Mr. Baron went down upon the lawn to meet the officers, and, after a brief parley, Major Brockton, the senior in command, began to dispose of his men for a little rest and refreshment, promising to join the family soon in the dining-room. Miss Lou, unasked, now aided in the preparations for the morning meal. Fearing Aun' Suke would get herself in trouble, she ran to the kitchen and told the old cook to comply with all demands as best she could. She had scarcely spoken when Mrs. Baron entered. Casting a severe look on her niece, she asked Aun' Suke, "Will you obey me now? Will you tell me you are a free woman now?"
"My haid in a whirl aready, misus. Ef you wants me ter I kin cook, but
I kyant keep track ob de goin's on."
"I can," replied the indomitable old lady, "and I can keep a good memory of the behavior of all on the plantation!"
"You can't govern much longer by fear, aunt," said Miss Lou. "Had you not better try a little kindness?"
"What has been the result of all the years of kindness bestowed upon you?" was the indignant answer.
"I only meant that it might be well to bestow a little of what other people regard as kindness. I had asked Aun' Suke to do her best and am sure she will."
"It will be strange if she does, when you are setting the example of doing your worst. But I am mistress once more, and wish no interference."
"Doan you worry, honey, 'bout we uns," said Aun' Suke quietly. "We yeard de soun' fum far away, en we year it agin soon."
Meanwhile Mad Whately was closeted with his uncle and mother, listening with a black frown to all that had occurred.
"I tell you," exclaimed the young man, "it's as clear as the sun in the sky that she should be sent away at once—in fact, that you all should go."