They never could altogether understand, and certainly had
but a limited desire to appreciate or to approve many of the several
and distinct habits of one another; and thus they separated with but
few sentiments of genuine concern. William Colleton, the elder brother,
was the proprietor of several thousand highly valuable and
pleasantly-situated acres, upon the waters of the Santee--a river which
irrigates a region in the state of South Carolina, famous for its
wealth, lofty pride, polished manners, and noble and considerate
hospitality. Affluent equally with his younger brother by descent,
marriage had still further contributed toward the growth of possessions,
which a prudent management had always kept entire and always improving.
Such was the condition of William Colleton, the uncle of the young
Ralph, then a mere child, when he was taken by his father into
Tennessee.
There, the fortune of the adventurer still maintained its ancient
aspect. He had bought lands, and engaged in trade, and made sundry
efforts in various and honorable ways, but without success.
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