We need scarcely
tell the reader that Clotilda's letter was read in listening
silence, and ran thus:--"Nassau, New Providence, "October 24, 18-.
"My Dear Franconia,
"My thoughts have never ceased to recur to you, nor to my dear
Annette. You were a mother and a deliverer to me; I know-though I
have not received a word in reply to any of my letters-you have been
a mother to my child. As you know, I dare not write as much as I
would, lest this letter fall into the hands of those whose interest
it is to perpetuate our enslavement. I hope you are happy with a
good husband, as I am. Years have rolled by since we parted, and
many have been the scenes and changes through which I have passed,
but they were all pleasant changes, each for brighter and happier
prospects. I was married to him who, with you, effected my escape, a
few weeks after landing at Harbour Island. Since then we have
resided in Nassau, where my husband, who loves me dearly, pursues an
extensive and lucrative business, and we both move in the best
society of the place. We have a pretty family of three children, the
oldest nine years old, and the youngest five. How my heart would
leap with joy if I thought you would accept an invitation to come
and see me, to spend a few weeks with me, and see yourself how
comfortable and happy a slave may be! Perhaps I should not say
happy, for I never can be truly happy without my Annette. Something
haunts my mind whenever I recur to her,--which is every day.
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