Beadle's Dime Novels No. 13 — page 57: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

A QUICK-WITTED NEGRO. 59 Been him. Who else could have caused the deed to be done -Searce can conjecture. That, John, is all I have to tel. Do hothing rashly, for remember I ‘speak nothing with perfect confidence. in “Fear not but that I shall act with all prudence. T will Search high and low for her, but I will find her.” “ Be careful Jest you run your head into the lion’s jaws, and lest your mother be compelled, instead of rejoicing to see a daughter saved, to mourn that daughter lost, and a son sacri- ficed. But listen! look to your safety, for I hear the tread of horsemen. Look to your safety, if you would preserve your liberty.” Fortunately, the negro man was of quick wit. He perceived that his presence would be unnecessary, but noticing that the bridle of John’s horse was carelessly thrown over a post Which was on the road, and in full view of all passers-by, he —very considerately for the young man—led the horse behind the house. When he returned to shake hands with John—_ for this was the first time he had been at home since he joined the brigade—and learned the momentous things on which his master and mistress were talking, he stood stupefied. The noise on the road recalled his wandering senses, and he told What disposition he had made of his horse. John, contrary to” commands of his mother, refused . to seek safety in flight, and preferred entering the house. Hise ~ Captain Reginald Preston, escorted by four dragoons, soon came in view. At first sight, the captain seemed about to pass by; but, as if by a second thought, he reined in his steed, dismounted and walked towards Mrs. Vale with a cheerful smile on his face. “Ah! my dear Mrs. Vale,” said he, “I thought I would stop for a moment to inquire after your health, and that of your charming daughter.” he widow’s face grew frightfully pale as she responded : “My health is but poor, and as for Catherine, she is gone, sir |” “Then it is done!” said Preston, speaking to himseif but, in so unguarded a manner that one with a quick ear snd eye could make out the words. “What is this you tell me ?” continued he. “ Gone! What t comicbooks.Ccom