Of Mrs. Hardy's
and Maud's joy we need not speak, but the adventure was considered
a matter of congratulation and joy throughout the whole district.
It was felt that a signal blow had been struck to the Indians, and
that for a long time life and property would be secure. There was,
in consequence, quite a rush to the neighborhood and land was taken
up and occupied in all directions.
It was well for Mrs. Hardy and the girls that they were to sail by
the next mail for England. The effect of those terrible four days
upon Ethel, and of that week of anxiety upon her mother and sister,
had so shaken them that the change, even if it had not been
previously determined upon, would have been imperatively necessary.
It is not too much to say that Mrs. Hardy and Maud had suffered
even more than Ethel. She at least had known and seen her danger,
and was sustained, except during that morning when she was fastened
to the stake, with a strong hope and belief of rescue. Those left
behind could do nothing but picture up scenes of horror, and pass
their time in alternately praying and weeping. They were all sadly
shaken and nervous during the short time that remained for them at
Mount Pleasant; but the sea voyage and the fresh breezes soon
brought health and color into their cheeks, and none of them ever
after felt any bad effects from that terrible week.
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