CHAPTER Ninth.
"I feel my sinews slackened with the fright, And a cold sweat thrills down o'er all my limbs As if I were dissolving into water." -- DRYDEN.
Early one evening, a few days subsequent to the tragical death of Jones, the Ion family carriage, well freighted, was bowling along the road leading toward the Oaks.
A heavy shower had laid the dust and cooled the air, and the ride past blooming hedgerows, and fertile fields was very delightful.

The parents were in cheerful mood, the children gay and full of life and fun.
"Oh, yonder is grandpa's carriage coming this way!" cried Eddie as they neared the cross-road which must be taken to reach Roselands in the one direction, and Ashlands in the other.
"Yes, turn out here, Solon, and wait for them to come up," said Mr.
Travilla.
"On your way to the Oaks ?" Mr.Dinsmore queried as his carriage halted along side of the other.

"Well, we will turn about and go with you." "No, we were going to Roselands but will put off the call to another day, if you were coming to Ion," Mr.Travilla answered.
"No, the Dinsmores had not set out for Ion, but to visit Sophie at Ashlands; Daisy, her youngest child, was very ill." "I wish you would go with us, Elsie," Rose said to Mrs.Travilla.

"I know it would be a comfort to Sophie to see you." "Yes, we have plenty of room here," added Mr.Dinsmore, "and your husband and children can certainly spare you for an hour or so." Elsie looked inquiringly at her husband.
"Yes, go, wife, if you feel inclined," he said pleasantly.

"The children shall not lose their ride.