After a while, however, affairs assumed their usual aspect, and business took its regular routine.
The grist mill belonging to the Captain was the only one for many miles around, and was a source of great profit to him; the saw mills also, were turning out a large quantity of lumber, which was in good demand; and the distillery kept up a _steaming_ business.

It yielded, however, a handsome income to Capt.

Helm, who was now, for the first time since I knew him, overseeing his affairs himself, dispensing altogether with the service of a regularly installed overseer.
The oldest son of our master had been absent from home for sometime, nor did he return to attend his sister's grand wedding.

He had sought and obtained a commission in the United States service as a Lieutenant.
This had been his own choice; he had preferred the service and hardships of a soldier, to a plantation well stocked with slaves, and the quietude of domestic life.

He had cheerfully given up his friends and prospects as a planter, and entered the service of his country.