would probably be able to conclude my business here by the day after
to-morrow, and that you would then be relieved of my presence. I am
aware--indeed," she added, bitterly, "I could scarcely help perceiving,
that it has been an exceedingly irksome one."
"I trust," began Brant coldly, "that no gentleman of my command has"--
"No!"
She interrupted him quickly, with a return of her former manner, and a
passionate sweep of the hand.
"Do you suppose for a moment that I am speaking--that I am even
thinking--of them? What are they to me?"
"Thank you. I am glad to know that they are nothing; and that I may
now trust that you have consulted my wishes, and have reserved your
animosity solely for me," returned Brant quietly. "That being so, I see
no reason for your hurrying your departure in the least."
She rose instantly.
"I have," she said slowly, controlling herself with a slight effort,
"found some one who will take my duty off my hands. She is a servant of
one of your neighbors,--who is an old friend of my uncle's. The woman is
familiar with the house, and our private property. I will give her full
instructions to act for me, and even an authorization in writing, if you
prefer it. She is already in the habit of coming here; but her visits
will give you very little trouble. And, as she is a slave, or, as you
call it, I believe, a chattel, she will be already quite accustomed
to the treatment which her class are in the habit of receiving from
Northern hands."
Without waiting to perceive the effect of her Parthian shot, she swept
proudly out of the room.
"I wonder what she means," mused Brant, as her quick step died away in
the passage. "One thing is certain,--a woman like that is altogether too
impulsive for a spy."
Later, in the twilight, he saw her walking in the garden. There was a
figure at her side. A little curious, he examined it more closely from
his window. It was already familiar to him,--the erect, shapely form
of his neighbor's servant. A thoughtful look passed over his face as he
muttered,--"So this is to be her deputy."
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