Mr. Baron appeared on the veranda and soon began to yield to the
soothing influences of his pipe. It was not in his nature to make
any formal acknowledgments of error, but he felt that he had gone on
the wrong track far and long enough, and so was ready for a gradual
amelioration in his relations to his niece and sister. They had
become too absorbed in the scene before them to think of much else,
while Mrs. Baron sought composure and solace in her domestic
affairs.
At last Mrs. Whately said, "The Yankees appear to have stopped
retreating and to be increasing in numbers. Alas! I fear our men are
in great danger and that the main column of the enemy is near."
There was a sudden outbreak of cries and exclamations from the
negroes in the rear of the mansion. Zany rushed out, saying, "De
Yanks comin' by Aun' Jinkey's cabin."
She had scarcely spoken before they heard a rush of trampling steeds
and the head of a Union column swept round the house. Miss Lou saw
Scoville leading and knew that he had availed himself of his
acquaintance with the place to guide an attack upon the Confederates
in their rear.
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