It would be a terrible disappointment to us if it should not
take place. I fear that life has been too strict and narrow for you
here, but you know that in my home you will dwell in an atmosphere
of kindness and indulgence. I will give up to you whenever you are
ready to take the reins after these sore troubles are over. But,
Louise, you do not realize that we are in the midst of a terrible
emergency. You ought not to remain here. Madison has arranged that
we both go south to his cousin Sam's."
"I don't wish to go!" cried the girl, wringing her hands.
"Now, my dear, can't you just believe that we, who are more
experienced and know the danger, wish to do what is best for you and
what you will soon see was best?"
"No, I cannot! I cannot! I just feel that I can't marry my cousin
without perjuring myself."
"Surely you don't love any one else, Louise?"
"What chance have I had to love anyone, except my old mammy? I don't
know anything about the love which I feel should lead to marriage. I
have just been treated like a child, and then without any girlhood
at all I'm to be married to one that I shrink from.
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