And then
I have written so many letters to which no answers have been
returned; but, a whispering angel, as if to console me, says,
Franconia will be her mother, and you will yet see her.
"The gentleman who bears this letter is my husband's cousin. He has
all my husband's generosity of character, and will seek you for the
purpose of finding Annette, and bearing her safely to me. He has
proffered his services, and sworn to carry out his object; and being
on his way to New York for the purpose of entering into business
with his uncle now in that city, will touch at Charleston, for the
object herein stated. Further his object, my dear Franconia, and
that heaven will reward the hand that in mercy helps the enslaved,
"Is the prayer of your grateful "CLOTILDA MAXWELL."
"I knew mother would never forget me; I knew she would come back to
me, would be kind to me, as she used to be, and save me from such
cruelty as I have suffered. Several times have I resolved on putting
an end to my unhappy existence, but as often did something say to
me, 'live hoping-there is a better day coming.' God guides, governs,
and raises up the weary soul," says Annette, in touching accents, as
Franconia finished reading the letter.
While this conversation is progressing, and the plan of getting
Annette out of the city being devised, a nice supper, at Mrs.
Rosebrook's request, is being prepared in the adjoining room. To
this the stranger is invited, and all sit down in a happy circle.
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