Mary shook her head, and smiled sadly: "I don't know, Florry; I have
felt strangely of late."

That evening as the household were busily preparing for their intended
departure, Dr. Bryant abruptly entered, and informed them, with a
clouded brow, that removal was impossible, as he could not procure a
pair of horses for any price.

"It is perfectly unaccountable what has possessed the Mexican from
whom I purchased as many as I thought necessary. We agreed as to
price, and they were to be sent this afternoon; but about two hours
ago, he came to me, and declared that he had changed his mind, and
would not part with them. I offered double the original amount, but he
said money was no inducement. I strove to borrow or hire for any
given time, but every proposal was peremptorily declined, and as it is
impossible to leave here, I came over to entreat you to remain with
my sister, at least for a few days, till we can determine what is
advisable to do."

His proposal was accepted, and the ensuing day saw them inmates of
Mrs. Carlton's.




CHAPTER XIX.

"We're the sons of sires that baffled
Crowned and mitered tyranny:
They defied the field and scaffold