If the child had died, an' that we knew she slept with ourselves, it would be a comfort.

But not to know what became of her--whether she was drowned or kidnapped--that was what crushed their hearts.

I must say that since I grew up, we're improvin'; an' I hope, God willin', now that my father laves the management of the farm to myself, we'll still improve more an' more.

I hope it for their sakes, but--more, if possible, for yours.

I don't know what I wouldn't do to make you happy, Ellen.