But hunger made me bold, and I tramped over the mown grass of the yard, which in the dusk I could see to be set with flower-beds, till I stood before the door of as fine a mansion as I had found in the dominion.

From within came a sound of speech and laughter, and I was in half a mind to turn back to my cold quarters by the shore.

I had no sooner struck the knocker than I wanted to run away.
The door was opened instantly by a tall negro in a scarlet livery.

He asked no questions, but motioned me to enter as if I had been an invited guest.

I followed him, wondering dolefully what sort of figure I must cut in my plain clothes soaked and stained by travel; for it was clear that I had lighted on the mansion of some rich planter, who was even now entertaining his friends.