CHAPTER FIFTH.

"Joy never feasts so high
As when the first course is of misery."
--SUCKLING.


Adelaide's marriage was fixed for Christmas eve, and Mr. Dinsmore and
Elsie decided to take their trip to Louisiana at once, that they might be
able to return in season for the wedding, at which Elsie was to be first
bridesmaid.

It was Elsie herself who broke the news of her intended journey to her
faithful old nurse, explaining why she felt it her duty to go, and kindly
leaving to Chloe's own decision whether she would accompany her or not.

The dusky face grew very sad for a moment, tears springing to the dark
eyes; but the voice was almost cheerful as she answered, "Yes, you's
right, honey darlin' you's all right to go and see 'bout dem poor souls
and let 'em see dere beau'ful young missus; and your ole mammy 'll go
'long too, for she neber could stay and let her chile run all dem risks on
de boats an' cars an' she no dar to take care ob her."

"That's right, my own dear old mammy. I shall be glad to have you along,
and hope you will find it pleasanter than you expect; but we must trust
the Lord to take care of us all; for He only can prevent the accidents you
fear."

"Yes, yes, honey, dat's de truff; an' we'll trust Him an' not be 'fraid,