She drove directly to Fairview and was so fortunate as to find her husband and father there conversing with Mr. and Mrs. Leland.
Her sad story was quickly told, and listened to by all with deep commiseration for the impoverished and afflicted family.
"You will not refuse the poor dying man's request, papa? Edward?" she said in conclusion.
"Certainly not!" they answered, speaking both together, "we will set out immediately. And you, Leland?"
"Will gladly accompany you. I bear the poor man no malice, and would rejoice to do him any good in my power. What do you say, Mary?"
She looked at him a little anxiously, "Is it quite safe for you?"
"Quite, I think," he replied, appealing to the other gentlemen for their opinion.
They agreed with him, Mr. Dinsmore adding, "I have no doubt the man is sincere; and I have still more confidence in his mother, whom I have long looked upon as a truly Christian woman."
"Besides," remarked Mr. Travilla, "the Ku Klux would hardly dare venture an outrage now. The most desperate have fled the country, and the rest stand in wholesome awe of the troops."
"I am quite, quite sure there is no risk in going," said Elsie earnestly, "but whatever is done must be done quickly, for Wilkins is evidently very near his end; may, perhaps, expire before we arrive, even though we make all haste."