ena had gone to live in South
Carolina. Her son's name was John--that he had changed his last name
was more than likely. Frank was not long in reaching the conclusion
that Rena was to be found near the town named on the envelope, which he
carefully preserved for future reference.

For a whole year Frank had yearned for a smile or a kind word from the
only woman in the world. Peter, his father, had rallied him somewhat
upon his moodiness after Rena's departure.

"Now 's de time, boy, fer you ter be lookin' roun' fer some nice gal er
yo' own color, w'at'll 'preciate you, an' won't be 'shamed er you.
You're wastin' time, boy, wastin' time, shootin' at a mark outer yo'
range."

But Frank said nothing in reply, and afterwards the old man, who was
not without discernment, respected his son's mood and was silent in
turn; while Frank fed his memory with his imagination, and by their
joint aid kept hope alive.

Later an opportunity to see her presented itself. Business in the
cooper shop was dull. A barrel factory had been opened in the town,
and had well-nigh paralyzed the cooper's trade. The best mechanic
could hardly compete with a machine. One man could now easily do the
work of Peter's shop. An agent appeared in town seeking laborers for
one of the railroads which the newly organized carpet-bag governments
were promoting. Upon inquiry Frank learned that their destination was
near the town of Clarence, South Carolina. He promptly engaged himself
for the service, and was soon at work in the neighborhood of Warwick's
home. There he was employed steadily until a certain holiday, upon
which a grand tournament was advertised to take place in a neighboring
town. Work was suspended, and foremen and laborers attended the
festivities.

Frank had surmised that Rena would be present on such an occasion. He
had more than guessed, too, that she must be looked for among the white
people rather than among the black. Hence the interest with which he
had scanned the grand stand. The result has already been recounted. He
had recognized her sweet face; he had seen her enthroned among the
proudest and best. He had witnessed and gloried in her triumph. He
had seen her cheek flushed with pleasure, her eyes lit up with smiles.
He had followed her carriage, had made the acquaintance of Mimy the
nurse, and had learned all about the family. When finally he left the
neighborhood to return to Patesville, he had learned of Tryon's
at