Is this young officer going
through the country on his own responsibility? He only echoes the
proclamation of Abe Lincoln, whom he is bound to obey. Since we
entered on the discussion of our differences could we expect him to
do otherwise than present his side as strongly as he could? Now if
you and sister can shake all this off by one mighty effort of your
wills, do so; but if we do not wish to invite every evil we
predicted, do let us be calm and rational. For one, I feel Louise's
reproof keenly, and it will not do to outrage her sense of justice
any longer. This officer has proved that we were wrong in our
predictions before he came. If now we continue to treat him as
outside the pale of courtesy, we lose her sympathy utterly and do
our utmost to provoke him and his men. Merciful heaven! if my son
were a bleeding corpse or dying in agony, what would the world be to
me? I shall apologize to him and treat him with politeness as long
as I am under his protection."
"I shall have nothing to do with him," said Mrs.
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