had just been put on the market as Mr. Marlowe, the former owner, was
called North by the death of his wife. The agent brought me out this
morning, and I was so delighted with it that I would look no farther.
I found the title all right, and so I signed the papers at once."




CHAPTER II

The New Home

The house on the place just described was a rambling two-storied
building with many porches--a typical vine-covered Southern cottage.
It was picturesque from every side, and seemed to have no prosaic back.
Marechal Niel roses, and honeysuckles, and some tropical vines, climbed
over latticework almost to the roof. There were, also, many trees near
the house, some of which were rare.

[Illustration: Beth's new home. (Illustration missing from book)]

A colored woman bustled out of a side door, and looked down the road
leading to the gate through which the Davenports' carriage had entered.
Evidently, she was no common negro, but had served "quality" all her
life--a typical old-time mammy. A red bandanna was drawn tightly over
her short curly wool. Her dress was of flowered calico, and around her
neck was a brilliant-hued shawl. A neat gingham apron covered her
skirt. Her face broke into a smile, and she pointed to the palm-lined
driveway.