Your father had faith in him; I never had." "But, mother, could we not contest his claim.

You have your marriage certificate and papa's will." "Yes, my dear child, but Judge Starkins has decided that we have no standing in the court, and no testimony according to law." "Oh, mother, what can I do ?" "Nothing, my child, unless you can escape to the North." "And leave you ?" "Yes." "Mother, I will never desert you in your hour of trial.

But can nothing be done?
Had father no friends who would assist us ?" "None that I know of.

I do not think he had an acquaintance who approved of our marriage.

The neighboring planters have stood so aloof from me that I do not know where to turn for either help or sympathy.