As to the new lands coming in, it is their right also to vote upon the question of slavery, each new state for itself." "The war has already begun on the border," said my father.

"My friend and partner, Colonel Meriwether of Albemarle, who is with the Army in the West, says that white men are killing white men all across the lands west of the Missouri." "At least, Cowles," said Colonel Sheraton, pacing a short way apart, his hands behind his back, "we can wait until after this election." "But if the Government takes action ?" suggested Orme.
Sheraton whirled quickly, "Then war! war!" he cried, "War till each Virginian is dead on his doorstep, and each woman starved at her fireside.

John Cowles, you and I will fight--I _know_ that you will fight." "Yes," said my father, "I will fight." "And with us!" "No," said my father, sighing; "no, my friend, against you!" I saw my mother look at him and sink back in her chair.

I saw Orme also gaze at him sharply, with a peculiar look upon his face.
But so, at least, this argument ended for the time.

The two men, old neighbors, took each other solemnly by the hand, and presently, after talk of more pleasant sort on lesser matters, the servants brought our carriage and we started back for Cowles' Farms.
There had been no opportunity for me to mention to Colonel and Mrs.
Sheraton something that was upon my mind.