For the last time I went up to my nook.  Its desolate appearance no longer chilled me, for the light of hope had risen in my soul.  Yet, even with the blessed prospect of freedom before me, I felt very sad at leaving forever that old homestead, where I had been sheltered so long by the dear old grandmother; where I had dreamed my first young dream of love; and where, after that had faded away, my children came to twine themselves so closely round my desolate heart.  As the hour approached for me to leave, I again descended to the storeroom.  My grandmother and Benny were there.  She took me by the hand, and said, “Linda, let us pray.”  We knelt down together, with my child pressed to my heart, and my other arm round the faithful, loving old friend I was about to leave forever.  On no other occasion has it ever been my lot to listen to so fervent a supplication for mercy and protection.  It thrilled through my heart, and inspired me with trust in God.

Peter was waiting for me in the street.  I was soon by his side, faint in body, but strong of purpose.  I did not look back upon the old place, though I felt that I should never see it again.

XXX.  Northward Bound.

I never could tell how we reached the wharf.  My brain was all of a whirl, and my limbs tottered under me.  At an appointed place we met my uncle Phillip, who had started before us on a different route, that he might reach the wharf first, and give us timely warning if there was any danger.  A row-boat was in readiness.  As I was about to step in, I felt something pull me gently, and turning round I saw Benny, looking pale and anxious.  He whispered in my ear, “I’ve been peeping into the doctor’s window, and he’s at home.  Good by, mother.  Don’t cry; I’ll come.”  He hastened away.  I clasped the hand of my good uncle, to whom I owed so much, and of Peter, the brave, generous friend who had volunteered to run such terrible risks to secure my safety.  To this day I remember how his bright face beamed with joy, when he told me he had discovered a safe method for me to escape.  Yet that intelligent, enterprising, noble-hearted man was a chattel!  Liable, by the laws of a country that calls itself civilized, to be sold with horses and pigs!  We parted in silence.  Our hearts were all too full for words!

Swiftly the boat glided over the water.  After a while, one of the sailors said, “Don’t be down-hearted, madam.  We will take you safely to your husband, in ——.”  At first I could not imagine what he meant; but I had presence of mind to think that it probably referred to something the captain had told him; so I thanked him, and said I hoped we should have pleasant weather.