“Be at peace, lady! The life or death of this slave, of such vital importance to you, is really a matter of so little moment to Admiral Cockburn, that I have not the slightest hesitation in promising to secure for you his pardon and liberation.”
“Oh, may the Lord forever bless you, sir! I never, never can tell you how grateful I am—”
“Peace, peace, dear lady. It is absolutely nothing. I would to Heaven I could really do anything to merit your kind word and kind remembrance, when others are cursing me for what the stern duties of war force me to do!”
“I shall ever remember you, sir, with the deepest gratitude.”
“And now, Mrs. Clifton, you must have rest and refreshment. My head-quarters are at Doctor E——’s. His amiable family are at home. They will gladly afford you comfort and assistance. Permit me to conduct you thither.”
He replaced her carefully in her saddle, and taking the reins, led her horse until they reached the commodious mansion of Doctor E——. Here he introduced Mrs. Clifton, who was received with respect and sympathy. Leaving her in the care of the kind and hospitable family, he then set out to seek Admiral Cockburn.
Catherine was shown to a chamber, and afforded the refreshments of a partial bath and food. After which she lay down on a sofa, to rest, and await the return of the gentle and generous Ross.
In about half an hour she was summoned to the parlor, where she found him standing. He advanced to meet her, and said—
“Mrs. Clifton, I have the pardon here, but I very much fear—” and his face clouded over—“I very much fear it will be too late.”
“‘Too late!’” echoed Catherine, sinking into a chair, as she repeated the saddest words in the language—“Too late. Is he dead?” she asked, covering her face with her hands.