OND AND r THE UNIVERSITY OF 1 NORTH CAROLINA LIBRARY # THE WILMER COLLECTION OF CIVIL WAR NOVELS PRESENTED BY RICHARD H. WILMER, JR. / (J ha gnLMEH CCa I ECTION BOND AND FREE: A TALE OF THE SOUTH By grace LINTNER C. B. IXGRAHAM PUBLISHER, 'INDIANAPOLIS, IND. I]S[DIAXAPOLIS : CARLON & HOLLENBECK, PRINTERS AND BINDERS. 1882. CorVKIGHT BY ELLEN M. INGRAHA^[ 1882. PREFACE Upon relating incidents which occurred under the observation- of the Avriter, the suggestion has been frequently made to her that they should be recorded in a book, and placed within the reach of those who are interested in studying the habits of the Southern people before the late Avar. This volume is presented to the public in compliance with that request, since slavery is now so far removed from us by time that it has become historical. The contingencies of "the peculiar institution" invaded the domestic circle, made children masters and mistresses from in- fancy, causing them to be reared rulers over their sable playmates, and impressed on their unfolding minds ideas of superiority in birth, which, as they advanced to manhood or womanhood, quali- fied them to exercise authority to a degree inconceivable by those raised with different surroundings. That miscegenation was of frequent occurrence is not to be denied; but mulatto children, be- ing held by their darker mothers, were identified with the mater- nal race; yet there were instances where amalgamation was ex- tended to successive generations, and State laws were enacted liberating those who possessed a certain degree of consanguinity with the Caucasian race. In the slave markets, among which that of New Orleans was pre-eminent, quadroon girls, possessing superior personal at- tractions, commanded a high price; and in exceptional instances, where they were received into families, and enjoyed advantages of mental and moral education, they became womeu of intelligence and sterling Avorth. Our heroine is not a myth. There are persons who will recog- 602970 IV PREFACE. nize individuals mentioned in this history, but their identity is veiled from the public by fictitious names and localities. The author has not seen proper to testify to this or that occur- rence as a fact, lest the repetition should become tiresome, or con- clusions be drawn that all others not so specified are fabrications. Kead, and decide for yourselves, -whether or not the history contained in the following pages is true to life; and remember, that where friends and families are separated, and pursue differ- ent paths in the mazy labyrinth of life, their spheres may widen in diverse channels, and the wiliest detective be unable to recover the clue; again, they may meet when least expecting, and bridge the lapse of years with reminiscences of the past. Read, and learn not to undervalue the inliuence we exert over those around us. Let that charity ''which is kind, and endureth all things," throw a mantle over the imperfections of our fellow men. '' Let love be without dissimulation," that we "be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil Avith good." CONTEXTS. CHAPTER • PAGE. I. Temple Vale 1 11. Hunt Templeton 10 III. The Brothers . 21 IV. Search. 30 V. Grace Lintner. . 40 YL Carolina Life 49 YIL Letitia's Story . 54 YIII. Letitia's Story — Continued. 67 IX. An Adversary. . 73 X. Music. 82 XI. The Old Summer House. 92 XII. Preaching 101 XIII. The Ghost . 110 XIV. Madison's Freedom 119 XV. The Discovery. .... . 127 XVI. Xora 138 XVII. Old Virginia. .... . 145 XVIII. The Fire 157 XIX. Exigencies. . 165 XX. Free Labor. 174 XXI. AVoman's Work . 187 XXII. Guerrillas 196 XXIII. Mrs. Grovener. .... . 204 XXIV. Retribution. 213 XXV. Financiering. . 221 XXVI. Peace. 227 XXVII. Home Again . 237 ^XVIII. Supervision. 248 XXIX. The Coast of Flori la. . 254 XXX. The Will 270 XXXI. The Wedding. .... . 278 XXXII. Tableaux Vivants 285 Bond and Free CHAPTER I. TEMPLE VALE .. George Melburx threw the bridle from the peg of an old Virginia horse-rack over the neck of his impatient steed, mounted, and rode slowly down the avenue, a rejected lover. A review of the past presented itself to his mind as he wended his way homeward ; for often during childhood had the same road been passed to re- ceive instruction from the governess employed by Capt. Templeton ; and earh^ had Letitia's sweet- ness and grace so won his heart, that, during the few past 3'ears, while absent at college, her image had retained rule, and honors had been sought and won with anticipated commendation from his lad}-- love. Each annual vacation he had found her develop- ing in all the beauty and loveliness of womanhood, and now that college days were over, and the vo^^•s uttered that set him apart as a minister of holy 2 BOND AND FREE. things, he had presented himself to Letitia with bright aspirations, and received a decided refusal. For the tirst time, during his life of twenty-three years, was he thwarted in his plans. Sole heir to a large inheritance, with ample means at com- mand to promote his interest or happiness, recog- nized as master of many slaves, he was accus- tomed to have the will of others yield to his own. With a noble, manly bearing, and the pride of birth known to a native born Virginian, it had re- quired all the intensity of love to overcome inborn prejudices, and offer all that he was, and all that he had, to the keeping of one over whose birth rested a cloud. Letitia still stood upon the vine-covered veranda, her large blue eyes watching his retreating form, with lips parted as if to call him back, and revoke the w^ords which pronounced the doom to her own happiness. But, no ; she had taken up the cross, and was resolved to bear it. Passionately clasping her hands, and raising her eyes, now overflowing with tears, to heaven, she exclaimed earnestly and trustingly, '' I do love him so dearly! Help, oh help me, Heavenl}' Father, to tear this idol from my heart, and worship only thee I " Then seeking the retirement of her room, she sank upon her knees, and struggled in prayer until the mastery was gained and peace came ; then pil- lowing her head, she slept quietly and sweetly. A few days later, Capt. Templeton, who was apparently recovering from a slight attack of neu- ralgia, was sitting at the breakfast table with his TEMPLE VALE. daughter, and sipping a cup of fragrant coffee, as a servant brought to him, on a silver waiter, the county newspaper. Glancing carelessly over its contents, an item arrested his attention, and he read aloud : "Mr. George Melbnrn, of Oak Lawn, has made arrangements with Mr. Grigg to oversee his large estate, as he proposes making a tour on the continent of Europe, and subsequently devoting him- self to missionary work in ." Laying down the paper, without observing the flush which suffused the cheek of his daughter, he remarked, " So George is at home again, and ready to be oft' once more. I am heartily sorry that he is not to remain, and take charge of his servants. It must be a sudden move ; for, the last time I saw him, he expressed a desire and longing to be on his place permanently ; and, as he had received a call to take charge of G Church, it seemed certain he would remain at 'The Lawn.' " " But, papa," said Letitia, thinking she ought to reply, and scarce knowing what ground to take, " is not Mr. Grigg a good, responsible overseer? " "Yes, dear; he is as good and responsible an overseer as can be found ; but where there are so many hands, they need their own master to look in upon them once in a while. Mr. Grigg provides each servant his allowance, and George Melburn is not the man to want his hands stinted ; but it is the business of the overseer to see that the crops come in full, so he is sometimes pretty hard on them. It is natural for a man to feel attached to 4 BOND AND FREE. his own possessions, and to have a kind of famih^ feeling toward his servants, aside from the dollars they cost, which an overseer can not have. He should have been neighborly enough to call upon you, little daughter." Letitia replied, as she rose from the table to hide her confusion : " Yes, papa ; he called the evening you were at G ." A description of Temple Vale may carry some of our readers back a quarter of a century, to an old homestead in Virginia. The house was a plain frame building ; a wide hall, extending from the front veranda to the rear, separated the parlor, or *' big room," from the " family room." The former was honored with an ingrained carpet, cane-seated chairs, and two large wooden rockers, with chintz- covered cushions. A generous fire-place in winter diffused the warmth of blazing logs, and in sum- mer the wide jambs furnished a niche for a vase of flowers. On the opposite side stood a massive sideboard, the compartments of which held hats and bonnets for Sunday wear, as well as demi- johns of home-made wines and a plate of pound- cake. Of these refreshments ever}^ visitor who found his way hither, either b}^ accident or upon business, was not onl^^ invited, but expected to par- take. The room across the hall was large enough to answer the various purposes to which it had been appropriated ; namely, bed-room, sitting, and din- ing-room. On the second floor, corresponding apartments were used as sleeping rooms. TEMPLE VALE, Capt. Templeton's frequent absence from home had made it necessary to have the end of the rear veranda enclosed for the accommodation of a trusty servant, who could be called at any moment, and before whose door a watch-dog kept guard. Directly in rear of the house, at a few yards dis- tance, was the kitchen ; and, further on, to the left, a row of neatl}^ whitewashed cabins, far enough apart to allow space for little gardens, where each family of servants was encouraged to cultivate, for sale, or for their own use, a supply of vegetables. Saturday afternoons, and time gained by complet- ing an alloted^ task at an early hour, afforded leis- ure for this work. The experiment had originated with the late mistress of Temple Vale, who had discontinued the cultivation of a kitchen garden in order to encourage the servants by purchasing such produce as they might raise ; and it had proved successful. The front yard had been laid out, and, under the supervision of Miss Letitia, flowers bloomed luxuriant and filled the air with their fragrance. After breakfast, Capt. Templeton went out to give directions for the day's work, and his daugh- ter sought the retirement of an arbor to quiet emo- tions that had been once more re-awakened by the remarks of her father. This little retreat was formed by the branches of a carefully trained hawthorne, overhanging a sin- gularly formed rock, which served as a bench. The hardest battles fought by mankind are those with, or against, self; when reason, with its firm 6 BOND AND FREE. convictions of right and duty, is set in array against the heart, against its natural tendencies, instinct, or ardent desires ; when duty demands the voluntar}^ ^aelding up of what has grown to be the joy, the hope of life. Alone, with none but the All-seeing one who was near to sustain, Letitia was glad to realize that she had obtained the m aster \^ ; that the dreaded words had been spoken, even if they had cut the cord that held the curtain uplifted which now enshrouded her young life like a pall. She was glad to be alone in the contest, to feel that not even her father knew of her hrst great sacrifice ; she determined to maintain her usual cheerful man- ner, and, after an hour had passed, came out sing- "Always a maiden, never a wife." Approaching the house, she met her father riding his favorite horse, "Black Prince;" with an ex- clamation of surprise she addressed him, "Please, father, do not go this morning, wait until to-morrow, when you will be better." " I am better now, darling," he replied ; although his pale face did not verif\' his words. " You re- member the advice of our good doctor, and I must be read}', for 3'our sake, if I have not neglected his warnino- too lonor alreadv. The cool mornino" air 00., & will invigorate me. Good-bye, my daughter." With a farewell kiss father and daughter parted, each full of thought, looking forward with the an- ticipation of accomplishing a large measure of life's work during the day. Capt. Templeton rode toward the court house, TEMPLE VALE. 7 now and then checking his horse to a slow pace, as a sharp pain paled his face, or drew an involun- tar}' groan from his lips. Then, as it passed off, he would hasten, as if his errand could not be de- laved ; occasionally muttering half aloud, " I must not be too late." Well did he know that a fatal disease was preying upon his heart, as a worm in the core ; that vitality was liable to cease at any moment; and that like the apple, he would fall, and earth claim her dust. Previous to the death of his wife, Capt. Temple- ton had executed a will ; but since that event he felt that it would be well to avoid controversy, or litigation, by giving to his youngest child, Letitia, a deed to the homestead, as well as a document setting her emancipation beyond dispute. Such papers had been given into the hands of a lawver, and this was the day appointed for the final signing and sealing. Upon Letitia devolved the household cares as mistress of a large famih' of servants, although scarcely nineteen years of age, and wath these, af- ter her father's departure, she was soon busily en- gaged ; but an undercurrent of thought and anxiety for her father made the time pass slowh% as the cuckoo from the hall clock announced each pass- ing hour. When twilight approached she lingered on the veranda, hoping to see his figure, until the servants appeared, returning from work in the fields to their cabins. O BOND AND FREE. Uncle Joe came up to the house ; seeing his mis- tress, he stopped, removed his hat, and bowed. " Have you seen 3'our master, Uncle Joe? " en- quired Letitia. "No, Miss; but dat's jes w'at I's gwine speak 'bout. I's rollin' logs in de ole dead'nin' 'side de road, fur ter burn to-morrow. Miss, like oleMassa, he tole me fur ter do dis mornin', an' jes' as I an' Tom was hisin' a mighty big log on de pile, who comed 'long side de fence but Maus Hunt's Steve." " Had Steve seen father. Uncle Joe? " " Dat's jes what I's gwine speak 'bout. Miss 'Ti- tia. Steve, he beckon' wid 'is head fur me to come to de fence, an' w'en I gets dar, he says, 'You jes go up to de big house, and tell Miss 'Titia as 'ow 'er fader's sick down to de hotel. Tell 'er as how Maus Hunt's dar wid 'im, an' said nobody should come an' tell 'er ; ' but I know'd I'd jes come dis way w'en he sent me ober to Maus Grigg's wid dis letter; so, Miss 'Titia, I's here." " Yes, Joe ; and we must go to him," were Le- titia's composed words, although her heart beat with fear of evil. " Saddle the horses ; you must be my escort." "Yes, Miss; dar dey is; I knowed you'd say so ; Tom's bringin' 'em." The horses appeared, and, within live minutes, Letitia, accompanied by the faithful Joe, was on the way to G . Bolstered almost upright in the bed was the form of Capt. Templeton, his head drooping to one side, or moving restlessly against a pillow. The village TEMPLE VALE. 9 doctor held his almost pulseless wrist ; and oppo- site sat Mr. Hunt Templeton, half-brother of the dying man, when Letitia entered. Moving softly to his bed-side, she knelt, clasped her father's hand, and bowed in grief. Then rais- ing her tear-stained face to his, she whispered, '' Father, dear father, tell me — ." In vain he strove to speak ; life was too far gone — just hovering on the brink of the dark river. A smile, a gentle pressure of the hand, a gasp, and all was over ; the last step was taken, and the waters crossed. There was left a lifeless body, a grief-stricken daughter, and a grasping Shylock, impatient to bury the dead, and scrape in long coveted dollars. CHAPTER II. HUNT T E M P L E T O N Hunt Templeton was seated in a comfortable rocker, with his feet upon the fender. His coun- tenance, as he looked into the hre, would convey a favorable impression, presenting a fine profile of the Jewish tvpe, inherited from his mother ; but, as he turned, an upward glance betrayed a dark, sin- ister expression lurking under shaggy e3^ebrows, which would change a stranger's first opinion, and cause a man, with whom he might have business dealings, to question his integrity. His wife was knitting upon a fast lengthening stocking without appearing to observe its existence. She wore a dark linse\' dress, and a long, full gingham apron tied round the waist ; her face was hard, and the motion of her jaws indicated a devo- tion to the habit of gum-chewing. Dropping her knitting into a basket, she withdrew the gum from her mouth, stored it in her pocket for future use, and skilllullv ejecting a mouthful of saliva across the fire, addressed her husband, while she resumed her knitting : " I don't see w'at for 3'ou sold Joe and 'Titia to- HUNT TEMPLETON. II gether, I told you the last thing for to be sure and put one in one place, and t'other some 'eres else;" " You need borrow no trouble on that score, old girl ; I reckon they are both in Tophet by this time, for I sold 'em to Satan, or one of his colleagues. The captain of the ' Wildfire ' said he had knowed him ever since he has been a tradin' 'long the coast. He is a runaway convict, and never shows himself away from his hut. There is a man in Jackson- ville who sometimes sends him supplies under an alias : with this exception, and an occasional sail- ing vessel stopping there, he has no communica- tion with the world. I did not get much money for the nigs, but I thought I could not get shed of 'em in a safer place." " You may be right; but," lowering her voice to a whisper, and glancing around the room to as- sure herself that no other person was present, " do you really suppose either of 'em knowed about the will?" At this question, Mr. Templeton contracted the muscles of the forehead till his scalp approached his eyebrows, as if Satan betraved the guiding of his heart by disfiguring his face, and answered, "' I don't care whether they know it or not, now ; I made a sure thing in getting the place cl'ar on 'em. Brother James trusted everv thing to Joe. I know there were two copies of the will. One is safe, I bet ; the other James had hidden away some- 'ers, and I charged you to make thorough hunt for it at the farm.'' " Yes ; didn't I spend three da3's a huntin', when 12 BOND AND FREE. Sary Ann was down o' the fevers ? I searched every nook and corner, and nary will is there, that is certain," insisted Mrs. Templeton, holding her stocking near the candle to see the last stitches as she " toed it off." " I don't see what has become of it, unless it was sent to Mary, or the bo3^s, for safety." '* I don't think it was, because James told me he didn't want the bo3^s to know he had so much bank stock laid by. You see there are seventy-five thousand in the Planter's Bank, with the interest piling on for three 3'ears ; and, if the bo3'S knowed it, James thought it would spile 'em." "Suppose the bo3's come on, and find out how it is." "I fixed that. I got 'Squire Munser to write that their father was dead, and the3^ had best re- main where they are, or they would be taken and sold if the3^ return. The children, all having been born in slaver3% could not claim the estate without the will. 'Squire Munser wrote to Marv that she could get nothing ; so I think we shall have no trouble from anv of them. But one thing is sure, Sue Templeton, it has taken a might3- sight of figurin' and thinkin' to fix this all up for our side ; and 'Squire Munser wants an awful pile of money to fetch it out right for us.'' "Well, I reckon he'll not get more'n honest pay." " 'Squire Munser is not the man to undertake a job like this without big pay, and he told me so. There is no ' whipping the devil 'round the stump ' HUNT TEMPLETON. 1 3 with him. I had to sign a paper, making over to him one-hah' the proceeds of the sale of the tradin' vessels, and ten thousand out of the bank stock. It is bad ; but there is no backin' out.'" So greedy was this man over ill-gotten means, that he shrank from sharing the booty with him, by whose art and labor onh' it could be grasped ; while the lawj'er, knowing well his client, was care- ful enough to possess himself of a liberal share of dishonest money for dishonest work. The Templeton family, having suddenly become the holders of so considerable a fortune, the next step was to decide how to use it. Their hitherto limited income, derived from the profits of a small stock of groceries, had demanded strict economy to provide all with the comforts of life, and left lit- tle for its luxuries. The two oldest sons had been necessarily deprived of school privileges ; for, as soon as they were old enough, they had been obliged to aid in the sale of their father's wares ; and the elder daughters were equally useful in do- mestic duties. It was resolved that they must now be sent to boarding schools, and servants employed to take their place in all labor. The grocer^^ was disposed of, as well as the furniture of their hum- ble home ; while, at the farm, reconstruction and reorganization were accomplishing wonders. Un- der the supervision of an architect, painters and carpenters made the plain, comfortable farm house of James Templeton lose its identitv in a Gothic villa. New carpets and new furniture came in as a necessity. Parents as well as children, were 14 BOND AND FREE. bewildered at the novelty of a home with such sur- roundings, and knew not how to manage unaccus- tomed acquisitions. " See here, ma ; " said young John, a bov of ten years, "pa says 3^ou have bought six brocatelle chairs for the parlor. What is brocatelle, ma?" " Don't expose 3^our ignorance, boy ; it is French for thirty dollars apiece ; one would think vou had never seen furniture before." "Well, I never did see sich as this 'ere. And what's this thing for, all wadded like a pin-cush- ion?" throwing himself down, with his muddy boots elevated upon the polished veneering. "That 'ere is a sociable. You, John, git oft' o' thar ; see how you've scratched it. I'll show you what this is." Stooping down, she took oft' her slipper, and brisklv exercised it about the boy's ears, who made a speedy retreat. Among the servants an entire change of system had replaced the former order of things. Dinah had tucked away her five little ones, some in the trundle-bed (in which during happy days, now passed awa}^ her dear " ole missus " had watched and cared for her own four darlings), some in the "big bed," and on her lap lay asleep her sixth child, a babe, born since the exile of its father, Joe. Nellie, a fellow-servant, was sitting near, trying, by the light of a rag, sputtering in the side of a " grease cup," to make a garment for herself. " I's been tryin'. Aunt Dinah, to find out w'ere at Maus Hunt took Miss 'Titia an' Joe. Steve, you know Steve, he druv the carriage that day, HUNT TEMPLETON. 1 5 an' he says as how he tuck 'em down to a sailin' vessel." ''Were at was the vessel gwine?" inquired Di- nah. '' Steve, he said he din'no nuffin' 'bout dat ; but he 'spects dat dey war gwine to Georgy." " De Lord help us I my Joe gone to Georgy ! " "Wat fur, Aunt Dinah, is you been dar? Wat fur a place is Georgy?" , Dinah shook her head, took her babe, which had fallen asleep, laid it in the bed, as carefully tucking it in as if it had been the nursling of a free mother, and, taking an old split-bottomed chair, leaned back till it rested against the wall. Setting her feet upon a round, she said : "• Nellie, did you never hear tell of Georgy? It's a big jail — bigger'n dis planta- tion — w'ere dey puts de blacks w'at don't 'bey or- ders. It's got a suller, an' a down sta'rs, an' a up sta'rs, an' dar ain't no winders : it's all like a mill w'ere dey grin' sugar cane an' pick cotton. Dey have to work all day an' all night, ebery day han' runnin', wid chains 'round dar legs. An' Nellie, if Maus Hunt's gone and tuck m}^ Joe an' Miss 'Titia dar, de Lord'll pa}- him off, sure. Dar neb- ber was a better boy nor my Joe ; an' as to Miss 'Titia, she's an angel, jes like 'er 'ma was 'fore her." " Dar's a heap o' comfort, Aunt Dinah, in trust- in' in de Lord ; dar's no oder holt to hang by." " Look a' dis yere Missus ; she alius done 'er own cookin', an' now she 'lows I can do all de cookin' fur de house, an' all de. ban's, 'side lookin' 1 6 BOND AND FREE. after de chillen. Nora, she' ten year ole Christ- mas, an' helps a heap 'bout nussin' de baby ; now Missus, she says, ' Nora must wait in de house, an' let Carline nuss de bab}^' an' she's so little." A knock at the kitchen door ; and without wait- ing for an invitation, Terence, a field hand entered : " Skuse me, Aunt Dinah, I comes in fur ter light ™y pipe. Wats you an' Miss Nellie consolodatin' 'bout ; you looks so solemn like?" " I reckon w'es a right to be solemn, Terence, wi' Joe an' Miss 'Titia sold to Georgy." *' Don't sa}^ so. Dat's business in de na\y. Wonder what all's Maus Hunt sold 'em to Georgy for? But 3^ou orter see how him an' dis 'ere ober- seer bosses ; gettin' us up 'fore day, an' workin' us like mules. No more Saturday evenin's to make shuck mats, nor baskets, nor nuffin' ; but work on de place. Dat's all we's made for, I reckon he thinks." Mr. Templeton, in taking up the thread of his brother's business, found that it did not glide smoothly through his own hands, but became sadh' entangled. Coming in one evening, in a disturbed state of mind, he said to his wife : " There's 'Squire Mun- ser has had a man in tow who wanted to buy out the whole line of trading vessels. 'Squire sa3^s he has backed out, and will not buy. I've done m}^ best to keep in with the agents, but somehow there is nothing coming in from them. Here I am kept running one way and another, and it is m}' opinion the}' are keeping me blindfolded, pullin' an' grab- HUNT TEMPLETOX. 1 7 bin' in all directions ; the more I reach and grasp, finding nothing, the more these agents chuckle, and, in my opinion, pocket the profits. I must set out for Charleston to-night." His scalp, like a storm-cloud, lowered ; and the flash of his eyes was too well understood by Mrs. Templeton to attempt the use of any soothing in- fluence. Stepping out to the back porch, he raised his voice in a prolonged " Ho-o-o, Terence I Ho-o-o, Terence ! " That individual presenting himself at a cabin door, his master proceeded, " Saddle Daisy for me, and get on one of the work horses to bring her back. Right oft'; do you hear? " Instead of obeying, Terence walked toward the house, " Yes, Massa; but Daisy's mighty bad, sir ; I 'spects you'd better take Prince, sir." " What's the matter now? " "She got cast in the stable, sir; an' her foot's mighty bad, sir." At this, Terence was made the victim of a tor- rent of invectives ; curses of the entire African race were centred upon him ; not because he had been guilty of any oftense, but chance had thrown him in the path to receive pent up wrath from an irri- tated master. Having exhausted his supply of censures, he added : "Tell Harry to put my saddle on Prince, and get ready to go with me to the river to bring him back ; take care of that mare, and, if I lose her, you get fiftv lashes ; do you hear? " 2 l8 BOND AND FREE. "Yes, Massa." The two older sons, Thomas and Jerry, were too idle to remain in school ; in a few weeks they re- turned home, and devoted their abilities to rearing and fighting ^ame cocks. With other idle lads in the neighborhood, they assembled in the rear of a little school-house in the woods ; and passers by, every Saturda}^, would meet the interested parties with gaily plumed fowls under their arms, and find them engaged in whet- ting gafts to arm the cocks for the conflict. After the battle, when small stakes were risked, the win- ner was to " liquor up all around ; " whisky bottles were emptied, and with cards the da3^'s entertain- ment was completed. To join in this weekl}^ pastime, the boj^s sallied out of the house, and called Terence wath the order, "Saddle Daisy and Prince right awa}' ; do you hear?" " Maus Thomas, I hears; but Maus Hunt, he tole me fur to take good keer de mare ; she's, mighty bad crippled wid her foot, so I tuck oft' her shoes, an' keep her in de stable, sir." " What do you mean, 3'ou saucy nigger : I tell you to saddle the horses, right awa}^ ; do you un- derstand?" "I un'stan', sir; but I'm 'feared it '11 go hard wid 'er to put 'er on de road bar' foot, an' 'er foot so bad." B}^ this time the headstrong boy, who knew no will but his own, descended from the porch, and shook his fist at Terence. " You dare to disobe}' HUNT TEMPLETON. I9 m}^ orders ! I tell you to saddle that mare and Prince, and have 'em here inside of ten minutes, or I'll send you up for seventy-five lashes. You know it won't hurt her to get a little exercise." Seeing remonstrance was in vain, the horses were saddled, and the bo3's started off. Terence looked after them, as, urged to the ut- most speed she could make over the rough road, Daisy limped onward at the will of her rider ; and he indulged in one of his soliloquies : "Uncle Joe, he used to sa}-, dat Miss 'Titia read to him out o' de good book, dat it is mighty hard to serve two masters. Now, dar's dat ar mare, she's been nigh losin' her huff, since dat ar halter got cotched 'round it ; an' Maus Hunt he telled me if I don't cure it, I gets fifty ; an' now, jest as I's a curin' it, 'ere comes Maus Thomas an' tells me if I don't saddle 'er, he'll get de oberseer to gi' me seventv-five. So here I is 'twixt two masters, an' I got to b'ar de kwonsequence o' one or t'other, sure, an' if dat mare don't get used up, my name ain't Terence." Mr. Templeton's tour of investigation at the of- fices of the ao-ents was to him a fruitless errand. He knew nothing of the business of his late brother, and could learn nothing ; since, as he had rightly conjectured, the agents had concerted to foil his attempts to obtain an}' insight into their affairs, and led him into a blindfolded chase after information. He returned, after an absence of several weeks, to the farm, in an unenviable frame of mind ; where he could, at least, enjoy the privilege of venting 20 BOND AND FREE. ill-humor towards his family, giving and counter- manding orders to the servants. Having occasion to go to the village, he called Terence, and ordered his horse to be saddled. After the imprudent use of poor Daisy, she had been in a sad condition. Inflammation followed, and her leg was so badly swollen that Mrs. Tem- pleton had sent for a veterinary surgeon, w^ho pro- nounced the mare crippled for life. Terence had worked with her faithfully, having taken his rest on the hay in the stable, so as to bathe and rub her in the night, in addition to his daily task. He humbly explained the case, but his master only saw his tine blooded mare a useless cripple ; and, lay- ing the fault on Terence's shoulders, ordered the overseer to give him flfty lashes. This act of injustice was inflicted, and borne without a murmur ; but, from that moment, every sentiment of kindly feeling hitherto kindling to- w^ard his master was extinguished, and in its place grew up a bitter hatred. He worked with a dog- ged submission to orders, because there was no al- ternative. Not only this, but joining his fellows in secret complaints of ill-treatment, he returned to the sullen moroseness of the x\frican race, w^orking as an eye-servant under fear of the lash. CHAPTER III. THE BROIHERS Two American students were busy in their lodg- ings, endeavoring to restore order out of confusion. Books that would not again be wanted were laid aside for the second-hand dealer, and others care- fully packed away for future use ; clothing was subjected to the same inspection, and an accumu- lation of papers and articles, rejected as useless, were readv for removal. James Templeton had just received his degree as Doctor of Medicine, and his brother Oscar had completed the third year in the classical depart- ment of the same institution. Their father had determined that if any oppro- brium rested upon the birth of his children, it should be wiped out by educational advantages and an am- ple fortune. For this end he had labored unceas- ingly. Superior business qualifications enabled him to carrv out his plans as long as life lasted. Both the sons had been sent to Germany, and placed in a university well known for its able corps of profess- ors. Oscar was to remain one year longer to com- plete his course of study in the classical depart- 22 BOND AND FREE. ment ; and, that the brothers might return together, it had been arranged that James should improve the intervening time at various European hospitals, further qualifjang himself for the practice of his profession in some place yet to be selected in his native countr}-. The last letter from their father contained a re- mittance double their usual -quarterly allowance, that they might be enabled to recreate during the vacation, among the mountains and lakes of Swit- zerland ; ''For,"' w^rote Capt. Templeton, '"when another 3'ear has passed, I want to see both of you without delay." For this trip the brothers w^ere making prepara- tions, w^hen a letter w^as received causing them to drop their work — a letter containing intelligence that turned the current of their lives as effectually as a mountain, meeting a coming stream, turns its course in another direction. Enclosed w^as a cer- tified statement of the brief illness and decease of Capt. James Templeton, signed by the attendant ph3^sician, also a communication in the following words : " The property of the late James Templeton is inherited by his half-brother, Hunt Templeton, sole heir to the estate. At his re- quest, the two boys, James and Oscar, are advised to remain where they are, lest in case of their imprudent return, they may be re- manded to slavery. Signed, C. W. tVIuNSER, *' Attorney at Law, "Administrator." Conflicting emotions excited the minds of the brothers. Grief at their loss, disappointment at THE BROTHERS. 23 not being able to accomplish their well-laid plans, and mental questioning as to what should be done, for a few moments caused them to look at each other in silence. Oscar stood holding the letter in his hand, and was the first to speak. "What does this mean? Does this man pre- sume to affirm that we, with our sisters, are not heirs to our father's estate? I would like to face him with the certificate of our parents' marriage, which mother w^as always so careful should be preserved. How does he dare to impugn father's honor, and disown us? Liar that he is, I will have him prove that Hunt Templeton is heir to my fa- ther's estate." James Templeton, more self-possessed than his impetuous brother, approached and addressed him by the title he had always used since early child- hood, " Little Buddie, the books tell us that law is founded upon justice, and executed for the preser- vation of social and moral rights ; but wise men make law^ sometimes bend and adapt itself to ex- isting customs, rather than change an existing cus- tom for the sake of justice. Perhaps you do not fully understand the history of our parentage, as we rarel}' refer to it. Father found mother, a beautiful quadroon, in the New Orleans slave mar- ket, and bought her with the intention of making her his wife. The marriage ceremonv was per- formed in New Orleans, and he brought her to Virginia. The certificate is still, I suppose, in sister Mar3^'s possession. The laws of the slave 24 BOND AND FREE. States do not legalize marriage between master and servant, nor indeed between slaves themselves." "I see," replied Oscar^ ''but father certainl}- gave mother her freedom." "Free," said James, "in everj- regard, as any lady born in freedom, in exercising her own will and pleasure, beloved and honored by our father, but she was never emancipated according to the laws of Virginia ; and, were she living, would be entitled to inherit none of his propertv except it had been given her in his will. Emancipation papers were made out for sister Mar}-, as well as ourselves, at mother's earnest solicitation, as each of us sev- erally left home to attend school." " Do I understand, brother James, that the mar- riage certificate is null and void?" "The certificate is evidence of a marriag-e in the sight of heaven, and doubtless would be recognized as such in Europe, and in every free state of our own countr}' ; but not in the state where it was ex- ecuted, or where they subsequently resided." " Suppose," continued Oscar, "father had given mother her freedom previous to their marriage." " Then it would have done away with the ques- tion of our bondage," said James ; " and I adhere to the principle 3'et, brother, ' Those whom God hath joined together let no man put asunder.' I clrfim that no man, nor bod}^ of men, have a right to abrogate God's commands. Such a law as 3'ou speak of is unconstitutional, and God will over- throw it. Hunt Templeton will rue the day he de- THE BROTHERS. 25 prived us of our inheritance, by taking advantage of an unconstitutional law." "And yet," said James, "Hunt Templeton is not the sole author of our trouble. ' The trans- gressions of fathers are visited upon children of the third and fourth generations.' We are those rep- resentatives, and rest under the curse. Our fath- er's half-brother supposes we are yet children, and require advice. We must certainly change our plans, and in a day or two decide what steps are to be taken. There is little sister Letitia ; we must look after her, at least, and not leave her in the clutches of this villain. Thanks to father's gener- ositv, we can battle for ourselves and for her also." "You are well able to command a good posi- tion," said Oscar, " and I must find something to do. Instead of traveling through Switzerland, we must secure passage on the first steamer and return to our native land." "Yes, that will be our first move," said James. " Sister Mary has doubtless received duplicates of these documents before this, and will be anxious to hear from us. We must write this evening and send by the English mail, so that a letter will no- tifv her of our coming. With no prospect of an- other remittance, we must husband our means and add to it a trifle by the sale of these books and all articles that we shall not now require." Several days passed, which the brothers indus- triously emplo3"ed in surmises regarding aftairs at Temple Vale, and in speculations for the future, while their hands were as busily employed in mak- 26 BOND AND FREE. ing preparations to leave Germany and return to America with but little baggage. Oscar was in favor of advancing to the point at once, to demand justice at the hands of Mr. Tem- pleton. "That would never do," replied James. "We could gain nothing by so doing : the sum of money we have in our possession would be exhausted, and we should be powerless in accomplishing the de- sired end. We must fortify ourselves for a conflict before rushing into it." Three months had barelv passed by since Cap- tain Templeton had gone to his final rest, when his two sons stood on the threshold of their sister's home, a pretty cottage in the suburbs of a manu- facturing town in Connecticut. Their arrival was anticipated, as the letter announciag their intention had been received a week or two previous, and a heartfelt welcome awaited them. Mr. and Mrs. Blue were comfortably provided for by her father, who had bought and furnished their home, and purchased a considerable share in a business house, where Mr. Blue had, at the time of his marriage, been emploved. The young men were not kept long waiting, for Mrs. Blue opened the door herself; and once more they felt the force of a sister's love in her cordial reception. They talked over the happy days of childhood in Vir- ginia ; of their indulgent parents, both gone : and the question arose and remained unanswered, " Where is little sister Letitia? " "Esquire Munser wrote," said Mrs. Blue, an- THE BROTHERS. 27 nouncing father's death very much in the same manner to myself as he did to you, except that he varied the tone of the last clause, knowing that I had been legally freed. I remember hearing father speak of making a will. I wonder if he ever did ; although, if he did, it is not likely he would have remembered me in it, as he had already been so liberal, and probably considered that I had received my portion." ''It has been so many years since we were at home," said James, " except during vacations, and the three last years have been spent entirely in Germany — that the most of our knowledge of father has been through the mails ; but he was al- wavs so demonstrative in his regard, and so liberal in providing for us, that I should think he would have been thoughtful for the future, especially as his health was so precarious : but it is vain to spec- ulate, we must take the facts as they really exist." "You are verv well settled, sister Mary, and as to brother James, I am sure he has battled enough through books, lectures, experiments, surgical op- erations, and I know not what more, to be able to put up his name as a practitioner, and profess to earn a living by attending to suffering humanit}'. I have been studying over what I can do for m^^self, but my plans being frustrated, it will not be so easy to find business adapted to my capabilities. Have you received any letters from Virginia, sister?" " Not one. Immediatel}^ after receiving Esquire Munser's letter, I wrote to a friend in G , in- quiring about sister, as it seemed so strange she 28 BOND AND FREE. had not written. The reply was that Letitia had not been in town since the funeral. I have written twice since, but received no answer." The brothers found manv of their old school- mates, visited places of interest near Mr. Blue's residence, and formed new acquaintances. James was introduced to the fraternity of medical men, and looked about for an opening where he could find employment. At a meeting of the profession in New Haven, he made the acquaintance of an old graduate at Hei- delburg. Dr. Weis, who had for man}^ years been located at N , where he had gained an exten- sive practice. As ma}- be supposed, the old doc- tor lived his college days over again in recalling old associations, and insisted that James should accompam' him to his home for a good long talk about Heidleburg. A visit of two or three days extended to as many weeks, and found James still at N . A patient under the care of Dr. Weis required surgical treat- ment, and James proved so valuable an assistant, that he could not be permitted to leave. Indeed, the longer time wore on, the more did Dr. Weis feel that his practice was more than he could at- tend to in his advancing years, and he made a proposition to James to enter into partnership with him. "You will have to do the young man's part of the work," said the doctor, "for going out at all hours of the night is not the wa}' to cure rheuma- tism. There are a great many visits 3'ou can make THE BROTHERS. 29 to give me rest, to say nothing of the new hooks and crooks you have learned." So the matter was settled, and James learned to know his title as " Dr. Templeton," and brought into use the knowledge he had obtained. "You are just the man I have wanted for the past two years," said Dr. Weis, " and you need make no other arrangements for the future, but to remain with me." " I would like," suggested James, " to take a few days furlough, to attend to some business in Vir- ginia, before I become absorbed here." Dr. Weis shook his head. " Ah I no ; I can not spare you now. Your brother can be deputized to attend to 3^our affairs ; let him go." Dr. Templeton had not forgotten his younger sister, and he was desirous, now that he felt per- manently engaged in business, to endeaver to find some trace of her by visiting the old home. After well weighing the subject, he concluded it was best to let his brother undertake the errand, and wrote to him to do so. CHAPTER IV. THE SEARCH. A BROAD veranda, extending across the entire front, was an important adjunct to the tavern at G . SpHt-bottomed chairs, left at a convenient distance to allow of a tilt back against the wall, offered the villao-ers a shaded rest from the sum- mer's heat, or protection from the shower. It was a lounging place where all received a hospitable welcome. A back-gammon board, or pack of cards, was at hand when conversation flagged, and they were frequently, brought into use. The doctor could generally be found here when his services were required, as well as the lawyer ; also the store- keeper, who selected a position commanding a ^ iew of his warehouse, lest a custon^er should enter unnoticed. The planter, when in the village for supplies, found it a convenient rendezvous while his horse was being cared for. It afforded, besides, a comfortable half-wa}^ place, where he who would not at once walk boldly in and ask for a glass of whisk}^ could linger, and gradually appease his conscience before entering the bar-room to throw down his "bit" and swallow a potion. THE SEARCH. 3 1 Every white man living within the radius of sev- eral miles, who could make his way thither, did not fail to do so several hours before the arrival of the ratthng, cumbersome old stage that brought the mail twice a week from Norfolk. Should a passen- ger alight, it was an event in the history of G which furnished gossip for a week. One bright summer day, when the crowd was unusually large, a well-dressed stranger arrived and ascended the steps to the galler}- without seem- ing to observe that the eyes of all were turned to- ward him. The arrival had been observed at once bv the stable-boy, Madison, who lost no time in offering his services as porter, and conveyed the dust-cov- ered vaHse of the sole passenger, poised upon his head, leaving his hands as free as his bare feet, and limbs partly draped by the remnants of what had once been a pair of pantaloons, to perform va- rious antics as he followed up the steps. The landlord,- congratulating himself upon the reception of a guest, welcomed him politely, and appropriated a room to his use. Having removed the dust of travel, and bestowed his valise under the bed — as no other hiding-place was visible— he repassed the scrutiny of the vil- lagers and walked out upon the street. Without asking any questions, he proceeded directly to a small unpainted frame building, designated by a tin sign nailed to the door-casing, as the ''Office of C. W. Munser, Attorney at Law and Justice of the Peace.'' 32 BOND AND FREE. His warm heart kindled upon seeing the gen- tleman at the desk, busily engaged in looking over letters and papers just received by mail ; suppos- ing that, having been a friend of his father, the 'Squire would be glad to aid him with the courtesy due to his position as a gentleman, he handed his card, expecting a cordial reception. The attorney rose, held the card, upon which the name " Oscar Templeton " w^as written in a plain bold hand, long enough to decipher it if it had been repre- sented by hieroglyphics, then laying it upon the desk, frigidly pushed a chair toward the aston- ished visitor, and reseating himself, succeeded in clearing his throat enough to say : "Ah ! you are Oscar, are you? Let me see, you were in Germany, were you not? " Repelled by so unexpected a reception, and not choosing to accept the chair thus offered, Mr. Tem- pleton assumed his accustomed dignity and replied to the first question : "I am Oscar Templeton, sir; son of the late Capt. James Templeton, and my errand here may be stated in a few words ; I come in search of my sister Letitia, and have called upon you as ad- ministrator of my father's estate, to obtain infor- mation as to where I may find her." " Letitia? Letitia? " repeated the lawyer to him- self, as if endeavoring to recall a name passed from memory. "The name sounds as if I had heard it before. I do not remember whether there was a Letitia or not ; but — understand this, I can not be THE SEARCH. 33 expected to keep track of — of — which were Capt. Templeton's own children." " Beg your pardon, sir," interrupted Oscar ; " I do not wish to hear such alhisions. You took charge of the settlement of the estate, and should, from this, as well as from long acquaintance with father, be familiar with the details of his family and business affairs. You wTote to brother James and myself in Germany ; also to my sister, Mrs. Blue. You were not ignorant of our several local- ities ; you certainly must be able to tell me where Letitia is." " Not so fast, boy, not so fast," replied the law- yer as he rose and expanded himself with all the dignity inspired by his late office as judge of the county court. "I had the honor to administer upon the estate of Capt. Templeton, and it is my duty to retain possession of any slave owned b}^ him, or recover any w^io may have escaped from servitude. Be careful, boy, speak softly; I may have legal business with yott^ if you are not more careful." The dark threat contained in these words he made more forcible b}' approaching and shaking his clenched fist in Oscar's face. "And you, sir," said Mr. Templeton, " are the rhan who pretends to be a gentleman, and my fath- er's friend. I perceive that you are an enem}-. Good morning, sir." Returning to the tavern, he succeeded in procur- ing the use of a horse, hoping that he might, b}' visiting Temple Vale, be able to find his sister, or, 34 BOND AND FREE. at least, ascertain where she could be found. The landlord, supposing him to be unfamiliar with the roads, urged him to accept the escort of the stable boy. " You can see," he remarked to a by-stander, as the two rode out of sight, "that he is a Yankee, by his clothes and his square-cut manners ; none of your free and easy politeness about him. There are so man}- sly Yankees around these da^'s, run- ning off niggers and horses, it is well to keep watch of them." " But are you not," asked one, " afraid he will take the nigger and the horses also?" '*Not at all. I will risk Madison anywhere; he is too trifling and lazy to be run off with. He is of no account except to stand around a stable, hold horses, and such like. If all the Yankee school teachers in the state should get after him, they could not run off such a lazy scamp ; yet Madison has one good trait, he thinks a heap of horses ; he will talk to them, never forgets to water nor fodder them, and that is the only thing he is good for ; I will risk that upstart running him off, or the horses, either." Jogging along the road silently for two or three miles, his mind was busied with reflections upon his unpleasant interview with Esquire Munser. As he approached the old homestead, his birthplace, where the years of a happy childhood had been passed, and a warm welcome had awaited each vacation visit, he began to realize his loss, and feel THE SEARCH. 35 that the props of his youth were gone ; a mother, gentle, loving, patient, had passed away, and her remains lav across the fields in the family burying ground, a silent spot, where the ripened leaves were fast falling to the ground ; a father, steady, strong, true, and affectionate, was not laid beside her, but in the village churchyard. Without a clue, he had set out to search after the darling sis- ter, whom he had left 3'ears before. The recollec- tions of her as he gently released her little hands from around his neck, in loving embrace, bidding him "goodbye," rose in his mind. Where was she now ? In bondage or in freedom? With friends, or with a hard master? The birds that knew, flew to and fro, singing their own song, but could not tell. The winds that knew, fanned his face, and scattered the leaves, but could not tell. The clouds that knew, moved lazih^ over the blue sky away oft' to where she was, but could not tell. Angels that knew, came down close to the brother's ear, and whispered, "We know, she is being trained for the great Father's work." They spoke so softly, and their language was in heaven's tongue ; he did not understand them, but turned in his saddle, thinking he heard the soft notes of a bird hovering above him. ^ Coming to a place where landmarks did not seem familiar, he remarked to his guide, " The road is changed." The negro replied, "Yes, Maus Oscar; de road used to go up dar ober de hill, you know. Dis 'ere is Oak Lawn. De oberseer, he clar'd up all ;^6 BOND AND FREE. de Ian', an' made de road go long j^ere. Dar's a heap things done different since ole Massa's gone." Mr. Templeton, with surprise, met the eye of his companion, and exclaimed : " Madison, can you be my boy, Madison? " '* Dat's jes' what I is; I's Madison." At the same time leaping up on the back of his horse he turned a complete somersault, and reseated him- self, displaying his pearl}^ teeth, with a truly Afri- can "Ya! ya ! ya I I knowed you all de time, I did." "Yes, yes; I see you are Madison yet; you have not forgotten your little boy tricks ; but what has changed, Madison? " "You'll see when 3'ou gets dar," the boy an- swered, changing his demeanor, and shaking his head. Then, reining his horse nearer, he asked, " Is you seen Joe and Miss 'Titia, any place where you's been at?" "That's just wh}^ I am here. I have come to find Miss Letitia. Is Joe gone? " " Dey all two went togedder ; but dis new Massa he don't nebber tell nobod}^ whar dey's at. Madi- son's mighty lucky to get outen dar' safe, he is." The new moon shone silver}^ bright over the landscape when our travelers retraced the road to the tavern. Upon leaving the breakfast table next morning, Mr. Templeton was accosted by an officer, and summoned to appear at the court house to answer charges made against him. A preliminary exam- THE SEARCH. 37 ination was held, in the presence of an audience, adjourned from the tavern, to investigate two charges : First, that he was a fugitive slave ; Sec- ond, that he was endeavoring to facilitate the es- cape of a slave. The exhibition of his own eman- cipation papers nullified the first ; but, being unable to satisfy the court in the second, he was held over for trial, and committed to the custodv of the jailor to insure an appearance. Past the weary hour of midnight, when the vil- lage was wrapt in sleep, and no sound heard ex- cept the occasional hoot of an owl, or the crow of a cock, a figure crept along in the shadows from the tavern to the jail ; then a low, but clear, sharp whistle penetrated the ears of the incarcerated man, partially awakening him from the troubled sleep into which he had fallen. The sound was familiar, and carried him back to the days of his boyhood, when Madison had amused him with exhibitions of wonderful skill in whistling. Again it was heard, followed by a suppressed voice, close to the wall, " It's jes me, don't be skeered, Maus Oscar ; it's jes Madison." " But where are you, Madison?" "Jes' here, bv de hole. Fs come ober to sav, keep up, Maus Oscar. I done heard 'em fix up dis business down to de tabern. Maus Hunt he comed in las' night, an' de 'Squire and dey all done dis. So I jes' come ober to tell you to keep up, an' we'll tree de 'possums dis time. Fll slip back now, 'fore de padder-roller come dis way." 38 BOND AND FREE. The session of the countv court was a season for fox hunting. A fine large animal had been brought in and confined to serve as game for the huntsmen. The best horses in the county were in the stalls, and trained dogs ready in anticipation of the chase next morning. The judge, lawyers, their clients, and invited guests, were fortifymg themselves at supper with the landlord's fried chickens and bis- cuit, when Madison suddenly entered and, with an alarmed expression, announced : " De fox, sir, he's done got out, sir.'' The in- terested parties precipitateh' left the table, called the dogs, and ran to search for the fox, preceded by the informant, whooping, hallooing, and calling the dogs to scent the track. *' I done saw him run ober here." The dogs found the track, which led to the side of the jail, and was lost at a small hole, where they dug furiously. Madison was sent to procure shov- els, and a large excavation was made under the w^all ; until, fatigue and darkness intervening, it was decided to abandon the work until morning. " He must be under the floor and can not get out," said the landlord. '' Madison, here, throw in these loose rocks, and chink up this hole." " Yes, Massa." An earl}^ riser sauntered across to view the spot where the fox was supposed to be safely impris- oned, and returned to inform the landlord of the boy's failure to secure the opening ; and further in- vestigation revealed the fact that floor boards had THE SEARCH. 39 been removed, and that the sole prisoner had es- caped. Threatened vengeance hovered over the stable-boy. In vain was he sent for. Loud voices called, but no Madison appeared to obey the sum- mons. Two of the fleetest horses were missing. The tale was told. CHAPTER V. GRACE LINTNER. When a young man steps out into the world to earn a maintenance, and to build for himself a po- sition where he will be estimated according to moral worth, perseverance in accomplishing a de- sired end, or success in financiering, it is an im- portant era in his life. If fortified by judicious preparatory training of mind and manners, sus- tained by relatives and friends with advice and capital, the road to success is widened ; but errors in judgment may overthrow the best laid plans. A vigorous will-power and indomitable perseverance may accomplish more than wealth, friends, or per- sonal influence ; but it means work, deprivation, crosses and rebuffs ; it means unflagging industry and energy until the goal is reached. How is it with woman w^ien she crosses the threshold of home, when she separates herself from its protection, and goes out with the same object in view ? The timidity characterizing her sex induces her to shrink from the ordeal, unless impelled by some great incentive. If it is poverty, society accepts GRACE LINTNER. 4 1 her apology, and encourages her with the same aid, mingled with pity, that is bestowed upon an unfor- tunate object of charity ; while more favored sisters thank their own good fortunes that they are exempt. If ambition, or superior mental attainments cause woman to extend her sphere beyond her own cir- cle, she may, under certain circumstances, unfurl her own standard and sustain it, and the world will be better or worse for her having lived in it. Whether Grace Lintner was actuated by neces- sity or ambition, or whether she was in search of novelty for her own self-gratification, it matters not to. the reader; we introduce her as she sits upon the deck of the steamship "Alabama," bound for the port of Savannah. She looks into the sea, watches the huge waves rolling and dashing un- ceasingly in ever-changing light and shadowy feel- ing that, literally as well as figuratively, she is em- barking upon the sea of life, trusting to the ark of safety that she will be borne upon its bosom, whether peaceful or turbulent, to the haven whither she is bound. Upon arriving in Georgia she was led to enjoy the contrast between the snow-clad hills of New England, to which she had bidden '' adieu '' a few da^^s previous, and the mild atmosphere of a hith- erto untried latitude. Shade trees were clothed in verdure, flowers w^ere blooming, and many new varieties called forth both w^onder and admiration. The few days of her stay were terminated by the announcement that the steamboat was ready, which was to convey her to the journey's end. 42 BOND AND FREE. "The Bay," loaded with flour and bacon for Augusta, slowly pursued her course around the flexions of the Savannah river. The magnolia, bay, cypress, and live oak over- hung the water's edge, and held suspended gar- lands of moss. Acres of palmetto trees shook their long Angers in the wind : miles of canebrake nod- ded their tall heads to the sun, while here and there, a broad expanse of rice-field showed where busy hands had gathered the grain : and myriads of sonorsters filled the air with music. Supper was announced in the little cabin, and, while all the passengers were engaged in partaking of it, an ominous crash was heard above, causing them to rush upon deck to learn what had hap- pened. "The Ba}' " backed out, as the pilot re- plied to the inquiries of the captain : " We're afoul a cypress, sir ; and the guards are torn ofl'; the wheel-house. has a rub too, sir." "Chips" was called to repair the damage, and the captain, not considering it safe to proceed in the darkness, remained until davbreak. Next morning all hands were called, and the little steam- boat was soon tugging on up the river. Few stops were made, and just as night approached, the ar- ri\'al at Mark's Landing was announced, and Grace prepared to disembark. The captain came forward and offered to escort her, sa3'ing, "The nighest house. Miss, is Tom Jones', just on the risin' yonder." nodding his head to a slight elevation from the river. " I'll go 'long with you, it looks lonesome-like in the dark." GRACE LINTNER. 43 Then addressing some of the boat-hands, he added, " Here, boys, take the young hidy's baggage." The boys, with sailor-hke promptness, obeyed ; two of them caught up the trunk, the third took a valise, and a fourth a basket ; and all proceeded toward Tom Jones' house. Arriving at the gate, a pack of hounds came barking and howling as if ready to devour the whole group. The captain raised his stentorian voice in a prolonged shout, to which the owner of the premises responded by a similar whoop, ter- minating with an interrogative inflection : and, upon receiving information from the captain, that he had got the Major's governess in tow% and wanted him to take charge of her all night, Tom Jones drove the dogs back under the house, and came forward to escort the party through the yard. The captain, after seeing that Miss Lintner with her baggage was safely disposed of, bade her "good-night,** and returned to his boat, followed by the bo3's. Grace was relieved from embarrassment w^hen Mr. Jones addressed her : "The Major was here this mornin'. Miss, and telled me as how you war a comin* fur ter teach his chillun' ; and he telled me and m}^ woman to take good keer of vou, and fur ter' sen' a boy over as soon as you come. It's nigh on to four mile to the Grove, so jes' rest eas}' 'til to-m.orrow mornin', and ril sen' over." Mrs. Jones, a dejected, sallow-faced woman, made her appearance, and invited Grace into her 44 BOND AND FREE. room, where a fire of resinous pine knots hissed, flashed, and threw a fitful, glaring hght around the apartment. Two or three chairs, seated with un- tanned cowhide, and two bedsteads that had evi- dently done service for a generation long since gone to their final rest, constituted the entire furni- ture. A wild looking boy, about ten 3'ears of age, oc- casionally peeped in at the door, spat toward the new-comer, then ran oft' only to return in a few minutes, and repeat his ungracious salutation. Retiring to the room designated to her use, she took the precaution to barricade the door with her trunk. By converting a chair into a ladder, she made the ascent to a high, old-fashioned bedstead. Earlv next morning she arose, and after a vain eftbrt to breakfast upon muddy coftee without cream or sugar, fried bacon, and bread of unbolted corn meal, she anxiousl}^ awaited the arrival of Mr. Ninus. It was, perhaps, ten o'clock when the carriage drove to the door, accompanied bv one of the heavih^ built wagons used at that time in the South for transportation, and brought into requisi- tion upon this occasion to convey the small trunk and valise of Miss Lintner. A drive of four miles across a level, uninhabited country brought them to Mulberry Grove. When nearing their destination they were met b}^ a mot- ley group of negro children, of all ages, striving for the honor of opening and closing the three gates through which they passed before reaching the house. Following, and surrounding the car- GRACE LINTNER. 45 riage, they expressed the natural exuberance of their race by exhibitions of gymnastic perform- ances, leaping and turning somersaults. Mr. Ninus was above the medium height, straight as an arrow, muscularly built, with broad shoulders and full chest. Chestnut hair was combed back so as to display an expansive forehead ; and a cleanly-shaven face gave full expression to the mo- bility of features which varied in conversation to a degree common with ladies, but seldom found in gentlemen. Notwithstanding home-made jeans, unpolished linen, and coarse leather shoes, his elcr gance in manner, affability and ease in conversa- tion, ranked him a Chesterfield. "With such a master," thought Miss Lintner, '* slavery must lose its terror, and servitude become easy." Arriving at the house, Grace's idea of a planter's home failed to be realized. Instead of the elegant mansion her fancy had pictured, there stood upon piles, a large "double cabin," built of logs, con- nected by one roof, which extended over an un- enclosed space of perhaps twelve feet or more, between the two sections. Galleries, extendin