movements except what I have heard," replied the girl, coldly.

"Oh, dear!" exclaimed Mrs. Whately, "what troublous times we've
fallen upon!"

In the silence which followed they heard the gallop of a horse. A
moment later a negro came running up and exclaiming, "Dat sojer in
de stable des saddle he hoss en put out ez ef de debil wuz arter
'im!"

Miss Lou smiled bitterly as she thought, "He evidently doesn't think
it wise to wait for my protector."

At this moment Mad Whately appeared cantering smartly up the avenue
at the head of his men. Throwing his reins to a colored boy, he
strode smilingly up the steps, exclaiming, "Why, this is a regular
committee of reception. I am doubled honored since my fair cousin is
present also."

Miss Lou made no reply, and the expression on all faces led him to
ask quickly, "Why, what's the matter?"

The young man's brow grew black as Mr. Baron gave a hasty
explanation. A half-suppressed oath rose to his lips as he turned on
his heel and shouted to his men, "Halt, there! Let every man mount
and await orders. Simson, you and two others follow the guard I left
with my horse. Where's that nigger who saw him start? Here, you, put
these men on his track as you value your life! Simson, take him,
dead or alive!"