'I feel sad for our poor people. I wish, papa, they were all free. Isn't
there any way to have all slaves made free?'

'That is a difficult question, dearest. There is no doubt that this way
is a very bad one. A great many people think so. I do myself. I wish
there was not a slave in the land. But then, I don't know what is to be
done about it.'

'Papa, you are such a good man, and so noble and kind. Couldn't you go
all around and try and persuade people to do right about this? When I am
dead, papa, then you will think of me, and do it for my sake.'

'When you are dead, Eva! Oh, child, don't talk to me so.'

'Promise me at least, father, that Tom shall have his freedom, as soon
as I am gone.'

'Yes, dear, I will do anything you wish. Only don't talk so.'

Miss Ophelia and Eva had been to church together. Miss Ophelia had gone
to her room to take off her bonnet, while Eva talked to her father.

Suddenly Mr. St. Clare and his little girl heard a great noise coming
from Miss Ophelia's room. A minute later she appeared, dragging Topsy
behind her.

'Come out here' she was saying. 'I will tell your master.'

'What is the matter now?' asked Mr. St. Clare.