspicion toCaddy in the gentlest manner, at the same time edging his way to the doorto escape the storm that he saw was brewing. The loss of her dinner--and ofsuch a dinner--so enraged the hungry girl, as to cause her to seize a brushlying near and begin to belabour him without mercy. In his endeavour toescape from her his foot was caught in the carpet, and he was violentlyprecipitated down the long flight of stairs. His screams brought the wholeparty to his assistance; even Kinch, who was sitting on the step outside, threw off his usual dread of Caddy, and rushed into the house. "Oh, take meup, " piteously cried Charlie; "oh, take me up, I'm almost killed. " Inraising him, one of the old women took hold of his arm, which caused him toscream again. "Don't touch my arm, please don't touch my arm; I'm sure it'sbroke. "

"No, no, it's not broke, only sprained, or a little twisted, " said she;and, seizing it as she spoke, she gave it a pull and a wrench, for thepurpose of making it all right again; at this Charlie's face turned deathlypale, and he fainted outright. 

"Run for a doctor, " cried the now thoroughly-alarmed Caddy; "run for thedoctor! my brother's dead!" and bursting into tears, she exclaimed, "Oh, I've killed my brother, I've killed my brother!"

"Don't make so much fuss, child, " soothingly replied one of the old women:"he's worth half a dozen dead folk yet. Lor bless you, child, he's onlyfainted. "

Water was procured and thrown in his face, and before Kinch returned withthe doctor, he was quite restored to consciousness. 

"Don't cry, my little man, " said the physician, as he took out his knifeand ripped up the sleeve of Charlie's coat. "Don't cry; let me examine yourarm. " Stripping up the shirt-sleeve, he felt it carefully over, and shakinghis head (physicians always shake their heads) pronounced the arm broken, and that, too, in an extremely bad place. At this information Charlie beganagain to cry, and Caddy broke forth into such yells of despair as almost todrive them distracted. 

The physician kindly procured a carriage, and saw Charlie comfortablyplaced therein; and held in the arms of Kinch, with the lamenting anddisheartened Caddy on the opposite seat, he was slowly driven home. Thehouse was quite thrown into confusion by their arrival under suchcircumstances; Mrs. Ellis, for a wonder, did not faint, but proceeded atonce to do what was necessary. Mr. Ellis was sent for, and he immediatelydespatched Kinch for Dr. Burdett, their family physician, who came withouta moment's delay. He examined Charlie's arm, and at first thought it wouldbe necessary to amputate it. At the mere mention of the word amputate, Caddy set up such a series of lamentable howls as to cause her immediateejectment from the apartment. Dr. Burdett called in Dr. Diggs for aconsultation, and between them it was decided that an attempt should bemade to save the injured member. "Now, Charlie, " said Dr. Burdett, "I'mafraid we must hurt you, my boy--but if you have any desire to keep thisarm you must try to bear it. "

"I'll bear anything to save my arm, doctor; I can't spare that, " said he, manfully. "I'll want it by-and-by to help take care of mother and thegirls. "

"You're a brave little fellow, " said Dr. Diggs, patting him on the head, "so then we'll go at it at once. "

"Stop, " cried Charlie, "let mother put her arm round my neck so, and Es, you hold the good hand. Now then, I'm all right--fire away!" and clenchinghis lips hard, he waited for the doctor to commence the operation ofsetting his arm. Charlie's mother tried to look as stoical as possible, butthe corners of her mouth would twitch, and there was a nervous trembling ofher under-lip; but she commanded herself, and only when Charlie gave aslight groan of pain, stooped and kissed his forehead; and when she raisedher head again, there was a tear resting on the face of her son that wasnot his own. Esther was the picture of despair, and she wept bitterly forthe misfortune which had befallen her pet brother; and when the operationwas over, refused to answer poor Caddy's questions respecting Charlie'sinjuries, and scolded her with a warmth and volubility that was quitesurprising to them all. 

"You must not be too hard on Caddy, " remarked Mr. Ellis. "She feels badenough, I'll warrant you. It is a lesson that will not, I trust, be thrownaway upon her; it will teach her to command her temper in future. "

Caddy was in truth quite crushed by the misfortune she had occasioned, andfell into such a state of depression and apathy as to be scarcely heardabout the house; indeed, so subdued was she, that Kinch went in and outwithout wiping his feet, and tracked the mud all over the stair-carpet, andyet she uttered no word of remonstrance. 

Poor little Charlie suffered much, and was in a high fever. The knocker wastied up, the windows darkened, and all walked about the house with sad andanxious countenances. Day after day the fever increased, until he grewdelirious, and raved in the most distressing manner. The unfortunateharicot was still on his mind, and he was persecuted by men withstrange-shaped heads and carrot eyes. Sometimes he imagined himself pursuedby Caddy, and would cry in the most piteous manner to have her preventedfrom beating him. Then his mind strayed off to the marble-ground, where hewould play imaginary games, and laugh over his success in such a wild andfrightful manner as to draw tears from the eyes of all around him. He wasgreatly changed; the bright colour had fled from his cheek; his head hadbeen shaved, and he was thin and wan, and at times they were obliged towatch him, and restrain him from tossing about, to the great peril of hisbroken arm. 

At last his situation became so critical that Dr. Burdett began toentertain but slight hopes of his recovery; and one morning, in thepresence of Caddy, hinted as much to Mr. Ellis. 

"Oh, doctor, doctor, " exclaimed the distracted girl, "don't say that! oh, try and save him! How could I live with the thought that I had killed mybrother! oh, I can't live a day if he dies! Will God ever forgive me? Oh, what a wretch I have been! Oh, do think of something that will help him! He_mustn't_ die, you _must_ save him!" and crying passionately, she threwherself on the floor in an agony of grief. They did their best to pacifyher, but all their efforts were in vain, until Mr. Ellis suggested, thatsince she could not control her feelings, she must be sent to stay with heraunt, as her lamentations and outcries agitated her suffering brother andmade his condition worse. The idea of being excluded from the family circleat such a moment had more effect on Caddy than all previous remonstrances. She implored to have the sentence suspended for a time at least, that shemight try to exert more self-command; and Mr. Ellis, who really pitied her, well knowing that her heart was not in fault, however reprehensible she wasin point of temper, consented; and Caddy's behaviour from that momentproved the sincerity of her promises; and though she could not quiterestrain occasional outbursts of senseless lamentation, still, when shefelt such fits of despair coming on, she wisely retired to some remotecorner of the house, and did not re-appear till she had regained hercomposure. 

The crisis was at length over, and Charlie was pronounced out of danger. Noone was more elated by this announcement than our friend Kinch, who had, infact, grown quite ashy in his complexion from confinement and grief, andwas now thrown by this intelligence into the highest possible spirits. Charlie, although faint and weak, was able to recognize his friends, andderived great satisfaction from the various devices of Kinch to entertainhim. That young gentleman quite distinguished himself by the variety andextent of his resources. He devised butting matches between himself and alarge gourd, which he suspended from the ceiling, and almost blindedhimself by his attempts to butt it sufficiently hard to cause it to reboundto the utmost length of the string, and might have made an idiot of himselffor ever by his exertions, but for the timely interference of Mr. Ellis, who put a final stop to this diversion. Then he dressed himself in a shortgown and nightcap, and made the pillow into a baby, and played the nursewith it to such perfection, that Charlie felt obliged to applaud byknocking with the knuckles of his best hand upon the head-board of hisbedstead. On the whole, he was so overjoyed as to be led to commit allmanner of eccentricities, and conducted himself generally in such aridiculous manner, that Charlie laughed himself into a state ofprostration, and Kinch was, in consequence, banished from the sick-room, tobe re-admitted only on giving his promise to abstain from being as _funnyas he could_ any more. After the lapse of a short time Charlie waspermitted to sit up, and held regular _levees_ of his schoolmates andlittle friends. He declared it was quite a luxury to have a broken arm, asit was a source of so much amusement. The old ladies brought him jelliesand blanc-mange, and he was petted and caressed to such an unparalleledextent, as to cause his delighted mother to aver that she lived in greatfear of his being spoiled beyond remedy. At length he was permitted to comedownstairs and sit by the window for a few hours each day. Whilst thusamusing himself one morning, a handsome carriage stopped before theirhouse, and from it descended a fat and benevolent-looking old lady, whoknocked at the door and rattled the latch as if she had been in the dailyhabit of visiting there, and felt quite sure of a hearty welcome. She waslet in by Esther, and, on sitting down, asked if Mrs. Ellis was at home. Whilst Esther was gone to summon her mother, the lady looked round theroom, and espying Charlie, said, "Oh, there you are--I'm glad to see you; Ihope you are improving. "

"Yes, ma'am, " politely replied Charlie, wondering all the time who theirvisitor could be. 

"You don't seem to remember me--you ought to do so; children seldom forgetany one who makes them a pleasant promise. "

As she spoke, a glimmer of recollection shot across Charlie's mind, and heexclaimed, "You are the lady who came to visit the school. "

"Yes; and I promised you a book for your aptness, and, " continued she, taking from her reticule a splendidly-bound copy of "Robinson Crusoe, ""here it is. "

Mrs. Ellis, as soon as she was informed that a stranger lady was below, left Caddy to superintend alone the whitewashing of Charlie's sick-room, and having hastily donned another gown and a more tasty cap, descended tosee who the visitor could be. 

"You must excuse my not rising, " said Mrs. Bird, for that was the lady'sname; "it is rather a difficulty for me to get up and down often--so, "continued she, with a smile, "you must excuse my seeming rudeness. "

Mrs. Ellis answered, that any apology was entirely unnecessary, and beggedshe would keep her seat. "I've come, " said Mrs. Bird, "to pay your littleman a visit. I was so much pleased with the manner in which he recited hisexercises on the day of examination, that I promised him a book, and ongoing to the school to present it, I heard of his unfortunate accident. Helooks very much changed--he has had a very severe time, I presume?"

"Yes, a very severe one. We had almost given him over, but it pleased Godto restore him, " replied Mrs. Ellis, in a thankful tone. "He is very weakyet, " she continued, "and it will be a long time before he is entirelyrecovered. "

"Who is your physician?" asked Mrs. Bird. 

"Doctor Burdett, " was the reply; "he has been our physician for years, andis a very kind friend of our family. "

"And of mine, too, " rejoined Mrs. Bird; "he visits my house every summer. What does he think of the arm?" she asked. 

"He thinks in time it will be as strong as ever, and recommends sendingCharlie into the country for the summer; but, " said Mrs. Ellis, "we arequite at a loss where to send him. "

"Oh! let me take him, " said Mrs. Bird--"I should be delighted to have him. I've got a beautiful place--he can have a horse to ride, and there are widefields to scamper over! Only let me have him, and I'll guarantee to restorehim to health in a short time. "

"You're very kind, " replied Mrs. Ellis--"I'm afraid he would only be aburthen to you--be a great deal of trouble, and be able to do but littlework. "

"Work! Why, dear woman, " replied Mrs. Bird, with some astonishment, "Idon't want him to work--I've plenty of servants; I only want him to enjoyhimself, and gather as much strength as possible. Come, make up your mindto let him go with me, and I'll send him home as stout as I am. "

At the bare idea of Charlie's being brought to such a state of obesity, Kinch, who, during the interview, had been in the back part of the room, making all manner of faces, was obliged to leave the apartment, to preventa serious explosion of laughter, and after their visitor had departed hewas found rolling about the floor in a tempest of mirth. 

After considerable conversation relative to the project, Mrs. Bird took herleave, promising to call soon again, and advising Mrs. Ellis to accept heroffer. Mrs. Ellis consulted Dr. Burdett, who pronounced it a most fortunatecircumstance, and said the boy could not be in better hands; and as Charlieappeared nothing loth, it was decided he should go to Warmouth, to thegreat grief of Kinch, who thought it a most unheard-of proceeding, and heregarded Mrs. Bird thenceforth as his personal enemy, and a wilfuldisturber of his peace. 

CHAPTER IX. 

Breaking up. 

The time for the departure of the Garies having been fixed, all in thehouse were soon engaged in the bustle of preparation. Boxes were packedwith books, pictures, and linen; plate and china were wrapped and swaddled, to prevent breakage and bruises; carpets were taken up, and packed away;curtains taken down, and looking-glasses covered. Only a small part of thehouse was left in a furnished state for the use of the overseer, who was ayoung bachelor, and did not require much space. 

In superintending all these arrangements Mrs. Garie displayed greatactivity; her former cheerfulness of manner had entirely returned, and Mr. Garie often listened with delight to the quick pattering of her feet, asshe tripped lightly through the hall, and up and down the long stairs. Thebirds that sang about the windows were not more cheerful than herself, andwhen Mr. Garie heard her merry voice singing her lively songs, as in daysgone by, he experienced a feeling of satisfaction at the pleasant result ofhis acquiescence in her wishes. He had consented to it as an act of justicedue to her and the children; there was no pleasure to himself growing outof the intended change, beyond that of gratifying Emily, and securingfreedom to her and the children. He knew enough of the North to feelconvinced that he could not expect to live there openly with Emily, withoutbeing exposed to ill-natured comments, and closing upon himself the doorsof many friends who had formerly received him with open arms. The virtuousdignity of the Northerner would be shocked, not so much at his havingchildren by a woman of colour, but by his living with her in the midst ofthem, and acknowledging her as his wife. In the community where he nowresided, such things were more common; the only point in which he differedfrom many other Southern gentlemen in this matter was in his constancy toEmily and the children, and the more than ordinary kindness and affectionwith which he treated them. Mr. Garie had for many years led a very retiredlife, receiving an occasional gentleman visitor; but this retirement hadbeen entirely voluntary, therefore by no means disagreeable; but in the newhome he had accepted, he felt that he might be shunned, and the reflectionwas anything but agreeable. Moreover, he was about to leave a placeendeared to him by a thousand associations. Here he had passed the whole ofhis life, except about four years spent in travelling through Europe andAmerica. 

Mr. Garie was seated in a room where there were many things to recall dayslong since departed. The desk at which he was writing was once hisfather's, and he well remembered the methodical manner in which everydrawer was carefully kept; over it hung a full-length portrait of hismother, and it seemed, as he gazed at it, that it was only yesterday thatshe had taken his little hand in her own, and walked with him down the longavenue of magnolias that were waving their flower-spangled branches in themorning breeze, and loading it with fragrance. Near him was the table onwhich her work-basket used to stand. He remembered how important he feltwhen permitted to hold the skeins of silk for her to wind, and how he wouldwatch her stitch, stitch, hour after hour, at the screen that now stoodbeside the fire-place; the colours were faded, but the recollection of thepleasant smiles she would cast upon him from time to time, as she looked upfrom her work, was as fresh in his memory as if it were but yesterday. Mr. Garie was assorting and arranging the papers that the desk contained, whenhe heard the rattle of wheels along the avenue, and looking out of thewindow, he saw a carriage approaching. 

The coachman was guiding his horses with one hand, and with the other hewas endeavouring to keep a large, old-fashioned trunk from falling from thetop. This was by no means an easy matter, as the horses appeared quiterestive, and fully required his undivided attention. The rather unsteadymotion of the carriage caused its inmate to put his head out of the window, and Mr. Garie recognized his uncle John, who lived in the north-westernpart of the state, on the borders of Alabama. He immediately left his desk, and hastened to the door to receive him. 

"This is an unexpected visit, but none the less pleasant on that account, "said Mr. Garie, his face lighting up with surprise and pleasure as uncleJohn alighted. "I had not the least expectation of being honoured by avisit from you. What has brought you into this part of the country?Business, of course? I can't conceive it possible that you should haveventured so far from home, at this early season, for the mere purpose ofpaying me a visit. "

"You may take all the honour to yourself this time, " smilingly replieduncle John, "for I have come over for your especial benefit; and if Iaccomplish the object of my journey, I shall consider the time anything butthrown away. "

"Let me take your coat; and, Eph, see you to that trunk, " said Mr. Garie. "You see everything is topsy-turvy with us, uncle John. We look likemoving, don't we?"

"Like that or an annual house-cleaning, " he replied, as he picked his waythrough rolls of carpet and matting, and between half-packed boxes; indoing which, he had several narrow escapes from the nails that protrudedfrom them on all sides. "It's getting very warm; let me have something todrink, " said he, wiping his face as he took his seat; "a julep--plenty ofbrandy and ice, and but little mint. "

Eph, on receiving this order, departed in great haste in search of Mrs. Garie, as he knew that, whilst concocting one julep, she might beprevailed upon to mix another, and Eph had himself a warm liking for thatpeculiar Southern mixture, which liking he never lost any opportunity togratify. 

Emily hurried downstairs, on hearing of the arrival of uncle John, for hewas regarded by her as a friend. She had always received from him markedkindness and respect, and upon the arrival of Mr. Garie's visitors, therewas none she received with as much pleasure. Quickly mixing the drink, shecarried it into the room where he and her husband were sitting. She waswarmly greeted by the kind-hearted old man, who, in reply to her questionif he had come to make them a farewell visit, said he hoped not: he trustedto make them many more in the same place. 

"I'm afraid you won't have an opportunity, " she replied. "In less than aweek we expect to be on our way to New York. --I must go, " continued she, "and have a room prepared for you, and hunt up the children. You'llscarcely know them, they have grown so much since you were here. I'll soonsend them, " and she hurried off to make uncle John's room comfortable. 

"I was never more surprised in my life, " said the old gentleman, depositingthe glass upon the table, after draining it of its contents--"never moresurprised than when I received your letter, in which you stated yourintention of going to the North to live. A more ridiculous whim it isimpossible to conceive--the idea is perfectly absurd! To leave a fine oldplace like this, where you have everything around you so nice andcomfortable, to go north, and settle amongst a parcel of strange Yankees!My dear boy, you must give it up. I'm no longer your guardian--the lawdon't provide one for people of thirty years and upwards--so it is out ofmy power to say you shall not do it; but I am here to use all my powers ofpersuasion to induce you to relinquish the project. "

"Uncle John, you don't seem to understand the matter. It is not a whim, byany means--it is a determination arising from a strict sense of duty; Ifeel that it is an act of justice to Emily and the children. I don'tpretend to be better than most men; but my conscience will not permit me tobe the owner of my own flesh and blood. I'm going north, because I wish toemancipate and educate my children--you know I can't do it here. At first Iwas as disinclined to favour the project as you are; but I am now convincedit is my duty, and, I must add, that my inclination runs in the samedirection. "

"Look here, Clarence, my boy, " here interrupted uncle John; "you can'texpect to live there as you do here; the prejudice against persons ofcolour is much stronger in some of the Northern cities than it is amongstus Southerners. You can't live with Emily there as you do here; you will bein everybody's mouth. You won't be able to sustain your old connectionswith your Northern friends--you'll find that they will cut you dead. "

"I've looked at it well, uncle John. I've counted the cost, and have madeup my mind to meet with many disagreeable things. If my old friends chooseto turn their backs on me because my wife happens to belong to an oppressedrace, that is not my fault. I don't feel that I have committed any sin bymaking the choice I have; and so their conduct or opinions won't influencemy happiness much. "

"Listen to me, Clary, for a moment, " rejoined the old gentleman. "As longas you live here in Georgia you can sustain your present connection withimpunity, and if you should ever want to break it off, you could do so bysending her and the children away; it would be no more than other men havedone, and are doing every day. But go to the North, and it becomes adifferent thing. Your connection with Emily will inevitably become a matterof notoriety, and then you would find it difficult to shake her off there, as you could here, in case you wanted to marry another woman. "

"Oh, uncle, uncle, how can you speak so indifferently about my doing suchan ungenerous act; to characterize it in the very mildest terms. I feelthat Emily is as much my wife in the eyes of God, as if a thousandclergymen had united us. It is not my fault that we are not legallymarried; it is the fault of the laws. My father did not feel that my motherwas any more his wife, than I do that Emily is mine. "

"Hush, hush; that is all nonsense, boy; and, besides, it is paying a verypoor compliment to your mother to rank her with your mulatto mistress. Ilike Emily very much; she has been kind, affectionate, and faithful to you. Yet I really can't see the propriety of your making a shipwreck of yourwhole life on her account. Now, " continued uncle John, with greatearnestness, "I hoped for better things from you. You have talents andwealth; you belong to one of the oldest and best families in the State. When I am gone, you will be the last of our name; I had hoped that youwould have done something to keep it from sinking into obscurity. There isno honour in the State to which you might not have aspired with a fairchance of success; but if you carry out your absurd determination, you willruin yourself effectually. "

"Well; I shall be ruined then, for I am determined to go. I feel it my dutyto carry out my design, " said Mr. Garie. 

"Well, well, Clary, " rejoined his uncle, "I've done my duty to my brother'sson. I own, that although I cannot agree with you in your project, I canand do honour the unselfish motive that prompts it. You will always find meyour friend under all circumstances, and now, " concluded he, "it's off mymind. "

The children were brought in and duly admired; a box of miniaturecarpenter's tools was produced; also, a wonderful man with a string throughhis waist--which string, when pulled, caused him to throw his arms and legsabout in a most astonishing manner. The little folks were highly delightedwith these presents, which, uncle John had purchased at Augusta; theyscampered off, and soon had every small specimen of sable humanity on theplace at their heels, in ecstatic admiration of the wonderful articles ofwhich they had so recently acquired possession. As uncle John hadabsolutely refused all other refreshment than the julep before mentioned, dinner was ordered at a much earlier hour than usual. He ate very heartily, as was his custom; and, moreover, persisted in stuffing the children (asold gentlemen will do sometimes) until their mother was compelled tointerfere to prevent their having a bilious attack in consequence. Whilstthe gentlemen were sitting over their desert, Mr. Garie asked his uncle, ifhe had not a sister, with whom there was some mystery connected. 

"No mystery, " replied uncle John. "Your aunt made a very low marriage, andfather cut her off from the family entirely. It happened when I was veryyoung; she was the eldest of us all; there were four of us, as youknow--your father, Bernard, I, and this sister of whom we are speaking. Shehas been dead for some years; she married a carpenter whom father employedon the place--a poor white man from New York. I have heard it said, that hewas handsome, but drunken and vicious. They left one child--a boy; Ibelieve he is alive in the North somewhere, or was, a few years since. "

"And did she never make any overtures for a reconciliation?"

"She did, some years before father's death, but he was inexorable; hereturned her letter, and died without seeing or forgiving her, " replieduncle John. 

"Poor thing; I suppose they were very poor?"

"I suppose they were. I have no sympathy for her. She deserved her fate, for marrying a greasy mechanic, in opposition to her father's commands, when she might have connected herself with any of the highest families inthe State. "

The gentlemen remained a long while that night, sipping their wine, smokingcigars, and discussing the probable result of the contemplated change. Uncle John seemed to have the worst forebodings as to the ultimateconsequences, and gave it as his decided opinion, that they would allreturn to the old place in less than a year. 

"You'll soon get tired of it, " said he; "everything is so different there. Here you can get on well in your present relations; but mark me, you'llfind nothing but disappointment and trouble where you are going. "

The next morning he departed for his home; he kissed the childrenaffectionately, and shook hands warmly with their mother. After gettinginto the carriage, he held out his hand again to his nephew, saying:--

"I am afraid you are going to be disappointed; but I hope you may not. Goodbye, good bye--God bless you!" and his blue eyes looked very watery, as hewas driven from the door. 

That day, a letter arrived from Savannah, informing them that the ship inwhich they had engaged passage would be ready to sail in a few days; andthey, therefore, determined that the first instalment of boxes and trunksshould be sent to the city forthwith; and to Eph was assigned themelancholy duty of superintending their removal. 

"Let me go with him, pa, " begged little Clarence, who heard his fathergiving Eph his instructions. 

"Oh, no, " replied Mr. Garie; "the cart will be full of goods, there will beno room for you. "

"But, pa, I can ride my pony; and, besides, you might let me go, for Ishan't have many more chances to ride him--do let me go. "

"Oh, yes, massa, let him go. Why dat ar chile can take care of his pony allby hissef. You should just seed dem two de oder day. You see de pony feltkinder big dat day, an' tuck a heap o' airs on hissef, an' tried to trowhim--twarn't no go--Massa Clary conquered him 'pletely. Mighty smart boy, dat, " continued Eph, looking at little Clarence, admiringly, "mighty smart. I let him shoot off my pistol toder day, and he pat de ball smack throughde bull's eye--dat boy is gwine to be a perfect Ramrod. "

"Oh, pa, " laughingly interrupted little Clarence; "I've been telling him ofwhat you read to me about Nimrod being a great hunter. "

"That's quite a mistake, Eph, " said Mr. Garie, joining in the laugh. "Well, I knowed it was suffin, " said Eph, scratching his head; "suffin witha rod to it; I was all right on that pint--but you'r gwine to let him go, ain't yer, massa?"

"I suppose, I must, " replied Mr. Garie; "but mind now that no accidentoccurs to young Ramrod. "

"I'll take care o' dat, " said Eph, who hastened off to prepare the horses, followed by the delighted Clarence. 

That evening, after his return from Savannah, Clarence kept his littlesister's eyes expanded to an unprecedented extent by his narration of thewonderful occurrences attendant on his trip to town, and also of what hehad seen in the vessel. He produced an immense orange, also a vast store ofalmonds and raisins, which had been given him by the good-natured steward. "But Em, " said he, "we are going to sleep in such funny little places; evenpa and mamma have got to sleep on little shelves stuck up against the wall;and they've got a thing that swings from the ceiling that they keep thetumblers and wine-glasses in--every glass has got a little hole for itself. Oh, it's so nice!"

"And have they got any nice shady trees on the ship?" asked the wonderinglittle Em. 

"Oh, no--what nonsense!" answered Clarence, swelling with the importanceconferred by his superior knowledge. "Why, no, Em; who ever heard of such athing as trees on a ship? they couldn't have trees on a ship if theywanted--there's no earth for them to grow in. But I'll tell you whatthey've got--they've got masts a great deal higher than any tree, and I'mgoing to climb clear up to the top when we go to live on the ship. "

"I wouldn't, " said Em; "you might fall down like Ben did from the tree, andthen you'd have to have your head sewed up as he had. "

The probability that an occurrence of this nature might be the result ofhis attempt to climb the mast seemed to have considerable weight withMaster Clarence, so he relieved his sister's mind at once by relinquishingthe project. 

The morning for departure at length arrived. Eph brought the carriage tothe door at an early hour, and sat upon the box the picture of despair. Hedid not descend from his eminence to assist in any of the littlearrangements for the journey, being very fearful that the seat he occupiedmight be resumed by its rightful owner, he having had a lengthy contestwith the sable official who acted as coachman, and who had strivenmanfully, on this occasion, to take possession of his usual elevatedstation on the family equipage. This, Eph would by no means permit, as hedeclared, "He was gwine to let nobody drive Massa dat day but hissef. "

It was a mournful parting. The slaves crowded around the carriage kissingand embracing the children, and forcing upon them little tokens ofremembrance. Blind Jacob, the patriarch of the place, came and passed hishands over the face of little Em for the last time, as he had done almostevery week since her birth, that, to use his own language, "he might seehow de piccaninny growed. " His bleared and sightless eyes were turned toheaven to ask a blessing on the little ones and their parents. 

"Why, daddy Jake, you should not take it so hard, " said Mr. Garie, with anattempt at cheerfulness. "You'll see us all again some day. "

"No, no, massa, I'se feared I won't; I'se gettin' mighty old, massa, andI'se gwine home soon. I hopes I'll meet you all up yonder, " said he, pointing heavenward. "I don't 'spect to see any of you here agin. "

Many of the slaves were in tears, and all deeply lamented the departure oftheir master and his family, for Mr. Garie had always been the kindest ofowners, and Mrs. Garie was, if possible, more beloved than himself. She wasfirst at every sick-bed, and had been comforter-general to all theafflicted and distressed in the place. 

At last the carriage rolled away, and in a few hours they reached Savannah, and immediately went on board the vessel. 

CHAPTER X. 

Another Parting. 

Mrs. Ellis had been for some time engaged in arranging and replenishingCharlie's wardrobe, preparatory to his journey to Warmouth with Mrs. Bird. An entire new suit of grey cloth had been ordered of the tailor, to whomMrs. Ellis gave strict injunctions not to make them too small. Notwithstanding the unfavourable results of several experiments, Mrs. Ellisadhered with wonderful tenacity to the idea that a boy's clothes couldnever be made too large, and, therefore, when Charlie had a new suit, italways appeared as if it had been made for some portly gentleman, and senthome to Charlie by mistake. 

This last suit formed no exception to the others, and Charlie surveyed withdismay its ample dimensions as it hung from the back of the chair. "Oh, gemini!" said he, "but that jacket is a rouser! I tell you what, mother, you'll have to get out a search-warrant to find me in that jacket; now, mind, I tell you!"

"Nonsense!" replied Mrs. Ellis, "it don't look a bit too large; put it on. "

Charlie took up the coat, and in a twinkling had it on over his other. Hishands were almost completely lost in the excessively long sleeves, whichhung down so far that the tips of his fingers were barely visible. "Oh, mother!" he exclaimed, "just look at these sleeves--if such a thing were tohappen that any one were to offer me a half dollar, they would change theirmind before I could get my hand out to take it; and it will almost go twiceround me, it is so large in the waist. "

"Oh, you can turn the sleeves up; and as for the waist--you'll soon growto it; it will be tight enough for you before long, I'll warrant, " saidMrs. Ellis. 

"But, mother, " rejoined Charlie, "that is just what you said about theother blue suit, and it was entirely worn out before you had let down thetucks in the trowsers. "

"Never mind the blue suit, " persisted Mrs. Ellis, entirely unbiassed bythis statement of facts. "You'll grow faster this time--you're going intothe country, you must remember--boys always grow fast in the country; gointo the other room and try on the trowsers. "

Charlie retired into another room with the trowsers in question. Here hewas joined by Kinch, who went into fits of laughter over Charlie'spea-jacket, as he offensively called the new coat. 

"Why, Charlie, " said he, "it fits you like a shirt on a bean-pole, orrather it's like a sentry's box--it don't touch you any where. But get intothese pants, " said he, almost choking with the laughter that Charlie'svexed look caused him to suppress--"get into the pants;" at the same timetying a string round Charlie's neck. 

"What are you doing that for?" exclaimed Charlie, in an irritated tone; "Ishouldn't have thought you would make fun of me!"

"Oh, " said Kinch, assuming a solemn look, "don't they always tie a roperound a man's body when they are going to lower him into a pit? and how onearth do you ever expect we shall find you in the legs of them trowsers, unless something is fastened to you?" Here Charlie was obliged to join inthe laugh that Kinch could no longer restrain. 

"Stop that playing, boys, " cried Mrs. Ellis, as their noisy mirth reachedher in the adjoining room; "you forget I am waiting for you. "

Charlie hastily drew on the trousers, and found that their dimensions fullyjustified the precaution Kinch was desirous of taking to secure him fromsinking into oblivion. 

"Oh, I can't wear these things, " said Charlie, tears of vexation startingfrom his eyes. "Why, they are so large I can't even keep them up; and justlook at the legs, will you--they'll have to be turned up a quarter of ayard at least. "

"Here, " said Kinch, seizing a large pillow, "I'll stuff this in. Oh, golly, how you look! if you ain't a sight to see!" and he shouted with laughter ashe surveyed Charlie, to whom the pillow had imparted the appearance of aLondon alderman. "If you don't look like Squire Baker now, I'll give it up. You are as big as old Daddy Downhill. You are a regular Daniel Lambert!"

The idea of looking like Squire Baker and Daddy Downhill, who were the "fatmen" of their acquaintance, amused Charlie as much as it did his companion, and making the house ring with their mirth, they entered the room where Mr. Ellis and the girls had joined Mrs. Ellis. 

"What on earth is the matter with the child?" exclaimed Mr. Ellis, as hegazed upon the grotesque figure Charlie presented. "What has the boy beendoing to himself?" Hereupon Kinch explained how matters stood, to theinfinite amusement of all parties. 

"Oh, Ellen, " said Mr. Ellis, "you must have them altered; they're a miletoo big for him. I really believe they would fit me. "

"They do look rather large, " said Mrs. Ellis, reluctantly; "but it seemssuch a waste to take them in, as he grows so fast. "

"He would not grow enough in two years to fill that suit, " rejoined Mr. Ellis; "and he will have worn them out in less than six months;" and so, tothe infinite satisfaction of Charlie, it was concluded that they should besent back to the tailor's for the evidently necessary alterations. 

The day for Charlie's departure at last arrived. 

Kinch, who had been up since two o'clock in the morning, was found by Caddyat the early hour of five waiting upon the door-step to accompany hisfriend to the wharf. Beside him lay a bag, in which there appeared to besome living object. 

"What have you got in here?" asked Caddy, as she gave the bag a punch withthe broom she was using. "It's a present for Charlie, " replied Kinch, opening the bag, and displaying, to the astonished gaze of Caddy, a veryyoung pig. 

"Why, " said she, laughing, "you don't expect he can take that with him, doyou?"

"Why not?" asked Kinch, taking up the bag and carrying it into the house. "It's just the thing to take into the country; Charlie can fatten him andsell him for a lot of money. "

It was as much as Mrs. Ellis could do to convince Charlie and Kinch of theimpracticability of their scheme of carrying off to Warmouth the pig inquestion. She suggested, as it was the exclusive property of Kinch, and hewas so exceedingly anxious to make Charlie a parting gift, that she shouldpurchase it, which she did, on the spot; and Kinch invested all the moneyin a large cross-bow, wherewith Charlie was to shoot game sufficient tosupply both Kinch and his own parents. Had Charlie been on his way to thescaffold, he could not have been followed by a more solemn face than thatpresented by Kinch as he trudged on with him in the rear the porter whocarried the trunk. 

"I wish you were not going, " said he, as he put his arm affectionately overCharlie's shoulder, "I shall be so lonesome when you are gone; and what ismore, I know I shall get licked every day in school, for who will help mewith my sums?"

"Oh, any of the boys will, they all like you, Kinch; and if you only studya little harder, you can do them yourself, " was Charlie's encouragingreply. 

On arriving at the boat, they found. Mrs. Bird waiting for them; so Charliehastily kissed his mother and sisters, and made endless promises not to bemischievous, and, above all, to be as tidy as possible. Then tearinghimself away from them, and turning to Kinch, he exclaimed, "I'll be backto see you all again soon, so don't cry old fellow;" and at the same timethrusting his hand into his pocket, he drew out a number of marbles, whichhe gave him, his own lips quivering all the while. At last his attempts tosuppress his tears and look like a man grew entirely futile, and he criedheartily as Mrs. Bird took his hand and drew him on board the steamer. 

As it slowly moved from the pier and glided up the river, Charlie stoodlooking with tearful eyes at his mother and sisters, who, with Kinch, wavedtheir handkerchiefs as long as they could distinguish him, and then he sawthem move away with the crowd. 

Mrs. Bird, who had been conversing with a lady who accompanied her a shortdistance on her journey, came and took her little _protege_ by the hand, and led him to a seat near her in the after part of the boat, informinghim, as she did so, that they would shortly exchange the steamer for thecars, and she thought he had better remain near her. 

After some time they approached the little town where the passengers tookthe train for New York. Mrs. Bird, who had taken leave of her friend, heldCharlie fast by the hand, and they entered the cars together. He looked alittle pale and weak from the excitement of parting and the novelty of hissituation. Mrs. Bird, observing his pallid look, placed him on a seat, andpropped him up with shawls and cushions, making him as comfortable aspossible. 

The train had not long started, when the conductor came through to inspectthe tickets, and quite started with surprise at seeing Charlie stretched atfull length upon the velvet cushion. "What are you doing here?" exclaimedhe, at the same time shaking him roughly, to arouse him from the slightslumber into which he had fallen. "Come, get up: you must go out of this. "

"What do you mean by such conduct?" asked Mrs. Bird, very much surprised. "Don't wake him; I've got his ticket; the child is sick. "

"I don't care whether he's sick or well--he can't ride in here. We don'tallow niggers to ride in this car, no how you can fix it--so come, youngster, " said he, gruffly, to the now aroused boy, "you must travel outof this. "

"He shall do no such thing, " replied Mrs. Bird, in a decided tone; "I'vepaid fall price for his ticket, and he shall ride here; you have no legalright to eject him. "

"I've got no time to jaw about rights, legal or illegal--all I care to knowis, that I've my orders not to let niggers ride in these cars, and I expectto obey, so you see there is no use to make any fuss about it. "

"Charlie, " said Mrs. Bird, "sit here;" and she moved aside, so as to seathim between herself and the window. "Now, " said she, "move him if you thinkbest. "

"I'll tell you what it is, old woman, " doggedly remarked the conductor:"you can't play that game with me. I've made up my mind that no moreniggers shall ride in this car, and I'll have him out of here, cost what itmay. "

The passengers now began to cluster around the contending parties, and totake sides in the controversy. In the end, the conductor stopped the train, and called in one or two of the Irish brake-men to assist him, ifnecessary, in enforcing his orders. 

"You had better let the boy go into the negro car, madam, " said one of thegentlemen, respectfully; "it is perfectly useless to contend with theseruffians. I saw a coloured man ejected from here last week, and severelyinjured; and, in the present state of public feeling, if anything happenedto you or the child, you would be entirely without redress. The directorsof this railroad control the State; and there is no such thing as justiceto be obtained in any of the State courts in a matter in which they areconcerned. If you will accept of my arm, I will accompany you to the othercar--if you will not permit the child to go there alone, you had better goquietly with him. "

"Oh, what is the use of so much talk about it? Why don't you hustle the oldthing out, " remarked a bystander, the respectability of whose appearancecontrasted broadly with his manners; "she is some crack-brainedabolitionist. Making so much fuss about a little nigger! Let her go intothe nigger car--she'll be more at home there. "

Mrs. Bird, seeing the uselessness of contention, accepted the profferedescort of the gentleman before mentioned, and was followed out of the carsby the conductor and his blackguard assistants, all of them highly elatedby the victory they had won over a defenceless old woman and a feeblelittle boy. 

Mrs. Bird shrunk back, as they opened the door of the car that had been setapart for coloured persons, and such objectionable whites as were notadmitted to the first-class cars. "Oh, what a wretched place!" sheexclaimed, as she surveyed the rough pine timbers and dirty floor; "I wouldnot force a dog to ride in such a filthy place. "

"Oh, don't stay here, ma'am; never mind me--I shall get on by myself wellenough, I dare say, " said Charlie; "it is too nasty a place for you to stayin. "

"No, my child, " she replied; "I'll remain with you. I could not think ofpermitting you to be alone in your present state of health. I declare, " shecontinued, "it's enough to make any one an abolitionist, or anything elseof the kind, to see how inoffensive coloured people are treated!"

That evening they went on board the steamer that was to convey them toWarmouth, where they arrived very early the following morning. 

Charlie was charmed with the appearance of the pretty little town, as theyrode through it in Mrs. Bird's carriage, which awaited them at the landing. At the door of her residence they were met by two cherry-faced maids, whoseemed highly delighted at the arrival of their mistress. 

"Now, Charlie, " said Mrs. Bird, as she sat down in her large arm-chair, andlooked round her snug little parlour with an air of greatsatisfaction--"now we are at home, and you must try and make yourself ashappy as possible. Betsey, " said she, turning to one of the women, "here isa nice little fellow, whom I have brought with me to remain during thesummer, of whom I want you to take the best care; for, " continued she, looking at him compassionately, "the poor child has had the misfortune tobreak his arm recently, and he has not been strong since. The physicianthought the country would be the best place for him, and so I've broughthim here to stay with us. Tell Reuben to carry his trunk into the littlemaple chamber, and by-and-by, after I have rested, I will take a walk overthe place with him. "

"Here are two letters for you, " said Betsey, taking them from themantelpiece, and handing them to her mistress. 

Mrs. Bird opened one, of which she read a part, and then laid it down, asbeing apparently of no importance. The other, however, seemed to have agreat effect upon her, as she exclaimed, hurriedly, "Tell Reuben not tounharness the horses--I must go to Francisville immediately--dear Mrs. Hinton is very ill, and not expected to recover. You must take good care ofCharlie until I return. If I do not come back to-night, you will know thatshe is worse, and that I am compelled to remain there;" and, on thecarriage being brought to the door, she departed in haste to visit her sickfriend. 

CHAPTER XI

The New Home. 

When Mrs. Garie embarked, she entertained the idea so prevalent amongfresh-water sailors, that she was to be an exception to the rule of FatherNeptune, in accordance with which all who intrude for the first time uponhis domain are compelled to pay tribute to his greatness, and humbly bow inacknowledgment of his power. 

Mrs. Garie had determined not to be sea-sick upon any account whatever, being fully persuaded she could brave the ocean with impunity, and was, accordingly, very brisk and blithe-looking, as she walked up and down uponthe deck of the vessel. In the course of a few hours they sailed out of theharbour, and were soon in the open sea. She began to find out how mistakenshe had been, as unmistakable symptoms convinced her of the vanity of allhuman calculations. "Why, you are not going to be ill, Em, after all yourvaliant declarations!" exclaimed Mr. Garie, supporting her unsteady steps, as they paced to and fro. 

"Oh, no, no!" said she, in a firm tone; "I don't intend to give up to anysuch nonsense. I believe that people can keep up if they try. I do feel alittle fatigued and nervous; it's caused, no doubt, by the long drive ofthis morning--although I think it singular that a drive should affect me inthis manner. " Thus speaking, she sat down by the bulwarks of the vessel, and a despairing look gradually crept over her face. At last she suddenlyrose, to look at the water, as we may imagine. The effect of her scrutiny, however, was, that she asked feebly to be assisted to her state-room, whereshe remained until their arrival in the harbour of New York. The childrensuffered only for a short time, and as their father escaped entirely, hewas able to watch that they got into no mischief. They were both greatfavourites with the captain and steward, and, between the two, were sostuffed and crammed with sweets as to place their health in considerablejeopardy. 

It was a delightful morning when they sailed into the harbour of New York. The waters were dancing and rippling in the morning sun, and thegaily-painted ferry-boats were skimming swiftly across its surface in theirtrips to and from the city, which was just awaking to its daily life ofbustling toil. 

"What an immense city it is!" said Mrs. Garie--"how full of life andbustle! Why there are more ships at one pier here than there are in thewhole port of Savanah!"

"Yes, dear, " rejoined her husband; "and what is more, there always will be. Our folks in Georgia are not waked up yet; and when they do arousethemselves from their slumber, it will be too late. But we don't see halfthe shipping from here--this is only one side of the city--there is muchmore on the other. Look over there, " continued he, pointing to Jerseycity, --"that is where we take the cars for Philadelphia; and if we get upto dock in three or four hours, we shall be in time for the mid-day train. "

In less time than they anticipated they were alongside the wharf; thetrunks were brought up, and all things for present use were safely packedtogether and despatched, under the steward's care, to the office of therailroad. 

Mr. And Mrs. Garie, after bidding good-bye to the captain, followed withthe children, who were thrown into a great state of excitement by the noiseand bustle of the crowded thoroughfare. 

"How this whirl and confusion distracts me, " said Mrs. Garie, looking outof the carriage-window. "I hope Philadelphia is not as noisy a place asthis. "

"Oh, no, " replied Mr. Garie; "it is one of the most quiet and clean citiesin the world, whilst this is the noisiest and dirtiest. I always hurry outof New York; it is to me such a disagreeable place, with its extortionatehackmen and filthy streets. "

On arriving at the little steamer in which they crossed the ferry, theyfound it about to start, and therefore had to hurry on board with allpossible speed. 

Under the circumstances, the hackman felt that it would be flying in theface of Providence if he did not extort a large fare, and he thereforecharged an extravagant price. Mr. Garie paid him, as he had no time toparley, and barely succeeded in slipping a _douceur_ into the steward'shand, when the boat pushed off from the pier. 

In a few moments they had crossed the river, and were soon comfortablyseated in the cars whirling over the track to Philadelphia. 

As the conductor came through to examine the tickets, he paused for amoment before Mrs. Garie and the children. As he passed on, his assistantinquired, "Isn't that a nigger?"

"Yes, a half-white one, " was the reply. 

"Why don't you order her out, then?--she has no business to ride in here, "continued the first speaker. 

"I guess we had better let her alone, " suggested the conductor, "particularly as no one has complained; and there might be a row if sheturned out to be the nurse to those children. The whole party areSoutherners, that's clear; and these Southerners are mighty touchy abouttheir niggers sometimes, and kick and cut like the devil about them. Iguess we had better let her alone, unless some one complains about herbeing there. "

As they drove through the streets of Philadelphia on the way to their newhome, Mrs. Garie gave rent to many expressions of delight at the appearanceof the city. "Oh, what a sweet place! everything is so bright andfresh-looking; why the pavement and doorsteps look as if they were cleanedtwice a day. Just look at that house, how spotless it is; I hope oursresembles that. Ours is a new house, is it not?" she inquired. "Notentirely; it has been occupied before, but only for a short time, Ibelieve, " was her husband's reply. 

It had grown quite dark by the time they arrived at Winter-street, whereCaddy had been anxiously holding watch and ward in company with theservants who had been procured for them. A bright light was burning in theentry as the coachman stopped at the door. 

"This is No. 27, " said he, opening the door of the carriage, "shall Iring?"

"Yes, do, " replied Mr. Garie; but whilst he was endeavouring to open thegate of the little garden in front, Caddy, who had heard the carriage stop, bounded out to welcome them. "This is Mr. Garie, I suppose, " said she, ashe alighted. 

"Yes, I am; and you, I suppose, are the daughter of Mr. Ellis?"

"Yes, sir; I'm sorry mother is not here to welcome you; she was here untilvery late last night expecting your arrival, and was here again thismorning, " said Caddy, taking at the same time one of the little carpetbags. "Give me the little girl, I can take care of her too, " she continued;and with little Em on one arm and the carpet bag on the other, she led theway into the house. 

"We did not make up any fire, " said she, "the weather is very warm to us. Idon't know how it may feel to you, though. "

"It is a little chilly, " replied Mrs. Garie, as she sat down upon the sofa, and looked round the room with a smile of pleasure, and added, "All thisplace wants, to make it the most bewitching of rooms, is a little fire. "

Caddy hurried the new servants from place to place remorselessly, and setthem to prepare the table and get the things ready for tea. She waylaid aparty of labourers, who chanced to be coming that way, and hired them tocarry all the luggage upstairs--had the desired fire made--mixed up somecorn-bread, and had tea on the table in a twinkling. They all ate veryheartily, and Caddy was greatly praised for her activity. 

"You are quite a housekeeper, " said Mrs. Garie to Caddy. "Do you like it?"

"Oh, yes, " she replied. "I see to the house at home almost entirely; motherand Esther are so much engaged in sewing, that they are glad enough toleave it in my hands, and I'd much rather do that than sew. "

"I hope, " said Mrs. Garie, "that your mother will permit you to remain withus until we get entirely settled. "

"I know she will, " confidently replied Caddy. "She will be up here in themorning. She will know you have arrived by my not having gone home thisevening. "

The children had now fallen asleep with their heads in close proximity totheir plates, and Mrs. Garie declared that she felt very much fatigued andslightly indisposed, and thought the sooner she retired the better it wouldbe for her. She accordingly went up to the room, which she had already seenand greatly admired, and was soon in the land of dreams. 

As is always the case on such occasions, the children's night-dresses couldnot be found. Clarence was put to bed in one of his father's shirts, inwhich he was almost lost, and little Em was temporarily accommodated with acalico short gown of Caddy's, and, in default of a nightcap, had her headtied up in a Madras handkerchief, which gave her, when her back was turned, very much the air of an old Creole who had been by some mysterious meansdeprived of her due growth. 

The next morning Mrs. Garie was so much indisposed at to be unable to rise, and took her breakfast in bed. Her husband had finished his meal, and wassitting in the parlour, when he observed a middle-aged coloured lady cominginto the garden. 

"Look, Caddy, " cried he, "isn't this your mother?"

"Oh, yes, that is she, " replied Caddy, and ran and opened the door, exclaiming, "Oh, mother, they're come;" and as she spoke, Mr. Garie cameinto the entry and shook hands heartily with her. "I'm so much indebtedto you, " said he, "for arranging everything so nicely for us--there is nota thing we would wish to alter. "

"I am very glad you are pleased; we did our best to make it comfortable, "was her reply. 

"And you succeeded beyond our expectation; but do come up, " continued he, "Emily will be delighted to see you. She is quite unwell this morning; hasnot even got up yet;" and leading the way upstairs, he ushered Mrs. Ellisinto the bedroom. 

"Why, can this be you?" said she, surveying Emily with surprise andpleasure. "If I had met you anywhere, I should never have known you. Howyou have altered! You were not so tall as my Caddy when I saw you last; andhere you are with two children--and pretty little things they are too!"said she, kissing little Em, who was seated on the bed with her brother, and sharing with him the remains of her mother's chocolate. 

"And you look much younger that I expected to see you, " replied Mrs. Garie. "Draw a chair up to the bed, and let us have a talk about old times. Youmust excuse my lying down; I don't intend to get up to-day; I feel quiteindisposed. "

Mrs. Ellis took off her bonnet, and prepared for a long chat; whilst Mr. Garie, looking at his watch, declared it was getting late, and started fordown town, where he had to transact some business. 

"You can scarcely think, Ellen, how much I feel indebted to you for all youhave done for us; and we are so distressed to hear about Charlie'saccident. You must have had a great deal of trouble. "

"Oh, no, none to speak of--and had it been ever so much, I should have beenjust as pleased to have done it; I was so glad you were coming. What didput it in your heads to come here to live?" continued Mrs. Ellis. 

"Oh, cousin George Winston praised the place so highly, and you know howdisagreeable Georgia is to live in. My mind was never at rest thererespecting these, " said she, pointing to the children; "so that I fairlyteased Garie into it. Did you recognize George?"

"No, I didn't remember much about him. I should never have taken him for acoloured man; had I met him in the street, I should have supposed him to bea wealthy white Southerner. What a gentleman he is in his appearance andmanners, " said Mrs. Ellis. 

"Yes, he is all that--my husband thinks there is no one like him. But wewon't talk about him now; I want you to tell me all about yourself andfamily, and then I'll tell you everything respecting my own fortunes. "Hereupon ensued long narratives from both parties, which occupied thegreater part of the morning. 

Mr. Garie, on leaving the house, slowly wended his way to the residence ofMr. Walters. As he passed into the lower part of the city, his attentionwas arrested by the number of coloured children he saw skipping merrilyalong with their bags of books on their arms. 

"This, " said he to himself, "don't much resemble Georgia. "[*]

[Footnote *: It is a penal offence in Georgia to teach coloured children toread. ]

After walking some distance he took out a card, and read, 257, Easton-street; and on inquiry found himself in the very street. Heproceeded to inspect the numbers, and was quite perplexed by theirconfusion and irregularity. 

A coloured boy happening to pass at the time, he asked him: "Which way dothe numbers run, my little man?"

The boy looked up waggishly, and replied: "They don't run at all; they arepermanently affixed to each door. "

"But, " said Mr. Garie, half-provoked, yet compelled to smile at the boy'spompous wit, "you know what I mean; I cannot find the number I wish; thestreet is not correctly numbered. "

"The street is not numbered at all, " rejoined the boy, "but the housesare, " and he skipped lightly away. 

Mr. Garie was finally set right about the numbers, and found himself atlength before the door of Mr. Walters's house. "Quite a handsomeresidence, " said he, as he surveyed the stately house, with its spotlessmarble steps and shining silver door-plate. 

On ringing, his summons was quickly answered by a well-dressed servant, whoinformed him that Mr. Walters was at home, and ushered him into theparlour. The elegance of the room took Mr. Garie completely by surprise, asits furniture indicated not only great wealth, but cultivated taste andrefined habits. The richly-papered walls were adorned by paintings from thehands of well-known foreign and native artists. Rich vases andwell-executed bronzes were placed in the most favourable situations in theapartment; the elegantly-carved walnut table was covered with thosecharming little bijoux which the French only are capable of conceiving, andwhich are only at the command of such purchasers as are possessed of moremoney than they otherwise can conveniently spend. 

Mr. Garie threw himself into a luxuriously-cushioned chair, and was soon soabsorbed in contemplating the likeness of a negro officer which hungopposite, that he did not hear the soft tread of Mr. Walters as he enteredthe room. The latter, stepping slowly forward, caught the eye of Mr. Garie, who started up, astonished at the commanding figure before him. 

"Mr. Garie, I presume?" said Mr. Walters. 

"Yes, " he replied, and added, as he extended his hand; "I have the pleasureof addressing Mr. Walters, I suppose?"

Mr. Walters bowed low as he accepted the proffered hand, and courteouslyrequested his visitor to be seated. 

As Mr. Garie resumed his seat, he could not repress a look of surprise, which Mr. Walters apparently perceived, for a smile slightly curled his lipas he also took a seat opposite his visitor. 

Mr. Walters was above six feet in height, and exceedinglywell-proportioned; of jet-black complexion, and smooth glossy skin. Hishead was covered with a quantity of woolly hair, which was combed back froma broad but not very high forehead. His eyes were small, black, andpiercing, and set deep in his head. His aquiline nose, thin lips, and broadchin, were the very reverse of African in their shape, and gave his face avery singular appearance. In repose, his countenance was severe in itsexpression; but when engaged in agreeable conversation, the thinsarcastic-looking lips would part, displaying a set of dazzlingly whiteteeth, and the small black eyes would sparkle with animation. The neatnessand care with which he was dressed added to the attractiveness of hisappearance. His linen was the perfection of whiteness, and his snowy vestlost nothing by its contact therewith. A long black frock coat, blackpants, and highly-polished boots, completed his attire. 

"I hope, " said he, "your house suits you; it is one of my own, and hasnever been rented except for a short time to a careful tenant, who waswaiting for his own house to be finished. I think you will find itcomfortable. "

"Oh, perfectly so, I am quite sure. I must thank you for the prompt mannerin which you have arranged everything for us. It seems more like coming toan old home than to a new residence, " replied Mr. Garie. 

"I am delighted to hear you say so, " said Mr. Walters. "I shall be mosthappy to call and pay my respects to Mrs. Garie when agreeable to her. Depend upon it, we will do all in our power to make our quiet city pleasantto you both. "

Mr. Garie thanked him, and after some further conversation, rose to depart. 

As he was leaving the room, he stopped before the picture which had soengaged his attention, when Mr. Walters entered. 

"So you, too, are attracted by that picture, " said Mr. Walters, with asmile. "All white men look at it with interest. A black man in the uniformof a general officer is something so unusual that they cannot pass it witha glance. " "It is, indeed, rather a novelty, " replied Mr. Garie, "particularly to a person from my part of the country. Who is it?"

"That is Toussaint l'Ouverture, " replied Mr. Walters; "and I have everyreason to believe it to be a correct likeness. It was presented to anAmerican merchant by Toussaint himself--a present in return for somekindness shown him. This merchant's son, not having the regard for thepicture that his father entertained for it, sold it to me. That, " continuedMr. Walters, "looks like a man of intelligence. It is entirely differentfrom any likeness I ever saw of him. The portraits generally represent himas a monkey-faced person, with a handkerchief about his head. "

"This, " said Mr. Garie, "gives me an idea of the man that accords with hisactions. "

Thus speaking, he continued looking at the picture for a short time, andthen took his departure, after requesting Mr. Walters to call upon him atan early opportunity. 

CHAPTER XII. 

Mr. Garie's Neighbour. 

We must now introduce our readers into the back parlour of the housebelonging to Mr. Garie's next-door neighbour, Mr. Thomas Stevens. 

We find this gentleman standing at a window that overlooked his garden, enjoying a fragrant Havannah. His appearance was not by any meansprepossessing; he was rather above than below the middle height, with roundshoulders, and long, thin arms, finished off by disagreeable-looking hands. His head was bald on the top, and the thin greyish-red hair, that grew morethickly about his ears, was coaxed up to that quarter, where an attempt hadbeen made to effect such a union between the cords of the hair from eachside as should cover the place in question. 

The object, however, remained unaccomplished; as the hair was either veryobstinate and would not be induced to lie as desired, or from extrememodesty objected to such an elevated position, and, in consequence, stoppedhalf-way, as if undecided whether to lie flat or remain erect, producingthe effect that would have been presented had he been decorated with a pairof horns. His baldness might have given an air of benevolence to his face, but for the shaggy eyebrows that over-shadowed his cunning-looking greyeyes. His cheekbones were high, and the cadaverous skin was so tightlydrawn across them, as to give it a very parchment-like appearance. Aroundhis thin compressed lips there was a continual nervous twitching, thatadded greatly to the sinister aspect of his face. 

On the whole, he was a person from whom you would instinctively shrink;and had he been president or director of a bank in which you had moneydeposited, his general aspect would not have given you additionalconfidence in the stable character or just administration of its affairs. 

Mr. George Stevens was a pettifogging attorney, who derived a tolerableincome from a rather disreputable legal practice picked up among the courtsthat held their sessions in the various halls of the State-house. He wasknown in the profession as Slippery George, from the easy manner in whichhe glided out of scrapes that would have been fatal to the reputation ofany other lawyer. Did a man break into a house, and escape without beingactually caught on the spot with the goods in his possession, Stevens wasalways able to prove an alibi by a long array of witnesses. In fact, he wasconsidered by the swell gentry of the city as their especial friend andprotector, and by the members of the bar generally as anything but anornament to the profession. 

He had had rather a fatiguing day's labour, and on the evening of which wewrite, was indulging in his usual cigar, and amusing himself at the sametime by observing the gambols of Clarence and little Em, who were enjoyinga romp in their father's garden. 

"Come here, Jule, " said he, "and look at our new neighbour'schildren--rather pretty, ain't they?"

He was joined by a diminutive red-faced woman, with hair and eyes very muchlike his own, and a face that wore a peevish, pinched expression. 

"Rather good-looking, " she replied, after observing them for a few minutes, and then added, "Have you seen their parents?"

"No, not yet, " was the reply. "I met Walters in the street this morning, who informed me they are from the South, and very rich; we must try andcultivate them--ask the children in to play with ours, and strike up anintimacy in that way, the rest will follow naturally, you know. By the way, Jule, " continued he, "how I hate that nigger Walters, with his grand airs. I wanted some money of him the other day on rather ticklish securities fora client of mine, and the black wretch kept me standing in his hall for atleast five minutes, and then refused me, with some not very complimentaryremarks upon my assurance in offering him such securities. It made me somad I could have choked him--it is bad enough to be treated with _hauteur_by a white man, but contempt from a nigger is almost unendurable. "

"Why didn't you resent it in some way? I never would have submitted toanything of the kind from him, " interrupted Mrs. Stevens. 

"Oh, I don't dare to just now; I have to be as mild as milk with him. Youforget about the mortgage; don't you know he has me in a tight place there, and I don't see how to get out of it either. If I am called SlipperyGeorge, I tell you what, Jule, there's not a better man of business in thewhole of Philadelphia than that same Walters, nigger as he is; and no oneoffends him without paying dear for it in some way or other. I'll tell yousomething he did last week. He went up to Trenton on business, and at thehotel they refused to give him dinner because of his colour, and told himthey did not permit niggers to eat at their tables. What does he do but buythe house over the landlord's head. The lease had just expired, and thelandlord was anxious to negotiate another; he was also making somearrangements with his creditors, which could not be effected unless he wasenabled to renew the lease of the premises he occupied. On learning thatthe house had been sold, he came down to the city to negotiate with the newowner, and to his astonishment found him to be the very man he had refuseda meal to the week before. Blunt happened to be in Walters's office at thetime the fellow called. Walters, he says, drew himself up to his fullheight, and looked like an ebony statue. 

"Sir, " said he, "I came to your house and asked for a meal, for which I wasable to pay; you not only refused it to me, but heaped upon me words suchas fall only from the lips of blackguards. You refuse to have me in yourhouse--I object to have you in mine: you will, therefore, quit thepremises immediately. " The fellow sneaked out quite crestfallen, and hiscreditors have broken him up completely. 

"I tell you what, Jule, if I was a black, " continued he, "living in acountry like this, I'd sacrifice conscience and everything else to theacquisition of wealth. "

As he concluded, he turned from the window and sat down by a small table, upon which a lighted lamp had been placed, and where a few law papers wereawaiting a perusal. 

A little boy and girl were sitting opposite to him. The boy was playingwith a small fly-trap, wherein he had already imprisoned a vast number ofbuzzing sufferers. In appearance he bore a close resemblance to his father;he had the same red hair and sallow complexion, but his grey eyes had adull leaden hue. 

"Do let them go, George, do!" said the little girl, in a pleading tone. "You'll kill them, shut up there. "

"I don't care if I do, " replied he, doggedly; "I can catch more--lookhere;" and as he spoke he permitted a few of the imprisoned insects tocreep partly out, and then brought the lid down upon them with a force thatcompletely demolished them. 

The little girl shuddered at this wanton exhibition of cruelty, and offeredhim a paper of candy if he would liberate his prisoners, which he didrather reluctantly, but promising himself to replenish the box at the firstopportunity. 

"Ah!" said he, in a tone of exultation, "father took me with him to thejail to-day, and I saw all the people locked up. I mean to be a jailer someof these days. Wouldn't you like to keep a jail, Liz?" continued he, hisleaden eyes receiving a slight accession of brightness at the idea. 

"Oh, no!" replied she; "I would let all the people go, if I kept the jail. "

A more complete contrast than this little girl presented to her parents andbrother, cannot be imagined. She had very dark chestnut hair, and mild blueeyes, and a round, full face, which, in expression, was sweetness itself. She was about six years old, and her brother's junior by an equal numberof years. 

Her mother loved her, but thought her tame and spiritless in herdisposition; and her father cherished as much affection for her as he wascapable of feeling for any one but himself. 

Mrs. Stevens, however, doted on their eldest hope, who was as disagreeableas a thoroughly spoiled and naturally evil-disposed boy could be. 

As the evenings had now become quite warm, Mr. Garie frequently took achair and enjoyed his evening cigar upon the door-step of his house; and asMr. Stevens thought his steps equally suited to this purpose, it was verynatural he should resort there with the same object. 

Mr. Stevens found no difficulty in frequently bringing about shortneighbourly conversations with Mr. Garie. The little folk, taking their cuefrom their parents, soon became intimate, and ran in and out of eachother's houses in the most familiar manner possible. Lizzy Stevens andlittle Em joined hearts immediately, and their intimacy had already beencemented by frequent consultations on the various ailments wherewith theysupposed their dolls afflicted. 

Clarence got on only tolerably with George Stevens; he entertained for himthat deference that one boy always has for another who is his superior inany boyish pastime; but there was little affection lost between them--theycared very little for each other's society. 

Mrs. Garie, since her arrival, had been much confined to her room, inconsequence of her protracted indisposition. Mrs. Stevens had several timesintimated to Mr. Garie her intention of paying his wife a visit; but neverhaving received any very decided encouragement, she had not pressed thematter, though her curiosity was aroused, and she was desirous of seeingwhat kind of person Mrs. Garie could be. 

Her son George in his visits had never been permitted farther than thefront parlour; and all the information that could be drawn from littleLizzy, who was frequently in Mrs. Garie's bedroom, was that "she was apretty lady, with great large eyes. " One evening, when Mr. Garie wasoccupying his accustomed seat, he was accosted from the other side by Mrs. Stevens, who, as usual, was very particular in her inquiries after thestate of his wife's health; and on learning that she was so much improvedas to be down-stairs, suggested that, perhaps, she would be willing toreceive her. 

"No doubt she will, " rejoined Mr. Garie; and he immediately entered thehouse to announce the intended visit. The lamps were not lighted when Mrs. Stevens was introduced, and faces could not, therefore, be clearlydistinguished. 

"My dear, " said Mr. Garie, "this is our neighbour, Mrs. Stevens. "

"Will you excuse me for not rising?" said Mrs. Garie, extending her hand toher visitor. "I have been quite ill, or I should have been most happy tohave received you before. My little folks are in your house a great deal--Ihope you do not find them troublesome. "

"Oh, by no means! I quite dote on your little Emily, she is such a sweetchild--so very affectionate. It is a great comfort to have such a childnear for my own to associate with--they have got quite intimate, as I hopewe soon shall be. "

Mrs. Garie thanked her for the kindness implied in the wish, and said shetrusted they should be so. 

"And how do you like your house?" asked Mrs. Stevens; "it is on the sameplan as ours, and we find ours very convenient. They both formerly belongedto Walters; my husband purchased of him. Do you intend to buy?"

"It is very probable we shall, if we continue to like Philadelphia, "answered Mr. Garie. 

"I'm delighted to hear that, " rejoined she--"very glad, indeed. It quiterelieves my mind about one thing: ever since Mr. Stevens purchased ourhouse we have been tormented with the suspicion that Walters would put afamily of niggers in this; and if there is one thing in this world I detestmore than another, it is coloured people, I think. "

Mr. Garie here interrupted her by making some remark quite foreign to thesubject, with the intention, no doubt, of drawing her off this topic. Theattempt was, however, an utter failure, for she continued--"I think allthose that are not slaves ought to be sent out of the country back toAfrica, where they belong: they are, without exception, the most ignorant, idle, miserable set I ever saw. "

"I think, " said Mr. Garie, "I can show you at least one exception, and thattoo without much trouble. Sarah, " he cried, "bring me a light. "

"Oh, " said Mrs. Stevens, "I suppose you refer to Walters--it is true he isan exception; but he is the only coloured person I ever saw that could makethe least pretension to anything like refinement or respectability. 

"Let me show you another, " said Mr. Garie, as he took the lamp from theservant and placed it upon the table near his wife. 

As the light fell on her face, their visitor saw that she belonged to thevery class that she had been abusing in such unmeasured terms and sopetrified was she with confusion at the _faux pas_ she had committed, thatshe was entirely unable to improvise the slightest apology. 

Mrs. Garie, who had been reclining on the lounge, partially raised herselfand gave Mrs. Stevens a withering look. "I presume, madam, " said she, in ahurried and agitated tone, "that you are very ignorant of the people uponwhom you have just been heaping such unmerited abuse, and therefore I shallnot think so hardly of you as I should, did I deem your language dictatedby pure hatred; but, be its origin what it may, it is quite evident thatour farther acquaintance could be productive of no pleasure to either ofus--you will, therefore, permit me, " continued she, rising with greatdignity, "to wish you good evening;" and thus speaking, she left the room. 

Mrs. Stevens was completely demolished by this unexpected _denouement_ ofher long-meditated visit, and could only feebly remark to Mr. Garie that itwas getting late, and she would go; and rising, she suffered herself to bepolitely bowed out of the house. In her intense anxiety to relate to herhusband the scene which had just occurred, she could not take time to goround and through the gate, but leaped lightly over the low fence thatdivided the gardens, and rushed precipitately into the presence of herhusband. 

"Good heavens! George, what do you think?" she exclaimed; "I've had such asurprise!"

"I should think that you had, judging from appearances, " replied he. "Why, your eyes are almost starting out of your head! What on earth hashappened?" he asked, as he took the shade off the lamp to get a better viewof his amiable partner. 

"You would not guess in a year, " she rejoined; "I never would have dreamedit--I never was so struck in my life!"

"Struck with what? Do talk sensibly, Jule, and say what all this is about, "interrupted her husband, in an impatient manner. "Come, out with it--whathas happened?"

"Why, would you have thought it, " said she; "Mrs. Garie is a niggerwoman--a real nigger--she would be known as such anywhere?"

It was now Mr. Stevens's turn to be surprised. "Why, Jule, " he exclaimed, "you astonish me! Come, now, you're joking--you don't mean a real blacknigger?"

"Oh, no, not jet black--but she's dark enough. She is as dark as that Sarahwe employed as cook some time ago. "

"You don't say so! Wonders will never cease--and he such a gentleman, too!"resumed her husband. 

"Yes; and it's completely sickening, " continued Mrs. Stevens, "to see themtogether; he calls her my dear, and is as tender and affectionate to her asif she was a Circassian--and she nothing but a nigger--faugh! it'sdisgusting. "

Little Clarence had been standing near, unnoticed by either of them duringthis conversation, and they were therefore greatly surprised when heexclaimed, with a burst of tears, "My mother is not a nigger any more thanyou are! How dare you call her such a bad name? I'll tell my father!"

Mr. Stevens gave a low whistle, and looking at his wife, pointed to thedoor. Mrs. Stevens laid her hand on the shoulder of Clarence, and led himto the door, saying, as she did so, "Don't come in here any more--I don'twish you to come into my house;" and then closing it, returned to herhusband. 

"You know, George, " said she, "that I went in to pay her a short visit. Ihadn't the remotest idea that she was a coloured woman, and I commencedgiving my opinion respecting niggers very freely, when suddenly her husbandcalled for a light, and I then saw to whom I had been talking. You mayimagine my astonishment--I was completely dumb--and it would have done yougood to have seen the air with which she left the room, after as good astelling me to leave the house. "

"Well, " said Mr. Stevens, "this is what may be safely termed an unexpectedevent. But, Jule, " he continued, "you had better pack these young folks offto bed, and then you can tell me the rest of it. "

Clarence stood for some time on the steps of the house from which he hadbeen so unkindly ejected, with his little heart swelling with indignation. He had often heard the term nigger used in its reproachful sense, but neverbefore had it been applied to him or his, at least in his presence. It wasthe first blow the child received from the prejudice whose relentless handwas destined to crush him in after-years. 

It was his custom, when any little grief pressed upon his childish heart, to go and pour out his troubles on the breast of his mother; but heinstinctively shrunk from confiding this to her; for, child as he was, heknew it would make her very unhappy. He therefore gently stole into thehouse, crept quietly up to his room, lay down, and sobbed himself to sleep. 

CHAPTER XIII. 

Hopes consummated. 

To Emily Winston we have always accorded the title of Mrs. Garie; whilst, in reality, she had no legal claim to it whatever. 

Previous to their emigration from Georgia, Mr. Garie had, on one or twooccasions, attempted, but without success, to make her legally his wife. 

He ascertained that, even if he could have found a clergyman willing toexpose himself to persecution by marrying them, the ceremony itself wouldhave no legal weight, as a marriage between a white and a mulatto was notrecognized as valid by the laws of the state; and he had, therefore, beencompelled to dismiss the matter from his mind, until an opportunity shouldoffer for the accomplishment of their wishes. 

Now, however, that they had removed to the north, where they would have nolegal difficulties to encounter, he determined to put his former intentioninto execution. Although Emily had always maintained a studied silence onthe subject, he knew that it was the darling wish of her heart to belegally united to him; so he unhesitatingly proceeded to arrange mattersfor the consummation of what he felt assured would promote the happiness ofboth. He therefore wrote to Dr. Blackly, a distinguished clergyman of thecity, requesting him to perform the ceremony, and received from him anassurance that he would be present at the appointed time. 

Matters having progressed thus far, he thought it time to inform Emily ofwhat he had done. On the evening succeeding the receipt of an answer fromthe Rev. Dr. Blackly--after the children had been sent to bed--he calledher to him, and, taking her hand, sat down beside her on the sofa. 

"Emily, " said he, as he drew her closer to him, "my dear, faithful Emily! Iam about to do you an act of justice--one, too, that I feel will increasethe happiness of us both. I am going to marry you, my darling! I am aboutto give you a lawful claim to what you have already won by yourfaithfulness and devotion. You know I tried, more than once, whilst in thesouth, to accomplish this, but, owing to the cruel and unjust laws existingthere, I was unsuccessful. But now, love, no such difficulty exists; andhere, " continued he, "is an answer to the note I have written to Dr. Blackly, asking him to come next Wednesday night, and perform theceremony. --You are willing, are you not, Emily?" he asked. 

"Willing!" she exclaimed, in a voice tremulous with emotion--"willing! Oh, God! if you only knew how I have longed for it! It has been my earnestdesire for years!" and, bursting into tears, she leaned, sobbing, on hisshoulder. 

After a few moments she raised her head, and, looking searchingly in hisface, she asked: "But do you do this after full reflection on theconsequences to ensue? Are you willing to sustain all the odium, to endureall the contumely, to which your acknowledged union with one of myunfortunate race will subject you? Clarence! it will be a severe trial--agreater one than any you have yet endured for me--and one for which I fearmy love will prove but a poor recompense! I have thought more of thesethings lately; I am older now in years and experience. There was a timewhen I was vain enough to think that my affection was all that wasnecessary for your happiness; but men, I know, require more to fill theircup of content than the undivided affection of a woman, no matter howfervently beloved. You have talents, and, I have sometimes thought, ambition. Oh, Clarence! how it would grieve me, in after-years, to knowthat you regretted that for me you had sacrificed all those views andhopes that are cherished by the generality of your sex! Have you weighedit well?"

"Yes, Emily--well, " replied Mr. Garie; "and you know the conclusion. Mypast should be a guarantee for the future. I had the world before me, andchose you--and with, you I am contented to share my lot; and feel that Ireceive, in your affection, a full reward for any of the so-calledsacrifices I may make. So, dry your tears, my dear, " concluded he, "and letus hope for nothing but an increase of happiness as the result. "

After a few moments of silence, he resumed: "It will be necessary, Emily, to have a couple of witnesses. Now, whom would you prefer? I would suggestMrs. Ellis and her husband. They are old friends, and persons on whoseprudence we can rely. It would not do to have the matter talked about, asit would expose us to disagreeable comments. "

Mrs. Garie agreed perfectly with him as to the selection of Mr. And Mrs. Ellis; and immediately despatched a note to Mrs. Ellis, asking her to callat their house on the morrow. 

When she came, Emily informed her, with some confusion of manner, of theintended marriage, and asked her attendance as witness, at the same timeinforming her of the high opinion her husband entertained of their prudencein any future discussion of the matter. 

"I am really glad he is going to marry you, Emily, " replied Mrs. Ellis, "and depend upon it we will do all in our power to aid it. Only yesterday, that inquisitive Mrs. Tiddy was at our house, and, in conversationrespecting you, asked if I knew you to be married to Mr. Garie. I turnedthe conversation somehow, without giving her a direct answer. Mr. Garie, Imust say, does act nobly towards you. He must love you, Emily, for not onewhite man in a thousand would make such a sacrifice for a coloured woman. You can't tell how we all like him--he is so amiable, so kind in hismanner, and makes everyone so much at ease in his company. It's real goodin him, I declare, and I shall begin to have some faith in white folks, after all. --Wednesday night, " continued she; "very well--we shall be here, if the Lord spare us;" and, kissing Emily, she hurried off, to impart thejoyful intelligence to her husband. 

The anxiously looked for Wednesday evening at last arrived, and Emilyarrayed herself in a plain white dress for the occasion. Her long blackhair had been arranged in ringlets by Mrs. Ellis, who stood by, gazingadmiringly at her. 

"How sweet you look, Emily--you only want a wreath of orange blossoms tocomplete your appearance. Don't you feel a little nervous?" asked herfriend. 

"A little excited, " she answered, and her hand shook as she put back one ofthe curls that had fallen across her face. Just then a loud ringing at thedoor announced the arrival of Dr. Blackly, who was shown into the frontparlour. 

Emily and Mrs. Ellis came down into the room where Mr. Garie was waitingfor them, whilst Mr. Ellis brought in Dr. Blackly. The reverend gentlemangazed with some surprise at the party assembled. Mr. Garie was sothoroughly Saxon in appearance, that no one could doubt to what race hebelonged, and it was equally evident that Emily, Mrs. Ellis, and herhusband, were coloured persons. 

Dr. Blackly looked from one to the other with evident embarrassment, andthen said to Mr. Garie, in a low, hesitating tone:--

"I think there has been some mistake here--will you do me the favour tostep into another room?"

Mr. Garie mechanically complied, and stood waiting to learn the cause ofDr. Blackly's strange conduct. 

"You are a white man, I believe?" at last stammered forth the doctor. 

"Yes, sir; I presume my appearance is a sufficient guarantee of that, "answered Mr. Garie. 

"Oh yes, I do not doubt it, and for that reason you must not be surprisedif I decline to proceed with the ceremony. "

"I do not see how my being a white man can act as a barrier to itsperformance, " remarked Mr. Garie in reply. "It would not, sir, if all theparties were of one complexion; but I do not believe in the propriety ofamalgamation, and on no consideration could I be induced to assist in theunion of a white man or woman with a person who has the slightest infusionof African blood in their veins. I believe the negro race, " he continued, "to be marked out by the hand of God for servitude; and you must pardon meif I express my surprise that a gentleman of your evident intelligenceshould seek such a connection--you must be labouring under some horribleinfatuation. "

"Enough, sir, " replied Mr. Garie, proudly; "I only regret that I did notknow it was necessary to relate every circumstance of appearance, complexion, &c. I wished to obtain a marriage certificate, not a passport. I mistook you for a _Christian minister_, which mistake you will please toconsider as my apology for having troubled you;" and thus speaking, hebowed Dr. Blackly out of the house. Mr. Garie stepped back to the door ofthe parlour and called out Mr. Ellis. 

"We are placed in a very difficult dilemma, " said he, as he was joined bythe latter. "Would you believe it? that prejudiced old sinner has actuallyrefused to marry us. "

"It is no more than you might have expected of him--he's a thoroughnigger-hater--keeps a pew behind the organ of his church for colouredpeople, and will not permit them to receive the sacrament until all thewhite members of his congregation are served. Why, I don't see what onearth induced you to send for him. "

"I knew nothing of his sentiments respecting coloured people. I did not fora moment have an idea that he would hesitate to marry us. There is no lawhere that forbids it. What can we do?" said Mr. Garie, despairingly. 

"I know a minister who will marry you with pleasure, if I can only catchhim at home; he is so much engaged in visiting the sick and other pastoralduties. "

"Do go--hunt him up, Ellis. It will be a great favour to me, if you caninduce him to come. Poor Emily--what a disappointment this will be toher, " said he, as he entered the room where she was sitting. 

"What is the matter, dear?" she asked, as she observed Garie's anxiousface. "I hope there is no new difficulty. "

Mr. Garie briefly explained what had just occurred, and informed her, inaddition, of Mr. Ellis having gone to see if he could get Father Banks, asthe venerable old minister was called. 

"It seems, dear, " said she, despondingly, "as if Providence lookedunfavourably on our design; for every time you have attempted it, we havebeen in some way thwarted;" and the tears chased one another down her face, which had grown pale in the excitement of the moment. 

"Oh, don't grieve about it, dear; it is only a temporary disappointment. Ican't think all the clergymen in the city are like Dr. Blackly. Some oneamongst them will certainly oblige us. We won't despair; at least not untilEllis comes back. "

They had not very long to wait; for soon after this conversation footstepswere heard in the garden, and Mr. Ellis entered, followed by the clergyman. 

In a very short space of time they were united by Father Banks, who seemedmuch affected as he pronounced his blessing upon them. 

"My children, " he said, tremulously, "you are entering upon a path which, to the most favoured, is full of disappointment, care, and anxieties; butto you who have come together under such peculiar circumstances, in theface of so many difficulties, and in direct opposition to the prejudices ofsociety, it will be fraught with more danger, and open to more annoyances, than if you were both of one race. But if men revile you, revile not again;bear it patiently for the sake of Him who has borne so much for you. Godbless you, my children, " said he, and after shaking hands with them all, hedeparted. 

Mr. And Mrs. Ellis took their leave soon after, and then Mrs. Garie stoleupstairs alone into the room where the children were sleeping. It seemedto her that night that they were more beautiful than ever, as they lay intheir little beds quietly slumbering. She knelt beside them, and earnestlyprayed their heavenly Father that the union which had just been consummatedin the face of so many difficulties might prove a boon to them all. 

"Where have you been, you runaway?" exclaimed her husband as she re-enteredthe parlour. "You stayed away so long, I began to have all sorts offrightful ideas--I thought of the 'mistletoe hung in the castle hall, ' andof old oak chests, and all kind of terrible things. I've been sitting herealone ever since the Ellises went: where have you been?"

"Oh, I've been upstairs looking at the children. Bless their young hearts!they looked so sweet and happy--and how they grow! Clarence is getting tobe quite a little man; don't you think it time, dear, that he was sent toschool? I have so much more to occupy my mind here than I had in Georgia, so many household duties to attend to, that I am unable to give thatattention to his lessons which I feel is requisite. Besides, being so muchat home, he has associated with that wretched boy of the Stevens's, and isgrowing rude and noisy; don't you think he had better be sent to school?"

"Oh yes, Emily, if you wish it, " was Mr. Garie's reply. "I will search outa school to-morrow, or next day;" and taking out his watch, he continued, "it is near twelve o'clock--how the night has flown away--we must be off tobed. After the excitement of the evening, and your exertions of to-day, Ifear that you will be indisposed to-morrow. "

Clarence, although over nine years old, was so backward in learning, thatthey were obliged to send him to a small primary school which had recentlybeen opened in the neighbourhood; and as it was one for children of bothsexes, it was deemed advisable to send little Em with him. 

"I do so dislike to have her go, " said her mother, as her husband proposedthat she should accompany Clarence; "she seems so small to be sent toschool. I'm afraid she won't be happy. "

"Oh! don't give yourself the least uneasiness about her not being happythere, for a more cheerful set of little folks I never beheld. You would beastonished to see how exceedingly young some of them are. "

"What kind of a person is the teacher?" asked Mrs. Garie. 

"Oh! she's a charming little creature; the very embodiment of cheerfulnessand good humour. She has sparkling black eyes, a round rosy face, and can'tbe more than sixteen, if she is that old. Had I had such a teacher when aboy, I should have got on charmingly; but mine was a cross old widow, whowore spectacles and took an amazing quantity of snuff, and used to flogupon the slightest pretence. I went into her presence with fear andtrembling. I could never learn anything from her, and that must be myexcuse for my present literary short-comings. But you need have no fearrespecting Em getting on with Miss Jordan: I don't believe she could beunkind to any one, least of all to our little darling. "

"Then you will take them down in the morning, " suggested Mrs. Garie; "buton no account leave Emily unless she wishes to stay. "

CHAPTER XIV. 

Charlie at Warmouth. 

After the departure of Mrs. Bird to visit her sick friend, Betsey turned toCharlie and bid him follow her into the kitchen. "I suppose you haven'tbeen to breakfast, " said she, in a patronizing manner; "if you haven't, youare just in time, as we will be done ours in a little while, and then youcan have yours. "

Charlie silently followed her down into the kitchen, where a man-servantand the younger maid were already at breakfast; the latter arose, and wasplacing another plate upon the table, when Betsey frowned and noddeddisapprovingly to her. "Let him wait, " whispered she; "I'm not going to eatwith niggers. "

"Oh! he's such a nice little fellow, " replied Eliza, in an undertone; "lethim eat with us. "

Betsey here suggested to Charlie that he had better go up to the maplechamber, wash his face, and take his things out of his trunk, and that whenhis breakfast was ready she would call him. 

"What on earth can induce you to want to eat with a nigger?" asked Betsey, as soon as Charlie was out of hearing. "I couldn't do it; my victuals wouldturn on my stomach. I never ate at the same table with a nigger in mylife. "

"Nor I neither, " rejoined Eliza; "but I see no reason why I should not. Thechild appears to have good manners, he is neat and good-looking, andbecause God has curled his hair more than he has ours, and made his skin alittle darker than yours or mine, that is no reason we should treat him asif he was not a human being. " Alfred, the gardener, had set down hissaucer and appeared very much astonished at this declaration of sentimenton the part of Eliza, and sneeringly remarked, "You're an Abolitionist, Isuppose. "

"No, I am not, " replied she, reddening; "but I've been taught that God madeall alike; one no better than the other. You know the Bible says God is norespecter of persons. "

"Well, if it does, " rejoined Alfred, with a stolid-look, "it don't say thatman isn't to be either, does it? When I see anything in my Bible that tellsme I'm to eat and drink with niggers, I'll do it, and not before. I supposeyou think that all the slaves ought to be free, and all the rest of thedarned stuff these Abolitionists are preaching. Now if you want to eat withthe nigger, you can; nobody wants to hinder you. Perhaps he may marry youwhen he grows up--don't you think you had better set your cap at him?"

Eliza made no reply to this low taunt, but ate her breakfast in silence. 

"I don't see what Mrs. Bird brought him here for; she says he is sick, --hada broken arm or something; I can't imagine what use she intends to make ofhim, " remarked Betsey. 

"I don't think she intends him to be a servant here, at any rate, " saidEliza; "or why should she have him put in the maple chamber, when there areempty rooms enough in the garret?"

"Well, I guess I know what she brought him for, " interposed Alfred. "Iasked her before she went away to get a little boy to help me do odd jobs, now that Reuben is about to leave; we shall want a boy to clean the boots, run on errands, drive up the cows, and do other little chores. [*] I'm gladhe's a black boy; I can order him round more, you know, than if he waswhite, and he won't get his back up half as often either. You may dependupon it, that's what Mrs. Bird has brought him here for. " The gardener, having convinced himself that his view of the matter was the correct one, went into the garden for his day's labour, and two or three things that hehad intended doing he left unfinished, with the benevolent intention ofsetting Charlie at them the next morning. 

[Footnote *: A Yankeeism, meaning little jobs about a farm. ]

Charlie, after bathing his face and arranging his hair, looked from thewindow at the wide expanse of country spread out before him, all bright andglowing in the warm summer sunlight. Broad well-cultivated fields stretchedaway from the foot of the garden to the river beyond, and the noise of thewaterfall, which was but a short distance off, was distinctly heard, andthe sparkling spray was clearly visible through the openings of the trees. "What a beautiful place, --what grand fields to run in; an orchard, too, full of blossoming fruit-trees! Well, this is nice, " exclaimed Charlie, ashis eye ran over the prospect; but in the midst of his rapture came rushingback upon him the remembrance of the cavalier treatment he had met withbelow-stairs, and he said with a sigh, as the tears sprang to his eyes, "But it is not home, after all. " Just at this moment he heard his namecalled by Betsey, and he hastily descended into the kitchen. At one end ofthe partially-cleared table a clean plate and knife and fork had beenplaced, and he was speedily helped to the remains of what the servants hadbeen eating. 

"You mustn't be long, " said Betsey, "for to-day is ironing day, and we wantthe table as soon as possible. "

The food was plentiful and good, but Charlie could not eat; his heart wasfull and heavy, --the child felt his degradation. "Even the servants refuseto eat with me because I am coloured, " thought he. "Oh! I wish I was athome!"

"Why don't you eat?" asked Betsey. 

"I don't think I want any breakfast; I'm not hungry, " was the reply. 

"I hope you are not sulky, " she rejoined; "we don't like sulky boys here;why don't you eat?" she repeated. 

The sharp, cold tones of her voice struck a chill into the child's heart, and his lip quivered as he stammered something farther about not beinghungry; and he hurried away into the garden, where he calmed his feelingsand allayed his home-sickness by a hearty burst of tears. After this wasover, he wandered through the garden and fields until dinner; then, byreading his book and by another walk, he managed to get through the day. 

The following morning, as he was coming down stairs, he was met by Alfred, who accosted him with, "Oh! you're up, are you; I was just going to callyou. " And looking at Charlie from head to foot, he inquired, "Is that yourbest suit?"

"No, it's my worst, " replied Charlie. "I have two suits better than this;"and thinking that Mrs. Bird had arrived, he continued, "I'll put on my bestif Mrs. Bird wants me. "

"No, she ain't home, " was the reply; "it's me that wants you; come downhere; I've got a little job for you. Take this, " said he, handing him adirty tow apron, "and tie it around your neck; it will keep the blackingoff your clothes, you know. Now, " continued he, "I want you to clean theseboots; these two pairs are Mr. Tyndall's--them you need not be particularwith; but this pair is mine, and I want 'em polished up high, --now mind, Itell you. I'm going to wear a new pair of pants to meetin' to-morrow, and Iexpect to cut a dash, so you'll do 'em up slick, now won't you?"

"I'll do my best, " said Charlie, who, although he did not dislike work, could not relish the idea of cleaning the servants' boots. "I'm afraid Ishall find this a queer place, " thought he. "I shall not like living here, I know--wait for my meals until the servants have finished, and clean theirboots into the bargain. This is worse than being with Mrs. Thomas. "

Charlie, however, went at it with a will, and was busily engaged in puttingthe finishing touches on Alfred's boots, when he heard his name called, andon looking up, saw Mrs. Bird upon the piazza above. "Why, bless me!child, what are you about?--whose boots are those, and why are you cleaningthem?"

"Oh!" he replied, his face brightening up at the sight of Mrs. Bird, "I'mso glad you're come; those are Mr. Tyndall's boots, and these, " hecontinued, holding up the boots on which he was engaged, "are thegardener's. "

"And who, pray, instructed you to clean them?"

"The gardener, " replied Charlie. 

"He did, did he?" said Mrs. Bird, indignantly. "Very well; now do you takeoff that apron and come to me immediately; before you do, however, tellAlfred I want him. "

Charlie quickly divested himself of the tow apron, and after havinginformed the gardener that Mrs. Bird desired his presence in the parlour, he ran up there himself. Alfred came lumbering up stairs, after giving hisboots an unusual scraping and cleansing preparatory to entering upon thatpart of the premises which to him was generally forbidden ground. 

"By whose direction did you set the child at that dirty work?" asked Mrs. Bird, after he had entered the room. 

"I hadn't anybody's direction to set him to work, but I thought you broughthim here to do odd jobs. You know, ma'am, I asked you some time ago to geta boy, and I thought this was the one. "

"And if he had been, you would have taken a great liberty in assigning himany duties without first consulting me. But he is not a servant here, nordo I intend him to be such; and let me inform you, that instead of hiscleaning your boots, it will be your duty henceforth to clean his. Now, "continued she, "you know his position here, let me see that you rememberyours. You can go. " This was said in so peremptory a manner, as to leave noroom for discussion or rejoinder, and Alfred, with a chagrined look, wentmuttering down stairs. 

"Things have come to a pretty pass, " grumbled he. "I'm to wait on niggers, black their boots, and drive them out, too, I suppose. I'd leave at once ifit wasn't such a good situation. Drat the old picture--what has come overher I wonder--she'll be asking old Aunt Charity, the black washerwoman todine with her next. She has either gone crazy or turned abolitionist, Idon't know which; something has happened to her, that's certain. "

"Now, Charlie, " said Mrs. Bird, as the door closed upon the crest-fallengardener, "go to your room and dress yourself nicely. After I've eaten mybreakfast, I am going to visit a friend, and I want you to accompany me;don't be long. "

"Can't I eat mine first, Mrs. Bird?" he asked, in reply. 

"I thought you had had yours, long ago, " rejoined she. 

"The others hadn't finished theirs when you called me, and I don't get mineuntil they have done, " said Charlie. 

"Until they have done; how happens that?" asked Mrs. Bird. 

"I think they don't like to eat with me, because I'm coloured, " wasCharlie's hesitating reply. 

"That is too much, " exclaimed Mrs. Bird; "if it were not so veryridiculous, I should be angry. It remains for me, then, " continued she, "toset them an example. I've not eaten my breakfast yet--come, sit down withme, and we'll have it together. "

Charlie followed Mrs. Bird into the breakfast-room, and took the seatpointed out by her. Eliza, when she entered with the tea-urn, opened hereyes wide with astonishment at the singular spectacle she beheld. Hermistress sitting down to breakfast _vis-a-vis_ to a little coloured boy!Depositing the urn upon the table, she hastened back to the kitchen toreport upon the startling events that were occurring in the breakfast-room. 

"Well, I never, " said she; "that beats anything I ever did see; why, Mrs. Bird must have turned abolitionist. Charlie is actually sitting at the sametable with her, eating his breakfast as natural and unconcerned as if hewas as white as snow! Wonders never will cease. You see I'm right though. Isaid that child wasn't brought here for a servant--we've done it forourselves now--only think how mad she'll be when she finds he was made towait for his meals until we have done. I'm glad I wasn't the one whorefused to eat with him. "

"I guess she has been giving Alfred a blowing up, " said Betsy, "for settinghim at boot cleaning; for he looked like a thunder-cloud when he came downstairs, and was muttering something about a consarned pet-nigger--he lookedanything but pleased. "

Whilst the lower powers were discussing what they were pleased to regard asan evidence of some mental derangement on the part of Mrs. Bird, that ladywas questioning Charlie respecting his studies, and inquired if he wouldlike to go to school in Warmouth. 

"After a while, I think I should, " he replied; "but for a week I'd like tobe free to run about the fields and go fishing, and do lots of things. Thisis such a pretty place; and now that you have come I shall have nicetimes--I know I shall. "

"You seem to have great confidence in my ability to make you happy. How doyou know that I am as kind as you seem to suppose?" asked Mrs. Bird, with asmile. 

"I know you are, " answered Charlie, confidently; "you speak so pleasantlyto me. And do you know, Mrs. Bird, " continued he, "that I liked you fromthe first day, when you praised me so kindly when I recited my lessonsbefore you. Did you ever have any little boys of your own?"

A change immediately came over the countenance of Mrs. Bird, as shereplied: "Oh, yes, Charlie; a sweet, good boy about your own age:" and thetears stood in her eyes as she continued. "He accompanied his father toEngland years ago--the ship in which they sailed was never heard of--hisname was Charlie too. "

"I didn't know that, or I should not have asked, " said Charlie, with someembarrassment of manner caused by the pain he saw he had inflicted. "I amvery sorry, " he continued. 

Mrs. Bird motioned him to finish his breakfast, and left the table withoutdrinking the tea she had poured out for herself. 

There were but one or two families of coloured people living in the smalltown of Warmouth, and they of a very humble description; their faces werefamiliar to all the inhabitants, and their appearance was in accordancewith their humble condition. Therefore, when Charlie made his debut, incompany with Mrs. Bird, his dress and manners differed so greatly from whatthey were accustomed to associate with persons of his complexion, that hecreated quite a sensation in the streets of the usually quiet and obscurelittle town. 

He was attired with great neatness; and not having an opportunity ofplaying marbles in his new suit, it still maintained its spotlessappearance. The fine grey broadcloth coat and pants fitted him to a nicety, the jaunty cap was set slightly on one side of his head giving him, asomewhat saucy look, and the fresh colour now returning to his cheeksimparted to his face a much healthier appearance than it had worn formonths. 

He and his kind friend walked on together for some time, chatting about thevarious things that attracted their attention on the way, until theyreached a cottage in the garden of which a gentleman was busily engaged intraining a rosebush upon a new trellis. 

So completely was he occupied with his pursuit that he did not observe theentrance of visitors, and quite started when he was gently tapped upon theshoulder by Mrs. Bird. 

"How busy we are, " said she, gaily, at the same time extending herhand--"so deeply engaged, that we can scarcely notice old friends that wehave not seen for months. "

"Indeed, this is a pleasant surprise, " he remarked, when he saw by whom hehad been interrupted. "When did you arrive?"

"Only this morning; and, as usual, I have already found something withwhich to bore you--you know, Mr. Whately, I always have something totrouble you about. "

"Don't say trouble, my dear Mrs. Bird; if you will say 'give me somethingto occupy my time usefully and agreeably, ' you will come much nearer themark. But who is this you have with you?"

"Oh, a little _protege_ of mine, poor little fellow--he met with a sadaccident recently--he broke his arm; and I have brought him down here torecruit. Charlie, walk around and look at the garden--I have a littlematter of business to discuss with Mr. Whately, and when we shall havefinished I will call you. "

Mr. Whately led the way into his library, and placing a seat for Mrs. Bird, awaited her communication. 

"You have great influence with the teacher of the academy, I believe, " saidshe. 

"A little, " replied Mr. Whately, smiling. 

"Not a little, " rejoined Mrs. Bird, "but a great deal; and, my dear Mr. Whately, I want you to exercise it in my behalf. I wish to enter as ascholar that little boy I brought with me this morning. "

"Impossible!" said Mr. Whately. "My good friend, the boy is coloured!"

"I am well aware of that, " continued Mrs. Bird; "if he were not there wouldnot be the least trouble about his admission; nor am I sure there will beas it is, if you espouse his cause. One who has been such a benefactor tothe academy as yourself, could, I suppose, accomplish anything. "

"Yes; but that is stretching my influence unduly. I would be willing tooblige you in almost anything else, but I hesitate to attempt this. Why notsend him to the public school?--they have a separate bench for blackchildren; he can be taught there all that is necessary for him to know. "

"He is far in advance of any of the scholars there. I attended theexamination of the school to which he was attached, " said Mrs. Bird, "and Iwas very much surprised at the acquirements of the pupils; this lad wasdistinguished above all the rest--he answered questions that would havepuzzled older heads, with the greatest facility. I am exceedingly anxiousto get him admitted to the academy, as I am confident he will do honour tothe interest I take in him. "

"And a very warm interest it must be, my dear Mrs. Bird, to induce you toattempt placing him in such an expensive and exclusive school. I am verymuch afraid you will have to give it up: many of the scholars' parents, Iam sure, will object strenuously to the admission of a coloured boy as ascholar. "

"Only tell me that you will propose him, and I will risk the refusal, "replied Mrs. Bird--"it can be tried at all events; and if you will make theeffort I shall be under deep obligations to you. "

"Well, Mrs. Bird, let us grant him admitted--what benefit can accrue to thelad from an education beyond his station? He cannot enter into any of thelearned professions: both whilst he is there, and after his education isfinished, he will be like a fish out of water. You must pardon me if I sayI think, in this case, your benevolence misdirected. The boy's parents arepoor, I presume?"

"They certainly are not rich, " rejoined Mrs. Bird; "and it is for thatreason I wish to do all that I can for him. If I can keep him with me, andgive him a good education, it may be greatly for his advantage; there maybe a great change in public sentiment before he is a man--we cannot saywhat opening there may be for him in the future. "

"Not unless it changes very much. I never knew prejudice more rampant thanit is at this hour. To get the boy admitted as a right is totally out ofthe question: if he is received at all, it will be as a special favour, anda favour which--I am sure it will require all my influence to obtain. Iwill set about it immediately, and, rely upon it, I will do my best foryour _protege_. "

Satisfied with the promise, which was as much as Mrs. Bird had dared tohope for, she called Charlie, then shook hands with Mr. Whately anddeparted. 

CHAPTER XV. 

Mrs. Stevens gains a Triumph. 

The Garies had now become thoroughly settled in Philadelphia, and, amongstthe people of colour, had obtained a very extensive and agreeableacquaintance. 

At the South Mr. Garie had never borne the reputation of an active person. Having an ample fortune and a thoroughly Southern distaste for labour, hefound it by no means inconvenient or unpleasant to have so much time at hisdisposal. His newspaper in the morning, a good book, a stroll upon thefashionable promenade, and a ride at dusk, enabled him to dispose of histime without being oppressed with _ennui_. 

It was far happier for him that such was his disposition, as his domesticrelations would have been the means of subjecting him to many unpleasantcircumstances, from which his comparative retirement in a great measurescreened him. 

Once or twice since his settlement in the North his feelings had beenruffled, by the sneering remarks of some of his former friends upon thesingularity of his domestic position; but his irritation had all fledbefore the smiles of content and happiness that beamed from the faces ofhis wife and children. 

Mrs. Garie had nothing left to wish for; she was surrounded by everyphysical comfort and in the enjoyment of frequent intercourse withintelligent and refined people, and had been greatly attracted towardEsther Ellis with whom she had become very intimate. 

One morning in November, these two were in the elegant little bed-room ofMrs. Garie, where a fire had been kindled, as the weather was growing verychilly and disagreeable. "It begins to look quite like autumn, " said Mrs. Garie, rising and looking out of the window. "The chrysanthemums aredrooping and withered, and the dry leaves are whirling and skimming throughthe air. I wonder, " she continued, "if the children were well wrapped upthis morning?"

"Oh, yes; I met them at the corner, on their way to school, looking as warmand rosy as possible. What beautiful children they are! Little Em hascompletely won my heart; it really seems a pity for her to be put on theshelf, as she must be soon. "

"How--what do you mean?" asked Mrs. Garie. 

"Oh, this will explain, " archly rejoined Esther, as she held up to view oneof the tiny lace trimmed frocks that she was making in anticipation of theevent that has been previously hinted. 

Mrs. Garie laughed, and turned to look out of the window again. 

"Do you know I found little Lizzy Stevens, your neighbour's daughter, shivering upon the steps in a neighbouring street, fairly blue with cold?She was waiting there for Clarence and Em. I endeavoured to persuade her togo on without them, but she would not. From what I could understand, shewaits for them there every day. "

"Her mother cannot be aware of it, then; for she has forbidden her childrento associate with mine, " rejoined Mrs. Garie. "I wonder she permits herlittle girl to go to the same school. I don't think she knows it, or it isvery likely she would take her away. "

"Has she ever spoken to you since the night of her visit?" asked Esther. 

"Never! I have seen her a great many times since; she never speaks, nor doI. There she goes now. That, " continued Mrs. Garie, with a smile, "isanother illustration of the truthfulness of the old adage, 'Talk of--well, I won't say who, --'and he is sure to appear. '" And, thus speaking, sheturned from the window, and was soon deeply occupied in the important workof preparing for the expected little stranger. Mrs. Garie was mistaken inher supposition that Mrs. Stevens was unaware that Clarence and little Emattended the same school to which her own little girl had been sent; forthe evening before the conversation we have just narrated, she had beendiscussing the matter with her husband. 

"Here, " said she to him, "is Miss Jordan's bill for the last quarter. Ishall never pay her another; I am going to remove Lizzy from that school. "

"Remove her! what for? I thought I heard you say, Jule, that the child goton excellently well there, --that she improved very fast?"

"So she does, as far as learning is concerned; but she is sitting rightnext to one of those Garie children, and that is an arrangement I don't atall fancy. I don't relish the idea of my child attending the same schoolthat niggers do; so I've come to the determination to take her away. "

"I should do no such thing, " coolly remarked Mr. Stevens. "I should compelthe teacher to dismiss the Garies, or I should break up her school. Thosechildren have no right to be there whatever. I don't care a straw how lighttheir complexions are, they are niggers nevertheless, and ought to go to anigger school; they are no better than any other coloured children. I'lltell you what you can do, Jule, " continued he: "call on Mrs. Kinney, theRoths, and one or two others, and induce them to say that if Miss Jordanwon't dismiss the Garies that they will withdraw their children; and youknow if they do, it will break up the school entirely. If it was any otherperson's children but his, I would wink at it; but I want to give him afall for his confounded haughtiness. Just try that plan, Jule, and you willbe sure to succeed. "

"I am not so certain about it, Stevens. Miss Jordan, I learn, is very fondof their little Em. I must say I cannot wonder at it. She is the mostloveable little creature I ever saw. I will say that, if her mother is anigger. "

"Yes, Jule, all that may be; but I know the world well enough to judgethat, when she becomes fully assured that it will conflict with herinterests to keep them, she will give them up. She is too poor to bephilanthropic, and, I believe, has sufficient good sense to know it. "

"Well, I'll try your plan, " said Mrs. Stevens; "I will put matters in trainto-morrow morning. "

Early the next morning, Mrs. Stevens might have been seen directing hersteps to the house of Mrs. Kinney, with whom she was very intimate. Shereached it just as that lady was departing to preside at a meeting of afemale missionary society for evangelizing the Patagonians. 

"I suppose you have come to accompany me to the meeting, " said she to Mrs. Stevens, as soon as they had exchanged the usual courtesies. 

"Oh, dear, no; I wish I was, " she replied. "I've got a troublesome littlematter on my hands; and last night my husband suggested my coming to askyour advice respecting it. George has such a high opinion of your judgment, that he would insist on my troubling you. "

Mrs. Kinney smiled, and looked gratified at this tribute to her importance. 

"And moreover, " continued Mrs. Stevens, "it's a matter in which yourinterest, as well as our own, is concerned. "

Mrs. Kinney now began to look quite interested, and, untying the strings ofher bonnet, exclaimed, "Dear me, what can it be?"

"Knowing, " said Mrs. Stevens, "that you entertain just the same sentimentsthat we do relative to associating with coloured people, I thought I wouldcall and ask if you were aware that Miss Jordan receives coloured as wellas white children in her school. "

"Why, no! My dear Mrs. Stevens, you astound me. I hadn't the remotest ideaof such a thing. It is very strange my children never mentioned it. "

"Oh, children are so taken up with their play, they forget such things, "rejoined Mrs. Stevens. "Now, " continued she, "husband said he was quiteconfident you would not permit your children to continue their attendanceafter this knowledge came to your ears. We both thought it would be a pityto break up the poor girl's school by withdrawing our children withoutfirst ascertaining if she would expel the little darkies. I knew, if Icould persuade you to let me use your name as well as ours, and say thatyou will not permit your children to continue at her school unless sheconsents to our wishes, she, knowing the influence you possess, would, I amsure, accede to our demands immediately. "

"Oh, you are perfectly at liberty to use my name, Mrs. Stevens, and say allthat you think necessary to effect your object. But do excuse me forhurrying off, " she continued, looking at her watch: "I was to have been atthe meeting at ten o'clock, and it is now half-past. I hope you won't failto call, and let me know how you succeed;" and, with her heart overflowingwith tender care for the poor Patagonian, Mrs. Kinney hastily departed. 

"That's settled, " soliloquized Mrs. Stevens, with an air of intensesatisfaction, as she descended the steps--"her four children would make aserious gap in the little school; and now, then, " continued she, "for theRoths. "

Mrs. Stevens found not the slightest difficulty in persuading Mrs. Roth toallow her name to be used, in connection with Mrs. Kinney's, in the threatto withdraw their children if the little Garies were not immediatelyexpelled. Mrs. Roth swore by Mrs. Kinney, and the mere mention of thatlady's name was sufficient to enlist her aid. 

Thus armed, Mrs. Stevens lost no time in paying a visit to Miss Jordan'sschool. As she entered, the busy hum of childish voices was somewhatstilled; and Lizzy Stevens touched little Em, who sat next her, andwhispered, "There is my mother. "

Mrs. Stevens was welcomed very cordially by Miss Jordan, who offered herthe seat of honour beside her. 

"Your school seems quite flourishing, " she remarked, after looking aroundthe room, "and I really regret being obliged to make a gap in yourinteresting circle. "

"I hope you don't intend to deprive me of your little girl, " inquired MissJordan; "I should regret to part with her--not only because I am very fondof her, but in consideration of her own interest--she is coming on sorapidly. "

"Oh, I haven't the slightest fault to find with her progress. _That_, " saidshe, "is not the reason. I have another, of much more weight. Of course, every one is at liberty to do as they choose; and we have no right todictate to you what description of scholars you should receive; but, ifthey are not such, as we think proper companions for our children, youcan't complain if we withdraw them. "

"I really do not understand you, Mrs. Stevens, " said the teacher, with anastonished look: "I have none here but the children of the most respectablepersons--they are all as well behaved as school children generally are. "

"I did not allude to behaviour; that, for all that I know to the contrary, is irreproachable; it is not character that is in question, but colour. Idon't like my daughter to associate with coloured children. "

"Coloured children!" repeated the now thoroughly bewilderedteacher--"coloured children! My dear madam, " continued she, smiling, "someone has been hoaxing you--I have no coloured pupils--I could not be inducedto receive one on any account. "

"I am very glad to hear you say so, " rejoined Mrs. Stevens, "for thatconvinces me that my fears were groundless. I was under the impression youhad imbibed some of those pestilent abolition sentiments coming into vogue. I see you are not aware of it, but you certainly have two colouredscholars; and there, " said she, pointing to Clarence, "is one of them. "

Clarence, who, with his head bent over his book, was sitting so near as tooverhear a part of this conversation, now looked up, and found the cold, malignant, grey eyes of Mrs. Stevens fastened on him. He looked at her fora moment--then apparently resumed his studies. 

The poor boy had, when she entered the room, an instinctive knowledge thather visit boded no good to them. He was beginning to learn the anomaloussituation he was to fill in society. He had detested Mrs. Stevens eversince the night she had ejected him so rudely from her house, and sincethen had learned to some extent what was meant by the term _nigger woman_. 

"You must certainly be misinformed, " responded Miss Jordan. "I know theirfather--he has frequently been here. He is a Southerner, a thoroughgentleman in his manners; and, if ever a man was white, I am sure he is. "

"Have you seen their mother?" asked Mrs. Stevens, significantly. 

"No, I never have, " replied Miss Jordan; "she is in poor health; but shemust unquestionably be a white woman--a glance at the children ought toconvince you of that. "

"It might, if I had not seen her, and did not know her to be a colouredwoman. You see, my dear Miss Jordan, " continued she, in her blandest tone, "I am their next-door neighbour and have seen their mother twenty times andmore; she is a coloured woman beyond all doubt. "

"I never could have dreamed of such a thing!" exclaimed Miss Jordan, as ananxious look overspread her face; then, after a pause, she continued: "I donot see what I am to do--it is really too unfortunate--I don't know how toact. It seems unjust and unchristian to eject two such children from myschool, because their mother has the misfortune to have a few drops ofAfrican blood in her veins. I cannot make up my mind to do it. Why, youyourself must admit that they are as white as any children in the room. "

"I am willing to acknowledge they are; but they have nigger blood in them, notwithstanding; and they are, therefore, as much niggers as the blackest, and have no more right to associate with white children than if they wereblack as ink. I have no more liking for white niggers than for black ones. "

The teacher was perplexed, and, turning to Mrs. Stevens, said, imploringly:"This matter seems only known to you; let me appeal to your generosity--saynothing more about it. I will try to keep your daughter away from them, ifyou wish--but pray do not urge me to the performance of an act that I amconscious would be unjust. "

Mrs. Stevens's face assumed a severe and disagreeable expression. "I hopedyou would look at this matter in a reasonable light, and not compel thosewho would be your friends to appear in the light of enemies. If this matterwas known to me alone, I should remove my daughter and say nothing moreabout it; but, unfortunately for you, I find that, by some means or other, both Mrs. Kinney and Mrs. Roth have become informed of the circumstance, and are determined to take their children away. I thought I would act afriend's part by you, and try to prevail on you to dismiss these twocoloured children at once. I so far relied upon your right judgment as toassure them that you would not hesitate for a moment to comply with theirwishes; and I candidly tell you, that it was only by my so doing that theywere prevented from keeping their children at home to-day. "

Miss Jordan looked aghast at this startling intelligence; if Mrs. Roth andMrs. Kinney withdrew their patronage and influence, her little school (thesole support of her mother and herself) would be well-nigh broken up. 

She buried her face in her hands, and sat in silence for a few seconds;then looking at Mrs. Stevens, with tearful eyes, exclaimed, "God forgive meif it must be so; nothing but the utter ruin that stares me in the face ifI refuse induces me to accede to your request. "

"I am sorry that you distress yourself so much about it. You know you areyour own mistress, and can do as you choose, " said Mrs. Stevens; "but ifyou will be advised by me, you will send them away at once. "

"After school I will, " hesitatingly replied Miss Jordan. 

"I hate to appear so pressing, " resumed Mrs. Stevens; "but I feel it myduty to suggest that you had better do it at once, and before the rest ofthe scholars. I did not wish, to inform you to what extent this thing hadgone; but it really has been talked of in many quarters, and it isgenerally supposed that you are cognisant of the fact that the Garies arecoloured; therefore you see the necessity of doing something at once tovindicate yourself from the reproach of abolitionism. "

At the pronunciation of this then terrible word in such connection withherself, Miss Jordan turned quite pale, and for a moment struggled toacquire sufficient control of her feelings to enable her to do as Mrs. Stevens suggested; at last, bursting into tears, she said, "Oh, Icannot--will not--do it. I'll dismiss them, but not in that unfeelingmanner; that I cannot do. "

The children were now entirely neglecting their lessons, and seemed muchaffected by Miss Jordan's tears, of which they could not understand thecause. She observing this, rang the bell, the usual signal forintermission. 

Mrs. Stevens, satisfied with the triumph she had effected, took leave ofMiss Jordan, after commending her for the sensible conclusion at which shehad arrived, and promising to procure her two more pupils in the room ofthose she was about to dismiss. 

Miss Jordan was a long time writing the note that she intended sending toMr. Garie; and one of the elder girls returned to the school-room, wondering at the unusually long time that had been given for recreation. 

"Tell Clarence and his sister to come here, " said she to the girl who hadjust entered; and whilst they were on their way upstairs, she folded thenote, and was directing it when Clarence entered. 

"Clarence, " said she, in a soft voice, "put on your hat; I have a note ofsome importance for you to take to your father--your father remember--don'tgive it to any one else. " Taking out her watch, she continued, "It is nowso late that you would scarcely get back before the time for dismissal, soyou had better take little Emily home with you. "

"I hope, ma'am, I haven't done anything wrong?" asked Clarence. 

"Oh, no!" quickly replied she; "you're a dear, good boy, and have nevergiven me a moment's pain since you came to the school. " And she hurried outinto the hall to avoid farther questioning. 

She could not restrain the tears as she dressed little Em, whose eyes werelarge with astonishment at being sent home from school at so early an hour. 

"Teacher, is school out?" asked she. 

"No, dear, not quite; I wanted to send a note to your pa, and so I have letClary go home sooner than usual, " replied Miss Jordan, kissing herrepeatedly, whilst the tears were trickling down her cheek. 

"Don't cry, teacher, I love you, " said the little blue-eyed angel, whoselip began to quiver in sympathy; "don't cry, I'll come back againto-morrow. "

This was too much for the poor teacher, who clasped the child in her arms, and gave way to a burst of uncontrollable sorrow. At last, conqueringherself with an effort, she led the children down stairs, kissed them bothagain, and then opening the door she turned them forth into thestreet--turned away from her school these two little children, such as Godreceived into his arms and blessed, because they were the children of a"_nigger woman_. "

CHAPTER XVI. 

Mr. Stevens makes a Discovery. 

"Well, Jule, old Aunt Tabitha is gone at last, and I am not at all sorryfor it, I assure you; she's been a complete tax upon me for the last eightyears. I suppose you won't lament much, nor yet go into mourning for her, "continued Mr. Stevens, looking at her jocularly. 

"I'm not sorry, that I admit, " rejoined Mrs. Stevens; "the poor old soul isbetter off, no doubt; but then there's no necessity to speak of the matterin such an off-hand manner. "

"Now, Jule, I beg you won't attempt to put on the sanctified; that's toomuch from you, who have been wishing her dead almost every day for the lasteight years. Why, don't you remember you wished her gone when she had alittle money to leave; and when she lost that, you wished her off our handsbecause she had none. Don't pretend to be in the least depressed; thatwon't do with me. "

"Well, never mind that, " said Mrs. Stevens, a little confused; "what hasbecome of her things--her clothing, and furniture?"

"I've ordered the furniture to be sold; and all there is of it will notrealize sufficient to pay her funeral expenses. Brixton wrote me that shehas left a bundle of letters directed to me, and I desired him to send themon. "

"I wonder what they can be, " said Mrs. Stevens. 

"Some trash, I suppose; an early love correspondence, of but little valueto any one but herself. I do not expect that they will prove of anyconsequence whatever. "

"Don't you think one or the other of us should go to the funeral?" askedMrs. Stevens. "Nonsense. No! I have no money to expend in that way--it isas much as I can do to provide comfortably for the living, without spendingmoney to follow the dead, " replied he; "and besides, I have a case comingon in the Criminal Court next week that will absorb all my attention. "

"What kind of a case is it?" she inquired. 

"A murder case. Some Irishmen were engaged in a row, when one of the partyreceived a knock on his head that proved too much for him, and died inconsequence. My client was one of the contending parties; and has beensuspected, from some imprudent expressions of his, to have been the man whostruck the fatal blow. His preliminary examination comes off to-morrow ornext day, and I must be present as a matter of course. "

At an early hour of the morning succeeding this conversation, Mr. Stevensmight have been seen in his dingy office, seated at a rickety desk whichwas covered with various little bundles, carefully tied with red tape. Theroom was gloomy and cheerless, and had a mouldy disagreeable atmosphere. Afire burned in the coal stove, which, however, seemed only to warm, but didnot dry the apartment; and the windows were covered with a thin coating ofvapour. 

Mr. Stevens was busily engaged in writing, when hearing footsteps behindhim, he turned and saw Mr. Egan, a friend of his client, entering the room. 

"Good morning, Mr. Egan, " said he, extending his hand; "how is our friendMcCloskey this morning?"

"Oh, it's far down in the mouth he is, be jabers--the life a'most scaredout of him!"

"Tell him to keep up a good heart and not to be frightened at trifles, "laughingly remarked Mr. Stevens. 

"Can't your honour come and see him?" asked Egan. 

"I can't do that; but I'll give you a note to Constable Berry, and he willbring McCloskey in here as he takes him to court;" and Mr. Stevensimmediately wrote the note, which Egan received and departed. 

After the lapse of a few hours, McCloskey was brought by the accommodatingconstable to the office of Mr. Stevens. "He'll be safe with you, Isuppose, Stevens;" said the constable, "but then there is no harm in seeingfor one's self that all's secure;" and thus speaking, he raised the windowand looked into the yard below. The height was too great for his prisonerto escape in that direction; then satisfying himself that the other dooronly opened into a closet, he retired, locking Mr. Stevens and his clientin the room. 

Mr. Stevens arose as soon as the door closed behind the constable, andstuffed a piece of damp sponge into the keyhole; he then returned and tooka seat by his client. 

"Now, McCloskey, " said he, in a low tone, as he drew his chair closely infront of the prisoner, and fixed his keen grey eyes on him--"I've seenWhitticar. And I tell you what it is--you're in a very tight place. He'sprepared to swear that he saw you with a slung shot in your hand--that hesaw you drop it after the man fell; he picked it up, and whilst the man waslying dead at his tavern, awaiting the coroner's inquest, he examined thewound, and saw in the skull two little dents or holes, which wereundoubtedly made by the little prongs that are on the leaden ball of theweapon, as they correspond in depth and distance apart; and, moreover, theball is attached to a twisted brace which proves to be the fellow to theone found upon a pair of your trousers. What can you say to all this?"

McCloskey here gave a smothered groan, and his usually red face grew deadlypale in contemplation of his danger. 

"Now, " said Mr. Stevens, after waiting long enough for his revelation tohave its due effect upon him, "there is but one thing to be done. We mustbuy Whitticar off. Have you got any money? I don't mean fifty or a hundreddollars--that would be of no more use than as many pennies. We must havesomething of a lump--three or four hundred at the very least. "

The prisoner drew his breath very hard at this, and remained silent. 

"Come, speak out, " continued Mr. Stevens, "circumstances won't admit ofour delaying--this man's friends will raise Heaven and earth to secure yourconviction; so you see, my good fellow, it's your money or your life. Youcan decide between the two--you know which is of the most importance toyou. "

"God save us, squire! how am I to raise that much money? I haven't more nora hunther dollars in the world. "

"You've got a house, and a good horse and dray, " replied Mr. Stevens, whowas well posted in the man's pecuniary resources. "If you expect me to getyou out of this scrape, you must sell or mortgage your house, and disposeof your horse and dray. Somehow or other four hundred dollars must beraised, or you will be dangling at a rope's end in less than six months. "

"I suppose it will have to go then, " said McCloskey, reluctantly. 

"Then give me authority, " continued Mr. Stevens, "to arrange for thedisposal of the property, and I will have your affairs all set straight inless than no time. "

The constable here cut short any further colloquy by rapping impatiently onthe door, then opening it, and exclaiming, "Come, now it is teno'clock--time that you were in court;" and the two started out, followed byMr. Stevens. 

After having, by some of those mysterious plans with which lawyers arefamiliar, been enabled to put off the examination for a few days, Mr. Stephens returned to his office, and found lying upon his table the packetof letters he was expecting from New York. 

Upon breaking the seal, and tearing off the outer covering, he discovered anumber of letters, time-worn and yellow with age; they were tied tightlytogether with a piece of cord; cutting this, they fell scattered over thedesk. 

Taking one of them up, he examined it attentively, turning it from side toside to endeavour to decipher the half-effaced post-mark. "What a ninny Iam, to waste time in looking at the cover of this, when the contents will, no doubt, explain the whole matter?" Thus soliloquising he opened theletter, and was soon deeply absorbed in its contents. He perused andre-perused it; then opened, one after another, the remainder that layscattered before him. Their contents seemed to agitate him exceedingly; ashe walked up and down the room with hasty strides, muttering angrily tohimself, and occasionally returning to the desk to re-peruse the letterswhich had so strangely excited him. 

Whilst thus engaged, the door was opened by no less a personage than Mr. Morton, who walked in and seated himself in a familiar manner. 

"Oh, how are you, Morton. You entered with such a ghostly tread, that Iscarcely heard you, " said Mr. Stevens, with a start; "what has procured methe honour of a visit from you this morning?"

"I was strolling by, and thought I would just step in and inquire how thatmatter respecting the Tenth-street property has succeeded. "

"Not at all--the old fellow is as obstinate as a mule; he won't sell excepton his own terms, which are entirely out of all reason. I am afraid youwill be compelled to abandon your building speculation in that quarteruntil his demise--he is old and feeble, and can't last many years; in theevent of his death you may be able to effect some more favourablearrangement with his heirs. "

"And perhaps have ten or fifteen years to wait--no, that won't do. I'dbetter sell out myself. What would you, advise me to do, Stevens?"

Mr. Stevens was silent for a few moments; then having opened the door andlooked into the entry, he closed it carefully, placed the piece of spongein the key-hole, and returned to his seat at the desk, saying:--

"We've transacted enough business together to know one another pretty well. So I've no hesitation in confiding to you a little scheme I've conceivedfor getting into our hands a large proportion of property in one of thelower districts, at a very low figure; and 'tis probable, that the sameplan, if it answers, will assist you materially in carrying out yourdesigns. It will require the aid of two or three moneyed men like yourself;and, if successful, will without doubt be highly remunerative. "

"If successful, " rejoined Mr. Morton; "yes, there is the rub. How are youto guarantee success?"

"Hear my plan, and then you can decide. In the first place, you know aswell as I that a very strong feeling exists in the community against theAbolitionists, and very properly too; this feeling requires to be guidedinto some proper current, and I think we can give it that necessaryguidance, and at the same time render it subservient to our own purposes. You are probably aware that a large amount of property in the lower part ofthe city is owned by niggers; and if we can create a mob and direct itagainst them, they will be glad to leave that quarter, and remove furtherup into the city for security and protection. Once get the mob thoroughlyaroused, and have the leaders under our control, and we may direct itsenergies against any parties we desire; and we can render the district sounsafe, that property will be greatly lessened in value--the houses willrent poorly, and many proprietors will be happy to sell at very reducedprices. If you can furnish me the means to start with, I have men enough atmy command to effect the rest. We will so control the elections in thedistrict, through these men, as to place in office only such persons aswill wink at the disturbances. When, through their agency, we have broughtproperty down sufficiently low, we will purchase all that we can, re-establish order and quiet, and sell again at an immense advantage. "

"Your scheme is a good one, I must confess, and I am ready to join you atany time. I will communicate with Carson, who, I think, will be interested, as he desired to invest with me in those Tenth-street improvements. I willcall in to-morrow, and endeavour to persuade him to accompany me, and thenwe can discuss the matter more fully. "

"Well, do; but one word before you go. You appear to know everybody--whois anybody--south of Mason and Dixon's line; can you give me anyinformation respecting a family by the name of Garie, who live or formerlydid live in the vicinity of Savannah?"

"Oh, yes--I know them, root and branch; although there is but little of thelatter left; they are one of the oldest families in Georgia--those of whomI have heard the most are of the last two generations. There now remain ofthe family but two persons--old John or Jack Garie as he is called, abachelor--and who I have recently learned is at the point of death; and acrack-brained nephew of his, living in this city--said to be married to anigger woman--actually married to her. Dr. Blackly informed me last week, that he sent for him to perform the ceremony, which he very properlyrefused to do. I have no doubt, however, that he has been successful inprocuring the services of some one else. I am sorry to say, there are someclergymen in our city who would willingly assist in such a disgracefulproceeding. What ever could have induced a man with his prospects to throwhimself away in that manner, I am at loss to determine--he has anindependent fortune of about one hundred thousand dollars, besidesexpectations from his uncle, who is worth a considerable sum of money. Isuppose these little darkies of his will inherit it, " concluded Mr. Morton. 

"Are there no other heirs?" asked Mr. Stevens, in a tone of deep interest. 

"There may be. He had an aunt, who married an exceedingly low fellow fromthe North, who treated her shamefully. The mercenary scoundrel no doubtexpected to have acquired a fortune with her, as it was generallyunderstood that she was sole heiress of her mother's property--but itturned out to be an entire mistake. The circumstance made considerable stirat the time. I remember having heard my elders discuss it some years afterits occurrence. But why do you take such an interest in it? You charged mewith coming upon you like a ghost. I could return the compliment. Why, man, you look like a sheet. What ails you?" "Me!--I--oh, nothing--nothing! I'mperfectly well--that is to say, I was up rather late last night, and amrather fatigued to day--nothing more. "

"You looked so strange, that I could not help being frightened--and youseemed so interested. You must have some personal motive for inquiring. "

"No more than a lawyer often has in the business of his clients. I havebeen commissioned to obtain some information respecting these people--amere matter of business, nothing more, believe me. Call in again soon, andendeavour to bring Carson; but pray be discreet--be very careful to whomyou mention the matter. "

"Never fear, " said Mr. Morton, as he closed the door behind him, andsauntered lazily out of the house. 

Mr. Morton speculated in stocks and town-lots in the same spirit that hehad formerly betted at the racecourse and cockpit in his dear PalmettoState. It was a pleasant sort of excitement to him, and without excitementof some kind, he would have found it impossible to exist. To havefrequented gaming hells and race courses in the North would have greatlyimpaired his social position; and as he set a high value upon that he wascompelled to forego his favourite pursuits, and associate himself with aset of men who conducted a system of gambling operations upon 'Change, of aless questionable but equally exciting character. 

Mr. Stevens sat musing at his desk for some time after the departure of hisvisitor; then, taking up one of the letters that had so strongly excitedhim, he read and re-read it; then crushing it in his hand, arose, stampedhis feet, and exclaimed, "I'll have it! if I--" here he stopped short, and, looking round, caught a view of his face in the glass; he sank back intothe chair behind him, horrified at the lividness of his countenance. 

"Good God!" he soliloquized, "I look like a murderer already, " and hecovered his face with his hands, and turned away from the glass. "But I amwrong to be excited thus; men who accomplish great things approach themcoolly, so must I. I must plot, watch, and wait;" and thus speaking, heput on his hat and left the office. 

As Mr. Stevens approached his house, a handsome carriage drove up to thedoor of his neighbour, and Mr. Garie and his wife, who had been enjoying adrive along the bank of the river, alighted and entered their residence. The rustle of her rich silk dress grated harshly on his ear, and the softperfume that wafted toward him as she glided by, was the very reverse ofpleasant to him. 

Mr. Garie bowed stiffly to him as they stood on the steps of theirrespective residences, which were only divided by the low iron fence; but, beyond the slight inclination of the head, took no further notice of him. 

"The cursed haughty brute, " muttered Mr. Stevens, as he jerked the bellwith violence; "how I hate him! I hated him before I knew--but now I----;"as he spoke, the door was opened by a little servant that Mrs. Stevens hadrecently obtained from a charity institution. 

"You've kept me standing a pretty time, " exclaimed he savagely, as heseized her ear and gave it a spiteful twist; "can't you manage to open thedoor quicker?"

"I was up in the garret, and didn't hear the bell, " she replied, timidly. 

"Then I'll improve your hearing, " he continued malignantly, as he pulledher by the ear; "take that, now, and see if you'll keep me standing at thedoor an hour again. "

Striding forward into the back parlour, he found his wife holding a smallrattan elevated over little Lizzy in a threatening attitude. 

"Will you never mind me? I've told you again and again not to go, and stillyou persist in disobeying me. I'll cut you to pieces if you don't mind. Will you ever go again?" she almost screamed in the ears of the terrifiedchild. 

"Oh, no, mother, never; please don't whip me, I'll mind you;" and as shespoke, she shrank as far as possible into the corner of the room. "What'sall this--what's the matter, Jule? What on earth are you going to whip Lizfor?"

"Because she deserves it, " was the sharp reply; "she don't mind a word Isay. I've forbid her again and again to go next door to visit those littleniggers, and she will do it in spite of me. She slipped off this afternoon, and has been in their house over an hour; and it was only this morning Idetected her kissing their Clarence through the fence. "

"Faugh, " said Mr. Stevens, with a look of disgust; "you kissed a nigger!I'm ashamed of you, you nasty little thing; your mother ought to have takena scrubbing-brush and cleaned your mouth, never do such a thing again; comehere to me. "

As he spoke, he extended his hand and grasped the delicately rounded arm ofhis little girl. 

"What induces you to go amongst those people; hasn't your mother again andagain forbidden you to do so. Why do you go, I say?" he continued, shakingher roughly by the arm, and frowning savagely. "Why don't youanswer?--speak!"

The child, with the tears streaming down her lovely face, was only able toanswer in her defence. "Oh, pa, I do love them so. "

"You do, do you?" replied her exasperated father, stamping his foot, andpushing her from him; "go to bed, and if ever I hear of you going thereagain, you shall be well whipped. " The tearful face lingered about the doorin hope of a reprieve that did not come, and then disappeared for thenight. 

"The children must not be suffered to go in there, Jule; something I'velearned to-day will----" here Mr. Stevens checked himself; and in answer tohis wife's impatient "What have you learned?" replied, "Oh, nothing ofconsequence--nothing that will interest you, " and sat with his slipper inhis hand, engaged in deep thought. 

Now for Mr. Stevens to commence a communication to his wife, and then breakoff in the middle of it, was as novel as disagreeable, as he was generallyvery communicative, and would detail to her in the evening, with pleasingminuteness, all the rogueries he had accomplished during the day; and hisunwillingness to confide something that evidently occupied his mind causedhis spouse to be greatly irritated. 

Mr. Stevens drank his tea in silence, and during the evening continuedabsorbed in reflection; and, notwithstanding the various ill-naturedremarks of his wife upon his strange conduct retired without giving her theslightest clue to its cause. 

CHAPTER XVII. 

Plotting. 

Mr. Stevens awoke at a very early hour the ensuing morning, and quiteunceremoniously shook his wife to arouse her also. This he accomplishedafter considerable labour; for Mrs. Stevens was much more sleepy thanusual, in consequence of her husband's restlessness the previous night. 

"I declare, " said she, rubbing her eyes, "I don't get any peace of my life. You lie awake, kicking about, half the night, muttering and whisperingabout no one knows what, and then want me to rise before day. What are youin such, a hurry for this morning, --no more mysteries, I hope?"

"Oh, come, Jule, get up!" said her husband, impatiently. "I must be off tomy business very early; I am overburthened with different things thismorning. "

Mrs. Stevens made a very hasty toilette, and descended to the kitchen, where the little charity-girl was bustling about with her eyes only halfopen. With her assistance, the breakfast was soon prepared, and Mr. Stevenscalled downstairs. He ate rapidly and silently, and at the conclusion ofhis meal, put on his hat, and wished his amiable spouse an abrupt goodmorning. 

After leaving his house, he did not take the usual course to his office, but turned his steps toward the lower part of the city. Hastening onward, he soon left the improved parts of it in his rear, and entered upon ashabby district. 

The morning was very chilly, and as it was yet quite early, but few peoplewere stirring: they were labourers hurrying to their work, milkmen, andtrundlers of breadcarts. 

At length he stopped at the door of a tavern, over which was a large sign, bearing the name of Whitticar. On entering, he found two or threeforlorn-looking wretches clustering round the stove, endeavouring toreceive some warmth upon their half-clothed bodies, --their red and pimplednoses being the only parts about them that did not look cold. They staredwonderingly at Mr. Stevens as he entered; for a person so respectable ashimself in appearance was but seldom seen in that house. 

The boy who attended the bar inquired from behind the counter what he wouldtake. 

"Mr. Whitticar, if you please, " blandly replied Mr. Stevens. 

Hearing this, the boy bolted from the shop, and quite alarmed the family, by stating that there was a man in the shop, who said he wanted to take Mr. Whitticar, and he suspected that he was a policeman. 

Whitticar, who was seldom entirely free from some scrape, went throughanother door to take a survey of the new comer, and on ascertaining who itwas, entered the room. 

"You've quite upset the family; we all took you for a constable, " said he, approaching Mr. Stevens, who shook hands with him heartily, and then, laying his arm familiarly on his shoulder, rejoined, --

"I say, Whitticar, I want about five minutes' conversation with you. Haven't you some room where we can be quite private for a little while?"

"Yes; come this way, " replied he. And, leading his visitor through the bar, they entered a small back room, the door of which they locked behind them. 

"Now, Whitticar, " said Mr. Stevens, "I want you to act the part of a friendby the fellow who got in that awkward scrape at this house. As you did notgive the evidence you informed me you were possessed of, at the coroner'sinquest, it is unnecessary for you to do so before the magistrate atexamination. There is no use in hanging the fellow--it cannot result in anybenefit to yourself; it will only attract disagreeable notice to yourestablishment, and possibly may occasion a loss of your licence. We willbe willing to make it worth your while to absent yourself, for a short timeat least, until the trial is over; it will put money in your purse, andsave this poor devil's life besides. What do you say to receiving a hundredand fifty, and going off for a month or two?"

"Couldn't think of it, Mr. Stevens, no how. See how my business wouldsuffer; everything would be at loose ends. I should be obliged to hire aman to take my place; and, in that case, I must calculate upon his stealingat least twenty-five per cent. Of the receipts: and then there is hiswages. No, no that won't do. Besides, I'm trying to obtain the nominationfor the office of alderman--to secure it, I must be on the spot; nothinglike looking out for oneself. I am afraid I can't accommodate you, squire, unless you can offer something better than one hundred and fifty. "

"You've got no conscience, " rejoined Mr. Stevens, "not a bit. "

"Well, the less of that the better for me; it's a thing of very little usein the rum-selling business; it interferes with trade--so I can't afford tokeep a conscience. If you really want me to go, make me a better offer; saytwo fifty, and I'll begin to think of it. The trial will be over in a monthor six weeks, I suppose, and a spree of that length would be verypleasant. "

"No, I won't do that, Whitticar, --that's flat; but I'll tell you what Iwill do. I'll make it two hundred, and what is more, I'll see to yournomination. I'm all right down here, you know; I own the boys in thisdistrict; and if you'll say you'll put some little matters through for meafter you are elected, I'll call it a bargain. "

"Then I'm your man, " said Whitticar, extending his hand. 

"Well, then, " added Stevens, "come to my office this morning, and you shallhave the money; after that I shall expect you to get out of town as quickas possible. Goodbye. "

"So far all right, " muttered Mr. Stevens, with an air of intensesatisfaction, as he left the house; "he'll be of great use to me. When itbecomes necessary to blind the public by a sham investigation, he will bethe man to conduct it; when I want a man released from prison, or a littlejob of that kind done, he will do it--this act will put him in my power;and I am much mistaken if he won't prove of the utmost service in our riotscheme. Now, then, we will have an examination of McCloskey as soon as theylike. "

A few weeks subsequent to the events we have just written, we find Mr. Stevens seated in his dingy office in company with the McCloskey, who hadrecently been discharged from custody in default of sufficient evidencebeing found to warrant his committal for trial. He was sitting with hisfeet upon the stove, and was smoking a cigar in the most free-and-easymanner imaginable. 

"So far, so good, " said Mr. Stevens, as he laid down the letter he wasperusing; "that simplifies the matter greatly; and whatever is to be donetowards his removal, must be done quickly--now that the old man is deadthere is but one to deal with. "

During the interval that had elapsed between the interview of Mr. Stevenswith Whitticar and the period to which we now refer, Mr. Stevens had beenactively engaged in promoting his riot scheme; and already severaldisturbances had occurred, in which a number of inoffensive coloured peoplehad been injured in their persons and property. 

But this was only a faint indication of what was to follow; and as he had, through the agency of Mr. Morton and others, been able to prevent any butthe most garbled statements of these affairs from getting abroad, there wasbut little danger of their operations being interfered with. Leadingarticles daily appeared in the public journals (particularly those thatcirculated amongst the lowest classes), in which the negroes weredenounced, in the strongest terms. It was averred that their insolence, since the commencement of the abolition agitation, had become unbearable;and from many quarters was suggested the absolute necessity for inflictingsome general chastisement, to convince them that they were still negroes, and to teach them to remain in their proper place in the body politic. 

Many of these articles were written by Mr. Stevens, and their insertion aseditorials procured through the instrumentality of Mr. Morton and hisfriends. 

Mr. Stevens turned to his visitor, and inquired, "What was done lastnight--much of anything?"

"A great deal, yer honour, " replied McCloskey; "a nagur or two half killed, and one house set on fire and nearly burned up. "

"_Is that all_?" said Mr. Stevens, with a well-assumed look ofdisappointment. "Is that all? Why, you are a miserable set: you should havebeaten every darky out of the district by this time. "

"They're not so aisily bate out--they fight like sevin divils. One o' 'em, night before last, split Mikey Dolan's head clane open, and it's a smallchance of his life he's got to comfort himself wid. "

"Chances of war--chances of war!" rejoined Mr. Stevens, --"mere trifles whenyou get used to 'em: you mustn't let that stop you--you have a great dealyet to do. What you have already accomplished is a very small mattercompared with what is expected, and what I intend you to do: your work hasonly just begun, man. "

"Jist begun!" replied the astonished McCloskey; "haven't we bin raising thevery divil every night for the last week--running a near chance of beingkilt all the time--and all for nothing! It's gettin' tiresome; one don'tlike to be fighting the nagurs all the time for the mere fun of thething--it don't pay, for divil a cent have I got for all my trouble; and yesaid ye would pay well, ye remimber. "

"So I shall, " said Mr. Stevens, "when you do something worth payingfor--the quarter is not accomplished yet. I want the place made so hot downthere that the niggers can't stay. Go a-head, don't give them anyrest--I'll protect you from the consequences, whatever they be: I've greatthings in store for you, " continued he, moving nearer and speaking in aconfidential tone; "how should you like to return to Ireland a moneyedman?"

"I should like it well enough, to be sure; but where's the money to comefrom, squire?"

"Oh, there's money enough to be had if you have the courage to earn it. "

"I'm willin' enough to earn an honest penny, but I don't like risking meneck for it, squire. It's clear ye'll not be afther givin' me a dale ofmoney widout being sure of havin' the worth of it out o' me; and it's dirtywork enough I've done, widout the doin' of any more: me conscience is asore throuble to me about the other job. Be the powers I'm out o' that, anddivil a like scrape will I get in agin wid my own consint. "

"Your conscience has become troublesome very suddenly, " rejoined Mr. Stevens, with a look of angry scorn; "it's strange it don't appear to havetroubled you in the least during the last few weeks, whilst you have beenknocking niggers on the head so freely. "

"Well, I'm tired o' that work, " interrupted McCloskey; "and what's more, I'll soon be lavin' of it off. "

"We'll see about that, " said Mr. Stevens. "You're a pretty fellow, now, ain't you--grateful, too--very! Here I've been successful in getting youout of a hanging scrape, and require a trifling service in return, and youretire. You'll find this trifling won't do with me, " continued Mr. Stevens, with great sternness of manner. "You shall do as I wish: you are in mypower! I need your services, and I will have them--make up your mind tothat. "

McCloskey was somewhat staggered at this bold declaration from Mr. Stevens;but he soon assumed his former assured manner, and replied, "I'd like toknow how I'm in your power: as far as this riot business is concerned, you're as deep in the mud as I'm in the mire; as for the other, be St. Patrick, I'm clane out o' that!--they don't try a man twice for the samething. " "Don't halloo so loud, my fine fellow, " sneeringly rejoined Mr. Stevens, "you are not entirely out of the wood yet; you are by no means assafe as you imagine--you haven't been _tried_ yet, you have only beenexamined before a magistrate! They lacked sufficient evidence to commit youfor trial--that evidence I can produce at any time; so remember, if youplease, you have not been tried yet: when you have been, and acquitted, bekind enough to let me know, will you?"

Mr. Stevens stood for a few moments silently regarding the change hislanguage had brought over the now crestfallen McCloskey; he thencontinued--"Don't think you can escape me--I'll have a thousand eyes uponyou; no one ever escapes me that I wish to retain. Do as I require, andI'll promote your interest in every possible way, and protect you; butwaver, or hold back, and I'll hang you as unhesitatingly as if you were adog. "

This threat was given in a tone that left no doubt on the mind of thehearer but that Mr. Stevens would carry out his expressed intention; andthe reflections thereby engendered by no means added to the comfort orsense of security that McCloskey had flattered himself he was in future toenjoy; he, therefore, began to discover the bad policy of offending one whomight prove so formidable an enemy--of incensing one who had it in hispower to retaliate by such terrible measures. 

He therefore turned to Mr. Stevens, with a somewhat humbled manner, andsaid: "You needn't get so mad, squire--sure it's but natural that a manshouldn't want to get any deeper in the mire than he can help; and I'veenough on my hands now to make them too red to look at wid comfort--sureit's not a shade deeper you'd have 'em?" he asked, looking inquiringly atMr. Stevens, who was compelled to turn away his face for a moment to hidehis agitation. 

At last he mastered his countenance, and, in as cool a tone as he couldassume, replied: "Oh, a little more on them will be scarcely a perceptibleaddition. You know the old adage, 'In for a penny, in for a pound. ' Youneed have no fear, " said he, lowering his voice almost to a whisper; "itcan be done in a crowd--and at night--no one will notice it. "

"I don't know about that, squire--in a crowd some one will be sure tonotice it. It's, too dangerous--I can't do it. "

"Tut, tut, man; don't talk like a fool. I tell you there is no danger. You, in company with a mob of others, are to attack this man's house. When hemakes his appearance, as he will be sure to do, shoot him down. "

"Good God! squire, " said McCloskey, his face growing pale at the prospectof what was required of him, "you talk of murder as if it was mere play!"

"And still, _I never murdered any one_, " rejoined Mr. Stevens, significantly; "come, come--put your scruples in your pocket, and make upyour mind to go through with it like a man. When the thing is done, youshall have five thousand dollars in hard cash, and you can go with it whereyou please. Now, what do you think of that?"

"Ah, squire, the money's a great timptation! but it's an awful job. "

"No worse than you did for nothing, " replied Mr. Stevens. 

"But that was in a fair fight, and in hot blood; it isn't like planning tokill a man, squire. "

"Do you call it a fair fight when you steal up behind a man, and break hisskull with a slung shot?" asked Mr. Stevens. 

McCloskey was unable to answer this, and sat moodily regarding his tempter. 

"Come, make up your mind to it--you might as well, " resumed Mr. Stevens, ina coaxing tone. 

"Ye seem bent on not giving it up, and I suppose I'll have to do it, "replied McCloskey, reluctantly; "but what has the man done to ye's, squire, that you're so down upon him?"

"Oh, he is one of those infernal Abolitionists, and one of the very worstkind; he lives with a nigger woman--and, what is more, he is married toher!"

"Married to a nigger!" exclaimed McCloskey--"it's a quare taste the animalhas--but you're not afther killing him for that; there's something morebehind: it's not for having a black wife instead of a white one you'd beafther murthering him--ye'll get no stuff like that down me. "

"No, it is not for that alone, I acknowledge, " rejoined Mr. Stevens, withconsiderable embarrassment. "He insulted me some time ago, and I want to berevenged upon him. "

"It's a dear job to insult you, at that rate, squire; but where does helive?"

"In my neighbourhood--in fact, next door to me, " replied Mr. Stevens, withan averted face. 

"Howly Mother! not away up there--sure it's crazy ye are. What, away upthere in the city limits!--why, they would have the police and the sogersat our heels in less than no time. Sure, you're out o' your sinses, to haveme go up there with a mob. No, no--there's too much risk--I can't trythat. "

"I tell you there shall be no risk, " impatiently replied Mr. Stevens. "It'snot to be done to-night, nor to-morrow night; and, when I say do it, you_shall_ do it, and as safely there as anywhere. Only come to the conclusionthat a thing _must_ be done, and it is half finished already. You have onlyto make up your mind that you will accomplish a design in spite ofobstacles, and what you once thought to be insurmountable difficulties willprove mere straws in your path. But we are wasting time; I've determinedyou shall do it, and I hope you now know me well enough to be convincedthat it is your best policy to be as obliging as possible. You had bettergo now, and be prepared to meet me to-night at Whitticar's. "

After the door closed upon the retreating form of McCloskey, the carelessexpression that Mr. Stevens's countenance had worn during the conversation, gave place to one full of anxiety and apprehension, and he shuddered as hecontemplated the fearful length to which he was proceeding. 

"If I fail, " said he--"pshaw! I'll not fail--I must not fail--for failureis worse than ruin; but cool--cool, " he continued, sitting down to hisdesk--"those who work nervously do nothing right. " He sat writinguninterruptedly until quite late in the afternoon, when the fading sunlightcompelled him to relinquish his pen, and prepare for home. 

Thrusting the papers into his pocket, he hurried toward the newspaperoffice from which were to emanate, as editorials, the carefully concoctedappeals to the passions of the rabble which he had been all the afternoonso busily engaged in preparing. 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

Mr. Stevens falls into Bad Hands. 

The amiable partner of Mr. Stevens sat in high dudgeon, at being so longrestrained from her favourite beverage by the unusually deferred absence ofher husband. At length she was rejoiced by hearing his well-known step ashe came through the garden, and the rattle of his latch-key as he openedthe door was quite musical in her ears. 

"I thought you was never coming, " said she, querulously, as he entered theroom; "I have been waiting tea until I am almost starved. "

"You needn't have waited a moment, for you will be obliged to eat aloneafter all; I'm going out. Pour me out a cup of tea--I'll drink it whilstI'm dressing; and, " continued Mr. Stevens, "I want you to get me that oldbrown over-coat and those striped trowsers I used to wear occasionally. "

"Why, you told me, " rejoined Mrs. Stevens, "that you did not require themagain, and so I exchanged them for this pair of vases to-day. "

"The devil you did!" said Mr. Stevens, angrily; "you let them lie about thehouse for nearly a year--and now, just as they were likely to be of someservice to me, you've sold them. It's just like you--always doing somethingat the wrong time. "

"How on earth, Stevens, was I to know you wanted them?"

"Well, there, Jule, they're gone; don't let's have any more talk about it. Get me another cup of tea; I must go out immediately. " After hastilyswallowing the second cup, Mr. Stevens left his home, and walked to anomnibus-station, from whence he was quickly transported to a street in thelower part of the city, in which were a number of second-hand clothingstores. These places were supported principally by the country people whoattended the market in the same street, and who fancied that the clothingthey purchased at these shops must be cheap, because it was at second-hand. 

Mr. Stevens stopped at the door of one of these establishments, and pausedto take a slight survey of the premises before entering. The doorway washung with coats of every fashion of the last twenty years, and all invarious stages of decay. Some of them looked quite respectable, from muchcleaning and patching; and others presented a reckless and forlorn aspect, as their worn and ragged sleeves swung about in the evening air. Old hats, some of which were, in all probability, worn at a period anterior to theRevolution, kept company with the well-blacked shoes that were ranged onshelves beside the doorway, where they served in the capacity of signs, andfairly indicated the style of goods to be purchased within. 

Seeing that there were no buyers in the store, Mr. Stevens opened the door, and entered. The sounds of his footsteps drew from behind the counter noless a personage than our redoubtable friend Kinch, who, in the absence ofhis father, was presiding over the establishment. 

"Well, Snowball, " said Mr. Stevens, "do you keep this curiosity-shop?"

"My name is not Snowball, and this ain't a curiosity-shop, " replied Kinch. "Do you want to buy anything?"

"I believe I do, " answered Mr. Stevens. "Let me look at some coats--onethat I can get on--I won't say fit me, I'm indifferent about that--let mesee some of the worst you've got. "

Kinch looked surprised at this request from a gentleman of Mr. Stevens'sappearance, and handed out, quite mechanically, a coat that was butslightly worn. "Oh, that won't do--I want something like this, " said Mr. Stevens, taking down from a peg a very dilapidated coat, of drab colour, and peculiar cut. What do you ask for this?"

"That's not fit for, a gentleman like you, sir, " said Kinch. 

"I'm the best judge of that matter, " rejoined Mr. Stevens. "What is theprice of it?"

"Oh, that coat you can have for a dollar, " replied Kinch. 

"Then I'll take it. Now hand out some trowsers. "

The trowsers were brought; and from a large number Mr. Stevens selected apair that suited him. Then adding an old hat to his list of purchases, hedeclared his fit-out complete. 

"Can't you accommodate me with some place where I can put these on?" heasked of Kinch; "I'm going to have a little sport with some friends ofmine, and I want to wear them. "

Kinch led the way into a back room, where he assisted Mr. Stevens to arrayhimself in his newly-purchased garments. By the change in his attire heseemed completely robbed of all appearance of respectability; the mostdisagreeable points of his physique seemed to be brought more prominentlyforward by the habiliments he had assumed, they being quite in harmony withhis villanous countenance. 

Kinch, who looked at him with wonder, was forced to remark, "Why, you don'tlook a bit like a gentleman now, sir. "

Mr. Stevens stepped forward, and surveyed himself in the looking-glass. Thetransformation was complete--surprising even to himself. "I never knewbefore, " said he, mentally, "how far a suit of clothes goes towards givingone the appearance of a gentleman. "

He now emptied the pockets of the suit he had on;--in so doing, he droppedupon the floor, without observing it, one of the papers. 

"Fold these up, " said he, handing to Kinch the suit he had just taken off, "and to-morrow bring them to this address. " As he spoke, he laid his cardupon the counter, and, after paying for his new purchases, walked out ofthe shop, and bent his steps in the direction of Whitticar's tavern. 

On arriving there, he found the bar-room crowded with half-drunken men, themajority of whom were Irishmen, armed with bludgeons of all sizes andshapes. His appearance amongst them excited but little attention, and heremained there some time before he was recognized by the master of theestablishment. 

"By the howly St. Patherick I didn't know you, squire; what have you beendoing to yourself?"

"Hist!" cried Mr. Stevens, putting his fingers to his lips; "I thought itwas best to see how matters were progressing, so I've run down for a littlewhile. How are you getting on?"

"Fine, fine, squire, " replied Whitticar; "the boys are ripe for anything. They talk of burning down a nigger church. "

"Not to-night--they must not do such a thing to-night--we are not ready forthat yet. I've made out a little list--some of the places on it they mighthave a dash at to-night, just to keep their hands in. " As Mr. Stevensspoke, he fumbled in his pocket for the list in question, and was quitesurprised to be unable to discover it. 

"Can't you find it, squire?" asked Whitticar. 

"I must have lost; it on the way, " replied Mr. Stevens. "I am sure I put itin this pocket, " and he made another search. "No use--I'll have to give itup, " said he, at length; "but where is McCloskey? I haven't seen him sinceI came in. "

"He came here this afternoon, very far gone; he had been crooking his elbowpretty frequently, and was so very drunk that I advised him to go home andgo to bed; so he took another dram and went away, and I haven't seen himsince. "

"That's bad, very bad--everything goes wrong this evening--I wanted himto-night particularly. " "Wouldn't the boys go out with you?" suggestedWhitticar. 

"No, no; that wouldn't do at all. I mustn't appear in these things. If I'mhauled up for participation, who is to be your lawyer--eh?"

"True for you, " rejoined Whitticar; "and I'll just disperse the crowd assoon as I can, and there will be one peaceable night in the district at anyrate. "

Not liking to give directions to the mob personally, and his usefulcoadjutor McCloskey not being at hand, Mr. Stevens came to the conclusionhe would return to his home, and on the next evening a descent should bemade upon the places marked on the list. 

Taking out his watch, he found it would be too late to return to the storewhere he had purchased his present adornments, so he determined to startfor home. 

The coat that temporarily adorned the person of Mr. Stevens was of peculiarcut and colour--it was, in fact, rather in the rowdy style, and had, in itspristine state, bedecked the person of a member of a notorious firecompany. These gentry had for a long time been the terror of the districtin which they roamed, and had rendered themselves highly obnoxious to someof the rival factions on the borders of their own territory; they had theunpleasant habit of pitching into and maltreating, without the slightestprovocation, any one whom their practised eyes discovered to be a rival;and by such outrages they had excited in the bosoms of their victims adesire for revenge that only awaited the occasion to manifest itself. 

Mr. Stevens, in happy unconsciousness, that, owing to his habiliments, herepresented one of the well-known and hated faction, walked on quiteleisurely; but, unfortunately for him, his way home lay directly throughthe camp of their bitterest and most active enemies. 

Standing in front of a tavern-window, through which a bright light shone, were a group of young men, who bestowed upon Mr. Stevens more than passingattention. "I'm blest, " exclaimed one of them, if there ain't a ranger!now that it a saucy piece of business, ain't it! That fellow has come uphere to be able to go back and play brag-game. "

"Let's wallop him, then, " suggested another, "and teach him better than tocome parading himself in our parts. I owe 'em something for the way theyserved me when I was down in their district. "

"Well, come on, " said the first speaker, "or he will get away whilst we arejawing about what we shall do. "

Advancing to Mr. Stevens, he tapped that gentleman on the shoulder, andsaid, with mock civility, and in as bland a tone as he could assume, "It'sreally very obliging of you, mister, to come up here to be flogged--savesus the trouble of coming down to you. We would like to settle with you forthat drubbing you gave one of our boys last week. "

"You must be mistaken, " replied Mr. Stevens: "I don't know anything of theaffair to which you allude. "

"You don't, eh! Well, take that, then, to freshen your memory, " exclaimedone of the party, at the same time dealing him a heavy blow on the cheek, which made the lamplights around appear to dance about in the mostfantastic style. 

The first impulse of Mr. Stevens was to cry out for the watchman; but amoment's reflection suggested the impolicy of that project, as he wouldinevitably be arrested with the rest; and to be brought before a magistratein his present guise, would have entailed upon him very embarrassingexplanations; he therefore thought it best to beg off--to throw himself, asit were, upon their sympathies. 

"Stop, gentlemen--stop--for God's sake, stop, " he cried, as soon as hecould regain the breath that had been almost knocked out of him by thetremendous blow he had just received--"don't kill an innocent man; upon myhonour I never saw you before, nor ever assaulted any of you in my life. Mydear friends, " he continued, in a dolorous tone, "please let me go--you arequite mistaken: I assure you I am not the man. " "No, we ain't mistaken, either: you're one of the rangers; I know you by your coat, " replied one ofthe assaulters. 

It now flashed upon Mr. Stevens that he had brought himself into thesedifficulties, by the assumption of the dress he then wore; he thereforequickly rejoined--"Oh, it is not my coat--I only put it on for a joke!"

"That's a likely tale, " responded one of the party, who looked veryincredulous; "I don't believe a word of it. That's some darned stuff you'vetrumped up, thinking to gammon us--it won't go down; we'll just give you awalloping, if it's only to teach you to wear your own clothes, "--andsuiting the action to the word, he commenced pommelling him unmercifully. 

"Help! help!" screamed Mr. Stevens. "Don't kill me, gentlemen, --don't killme!"

"Oh! we won't kill you--we'll only come as near it as we can, without quitefinishing you, " cried one of his relentless tormenters. 

On hearing this, their victim made a frantic effort to break away, and notsucceeding in it, he commenced yelling at the top of his voice. As is usualin such cases, the watchman was nowhere to be seen; and his cries onlyexasperated his persecutors the more. 

"Hit him in the bread-crusher, and stop his noise, " suggested one of theparty farthest off from Mr. Stevens. This piece of advice was carried intoimmediate effect, and the unfortunate wearer of the obnoxious coat receiveda heavy blow in the mouth, which cut his lips and knocked out one of hisfront teeth. 

His cries now became so loud as to render it necessary to gag him, whichwas done by one of the party in the most thorough and expeditious manner. They then dragged him into a wheelwright's shop near by, where theyobtained some tar, with which they coated his face completely. 

"Oh! don't he look like a nigger!" said one of the party, when they hadfinished embellishing their victim. 

"Rub some on his hands, and then let him go, " suggested another. "When hegets home I guess he'll surprise his mammy: I don't believe his own dogwill know him!"

A shout of laughter followed this remark, in the midst of which theyungagged Mr. Stevens and turned him from the door. 

"Now run for it--cut the quickest kind of time, " exclaimed one of them, ashe gave him a kick to add impetus to his forward movement. 

This aid was, however, entirely unnecessary, for Mr. Stevens shot away fromthe premises like an arrow from a bow; and that, too, without anyobservation upon the direction in which he was going. 

As soon as he felt himself out of the reach of his tormentors, he sat downupon the steps of a mansion, to consider what was best to be done. All theshops, and even the taverns, were closed--not a place was open where hecould procure the least assistance; he had not even an acquaintance in theneighbourhood to whom he might apply. 

He was, indeed, a pitiable object to look upon The hat he had so recentlypurchased, bad as it was when it came into his possession, was nowinfinitely less presentable. In the severe trials it had undergone, incompany with its unfortunate owner, it had lost its tip and half the brim. The countenance beneath it would, however, have absorbed the gazer's wholeattention. His lips were swelled to a size that would have been regarded aslarge even on the face of a Congo negro, and one eye was puffed out to analarming extent; whilst the coating of tar he had received rendered himsuch an object as the reader can but faintly picture to himself. 

The door of the mansion was suddenly opened, and there issued forth a partyof young men, evidently in an advanced state of intoxication. "Hallo!here's a darkey!" exclaimed one of them, as the light from the hall fellupon the upturned face of Mr. Stevens. "Ha, ha! Here's a darkey--now forsome fun!"

Mr. Stevens was immediately surrounded by half a dozen well-dressed youngmen, who had evidently been enjoying an entertainment not conducted upontemperance principles. "Spirit of--hic--hic--night, whence co-co-comestthou?" stammered one; "sp-p-peak--art thou a creature of themag-mag-na-tion-goblin-damned, or only a nigger?--speak!" Mr. Stevens, whoat once recognized one or two of the parties as slight acquaintances, wouldnot open his mouth, for fear that his voice might discover him, as to them, above all persons, he would have shrunk from making himself known, hetherefore began to make signs as though he were dumb. 

"Let him alone, " said one of the more sober of the party; "he's a poor dumbfellow--let him go. " His voice was disregarded, however, as the rest seemedbent on having some sport. 

A half-hogshead, nearly filled with water, which stood upon the edge of thepavement, for the convenience of the builders who were at work next door, caught the attention of one of them. 

"Let's make him jump into this, " he exclaimed, at the same time motioningto Mr. Stevens to that effect. By dint of great effort they made himunderstand what was required, and they then continued to make him jump inand out of the hogshead for several minutes; then, joining hands, theydanced around him, whilst he stood knee-deep in the water, shivering, andmaking the most imploring motions to be set at liberty. 

Whilst they were thus engaged, the door again opened, and the fashionableMr. Morton (who had been one of the guests) descended the steps, and cameto see what had been productive of so much mirth. 

"What have you got here?" he asked, pressing forward, until he saw thebattered form of Mr. Stevens; "oh, let the poor darkey go, " he continued, compassionately, for he had just drunk enough to make him feel humane; "letthe poor fellow go, it's a shame to treat him in this manner. "

As he spoke, he endeavoured to take from the hands of one of the party apiece of chip, with which he was industriously engaged in streaking theface of Mr. Stevens with lime, "Let me alone, Morton--let me alone; I'mmaking a white man of him, I'm going to make him a glorious fellow-citizen, and have him run for Congress. Let me alone, I say. "

Mr. Morton was able, however, after some persuasion, to induce the youngmen to depart; and as his home lay in a direction opposite to theirs, hesaid to Mr. Stevens, "Come on, old fellow, I'll protect you. "

As soon as they were out of hearing of the others, Mr. Stevens exclaimed, "Don't you know me, Morton?"

Mr. Morton started back with surprise, and looked at his companion in abewildered manner, then exclaimed, "No, I'll be hanged if I do. Who thedevil are you?"

"I'm Stevens; you know me. "

"Indeed I don't. Who's Stevens?"

"You don't know me! why, I'm George Stevens, the lawyer. "

Mr. Morton thought that he now recognized the voice, and as they werepassing under the lamp at the time, Mr. Stevens said to him, "Put yourfinger on my face, and you will soon see it is only tar. " Mr. Morton did ashe was desired, and found his finger smeared with the sticky article. 

"What on earth have you been doing with yourself?" he asked, with greatsurprise; "what is all this masquerading for?"

Mr. Stevens hereupon related his visit at Whitticar's, and detailed theevents that had subsequently occurred. 

Mr. Morton gave vent to shouts of laughter as he listened to the recital ofhis friend. "By George!" he exclaimed, "I'll have to tell that; it is toogood to keep. "

"Oh, no, don't, " said Mr. Stevens; "that won't do--you forget what I cameout for?"

"True, " rejoined Mr. Morton; "I suppose it will be best to keep mum aboutit. I'll go home with you, you might fall into the hands of the Philistinesagain. "

"Thank you--thank you, " replied Mr. Stevens, who felt greatly relieved tohave some company for his further protection; "and, " continued he, "if Icould only get some of this infernal stuff off my face, I should be soglad; let us try. "

Accordingly they stopped at the nearest pump, and endeavoured to removesome of the obnoxious tar from his face; but, unfortunately, the onlyresult obtained by their efforts was to rub it more thoroughly in, so theywere compelled to give up in despair, and hasten onward. 

Mr. Stevens rang so loudly at the door, as to quite startle his wife andthe charity-girl, both of whom had fallen into a sound sleep, as they sattogether awaiting his return. Mr. Morton, who, as we have said before, wasnot entirely sober, was singing a popular melody, and keeping time upon thedoor with the head of his cane. Now, in all her life, Mrs. Stevens hadnever heard her husband utter a note, and being greatly frightened at theunusual noise upon the door-step, held a hurried consultation with thecharity-girl upon the best mode of proceeding. 

"Call through the key-hole, ma'am, " suggested she, which advice Mrs. Stevens immediately followed, and inquired, "Who's there?"

"Open the door, Jule, don't keep me out here with your darned nonsense; letme in quick. "

"Yes, let him in, " added Mr. Morton; "he's brought a gentleman from Africawith him. "

Mrs. Stevens did not exactly catch the purport of the words uttered by Mr. Morton; and, therefore, when she opened the door, and her husband, with hiswell-blacked face, stalked into the entry, she could not repress a screamof fright at the hideous figure he presented. 

"Hush, hush, " he exclaimed, "don't arouse the neighbours--it's me; don'tyou know my voice. "

Mrs. Stevens stared at him in a bewildered manner, and after bidding Mr. Morton "Good night, " she closed and locked the door, and followed herhusband into the back room. In a short time he recapitulated the eventsof the night to his astonished and indignant spouse, who greatlycommiserated his misfortunes. A bottle of sweet oil was brought intorequisition, and she made a lengthened effort to remove the tar from herhusband's face, in which she only partially succeeded; and it was almostday when he crawled off to bed, with the skin half scraped off from hisswollen face. 

CHAPTER XIX. 

The Alarm. 

Immediately after the departure of Mr. Stevens, Master Kinch began toconsider the propriety of closing the establishment for the night. Slidingdown from the counter, where he had been seated, reflecting upon thestrange conduct of his recent customer, he said, "I feels rather queerround about here, " laying his hand upon his stomach; "and I'm inclined tothink that some of them 'ere Jersey sausages and buckwheat cakes that theold man has been stuffing himself with, wouldn't go down slow. Rathershabby in him not to come back, and let me go home, and have a slap at thewittles. I expect nothing else, but that he has eat so much, that he's fellasleep at the supper-table, and won't wake up till bedtime. He's alwaysserving me that same trick. "

The old man thus alluded to was no other than Master Kinch's father, whohad departed from the shop two or three hours previously, promising toreturn immediately after tea. 

This promise appeared to have entirely faded from his recollection, as hewas at that moment, as Kinch had supposed, fast asleep, and totallyoblivious of the fact that such a person as his hungry descendant was inexistence. 

Having fully come to the conclusion to suspend operations for the evening, Kinch made two or three excursions into the street, returning each timeladen with old hats, coats, and shoes. These he deposited on the counterwithout order or arrangement, muttering, as he did so, that the old mancould sort 'em out in the morning to suit himself. The things being allbrought from the street, he had only to close the shutters, whichoperation was soon effected, and our hungry friend on his way home. 

The next morning Mr. De Younge (for the father of Kinch rejoiced in thataristocratic cognomen) was early at his receptacle for old clothes, and itbeing market-day, he anticipated doing a good business. The old manleisurely took down the shutters, assorted and hung out the old clothes, and was busily engaged in sweeping out the store, when his eye fell uponthe paper dropped by Mr. Stevens the evening previous. 

"What's dis 'ere, " said he, stooping to pick it up; "bill or suthin' likeit, I s'pose. What a trial 'tis not to be able to read writin'; don't knowwhether 'tis worth keeping or not; best save it though till dat ar boy ofmine comes, _he_ can read it--he's a scholar. Ah, de children now-a-dayshas greater 'vantages than deir poor fathers had. "

Whilst he was thus soliloquizing, his attention was arrested by the noiseof footsteps in the other part of the shop, and looking up, he discernedthe tall form of Mr. Walters. 

"Why, bless me, " said the old man, "dis is an early visit; where you comefrom, honey, dis time o' day?"

"Oh, I take a walk every morning, to breathe a little of the fresh air; itgives one an appetite for breakfast, you know. You'll let me take theliberty of sitting on your counter, won't you?" he continued; "I want toread a little article in a newspaper I have just purchased. "

Assent being readily given, Mr. Walters was soon perusing the journal withgreat attention; at last he tossed it from him in an impatient manner, andexclaimed, "Of all lying rascals, I think the reporters for this paper arethe greatest. Now, for instance, three or four nights since, a gang ofvillains assaulted one of my tenants--a coloured man--upon his owndoorstep, and nearly killed him, and that, too, without the slightestprovocation; they then set fire to the house, which was half consumedbefore it could be extinguished; and it is here stated that the colouredpeople were the aggressors, and whilst they were engaged in the _melee_, the house caught fire accidentally. " "Yes, " rejoined Mr. De Younge;"things are gitting mighty critical even in dese 'ere parts; and I wouldn'tlive furder down town if you was to give me a house rent-free. Why, it'sraly dangerous to go home nights down dere. "

"And there is no knowing how long we may be any better off up here, "continued Mr. Walters; "the authorities don't seem to take the least noticeof them, and the rioters appear to be having it all their own way. "

They continued conversing upon the topic for some time, Mr. De Younge beingmeanwhile engaged in sponging and cleaning some coats he had purchased theday before; in so doing, he was obliged to remove the paper he had pickedup from the floor, and it occurred to him to ask Mr. Walters to read it; hetherefore handed it to him, saying--

"Jist read dat, honey, won't you? I want to know if it's worth savin'. I'veburnt up two or three receipts in my life, and had de bills to pay over;and I'se got rale careful, you know. 'Taint pleasant to pay money twiceover for de same thing. "

Mr. Walters took the paper extended to him, and, after glancing over it, remarked, "This handwriting is very familiar to me, very; but whose it is, I can't say; it appears to be a list of addresses, or something of thatkind. " And he read over various names of streets, and numbers of houses. "Why, " he exclaimed, with a start of surprise, "here is my own house uponthe list, 257, Easton-street; then here is 22, Christian-street; here alsoare numbers in Baker-street, Bedford-street, Sixth, Seventh, and EighthStreets; in some of which houses I know coloured people live, for one ortwo of them are my own. This is a strange affair. "

As he spoke, he turned over the paper, and read on the other side, --"Placesto be attacked. " "Why, this looks serious, " he continued, with someexcitement of manner. "'Places to be attacked, '--don't that seem to you asif it might be a list of places for these rioters to set upon? I reallymust look into this. Who could have left it here?"

"I raly don't know, " replied the old man. "Kinch told me suthin' lastnight about some gemman comin' here and changing his clothes; p'raps 'twashim. I'd like to know who 'twas myself. Well, wait awhile, my boy will comein directly; maybe he can explain it. "

He had scarcely finished speaking, when Master Kinch made his appearance, with his hat, as usual, placed upon nine hairs, and his mouth smeared withthe eggs and bacon with which he had been "staying and comforting" himself. He took off his hat on perceiving Mr. Walters, and, with great humility, "hoped that gentleman was well. "

"Yes, very well, Kinch, " replied Mr. Walters. "We were waiting for you. Canyou tell where this came from?" he asked, handing him the mysterious paper. 

"Never seen it before, that I know of, " replied Kinch, after a shortinspection. 

"Well, who was here last night?" asked his father; "you said you soldsuthin'?"

"So I did, " replied Kinch; "sold a whole suit; and the gentleman who put iton said he was going out for a lark. He was changing some papers from hispocket: perhaps he dropped it. I'm to take this suit back to him to-day. Here is his card. "

"By heavens!" exclaimed Mr. Walters, after looking at the card, "I know thefellow, --George Stevens, 'Slippery George, '--every one knows him, and canspeak no good of him either. Now I recognize the handwriting of the list; Ibegin to suspect something wrong by seeing his name in connection withthis. "

Hereupon Kinch was subjected to a severe cross-examination, which had theeffect of deepening Mr. Walters's impression, that some plot was beingconcocted that would result to the detriment of the coloured people; for hewas confident that no good could be indicated by the mysterious conduct ofMr. Stevens. 

After some deliberation, Kinch received instructions to take home theclothes as directed, and to have his eyes about him; and if he saw or heardanything, he was to report it. In accordance with his instructions, Master Kinch made several journeys to Mr. Stevens's office, but did notsucceed in finding that gentleman within; the last trip he made therefatigued him to such a degree, that he determined to wait his arrival, ashe judged, from the lateness of the hour, that, if it was his intention tocome at all that day, he would soon be there. 

"I'll sit down here, " said Kinch, who espied an old box in the back part ofthe entry, "and give myself a little time to blow. "

He had not sat long before he heard footsteps on the stairs, and presentlythe sound of voices became quite audible. 

"That's him, " ejaculated Kinch, as Mr. Stevens was heard saying, in anangry tone, --"Yes; and a devil of a scrape I got into by your want ofsobriety. Had you followed my directions, and met me at Whitticar's, instead of getting drunk as a beast, and being obliged to go home to bed, it wouldn't have happened. "

"Well, squire, " replied McCloskey, for he was the person addressed by Mr. Stevens, "a man can't be expected always to keep sober. "

"He ought to when he has business before him, " rejoined Mr. Stevens, sharply; "how the devil am I to trust you to do anything of importance, when I can't depend on your keeping sober a day at a time? Come up to thistop landing, " continued he, "and listen to me, if you think you are soberenough to comprehend what I say to you. "

They now approached, and stood within a few feet of the place where Kinchwas sitting, and Mr. Stevens said, with a great deal of emphasis, "Now, Iwant you to pay the strictest attention to what I say. I had a list ofplaces made out for you last night, but, somehow or other, I lost it. Butthat is neither here nor there. This is what I want you to attend toparticularly. Don't attempt anything to-night; you can't get a sufficientnumber of the boys together; but, when you do go, you are to take, first, Christian-street, between Eleventh and Twelfth, --there are several niggerfamilies living in that block. Smash in their windows, break theirfurniture, and, if possible, set one of the houses on fire, and that willdraw attention to that locality whilst you are operating elsewhere. By thattime, the boys will be ripe for anything. Then you had better go to a housein Easton-street, corner of Shotwell: there is a rich nigger living therewhose plunder is worth something. I owe him an old grudge, and I want youto pay it off for me. "

"You keep me pretty busy paying your debts. What's the name of this richnigger?"

"Walters, " replied Mr. Stevens; "everybody knows him. Now about that otheraffair. " Here he whispered so low, that Kinch could only learn they wereplanning an attack on the house of some one, but failed in discovering thename. McCloskey departed as soon as he had received full directions fromMr. Stevens, and his retreating steps might be still heard upon the stairs, when Mr. Stevens unlocked his office-door and entered. 

After giving him sufficient time to get quietly seated, Kinch followed, anddelivered the clothes left with him the evening previous. He was very muchstruck with Mr. Stevens's altered appearance, and, in fact, would not haverecognized him, but for his voice. 

"You don't seem to be well?" remarked Kinch, inquiringly. 

"No, I'm not, " he replied, gruffly; "I've caught cold. " As Kinch wasleaving the office, he called after him, "Did you find a paper in your shopthis morning?"

"No, sir, " replied Kinch, "_I didn't_;" but mentally he observed, "My daddydid though;" and, fearful of some other troublesome question, he took leaveimmediately. 

Fatigued and out of breath, Kinch arrived at the house of Mr. Walters, where he considered it best to go and communicate what he had learned. 

Mr. Walters was at dinner when he received from the maid a summons to theparlour to see a lad, who said his business was a matter "of life ordeath. " He was obliged to smile at the air of importance with which Kinchcommenced the relation of what he had overheard--but the smile gave placeto a look of anxiety and indignation long ere he had finished, and at theconclusion of the communication he was highly excited and alarmed. 

"The infernal scoundrel!" exclaimed Mr. Walters. "Are you sure it was myhouse?"

"Yes, sure, " was Kinch's reply. "You are the only coloured person living inthe square--and he said plain enough for anybody to understand, 'Easton-street, corner of Shotwell. ' I heard every word but what they saidtowards the last in a whisper. "

"You couldn't catch anything of it?" asked Mr. Walters. 

"No, I missed that; they talked too low for me to hear. "

After reflecting a few moments, Mr. Walters said: "Not a word of this is tobe lisped anywhere except with my permission, and by my direction. Have youhad your dinner?"

"No, sir, " was the prompt reply. 

"I want to despatch a note to Mr. Ellis, by you, if it won't trouble youtoo much. Can you oblige me?"

"Oh, yes, sir, by all means, " replied Kinch, "I'll go there with pleasure. "

"Then whilst I'm writing, " continued Mr. Walters, "you can be eating yourdinner, that will economize time, you know. "

Kinch followed the servant who answered the bell into the dining-room whichMr. Walters had just left. On being supplied with a knife and fork, hehelped himself bountifully to the roast duck, then pouring out a glass ofwine, he drank with great enthusiasm, to "our honoured self, " whichproceeding caused infinite amusement to the two servants who were peepingat him through the dining-room door. "Der-licious, " exclaimed Kinch, depositing his glass upon the table; "guess I'll try another;" and suitingthe action to the word, he refilled his glass, and dispatched its contentsin the wake of the other. Having laboured upon the duck until his appetitewas somewhat appeased, he leant back in his chair and suffered his plate tobe changed for another, which being done, he made an attack upon a peachpie, and nearly demolished it outright. 

This last performance brought his meal to a conclusion, and with a look ofweariness, he remarked, "I don't see how it is--but as soon as I have eatfor a little while my appetite is sure to leave me--now I can't eat a bitmore. But the worst thing is walking down to Mr. Ellis's. I don't feel abit like it, but I suppose I must;" and reluctantly rising from the table, he returned to the parlour, where he found Mr. Walters folding the note hehad promised to deliver. 

As soon as he had despatched Kinch on his errand, Mr. Walters put on hishat and walked to the office of the mayor. 

"Is his honour in?" he asked of one of the police, who was lounging in theanteroom. 

"Yes, he is--what do you want with him?" asked the official, in a rudetone. 

"That, sir, is none of your business, " replied Mr. Walters; "if the mayoris in, hand him this card, and say I wish to see him. "

Somewhat awed by Mr. Walters's dignified and decided manner, the man wentquickly to deliver his message, and returned with an answer that his honourwould be obliged to Mr. Walters if he would step into his office. 

On following the officer, he was ushered into a small room--the privateoffice of the chief magistrate of the city. 

"Take a seat, sir, " said the mayor, politely, "it is some time since wehave met. I think I had the pleasure of transacting business with you quitefrequently some years back if I am not mistaken. "

"You are quite correct, " replied Mr. Walters, "and being so favourablyimpressed by your courtesy on the occasions to which you refer, I haveventured to intrude upon you with a matter of great importance, not only tomyself, but I think I may say to the public generally. Since this morning, circumstances have come under my notice that leave no doubt on my mindthat a thoroughly-concerted plan is afoot for the destruction of theproperty of a large number of our coloured citizens--mine amongst the rest. You must be aware, " he continued, "that many very serious disturbances haveoccurred lately in the lower part of the city. "

"Yes, I've heard something respecting it, " replied the mayor, "but Ibelieve they were nothing more than trifling combats between the negroesand the whites in that vicinity. "

"Oh, no, sir! I assure you, " rejoined Mr. Walters, "they were and areanything but trifling. I regard them, however, as only faint indications ofwhat we may expect if the thing is not promptly suppressed; there is anorganized gang of villains, who are combined for the sole purpose ofmobbing us coloured citizens; and, as we are inoffensive, we certainlydeserve protection; and here, " continued Mr. Walters, "is a copy of thelist of places upon which it is rumoured an attack is to be made. "

"I really don't see how I'm to prevent it, Mr. Walters; with the exceptionof your own residence, all that are here enumerated are out of myjurisdiction. I can send two or three police for your protection if youthink it necessary. But I really can't see my way clear to do anythingfurther. "

"Two or three police!" said Mr. Walters, with rising indignation at theapathy and indifference the mayor exhibited; "they would scarcely be of anymore use than as many women. If that is the extent of the aid you canafford me, I must do what I can to protect myself. "

"I trust your fears lead you to exaggerate the danger, " said the mayor, asMr. Walters arose to depart; "perhaps it is _only_ rumour after all. "

"I might have flattered myself with the same idea, did I not feel convincedby what has so recently occurred but a short distance from my own house; atany rate, if I am attacked, they will find I am not unprepared. Good day, "and bowing courteously to the mayor, Mr. Walters departed. 

CHAPTER XX. 

The Attack. 

Mr. Walters lost no time in sending messengers to the various partiesthreatened by the mob, warning them either to leave their houses or to makeevery exertion for a vigorous defence. Few, however, adopted the latterextremity; the majority fled from their homes, leaving what effects theycould not carry away at the mercy of the mob, and sought an asylum in thehouses of such kindly-disposed whites as would give them shelter. 

Although the authorities of the district had received the most positiveinformation of the nefarious schemes of the rioters, they had not made theslightest efforts to protect the poor creatures threatened in their personsand property, but let the tide of lawlessness flow on unchecked. 

Throughout the day parties of coloured people might have been seen hurryingto the upper part of the city: women with terror written on their faces, some with babes in their arms and children at their side, hastening to sometemporary place of refuge, in company with men who were bending beneath theweight of household goods. 

Mr. Walters had converted his house into a temporary fortress: the shuttersof the upper windows had been loop-holed, double bars had been placedacross the doors and windows on the ground floor, carpets had been takenup, superfluous furniture removed, and an air of thorough preparationimparted. A few of Mr. Walters's male friends had volunteered their aid indefence of his house, and their services had been accepted. 

Mr. Ellis, whose house was quite indefensible (it being situated in aneighbourhood swarming with the class of which the mob was composed), haddecided on bringing his family to the house of Mr. Walters, and sharingwith him the fortunes of the night, his wife and daughters having declaredthey would feel as safe there as elsewhere; and, accordingly, about five inthe afternoon, Mrs. Ellis came up, accompanied by Kinch and the girls. 

Caddy and Kinch, who brought up the rear, seemed very solicitous respectingthe safety of a package that the latter bore in his arms. 

"What have you there?" asked Mr. Walters, with a smile; "it must be powder, or some other explosive matter, you take such wonderful pains for itspreservation. Come, Caddy, tell us what it is; is it powder?"

"No, Mr. Walters, it isn't powder, " she replied; "it's nothing that willblow the house up or burn it down. "

"What is it, then? You tell us, Kinch. "

"Just do, if you think best, " said Caddy, giving him a threatening glance;whereupon, Master Kinch looked as much as to say, "If you were to put me onthe rack you couldn't get a word out of me. "

"I suppose I shall have to give you up, " said Mr. Walters at last; "butdon't stand here in the entry; come up into the drawing-room. "

Mrs. Ellis and Esther followed him upstairs, and stood at the door of thedrawing-room surveying the preparations for defence that the appearance ofthe room so abundantly indicated. Guns were stacked in the corner, a numberof pistols lay upon the mantelpiece, and a pile of cartridges was heaped upbeside a small keg of powder that stood upon the table opposite thefire-place. 

"Dear me!" exclaimed Mrs. Ellis, "this looks dreadful; it almost frightensme out of my wits to see so many dangerous weapons scattered about. "

"And how does it affect our quiet Esther?" asked Mr. Walters. 

"It makes me wish I were a man, " she replied, with considerable vehemenceof manner. All started at this language from one of her usually gentledemeanour. 

"Why, Esther, how you talk, girl: what's come over you?"

"Talk!" replied she. "I say nothing that I do not feel. As we came throughthe streets to-day, and I saw so many inoffensive creatures, who, likeourselves, have never done these white wretches the least injury, --to seethem and us driven from our homes by a mob of wretches, who can accuse usof nothing but being darker than themselves, --it takes all the woman out ofmy bosom, and makes me feel like a----" here Esther paused, and bit her lipto prevent the utterance of a fierce expression that hovered on the tip ofher tongue. 

She then continued: "One poor woman in particular I noticed: she had a babein her arms, poor thing, and was weeping bitterly because she knew of noplace to go to seek for shelter or protection. A couple of white men stoodby jeering and taunting her. I felt as though I could have strangled them:had I been a man, I would have attacked them on the spot, if I had beensure they would have killed me the next moment. "

"Hush! Esther, hush! my child; you must not talk so, it soundsunwomanly--unchristian. Why, I never heard you talk so before. " Esther madeno reply, but stood resting her forehead upon the mantelpiece. Her face wasflushed with excitement, and her dark eyes glistened like polished jet. 

Mr. Walters stood regarding her for a time with evident admiration, andthen said, "You are a brave one, after my own heart. " Esther hung down herhead, confused by the ardent look he cast upon her, as he continued, "Youhave taken me by surprise; but it's always the way with you quiet people;events like these bring you out--seem to change your very natures, as itwere. We must look out, " said he, with a smile, turning to one of the youngmen, "or Miss Ellis will excel us all in courage. I shall expect greatthings from her if we are attacked to-night. "

"Don't make a jest of me, Mr. Walters, " said Esther, and as she spoke hereyes moistened and her lip quivered with vexation. 

"No, no, my dear girl, don't misunderstand me, " replied he, quickly;"nothing was farther from my thoughts. I truly meant all that I said. Ibelieve you to be a brave girl. "

"If you really think so, " rejoined Esther, "prove it by showing me how toload these. " As she spoke she took from the mantel one of the pistols thatwere lying there, and turned it over to examine it. 

"Oh! put that down, Esther, put that down immediately, " almost screamedMrs. Ellis; "what with your speeches and your guns you'll quite set mecrazy; do take it from her, Walters; it will certainly go off. "

"There's not the least danger, Ellen, " he replied; "there's nothing in it. "

"Well, I'm afraid of guns, loaded or unloaded; they are dangerous, all ofthem, whether they have anything in them or not. Do you hear me, Esther; doput that down and come out of here. "

"Oh, no, mother, " said she, "do let me remain; there, I'll lay the pistolsdown and won't touch them again whilst you are in the room. "

"You may safely leave her in my hands, " interposed Mr. Walters. "If shewants to learn, let her; it won't injure her in the least, I'll take careof that. " This assurance somewhat quieted Mrs. Ellis, who left the room andtook up her quarters in another apartment. 

"Now, Mr. Walters, " said Esther, taking off her bonnet, I'm quite inearnest about learning to load these pistols, and I wish you to instructme. You may be hard pressed tonight, and unable to load for yourselves, andin such an emergency I could perhaps be of great use to you. "

"But, my child, " replied he, "to be of use in the manner you propose, youwould be compelled to remain in quite an exposed situation. "

"I am aware of that, " calmly rejoined Esther. "And still you are notafraid?" he asked, in surprise. 

"Why should I be; I shall not be any more exposed than you or my father. "

"That's enough--I'll teach you. Look here, " said Mr. Walters, "observe howI load this. " Esther gave her undivided attention to the work before her, and when he had finished, she took up another pistol and loaded it with aprecision and celerity that would have reflected honour on a more practisedhand. 

"Well done!--capital!" exclaimed Mr. Walters, as she laid down the weapon. "You'll do, my girl; as I said before, you are one after my own heart. Now, whilst you are loading the rest, I will go downstairs, where I have somelittle matters to attend to. " On the stair-way he was met by Kinch andCaddy, who were tugging up a large kettle of water. "Is it possible, Caddy, " asked Mr. Walters, "that your propensity to dabble in soap andwater has overcome you even at this critical time? You certainly can't begoing to scrub?"

"No, I'm not going to scrub, " she replied, "nor do anything like it. We'vegot our plans, haven't we, Kinch?"

"Let's hear what your plans are. I'd like to be enlightened a little, ifconvenient, " said Mr. Walters. 

"Well, it's _not_ convenient, Mr. Walters, so you need not expect to hear aword about them. You'd only laugh if we were to tell you, so we're going tokeep it to ourselves, ain't we, Kinch?"

The latter, thus appealed to, put on an air of profound mystery, andintimated that if they were permitted to pursue the even tenor of theirway, great results might be expected; but if they were balked in theirdesigns, he could not answer for the consequences. 

"You and Esther have your plans, " resumed Caddy, "and we have ours. Wedon't believe in powder and shot, and don't want anything to do with guns;for my part I'm afraid of them, so please let us go by--do, now, that's agood soul!"

"You seem to forget that I'm the commander of this fortress, " said Mr. Walters, "and that I have a right to know everything that transpires withinit; but I see you look obstinate, and as I haven't time to settle thematter now, you may pass on. I wonder what they can be about, " he remarked, as they hurried on. "I must steal up by-and-by and see for myself. "

One after another the various friends of Mr. Walters came in, each bringingsome vague report of the designs of the mob. They all described theexcitement as growing more intense; that the houses of various prominentAbolitionists had been threatened; that an attempt had been made to fireone of the coloured churches; and that, notwithstanding the rioters madelittle scruple in declaring their intentions, the authorities were notusing the slightest effort to restrain them, or to protect the partiesthreatened. Day was fast waning, and the approaching night brought with itclouds and cold. 

Whilst they had been engaged in their preparations for defence, none hadtime to reflect upon the danger of their situation; but now that all wasprepared, and there was nothing to sustain the excitement of the last fewhours, a chill crept over the circle who were gathered round the fire. There were no candles burning, and the uncertain glow from the grate gave arather weird-like look to the group. The arms stacked in the corner of theroom, and the occasional glitter of the pistol-barrels as the flames roseand fell, gave the whole a peculiarly strange effect. 

"We look belligerent enough, I should think, " remarked Mr. Walters, lookingaround him. "I wish we were well out of this: it's terrible to be driven tothese extremities--but we are not the aggressors, thank God! and theresults, be they what they may, are not of our seeking. I have a right todefend my own: I have asked protection of the law, and it is too weak, ortoo indifferent, to give it; so I have no alternative but to protectmyself. But who is here? It has grown so dark in the room that I canscarcely distinguish any one. Where are all the ladies?" "None are hereexcept myself, " answered Esther; "all the rest are below stairs. "

"And where are you? I hear, but can't see you; give me your hand, " said he, extending his own in the direction from which her voice proceeded. "Howcold your hand is, " he continued; "are you frightened?"

"Frightened!" she replied; "I never felt calmer in my life--put your fingeron my pulse. "

Mr. Walters did as he was desired, and exclaimed, "Steady as a clock. Itrust nothing may occur before morning to cause it to beat more hurriedly. "

"Let us put some wood on these coals, " suggested Mr. Ellis; "it will make aslight blaze, and give us a chance to see each other. " As he spoke he tookup a few small fagots and cast them upon the fire. 

The wood snapped and crackled, as the flames mounted the chimney and cast acheerful glow upon the surrounding objects: suddenly a thoroughly ignitedpiece flew off from the rest and fell on the table in the midst of thecartridges. "Run for your lives!" shrieked one of the party. "The powder!the powder!" Simultaneously they nearly all rushed to the door. 

Mr. Walters stood as one petrified. Esther alone, of the whole party, retained her presence of mind; springing forward, she grasped the blazingfragment and dashed it back again into the grate. All this passed in a fewseconds, and in the end Esther was so overcome with excitement and terror, that she fainted outright. Hearing no report, those who had fled cautiouslyreturned, and by their united efforts she was soon restored toconsciousness. 

"What a narrow escape!" said she, trembling, and covering her face with herhands; "it makes me shudder to think of it. "

"We owe our lives to you, my brave girl, " said Mr. Walters; "your presenceof mind has quite put us all to the blush. "

"Oh! move the powder some distance off, or the same thing may happenagain. Please do move it, Mr. Walters; I shall have no peace whilst it isthere. "

Whilst they were thus engaged, a loud commotion was heard below stairs, andwith one accord all started in the direction from whence the noiseproceeded. 

"Bring a light! bring a light!" cried Mrs. Ellis; "something dreadful hashappened. " A light was soon procured, and the cause of this second alarmfully ascertained. 

Master Kinch, in his anxiety to give himself as warlike an appearance aspossible, had added to his accoutrements an old sword that he haddiscovered in an out-of-the-way corner of the garret. Not being accustomedto weapons of this nature, he had been constantly getting it between hislegs, and had already been precipitated by it down a flight of steps, tothe imminent risk of his neck. Undaunted, however, by this mishap, he hadclung to it with wonderful tenacity, until it had again caused a disasterthe noise of which had brought all parties into the room where it hadoccurred. 

The light being brought, Master Kinch crawled out from under a table withhis head and back covered with batter, a pan of which had been overturnedupon him, in consequence of his having been tripped up by his sword andfalling violently against the table on which it stood. 

"I said you had better take that skewer off, " exclaimed Caddy: "It's awonder it hasn't broke your neck before now; but you are such a goose youwould wear it, " said she, surveying her aide-de-camp with derision, as hevainly endeavoured to scrape the batter from his face. 

"Please give me some water, " cried Kinch, looking from one to the other ofthe laughing group: "help a feller to get it off, can't you--it's all in myeyes, and the yeast is blinding me. "

The only answer to this appeal was an additional shout of laughter, withoutthe slightest effort for his relief. At last Caddy, taking compassion uponhis forlorn condition, procured a basin of water, and assisted him to washfrom his woolly pate what had been intended for the next day's meal. "This is the farce after what was almost a tragedy, " said Mr. Walters, asthey ascended the stairs again; "I wonder what we shall have next!"

They all returned to their chairs by the drawing-room fire after thisoccurrence, and remained in comparative silence for some time, until loudcries of "Fire! fire!" startled them from their seats. 

"The whole of the lower part of the city appears to be in a blaze, "exclaimed one of the party who had hastened to the window; "look at theflames--they are ascending from several places. They are at their work; wemay expect them here soon. "

"Well, they'll find us prepared when they do come, " rejoined Mr. Walters. 

"What do you propose?" asked Mr. Ellis. "Are we to fire on them at once, orwait for their attack?"

"Wait for their attack, by all means, " said he, in reply;--"if they throwstones, you'll find plenty in that room with which to return thecompliment; if they resort to fire-arms, then we will do the same; I wantto be strictly on the defensive--but at the same time we must defendourselves fully and energetically. "

In about an hour after this conversation a dull roar was heard in thedistance, which grew louder and nearer every moment. 

"Hist!" said Esther; "do you hear that noise? Listen! isn't that the mobcoming?"

Mr. Walters opened the shutter, and then the sound became more distinct. Onthey came, nearer and nearer, until the noise of their voices became almostdeafening. 

There was something awful in the appearance of the motley crowd that, likea torrent, foamed and surged through the streets. Some were bearing largepine torches that filled the air with thick smoke and partially lighted upthe surrounding gloom. Most of them were armed with clubs, and a few withguns and pistols. 

As they approached the house, there seemed to be a sort of consultationbetween the ringleaders, for soon after every light was extinguished, andthe deafening yells of "Kill the niggers!" "Down with the Abolitionists!"were almost entirely stilled. 

"I wonder what that means, " said Mr. Walters, who had closed the shutter, and was surveying, through an aperture that had been cut, the turbulentmass below. "Look out for something soon. "

He had scarcely finished speaking, when a voice in the street cried, "One--two--three!" and immediately there followed a volley of missiles, crushing in the windows of the chamber above, and rattling upon theshutters of the room in which the party of defenders were gathered. A yellthen went up from the mob, followed by another shower of stones. 

"It is now our turn, " said Mr. Walters, coolly. "Four of you placeyourselves at the windows of the adjoining room; the rest remain here. Whenyou see a bright light reflected on the crowd below, throw open theshutters, and hurl down stones as long as the light is shining. Now, takeyour places, and as soon as you are prepared stamp upon the floor. "

Each of the men now armed themselves with two or more of the largest stonesthey could find, from the heap that had been provided for the occasion; andin a few seconds a loud stamping upon the floor informed Mr. Walters thatall was ready. He now opened the aperture in the shutter, and placedtherein a powerful reflecting light which brought the shouting crowd belowclearly into view, and in an instant a shower of heavy stones came crashingdown upon their upturned faces. 

Yells of rage and agony ascended from the throng, who, not seeing anyprevious signs of life in the house, had no anticipation of so prompt andsevere a response to their attack. For a time they swayed to and fro, bewildered by the intense light and crushing shower of stones that had sosuddenly fallen upon them. Those in the rear, however, pressing forward, did not permit the most exposed to retire out of reach of missiles from thehouse; on perceiving which, Mr. Walters again turned the light upon them, and immediately another stony shower came rattling down, which caused aprecipitate retreat. 

"The house is full of niggers!--the house is full of niggers!" criedseveral voices--"Shoot them! kill them!" and immediately several shots werefired at the window by the mob below. 

"Don't fire yet, " said Mr. Walters to one of the young men who had his handupon a gun. "Stop awhile. When we do fire, let it be to some purpose--letus make sure that some one is hit. "

Whilst they were talking, two or three bullets pierced the shutters, andflattened themselves upon the ceiling above. 

"Those are rifle bullets, " remarked one of the young men--"do let us fire. "

"It is too great a risk to approach the windows at present; keep quiet fora little while; and, when the light is shown again, fire. But, hark!"continued he, "they are trying to burst open the door. We can't reach themthere without exposing ourselves, and if they should get into the entry itwould be hard work to dislodge them. "

"Let us give them a round; probably it will disperse those farthestoff--and those at the door will follow, " suggested one of the young men. 

"We'll try it, at any rate, " replied Walters. "Take your places, don't fireuntil I show the light--then pick your man, and let him have it. There isno use to fire, you know, unless you hit somebody. Are you ready?" heasked. 

"Yes, " was the prompt reply. 

"Then here goes, " said he, turning the light upon the crowd below--who, having some experience in what would follow, did their best to get out ofreach; but they were too late--for the appearance of the light was followedby the instantaneous report of several guns which did fearful executionamidst the throng of ruffians. Two or three fell on the spot, and werecarried off by their comrades with fearful execrations. 

The firing now became frequent on both sides, and Esther's services cameinto constant requisition. It was in vain that her father endeavoured topersuade her to leave the room; notwithstanding the shutters had beenthrown open to facilitate operations from within and the exposure therebygreatly increased, she resolutely refused to retire, and continuedfearlessly to load the guns and hand them to the men. 

"They've got axes at work upon the door, if they are not dislodged, they'llcut their way in, " exclaimed one of the young men--"the stones areexhausted, and I don't know what we shall do. "

Just then the splash of water was heard, followed by shrieks of agony. 

"Oh, God! I'm scalded! I'm scalded!" cried one of the men upon the steps. "Take me away! take me away!"

In the midst of his cries another volume of scalding water came pouringdown upon the group at the door, which was followed by a rush from thepremises. 

"What is that--who could have done that--where has that water come from?"asked Mr. Walters, as he saw the seething shower pass the window, and fallupon the heads below. "I must go and see. "

He ran upstairs, and found Kinch and Caddy busy putting on more water, theyhaving exhausted one kettle-full--into which they had put two or threepounds of cayenne pepper--on the heads of the crowd below. 

"We gave 'em a settler, didn't we, Mr. Walters?" asked Caddy, as he enteredthe room. "It takes us; we fight with hot water. This, " said she, holdingup a dipper, "is my gun. I guess we made 'em squeal. "

"You've done well, Caddy, " replied he--"first-rate, my girl. I believeyou've driven them off entirely, " he continued, peeping out of the window. "They are going off, at any rate, " said he, drawing in his head; "whetherthey will return or not is more than I can say. Keep plenty of hot water, ready, but don't expose yourselves, children. Weren't you afraid to go tothe window?" he asked. 

"We didn't go near it. Look at this, " replied Caddy, fitting a broom handleinto the end of a very large tin dipper. "Kinch cut this to fit; so we havenothing to do but to stand back here, dip up the water, and let them haveit; the length of the handle keeps us from being seen from the street. Thatwas Kinch's plan. "

"And a capital one it was too. Your head, Kinch, evidently has no batterwithin, if it has without; there is a great deal in that. Keep a brightlook out, " continued Mr. Walters; "I'm going downstairs. If they comeagain, let them have plenty of your warm pepper-sauce. "

On returning to the drawing-room, Mr. Walters found Mr. Dennis, one of thecompany, preparing to go out. "I'm about to avail myself of the advantageafforded by my fair complexion, and play the spy, " said he. "They can'tdiscern at night what I am, and I may be able to learn some of theirplans. "

"A most excellent idea, " said Mr. Walters; "but pray be careful. You maymeet some one who will recognise you. "

"Never fear, " replied Mr. Dennis. "I'll keep a bright look out for that. "And, drawing his cap far down over his eyes, to screen his face as much aspossible, he sallied out into the street. 

He had not been absent more than a quarter of an hour, when he returnedlimping into the house. "Have they attacked you--are you hurt?" asked theanxious group by which he was surrounded. 

"I'm hurt-, but not by them. I got on very well, and gleaned a great dealof information, when I heard a sudden exclamation, and, on looking round, Ifound myself recognized by a white man of my acquaintance. I ranimmediately; and whether I was pursued or not, I'm unable to say. I hadalmost reached here, when my foot caught in a grating and gave my anclesuch a wrench that I'm unable to stand. " As he spoke, his face grew palefrom the suffering the limb was occasioning. "I'm sorry, very sorry, " hecontinued, limping to the sofa; "I was going out again immediately. Theyintend making an attack on Mr. Garie's house: I didn't hear his namementioned, but I heard one of the men, who appeared to be a ringleader, say, 'We're going up to Winter-street, to give a coat of tar and feathersto a white man, who is married to a nigger woman. ' They can allude to nonebut him. How annoying that this accident should have happened just now, ofall times. They ought to be warned. "

"Oh, poor Emily!" cried Esther, bursting into tears; "it will kill her, Iknow it will; she is so ill. Some one must go and warn them. Let me try;the mob, even if I met them, surely would not assault a woman. "

"You mustn't think of such a thing, Esther, " exclaimed Mr. Walters; "theidea isn't to be entertained for a moment. You don't know what ruthlesswretches they are. Your colour discovered you would find your sex but atrifling protection. I'd go, but it would be certain death to me: my blackface would quickly obtain for me a passport to another world if I werediscovered in the street just now. "

"I'll go, " calmly spoke Mr. Ellis. "I can't rest here and think of whatthey are exposed to. By skulking through bye-streets and keeping under theshadows of houses I may escape observation--at any rate, I must run therisk. " And he began to button up his coat. "Don't let your mother know I'mgone; stick by her, my girl, " said he, kissing Esther; "trust inGod, --He'll protect me. "

Esther hung sobbing on her father's neck. "Oh, father, father, " said she, "I couldn't bear to see you go for any one but Emily and the children. "

"I know it, dear, " he replied; "it's my duty. Garie would do the same forme, I know, even at greater risk. Good-bye! good-bye!" And, disengaginghimself from the weeping girl, he started on his errand of mercy. 

Walking swiftly forwards, he passed over more than two-thirds of the waywithout the slightest interruption, the streets through which he passedbeing almost entirely deserted. He had arrived within a couple of squaresof the Garies, when suddenly, on turning a corner, he found himself in themidst of a gang of ruffians. 

"Here's a nigger! here's a nigger!" shouted two or three of them, almostsimultaneously, making at the same time a rush at Mr. Ellis, who turned andran, followed by the whole gang. Fear lent him wings, and he fastoutstripped his pursuers, and would have entirely escaped, had he notturned into a street which unfortunately was closed at the other end. Thishe did not discover until it was too late to retrace his steps, hispursuers having already entered the street. 

Looking for some retreat, he perceived he was standing near an unfinishedbuilding. Tearing off the boards that were nailed across the window, hevaulted into the room, knocking off his hat, which fell upon the pavementbehind him. Scarcely had he groped his way to the staircase of the dwellingwhen he heard the footsteps of his pursuers. 

"He can't have got through, " exclaimed one of them, "the street is closedup at the end; he must be up here somewhere. "

Lighting one of their torches, they began to look around them, and soondiscovered the hat lying beneath the window. 

"He's in here, boys; we've tree'd the 'coon, " laughingly exclaimed one ofthe ruffians. "Let's after him. "

Tearing off the remainder of the boards, one or two entered, opened thedoor from the inside, and gave admission to the rest. 

Mr. Ellis mounted to the second story, followed by his pursuers; on hewent, until he reached the attic, from which a ladder led to the roof. Ascending this, he drew it up after him, and found himself on the roof of ahouse that was entirely isolated. 

The whole extent of the danger flashed upon him at once. Here he wascompletely hemmed in, without the smallest chance for escape. Heapproached the edge and looked over, but could discover nothing near enoughto reach by a leap. 

"I must sell my life dearly, " he said. "God be my helper now--He is all Ihave to rely upon. " And as he spoke, the great drops of sweat fell from hisforehead. Espying a sheet of lead upon the roof, he rolled it into a clubof tolerable thickness, and waited the approach of his pursuers. 

"He's gone on the roof, " he heard one of them exclaim, "and pulled theladder up after him. " Just then, a head emerged from the trap-door, theowner of which, perceiving Mr. Ellis, set up a shout of triumph. 

"We've got him! we've got him!--here he is!" which cries were answered bythe exultant voices of his comrades below. 

An attempt was now made by one of them to gain the roof; but he immediatelyreceived a blow from Mr. Ellis that knocked him senseless into the arms ofhis companions. Another attempted the same feat, and met a similar fate. 

This caused a parley as to the best mode of proceeding, which resulted inthe simultaneous appearance of three of the rioters at the opening. Nothingdaunted, Mr. Ellis attacked them with such fierceness and energy that theywere forced to descend, muttering the direst curses. In a few momentsanother head appeared, at which Mr. Ellis aimed a blow of great force; andthe club descended upon a hat placed upon a stick. Not meeting theresistance expected, it flew from his hand, and he was thrown forward, nearly falling down the doorway. 

With a shout of triumph, they seized his arm, and held him firmly, untilone or two of them mounted the roof. 

"Throw him over! throw him over!" exclaimed some of the fiercest of thecrowd. One or two of the more merciful endeavoured to interfere againstkilling him outright; but the frenzy of the majority triumphed, and theydetermined to cast him into the street below. 

Mr. Ellis clung to the chimney, shrieking, --"Save me! save me!--Help! help!Will no one save me!" His cries were unheeded by the ruffians, and thepeople at the surrounding windows were unable to afford him any assistance, even if they were disposed to do so. 

Despite his cries and resistance, they forced him to the edge of the roof;he clinging to them the while, and shrieking in agonized terror. Forcingoff his hold, they thrust him forward and got him partially over the edge, where he clung calling frantically for aid. One of the villains, to makehim loose his hold, struck on his fingers with the handle of a hatchetfound on the roof; not succeeding in breaking his hold by these means, with, an oath he struck with the blade, severing two of the fingers fromone hand and deeply mangling the other. 

With a yell of agony, Mr. Ellis let go his hold, and fell upon a pile ofrubbish below, whilst a cry of triumphant malignity went up from the crowdon the roof. 

A gentleman and some of his friends kindly carried the insensible man intohis house. "Poor fellow!" said he, "he is killed, I believe. What a gang ofwretches. These things are dreadful; that such a thing can be permitted ina Christian city is perfectly appalling. " The half-dressed family gatheredaround the mangled form of Mr. Ellis, and gave vent to loud expressions ofsympathy. A doctor was quickly sent for, who stanched the blood that wasflowing from his hands and head. 

"I don't think he can live, " said he, "the fall was too great. As far as Ican judge, his legs and two of his ribs are broken. The best thing we cando, is to get him conveyed to the hospital; look in his pockets, perhaps wecan find out who he is. "

There was nothing found, however, that afforded the least clue to his nameand residence; and he was, therefore, as soon as persons could be procuredto assist, borne to the hospital, where his wounds were dressed, and thebroken limbs set. 

CHAPTER XXI. 

More Horrors. 

Unaware of the impending danger, Mr. Garie sat watching by the bedside ofhis wife. She had been quite ill; but on the evening of which we write, although nervous and wakeful, was much better. The bleak winds of the fastapproaching winter dealt unkindly with her delicate frame, accustomed asshe was to the soft breezes of her Southern home. 

Mr. Garie had been sitting up looking at the fires in the lower part of thecity. Not having been out all that day or the one previous, he knew nothingof the fearful state into which matters had fallen. 

"Those lights are dying away, my dear, " said he to his wife; "there musthave been quite an extensive conflagration. " Taking out his watch, hecontinued, "almost two o'clock; why, how late I've been sitting up. Ireally don't know whether it's worth while to go to bed or not, I should beobliged to get up again at five o'clock; I go to New York to-morrow, orrather to-day; there are some matters connected with Uncle John's will thatrequire my personal attention. Dear old man, how suddenly he died. "

"I wish, dear, you could put off your journey until I am better, " said Mrs. Garie, faintly; "I do hate you to go just now. "

"I would if I could, Emily; but it is impossible. I shall be backto-morrow, or the next day, at farthest. Whilst I'm there, I'll----"

"Hush!" interrupted Mrs. Garie, "stop a moment. Don't you hear a noise likethe shouting of a great many people. " "Oh, it's only the firemen, "replied he; "as I was about to observe--"

"Hush!" cried she again. "Listen now, that don't sound like the firemen inthe least. " Mr. Garie paused as the sound of a number of voices became moredistinct. 

Wrapping his dressing-gown more closely about him, he walked into the frontroom, which overlooked the street. Opening the window, he saw a number ofmen--some bearing torches--coming rapidly in the direction of his dwelling. "I wonder what all this is for; what can it mean, " he exclaimed. 

They had now approached sufficiently near for him to understand theircries. "Down with the Abolitionist--down with the Amalgamationist! givethem tar and feathers!"

"It's a mob--and that word Amalgamationist--can it be pointed at me? Ithardly seems possible; and yet I have a fear that there is somethingwrong. "

"What is it, Garie? What is the matter?" asked his wife, who, with a shawlhastily thrown across her shoulders, was standing pale and trembling by thewindow. 

"Go in, Emily, my dear, for Heaven's sake; you'll get your death of cold inthis bleak night air--go in; as soon as I discover the occasion of thedisturbance, I'll come and tell you. Pray go in. " Mrs. Garie retired a fewfeet from the window, and stood listening to the shouts in the street. 

The rioters, led on evidently by some one who knew what he was about, pressed forward to Mr. Garie's house; and soon the garden in front wasfilled with the shouting crowd. 

"What do you all want--why are you on my premises, creating thisdisturbance?" cried Mr. Garie. 

"Come down and you'll soon find out. You white livered Abolitionist, comeout, damn you! we are going to give you a coat of tar and feathers, andyour black wench nine-and-thirty. Yes, come down--come down!" shoutedseveral, "or we will come up after you. "

"I warn you, " replied Mr. Garie, "against any attempt at violence upon myperson, family, or property. I forbid you to advance another foot upon thepremises. If any man of you enters my house, I'll shoot him down as quickas I would a mad dog. "

"Shut up your gap; none of your cussed speeches, " said a voice in thecrowd; "if you don't come down and give yourself up, we'll come in and takeyou--that's the talk, ain't it, boys?" A general shout of approval answeredthis speech, and several stones were thrown at Mr. Garie, one of whichstruck him on the breast. 

Seeing the utter futility of attempting to parley with the infuriatedwretches below, he ran into the room, exclaiming, "Put on some clothes, Emily! shoes first--quick--quick, wife!--your life depends upon it. I'llbring down the children and wake the servants. We must escape from thehouse--we are attacked by a mob of demons. Hurry, Emily! do, for God sake!"

Mr. Garie aroused the sleeping children, and threw some clothes upon them, over which he wrapped shawls or blankets, or whatever came to hand. Rushinginto the next room, he snatched a pair of loaded pistols from the drawer ofhis dressing-stand, and then hurried his terrified wife and children downthe stairs. 

"This way, dear--this way!" he cried, leading on toward the back door; "outthat way through the gate with the children, and into some of theneighbour's houses. I'll stand here to keep the way. "

"No, no, Garie, " she replied, frantically; "I won't go without you. "

"You must!" he cried, stamping his foot impatiently; "this is no time toparley--go, or we shall all be murdered. Listen, they've broken in thedoor. Quick--quick! go on;" and as he spoke, he pressed her and thechildren out of the door, and closed it behind them. 

Mrs. Garie ran down the garden, followed by the children; to her horror, she found the gate locked, and the key nowhere to be found. 

"What shall we do?" she cried. "Oh, we shall all be killed!" and her limbstrembled beneath her with cold and terror. "Let us hide in here, mother, "suggested Clarence, running toward the wood-house; "we'll be safe inthere. " Seeing that nothing better could be done, Mrs. Garie availedherself of the suggestion; and when she was fairly inside the place, fellfainting upon the ground. 

As she escaped through the back door, the mob broke in at the front, andwere confronting Mr. Garie, as he stood with his pistol pointed at them, prepared to fire. 

"Come another step forward and I fire!" exclaimed he, resolutely; but thosein the rear urged the advance of those in front, who approached cautiouslynearer and nearer their victim. Fearful of opening the door behind him, lest he should show the way taken by his retreating wife, he stooduncertain how to act; a severe blow from a stone, however, made him loseall reflection, and he immediately fired. A loud shriek followed the reportof his pistol, and a shower of stones was immediately hurled upon him. 

He quickly fired again, and was endeavouring to open the door to effect hisescape, when a pistol was discharged close to his head and he fell forwardon the entry floor lifeless. 

All this transpired in a few moments, and in the semi-darkness of theentry. Rushing forward over his lifeless form, the villains hastenedupstairs in search of Mrs. Garie. They ran shouting through the house, stealing everything valuable that they could lay their hands upon, andwantonly destroying the furniture; they would have fired the house, butwere prevented by McCloskey, who acted as leader of the gang. 

For two long hours they ransacked the house, breaking all they could notcarry off, drinking the wine in Mr. Garie's cellar, and shouting andscreaming like so many fiends. 

Mrs. Garie and the children lay crouching with terror in the wood-house, listening to the ruffians as they went through the yard cursing her and herhusband and uttering the direst threats of what they would do should shefall into their hands. Once she almost fainted on hearing one of thempropose opening the wood-house, to see if there was anything of value init--but breathed again when they abandoned it as not worth their attention. 

The children crouched down beside her--scarcely daring to whisper, lestthey should attract the attention of their persecutors. Shivering with coldthey drew closer around them the blanket with which they had beenprovidentially provided. 

"Brother, my feet are _so_ cold, " sobbed little Em. "I can't feel my toes. Oh, I'm so cold!"

"Put your feet closer to me, sissy, " answered her brother, baring himselfto enwrap her more thoroughly; "put my stockings on over yours;" and, aswell as they were able in the dark, he drew his stockings on over herbenumbed feet. "There, sis, that's better, " he whispered, with an attemptat cheerfulness, "now you'll be warmer. "

Just then Clarence heard a groan from his mother, so loud indeed that itwould have been heard without but for the noise and excitement around thehouse--and feeling for her in the dark, he asked, "Mother, are you worse?are you sick?"

A groan was her only answer. 

"Mother, mother, " he whispered, "do speak, please do!" and he endeavouredto put his arm around her. 

"Don't, dear--don't, " said she, faintly, "just take care of yoursister--you can't do me any good--don't speak, dear, the men will hearyou. "

Reluctantly the frightened child turned his attention again to his littlesister; ever and anon suppressed groans from his mother would reach hisears--at last he heard a groan even fierce in its intensity; and then thesounds grew fainter and fainter until they entirely ceased. The night tothe poor shivering creatures in their hiding place seemed interminablylong, and the sound of voices in the house had not long ceased when thefaint light of day pierced their cheerless shelter. 

Hearing the voices of some neighbours in the yard, Clarence hastened out, and seizing one of the ladies by the dress, cried imploringly, "Do come tomy mother, she's sick. "

"Why, where did you come from, chil?" said the lady, with a start ofastonishment. "Where have you been?"

"In there, " he answered, pointing to the wood-house. "Mother and sister arein there. "

The lady, accompanied by one or two others, hastened to the wood-house. 

"Where is she?" asked the foremost, for in the gloom of the place she couldnot perceive anything. 

"Here, " replied Clarence, "she's lying here. " On opening a small window, they saw Mrs. Garie lying in a corner stretched upon the boards, her headsupported by some blocks. "She's asleep, " said Clarence. "Mother--mother, "but there came no answer. "MOTHER, " said he, still louder, but yet therewas no response. 

Stepping forward, one of the females opened the shawl, which was heldfirmly in the clenched hands of Mrs. Garie--and there in her lap partiallycovered by her scanty nightdress, was discovered a new-born babe, who withits mother had journeyed in the darkness, cold, and night, to the betterland, that they might pour out their woes upon the bosom of their Creator. 

The women gazed in mournful silence on the touching scene before them. Clarence was on his knees, regarding with fear and wonder the unnaturalstillness of his mother--the child had never before looked on death, andcould not recognize its presence. Laying his hand on her cold cheek, hecried, with faltering voice, "Mother, _can't_ you speak?" but there was noanswering light in the fixed stare of those glassy eyes, and the lips ofthe dead could not move. "Why don't she speak?" he asked. 

"She can't, my dear; you must come away and leave her. She's better off, mydarling--she's _dead_. "

Then there was a cry of grief sprung up from the heart of that orphan boy, that rang in those women's ears for long years after; it was the firstoutbreak of a loving childish heart pierced with life's bitterest grief--amother's loss. 

The two children were kindly taken into the house of some benevolentneighbour, as the servants had all fled none knew whither. Little Em was ina profound stupor--the result of cold and terror, and it was foundnecessary to place her under the care of a physician. 

After they had all gone, an inquest was held by the coroner, and a veryunsatisfactory and untruthful verdict pronounced--one that did not at allcoincide with the circumstances of the case, but such a one as might havebeen expected where there was a great desire to screen the affair frompublic scrutiny. 

CHAPTER XXII. 

An Anxious Day. 

Esther Ellis, devoured with anxiety respecting the safety of her father andthe Garies, paced with impatient step up and down the drawing-room. Openingthe window, she looked to see if she could discover any signs of day. "It'spitchy dark, " she exclaimed, "and yet almost five o'clock. Father has run afearful risk. I hope nothing has happened to him. "

"I trust not. I think he's safe enough somewhere, " said Mr. Walters. "He'sno doubt been very cautious, and avoided meeting any one--don't worryyourself, my child, 'tis most likely he remained with them wherever theywent; probably they are at the house of some of their neighbours. "

"I can't help feeling dreadfully oppressed and anxious, " continued she. "Iwish he would come. "

Whilst she was speaking, her mother entered the room. "Any news of yourfather?" she asked, in a tone of anxiety. 

Esther endeavoured to conceal her own apprehensions, and rejoined, in ascheerful tone as she could assume--"Not yet, mother--it's too dark for usto expect him yet--he'll remain most likely until daylight. "

"He shouldn't have gone had I been here--he's no business to expose himselfin this way. "

"But, mother, " interrupted Esther, "only think of it--the safety of Emilyand the children were depending on it--we mustn't be selfish. "

"I know we oughtn't to be, my child, " rejoined her mother, "but it'snatural to the best of us--sometimes we can't help it. " Five--six--seveno'clock came and passed, and still there were no tidings of Mr. Ellis. 

"I can bear this suspense no longer, " exclaimed Esther. "If father don'tcome soon, I shall go and look for him. I've tried to flatter myself thathe's safe; but I'm almost convinced now that something has happened to him, or he'd have come back long before this--he knows how anxious we would allbe about him. I've tried to quiet mother and Caddy by suggesting variousreasons for his delay, but, at the same time, I cannot but cherish the mostdismal forebodings. I must go and look for him. "

"No, no, Esther--stay where you are at present--leave that to me. I'llorder a carriage and go up to Garie's immediately. "

"Well, do, Mr. Walters, and hurry back: won't you?" she rejoined, as heleft the apartment. 

In a few moments he returned, prepared to start, and was speedily driven toWinter-street. He found a group of people gathered before the gate, gazinginto the house. "The place has been attacked, " said he, as he walkedtowards the front door--picking his way amidst fragments of furniture, straw, and broken glass. At the entrance of the house he was met by Mr. Balch, Mr. Garie's lawyer. 

"This is a shocking affair, Walters, " said he, extending his hand--he wasan old friend of Mr. Walters. 

"Very shocking, indeed, " he replied, looking around. "But where is Garie?We sent to warn them of this. I hope they are all safe. "

"Safe!" repeated Mr. Balch, with an air of astonishment. "Why, man, haven'tyou heard?"

"Heard what?" asked Mr. Walters, looking alarmed. 

"That Mr. And Mrs. Garie are dead--both were killed last night. "

The shock of this sudden and totally unexpected disclosure was such thatMr. Walters leaned against the doorway for support. "It can't be possible, "he exclaimed at last, "not dead!" "Yes, _dead_, I regret to say--he wasshot through the head--and she died in the wood-house, of prematureconfinement, brought on by fright and exposure. "

"And the children?" gasped Walters. 

"They are safe, with some neighbours--it's heart-breaking to hear themweeping for their mother. " Here a tear glistened in the eye of Mr. Balch, and ran down his cheek. Brushing it off, he continued: "The coroner hasjust held an inquest, and they gave a most truthless verdict: nothingwhatever is said of the cause of the murder, or of the murderers; theysimply rendered a verdict--death caused by a wound from a pistol-shot, andhers--death from exposure. There seemed the greatest anxiety on the part ofthe coroner to get the matter over as quickly as possible, and few or nowitnesses were examined. But I'm determined to sift the matter to thebottom; if the perpetrators of the murder can be discovered, I'll leave nomeans untried to find them. "

"Do you know any one who sat on the inquest?" asked Walters. 

"Yes, one, " was the reply, "Slippery George, the lawyer; you are acquaintedwith him--George Stevens. I find he resides next door. "

"Do you know, " here interrupted Mr. Walters, "that I've my suspicions thatthat villain is at the bottom of these disturbances or at least has a largeshare in them. I have a paper in my possession, in his handwriting--it isin fact a list of the places destroyed by the mob last night--it fell intothe hands of a friend of mine by accident--he gave it to me--it put me onmy guard; and when the villains attacked my house last night they gotrather a warmer reception than they bargained for. "

"You astonish me! Is it possible your place was assaulted also?" asked Mr. Balch. 

"Indeed, it was--and a hot battle we had of it for a short space of time. But how did you hear of this affair?"

"I was sent for by I can't tell whom. When I came and saw what hadhappened, I immediately set about searching for a will that I made for Mr. Garie a few weeks since; it was witnessed and signed at my office, and hebrought it away with him. I can't discover it anywhere. I've ransackedevery cranny. It must have been carried off by some one. You are named init conjointly with myself as executor. All the property is left to her, poor thing, and his children. We must endeavour to find it somewhere--atany rate the children are secure; they are the only heirs--he had not, tomy knowledge, a single white relative. But let us go in and see thebodies. "

They walked together into the back room where the bodies were lying. Mrs. Garie was stretched upon the sofa, covered with a piano cloth; and herhusband was laid upon a long table, with a silk window-curtain thrownacross his face. 

The two gazed in silence on the face of Mr. Garie--the brow was still knit, the eyes staring vacantly, and the marble whiteness of the face unbroken, save by a few gouts of blood near a small blue spot over the eye where thebullet had entered. 

"He was the best-hearted creature in the world, " said Walters, as here-covered the face. 

"Won't you look at her?" asked Mr. Balch. 

"No, no--I can't, " continued Walters; "I've seen horrors enough for onemorning. I've another thing on my mind! A friend who assisted in thedefence of my house started up here last night, to warn them of theirdanger, and when I left home he had not returned: it's evident he hasn'tbeen here, and I greatly fear some misfortune has befallen him. Where arethe children? Poor little orphans, I must see them before I go. "

Accompanied by Mr. Balch, he called at the house where Clarence and Em hadfound temporary shelter. The children ran to him as soon as he entered theroom. "Oh! Mr. Walters, " sobbed Clarence, "my mother's dead--my mother'sdead!"

"Hush, dears--hush!" he replied, endeavouring to restrain his own tears, ashe took little Em in his arms. "Don't cry, my darling, " said he, as shegave rent to a fresh outburst of tears. 

"Oh, Mr. Walters!" said she, still sobbing, "she was all the mother I had. "

Mr. Balch here endeavoured to assist in pacifying the two little mourners. 

"Why don't father come?" asked Clarence. "Have you seen him, Mr. Walters?"

Mr. Walters was quite taken aback by this inquiry, which clearly showedthat the children were still unaware of the extent of their misfortunes. "I've seen him, my child, " said he, evasively; "you'll see him beforelong. " And fearful of further questioning, he left the house, promisingsoon to return. 

Unable longer to endure her anxiety respecting her father, Estherdetermined not to await the return of Mr. Walters, which had already beengreatly delayed, but to go herself in search of him. It had occurred to herthat, instead of returning from the Garies direct to them, he had probablygone to his own home to see if it had been disturbed during the night. 

Encouraged by this idea, without consulting any one, she hastily put on hercloak and bonnet, and took the direction of her home. Numbers of peoplewere wending their way to the lower part of the city, to gratify theircuriosity by gazing upon the havoc made by the rioters during the pastnight. 

Esther found her home a heap of smoking ruins; some of the neighbours whorecognized her gathered round, expressing their sympathy and regret. Butshe seemed comparatively careless respecting the loss of their property;and in answer to their kind expressions, could only ask, "Have you seen myfather?--do you know where my father is?"

None, however, had seen him; and after gazing for a short time upon theruins of what was once a happy home, she turned mournfully away, and walkedback to Mr. Walters's. 

"Has father come?" she inquired, as soon as the door was opened. "Notyet!" was the discouraging reply: "and Mr. Walters, he hasn't come back, either, miss!"

Esther stood for some moments hesitating whether to go in, or to proceed inher search. The voice of her mother calling her from the stairway decidedher, and she went in. 

Mrs. Ellis and Caddy wept freely on learning from Esther the destruction oftheir home. This cause of grief, added to the anxiety produced by theprolonged absence of Mr. Ellis, rendered them truly miserable. 

Whilst they were condoling with one another, Mr. Walters returned. He wasunable to conceal his fears that something had happened to Mr. Ellis, andfrankly told them so; he also gave a detailed account of what had befallenthe Garies, to the great horror and grief of all. 

As soon as arrangements could be made, Mr. Walters and Esther set out insearch of her father. All day long they went from place to place, butgained no tidings of him; and weary and disheartened they returned atnight, bringing with them the distressing intelligence of their utterfailure to procure any information respecting him. 

CHAPTER XXIII. 

The Lost One Found. 

On the day succeeding the events described in our last chapter, Mr. Walterscalled upon Mr. Balch, for the purpose of making the necessary preparationsfor the interment of Mr. And Mrs. Garie. 

"I think, " said Mr. Balch, "we had better bury them in the Ash-grovecemetery; it's a lovely spot--all my people are buried there. "

"The place is fine enough, I acknowledge, " rejoined Mr. Walters; "but Imuch doubt if you can procure the necessary ground. "

"Oh, yes, you can!" said Mr. Balch; "there are a number of lots stillunappropriated. "

"That may very likely be so; but are you sure we can get one if we apply?"

"Of course we can--what is to prevent?" asked Mr. Balch. 

"You forget, " replied Mr. Walters, "that Mrs. Garie was a coloured woman. "

"If it wasn't such a solemn subject I really should be obliged to laugh atyou, Walters, " rejoined Mr. Balch, with a smile--"you talk ridiculously. What can her complexion have to do with her being buried there, I shouldlike to know?"

"It has everything to do with it! Can it be possible you are not aware thatthey won't even permit a coloured person to walk through the ground, muchless to be buried there!"

"You astonish me, Walters! Are you sure of it?"

"I give you my word of honour it is so! But why should you be astonished atsuch treatment of the dead, when you see how they conduct themselvestowards the living? I have a friend, " continued Mr. Walters, "whopurchased a pew for himself and family in a white-church, and the deaconsactually removed the floor from under it, to prevent his sitting there. They refuse us permission to kneel by the side of the white communicants atthe Lord's Supper, and give us separate pews in obscure corners of theirchurches. All this you know--why, then, be surprised that they carry theirprejudices into their graveyards?--the conduct is all of a piece. "

"Well, Walters, I know the way things are conducted in our churches isexceedingly reprehensible; but I really did not know they stretched theirprejudices to such an extent. "

"I assure you they do, then, " resumed Mr. Walters; "and in this very matteryou'll find I'm correct. Ask Stormley, the undertaker, and hear what he'lltell you. Oh! a case in point. --About six months ago, one of our wealthiestcitizens lost by death an old family servant, a coloured woman, a sort ofhalf-housekeeper--half-friend. She resembled him so much, that it wasgenerally believed she was his sister. Well, he tried to have her laid intheir family vault, and it was refused; the directors thought it would becreating a bad precedent--they said, as they would not sell lots tocoloured persons, they couldn't consistently permit them to be buried inthose of the whites. "

"Then Ash-grove must be abandoned; and in lieu of that what can youpropose?" asked Mr. Balch. 

"I should say we can't do better than lay them in the graveyard of thecoloured Episcopal church. "

"Let it be there, then. You will see to the arrangements, Walters. I shallhave enough on my hands for the present, searching for that will: I havealready offered a large reward for it--I trust it may turn up yet. "

"Perhaps it may, " rejoined Mr. Walters; "we must hope so, at least. I'vebrought the children to my house, where they are under the care of a younglady who was a great friend of their mother's; though it seems like puttingtoo much upon the poor young creature, to throw them upon her forconsolation, when she is almost distracted with her own griefs. I think Imentioned to you yesterday, that her father is missing; and, to add totheir anxieties, their property has been all destroyed by the rioters. Theyhave a home with me for the present, and may remain there as long as theyplease. "

"Oh! I remember you told me something of them yesterday; and now I come tothink of it, I saw in the Journal this morning, that a coloured man waslying at the hospital very much injured, whose name they could notascertain. Can it be possible that he is the man you are in search of?"

"Let me see the article, " asked Mr. Walters. Mr. Balch handed him thepaper, and pointed out the paragraph in question. 

"I'll go immediately to the hospital, " said he, as he finished reading, "and see if it is my poor friend; I have great fears that it is. You'llexcuse my leaving so abruptly--I must be off immediately. "

On hastening to the hospital, Mr. Walters arrived just in time to beadmitted to the wards; and on being shown the person whose name they hadbeen unable to discover, he immediately recognized his friend. 

"Ellis, my poor fellow, " he exclaimed, springing forward. 

"Stop, stop, " cried the attendant, laying his hand upon Mr. Walters'sshoulder; "he is hovering between life and death, the least agitation mightbe fatal to him. The doctor says, if he survives the night, he may probablyget better; but he has small chance of life. I hardly think he will lasttwelve hours more, he's been dreadfully beaten; there are two or threegashes on his head, his leg is broken, and his hands have been so much cut, that the surgeon thinks they'll never be of any use to him, even if herecovers. "

"What awful intelligence for his family, " said Mr. Walters; "they arealready half distracted about him. "

Mr. Ellis lay perfectly unconscious of what was passing around him, and hismoans were deeply affecting to hear, unable to move but one limb--he wasthe picture of helplessness and misery. 

"It's time to close; we don't permit visitors to remain after this hour, "said the attendant; "come to-morrow, you can see your friend, and remainlonger with him;" and bidding Mr. Walters good morning, he ushered him fromthe ward. 

"How shall I ever find means to break this to the girls and their mother?"said he, as he left the gates of the hospital; "it will almost kill them;really I don't know what I shall say to them. "

He walked homeward with hesitating steps, and on arriving at his house, hepaused awhile before the door, mustering up courage to enter; at last heopened it with the air of a man who had a disagreeable duty to perform, andhad made up his mind to go through with it. "Tell Miss Ellis to come to thedrawing-room, " said he to the servant; "merely say she's wanted--don't sayI've returned. "

He waited but a few moments before Esther made her appearance, looking sadand anxious. "Oh, it's you, " she said, with some surprise. "You have newsof father?"

"Yes, Esther, I have news; but I am sorry to say not of a pleasantcharacter. "

"Oh, Mr. Walters, nothing serious I hope has happened to him?" she asked, in an agitated tone. 

"I'm sorry to say there has, Esther; he has met with an accident--a sad andsevere one--he's been badly wounded. " Esther turned deadly pale at thisannouncement, and leaned upon the table for support. 

"I sent for you, Esther, " continued Mr. Walters, "in preference to yourmother, because I knew you to be courageous in danger, and I trusted youwould be equally so in misfortune. Your father's case is a very criticalone--very. It appears that after leaving here, he fell into the hands ofthe rioters, by whom he was shockingly beaten. He was taken to thehospital, where he now remains. "

"Oh, let me go to him at once, do, Mr. Walters!

"My dear child, it is impossible for you to see him to-day, it is long pastthe visiting hour; moreover, I don't think him in a state that would permitthe least agitation. To-morrow you can go with me. " Esther did not weep, her heart was too full for tears. With a pale face, and trembling lips, shesaid to Mr. Walters, "God give us strength to bear up under thesemisfortunes; we are homeless--almost beggars--our friends have beenmurdered, and my father is now trembling on the brink of the grave; suchtroubles as these, " said she, sinking into a chair, "are enough to crushany one. "

"I know it, Esther; I know it, my child. I sympathize with you deeply. Allthat I have is at your disposal. You may command me in anything. Giveyourself no uneasiness respecting the future of your mother and family, letthe result to your father be what it may: always bear in mind that, next toGod, I am your best friend. I speak thus frankly to you, Esther, because Iwould not have you cherish any hopes of your father's recovery; from hisappearance, I should say there is but little, if any. I leave to you, mygood girl, the task of breaking this sad news to your mother and sister; Iwould tell them, but I must confess, Esther, I'm not equal to it, theevents of the last day or two have almost overpowered me. "

Esther's lips quivered again, as she repeated the words, "Little hope; didthe doctor say that?" she asked. 

"I did not see the doctor, " replied he; "perhaps there may be a favourablechange during the night. I'd have you prepare for the worst, whilst youhope for the best. Go now and try to break it as gently as possible to yourmother. "

Esther left the room with heavy step, and walked to the chamber where hermother was sitting. Caddy also was there, rocking backwards and forwards ina chair, in an earnest endeavour to soothe to sleep little Em, who wassitting in her lap. 

"Who was it, Esther?" asked, her mother. 

"Mr. Walters, " she hesitatingly answered. 

"Was it? Well, has he heard anything of your father?" she asked, anxiously. 

Esther turned away her head, and remained silent. 

"Why don't you answer?" asked her mother, with an alarmed look; "if youknow anything of him, for God's sake tell me. Whatever it may be, it can'tbe worse than I expect; is he dead?" she asked. 

"No--no, mother, he's not dead; but he's sick, very sick, mother. Mr. Walters found him in the hospital. "

"In the hospital! how came he there? Don't deceive me, Esther, there'ssomething behind all this; are you telling me the truth? is he stillalive?"

"Mother, believe me, he is still alive, but how long he may remain so, Godonly knows. " Mrs. Ellis, at this communication, leant her head upon thetable, and wept uncontrollably. Caddy put down her little charge, and stoodbeside her mother, endeavouring to soothe her, whilst unable to restrainher own grief. 

"Let us go to him, Esther, " said her mother, rising; "I must see him--letus go at once. "

"We can't, mother; Mr. Walters says it's impossible for us to see himto-day; they don't admit visitors after a certain hour in the morning. "

"They _must_ admit me: I'll tell them I'm his wife; when they know that, they _can't_ refuse me. " Quickly dressing themselves, Esther, Caddy, andtheir mother were about to start for the hospital, when Mr. Waltersentered. 

"Where are you all going?" he asked. 

"To the hospital, " answered Mrs. Ellis; "I must see my husband. "

"I have just sent there, Ellen, to make arrangements to hear of him everyhour. You will only have the grief of being refused admission if you go;they're exceedingly strict--no one is admitted to visit a patient after acertain hour; try and compose yourselves; sit down, I want to talk to youfor a little while. "

Mrs. Ellis mechanically obeyed; and on sitting down, little Em crept intoher lap, and nestled in her arms. 

"Ellen, " said Mr. Walters, taking a seat by her; "it's useless to disguisethe fact that Ellis is in a precarious situation--how long he may be sickit is impossible to say; as soon as it is practicable, should he getbetter, we will bring him here. You remember, Ellen, that years ago, when Iwas young and poor, Ellis often befriended me--now 'tis my turn. You mustall make up your minds to remain with me--for ever, if you like--for thepresent, whether you like it or not. I'm going to be dreadfully obstinate, and have my own way completely about the matter. Here I've a large house, furnished from top to bottom with every comfort. Often I've wanderedthrough it, and thought myself a selfish old fellow to be surrounded withso much luxury, and keep it entirely to myself. God has blessed me withabundance, and to what better use can it be appropriated than the relief ofmy friends? Now, Ellen, you shall superintend the whole of theestablishment, Esther shall nurse her father, Caddy shall stir up theservants, and I'll look on and find my happiness in seeing you all happy. Now, what objection can you urge against that arrangement?" concluded he, triumphantly. 

"Why, we shall put you to great inconvenience, and place ourselves under anobligation we can never repay, " answered Mrs. Ellis. 

"Don't despair of that--never mind the obligation; try and be as cheerfulas you can; to-morrow we shall see Ellis, and perhaps find him better; letus at least hope for the best. "

Esther looked with grateful admiration at Mr. Walters, as he left the room. "What a good heart he has, mother, " said she, as he closed the door behindhim; "just such a great tender heart as one should expect to find in sofine a form. "

Mrs. Ellis and her daughters were the first who were found next day, at theoffice of the doorkeeper of the hospital waiting an opportunity to seetheir sick friends. 

"You're early, ma'am, " said a little bald-headed official, who sat at hisdesk fronting the door; "take a chair near the fire--it's dreadful coldthis morning. "

"Very cold, " replied Esther, taking a seat beside her mother; "how longwill it be before we can go in?"

"Oh, you've good an hour to wait--the doctor hasn't come yet, " replied thedoor-keeper. "How is my husband?" tremblingly inquired Mrs. Ellis. 

"Who is your husband?--you don't know his number, do you? Never know nameshere--go by numbers. "

"We don't know the number, " rejoined Esther; "my father's name is Ellis; hewas brought here two or three nights since--he was beaten by the mob. "

"Oh, yes; I know now who you mean--number sixty--bad case that, shockingbad case--hands chopped--head smashed--leg broke; he'll have to cross over, I guess--make a die of it, I'm afraid. "

Mrs. Ellis shuddered, and turned pale, as the man coolly discussed herhusband's injuries, and their probable fatal termination. Caddy, observingher agitation, said, "Please, sir, don't talk of it; mother can't bear it. "

The man looked at them compassionately for a few moments--then continued:"You mustn't think me hard-hearted--I see so much of these things, that Ican't feel them as others do. This is a dreadful thing to you, no doubt, but it's an every-day song to me--people are always coming here mangled inall sorts of ways--so, you see, I've got used to it--in fact, I'd rathermiss 'em now if they didn't come. I've sat in this seat every day foralmost twenty years;" and he looked on the girls and their mother as hegave them this piece of information as if he thought they ought to regardhim henceforth with great reverence. 

Not finding them disposed to converse, the doorkeeper resumed the newspaperhe was reading when they entered, and was soon deeply engrossed in ahorrible steam-boat accident. 

The sound of wheels in the courtyard attracting his attention, he lookedup, and remarked: "Here's the doctor--as soon as he has walked the wardsyou'll be admitted. "

Mrs. Ellis and her daughters turned round as the door opened, and, to theirgreat joy, recognized Doctor Burdett. 

"How d'ye do?" said he, extending his hand to Mrs. Ellis--"what's thematter? Crying!" he continued, looking at their tearful faces; "what hashappened?"

"Oh, doctor, " said Esther, "father's lying here, very much injured; andthey think he'll die, " said she, giving way to a fresh burst of grief. 

"Very much injured--die--how is this?--I knew nothing of it--I haven't beenhere before this week. "

Esther hereupon briefly related the misfortunes that had befallen herfather. 

"Dear me--dear me, " repeated the kind old doctor. 

"There, my dear; don't fret--he'll get better, my child--I'll take him inhand at once. My dear Mrs. Ellis, weeping won't do the least good, and onlymake you sick yourself. Stop, do now--I'll go and see him immediately, andas soon as possible you shall be admitted. "

They had not long to wait before a message came from Doctor Burdett, informing them that they could now be permitted to see the sufferer. 

"You must control yourselves, " said the doctor to the sobbing women, as hemet them at the door; "you mustn't do anything to agitate him--hissituation is extremely critical. "

The girls and their mother followed him to the bedside of Mr. Ellis, who, ghastly pale, lay before them, apparently unconscious. 

Mrs. Ellis gave but one look at her husband, and, with a faint cry, sankfainting upon the floor. The noise partially aroused him; he turned hishead, and, after an apparent effort, recognized his daughters standingbeside him: he made a feeble attempt to raise his mutilated hands, andmurmured faintly, "You've come at last!" then closing his eyes, he droppedhis arms, as if exhausted by the effort. 

Esther knelt beside him, and pressed a kiss on his pale face. "Father!--father!" said she, softly. He opened his eyes again, and a smileof pleasure broke over his wan face, and lighted up his eyes, as he feeblysaid, "God bless you, darlings! I thought you'd never come. Where's motherand Caddy?"

"Here, " answered Esther, "here, by me; your looks frightened her so, thatshe's fainted. " Doctor Burdett here interposed, and said: "You must allgo now; he's too weak to bear more at present. "

"Let me stay with him a little longer, " pleaded Esther. 

"No, my child, it's impossible, " he continued; "besides, your mother willneed your attention;" and, whilst he spoke, he led her into an adjoiningroom, where the others had preceded her. 

CHAPTER XXIV. 

Charlie Distinguishes Himself. 

Charlie had now been many weeks under the hospitable roof of Mrs. Bird, improving in health and appearance. Indeed, it would have been a wonder ifhe had not, as the kind mistress of the mansion seemed to do nought else, from day to day, but study plans for his comfort and pleasure. There wasone sad drawback upon the contentment of the dear old lady, and that washer inability to procure Charlie's admission to the academy. 

One morning Mr. Whately called upon her, and, throwing himself into achair, exclaimed: "It's all to no purpose; their laws are as unalterable asthose of the Medes and Persians--arguments and entreaty are equally thrownaway upon them; I've been closeted at least half a dozen times with eachdirector; and as all I can say won't make your _protege_ a shade whiter, I'm afraid his admission to the academy must be given up. "

"It's too bad, " rejoined Mrs. Bird. "And who, may I ask, were the principalopposers?"

"They all opposed it, except Mr. Weeks and Mr. Bentham. "

"Indeed!--why they are the very ones that I anticipated would go against ittooth and nail. And Mr. Glentworth--surely he was on our side?"

"He!--why, my dear madam, he was the most rabid of the lot. With hissanctified face and canting tongue!"

"I'm almost ashamed to own it--but it's the truth, and I shouldn't hesitateto tell it--I found the most pious of the directors the least accessible;as to old Glentworth, he actually talked to me as if I was recommending thecommittal of some horrid sin. I'm afraid I shall be set down by him as arabid Abolitionist, I got so warm on the subject. I've cherished as strongprejudices against coloured people as any one; but I tell you, seeing howcontemptible it makes others appear, has gone a great way towardseradicating it in me. I found myself obliged to use the same argumentsagainst it that are used by the Abolitionists, and in endeavouring toconvince others of the absurdity of their prejudices, I convinced myself. "

"I'd set my heart upon it, " said Mrs. Bird, in a tone of regret; "but Isuppose I'll have to give it up. Charlie don't know I've made applicationfor his admission, and has been asking me to let him go. A great many ofthe boys who attend there have become acquainted with him, and it was onlyyesterday that Mr. Glentworth's sons were teasing me to consent to hisbeginning there the next term. The boys, " concluded she, "have betterhearts than their parents. "

"Oh, I begin to believe it's all sham, this prejudice; I'm getting quitedisgusted with myself for having had it--or rather thinking I had it. Asfor saying it is innate, or that there is any natural antipathy to thatclass, it's all perfect folly; children are not born with it, or whyshouldn't they shrink from a black nurse or playmate? It's all bosh, "concluded he, indignantly, as he brought his cane down with a rap. 

"Charlie's been quite a means of grace to you, " laughingly rejoined Mrs. Bird, amused at his vehemence of manner. "Well, I'm going to send him toSabbath-school next Sunday; and, if there is a rebellion against hisadmission there, I shall be quite in despair. "

It is frequently the case, that we are urged by circumstances to theadvocacy of a measure in which we take but little interest, and of thepropriety of which we are often very sceptical; but so surely as it is justin itself, in our endeavours to convert others we convince ourselves; and, from lukewarm apologists, we become earnest advocates. This was just Mr. Whately's case: he had begun to canvass for the admission of Charlie witha doubtful sense of its propriety, and in attempting to overcome thegroundless prejudices of others, he was convicted of his own. 

Happily, in his case, conviction was followed by conversion, and as hewalked home from Mrs. Bird's, he made up his mind that, if they attemptedto exclude Charlie from the Sabbath-school, he would give them a piece ofhis mind, and then resign his superintendency of it. 

On arriving at home, he found waiting for him a young lady, who wasformerly a member of his class in the Sabbath-school. "I've come, " saidshe, "to consult you about forming an adult class in our school forcoloured persons. We have a girl living with us, who would be very glad toattend, and she knows two or three others. I'll willingly take the classmyself. I've consulted the pastor and several others, and no one seems toanticipate any objections from the scholars, if we keep them on a separatebench, and do not mix them up with the white children. "

"I'm delighted to hear you propose it, " answered Mr. Whately, quiteoverjoyed at the opening it presented, "the plan meets my warmest approval. I decidedly agree with you in the propriety of our making some effort forthe elevation and instruction of this hitherto neglected class--any aid Ican render----"

"You astonish me, " interrupted Miss Cass, "though I must say veryagreeably. You were the last person from whom I thought of obtaining anycountenance. I did not come to you until armed with the consent of almostall the parties interested, because from you I anticipated considerableopposition, " and in her delight, the young girl grasped Mr. Whately's hand, and shook it very heartily. 

"Oh, my opinions relative to coloured people have lately undergoneconsiderable modification; in fact, " said he, with some little confusion, "quite a thorough revolution. I don't, think we have quite done our duty bythese people. Well, well, we must make the future atone for the past. "

Miss Cass had entered upon her project with all the enthusiasm of youth, and being anxious that her class, "in point of numbers, " should make apresentable appearance, had drafted into it no less a person than AuntComfort. 

Aunt Comfort was a personage of great importance in the little village ofWarmouth, and one whose services were called into requisition on almostevery great domestic occasion. 

At births she frequently officiated, and few young mothers thoughtthemselves entirely safe if the black good-humoured face of Aunt Comfortwas not to be seen at their bedside. She had a hand in the compounding ofalmost every bridecake, and had been known to often leave houses offeasting, to prepare weary earth-worn travellers for their final place ofrest. Every one knew, and all liked her, and no one was more welcome at thehouses of the good people of Warmouth than Aunt Comfort. 

But whilst rendering her all due praise for her domestic acquirements, justice compels us to remark that Aunt Comfort was not a literarycharacter. She could get up a shirt to perfection, and made irreproachablechowder, but she was not a woman of letters. In fact, she had arrived atmaturity at a time when negroes and books seldom came in familiar contact;and if the truth must be told, she cared very little about the latter. "Butjist to 'blege Miss Cass, " she consented to attend her class, averring asshe did so, "that she didn't 'spect she was gwine to larn nothin' when shegot thar. "

Miss Cass, however, was of the contrary opinion, and anticipated that aftera few Sabbaths, Aunt Comfort would prove to be quite a literary phenomenon. The first time their class assembled the white children well-nighdislocated their necks, in their endeavours to catch glimpses of thecoloured scholars, who were seated on a backless bench, in an obscurecorner of the room. 

Prominent amongst them shone Aunt Comfort, who in honour of thisextraordinary occasion, had retrimmed her cap, which was resplendent withbows of red ribbon as large as peonies. She had a Sunday-school primer inher hand, and was repeating the letters with the utmost regularity, asMiss Cass pronounced them. They got on charmingly until after crossing overthe letter O, as a matter of course they came to P and Q. 

"Look here, " said Aunt Comfort, with a look of profound erudition, "here'sanoder O. What's de use of having two of 'em?"

"No, no, Aunt Comfort--that's Q--the letter Q. "

"Umph, " grunted the old woman, incredulously, "what's de use of sayingdat's a Q, when you jest said not a minute ago 'twas O?"

"This is not the same, " rejoined the teacher, "don't you see the littletail at the bottom of it?"

Aunt Comfort took off her silver spectacles, and gave the glasses of them afurious rub, then after essaying another look, exclaimed, "What, you don'tmean dat 'ere little speck down at the bottom of it, does yer?"

"Yes, Aunt Comfort, that little speck, as you call it, makes all thedifference--it makes O into Q. "

"Oh, go 'way, child, " said she, indignantly, "you isn't gwine to fool medat ar way. I knows you of old, honey--you's up to dese 'ere things--youknow you allus was mighty 'chevious, and I isn't gwine to b'lieve dat datar little speck makes all the difference--no such thing, case itdon't--deys either both O's or both Q's. I'm clar o' dat--deys either oneor tother. "

Knowing by long experience the utter futility of attempting to convinceAunt Comfort that she was in the wrong, by anything short of a miracle, theteacher wisely skipped over the obnoxious letter, then all went smoothly onto the conclusion of the alphabet. 

The lesson having terminated, Miss Cass looked up and discovered standingnear her a coloured boy, who she correctly surmised was sent as an additionto her class. "Come here, and sit down, " said she, pointing to a seat nextAunt Comfort. "What is your name?"

Charlie gave his name and residence, which were entered in due form on theteacher's book. "Now, Charles, " she continued, "do you know your letters?"

"Yes, ma'am, " was the answer. 

"Can you spell?" she inquired. To this also Charlie gave an affirmative, highly amused at the same time at being asked such a question. 

Miss Cass inquired no further into the extent of his acquirements, it neverhaving entered her head that he could do more than spell. So handing himone of the primers, she pointed out a line on which to begin. The spirit ofmischief entered our little friend, and he stumbled through b-l-abla--b-l-i bli--b-l-o blo--b-l-u blu, with great gravity and slowness. 

"You spell quite nicely, particularly for a little coloured boy, " said MissCass, encouragingly, as he concluded the line; "take this next, " shecontinued, pointing to another, "and when you have learned it, I will hearyou again. "

It was the custom of the superintendent to question the scholars upon aportion of Bible history, given out the Sabbath previous for study duringthe week. It chanced that upon the day of which we write, the subject forexamination was one with which Charlie was quite familiar. 

Accordingly, when the questions were put to the school, he answered boldlyand quickly to many of them, and with an accuracy that astonished hisfellow scholars. 

"How did you learn the answers to those questions--you can't read?" saidMiss Cass. 

"Yes, but I can read, " answered Charlie, with a merry twinkle in his eye. 

"Why didn't you tell me so before?" she asked. 

"Because you didn't ask me, " he replied, suppressing a grin. 

This was true enough, so Miss Cass, having nothing farther to say, sat andlistened, whilst he answered the numerous and sometimes difficult questionsaddressed to the scholars. 

Not so, Aunt Comfort. She could not restrain her admiration of this displayof talent on the part of one of her despised race; she was continuallybreaking out with expressions of wonder and applause. "Jis' heardat--massy on us--only jis' listen to de chile, " said she, "talks jis' desame as if he was white. Why, boy, where you learn all dat?"

"Across the Red Sea, " cried Charlie, in answer to a question from the deskof the superintendent. 

"'Cross de Red Sea! Umph, chile, you been dere?" asked Aunt Comfort, with aface full of wonder. 

"What did you say?" asked Charlie, whose attention had been arrested by thelast question. 

"Why I asked where you learned all dat 'bout de children of Israel. "

"Oh, I learned that at Philadelphia, " was his reply; "I learned it atschool with the rest of the boys. "

"You did!" exclaimed she, raising her hands with astonishment. "Is deremany more of 'em like you?"

Charlie did not hear this last question of Aunt Comfort's, therefore shewas rather startled by his replying in a loud tone, "_Immense hosts_. "

"Did I ever--jis' hear dat, dere's ''mense hostes' of 'em jest like him!only think of it. Is dey all dere yet, honey?"

"They were all drowned. "

"Oh, Lordy, Lordy, " rejoined she, aghast with horror; for Charlie's replyto a question regarding the fate of Pharaoh's army, had been by herinterpreted as an answer to her question respecting his colouredschoolmates at Philadelphia. 

"And how did you 'scape, honey, " continued she, "from drowning 'long widthe rest of 'em?"

"Why I wasn't there, it was thousands of years ago. "

"Look here. What do you mean?" she whispered; "didn't you say jest now datyou went to school wid 'em?"

This was too much for Charlie, who shook all over with suppressed laughter;nor was Miss Cass proof against the contagion--she was obliged to almostsuffocate herself with her handkerchief to avoid a serious explosion. 

"Aunt Comfort, you are mistaking him, " said she, as soon as she couldrecover her composure; "he is answering the questions of thesuperintendent--not yours, and very well he has answered them, too, "continued she. "I like to see little boys aspiring: I am glad to see you sointelligent--you must persevere, Charlie. "

"Yes, you must, honey, " chimed in Aunt Comfort. "I'se very much like MissCass; I likes to see children--'specially children of colour--have_expiring_ minds. "

Charlie went quite off at this, and it was only by repeated hush--hushes, from Miss Cass, and a pinch in the back from Aunt Comfort, that he wasrestored to a proper sense of his position. 

The questioning being now finished, Mr. Whately came to Charlie, praisedhim highly for his aptness, and made some inquiries respecting hisknowledge of the catechism; also whether he would be willing to join theclass that was to be catechised in the church during the afternoon. Tothis, Charlie readily assented, and, at the close of the school, was placedat the foot of the class, preparatory to going into the Church. 

The public catechizing of the scholars was always an event in the village;but now a novelty was given it, by the addition of a black lamb to theflock, and, as a matter of course, a much greater interest was manifested. Had a lion entered the doors of St. Stephen's church, he might have createdgreater consternation, but he could not have attracted more attention thandid our little friend on passing beneath its sacred portals. The length ofthe aisle seemed interminable to him, and on his way to the altar he feltoppressed by the scrutiny of eyes through which he was compelled to pass. Mr. Dural, the pastor, looked kindly at him, as he stood in front of thechancel, and Charlie took heart from his cheering smile. 

Now, to Aunt Comfort (who was the only coloured person who regularlyattended the church) a seat had been assigned beside the organ; whichelevated position had been given her that the congregation might indulge intheir devotions without having their prejudices shocked by a too closecontemplation of her ebony countenance. 

But Aunt Comfort, on this occasion, determined to get near enough to hearall that passed, and, leaving her accustomed seat, she planted herself inone of the aisles of the gallery overlooking the altar, where she remainedalmost speechless with wonder and astonishment at the unprecedented sightof a woolly head at the foot of the altar. 

Charlie got on very successfully until called upon to repeat the Lord'sPrayer; and, strange to say, at this critical juncture, his memory forsookhim, and he was unable to utter a word of it: for the life of him he couldnot think of anything but "Now I lay me down to sleep"--and confused andannoyed he stood unable to proceed. At this stage of affairs, AuntComfort's interest in Charlie's success had reached such a pitch that hercustomary awe of the place she was in entirely departed, and she exclaimed, "I'll give yer a start--'Our Farrer, '"--then overwhelmed by theconsciousness that she had spoken out in meeting, she sank down behind apew-door, completely extinguished. At this there was an audible titter, that was immediately suppressed; after which, Charlie recovered his memory, and, started by the opportune prompting of Aunt Comfort, he recited itcorrectly. A few questions more terminated the examination, and thechildren sat down in front of the altar until the conclusion of theservice. 

Mrs. Bird, highly delighted with the _debut_ of her _protege_, bestowed noend of praises upon him, and even made the coachman walk home, that Charliemight have a seat in the carriage, as she alleged she was sure he must bemuch fatigued and overcome with the excitement of the day; then taking thereins into her own hands, she drove them safely home. 

CHAPTER XXV. 

The Heir. 

We must now return to Philadelphia, and pay a visit to the office of Mr. Balch. We shall find that gentleman in company with Mr. Walters: both lookanxious, and are poring over a letter which is outspread before them. 

"It was like a thunder-clap to me, " said Mr. Balch: "the idea of therebeing another heir never entered my brain--I didn't even know he had aliving relative. "

"When did you get the letter?" asked Walters. 

"Only this morning, and I sent for you immediately! Let us read itagain--we'll make another attempt to decipher this incomprehensible name. Confound the fellow! why couldn't he write so that some one besides himselfcould read it! We must stumble through it, " said he, as he again began theletter as follows:--

"Dear Sir, --Immediately on receipt of your favour, I called upon Mr. Thurston, to take the necessary steps for securing the property of yourlate client. To my great surprise, I found that another claimant hadstarted up, and already taken the preliminary measures to entering uponpossession. This gentleman, Mr. ----

"Now, what would you call that name, Walters?--to me it looks likeStimmens, or Stunners, or something of the kind!"

"Never mind the name, " exclaimed Walters--"skip that--let me hear the restof the letter; we shall find out who he is soon enough, in all conscience. "

"Well, then, " resumed Mr. Balch--"This gentleman, Mr. ----, is a resident inyour city; and he will, no doubt, take an early opportunity of calling onyou, in reference to the matter. It is my opinion, that without a will intheir favour, these children cannot oppose his claim successfully, if hecan prove his consanguinity to Mr. Garie. His lawyer here showed me a copyof the letters and papers which are to be used as evidence, and, I mustsay, they _are entirely_ without flaw. He proves himself, undoubtedly, tobe the first cousin of Mr. Garie. You are, no doubt, aware that thesechildren being the offspring of a slave-woman, cannot inherit, in thisState (except under certain circumstances), the property of a white father. I am, therefore, very much afraid that they are entirely at his mercy. "

"Well, then, " said Walters, when Mr. Balch finished reading the letter, "itis clear there is an heir, and his claim _must_ be well sustained, if sucha man as Beckley, the first lawyer in the State, does not hesitate toendorse it; and as all the property (with the exception of a few thousandsin my hands) lies in Georgia, I'm afraid the poor children will come offbadly, unless this new heir prove to be a man of generosity--at all events, it seems we are completely at his mercy. "

"We must hope for the best, " rejoined Mr. Balch. "If he has any heart, hecertainly will make some provision for them. The disappearance of that willis to me most unaccountable! I am confident it was at his house. It seemedso singular that none of his papers should be missing, except that--therewere a great many others, deeds, mortgages, &c. Scattered over the floor, but no will!"

The gentlemen were thus conversing, when they heard a tap at the door. "Come in!" cried Mr. Balch; and, in answer to the request, in walked Mr. George Stevens. 

Mr. Walters and Mr. Balch bowed very stiffly, and the latter inquired whathad procured him the honour of a visit. 

"I have called upon you in reference to the property of the late Mr. Garie. " "Oh! you are acting in behalf of this new claimant, I suppose?"rejoined Mr. Balch. 

"Sir!" said Mr. Stevens, looking as though he did not thoroughly understandhim. 

"I said, " repeated Mr. Balch, "that I presumed you called in behalf of thisnew-found heir to Mr. Garie's property. "

Mr. Stevens looked at him for a moment, then drawing himself up, exclaimed, "I AM THE HEIR!"

"You!--_you_ the heir!" cried both the gentlemen, almost simultaneously. 

"Yes, I am the heir!" coolly repeated Mr. Stevens, with an assured look. "Iam the first cousin of Mr. Garie!"

"You his first cousin?--it is impossible!" said Walters. 

"You'll discover it is not only possible, but true--I am, as I said, Mr. Garie's first cousin!"

"If you are that, you are more, " said Walters, fiercely--"you're hismurderer!" At this charge Mr. Stevens turned deathly pale. "Yes, " continuedWalters; "you either murdered him, or instigated others to do so! It wasyou who directed the rioters against both him and me--I have proof of whatI say and can produce it. Now your motive is clear as day--you wanted hismoney, and destroyed him to obtain it! His blood is on your hands!" hissedWalters through his clenched teeth. 

In the excitement consequent upon such a charge, Mr. Stevens, unnoticed byhimself, had overturned a bottle of red ink, and its contents had slightlystained his hands. When Walters charged him with having Mr. Garie's bloodupon them, he involuntarily looked down and saw his hands stained with red. An expression of intense horror flitted over his face when he observed it;but quickly regaining his composure, he replied, "It's only a little ink. "

"Yes, I know _that_ is ink, " rejoined Walters, scornfully; "look at him, Balch, " he continued, "he doesn't dare to look either of us in the face. "

"It's false, " exclaimed Stevens, with an effort to appear courageous;"it's as false as hell, and any man that charges me with it is a liar. "

The words had scarcely passed his lips, when Walters sprang upon him withthe ferocity of a tiger, and seizing him by the throat, shook and whirledhim about as though he were a plaything. 

"Stop, stop! Walters, " cried Mr. Balch, endeavouring to loose his hold uponthe throat of Mr. Stevens, who was already purple in the face; "let him go, this violence can benefit neither party. Loose your hold. " At thisremonstrance, Walters dashed Stevens from him into the farthest corner ofthe room, exclaiming, "Now, go and prosecute me if you dare, and I'll tellfor what I chastised you; prosecute me for an assault, if you think you canrisk the consequences. "

Mr. Balch assisted him from the floor and placed him in a chair, where hesat holding his side, and panting for breath. When he was able to speak, heexclaimed, with a look of concentrated malignity, "Remember, we'll be evensome day; I never received a blow and forgot it afterwards, bear that inmind. "

"This will never do, gentlemen, " said Mr. Balch, soothingly: "this conductis unworthy of you. You are unreasonable both of you. When you have cooleddown we will discuss the matter as we should. "

"You'll discuss it alone then, " said Stevens, rising, and walking to thedoor: "and when you have any further communication to make, you must cometo me. "

"Stop, stop, don't go, " cried Mr. Balch, following him out at the door, which they closed behind them; "don't go away in a passion, Mr. Stevens. You and Walters are both too hasty. Come in here and sit down, " said he, opening the door of a small adjoining room, "wait here one moment, I'llcome back to you. "

"This will never do, Walters, " said he, as he re-entered his office; "thefellow has the upper hand of us, and we must humour him; we should suppressour own feelings for the children's sake. You are as well aware as I am ofthe necessity of some compromise--we are in his power for the present, andmust act as circumstances compel us to. "

"I can't discuss the matter with him, " interrupted Walters, "he's anunmitigated scoundrel. I couldn't command my temper in his presence forfive minutes. If you can arrange anything with him at all advantageous tothe children, I shall be satisfied, it will be more than I expect; onlybear in mind, that what I have in my hands belonging to Garie we mustretain, he knows nothing of that. "

"Very well, " rejoined Mr. Balch, "depend upon it I'll do my best;" andclosing the door, he went back to Mr. Stevens. 

"Now, Mr. Stevens, " said he, drawing up a chair, "we will talk over thismatter dispassionately, and try and arrive at some amicable arrangement: bekind enough to inform me what your claims are. "

"Mr. Balch, _you_ are a gentleman, " began Mr. Stevens, "and therefore I'mwilling to discuss the matter thoroughly with you. You'll find me disposedto do a great deal for these children: but I wish it distinctly understoodat the beginning, that whatever I may give them, I bestow as a favour. Iconcede nothing to them as a right, legally they have not the slightestclaim upon me; of that you, who are an excellent lawyer, must be wellaware. "

"We won't discuss that point at present, Mr. Stevens. I believe youintimated you would be kind enough to say upon what evidence you purposedsustaining your claims?"

"Well, to come to the point, then, " said Stevens; "the deceased Mr. Gariewas, as I before said, my first cousin. His father and my mother werebrother and sister. My mother married in opposition to her parents'desires; they cut her off from the family, and for years there was nocommunication between them. At my father's death, my mother made overturesfor a reconciliation, which were contemptuously rejected, at length shedied. I was brought up in ignorance of who my grandparents were; and only afew months since, on the death of my father's sister, did I make thediscovery. Here, " said he, extending the packet of letters which, thereader will remember once agitated, him so strangely, "here are the lettersthat passed between my mother and her father. "

Mr. Balch took up one and read:--

"_Savannah_, 18--

"MADAM, --Permit me to return this letter (wherein youdeclare yourself the loving and repentant daughter of BernardGarie) and at the same time inform you, that by your own. Acts you have deprived yourself of all claim to that relation. In opposition to my wishes, and in open defiance of myexpress commands, you chose to unite your fortunewith one in every respect your inferior. If that union hasnot resulted as happily as you expected, you must sustainyourself by the reflection that you are the author of your ownmisfortunes and alone to blame for your present miserablecondition. --Respectfully yours, "BERNARD GARIE. "

Mr. Balch read, one after another, letters of a similar purport--in fact, along correspondence between Bernard Garie and the mother of Mr. Stevens. When he had finished, the latter remarked, "In addition to those, I canproduce my mother's certificate of baptism, her marriage certificate, andevery necessary proof of my being her son. If that does not suffice to makea strong case, I am at a loss to imagine what will. "

Mr. Balch pondered a few moments, and then inquired, looking steadily atMr. Stevens, "How long have you known of this relationship?"

"Oh, I've known it these three years. "

"Three years! why, my dear sir, only a few moments ago you said a fewmonths. "

"Oh, did I?" said Mr. Stevens, very much confused; "I meant, or should havesaid, three years. "

"Then, of course you were aware that Mr. Garie was your cousin when hetook the house beside you?"

"Oh, yes--that is--yes--yes; I _was_ aware of it. "

"And did you make any overtures of a social character?" asked Mr. Balch. 

"Well, yes--that is to say, my wife did. "

"_Where were you the night of the murder?_"

Mr. Stevens turned pale at this question, and replied, hesitatingly, "Why, at home, of course. "

"You were at home, and saw the house of your cousins assaulted, and made noeffort to succour them or their children. The next morning you are one ofthe coroner's inquest, and hurry through the proceedings, never once sayinga word of your relationship to them, nor yet making any inquiry respectingthe fate of the children. _It is very singular_. "

"I don't see what this cross-questioning is to amount to; it has nothing todo with my claim as heir. "

"We are coming to that, " rejoined Mr. Balch. "This, as I said, is verysingular; and when I couple it with some other circumstances that have cometo my knowledge, it is more than singular--_it is suspicious_. Here are anumber of houses assaulted by a mob. Two or three days before the assaulttakes place, a list in your handwriting, and which is headed, '_Places tobe attacked_, ' is found, under circumstances that leave no doubt that itcame directly from you. Well, the same mob that attacks theseplaces--_marked out by you_--traverse a long distance to reach the house ofyour next-door neighbour. They break into it, and kill him; and you, whoare aware at the time that he is your own cousin, do not attempt tointerpose to prevent it, although it can be proved that you wereall-powerful with the marauders. No! you allow him to be destroyed withoutan effort to save him, and immediately claim his property. Now, Mr. Stevens, people disposed to be suspicions--seeing how much you were to bethe gainer by his removal, and knowing you had some connection with thismob--might not scruple to say that _you_ instigated the attack by which helost his life; and I put it to you--now don't you think that, if it was anyone else, you would say that the thing looked suspicious?"

Mr. Stevens winced at this, but made no effort to reply. 

Mr. Balch continued, "What I was going to remark is simply this. As we arein possession of these facts, and able to prove them by competentwitnesses, we should not be willing to remain perfectly silent respectingit, unless you made what _we_ regarded as a suitable provision for thechildren. "

"I'm willing, as I said before, to do something; but don't flatter yourselfI'll do any more than I originally intended from any fear of disclosuresfrom you. I'm not to be frightened, " said Mr. Stevens. 

"I'm not at all disposed to attempt to frighten you: however, you know howfar a mere statement of these facts would go towards rendering yourposition in society more agreeable. A person who has been arrested onsuspicion of murder is apt to be shunned and distrusted. It can't behelped; people are so very squeamish--they _will_ draw back, you know, under such circumstances. "

"I don't see how such a suspicion can attach itself to me, " rejoinedStevens, sharply. 

"Oh, well, we won't discuss that any further: let me hear what you will dofor the children. "

Mr. Balch saw, from the nervous and embarrassed manner of Mr. Stevens, thatthe indirect threat of exposing him had had considerable effect; and hisdowncast looks and agitation rather strengthened in his mind the suspicionsthat had been excited by the disclosures of Mr. Walters. 

After a few moments' silence, Mr. Stevens said, "I'll settle three thousanddollars on each of the children. Now I think that is treating themliberally. "

"Liberally!" exclaimed Balch, in a tone of contempt--"liberally! Youacquire by the death of their father property worth one hundred and fiftythousand dollars, and you offer these children, who are the rightful heirs, three thousand dollars! That, sir, won't suffice. " "I think it should, then, " rejoined Stevens. "By the laws of Georgia these children, instead ofbeing his heirs, are my slaves. Their mother was a slave before them, andthey were born slaves; and if they were in Savannah, I could sell them bothto-morrow. On the whole, I think I've made you a very fair offer, and I'dadvise you to think of it. "

"No, Mr. Stevens; I shall accept no such paltry sum. If you wish a quickand peaceful possession of what you are pleased to regard as your rights, you must tender something more advantageous, or I shall feel compelled tobring this thing into court, even at the risk of loss; and there, you know, we should be obliged to make a clear statement of _everything_ connectedwith this business. It might be advantageous to _us_ to bring the thingfully before the court and public--but I'm exceedingly doubtful whether itwould advance _your_ interest. "

Stevens winced at this, and asked, "What would you consider a fair offer?"

"I should consider _all_ a just offer, half a fair one, and a quarter aslittle as you could have the conscience to expect us to take. "

"I don't see any use in this chaffering, Mr. Balch, " said Stephens; "youcan't expect me to give you any such sums as you propose. Name a sum thatyou can reasonably expect to get. "

"Well, " said Mr. Balch, rising, "you must give us fifteen thousand dollars, and you should think yourself well off then. We could commence a suit, andput you to nearly that expense to defend it; to say nothing of thenotoriety that the circumstance would occasion you. Both Walters and I arewilling to spend both money and time in defence of these children's rights;I assure you they are not friendless. "

"I'll give twelve thousand, and not a cent more, if I'm hung for it, " saidMr. Stevens, almost involuntarily. 

"Who spoke of hanging?" asked Mr. Balch. 

"Oh!" rejoined Stevens, "that is only my emphatic way of speaking. " "Ofcourse, you meant figuratively, " said Mr. Balch, in a tone of irony;mentally adding, "as I hope you may be one day literally. "

Mr. Stevens looked flushed and angry, but Mr. Balch continued, withoutappearing to notice him, and said: "I'll speak to Walters. Should heacquiesce in your proposal, I am willing to accept it; however, I cannotdefinitely decide without consulting him. To-morrow I will inform you ofthe result. "

CHAPTER XXVI. 

Home Again. 

To Charlie the summer had been an exceedingly short one--time had flown sopleasantly away. Everything that could be done to make the place agreeableMrs. Bird had effected. Amongst the number of her acquaintances who hadconceived a regard for her young _protege_ was a promising artist to whomshe had been a friend and patroness. Charlie paid him frequent visits, andwould sit hour after hour in his studio, watching the progress of his work. Having nothing else at the time to amuse him, he one day asked the artist'spermission to try his hand at a sketch. Being supplied with the necessarymaterials, he commenced a copy of a small drawing, and was workingassiduously, when the artist came and looked over his shoulder. 

"Did you ever draw before?" he asked, with a start of surprise. 

"Never, " replied Charlie, "except on my slate at school. I sometimes usedto sketch the boys' faces. "

"And you have never received any instructions?"

"Never--not even a hint, " was the answer. 

"And this is the first time you have attempted a sketch upon paper?"

"Yes; the very first. "

"Then you are a little prodigy, " said the artist, slapping him upon theshoulder. "I must take you in hand. You have nothing else to do; come hereregularly every day, and I'll teach you. Will you come?"

"Certainly, if you wish it. But now, tell me, do you really think thatdrawing good?" "Well, Charlie, if I had done it, it would be pronouncedvery bad for me; but, coming from your hands, it's something astonishing. "

"Really, now--you're not joking me?"

"No, Charlie, I'm in earnest--I assure you I am; it is drawn with greatspirit, and the boy that you have put in by the pump is exceedingly welldone. "

This praise served as a great incentive to our little friend, who, dayafter day thenceforth, was found at the studio busily engaged with hiscrayons, and making rapid progress in his new art. 

He had been thus occupied some weeks, and one morning was hurrying to thebreakfast-table, to get through his meal, that he might be early at thestudio, when he found Mrs. Bird in her accustomed seat looking very sad. 

"Why, what is the matter?" he asked, on observing the unusually grave faceof his friend. 

"Oh, Charlie, my dear! I've received very distressing intelligence fromPhiladelphia. Your father is quite ill. "

"My father ill!" cried he, with a look of alarm. 

"Yes, my dear! quite sick--so says my letter. Here are two for you. "

Charlie hastily broke the seal of one, and read as follows:--

"MY DEAR LITTLE BROTHER, --We are all in deep distress inconsequence of the misfortunes brought upon us by the mob. Our home has been destroyed; and, worse than all, our poorfather was caught, and so severely beaten by the rioters thatfor some days his life was entirely despaired of. Thank God!he is now improving, and we have every reasonable hope ofhis ultimate recovery. Mother, Caddy, and I, as you maywell suppose, are almost prostrated by this accumulation ofmisfortunes, and but for the kindness of Mr. Walters, withwhom we are living, I do not know what would have becomeof us. Dear Mr. And Mrs. Garie--[Here followed a passagethat was so scored and crossed as to be illegible. After ashort endeavour to decipher it, he continued:] We wouldlike to see you very much, and mother grows every day moreanxious for your return. I forgot to add, in connection withthe mob, that Mr. Walters's house was also attacked, butunsuccessfully, the rioters having met a signal repulse. Mother and Caddy send a world of love to you. So doesKinch, who comes every day to see us and is, often extremelyuseful. Give our united kind regards to Mrs. Bird, and thankher in our behalf for her great kindness to you. --Ever yours, "ESTHER. 

"P. S. --Do try and manage to come home soon. "

The tears trickled down Charlie's cheek as he perused the letter, which, when he had finished reading, he handed to Mrs. Bird, and then commencedthe other. This proved to be from Kinch, who had spent all the spare timeat his disposal since the occurrence of the mob in preparing it. 

"To MR. CHARLES ELLIS, ESQ. , at MRS. BIRD'S. 

"_Philadelphia_. 

"DEAR SIR AND HONNORED FRIEND. --I take This chance ToWrite To you To tell You that I am Well, And that we areall well Except Your father, who Is sick; and I hope you areEnjoying the same Blessin. We had An Awful fight, And Iwas There, and I was One of The Captings. I had a sordon; and the next Mornin we had a grate Brekfast. Butnobody Eat anything but me, And I was obliged to eat, Orthe Wittles would have spoiled. The Mob had Guns as Big asCannun; And they Shot them Off, and the holes Are in TheShutter yet; And when You come Back, I will show themto You. Your Father is very bad; And I Have gone backto school, And I am Licked every day because I don'tKnow my Lesson. A great big boy, with white woolly hairand Pinkish Grey eyes, has got Your seat. I Put a Pinunder him one Day, And he told On me; and We Are toHave a fight tomorrow. The boys Call Him 'Short andDirty, ' because he ain't tall, and never washes His Face. We Have got a new Teacher for the 5th Division. He's aScorcher, And believes in Rat Tan. I am to Wear My newCloths Next Sunday. Excuse This long letter. Your Friendtill death, "KINCH SANDERS DE YOUNGE. 

[Illustration: skull and cross bones]

"P. S. This it the best Skull and Cross-bones ThatI can make. Come home soon, Yours &c. , "K. S. DE YOUNGE, ESQ. "

Charlie could not but smile through his tears, as he read this curiousepistle, which was not more remarkable for its graceful composition thanits wonderful chirography. Some of the lines were written in blue ink, somein red, and others in that pale muddy black which is the peculiar colour ofink after passing through the various experiments of school-boys, whogenerally entertain the belief that all foreign substances, frommolasses-candy to bread-crumbs, necessarily improve the colour and qualityof that important liquid. 

"Why every other word almost is commenced with a capital; and I declarehe's even made some in German text, " cried Charlie, running his fingermirthfully along the lines, until he came to "Your father is very bad. "Here the tears came welling up again--the shower had returned almost beforethe sun had departed; and, hiding his face in his hands, he leant sobbingon the table. 

"Cheer up, Charlie!--cheer up, my little man! all may go well yet. "

"Mrs. Bird, " he sobbed, "you've been very kind to me; yet I want to gohome. I must see mother and father. You see what Esther writes, --they wantme to come home; do let me go. "

"Of course you shall go, if you wish. Yet I should like you to remain withme, if you will. "

"No, no, Mrs. Bird, I mustn't stay; it wouldn't be right for me to remainhere, idle and enjoying myself, and they so poor and unhappy at home. Icouldn't stay, " said he, rising from the table, --"I must go. "

"Well, my dear, you can't go now. Sit down and finish your breakfast, oryou will have a head-ache. "

"I'm not hungry--I can't eat, " he replied; "my appetite has all gone. " Andstealing away from the room, he went up into his chamber, threw himself onthe bed, and wept bitterly. 

Mrs. Bird was greatly distressed at the idea of losing her littlefavourite. He had been so much with her that she had become stronglyattached to him, and therefore looked forward to his departure withunfeigned regret. But Charlie could not be persuaded to stay; andreluctantly Mrs. Bird made arrangements for his journey home. Even theservants looked a little sorry when they heard of his intended departure;and Reuben the coachman actually presented him with a jack-knife as a tokenof his regard. 

Mrs. Bird accompanied him to the steamer, and placed him under the specialcare of the captain; so that he was most comfortably provided for until hisarrival in New York, where he took the cars direct for home. 

Not having written to inform them on what day he might be expected, heanticipated giving them a joyful surprise, and, with this end in view, hastened in the direction of Mr. Walters's. As he passed along, his eye wasattracted by a figure before him which he thought he recognized, and oncloser inspection it proved to be his sister Caddy. 

Full of boyish fun, he crept up behind her, and clasped his hands over hereyes, exclaiming, in an assumed voice, "Now, who am I?"

"Go away, you impudent, nasty thing!" cried Caddy, plunging violently. Charlie loosed his hold; she turned, and beheld her brother. 

"Oh! Charlie, Charlie! is it you? Why, bless you, you naughty fellow, howyou frightened me!" said she, throwing her arms round his neck, and kissinghim again and again. "When did you come? Oh, how delighted mother and Esswill be!" "I only arrived about half an hour ago. How are mother andfather and Esther?"

"Mother and Ess are well, and father better. But I'm so glad to see you, "she cried, with a fresh burst of tears and additional embraces. 

"Why, Cad, " said he, endeavouring to suppress some watery sensations of hisown, "I'm afraid you're not a bit pleased at my return--you're actuallycrying about it. "

"Oh, I'm so glad to see you that I can't help it, " she replied, as she fellto crying and kissing him more furiously than before. 

Charlie became much confused at these repeated demonstrations of joyfulaffection in the crowded street, and, gently disengaging her, remarked, "See, Caddy, everybody is looking at us; let us walk on. "

"I had almost forgot I was sent on an errand--however, it's not of muchconsequence--I'll go home again with you;" and taking his hand, theytrudged on together. 

"How did you say father was?" he asked again. 

"Oh, he's better bodily; that is, he has some appetite, sits up every day, and is gradually getting stronger; but he's all wrong here, " said she, tapping her forehead. "Sometimes he don't know any of us--and it makes usall feel so bad. " Here the tears came trickling down again, as shecontinued: "Oh, Charlie! what those white devils will have to answer for!When I think of how much injury they have done us, I _hate_ them! I knowit's wrong to hate anybody--but I can't help it; and I believe God hatesthem as much as I do!"

Charlie looked gloomy; and, as he made no rejoinder, she continued, "Wedidn't save a thing, not even a change of clothes; they broke and burnt upeverything; and then the way they beat poor father was horrible--horrible!Just think--they chopped his fingers nearly all off, so that he has onlythe stumps left. Charlie, Charlie!" she cried, wringing her hands, "it'sheart-rending to see him--he can't even feed himself, and he'll never beable to work again!"

"Don't grieve, Cad, " said Charlie, with an effort to suppress his owntears; "I'm almost a man now, " continued he, drawing himself up--"don't beafraid, I'll take care of you all!"

Thus conversing, they reached Mr. Walters's. Caddy wanted Charlie to stopand look at the damage effected by the mob upon the outside of the house, but he was anxious to go in, and ran up the steps and gave the bell a verysharp pull. The servant who opened the door was about to make someexclamation of surprise, and was only restrained by a warning look fromCharlie. Hurrying past them, Caddy led the way to the room where her motherand Esther were sitting. With a cry of joy Mrs. Ellis caught him in herarms, and, before he was aware of their presence, he found himself halfsmothered by her and Esther. 

They had never been separated before his trip to Warmouth; and theirreunion, under such circumstances, was particularly affecting. None of themcould speak for a few moments, and Charlie clung round his mother's neck asthough he would never loose his hold. "Mother, mother!" was all he couldutter; yet in that word was comprised a world of joy and affection. 

Esther soon came in for her share of caresses; then Charlie inquired, "Where's father?"

"In here, " said Mrs. Ellis, leading the way to an adjoining room. "I don'tthink he will know you--perhaps he may. "

In one corner of the apartment, propped up in a large easy chair by anumber of pillows, sat poor Mr. Ellis, gazing vacantly about the room andmuttering to himself. His hair had grown quite white, and his form wasemaciated in the extreme; there was a broad scar across his forehead, andhis dull, lustreless eyes were deeply sunken in his head. He took no noticeof them as they approached, but continued muttering and looking at hishands. 

Charlie was almost petrified at the change wrought in his father. A fewmonths before he had left him in the prime of healthful manhood; now he wasbent and spectrelike, and old in appearance as if the frosts of eightywinters had suddenly fallen on him. Mrs. Ellis laid her hand gently uponhis shoulder, and said, "Husband, here's Charlie. " He made no reply, butcontinued muttering and examining his mutilated hands. "It's Charlie, " sherepeated. 

"Oh, ay! nice little boy!" he replied, vacantly; "whose son is he?"

Mrs. Ellis's voice quivered as she reiterated, "It's Charlie--ourCharlie!--don't you know him?"

"Oh, yes! nice little boy--nice little boy. Oh!" he continued, in asuppressed and hurried tone, as a look of alarm crossed his face; "run homequick, little boy! and tell your mother they're coming, thousands of them;they've guns, and swords, and clubs. Hush! There they come--there theycome!" And he buried his face in the shawl, and trembled in an agony offright. 

"Oh, mother, this is dreadful!" exclaimed Charlie. "Don't he know any ofyou?"

"Yes; sometimes his mind comes back--very seldom, though--only for a verylittle while. Come away: talking to him sometimes makes him worse. " Andslowly and sorrowfully the two left the apartment. 

That evening, after Mr. Ellis had been safely bestowed in bed, the familygathered round the fire in the room of Mrs. Ellis, where Charlieentertained them with a description of Warmouth and of the manner in whichhe had passed the time whilst there. He was enthusiastic respecting Mrs. Bird and her kindness. "Mother, she is such a _dear_ old lady: if I'd beenas white as snow, and her own son, she couldn't have been kinder to me. Shedidn't want me to come away, and cried ever so much. Let me show you whatshe gave me!" Charlie thrust his hand into his pocket, and drew out a smallwallet, from which he counted out four ten-dollar bills, two fives, and atwo dollar and a half gold piece, "Ain't I rich!" said he, as, with the airof a millionaire, he tossed the money upon a table. "Now, " he continued, "do you know what I'm about to do?" Not receiving any answer from hiswondering sisters or mother, he added, "Why, just this!--here, mother, this is yours, " said he, placing the four ten-dollar bills before her; "andhere are five apiece for Esther and Cad; the balance is for your humbleservant. Now, then, " he concluded, "what do you think of that?"

Mrs. Ellis looked fondly at him, and, stroking his head, told him that hewas a good son; and Esther and Caddy declared him to be the best brother intown. 

"Now, girls, " said he, with the air of a patriarch, "what do you intend todo with your money?"

"Mine will go towards buying me a dress, and Esther will save hers for aparticular purpose, " said Caddy. "I'll tell you something about her and Mr. Walters, " continued she, with a mischievous look at her sister. 

"Oh, Caddy--don't! Ain't you ashamed to plague me so?" asked Esther, blushing to the roots of her hair. "Mother, pray stop her, " cried she, pleadingly. 

"Hush, Caddy!" interposed her mother, authoritatively; "you shall do nosuch thing. "

"Well, " resumed Caddy, "mother says I mustn't tell; but I can say thismuch----"

Esther here put her hand over her sister's mouth and effectually preventedany communication she was disposed to make. 

"Never mind her, Ess!" cried Charlie; "you'll tell me all in good time, especially if it's anything worth knowing. "

Esther made no reply, but, releasing her sister, hurried out of the room, and went upstairs to Charlie's chamber, where he found her on retiring forthe night. 

"I'm glad you're here, Ess, " said he, "you'll indulge me. Here is thekey--open my trunk and get me out a nightcap; I'm too tired, or too lazy, to get it for myself. " Esther stooped down, opened the trunk, and commencedsearching for the article of head-gear in question. "Come, Ess, " saidCharles, coaxingly, "tell me what this is about you and Mr. Walters. "

She made no reply at first, but fumbled about in the bottom of the trunk, professedly in search of the nightcap which she at that moment held in herhand. "Can't you tell me?" he again asked. 

"Oh, there's nothing to tell, Charlie!" she answered. 

"There must be something, Ess, or you wouldn't have blushed up so when Cadwas about to speak of it. Do, " said he, approaching her, and putting hisarm round her neck--"do tell me all about it--I am sure there is somesecret!"

"Oh, no, Charlie--there is no secret; it's only this----" Here she stopped, and, blushing, turned her head away. 

"Ess, this is nonsense, " said Charlie, impatiently: "if it's anything worthknowing, why can't you tell a fellow? Come, " said he, kissing her, "tellme, now, like a dear old Ess as you are. "

"Well, Charlie, " said she, jerking the words out with an effort, "Mr. --Mr. Walters has asked me to marry him!"

"Phew--gemini! that is news!" exclaimed Charlie. "And are you going toaccept him Ess?"

"I don't know, " she answered. 

"Don't know!" repeated Charlie, in a tone of surprise. "Why, Ess, I'mastonished at you--such a capital fellow as he is! Half the girls of ouracquaintance would give an eye for the chance. "

"But he is so rich!" responded Esther. 

"Well, now, that's a great objection, ain't it! I should say, all thebetter on that account, " rejoined Charlie. 

"The money is the great stumbling-block, " continued she; "everybody wouldsay I married him for that. "

"Then _everybody_ would lie, _as_ everybody very often does! If I was you, Ess, and loved him, I shouldn't let his fortune stand in the way. I wish, "continued he, pulling up his shirt-collar, "that some amiable young girlwith a fortune of a hundred thousand dollars, would make me an offer--I'dlike to catch myself refusing her!"

The idea of a youth of his tender years marrying any one, seemed soludicrous to Esther, that she burst into a hearty fit of laughter, to thegreat chagrin of our hero, who seemed decidedly of the opinion that hissister had not a proper appreciation of his years and inches. 

"Don't laugh, Ess; but tell me--do you really intend to refuse him?"

"I can't decide yet, Charlie, " answered she seriously; "if we were situatedas we were before--were not such absolute paupers--I wouldn't hesitate toaccept him; but to bring a family of comparative beggars upon him--I can'tmake up my mind to do that. "

Charlie looked grave as Esther made this last objection; boy as he was, hefelt its weight and justice. "Well, Ess, " rejoined he, "I don't know whatto say about it--of course I can't advise. What does mother say?"

"She leaves it entirely to me, " she answered. "She says I must act just asI feel is right. "

"I certainly wouldn't have him at all, Ess, if I didn't love him; and if Idid, I shouldn't let the money stand in the way--so, good night!"

Charlie slept very late the next morning, and was scarcely dressed whenEsther knocked at his door, with the cheerful tidings that her father had alucid interval and was waiting to see him. 

Dressing himself hastily, he followed her into their father's room. When heentered, the feeble sufferer stretched out his mutilated arms towards himand clasped him round the neck, "They tell me, " said he, "that you cameyesterday, and that I didn't recognize you. I thought, when I awoke thismorning, that I had a dim recollection of having seen some dear face; butmy head aches so, that I often forget--yes, often forget. My boy, " hecontinued, "you are all your mother and sisters have to depend upon now;I'm--I'm----" here his voice faltered, as he elevated his stumps ofhands--"I'm helpless; but you must take care of them. I'm an old man now, "said he despondingly. 

"I will, father; I'll try _so_ hard" replied Charlie. 

"It was cruel in them, wasn't it, son, " he resumed. "See, they've made mehelpless for ever!" Charlie restrained the tears that were forcingthemselves up, and rejoined, "Never fear, father! I'll do my best; I trustI shall soon be able to take care of you. "

His father did not understand him--his mind was gone again, and he wasstaring vacantly about him. Charlie endeavoured to recall his attention, but failed, for he began muttering about the mob and his hands; they werecompelled to quit the room, and leave him to himself, as he always becamequiet sooner by being left alone. 

CHAPTER XXVII. 

Sudbury. 

We must now admit our readers to a consultation that is progressing betweenMr. Balch and Mr. Walters, respecting the future of the two Garie children. They no doubt entered upon the conference with the warmest and most earnestdesire of promoting the children's happiness; but, unfortunately, theirdecision failed to produce the wished-for result. 

"I scarcely thought you would have succeeded so well with him, " saidWalters, "he is such an inveterate scoundrel; depend upon it nothing butthe fear of the exposure resulting from a legal investigation would everhave induced that scamp to let twelve thousand dollars escape from hisclutches. I am glad you have secured that much; when we add it to the eightthousand already in my possession it will place them in very comfortablecircumstances, even if they never get any more. "

"I think we have done very well, " rejoined Mr. Balch; "we were as much inhis power as he was in ours--not in the same way, however; a legalinvestigation, no matter how damaging it might have been to his reputation, would not have placed us in possession of the property, or invalidated hisclaim as heir. I think, on the whole, we may as well be satisfied, andtrust in Providence for the future. So now, then, we will resume ourdiscussion of that matter we had under consideration the other day. Icannot but think that my plan is best adapted to secure the boy'shappiness. "

"I'm sorry I cannot agree with you, Mr. Balch. I have tried to view yourplan in the most favourable light, yet I cannot rid myself of apresentiment that it will result in the ultimate discovery of his peculiarposition, and that most probably at some time when his happiness isdependent upon its concealment. An undetected forger, who is in constantfear of being apprehended, is happy in comparison with that coloured manwho attempts, in this country, to hold a place in the society of whites byconcealing his origin. He must live in constant fear of exposure; thisdread will embitter every enjoyment, and make him the most miserable ofmen. "

"You must admit, " rejoined Mr. Balch, "that I have their welfare at heart. I have thought the matter over and over, and cannot, for the life of me, feel the weight of your objections. The children are peculiarly situated;everything seems to favour my views. Their mother (the only relative theyhad whose African origin was distinguishable) is dead, and both of them areso exceedingly fair that it would never enter the brain of any one thatthey were connected with coloured people by ties of blood. Clarence is oldenough to know the importance of concealing the fact, and Emily might bekept with us until her prudence also might be relied upon. You mustacknowledge that as white persons they will be better off. "

"I admit, " answered Mr. Walters, "that in our land of liberty it is ofincalculable advantage to be white; that is beyond dispute, and no one ismore painfully aware of it than I. Often I have heard men of colour saythey would not be white if they could--had no desire to change theircomplexions; I've written some down fools; others, liars. Why, " continuedhe, with a sneering expression of countenance, "it is everything to bewhite; one feels that at every turn in our boasted free country, where allmen are upon an equality. When I look around me, and see what I have mademyself in spite of circumstances, and think what I might have been with thesame heart and brain beneath a fairer skin, I am almost tempted to cursethe destiny that made me what I am. Time after time, when scraping, toiling, saving, I have asked myself. To what purpose is it all?--perhapsthat in the future white men may point at and call me, sneeringly, 'anigger millionaire, ' or condescend to borrow money of me. Ah! often, whensome negro-hating white man has been forced to ask a loan at my hands, I'vethought of Shylock and his pound of flesh, and ceased to wonder at him. There's no doubt, my dear sir, but what I fully appreciate the advantage ofbeing white. Yet, with all I have endured, and yet endure from day to day, I esteem myself happy in comparison with that man, who, mingling in thesociety of whites, is at the same time aware that he has African blood inhis veins, and is liable at any moment to be ignominiously hurled from hisposition by the discovery of his origin. He is never safe. I have knowninstances where parties have gone on for years and years undetected; butsome untoward circumstance brings them out at last, and down they fall forever. "

"Walters, my dear fellow, you will persist in looking upon his beingdiscovered as a thing of course: I see no reason for the anticipation ofany such result. I don't see how he is to be detected--it may never occur. And do you feel justified in consigning them to a position which you knowby painful experience to be one of the most disagreeable that can beendured. Ought we not to aid their escape from it if we can?"

Mr. Walters stood reflectively for some moments, and then exclaimed, "I'llmake no farther objection; I would not have the boy say to me hereafter, 'But for your persisting in identifying me with a degraded people, I mighthave been better and happier than I am. ' However, I cannot but feel thatconcealments of this kind are productive of more misery than comfort. "

"We will agree to differ about that, Walters; and now, having your consent, I shall not hesitate to proceed in the matter, with full reliance that thefuture will amply justify my choice. "

"Well, well! as I said before, I will offer no further objection. Now letme hear the details of your plan. "

"I have written, " answered Mr. Balch, "to Mr. Eustis, a friend of mineliving at Sudbury, where there is a large preparatory school for boys. Athis house I purpose placing Clarence. Mr. Eustis is a most discreet man, and a person of liberal sentiments. I feel that I can confide everything tohim without the least fear of his ever divulging a breath of it. He is agentleman in the fullest sense of the term, and at his house the boy willhave the advantage of good society, and will associate with the best peopleof the place. "

"Has he a family?" asked Mr. Walters. 

"He is a widower, " answered Mr. Balch; "a maiden sister of his wife'spresides over his establishment; she will be kind to Clarence, I amconfident; she has a motherly soft heart, and is remarkably fond ofchildren. I have not the least doubt but that he will be very happy andcomfortable there. I think it very fortunate, Walters, " he continued, "thathe has so few coloured acquaintances--no boyish intimacies to break up; andit will be as well to send him away before he has an opportunity of formingthem. Besides, being here, where everything will be so constantly revivingthe remembrance of his recent loss, he may grow melancholy and stupid. Ihave several times noticed his reserve, so unusual in a child. His dreadfulloss and the horrors that attended it have made, a deepimpression--stupified him, to a certain extent, I think. Well, well! wewill get him off, and once away at school, and surrounded by lively boys, this dulness will soon wear off. "

The gentlemen having fully determined upon his being sent, it was proposedto bring him in immediately and talk to him relative to it. He wasaccordingly sent for, and came into the room, placing himself beside thechair of Mr. Walters. 

Clarence had altered very much since the death of his parents. His face hadgrown thin and pale, and he was much taller than when he came toPhiladelphia: a shade of melancholy had overspread his face; there was nowin his eyes that expression of intense sadness that characterized hismother's. "You sent for me?" he remarked, inquiringly, to Mr. Walters. 

"Yes, my boy, " he rejoined, "we sent for you to have a little talk aboutschool. Would you like to go to school again?"

"Oh, yes!" answered Clarence, his face lighting up with pleasure; "I shouldlike it of all things; it would be much better than staying at home allday, doing nothing; the days are so long, " concluded he, with a sigh. 

"Ah! we will soon remedy that, " rejoined Mr. Balch, "when you go toSudbury. "

"Sudbury!" repeated Clarence, with surprise; "where is that? I thought youmeant, to go to school here. "

"Oh, no, my dear, " said Mr. Balch, "I don't know of any good school here, such as you would like; we wish to send you to a place where you will enjoyyourself finely, --where you will have a number of boys for companions inyour studies and pleasures. "

"And is Em going with me?" he asked. 

"Oh, no, that is not possible; it is a school for boys exclusively; youcan't take your sister there, " rejoined Mr. Walters. 

"Then I don't want to go, " said Clarence, decidedly; "I don't want to gowhere I can't take Em with me. "

Mr. Balch exchanged glances with Mr. Walters, and looked quite perplexed atthis new opposition to his scheme. Nothing daunted, however, by thisdifficulty, he, by dint of much talking and persuasion, brought Clarence tolook upon the plan with favour, and to consent reluctantly to go withouthis sister. 

But the most delicate part of the whole business was yet to come--they mustimpress upon the child the necessity of concealing the fact that he was ofAfrican origin. Neither seemed to know how to approach the subject. Clarence, however, involuntarily made an opening for them by inquiring ifEmily was to go to Miss Jordan's school again. 

"No, my dear, " answered Mr. Balch, "Miss Jordan won't permit her to attendschool there. "

"Why?" asked Clarence. 

"Because she is a coloured child, " rejoined Mr. Balch. "Now, Clarence, "he continued, "you are old enough, I presume, to know the difference thatexists between the privileges and advantages enjoyed by the whites, andthose that are at the command of the coloured people. White boys can go tobetter schools, and they can enter college and become professional men, lawyers, doctors, &c, or they may be merchants--in fact, they can beanything they please. Coloured people can enjoy none of these advantages;they are shut out from them entirely. Now which of the two would you ratherbe--coloured or white?"

"I should much rather be white, of course, " answered Clarence; "but I amcoloured, and can't help myself, " said he, innocently. 

"But, my child, we are going to send you where it is not known that you arecoloured; and you must _never, never_ tell it, because if it became known, you would be expelled from the school, as you were from Miss Jordan's. "

"I didn't know we were expelled, " rejoined Clarence. "I know she sent ushome, but I could not understand what it was for. I'm afraid they will sendme from the other school. Won't they know I am coloured?"

"No, my child, I don't think they will discover it unless you should befoolish enough to tell it yourself, in which case both Mr. Walters andmyself would be very much grieved. "

"But suppose some one should ask me, " suggested Clarence. 

"No one will ever ask you such a question, " said Mr. Balch, impatiently;"all you have to do is to be silent yourself on the subject. Should any ofyour schoolmates ever make inquiries respecting your parents, all you haveto answer is, they were from Georgia, and you are an orphan. "

Clarence's eyes began to moisten as Mr. Balch spoke of his parents, andafter a few moments he asked, with some hesitation, "Am I never to speak ofmother? I love to talk of mother. "

"Yes, my dear, of course you can talk of your mother, " answered Mr. Balch, with great embarrassment; "only, you know, my child, you need not enterinto particulars as regards her appearance; that is, you--ah!--need notsay she was a coloured woman. You _must not_ say that; you understand?"

"Yes, sir, " answered Clarence. 

"Very well, then; bear that in mind. You must know, Clarence, " continuedhe, "that this concealment is necessary for your welfare, or we would notrequire it; and you must let me impress it upon you, that it is requisitethat you attend strictly to our directions. "

Mr. Walters remained silent during most of this conversation. He felt arepugnance to force upon the child a concealment the beneficial results ofwhich were the reverse of obvious, so he merely gave Clarence some usefuladvice respecting his general conduct, and then permitted him to leave theroom. 

The morning fixed upon for their departure for Sudbury turned out to becold and cheerless; and Clarence felt very gloomy as he sat beside hissister at their early breakfast, of which he was not able to eat a morsel. "Do eat something, Clary, " said she, coaxingly; "only look what nicebuckwheat cakes these are; cook got up ever so early on purpose to bakethem for you. "

"No, sis, " he replied, "I can't eat. I feel so miserable, everything chokesme. "

"Well, eat a biscuit, then, " she continued, as she buttered it and laid iton his plate; "do eat it, now. "

More to please her than from a desire to eat, he forced down a fewmouthfuls of it, and drank a little tea; then, laying his arm round herneck, he said, "Em, you must try hard to learn to write soon, so that I mayhear from you at least once a week. "

"Oh! I shall soon know how, I'm in g's and h's now. Aunt Esther--she says Imay call her Aunt Esther--teaches me every day. Ain't I getting on nicely?"

"Oh, yes, you learn very fast, " said Esther, encouragingly, as shecompleted the pile of sandwiches she was preparing for the young traveller;then, turning to look at the timepiece on the mantel, she exclaimed, "Quarter to seven--how time flies! Mr. Balch will soon be here. You mustbe all ready, Clarence, so as not to keep him waiting a moment. "

Clarence arose from his scarcely tasted meal, began slowly to put on hisovercoat, and make himself ready for the journey. Em tied on the warmwoollen neck-comforter, kissing him on each cheek as she did so, and whilstthey were thus engaged, Mr. Balch drove up to the door. 

Charlie, who had come down to see him off, tried (with his mouth full ofbuckwheat cake) to say something consolatory, and gave it as hisexperience, "that a fellow soon got over that sort of thing; thatseparations must occur sometimes, " &c. --and, on the whole, endeavoured totalk in a very manly and philosophical strain; but his precepts andpractice proved to be at utter variance, for when the moment of separationreally came and he saw the tearful embrace of Em and her brother, he caughtthe infection of grief, and cried as heartily as the best of them. Therewas but little time, however, to spare for leave-takings, and the youngtraveller and his guardian were soon whirling over the road towards NewYork. 

By a singular chance, Clarence found himself in the same car in which hehad formerly rode when they were on their way to Philadelphia: herecognized it by some peculiar paintings on the panel of the door, and theornamental border of the ceiling. This brought back a tide of memories, andhe began contrasting that journey with the present. Opposite was the seaton which his parents had sat, in the bloom of health, and elate with;joyous anticipations; he remembered--oh! so well--his father's pleasantsmile, his mother's soft and gentle voice. Both now were gone. Death hadmade rigid that smiling face--her soft voice was hushed for ever--and thecold snow was resting on their bosoms in the little churchyard miles away. Truly the contrast between now and then was extremely saddening, and thechild bowed his head upon the seat, and sobbed in bitter grief. 

"What is the matter?" asked Mr. Balch; "not crying again, I hope. Ithought you were going to be a man, and that we were not to have any moretears. Come!" continued he, patting him encouragingly on the back, "cheerup! You are going to a delightful place, where you will find a number ofagreeable playmates, and have a deal of fun, and enjoy yourself amazingly. "

"But it won't be _home_, " replied Clarence. 

"True, " replied Mr. Balch, a little touched, "it won't seem so at first;but you'll soon like it, I'll guarantee that. "

Clarence was not permitted to indulge his grief to any great extent, forMr. Balch soon succeeded in interesting him in the various objects thatthey passed on the way. 

On the evening of the next day they arrived at their destination, andClarence alighted from the cars, cold, fatigued, and spiritless. There hadbeen a heavy fall of snow a few days previous, and the town of Sudbury, which was built upon the hill-side, shone white and sparkling in the clearwinter moonlight. 

It was the first time that Clarence had ever seen the ground covered withsnow, and he could not restrain his admiration at the novel spectacle itpresented to him. "Oh, look!--oh, do look! Mr. Balch, " he exclaimed, "howbeautifully white it looks; it seems as if the town was built of salt. "

It was indeed a pretty sight. Near them stood a clump of fantastic-shapedtrees, their gnarled limbs covered with snow, and brilliant with thecountless icicles that glistened like precious stones in the bright lightthat was reflected upon them from the windows of the station. A littlefarther on, between them and the town, flowed a small stream, the waters ofwhich were dimpling and sparkling in the moonlight. Beside its banks arosestately cotton-mills, and from their many windows hundreds of lights wereshining. Behind them, tier above tier, were the houses of the town; andcrowning the hill was the academy, with its great dome gleaming on its toplike a silver cap upon a mountain of snow. The merry sleigh-bells and thecrisp tramp of the horses upon the frozen ground were all calculated tomake a striking impression on one beholding such a scene for the firsttime. 

Clarence followed Mr. Balch into the sleigh, delighted and bewildered withthe surrounding objects. The driver whipped up his horses, they clatteredover the bridge, dashed swiftly through the town, and in a very shortperiod arrived at the dwelling of Mr. Eustis. 

The horses had scarcely stopped, when the door flew open, and a stream oflight from the hall shone down the pathway to the gate. Mr. Eustis came outon the step to welcome them. After greeting Mr. Balch warmly, he tookClarence by the hand, and led him into the room where his sister wassitting. 

"Here is our little friend, " said he to her, as she arose and approachedthem; "try and get him warm, Ada--his hands are like ice. "

Miss Ada Bell welcomed Clarence in the most affectionate manner, assistedhim to remove his coat, unfastened his woollen neck-tie, and smoothed downhis glossy black hair; then, warming a napkin, she wrapped it round hisbenumbed hands, and held them in her own until the circulation was restoredand they were supple and comfortable again. 

Miss Ada Bell appeared to be about thirty-five. She had good regularfeatures, hazel eyes, and long chestnut curls: a mouth with the sweetestexpression, and a voice so winning and affectionate in its tone that itwent straight to the hearts of all that listened to its music. 

"Had you a pleasant journey?" she asked. 

"It was rather cold, " answered Clarence, "and I am not accustomed to frostyweather. "

"And did you leave all your friends well?" she continued, as she chafed hishands. 

"Quite well, I thank you, " he replied. 

"I hear you have a little sister; were you not sorry to leave her behind?"

This question called up the tearful face of little Em and her last embrace. He could not answer; he only raised his mournful dark eyes to the face ofMiss Ada, and as he looked at her they grew moist, and a tear sparkled onhis long lashes. Miss Ada felt that she had touched a tender chord, so shestooped down and kissed his forehead, remarking, "You have a good face, Clarence, and no doubt an equally good heart; we shall get on charminglytogether, I know. " Those kind words won the orphan's heart, and from thatday forth. Clarence loved her. Tea was soon brought upon the table, andthey all earnestly engaged in the discussion of the various refreshmentsthat Miss Ada's well-stocked larder afforded. Everything was so fresh andnicely flavoured that both the travellers ate very heartily; then, beingmuch fatigued with their two days' journey, they seized an earlyopportunity to retire. 

 * * * * *

Here we leave Clarence for many years; the boy will have become a man erewe re-introduce him, and, till then, we bid him adieu. 

CHAPTER XXVIII. 

Charlie seeks Employment. 

Charlie had been at borne some weeks, comparatively idle; at least he soconsidered himself, as the little he did in the way of collecting rents andlooking up small accounts for Mr. Walters he regarded as next to nothing, it not occupying half his time. A part of each day he spent in attendanceon his father, who seemed better satisfied with his ministrations than withthose of his wife and daughters. This proved to be very fortunate for allparties, as it enabled the girls to concentrate their attention on theirsewing--of which they had a vast deal on hand. 

One day, when Esther and Charlie were walking out together, the latterremarked: "Ess, I wish I could find some regular and profitable employment, or was apprenticed to some good trade that would enable me to assist mothera little; I'd even go to service if I could do no better--anything butbeing idle whilst you are all so hard at work. It makes me feel veryuncomfortable. "

"I would be very glad if you could procure some suitable employment. Idon't wish you to go to service again, that is out of the question. Of whomhave you made inquiry respecting a situation. "

"Oh, of lots of people; they can tell me of any number of families who arein want of a footman, but no one appears to know of a 'person who iswilling to receive a black boy as an apprentice to a respectable calling. It's too provoking; I really think, Ess, that the majority of white folksimagine that we are only fit for servants, and incapable of being rendereduseful in any other capacity. If that terrible misfortune had not befallenfather, I should have learned his trade. "

"Ah!" sighed Esther, "but for that we should all have been happier. But, Charlie, " she added, "how do you know that you cannot obtain any otheremployment than that of a servant? Have you ever applied personally to anyone?"

"No, Esther, I haven't; but you know as well as I that white masters won'treceive coloured apprentices. "

"I think a great deal of that is taken for granted, " rejoined Esther, "trysome one yourself. "

"I only wish I knew of any one to try, " responded Charlie, "I'd hazard theexperiment at any rate. "

"Look over the newspaper in the morning, " advised Esther; "there are alwaysa great many wants advertised--amongst them you may perhaps find somethingsuitable. "

"Well, I will Ess--now then we won't talk about that any more--pray tellme, if I'm not too inquisitive, what do you purpose buying with yourmoney--a wedding-dress, eh?" he asked, with a merry twinkle in his eye. 

Esther blushed and sighed, as she answered: "No, Charlie, that is all overfor the present. I told him yesterday I could not think of marrying now, whilst we are all so unsettled. It grieved me to do it, Charlie, but I feltthat it was my duty. Cad and I are going to add our savings to mother's;that, combined with what we shall receive for father's tools, good-will, &c, will be sufficient to furnish another house; and as soon as we cansucceed in that, we will leave Mr. Walters, as it is embarrassing to remainunder present circumstances. "

"And what is to become of little Em?--she surely won't remain alone withhim?"

"Mr. Walters has proposed that when we procure a house she shall come andboard with us. He wants us to take one of his houses, and offers somefabulous sum for the child's board, which it would be unreasonable in us totake. Dear, good man, he is always complaining that we are too proud, andwon't let him assist us when he might. If we find a suitable house I shallbe delighted to have her. I love the child for her mother's sake and herown. "

"I wonder if they will ever send her away, as they did Clarence?" askedCharlie. 

"I do not know, " she rejoined. "Mr. Balch told me that he should not insistupon it if the child was unwilling. "

The next day Charlie purchased all the morning papers he could obtain, andsat down to look over the list of wants. There were hungry people in wantof professed cooks; divers demands for chamber-maids, black or white;special inquiries for waiters and footmen, in which the same disregard ofcolour was observable; advertisements for partners in all sorts ofbusinesses, and for journeymen in every department of mechanicaloperations; then there were milliners wanted, sempstresses, and eventheatrical assistants, but nowhere in the long columns could he discover:"Wanted, a boy. " Charlie searched them over and over, but the stubborn factstared him in the face--there evidently were no boys wanted; and he atlength concluded that he either belonged to a very useless class, or thatthere was an unaccountable prejudice existing in the city against therising generation. 

Charlie folded up the papers with a despairing sigh, and walked to thepost-office to mail a letter to Mrs. Bird that he had written the previousevening. Having noticed a number of young men examining some writtennotices that were posted up, he joined the group, and finding it was a listof wants he eagerly read them over. 

To his great delight he found there was one individual at least, whothought boys could be rendered useful to society, and who had written asfollows: "Wanted, a youth of about thirteen years of age who writes a goodhand, and is willing to make himself useful in an office. --Address, Box No. 77, Post-office. "

"I'm their man!" said Charlie to himself, as he finished perusing it--"I'mjust the person. I'll go home and write to them immediately;" andaccordingly he hastened back to the house, sat down, and wrote a reply tothe advertisement. He then privately showed it to Esther, who praised thewriting and composition, and pronounced the whole very neatly done. 

Charlie then walked down to the post-office to deposit his precious reply;and after dropping it into the brass mouth of the mail-box, he gazed inafter it, and saw it glide slowly down into the abyss below. 

How many more had stopped that day to add their contributions to the masswhich Charlie's letter now joined? Merchants on the brink of ruin haddeposited missives whose answer would make or break them; others haddropped upon the swelling heap tidings that would make poor men rich--richmen richer; maidens came with delicately written notes, perfumed andgilt-edged, eloquent with love--and cast them amidst invoices and bills oflading. Letters of condolence and notes of congratulation jostled eachother as they slid down the brass throat; widowed mothers' tender epistlesto wandering sons; the letters of fond wives to absent husbands; erringdaughters' last appeals to outraged parents; offers of marriage;invitations to funerals; hope and despair; joy and sorrow; misfortune andsuccess--had glided in one almost unbroken stream down that ever-distendedand insatiable brass throat. 

Charlie gave one more look at the opening, then sauntered homeward, building by the way houses of fabulous dimensions, with the income heanticipated from the situation if he succeeded in procuring it. Throughoutthe next day he was in a state of feverish anxiety and expectation, andMrs. Ellis two or three times inquired the meaning of the mysteriouswhisperings and glances that were exchanged between him and Esther. The daywore away, and yet no answer--the next came and passed, still nocommunication; and Charlie had given up in despair, when he was agreeablysurprised by the following:----

"Messrs. Twining, Western, and Twining will be much obliged to CharlesEllis, if he will call at their office, 567, Water-street, to-morrowmorning at eleven o'clock, as they would like to communicate further withhim respecting a situation in their establishment. "

Charlie flew up stairs to Esther's room, and rushing in precipitately, exclaimed, "Oh! Ess--I've got it, I've got it--see here, " he shouted, waving the note over his head; "Hurrah! Hurrah! Just read it, Ess, onlyjust read it!"

"How can I, Charlie?" said she, with a smile, "if you hold it in your handand dance about in that frantic style--give it me. There now--keep quiet amoment, and let me read it. " After perusing it attentively, Esther added, "Don't be too sanguine, Charlie. You see by the tenor of the note that thesituation is not promised you; they only wish to see you respecting it. Youmay not secure it, after all--some obstacle may arise of which we are notat present aware. "

"Go on, old raven--croak away!" said Charlie, giving her at the same time afacetious poke. 

"There's many a slip between the cup and the lip, " she added. 

"Oh, Ess!" he rejoined, "don't throw cold water on a fellow in thatstyle--don't harbour so many doubts. Do you think they would take thetrouble to write if they did not intend to give me the situation? Go away, old raven, " concluded he, kissing her, "and don't let us have any morecroaking. "

Charlie was bounding from the room, when he was stopped by his sister, whobegged him not to say anything to their mother respecting it, but waituntil they knew the issue of the interview; and, if he secured thesituation, it would be a very agreeable surprise to her. 

We will now visit, in company with the reader, the spacious offices ofMessrs. Twining, Western, and Twining, where we shall find Mr. Westernabout consigning to the waste-paper basket a large pile of letters. Thisgentleman was very fashionably dressed, of dark complexion, with thelanguid air and drawling intonation of a Southerner. 

At an adjoining desk sat an elderly sharp-faced gentleman, who was lookingover his spectacles at the movements of his partner. "What a mass ofletters you are about to destroy, " he remarked. 

Mr. Western took from his month the cigar he was smoking, and after puffingfrom between his lips a thin wreath of smoke, replied: "Some of the mostatwocious scwawls that man ever attempted to pewuse, --weplies to theadvertisement. Out of the whole lot there wasn't more than a dozen amongstthem that were weally pwesentable. Here is one wemawkably well witten: Ihave desiwed the witer to call this morning at eleven. I hope he will makeas favouwable an impwession as his witing has done. It is now almosteleven--I pwesume he will be here soon. "

Scarcely had Mr. Western finished speaking, ere the door opened, and Estherentered, followed by Charlie. Both the gentlemen rose, and Mr. Twiningoffered her a chair. 

Esther accepted the proffered seat, threw up her veil, and said, in aslightly embarrassed tone, "My brother here, took the liberty of replyingto an advertisement of yours, and you were kind enough to request him tocall at eleven to-day. "

"We sent a note to _your_ brother?" said Mr. Twining, in a tone ofsurprise. 

"Yes, sir, and here it is, " said she, extending it to him. 

Mr. Twining glanced over it, and remarked, "This is your writing, Western;"then taking Charlie's letter from the desk of Mr. Western, he asked, in adoubting tone, "Is this your own writing and composition?"

"My own writing and composing, " answered Charlie. 

"And it is vewy cweditable to you, indeed, " said Mr. Western. 

Both the gentlemen looked at the note again, then at Charlie, then atEsther, and lastly at each other; but neither seemed able to say anything, and evident embarrassment existed on both sides. 

"And so you thought you would twy for the situation, " at last remarked Mr. Western to Charlie. 

"Yes, sir, " he answered. "I was and am very anxious to obtain someemployment. " "Have you a father?" asked Mr. Twining. 

"Yes, sir; but he was badly injured by the mob last summer, and will neverbe able to work again. "

"That's a pity, " said Western, sympathisingly; "and what have you beendoing?"

"Nothing very recently. I broke my arm last spring, and was obliged to gointo the country for my health. I have not long returned. "

"Do your pawents keep house?"

"Not at present. We are staying with a friend. Our house was burned down bythe rioters. "

This conversation recalled so vividly their past trials, that Esther's eyesgrew watery, and she dropped her veil to conceal a tear that was tremblingon the lid. 

"How vewy unfortunate!" said Mr. Western, sympathisingly; "vewy twying, indeed!" then burying his chin in his hand, he sat silently regarding themfor a moment or two. 

"Have you come to any decision about taking him?" Esther at last venturedto ask of Mr. Twining. 

"Taking him!--oh, dear me, I had almost forgot. Charles, let me see youwrite something--here, take this seat. "

Charlie sat down as directed, and dashed off a few lines, which he handedto Mr. Twining, who looked at it over and over; then rising, he beckoned tohis partner to follow him into an adjoining room. 

"Well, what do you say?" asked Western, after they had closed the doorbehind them. "Don't you think we had better engage him?"

"Engage _him_!" exclaimed Twining--"why, you surprise me, Western--thething's absurd; engage a coloured boy as under clerk! I never heard of sucha thing. "

"I have often, " drawled Western; "there are the gweatest number of them inNew Orleans. "

"Ah, but New Orleans is a different place; such a thing never occurred inPhiladelphia. "

"Well, let us cweate a pwecedent, then. The boy wites wemarkably well, andwill, no doubt, suit us exactly. It will be a chawity to take him. We neednot care what others say--evewybody knows who we are and what we are?"

"No, Western; I know the North better than you do; it wouldn't answer atall here. We cannot take the boy--it is impossible; it would create arumpus amongst the clerks, who would all feel dreadfully insulted by ourplacing a nigger child on an equality with them. I assure you the thing isout of the question. "

"Well, I must say you Northern people are perfectly incompwehensible. Youpay taxes to have niggers educated, and made fit for such places--and thenwon't let them fill them when they are pwepared to do so. I shall leaveyou, then, to tell them we can't take him. I'm doosed sowwy for it--I likehis looks. "

Whilst Mr. Western and his partner were discussing in one room, Charlie andEsther were awaiting with some anxiety their decision in the other. 

"I think they are going to take me, " said Charlie; "you saw how struck theyappeared to be with the writing. "

"They admired it, I know, my dear; but don't be too sanguine. "

"I feel _sure_ they are going to take me, " repeated he with a hopefulcountenance. 

Esther made no reply, and they remained in silence until Mr. Twiningreturned to the room. 

After two or three preparatory ahems, he said to Esther; "I should like totake your brother very much; but you see, in consequence of there being somuch excitement just now, relative to Abolitionism and kindred subjects, that my partner and myself--that is, I and Mr. Western--think--or ratherfeel--that just now it would be rather awkward for us to receive him. Weshould like to take him; but his _colour_, miss--his complexion is a_fatal_ objection. It grieves me to be obliged to tell you this; but Ithink, under the circumstances, it would be most prudent for us to declineto receive him. We are _very_ sorry--but our clerks are all young men, andhave a great deal of prejudice, and I am sure he would be neithercomfortable nor happy with them. If I can serve you in any other way--"

"There is nothing that you can do that I am aware of, " said Esther, rising;"I thank you, and am sorry that we have occupied so much of your time. "

"Oh, don't mention it, " said Mr. Twining, evidently happy to get rid ofthem; and, opening the door, he bowed them out of the office. 

The two departed sadly, and they walked on for some distance in silence. Atlast Esther pressed his hand, and, in a choking voice, exclaimed, "Charlie, my dear boy, I'd give my life if it would change your complexion--if itwould make you white! Poor fellow! your battle of life will be a hard oneto fight!"

"I know it, Ess; but I shouldn't care to be white if I knew I would nothave a dear old Ess like you for a sister, " he answered, pressing her handaffectionately. "I don't intend to be conquered, " he continued; "I'll fightit out to the last--this won't discourage me. I'll keep on trying, " saidhe, determinedly--"if one won't, perhaps another will. "

For two or three days Charlie could hear of nothing that would be at allsuitable for him. At last, one morning he saw an advertisement for a youthto learn the engraver's business--one who had some knowledge of drawingpreferred; to apply at Thomas Blatchford's, bank-note engraver. "ThomasBlatchford, " repeated Mr. Walters, as Charlie read it over--"why that is_the_ Mr. Blatchford, the Abolitionist. I think you have some chance theremost decidedly--I would advise you to take those sketches of yours andapply at once. "

Charlie ran upstairs, and selecting the best-executed of his drawings, putthem in a neat portfolio, and, without saying anything to Esther or hismother, hastened away to Mr. Blatchford's. He was shown into a room where agentleman was sitting at a table examining some engraved plates. "Is thisMr. Blatchford's?" asked Charlie. 

"That is my name, my little man--do you want to see me, " he kindlyinquired. 

"Yes, sir. You advertised for a boy to learn the engraving business, Ibelieve. "

"Well; and what then?"

"I have come to apply for the situation. "

"_You--you_ apply?" said he, in a tone of surprise. 

"Yes, sir, " faltered Charlie; "Mr. Walters recommended me to do so. "

"Ah, you know Mr. Walters, then, " he rejoined. 

"Yes, sir; he is a great friend of my father's--we are living with him atpresent. "

"What have you in your portfolio, there?" enquired Mr. Blatchford. Charliespread before him the sketches he had made during the summer, and also someornamental designs suitable for the title-pages of books. "Why, these areexcellently well done, " exclaimed he, after examining them attentively;"who taught you?"

Charlie hereupon briefly related his acquaintance with the artist, and hisefforts to obtain employment, and their results, besides many othercircumstances connected with himself and family. Mr. Blatchford becamedeeply interested, and, at the end of a long conversation, delightedCharlie by informing him that if he and his mother could agree as to termshe should be glad to receive him as an apprentice. 

Charlie could scarcely believe the evidence of his own ears, and leavinghis portfolio on the table was hastening away. 

"Stop! stop!" cried Mr. Blatchford, with a smile; "you have not heard all Iwish to say. I would be much obliged to your mother if she would call at myhouse this evening, and then we can settle the matter definitely. "

Charlie seemed to tread on air as he walked home. Flying up to Esther--hisusual confidant--be related to her the whole affair, and gave at greatlength his conversation with Mr. Blatchford. 

"That looks something like, " said she; "I am delighted with the prospectthat is opening to you. Let us go and tell mother, "--and, accordingly, offthey both started, to carry the agreeable intelligence to Mrs. Ellis. 

That, evening Charlie, his mother, and Mr. Walters went to the house of Mr. Blatchford. They were most, kindly received, and all the arrangements madefor Charlie's apprenticeship. He was to remain one month on trial; and if, at the end of that period, all parties were satisfied, he was to beformally indentured. 

Charlie looked forward impatiently to the following Monday, on which day hewas to commence his apprenticeship. In the intervening time he held dailyconferences with Kinch, as he felt their intimacy would receive a slightcheck after he entered upon his new pursuit. 

"Look here, old fellow, " said Charlie; "it won't do for you to be loungingon the door-steps of the office, nor be whistling for me under the windows. Mr. Blatchford spoke particularly against my having playmates around inwork hours; evenings I shall always be at home, and then you can come andsee me as often as you like. "

Since his visit to Warmouth, Charlie had been much more particularrespecting his personal appearance, dressed neater, and was much morecareful of his clothes. He had also given up marbles, and tried to persuadeKinch to do the same. 

"I'd cut marbles, Kinch, " said he to him one evening, when they werewalking together, "if I were you; it makes one such a fright--covers onewith chalk-marks and dirt from head to foot. And another thing, Kinch; youhave an abundance of good clothes--do wear them, and try and look more likea gentleman. "

"Dear me!" said Kinch, rolling up the white of his eyes--"just listen howwe are going on! Hadn't I better get an eye-glass and pair of light kidgloves?"

"Oh, Kinch!" said Charlie, gravely, "I'm not joking--I mean what I say. Youdon't know how far rough looks and an untidy person go against one. I dowish you would try and keep yourself decent. " "Well, there then--I will, "answered Kinch. "But, Charlie, I'm afraid, with your travelling and onething or other, you will forget your old playmate by-and-by, and get abovehim. "

Charlie's eyes moistened; and, with a boy's impulsiveness, he threw his armover Kinch's shoulder, and exclaimed with emphasis, "Never, old fellow, never--not as long as my name is Charlie Ellis! You mustn't be hurt at whatI said, Kinch--I think more of these things than I used to--I see theimportance of them. I find that any one who wants to get on must beparticular in little things as well great, and I must try and be a mannow--for you know things don't glide on as smoothly with us as they used. Ioften think of our fun in the old house--ah, perhaps we'll have good timesin another of our own yet!"--and with this Charlie and his friend separatedfor the night. 

CHAPTER XXIX. 

Clouds and Sunshine. 

The important Monday at length arrived, and Charlie hastened to the officeof Mr. Blatchford, which he reached before the hour for commencing labour. He found some dozen or more journeymen assembled in the work-room; andnoticed that upon his entrance there was an interchange of significantglances, and once or twice he overheard the whisper of "nigger. "

Mr. Blatchford was engaged in discussing some business matter with agentleman, and did not observe the agitation that Charlie's entrance hadoccasioned. The conversation having terminated, the gentleman took up themorning paper, and Mr. Blatchford, noticing Charlie, said, "Ah! you havecome, and in good time, too. Wheeler, " he continued, turning to one of theworkmen, "I want you to take this boy under your especial charge: give hima seat at your window, and overlook his work. "

At this there was a general uprising of the workmen, who commenced throwingoff their caps and aprons. "What is all this for?" asked Mr. Blatchford inastonishment--"why this commotion?"

"We won't work with niggers!" cried one; "No nigger apprentices!" criedanother; and "No niggers--no niggers!" was echoed from all parts of theroom. 

"Silence!" cried Mr. Blatchford, stamping violently--"silence, every one ofyou!" As soon as partial order was restored, he turned to Wheeler, anddemanded, "What is the occasion of all this tumult--what does it mean?"

"Why, sir, it means just this: the men and boys discovered that youintended to take a nigger apprentice, and have made up their minds if youdo they will quit in a body. "

"It cannot be possible, " exclaimed the employer, "that any man or boy in myestablishment has room in his heart for such narrow contemptibleprejudices. Can it be that you have entered into a conspiracy to deprive aninoffensive child of an opportunity of earning his bread in a respectablemanner? Come, let me persuade you--the boy is well-behaved and educated!"

"Damn his behaviour and education!" responded a burly fellow; "let him be abarber or shoe-black--that is all niggers are good for. If he comes, wego--that's so, ain't it, boys?"

There was a general response of approval to this appeal; and Mr. Blatchford, seeing the utter uselessness of further parleying, left theroom, followed by Charlie and the gentleman with whom he had beenconversing. 

Mr. Blatchford was placed in a most disagreeable position by this revolt onthe part of his workmen; he had just received large orders from some newbanks which were commencing operations, and a general disruption of hisestablishment at that moment would have ruined him. To accede to hisworkmen's demands he must do violence to his own conscience; but he darednot sacrifice his business and bring ruin on himself and family, eventhough he was right. 

"What would you do, Burrell?" he asked of the gentleman who had followedthem out. 

"There is no question as to what you must do. You mustn't ruin yourself forthe sake of your principles. You will have to abandon the lad; the otheralternative is not to be thought of for a moment. "

"Well, Charles, you see how it is, " said Mr. Blatchford, reluctantly. Charlie had been standing intently regarding the conversation thatconcerned him so deeply. His face was pale and his lips quivering withagitation. 

"I'd like to keep you, my boy, but you see how I'm situated, I must eithergive up you or my business; the latter I cannot afford to do. " With a greateffort Charlie repressed his tears, and bidding them good morning in achoking voice, hastened from the room. 

"It's an infernal shame!" said Mr. Blatchford, indignantly; "and I shallthink meanly of myself for ever for submitting to it; but I can't helpmyself, and must make the best of it. "

Charlie walked downstairs with lingering steps, and took the direction ofhome. "All because I'm coloured, " said he, bitterly, to himself--"allbecause I'm coloured! What will mother and Esther say? How it will distressthem--they've so built upon it! I wish, " said he, sadly, "that I was dead!"No longer able to repress the tears that were welling up, he walked towardsthe window of a print-store, where he pretended to be deeply interested insome pictures whilst he stealthily wiped his eyes. Every time he turned toleave the window, there came a fresh flood of tears; and at last he wasobliged to give way entirely, and sobbed as if his heart would break. 

He was thus standing when he felt a hand laid familiarly on his shoulder, and, on turning round, he beheld the gentleman he had left in Mr. Blatchford's office. "Come, my little man, " said he, "don't take it so muchto heart. Cheer up--you may find some other person willing to employ you. Come, walk on with me--where do you live?" Charlie dried his eyes and gavehim his address as they walked on up the street together. 

Mr. Burrell talked encouragingly, and quite succeeded in soothing him erethey separated. "I shall keep a look out for you, " said he, kindly; "and ifI hear of anything likely to suit you, I shall let you know. "

Charlie thanked him and sauntered slowly home. When he arrived, and theysaw his agitated looks, and his eyes swollen from the effect of recenttears, there was a general inquiry of "What has happened? Why are you homeso early; are you sick?"

Charlie hereupon related all that had transpired at the office--his greatdisappointment and the occasion of it--to the intense indignation and griefof his mother and sisters. "I wish there were no white folks, " saidCaddy, wrathfully; "they are all, I believe, a complete set of villains andeverything else that is bad. "

"Don't be so sweeping in your remarks, pray don't, Caddy, " interposedEsther; "you have just heard what Charlie said of Mr. Blatchford--his heartis kindly disposed, at any rate; you see he is trammelled by others. "

"Oh! well, I don't like any of them--I hate them all!" she continuedbitterly, driving her needle at the same time into the cloth she wassewing, as if it was a white person she had in her lap and she was stickingpins in him. "Don't cry, Charlie, " she added; "the old white wretches, theyshouldn't get a tear out of me for fifty trades!" But Charlie could not becomforted; he buried his head in his mother's lap, and wept over hisdisappointment until he made himself sick. 

That day, after Mr. Burrell had finished his dinner, he remarked to hiswife, "I saw something this morning, my dear, that made a deep impressionon me. I haven't been able to get it out of my head for any length of timesince; it touched me deeply, I assure you. "

"Why, what could it have been? Pray tell me what it was. "

Thereupon, he gave his wife a graphic account of the events that hadtranspired at Blatchford's in the morning; and in conclusion, said, "Now, you know, my dear, that no one would call _me_ an _Abolitionist_; and Isuppose I have some little prejudice, as well as others, against colouredpeople; but I had no idea that sensible men would have carried it to thatextent, to set themselves up, as they did, in opposition to a little boyanxious to earn his bread by learning a useful trade. "

Mrs. Burrell was a young woman of about twenty-two, with a roundgood-natured face and plump comfortable-looking figure; she had a heartoverflowing with kindness, and was naturally much affected by what herelated. "I declare it's perfectly outrageous, " exclaimed she, indignantly;"and I wonder at Blatchford for submitting to it. I wouldn't allow myselfto be dictated to in that manner--and he such an Abolitionist too! Had Ibeen him, I should have stuck to my principles at any risk. Poor littlefellow! I so wonder at Blatchford; I really don't think he has actedmanly. "

"Not so fast, my little woman, if you please--that is the way with almostall of you, you let your hearts run away with your heads. You are unjust toBlatchford; he could not help himself, he was completely in their power. Itis almost impossible at present to procure workmen in our business, and heis under contract to finish a large amount of work within a specified time;and if he should fail to fulfil his agreement it would subject him toimmense loss--in fact, it would entirely ruin him. You are aware, my dear, that I am thoroughly acquainted with the state of his affairs; he isgreatly in debt from unfortunate speculations, and a false step just nowwould overset him completely; he could not have done otherwise than he has, and do justice to himself and his family. I felt that he could not; and infact advised him to act as he did. "

"Now, George Burrell, you didn't, " said she, reproachfully. 

"Yes I did, my dear, because I thought of his family; I really believethough, had I encouraged him, he would have made the sacrifice. "

"And what became of the boy?"

"Oh; poor lad, he seemed very much cut down by it--I was quite touched byhis grief. When I came out, I found him standing by a shop window cryingbitterly. I tried to pacify him, and told him I would endeavour to obtain asituation for him somewhere--and I shall. "

"Has he parents?" asked Mrs. Burrell. 

"Yes; and, by the way, don't you remember whilst the mob was raging lastsummer, we read an account of a man running to the roof of a house toescape from the rioters? You remember they chopped his hands off and threwhim over?"

"Oh, yes, dear, I recollect; don't--don't mention it, " said she, with ashudder of horror. "I remember it perfectly. "

"Well, this little fellow is his son, " continued Mr. Burrell. 

"Indeed! and what has become of his father--did he die?"

"No, he partially recovered, but is helpless, and almost an idiot. I neversaw a child, apparently so anxious to get work; he talked more like a manwith a family dependent upon him for support, than a youth. I tell youwhat, I became quite interested in him; he was very communicative, and toldme all their circumstances; their house was destroyed by the mob, and theyare at present residing with a friend. "

Just then the cry of a child was heard in the adjoining room, and Mrs. Burrell rushed precipitately away, and soon returned with a fat, healthy-looking boy in her arms, which, after kissing, she placed in herhusband's lap. He was their first-born and only child, and, as a matter ofcourse, a great pet, and regarded by them as a most wonderful boy; inconsequence, papa sat quite still, and permitted him to pull the studs outof his shirt, untie his cravat, rumple his hair, and take all those littleliberties to which babies are notoriously addicted. 

Mrs. Burrell sat down on a stool at her husband's feet, and gazed at himand the child in silence for some time. 

"What's the matter, Jane; what has made you so grave?"

"I was trying to imagine, Burrell, how I should feel if you, I, and babywere coloured; I was trying to place myself in such a situation. Now weknow that our boy, if he is honest and upright--is blest with great talentor genius--may aspire to any station in society that he wishes to obtain. How different it would be if he were coloured!--there would be nothingbright in the prospective for him. We could hardly promise him a living atany respectable calling. I think, George, we treat coloured people withgreat injustice, don't you?"

Mr. Burrell hemmed and ha'd at this direct query, and answered, "Well, wedon't act exactly right toward them, I must confess. "

Mrs. Burrell rose, and took the vacant knee of her husband, and toying withthe baby, said, "Now, George Burrell, I want to ask a favour of you. Whycan't _you_ take this boy ?" "I take him! why, my dear, I don't want anapprentice. "

"Yes, but you must _make_ a want. You said he was a bright boy, andsketched well. Why, I should think that he's just what you ought to have. There is no one at your office that would oppose it. Cummings and Daltonwere with your father before you, they would never object to anythingreasonable that you proposed. Come, dear! do now make the trial--won'tyou?"

Mr. Burrell was a tender-hearted, yielding sort of an individual; and whatwas more, his wife was fully aware of it; and like a young witch as shewas, she put on her sweetest looks, and begged so imploringly, that he wasalmost conquered. But when she took up the baby, and made him put hischubby arms round his father's neck, and say "pese pop-pop, " he wascompletely vanquished, and surrendered at discretion. 

"I'll see what can be done, " said he, at last. 

"And will you do it afterwards?" she asked, archly. 

"Yes, I will, dear, I assure you, " he rejoined. 

"Then I know it will be done, " said she, confidently; "and none of us willbe the worse off for it, I am sure. "

After leaving home, Mr. Burrell went immediately to the office of Mr. Blatchford; and after having procured Charlie's portfolio, he started inthe direction of his own establishment. He did not by any means carry on soextensive a business as Mr. Blatchford, and employed only two elderly menas journeymen. After he had sat down to work, one of them remarked, "Tuckerhas been here, and wants some rough cuts executed for a new book. I toldhim I did not think you would engage to do them; that you had given up thatdescription of work. "

"I think we lose a great deal, Cummings, by being obliged to give up thosejobs, " rejoined Mr. Burrell. 

"Why don't you take an apprentice then, " he suggested; "it's just the kindof work for them to learn upon. "

"Well I've been thinking of that, " replied he, rising and producing thedrawings from Charlie's portfolio. "Look here, " said he, "what do youthink of these as the work of a lad of twelve or fourteen, who has neverhad more than half a dozen lessons?"

"I should say they were remarkably well done, " responded Cummings. "Shouldn't you say so, Dalton?" The party addressed took the sketches, andexamined them thoroughly, and gave an approving opinion of their merits. 

"Well, " said Mr. Burrell, "the boy that executed those is in want of asituation, and I should like to take him; but I thought I would consult youboth about it first. I met with him under very singular circumstances, andI'll tell you all about it. " And forthwith he repeated to them theoccurrences of the morning, dwelling upon the most affecting parts, andconcluding by putting the question to them direct, as to whether they hadany objections to his taking him. 

"Why no, none in the world, " readily answered Cummings. "Laws me! colour isnothing after all; and black fingers can handle a graver as well as whiteones, I expect. "

"I thought it best to ask you, to avoid any after difficulty. You have bothbeen in the establishment so long, that I felt that you ought to beconsulted. "

"You needn't have taken that trouble, " said Dalton. "You might have knownthat anything done by your father's son, would be satisfactory to us. Inever had anything to do with coloured people, and haven't anything againstthem; and as long as you are contented I am. "

"Well, we all have our little prejudices against various things; and as Idid not know how you both would feel, I thought I wouldn't take any decidedsteps without consulting you; but now I shall consider it settled, and willlet the lad know that I will take him. "

In the evening, he hastened home at an earlier hour than usual, anddelighted his wife by saying--"I have succeeded to a charm, my dear--therewasn't the very slightest objection. I'm going to take the boy, if hewishes to come. " "Oh, I'm delighted, " cried she, clapping her hands. "Cryhurrah for papa!" said she to the baby; "cry hurrah for papa!"

The scion of the house of Burrell gave vent to some scarcely intelligiblesounds, that resembled "Hoo-rogler pop-pop!" which his mother averred wasastonishingly plain, and deserving of a kiss; and, snatching him up, shegave him two or three hearty ones, and then planted him in his father's lapagain. "

"My dear, " said her husband, "I thought, as you proposed my taking thisyouth, you might like to have the pleasure of acquainting him with his goodfortune. After tea, if you are disposed, we will go down there; the walkwill do you good. "

"Oh, George Burrell, " said she, her face radiant with pleasure, "you arecertainly trying to outdo yourself. I have been languishing all day for awalk! What a charming husband you are! I really ought to do something foryou. Ah, I know what--I'll indulge you; you may smoke all the way there andback. I'll even go so far as to light the cigars for you myself. "

"That is a boon, " rejoined her husband with a smile; "really 'virtuerewarded, ' I declare. "

Tea over, the baby kissed and put to bed, Mrs. Burrell tied on the mostbewitching of bonnets, and donning her new fur-trimmed cloak, declaredherself ready for the walk; and off they started. Mr. Burrell puffed awayluxuriously as they walked along, stopping now and then at her command, tolook into such shop-windows as contained articles adapted to the use ofinfants, from india-rubber rings and ivory rattles, to baby coats andshoes. 

At length they arrived at the door of Mr. Walters, and on, looking up atthe house, he exclaimed, "This is 257, but it can't be the place; surelycoloured people don't live in as fine an establishment as this. " Then, running up the steps, he examined the plate upon the door. "The namecorresponds with the address given me, " said he; "I'll ring. Is there alad living here by the name of Charles Ellis?" he asked of the servant whoopened the door. 

"Yes, sir, " was the reply. "Will you walk in?"

When they were ushered into the drawing-room, Mr. Burrell said, --"Be kindenough to say that a gentleman wishes to see him. "

The girl departed, closing the door behind her, leaving them staring aboutthe room. "How elegantly it is furnished!" said she. "I hadn't an idea thatthere were any coloured people living in such style. "

"Some of them are very rich, " remarked her husband. 

"But you said this boy was poor. "

"So he is. I understand they are staying with the owner of this house. "

Whilst they were thus conversing the door opened, and Esther entered. "I amsorry, " said she, "that my brother has retired. He has a very severehead-ache, and was unable to remain up longer. His mother is out: I am hissister, and shall be most happy to receive any communication for him. "

"I regret to hear of his indisposition, " replied Mr. Burrell; "I hope it isnot consequent upon his disappointment this morning?"

"I fear it is. Poor fellow! he took it very much to heart. It was adisappointment to us all. We were congratulating ourselves on havingsecured him an eligible situation. "

"I assure you the disappointment is not all on one side; he is a verypromising boy, and the loss of his prospective services annoying. Nothingbut stern necessity caused the result. "

"Oh, we entirely acquit you, Mr. Blatchford, of all blame in the matter. Weare confident that what happened was not occasioned by any indisposition onyour part to fulfil your agreement. "

"My dear, " interrupted Mrs. Burrell, "she thinks you are Mr. Blatchford. "

"And are you not?" asked Esther, with some surprise. 

"Oh, no; I'm an intimate friend of his, and was present this morning whenthe affair happened. " "Oh, indeed, " responded Esther. 

"Yes; and he came home and related it all to me, --the whole affair, "interrupted Mrs. Burrell. "I was dreadfully provoked; I assure you, Isympathized with him very much. I became deeply interested in the wholeaffair; I was looking at my little boy, --for I have a little boy, " saidshe, with matronly dignity, --"and I thought, suppose it was my little boybeing treated so, how should I like it? So bringing the matter home tomyself in that way made me feel all the more strongly about it; and I justtold George Burrell he must take him, as he is an engraver; and I and thebaby gave him no rest until he consented to do so. He will take him on thesame terms offered by Mr. Blatchford; and then we came down to tell you;and--and, " said she, quite out of breath, "that is all about it. "

Esther took the little woman's plump hand in both her own, and, for amoment, seemed incapable of even thanking her. At last she said, in a huskyvoice, "You can't think what a relief this is to us. My brother has takenhis disappointment so much to heart--I can't tell you how much I thank you. God will reward you for your sympathy and kindness. You must excuse me, "she continued, as her voice faltered; "we have latterly been sounaccustomed to receive such sympathy and kindness from persons of yourcomplexion, that this has quite overcome me. "

"Oh, now, don't! I'm sure it's no more than our duty, and I'm as muchpleased as you can possibly be--it has given me heartfelt gratification, Iassure you. "

Esther repeated her thanks, and followed them to the door, where she shookhands with Mrs. Burrell, who gave her a pressing invitation to come and seeher baby. 

"How easy it is, George Burrell, " said the happy little woman, "to make thehearts of others as light as our own-mine feels like a feather, " she added, as she skipped along, clinging to his arm. "What a nice, lady-like girl hissister is--is her brother as handsome as she ?"

"Not quite, " he answered; "still, he is very good-looking, I'll bring himhome with me to-morrow at dinner, and then you can see him. "

Chatting merrily, they soon arrived at home. Mrs. Burrell ran straightwayupstairs to look at that "blessed baby;" she found him sleeping soundly, and looking as comfortable and happy as it is possible for a sleeping babyto look--so she bestowed upon him a perfect avalanche of kisses, andretired to her own peaceful pillow. 

And now, having thus satisfactorily arranged for our young friend Charlie, we will leave him for a few years engaged in his new pursuits. 

CHAPTER XXX. 

Many Years After. 

Old Father Time is a stealthy worker. In youth we are scarcely able toappreciate his efforts, and oftentimes think him an exceedingly slow andlimping old fellow. When we ripen into maturity, and are fighting our ownway through the battle of life, we deem him swift enough of foot, andsometimes rather hurried; but when old age comes on, and death and thegrave are foretold by trembling limbs and snowy locks, we wonder that ourcourse has been so swiftly run, and chide old Time for a somewhat hasty andprecipitate individual. 

The reader must imagine that many years have passed away since the eventsnarrated in the preceding chapters transpired, and permit us tore-introduce the characters formerly presented, without any attempt todescribe how that long period has been occupied. 

First of all, let us resume our acquaintance with Mr. Stevens. To effectthis, we must pay that gentleman a visit at his luxurious mansion in FifthAvenue, the most fashionable street of New York--the place where the upperten thousand of that vast, bustling city most do congregate. As he is anold acquaintance (we won't say friend), we will disregard ceremony, andwalk boldly into the library where that gentleman is sitting. 

He is changed--yes, sadly changed. Time has been hard at work with him, and, dissatisfied with what his unaided agency could produce, has called inconscience to his aid, and their united efforts have left their marks uponhim. He looks old--aye, very old. The bald spot on his head has extendedits limits until there is only a fringe of thin white hair above the ears. There are deep wrinkles upon his forehead; and the eyes, half obscured bythe bushy grey eyebrows, are bloodshot and sunken; the jaws hollow andspectral, and his lower lip drooping and flaccid. He lifts his hand to pourout another glass of liquor from the decanter at his side, when hisdaughter lays her hand upon it, and looks appealingly in his face. 

She has grown to be a tall, elegant woman, slightly thin, and with acareworn and fatigued expression of countenance. There is, however, thesame sweetness in her clear blue eyes, and as she moves her head, her fairflaxen curls float about her face as dreamily and deliciously as ever theydid of yore. She is still in black, wearing mourning for her mother, whonot many months before had been laid in a quiet nook on the estate atSavanah. 

"Pray, papa, don't drink any more, " said she, persuasively--"it makes younervous, and will bring on one of those frightful attacks again. "

"Let me alone, " he remonstrated harshly--"let me alone, and take your handoff the glass; the doctor has forbidden laudanum, so I will have brandyinstead--take off your hand and let me drink, I say. "

Lizzie still kept her hand upon the decanter, and continued gently: "No, no, dear pa--you promised me you would only drink two glasses, and you havealready taken three--it is exceedingly injurious. The doctor insisted uponit that you should decrease the quantity--and you are adding to itinstead. "

"Devil take the doctor!" exclaimed he roughly, endeavouring to disengageher hold--"give me the liquor, I say. "

His daughter did not appear the least alarmed at this violence of manner, nor suffer her grasp upon the neck of the decanter to be relaxed; but allthe while spoke soothing words to the angry old man, and endeavoured topersuade him to relinquish his intention of drinking any more. 

"You don't respect your old father, " he cried, in a whining tone--"youtake advantage of my helplessness, all of you--you ill-treat me and deny methe very comforts of life! I'll tell--I'll tell the doctor, " he continued, as his voice subsided into an almost inaudible tone, and he sank back intothe chair in a state of semi-stupor. 

Removing the liquor from his reach, his daughter rang the bell, and thenwalked towards the door of the room. 

"Who procured that liquor for my father?" she asked of the servant whoentered. 

"I did, miss, " answered the man, hesitatingly. 

"Let this be the last time you do such a thing, " she rejoined, eyeing himsternly, "unless you wish to be discharged. I thought you all fullyunderstood that on no consideration was my father to have liquor, unless bythe physician's or my order--it aggravates his disease and neutralizes allthe doctor's efforts--and, unless you wish to be immediately discharged, never repeat the same offence. Now, procure some assistance--it is time myfather was prepared for bed. "

The man bowed and left the apartment; but soon returned, saying there was aperson in the hall who had forced his way into the house, and whopositively refused to stir until he saw Mr. Stevens. 

"He has been here two or three times, " added the man, "and he is very roughand impudent. "

"This is most singular conduct, " exclaimed Miss Stevens. "Did he give hisname?"

"Yes, miss; he calls himself McCloskey. "

At the utterance of this well-known name, Mr. Stevens raised his head, andstared at the speaker with a look of stupid fright, and inquired, "Whohere--what name is that?--speak louder--what name?"

"McCloskey, " answered the man, in a louder tone. 

"What! he--_he_!" cried Mr. Stevens, with a terrified look. "Where--whereis he?" he continued, endeavouring to rise--"where is he?"

"Stop, pa, " interposed his daughter, alarmed at his appearance and manner. "Do stop--let me go, " "No--no!" said the old man wildly, seizing her bythe dress to detain her--"_you_ must not go--that would never do! He mighttell her, " he muttered to himself--"No, no--I'll go!"--and thus speaking, he made another ineffectual attempt to reach the door. 

"Dear father! do let me go!" she repeated, imploringly. "You are incapableof seeing any one--let me inquire what he wants!" she added, endeavouringto loose his hold upon her dress. 

"No--you shall not!" he replied, clutching her dress still tighter, andendeavouring to draw her towards him. 

"Oh, father!" she asked distractedly, "what can this mean? Here, " said she, addressing the servant, who stood gazing in silent wonder on this singularscene, "help my father into his chair again, and then tell this strange manto wait awhile. "

The exhausted man, having been placed in his chair, motioned to hisdaughter to close the door behind the servant, who had just retired. 

"He wants money, " said he, in a whisper--"he wants money! He'll makebeggars of us all--and yet I'll have to give him some. Quick! give me mycheque-book--let me give him something before he has a chance to talk toany one--quick! quick!"

The distracted girl wrung her hands with grief at what she imagined was areturn of her father's malady, and exclaimed, "Oh! if George only wouldremain at home--it is too much for me to have the care of father whilst heis in such a state. " Then pretending to be in search of the cheque-book, she turned over the pamphlets and papers upon his desk, that she might gaintime, and think how it was best to proceed. 

Whilst she was thus hesitating, the door of the room was suddenly opened, and a shabbily dressed man, bearing a strong odour of rum about him, forcedhis way into the apartment, saying, "I will see him. D----n it, I don'tcare haporth how sick he is--let me go, or by the powers I'll murther someof yes. " The old man's face was almost blanched with terror when he heardthe voice and saw the abrupt entry of the intruder. He sprang from thechair with a great effort, and then, unable to sustain himself, sunkfainting on the floor. 

"Oh, you have killed my father--you have killed my father! Who are you, andwhat do you want, that you dare thrust yourself upon him in this manner?"said she, stooping to assist in raising him; "cannot you see he is entirelyunfit for any business?"

Mr. Stevens was replaced in his chair, and water thrown in his face tofacilitate his recovery. 

Meanwhile, McCloskey had poured himself out a glass of brandy and water, which he stood sipping as coolly as if everything in the apartment was in astate of the most perfect composure. The singular terror of her father, andthe boldness and assurance of the intruder, were to Miss Stevens somethinginexplicable--she stood looking from one to the other, as though seeking anexplanation, and on observing symptoms of a return to consciousness on thepart of her parent, she turned to McCloskey, and said, appealingly: "Yousee how your presence has agitated my father. Pray let me conjure you--go. Be your errand what it may, I promise you it shall have the earliestattention. Or, " said she, "tell me what it is; perhaps I can see to it--Iattend a great deal to father's business. Pray tell me!"

"No, no!" exclaimed the old man, who had caught the last few words of hisdaughter. "No, no--not a syllable! Here, I'm well--I'm well enough. I'llattend to you. There, there--that will do, " he continued, addressing theservant; "leave the room. And you, " he added, turning to his daughter, "doyou go too. I am much better now, and can talk to him. Go! go!" he cried, impatiently, as he saw evidences of a disposition to linger, on her part;"if I want you I'll ring. Go!--this person won't stay long. "

"Not if I get what I came for, miss, " said McCloskey, insolently;"otherwise, there is no knowing how long I may stay. " With a look ofapprehension, Lizzie quitted the room, and the murderer and his accomplicewere alone together. 

Mr. Stevens reached across the table, drew the liquor towards him, andrecklessly pouring out a large quantity, drained the glass to thebottom--this seemed to nerve him up and give him courage, for he turned toMcCloskey and said, with a much bolder air than he had yet shown inaddressing him, "So, you're back again, villain! are you? I thought andhoped you were dead;" and he leaned back in his chair and closed his eyesas if to shut out some horrid spectre. 

"I've been divilish near it, squire, but Providence has preserved me, yesee--jist to be a comfort to ye in yer old age. I've been shipwrecked, blown up in steamboats, and I've had favers and choleray and the divilalone knows what--but I've been marcifully presarved to ye, and hope ye'llsee a good dale of me this many years to come. "

Mr. Stevens glared at him fiercely for a few seconds, and then rejoined, "You promised me solemnly, five years ago, that you would never trouble meagain, and I gave you money enough to have kept you in comfort--ay, luxury--for the remainder of your life. Where is it all now?"

"That's more than I can tell you, squire. I only know how it comes. I don'ttrouble myself how it goes--that's your look out. If ye are anxious on thatscore you'd better hire a bookkeeper for me--he shall send yer honour aquarterly account, and then it won't come on ye so sudden when it's all outanother time. "

"Insolent!" muttered Mr. Stevens. 

McCloskey gave Mr. Stevens an impudent look, but beyond that took nofarther notice of his remark, but proceeded with the utmost coolness topour out another glass of brandy--after which he drew his chair closer tothe grate, and placed his dirty feet upon the mantelpiece in closeproximity to an alabaster clock. 

"You make yourself very much at home, " said Stevens, indignantly. 

"Why shouldn't I?" answered his tormentor, in a tone of the most perfectgood humour. "Why shouldn't I--in the house of an ould acquaintance andparticular friend--just the place to feel at home, eh, Stevens?" thenfolding his arms and tilting back his chair, he asked, coolly: "You haven'ta cigar, have ye?"

"No, " replied Stevens, surlily; "and if I had, you should not have it. Yourinsolence is unbearable; you appear, " continued he, with some show ofdignity, "to have forgotten who I am, and who you are. "

"Ye're mistaken there, squire. Divil a bit have I. I'm McCloskey, and youare Slippery George--an animal that's known over the 'varsal world as aPhiladelphia lawyer--a man that's chated his hundreds, and if he lives longenough, he'll chate as many more, savin' his friend Mr. McCloskey, and himhe'll not be afther chating, because he won't be able to get a chance, although he'd like to if he could--divil a doubt of that. "

"It's false--I never tried to cheat you, " rejoined Stevens, courageously, for the liquor was beginning to have a very inspiriting effect. "It's alie--I paid you all I agreed upon, and more besides; but you are like aleech--never satisfied. You have had from me altogether nearly twentythousand dollars, and you'll not get much more--now, mind I tell you. "

"The divil I won't, " rejoined he, angrily; "that is yet to be seen. Howwould you like to make yer appearance at court some fine morning, on thecharge of murther, eh?" Mr. Stevens gave a perceptible shudder, and lookedround, whereupon McCloskey said, with a malevolent grin, "Ye see I don'tstick at words, squire; I call things by their names. "

"So I perceive, " answered Stevens. "You were not so bold once. "

"Ha, ha!" laughed McCloskey. "I know _that_ as well as you--then _I_ wasunder the thumb--that was before we were sailing in the one boat; now yesee, squire, the boot is on the other leg. " Mr. Stevens remained quietfor a few moments, whilst his ragged visitor continued to leisurely sip hisbrandy and contemplate the soles of his boots as they were reflected in themirror above--they were a sorry pair of boots, and looked as if there wouldsoon be a general outbreak of his toes--so thin and dilapidated did thesoles appear. 

"Look at thim boots, and me suit ginerally, and see if your consciencewon't accuse ye of ingratitude to the man who made yer fortune--or ratherlets ye keep it, now ye have it. Isn't it a shame now for me, the bestfriend you've got in the world, to be tramping the streets widdout a pennyin his pocket, and ye livin' in clover, with gold pieces as plenty asblackberries. It don't look right, squire, and mustn't go on any longer. "

"What do you want--whatever will satisfy you?" asked Stevens. "If I giveyou ever so much now, what guarantee have I that you'll not return in amonth or so, and want as much more?"

"I'll pledge ye me honour, " said McCloskey, grandly. 

"Your honour!" rejoined Stevens, "that is no security. "

"Security or no security, " said McCloskey, impatiently, "you'll have togive me the money--it's not a bit of use now this disputin, bekase ye seeI'm bound to have it, and ye are wise enough to know ye'd better give it tome. What if ye have give me thousands upon thousands, " continued he, hisformer good-humoured expression entirely vanishing; "it's nothing more thanyou ought to do for keeping yer secrets for ye--and as long as ye havemoney, ye may expect to share it with me: so make me out a good heavycheque, and say no more about it. "

"What do you call a heavy cheque?" asked Stevens, in a despairing tone. 

"Five or six thousand, " coolly answered his visitor. 

"Five or six thousand!" echoed Mr. Stevens, "it is impossible. "

"It had better not be, " said McCloskey, looking angry; "it had better notbe--I'm determined not to be leading a beggar's life, and you to be arolling in wealth. "

"I can't give it, and won't give it--if it must come to that, " answeredStevens, desperately. "It is you that have the fortune--I am only yourbanker at this rate. I can't give it to you--I haven't got that muchmoney. "

"You must find it then, and pretty quick at that, " said McCloskey. "I'm notto be fooled with--I came here for money, and I must and will have it. "

"I am willing to do what is reasonable, " rejoined Mr. Stevens, in a moresubdued tone. "You talk of thousands as most men do of hundreds. I reallyhaven't got it. "

"Oh, bother such stuff as that, " interrupted McCloskey, incredulously. "Idon't believe a word of it--I've asked them that know, and every one saysyou've made a mint of money by speculation--that since ye sold out in theSouth and came here to live, there's no end to the money ye've made; so yousee it don't do to be making a poor mouth to me. I've come here for a checkfor five thousand dollars, and shan't go away without it, " concluded he, ina loud and threatening tone. 

During this conversation, Lizzie Stevens had been standing at the door, momentarily expecting a recall to the apartment. She heard the low rumbleof their voices, but could not distinguish words. At length, hearingMcCloskey's raised to a higher key, she could no longer restrain herimpatience, and gently opening the door, looked into the room. Both theirfaces were turned in the opposite direction, so that neither noticed thegentle intrusion of Lizzie, who, fearing to leave her father longer alone, ventured into the apartment. 

"You need not stand looking at me in that threatening manner. You may do asyou please--go tell what you like; but remember, when I fall, so do you; Ihave not forgotten that affair in Philadelphia from which I savedyou--don't place me in a situation that will compel me to recur to it toyour disadvantage. " "Ah, don't trouble yerself about that, squire; Idon't--that is entirely off my mind; for now Whitticar is dead, where isyer witnesses?"

"Whitticar dead!" repeated Stevens. 

"Yes; and what's more, he's buried--so he's safe enough, squire; and Ishouldn't be at all surprised if you'd be glad to have me gone too. "

"I would to God you had been, before I put myself in your power. "

"'Twas your own hastiness. When it came to the pinch, I wasn't equal to thejob, so ye couldn't wait for another time, but out with yer pistol, anddoes it yerself. " The wretched man shuddered and covered his face, asMcCloskey coolly recounted his murder of Mr. Garie, every word of which wastoo true to be denied. 

"And haven't I suffered, " said he, shaking his bald head mournfully;"haven't I suffered--look at my grey hairs and half-palsied frame, decrepitbefore I'm old--sinking into the tomb with a weight of guilt and sin uponme that will crush me down to the lowest depth of hell. Think you, " hecontinued, "that because I am surrounded with all that money can buy, thatI am happy, or ever shall be, with this secret gnawing at my heart; everypiece of gold I count out, I see his hands outstretched over it, and hearhim whisper 'Mine!' He gives me no peace night or day; he is always by me;I have no rest. And you must come, adding to my torture, and striving totear from me that for which I bartered conscience, peace, soul, everythingthat would make life desirable. If there is mercy in you, leave me withwhat I give you, and come back no more. Life has so little to offer, thatrather than bear this continued torment and apprehension I daily suffer, Iwill cut my throat, and then _your_ game is over. "

Lizzie Stevens stood rooted to the spot whilst her father made theconfession that was wrung from him by the agony of the moment. 

"Well, well!" said McCloskey, somewhat startled and alarmed at Stevens'sthreat of self-destruction--"well, I'll come down a thousand--make itfour. "

"That I'll do, " answered the old man, tremblingly; and reaching over, hedrew towards him the cheque-book. After writing the order for the sum, hewas placing it in the hand of McCloskey, when, hearing a faint moan, helooked towards the door, and saw his daughter fall fainting to the ground. 

CHAPTER XXXI. 

The Thorn rankles. 

We left the quiet town of Sudbury snow-clad and sparkling in all the gloryof a frosty moonlight night; we now return to it, and discover it deckedout in its bravest summer garniture. A short distance above the hill uponwhich it is built, the water of the river that glides along its base may beseen springing over the low dam that obstructs its passage, sparkling, glistening, dancing in the sunlight, as it falls splashing on the stonesbelow; and then, as though subdued by the fall and crash, it comesmurmuring on, stopping now and then to whirl and eddy round some rock orprotruding stump, and at last glides gently under the arch of the bridge, seemingly to pause beneath its shadow and ponder upon its recent tumblefrom the heights above. Seated here and there upon the bridge are groups ofboys, rod in hand, endeavouring, with the most delicious-looking andpersuasive of baits, to inveigle finny innocents from the cool depthsbelow. 

The windows of the mills are all thrown open, and now and then the voicesof some operatives, singing at their work, steal forth in company with thewhir and hum of the spindles, and mingle with the splash of the waterfall;and the united voices of nature, industry, and man, harmonize theirswelling tones, or go floating upward on the soft July air. The houses uponthe hill-side seem to be endeavouring to extricate themselves from bowersof full-leafed trees; and with their white fronts, relieved by the lightgreen blinds, look cool and inviting in the distance. High above them all, as though looking down in pride upon the rest, stands the Academy, ennobledin the course of years by the addition of extensive wings and a row ofstately pillars. On the whole, the town looked charmingly peaceful andattractive, and appeared just the quiet nook that a weary worker in citieswould select as a place of retirement after a busy round of toils orpleasure. 

There were little knots of idlers gathered about the railroad station, asthere always is in quiet towns--not that they expect any one; but that thearrival and departure of the train is one of the events of the day, andthose who have nothing else particular to accomplish feel constrained to beon hand to witness it. Every now and then one of them would look down theline and wonder why the cars were not in sight. 

Amongst those seemingly the most impatient was Miss Ada Bell, who lookedbut little older than when she won the heart of the orphan Clarence, yearsbefore, by that kind kiss upon his childish brow. It was hers still--shebound it to her by long years of affectionate care, almost equalling in itssacrificing tenderness that which a mother would have bestowed upon heronly child. Clarence, her adopted son, had written to her, that he waswretched, heart-sore, and ill, and longed to come to her, his almostmother, for sympathy, advice, and comfort: so she, with yearning heart, wasthere to meet him. 

At last the faint scream of the steam-whistle was heard, and soon thelumbering locomotive came puffing and snorting on its iron path, dashing onas though it could never stop, and making the surrounding hills echo withthe unearthly scream of its startling whistle, and arousing to desperationevery dog in the quiet little town. At last it stopped, and stood givingshort and impatient snorts and hisses, whilst the passengers werealighting. 

Clarence stepped languidly out, and was soon in the embrace of Miss Ada. 

"My dear boy, how thin and pale you look!" she exclaimed; "come, get intothe carriage; never mind your baggage, George will look after that; yourhands are hot--very hot, you must be feverish. "

"Yes, Aunt Ada, " for so he had insisted on his calling her "I am ill--sickin heart, mind, and everything. Cut up the horses, " said he, with slightimpatience of manner; "let us get home quickly. When I get in the oldparlour, and let you bathe my head as you used to, I am sure I shall feelbetter. I am almost exhausted from fatigue and heat. "

"Very well then, dear, don't talk now, " she replied, not in the leastnoticing his impatience of manner; "when you are rested, and have had yourtea, will be time enough. "

They were soon in the old house, and Clarence looked round with a smile ofpleasure on the room where he had spent so many happy hours. Good Aunt Adawould not let him talk, but compelled him to remain quiet until he hadrested himself, and eaten his evening meal. 

He had altered considerably in the lapse of years, there was but littleleft to remind one of the slight, melancholy-looking boy, that once stood aheavy-hearted little stranger in the same room, in days gone by. His facewas without a particle of red to relieve its uniform paleness; his eyes, large, dark, and languishing, were half hidden by unusually long lashes;his forehead broad, and surmounted with clustering raven hair; a glossymoustache covered his lip, and softened down its fulness; on the whole, hewas strikingly handsome, and none would pass him without a second look. 

Tea over, Miss Ada insisted that he should lie down upon the sofa again, whilst she, sat by and bathed his head. "Have you seen your sister lately?"she asked. 

"No, Aunt Ada, " he answered, hesitatingly, whilst a look of annoyancedarkened his face for a moment; "I have not been to visit her since lastfall--almost a year. "

"Oh! Clarence, how can you remain so long away?" said she, reproachfully. 

"Well, I can't go there with any comfort or pleasure, " he answered, apologetically; "I can't go there; each year as I visit the place, theirways seem more strange and irksome to me. Whilst enjoying her company, Imust of course come in familiar contact with those by whom she issurrounded. Sustaining the position that I do--passing as I am for a whiteman--I am obliged to be very circumspect, and have often been compelled togive her pain by avoiding many of her dearest friends when I haveencountered them in public places, because of their complexion. I feel meanand cowardly whilst I'm doing it; but it is necessary--I can't be white andcoloured at the same time; the two don't mingle, and I must consequently beone or the other. My education, habits, and ideas, all unfit me forassociating with the latter; and I live in constant dread that somethingmay occur to bring me out with the former. I don't avoid coloured people, because I esteem them my inferiors in refinement, education, orintelligence; but because they are subjected to degradations that I shallbe compelled to share by too freely associating with them. "

"It is a pity, " continued he, with a sigh, "that I was not suffered to growup with them, then I should have learnt to bear their burthens, and in thecourse of time might have walked over my path of life, bearing the loadalmost unconsciously. Now it would crush me, I know. It was a great mistaketo place me in my present false position, " concluded he, bitterly; "it hascursed me. Only a day ago I had a letter from Em, reproaching me for mycoldness; yet, God help me! What am I to do!"

Miss Ada looked at him sorrowfully, and continued smoothing down his hair, and inundating his temples with Cologne; at last she ventured to inquire, "How do matters progress with you and Miss Bates? Clary, you have lost yourheart there!"

"Too true, " he replied, hurriedly; "and what is more--little Birdie (I callher little Birdie) has lost hers too. Aunt Ada, we are engaged!"

"With her parents' consent?" she asked. 

"Yes, with her parents' consent; we are to be married in the comingwinter. "

"Then they know _all_, of course--they know you are coloured?" observedshe. 

"They know all!" cried he, starting up. "_Who_ said they did--_who_ toldthem?--tell me that, I say! Who has _dared_ to tell them I am a colouredman?"

"Hush, Clarence, hush!" replied she, attempting to soothe him. "I do notknow that any one has informed them; I only inferred so from your sayingyou were engaged. I thought _you_ had informed them yourself. Don't youremember you wrote that you should?--and I took it for granted that youhad. "

"Oh! yes, yes; so I did! I fully intended to, but found myself too great acoward. _I dare not_--I cannot risk losing her. I am fearful that if sheknew it she would throw me off for ever. "

"Perhaps not, Clarence--if she loves you as she should; and even if shedid, would it not be better that she should know it now, than have itdiscovered afterwards, and you both be rendered miserable for life. "

"No, no, Aunt Ada--I cannot tell her! It must remain a secret until afterour marriage; then, if they find it out, it will be to their interest tosmooth the matter over, and keep quiet about it. "

"Clary, Clary--that is _not_ honourable!"

"I know it--but how can I help it? Once or twice I thought of telling her, but my heart always failed me at the critical moment. It would kill me tolose her. Oh! I love her, Aunt Ada, " said he, passionately--"love her withall the energy and strength of my father's race, and all the doatingtenderness of my mother's. I could have told her long ago, before my lovehad grown to its present towering strength, but craft set a seal upon mylips, and bid me be silent until her heart was fully mine, and then nothingcould part us; yet now even, when sure of her affections, the dread thather love would not stand the test, compels me to shrink more than ever fromthe disclosure. "

"But, Clarence, you are not acting generously; I know your conscience doesnot approve your actions. "

"Don't I know that?" he answered, almost fiercely; "yet I dare not tell--Imust shut this secret in my bosom, where it gnaws, gnaws, gnaws, until ithas almost eaten my heart away. Oh, I've thought of that, time and again;it has kept me awake night after night, it haunts me at all hours; it isbreaking down my health and strength--wearing my very life out of me; noescaped galley-slave ever felt more than I do, or lived in more constantfear of detection: and yet I must nourish this tormenting secret, and keepit growing in my breast until it has crowded out every honourable and manlyfeeling; and then, perhaps, after all my sufferings and sacrifice ofcandour and truth, out it will come at last, when I least expect or thinkof it. "

Aunt Ada could not help weeping, and exclaimed, commiseratingly, "My poor, poor boy, " as he strode up and down the room. 

"The whole family, except her, seem to have the deepest contempt forcoloured people; they are constantly making them a subject of bitter jests;they appear to have no more feeling or regard for them than if they werebrutes--and I, " continued he, "I, miserable, contemptible, false-heartedknave, as I am, I--I--yes, I join them in their heartless jests, and wonderall the while my mother does not rise from her grave and _curse_ me as Ispeak!"

"Oh! Clarence, Clarence, my dear child!" cried the terrified Aunt Ada, "youtalk deliriously; you have brooded over this until it has almost made youcrazy. Come here--sit down. " And seizing him by the arm, she drew him onthe sofa beside her, and began to bathe his hot head with the Cologneagain. 

"Let me walk, Aunt Ada, " said he after a few moments, --"let me walk, I feelbetter whilst I am moving; I can't bear to be quiet. " And forthwith hecommenced striding up and down the room again with nervous and hurriedsteps. After a few moments he burst out again----

"It seems as if fresh annoyances and complications beset me every day. Emwrites me that she is engaged. I was in hopes, that, after I had married, Icould persuade her to come and live with me, and so gradually break off herconnection with, coloured people; but that hope is extinguished now: sheis engaged to a coloured man. "

Aunt Ada could see no remedy for this new difficulty, and could only say, "Indeed!"

"I thought something of the kind would occur when I was last at home, andspoke to her on the subject, but she evaded giving me any definite answer;I think she was afraid to tell me--she has written, asking my consent. "

"And will you give it?" asked Aunt Ada. 

"It will matter but little if I don't; Em has a will of her own, and I haveno means of coercing her; besides, I have no reasonable objection to urge:it would be folly in me to oppose it, simply because he is a colouredman--for, what am I myself? The only difference is, that his identity withcoloured people is no secret, and he is not ashamed of it; whilst I concealmy origin, and live in constant dread that some one may find it out. " WhenClarence had finished, he continued to walk up and down the room, lookingvery careworn and gloomy. 

Miss Bell remained on the sofa, thoughtfully regarding him. At last, sherose up and took his hand in hers, as she used to when he was a boy, andwalking beside him, said, "The more I reflect upon it, the more necessary Iregard it that you should tell this girl and her parents your real positionbefore you marry her. Throw away concealment, make a clean breast of it!you may not be rejected when they find her heart is so deeply interested. If you marry her with this secret hanging over you, it will embitter yourlife, make you reserved, suspicious, and consequently ill-tempered, anddestroy all your domestic happiness. Let me persuade you, tell them ere itbe too late. Suppose it reached them through some other source, what wouldthey then think of you?"

"Who else would tell them? Who else knows it? You, you, " said hesuspiciously--"_you_ would not betray me! I thought you loved me, AuntAda. "

"Clarence, my dear boy, " she rejoined, apparently hurt by his hasty andaccusing tone, "you _will_ mistake me--I have no such intention. If theyare never to learn it except through _me_, your secret is perfectly safe. Yet I must tell you that I feel and think that the true way to promote herhappiness and your own, is for you to disclose to them your real position, and throw yourself upon their generosity for the result. "

Clarence pondered for a long time over Miss Bell's advice, which she againand again repeated, placing it each time before him in a stronger light, until, at last, she extracted from him a promise that he would do it. "Iknow you are right, Aunt Ada, " said he; "I am convinced of that--it is aquestion of courage with me. I know it would be more honourable for me totell her now. I'll try to do it--I will make an effort, and summon up thecourage necessary--God be my helper!"

"That's a dear boy!" she exclaimed, kissing him affectionately; "I know youwill feel happier when it is all over; and even if she should break herengagement, you will be infinitely better off than if it was fulfilled andyour secret subsequently discovered. Come, now, " she concluded, "I am goingto exert my old authority, and send you to bed; tomorrow, perhaps, you maysee this in a more hopeful light. "

Two days after this, Clarence was again in New York, amid the heat and dustof that crowded, bustling city. Soon, after his arrival, he dressedhimself, and started for the mansion of Mr. Bates, trembling as he went, for the result of the communication he was about to make. 

Once on the way he paused, for the thought had occurred to him that hewould write to them; then reproaching himself for his weakness andtimidity, he started on again with renewed determination. 

"I'll see her myself, " he soliloquized. "I'll tell little Birdie all, andknow my fate from her own lips. If I must give her up, I'll know the worstfrom her. "

When Clarence was admitted, he would not permit himself to be announced, but walked tiptoe upstairs and gently opening the drawing-room door, entered the room. Standing by the piano, turning over the leaves of somemusic, and merrily humming an air, was a young girl of extremely _petite_and delicate form. Her complexion was strikingly fair; and the rich curlsof dark auburn that fell in clusters on her shoulders, made it still moredazzling by the contrast presented. Her eyes were grey, inclining to black;her features small, and not over-remarkable for their symmetry, yet by nomeans disproportionate. There was the sweetest of dimples on her smallround chin, and her throat white and clear as the finest marble. Theexpression of her face was extremely childlike; she seemed more like aschoolgirl than a young woman of eighteen on the eve of marriage. There wassomething deliriously airy and fairylike in her motions, and as sheslightly moved her feet in time to the music she was humming, her thin bluedress floated about her, and undulated in harmony with her gracefulmotions. 

After gazing at her for a few moments, Clarence called gently, "LittleBirdie. " She gave a timid joyous little cry of surprise and pleasure, andfluttered into his arms. 

"Oh, Clary, love, how you startled me! I did not dream there was any one inthe room. It was so naughty in you, " said she, childishly, as he pushedback the curls from her face and kissed her. "When did you arrive?"

"Only an hour ago, " he answered. 

"And you came here at once? Ah, that was so lover-like and kind, " sherejoined, smiling. 

"You look like a sylph to-night, Anne, " said he, as she danced about him. "Ah, " he continued, after regarding her for a few seconds with a look ofintense admiration, "you want to rivet my chains the tighter, --you lookmost bewitching. Why are you so much dressed to-night?--jewels, sash, andsatin slippers, " he continued; "are you going out?"

"No, Clary, " she answered. "I was to have gone to the theatre; but just atthe last moment I decided not to. A singular desire to stay at home cameover me suddenly. I had an instinctive feeling that I should lose somegreater enjoyment if I went; so I remained at home; and here, love, areyou. But what is the matter? you look sad and weary. "

"I am a little fatigued, " said he, seating himself and holding her hand inhis: "a little weary; but that will soon wear off; and as for the sadness, "concluded he, with a forced smile, "that _must_ depart now that I am withyou, Little Birdie. "

"I feel relieved that you have returned safe and well, " said she, lookingup into his face from her seat beside him; "for, Clary, love, I had such afrightful dream, such a singular dream about you. I have endeavoured toshake it out of my foolish little head; but it won't go, Clary, --I can'tget rid of it. It occurred after you left us at Saratoga. Oh, it wasnothing though, " said she, laughing and shaking her curls, --"nothing; andnow you are safely returned, I shall not think of it again. Tell me whatyou have seen since you went away; and how is that dear Aunt Ada of yoursyou talk so much about?"

"Oh, she is quite well, " answered he; "but tell, Anne, tell me about thatdream. What was it, Birdie?--come tell me. "

"I don't care to, " she answered, with a slight shudder, --"I don't want to, love. "

"Yes, yes, --do, sweet, " importuned he; "I want to hear it. "

"Then if I must, " said she, "I will. I dreamed that you and I were walkingon a road together, and 'twas such a beautiful road, with flowers andfruit, and lovely cottages on either side. I thought you held my hand; Ifelt it just as plain as I clasp yours now. Presently a rough ugly manovertook us, and bid you let me go; and that you refused, and held me allthe tighter. Then he gave you a diabolical look, and touched you on theface, and you broke out in loathsome black spots, and screamed in suchagony and frightened me so, that I awoke all in a shiver of terror, and didnot get over it all the next day. "

Clarence clutched her hand tighter as she finished, so tight indeed, thatshe gave a little scream of pain and looked frightened at him. "What is thematter?" she inquired; "your hand is like ice, and you are paler than ever. You haven't let that trifling dream affect you so? It is nothing. "

"I am superstitious in regard to dreams, " said Clarence, wiping theperspiration from his forehead. "Go, " he asked, faintly, "play me an air, love, --something quick and lively to dispel this. I wish you had not toldme. "

"But you begged me to, " said she, pouting, as she took her seat at theinstrument. 

"How ominous, " muttered he, --"became covered with black spots; that is aforeshadowing. How can I tell her, " he thought. "It seems like wilfullydestroying my own happiness. " And he sat struggling with himself to obtainthe necessary courage to fulfil the purpose of his visit, and became sodeeply engrossed with his own reflections as to scarcely even hear thesound of the instrument. 

"It is too bad, " she cried, as she ceased playing: "here I have performedsome of your favourite airs, and that too without eliciting a word ofcommendation. You are inexpressibly dull to-night; nothing seems to enlivenyou. What is the matter?"

"Oh, " rejoined he, abstractedly, "am I? I was not aware of it. "

"Yes, you are, " said Little Birdie, pettishly; "nothing seems to engageyour attention. " And, skipping off to the table, she took up the newspaper, and exclaimed, --"Let me read you something very curious. "

"No, no, Anne dear, " interrupted he; "sit here by me. I want to saysomething serious to you--something of moment to us both. "

"Then it's something very grave and dull, I know, " she remarked; "for thatis the way people always begin. Now I don't want to hear anything seriousto-night; I want to be merry. You _look_ serious enough; and if you beginto talk seriously you'll be perfectly unbearable. So you must hear what Iam going to read to you first. " And the little tyrant put her finger on hislip, and looked so bewitching, that he could not refuse her. And theimportant secret hung on his lips, but was not spoken. 

"Listen, " said she, spreading out the paper before her and running her tinyfinger down the column. "Ah, I have it, " she exclaimed at last, andbegan:--

"'We learn from unimpeachable authority that the Hon. ---- ----, whorepresents a district of our city in the State legislature, was yesterdayunited to the Quateroon daughter of the late Gustave Almont. She is said tobe possessed of a large fortune, inherited from her father; and theypurpose going to France to reside, --a sensible determination; as, aftersuch a _mesalliance_, the honourable gentleman can no longer expect toretain his former social position in our midst. --_New Orleans Watchman_. '"

"Isn't it singular, " she remarked, "that a man in his position should makesuch a choice?"

"He loved her, no doubt, " suggested Clarence; "and she was almost white. "

"How could he love her?" asked she, wonderingly. "Love a coloured woman! Icannot conceive it possible, " said she, with a look of disgust; "there issomething strange and unnatural about it. "

"No, no, " he rejoined, hurriedly, "it was love, Anne, --pure love; it is notimpossible. I--I--" "am coloured, " he would have said; but he paused andlooked full in her lovely face. He could not tell her, --the words slunkback into his coward heart unspoken. 

She stared at him in wonder and perplexity, and exclaimed, --"Dear Clarence, how strangely you act! I am afraid you are not well. Your brow is hot, "said she, laying her hand on his forehead; "you have been travelling toomuch for your strength. "

"It is not that, " he replied. "I feel a sense of suffocation, as if all theblood was rushing to my throat. Let me get the air. " And he rose and walkedto the window. Anne hastened and brought him a glass of water, of which hedrank a little, and then declared himself better. 

After this, he stood for a long time with her clasped in his arms; thengiving her one or two passionate kisses, he strained her closer to him andabruptly left the house, leaving Little Birdie startled and alarmed by hisstrange behaviour. 

CHAPTER XXXII. 

Dear Old Ess again. 

Let us visit once more the room from which Mr. Walters and his friends madeso brave a defence. There is but little in its present appearance to remindone of that eventful night, --no reminiscences of that desperate attack, save the bullet-hole in the ceiling, which Mr. Walters declares shallremain unfilled as an evidence of the marked attention he has received atthe hands of his fellow-citizens. 

There are several noticeable additions to the furniture of the apartment;amongst them an elegantly-carved work-stand, upon which some unfinishedarticles of children's apparel are lying; a capacious rocking-chair, andgrand piano. 

Then opposite to the portrait of Toussaint is suspended another picture, which no doubt holds a higher position in the regard of the owner of themansion than the African warrior aforesaid. It is a likeness of the ladywho is sitting at the window, --Mrs. Esther Walters, _nee_ Ellis. The brownbaby in the picture is the little girl at her side, --the elder sister ofthe other brown baby who is doing its best to pull from its mother's lapthe doll's dress upon which she is sewing. Yes, that is "dear old Ess, " asCharlie calls her yet, though why he will persist in applying the adjectivewe are at a loss to determine. 

Esther looks anything but old--a trifle matronly, we admit--but old weemphatically say she is not; her hair is parted plainly, and the tiniest ofall tiny caps sits at the back of her head, looking as if it felt it had nobusiness on such raven black hair, and ought to be ignominiously draggedoff without one word of apology. The face and form are much more round andfull, and the old placid expression has been undisturbed in the lapse ofyears. 

The complexion of the two children was a sort of compromise between thecomplexions of their parents--chubby-faced, chestnut-coloured, curly-headed, rollicking little pests, who would never be quiet, and whoselittle black buttons of eyes were always peering into something, and whoselittle plugs of fingers would, in spite of every precaution to prevent, bediving into mother's work-box, and various other highly inconvenient andinappropriate places. 

"There!" said Esther, putting the last stitch into a doll she had beenmanufacturing; "now, take sister, and go away and play. " But little sister, it appeared, did not wish to be taken, and she made the best of her wayoff, holding on by the chairs, and tottering over the great gulfs betweenthem, until she succeeded in reaching the music-stand, where she paused fora while before beginning to destroy the music. Just at this criticaljuncture a young lady entered the room, and held up her hands in horror, and baby hastened off as fast as her toddling limbs could carry her, andburied her face in her mother's lap in great consternation. 

Emily Garie made two or three slight feints of an endeavour to catch her, and then sat down by the little one's mother, and gave a deep sigh. 

"Have you answered your brother's letter?" asked Esther. 

"Yes, I have, " she replied; "here it is, "--and she laid the letter inEsther's lap. Baby made a desperate effort to obtain it, but suffered asignal defeat, and her mother opened it, and read--

"DEAR BROTHER, --I read your chilling letter with deepsorrow. I cannot say that it surprised me; it is what I haveanticipated during the many months that I have been silenton the subject of my marriage. Yet, when I read it, I couldnot but feel a pang to which heretofore I have been a stranger. Clarence, you know I love you, and should not make thesacrifice you demand a test of my regard. True, I cannot say(and most heartily I regret it) that there exists between us thesame extravagant fondness we cherished as children--butthat is no fault of mine. Did you not return to me, eachyear, colder and colder--more distant and unbrotherly--untilyou drove back to their source the gushing streams ofa sister's love that flowed so strongly towards you? You askme to resign Charles Ellis and come to you. What can youoffer me in exchange for his true, manly affection?--to whatpurpose drive from my heart a love that has been my onlysolace, only consolation, for your waning regard! We havegrown up together--he has been warm and kind, when youwere cold and indifferent--and now that he claims the rewardof long years of tender regard, and my own heart is consciousthat he deserves it, you would step between us, and forbidme yield the recompense that it will be my pride and delightto bestow. It grieves me to write it; yet I must, Clary--forbetween brother and sister there is no need of concealments;and particularly at such a time should everything be open, clear, explicit. Do not think I wish to reproach you. Whatyou are, Clarence, your false position and unfortunate educationhave made you. I write it with pain--your demandseems extremely selfish. I fear it is not of _me_ but of _yourself_you are thinking, when you ask me to sever, at once and forever, my connection with a people who, you say, can onlydegrade me. Yet how much happier am I, sharing theirdegradation, than you appear to be! Is it regard for methat induces the desire that I should share the life of constantdread that I cannot but feel you endure--or do you fear thatmy present connections will interfere with your own plans forthe future?

"Even did I grant it was my happiness alone you had inview, my objections would be equally strong. I could notforego the claims of early friendship, and estrange myselffrom those who have endeared themselves to me by longyears of care--nor pass coldly and unrecognizingly by playmatesand acquaintances, because their complexions were a fewshades darker than my own. This I could never do--to meit seems ungrateful: yet I would not reproach you becauseyou can--for the circumstances by which you have been surroundedhave conspired to produce that result--and I presumeyou regard such conduct as necessary to sustain you in yourpresent position. From the tenor of your letter I shouldjudge that you entertained some fear that I might compromiseyou with your future bride, and intimate that _my_ choice maydeprive you of _yours_. Surely that need not be. _She_ need noteven know of my existence. Do not entertain a fear that I, or my future husband, will ever interfere with your happinessby thrusting ourselves upon you, or endanger your socialposition by proclaiming our relationship. Our paths lie sowidely apart that they need never cross. You walk on theside of the oppressor--I, thank God, am with the oppressed. 

"I am happy--more happy, I am sure, than you couldmake me, even by surrounding me with the glittering lightsthat shine upon your path, and which, alas! may one day gosuddenly out, and leave you wearily groping in the darkness. I trust, dear brother, my words may not prove a prophecy;yet, should they be, trust me, Clarence, you may come backagain, and a sister's heart will receive you none the lesswarmly that you selfishly desired her to sacrifice the happinessof a lifetime to you. I shall marry Charles Ellis. I askyou to come and see us united--I shall not reproach you ifyou do not; yet I shall feel strange without a single relativeto kiss or bless me in that most eventful hour of a woman'slife. God bless you, Clary! I trust your union may be ashappy as I anticipate my own will be--and, if it is not, it willnot be because it has lacked the earnest prayers of yourneglected but still loving sister. "

"Esther, I thought I was too cold in that--tell me, do you think so?"

"No, dear, not at all; I think it a most affectionate reply to a cold, selfish letter. "

"Oh, I'm glad to hear you say that. I can trust better to your tendernessof others' feelings than to my own heart. I felt strongly, Esther, and wasfearful that it might be too harsh or reproachful. I was anxious lest myfeelings should be too strikingly displayed; yet it was better to beexplicit--don't you think so?"

"Undoubtedly, " answered Esther; and handing back the letter, she took upbaby, and seated herself in the rocking-chair. 

Now baby had a prejudice against caps, inveterate and unconquerable; andgrandmamma, nurse, and Esther were compelled to bear the brunt of herantipathies. We have before said that Esther's cap _looked_ as though itfelt itself in an inappropriate position--that it had got on the head ofthe wrong individual--and baby, no doubt in deference to the cap'sfeelings, tore it off, and threw it in the half-open piano, from whence itwas extricated with great detriment to the delicate lace. 

Emily took a seat near the window, and drawing her work-table towards her, raised the lid. This presenting another opening for baby, she slid downfrom her mother's lap, and hastened towards her. She just arrived in timeto see it safely closed, and toddled back to her mother, as happy as if shehad succeeded in running riot over its contents, and scattering them allover the floor. 

Emily kept looking down the street, as though in anxious expectation ofsomebody; and whilst she stood there, there was an opportunity of observinghow little she had changed in the length of years. She is little Emmagnified, with a trifle less of the child in her face. Her hair has aslight kink, is a little more wavy than is customary in persons of entirewhite blood; but in no other way is her extraction perceptible, only theinitiated, searching for evidences of African blood, would at all noticethis slight peculiarity. 

Her expectation was no doubt about to be gratified, for a smile broke overher face, as she left the window and skipped downstairs; when shere-entered, she was accompanied by her intended husband. There was greatcommotion amongst the little folk in consequence of this new arrival. Babykicked, and screamed out "Unker Char, " and went almost frantic because herdress became entangled in the buckle of her mamma's belt, and her sisterreceived a kiss before she could be extricated. 

Charlie is greatly altered--he is tall, remarkably athletic, with a large, handsomely-shaped head, covered with close-cut, woolly hair; high forehead, heavy eyebrows, large nose, and a mouth of ordinary size, filled withbeautifully white teeth, which he displays at almost every word he speaks;chin broad, and the whole expression of his face thoughtful and commanding, yet replete with good humour. No one would call him handsome, yet there wassomething decidedly attractive in his general appearance. No one wouldrecognize him as the Charlie of old, whose escapades had so destroyed thecomfort and harmony of Mrs. Thomas's establishment; and only once, when heheld up the baby, and threatened to let her tear the paper ornaments fromthe chandelier, was there a twinkle of the Charlie of old looking out ofhis eyes. 

"How are mother and father to-day?" asked Esther. 

"Oh, both well. I left them only a few minutes ago at the dinner table. Ihad to hurry off to go to the office. "

"So I perceive, " observed Esther, archly, "and of course, coming here, which is four squares out of your way, will get you there much sooner. "

Emily blushed, and said, smilingly, Esther was "a very impertinent person;"and in this opinion Charlie fully concurred. They then walked to thewindow, where they stood, saying, no doubt, to each other those littletender things which are so profoundly interesting to lovers, and soexceedingly stupid to every one else. Baby, in high glee, was seated onCharlie's shoulder, where she could clutch both hands in his hair and pulluntil the tears almost started from his eyes. 

"Emily and you have been talking a long while, and I presume you have fullydecided on what day you are both to be rescued from your misery, and when Iam to have the exquisite satisfaction of having my house completely turnedupside down for your mutual benefit, " said Esther. "I trust it will be assoon as possible, as we cannot rationally expect that either of you will bebearable until it is all over, and you find yourselves ordinary mortalsagain. Come now, out with it. When is it to be?"

"I say next week, " cried Charlie. 

"Next week, indeed, " hastily rejoined Emily. "I could not think of such athing--so abrupt. "

"So abrupt, " repeated Charlie, with a laugh. "Why, haven't I been courtingyou ever since I wore roundabouts, and hasn't everybody been expecting usto be married every week within the last two years. Fie, Em, it's anythingbut abrupt. "

Emily blushed still deeper, and looked out of the window, down the streetand up the street, but did not find anything in the prospect at either sidethat at all assisted her to come to a decision, so she only became moreconfused and stared the harder; at last she ventured to suggest that daytwo months. 

"This day two months--outrageous!" said Charlie. "Come here, dear old Ess, and help me to convince this deluded girl of the preposterous manner inwhich she is conducting herself. "

"I must join her side if you _will_ bring me into the discussion. I thinkshe is right, Charlie--there is so much to be done: the house to procureand furnish, and numberless other things that you hasty and absurd men knownothing about. "

By dint of strong persuasion from Charlie, Emily finally consented to abatetwo weeks of the time, and they decided that a family council should beheld that evening at Mrs. Ellis's, when the whole arrangements should bedefinitely settled. 

A note was accordingly despatched by Esther to her mother--that she, accompanied by Emily and the children, would come to them early in theafternoon, and that the gentlemen would join them in the evening attea-time. Caddy was, of course, completely upset by the intelligence; for, notwithstanding that she and the maid-of-all-work lived in an almostperpetual state of house-cleaning, nothing appeared to her to be in order, and worse than all, there was nothing to eat. 

"Nothing to eat!" exclaimed Mrs. Ellis. "Why, my dear child, there are allmanner of preserves, plenty of fresh peaches to cut and sugar down, and alarge pound-cake in the house, and any quantity of bread can be purchasedat the baker's. "

"Bread--plain bread!" rejoined Caddy, indignantly, quite astonished at hermother's modest idea of a tea--and a company-tea at that. "Do you think, mother, I'd set Mr. Walters down to plain bread, when we always have hotrolls and short-cake at their house? It is not to be thought of for amoment: they must have some kind of hot cake, be the consequences what theymay. "

Caddy bustled herself about, and hurried up the maid-of-all-work in anastonishing manner, and before the company arrived had everything prepared, and looked as trim and neat herself as if she had never touched arolling-pin, and did not know what an oven was used for. 

Behold them all assembled. Mrs. Ellis at the head of the table with agrandchild on each side of her, and her cap-strings pinned upon the sidenext to baby. Esther sits opposite her husband, who is grown a little grey, but otherwise is not in the least altered; next to her is her father, almost buried in a large easy-chair, where he sits shaking his head fromtime to time, and smiling vacantly at the children; then come Emily andCharlie at the foot, and at his other hand Caddy and Kinch--Kinch theinvincible--Kinch the dirty--Kinch the mischievous, now metamorphosed intoa full-blown dandy, with faultless linen, elegant vest, and fashionably-cutcoat. Oh, Kinch, what a change--from the most shabby and careless of allboys to a consummate exquisite, with heavy gold watch and eye-glass, andwho has been known to dress regularly twice a day!

There was a mighty pouring out of tea at Mrs. Ellis's end of the table, and baby of course had to be served first with some milk and bread. Betweenher and the cat intimate relations seemed to exist, for by their unitedefforts the first cap was soon disposed of, and baby was clamouring for thesecond before the elder portions of the family had been once served roundwith tea. 

Charlie and Emily ate little and whispered a great deal; but Kinch, thevoracity of whose appetite had not at all diminished in the length ofyears, makes up for their abstinence by devouring the delicious roundshort-cakes with astonishing rapidity. He did not pretend to make more thantwo bites to a cake, and they slipped away down his throat as if it was arailroad tunnel and they were a train of cars behind time. 

Caddy felt constrained to get up every few moments to look after something, and to assure herself by personal inspection that the reserved supplies inthe kitchen were not likely to be exhausted. Esther occupied herself inattending upon her helpless father, and fed him as tenderly and carefullyas if he was one of her babies. 

"I left you ladies in council. What was decided?" said Charlie, "don't beat all bashful as regards speaking before Kinch, for he is in the secretand has been these two months. Kinch is to be groomsman, and has had threetailors at work on his suit for a fortnight past. He told me this morningthat if you did not hurry matters up, his wedding coat would be a week outof fashion before he should get a chance to wear it. "

"How delightful--Kinch to be groomsman, " said Esther, "that is very kind inyou, Kinch, to assist us to get Charlie off our hands. "

"And who is to be bridesmaid?" asked Walters. 

"Oh, Caddy of course--I couldn't have any one but Caddy, " blushinglyanswered Emily. 

"That is capital, " cried Charlie, giving Kinch a facetious poke, "just thething, isn't it, Kinch--it will get her accustomed to these matters. Youremember what you told me this morning, eh, old boy?" he concluded, archly. Kinch tried to blush, but being very dark-complexioned, his efforts inthat direction were not at all apparent, so he evidenced his confusion bycramming a whole short-cake into his mouth, and almost caused a stoppage inthe tunnel; Caddy became excessively red in the face, and was sure theywanted more cakes. 

But Mr. Walters was equally confident they did not, and put his backagainst the door and stood there, whilst Mrs. Ellis gravely informed themthat she soon expected to be her own housekeeper, for that she had detectedCaddy and Kinch in a furniture establishment, pricing a chest of drawersand a wash-stand; and that Kinch had unblushingly told her they had forsome time been engaged to be married, but somehow or other had forgotten tomention it to her. 

This caused a general shout of laughter around the table, in which babytumultuously joined, and rattled her spoon against the tea-urn until shealmost deafened them. 

This noise frightened Mr. Ellis, who cried, "There they come! there theycome!" and cowered down in his great chair, and looked so exceedinglyterrified, that the noise was hushed instantly, and tears sprang into theeyes of dear old Ess, who rose and stood by him, and laid his withered faceupon her soft warm bosom, smoothed down the thin grey hair, and held himclose to her throbbing tender heart, until the wild light vanished from hisbleared and sunken eyes, and the vacant childish smile came back on histhin, wan face again, when she said, "Pray don't laugh so very loud, italarms father; he is composed now, pray don't startle him so again. "

This sobered them down a little, and they quietly recommenced discussingthe matrimonial arrangements; but they were all in such capital spiritsthat an occasional hearty and good-humoured laugh could not be suppressed. 

Mr. Walters acted in his usual handsome manner, and facetiously collaringCharlie, took him into a corner and informed him that he had an empty housethat be wished him to occupy, and that if he ever whispered the word rent, or offered him any money before he was worth twenty thousand dollars, heshould believe that he wanted to pick a quarrel with him, and should referhim to a friend, and then pistols and coffee would be the inevitableresult. 

Then it came out that Caddy and Kinch had been, courting for some time, ifnot with Mrs. Ellis's verbal consent, with at least no objection from thatgood lady; for Master Kinch, besides being an exceedingly good-naturedfellow, was very snug in his boots, and had a good many thousand dollars athis disposal, bequeathed him by his father. 

The fates had conspired to make that old gentleman rich. He owned a numberof lots on the outskirts of the city, on which he had been paying taxes anumber of years, and he awoke one fine morning to find them worth a largesum of money. The city council having determined to cut a street justbeside them, and the property all around being in the hands of wealthy andfashionable people, his own proved to be exceedingly valuable. 

It was a sad day for the old man, as Kinch and his mother insisted that heshould give up business, which he did most reluctantly, and Kinch had to beincessantly on the watch thereafter, to prevent him from hiring cellars, and sequestering their old clothes to set up in business again. They wereboth gone now, and Kinch was his own master, with a well-secured income ofa thousand dollars a-year, with a prospect of a large increase. 

They talked matters over fully, and settled all their arrangements beforethe time for parting, and then, finding the baby had scrambled into Mrs. Ellis's lap and gone fast asleep, and that it was long after ten o'clock, each departed, taking their several ways for home. 

CHAPTER XXXIII. 

The Fatal Discovery. 

There is great bustle and confusion in the house of Mr. Bates. Mantua-makers and milliners are coming in at unearthly hours, andconsultations of deep importance are being duly held with maiden aunts andthe young ladies who are to officiate as bridesmaids at the approachingceremony. There are daily excursions to drapers' establishments, andjewellers, and, in fact, so much to be done and thought of, that littleBirdie is in constant confusion, and her dear little curly head is almostturned topsy-turvy. Twenty times in each day is she called upstairs towhere the sempstresses are at work, to have something tried on or fitted. Poor little Birdie! she declares she never can stand it: she did not dreamthat to be married she would have been subjected to such a world oftrouble, or she would never have consented, --_never_!

And then Clarence, too, comes in every morning, and remains half the day, teasing her to play, to talk, or sing. Inconsiderate Clarence! when she hasso much on her mind; and when at last he goes, and she begins to felicitateherself that she is rid of him, back he comes again in the evening, andrepeats the same annoyance. O, naughty, tiresome, Clarence! how can youplague little Birdie so? Perhaps you think she doesn't dislike it; you maybe right, very likely she doesn't. 

She sometimes wonders why he grows paler and thinner each day, and hisnervous and sometimes distracted manner teases her dreadfully; but shesupposes all lovers act thus, and expects they cannot help it--and thenlittle Birdie takes a sly peep in the glass, and does not so much wonderafter all. 

Yet if she sometimes deems his manner startling and odd, what would she sayif she knew that, night after night, when he left her side, he wandered forlong hours through the cold and dreary streets, and then went to his hotel, where he paced his room until almost day?

Ah, little Birdie, a smile will visit his pale face when you chirp tenderlyto him, and a faint tinge comes upon his cheek when you lay your soft tinyhand upon it; yet all the while there is that desperate secret lying nexthis heart, and, like a vampire, sucking away, drop by drop, happiness andpeace. 

Not so with little Birdie; she is happy--oh, _so_ happy: she rises with asong upon her lips, and is chirping in the sunshine she herself creates, the live-long day. Flowers of innocence bloom and flourish in her peacefullithesome heart. Poor, poor, little Birdie! those flowers are destined towither soon, and the sunlight fade from thy happy face for ever. 

One morning, Clarence, little Birdie, and her intended bridesmaid, MissEllstowe, were chatting together, when a card was handed to the latter, who, on looking at it, exclaimed, "Oh, dear me! an old beau of mine; showhim up, " and scampering off to the mirror, she gave a hasty glance, to seethat every curl was in its effective position. 

"Who is it?" asked little Birdie, all alive with curiosity; "do say who itis. "

"Hush!" whispered Miss Ellstowe, "here he comes, my dear; he is veryrich--a great catch; are my curls all right?"

Scarcely had she asked the question, and before an answer could bereturned, the servant announced Mr. George Stevens, and the gentlemanwalked into the room. 

Start not, reader, it is not the old man we left bent over the prostrateform of his unconscious daughter, but George Stevens, junior, the son andheir of the old man aforesaid. The heart of Clarence almost ceased to beatat the sound of that well-known name, and had not both the ladies been soengrossed in observing the new-comer, they must have noticed the deep flushthat suffused his face, and the deathly pallor that succeeded it. 

Mr. Stevens was presented to Miss Bates, and Miss Ellstowe turned topresent him to Clarence. "Mr. Garie--Mr. Stevens, " said she. Clarencebowed. 

"Pardon me, I did not catch the name, " said the former, politely. 

"Mr. Clarence Garie, " she repeated, more distinctly. 

George Stevens bowed, and then sitting down opposite Clarence, eyed him fora few moments intently. "I think we have met before, " said he at last, in acold, contemptuous tone, not unmingled with surprise, "have we not?"

Clarence endeavoured to answer, but could not; he was, for a moment, incapable of speech; a slight gurgling noise was heard in his throat, as hebowed affirmatively. 

"We were neighbours at one time, I think, " added George Stevens. 

"We were, " faintly ejaculated Clarence. 

"It is a great surprise to me to meet _you_ here, " pursued George Stevens. 

"The surprise is mutual, I assure you, sir, " rejoined Clarence, coldly, andwith slightly agitated manner. 

Hereupon ensued an embarrassing pause in the conversation, during which theladies could not avoid observing the livid hue of Clarence's face. Therewas a perfect tumult raging in his breast; he knew that now hislong-treasured secret would be brought out; this was to be the end of hisstruggle to preserve it--to be exposed at last, when on the brink ofconsummating his happiness. As he sat there, looking at George Stevens, hebecame a murderer in his heart; and if an invisible dagger could have beenplaced in his hands, he would have driven it to the hilt in his breast, andstilled for ever the tongue that was destined to betray him. 

But it was too late; one glance at the contemptuous, malignant face of theson of his father's murderer, told him his fate was sealed--that it wasnow too late to avert exposure. He grew faint, dizzy, ill, --and rising, declared hurriedly he must go, staggered towards the door, and fell uponthe carpet, with a slight stream of blood spirting from his mouth. 

Little Birdie screamed, and ran to raise him; George Stevens and MissEllstowe gave their assistance, and by their united efforts he was placedupon the sofa. Little Birdie wiped the bloody foam from his mouth with hertiny lace handkerchief, bathed his head, and held cold water to his lips;but consciousness was long returning, and they thought he was dying. 

Poor torn heart! pity it was thy beatings were not stilled then for ever. It was not thy fate; long, long months of grief and despair were yet tocome before the end approached and day again broke upon thee. 

Just at this crisis Mr. Bates came in, and was greatly shocked and alarmedby Clarence's deathly appearance. As he returned to consciousness he lookedwildly about him, and clasping little Birdie's hand in his, gazed at herwith a tender imploring countenance: yet it was a despairing look--such aone as a shipwrecked seaman gives when, in sight of land, he slowly relaxeshis hold upon the sustaining spar that he has no longer the strength toclutch, and sinks for ever beneath the waters. 

A physician was brought in, who declared he had ruptured a minorblood-vessel, and would not let him utter a whisper, and, assisted by Mr. Bates, placed him in his carriage, and the three were driven as swiftly aspossible to the hotel where Clarence was staying. Little Birdie retired toher room in great affliction, followed by Miss Ellstowe, and George Stevenswas left in the room alone. 

"What can the fellow have been doing here?" he soliloquised; "on intimateterms too, apparently; it is very singular; I will wait Miss Ellstowe'sreturn, and ask an explanation. "

When Miss Ellstowe re-entered the room, he immediately inquired, "What wasthat Mr. Garie doing here? He seems on an exceedingly intimate footing, and your friend apparently takes a wonderful interest in him. "

"Of course she does; that is her _fiance_. "

"_Impossible_!" rejoined he, with an air of astonishment. 

"Impossible!--why so? I assure you he is. They are to be married in a fewweeks. I am here to officiate as bridesmaid. "

"Phew!" whistled George Stevens; and then, after pausing a moment, heasked, "Do you know anything about this Mr. Garie--anything, I mean, respecting his family?"

"Why, no--that is, nothing very definite, more than that he is an orphan, and a gentleman of education and independent means. "

"Humph!" ejaculated George Stevens, significantly. 

"Humph!" repeated Miss Ellstowe, "what do you mean? Do you know anythingbeyond that? One might suppose you did, from your significant looks andgestures. "

"Yes, I _do_ know something about this Mr. Garie, " he replied, after ashort silence. "But tell me what kind of people are these you arevisiting--Abolitionists, or anything of that sort?"

"How absurd, Mr. Stevens, to ask such a question; of course they are not, "said she, indignantly; "do you suppose I should be here if they were? Butwhy do you ask--is this Mr. Garie one?"

"No, my friend, " answered her visitor; "_I wish that was all_. "

"That was all!--how strangely you talk--you alarm me, " continued she, withconsiderable agitation. "If you know anything that will injure thehappiness of my friend--anything respecting Mr. Garie that she or herfather should know--make no secret of it, but disclose it to me at once. Anne is my dearest friend, and I, of course, must be interested in anythingthat concerns her happiness. Tell me, what is it you know?"

"It is nothing, I assure you, that it will give me any pleasure to tell, "answered he. "Do speak out, Mr. Stevens. Is there any stain on hischaracter, or that of his family? Did he ever do anything dishonourable?"

"_I wish that was all_, " coolly repeated George Stevens. "I am afraid he isa villain, and has been imposing himself upon this family for what he isnot. "

"Good Heavens! Mr. Stevens, how is he a villain or impostor?"

"You all suppose him to be a white man, do you not?" he asked. 

"Of course we do, " she promptly answered. 

"Then you are all grievously mistaken, for he is not. Did you not noticehow he changed colour, how agitated he became, when I was presented? It wasbecause he knew that his exposure was at hand. I know him well--in fact, heis the illegitimate son of a deceased relative of mine, by a mulattoslave. "

"It cannot be possible, " exclaimed Miss Ellstowe, with a wild stare ofastonishment. "Are you sure of it?"

"Sure of it! of course I am. I should indeed be a rash man to make such aterrible charge unless perfectly able to substantiate it. I have playedwith him frequently when a child, and my father made a very liberalprovision for this young man and his sister, after the death of theirfather, who lost his life through imprudently living with this woman inPhiladelphia, and consequently getting himself mixed up with thesedetestable Abolitionists. "

"Can this be true?" asked Miss Ellstowe, incredulously. 

"I assure you it is. We had quite lost sight of them for a few years back, and I little supposed we should meet under such circumstances. I fear Ishall be the cause of great discomfort, but I am sure in the end I shall bethanked. I could not, with any sense of honour or propriety, permit such athing as this marriage to be consummated, without at least warning yourfriends of the real position of this fellow. I trust, Miss Ellstowe, youwill inform them of what I have told you. " "How can I? Oh, Mr. Stevens!"said she, in a tone of deep distress, "this will be a terrible blow--itwill almost kill Anne. No, no; the task must not devolve on me--I cannottell them. Poor little thing! it will break her heart, I am afraid. "

"Oh, but you must, Miss Ellstowe; it would seem very impertinent in me--astranger--to meddle in such a matter; and, besides, they may be aware ofit, and not thank me for my interference. "

"No, I assure you they are not; I am confident they have not the mostdistant idea of such a thing--they would undoubtedly regard it as an act ofkindness on your part. I shall insist upon your remaining until the returnof Mr. Bates, when I shall beg you to repeat to him what you have alreadyrevealed to me. "

"As you insist upon it, I suppose I must, " repeated he, after somereflection; "but I must say I do not like the office of informer, "concluded he, with assumed reluctance. 

"I am sorry to impose it upon you; yet, rest assured, they will thank you. Excuse me for a few moments--I will go and see how Anne is. "

Miss Ellstowe returned, after a short interval, with the information thatlittle Birdie was much more composed, and would, no doubt, soon recoverfrom her fright. 

"To receive a worse blow, " observed George Stevens. "I pity the poor littlething--only to think of the disgrace of being engaged to a nigger. It isfortunate for them that they will make the discovery ere it be too late. Heavens! only think what the consequences might have been had she marriedthis fellow, and his peculiar position became known to them afterwards! Shewould have been completely 'done for. '"

Thus conversing respecting Clarence, they awaited the return of Mr. Bates. After the lapse of a couple of hours he entered the drawing-room. Mr. Stevens was presented to him by Miss Ellstowe, as a particular friend ofherself and family. "I believe you were here when I came in before; Iregret I was obliged to leave so abruptly, " courteously spoke Mr. Bates, whilst bowing to his new acquaintance; "the sudden and alarming illness ofmy young friend will, I trust, be a sufficient apology. "

"How is he now?" asked Miss Ellstowe. 

"Better--much better, " answered he, cheerfully; "but very wild anddistracted in his manner--alarmingly so, in fact. He clung to my hand, andwrung it when we parted, and bid me good bye again and again, as if it wasfor the last time. Poor fellow! he is frightened at that hemorrhage, and isafraid it will be fatal; but there is not any danger, he only requires tobe kept quiet--he will soon come round again, no doubt. I shall have to askyou to excuse me again, " said he, in conclusion; "I must go and see mydaughter. "

Mr. Bates was rising to depart, when George Stevens gave Miss Ellstowe asignificant look, who said, in a hesitating tone, "Mr. Bates, one momentbefore you go. My friend, Mr. Stevens, has a communication to make to yourespecting Mr. Garie, which will, I fear, cause you, as it already has me, deep distress. "

"Indeed!" rejoined Mr. Bates, in a tone of surprise; "What is it? Nothingthat reflects upon his character, I hope. "

"I do not know how my information will influence your conduct towards him, for I do not know what your sentiments may be respecting such persons. Iknow society in general do not receive them, and my surprise was very greatto find him here. "

"I do not understand you; what do you mean?" demanded Mr. Bates, in a toneof perplexity; "has he ever committed any crime?"

"HE IS A COLOURED MAN, " answered George Stevens, briefly. Mr. Bates becamealmost purple, and gasped for breath; then, after staring at his informantfor a few seconds incredulously, repeated the words "Coloured man, " in adreamy manner, as if in doubt whether he had really heard them. 

"Yes, coloured man, " said George Stevens, confidently; "it grieves me tobe the medium of such disagreeable intelligence; and I assure you I onlyundertook the office upon the representation of Miss Ellstowe, that youwere not aware of the fact, and would regard my communication as an act ofkindness. "

"It--it _can't_ be, " exclaimed Mr. Bates, with the air of a man determinednot to be convinced of a disagreeable truth; "it cannot be possible. "

Hereupon George Stevens related to him what he had recently told MissEllstowe respecting the parentage and position of Clarence. During thenarration, the old man became almost frantic with rage and sorrow, burstingforth once or twice with the most violent exclamations; and when GeorgeStevens concluded, he rose and said, in a husky voice--

"I'll kill him, the infernal hypocrite! Oh! the impostor to come to myhouse in this nefarious manner, and steal the affections of mydaughter--the devilish villain! a bastard! a contemptible black-heartednigger. Oh, my child--my child! it will break your heart when you know whatdeep disgrace has come upon you. I'll go to him, " added he, his faceflushed, and his white hair almost erect with rage; "I'll murderhim--there's not a man in the city will blame me for it, " and he graspedhis cane as though he would go at once, and inflict summary vengeance uponthe offender. 

"Stop, sir, don't be rash, " exclaimed George Stevens; "I would not screenthis fellow from the effects of your just and very natural indignation--heis abundantly worthy of the severest punishment you can bestow; but if yougo in your present excited state, you might be tempted to do somethingwhich would make this whole affair public, and injure, thereby, yourdaughter's future. You'll pardon me, I trust, and not think me presumingupon my short acquaintance in making the suggestion. "

Mr. Bates looked about him bewilderedly for a short time, and then replied, "No, no, you need not apologize, you are right--I thank you; I myselfshould have known better. But my poor child! what will become of her?" andin an agony of sorrow he resumed his seat, and buried his face in hishands. 

George Stevens prepared to take his departure, but Mr. Bates pressed him toremain. "In a little while, " said he, "I shall be more composed, and then Iwish you to go with me to this worthless scoundrel. I must see him at once, and warn him what the consequences will be should he dare approach my childagain. Don't fear me, " he added, as he saw George Stevens hesitated toremain; "that whirlwind of passion is over now. I promise you I shall donothing unworthy of myself or my child. "

It was not long before they departed together for the hotel at whichClarence was staying. When they entered his room, they found him in hisbed, with the miniature of little Birdie in his hands. When he observed thedark scowl on the face of Mr. Bates, and saw by whom he was accompanied, heknew his secret was discovered; he saw it written on their faces. Hetrembled like a leaf, and his heart seemed like a lump of ice in his bosom. Mr. Bates was about to speak, when Clarence held up his hand in theattitude of one endeavouring to ward off a blow, and whispered hoarsely--

"Don't tell me--not yet--a little longer! I see you know all. I see mysentence written on your face! Let me dream a little longer ere you speakthe words that must for ever part me and little Birdie. I know you havecome to separate us--but don't tell me yet; for when you do, " said he, inan agonized tone, "it will kill me!"

"I wish to God it would!" rejoined Mr. Bates. "I wish you had died longago; then you would have never come beneath my roof to destroy its peacefor ever. You have acted basely, palming yourself upon us--counterfeit asyou were! and taking in exchange her true love and my honest, honourableregard. "

Clarence attempted to speak, but Mr. Bates glared at him, andcontinued--"There are laws to punish thieves and counterfeits--but such asyou may go unchastised, except by the abhorrence of all honourable men. Hadyou been unaware of your origin, and had the revelation of this gentlemanbeen as new to you as to me, you would have deserved sympathy; but you havebeen acting a lie, claiming a position in society to which you knew you hadno right, and deserve execration and contempt. Did I treat you as myfeelings dictated, you would understand what is meant by the weight of afather's anger; but I do not wish the world to know that my daughter hasbeen wasting her affections upon a worthless nigger; that is all thatprotects you! Now, hear me, " he added, fiercely, --"if ever you presume todarken my door again, or attempt to approach my daughter, I will shoot you, as sure as you sit there before me!"

"And serve you perfectly right!" observed George Stevens. 

"Silence, sir!" rejoined Clarence, sternly. "How dare you interfere? He maysay what he likes--reproach me as he pleases--_he_ is _her_ father--I haveno other reply; but if you dare again to utter a word, I'll--" and Clarencepaused and looked about him as if in search of something with which toenforce silence. 

Feeble-looking as he was, there was an air of determination about him whichcommanded acquiescence, and George Stevens did not venture upon anotherobservation during the interview. 

"I want my daughter's letters--every line she ever wrote to you; get themat once--I want them now, " said Mr. Bates, imperatively. 

"I cannot give them to you immediately, they are not accessible at present. Does she want them?" he asked, feebly--"has she desired to have them back?"

"Never mind that!" said the old man, sternly; "no evasions. Give me theletters!"

"To-morrow I will send them, " said Clarence. "I will read them all overonce again, " thought he. 

"I cannot believe you, " said Mr. Bates. 

"I promise you upon my honour I will send them tomorrow!"

"_A nigger's honour!_" rejoined Mr. Bates, with a contemptuous sneer. "Yes, sir--a nigger's honour!" repeated Clarence, the colour mounting tohis pale cheeks. "A few drops of negro blood in a man's reins do notentirely deprive him of noble sentiments. 'Tis true my past concealmentdoes not argue in my favour. --I concealed that which was no fault of myown, but what the injustice of society has made a crime. "

"I am not here for discussion; and I suppose I must trust to your_honour_, " interrupted Mr. Bates, with a sneer. "But remember, if theletters are not forthcoming to-morrow I shall be here again, and then, "concluded he in a threatening tone, "my visit will not be as harmless asthis has been!"

After they had gone, Clarence rose and walked feebly to his desk, which, with great effort and risk, he removed to the bed-side; then taking from itlittle Birdie's letters, he began their perusal. 

Ay! read them again--and yet again; pore over their contents--dwell onthose passages replete with tenderness, until every word is stamped uponthy breaking heart--linger by them as the weary traveller amid Sahara'ssand pauses by some sparkling fountain in a shady oasis, tasting of itspure waters ere he launches forth again upon the arid waste beyond. This isthe last green spot upon thy way to death; beyond whose grim portals, letus believe, thou and thy "little Birdie" may meet again. 

CHAPTER XXXIV. 

"Murder will out. "

The city clocks had just tolled out the hour of twelve, the last omnibushad rumbled by, and the silence without was broken only at rare intervalswhen some belated citizen passed by with hurried footsteps towards hishome. All was still in the house of Mr. Stevens--so quiet, that the tickingof the large clock in the hall could be distinctly heard at the top of thestairway, breaking the solemn stillness of the night with its monotonous"click, click--click, click!"

In a richly furnished chamber overlooking the street a dim light wasburning; so dimly, in fact, that the emaciated form of Mr. Stevens wasscarcely discernible amidst the pillows and covering of the bed on which hewas lying. Above him a brass head of curious workmanship held in itsclenched teeth the canopy that overshadowed the bed; and as the lightoccasionally flickered and brightened, the curiously carved face seemed tolight up with a sort of sardonic grin; and the grating of thecurtain-rings, as the sick man tossed from side to side in his bed, wouldhave suggested the idea that the odd supporter of the canopy was gnashinghis brazen teeth at him. 

On the wall, immediately opposite the light, hung a portrait of Mrs. Stevens; not the sharp, hard face we once introduced to the reader, but asmoother, softer countenance--yet a worn and melancholy one in itsexpression. It looked as if the waves of grief had beaten upon it for along succession of years, until they had tempered down its harsherpeculiarities, giving a subdued appearance to the whole countenance. 

"There is twelve o'clock--give me my drops again, Lizzie, " he remarked, faintly. At the sound of his voice Lizzie emerged from behind the curtains, and essayed to pour into a glass the proper quantity of medicine. She wastwice obliged to pour back into the phial what she had just emptied forth, as the trembling of her hands caused her each time to drop too much; atlast, having succeeded in getting the exact number of drops, she handed himthe glass, the contents of which he eagerly drank. 

"There!" said he, "thank you; now, perhaps, I may sleep. I have not sleptfor two nights--such has been my anxiety about that man; nor you either, mychild--I have kept you awake also. You can sleep, though, without drops. To-morrow, when you are prepared to start, wake me, if I am asleep, and letme speak to you before you go. Remember, Lizzie, frighten him if you can!Tell him, I am ill myself--that I can't survive this continued worrimentand annoyance. Tell him, moreover, I am not made of gold, and will not bealways giving. I don't believe he is sick--dying--do you?" he asked, looking into her face, as though he did not anticipate an affirmativeanswer. 

"No, father, I don't think he is really ill; I imagine it is anothersubterfuge to extract money. Don't distress yourself unnecessarily; perhapsI may have some influence with him--I had before, you know!"

"Yes, yes, dear, you managed him very well that time--very well, " said he, stroking down her hair affectionately. "I--I--my child, I could never havetold you of that dreadful secret; but when I found that you knew it all, myheart experienced a sensible relief. It was a selfish pleasure, I know; yetit eased me to share my secret; the burden is not half so heavy now. "

"Father, would not your mind be easier still, if you could be persuaded tomake restitution to his children? This wealth is valueless to us both. Youcan never ask forgiveness for the sin whilst you cling thus tenaciously toits fruits. "

"Tut, tut--no more of that!" said he, impatiently; "I cannot do it withoutbetraying myself. If I gave it back to them, what would become of you andGeorge, and how am I to stop the clamours of that cormorant? No, no! it isuseless to talk of it--I cannot do it!"

"There would be still enough left for George, after restoring them theirown, and you might give this man my share of what is left. I would ratherwork day and night, " said she, determinedly, "than ever touch a penny ofthe money thus accumulated. "

"I've thought all that over, long ago, but I dare not do it--it might causeinquiries to be made that might result to my disadvantage. No, I cannot dothat; sit down, and let us be quiet now. "

Mr. Stevens lay back upon his pillow, and for a moment seemed to doze; thenstarting up again suddenly, he asked, "Have you told George about it? Haveyou ever confided anything to him?"

"No, papa, " answered she soothingly, "not a breath; I've been secret as thegrave. "

"That's right!" rejoined he--"that is right! I love George, but not as I doyou. He only comes to me when he wants money. He is not like you, darling--you take care of and nurse your poor old father. Has he come inyet?"

"Not yet; he never gets home until almost morning, and is then oftenfearfully intoxicated. "

The old man shook his head, and muttered, "The sins of the fathersshall--what is that? Did you hear that noise?--hush!"

Lizzie stood quietly by him for a short while, and then walked on tiptoe tothe door--"It is George, " said she, after peering into the gloom of theirentry; "he has admitted him self with his night-key. "

The shuffling sound of footsteps was now quite audible upon the stairway, and soon the bloated face of Mr. Stevens's hopeful son was seen at thechamber door. In society and places where this young gentleman desired tomaintain a respectable character he could be as well behaved, as choice inhis language, and as courteous as anybody; but at home, where he was wellknown, and where he did not care to place himself under any restraint, hewas a very different individual. 

"Let me in, Liz, " said he, in a thick voice; "I want the old man to forkover some money--I'm cleaned out. "

"No, no--go to bed, George, " she answered, coaxingly, "and talk to himabout it in the morning. "

"I'm coming in _now_, " said he, determinedly; "and besides, I want to tellyou something about that nigger Garie. "

"Tell us in the morning, " persisted Lizzy. 

"No--I'm going to tell you now, " rejoined he, forcing his way into theroom--"it's too good to keep till morning. Pick up that wick, let a fellowsee if you are all alive!"

Lizzie raised the wick of the lamp in accordance with his desire, and thensat down with an expression of annoyance and vexation on her countenance. 

George threw himself into an easy chair, and began, "I saw that whitenigger Garie to-night, he was in company with a gentleman, at that--theassurance of that fellow is perfectly incomprehensible. He was drinking atthe bar of the hotel; and as it is no secret why he and Miss Bates parted, I enlightened the company on the subject of his antecedents. He threatenedto challenge me! Ho! ho!--fight with a nigger--that is too good a joke!"And laughing heartily, the young ruffian leant back in his chair. "I wantsome money to-morrow, dad, " continued he. "I say, old gentleman, wasn't ita lucky go that darkey's father was put out of the way so nicely, eh?--We've been living in clover ever since--haven't we?"

"How dare you address me-in that disrespectful manner? Go out of the room, sir!" exclaimed Mr. Stevens, with a disturbed countenance. 

"Come, George, go to bed, " urged his sister wearily. "Let father sleep--itis after twelve o'clock. I am going to wake the nurse, and then retiremyself. "

George rose stupidly from his chair, and followed his sister from the room. On the stairway he grasped her arm rudely, and said, "I don't understandhow it is that you and the old man are so cursed thick all of a sudden. Youare thick as two thieves, always whispering and talking together. Act fair, Liz--don't persuade him to leave you all the money. If you do, we'llquarrel--that's flat. Don't try and cozen him out of my share as well asyour own--you hear!"

"Oh, George!" rejoined she reproachfully--"I never had such an idea. "

"Then what are you so much together for? Why is there so much whisperingand writing, and going off on journeys all alone? What does it all mean, eh?"

"It means nothing at all, George. You are not yourself to-night, " said sheevasively; "you had better go to bed. "

"It is _you_ that are not yourself, " he retorted. "What makes you look sopale and worried--and why do you and the old man start if the door cracks, as if the devil was after you? What is the meaning of that?" asked he witha drunken leer. "You had better look out, " concluded he; "I'm watching youboth, and will find out all your secrets by-and-by. "

"Learn all our secrets! Ah, my brother!" thought she, as he disappearedinto his room, "you need not desire to have their fearful weight upon you, or you will soon grow as anxious, thin, and pale as I am. "

The next day at noon Lizzie started on her journey, after a shortconference with her father. 

Night had settled upon her native city, when she was driven through itsstraight and seemingly interminable thoroughfares. The long straight rowsof lamps, the snowy steps, the scrupulously clean streets, the signs overthe stores, were like the faces of old acquaintances, and at any other timewould have caused agreeable recollections; but the object of her visitpre-occupied her mind, to the exclusion of any other and more pleasantassociations. 

She ordered the coachman to take her to an obscure hotel, and, after havingengaged a room, she left her baggage and started in search of the residenceof McCloskey. 

She drew her veil down over her face very closely, and walked quicklythrough the familiar streets, until she arrived at the place indicated inhis letter. It was a small, mean tenement, in a by street, in which therewere but one or two other houses. The shutters were closed from the upperstory to the lowest, and the whole place wore an uninhabited appearance. After knocking several times, she was about to give up in despair, when shediscovered through the glass above the door the faint glimmer of a light, and shortly after a female voice demanded from the inside, "Who is there?"

"Does Mr. McCloskey live here?" asked Lizzie. 

Hearing a voice not more formidable than her own, the person withinpartially opened the door; and, whilst shading with one hand the candle sheheld in the other, gazed out upon the speaker. 

"Does Mr. McCloskey live here?" repeated Lizzie. 

"Yes, he does, " answered the woman, in a weak voice; "but he's got thetypers. "

"Has the what?" inquired Lizzie, who did not exactly understand her. 

"Got the typers--got the fever, you know. "

"The typhus fever!" said Lizzie, with a start; "then he is really sick. "

"Really sick!" repeated the woman--"really sick! Well, I should think hewas! Why, he's been a raving and swearing awful for days; he stormed andscreamed so loud that the neighbours complained. Law! they had to evenshave his head. "

"Is he any better?" asked Lizzie, with a sinking heart. "Can I see him?"

"'Praps you can, if you go to the hospital to-morrow; but whether you'llfind him living or dead is more than I can say. I couldn't keep him here--Iwasn't able to stand him. I've had the fever myself--he took it from me. You must come in, " continued the woman, "if you want to talk--I'm afraid ofcatching cold, and can't stand at the door. Maybe you're afraid of thefever, " she further observed, as she saw Lizzie hesitate on the door-step. 

"Oh, no, I'm not afraid of that, " answered Lizzie quickly--"I am not in theleast afraid. "

"Come in, then, " reiterated the woman, "and I'll tell you all about it. "

The woman looked harmless enough, and Lizzie hesitated no longer, butfollowed her through the entry into a decently furnished room. Setting thecandlestick upon the mantelpiece, she offered her visitor a chair, and thencontinued--

"He came home this last time in an awful state. Before he left some onesent him a load of money, and he did nothing but drink and gamble whilst itlasted. I used to tell him that he ought to take care of his money, andhe'd snap his fingers and laugh. He used to say that he owned the goosethat laid the golden eggs, and could have money whenever he wanted it. Well, as I was a saying, he went; and when he came back he had an awfulattack of _delirium tremens_, and then he took the typers. Oh, laws mercy!"continued she, holding up her bony hands, "how that critter raved! Hetalked about killing people. "

"He did!" interrupted Lizzie, with a gesture of alarm, and laying her handupon her heart, which beat fearfully--"did he mention any name?"

The woman did not stop to answer this question, but proceeded as if she hadnot been interrupted. "He was always going on about two orphans and a will, and he used to curse and swear awfully about being obliged to keepsomething hid. It was dreadful to listen to--it would almost make your hairstand on end to hear him. "

"And he never mentioned names?" said Lizzie inquiringly. 

"No, that was so strange; he never mentioned no names--_never_. He used torave a great deal about two orphans and a will, and he would ransack thebed, and pull up the sheets, and look under the pillows, as if he thoughtit was there. Oh, he acted very strange, but never mentioned no names. Iused to think he had something in his trunk, he was so very special aboutit. He was better the day they took him off; and the trunk went withhim--he would have it; but since then he's had a dreadful relapse, andthere's no knowin' whether he is alive or dead. "

"I must go to the hospital, " said Lizzie, rising from her seat, and greatlyrelieved to learn that nothing of importance had fallen from McCloskeyduring his delirium. "I shall go there as quickly as I can, " she observed, walking to the door. 

"You'll not see him to-night if you do, " rejoined the woman. "Are you arelation?"

"Oh, no, " answered Lizzie; "my father is an acquaintance of his. I learnedthat he was ill, and came to inquire after him. "

Had the woman not been very indifferent or unobservant, she would havenoticed the striking difference between the manner and appearance of LizzieStevens and the class who generally came to see McCloskey. She did not, however, appear to observe it, nor did she manifest any curiosity greaterthan that evidenced by her inquiring if he was a relative. 

Lizzie walked with a lonely feeling through the quiet streets until shearrived at the porter's lodge of the hospital. She pulled the bell withtrembling hands, and the door was opened by the little bald-headed manwhose loquacity was once (the reader will remember) so painful to Mrs. Ellis. There was no perceptible change in his appearance, and he manifestlytook as warm an interest in frightful accidents as ever. "What is it--whatis it?" he asked eagerly, as Lizzie's pale face became visible in thebright light that shone from the inner office. "Do you want a stretcher?"

The rapidity with which he asked these questions, and his eager manner, quite startled her, and she was for a moment unable to tell her errand. 

"Speak up, girl--speak up! Do you want a stretcher--is it burnt or runover. Can't you speak, eh?"

It now flashed upon Lizzie that the venerable janitor was labouring underthe impression that she had come to make application for the admission of apatient, and she quickly answered--

"Oh, no; it is nothing of the kind, I am glad to say. "

"Glad to say, " muttered the old man, the eager, expectant look disappearingfrom his face, giving place to one of disappointment--"glad to say; whythere hasn't been an accident to-day, and here you've gone and rung thebell, and brought me here to the door for nothing. What do you want then?"

"I wish to inquire after a person who is here. "

"What's his number?" gruffly inquired he. 

"That I cannot tell, " answered she; "his name is McCloskey. "

"I don't know anything about him. Couldn't tell who he is unless I go allover the books to-night. We don't know people by their names here; come inthe morning--ten o'clock, and don't never ring that bell again, " concludedhe, sharply, "unless you want a stretcher: ringing the bell, and noaccident;" and grumbling at being disturbed for nothing, he abruptly closedthe door in Lizzie's face. 

Anxious and discomfited, she wandered back to her hotel; and after drinkinga weak cup of tea, locked her room-door, and retired to bed. There she lay, tossing from side to side--she could not sleep--her anxiety respecting herfather's safety; her fears, lest in the delirium of fever McCloskey shoulddiscover their secret, kept her awake far into the night, and the cityclocks struck two ere she fell asleep. 

When she awoke in the morning the sun was shining brightly into her room;for a few moments she could not realize where she was; but the events ofthe past night soon came freshly to her; looking at her watch, sheremembered that she was to go to the hospital at ten, and it was alreadyhalf-past nine; her wakefulness the previous night having caused her tosleep much later than her usual hour. 

Dressing herself in haste, she hurried down to breakfast; and after havingeaten a slight meal, ordered a carriage, and drove to the hospital. 

The janitor was in his accustomed seat, and nodded smilingly to her as sheentered. He beckoned her to him, and whispered, "I inquired about him. McCloskey, fever-ward, No. 21, died this morning at two o'clock and fortyminutes. "

"Dead!" echoed Lizzie, with a start of horror. 

"Yes, dead, " repeated he, with a complacent look; "any relation ofyours--want an order for the body?"

Lizzie was so astounded by this intelligence, that she could not reply; andthe old man continued mysteriously. "Came to before he died--wish hehadn't--put me to a deal of trouble--sent for a magistrate--then for aminister--had something on his mind--couldn't die without telling it, youknow; then there was oaths, depositions--so much trouble. Are you hisrelation--want an order for the body?"

"Oaths! magistrate!--a confession no doubt, " thought Lizzie; her limbstrembled; she was so overcome with terror that she could scarcely stand;clinging to the railing of the desk by which she was standing for support, she asked, hesitatingly, "He had something to confess then?"

The janitor looked at her for a few moments attentively, and seemed tonotice for the first time her ladylike appearance and manners; a sort ofreserve crept over him at the conclusion of his scrutiny, for he made noanswer to her question, but simply asked, with more formality than before, "Are you a relation--do you want an order for the body?"

Ere Lizzie could answer his question, a man, plainly dressed, with keengrey eyes that seemed to look restlessly about in every corner of the room, came and stood beside the janitor. He looked at Lizzie from the bow on thetop of her bonnet to the shoes on her feet; it was not a stare, it was morea hasty glance--and yet she could not help feeling that he knew every itemof her dress, and could have described her exactly. 

"Are you a relative of this person, " he asked, in a clear sharp voice, whilst his keen eyes seemed to be piercing her through in search of thetruth. 

"No, sir, " she answered, faintly. 

"A friend then, I presume, " continued he, respectfully. 

"An acquaintance, " returned she. The man paused for a few moments, thentaking out his watch, looked at the time, and hastened from the office. 

This man possessed Lizzie with a singular feeling of dread--why she couldnot determine; yet, after he was gone, she imagined those cold grey eyeswere resting on her, and bidding the old janitor, who had grown reserved sosuddenly, good morning, she sprang into her carriage as fast as hertrembling limbs could carry her, and ordered the coachman to drive back tothe hotel. 

"Father must fly!" soliloquized she; "the alarm will, no doubt, lend himenergy. I've heard of people who have not been able to leave their roomsfor months becoming suddenly strong under the influence of terror. We mustbe off to some place of concealment until we can learn whether he iscompromised by that wretched man's confession. "

Lizzie quickly paid her bill, packed her trunk, and started for the stationin hopes of catching the mid-day train for New York. 

The driver did not spare his horses, but at her request drove them at theirutmost speed--but in vain. She arrived there only time enough to see thetrain move away; and there, standing on the platform, looking at her with asort of triumphant satisfaction, was the man with the keen grey eyes. "Stop! stop!" cried she. 

"Too late, miss, " said a bystander, sympathizingly; "just too late--noother train for three hours. "

"Three hours!" said Lizzie, despairingly; "three hours! Yet I must bepatient--there is no remedy, " and she endeavoured to banish her fears andoccupy herself in reading the advertisements that were posted up about thestation. It was of no avail, that keen-looking man with his piercing greyeyes haunted her; and she could not avoid associating him in her thoughtswith her father and McCloskey. What was he doing on the train, and why didhe regard her with that look of triumphant satisfaction. 

Those were to her the three longest hours of her life. Wearily andimpatiently she paced up and down the long saloon, watching the hands ofthe clock as they appeared to almost creep over the dial-plate. Twentytimes during those three hours did she compare the clock with her watch, and found they moved on unvaryingly together. 

At last the hour for the departure of the train arrived; and seated in thecar, she was soon flying at express speed on the way towards her home. "Howmuch sooner does the other train arrive than we?" she asked of theconductor. 

"Two hours and a half, miss, " replied he, courteously; "we gain a half-hourupon them. "

"A half-hour--that is something gained, " thought she; "I may reach myfather before that man. Can he be what I suspect?"

On they went--thirty--forty--fifty miles an hour, yet she thought it slow. Dashing by villages, through meadows, over bridges, --rattling, screaming, puffing, on their way to the city of New York. In due time they arrived atthe ferry, and after crossing the river were in the city itself. Lizzietook the first carriage that came to hand, and was soon going brisklythrough the streets towards her father's house. The nearer she approachedit, the greater grew her fears; a horrible presentiment that somethingawful had occurred, grew stronger and stronger as she drew nearer home. Shetried to brave it off--resist it--crush it--but it came back upon her eachtime with redoubled force. 

On she went, nearer and nearer every moment, until at last she was in theavenue itself. She gazed eagerly from the carriage, and thought sheobserved one or two persons run across the street opposite her father'shouse. It could not be!--she looked again--yes, there was a group beneathhis window. "Faster! faster!" she cried frantically; "faster if you can. "The door was at last reached; she sprang from the carriage and pressedthrough the little knot of people who were gathered on the pavement. Alas!her presentiments were correct. There, lying on the pavement, was themangled form of her father, who had desperately sprung from the balconyabove, to escape arrest from the man with the keen grey eyes, who, with thewarrant in his hand, stood contemplating the lifeless body. 

"Father! father!" cried Lizzie, in an anguished voice; "father, speakonce!" Too late! too late! the spirit had passed away--the murderer hadrushed before a higher tribunal--a mightier Judge--into the presence of Onewho tempers justice with mercy. 

CHAPTER XXXV. 

The Wedding. 

The night that Lizzie Stevens arrived in Philadelphia was the one decidedupon for the marriage of Emily Garie and Charles Ellis; and whilst she waswandering so lonely through the streets of one part of the city, a scene ofmirth and gaiety was transpiring in another, some of the actors in whichwould be made more happy by events that would be productive of great sorrowto her. 

Throughout that day bustle and confusion had reigned supreme in the houseof Mr. Walters. Caddy, who had been there since the break of day, had takenthe domestic reins entirely from the hands of the mistress of the mansion, and usurped command herself. Quiet Esther was well satisfied to yield herfull control of the domestic arrangements for the festivities, and Caddywas nothing loath to assume them. 

She entered upon the discharge of her self-imposed duties with such ardouras to leave no doubt upon the minds of the parties most interested but thatthey would be thoroughly performed, and with an alacrity too thatpositively appalled quiet Esther's easy-going servants. 

Great doubts had been expressed as to whether Caddy could successfullysustain the combined characters of _chef de cuisine_ and bridesmaid, and afailure had been prophesied. She therefore felt it incumbent upon her toprove these prognostications unfounded, and demonstrate the practicabilityof the undertaking. On the whole, she went to work with energy, and seemeddetermined to establish the fact that her abilities were greatlyunderrated, and that a woman could accomplish more than one thing at atime when she set about it. 

The feelings of all such persons about the establishment of Mr. Walters aswere "constitutionally tired" received that day divers serious shocks atthe hands of Miss Caddy--who seemed endowed with a singular faculty whichenabled her to discover just what people did not want to do, and of settingthem at it immediately. 

For instance, Jane, the fat girl, hated going upstairs excessively. Caddyemployed her in bringing down glass and china from a third-story pantry;and, moreover, only permitted her to bring a small quantity at a time, which rendered a number of trips strictly necessary, to the greataggravation and serious discomfort of the fat girl in question. 

On the other hand, Julia, the slim chambermaid, who would have beendelighted with such employment, and who would have undoubtedly refreshedherself on each excursion upstairs with a lengthened gaze from the window, was condemned to the polishing of silver and dusting of plates and glass inan obscure back pantry, which contained but one window, and that commandinga prospect of a dead wall. 

Miss Caddy felt in duty bound to inspect each cake, look over the wine, and(to the great discomfiture of the waiter) decant it herself, not liking toexpose him to any unnecessary temptation. She felt, too, all the moreinclined to assume the office of butler from the fact that, at a previousparty of her sister's, she had detected this same gentleman with a bottleof the best sherry at his mouth, whilst he held his head thrown back in amost surprising manner, with a view, no doubt, of contemplating the ceilingmore effectually from that position. 

Before night such was the increasing demand for help in the kitchen thatCaddy even kidnapped the nurse, and locked the brown baby and her sister inthe bath-room, where there was no window in their reach, nor any othermeans at hand from which the slightest injury could result to them. Herethey were supplied with a tub half filled with water, and spent the timemost delightfully in making boats of their shoes, and lading them withsmall pieces of soap, which they bit off from the cake for the occasion;then, coasting along to the small towns on the borders of the tub, theydisposed of their cargoes to imaginary customers to immense advantage. 

Walters had declared the house uninhabitable, and had gone out for the day. Esther and Emily busied themselves in arranging the flowers in thedrawing-room and hall, and hanging amidst the plants on the balcony littlestained glass lamps; all of which Caddy thought very well in its way, butwhich she was quite confident would be noticed much less by the guests thanthe supper--in which supposition she was undoubtedly correct. 

Kinch also lounged in two or three times during the day, to seekconsolation at the hands of Esther and Emily. He was in deep distress ofmind--in great perturbation. His tailor had promised to send home a vestthe evening previous and had not fulfilled his agreement. After his firstvisit Kinch entered the house in the most stealthy manner, for fear ofbeing encountered by Caddy; who, having met him in the hall during themorning, posted him off for twenty pounds of sugar, a ball of twine, and astone jar, despite his declaration of pre-engagements, haste, and limitedknowledge of the articles in question. 

Whilst Lizzie Stevens was tremblingly ringing the bell at the lodge of thehospital, busy hands were also pulling at that of Mr. Walters's dwelling. Carriage after carriage rolled up, and deposited their loads of gaycompany, who skipped nimbly over the carpet that was laid down from thedoor to the curbstone. Through the wide hall and up the stairway, flowersof various kinds mingled their fragrance and loaded the air with their richperfume; and expressions of delight burst from the lips of the guests asthey passed up the brilliantly-lighted stairway and thronged the spaciousdrawing-rooms. There were but few whites amongst them, and theyparticular friends. There was Mrs. Bird, who had travelled from Warmouth tobe present at the ceremony; Mr. Balch, the friend and legal adviser of thebride's father; Father Banks, who was to tie the happy knot; and there, too, was Mrs. Burrell, and that baby, now grown to a promising lad, and whowould come to the wedding because Charlie had sent him a regular invitationwritten like that sent his parents. 

Mr. And Mrs. Ellis were of course there, --the latter arrayed in a rich newsilk made up expressly for the occasion--and the former almost hidden inhis large easy chair. The poor old gentleman scarcely seemed able tocomprehend the affair, and apparently laboured under the impression that itwas another mob, and looked a little terrified at times when the laughteror conversation grew louder than usual. 

The hour for the ceremony was fast approaching, and Esther left theassembled guests and went up into Emily Garie's room to assist the youngladies in preparing the bride. They all besought her to be calm, not toagitate herself upon any consideration; and then bustled about her, andflurried themselves in the most ridiculous manner, with a view, no doubt, of tranquillizing her feelings more effectually. 

"Little Em, " soon to be Mrs. Ellis, was busily engaged in dressing; thetoilet-table was covered with lighted candles, and all the gas-burners inthe room were in full blaze, bringing everything out in bold relief. 

"We are having quite an illumination; the glare almost blinds me, " saidEmily. "Put out some of the candles. "

"No, no, my dear, " rejoined one of the young ladies engaged in dressingher; "we cannot sacrifice a candle. We don't need them to discern yourcharms, Em; only to enable us to discover how to deck them to the bestadvantage. How sweet you look!"

Emily gazed into the mirror; and from the blush that suffused her face andthe look of complacency that followed, it was quite evident that she sharedher friend's opinion. She did, indeed, look charming. There was a deepercolour than usual on her cheeks, and her eyes were illumined with a soft, tender light. Her wavy brown hair was parted smoothly on the front, andgathered into a cluster of curls at the back. Around her neck glistened astring of pearls, a present from Mr. Winston, who had just returned fromSouth America. The pure white silk fitted to a nicety, and the tiny satinslippers seemed as if they were made upon her feet, and never intended tocome off again. Her costume was complete, with the exception of the veiland wreath, and Esther opened the box that she supposed contained them, forthe purpose of arranging them on the bride. 

"Where have you put the veil, my dear?" she asked, after raising the lid ofthe box, and discovering that they were not there. 

"In the box, are they not?" answered one of the young ladies. 

"No, they are not there, " continued Esther, as she turned over the variousarticles with which the tables were strewed. All in vain; the veil andwreath could be nowhere discovered. 

"Are you sure it came home?" asked one. 

"Of course, " replied another; "I had it in my hand an hour ago. "

Then a thorough search was commenced, all the drawers ransacked, andeverything turned over again and again; and just when they were about toabandon the search in despair, one of the party returned from the adjoiningroom, dragging along the brown baby, who had the veil wrapped about herchubby shoulders as a scarf, and the wreath ornamenting her round curlyhead. Even good-natured Esther was a little ruffled at this daring act ofbaby's, and hastily divested that young lady of her borrowed adornments, amidst the laughter of the group. 

Poor baby was quite astonished at the precipitate manner in which she wasdeprived of her finery, and was for a few moments quite overpowered by herloss; but, perceiving a drawer open in the toilet-table, she dried hereyes, and turned her attention in that direction, and in tossing itscontents upon the floor amply solaced herself for the deprivation she hadjust undergone. 

"Caddy is a famous chief bridesmaid--hasn't been here to give the leastassistance, " observed Esther; "she is not even dressed herself. I willring, and ask where she can be--in the kitchen or supper-room I've nodoubt. Where is Miss Ellis?" she asked of the servant who came in answerher summons. 

"Downstairs, mem--the boy that brought the ice-cream kicked over a candyornament, and Miss Ellis was very busy a shaking of him when I came up. "

"Do beg her to stop, " rejoined Esther, with a laugh, "and tell her I sayshe can shake him in the morning--we are waiting for her to dress now; andalso tell Mr. De Younge to come here to the door--I want him. "

Kinch soon made his appearance, in accordance with Esther's request, andfairly dazzled her with his costume. His blue coat was brazen with buttons, and his white cravat tied with choking exactness; spotless vest, blackpants, and such patent leathers as you could have seen your face in withease. 

"How fine you look, Kinch, " said Esther admiringly. 

"Yes, " he answered; "the new vest came home--how do you like it?"

"Oh, admirable! But, Kinch, can't you go down, and implore Caddy to come upand dress--time is slipping away very fast?"

"Oh, I daren't, " answered Kinch, with a look of alarm--"I don't dare to godown now that I'm dressed. She'll want me to carry something up to thesupper-room if I do--a pile of dishes, or something of the kind. I'd liketo oblige you, Mrs. Walters, but it's worth my new suit to do it. "

Under these circumstances, Kinch was excused; and a deputation, headed byMr. Walters, was sent into the lower regions to wait upon Caddy, whoprevailed upon her to come up and dress, which she did, being all thewhile very red in the face, and highly indignant at being sent for sooften. 

"Good gracious!" she exclaimed, "what a pucker you are all in!"

"Why, Caddy, it's time to be, " replied Esther--"it wants eight minutes ofthe hour. "

"And that is just three minutes more than I should want for dressing if Iwas going to be married myself, " rejoined she; and hastening away, shereturned in an incredibly short time, all prepared for the ceremony. 

Charlie was very handsomely got up for the occasion. Emily, Esther, Caddy--in fact, all of them--agreed that he never looked better in hislife. "That is owing to me--all my doings, " said Kinch exultingly. "Hewanted to order his suit of old Forbes, who hasn't looked at afashion-plate for the last ten years, and I wouldn't let him. I took him tomy man, and see what he has made of him--turned him out looking like abridegroom, instead of an old man of fifty! It's all owing to me, " said thedelighted Kinch, who skipped about the entry until he upset a vase offlowers that stood on a bracket behind him; whereupon Caddy ran and broughta towel, and made him take off his white gloves and wipe up the water, inspite of his protestations that the shape of his pantaloons would not bearthe strain of stooping. 

At last the hour arrived, and the bridal party descended to thedrawing-room in appropriate order, and stood up before Father Banks. Theceremony was soon over, and Emily was clasped in Mrs. Ellis's arms, whocalled her "daughter, " and kissed her cheek with such warm affection thatshe no longer felt herself an orphan, and paid back with tears and embracesthe endearments that were lavished upon her by her new relatives. 

Father Banks took an early opportunity to give them each some good advice, and managed to draw them apart for that purpose. He told them how imperfectand faulty were all mankind--that married life was not all _couleur derose_--that the trials and cares incident to matrimony fully equalled itspleasures; and besought them to bear with each other patiently, to becharitable to each other's faults--and a reasonable share of earthlyhappiness must be the result. 

Then came the supper. Oh! such a supper!--such quantities of nice things asmoney and skill alone can bring together. There were turkeys innocent of abone, into which you might plunge your knife to the very hilt withoutcoming in contact with a splinter--turkeys from which cunning cooks hadextracted every bone leaving the meat alone behind, with the skin notperceptibly broken. How brown and tempting they looked, their capaciousbosoms giving rich promise of high-seasoned dressing within, and lookinglarger by comparison with the tiny reed-birds beside them, which lay cosilyon the golden toast, looking as much as to say, "If you want something toremember for ever, come and give me a bite!"

Then there were dishes of stewed terrapin, into which the initiated dippedat once, and to which they for some time gave their undivided attention, oblivious, apparently, of the fact that there was a dish of chicken-saladclose beside them. 

Then there were oysters in every variety--silver dishes containing themstewed, their fragrant macey odour wafting itself upward, and causingwatery sensations about the mouth. Waiters were constantly rushing into theroom, bringing dishes of them fried so richly brown, so smoking hot, thatno man with a heart in his bosom could possibly refuse them. Then therewere glass dishes of them pickled, with little black spots of allspicefloating on the pearly liquid that contained them. And lastly, oystersbroiled, whose delicious flavour exceeds my powers of description--these, with ham and tongue, were the solid comforts. There were other things, however, to which one could turn when the appetite grew more dainty; therewere jellies, blancmange, chocolate cream, biscuit glace, peach ice, vanilla ice, orange-water ice, brandy peaches, preserved strawberries andpines; not to say a word of towers of candy, bonbons, kisses, champagne, Rhine wine, sparkling Catawba, liquors, and a man in the corner makingsherry cobblers of wondrous flavour, under the especial supervision ofKinch; on the whole, it was an American supper, got up regardless ofexpense--and whoever has been to such an entertainment knows very well whatan American supper is. 

What a merry happy party it was--how they all seemed to enjoythemselves--and how they all laughed, when the bride essayed to cut thecake, and could not get the knife through the icing--and how the younggirls put pieces away privately, that they might place them under theirpillows to dream upon! What a happy time they had!

Father Banks enjoyed himself amazingly; he eat quantities of stewedterrapin, and declared it the best he ever tasted. He talked gravely to theold people--cheerfully and amusingly to the young; and was, in fact, havinga most delightful time--when a servant whispered to him that there was aperson in the entry who wished to see him immediately. 

"Oh dear!" he exclaimed to Mr. Balch, "I was just congratulating myselfthat I should have one uninterrupted evening, and you see theresult--called off at this late hour. "

Father Banks followed the servant from the room, and inquired of themessenger what was wanted. 

"You must come to the hospital immediately, sir; the man with thetyphus-fever--you saw him yesterday--he's dying; he says he must seeyou--that he has something important to confess. I'm to go for a magistrateas well. "

"Ah!" said Father Banks, "you need go no further, Alderman Balch ishere--he is quite competent to receive his depositions. "

"I'm heartily glad of it, " replied the man, "it will save me another hunt. I had a hard time finding you. I've been to your house and two or threeother places, and was at last sent here. I'll go back and report that youare coming and will bring a magistrate with you. "

"Very good, " rejoined Father Banks, "do so. I will be there immediately. "Hastening back to the supper room, he discovered Mr. Balch in the act ofhelping himself to a brandy peach, and apprised him of the demand for hisservices. 

"Now, Banks, " said he, good-humouredly, "that is outrageous. Why did younot let him go for some one else? It is too bad to drag me away just whenthe fun is about to commence. " There was no alternative, however, and Mr. Balch prepared to follow the minister to the bedside of McCloskey. 

When they arrived at the hospital, they found him fast sinking--the lividcolour of his face, the sunken glassy eyes, the white lips, and the bluetint that surrounded the eyes and mouth told at once the fearful story. Death had come. He was in full possession of his faculties, and told themall. How Stevens had saved him from the gallows--and how he agreed tomurder Mr. Garie--of his failure when the time of action arrived, and how, in consequence, Stevens had committed the deed, and how he had paid himtime after time to keep his secret. 

"In my trunk there, " said he, in a dying whisper, --"in my trunk is thewill. I found it that night amongst his papers. I kept it to get money outof his children with when old Stevens was gone. Here, " continued he, handing his key from beneath the pillow, "open my trunk and get it. "

Mr. Balch eagerly unlocked the trunk, and there, sure enough, lay thelong-sought-for and important document. 

"I knew it would be found at last. I always told Walters so; and now, " saidhe, exultingly, "see my predictions are verified. "

McCloskey seemed anxious to atone for the past by making an ampleconfession. He told them all he knew of Mr. Stevens's presentcircumstances--how his property was situated, and every detail necessaryfor their guidance. Then his confession was sworn to and witnessed; and thedying man addressed himself to the affairs of the next world, andendeavoured to banish entirely from his mind all thoughts of this. 

After a life passed in the exercise of every Christian virtue--after alengthened journey over its narrow stony pathway, whereon temptations havebeen met and triumphed over--where we have struggled with difficulties, andborne afflictions without murmur or complaint, cheering on the weary wehave found sinking by the wayside, comforting and assisting the fallen, endeavouring humbly and faithfully to do our duty to God and humanity--evenafter a life thus passed, when we at last lie down to die the most faithfuland best may well shrink and tremble when they approach the gloomy portalsof death. At such an hour memory, more active than every other faculty, drags all the good and evil from the past and sets them in distinct arraybefore us. Then we discover how greatly the latter exceeds the former inour lives, and how little of our Father's work we have accomplished afterall our toils and struggles. 'Tis then the most devoted servant of ourcommon Master feels compelled to cry, "Mercy! O my Father!--for justice Idare not ask. "

If thus the Christian passes away--what terror must fill the breast of onewhose whole life has been a constant warfare upon the laws of God and man?How approaches he the bar of that awful Judge, whose commands he has set atnought, and whose power he has so often contemned? With a fainting heart, and tongue powerless to crave the mercy his crimes cannot deserve!

McCloskey struggled long with death--died fearfully hard. The phantoms ofhis victims seemed to haunt him in his dying hour, interposing between himand God; and with distorted face, clenched hands, and gnashing teeth, hepassed away to his long account. 

From the bedside of the corpse Mr. Balch went--late as it was--to theoffice of the chief of police. There he learned, to his great satisfaction, that the governor was in town; and at an early hour the next morning heprocured a requisition for the arrest of Mr. Stevens, which he put into thehands of the man with the keen grey eyes for the purpose of securing thecriminal; and with the result of his efforts the reader is alreadyacquainted. 

CHAPTER XXXVI. 

And the last. 

With such celerity did Mr. Balch work in behalf of his wards, that he soonhad everything in train for the recovery of the property. 

At first George Stevens was inclined to oppose the execution of the will, but he was finally prevailed upon by his advisers to make no difficultyrespecting it, and quietly resign what he must inevitably sooner or laterrelinquish. Lizzie Stevens, on the contrary, seemed rather glad that anopportunity was afforded to do justice to her old playmates, and won thegood opinion of all parties by her gentleness and evident anxiety to atonefor the wrong done them by her father. Even after the demands of theexecutors of Mr. Garie were fully satisfied, such had been the thrift ofher father that there still remained a comfortable support for her and herbrother. 

To poor Clarence this accession of fortune brought no new pleasure; healready had sufficient for his modest wants; and now that his greatest hopein life had been blighted, this addition of wealth became to him rather aburden than a pleasure. 

He was now completely excluded from the society in which he had so longbeen accustomed to move; the secret of his birth had become widely known, and he was avoided by his former friends and sneered at as a "nigger. " Hislarge fortune kept some two or three whites about him, but he knew theywere leeches seeking to bleed his purse, and he wisely avoided theirsociety. 

He was very wretched and lonely: he felt ashamed to seek the society ofcoloured men now that the whites despised and rejected him, so he livedapart from both classes of society, and grew moody and misanthropic. 

Mr. Balch endeavoured to persuade him to go abroad--to visit Europe: hewould not. He did not confess it, but the truth was, he could not tearhimself away from the city where little Birdie dwelt, where he now and thencould catch a glimpse of her to solace him in his loneliness. He wasgrowing paler and more fragile-looking each day, and the doctor at lastfrankly told him that, if he desired to live, he must seek some warmerclimate for the winter. 

Reluctantly Clarence obeyed; in the fall he left New York, and during thecold months wandered through the West India islands. For a while his healthimproved, but when the novelty produced by change of scene began to declinehe grew worse again, and brooded more deeply than ever over his bitterdisappointment, and consequently derived but little benefit from thechange; the spirit was too much broken for the body to mend--his heart wastoo sore to beat healthily or happily. 

He wrote often now to Emily and her husband, and seemed desirous to atonefor his past neglect. Emily had written to him first; she had learned ofhis disappointment, and gave him a sister's sympathy in his loneliness andsorrow. 

The chilly month of March had scarcely passed away when they received aletter from him informing them of his intention to return. He wrote, "I amno better, and my physician says that a longer residence here will notbenefit me in the least--that I came _too late_. I cough, cough, cough, incessantly, and each day become more feeble. I am coming home, Emmy;coming home, I fear, to die. I am but a ghost of my former self. I writeyou this that you may not be alarmed when you see me. It is too late now torepine, but, oh! Em, if my lot had only been cast with yours--had we neverbeen separated--I might have been to-day as happy as you are. "

It was a clear bright morning when Charlie stepped into a boat to beconveyed to the ship in which Clarence had returned to New York: she hadarrived the evening previous, and had not yet come up to the dock. The aircame up the bay fresh and invigorating from the sea beyond, and the watersparkled as it dripped from the oars, which, with monotonous regularity, broke the almost unruffled surface of the bay. Some of the ship's sailswere shaken out to dry in the morning sun, and the cordage hung loosely andcarelessly from the masts and yards. A few sailors lounged idly about thedeck, and leaned over the side to watch the boat as it approached. Withtheir aid it was soon secured alongside, and Charlie clambered up theladder, and stood upon the deck of the vessel. On inquiring for Clarence, he was shown into the cabin, where he found him extended on a sofa. 

He raised himself as he saw Charlie approach, and, extending his hand, exclaimed, --"How kind! I did not expect you until we reached the shore. "

For a moment, Charlie could not speak. The shock caused by Clarence'saltered appearance was too great, --the change was terrible. When he hadlast seen him, he was vigorous-looking, erect, and healthful; now he wasbent and emaciated to a frightful extent. The veins on his temples wereclearly discernible; the muscles of his throat seemed like great cords; hischeeks were hollow, his sunken eyes were glassy bright and surrounded witha dark rim, and his breathing was short and evidently painful. Charlie heldhis thin fleshless hand in his own, and gazed in his face with an anguishedexpression. 

"I look badly, --don't I Charlie?" said he, with assumed indifference;"worse than you expected, eh?"

Charlie hesitated a little, and then answered, --"Rather bad; but it isowing to your sea-sickness, I suppose; that has probably reduced youconsiderably; then this close cabin must be most unfavourable to yourhealth. Ah, wait until we get you home, we shall soon have you better. "

"Home!" repeated Clarence, --"home! How delightful that word sounds! I feelit is going _home_ to go to you and Em. " And he leant back and repeated theword "home, " and paused afterward, as one touches some favourite note uponan instrument, and then silently listens to its vibrations. "How is Em?" heasked at length. 

"Oh, well--very well, " replied Charlie. "She has been busy as a bee eversince she received your last letter; such a charming room as she hasprepared for you!"

"Ah, Charlie, " rejoined Clarence, mournfully, "I shall not live long toenjoy it, I fear. "

"Nonsense!" interrupted Charlie, hopefully; "don't be so desponding, Clary:here is spring again, --everything is thriving and bursting into new life. You, too, will catch the spirit of the season, and grow in health andstrength again. Why, my dear fellow, " continued he, cheerfully, "you can'thelp getting better when we once get hold of you. Mother's gruels, DoctorBurdett's prescriptions, and Em's nursing, would lift a man out of hiscoffin. Come, now, don't let us hear anything more about dying. "

Clarence pressed his hand and looked at him affectionately, as though heappreciated his efforts to cheer him and felt thankful for them; but heonly shook his head and smiled mournfully. 

"Let me help your man to get you up. When once you get ashore you'll feelbetter, I've no doubt. We are not going to an hotel, but to the house of afriend who has kindly offered to make you comfortable until you are able totravel. "

With the assistance of Charlie and the servant, Clarence was graduallyprepared to go ashore. He was exceedingly weak, could scarcely totteracross the deck; and it was with some difficulty that they at lastsucceeded in placing him safely in the boat. After they landed, a carriagewas soon procured, and in a short time thereafter Clarence was comfortablyestablished in the house of Charlie's friend. 

Their hostess, a dear old motherly creature, declared that she knew exactlywhat Clarence needed; and concocted such delicious broths, made suchstrengthening gruels, that Clarence could not avoid eating, and in a dayor two he declared himself better than he had been for a month, and feltquite equal to the journey to Philadelphia. 

The last night of their stay in New York was unusually warm; and Clarenceinformed Charlie he wished to go out for a walk. "I wish to go a longdistance, --don't think me foolish when I tell you where. I want to look atthe house where little Birdie lives. It may be for the last time. I have apresentiment that I shall see her if I go, --I am sure I shall, " added he, positively, as though he felt a conviction that his desire would beaccomplished. 

"I would not, Clary, " remonstrated Charlie. "Your health won't permit theexertion; it is a long distance, too, you say; and, moreover, don't youthink, my dear fellow, that it is far more prudent to endeavour, ifpossible, to banish her from your mind entirely. Don't permit yourself tothink about her, if you can help it. You know she is unattainable by you, and you should make an effort to conquer your attachment. "

"It is too late--too late now, Charlie, " he replied, mournfully. "I shallcontinue to love her as I do now until I draw my last breath. I know it ishopeless--I know she can never be more to me than she already is; but Icannot help loving her. Let us go; I may see her once again. Ah, Charlie, you cannot even dream what inexpressible pleasure the merest glimpse of heraffords me! Come, let us go. "

Charlie would not permit him to attempt to walk; and they procured acarriage, in which they rode to within a short distance of the house. Themansion of Mr. Bates appeared quite gloomy as they approached it. Theblinds were down, and no lights visible in any part of the house. 

"I am afraid they are out of town, " remarked Charlie, when Clarence pointedout the house; "everything looks so dull about it. Let us cross over to theother pavement. " And they walked over to the other side of the street, andgazed upward at the house. 

"Let us sit down here, " suggested Clarence, --"here, on this broad stone;it is quite dark now, and no one will observe us. "

"No, no!" remonstrated Charlie; "the stone is too damp and cold. "

"Is it?" said Clarence vacantly. And taking out his handkerchief, he spreadit out, and, in spite of Charlie's dissuasions, sat down upon it. 

"Charlie, " said he, after gazing at the house a long time in silence, "Ihave often come here and remained half the night looking at her windows. People have passed by and stared at me as though they thought me crazy; Iwas half crazy then, I think. One night I remember I came and sat here forhours; far in the night I saw her come to the window, throw up thecasement, and look out. That was in the summer, before I went away, youknow. There she stood in the moonlight, gazing upward at the sky, so pale, so calm and holy-looking, in her pure white dress, that I should not havethought it strange if the heavens had opened, and angels descended andborne her away with them on their wings. " And Clarence closed his eyes ashe concluded, to call back upon the mirror of his mind the image of littleBirdie as she appeared that night. 

They waited a long while, during which there was no evidence exhibited thatthere was any one in the house. At last, just as they were about to moveaway, they descried the glimmer of a light in the room which Clarencedeclared to be her room. His frame trembled with expectation, and he walkedto and fro opposite the house with an apparent strength that surprised hiscompanion. At length the light disappeared again, and with it Clarence'shopes. 

"Now then we must go, " said Charlie, "it is useless for you to exposeyourself in this manner. I insist upon your coming home. "

Reluctantly Clarence permitted himself to be led across the street again. As they were leaving the pavement, he turned to look back again, and, uttering a cry of surprise and joy, he startled Charlie by clutching hisarm. "Look! look!" he cried, "there she is--my little Birdie. " Charlielooked up at the window almost immediately above them, and observed aslight pale girl, who was gazing up the street in an opposite direction. 

"Little Birdie--little Birdie, " whispered Clarence, tenderly. She did notlook toward them, but after standing there a few seconds, moved frombetween the curtains and disappeared. 

"Thank God for that!" exclaimed Clarence, passionately, "I knew--I knew Ishould see her. _I knew it_, " repeated he, exultingly; and then, overcomewith joy, he bowed his head upon Charlie's shoulder and wept like a child. "Don't think me foolish, Charlie, " apologized he, "I cannot help it. I willgo home now. Oh, brother, I feel so much happier. " And with a step lessfaint and trembling, he walked back to the carriage. 

The following evening he was at home, but so enfeebled with the exertionsof the last two days, as to be obliged to take to his bed immediately afterhis arrival. His sister greeted him affectionately, threw her arms abouthis neck and kissed him tenderly; years of coldness and estrangement wereforgotten in that moment, and they were once more to each other as theywere before they parted. 

Emily tried to appear as though she did not notice the great change in hisappearance, and talked cheerfully and encouragingly in his presence; butshe wept bitterly, when alone, over the final separation which she foresawwas not far distant. 

The nest day Doctor Burdett called, and his grave manner and apparentdisinclination to encourage any hope, confirmed the hopeless impressionthey already entertained. 

Aunt Ada came from Sudbury at Emily's request; she knew her presence wouldgive pleasure to Clarence, she accordingly wrote her to come, and she andEmily nursed by turns the failing sufferer. 

Esther and her husband, Mrs. Ellis and Caddy, and even Kinch, wereunremitting in their attentions, and did all in their power to amuse andcomfort him. Day by day he faded perceptibly, grew more and more feeble, until at last Doctor Burdett began to number days instead of weeks as histerm of life. Clarence anticipated death with calmness--did not repine ormurmur. Father Banks was often with him cheering him with hopes of ahappier future beyond the grave. 

One day he sent for his sister and desired her to write a letter for him. "Em, " said he, "I am failing fast; these fiery spots on my cheek, thisscorching in my palms, these hard-drawn, difficult breaths, warn me thatthe time is very near. Don't weep, Em!" continued he, kissing her--"there, don't weep--I shall be better off--happier--I am sure! Don't weep now--Iwant you to write to little Birdie for me. I have tried, but my handtrembles so that I cannot write legibly--I gave it up. Sit down beside mehere, and write; here is the pen. " Emily dried her eyes, and mechanicallysat down to write as he desired. Motioning to him that she was ready, hedictated--

"My Dear Little Birdie, --I once resolved never to write to you again, andpartially promised your father that I would not; then I did not dream thatI should be so soon compelled to break my resolution. Little Birdie, I amdying! My physician informs me that I have but a few more days to live. Ihave been trying to break away from earth's affairs and fix my thoughts onother and better things. I have given up all but you, and feel that Icannot relinquish you until I see you once again. Do not refuse me, littleBirdie! Show this to your father--he must consent to a request made by oneon the brink of the grave. "

"There, that will do; let me read it over, " said he, extending his hand forthe note. "Yes, I will sign it now--then do you add our address. Send itnow, Emily--send it in time for to-night's mail. "

"Clary, do you think she will come?" inquired his sister. 

"Yes, " replied he, confidently; "I am sure she will if the note reachesher. " Emily said no more, but sealed and directed the note, which sheimmediately despatched to the post-office; and on the following day itreached little Birdie. 

From the time when the secret of Clarence's birth had been discovered, until the day she had received his note, she never mentioned his name. Atthe demand of her father she produced his letters, miniature, and even thelittle presents he had given her from time to time, and laid them downbefore him without a murmur; after this, even when he cursed and denouncedhim, she only left the room, never uttering a word in his defence. Shemoved about like one who had received a stunning blow--she was dull, cold, apathetic. She would smile vacantly when her father smoothed her hair orkissed her cheek; but she never laughed, or sang and played, as in daysgone by; she would recline for hours on the sofa in her room gazingvacantly in the air, and taking apparently no interest in anything abouther. She bent her head when she walked, complained of coldness about hertemples, and kept her hand constantly upon her heart. 

Doctors were at last consulted; they pronounced her physically well, andthought that time would restore her wonted animation; but month after monthshe grew more dull and silent, until her father feared she would becomeidiotic, and grew hopeless and unhappy about her. For a week before thereceipt of the note from Clarence, she had been particularly apathetic andindifferent, but it seemed to rouse her into life again. She started upafter reading it, and rushed wildly through the hall into her father'slibrary. 

"See here!" exclaimed she, grasping his arm--"see there--I knew it! I'vefelt day after day that it was coming to that! You separated us, and now heis dying--dying!" cried she. "Read it--read it!"

Her father took the note, and after perusing it laid it on the table, andsaid coldly, "Well--"

"Well!" repeated she, with agitation--"Oh, father, it is not well! Father!"said she, hurriedly, "you bid me give him up--told me he wasunworthy--pointed out to me fully and clearly why we could not marry: Iwas convinced we could not, for I knew you would never let it be. Yet Ihave never ceased to love him. I cannot control my heart, but I could myvoice, and never since that day have I spoken his name. I gave him up--notthat I would not have gladly married, knowing what he was--because youdesired it--because I saw either your heart must break or mine. I let minego to please you, and have suffered uncomplainingly, and will so sufferuntil the end; but I _must_ see him once again. It will be a pleasure tohim to see me once again in his dying hour, and I _must_ go. If you loveme, " continued she, pleadingly, as her father made a gesture of dissent, "let us go. You see he is dying--begs you from the brink of the grave. Letme go, only to say good bye to him, and then, perhaps, " concluded she, pressing her hand upon her heart, "I shall be better here. "

Her father had not the heart to make any objection, and the next day theystarted for Philadelphia. They despatched a note to Clarence, saying theyhad arrived, which Emily received, and after opening it, went to gentlybreak its contents to her brother. 

"You must prepare yourself for visitors, Clary, " said she, "no doubt someof our friends will call to-day, the weather is so very delightful. "

"Do you know who is coming?" he inquired. 

"Yes, dear, " she answered, seating herself beside him, "I have received anote stating that a particular friend will call to-day--one that you desireto see. "

"Ah!" he exclaimed, "it is little Birdie, is it not?"

"Yes, " she replied, "they have arrived in town, and will be here to-day. "

"Did not I tell you so?" said he, triumphantly. "I knew she would come. Iknew it, " continued he, joyfully. "Let me get up--I am strong enough--sheis come--O! she has come. "

Clarence insisted on being dressed with extraordinary care. His longfierce-looking beard was trimmed carefully, and he looked much better thanhe had done for weeks; he was wonderfully stronger, walked across the room, and chatted over his breakfast with unusual animation. 

At noon they came, and were shown into the drawing-room, where Emilyreceived them. Mr. Bates bowed politely, and expressed a hope that Mr. Garie was better. Emily held out her hand to little Birdie, who clasped itin both her own, and said, inquiringly: "You are his sister?"

"Yes, " answered Emily. "You, I should have known from Clarence'sdescription--you are his little Birdie?"

She did not reply--her lip quivered, and she pressed Emily's hand andkissed her. "He is impatient to see you, " resumed Emily, "and if you are sodisposed, we will go up immediately. "

"I will remain here, " observed Mr. Bates, "unless Mr. Garie particularlydesires to see me. My daughter will accompany you. "

Emily took the hand of little Birdie in her own, and they walked togetherup the stairway. "You must not be frightened at his appearance, " sheremarked, tearfully, "he is greatly changed. "

Little Birdie only shook her head--her heart seemed too full forspeech--and she stepped on a little faster, keeping her hand pressed on herbreast all the while. 

When they reached the door, Emily was about to open it, but her companionstopped her, by saying: "Wait a moment--stop! How my heart beats--it almostsuffocates me. " They paused for a few moments to permit little Birdie torecover from her agitation, then throwing open the door they advanced intothe room. 

"Clarence!" said his sister. He did not answer; he was looking down intothe garden. She approached nearer, and gently laying her hand on hisshoulder, said, "Here is your little Birdie, Clarence. " He neither movednor spoke. 

"Clarence!" cried she, louder. No answer. She touched his face--it waswarm. "He's fainted!" exclaimed she; and, ringing the bell violently, shescreamed for help. Her husband and the nurse rushed into the room; thencame Aunt Ada and Mr. Bates. They bathed his temples, held strong salts tohis nostrils--still he did not revive. Finally, the nurse opened his bosomand placed her hand upon his heart. _It was still--quite still_: Clarencewas dead!

At first they could not believe it. "Let me speak to him, " exclaimed littleBirdie, distractedly; "he will hear my voice, and answer. Clarence!Clarence!" she cried. All in vain--all in vain. Clarence was dead!

They gently bore her away. That dull, cold look came back again upon herface, and left it never more in life. She walked about mournfully for a fewyears, pressing her hand upon her heart; and then passed away to join herlover, where distinctions in race or colour are unknown, and where theprejudices of earth cannot mar their happiness. 

Our tale is now soon finished. They buried Clarence beside his parents;coloured people followed him to his last home, and wept over his grave. Ofall the many whites that he had known, Aunt Ada and Mr. Balch were the onlyones that mingled their tears with those who listened to the solemn wordsof Father Banks, "Ashes to ashes, dust to dust. "

We, too, Clarence, cast a tear upon thy tomb--poor victim of prejudice tothy colour! and deem thee better off resting upon thy cold pillow of earth, than battling with that malignant sentiment that persecuted thee, and hascrushed energy, hope, and life from many stronger hearts. 

 * * * * *

Aunt Ada Bell remained for a short time with Emily, and then returned toSudbury, where, during the remainder of her life, she never omitted anopportunity of doing a kindness to a coloured person; and when theincreasing liberality of sentiment opened a way for the admission ofcoloured pupils to the famous schools of Sudbury, they could always procureboard at her house, and Aunt Ada was a friend and mother to them. 

Walters and dear old Ess reared a fine family; and the brown baby and hersister took numberless premiums at school, to the infinite delight of theirparents. They also had a boy, whom they named "Charlie;" he inherited hisuncle's passionate fondness for marbles, which fondness, it has beenascertained, is fostered by his uncle, who, 'tis said, furnishes the sinewsof war when there is a dearth in the treasury of Master Walters. 

Kinch and Caddy were finally united, after various difficulties raised bythe latter, who found it almost impossible to procure a house in such astate of order as would warrant her entering upon the blissful state ofmatrimony. When it was all over, Kinch professed to his acquaintancesgenerally to be living in a perfect state of bliss; but he privatelyintimated to Charlie that if Caddy would permit him to come in at the frontdoor, and not condemn him to go through the alley, whenever there happenedto be a shower--and would let him smoke where he liked--he would be muchmore contented. When last heard from they had a little Caddy, the veryimage of its mother--a wonderful little girl, who, instead of buying candyand cake with her sixpences, as other children did, gravely invested themin miniature wash-boards and dust-brushes, and was saving up her money topurchase a tiny stove with a full set of cooking utensils. Caddy declaresher a child worth having. 

Charles and Emily took a voyage to Europe for the health of the latter, andreturned after a two years' tour to settle permanently in his native city. They were unremitting in their attention to father and mother Ellis, wholived to good old age, surrounded by their children and grandchildren. 

THE END.