"Yes, it had the effect of making him disinherit and cast me off.

Read that," he continued, handing Frank another soiled paper, which looked as though it had been read and thumbed continually.

"I felt like one with his death-warrant when I received that." It ran thus: CATAHOOLA PARISH, _March_ 31, 1861.
SIR: In reply to your scandalous and insulting letter, I have but a few words to say.
This, then, is the only return you have to make for all the favors I have showered upon you! I had expected great things of you, George, for you have the abilities that would have raised you to a high position in the South; and it seems hard that my fond hopes should be dashed to the ground, by one fell blow, given, too, by your own hand.

But I know my duty; and now, sir, I have done with you.

I cast you off forever.