A picture, for an instant, in a frame.

He thought, "The prize I coveted is near;

[Pg 39]

She will be mine before the set of sun."

Returning soon, toward the house he went,

Strode to the door, calling for Dalton Earl,

And told him for what merchandise he came.

The girl was not for sale, the other said.

"You talk at random now," said Richard Wain,

"You know I hold the deed of all your lands,

And so, unless you let the woman go,

Your whole estate shall have a sheriff's sale."

The planter turned a coward at the threat,

And knowing well what blood ran in the veins

Of her he sold, reluctant gave consent.

Above his wine he told Ruth of her fate,

And to the floor she fell, and swooned away.

Recovering, she rose upon her knees,

And begged, and prayed, that she might still remain.

At this he told her how the lands were held,

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