Miss Lou was mistaken.  Her aunt had fears only for her son, knowing how prone he was to rash, headlong action when almost insane from passion.  The girl, however, was elated and careless.  She justly exulted in the act by which she had baffled the vengeance of Perkins, and she had ceased to have the anxieties of a bitter Southern partisan.  Such she would have been but for her alienation from those identified with the cause.  She was capable of the most devoted loyalty, but to whom should she give it?  If a loving father or brother had been among the Confederates, there would have been no question.  Now she was sorely perplexed in her feelings, for the South was represented by those bent upon doing her a wrong at which her very soul revolted, and the North by one who had satisfied her sense of right and justice, who, more than all, had warmed her heart by kindness.  The very friendliness of the negroes inclined her to take their part almost involuntarily, so deep was the craving of her chilled nature for sympathy.  If she had been brought up in loving dependence she would not have been so well equipped for the chaotic emergency.  Having no hope of good counsel from natural advisers, she did not waste a moment in seeking it, or weakly hesitate for its lack.  What her bright, active mind suggested as right and best, that she was ready to do instantly.  Now that she had gained freedom she would keep it at all hazards.

When the Confederate officers approached the house, she was glad to observe that her cousin was not chief in command.

Mr. Baron went down upon the lawn to meet the officers, and, after a brief parley, Major Brockton, the senior in command, began to dispose of his men for a little rest and refreshment, promising to join the family soon in the dining-room.  Miss Lou, unasked, now aided in the preparations for the morning meal.  Fearing Aun’ Suke would get herself in trouble, she ran to the kitchen and told the old cook to comply with all demands as best she could.  She had scarcely spoken when Mrs. Baron entered.  Casting a severe look on her niece, she asked Aun’ Suke, “Will you obey me now?  Will you tell me you are a free woman now?”

“My haid in a whirl aready, misus.  Ef you wants me ter I kin cook, but I kyant keep track ob de goin’s on.”

“I can,” replied the indomitable old lady, “and I can keep a good memory of the behavior of all on the plantation!”

“You can’t govern much longer by fear, aunt,” said Miss Lou.  “Had you not better try a little kindness?”

“What has been the result of all the years of kindness bestowed upon you?” was the indignant answer.

“I only meant that it might be well to bestow a little of what other people regard as kindness.  I had asked Aun’ Suke to do her best and am sure she will.”

“It will be strange if she does, when you are setting the example of doing your worst.  But I am mistress once more, and wish no interference.”