Whately, somewhat complacently, "or else there is no telling what
trouble you may have."
"Yes, yes," cried her son, "I insist on mother's managing. She has
always obtained what I wanted, and I shall certainly throw my life
away if I don't marry Cousin Lou."
"Madison," said his mother, tearfully, "am I, who have so loaded you
with kindness, of no account?"
"Oh, forgive me, mother, I can't do anything but blunder to-night.
I'm all broken up, distracted by conflicting duties and feelings. I
picked up important information this evening. The Yankee column,
halting in the rich valley to the northwest, have been ranging the
country far and near, loading their wagons and resting their horses.
They will make a move soon, and will come this way just as likely as
not. Our forces are coming up from the South, and there certainly
will be a fight soon somewhere in this region. I received a secret
despatch at the court-house, after seeing the minister, who will be
here early to-morrow evening. After the wedding I intend to escort
mother and my wife south to Cousin Sam Whately's.
Pages:
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132