"Humph," he said, half aloud, as he cantered briskly along, "took me for a
fool, did he? thought I couldn't tell where the shot went in and where it
came out, or where it would go in or out if caused in that way. No, sir,
you never gave yourself that wound; but the question is who did? and what
for? have you been house-breaking or some other mischief?" Dr. Balis was
traveling in the direction of Viamede, intending to call there too, but
having several patients to visit on the way, did not arrive until the late
breakfast of its master and mistress was over.
They were seated together on the veranda, her hand in his, the other arm
thrown lightly about her waist, talking earnestly, and so engrossed with
each other and the subject of their conversation, that they did not at
first observe the doctor's approach.
Uncle Joe was at work on the lawn, clearing away the leaves and twigs
blown down by the storm.
"Mornin', Massa Doctah; did you heyah de news, sah?" he said, pulling off
his hat and making a profound obeisance, as he stepped forward to take the
visitor's horse.
"No, uncle, what is it?"
"Burglah, sir, burglah broke in de house las' night, an' fire he revolvah
at massa an' Miss Elsie. Miss dem, dough, an' got shot hisself."
"Possible!" cried the doctor in great excitement, springing from the
saddle and hurrying up the steps of the veranda.
Pages:
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177
178