'It would seem so dreadful to her. Only tell
her ye found me going into glory, and that I couldn't stay for no one.
And oh, the poor chil'en, and the baby--my old heart's been most broke
for them. Tell them to follow me. Give my love to mas'r, and dear, good
missis, and everybody in the place. I love them all.'
He closed his eyes, and with a smile he fell asleep. Uncle Tom too was
free.
Beyond the gates of Legree's farm, George had noticed a dry, sandy
knoll, shaded by a few trees. There he made Uncle Tom's grave. No stone
marks his last resting-place. He needs none. God knows where he lies.
Kneeling there George bent his head, in shame and sorrow. 'Here me, dear
God,' he said, 'from this day, I will do what one man can to drive out
the curse of slavery from this land.'
CHAPTER XX
GEORGE SHELBY FREES HIS SLAVES
George Shelby wrote a little note to his mother, telling her that he was
coming home. He tried to write about Uncle Tom, but he could not; tears
blinded him, and sobs choked him.
On the day he was expected every one was in a state of bustle and
excitement. Aunt Chloe in a new print dress, and clean white apron
walked round the supper-table, making sure that everything was right.
Her black face shone with joy at the thought of seeing Uncle Tom again.
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