Ere Florence could speak the mingled emotions of her heart, the boat stopped, and the jangling bells warned them to lose no time.
Mr. Stewart placed her on the bank, and beckoning to a coachman mounted on a large heavy carriage, opened the door, assisted her in, and then cordially shaking the outstretched hand of the servant, inquired if all were well at home?"
"Oh yes, sir! all well except your mother. She has had the asthma, but is better. But ain't you going to let me look at your wife? You put her in as if I wan't to see my new mistress."
Mr. Stewart laughed, and opening the door, bade Florence look out; she threw back her long mourning veil, and bent forward; their eyes met, and both started with surprise:
"Isaac!"
"Miss Florry! sure as I am alive!" and he grasped the white hand heartily.
"I cannot understand this at all! Isaac, how came you here?"
"Why you see, when the plantation was sold, we were sold with it; that's how I come to be here."
"My dear Florence, it is strange, very strange, that I never once thought of your recognizing the servants, though I should have known you could not forget them. In what capacity did Isaac formerly serve?"
"He was always our coachman; and many a ride in childhood I owe to his kindness and wish to make me happy. Isaac, I am very glad to see you again." And her smile confirmed her words.