With ready gallantry he responded aloud, "I think so much of my treasure that I want to keep it all to myself." He was very affectionate during their drive; and this, combined with the genial air, the lovely scenery, and the exhilaration of swift motion, restored her to a greater sense of happiness than she had felt since her darling sister vanished so suddenly.
The plantation was in gala dress.

The veranda was almost covered with the large, white, golden-eyed stars of the Cherokee rose, gleaming out from its dark, lustrous foliage.

The lawn was a sheet of green velvet embroidered with flowers.

Magnolias and oaks of magnificent growth ornamented the extensive grounds.

In the rear was a cluster of negro huts.