Until now, the thought of going to reside in the North had never been presented for his consideration.

He was a Southerner in almost all his feelings, and had never had a scruple respecting the ownership of slaves.

But now the fact that he was the master as well as the father of his children, and that whilst he resided where he did it was out of his power to manumit them; that in the event of his death they might be seized and sold by his heirs, whoever they might be, sent a thrill of horror through him.

He had known all this before, but it had never stood out in such bold relief until now.
"What are you thinking of, Garie ?" asked his wife, looking up into his face.

"I hope I have not vexed you by what I've said." "Oh, no, dear, not at all.