Yesterday my mistress died, as I have told you.' "'And are you left in sole charge of these little children ?' "'Yes, sir.' "'Have they no relatives living ?' "'Their uncle lives in Kentucky.

I shall try to carry them there.' "'But you will find it hard work.

You have only to cross the river, and in our lines you will be no longer a slave.' "'I know it, sir.

Three of my children have got their freedom, thank God, in that way.

But I can't leave these children.' "I looked down at them.