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On the evening of the second day I sat next to the fire as Rabbit wrapped food for our journey; she was hu to herself and I realized that she was as happy as I that ere going home I had sent word to Pete; he would speak with the post when he came and tell me when to depart

I was filled with trepidation I was afraid the post would refuse to allow me to accompany him, that he would alert Hath when I left Gillean, how I had walked ten ed, and I knew that I could find my way home to the lowcountry, even if I must do so with only Rabbit to accompany me

The sound of boots on the cabin steps made us both start We looked toward the door; it opened and Robbie stepped inside

"Leave us," he said to Rabbit, looking at lanced at her and nodded slightly "Wait on the porch," I said She went out and closed the door

I stood before Robbie with

He took off his hat and bowed I curtsied

"I see,around at the bare room, "that you are determined to depart"

"Yes," I said

"By law, I can keep you here You are; slowly I drew the air in, out I would not faint I would not I was strong, as strong as Robbie; nay, stronger, for I had endured far more I raised my face to his

"Why should you wish to keep me here?" I said "You never wanted toafter you Divorce me if you wish; but I shall return hoht I could not read his face He stood with his hat in his hand, staring at , hear my own heartbeats The silence between us stretched on and on

At last he turned and went out

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Rabbit and I were dressed for our journey before the sun rose the nextmy horse when the post arrived; we expected him before dinner time I tried to sit still, but was restless with impatience