Holding the bridle reins in his hand Douglass climbed into the buggy with Mr. Pitts.
“Better that I go in with you,” said his host. “Those ruffians might be lingering somewhere along the road.”
It was a fresh, sweet morning in May. The Pitts’ orchard was in bloom. Everywhere was peace and growing things. Douglass smiled at the little girl standing on the wide porch, and Helen Pitts waved her hand.
“Goodbye, Mr. Douglass. Do come back again!”
She felt important, waving at the great Frederick Douglass.
So it happened that the next day John Brown found Douglass with a bandage fastened about his head.
“It’s Captain John Brown!” called Charles, ushering the visitor in. Anna Douglass came in from the kitchen and greeted him warmly.
“We’re just sitting down to breakfast, Captain Brown. You are just in time.”
Little Annie set another plate, smiling shyly at the old man. His hand smoothed her soft hair.