"Leave that to me, Colonel," he said soberly.
Then came the reaction. The good Colonel sighed as he signed, away that business which had been an honor to the, city where it was founded, I thank heaven that we are not concerned with the details of their talk that day. Why should we wish to know the rate of interest on those notes, or the time? It was war-time.
Mr. Hopper filled out his check, and presently departed. It was the signal for the little force which remained to leave. Outside, in the store; Ephum paced uneasily, wondering why his master did not come out. Presently he crept to the door of the office, pushed it open, and beheld Mr. Carvel with his head bowed, down in his hands.
"Marse Comyn!" he cried, "Marse Comyn!"
The Colonel looked up. His face was haggard.
"Marse Comyn, you know what I done promise young MISS long time ago, befo'—befo' she done left us?"
"Yes, Ephum."
He saw the faithful old negro but dimly. Faintly he heard the pleading voice.
"Marse Comyn, won' you give Ephum a pass down, river, ter fotch Cap'n
Lige?"
"Ephum," said the Colonel, sadly, "I had a letter from the Captain yesterday. He is at Cairo. His boat is a Federal transport, and he is in Yankee pay."