There is no step of return for those who falter
in poverty. To-night I shall leave for the city; in a few days you
will know all." Thus saying, he conducted Franconia back to rejoin
the party, already making preparations to return.
He gave her an insight of his troubles, in such a manner as to
create deep agitation; and, although satisfied that an event of more
than ordinary magnitude was at hand, she could not associate it with
the commission of crime. The day, spent with all the conviviality of
southern life, ended amidst the clang of merry voices, and soft
music: a gay group assembled at the bank, ready to return under the
cheering influence of music and moonlight.
The bugle sounded,--the soft notes of "Home, sweet Home!" followed:
the party, forming into double file, gay and grotesque, marched
through the grove to the barge. Servants, old and young, were in
high glee; some joining in chorus with the music; some preparing the
barge, others strewing branches and flowers in the pathway, to the
delight of young "mas'r" and "missus,"-all singing. Aunt Rachel,
high above her minions in authority, is poised on the bank, giving
directions at the very top of her voice. Daddy Bob, Harry, and
Dandy-the latter named after "mas'r's" fleetest horse-are freighting
their young "missusses" in their arms to the boat, shielding their
feet from the damp.
"Now, mas'r, Old Boss," Bob says, directing himself to Marston,
after completing his charge with the young ladies, "Jus' lef' 'um
tote, old mas'r safe da'? So 'e don' mus e' foot.
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