It was now considered that the children had increased in value one hundred dollars, and I was told that I could have them, by paying in cash six hundred dollars, and giving a bond, with good security, for three hundred more, payable in twelve months.

I had six weeks, in which to consummate this matter.

I felt deeply, that this was a time to pray the Lord to help me, and for this my wife's prayers were fervently offered with my own.

I had left my wife in Virginia, and come to Baltimore, a distance of over a hundred miles; I had been separated thus for nearly three years; I had been trying to make arrangements to have her with me, for over twelve months, and as yet had failed.

We were oppressed with the most gloomy forebodings, and could only kneel down together and pray for God's direction and help.
I was in Fredericksburg, and had but one day longer to stay, and spend with my wife.