y the comely face and pleasant smile of this same faithful Milly. The
life-long devotion of the affectionate "Mammy" illustrates one of the
most touching features of the old plantation life; but the shadow of
slavery was over it all. To follow the fortunes of her adored
mistress, Mammy left behind her in Baltimore her husband, a free
colored man. But what was the marital relation to a slave! The
youthful couple set out on a wedding tour, but were unexpectedly
recalled by the sudden death of Colonel Henry James Carroll. It was
necessary for his son to return at once and take possession of his
inheritance.

The coming home of the proprietor and his youthful bride was a great
event at Kingston Hall. There were at that time on the plantation 150
slaves, besides the children. They are described as a fine and
stalwart people, looking as if they belonged to a different race from
the colored people that we now meet with in cities. They seemed like a
race of giants. The men were usually as much as six feet in height,
and broad and muscular in proportion. All these numerous dependents
were drawn up in lines on the long avenues, dressed in their livery of
green and buff, and must have presented an imposing appearance as the
stately family carriage was seen approaching through the long vista of
fine old trees. The arrival was heralded by a roar of welcome and
demonstrations of joy.

And thus the youthful couple took possession of the home that was to
be the scene of so many joys and so many sorrows, ending in troublous
times that completely changed the existing order of things, and which
witnessed the conclusion of the reign of the Kings and the Carrolls at
Kingston Hall.

Shortly after his return with his bride Thomas King Carroll was
elected to serve in the Legislature. He only attained the requisite
age of 21 years on the day before he took his seat. His birth-day was
celebrated at Kingston Hall after the old English fashion, and he was
feted and toasted and received congratulations on all sides. It is
said that he was the youngest member ever elected to the Legislature.

Thomas King Carroll commenced life not only with wide social
advantages, but with great natural gifts. He was striking in
appearance, and of so graceful and dignified a demeanor that it is
said that he never entered a crowd without a movement of respect and
appreciation showing the impression that he created.

He was a good orator and of unimpeachable int