"Much as I love you," she continued, between her sobs, "and much as I longed to see you, I am sorry you came." "Why, mother," replied Iola, astonished, "I received your telegram last Wednesday, and I took the earliest train I could get." "My dear child, I never sent you a telegram.

It was a trick to bring you down South and reduce you to slavery." Iola eyed her mother curiously.

What did she mean?
Had grief dethroned her reason?
Yet her eye was clear, her manner perfectly rational.
Marie saw the astounded look on Iola's face, and nerving herself to the task, said: "Iola, I must tell you what your father always enjoined me to be silent about.

I did not think it was the wisest thing, but I yielded to his desires.

I have negro blood in my veins.