mother's life; and, in a less degree, of that of every servant in the
house. They had all been born and brought up at Ion, and had all these
years known him as the kindest, most reasonable and considerate of
masters.

"Wish Massa Edard come. Dese waffles jes' prime to-night, an' he so fond
ob dem," remarked a pretty mulatto girl, handing a plate of them to her
mistress.

"Yes, Prilla, he expected to be at home, but is probably taking tea at the
Oaks or Roselands." And the old lady supped her tea and ate her waffles
with a serene, happy face, now and then lighted up by a pleased smile
which her attendant handmaiden was at a loss to interpret.

Having finished her meal, Mrs. Travilla threw a shawl about her shoulders
and stepped out upon the veranda; then, tempted by the beauty of the
night, walked down the avenue to meet her son or see if there were any
signs of his approach.

She had not gone half the distance ere the sound of horses' hoofs reached
her ear--distant at first but coming rapidly nearer, till a lady and
gentleman drew rein at the gate, while the servant who had been riding in
the rear dismounted and threw it open.

They came dashing up, but paused and drew rein again at sight of the old
lady standing there under the trees.

"Mother," cried her son, springing from the saddle, "you were not alarmed?
anxious? surely."