God,' he said, 'from this day, I will do what one man can to drive out
the curse of slavery from this land.'




CHAPTER XX


GEORGE SHELBY FREES HIS SLAVES


George Shelby wrote a little note to his mother, telling her that he was
coming home. He tried to write about Uncle Tom, but he could not; tears
blinded him, and sobs choked him.

On the day he was expected every one was in a state of bustle and
excitement. Aunt Chloe in a new print dress, and clean white apron
walked round the supper-table, making sure that everything was right.
Her black face shone with joy at the thought of seeing Uncle Tom again.

'I'm thinking my old man won't know the boys and the baby,' she said.

Mrs. Shelby sighed. Ever since the letter had come from George she had
had a very sad heart. She felt sure something must be wrong.

'He won't know the baby, my old man won't,' said Chloe again, 'Why, it's
five years since they took him.'

Just then the sound of wheels was heard.