They took the quarter on the way to the house, and dismounting, entered
one neatly whitewashed cabin after another, kindly inquiring into the
condition and wants of the inmates, Elsie making notes on her tablets that
nothing might be forgotten.
Everywhere the visit was received with joy and gratitude, and an almost
worshipful homage paid to the sweet young mistress whom they seemed to
regard as akin to the angels: probably in a great measure because of her
extraordinary likeness to her mother, of whom, for so many years they had
been accustomed to think and speak as one of the heavenly host.
Spriggs' victim of the previous day was in bed, complaining much of a
misery in back and head and limbs.
"De doctah hab been heyah," she said, "an' leff me dese powdahs to take,"
drawing a tiny package from under her pillow.
Elsie spoke soothingly to her; said she should have some broth from the
house, and should be excused from work till the doctor pronounced her
quite fit for it again; and left her apparently quite happy.
It was the intention of our friends to spend some weeks at Viamede.
"I want you to have every possible enjoyment while here, my darling," Mr.
Dinsmore said, as they sat together resting after their ride, in the wide
veranda at the front of the house, looking out over the beautiful lawn,
the bayou, and the lovely scenery beyond.
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