worked under her eye as if they were what she wished them to be, the
automatic performers of her will; Aun' Suke fumed and sputtered like
the bacon in her frying-pan, but accomplished her work with the
promptness of one who knew that no excuses would be taken from
either master or mistress; Miss Lou dusted the parlor, and listened
stolidly to the gallantries of her cousin. He was vastly amused by
her reserve, believing it to be only maidenly coyness.

Breakfast was soon served, for Whately had announced to Mr. Baron
his intention of scouting in the woods where the Federals had
disappeared; also his purpose to visit his home and summon his
mother to his contemplated wedding. He and his men soon rode away,
and the old house and the plantation resumed their normal quiet
aspect.

It had been deemed best not to inform Miss Lou of her cousin's
immediate purpose until his plans were a little more certain and
matured. Circumstances might arise which would prevent his return at
once. Moreover, he had petitioned for the privilege of breaking the
news himself. He believed in a wooing in accordance with his nature,
impetuous and regardless at the time of the shy reluctance of its
object; and it was his theory that the girl taken by storm would
make the most submissive, contented and happy of wives; that women
secretly admired men who thus asserted their will and strength, if
in such assertion every form was complied with, and the impression
given that the man was resistless because he could not resist the
charms which had captivated him. "Why, uncle," he had reasoned, "it
is the strongest compliment that a man can pay a woman, and she will
soon recognize it as such. When once she is married, she will be
glad that she did not have to hesitate and choose, and she will