etc., and I think we can accomplish the whole before dinner. Come to the
library and let us to work."

"You dear, kind father, always trying to help me and smooth the least
roughness out of my path, and make life as enjoyable to me as possible,"
she said, laying her hand on his arm and looking up into his face with
eyes beaming with filial love, as they rose and stood together for a
moment.

"A good daughter deserves a good father," he answered, smoothing with soft
caressing motion the shining hair. "But have you the necessary data for
our estimates?"

"The number to be clothed, papa? I know how many house-servants, how many
babies and older children at the quarter, but not the number of field
hands."

"That will be easily ascertained. I will send a note to Spriggs, who can
tell us all about it."

Mr. Dinsmore's plans were carried out to the letter, and with entire
success. This was Saturday; the orders were sent that afternoon, and on
Monday morning the work began. Aunt Chloe proved fully equal to the
cutting of the garments, and Uncle Joe an apt scholar under her patient,
loving teaching, and a willing worker at his new employment. There was
scarcely need of even oversight on the part of the young mistress. She
would drop in occasionally, commend their industry, and inquire if
anything were wanting; then felt free for books, rides or walks, music or
conversation with her father.