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Vol. LX MAY, 1909. No. 2 THE TIME FOR ACTION. By CASPER CARSON,

Author of “ In the Lap of Luxury,” “ When Reuben Came to Town," etc.

What happened to call a halt in the career of

a spendthrift who was worthy of better things. (COMPLETE IN THIS ISSUE.)

CHAPTER I. be done, with Tad gone? Drat that

: boy ; he’s never around when he is THE CIPHER TELEGRAM. wanted.” “plG, Penny, Pugilist, Poke.” Harry hesitated a moment. “ “ A The station - agent at Shunton Here,” he cried, let me have it. Hills, who was also telegraph operator, I can jump on my wheel, and ride over baggage-master, and general factotum, to Sampson’s and back in less than no finished' the transcription of the mes- time. Besides, I am very strongly of sage, added the signature, and craned the opinion that Ramsey would rather his neck out of the window. wait for his trunks than for this.” “ Hey, Harry,” he called to his son As -he spoke, he snatched the flutter- and assistant, who was battling with a ing telegram from his father’s hand, pile of trunks down at the far end of crammed it into an envelope, and, leap- the platform, “where’s Tad?” ing on a bicycle which stood against the “Gone shimming, I guess. Why?” end of the station, was pedaling away, “ Oh, there’s a sort of gibberish mes- a moment later, down the dusty country sage here for Daniel G. Ramsey. Who’s road. he, I wonder?” The station-agent, shaking his head “Ramsey? Why, that must be the as though deprecating the waste of so fellow who came in on the accommo- much energy upon a mere supposition, dation this afternoon with his family returned slowly to his cushioned chair and all this baggage. They’ve taken the and resumed the nap interrupted by the old Sampson place for the summer, and clicking of his instrument. Billy Sampson told me he was a big He was not an imaginative nor an New York banker. What’s the message energetic man himself, this Benjamin about?” leaving his task and coming Rock. Perhaps, if he had been en- forward. dowed with so much of either quality “ You can see for yourself.” He held as was possessed by his son Harry, he out the yellow sheet with a grin. “ It’s would' not have been content to round

I it, out his days as agent at all right, though ; repeated and got the little in- back an O.K. from the other end.” significant mountain station of Shunton Harry glanced at the cryptic words Hills. curiously. “ Why, that’s in cipher,” he It was not entirely excess of vim, exclaimed, “ and maybe about something however, which had rendered young mighty important. It ought to be de- Rock so ready to undertake extra duty, livered at once, dad.” nor, for that matter, the possible impor-

“ so is it to tance of the message, either. Maybe ; but how going

1 A 193 ”

194 THE ARGOS V.

To tell the truth, he had caught a seemed, when he ventured the suggestion fleeting glimpse of a smashingly pretty that “ Pig, Penny, Pugilist, Poke,” girl in the party which had alighted might veil a communication of consider- from the accommodation that afternoon able importance. As a matter of fact, —a dark, Spanish-like little beauty, with it was nothing less than an intimation to a ravishing smile and cheeks whose color the financier that a cabal of his enemies, like nectarine and taking was the blush on a ; advantage of his absence upon what young man of eighteen would not his summer vacation, were about to have been willing to drop his work and spring a well-planned coup to wrest go chasing off on a mile and a half spin from him the control of the powerful for the chance of a closer look at a di- institution which he headed. vinity like that? So fully were their designs perfected, Fortune favored him, moreover, on indeed, that unless he were able to con- his quest; for, as he turned in at the front them on the. morrow, and by some old Sampson place and wheeled smartly measure turn the tide, it was practically up the driveway leading to the house, certain that he would be dethroned. he could see the midnight maiden on But Daniel G. Ramsey was a fighter, the veranda, engaged with one of her and, even as he hurried out upon the brothers in putting up a hammock. porch, a scheme was formulating in his They were having trouble with one of mind whereby to circumvent the “ gang.” the hooks, and were both gazing rather “ You are from the station, are you ruefully at the result of their bungling not?” he inquired bruskly of young efforts when Harry came up the steps. Rock. “ Tell me, what time does the He saw what was the difficulty in an next train leave for New York?” instant. “ Eight forty-five to-morrow morning, “ Here,” he cried impulsively, “ let sir.” “ me fix that for you.” Eight forty-five to-morrow morn- ” “ And in almost less time than it takes ing ! the other gasped. Do you mean to tell it, he had the trouble adjusted to tell me there are no more trains over ” and the refractory hook hanging nicely. this road this afternoon or to-night ? “ Oh, thank you,” smiled the girl “ Oh, yes, sir plenty of them but — ; gratefully. “ That was awfully clever they are express-trains. Only the ac- of you.” commodations stop at Shunton Hills, Harry blushed as though he had been two a day each way.” caught stealing sheep. “ But surely one of the expresses “You—you are Miss Ramsey?” he could be flagged?” stammered. “ I don’t know about that, sir. You’d She looked a trifle surprised. have to ask my father, the station-agent. “ Yes I am Anita Ramsey,” she an- I’ve never known of it being done be- ; swered. “ Did you want to see me?” fore, though.” “ “ Yes, ma’am—er—that is, no ma’am Well, it’s going to be done now.” — “ — I should -say asserted Ramsey decisively. What ” He ceased to struggle longer with his time does the next express go through ? embarrassment, and, for explanation, “ The limited, at five-sixteen.” merely fished the telegram out of his “ Five-sixteen.” The banker snapped “ pocket and extended it to her without open his watch. Thuncleration, I shall ” a word. have to race to catch it ! “ Oil,” she said, glancing at the super- He started toward a buckboard, scription, “ this is not for me. This is which, fortunately, was already hitched for my father. Wait a minute, and I up and standing under a tree beside the will call him.” drive. A moment later the president of the “ George,” he called to his son, “ run New York Thirty - Fourth National in the house and bring out my suit-case. came striding out on the porch, the open Anita, you can come with me and drive message in his hand and his face like the rig home.” a thundercloud. And as Harry Rock wheeled more Harry Rock had made no mistake, it slowly hack to the station, the buck- :

THE TIME FOR ACTION. 195 board passed him in a cloud of dust, the a sudden idea coming to him under the horse in a lather of foam as its master inspiration of her glance. “ By George, ” vigorously laid on the whip. I’ll stop her for you ! he exclaimed. “ Gosh ! it must be fun,” commented As he spoke he hurried off down the the countryman enviously, “ to get your platform and, pausing only to snatch up blood all stirred up like that, because an ax from the baggage-room, quickly something has got to be done in a rush. disappeared along the track. Out here in this dead-and-alive old hole, A minute or so later, there came it doesn’t generally make much differ- sounds of lusty chopping from the di- ence whether a thing is attended to now rection in which he had gone; but the or week after next.” wrangling, disputatious men upon the Yet, when he reached the station, and platform paid no heed, and Anita could found the banker wrangling with his only listen and wonder. father, he could hardly have believed, Presently, however, there came a loud in strict truth, that Ramsey was greatly crackling, followed by a tremendous enjoying himself. crash ; and as Ramsey and the agent, The sweat stood out on the city man’s startled by the noise, faced sharply brow, he was gesticulating fiercely, and about, Harry reappeared around the the remarks in which he indulged were curve below the station, shouting and more forcible than polite. waving his arms. “ Mr. Rock, however, remained placid “ Hey, dad,” he called, I was chop- and unmoved. He was one of those ping down that big dead* tree along the feather-pillow men upon whom it is al- right of way, that you told me to get most impossible to make an impression, rid of yesterday, and it fell square and to his slow brain the idea of flag- across the track. You’ll have to flag ” ging the limited was almost as scandal- the limited ! ous a suggestion as to propose a revision of the ten commandments. CHAPTER TI. “ No, sir,” he asserted tranquilly, heedless alike of threats, expostulation, GETTING A START. “ it bribes, and entreaty ; can’t be done. Of course, I can wire in to headquarters Neither the caustic remarks of his for permission to stop her, if you say father nor the swearing of the delayed I don’t believe it would be trainmen served to abate young Rock’s so ; but granted, and, anyhow, there ain’t hardly satisfaction over the success of his ex- time to do it now. She’ll be along here ploit. Indeed, the harsh and bitter in twenty minutes.” words flung in his direction slid off him Anita Ramsey did not, of course, like the proverbial water from a duck’s know the exact nature of the trouble back; for Mr. Ramsey, apprized by his daughter of the true reason for the acci- which confronted her father ; but she could see, from his wrought-up and ex- dent, had laid a grateful hand upon his cited demeanor, that it was serious, and shoulder before boarding the halted that he considered it almost a life and train, and said *“ death matter to catch this train. I.’ve not time to talk to you now, rest Consequently, when the bright-faced my boy ; but you can assured that fellow who had so adroitly fixed her I’ll not forget your work this day, and hammock joined their little group, she when I get back from the city I shall turned to him in eager appeal. take occasion to have a more extended “Can’t you do something?” she chat with you.” whispered, coaxing him with her dark Anita’s eyes, too, with their beaming eyes. “ I know you can, if you only glances of admiration, gave him his re- so that he worked away uncon- will.” ward ; He shook his head. cernedly to help clear the line, indiffer- “ I don’t think so,” regretfully. ent to the black looks so freely showered “ You see, it’s a pretty serious thing to upon him by the railroad people. hold the limited, and my father’d lose That night, after supper, however, his job sure if— Or, stop a minute,” when his father started in afresh with ;

196 THE ARGOS V.

the observation that Abe Dorsey, the was in effect a certificate of exceptional conductor of the limited, 'had said, if merit and ability. it was his boy who had played such a Nor, for that matter, was Shunton trick, he’d fairly skin the young whelp Hills at all disposed to stick its tongue alive, Harry began to wax impatient. in its cheek. Hitherto, it must be con- “ Well,” he rejoined defiantly, “ I fessed, the community had rather regard- guess I’d sooner stand in with Mr. Ram- ed Harry as a “ Smart Aleck,” because sey than with old Abe Dorsey, even if of his readiness to criticize their slow-

he does act like lord of all crea- going village it he was ways ; but when became tion in that blue suit and brass buttons noised abroad that he was “ goin’ to Noo of his.” York with that there rich banker what’s The elder Hock glared at him with took the old Sampson place,” public sen- confirmed suspicions. timent suddenly showed . a marked reversal, and “ So,” he snorted, “ you really did it there were not wanting those who on purpose, and to help out that stuck- averred they had always prophesied up New Yorker who was pitching into “ somep’n good fer so sprv a voung fel- -your own father for all he was worth. ler.”

I should think you’d be ashamed of Benjamin Rock, it is true, predicted yourself, Harry. disaster as he shuffled about in his run-

“ And now you think. 1 suppose, that down, old carpet slippers, and wondered lie’s going to make it up to you some fretfully why Harry couldn’t be content way?” he went on jeeringly. “Well, to let well enough alone. you'll find yourself good and mistaken, “ Why, that boy is making eight dol-

if 1 know anything. That kind is lars a month and his board,” he grumbled “ mighty free with their promises and soft to his wife, and I was calculating to sawder, until they get what they want, give him a dollar more next year if busi- and then, I’ve noticed, they’re always ness picks up. You’d think he ought to too busy to see you.” be satisfied with that, wouldn’t you. in- But his sneering croak failed to si- stead of chasing off to break himself lence the song of elation in Harry’s down with the hard work they put on heart, or to dispel the ambitious dreams those fellows in the city banks? Besides, aroused by the banker’s parting words, it’s going to be pretty rough on me, for and the sequel showed that young Rock’s I declare I don’t know where 1 can find faith had not been misplaced. a helper worth his salt among the worth- When Ramsey returned from New less cubs around here, and the result will York, his enemies routed, and his control be I’ll have to do the work myself. “ of the Thirty-Fourth National reestab- However,” with a shrewd nod, “ I lished more firmly than ever, he sought guess it’ll not be long before he comes an early interview with the lad who had sneaking back home again. He won’t rendered him such signal service, and, realize what a snap he’s had until after learning during the course of the conver- he’s left it for a while. The best way to sation that the country boy’s chief yearn- deal with headstrong young colts like ing was for a wider horizon and a chance that is to give them their own way and to make something of himself in Hie let them run for a time. After a bit world, ended by offering him a position they’re glad enough to settle down to a in the bank. steady trot.” No small mark of Daniel Ramsey’s ap- Harry, however, did not “ come sneak- preciation was this, either, if the Shunton ing back home,” except for an occasional Hills folk had only known it; for there brief visit, and neither did he break down were many sons of rich men waiting and under the strain of his new duties. “ eager to accept even the most minor post On the contrary, he made good ” in the Thirty-Fourth National, in order for, although he speedily discovered that to learn financiering under the tutelage of a position in a city bank is far from being its capable president. a sinecure, he was working in an atmos- Yet, so carefully were the qualifica- phere which suited him, intimate in a way tions and characters of the various appli- with large transactions, and having his cants scrutinized that to land a job there imagination stimulated and inspired THE TIME FOR ACTION. 197

every day by the magnitude of the pos- certain sums—small at first, but gradual- sibilities offered to ambition by the great ly increasing in size—as a nucleus for metropolis. that fortune he intended some day pos- Moreover, Mr. Ramsey did not lose sessing. sight of him, but, having taken a strong Under Mr. Ramsey’s advice, too, he fancy to the quick-witted, energetic invested his savings, when they grew young fellow, watched over his progress, large enough—invested them so judi- and advanced him as fast as conditions ciously that by the time he was twenty- permitted. five and had become the paying-teller of He also not infrequently invited the the bank his personal account at the insti- lonely country lad to his house for a tution was one by no means to be sneezed Sunday dinner, or on some similar occa- at. sion; for there was not a trace of snob- His habits remained economical, bishness in Ramsey’s composition, and he though, and he indulged in no splurging. believed thoroughly in the good, old- His one idea was to become a master in fashioned idea of an employer keeping in the world of finance, and some day to touch with his help. win Anita Ramsey for his wife. Toward And after one of these visits Harry that goal he concentrated all his ener- Rock would return to his dingy little gies. _ hall-room on the fourth floor back of a Anita, who was now twenty - three, boarding-house, and, stretched out upon had been abroad for the last two years, its narrow cot, would dream of the time finishing up her education by a round of when he, too, should be a rich and pow- travel ; but Harry could see no difference erful banker, living in a palatial mansion in her when she returned, except that she filled with all sorts of beautiful things. was, if anything, lovelier than ever. She In these ambitious visions there was greeted him with the old, frank friendli- also another character always introduced ness, and seemed to be fully as interested —a sprightly lady who appeared to be in his plans and his career as ever; but the mistress of this home, and whose hair he noticed that she spoke a good deal of was dark, and her eyes sparkling, while a certain Mr. Arthur Corning, whom she the color in her cheeks was like the ripe had met on the other side, and who had blush on the side of a nectarine. paid her a good deal of attention on the For, although he had seen many beau- score of having been at college with her tiful women since coming to New York, brother George. and had met some of them as he began This Mr. Corning, he also learned, had to go about more in a social way, he had inherited considerable money from his never once faltered in his opinion reached 'father, but, not content to live a life the first time he had ever seen her, that solely of leisure, was shortly coming to Anita Ramsey was the most beautiful, New York to engage in business, and exquisite, fascinating, and wholly desira- had signified his intention of opening ble creature who ever breathed the breath an office on Wall Street. of life. In due time, accordingly, he arrived, So he would go on building his airy and was introduced to Rock at Miss Ram- castles in Spain, and installing her in sey’s one evening. The country boy— for, them to do the honors, until—suddenly despite his long residence in the city, a the alarm-clock would go rattling off good deal of hayseed still clung to the beside his ear, and he would start awake paying-teller’s hair—thought him the to realize that a trial balance was waiting most interesting man he had ever met, to be struck off down at the bank, and fluent, polished, magnetic, graceful, and that as yet his income was hardly suffi- was deeply flattered when, upon leaving cient to maintain himself. the house, the newcomer hooked an arm However, that state of affairs did not within his elbow and took him for quite last long. With his successive promo- a long walk, ending up with a charm- tions, each accompanied by a substantial ing little supper at one of the swell raise in salary, Rock was presently able restaurants. to live comfortably, to send something But that painfully gathered bank ac- home to his mother, and even to lay aside count, if it had any prophetic instinct ; ! !

198 THE ARGOSY. whatever, must have shuddered and ting so he could not bear to miss any fun grown pale at the thought of that meet- that Avas going. ing. Finally one nigl\t, when everybody had been Avondering Avhat could be keeping Corning away, that gentleman appeared III. CHAPTER late, but in a flush of high spirits, and RIOTOUS LIVING. rapturously announced that he Avas en- gaged to Anita Ramsey. After that, whenever Harry Rock For a moment it almost seemed to called at the Ramsey’s he was almost cer- Rock as though a bomb had been ex- tain to find young Corning ensconced in ploded under him. He sacv all his the drawing-room. cherished dreams and hopes, his youthful In some subtle way, too, he would be ambitions and his castles in the air go made conscious of the old adage that crashing down in one fell overthroAv of “ two is company, and three a crowd.” destruction. and presently, flushing with embarrass- Hoav blind, how imbecile, he had been ment, he would awkwardly withdraw to not to realize before Avhat Avas in the spend the remainder of the evening with Avind Daniel G. in the library, or playing back- He pulled himself together somehoAV, gammon with sweet-faced, gentle Mrs. hoAvever, and managed to extend his con- Ramsey in her private sitting-room. gratulations Avith rest the ; but he excused Generally, though, when lie would himself \’ery shortly afterward on the start to go out he would be hailed by plea of having a headache—heartache Corning with the injunction to “ wait a Avould have been more truthful—and for ” other minute ; and after a while the three nights absented himself from the would join him at the front door, and assemblages. they would go out for a season of fun He could not blame any one, though, and frolic about the big town. he told himself. No man could fail to Usually young George Ramsey would be enslaved by the beauty and charm of form one of the party, and perhaps two Anita Ramsey; and it AA'as certainly by or three other “ good fellows ” would be no means Avonderful that she should that, since Harry was un- prefer a dashing, added ; so attractive suitor like willing to let Corning do all the spend- Corning to such a dull and uncouth ing Avithout making some return, the ex- felloAv as himself. Heaven be thanked, pense footed up considerably, and he was he muttered, that he had never let her a little worried at times to observe that know the silly hopes he entertained his bank account did not grow as fast as For three days, as has been said, he formerly. nursed his Avounds in solitude ; then, as Nevertheless, he solaced himself with he began to look at the matter in a more Coming’s favorite phrase about all work philosophical light, although the smart and no play making Jack a dull boy, and still endured, the force of habit reasserted although he made one or tAvo spasmodic itself, and he began to yearn for his efforts at retrenchment, they Avere futile customary evenings of excitement. and short-lived. Accordingly, he Avent out and hunted He had got into the habit of seeking up the “ gang,” Avith the result that very amusement at the places of gay resort, shortly he Avas back in the full sAving of is nothing so hard to his friA’olitv, you see ; and there more madly and merrily break off as a habit, even though it be than ever. only as to which stocking one puts on With this difference, however, that first in the morning. Avhereas before he had simply refrained Nor Avas it only on the nights that he from adding to his bank account, he noAv happened to meet Corning at Mr. Ram- dipped deep into the hoarded store. sey’s that Harry iioav Avent out. In fact, The object Avas gone, as it seemed to he rather neglected the Ramseys a bit him, for Avhich he had been saving and for Avhenever the “ crowd ” gathered, planning. Of what use, then, Avas the there Avas always a proposal of some kind money except to give him a good time? for the next evening, and Harry Avas get- Yet. it must not be understood that ”

THE TIME FOR ACTION. 199 there was anything inherently wrong in There were other things, too, in this period of wild oats sowing on the Coming’s deportment which of late had part of Rock. He was a more than ordi- caused him somewhat to temper his narily clean - minded young fellow, and former unqualified admiration. Nothing he rigidly frowned upon any suggested very tangible, it ^Is true, consisting most- diversions which touched upon absolute ly in the adoption of a somewhat coarser “ ” evil. \ and sportier habit of speech, and the No, at the worst, his dissipations were occasional introduction into their circle merely idle pleasure-seeking, and in an- of more or less questionable acquaint- other type of man might not have been ances; but, unimportant as these trifles it “ fly considered even blameworthy ; but was were, they formed for Harry a in because he was of finer metal and of the ointment pot,” and the rift between greater capabilities than his roistering the two men was gradually growing companions that his conduct must be wider. judged reprehensible. Matters stood about in this shape He attended to business as faithfully when young George Ramsey came bus- of the bank’s funds tling into as ever ; his handling Rock’s rooms one evening there was as straight as a string ; was just about dinner-time, his face all nothing in his behavior upon which his aquiver with excitement. employers could justly have laid a finger “ Gee,” he exclaimed, throwing him- of criticism. Yet he was spending more self into a chair, “ but we have been money than he earned; and that is al- having a royal old muss up at the ” ways dangerous. house ! « Yes, it certainly cost money to travel Harry glanced up with unfeigned •in Arthur Coming’s crowd, and Rock surprise. The idea of a “ muss ” at the made it fly as fast as any of them, al- well-ordered Ramsey home, where every- though it must be confessed that even thing appeared to run upon oiled wheels, he failed to equal the lavish prodigality seemed almost a contradiction in terms. of Corning himself. • “Yes, we have certainly been having For, despite his engagement, the a merry session,” went on George, con- young Wall Street man continued as the senting to explain. “ You see, the old leader, the life and soul of their little man dropped on to Corning pretty hard coterie. The prospect of his new re- some weeks ago, and put the question up sponsibilities, instead of causing him to to me as to just what sort of fellow settle down, actually seemed to render he was. him more wild and reckless than before. " Well, of course, I stood up for Ar- This, too, notwithstanding the fact, as thur, not only because he is a friend of Rock had heard whispered about down- mine, but also—” He hesitated. “ Well, town, that his free expenditure, coupled because he is negotiating some business with some crippling business losses he matters for me which I don’t particular- had sustained as a result of his inex- ly care— to have the old man find out perience at the Wall Street game, had about seriously impaired his fortune. “ You’re a fool,” broke in Harry se- “ Still, that did not make any especial verely. What business have you got difference, thought Harry; Anita un- that your father shouldn’t know. To doubtedly had enough for two. And, my mind, you’d do a great deal better in all probability, Corning consoled to consult him, and take his advice himself with the same reflection. whenever you have any transactions on It was this suggestion, however, which hand. I know it has been dollars and first turned the bank-clerk a little against cents in my pocket to heed what he has his brilliant friend. The sturdy country to say.” boy who had made his own way could “ OH, that’s all right,” rejoined “ not help feeling a certain contempt for (George. Another time I would prob- a chap who, having wasted his own ably go to him, but I am into this thing, patrimony, would be content to sponge and, as I say, I didn’t especially want upon his wife for the remainder of his him to get next. Besides, you' needn’t days! preach,” blustering up a bit. “ I guess ! ; ;

200 THE ARGOSY. you wouldn't care to let him know which he had formerly indulged, but where you get all the money you blow .which of late he had laid away, surged so free, ^.nd you’re not his son, either.” up strong and fresh in his heart again.

Rock was silenced. Anita was free ! Free to be won by “ Well,” he said less virtuously, “ you a man who could command her respect defended Corning; and what then?” and perhaps he had a chance “ Oh, 1 staved matters off for a He had to turn away his face from while; but to-day the old man came his companion to hide what was show- all in the air. He said that ing too plainly in his eyes but, even as home up ; he had convinced himself that Corning he did so, a sickening recollection came was a worthless, idle spendthrift, and, over him as to the state of his bank- worse than that, was not only an asso- account. He had consulted the ledger ciate of some of the shadiest characters that morning, and had found but forty in the financial district, but was also dollars to his credit. himself engaged in various concerns How could he enter the lists when it which would not bear investigation. would take him at least five years to

1 ‘ In short.’ he said. Mr. Arthur Cor- save enough from his present salary to

ning, so far as I can find out, is in a be in a position to propose? And how very fair way to land inside State’s could he explain to her father what had ” prison within a short time.’ become of the growing “ nest-egg “ So, then, of course,” George pro- which the latter had helped him to ceeded, “ dad called Anita in and put gather ? her wise to what he hqjJ discovered, and Oh, fool! fool! He had thrown she insisted that Arthur be sent for, and away his chance to win Anita Ramsey given an opportunity to answer the through a round of silly extravagances! charges. He was game, all right, and he attempted to put up a terrible bluff when she first explained what was want- CHAPTER IV. ed of him but the old man held the ; OX DANGEROUS GROUND. deadwood on him in the way of proof, and in the end he had to come off his For a long time after George Ramsey perch and admit that about everything left him, Harry remained alone in his they said was true. room, moodily gazing at the carpet. “ Then he pleaded desperately for He had an engagement for dinner that another chance, promised to reform, and evening, but it entirely slipped his went through all sorts of stunts; but it mind. Somehow, he did not care to eat. didn’t touch Anita any more than if she Yet, scourge himself with bitter names had been a marble statue. She told him as he would, and rack his brains until that for some time past she had felt that they fairly burst, he could hit upon no she had been mistaken in accepting him, plan which offered any sort of solution and that her regard for him was less to his problem. but' that, in deep than she had thought ; Without enough to provide for her, any event, she could not dream of marry- he would be nothing less than a cur ing a man whom her father failed to to attempt to gain any woman’s love approve or whom she herself could not and, even though Anita should be will- respect. And with that, she handed ing to overlook that and grant her con- him his ring and walked out of the sent, what could he say to her father room.” when he asked for his? ” “ So the engagement is broken ? de- Would he not have to confess to Dan- manded Harry excitedly. iel G. that he had been no less of an “ “ ” Of course : off for good and all. I idle, worthless spendthrift tl\an Ar- know Sis, and when she takes a stand thur Corning? of that sort,, she’s just like the old man. In his desperation, his almost fren- An army of ten thousand men could not zied search for some way of escape out force her to budge a hairbreadth.” of the coil in which he found himself Harry’s first feeling was one of dis- caught, he even got down his old bank- tinct elation. The roseate dreams in books. and laboriously added up each !

item, hoping against hope that he might Isn’t there some way you can raise discover an error, or that in some way the money for me, Rock?” he urged he could make the figures lie. eagerly. “ I’ll tell you. You raise five But it was, of course, a fruitless thousand, and I’ll put you on to a way effort. The result showed the same de- of making a tidy bunch of money for pressing figures. His available cash as- yourself.” “ sets were an even forty dollars—not a How is that?” questioned Harry, cent less and not a cent more. not without a degree of interested curi- At last, while he still ruminated dole- osity. fully over the situation, there came a “ Why, you know Ed Spear, that Chi- knock on the door, and' when Harry cago fellow I introduced you to up on stepped over to open it, he was surprised the roof-garden the other night. Well, to find upon the threshold no one less he is interested in horse-racing — of than the man who had played the part course, merely as a sport, though, for

of his evil genius, Corning himself. he has slathers of money ; and he has The latter was haggard and upset, his tipped it off to me that there is a horse eyes hollow and his hands trembling going to run to-morrow which is sure

slightly with nervousness ; but he was to have a good price against it, yet evidently trying to maintain his usual which can’t possibly lose. As he says, debonair manner. to put a bet down on this one is just “ Ah, Harry,” he cried to the other like finding the money. “ “ jauntily, this is. better luck than I ex- Now, if you can only raise five thou- pected to find you in.- Still, I had a sand, we’ll go in together on the scheme, little stroke of business which I wanted twenty-five hundred apiece, and divide to talk to you about, so I thought I the profits share and share alike. There would take a chance and run over.” won’t be less than fifteen thousand dol-

“Business?” repeated Harry, won- lars in it for each of us. Spear says the dering what on earth the fellow could odds are bound to be as high as six to have in his mind. one.” “ Yes,” briskly. “ To come to the liut. tempting as was the proposal,

point, I find myself unexpectedly hard Harry shook his head. When the other pressed for ready money. Sounds ridicu- had first suggested giving him a chance

it annoyingly, it lous, doesn’t ; but, most to make some money, he had thought happens to be the truth. Of course, I reference was made to a legitimate bus- could dispose of some of my securities iness deal, and the idea had occurred to at sacrifice but I hate to do that for him that he might possibly obtain five a ;

the small sum I need. So 1 thought I thousand dollars from Air. Ramsey. But would see if you would not be willing it would have to be a sanguine person to loan me two thousand or twenty-five indeed who could imagine the president hundred for a few days.” of the Thirty- Fourth National as lending Rock laughed hollowly. assistance to. or even countenancing a “Twenty-five hundred!” he repeat- racing speculation, no matter how sure ed. “ You may believe me or not. as the results promised. “ “ you choose. Corning, but 1 have been No,” said Harry Tegretfully, I just running through my bank-bank, couldn’t raise five thousand dollars for

and I find 1 have but little more than any such purpose as that, if I had to be twenty-five dollars.” hung for it.” His tone and expression were such “ Nonsense,” scoffed Corning. “ Do that Corning could not doubt the sin- you mean to tell me that you couldn’t

cerity of the statement, and he, too, borrow it from the bank if you’d a mind pulled a long face over such a disap- to?” “ pointing check to his plans. Certainly 1 could. On good secu- “ By Jove,” he exclaimed irritably, rity. But where the mischief am I to “ that is certainly tough luck with a get security for five thousand dollars?

vengeance! And just when I have a That is the question.” chance for a ‘killing’ which would “ Ah,” a shifty gleam showing in his more than put me on my feet again eye, “ but I was thinking of your bor- ” !

202 THE ARGOSY.

rowing it without security. Look at the the door, and half-way down the stairs. thousands of dollars passing through Harry waited on pins and needles for your hands every day. What’s to hinder his return. At one moment, he was you from holding out enough for our scared to death lest Spear should grant needs for a few hours? No one would the loan; the next, trembling with ap- ever know; for you could return it be- prehension for fear he should refuse. fore the bank opened in the morning, There was small need, however, for and— 'the anxious “Well?” with which he He broke off abruptly. Harry’s hor- greeted Coming’s reappearance; for the rified expression warned him that it latter’s jubilant face bore its own answer. proceed, “ might not be safe to and* he * Oh, it’s all right,” he said, resuming attempted to turn off the suggestion with his seat. “ I knew it would be. Ed a laugh. Spear is one of the whitest boys that “ Of course, I was only joking about ever stood on two feet. He says we “ but, I can five that,” he said ; Lord, how do have the thousand and welcome, wish we could raise that money. Here and pay him back after the race, or the chance of a lifetime yet whenever we feel like it. says we have ; But he we are compelled to pass it up simply that in his opinion five thousand won’t because we both happen to be tempo- be more than car fare to any of us after rarily strapped. Was there ever such that race is over.” beastly luck?” “ That certainly sounds as though he He dropped his head into his hands, expected the horse to win, doesn’t it?” and sat as though in earnest thought, murmured Harry. striving to ponder out some way of meet- “Win? Why, according to him, it’s ing the exigency, when suddenly he just the same as if there wasn’t any other roused up, his eyes beaming. horse in the race. But I forgot to tell “ ” Why, to be sure ! he cried. you. Spear says that he’ll need all the

“ Strange that I never thought of- -it ready cash he has with him for the big before. I can borrow the money from plunge he is going to take himself to- Spear. Will you a’gree to stand good morrow; so, if he makes the loan to us, for half the loan if I make the touch? he will have to get cashed a Chicago It’s a mere formality, of course, for we draft, which he has with him, for six can hand him his five thousand as soon thousand dollars, and he was a little as the race, is over.” fearful that he might have some diffi- Rock hesitated a moment; but finally culty in getting the money. nodded assent, and said he would. How “ I told him, though, that he needn’t he could ever pay back twenty-five hun- worry his head about that; if he came dred dollars to Spear, if the horse should down to the bank to-morrow morning,

happen to lose, he could not tell ; but you would probably cash it for him all Corning had assured him positively that right. You will, won’t you?” “ it must win, and then Spear himself, Why, ye— es, I guess so,” faltered who was a practical horseman, must evi- Rock, scratching his head. dently think so, or he would not be Caution was whispering in his ear, mere willing to advance the money on and urging him to refuse ; but stronger personal security. sounded the voice of a rash optimism, Yes, he decided, he would be a fool telling him to go in and win back his if he failed to embrace this opportunity money and Anita. so providentially offered. Why, at one “Yes,” he decided. “Tell him to stroke he would recoup all the money come around, and I’ll cash his draft for ” he had squandered, and be once more him ! on Easy Street. On Easy Street, and free to woo Anita V. “ All right, then,” cried Corning. CHAPTER “ I’ll go right down and telephone Spear, WHAT HAPPENED TO A “ SURE THING.”' and make sure he’ll stand for it. He’s up at the Dorfwald, I guess.” Rock took an afternoon off the follow- And, as he spoke, Corning was out ing day, and accompanied Corning and THE TIME EUR ACTION. 203

Spear down to Sheepshead Bay. Never Yet, even with this assurance, Harry was could he have been content to stay in his a little surprised to discover how easy it grille-work cage and perform the mo- was 'for him to pass within the guarded notonous round of his duties while a precincts. He had never visited a resort of contest of such importance to him was the kind before, and from what he had being decided. read of the police having to batter their Nor could he wait to hear the news by way in with axes and sledges, had sup- ticker, or see it flashed out on the bulletin- posed it to be very difficult to gain ad- mission boards. He must be where he could see ; yet the doorman merely nodded the “ gee-gees ” go round with his own to him now and passed him in without a eyes, and know that his horse was a win- word. ner the moment it passed under the wire. He did not know, however, that ar- Before he left the bank, though, he rangements had been made for his visit duly cashed Spear’s six-thousand-dollar in advance, and that Spear and Corning draft, counting out the crisp notes and had followed him to the corner below, pushing them across the little glass so as to give a signal to the watching counter as calmly and perfunctorily as doorman and indicate that this was the though each one were not weighted with man they meant. “ a load of anxious thought. Now,” observed Spear to his compan- Then, when he had turned the business ion with a satisfied grin. “ you see they of his post over to an assistant, he hur- can’t ring us in on it if any trouble comes riedly left the bank and slipped around out of this affair. I’ll simply say that the to a little restaurant where it had been teller forged my name and took the prearranged they all should meet. money himself, and the facts will tend to He had been half fearful, in a nervous, bear me out.” uneasy way, that he should not find them Meanwhile, Rock, all unconscious of there, for it must be confessed that his the crafty game set up on him, was mind was not quite at peace in regard to mounting the winding stairs and pushing his way past the second that Chicago draft ; but they were on guard into the hand all right, and, what is more. Corn- pool-room. ing thrust the five thousand dollars into The afternoon crowd of patrons had his hand as soon as he appeared. already started to assemble, and were “But what is that for?” queried sitting about the stuffy, tobacco-reeking Harry. “ Hadn’t you better keep it to place, exchanging reminiscences, or in- ” make the bet with?” dustriously poring over the “ dope “ Oh, I would rather that you placed underneath the flaring gas-jets. it yourself, and then you will know it They glanced up curiously at the < is all right,” rejoined the other; and, for stranger; and, as he had no desire to some strange reason, he waxed so in- be recognized, this made him more than sistent on this score that Rock finally anxious to get away, especially as he yielded. was already far from favorablv im-

“ I won't go into the betting-ring down pressed -with the surroundings. “ at the track, though,” he demurred. It 'Therefore, he hurried up to a man would be as much as my position is worth who seemed to be in some sort of author- for me to be seen placing a wager of ity, and asked if it would be possible this size at such a place. I f you insist for him to put down a bet on the fourth on my putting the money down, Arthur, race at Sheepshead Bay. you’ll have to tell me of some place in “ Sure,” replied the functionary gra- town where I can do it before 1 go.” ciously, “ just make out a slip with your “ Oh, that’s easily arranged.” spoke up initials and the name of the horse you Spear, who hitherto had not been taking want to bet on, and slide it along with “ any part in the discussion. 'There’s your bundle into yonder window. We’ll a pool-room not two blocks above here give you official closing odds on your where they’ll take your bet all right. Just pick, and if you win you can call around tell the man at the door that Ed Spear and get your money down-stairs in the sent you, and he’ll let you in without any saloon to-night.” trouble.” Obedient to instructions, accordingly. ;

204 THE ARGOSY.

he prepared to make out the slip “ Gold Heels, in the fourth race at but, as he started "to write, he paused Sheepshead. My bet is five thousand.” and bit at the head of his pencil, seized Then he hurried on. down the stairs. with a sudden qualm of doubt. The proprietor gazed after him with “ By the way,” he said to the man who a coldly speculative gleam in his eye. had previously assisted him, “ have you “ Five thousand dollars, eh? ” he mut- a list of the entries for to-day’s races?' tered thoughtfully. “ I wonder does 1 don’t want to make a mistake in the that mean he has been tapping the till? name of my horse, you know.” “ No,” he decided, “ they don’t start “ Sure, we’ve got a card. What race in on that the first time they come.

it likely did you say was you wanted ; the More he’s got a red-hot tip from fourth at the Bay? Well, here it is, somebody that knows, I guess I’ll have all right.” to buy some of that Gold Heels stuff Rock took the sheet of pasteboard myself. He’s rated as an old skate, it’s handed him, and eagerly glanced at the true; but you never can tell when one printed names. of these dead ones will come to life.” mistake. Meanwhile, rejoicing in Ah, yes ; he had made no the comple- Here it was right at the top of the list. tion of his errand, Rock was hastening Corning his Gold Heels; the name which on to rejoin companions ; and, hav- had so cautiously whispered to him over ing met them, no time was lost in pro- at the restaurant, fearful lest some one ceeding to the track. might overhear and plunge to the “ good During the ride down on the train, thing,” with a consequent fall in odds. and until the time came for his race to “ Gold Heels,” Harry therefore print- be called, he was flushed and excited, ed upon the paper in unmistakable print- talking at random in order to conceal ed character, added his hastily scribbled the secret misgivings which clutched at

initials, and pushed it, with the five thou- his heart, feverishly gay and boisterous. sand, through the little window. The first three races of the day held Then, without regret, he started to small interest fo^him, since to his mind leave the place; but, to his chagrin, he they only served to prolong the. agony met at the top of the stairs a man whom of his waiting; but he pretended to be he knew, one of the bank’s heaviest de- vastly entertained by them, and stood positors. about, trying to ape Spear’s professional There was no use trying to avoid him, manner of discussing the performances. however, and accordingly he took the It was anything to keep himself from hand outstretched to him with the best thinking, to drown the still, small, chi- grace he could. ding voice of his conscience, to prevent “ Ah, Mr. Rock,” the fellow said, a breaking and giving way under the “ glad to see you. This is the first time strain which rested on him. I’ve ever seen you in my little place, And then at last his heart gave a great best of us like thrill and stood still for I believe. Well, even the ; the bugle had to play the ponies once in a while.” sounded, and the horses were coming

H is place ! So he was the proprietor out for the fourth race. here, then! Mincing and prancing, the satin- A great wave of relief spread over skinned thoroughbreds, with their dimin- saw that it would not be utive riders atop, paraded in front of the Rock ; for he necessary to return here again and run stands. “ ” the gantlet of those curious eyes in order There he is ! whispered Corning to get his winnings. tensely, as he clutched at Rock’s arm. “ Yes, I have been making a bet,” he “That’s Gold Heels; the one with the said, “ and, as I expect to win, I am boy up in the red-striped jacket. Look wondering if it would be too much at the baby that’s going to bring home ” trouble for you to bring my profits over the coonskins to you ! to the hank with you when you come in Thereafter, Harry had eyes only for the morning?” that one horse. Stiff in his seat, with “ not. to do his head* bent forward his , Why, no ; certainly Glad and hands

it. Let’s see; what are you down on?” clutching his chair until the knuckles ! ! ! :

THE TIME FOR ACTION. 205

turned white, he glued his gaze upon His mount faltered, lost his stride, the red-striped jacket, and kept it there. and fell back into the ruck. During the fretful moments at the Harry Rock gazed at Corning with barrier, he suffered a thousand pangs stony, almost incredulous, eyes. The and apprehensions. “ sure thing ” was hopelessly beaten, and What if his choice should be kicked their five thousand dollars irrevocably and injured by one of those other cur- lost veting horses? What if he should be left at the post? Oh. what if a hundred CHAPTER VI. things might happen? N But at last the webbing flew up, and, AXOT1IKR LOSER BY THE TIP. to the music of a thunderous roar from lawns and stands, they were “ off ” It is the hardest -hit fellow who makes A moment’s mixup at the turn, as the the least fuss. A chap who yells blue- striving jockeys fought for position, and murder when he stubs his toe, will re>~ then the red-striped jacket flashed out ceive his death-blow with calm dignity. ” in front. So now, although two-dollar “ pikers “What did I tell you?” cried Spear, were squealing and cursing all around with swelling exultation. “ Him all the him. Rock maintained a very fair sem- way home! Why. he’ll lead the rest blance of equanimity. of those dogs by all the distance from True, his face was very pale, and he here to New York!” could not control a certain nervous But Harry was unable to articulate twitching about the corners of his a word. He could only sit still and mouth; but his voice was steady, and he follow with fascinated gaze the swift, even managed to summon up a smile as onward flight of horse and rider. he replied to Spear’s voluble excuses and apologies for the failure tip. At the half ; and the red-striped jacket of the “ was still in front, his mount galloping No one can blame you, Mr. Spear,” resolutely, steadily, as though he still he said quietly. “ We all went into the had oceans of speed to spare. affair with our eyes open, and should The three-quarters still he was have known, even if we didn’t to. ; and seem in the lead. True, the others were creep- that there is no sure thing in horse-rac-

bit readily ing. We have lost, is ing up a ; but Spear explained and that all there is this by pointing out that the boy was to it, except to settle up. 1 owe you

gathering him up in preparation for the twenty-five hundred dollars, and. I re- sprint home. gret to say. I cannot pay you at once In the stretch, with the red-striped hut if you will call around at my rooms jacket still in front. The craning throng to-night I will try to arrange some se- was already beginning to shout and ges- curity for you. and fix it so that I can ticulate, and call the horse’s name. reduce the obligation by degrees. Suddenly there flashed out from be- “ Oil. that’s all right, Rock,” returned hind a wiry little sorrel, who, with a the other, with magnificent indifference. burst of tremendous reserve speed, came “ Don’t you worry your head, old man. on to contest the supremacy. but pay me when you feel like it. Per- Already his nose was at the other’s haps we can dig up a horse this week withers, at His shoulder, at his throab which will pull us all out more than creeping up veritably inch by inch. even.” True, the first horse was still in the “Not for me,” said Harry decidedly. “ lead, and the wire not a dozen strides I am done, once and for all.” but how many a turf-battle has “So? Well, every one to his away ; own been lost in that narrow margin liking. But I always feel as though I For a moment longer they fought it wanted to get my money back from the out grimly, desperately. Then the little hole where I sank it. sorrel’s nose pushed by the other’s mUz- “ And that reminds me.” rising from “ zle, and the boy in the red-striped jacket, his chair, that if I want to put a bet seeing the fight was lost, ceased to ply’ down on this next race I’ll have to be his whip. getting into the ring.” !

206 THE ARGOSY.

“ I guess I’ll go along,” announced Whew! Harry began to look grave. Corning. “Won’t you come, Harry? The more he considered all the circum- We can pike a little, and get that much stances connected with the transaction fun out of it, anyway.” the less he liked the appearance of it. But Harry shook his head. He had And suppose the draft did come back? made up his mind never again to be What then? How was he going to raise tempted to bet on a horse-race, no matter six thousand dollars to take it up? He how small the wager; and when Harry would lose his job sure. Rock’s mind was made up in that way it More than that. If the bank ever was made up for keeps. dropped to the fact that he had got a He accompanied the. others, though, part of the spoils he would be prosecuted from the stand down on to the lawn, and and sent to prison. Oh, this was a lovely stood there while they went on into the kettle of fish he had got himself into betting-ring. But he tried to tell himself all this A couple of. men strolling by just then was needless alarm and apprehension. stopped and gazed after the retreating The draft was probably all right. figures of Corning and his companion. Probably? Of course it was all right. “ There goes that dirty tout of an Ed This time next week he would be laugh- Spear,” remarked one of them with a ing over the idea that it had. ever caused frown. “ It’s a wonder to me he hasn’t him a moment of anxiety. been ruled off the grounds for all the Thus desperately and, it must be con- crooked work he’s done.” fessed, somewhat unsuccessfully trying to

“ It is, indeed,” assented the other hearten himself up as he paced along the cordially. “ Who’s the new sucker he’s lawn, Harry all at once caught sight of ” got in tow now ? young George Ramsey rushing wildly “ Oh, I guess you needn’t waste any hither and thither through the crowd, his sympathy on that one. I see him down face white and his hair disheveled. here with Spear a good deal lately, and “ Hey, George,” he hailed, and the

I guess from all appearances he’s pretty other, turning, saw him, and came quick- well tarred with the same brush.” ly forward. ” Then they passed on, and Harry was “ Have you seen anything of Spear? left to digest the information thus fortui- he demanded excitedly. tously vouchsafed. “Spear?” That name was fast be- to angry, coming “ At first he was inclined be a nightmare. Why, yes ; he and told himself that the opprobrious went into the betting-shed a "little while term used was probably only a sneering ago with Arthur Corning.” “ way of speaking of a business enemy or Well, lie’s not there now, and, what’s turf rival. more, I can’t find him any.where about the “ Why,” he argued, “ no one could grounds. And I’ve .got to find him, ” have been more considerate than Spear Harry. If I don’t I am ruined! was in regard to that two thousand five George’s voice rose almost to a shriek very fact that he he finished and, fairly beside himself, hundred dollars. The as ; told me to pay at my own convenience he was starting to chase off once more on shows that he must be a man of wealth. his quest through the crowd. But Rock, No mere tout could afford to loan that reaching out, laid a hand on his shoulder, much money in the first place, or to let and turned him sharply about. “ it hang over, in the second.” Look here, George,” he said sternly. But then it suddenly occurred to him “What’s up between you and Spear? where the mortev had come from with Have you been betting on their sure ” which Spear had been so generous. thing ? “ If that Chicago draft should happen Yes. Or at least I thought I was to be returned, the alleged horseman betting, but it turns out now that I did could not be held for a minute. He not have down a cent.” would simply be a thousand dollars to “ Well, in Heaven’s name, what are its about then? to the good, and the bank would look to ^ you kicking You ought official who had cashed such flimsy paper be thanking your lucky stars that your for the amount. money was not burned up.” ”

THK TIMK FOR ACTION. 207

“ Oh, but you don’t understand. Spear horse lost 1 would easily be able to re- is a scoundrel. He touted me”—Harry deem them in that time. So-*—sg,” he winced at the word— “ he touted me faltered, “ 1 borrowed them without let-

against this horse so hard that I was ting Anita know, and put an envelope wild, to play it. but I didn’t have any full of blank paper in their place.” money. 1 had been losing pretty heavily Rock did not attempt any moral stric- down here with him before, you see. Then tures or reprehension at this time. The he and Corning got hold of me, and told thing to do now was to get the mess me that although they were too short to straightened out as soon as possible. lend me any money themselves, they could Besides, he felt somehow as though the fix it with a bookmaker to hold me up cloak of a preceptor would not fit alto- for the bet, and not press his claim inside gether easily upon his shoulders. of six months, provided I could furnish “ And has this bookmaker the bonds him some good security. Well, I knew now?” he inquired quickly. I could easily make up the amount in “The bookmaker? No,” fairly wailed that length of time, so I gave them some George, panic again seizing upon him. “ railroad— bonds which are as good as gold, That is tvhat I have been trying to tell and you. After the race I went to the book- “Railroad bonds?” broke in Rock, maker to have a talk with him, and make struck by a sudden suspicion. “ Where sure that the bonds would be held until ” did you get any such things? I could redeem them, and he told me that For he knew that at the pace they had no such collateral had ever been placed all been going young Ramsey would long in his hands. ‘ Why,’ he said, ‘ that since have hypothecated any negotiable crook of an Ed Spear has simply soaked securities in his possession. them down into his own wallet. If you’re “ “ Oh, I had them,” evasively. But wise, young man, you’ll lose no time in what business is that of yours? You laying hands on him, and getting back re- I don’t have to know all about my your stuff ; for tell you straight, he’s sources, do you?” nothing better than a thief, and ten thou- ” But Harry was not to be put off. sand is a pretty tidy haul.’ “ Where did you get those bonds, Nothing better than a thief! The George?” he insisted, gripping down words rang upon Harry Rock’s ears like hard upon the other’s shoulder. the sound of a death-knell, and a chill- And although the boy tried to act ing grip seemed to settle about his heart. haughty and indignant at first, he pres- His misgivings in regard to that draft, ently broke down under the continued then, had not been mere fanciful alarms. pressing, and admitted that they were It would undoubtedly be returned from not his own. Chicago, and he was a ruined man. “ The old man gave them to Anita for In an instant he was as wrought up a present once,” he confessed sullenly. and agitated as George himself. “ Ten of them for a thousand dollars “Yes,” he exclaimed distractedly, “you each and she kept them in the back of are right. We must get hold of Spear ; ” her little jewel safe, never looking at at once ! them except twice a year, when she would get them out to cut off the coupons, and CHAPTER VII. let the old man collect the interest for her. A COUNCIL OF WAR. “ Well, when Spear and Corning got me all up in the air over this horse, and Heedless whom they iostled. and of I was casting about every which way to the curious looks cast in their direction, lay my hands on some security, all of a the two young fellows, wild-eved and sudden the thought of these bonds. oc- with drawn faces, dashed hither and curred to me. I knew that I could get thither through the crowd. them back all right, the semiannual in- Around the betting-ring they tore, dis- terest having just been collected. Sis regarding repeated injunctions from the “ wouldn’t dream of looking at them for police to keep to a walk,” and thereby another six months, and even though mv almost getting themselves arrested. They :

208 THE ARGOSY.

raced over the stands and paddock, in- less his suspicions became arousedv by quired at the stables, and even investi- some untoward event the scamp would, gated the “ field,” where the cheaper to a certain extent, take his own time in “ sports ” are accustomed to congregate. making his “ get-away.” But nowhere did they catch a glimpse As these considerations presented them- of the man who had “ done ” them, nor selves to Harry’s mind he ceased his aim- run across any tangible clue to his where- less rushing about, and dragging ,his abouts. companion into a secluded corner, urged

( )nce, when they stopped to make ex- him, too, to desist from the fruitless quest, cited inquiry of a waiter behind the pie- and to try and regard the situation in a counter, the gentleman who. had first calmer and more judicial spirit. aroused Harry’s suspicions by referring “ Look here, George,” he said forcibly, to Spear as a “ tout ” happened to be “ we are making a couple of confounded standing close at hand, and the boys idiots of ourselves. It ought to be plain overheard him remark to his companion to any one by this time that neither “ Ah, a couple more of Spear’s vic- Spear nor Corning is any longer on the if grounds yet chasing like tims evidently; and they look as they ; we go about had been well stung, too. I hope they chickens with our heads cut off, not only will catch the cur, and give him what he to no purpose, but what is worse, attract- they’ll have to look sharp ing a lot of curious attention to ourselves, deserves ; but if they expect to do it. I heard last the one thing above all others we should night that he had all his plans laid to most sedulously avoid. How long do slip away to Europe. It’s getting a bit you suppose it will be before some friend too hot for him on this side of the water, of Spear’s drops on to the fact that we

I fancy.” are looking for him, and hurries off to Harry wheeled about on his fellow- report. And, if that ever happens the sufferer, struck by a sudden thought. fat will be in the fire and no mistake.” “ George,” he asked quickly, “ were “ But what else can we do?” objected those bonds of yours readily negotiable?” George, feeling that any sort of action “ Readily negotiable? Well, I should was preferable to an idle sitting down rather say so. They were payable to upon the stool of repentance. bearer. Anybody could have got the “ I must find him and get back my money on them.” bonds,” he repeated desperately for about Rock gasped. The possibilities were, the hundredth time. “You heard what getting more interesting every minute. that man said just now, Harry. Spear With a thousand dollars in currency in is liable to be off to Europe at any mo- his pocket, and ten thousand dollars more ment, and then what sort of a pickle ” in securities which were just as good as wpuld I be in? cash, there was evidently no reason why “ And do you imagine that he will Spear should postpone for a single day delay his sailing because he happens to his projected departure to foreign climes. hear that you are searching for him?” A thief does not usually delay long in questioned Rock, with withering sarcasm. his flitting when he has the swag safely “ Far from it, my young friend. That in hand. is just about the one thing which would There was one point in their favor, lend an especial celerity to his move- however. The rascally tout did not ments. know as yet, of course, that they had “ No. If we are going to overhaul fallen wise to his duplicity. this artful dodger, and succeed in ma- He would argue that Harry, believing king him disgorge, we have got to be him to be a wealthy man, would not wary and circumspect, not go hunting for think of questioning the draft until after hinf with a brass band and a drum-major

it had gone to Chicago and come back, a at the head of it. proceeding which would take several “ Now, what I propose is that we im- days, and that a still longer time must mediately efface ourselves from here, and elapse before George became cognizant go quietly back to town to take up the of the bold swindle practised upon him. pursuit afresh there.” Hence, it was highly probable that un- “And how shall we set about it?” ” *

THE TIME FOR ACTION. 209

queried George dubiously. “ Report the “Under ordinary circumstances, there- affair to the police, and let them take up fore; if I wanted to find him, I would the trail?” simply visit one after another of his “No; I don’t believe I would advise usual hang-outs until I finally ran across that it just yet a while. Of course, him ; but, as the case stands now, that may be "necessary to go to them in the doesn’t seem exactly advisable for two end; but you know what a lot of notori- good reasons.” ” ety it entails, and I for one am by no “ What are they? means convinced .that if we play our “ Well, in the first place, our ill-ad- cards right we cannot satisfactorily han- vised actions at the track may have put dle the business for ourselves.” him on his guard, so that he is avoiding They had passed out at the gate by an appearance in public and hurriedly this time, and with the crowd surging getting ready to fly.” ” all about them, and the possibility of “ And the other reason? some of Spear’s friends being at their An expression of grim determination very elbows, there was no chance for showed upon Rock’s resolute counte- further conversation until they had nance. “ boarded the train for New York. Simply that when I do have it out Seated at last in a parlor-car en route with that gentleman I want to be where to the city, however, and with their our interview shall run no danger of heads bent close together, Rock proceed- being interfered with by bystanders or ed to elucidate his plans. the authorities. Neither your bonds nor “ In starting out to run down this my money can be got back by law with- " crook,” “ it out publicity he said, seems to me that we and scandal ; but I think ought as far as possible to put ourselves —significantly—“T can get them back— in his place, and try fairly to consider that is, your bonds to a certainty, and as what we would do under like circum- much of my money as he has left.” stances. “But how will you locate him?” “Now, here is a chap with a lohof asked George. “ You don’t know where stolen booty in his pockets, and the he lives, do you? And, as you have al- natural inference would be, it is true, ready said, to go around asking questions that he is going to get himself out of the would only serve to put him on his way as speedily as possible. But, on guard.” “ the other hand, we must remember he True ; so I am going to act on the does not think that his victims are aware old principle for hunting snakes. They of the always travel in pairs, fact they have been buncoed, or you know ; and if are likely to discover it until a consid- you can locate the haunt of one, the erable time shall elapse; —you, for several other is pretty sure to put in a speedy months perhaps, and me appearance also. Now, as you say, I

. don’t know where Spear He caught himself sharply together hangs up ; but I am pretty well acquainted with a frown ; but George had noted the with Com- slip of the tongue, and exclaimed with ing’s apartments, and there is where I eager curiosity: am going.” “ ” “ “You! Do you mean to say that he Corning ! ejaculated the boy. Oh, got you, too?” I say, Harry, you don’t really believe ” “ Never mind about that now,” im- that Arthur was in on the deal, do you? patiently. “If he did get me, it was Rock’s frankly contemplated laugh for nothing like the amount for which was not exactly pleasant to hear. •“ ” “ he landed you, nor was it by any such Believe it? he said. Why, George openly criminal act. Ramsey, if the angel Gabriel himself was “ But, at any rate, as I was saying, to try and tell me that chap was on the he is apt to be fairly comfortable in his square, I’d have to give him the lie. “ ” mind; and, feeling that there is no par- In on the deal ? he continued. ticular cause for haste, will arrange his “ I’d be willing to make a good-sized departure to suit his own convenience, wager that the two of them are sitting in the meantime making no change in in some restaurant at this very second, his regular routine. jollifying over the complete way in 2 A ! ;

210 THE ARGOSY. which they have trimmed us and ar- In the present instance, Harry chose ranging for a division of the spoils: the stairs as the more inconspicuous mode “ And, as a consequence of this little of approach, and also in order that the celebration, I will be able to nail them,” elevator-boy might be able to return a dropping once more into his explanatory truthful denial if Corning should ask

tone. “ You know how Corning is, al- w'hether anybody had called during his ways wants to return to his room after absence. dinner to primp up a bit before starting Thus he finally arrived without en- out again. Or, even if he should be countering obstacles so any undue ; and, scared and ready to skip, it is certain he far as he could tell, unobserved at the will want to go back there to get some door of the suite, discovering to his re- of his things. And so it is ten to one, lieved elation that, owing to the warm in any event, that Spear will return with w'eather, the transom overhead had been him. left open. “ That will be my opportunity ; for He had brought a twisted w’ire with while they are at dinner I propose to him, and had fully intended to pick the ensconce myself in the apartment and lock if necessary, despite the danger of be on hand, ready to greet them when being caught at such questionable wr ork they arrive.” but the open transom made a way of “ But, of course, you want me to go ingress for him as though arranged on with you?” purpose and relieved him of the ticklish

“ No. I think, perhaps, I can handle alternative. the situation better alone. You go on Accordingly, after listening to satisfy quietly home and pretend to have a sick himself that the cage was empty and the headache, so that thejEolks will not sus- birds still aw'ay, he drew' himself up to pect that anything is wrong from that the aperture, wriggled through, and graveyard face of yours. I will drop up dropped lightly to the floor on the other later to let you know' the success of my side. mission.” But once there, and after a glance “ But, good Heavens, Harry, suppose around, he changed somewhat the plan they should get nasty on your hands? of action he had formulated for himself. They would be two to your one.” The original purpose he had conceived “ Not so. I also will be two—myself w'as to hide in the bedroom until the and a trusty little friend that I shall two men had returned and were well in- pick up at my lodgings and carry with side the apartment, when he would sud- me in my hip-pocket.” denly disclose himself and enforce his As he finished, the train whistled into demands at the point of the revolver. Long Island City and the passengers Now, however, as the idea occurred to started to rise to their feet. The time him that they might not both come at for action had come the same time, or, even if they did, might between themselves indulge in some talk w'hich it would be w'ise for CHAPTER VIII. him to hear, a better suggestion offered itself, and he decided to delay such WHAT THE EAVESDROPPER HEARD. pre- cipitate action. Rock, with the other members of the A patent bed-couch, with a handsome “ crowd,” had often gathered at Com- cover on it, stood at one side of the front for jolly or room ing’s apartments a evening, ; and, stooping down to examine it. to discuss plans and arrangements for Rock perceived that there was ample some impending frolic, and he conse- space under its light iron framework for quently knew the place like a book. a man to lie in comfort, while the over- It was a luxuriously fitted-up bach- hanging mattress and coverlid would “ ” elor’s twm and a bath at the fashion- serve most effectually to conceal his pres- it T ence able Martingale ; and. as w as on the from the view of any one in the second floor, the tenant’s visitors used room. the stairs or the elevator impartially in Down upon hands and knees Harry v order to reach it. dropped, and, crawling into the retreat, THE TIME FOR ACTION. 211 arranged himself as easily as possible to in entering the' room, though, as well as await the coming of the enemy. from their subsequent words and actions, But a long time passed before his irk- he perceived that there was no ground some vigil came to an end. for his fear lest they should have been ” Surely, that “ jollification dinner already alarmed. -The idea of any im- It reprisals their must consist of many courses ; or was mediate on the part of perhaps that the tricksters were so ex- plundered victims was evidently the last ultant over their coup they had decided thought that came into their heads. to make a night of it? Indeed, both of them were in jubilant Then, again, anxious doubts and ap- mood, laughing and jesting as might fel- prehensions would arise as to the possi- lows who had dined well and were with- bility of their never returning. True, out a care in the world. the apartment showed no evidences of Corning hummed a gay little air as he any hurried flight on the part of its moved about, turning on the lights and owner yet that might simply mean that setting the room in order while his ; ; he had never come back there from the companion, standing in front of the but, tipped off that the pur- his hands race-track ; mantelpiece, thrust down deep suit was on, had abandoned all his be- into his pockets and jingled his keys in longings to their fate and vamoosed. thoroughly complacent fashion. Mingled with these queries, too, were Of a sudden, though, he paused in his anxious speculations as to what the out- careless tintinnabulation and glanced come of the forthcoming encounter with quickly toward the other. “ the sharpers—provided they did put in I say, Arthur,” he questioned, an appearance—would be? “ you’re sure there couldn’t possibly be Would he be able to recover the bonds? any mistake about the value of those Would he get back any of the money bonds, eh? I’m not very familiar with advanced upon the draft, and, if so, how junk of that sort, you know.” “ much ? Oh, no ! As I told you, they’re as Again, what action would the bank good as gold. However, let me see them take upon his case should he fail to ob- again and make sure.” tain any of the money? What would Out of Spear’s side coat-pocket came Daniel G. Ramsey think of him when a bulky envelope, which he tossed over all the facts came to light? And—most upon the table; and for a moment the harassing question of all—what would hand of the unseen watcher tightened Anita think? upon his revolver, and he was almost Oh, Harry had plenty to occupy his ready to burst from his concealment then mind, even though his period of sus- and there. But he restrained himself pense was lorig protracted. with an effort and waited for further But at last there came the sound of developments. footsteps from the corridor outside, the .“Mistake?” smiled Corning, skim- click of a key in the lock, and Corning ming with practised eye over the en- entered, accompanied, to Harry’s intense closed securities. “ If I had a barrel satisfaction, by Spear. or two of tidy little documents like these, Everything was turning out exactly I could make the Thirty-Fourth National as he had predicted to George, he told look about the size of a tin savings-bank. himself, not without a certain pride in Oh, no, Edward, never underestimate his powers of deduction. those beauties. They’re worth every He was also pleased to discover that cent they call for, and then some.” by lying close to the floor he could get Spear’s heartfelt sigh of relief was with one eye a full view of the room almost laughable. from under the edge of the couch, thus “ Well, I’m mighty glad to hear it,” enabling him to see as well as to hear. he declared emphatically. “ Things have So, with his one eye and both ears been going so rotten bad with me and alert, and the revolver in his hand ready you lately in everything we’ve under- for action, he lay there quiet as a mouse took, that I began to get afraid maybe and waited for what might happen. those bonds were on the ‘ bumski,’ too. From the very manner of the rascals But, since you say they’re all right, ; ” ;

212 THE ARGOSY. there’s no reason why we shouldn’t get “In order to clinch the matter, I ’em cashed to-morrow and sail on the wrote an anonymous letter to the direc- Cavonia on Wednesday. Maybe things’ll tors of the bank to-night, warning them break better for us on the other side; of their paying-teller, and informing and, anyway, the sooner we get blue them that he had placed a five-thousand- water between us and this job, the better dollar bet at Max Snook’s pool-room this I’ll be satisfied.” afternoon.” “ Oh, what’s the use of getting The tout stole a sidewise glance at frightened? ” rallied his partner. “ There his friend and scratched his head. isn’t one chance in a hundred that “ Why are you so down on that poor George Ramsey will drop to the game; sucker, Arthur?” he queried. “You and, even if there was, he don’t dare kick and he have been pals, too, in a way, up a row. He stole the bonds himself.” haven’t you? Yet there is nothing too “No! Who from? How do you bad for you to hand out to him. What’s ” ” know ? the answer? “ ” “He took them from his sister Anita. Oh, I despise the clodhopper ! I know they are hers, because she told broke out Corning, a dull flush of rage me about them herself,” answered Corn- streaking his face. “ So would you, ing. “ Strange how things work around,” too, if you’d had to have a lout like that he added musingly. “ It must have held up to you as a model and a para- ” been intended by Fate that these bonds gon ! should come to me in one way or an- “Held up to you? By whom?” other. Here, take them,” thrusting the The angry man hesitated a second. packet back into the envelope and hold- “ By Anita Ramsey,” he burst out. ing it out. “ By Jove, Spear, that girl is in love “ with always in Oh, no ; if you’re going to market him— has been love with

them to-morrow, you’d better keep them him. . She doesn’t know it herself maybe,

overnight. I don’t suppose there’s any but it didn’t take me long to find it out ” danger of burglars in a place like this? after I got engaged to her. It was “ Hardly,” smiled Corning. “ The Harry this, and Harry that, until I grew

night watchman is always around and so sick of hearing his name that I swore the help are exceptionally honest. As I’d fix her pink of perfection for her. you say, too, I guess it would be best And I guess,” he added vindictively, to keep them here.” “ that I’ve about succeeded, although, at And with that he stepped over to his that,” with a wry face, “ I wouldn’t bet desk, dropped the envelope in a drawer, ten cents that she didn’t eventually and, carefully relocking the receptacle, marry him, jailbird or no jailbird.” “ resumed his seat. Well, since there’s a woman between Spear fidgeted about a second or two you, I don’t wonder so much any more,” “ then somewhat deprecatingly started granted Spear ; but before, I’m free to

afresh on his plea for an early departure. confess, I couldn’t understand it, for he “No matter how sure we are about always struck me as a pretty nice young George Ramsey,” he urged, “ I, never- chap. Indeed. I haven’t got any hard theless, think it will be good sense for feelings against him now, except for the us to take that Cavonia when she pulls fact that we let him bet that five thou- out on Wednesday. Suppose Rock sand dollars- instead of holding on to it should get to thinking over matters and ourselves. “ have the bank wire an inquiry out to Strange how I got such a fool notion ” Chicago about that draft ? into my head that that horse couldn’t be “Well, do you know what would hap- beat,” he muttered, shaking his head. “ pen?” replied Corning. “Mr. Rock I thought we could make more by let- would simply land behind the bars a few ting him win from the books first, and days earlier. As I have already ex- then taking his winnings away from him plained to you, they can do nothing to but the durn combination didn’t pan out. affair “ I you on account of that ; but they went bad on that dope, just as I can souk him. and you may rest assured did afterward on—Senator Boy in the they’ll do it. fifth race, and to —

THE TIME FOR ACTION. 213

Corning broke in upon him with a to Spear. Second, because he had it in quick glance of_ interrogation. “ Then his power now, by relinquishing his ven- you lost the extra thousand you got from geance, to save her dearly loved brother Rock, too ? ” he asked. from the scandal of a tarnished name. “ Oh, yes; every cent of it.” Only by his keeping still at the pres- ” “ And all we have is these bonds? ent time could the bonds be recovered “ That’s it. And that’s why I say we without publicity and disgrace to George. ought to sail at once. There’s no Accordingly, he lay back, clenching chance to do business here any more, so his teeth and gripping his hands to com- the sooner we get to the other side the mand his self-control, until at last, after better off we’ll be.” some further desultory conversation, A moment before the pulses of the Corning proposed a visit to one of the man concealed under the couch had been roof-gardens, and, the other acquiescing, thrilling and bounding with exultant they took their hats and left. happiness; for he had that surest proof Hardly had the door closed upon in the world, the word of his rival and their departing figures before Harry was enemy, that the woman he loved, loved out from under the couch and across the him. floor to the desk, which stood beside a But now the triumph and the joy window. turned to ashes in his mouth, and he A moment’s examination of the lock saw standing before him the open door by the light of a match; and then setting of a felon’s cell. deftly to work with his pocket-knife and There was no chance upon earth to piece 6f twisted wire, he soon had the recover the money paid out upon that receptacle open. worthless draft. Nor had he to rummage long for what he sought. He had watched Corning carefully when the latter put the bonds CHAPTER IX. away, so now his hand closed almost in- THE CATCHER CAUGHT. stantly upon the precious envelope. Nothing now remained but to get In his rage and desperation at the away. His task was done. plight in which he found himself, see- But first he must make sure that there ing nothing ahead except ruin and dis- was no mistake ; so he lighted another grace, it is the greatest wonder in the match, and held it as he hurriedly ' ran world that Rock did not dash "forth over the contents of the package. from his hiding-place and, with the Yes, this was what he wanted, beyond loaded weapon in his hand, end the ca- question. Ten railroad bonds of the reer of Arthur Corning then and there. value of one thousand dollars each, all And, indeed, until his dying day in the envelope, and all in good con- that scurvy villain will never be closer dition. And now, at last, he could go. to breathing his last. Three separate But just at that moment a window- times Harry stiffened his muscles for flashed up on the other side of the court, the spring; three separate times his fin- across from Coming’s apartment, and a ger was curled tight about the trigger; shrill, feminine voice fairly split the air three separate times his lips were with shrieks “ ” of Burglars ! Burglars ! framed to the shout which should an- Startled and dismayed, for he realized nounce. his onset. that it must be to him attention was But, in the end, the tense limbs re- being directed, Rock wavered an in- laxed, the finger lifted from the trigger, stant, uncertain just what to do. Then the shout remained in his throat. He it came to him that to remain there in lay back, weak from the struggle, quiv- the room, beside the rifled desk, would ering in every fiber, the sweat standing be fatal. out in great beads upon his brow. Even though lie was known as a But one impulse had restrained him friend of Corning, he would necessarily the thought of Anita. First, lest her find a situation of that sort difficult to name might become involved, owing to explain. No he ; must try to get away, the admissions Corning had just made whatever the hazard. ; ! —;

214 THE ARGOSY.

Swiftly he flew to the door and tried tions from the crowd of guests and wait- the knob, hoping that Corning might ers w'ho had gathered by this time, finally possibly have failed to turn the key on yielded so far, and a messenger w-as ac- the outside. But the hope was vain. cordingly despatched for Mr. Keer, who The door held, and there was no time was at the home of a friend, a block entire house or tw-o to pick the lock ; for the away. was in a turmoil now, the screams of Presently, word came back that the women and children resounding from proprietor was engaged in a hand of every floor. “ bridge ” at the moment, but would be It was plain, therefore, that he must over as soon as the rubber was played bet- go as he had come ; and that he had out. ter lose no time about it, either. With While they were all waiting, however, a quick spring, he drew himself up to the the regular policeman on the block, transom opening, climbed through, and having heard of the disturbance, came was just about to drop into the corridor nosing about, and stood regarding Rock when there came a howl of triumph with a severe and cynical disfavor. from up the hallway, and two lusty por- Suddenly a gleam of quick suspicion ters, charging forward, bore him to the show-ed in his eye, and, with a movement ground underneath their combined as quick as a cat’s, he twitched out of weight. the prisoner’s pocket that significant Harry was not greatly injured by the strand of twisted wire. fall, for he was lithe and wiry, and able “A joke, is ut?” he observed with to stand a good deal of rough handling lofty disdain. “ Begorra, there’s a la-ad

but it seemed to him as though he should down in Part Fo-our iv th’ Criminal be crushed into a pancake before he Co-oorts that I’m thinkin’ c’d take th’ could persuade the two men to remove measure iv this joker in iligant style.

1 themselves from off his chest. Tin years f’r yours,’ is his fav’rite bit He was sadly out of wind when he iv pleasanthry.” his was at length dragged to feet ; but This circumstance naturally turned he made a fair stagger at a smile of the sentiment of the bystanders against quizzical amusement. the prisoner, but he still asserted so “ I guess I have been the cause of vigorously his claim that it w-as a joke, considerable trouble here,” he said, and showed such evident willingness to “ and I can hardly blame you fellows face Mr. Keer, that final decision was for taking me for a burglar; but you withheld in most minds until the pro- understand, of course, that I am a friend prietor should appear and pass his ver- of Mr. Coming’s, and that when he dict. locked me in his room for a lark, the And then there came a quick murmur only w-ay I could get out was through along the corridor, at which Harry hope- the transom. It’s all a joke, boys; just fully raised his glance, expecting to be- a big joke.” hold the landlord’s familiar visage They were plainly skeptical. but, instead, around the corner came “ ” Aw, come off ! growled one of Corning them. “ You’ll have to dig up a better If the earth had opened beneath him one than that. Hold him there, Bill, in a cataclysmal gulf. Rock could not until I get the pass-key, and see w-hether have been more dismayed. For he real- there mayn’t be another of ’em still in- ized, as did every one else in the com- side the room.” pany, that there was no longer any Now-, w-hat Harry was more anxious reason to wait for the word of the pro- to avoid than anything else was to have prietor. The tenant of the apartment the condition of the desk discovered, was here. and he therefore insisted so vehemently And Corning, too, went aghast, it was that the affair was all a joke, and that plain, when he first recognized the iden- he could prove a clean bill of health, tity of the prisoner. His face grew if they would send for Mr. Keer, the white, and he had to take a quick step the hotel, who knew him, to preserve his balance for his guilty proprietor of ; that the men. aided thereto by sugges- heart failed him as he saw at once that ” ;

THE TIME FOR ACTION. 215 his crime was known, and the pursuit could not be disturbed on any account. begun. Would not his presence on the morrow Then, with a better comprehension of serve as well ? the situation, a malignant light kindled “ Every bit as well, as far as I am in his eye, and he raised his hand to concerned,” commented the captain; hide the smile of triumph which flick- “ but it’s a shade rough on you, if you’re ered across his lips. innocent, Mr. Rock, for under the cir- “ Yes, certainly I know this man,” he cumstances I shall of course have to lock replied to the questions addressed to you up.” “ it is equally certain that I “ Oh, that’s all right,” rejoined him ; but do not know wr hat he was doing in my Harry, thinking involuntarily that with- room.” in a very short time the experience might As he spoke, he turned the key in the become a by no means novel one to him. lock, and, as he switched on the light, “ d'he chief point of interest with me is turned instinctively toward the desk. to know that the bonds are safe, and With a sharp exclamation, he sprang you w’ill take good care of them?” “ forward and thrust 'his hand into the Oh, yes ; they will be as secure here rifled compartment. as they would in your vault over at the “ ” “ Good Heavens ! he cried. I Thirty-Fourth National.” have been robbed of ten thousand dol- Corning, who had been sitting across lars in bonds ! the room, pretending to be serenely con- The policeman stepped quickly back temptuous of Rock’s charges against him, to Rock and, reaching into his inside jumped up as though he wr ere shot. “ coat-pocket, held up the envelope. Secure here? ” he gasped. “ Do you “Is these thim ?_!’ he asked. mean to tell me that I cannot have my “ Then come wid me, my gay joker,” property, now that the thief is under ” clapping down a hand of authority on arrest? his prisoner’s shoulder. “ Th’ capt’n be “ Certainly not. Those bonds will wantin’ to see yez down at th’ station- have to be held as evidence until the case ” house ! is finally adjudicated.” “ Oh, but I say,” in agitated protest, “ that wdll never do. Why, I need those CHAPTER X. bonds to put through an important busi- ness deal to-morrow absolutely must HELD FOR EVIDENCE. ; have them.” Harry realized the futility of attempt- “ Can’t help that, Mr. Corning. ing any defense at that stage of the pro- You’ve had this man arrested on the ceedings, and therefore accompanied his evidence of those bonds being in his captor quietly and with the best grace he possession, and now they will have to could muster over to the police station. remain with us until the court decides to Arrived there, however, he imme- whom they do belong.” diately asked for an interview’ with the “ But I will withdraw the charge,” captain, and made a clean breast of the cried Corning eagerly. “ I will decline w’hole affair, at least so far as the bonds to prosecute.” wr ere concerned. His own trouble on All his debonair assumption w’as gone account of the draft, he somewhat dole- now. His face wr as gray, and his hands fully reflected, v’ould become known soon trembled as he knotted his fingers to- gether. enough. . If he could not secure the bonds The captain was naturally a bit in- and market them, he saw w’here a swift credulous of the story recited to him retribution waited for him. “ but, being favorably impressed with the Yes, I withdraw the charge,” he re- seeming frankness of the young prisoner, peated almost hysterically. “ finally consented that George Ramsey Then,” said the captain, a glint of a should be telephoned to come down. teasing twinkle in his eye, “ you admit The distressing information came that the bonds belong to Mr. Rock, eh, back, however, that Mr. Ramsey was their having been in his possession being quite dll with a severe sick headache and prima facie proof of his ownership?” : ; . ”

216 THE ARGOSY.

“ Belong to him ? ” howled the dis- turned on his heel and resumed his seat tracted wretch. “No, no, no! They as though too utterly contemptuous of are mine. 1 will withdraw the charge, such vermin to pay any further attention

1 tell you ; but only on condition that to him. the bonds are returned to me at once.” At that moment there came a rap on “ And rather than consent to that,” the door, and the captain interrupted the broke in Rock, “ I would spend every rather caustic homily he was energetic- ” night in a cell for the next ten years! ally delivering to both combatants in The police captain, who had been order to open it. studying the faces and actions of both “ That must be George Ramsey,” he young men and considering within him- muttered to himself ; but it wasn’t. self, suddenly reached a decision to send It was, to his surprise, a very stylishly for George Ramsey again, but this time and becomingly attired young woman, more peremptorily and upon his own who, her face suddenly suffused with hook. color, rushed up to Harry Rock and took “ There is more in this case than ap- both his hands in hers. pears on the surface,” he muttered into Then she turned to the captain. the depths of his heavy mustache, “ and “ I am Anita Ramsey,” she explained. “ 1 guess it’s about up to me to learn what and when your message came, stating in sort has been going on.” v that Mr. Rock was some of He made no mention of his purpose to trouble down here, my brother was either of the young men, however, but, asleep, and as my father is in Philadel- having secretly despatched the message, phia, there was no one to come but watched with amusement the game which myself. If I can be of use in any way, was on between them. pray command me, for any member of Corning, ghastly now between appre- our family would esteem it only too great hension and anxiety, was trying by every a privilege to be of assistance to Mr. means in his power to induce Rock to Rock.” give up the bonds, and let the charge “ I’m afraid you can’t be of any help, but Harry was though, replied of burglary be dropped ; ma’am,” the captain dis- “ sturdily resisting all his persuasions. appointedly. What I wanted to ask At last, after a manifest inward strug- your brother about, you see,” oblivious to gle, the sharper came to a desperate the signals Harry was making to him, resolution. Pretending to want a drink “ was in regard to some bonds which Mr. of water, he crossed the floor, and as he Rock insists belong to your brother, but passed the other’s chair he muttered in a which this Mr. Corning also claims as rapid undertone his.” “ “ That draft you cashed for Spear is Bonds ? ” she repeated with a puz- “ bogus, and will cost you your job. If zled air. I didn’t know that George you let me keep four of the bonds, you had any bonds.” can have the other six, and so be able “ These are ten railroad bonds of the to square the thing up. Is it a bar- value of one thousand dollars each,” ” gain? went on the captain, with the hope of Like a flash, Rock was upon his feet refreshing her memory. “ See, here they and all the nervous strain, the pent-up are. Perhaps you may remember your passion, and the restrained feeling of that brother’s having had them?” eventful day went into the blow which He lifted the envelope from his desk he sent smashing squarely into Coming’s and held it up for her inspection. “ — face. - Why—why ” she gasped. “ Those “Take that, you thieving hound, you bonds are mine! My very own, that crawling, treacherous beast, for an an- father gave me for a present when— ” swer to your dirty bribe ! But the police captain’s attention was The recipient of the blow went to the caught by a figure which, rising from floor, dazed and with his cherished the floor, had started to steal furtively beauty pretty effectually spoiled for the through the door. as the police captain “ Hey,” he called time being ; but to his subordinates sprang forward to interfere. Harry in the other room. “ don’t let that man get ! !

THE TIME FOR ACTION. 217 away! Hold him, some of you, out He made her promise, though, before there ! It is beginning to look as though he left, that she would not speak of I shall want him.” George’s shortcomings to her father upon the latter’s return, and as she agreed to this a passionate tremble crept into his CHAPTER XI. voice which made her glance down quick- ly and wonder if his previous restraint OH, WHAT A DIFFERENCE fN THE had been only shyness, and if he was MORNING ! about to speak the words her heart con- There was, of course, nothing else for fessed she was ready to hear. give Anita the straight story But said pressed Rock but to he no more ; merely of the bonds from beginning to end, and her hand, and without a word went quick- although he spared George all that he ly away, leaving her still wondering. possibly could in his recital, it did not She did not understand the reason of take her long to perceive that her brother the tremble in his voice, nor why he had had been saved solely through his exacted the promise. The latter was be- friend’s courage and readiness of re- cause he had made up his mind to confess source. all the circumstances of his own scrape “ Oh, Harry,” she cried, “ it seems to to old Daniel G. upon the morrow, and me as though you were always coming to he did not wish to appear in the light of the rescue of some member of our family trading for mercy upon the favor he had I wonder if there was ever before any one been able to render the son. so dependable and absolutely ^square as The tremble in his voice was due to a you?” sudden realization that after his story all He felt like a whipped cur ; for the was told he would have to resign definite- time she was praising him, the thought ly and forever the dream he had held so of that Chicago draft kept rising to his long. Old Daniel G. might permit him mind to spoil his pleasure in her com- to retain his position in the bank, but mendation. receive him as a husband for his daugh- Neither did he tell her of the scrape ter—never lie in for he knew that she would Still he held manfully to his resolu- was ; immediately offer to help him out from tion ; for he knew it was the only square her own resources, and he did not think and honest thing to do. But, oh—as he he could quite bear that. said to himself that night while he tossed As to going his bail at the police sta- upon a sleepless couch, trying to conjure tion, that was a mere formality, and he up some way of avoiding the unpleasant interposed no objection when she insist- necessity—but, oh, he would rather have it it to ac- every in his ed on doing ; but when came tooth head pulled out slowly, cepting a substantial obligation at her one by one ! Daniel G.’s scorn was not hands to rid him of a load resulting from a pleasant thing to face. his own follies—why, he told himself, he Yet, rack his brain as he would—and would rather starve and die in the gutter he had done little but this ever since the Yet it was a sore temptation to confide problem had risen to confront him—no in her, if only for the happiness of having other suggestion seemed to offer itself. a secret between them and to receive her He must tell the stupid, silly story over sympathy and pardon. He longed to lay to that stern, grizzled old man, and take his poor, bruised heart at her feet, and the consequences, whatever they might be. then if she granted him absolution, he Slowly and haltingly he wended hi's did not care what might happen to him. way to the bank, like a boy on the way But he dared not speak, and have her to school expectant of a whipping. He offer monetary aid to him, only to despise showed small zest for the preliminary him ever after. duties of the day, but kept casting fre- So, as he took her home, she noticed quent glances toward the door of the that he was not the frank, open comrade little office marked “ President,” as he had always been to her, and she won- though equally apprehensive that its dered grievinglv what could have changed occupants might or might not appear. him. One other thing he .did. too. He hunted !

218 THE ARGOSY. up the mail-clerk and destroyed the intended to bet on Gold Hills,” he asked scurrilous anonymous letter which Corn- in awestruck tones, “ and got your money ing had posted the night before. The down on Gold Heels instead? Man, truth was bad enough, without having a man,” dazedly shaking his head, “ you lot of lies tacked to it. ought to quit this job and go into a And that truth—bad enough as it was museum as the greatest specimen of luck —he had to tell to Daniel G. Ramsey unhung. How the cloud of that coming confession “ Still, I oughtn’t to kick,” he added “ hung over him ! 1 1 seemed to change the cheerfully, for I followed your lead, morning, which was clear and beautiful and drew in a nice little wad myself. I’m outside, into a murky, lowering day with just on my way to the next window now overcast skies and damp, chilling winds. to give it to you chaps to take care of. The hour of his ordeal was postponed, Well, so long. Come over and see me however, for the president happened to ' soon again.” he late, and, with the opening of the bank Harry threw up his hands. “ ” to the public, Rock had to enter his cage, Not on your life ! he rejoined gaily. to stay there until relieved. “ Lightning never strikes but once in the Somewhat fretful of the delay, Harry same place, and I’ve been hit.” regarded it as almost a personal affront Then, without delay, he wired six thou- on the part of Fate that the first cus- sand dollars to Chicago to meet the bogus tomer to appear should be the pool-room draft when it should arrive, and deposit- man whose place he had visited the day ed the balance to the credit of his almost before. moribund bank account. As though to mock him," too, the fellow Strange how all the world now took on pulled out a roll of bills large enough a different aspect ! The sky was blue and to choke a horse, and began peeling off the sun shining, and even the grumpy old five hundreds and thousands as though bookkeeper, whom he disliked, appeared he never would stop. to him as a long-lost brother. Finally he wadded the money up into Yet, one thing remained unaltered. He a bunch and pushed it through the win- felt that he must still tell Daniel G.— dow. not only because the bank had a right “ There you are,” he said. to know of the transaction concerning the Harry supposed he had simply made a draft, but also for his own sake, in order mistake, and nodded his head in the di- that the memory of the dressing-down he rection of the receiving-teller. was going to receive might serve as a “ Wrong window,” he admonished deterrent to any such escapades in the shortly. future. “ No,, no,” persisted the man. “ That’s And tell he did, falteringly, shame- yours.” facedly, but holding nothing back and “ Mine? ” staring blankly. concealing not one thing. “ Certainly. What you won on Gold Daniel G. listened to the end in si- Heels yesterday. Five thousand dollars lence. Then he observed dryly: at official odds of six to one, or thirty “ And so you borrowed six thousand thousand as your profit. Count it, and dollars of the bank’s money, and by your see if there isn’t thirty-five thousand in good judgment made thirty thousand dol- the bundle?” lars in one afternoon. That looks like Harry wondered if he was dreaming, good business to me. Let’s go into it to- or the man insane. gether.” “ But Gold Heels didn’t win,” he “ Not for me,” and Harry spoke em- faltered. “ He led all the way to the phatically. “ I wouldn’t go through finish, but was beaten out by a little sorrel what I have suffered in .the past twenty- who came from behind.” four hours again for thirty thousand “ Oh, that was Gold Hills,” said the times thirty thousand dollars. And as man impatiently. for good judgment, I have already told Then he stopped abruptly, and now it you that my winning was a sheer fluke, was his turn to stare. the bull-headedest sort of bull-headed “Do you mean to tell me that you luck. No, sir. I have made up my ”

THAT STICK AND SINGLETON. 219 mind. I will never lay a wager on an- deeply I appreciate the share you took in other horse-race. So far as I am con- the transaction.” cerned, hereafter the horse will ‘ run for “ I only wish 1 could have done more,” Sweeny,’ as they say at the track.” said Harry modestly. “ I am afraid, as it The severe hut kindly old banker gave turned out, there can be no escape from one of his rare smiles. some notoriety.” 11 “ Right, my boy,” he said, and I be- “ Oh, yes, there. can,” returned the old lieve you. You’have had a hard lesson; man. “ That has already been arranged, but I think you will be an all the better and Corning and Spear will be prose- man on account of it. You have told cuted not for the affair of the bonds, but me very little concerning your squander- for some very shady business deals in ing of money and your idle habits which which they have been engaged, and of

I did not already know, for I have kept which I was already cognizant. I am closer tab on you than you have perhaps told that both of them are almost certain thought. to receive long terms in Sing Sing.” “ But I have always trusted that you He paused, and Rock, taking this as a would see whither you were heading some signal for him to go, started toward the day, and would then pull up short. And door; but the old man called him back. “ I believe that time has now come to you, Am I mistaken, Harry,” he asked a Harry. bit constrainedly, “ that you have always

1‘ You have shown it by coming to me cared a good deal more for Anita than ” for this interview this morning. You you showed upon the surface? showed it by the noble way in which you Harry, taken utterly by surprise, raised stood by George in that affair of his— a pair of quick, startled eyes to meet the “ George?” old man’s gaze, bent searchingly upon “ Yes,” smiling a little sadly. “ You him. have not been the only one to make con- Their glances interchanged, and, al- fession to me this morning. The boy had though not a word was spoken, both un-

been weak, even criminal ; but I am glad derstood what was in the other’s mind. to say he behaved like a man in the end, “ She is free, Harry,” said Daniel G. and told me everything of his own ac- softly at last. “ Why don’t you go in and ” cord. You will know some day how win ? THE END. THAT STICK AND SINGLETON. > By JOSEPH IVERS LAWRENCE.

An early morning sally after thieves, and the singular fashion in

which the belated member of the posse gave an account of himself.

NE after another the brightly but not a sound was to be heard, not O lighted windows of the big Thor- even when three creeping figures parted ley house winked out until it was only the branches of a clump of conifers and a huge black shadow in the moonlight. hastened stealthily across the grass. A A house party of some magnitude was wakeful sparrow chirped protestingly at in progress, and there had been dancing having his rest broken, but the three in- in but the guests, tired after truders made no sound. the evening ; a day of golf, tennis, and rowing, had They crept into the dark shadows of retired early, and by one o’clock not the veranda, and immediately concen- even a servant was about, and perfect trated their attention upon a window quiet reigned. The moon cast a pale leading into the hall. That they could blue light over the lawn, throwing the not have been adepts may be gathered cordons of rare evergreens and exotic from the fact that, after they had labored

shrubs into all sorts of fantastic figures ; over the work of the glazier and lock- ;

220 THE ARGOSY.

smith for some moments, a sleep-destroy- you,” protested Ethel Thorley in defense ing burglar-alarm went off like the of the absent. tocsin of an army, and in another in- “ Call Mr. Singleton,” said the host stant the whole house was lighted as for sourly to a servant. a festival. Presently the man returned and re- The three novices were good runners, ported that Mr. Singleton was dressing, and made off across the grounds without and would join the party in a half-hour. minding garden-paths or new flower- “ He seems indifferent to work of this beds; and it is probable that no harm sort,” remarked Brooks, with a side might have been done, beyond breaking glance at Miss Thorley. the rest of a sparrow and ruining a good “Never mind,” said her father, “we pane of glass, had not a young groom, will start without him, and he can join returning home from a night off in the us at his pleasure.” town, heard the alarm-bell in the house When Singleton came down - stairs of his master and thrown himself cour- Miss Thorley greeted him rather coldly. ageously in the path of the fugitives. “ They have started,” she told him, He was a brawny lad, ,well able to “ and father said you might follow if give an account of himself, and he gave you cared to.” the tallest of the three a sharp tussle for “Oh, well, now, isn’t that too bad?” one of the ruffian’s com- said Singleton calmly. “ I didn’t a moment ; but know rades came to his rescue, and quickly there was such a rush. And they’ve rendered the poor groom hors de combat taken all the artillery with them, I’ll by hammering his head vigorously with wager.” a heavy jimmy. “ Must you be armed cap-a-pie to When Mr. Thorley ran out with a hunt for a few footpads?” asked the number of his male guests, the inter- girl with some acidity. lopers were far away, and the groom lay “ Why, no,” laughed Singleton. “ I 4 there, his face turned up to the moon, wonder that they cared to go out like a with a fractured skull. A motor - car squad of musketeers. I shall be satis- was quickly brought from the garag#, fied with one of those stout sticks in the and he was hurried to the .hospital in the hall-rack; my own is rather light for a died without regaining town ; but he combat.” consciousness. He lighted a cigarette and chose the There was little sleep in the house heaviest stick in his host’s collection that of the women were forth trail the after ; some then he sauntered to hysterical and required medical attend- posse. ance, and the men sat up and smoked The neighborhood was thoroughly and talked of various methods of run- aroused by the cruel death of the groom, ning the bandits to earth. and most of the men were assisting in telegraphed to all the The alarm was the search ; so Singleton had some dif- neighboring towns, and it was decided ficulty in getting information as to the that as soon as day dawned the men direction the party had taken; but soon would start out under the leadejship of he got a general idea of their proposed a deputy sheriff and scour the country- route, and calculated that he might, by side. It seemed very probable that the fast walking, come up with them in half ruffians would hide near by until oppor- an hour. tunity offered an easy escape out of the Over the hills he strode, paying little region. heed to the quest of the robbers, as the As the gray light came in at the win- posse had already covered the ground. dows, the men proceeded to arm them- As he gained a high eminence he saw de- selves with care ; the gun-room was on the next hilltop, outlined against the pleted of shotguns, and Thorley scraped sky, several figures. They seemed to up a revolver or two. pause for a while, and then took up the “Where is Singleton?” he inquired. march and came toward him, evidently “ Gone back to bed,” sniffed Brooks retracing their steps. with contempt. He at once started down the hilly “ But I am sure he intends to go with road to meet them in the valley. ; ;

THAT STICK AND SINGLETON. 221

A few clouds had gathered, the sun “ Well, you tell us what to do with was obscured, and soon a few large him then,” said the first speaker. “ Maybe fell in quicker like to drops ; then a few more you’d take him along with us for cadence, and a roaring summer shower a pet.” broke over the valley. There was no The desperado thought deeply, glan- athletic hope of avoiding a soaking ; but Single- cing over the form of Singleton ton turned up his collar and raced for then he looked at the walking-stick, the the nearest shelter, which happened to knife, and the revolver, each in turn. “ ” be a deserted shanty that had once done Kill ’im ! he growled gutturally. “ duty as a farmhouse. We’ve done one already ; might just as As he neared it he saw that the well do two.” cracked and shrunken door was closed The other two flinched slightly, but but he was thinking solely of escaping Singleton held himself together. as much of the rain as possible, and he “ Sir, you are a man of action. There went at the door like a battering-ram. is nothing like thoroughness,” he ob- It was apparently fastened with a rusty served coolly. “ old bolt ; but the wood gave way, and he Pretty fresh at that,” said the man inside. “ landed of the gun ; you’d better shut up.” It quite dimly lighted by two At that moment voices heard was . were small windows, shaded by the wild echoing faintly from the valley. Sin- growth of lilacs outside, and he did not gleton and the robbers started nervously see he looked listened. clearly for an instant ; then and The posse must be within about him and discovered that he was the five hundred yards of the shanty, and center of a group of three. the men would be -sure to notice that the They had none of the air of peaceable door had been forced in since they had rustics, ready to welcome him to shelter; inspected it in the morning. one black-visaged fellow stood glower- “ You let out one peep and you’re a ing at him and training a vicious-looking dead one,” said the man with the gun, derringer menacingly; the other two brandishing it slightly. were prepared to make flank attacks at “My God! ye’re not goin’ to stay any moment with a long knife and a here like this and wait to see if they’re black-jack, respectively. cornin’ to call, are yer?” demanded an- “ I fear I intrude?” remarked Sin- other fellow. gleton. “No,” said the first; “we’d better “ Well, that’s about the size of it,” gag this lad now and take ’im up in the said the man with the gun “ but you’d garret and keep quiet.” ; better stay right where you are, and The man with the knife set about don’t move your hands round too much. searching for a rope and a suitable gag, I’m pretty nervous, and I might let the while the other two eyed Singleton as gun go off accidental.” though dreading to lay hands on him. Singleton leaned against the table in His stick was stout and his eye deter-

the middle of the room and tried to pre- mined ; but he leaned calmly against the serve some nonchalance, fingering his table, apparently indifferent to what walking-stick idly, but prepared to grip they were saying or planning.

it firmly and defend himself at any mo- The voices now sounded much nearer, ment. and Singleton knew that lie could make “What we goin’ to do with ’im?” his friends hear if he shouted loudly; asked the man with the knife. but the derringer in the hand of the The man with the. gun deliberated for stupid brute before him had to be reck- a moment. oned with, as well as the long knife and “ Gag him and tie him up in thg the bludgeon. garret. I guess,” he suggested. He still toyed with the stick idly to “ ” Pah ! said the fellow with the conceal his agitation, and he wondered “ they’d find ’im within how far he might black-jack ; depend on his old twenty-four hours, and he’d give the training as a fencer to defend him with police a full description of our mugs and a cane against three more dangerous our clothes and everything.” weapons. If luck were on his side, the —

222 THE ARGOSY. stick was heavy enough to break the wrist brought down the stick upon* the wrist of the derringer-man in one quick blow, of the man before him, knocking the and then the other two might be settled derringer to the floor and exploding it. with as many thrusts in the neck, if the At the same time he shouted wildly for direction of his lunge was still reliable. help. The odds were unquestionably three As he jumped backward, the man with to one; but he was a good sportsman, the knife rushed at him and thrust wild- and they didn’t seem so heavy. As one’s ly, before he could draw his new-found at mind turns on the most trivial things weapon ; but with an upward motion the gravest moments, he thought, for a Singleton buried the ferrule of the stick passing instant, how finely polished and in the softest part of the man’s neck. satiny the stick was as it slipped through The fellow went over backward and lay his fingers; and in the next he started upon the floor without moving. with ill-concealed excitement. At that fnoment the man with the His forefinger had suddenly encoun- maimed wrist and his remaining pal fled tered a peculiar excrescence on the up the stairs to the garret like fright- smooth surface of the Malacca. It could ened rabbits, as the door was thrown mean but one thing; a beautifully fin- open and the room swarmed with ex- ished stick like that would hardly have cited men. chance flaws and knots in its surface. The two men in the garret were soon His face flushed with pleasure and relief routed out and handcuffed, and a farm- as the little knot yielded to the pressure wagon was procured to take them to the finger plain, jail of his ; the inoffensive walk- county and their apparently life- ing-stick was the envelope of one of those less comrade to the hospital. Then the little aristocrats of the great family of Thorley party made its way home by cold steel, a Damascus dueling-blade the shortest route, and Thorley proceed- triangular, elastic, tough—with a point ed to celebrate the heroism of Singleton as sharp as a cambric needle. in a truly Pickwickian fashion. He would have but to press the small Wine was fetched from the cellar and button, whip the slender blade from its a repast was laid, and every one had to disguising case, and he would be as well shake the hero by the hand several times armed as any good fencer cares to be. and assure him that no one else would But the gun might go off first, and he have had the courage to contend with decided that his first move was to strike three ruffians single-handed in a half-

the weapon from the man’s hand ; then lighted room. Brooks was a little stiff, he could jump back against the door and remembering his slurs of the morning; defend himself against all comers with but he assured Singleton that it was the naked blade. really a fine thing to do. The posse was evidently within two “You did just what I. expected you hundred yards of the house, but moving would do if you had the opportunity,” the with the gun whispered Ethel Thorley, blushing slowly ; and man and looked around uneasily as the searcher pressing his hand more than cordially. “ ” returned with an old cord, a rag, and a Oh, now, let me have a word ! bit of wood. He looked at Singleton laughed Singleton. “ I don’t want all almost kindly. the glory of this affair without explain- *“ Now, you be sensible and do as we ing some of the inside of it. You see, tell yer, and you’ll get along all right,” I thought I had an ordinary walking- he said. stick when I tumbled into the shanty “ Very well,” replied Singleton. with those fellows, and I believed I had “What shall I do first?” a rather slim chance in a scrimmage with “ back,” Drop that club and turn yer them ; but my household gods were with

ordered the man ; and, as the approach- me, and I suddenly discovered a little ing voices sounded suddenly nearer, he button on the stick, which told me that “ ” added : And be blame quick about it ! I was armed with a good sword-cane. “ ” “ Yes ! shouted Singleton ; let’s be That gave me a great burst of courage, quick.” and without further .consideration I And with the speed of lightning he plunged into the mess, and they dis- ” : ! ” :

AT HIS MERCY. 223 persed before 1 had even time to draw Thorley had a slight relapse, but my trusty blade.” managed to gasp to the butler who was At this moment, while the audience in attendance was listening to the narrative with bated “ Go fetch me that heavy stick from breath, inarticulate, apoplectic sounds the hall-stand.” drew all eyes to Mr. Thorley, who was The butler brought in the now-famous seen to be purple in the face from sup- Malacca cane, and all eyes were turned

it pressed laughter. upon with reverence ; but Thorley “My word! Oh, Lord! Oh, save seized it and, still shaking with laughter, ” me ! he howled, rocking backward and pressed the button with his fat thumb, forward and holding his sides. took off the upper part of the stick, and “What is the matter?” shouted every disclosed to the view of the astonished one at the same time. audience, in the lower section, the mouth

“Are you ill, father?” cried Ethel. of a glass tube from which he decanted “No—no!” he gasped, partially re- into his wine-glass a fluid which resem- “ covering ; but Singleton ! Oh, Single- bled good brandy. ton, you will be the death of me ! Didn’t As Singleton and the rest began to you draw that keen blade from its scab- recover their wits and grasp the situa- bard at all, you rogue?” tion, Thorley raised his glass and said “ “ “ Why, no,” answered Singleton. I I propose a toast to the hero who, found that the danger was over before armed with his trusty brandy - flask, ft had well begun, and I really never fought and captured three desperadoes, thought to look at the blade afterward.” single-handed.” AT HIS MERCY. By JOHNSTON McCULLBY,

Author of “ Land of Lost Hope," “ Shipmates With Horror,” etc.

How a great city became practically dead, and the strange con-

ditions encountered by those who braved the perils of the place.

CHAPTER 1. utes amounts to something when we’re

driving the crack train of the road ! Do THE INVISIBLE WALL. you take this for an annulled freight? T ten minutes after the hour of We’ll get called by the old man as much A noon, on a bright day in April, as though that five minutes was five the South Coast Limited was speeding hours ! This is the last time I’m going ” toward the city of Merton at a rate of to try— What the deuce ! sixty miles an hour. The fireman gave a cry of alarm. Jerry Calkins, the veteran engineer, Jerry Calkins answered it with a cry of grasped the throttle firmly, and his eyes wonder. Then he swung on the throttle watched closely the twin lines of steel quickly, and stood on the floor of the ahead. The train was due at Merton cab, shaking like a nervous wreck, great in three minutes, and was seven miles drops of perspiration standing out on from the Union Station. Calkins was his face and arms. a man who detested being behind time. “What—what was it?” the fireman Suddenly the locomotive whistle gasped. shrieked. For the limited, running at a mile a “ Well, we’re at the junction tower,” minute, had suddenly stopped, as though commented his fireman. “ We’ll not be it had crashed against a stone wall “ more than five minutes late at that. I — I thought we’d jumped the — “ — And after all the bad luck we’ve had track!” Jerry gasped. W-what “ ” “ ” still ! Shut up, you fool ! Calkins cried We’re on the track the fire- above the roar of the train. “ Five min- man cried. “What did it?” ! ” —

224 THE ARGOSY.

There came a chorus of cries from the and the fireman sprang to the ground coaches and sleepers behind. Passengers immediately, and looked over the loco- poured from the cars and ran alongside motive. the train toward the locomotive. “ She’s as good as the day she came They had been thrown violently from from the shops!” Jerry reported. “ ” their seats; many of them had received There’s nothing wrong with her ! serious cuts and bruises. They ex- “ Maybe she just had a spasm,” the pected to find the results of a head-on fireman suggested. “ Locomotives do collision, to see mangled bodies of en- funny things sometimes.” ginemen, to gaze upon twisted steel “You’re right there!” said Jerry. where monster locomotives had been be- “ Well, we’ll try it again.” fore. They got back in the cab, and Jerry Instead, they found the locomotive, backed the long train. tender, baggage and mail cars standing “ She seems to be all right now,” he “ on the track uninjured, looking just the remarked. Confound it ! This will same as though the train had been under put us back another five minutes.” the great train-shed at Merton The train came to a stop, and then “What is it, Jerry?” the conductor began to move forward. cried, pushing his way through the “She’s all right!” Jerry cried. ” crowd. “ Well, wouldn’t this thing jar you? “ We—we stopped,” the engineer mut- “ Funny,” commented the fireman. tered. The locomotive arrived at the place “ I should think you did, and you where it had stqpped so peculiarly be- piled up every one behind you. But fore, and it stopped again! why did you stop her?” Jerry shut off steam, then opened the “ ” I— I didn’t stop her ! the engineer throttle slowly, then threw it open answered. “ She stopped while the quickly, and tried every trick of his pro- throttle was wide open, just as I was fession. But the locomotive seemed throwing her open wider after passing— glued to that one spot. the junction tower. I don’t know He could move the train backward, he “ I thought you’d pulled up to pre- could move it forward to a certain point vent a collision,” the conductor went —then it stopped. Aqd the great dri- on. “ Something the matter with the ving-wheels spun around on the rails locomotive, perhaps. Look her over. just the same, whether the track was I’ll get these people away, so you can sanded or not, but the giant locomotive ” work ! wouldn’t move forward an inch. The conductor turned to the passen- Jerry shut off steam again. His face gers. was white, and he was shaking. “ ” “ All aboard ! he cried. All “What on earth is it?” the fireman ” aboard ! cried. “But why did he stop?” chorused a The conductor had made his way for- hundred voices. ward a second time, and sprang into, the The conductor was something of a cab to ask questions. Jerry explained diplomat, and had the honor of the road all that he knew. The conductor at heart. He smiled down at them from laughed. his position on the steps of the loco- Jerry illustrated by backing the train motive. and approaching slowly. There was no “ Just thank your stars that you were doubting for the conductor, then. The riding behind an engineer who had sense engine was under perfect control any- enough to stop the minute he knew where except at that particular place on something was wrong, instead of taking the track. The train would back as far a chance and wrecking you while you as the engineer desired it, and approach were so near home—and don’t ask ques- at any speed until it reached that spot tions now,” he said. then it would stop suddenly. Muttering among themselves at the “Just like running up against a stone unsatisfactory reply, the passengers wall,” said the fireman. “ made their way back to the cars. Jerry But you can see a stone wall,” re- !

AT IIIS MERCY. 225

plied the conductor. “ And you can’t to Jerry, dashed away on its long jour- ” see anything here ! ney. They made a quick examination of “Well, wouldn’t that jar you?” the track. Everything seemed to be all Jerry exclaimed. right. The mystery was beyond explain-; “ What’s the matter here?” the super- big. intendent cried. “ Don’t you know how “ If there’s anything the matter with to run an engine? Do you know you’ve that locomotive, it’s something I’ve never got a few hundred passengers behind run across before, and I’ve railroaded you that are swearing at this road and some,” Jerry said. every one connected with it? What’s “ But there isn’t any other explana- the trouble?” i “ tion,” the conductor retorted. I — 1 don’t know, sir,” Jerry replied. “ Well, it is no use to try to run in He explained at length to the su- town again,” Jerry went on. “ It’s time perintendent, and the superintendent for the outgoing limited to be coming laughed, as the conductor had done. along, too. We’ll have to take a Jerry, therefore, demonstrated. ” siding ! He backed the train and handled it “ I’ll send a brakeman back to the with his usual skill. Then he ran it

it junction tower to wire in,” the conduct- forward ; but when reached that point or said. “ The limited won’t come out in the track, the locomotive jarred and while we’re on this block.” stopped. The brakeman was sent back with the “Jumping Jerusalem!” exploded the report—a report which stated that at superintendent. “ But we can’t stop to

a certain place in the track, Jerry’s loco- explain it now ! Send some one back motive had stopped like a balky horse, to the tower and order out another en- it and refused to budge an inch ; that gine. Uncouple, Jerry, and leave the seemed everything was all right as long train on the main track. Then take that as no attempt was made to pass that one antiquated pile of junk you’re running ” spot. It was suggested that the out- and put it on the side track ! going limited run slowly until it had In time, the other locomotive arrived passed the side-tracked ingoing train from the yards. It passed the myste- and the junction tower. rious stretch of track safely. It coupled The superintendent swore when he on to the limited, and started to pull. train got that message ; then he ran down and The gathered speed and ap- got on the outgoing limited, and ordered proached that mysterious spot. Jerry it to proceed. When the train rounded and his fireman and the superintendent the curve out of the yards, those on its stood beside the track, watching. locomotive could see Jerry’s train side- And when the train reached the spot, tracked and waiting. The track seemed it stopped again all right. “ What the—” the official began. “ Something wrong with Jerry’s en- He ran forward, with Jerry and the gine, that’s all,” muttered the superin- fireman at his heels. tendent. “ I thought he’d been in the The other engineer was swearing and business long enough to know an en- trying everything of which he could ” gine ! think to carry his train beyond that Those on Jerry’s locomotive watched spot. closely as the other train approached. “ Guess my engine’s gone back on me, It was running slowly, the engineer ap- sir,” he said, as the superintendent came parently using great caution. It ap- running up. proached the spot beyond which Jerry’s The passengers were piling out of the train had refused to go—now it was cars again, some of them business men, upon it, now it had passed, and the last who looked at their watches and mut- car rattling over it as the foremost tered things about was the road ; others were cars came abreast of Jerry’s locomotive. travelers who were missing connections. The superintendent sprang off, and the They crowded around the superintend- outgoing train, its locomotive giving a ent and demanded an explanation. The whistle that seemed to be one of derision official was in agony. 3 A ! —

226 THE ARGOSY.

“ There’s only one thing to do,” he with them, and tried to walk down the “ cried. We don’t know what’s the mat- track, and could not do it. ter, hut it is evidently something in the At first they were amazed, and then, track. We can’t make a locomotive go after repeated futile attempts to move past this spot. You’ll have to walk down forward, their amazement gave place to the track half a mile to the nearest terror. What was wrong? Apparently, street-car. We’ll get your baggage to here was nothing but a stretch of ordi- the station as quickly as possible. If nary railroad track, and ordinary at- you are sustaining losses, you’ll have to mosphere, but at a certain point it seemed sue the road, I guess. I can’t help it, they ran against an invisible wall, and and these men of mine can’t. We can’t could go no farther. take a train past that spot, and that’s all It doesn’t take terror long to fasten ” there is to it ! itself upon people when it is founded There was a chorus of objections, but on something seemingly supernatural. they soon ceased, and the passengers re- In ten minutes the passengers of the turned to the coaches for their hand- limited constituted a frenzied mob. baggage. There was nothing to do ex- They ran to either side of the track, a cept to adopt the superintendent’s plan. hundred yards—two—three hundred They started down the track, two and tried to walk toward the city there, traveling men leading the crowd. As but always it was the" same. they came to the mysterious spot, a few A tramp walking out from tlie city yards away, which the superintendent observed the crowd, and wondered what liad pointed out as the one beyond which the trouble was. They stopped their the train could not go, their interest in- crazed actions to watch him. He cami- creased, and they inspected the track. on—and passed the invisible wall. “Looks like an ordinary track to me, They surrounded him. tried to explain, and that outgoing train didn’t seem to finally persuaded him to try to walk have any trouble here,” one of the trav- back. He did more than try to walk eling men remarked. “ That superin- back. He tried to run back, with fear tendent’s lying, for some reason. Hope in his heart, for he thought a crowd of a hundred sue the road—and get what lunatics was at his heels. ” they sue for ! Rotten management ! And when he reached that invisible The other was walking some distance wall, he came to a quick stop in front of him. Suddenly he stopped, At this juncture, one of the travel- backed up, started forward, and stopped, ing men noticed a team being driven again. Then he dropped his grip on the along a near-by road—from the city to ground and went through the pantomime the country. It passed out safely. An- of pushing against something with all other team was going toward the city. his strength. It stopped! To the man behind, it looked as The driver lashed his horses, but they though he was pushing against the air. could not move forward. The driver “ Are you crazy, too, pal ? ” he cried himself started to run ahead to pick up loudly. a club that lay in the road—but he The other looked around; his face couldn’t get to the club! was white, horror written in every line A dog trotted down the track toward of it. the city. When he reached the invisible “ ” Try to walk past here ! he ex- wall, he stopped, acted peculiarly, then claimed. turned tail and fled, howling with all “ Past where? I don’t see anything.” the power of his lungs! “ “ Neither do I. But try to walk down What does it mean ? What does it the track.” mean?” the people were crying. “Think I can’t? Just watch me!” But nobody knew. But he didn’t proceed far. He Human beings, domestic animals, stopped, as the other had done, and trains—things animate and inanimate, looked around with a puzzled expression no matter what their motive power on his face. could pass, coming from the city, to the Then the rest of the crowd caught up outside. ! — ! ! — !

AT HIS MERCY. 227

But nothing could pass froih the out- several thousand people found themselves side into the city! outside when night came, and unable to return. Business men were separated from their CHAPTER II. establishments. Employees who worked at night were unable to go to their labor. THE ONLY MEN IN TOWN. Husbands were separated from their There was a press telegrapher on wives, fathers and mothers from their Jerry Calkins’s train. He offered his children. services, and was taken back to the junc- There was no sleep in Merton that tion tower, where the regular operator night. The people crowded the business was deposed and the more expert man sat section and discussed the affair. Street down before the key. preachers took advantage of it. Throngs He managed to get his wire connected on -every corner read the latest bulletins with telegraph headquarters in Merton. sent by the telegraphers outside. Then he tapped out the story. Morning dawned upon a scene of ter- Headquarters did not believe at first. ror. Thousands of messages came from The chief thought some raving maniac the outside, telling relatives and friends had gained possession of the tower. But to leave the city of mystery. People col- soon there came messages from other lected their valuables, drew their money points—from east and west and north from the banks, and got away as rapidly and they told substantially the same as possible. story. Outgoing trains were crowded. By The invisible wall seemed to surround noon one-third of the two hundred thou- the city sand inhabitants had passed out. The newspapers came out with extra And every one found it impossible to editions and made the news public. And return ! the people laughed At first the outside world laughed, too. Then the leading paper, a conservative But gradually it dawned upon the nation organ, announced that it had sent its best that the story was no hoax. Something man to the place where Jerry’s train was unusual was happening at Merton—some- standing, and, that their man, after gath- thing unlike anything that had ever hap- ering the facts was not able to reenter pened in history. the city! Trains carried thousands of excursion- The news spread throughout the town ists who wanted to test the invisible wall. with great rapidity. The electric lines Scientists rushed to the scene. did a thriving business, especially the one In three days Merton was surrounded which had a terminus within half a mile by a great camp. The Governor of the of where Jerry’s train was stalled. State ordered out the militia to preserve Crowds of people left the cars there and order. The War Department was ap- hurried down the track toward the crowd pealed to, and a regiment of regular outside. troops sent to aid the State guardsmen. They rushed forward, heard the story And out of the city poured the from the others, and started to rush back inhabitants, intent only upon quitting to spread it among later arrivals. And the dreaded circle of mystery they found they could not get back Inside the invisible wall riot reigned. The people were divided into two Peace officers, with fear in their hearts, classes. One class still laughed, and were deserting their posts. Everything the other class wanted to experiment ; was at a standstill. Every one stopped thought it some trick, and did not even work to leave the city. take the trouble to laugh. At tile end of the week the place People who journeyed to the invisible seemed deserted by women and children, wall could see nothing unusual except only now and then one being seen, and the peculiar antics of the people outside. by all men except a few who remained Every person went out sure that he, or at their posts, and the criminal class, she, would be able to return where the part of which ignored their fear long others had failed. And in this manner enough to profit by the occurrence. 228 THE ARGOSY.

About the end of the first week, there- night-telegrapher, Fred Haverson. That fore, the city of Merton, but a few days morning they had gone to their boarding- before so beautiful and prosperous, was house as usual and turned in, after a an inferno. A few hundred coarse char- strenuous night’s work. acters roamed the streets, looting resi- They had the entire house to them- dences and business houses. selves, and they slept in a bed that had Their senses numbed by liquor, they not been made up, and were forced to go committed every crime of which they to that bed without a meal, except such could think. One by one they made their a one as they evolved from canned goods way from town, carrying with them their taken from a little grocery. ill-gotten gains. The two men awoke about four in the And after a few days of this, after afternoon. the first excitement of crime wore away, “ Well, Bob,” Haverson asked. “ what ” to these low criminals began fear ; and are we going to do ? one day, following a night during which “ Go to work,” Bob Calkins answered. ” there had been a thunder-storm unusual- “ Are we going to stick? “ ” ly violent, they seemed to rush from the We are ! city in a drove, maddened by a fear that “ All right—you’re the boss.” had come upon them mysteriously in a “ You didn’t want to throw up your moment. job, did you? ” Bob demanded. It was that same day that the day- “ N-no—not exactly. Only, it's get- telegraphers at headquarters deserted the ting spooky working in an infernal city wire, absolutely refusing to remain at like this. ( Ireat Scott ! How those chaps their posts a moment longer, and the were tearing the town to pieces yester- ” wires went dead. day ! The thousands outside could get no “Dirty ghouls!” commented Bob word. In the junction tower, and in Calkins. “ We’re decent, anyway, and the other near-by telegraph stations out- we haven’t lost our nerve yet. And we’ve side, operators in vain called headquar- been honest, thank God, in spite of all ters. There was no answer. the temptation we’ve had ! We haven’t Jerry Calkins was at the junction taken a thing that didn’t belong to us. tower, where he spent a great part of his except something to eat from the gro- time when not pulling the special trains ceries and the bakeries — and I guess that ran from the invisible wall to the they’d ought to allow —us that.” next division - point on the road. He “ Speaking of eating ” began Fred. heard people saying that all of the teleg- “ We’ll eat now,” laughed Bob. raphers had deserted. “Come along! Got your revolver? “ “ Not all,” he cried. You can bet That’s good ! We’re liable to need it.” _ my son hasn’t.” They left the house and walked rap- “Your son?” said the mayor of Mer- idly toward the central part of the town. ton, who happened to be present. They saw not a single person. Doors “ sir. night-shift. here Yes, He’s on the stood open ; and there a dog or horse Bob Calkins—that’s his name. He’s been wandered up the street. There was not trained right—and you can bet he hasn’t the usual jangling of street - cars, the deserted his post.” rumbling of trucks, the chug-chug of “ But the wire is dead,” complained an motors, the sound of hurrying footsteps. operator. The great silence was oppressive. ” “ “ Didn’t I say Bob worked flights? ’Tis rather spooky,” Bob muttered. demanded Jerry. “You wait until it’s “ Guess every one’s gone,” said Fred. time for him to go to work, and he’ll be “Nonsense! They’re merely so scat- there, ready to do his duty.” tered that we don’t happen to run into “ so,” replied. Let us hope said the mayor ; but anybody,” Bob the way he said it indicated that he had They entered a grocery, the doors of no hope himself. Personally the mayor which stood wide open, and began de- didn’t blame any one for deserting the bating on what sort of food they would city. He had deserted himself. eat. Bob Calkins roomed with another The store had been ransacked for val- ” !—

AT 1IIS MERCY. 229 uables, and presented a weird appearance. go out in the suburbs, find some house Fred Haverson seated himself upon where the people formerly burned kero- the counter, with a link of sausage in sene,! and collect a few lamps.” one hand and some crackers in the other. Tliey reached the great Electrical Bob opened two cans of pears and a tin Building, in which the telegraph company of preserved meat. had its headquarters. The operating- “ There’s no limit to the bill of fare,” room was on the seventh floor, but on Bob remarked. the ground floor were the general offices. “ But this sort of thing is going to These were deserted. get monotonous,” Fred objected. “ Creat Scott! We haven’t seen a “ Well, we can change eating-houses person on our way down! ” Haverson ex- \ as often as we like,” Bob replied. “ And claimed. \ we must select some place where we can “ Well, we’ll find several persons up on do a little cooking. Can you make cof- the seventh floor ready to eat us alive for fee?” being late,” Bob replied. “ Don’t you “ ” Sure ! suppose those day-operators want to get ” ” “ Cook meat? off and have their dinner? “ Of course.” “ I never appreciated an elevator until “ Then we’re all right. We’ll be able now,” said Haverson, as they began their to find fresh meat for quite a time in the climb-to the seventh floor. Elevator-boys refrigerators. Then we’ll have to descend had deserted early in the game. to bacon. Oh, we’ll have plenty to eat 'They reached the seventh floor at last, as long as we remain in town.” and started dowm the long corridor. To ” “ How about something to drink? their ears came the noise of a sounder— I-Iaverson asked. “ The water-works are some one seemed to be calling headquar- deserted, of course, and the water in the ters frantically. mains will be getting stale before many They entered the first room and hung days. And neither of us is a boozer.” up their hats and coats. No one was “ We’ve got all kinds of time to find there. 'Then they threw open the door a well, and the right to look in any one’s leading to the general operating-room. yard for it,” Bob answered. “ Forget No burst of noise welcomed them about those things—-we’ll get along all no frantic ticking of keys and relays and right. What we want to think about is sounders. this confounded mystery. What on earth Headquarters was deserted. There was ” do you suppose it is? not a single man sitting before a key “ It’s my private opinion,” answered “ What—” began Haverson. “ “ ” Haverson, that the whole town has They’re gone ! Bob cried. gone insane. Fancy not being able to “ But—what— “ walk through ordinary air ! I’ve got a Deserted like the others! Nice bunch ” ” notion to go out ‘and have a try myself ! of telegraphers ! Bob cried. Bob Calkins grasped him by the arm. “ I don’t know as I blame them,” “ That’s exactly what several thousand Haverson said, looking around the room. “ ” persons did, and found they were unable This thing is getting on my nerves ! to get back,” he said. “ Don’t get to Bob Calkins hurried over to him and thinking about that. Let’s get down to grasped him roughly by the arm. “ ” they’ve solved the mystery ! “ work ; maybe Buck up, Fred he said. You’ve since morning.” been my particular friend for several They went on through the deserted years, and I want you to stick by me city, seeing no one. Bob had been wise now.” enough to take several candles from the “ You’re going to stay—when every grocery. one else is gone?” Haverson asked. “ We’ll need them,” he explained to “ We’re going to stay,” replied Bob. Haverson. “ There’ll be no electric “ But—” “ lights to-night—no workmen at the plant. Nonsense, man ! Forget the infernal And we’ll not be able to find any kero- mystery, and play that you are a boy out sene - lamps in the Electrical Building.” for a lark. Who ever had such a chance “ “ To-morrow,” said Haverson, we’ll before? Why, we’ve got the whole city — :

230 THE ARGOS V.

for a playground ! You can play at “not even an old father! If you have and I’ll council, ” mayor, be the and we’ll nerve enough to stay, so have I ! close the saloons and have all sorts of fun. We’ll be famous, Fred—only men with nerve enough to stay in Merton, and CHAPTER III. ” all that ! MYSTERIES AX'D A VOICE. Bob didn’t care for the fame, but he was trying to make Haverson see the thing At the junction tower the operator in a different light. kept stabbing at the key, calling head- “And what’s the harm?” he went on. quarters in Merton. He got no answer. “ No one has been hurt in the city. Noth- Old Jerry Calkins, who stood near, ing unusual has happened here. It’s just was looking at his watch. “ that confounded so-called invisible wall In five minutes my boy will report out there that keeps everything out, and for work,” he said, “ and then you’ll get that has frightened the people half to an answer.” “ I doubt it,” death ! We don’t know anything about muttered the operator to it, and we don’t care! We’ll just hold the mayor, who was bending over the key. “ I swear I down our jobs ! Think of the fun of wouldn’t stick in town, not being the only people that can tell those knowing what sort of an infernal thing outside what is going on—the only teleg- is going on in this neighborhood.” ” raphers in town! The five minutes passed, and still the “ And I guess the only men in the operator’s call went unanswered. An- city,” added Haverson. “ We didn’t see other five minutes were ticked off. There any one, remember.” was a trace of keen disappointment and “ Then it’s all the better. Won’t you pain in Jerry’s face. “ stick with me, Fred? There’s no plague The boy’ll be there, if he’s alive,” he “ or disease, and nothing, it seems, to harm kept repeating. He won’t desert—he us. Stick until we are frightened by won’t desert.” “ something worse than that invisible wall, It’s too much for the boy’s nerves, anyway.” Jerry,” said the mayor kindly.’ “ — “ I— I don’t know ” Fred began. He’ll be there, I say—if he’s alive.” “ Come on, old man, don’t be a cow- Just then the wire was “broken,” the operator ard ! There’ll be two of us, remember. shut his key with a snap, the We’ll have all sorts of fun. But it’s not wire was opened again, and there came the fun, Fred. Some one ought to be the answer to the call 11 in town, and we’re the only ones left that << J can use a key. We’re the historians of “Merton? Merton?” questioned the this affair, Fred. We can write magazine tower operator. 11 articles when we get out, if we want to. (( J And then we ought to hold down our “Who’s talking?” jobs.” “ Calkins.” “ But even the chief has left,” pro- The tower operator turned around in tested Fred. his chair. can play “ Calkins talking. “What do we care? You The old engineer . chief, if you want to. Let’s be game was right,” he said. “ enough to stick to our posts.” I knew it,” Jerry cried. “ I knew Fred walked to the window and looked my boy wouldn’t desert.” out at the lifeless street below. But the operator had turned to the “ I’ve got no one in the world except key again, and was asking questions as “ my old dad,” said Bob. He was pulling rapidly as he could tick them off. Whefi the train that first ran into the wall. I’d the answers came he called them aloud. rather run the risk of never seeing him “ How’S everything? ” he inquired. again than to desert now and have him “ Every one has deserted. We found call me a coward —and that’s what he’d headquarters without anybody on duty.” ” do!” “ Any one left in town? Haverson whirled upon him. “ We didn’t see a person on our way “ I haven’t any one. Bob.” he said to work.” AT HIS MERCY. 231

” “ You say we. Who’s the other one? but can’t see lights anywhere, except out- “ Haverson. He’s with me.” side invisible wall.” “Will you stick?” the tower operator Bob closed the key, and the tower demanded. operator broke in. “ Yes.” “ Mayor instructs yourself and Haver- The wire was “ broken ” again, and son to use all stores necessary and make from uiiles across the country there came yourselves comfortable. If you see any- a message from the division chief, who thing suspicious, report immediately. Be had been listening: careful to keep wire in order at your “ Your message overheard. Superin- end. The city is cut off from the world tendent of company says he thanks Cal- if this wire goes down.” kins and Haverson for their nerve and “ We’ll be careful,” Bob wired. attention to duty. Asks that they as- “ Your father sends his regards, and sume charge of office and company’s says for you to stick.” “ property, and arrange it among them- 'Fell dad I’ll stick.” selves so that one man will be on duty all There was silence then, for a time. the time. The company will pay each of Fred had given the same information to you fifty dollars a day, and in addition the north, and the two operators, having will not forget your service.” nothing more to wire, walked to the Haverson was standing over Bob’s key window and glanced over the city. when that message came in. There was not a flash of light, not a “ Tell him we’ll stick with or without sound from those streets which were that; raise of pay,” he said. usually thronged at that hour. From the But Bob was already working the key, distance came the bay of a dog. It was, and that information was wired to the indeed, a dead city. Far away they could superintendent. see lights where the crowds surrounded- Then Fred went to another key and the town outside the invisible wall. “ talked with the north, while Bob re- Rather lonesome here,” observed mained talking to the south through the Fred. junction tower. Bob asked whether any “ But it’s all right, just the same,” progress had been made toward solving added Bob quickly. “ Everything de- the mystery. pends upon us now, Fred.” “ Scientists are now making their way Just then Haverson uttered a cry. completely around the city, following the Bob sprang to the window again. What “ invisible wall,” came the reply. Ex- he saw startled him. pect to arrive back at tower to-night Throughout the city row after row of some time, and turn in report. What are street lights were flashing. Gradually conditions inside?” the entire city was illuminated. Incan- “ Criminals looted city,” Bob wired. descents glowed on roof-gardens, and be- “ Stores and residences broken open and fore theaters. But for the absence of articles of value taken. Several bank human beings the dead city was alive vaults blown open.” once more. “Troops are searching every one who “What does it mean?” Haverson “ comes out,” was the answer, and have cried. already arrested many of the looters. “ Some good chap has stuck to his job, “ What else?” that’s all,” Bob answered. Let’s say ” * ’ “ We are taking liberty of getting food hallo to him ! in groceries and bakeries. W ater in He rushed to the telephone to call the locate a But after he had stood mains is growing stale, but we’ll electric-plant. well. Guess we’ll have to find an oil-stove at the instrument for a moment he made and cook up here in the operating-room, a grimace and hung up the receiver. continually. “ I forgot,” he said. “ The Central if we have to be on duty girls are not at work.” No lights, of course, except candles. “ I’m sorry we can’t talk to the fel- Believe the city is wholly deserted. Went added Haverson. “ It up on tower of building, and couldn t lows at the plant,” as would help some if we could. We might locate a human being on any street dark now, even get them to eat with us. No sense far as I could see. Growing

f ” ” ” ” ”

232 THE ARGOS V.

in running the electric lights, from “ It didn’t come from the plant ; that what I can see.” much is certain. They can’t generate “ Look out of the other window,” in- power down there without burning coal “ structed Bob, and see if you can see the and making smoke. What do you sup- smoke from the plant. You generally pose— can see it from there. It’ll cure your He stopped, and glanced at Haverson lonesomeness.” with an expression of wonderment in his Fred hurried to the window. face. The telephone bell was ringing. “Why, there’s no smoke!” he cried. “ Somebody’s alive in this old town “ That’s funny, too. You can always see. besides us, after all,” Bob gasped. “ An- a cloud of it in front of the lights at the swer it, Fred, while I watch the key.” railroad shops.” Haverson sprang to the telephone and “No smoke?” laughed Bob. took down the receiver. He went over to look. Fred had “Hallo! Hallo!” he called. Then spoken the truth. There was not a bit he took his ear away quickly. “ The con- of smoke hanging over the power-house. founded chump—whoever it is—doesn’t “ You can’t run all the electric lights stop ringing,” he exclaimed. “ He won’t in town without making some smoke,” give me a chance to talk. Listen to him said Haverson. “ What clo you sup- ring.” pose— Bob rushed to the instrument and put A call at one of the sounders inter- the receiver to his ear. There was a rupted him. Bob answered it. It was buzz—the telephone was still ringing. the tower. “ That’s a nice trick,” he commented. “ City seems lit,” said the tower op- “ If some maniac has got into the tele- erator. phone-office and cooked this up— “ All street lights and incandescents He ceased speaking, and his jaw burning,” Bob answered. dropped. “ Peculiar,” went on the tower. “Presi- “ What is it?” Haverson asked. “ dent of light company is here, and says Listen. Over here by the door. ” all his employees left plant yesterday What do you hear? with exception of foreman and one crew, “ Why, other phones are ringing.” and they came out to-day. Absolutely “ I should say thev are. Let’s go into no electricians at plant. Can you ex- the hall.” plain?” They went into the corridor. To their “ Seems to be no smoke coming from ears came the incessant ringing. “ ” plant,” replied Bob. Every bell in the building is going ! The next question rather staggered the exclaimed F'red. two operators: “ What on earth do you suppose— “If power for lights is not generated Bob began, and then he saw the look in at plant where does it come from?” Haverson’s face and stopped. “ “ Don’t know,” Bob said. Well, I hope whoever is doing it Just then F'red ran back from the will get tired pretty soon,” he added. window. “ This confounded noise— “ ” “ The lights have gone out ! he cried. I believe other bells besides those in And as he spoke the incandescents our building are ringing,” Fred inter- went out also, and the operating-room rupted. “ Come here by the window.” “ was left with the uncertain glow from “ Sounds like it,” Bob assented, but the candles. we can’t tell from here. Remember, there “ Lights just went out—all of them,” are several hundred telephones in this Bob wired. building." “ “Noticed it,” replied the tower. You’d think there were several thou- “ Wire if anything else unusual occurs.” sand from the noise they make. I’m get- Bob got up and left the key. ting nervous.” “ “ ” I guess that’s enough unusual stuff Don’t ! snapped Bob. for one night,” he said. “ Where do you They stood beside the window listen- suppose that power came from, Fred?” ing. It was enough to make any one “ I haven’t any idea.” nervous—the great dark, dead city, with : ”

AT HIS MERCY. 233 not a sound in it except the ringing of all this is so blamed mysterious that all thousands of telephone-bells. And the the bells are ringing, and we do not ringing continued. Five minutes passed know why. I wonder what next?” “ — —ten—fifteen. It is hard to tell. There “ Will it never stop? ” Haverson cried. The bells suddenly stopped. Flave “ What can it be? 1 don’t see how mor- you ever been plunged, in the twinkling tal man could do it.” of an eye, from a fearful din into com- “ Mortal man is doing it, all right. plete silence? Even if you have not, you ” You can bet on that ! exclaimed Rob. can imagine the result. The silence “ The noise will set me crazy,” Haver- seemed oppressive—-seemed to pain. “ ” son insisted. This—this is awful ! Haverson It was bad for the nerves—doubly bad gasped. under the circumstances. Twenty min- There came another quick ring at the utes after the ringing of the bells began telephone-bell, just an ordinary ring, both operators were walking the floor of such as an ordinary “ Central ” might the room, holding their hands to their give. Bob ran to the instrument and put ears. the receiver to his ear. “ We’ve got to stop this,” said Bob, “Hallo!” he cried, looking back at “ if we have to unhook every receiver in Haverson and winking. the building.” To his surprise an answer came back, “ Let’s begin with this floor, and try in a man’s voice: ” it,” Fred suggested. “ Hallo! “ I’d better call the tower and report,” “Hallo! Flallo! Who are you?” Bob added. “Take a candle and begin Bob cried. operations.” Fred ran to his side, and stood waiting. Haverson lit a candle and went out, to Bob’s question was not answered. In- enter room after room and take the re- stead, a sepulchral voice, full and deep, ceiver off the telephone-hook. Bob Cal- which seemed to speak in measured ac- kins sat down before the key and called cents, said “ the tower. The city is doomed ! This is your “ I,” the tower answered. last warning. You have until noon to- “ Every telephone-bell in city, as well morrow to get outside the town.” “ ” as we can judge, is ringing,” Bob re- Say, old man, what is this—a joke? ported, “ and has been ringing for al- asked Bob. most half an hour. “ We’re not sure “ Your last warning,” came the voice about the entire city, of course, but we over the wire. “ The city is doomed. It know that every bell in our building, and is in my power. No mercy will be shown bells in some adjoining buildings, are at you after noon to-morrow.” work.” “No one talks over the telephone?” came the question. CHAPTER IV. “No; the bell will not stop ringing. A WARNING ON THE WIRE. The noise is setting us crazy. Haverson is going through the building taking the The receiver dropped from Bob’s receivers off the hooks.” nerveless hand. For fully a minute he “ I will report to scientists when they and Haverson faced each other without return,” said the tower operator. speaking. The ticking of the sounder “ O. K.,” answered Bob. broke the spell. As he closed the key Haverson stum- “What—what do you think?” Fred bled back into the room, his face white. demanded. “ “Great Scott! 1 can’t do any more Some one’s ghastly joke,” commented “ alone,” he gasped. It’s awful. Bob, Bob, though he didn’t feel sure about it. ” I’m— I’m afraid ! He knew that Fred was at the point of “ Buck up, old man. Of course I giving way, however, and he wanted to know it is creepy, but telephone-bells prevent that.

can’t hurt us.” He sprang to the key ; it was the junc- “ It isn’t the bells. It’s the fact that tion tower calling. ” !

234 THE ARGOSY.'

“Anything new?” the tower asked. “ I,” Bob replied to the call. “ Plenty,” Bob replied. “ Scientists have concluded their ses- Then he told the tower operator of the sion and have formulated report,” the whole affair, even going so far as to de- message said. “ You are asked to give scribe the voice to the best of his abil- them all the aid in your power, as you ity. The tower operator answered that are believed to be the only honest men he would give the report to the authori- left inside, and everything depends upon ties and also to the scientists. you. Please give best of attention as I “ The scientists have returned,” he wire report, and ask all the questions you added, “ and are now holding a coun- desire, so there will be a complete under- cil.” standing. Is the other operator there?” Bob closed the key, and walked with “ I,” Bob answered. Haverson to the window. The moon “ Have him read message also.” had risen bright and full, and the great “ I,” flashed the answer. “ city looked indeed like a silent tomb in Attention ! Scientists have com- the pale moonlight. pleted circuit of the city, and find that The muddled voice of an intoxicated invisible wall extends completely around loafer would have been sweet music, the it. They examined every few inches, and clang of a street-car gong welcome in- found no loophole. It begins on the deed. ground and extends at least thirty feet “ Are—are we going to stay—after in air on the perpendicular; it may run getting that message over the telephone?” beyond that, but they had no means to Fred asked. investigate. “Of course we’ll stay!” Bob replied. “ This peculiar wall is nothing, seem- “ Don’t let that message frighten you ingly, except ordinary air, except that it I have an idea a few clever thieves have does not give the least fraction, and to remained behind, have connected the push against it is like pushing against a telephones at central, and, after ringing wall of brick or stone. The atmosphere every instrument in town, have given that has no unusual color or odor, though the message. Don’t you see? They thought delicate instruments used showed a slight every person who remained would answer bluish tinge in the air at times, which may the telephone and hear them, they would or not be due to the present condition of frighten those who stayed and make them the ether, or to a slight electrical dis- leave, and then the city would be theirs.” turbance following the thunder-storm of “ But, if they locate us— a day ago. “ How’ll they do that, unless they hap- “ While the thing is a mystery and pen to see us? How will they ever find never dreamed of before, the scientists two men in all this town, not knowing are of the opinion—merely an opinion, where to look, when there are so many this, without scientific truths to make it thousands of buildings and so many a fact — that some peculiar force is at places for a man to hide? Let’s fight it work, but that the force is exerted by a out a little longer, anyway.” human being or human beings who have “ I’m with you—as long as we can discovered something sensationally new stand it,” Haverson replied. in physics. The experts are at a loss to Bob realized that his one object was designate the nature of this force—if such to keep Haverson busy,- keep him so busy it may be called. that he wouldn’t have time to think about “ The greatest mystery is that, while things and let the mysteries get on his no one can enter from the outside, any- nerves. That would be easy in the morn- thing can come from the inside without ing, for they could gather supplies, but trouble and without experiencing any there was nothing to do at night. Haver- unusual feeling. Are you getting this all ” son would not sleep—said he could not right? sleep. And the night dragged terribly. “ O. K„” Bob tapped. An hour or so passed, and then the “Now, listen! This has been discov-

junction tower called again. Bob sat ered : The invisible wall surrounding the down before the key, and Haverson stood city follows closely the outside rail of beside him. the Merton Belt Line Traction Compa- AT HIS MERCY. 235 ny’s road. At first the scientists were of ery for ill instead of good—that’s all. the 'opinion that the peculiar force was What he intends to do with this city is being exerted through this rail, but upon more than we know. I don’t think he’ll close examination they could find no indi- destroy it— I have an idea that he has cations that such was a fact. They knew frightened the people away, and is using also, of course, that the traction company his confounded invisible wall to keep has not completed its work, and that them out, so that he and his confederates, while it has constructed its rough road- if he has any, can loot and enrich them- bed and laid its rails, there has been no selves. There are fortunes upon fortunes electrical installation as yet—no trolley- left in town, in spite of the looting that wire, or even poles to support one. has occurred already.” “ It is the opinion of the experts, there- “ You forget one thing,” Haverson re- fore, that the person or persons who are plied. “ The city is surrounded by people, exerting this peculiar new and wonderful by troops and officers. How will this man force are merely using the outside rail of —if it is a man—be able to take away his ” the belt line as a boundary because it was loot after he collects it? easy to establish and follow and is just Bob Calkins laughed. outside the city limits all the way around “ I have an idea,” he said, “ that if I the town. was powerful enough to keep people and “ They are of the opinion that this animals and even railroad trains from force, whatever it is, is being manufac- passing through a section of ordinary tured inside the city, and that therefore air, I’d be powerful enough to take away persons, or at least one person, with some all the loot I could collect.” ulterior motive against the city, is within “ Well, I wish we’d never encountered its limits doing his, or their, diabolical this freak situation,” Fred answered. work. You are instructed to watch. Be “ But, since we have, I suppose we can careful, as everything depends upon you make the best of it. I hope those sci- two men. entists have the correct idea, and that it “ Do not risk yourselves any more than is human beings we are pitted against. If is absolutely necessary. Try to keep out that is true, it isn’t so bad. 1 can’t say of sight. The persons doing this work I’ll run away from ordinary human beings are perhaps hidden, but the scientists say unless they get too strong for us. But such a great force cannot be exerted with- the man that can make an invisible wall out considerable work, no matter what is perhaps also strong enough to destroy its nature, and they ask you to watch for two men like ourselves.” smoke or any indication that power of any “ We have until noon to-morrow, any- sort is being generated. way,” said Bob. “ Your recent message concerning the “ Until noon to-day, you mean. It is telephone warning was shown them, and two o’clock in the morning now.” they are more than ever convinced that “ Anyway, I think the fellow who it is human beings we are fighting, and talked over the telephone is working a not some supernatural force. They say big bluff,” Calkins went on. “ He doesn’t again that everything depends upon you know exactly where we are, and so we two men, and while you are not asked have the advantage of him.” to risk your lives, you are asked to do “ But we aren’t sure he doesn’t know everything possible before leaving the where we are,” protested Haverson. “ city to solve the mystery.” Well, let’s stop talking about it., keep “ O. K.,” flashed Bob. our eyes open, and take the chance,” Bob “ Will you stick?” the tower operator replied. “ I’d rather die trying to do demanded. something than face my old dad after “ We’ll stick,” Bob wired. deserting. I know what he’d tell me, and He closed the key, and whirled around it wouldn’t be complimentary—you can to face Haverson. bet on that.” “ Funny! ” Fred commented. The sounder began its ticking again, “ Looks mighty plain to me,” said Bob. and Bob went to the key. “ Some scoundrel lias discovered a great “ If you want to gather supplies,” the

secret of physics, and is using his discov- tower operator wired, “ it is suggested : a

236 THE ARGOSYi that you leave the operating-room this “ I.” morning between eight and ten o’clock. “ Well, what else can you do? Did That will give you two hours, which is you throw the invisible wall around the ample time. We’ll understand where you city?” U >> are, and not think it unusual if you do J not answer during that time. If you don’t “ That confounded thing is the work of ” answer soon after ten o’clock, however, human hands, then ? we’ll know there is something wrong.” “ The work of a brain,” came the ego- “ Good plan, and we’ll abide by it,” tistical answer—“ the work of the great- Bob answered. est brain in the world. Are you satis- He closed the key, but immediately fied?” ' there came another call, and he turned “ I’m satisfied that you are the greatest to answer it. scoundrel of the age,” Bob replied. “ I,” he said. “ You’re nothing but a man, in spite of “ You will do well,” came the message, your confounded mysterious power— “ to leave the city at daybreak. You have man that uses his brain for evil instead been warned.” of good, and I’ve never yet met a man I “ ” Great Scott ! cried Haverson. was afraid of.” “ ” Wait ! Bob implored. “If you are wise, you will be afraid lie worked the key, calling the tower. of me,” came the answer. “ Did you send that message? ” he de- manded. “ No,” the tower answered. CHAPTER V, “ Then who in the world—” Bob be- THE FIRST BLOW. gan. “ ” The circuit opened; Bob closed the Well, what do you think of that ? key, and then came more words from the Bob asked Haverson, turning from the unknown operator. key. “ I am the master of the world. I ad- The tower operator had cut off, and mire brave men, but say to the two oper- was reporting the conversation, Bob sup- ators in the Electrical Building that re- posed, to the authorities. “ sistance is useless. Leave the city at day- What do you think about it?” Fred re- break ; it will not be safe for you to demanded in return. “ main longer than noon to-morrow. This I think it is some maniac with a great is the last warning.” deal of nerve and bluff.” “ Some operator along the line joking,” “ But you are not remembering the in- Bob wired to the tower. visible wall. A man that can create that The answer came immediately is liable to be able to do anything.” “ Cut out wire except from tower to “ I’m not forgetting the invisible wall,” headquarters, and see.” Bob retorted, “ but I want to see him do This was immediately done. The tower something else—something that actually operator reported soon that communica- threatens us—before I run away from tion beyond the tower had been inter- him. What do you think of the report of ” rupted. / the scientists? Then the mysterious operator cut in. “ They talked a lot without saying any- “ “You see? It is not some operator thing,” Haverson replied. They seem fooling. I am master of the world, and to be as far from solving thennystery as I warn you because I admire brave men. before.” “ But I do not admire them enough to You noticed what they said about the ” allow them to prevent me from accom- belt-line track ? plishing my purpose. Leave the city be- “ Yes, but they also said they believed fore noon to-morrow.” it was merely used as a boundary for the ” “ Are you the fellow who telephoned? wall. What is the history of the belt Bob demanded on the key. line?” „ “ « J It is innocent enough,” explained “ And who turned the lights on and Bob. “ Some months ago a corporation off?” headed by a man named Hellinger se- S) AT HIS MERCY. 237

cured rights from the county and State, We’ll make a connection there, run the made arrangements with property own- wire into some obscure building, and go ers, and started to build an electric belt to work as usual. And we must do it line around the city just outside the lim- immediately—before daylight.” its. “ But he’ll find us,” objected Fred.

- “ “ Their intention, I believe, - is to ra- Perhaps, but he’ll have to look for diate from this circular belt line other us first, and he’ll not know exactly where electric lines running into different parts to look. We’ll gain time, at any rate.” of the State. You see, every car, no mat- They began their preparations imme- ter from what direction it approached, diately. While Haverson went to the was to ‘ loop the loop,’ and enable pas- storerooms and gathered the necessary sengers to reach almost any part of the paraphernalia, Bob sat down before the city. key and called the junction tower. “ The belt-line track has been roughly “ Do not call us, or expect us to an- laid, but no poles or trolley wires have swer, for an hour or so,” he wired. “Wait been erected yet, and the power plant, until we call you.” “ ” I understand, has only a part of the elec- Why? the tower demanded. trical machinery installed. I’m inclined “ Can’t tell you, for obvious reasons. to agree with the opinion of the scientists And when we call again, understand that that the belt line has nothing to do with we talk to tower only, and not to other the mystery except that it has been chosen stations outside city. We can’t trouble as a natural boundary for the invisible to talk to more than one station. Every- wall. thing must go through tower.” “If there were wires and a general “ O. K.,” the tower flashed. electrical installation along the line, I Fred entered the operating-room as might think that the belt line was con- Bob finished, and they gathered up the nected more closely with the mystery.” things and went into the corridor and “ Are we going to remain here in the began the descent to the, street. face of the warnings we have re- It was bright moonlight, and they tried ceived?” Fred asked. to keep in the shadows as much as possi- “ Yes,” replied Bob firmly. “ At least, ble, because they did not know what to we’ll remain as long as we can. It’ll take expect or whom to expect. more than a bluff to drive us out.” They had not walked three blocks be- “All right,” laughed Haverson. “I fore every electric light in the city can stand it if you can.” suddenly flashed and remained burning. Bob walked back and forth in the room “ He’s trying to spot us,” Bob cried. for a time, and finally stood for several “ Down this alley here! And keep out minutes looking out of the window over of the light as much as possible.” the city. They hurried on, block after block, “ Fred,” he said finally, “ we’re going crossing street after street. Bob stopped to move.” at a cigar-store and took a box of cigars. “ To move? ” Haverson cried. Fred invaded a grocery to get cheese and “ Yes—move. That chap—whoever he crackers. And then they hurried on. is—knows where we are, and if he wanted They reached the building which con- to start any devilment he’d know where tained the branch office, and Bob led the to find us. Here we are seven stories from way up-stairs and to the roof. There Bob the ground—and he’d have a chance to tapped wire after wire, until they found cut us off and starve us out if he couldn’t the one which ran south, and got an an- get us out any other way.” swer from the tower. “But where’ll we go?” Haverson in- Then they followed this wire over quired. several buildings, until they came to the “ We’ll take an emergency outfit and one on the corner. “ go to some other building, where we’ll I guess this builiding will do as well make connections with the tower wire. as any,” Bob said. “ Of course, we don’t Down at the branch office on Washington want to locate in the branch office, for Avenue the wires leave the conduits and that’s as bad as being in headquarters. run over the -buildings for several blocks. We’ll run a wire into this building. It’s 238 THE ARGOSY.

” i an old one, and about the last place any “ Why did you take that hour off? one would look for us.” “ Don’t ask questions, because we They worked frantically, for a red can’t answer them,” Fred tapped. streak in the east told them that daylight The wire “ broke,” and the unknown would soon be at hand. The electric operator cut in. lights went out again, and they had to “ It is now break of day,” he said. use candles. After making the proper “ I trust you men remember my warn- connection, they carried the wire through ing. You have until noon to leave the a trap-door in the roof, down a long lad- city of Merton.” der, through a musty garret, and so to the “ We’ve decided to stay a little top floor. Then they took it down the longer,” Bob said, for he had relieved stairs, floor after floor, until the ground Fred at the key when the unknown was reached. cut in. “ ” On the corner was a jewelry-store. In You are warned. I’ll say no more ! the rear was a small room originally de- “ We’ll not be sorry to be deprived signed as a workshop, with ample light of your conversation,” Bob wired. “ ” from windows and skylight. The back Fool ! came the solitary word as room could not be seen from the treet. answer. Then the wire was still. It was an ideal place for their project. An hour after that, the operator in While Haverson fastened a key and the junction tower, out of ..the kindness sounder to a table and went about put- of his heart, began to give Bob and ting the apparatus in working order, Bob Haverson a condensed report of the left the building and hurried across the doings in the outer world. street to a grocery-store. He filled a Congress, the report said, had ap- large box with food and carried it back pointed a committee to proceed to the to the little rear room. city of Merton and make an investiga-

Fred went with him on the next trip, tion. Distinguished ' scientists were and before they finished they had an coming from abroad. The eyes of the ample store of provisions in their new world were upon Merton, and upon the headquarters. two operators there, who braved an un- Bob rifled a hardware-store for an oil- known peril to give to those outside a stove. Fred got five gallons of oil from truthful description of what was taking the grocery. Then they both went to a place within. furniture establishment, and carried back Those who were formerly residents of a cot and two chairs, one a rocker. Merton, and especially those who had On their last trip they entered a dry- interests there, were frantic. Millions goods emporium and selected heavy of dollars’ worth of property was at the blankets and a few towels. mercy of the mysterious unknown who It was dawn now; too light for them called himself master of the world. to be in the streets unless they wished to Haverson stood at Bob’s side as this risk discovery. report was coming in. There was not “ ” and, Breakfast ! Bob demanded, much to interest them, but it served to laughing, he began to prepare it. pass away the time. In fact, the time They didn’t have to leave the rear passed faster than they realized. The and soon they sat- down tower operator ceased sending, room for water ; and Bob to fried eggs and bacon, and coffee whirled around to talk to Fred. which, Bob declared, was not quite as “ I don’t like this hero business,” he

1 to having, but “ good as - they were used said. We’re just attending to our a great deal' better than nothing. duty, that’s all.” “ And now,” said Haverson, “ we’d There came a call on the sounder, better call the tower.” and Bob answered. It was the myste- Fred called, and the tower operator rious unknown. “ answered immediately. Do you realize that it is ten o’clock “ Thought you had disappeared,” he in the morning, and that you have only said. two hours in which to leave the city?” “ We’re still on the job,” Fred re- he demanded. “ c plied. Didn’t realize it was so late,” Bob : ! :

* AT HIS MERCY. 239 flashed. “ We’ve been getting the news.” Bob pushed Fred to one side and took “ I heard you,” came the answer. charge of the key. r “ Y ou’d better move now.” “ This is Calkins talking,” he wired. “We’re very comfortable, thanks!” “ Is my father in the tower?” “ I have warned you to leave by “ Yes.” noon.” “ Ask him whether I shall remain or “ But we prefer to remain,” said Bob. come out.” The answer rather startled them There was silence for a moment, then “ At one minute after the hour of noon the answer came “ I will destroy the high tower on the Your father says for you not to be ” Electrical Building. After that, I shall a coward ! exert forces over which I have control, “ Tell him I’ll not.” Bob replied, and and gradually demolish the building, closed the key. floor by floor.” He faced Haverson again. “ Pardon me, old man, but that reads “You heard that?” he asked. “My like a lie,” wired Bob. dad will have to leave the road soon, “ You are brainless to doubt my because he’s getting old. Of course, he power. Have l not already demon- owns his little place here in town, but strated it?” that’s about all, and he looks to me to “ Just the same, we aren’t going to support him in his old age. He tells ” run away from town,” .answered Bob. me to stick ! “ “ ” Then the city will be your tomb,” We’ll stick ! Fred said. said the unknown. “ I have given my At five minutes before noon the un- ” last warning ! known operator called them, and Bob Bob whirled around and faced Haver- answered. son. “You are going to remain?” the un- “What do you think of that?” he known asked. asked. “We are.” “ “ Well, he’ll not injure us particular- Very well ! You’ll soon know better ly by destroying the Electrical Build- than to doubt.” “ Personally, I Bob did not that it ing,” Fred answered. answer ; seemed am glad we moved. I don’t believe he that no answer was necessary. With can do it, of course, but I don’t want Haverson, he walked to the window, to be in that building and run the risk where, by looking over the tops of the while he conducts any experiments. small buildings across a near-by square, We’re ten blocks away, thank good- they could see the lofty tower of the ” ness ! Electrical Building, and two or three “ And, from this rear window,” said stories below it. Bob, “ we can see the tower and the “ It is noon,” Bob said. upper three stories of the Electrical They turned their eyes to the tower. Building. If there is any destruction, Suddenly it crumbled into fragments we can see it from here. I don’t care and fell for a ringside seat at any exhibition like They could hear the great crash, as our friend promises.” stone was hurled downward hundreds of “ Neither do 1,” added Fred. feet to the roofs of other buildings, and The tower operator called them again, to the streets! and Fred, who was nearest the key, an- swered him. " “ We have overheard peculiar mes- CHAPTER VI. sage you just received,” the tower oper- THE CITY’S DEATH-WARRANT. ator said. “ Scientists ask you to watch closely and report any unusual occur- Their faces blanched, their hearts rences, if there are any. They want it beating like trip-hammers, their eyes understood, however, that this service is bulging—they watched the destruction. optional on your part. If you really Another minute, and then the top think there is danger, they want you to story of the great structure began to feel at libertv to leave.” crumble awav. First a corner of it 240 THE ARGOSY.

seemed to fall to pieces, and then the They rushed) back down the stairs and destruction spread, and sections of the to their room.' The tower operator was building were thrown outward with calling them repeatedly. Bob answered. great force. Finally the upper story was “What happened?” was asked. gone. “ Electrical Building mass of ruins,” There was no smoke, no flame, noth- Bob wired, and then he waited. ing to indicate the nature of the destruc- He could picture the scene in the tive force. The building simply stood, juncture tower — the white faces, the then fell. fear expressed in them, the bewilderment As they watched, the next story began of the scientific experts. Presently the to go. And then the third from the top junction tower spoke again: “ disappeared, and then there arose from Kindly answer questions as nearly the ground great clouds of dust that correct as possible. What seemed to be obscured the view. manner of destruction?” But crashes and shocks told that the “ Could not tell,” Bob replied. “ We building was being demolished, story by watched from window. Tower seemed story, floor by floor, as the unknown had to crumble and fall toward the south. threatened. After short interval upper story began Haverson’s quick sob of fear brought to go, beginning at corner and spread- Bob back to the realization of things. ing gradually. Building gradually torn “ Well, he’s done it! ” Bob exclaimed. to pieces.” “ But how—with what?” “Any smoke or flame?” “ “ Don’t ask me ; I’m not up to solv- No.” ing this mystery. I’m sorry that build-^ “Sound of explosion?” “ ing is gone, for I was proud of it—proud No.” that I had a job in it. But it needn’t “ Nothing at all to denote nature of bother us any. I fixed the wire, of destructive power?” course. We can use it, even if the Elec- “ No,” Bob replied. ” trical Building has been demolished.” “ Entire building destroyed, you say? He turned to the window again. The “Yes; nothing left but mass of ruins crashes had ceased. The dust clouds scattered over public square.” ” still filled air “ the ; but as they watched, Yet you are alive ? these clouds gradually settled, and they “Yes; Haverson and I are all right*’ saw that where the Electrical Building “How does that happen? How does had stood there was now nothing but air. it happen wires are in order?” Bob leading the way, they ran to the Bob hesitated about replying, but roof of the building to which they had finally reached for the key. moved. From the roof they could look “ We anticipated trouble and moved across the square. headquarters,” he said. “ That was what They saw a mass of ruins. Heaps of we were doing early this morning when stone and mortar, and wood crushed to we took that two hours off. Connected kindling. The building had been torn emergency wire and arranged things so to pieces. Great steel beams and girders that destruction of building did not cut were twisted and gnarled as though they us off.” had been grape-vines. There was a pause ; then word from Bob noticed one thing — the ruins the superintendent, who, evidently, had showed that the power of destruction, been listening to the conversation. whatever it was, had come the “ work, from Good boys ; the company will north. The demolished building had not forget this.” been scattered toward the south over the The junction tower cut in again: ” square. “ Are you in a safe place? “ “ If we had been there—” Haverson Don’t know whether any place in began. town is safe or not,” answered Bob, “ But we were not,” laughed Bob. “but I guess we’re in a place where It we’ll not wasn’t a natural laugh ; there was be found easily.” “ nervousness and a little fear in it, but it Be careful,” came the warning from had the effect of calming them. the superintendent. AT HIS MERCY. 241

The dots and dashes ceased. Bob “ And perhaps his connection is not left the key and helped Haverson open destroyed, but he has not been where he some food. As they ate, they discussed could hear the sounder?” the situation. “If that is the case, we are liable to “What are we going to do?” Fred hear from him again,” Bob replied. asked. “ I can’t see any particular use They left the room and journeyed to in remaining here, except that we’ll be the robf once more, and there they able to tell the outside world how the looked over the dead city. There was city is destroyed. We aren’t stopping not a trace of smoke in any direction, the destruction, and we’re not helping not a human being, nothing to indicate the people outside to get in.” the quarter from whence came the great “ I’ve been thinking of that,” Bob power which had destroyed the Elec- said. “ But how can we stop the work trical Building. of this scoundrel, whoever he is, when Bob laughed as he saw Fred get be- we do not know how his work is done hind a chimney. “ and don’t know where he is? A man No use to try to hide,” he said. who can destroy a great building as “ You may be getting directly in his line easily as he has done can do almost any- of vision instead of away from it. I thing. So we’ll have to be careful how don’t think I am a coward but when ; we go about it. l fight I like to see my foe, or at least “ I take it for granted that we are the know where he is.” “ only people inside the town, except him- We’d better go back then,”. Fred self. If we try to conquer him and replied. “ We ought not to take make a bad break, he’ll be liable to des- chances; for, if lie does locate us, he’s troy us, and then the city would be at liable to end our days on earth.” his mercy even more than now. The So they descended to the ground floor only thing we can do, as I see it now, is again and went to the little rear room. to take it easy and try to locate him, The sounder was ticking frantically. and after we do that we can move ac- Bob rushed across the room and an- cordingly.” swered. “ “ Do you think he will destroy the Anything else happened ? ” the junc- entire city? ” Haverson inquired. tion tower asked. “ I don’t know what to think,” con- “ Nothing else,” Bob replied. “ “ fessed Bob. I can’t imagine his ob- Let us know immediately if other ject. If it is to loot the town, he’ll not property is destroyed.” “ destroy it — at least, not until he has I’ll do it.” done the looting.” “ Arrange with Haverson so that one “But how can he hope to escape?” of you can answer our call every hour, asked Fred, “if he loots the town? It day and night.” “ is surrounded by troops, and they’ll We’ll arrange it,” Bob replied. catch him if he attempts to leave with The wire was “ broken,” and there his plunder.” was a silence for a moment. Then the “ A man who can— destroy a building dots and dashes began again, but they as easily as he did ” began Bob. were coming from the dreaded unknown Fred did not say more. It was evi- instead of from the junction tower. “ dent that they faced a problem beyond I see you escaped destruction,” the their comprehension. unknown said. “ You must have wit- “ Well,” Bob added, “ we can wait.” nessed my work, however. Have you “ Do you suppose he thinks we were nerve enough to remain in the city after destroyed in the Electrical Building?” seeing that?” “ Fred remarked. We’re still here, old man,” answered “ That’s what I’d like to know,” said Bob. Bob. “ He didn’t cut in while we were “ I warned you to leave before noon, reporting to the junction tower. I have and you did not. Therefore, you must an idea that he had tapped the wire near take the consequences. If you start at the Electrical Building, and that his once, you may be able to get out of the connection was destroyed.” city safely; but if you delay another 4 A

i :

242 THE ARGOSY. hour, you’ll never, reach the outside alive. “ You forget,” said Bob, “ that you Before midnight, you’ll sleep in a sepul- are writing your own doom. The city cher of ruins." is surrounded by thousands of people, “ We are not leaving,” Bob replied. and by troops. You may destroy it, but “ So be it,” came the answer. “ You you’ll never reach the outside. How have bravery, but not brains. You can- will you escape the vengeance of the not hide from me. Will you leave the citizens outside?” ” city? “ The same force which tears the city “ Why do you wish us to leave? ” Bob to pieces shall be thrown against the asked. foolish people who would oppose me,” “ Because it does not suit my purpose the unknown answered. “ Though thou- to have you remain.” sands stand in my way, they shall be “ What is your purpose?” swept from the face of the earth, hurled “ You ask too much,” wired the un- from my path. He who tries to oppose known. me, dies. Now you have learned my “ If you are master of the world, and purpose — and for this knowledge you have the city and us at your mercy, why pay with your lives.” should you be afraid to tell us your “ One moment,” Bob flashed. “ Who purpose?” * are you, and why do you desire revenge “ I am not afraid to tell you. But against the city of Merton?” “ I refuse to do it.” _ I’ll tell you no more,” said the un- “ “ I say you arc afraid. You do not known operator. You have one hour have -confidence in the power you say in which to communicate with the out- you possess.” side. I grant you this last favor. At “Have I not?” came the answer. the end of the hour, the destruction of “ Very well. I’ll tell you my purpose, the city will begin. You may think it and in telling you I speak your death- peculiar 1 did not crush the city while warrant. For if I speak, you shall its thousands of people were within. Do never leave the city alive.” you wish to know why?” “ ” “ Speak ! commanded Bob. Yes,” Bob answered. “ “ You talk for yourself. How about Because I know what lingering the other operator?” agony is. I know the mercy in a quick Bob turned and looked at Haverson. death. 1 know the feelings of the peo- Fred’s face went white, but he stum- ple of Merton now upon the outside, bled forward, grasped the key. and who count the seconds while their homes tapped his answer and fortunes are being swept away. I “ ” Speak ! want to send those thousands of people The unknown wired again: out into the world penniless, to make “ Very well ! My purpose is to crush them lifelong slaves to the terrible mem- the city of Merton, to leave it a mass ory of how it happened. In that way, of ruins, to demolish every building, to my revenge will live long. “ tear stone from stone and brick from To annihilate them would be mer- brick, and then to sweep it with con- ciful indeed. To hear their groans and suming fire. The city is in my power shrieks, to see their tears and their agony now. Nothing can save it. Nothing —that will be sweet for me. I am done can cheat me of my vengeance.” with talk. You have your hour — and “ You are not. then, going to loot the perhaps you’ll count the minutes and the city of its wealth, and escape with it?” seconds, and know what fear is when Bob asked. you see buildings tumbling about you, “ I do not care for wealth. I have and flames shooting toward the sky. This possessed wealth for years—wealth I is my last communication—I will cut the inherited and wealth that I amassed. wire.” It has brought me many things, chief Bob had fallen back in the chair as among which is my revenge. I shall the unknown sent the dots and dashes destroy the city — all of it except the flying into the sounder. Fred was be- building in which I now am—and then side him, his hands trembling, his breath

I shall go my way.” coming in gasps. — !

JACOBI’S JUGGERNAUT. 243

In all the room—in all the city, as far Then he sat back and groaned. The as they knew—there was no sound save wire was cut that of the dots and dashes—that mer* There was now no means of commun- ciless ticking which announced the doom ication left with the people of the out- of the city, and of the two men within side ! its limits. And there, above the silent sounder, But as the unknown destroyer con- in the little back room of the jewelry- cluded, and threatened to cut the wire, store, a small clock ticked away the sec- Bob’s hand reached for the key again. onds, and narrowed the gap between life “ Wa—” he began. and death. (To be continued.) JACOBI’S JUGGERNAUT.

By J. F. VALENTINE.

The strange night experience that befell a restaurant pro-

prietor as he motored to his country home for his health.

“ \ T OT the pleasantest kind of a residence to Haledon, a suburb fifteen i >1 night for an automobile ride, miles up the Hudson. Harris,” Jacobi remarked, as he settled With this move came a change in his back in the rear seat of the big car. business rules—he came to the city late “ Particularly when one is taking it for in the afternoon, and left for his home his health.” about midnight, and as his physician “ It might be better,” his chauffeur directed that he be out in the air as ventured, as the car glided ahead in much as possible, he hall purchased an response to his pressure of a lever. automobile, and used this means of “ We’ll not stay out any longer than transit to and from his home. necessary,” the employer declared. The car glided steadily through the “ When we reach the city limits, let the gloom, and a glance without showed car out— I am tired, and want to get Jacobi that they were nearing the out- home.” skirts of the city. “ Yes, sir,” was the response of the “ Let her out now,” he directed, and man at the wheel. the chauffeur shot the machine ahead. He was gazing intently ahead In a few moments the houses had been through the midnight mist that blan- left behind entirely, and they were now keted the streets of New York like a rushing through the open country with heavy fog. only the street-lights blinking through Jacobi pulled closer around himself the mist like so many fireflies. the fur rubes—the drizzle of "rain which Now they were descending a slight entered the hooded car brought with it grade, at the foot of which the driver a chill that was of no benefit to one knew there was an abrupt turn, and, al- under the steady care of a physician, as though he slowed down a trifle, the car he was. skidded on the wet highway as it took The restaurant which bore his name the curve. it stood out in large, electric-lighted Suddenly Harris emitted a cry of letters—was one of the most exclusive alarhi, and threw on the brakes. At the in the bright-light district of New York, same instant the heavy car bounded over and for a generation had been under the an obstruction in the road and came to personal management of the owner. a^halt about fifty feet beyond. But the steady application to business, Before Jacobi could question, the “ with its long hours, had undermined chauffeur burst out : A man—we ran Jacobi’s health, and, in accordance with over him. The road—was too narrow his doctor’s orders, he had shifted his to turn out.” ” ;

244 THE ARGOSY.

The restaurant - owner sprang to his roused up, and, after a deep groan, “ ” feet. burst out : Don’t strike me again ! “ Are you sure ? ” he queried. Then he suddenly sat erect and The driver turned and nodded his grabbed at Jacobi. head—he was too frightened to speak. “ Here, Harris, help me,” the restau- Jacobi shook his shoulder. rant-owner called as the chauffeur was “ Then come—we must help him.” about to replace the lamp. Then he His employer’s words brought the attempted to pacify the stranger. man back to his senses, and, jumping “ There, my man, we are your friends, from the car, he quickly unfastened one and want to take you to a doctor.” of the large lamps from the front and The other’s hands dropped limply to hurried back to where the accident had his sides, and in the dim glimmer of happened. Jacobi followed closely at the street-lamp, Jacobi could see he was his heels. staring directly at him. As the two men neared the spot, the “ You are injured,” he continued soothingly “ I will lamp’s rays showed only too plainly the ; but get medical aid truth of the chauffeur’s words. There as quickly as possible. My driver did before them, in the middle of the road- not see you in the darkness, and ran

I way, lay the prostrate form of a man. over you ; but hope and pray you are For an instant Harris paused, and as not hurt seriously.” his employer came abreast of him, he The other sank back upon the cush- “ I’ll ions. cried : If I have killed him— never ” “ run a machine again 1 I remember all now,” he said, al- Jacobi seized his arm and literally most under his breath. “ Are you a res- ” pulled him to the side of the injured taurant-owner? man, whom he bent over and examined This question took Jacobi by surprise, critically, while the chauffeur hung but he replied: “Yes—why?” back, fearful of the worst. “ Then you are the man they wanted.” “ He’s not dead,” Jacobi declared in This puzzled the other more than an undertone. “ Hurry to the car, and ever, and, leaning closer to catch the back it up carefully. Then we’ll rush almost inaudible statements of the in- “ to the nearest doctor.” jured man, he said : I do not under- “You think he’ll live?” Harris que- stand.” ried anxiously. “ You don’t think he’ll “ I know now,” was the response die?” “ they wanted you—and got me.” “ I do not know,” was the curt re- Jacobi realized the futility of secure sponse. “ Bring the car here.” ing any information from the man, The other ran swiftly to do as bid- whose mind he now believed to be wan- den, and springing into the front seat, dering. Leaning out of the car toward reversed the gears, and the big machine Harris, who stood alongside, he or- “ slowly backed toward the man whose dered : Go ahead, but drive carefully, head rested on Jacobi’s knee. When it avoiding any jar. I’ll take him to my stopped, Harris leaped to the ground, home.” ready to assist. “ No, not that,” the stranger burst “ “ Help me get him into the car,” J a- out. Take me to my home.” cobi directed, and, raising the uncon- The car was already under way, and scious man between them, the two lifted the driver leaned back to catch any di- him tenderly into the automobile. rection he might give. “ He must be intoxicated,” Harris “And where is -that?” Jacobi in- muttered as he helped make the stran- quired. ger as comfortable as possible. “ Beaumont—on this same road.” “ Not at all,” Jacobi broke in quick- “ Better let me take you to my house,” ly. “ That is just what I thought at the restaurant proprietor urged. “ I live first, but there is no trace of liquor in in Haledon—only two miles farther than his breath. I cannot understand it; but Beaumont. Then I’ll summon my own go ahead now.” doctor— “ At that instant the injured man No, I want mine,” the stranger in- ”

JACOBI’S JUGGERNAUT. 245 terrupted. “ I’ll tell you when, we get “What is your name?” Jacobi in- there.” quired, as the machine came to a stand- A sharp cry escaped him. still. “ Oh,” he moaned, “ my head and “ Bickel,” was the reply. side pain me so.” “ Ring the bell, Harris, and get some For a minute no one spoke, then the one out here.” injured one added: “You must be the As the chauffeur started for the stoop man they were after.” the injured man called after him: “Ask “ What do you mean? ” Jacobi asked. them to get Dr. Zabriskie to come down. The car was slowly proceeding north- Ask for him.” ward, and an occasional darkened house It was some moments after Harris disclosed the fact that they were ap- had rung the bell when a light appeared proaching a town. in a room on the second floor and the “ I can tell you—in a few words.” raised window disclosed a woman. The stranger spoke with great effort. “Who is there?” she inquired. “ I had spent the evening— at a friend’s “ Please tell Dr. Zabriskie to come —about three miles down the road. The down,”0 Jacobi called. “Mr. Bickel has last trolley — was missed — and I was met with an accident— forced to walk. That spot—where you The head quickly disappeared, and a found me — I approached and heard moment later a man-, in a dressing-gown voices. I stopped—and listened— Oh, and slippers appeared at the front door. ” my side ! he moaned, and paused as if He volunteered the information that he in great pain. was Dr. Zabriskie. “ I’ll have you at a doctor’^ pretty In response to Jacobi’s call, he fol- soon now,” Jacobi told him. lowed Harris to the machine and, upon “ There were three men,” the stran- being told very briefly of the accident, ger continued. “ I soon learned they directed that the injured man be helped were there—to hold-up and rob—a res- to his room. taurant-owner in New York—who lived The chauffeur and his employer in Haledon. made a seat by grasping the crossed “Yes?” Jacobi broke in, now all ex- hands of each other, and carried the citement. , sufferer into the house and up-stairs, the “Just then— I stepped on a dry twig. doctor following them closely. Before I knew it—they were upon me As the victim of the highwaymen was —and struck me down by repeated blows laid tenderly upon his bed, Jacobi and on the head. I remember! nothing more Harris stepped back to allow the physi- •—until I found myself here.”— cian to determine the extent of Bickel’s “Then you saved me ” Jacobi injuries. stopped abruptly, and there was an “What happened, Mr. Bickel?” the added warmth in his tone as he con- surgeon queried while taking his pulse. “ “ tinued : Try to bear the pain a short I was struck on the head,” was the “ while longer.” reply, and then run over—by an auto- The stranger leaned forward and mobile.” stared into the gloom outside the car. “Where do you feel pain?” the doc- “ My house—you are near it. It’s on tor went on, while he felt the other’s the next corner,” he murmured. head carefully. “If you wish to be taken there,” Ja- “ My head—and side,” was the groan- cobi rejoined, “ I will leave you. But ing reply. I insist upon sending a doctor to you.” Zabriskie unbuttoned the man’s coat “ There is one in our house,” the and shirt, and went over Bickel’s chest stranger returned, still gazing intently with both hands, while Jacobi and his “ out of the car. It’s a boarding-house chauffeur awaited anxiously the result —and—there it is now.” of the examination. He pointed to a large dwelling a short “ Three ribs fractured — one com- distance ahead. pound,” the surgeon announced without “ Pull in, Harris,” was the order, and looking up. “ And a bad one, too,” he the car drew up close to the curb. added in a tone that plainly showed the ” —

246 THE ARGOSY.

“ “ seriousness of the accident. It may But I insist upon it,” Jacobi con- have punctured the lung, although I am tinued. “ I have already assured Dr. not certain.” Zabriskie that all his charges will be “And his head?” Jacobi queried paid by me, and I have advanced him earnestly. one hundred dollars on account. But “ Can’t tell yet whether his skull is now, for yourself.” fractured or not.” He drew out his check-book and, “ This is a very serious matter, doc- hastily filling one out, handed it to the tor,” Jacobi ventured after some hesita- injured man. “ This is a slight token “ I tion ; and feel doubly responsible of my gratitude to you,” he added. for Mr. Bickel’s condition. In the first Bickel took it in a dazed sort of way, place, his getting what was intended for and glanced at the slip of paper me may have saved my life, and, in the quickly. second place, his broken ribs were caused “ I can’t accept this,” he said slowly, by my machine passing over him. I owe and let it flutter to the floor. him a debt I can never repay, and as The physician drew the restaurant you seem to be a friend of his, I im- owner from the bedside again. plore you to give him every attention in “ I will attend to it, Mr. Jacobi,” he your power. I am responsible for the said, “ and it will be a godsend to him. bill, and, if necessary, do not leave his Knowing him as I do, I am fully aware instant. is of his financial condition side for an Here a hundred ; and a few dol- dollars on account.” lars will tide him over for the present, He handed the other some bills which or at least until he is able to be around he had taken from his pocket. again. Landladies are like the tide,” he “ “ I will do all in my power,” the doc- added smilingly, they wait for no tor declared with emphasis,v “ and thank man.” you for your confidence in me, and for He stepped to the side of the bed and these.” picked up the check. “ ” He nodded toward the bills, which he Five thousand dollars ! he ex- slipped into a wallet. claimed, as his eyes fastened upon the “ “ Bickel and I are the best of friends, bit of paper. Why, it’s a small for- and I tell you this’ll be a blow to him.” tune to him.” “ “It Avould be a blow to any one,” And he deserves it,” Jacobi declared. “ Jacobi returned. I will leave the patient in your care. “ But particularly to him,” the doc- It is late—why, it’s nearly two o’clock tor said, “ He has been out of work so I must go. Spare no expense or for some time, and was promised a po- trouble to effect a speedy recovery. I sition for next Monday. I fear it will will drop in to-morrow, to inquire re- be a great many Mondays before he can garding his progress.” think of going to business.” Witli a parting “ Good night,” Jacobi The restaurant-owner drew the physi- hurried from the room, and down the cian 'to the far side of the room, where stairs to the street, where Harris, having they held a brief whispered conversa- realized some time before that his pres- tion, at the conclusion of which the two ence was not needed in the sick-room, men approached the bed again. was waiting. “ “ Mr. Bickel,” Jacobi began, “ perhaps It’s pretty tough on the poor fel- you do not realize just what you have low,” Jacobi murmured, as the car again done for me to-night. Had it not been proceeded on its way to Haledon. he’ll for you, I might be in the same condition “But recover, won’t he?” the chauffeur inquired. as yourself—or, more likely, in a much “ worse one. And as the doctor has just I think so—or, at. least, I hope so,” “ informed me, you will be unable, just was the reply. He seemed quite him- now, to accept the position that is self again, although suffering acute pain. offered to you. I wish to make you a Let us hope for the best, anyway; but I present— think, Harris, that you and I had a The man on the bed raised his hand pretty close call.” chauffeur made reply, in silent protest. The no and JACOBI’S JUGGERNAUT. 247 the ride continued in silence, soon “ Thinking the place for clues would ending, as the heavy car ground noisily naturally be the spot where the affair over the pebbled driveway that led from happened,” Jacobi added, “ I came down the highway to Jacobi’s house. to take you there.” He dismissed the chauffeur and hur- “ It seems a peculiar case,” the detec- ried to his rooms, where he retired for tive replied. “ But let us start for the the night, hoping for the rest he needed. spot ; my work begins there.” “ But the events of the last few hours Yes, go ahead, Harris,” Jacobi di- weighed heavily upon him, and sleep rected. “ Do you think you can locate would not come. the exact place?” The very fact that he would fear to “ Yes, sir,” was the reply, as the car take the rides his doctor had ordered moved off. preyed upon his mind, and at last forced Hart inquired into every detail, from him to a decision—he would not let the the time of the accident until Jacobi had matter rest where it was, but would left the bedside of the injured man. emplo'y detectives to trace the highway- “As far as I can make out at present, men and bring them to justice. Mr. Jacobi,” he said slowly, “you have With this decision came a determi- had a very narrow escape.” “ nation to lose no time in acting upon it. So I reasoned,” the other agreed. He resolved to start upon the wprk at Hart then turned his attention to the daylight, while such clues as there might chauffeur. “ be would still be warm. Stop just this side of the spot, if Jacobi glanced at his watch— it lacked you can remember the exact location. five minutes of five. There may be some clue that might be “ By Jove, I’ll phone Harf now—he destroyed if we ran over the spot.” “ can be up here in an hour or so, and It is just ahead there—where the I’ll get him on the case immediately.” road turns sharply,” Harris explained. He had had occasion to employ a de- “ Then, stop here,” Hart directed. tective on two or three occasions, and, “ Fortunately, the drizzle of last night being recommended to one named Hart, was not heavy enough to destroy foot- had found him very satisfactory. Con- prints, if there were any left in the soft sequently, this man came to his mind, dirt. Let us get out here and walk care- and he quickly determined to get in fully. Keep a sharp lookout.” communication with him, knowing he The three .men alighted from the car, had a telephone in his residence, and slowly made their way to the spot Jacobi threw about himself a dressing- indicated by the chauffeur, easily recog- gown, and descended to the library, nizable by the footprints in the soft where the telephone was located. Some dirt. moments elapsed between the time he Hart stared hard at these for some “ gave the desired number to the operator seconds, then remarked : There are and the thick inquiry at the other end: plenty of tracks here; but, as they do “Well, what do you want?” not lead into the bushes at the side, I But, although his voice betrayed the judge they are your own. As near as fact that its owner had been suddenly I can make out, the highwaymen must awakened by the ringing of the tele- have kept in the hard road when they phone bell, Jacobi recognized it as be- left this spot— there are no signs that longing to the man he wanted. they made their escape by cutting across “This is Mr. Jacobi,” he said. “I country. Not right here, at any rate. am in Haledon, and wish you would You passed no one on the road, did ” come here as quickly as possible.” you? The other was instantly alert, and “ Not that I noticed,” Jacobi re- ready to do as bidden. plied. “Did you, Harris?” He arrived in Haledon in due course. “ No, sir.” Jacobi met him at the station with the Suddenly Hart’s eyes fastened upon car, and the restaurant proprietor hur- something about ten feet from where riedly recited the events of the past they stood, and he hurried in that di- night, the detective listening intently. rection. ” ”

248 THE ARGOSY.

“ “What’s this?” he queried, as the Here is the house,” Jacobi inter- other two men followed behind him. rupted, as the car came to a halt. “ There, in the soft soil, were two Then let us go up immediately.” parallel marks, as if something heavy There was a positiveness in the de- had been dragged toward the bushes at tective’s tone that brooked no objection; the side of the road. and reluctantly Jacobi followed him up Hart followed the strange marks, and the steps. stepped into the wet bush where they In answer to his ring of the bell, a disappeared, the others watching him domestic came to the door. closely. He stooped down for a few “ Is Mr. —” he began, then turned moments, then raised his head and beck- to the restaurant owner. “ What is his ” oned. name? “ As Jacobi neared his side, he pointed Bickel.” to an object half hidden by the under- “Yes; is Mr. Bickel in?” gentleman gave 'a start “ Yes, sir growth; and that ; because 1 heard him in his of surprise, as he saw before him what room as I came by it a few moments appeared at first glance to be the body ago.” “ of a man. I guess it was Dr. Zabriskie,” Jacobi The detective noted his look, and re- broke in. “ He probably stayed up with assured him. him all night.” “ “No need to be shocked—it’s only Probably,” Hart repeated quietly. a dummy,” he said. Then, addressing the girl, he directed: “ The restaurant owner leaned over, and Take us to his room. Do not an- he nounce us peered closer at the thing ; and, when —take us right up.” saw it was only some straw-filled cloth- The two men trailed after the maid, “ ing, he queried blankly : What does and paused before the door she indi- ” this mean ? cated. Without a word, Hart turned the “ I have my own theory,” Hart re- knob quickly and threw open the door. I am wrong; “I beg your pardon I plied vaguely. “Perhaps ; guess I got but my advice is to take me to the in- in the wrong room,” he said to the men jured man as quickly as possible.” whose backs were turned to him, and “But what is your theory?” who were busily packing a grip. Whether it was that the detective At the sound of his voice they faced did not consider his theory had secure about suddenly, to see before them a enough foundation, he was not ready to stranger and the restaurant owner. The communicate to his employer, but re- countenances of each took on a peculiar plied simply: “Take me to the man; expression, as they stood there, apparent- but do not introduce me as a detective.” ly too surprised to move or speak. “ But we cannot call upon a sick man Hart crossed the threshold, and, with- at this hour,” the other protested. out taking his eyes from the two men, “ Yes, we can, under these circum- inquired of Jacobi: “Which is the in- stances,” Hart insisted. jured man?” “ ” “Very well; the case is in y.our That—one ! was the reply, which hands,” but Jacobi’s tone showed plainly came with a gasp of astonishment be- his reluctance to follow the advice. tween each word. The three men returned to the car, “ Pretty well looking man to have and were soon on their way to Beaumont been knocked senseless by highwaymen, and the injured man. and then run over by an automobile, “What can I say; and who are you I should say,”— Hart remarked. supposed to be?” Jacobi inquired. “ But—but ” Bickel began.

— ‘ “ ’ “ And perhaps the man will be asleep There are no huts about it,” Hart “ In that case, his rest will be dis- broke in. “ I see through your game.” turbed,” Hart interrupted. “ Mr. Hart,” Jacobi burst out, “ I “ I cannot do that, after what has protest.” “ happened.” The case is in my hands now, sir,” “ And it is for just that reason— that the detective declared firmly. Turning you will do it. When I tell you to the two men. he continued, as he dis- ” ” — ”

JACOBI’S J UGGERNAUT. 249

closed his shield : “I am a detective, Hart gave vent to a grunt of disgust. “ ” and I want you.” Well, I’ll be darned ! he muttered. “ This matter has gone too far,” Ja- Then he turned to the two men. cobi cried. “ Mr. Bickel, L assure “ Come on now, and we’ll see that you— you get out of town. Pay your bill— “ Let me talk,” Hart interrupted. “ We did that a few moments ago,” “Can’t you see their game?” Bickel said, as he shot a furtive glance Dr. Zabriskie fumbled in his pocket, at the man he had attempted to defraud. and drew out the check which the res- “ Then, come on—we’ll take you to taurant owner had presented to the in- the station,” Hart added. jured man; and his hand trembled as The four men descended to the wait- ing Harris’s surprise was he grimly held it out toward the detec- auto ; and tive. noticeable, as he saw them enter the “ Take it—we are leaving town 'by machine. the first train.” “ To the station,” Jacobi ordered. Hart took the piece of paper. Not a word was spoken during the “ 'short When you leave town you come with ride ; and there was no parting me,” he announced firmly. “ Will you greeting as the two strangers clambered prosecute them, Mr. Jacobi?” out at the railroad-depot and stood on “ I cannot see— the platform, awaiting the train. “ Why, you didn’t run over this man,” “ You ought to send them up,” Hart the other said impatiently. “ It was a declared, as he lingered beside the car. dummy, which he dragged into the “ By Jove; how about the hundred you bushes when he saw you stop, and then thought you were paying to a doctor. lay down in the road himself. There I’ll get that, too.” were no highwaymen waiting for you, But Jacobi detained him. either. It was all in the game, and “No; let them keep it. It’s worth they knew that you’d fall for it. Any that to have my mind relieved—to know one in the same position would nat- my machine did not break four or five urally do so.” of a man’s ribs.” A light of understanding broke over A heavy train was rumbling into the

Jacobi’s face. station, and Hart started toward it with “ I can’t believe it.” the pair in front of him. “ But 1 can; and this Dr. Zabriskie is “ I’ll see them to New York, anyway. no more a doctor than I am. He was the Good day, sir.” other man in the affair. Will you pros- Harris turned to his employer. ecute now?” “What does it mean, sir?” A smile of relief broke over Jacobi’s Jacobi smiled grimly. countenance as he replied: “No; I am “ Nothing much, except that you too delighted to know that I have not didn’t run over that man Bickel. Re- injured a man who was supposedly the lieve your mind on that score. Take cause of saving my life. No, I’ll not me home now, and I’ll tell you all about prosecute, now that I have the check it on tiie way to New York this after- back.” noon.”

FAITHFULNESS.

They vowed eternal constancy The youth and maiden shy; Through time and through eternity Their love should never die.

But fate, in life’s uncertain whirl. Played havoc with their plan He’s married to another girl. She to another man. ” ” ”

\ THE CRIMSON HARVEST.* By ALBERT PAYSON TERHUNE,

Author of “ From Flag to Flag,” “ On Glory's Trail," “ With Sealed Lips,” etc.

A story of Paris in the Reign of Terror, with an American for

its central figure and his sweetheart in the grip of powerful foes.

SYNOPSIS OF CHAPTERS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED.

Accompanied by Sliadrach Bemis, an old ex-scout and trapper, a young American, Jack Braith, sets sail for France with the purpose of claiming the title and estates of his late granduncle, the Vicomte de Chevreuse. He knows nothing of his French relatives except of his cousin, Etienne de Chevreuse, a wild youth who is said to resemble him greatly in looks. On the voyage he meets and falls in love with Mile. Elise de Perier, who, with her father, is taken aboard from a sloop wrecked by a privateer after a narrow escape from being kidnaped by the privateer’s mysterious captain. Arrived in Paris, where the Revolution is raging, Braith, Bemis, and De Perier take lodging at a small hotel in the Rue St. Honore. Two weeks later Mile, de Perier fis ab- ducted by some unknown enemy; but Bemis succeeds in tracking the cab in which she is carried off to a convent in the suburbs. Under the guidance of Bemis, Braith goes to the place and demands to see the abbess. Her words of greeting leave him dumfounded with amazement.

CHAPTER VI (Continued). “ Yes. Back to her father. Mother, I do not ask why she— A NEW MYSTERY. “But, citizen,” she interrupted, “it* is ITAT'* the abbess said that so an- not necessary to entreat. Your order is W noyed me was merely this: sufficient. As you well know, the citizen- “ Citizen Braith.” ess has been detained here only subject How did she know my name? to your wishes. Now that you are ready I peered forward through the half- to remove her, there can be no obstacle light to scan her pallid face. Indistinct- to her departure.— I hardly expected you ly as I could see it, I was none the less so soon. But sure I had never before looked upon her. I did not hear the rest of the sentence. “ Citizen Braith,” she repeated, as I The room seemed to whirl around me. did not speak, “ you wished to speak Was I dreaming? Here I had come, ” with me ? prepared to beg, threaten, intrigue. Yet “ Yes,” I made shift to reply, pulling Rhad hoped little of my quest. And at myself together, and blurting out my my first word I found the door of my message awkwardly enough. “ I wished wishes flung wide open. to see you about Mile, de Perier.” Surely, of all the day’s many tangles, She inclined her head, but with no this was the most mystifying. surprise. My first thought was that in the gloom

“ Mile, de Perier is here?” 1 went on. the abbess had mistaken me for another. “ Certainly, Citizeness Perier is here,” But. no. She had called me by name, she answered, apparently astonished at had said Elise was at the convent await- my question. ing only my word of release. Mad and “ Mother,” I pleaded, awkward in my impossible as it all seemed, I was not hopeless eagerness, “ 1 have come for idiot enough to spoil my advantage by her. Won’t you let me take her away? prying into its reason. — “ I beg it of you. Her old father I thank you, mother,” I said, as coolly “ Let you take her away? ” echoed the as I could. “ And if I may trouble you abbess. '\ to have Mile, de Perier ready at once, I Began April Argosy. Single copies, 10 cents. 250 , : !

THE CRIMSON HARVEST. 251 will have a carriage sent for to take her dering why I felt so at peace with the away.” world. Then I remembered. Elise was The abbess bowed, and was about to safe quit the room when I interposed True to my plan, Bemis and I had not “ One moment. May I ask that you made known our presence. Elise had do not let her know it is I who arranged entered the cab in the convent courtyard, her release?” and had been driven straight to the “ But—” hotel, we following in the second vehicle. “ Let her think it is the police, or any I had seen her alight and hurry into one you will,” I insisted. “ But I do the hotel, and had noted in that brief not wish my name to appear. The car- glimpse the stricken, harassed look on riage, if I can find one at this hour, will her sweet face. Small wonder, after all be awaiting her in the courtyard in ten - she had been through. minutes. Will you see that she is ready I had not broken in upon her meeting by that time?” with her father. She would be weary. Coming upon the little boy, on the It was no time to intrude. So I waited. steps, I handed him a gold coin and bade And now at dawn I awoke. Across him hurry off to the nearest mews for the room Shadrach was snoring mightily. two fiacres and have them sent to the In the street outside I heard the rolling convent with all speed. Then I joined of carts. A shrill newsboy’s voice cut Bemis at the gate. the air with words whose frequency of To the old trapper I told the story. utterance, had well-nigh robbed them of At its end he muttered confusedly: their gruesome meaning: ” “ This ain’t a joke, is it ? “ List of the Condemned! List of ” “I don’t know,” said I. “ My only the Condemned ! fear is that I may wake up before we get For thus it was that the news-sheets to Mile, de Perier’s home.” of the time made known to the public “ But what are the two carriages the results of each previous day’s trials. for?” he queried, as the cabs rumbled And people read with bated breath. up to the gate. None could say how soon his or her “I want her love,” I replied; “not own name might be emblazoned there, her gratitude. If she knows I have saved nor when the cockaded guard of the her from this place she may think she Committee of Public Safety might halt owes me something. You and I will get at the door with the dread summons: into this second cab. The abbess will “ In the name of the Republic of ” put her in the first. I will give direc- France ! tions beforehand to both drivers. One to That morning I .called on Laurier, the re- go straight to our hotel with her ; the Chevreuse advocate. He had other— the one you and I take—to fol- turned from Touraine the preceding low close to guard her. afternoon. But I got slight benefit from “ She need never know. I don’t care the visit. Old Laurier declared himself to pose as a rescuer, especially after such utterly at a loss.

' this to have her “ I a tame rescue as ; nor For months have been at work feel indebted to me. She must care for on the case,” he said in doleful perplex- me for myself. Not for what I’ve done ity. “ It seemed moderately simple at for her.” first. Indeed. I cannot say why it has Which proved to be the most insane not remained so. But at every turn some plan of my life, and one that was to lead new and unforeseen obstacle blocks my us all far closer to death than most men way. Some legal quibble due to the are brought before their last hour. changed conditions, or else a setback of a clerical sort. It seems as if some wily foe were working in the dark against us.” CHAP TER VII. “ You spoke in your letter,” I sug- gested. “ of another claimant, who had DISMAY, vowed to fight my claim to the last It was late next morning when I ditch. Can you tell me who he is, and awoke. And long I lay drowsily won- where T may find him? I may as well ” ” ”

r 252 THE ARGOSY. settle with him soon as— late. If there “It’s French!” he retorted, deeply is a duel to be fought offended. “ An’ you pretend to know “ I am not yet at liberty to give you the language, aq’ can’t even understand

‘ the information you ask,” he interposed. it ! What I said was French for Have “ You see, I am the lawyer of the estate; you the pen, ink, an’ paper of your, not your personal advocate. So I must gran’ther’s wife?’” “ do justice alike to all legal claimants. Oho ! It was a French text-book Personally, as I wrote you, I believe your you were studying? Good for you! claim just, and yourself the natural suc- Now say the sentence again, a little cessor. But, until I can fully establish slower this time. French people don’t those facts— and hear in full the preten- talk quite so explosively.” sions of “ Amy—z 'oo —lay—ploom,—/— " he “ I understand,” I broke in, rising. began pompously. Then, with a rueful “ I knew well the dreary, long-winded sigh : The whole meanly thing’s technicalities of French law. It could slipped me ag’in ! But I’ll git it some not be hurried. time or other. When you goin’ to call on “ Moreover,” he added, “ even though Miss Elise?” you are proven the rightful wearer of I consulted my watch. the title ‘ Vicomte de Chevreuse,’ it will “ It is nearly noon,” I answered. not only be an empty honor in these days “ I’ll go as soon as Tve reach the hotel.” of equality, but may even implicate you “ You were silly not to take her home as an aristocrat. I speak unprofession- from that convent place last night.

’ ‘ ally, of course,” hev finished nervously. She’d likely ’a’ squealed I’m your’n ! “ You see, I — the minute she clapped eyes on you, an’ “ I know,” said I, “ yet I am minded found it was you that let her out of to claim the title. For myself, it means the convent.” nothing. I am an American, born and “ I’ve told you once that I want her to I shall return, love, not her thanks,” replied. bred ; and America I when this business is at an end. Yet,” “ And—” thinking of Elise and her father, “ I “ An’ I’ve told you twice you’re fool- wish to prove my right to the title, none ish. Trouble’s li’ble to come from that the less. As" for the estates and the breed of nonsense.” money, I shall need those for the same I laughed at him, and ran up the cause. I beg you will use all diligence broad stairs of the hotel to the door of in my behalf.” the De Perier suite. To the answering When I reached the outer office, “ Entrcz!” I swung open the door and where Shadrach was awaiting me, 1 entered the spacious old drawing-room. found him doubled up on a high stool, Elise and her father were seated near poring over a shabby little book, his the window, deep in talk. A glance lips moving noiselessly, his forehead showed me that Elise had been weeping. puckered. It was not the first time I On her white face I read, too, that had caught him thus engaged. Now, harassed, almost heart-broken look which as always before, at sight of me he had so distressed me the night before. thrust the book into his deerskin blouse. At sight of me, both father and But he saw that I had noted his .daughter sprang to their feet. I hur- action. As wei passed out into the street, ried forward eagerly, then halted. For, he cleared his throat, and remarked, instead of the welcoming smile I had with some nervousness: looked to see, De Perier’s pale old eyes ” “ Know what I was doin’ ? were ablaze with wrath. Elise had “No,” 1 answered. “What?” shrunk back at my advance, as though Instead of replying directly, he drew I had struck her. a long breath, and then burst forth into And thus, for an instant, we three a jumble of fearsome sounds. stood. It was De Perier who broke the “ ” sheepish Thar ! he ended, with silence. pride. “How’s 4hat?” “ It is well you have come, monsieur “Is it a Choctaw war-whoop?” I he said, in a voice shaking with rage, asked, “or—” “ though I scarce expected such effront- ” ” ” ” ”

THE CRIMSON HARVEST. 253

ery. It is a peace, however, with the father’s,” I went on, unheeding. “ To rest of your conduct.” the best of my knowledge, I have done “ ” M. de Perier ! I cried, doubting nothing to forfeit that honor. Yet to- my own ears. day— “It is well!” he repeated. 1,1 For Elise checked again an outbreak of you can hear from our own lips how De Perier’s rage. Speaking with an ef- we regard such as you. -If— fort, yet in a curiously dead, calm voice, ” “Mademoiselle! I exclaimed aghast, she turned to her father. “ turning to Elise, “ has your father gone It would be better to end this. It ” mad? cannot but be painful to us all. Tell But she vouchsafed me no answer. M. Braith why we forbid him our rooms, Her gentle eyes were full of a cold father, as briefly as you can.” scorn that had no place therein. Yet, “ M. Braith,” said the old man, behind it, I seemed to read a sorrow quieter now, and bowing acquiescence to greater than her outward contempt. his daughter’s request, “ I welcomed your I drew myself together, facing De acquaintance because I believed you a Perier again. gentleman. I allowed you to meet and “ Will you do me the honor to explain, converse freely with my daughter, under sir ? ” I asked stiffly. the same impression. How have you “ Hypocrisy will not help you now,” requited us? By causing my daughter’s he retorted. “ We know everything. I arrest as a political suspect. By having only grieve we did not know sooner.” her spirited away from me, and placed “What do you mean? On my soul, in the convent— of Our Lady of Mont- this is Greek to me.” martre. By “ “ “ ” I mean,” snarled De Perier, if I It is a lie ! I shouted, forgetting were a younger man, I should kill you, in my amaze to choose more respectful as I would kill a cur. As it is, leave our language toward a man so much my “ rooms before I forget my own dignity. senior. Who tells so dastardly a false- Another will soon be here who will know hood of me? It is absurd, as well as how to deal with you. Though it were false. I—” “ unbecoming a gentleman of France to Your acting is excellent, monsieur,” soil his hands on such canaille.” sneered De Perier, “ but it will not serve. Elise had crossed to where the sha- You know best why you did this thing. king, furious old man stood, and laid an At first, I myself was at a loss for a appealing hand on his arm. The touch motive to it. But this very day the clue momentarily calmed him.. has unexpectedly come into my hands. “ ” again I only Go ! he repeated, pointing understand now too well why to the door. you should wish my daughter out of In reply, I folded my arms, and stood the way. Have you heard enough? If ” stock-still. so, go ! “ “ I shall not go,” said I as quietly I have heard no wmrd of truth,” I as might be, “ until this absurd mis- replied, dizzy with the wdiole bewildering “ understanding is cleared up.” affair, nor anything I can understand. ” bit- “ Misunderstanding ! he mocked You are actually mad enough to claim

’ terly. “ The ‘ misunderstanding has it vr as / who had Mile, de Perier kid- been all ours, monsieur. It no longer naped? 1 demand to —know your author- exists. Nor do you, so far as concerns ity for so ridiculous a “ us.” 1 am his authority,” interposed Elise. “ “ Mademoiselle said I, again ignor- You?” “ ing him, “ I seem unable to obtain any I went to the fiacre to meet my explanation from your father. Will you father. I was hurried into it, and the do me the honor to tell me what this driver started. Then 1 found it was all means?” not my father, but a strange man beside “ I forbid you to address my daugh- me on the seat. The curtains were down. irate De Perier. I could not see his face. I was hurried ter ! ” quavered the “ I have been honored by your ac- to tire convent. There, they were await- quaintance. mademoiselle, and by your ing me. ”: ” ” ”I ” ” ” ” ”

254 THE ARGOSY.

“ I was led to a cell by two lay-sisters. back. “Of a race that has yet to be Tint no word of explanation was offered. charged with the petty dishonesties and Some hours later—long after dark— lies that are dragging your Old-World was ordered to go to the abbess’s room. nations to their fall. You use the term The police had ordered me set free.” ‘ American ’ as an insult, Sieur de Perier. I remembered angrily the tale I had / wear it as an honor.” “ bade the abbess tell as explanation. An honor on which your country Elise went on is doubtless to be complimented,” he “As the abbess was telling me of my laughed contemptuously. “ But this has release, she was called from the room little to do with the matter in hand. for a moment. On the table lay several You have— open papers. One was a ‘ lettre de “ I have heard you patiently, and I cachet,’ consigning me to the convent, deny the charges. All I ask is the ‘ on recpiest of Citizen John Braith, chance to prove them false.” American, and for such term as he shall De Perier shrugged his shoulders in designate.’ It was signed by Fouquier- disgust, and once again pointed door- Tinville, the public prosecutor, —and ward. But Elise now spoke. Her lovely countersigned by the president of the face had softened. 1 knew she was loath “My name? Mine?” I found voice to disbelieve pie, and that my vehemence to gasp. had had some slight effect on her heart. “ Your name,” she repeated miserably. “ M. Braith,” she said, “ I would “ I still did not believe. When the rather cut off my own hand than that abbess returned, 1 showed her the paper, you should have been thus treated if you and demanded to know what it meant.” do not deserve it. If that is so, both “ And she— I and my father will make all the “ She confirmed it. I still refused to amends that mortals can. You must not believe. Then she showed me the. sig- blame us, nor think we decided over-

nature ‘ J ohn Braith, American,’ at the hastily. Surely, the proof stands clear. ” bottom of my commitment, and—and Can you refute it? “ ” described you accurately. She said you He can overwhelm us with lies ! had been at the convent that very day.” cried De Perier, before I could speak. Naturally enough, the abbess could “ If he has real proof, let him produce describe me. She had, at the time, it.” parted from me not ten minutes before. “ You have doubted my word, mon- “ But, even at that, I could make nothing sieur,” said I. Among— gentlemen, a of it all. 'sacred word of honor is Why should a daughter of the church “ My father has doubted your word,” lie about such a thing? No; she had admitted Elise, intervening between De told doubtless what she deemed the Perier and myself, “ but he was indig- truth. Also, she had called 'me by name nant at what lie thought were my on first sight. wrongs. When he is calmer, he will Oh, there was no getting to the bot- agree with me in accepting it. I do not tom of the wretched complication! Nor ask for proofs, M. Braith. If you will— had I just then the heart to try to solve give me your solemn word of honor “ ” it. All I wanted was to set myself Gladly ! I exclaimed, my heart straight in Elise’s eyes. throbbing with joy at her trust, and its “ are fearfully condemning “ Well, sir,” observed De Perier, triumph over such — you satisfied?” appearances. “Most gladly! I “ “No!” I declared. Your word of honor,” she continued, — “ “ You still persist in that the abbess was mistaken in think- “ In declaring my innocence. I do ing you visited the— convent and talked not understand this mystery. But I give with her yesterday you my word— My changed face must have warned ” her pale “ The word of an American ! her. For she stopped, and own There was a slur in the retort that cheek grew whiter. Her big gray eyes maddened me. were luminous with unspoken pleadings. ” I “ Yes, of an American ! I flashed What could do? ” ”

THE CRIMSON HARVEST. 255

Yes, I know it would have been the “ I went there,” I asserted again, “ “ part of sanity to say : I went there and I talked to the abbess. But it to save you.” But, even if I could have was not to— made her believe the story of my strange A jeering laugh from the old man interview with the abbess — which my cut me short. own common sense scarce permitted me “ So the supply of falsehoods has not ” to believe— I was still all the more re- yet run out, after all ! he remarked. ” solved not to come to her with an appeal “ Have you still others? for thanks, when what I craved was her “ I have spoken the truth,” I urged, unbiased love. casting sense to the winds, along with 11 And stubborn pride, too, flew to the hope, and any man with a brain should aid of this resolve. know it. What object could I have had Her father had insulted me. She her- in the kidnaping of your daughter? Let self had at first doubted me—though her me tell you one more ‘ falsehood,’ to strongest reason for that doubt I was prove what I say—or to clinch the rest. destined not to know until many months M. de Perier. 1 love your daughter. I later—and, in face of all this, how could had hoped to come to you, rich and I pose melodramatically as her pre- titled, to claim her hand. Why should server? It was out of the question. I, then, —have spirited her away? I love And, at best, De Perier would never her, and credit my version of the scene at the 'Phe old man’s sardonic humor gave way out place in a breath to senile convent. N o ; there was no fury at my of it. presumption. “ ” De Perier, who had moved to the win- Go ! he shrieked, springing un- dow, as though disclaiming any share steadily at me, cane aloft. in his daughter’s compassionate weak- Down came the slender walking-stick, ness, now looked around in some, in- across my unguarded face. Feeble as terest. He had noted Elise’s pause, and, was the arm that dealt it, the blow was like her, read my face. none the less infuriating. “ You heard my daughter’s question,” And then 1 did the bravest deed of he rasped. “ Did you, or did you not, my life. I looked De Perier in the eyes go to the convent of Our Lady of Mont- —scarce noting Elise’s cry of horror, martre yesterday?” and her hurried rush between us—bowed

I made no reply. in silence to both father and daughter, “ Did you talk there with the abbess, turned on my heel, and left the room. in reference to mv daughter’s captiv- My whole being throbbed and burned ity?” in' accord with the sting of the welt I did not answer. across my face. 1 could not think, save ” “ Come, come, sir ! the old man through a mist of red. growled. “ A moment back, you were I had been struck like a street-beggar eager enough to be put upon your so- •—and in the presence of -a woman! 'Phe called ‘ word of honor.’ Yet, now that woman I loved. I had been struck, and we stoop to question you, you are dumb. I had been brave enough not to resent it. ’ Surely, there is not so much ‘ honor in I left the hotel, looking not to right that same ‘ word ’ as to choke back all or left. Straight onward 1 went, heed- your speech? Can you find no lies to less of distance, direction, or time. those two simple queries: Did you go Through deserted byways, and to the convent, and did you talk to the through busy throngs I hurried at un- ” abbess? checked pace. More than one man was “ My answer to both questions,” I rudely jostled in my unswerving prog- “ ” returned hopelessly, is—yes ! ress through the more frequented thor- A little gasp from Elise, and an ironic oughfares. chuckle from her father. Then the girl At such times, I came out of my mad sank down, and buried her face in her daze long enough to hope vaguely that hands. There was that in her crushed one of the persons thus hustled might attitude which went like a knife to my take umbrage and pick a quarrel with heart. me. : - —

256 THE ARGOSY.

An angry man is not unlike a child. volley of lurid curses, pulled out an A man furious as I, and, at the same ugly, short knife, and sprang toward me. time, so sorely perplexed and heart- broken, is perhaps little better than an imbecile. And always that reddening CHAPTER VIII. welt on my face burned and stung. It A NOCTURNAL ADVENTURE. 'seemed to me that the mark must blaze out from my countenance and give Now, I had done an asinine thing. I notice to all had forced a fight in a district where “ Here is the man who was caned— human life was held even cheaper than beaten like a dog—and who did not re- in the revolutionary courts of the day. ” Also, sent it ! my opponent was no doubt a Tor many hours this insanity of mine member of one of the countless Mont- must have waged. Till,' at last, by sheer martre clubs or gangs, and had probably fatigue and lapse of time, it smoldered a score of friends within easy call more down into something like normal men- than willing to take up their comrade’s tality, and I came to myself, wondering, quarrel. I would be extremely lucky to at first, where I was. escape alive. Dusk had fallen. I was in the Mont- Still, having brought on the trouble, I martre district. I must have wandered would not adopt the one sane course left in a half-circle, covering many miles, to me, namely, take to my heels. I stood yet pausing at length only a mile or my ground, half drawing my sword as two from my starting-point. my assailant bounded forward. Then an Montmartre, in those days, as later, odd thing happened. was the home of workmen, poor students, The fellow halted — almost, as it ” riffraff, cafe politicians, and the “ red seemed, in mid-leap. His truculent man- political societies. ner underwent a swift change. Not the safest place on earth, after “ Pardon, citizen,” he said, in brutal nightfall. But, at that era of agita- attempt at civility. “ May I inquire your ” tion, it was the home-ground of the name ? “ most rabid of all the revolutionary My name is Braith,” I replied, sur- factions. prised. I loosened my small sword in its “Citizen John Braith—American?” sheath, looked about me to fix my loca- with a queer inflection on the last word. tion, and, walking in midstreet, beyofid “ Yes.” the shadows of the rickerty housed, And I made as though to pass on. turned my steps homeward. “ One moment,” he ordered, barring I was passing a cafe, when its door my way, knife still gripped. was flung open, and one or two men He blew four peculiarly modulated started out. I crossed the broad path notes on a whistle he liad snatched out of light from within. One of the men of a pocket with his free hand. While. I lurched accidentally against me, in emer- was still wondering at the action, and in ging from the brightly illuminated in- doubt as to whether to thrust him to one terior into the dusk of the street. side or to remain -where I was, a half- The impact jarred him, and he gave dozen men ran out of the cafe. feelings “ ” vent to his in one of those pe- We are in luck ! cried the man who culiarly offensive epithets for which the had summoned them. “And I am glad Paris pot-house politician is so justly the meeting was still on in there. It celebrated. would have been a pity to let such prey At another time, I might have let it escape. And, in my hurry, I was nigh

pass. But now, my nerves raw, up to choosing for my own meat • what flared my temper. Catching the fel- lawfully belongs to you all. Citizens! ” low suddenly by the shoulder, I shook Brothers of the Montmartre Branch ! him, as a puppy might shake a rag, and he went on oratorically. “ Permit me to then threw him violently against the present an honored guest. 'Jack Braith ” wall. American ! He gathered himself together with a I had scarce opportunity to note again ” ”

THE CRIMSON HARVEST. 257 that inflection on the word “ American.” if you like,” I retorted as unconcernedly “ ” For, at his speech, the half-dozen closed as might be. It is all one to me ! around me. “See!” commented the man, “his A little crowd had already collected own lieutenants cannot be loyal to the in the dim street. The cafe door had ‘ Incorruptible.’ I’ll wager that even— swung shut, and we were almost in dark- Couthon or St. Just would also have “ ” ness. Be still ! ordered a deeper voice, I made as though to draw my sword. from the other side of the little circle. Two hands from behind pinioned my “ That is not Citizen Braith’s voice. I arms. I wrenched myself free; but not ought to know. Bring a torch, some before another had seized my sword, and one.” pulled it from the scabbard, and out of A flambeau was brought from a near- my reach. by huckster-stall. The deep-voiced man Another patriot, carried away by zeal, —who was taller and better dressed than threw himself upon me. My fist met his his colleagues, and seemed in authority jaw, and he collapsed in the muddy —thrust it in front of my face. roadway. “ There is some mistake here,” he an- But what can one man do against nounced presently. “ This is not Braith. six? I am no hero of Drury Lane melo- Duval, you’ve made another of your drama. I struck out in all my strength, stupid, absinthe-bred blunders.” and more than one went down before “ It is Braith,” insisted the man with others reeled back, the knife. “ He—” my blows ; while bruised and bleeding, into the crowd. " I ought to know,” interrupted the Yet the struggle was short. Others other. “ It is not he, or any one close had joined the first comersi Soon I was to Robespierre.” overpowered by sheer force of numbers, “ You are right, citizen,” spoke up and my arms were pinioned. another. “ This is not Braith. I’ve “ ” So ! exclaimed the man, who had seen him a hundred times.” summoned the rest. “ That’s settled. “ Well,” cheerfully observed the man Shall we carry him inside for his trial, called Duval, “ why not kill him, any- or dispense wholly with the farce, and how, on general principles? It will be march straight to the Seine?” symbolic. Like burning Braith in effigy. ” “What does this mean?” I panted, What do you say, brothers ? still vainly struggling. “If you are Another laugh went up at the grue- pickpockets— some pleasantry. But the leader inter- “Pickpockets?” echoed the spokes- vened sharply: man in high contempt. “ Citizen Braith, “ Are we patriots, or are we street- ” we are as incorruptible as your beloved assassins? friend and patron, Maximilien Robes- Personally I thought the two might pierre—whom may the guillotine feed amount to much the same. ” “ upon ! A mistake has been made, here,” he “ ” Amen ! chorused other voices from added. Turning to me, and offering me the darkness. my sword, hilt foremost, he cut short ” “ A has Robespierre! screamed a the wrangle by saying: fishwife in the crowd. “ Citizen, pray accept our apologies. The rabble took up the cry. Clearly, Ho, there! Give the citizen room to “ ” ” the Incorruptible was not popular pass on his way. Good night ! here. And I, for some reason, was evi- Dazed, my brain awhirl, I returned dently supposed to be one of his sup- his bow, took the proffered sword, and porters. passed through the sullenly parted 3 “ Yell ‘ A has Robespierre! Citizen throng, out into the silence of the night Braith,” suggested my first acquaintance, beyond. “ and we may make your end less pain- As a man in a dream, I walked. My ful.” wonder is that I did not, in my absorp- The idea appealed to the crowd, and tion, fall victim to the first footpad. a laugh arose. Within the past thirty hours I had 3 "'A bas Robespierre! by all means, first been saved from a duel, because I 5 A

i

I — —

258 THE ARGOSY. was mistaken, by ill light and other ob- mystery by the throat, and—at cost' of structions, for a friend of Robespierre’s. life, if need be—unveil it. Next, 1 had been able to rescue Elise I reached the hotel, full of my new from the convent, simply because my resolve. Passing the door of the De name was Braith. Now, I had been Perier suite, on my way to my own room, saved from nocturnal death, because, ap- I saw a line of light below the thresh- parently, my name was not Braith. old, and heard voices within. Was ever mortal man in such another Now that I had fought down my snarl? Was there any head or tail to pride, I was minded not to let a night the absurd, impossible situation? pass before putting my new resolution I had, at first, thought Robespierre to the touch. I rapped lightly— for the mistook me for one of his friends. The hour was late— at the drawing-room door same supposition would account for his of the suite. Then I pulled myself to- enemies’ assault on me to-night. gether, determined not to let any rebuff “ But tire name Braith ”? Why should of De Perier’s turn me from my pur- it secure me the privileges' of the con- pose or ruffle my wretched temper. vent-prison, and why should the state- No reply came to my soft knock, the ment that it was not my cognomen snatch voices within the apartment drowning me from death at the hands of the Mont- it. So I rapped again; this time harder. martre Club? Why? The door, though I had not noted the Oh, it was all beyond me. To dwell fact, was on the latch. The impact of on it longer, I felt, was like to drive my hand SAvung it wide. It was ill-hung me mad. and its sill warped, or so light a pres- But one thing, at least, my Montmartre sure would scarce have opened it. The adventure had accomplished. It had hotel and its equipment were old, and lifted me out of my despondent rage not in best repair.

against fate and circumstances in gen- As it was, I found myself standing eral, and De Perier in particular. I saw on the threshold, looking into the bril- that situation now at a better perspec- liantly lighted room, whose occupants tive and with saner eyes. grouped at the opposite side, and talking I had played the fool that morning. —had not heard even my second and Instead of insisting on going over the louder knock. whole misunderstanding quietly and log- Dazzled by the sudden glare of light, ically with Elise and her father—driving after the dark, I stood blinking on the with De Perier, if necessary, to the con- threshold, trying to adjust my eyes to vent itself, for confirmation of my story the light, and with my lips parted to —what had I done? I had blazed out apologize for having seemingly flung like any drunken soldier, seeking, by open the door unbidden. frantic assertion, to batter down a gate But, though my mouth remained open, of disbelief that only common sense no words came. I stood, like the spec- could unbar. I had bellowed where I tator at a stage-play, gazing speechless should have argued. upon a scene being enacted at the far As a result, I had crushed Elise’s end of the long room. dawning faith in my innocence, and I had subjected myself to a blow from a man too old to give satisfaction. Well, CHAPTER IX. what was done might even yet be un- MV CROWNING ACT OF FOLLY. done. I put my pride and anger behind me A tablf, was spread, whereon lay the or, rather, both were overwhelmed bv remnants of a light supper. At one end my greater love—and decided then and of it sat M. de Perier, leaning back with there to humiliate myself, by seeking a complacent smile on his Avithered old out Elise and making one more appeal lips. His pale eyes Avere fixed affec- to her. Not for belief this time, but for tionately on two people Avho had appar- a fair chance to prove myself guiltless. ently just risen from the board. If she would grant me such chance, One of these Avas Elise, still pale, but

1 was prepared to seize this baffling with a happy light in her glorious gray • ” ”

THE CRIMSON HARVEST. 259

eyes. The other was a man—tall, could see his suit was not only favored young, handsome — in traveling dress. by the girl, but by her father as well. On a chair near by lay his cloak, hat, In France, fathers do not sit smiling and sword. by while their daughters are kissed by The man, with one arm, supported men whose attentions are unwelcome to Elise, whose head rested on his shoul- the family. Elise had told me she was der. This was what had caught my eye an only child. This embrace I had be- and held me dumb. held could not, therefore, be fraternal. As I looked, she was saying: No, there was but one explanation, “ Good night, then, cheri! And sleep and that the simplest. And the future well. A bridegroom should not look stretched out before me, dreary and haggard on his wedding-day.” barren as a rainy sea. “If the sight of your dear face does All at once I felt very old and very not give me sweet dreams, nothing will,” weary. replied the stranger, stooping and kiss- Hence, as I answered the stranger’s ” ing her. “ So I — Sacre! who is this? brusk query, I bowed, and was stepping he broke off, catching sight of me. back through the doorway, when De With a little cry, Elise released her- Perier found his tongue. ” self from his arm and whirled about, “Nothing? he queried fiercely, echo- “ fear in her eyes. De Perier, too, sprang ing my word. It seems you add to his seat with a guttural cry. your other accomplishments the gentle shakily from ' The eyes of all three were fixed upon art of spying, M. Braith.” me. In the stranger’s I read only sur- I did not answer. IndeecJ, I scarce in Elise’s, a fear so intense that heeded. Nothing mattered now. I was prise ; still it actually hurt me; in De Perier’s a withdrawing when, at sound of my senile fury. name, the other man sprang forward to “ What do you wish? ” asked the new- bar the exit. comer curtly. “Braith?” he cried. “Is this the ” “Nothing—now!” I answered, my scoundrel of whom you told me, sir ? “ voice sounding hoarse and strange even Yes,” answered De Perier. “ The cur whom I to my own ears. — caned this morning, and It wr as the truth. I had no further who “ object in being there. I had just seen Monsieur;’ exclaimed the stranger, “ that which struck me to the heart as all you shall not leave this room before the horrors of the Reign of Terror had giving me full satisfaction for your gross failed to do. For, in the scene I had insult to Mile, de Perier. You shall witnessed, no great acumen was needed be taught that it is one thing to kidnap to show me iffy life-hopes lay dead. a young lady, whose only protector is was evidently— old and feeble, and quite another to Elise was betrothed ; from her words — about to become a answer for that insult to a stronger bride. I am glad to recall that even man.” “Hush, Maurice!” whispered then I did not blame .her for her earlier Elise “ kindly treatment of myself. In none of in alarm. The door is still open. Any one passing through the corridor it, now that I reviewed our happy talk might hear or see you. For my sake be pru- together, had she given me actual en- — couragement. dent. Remember, it is death if “If this canaille I had morp than once hinted of my leaves the room own great love. But she had not co- alive,” replied the man, but in a more quetted with me, nor offered anything guarded tone, as old De Perier, moved by sudden caution, shuffled that I could honestly term encourage- across, and ment. closed and bolted the door, near which I still stood. Yet I marveled that, in our weeks of “If he escapes, I have close acquaintanceship in Paris, I had no doubt he will tell the authorities of never before set eyes on this fiance of my presence in Paris. But I do not intend that shall escape. hers. Had he but just arrived from a he Both on distance? Whoever he might be, and your account, Elise, and on my own. from wherever he might have come, I I have much to live for, just at present.” ” ” ” ” ” ” —

260 THE ARGOSY.

But Elise had not heeded the latter Otherwise, he could not have obtained part of his speech. She was advancing order for E Use’s imprisonment in the toward me, her hands outstretched, her convent. If he is allowed to leave eyes big with appeal. here— “ Monsieur,” she said brokenly, “ we “He shall not be!” returned De “ are in your power. Why should you Grieux. Rest, assured of that, sir. persecute us? If you really came here As for his being a spy, and the chances to-night to spy upon the Comte de that he may denounce me, I neither know Grieux, I implore you to give up your nor care. But, for his behavior yester- wicked plan. He has not harmed you. day toward Elise, his life shall answer. ” He has harmed no one. tie was pro- Stand back from that door ! scribed, as you know, and fled to Brus- For I had already returned to it, and sels. At risk of his life, he has crept my fingers were on the bolt. I now back here by stealth. But, . on my turned slowly to face him. honor, for no evil purpose. No plot— “ My young friend,” I observed calm- against France. Oh, have mercy on ly, “ I had the honor, a few minutes ago, “ ” Stop ! I broke in. to tell you I should leave this room at This agonized pleading for the man my own will. I have not changed my she loved was more than I could bear. mind. Nor does the fact that you have “Stop!” I repeated. “IMademoi- picked up your sword from that chair selle, you are humiliating yourself to deter me the least. I do not wish to no purpose. I— fight you—for reasons which Mile, de “ ” back, Oh ! she gasped, shrinking Perier will understand better than your- in misunderstanding of my words, and self.” clasping her white—little hands in en- “ We will leave Mile, de Perier’s name treaty. “ But, for out of it, if you please,” he retorted “ “ There has been enough of this, stiffly. The matter lies between you ” Elise ! interposed De Grieux, putting and me.” her behind him, and advancing —on me. Yet, from the faint flush on her pale “ This is my affair, not yours. I face, I saw that Elise understood—she But I was not minded to add one knew I did not wish to fight De Grieux, more blunder to the long score. I thrust because he was the man she loved, and the count aside, with no great gentle- because I was averse to harming what ness, and again confronted her. she held dear. “ " Mademoiselle,” I exclaimed, when “ You will fare better with my cane this refugee friend of yours interrupted than with your sword, Maurice,” jeered “ me, I was about to say you were pleading De Perier. A thrashing is more in to no purpose—simply because I had no the fellow’s line than a duel.” idea, before I entered this room, that This, too, I endured without reply the Comte de Grieux was here, or even again for Elise’s sake. I turned once that he was in existence. After I leave more to the doorway. “ this room—which, M. le Comte, I shall Well, American,” asked De Grieux, do at my own pleasure, and unchecked stepping, sword drawn, between me and by you or any other man—after I leave the threshold, “is it true? Will you this room, no one shall know from me fight, or must I kill you, as I would any that M. de Perier is putting his neck in other pestilent vermin?” “ peril by harboring a proscribed aristo- I have told you,” said I, keeping my- “ crat. Of all this I give you most solemn self in hand with difficulty, that I do assurance, which I beg you to believe. not want to fight. Construe my motives Whether or not the others choose to be- as you will.” “ lieve me, I care not in the least.” There is but one way to construe a “Oh, thank you!” she exclaimed in coward’s motives,” he answered. — “ relief. “ I do believe you, and I Be it so,” I said calmly, though my “ But I do not,” croaked old De Pe- brain was ablaze at the unmerited affront. “ rier. “ This man is a spy. Moreover, Though,” he resumed, in sneering “ he has influence with the riffraff that banter, in your country, I understand, calls itself the French government. cowardice is more a virtue than otherwise. ” ” —

THE CRIMSON HARVEST. 261

The example, if I remember aright, was at sight of the fleck of blood that stained set by your worthy leader, General his shirt-ruffle a cold, relentless rage Washington.” took hold of me, as 1 have known it to I felt myself go white to the very lips. do on the battle-field. And I pressed my But I fought back my rage. advantage the harder. “ Your ignorance of the greatest man Brave man as he was, De Grieux the century has produced,”— said I qui- knew he had met more than his match. etly, “ is ample excuse for Yet he fought on, despairingly, and with “Ignorance?” he mocked, seeing he a fury equal to my own. had struck the right tack to provoke me. Our crossed blades grated and whined “Ignorance? No man but an ignorant together, flashing forth long shimmering Yankee bumpkin would attribute great- rays from the candle-light. We were ness to that Virginia farmer who turned beginning to breathe heavily, too. traitor to King George. A traitor and— De Perier’s set, excited face came once He got no further. My sword was into my range of vision. He had left out. the door of the inner room, and, in his “ Perier,” I cried as I sprang to tense interest, had drawn M. de . nearer and the attack, “ take your daughter to one nearer to us as we fought. of the inner rooms. Her fiance’s death After a series of thrusts, that De may not be pleasant to witness.” Grieux guarded with increasing uncer- Then we were at it hot and heavy, tainty, I saw that all was ready for sword to sword, up and down the room, my final stroke. A bewilderingly swift overturning chairs, smashing fragile table feint that would leave his guard open ornaments, kicking rugs into disarray. to my lunge—and then I took the aggressive from the first, The inner door was thrown open, and but did not fully let myself out until I Elise advanced into the room. Her saw, with the corner of my eye, M. de father saw her, and seized her shoulders Perier forcibly draw the trembling Elise as she would have run between us. But to the farther room and close the door on I had seen her face, in the candle-light. her. And, at the unspeakable look in those Then I flew at my adversary with all wide luminous eyes of hers, my love the fury of a man whose country and .surged back upon me, killing the death- whose country’s idol have been insulted, hate that had just filled my whole being. with all the deadly fencing skill bred of She loved this man, this man who long years’ practise under the cleverest fought at my mercy. Were I to slay maitres d’armcs France could boast. him, the thrust that laid him low would I had endured insults without num- kill her heart as well. And I who loved ber—a blow itself—in. that room. It her would then be murderer alike of was good to be at last free to revenge her lover and her love. my shameful injuries. And revenge All at once I felt as if it were she, them I would. not De Grieux, who stood before me, De Grieux was a strong man, and tall. awaiting death. At the thought, I knew He was a good swordsman, too. Yet, I could not kill my adversary. with the mysterious “ fencer’s instinct,” Yet I made the feint I had planned. I felt before we had fought thirty sec- Only, instead of driving my blade to the onds that I was his master. hilt through De Grieux’s heart, I made I pressed him back, little by little, a light, quick cut that struck from his forcing him ever to shift his ground, .waistcoat the lowest lapel button. hurling in thrusts and lunges with all The button had been directly above the speed and accuracy of an arm trained his heart. He noted what I had done, and strengthened by years of practise. and he understood that I held his life Now I parried one of his thrusts, feint- in the hollow of my hand, and—was ed and lunged, eluding his guard and sparing it. touching him on the chest. As his sword wavered, in momentary It was but a flesh wound I scored, but confusion at my inexplicable act of I knew I would soon or late be able mercy, I made ,use of another trick I to drive home the finishing thrust. And had long ago learned. ”

262 THE ARGOSY.

With a sudden wrench, my blade slid the lieutenant more harshly. “ Answer down his, and jerked it from his hand. in the name of the—

His sword flew across the room, and As ill luck would have it, his eye struck the far wall. fell on Elise this time. The. question Starting back, as I disarmed him, De was addressed to her. Like a little child, Grieux’s foot caught in a crumpled rug, afraid, her eyes turned to me in what and he fell heavily to the floor. The I read for the very sublimity of appeal. impact of his head on the polished And then I committed my crowning hoards momentarily stunned him, and he act of folly. lay motionless. “ I am the Comte de Grieux, at your But, as though in echo to the sound service, my man,” said I in an offensively of his fall, a second crash sounded from haughty tone. “ What do you wish of ” the other side of the room. The bolted me? outer door flew open, with a rending of Elise drew in her breath sharply. rotten wood, and through the gaping De Perier stared unbelieving. At hear- aperture poured uniformed men. ing my admission, the lieutenant had “ In the name of the Republic of drawn a paper from his belt. ” “ France ! roared the foremost. Citizen Grieux,” he declaimed in a “ A glance told me these were not mere nasal, singsong . tone, in the name of gendarmes, drawn thither by the sound the French Republic, represented by the of fighting. They wore the National Committee of Public Safety, I arrest Guard uniforms, and their leader’s chest you. Fall in.! ” he ordered his men. was crossed by the dreaded insignia of Two of them stood on either side of the Committee of Public Safety. me. And then I knew. Word must some- “ Citizen Grieux,” resumed the lieu- how have reached the government that tenant, in the same singsong, “ you are the Comte de Grieux, proscribed aristo- charged— crat, had ventured back to Paris. “ Did you address me? ” came a dazed, His whereabouts being known, a muddled voice .from the floor behind us. squad of guardsmen had been sent to De Grieux had risen on one elbow. arrest him here in his insecure hiding- Still but half-conscious, and uncertain place. Hence the unheralded assault as to where he was, lie had dimly caught upon the room, designed in order to the repetition of his own name, and had give the prey no time nor chance to replied to it. I must act quickly. “ ” escape. Be still ! I shouted to him in af- Every hotel, every lodging-house had fected contempt, “ or must my sword its government spies in those clays. De teach you another lesson, American? It Grieux’s love must indeed have been is lucky you come in force, lieutenant,” strong, thought I, to lure him here al- I went on braggingly, “ or I should serve most to certain capture. you as I served that fellow Braith there, But the French aristocrats ever lacked who dogged me to this room, and sought forethought. Had they not, there need to arrest me in the same name of your have been no French revolution. upstart republic. De Perier and Elise alike understood, “ Come,” I added, “ if I am to be even as had I, the cause of the intru- jailed for the crime of being better born sion. The lieutenant in command strode than scum like yourselves, let us be toward us. moving. There is no need to read me “Which is the emigre Grieux?” he the list of my offenses. I have no wish asked sternly, looking in doubt from my- that this lady and her father should be self to the man on the floor, who now further distressed on my account. I began to stir feebly. forced my way in here upon them, hoping

So ! The guillotine was to finish to borrow money for my needs. But what I had begun! Well, it was de- they are so foolish as to be attached to cidedly no affair of mine. I shrugged that same rag-bag republic of yours, and

my shoulders, and slipped my sword they ordered me away. Come ! We back into its sheath. waste time." “ ” “Which is Citizen Grieux?” repeated . March ! ordered the lieutenant, ” : ”

THE CRIMSON HARVEST. 263 taking my sword from its scabbard, and For myself, now that I had time to leading the way toward the door. think matters over, I had little to fear. I followed close at his heels, my two I was an American citizen. As such, the guards clanking along on either side French government would think twice of me. before beheading me. All I need do “No! No!” screamed Elise, starting was to make known my plight to the from her daze of horror, and struggling Hon. Gouverneur Morris, our minister to fling herself forward past her father’s to France. detaining arms,— “ you must not ! Lieu- We made our way through an alley or tenant, he is two, and thence northward. I knew now But De Perier’s hand closed over her where we must be going. For that way mouth, choking back the cry. lay the prefecture of police. And so I left them. There I was doubtless to be lodged “ Vive la Guillotine!” shrilled a be- for the night and undergo my prelim- lated street urchin, as we passed into inary examination next morning, prior the midnight darkness of the Rue St. to commitment to one of the prisons. Honore. As we came out upon the wider thor- oughfare again, beyond the Halles, I descried a figure crossing the street in X. CHAPTER front of us. One glance was enough. And, despite the lieutenant’s SHADRACH BEMIS, MIRACLE-WORKER. sharp order for silence, I called “ ” Through the stillness of the almost Bemis ! Shadrach Bemis ! empty Paris streets we marched, my cap- The old trapper, on the way home tors and I. The tramp of feet and click- from one of his customary nightly ram- ing of martial accouterments echoed bles, heard and turned toward me, his from the tall houses lining the roadway. lean face screwed up with astonishment We crossed the Boulevard. To my at my odd plight. “ !” surprise, we did not turn toward either Lc Grand Sauvage laughed the the Conciergerie or La Force, the two lieutenant, recognizing him. foremost prisons, but in a different di- But Bemis shoved past him, and was rection from either. at my side. “ — “Where are we going?” I asked the How in blazes ” he began. lieutenant. I cut him short, and told him briefly “ To jail,” he answered laconically. and in English as much of my story as ” in mock I “ Really ! I exclaimed was needful. This had to do in de- - amazement. “ I fancied, from your cidedly few words. For the guards, as weird, costumes, that we were on our quickly as possible, thrust us asunder. “ way to a comic masquerade.” Shall I shoot one of ’em, an’ give ” Now, if there was one thing a French you a chance to cut an’ run ? Shadrach National Guardsman adored in those asked. “ “ days, it was his gaudy uniform. Many No,” I answered. I’m going to the a duel was fought with those who criti- prefecture. Go, first thing in the morn-— cized the absurd costume. So, as I had ing, to the American embassy. Tell “ intended, my sneer added tenfold to my I understand,” he called back, as the escort’s hitherto impersonal dislike for guards broke off my instructions by myself. hustling me away. I w'as glad of this. The more they And I felt I could safely leave my hated me the surer they were not to sus- case in the shrewd old backwoodsman’s pect they had made any error in my ar- hands. So, with a lighter heart, I ac- rest. I wished to be taken to the prison companied my captors to the prefecture. office. To be locked up for the night, if There my name and pedigree were de- possible, as the Comte de Grieux. manded by a yawning, blear-eyed desk This would give the real De Grieux official. Feigning sullenness, I refused ample time to escape from Paris and to to answer. take Elise and her father along, if The official, eager to get back to lied, might be. gruffly consigned me to a cell for tire ” ! : ” ” ” ;

264 THE ARGOSY.

night. Thither I was conducted. As All about your crazy actin’ ! Son, that soon as the iron door clanged shut be- business was the wildest, unreasonablest, hind me, I threw myself on the narrow worst thing I ever heard on. Ad’—an’ ” board cot, and in a moment was deep in I’d like to shake your silly hand ! the heavy slumber of physical and men- Which lie did with muscular fervor tal fatigue. then resumed It was not yet sunrise when a gen- “ T’other feller had decamped by the darme opened my cell door, roused me, time I got there. He got away with a and ordered me into the outer office. whole skin, thanks to you. Then I went The same sleepy fellow was at the desk. to the United States Embassy. Minister Reside him lolled Shadrach, a court in- Morris was just home from a ball, an’ I terpreter at his elbow. guess he was pretty tired, for it was past “ ” That’s him ! observed Bemis, as I midnight. But he saw me.” was led forth. “ Well, young feller,” “ I told you not to go there till this he continued, addressing me with a cant- morning.” I interrupted. ing air of disapproval, “ a nice mess “ So you did. So you did. But I’m you’ve got us all into, ain’t ye? What bad at obeyin’ orders. Besides, I had a your pore old father’ll say, I don’t know. kind of sneakin’ notion that this was a I’ve told them ’ere gentlemen you can’t case where a little hurry wouldn’t do no speak a word of French. So they’ve got great harm to any one. ’Cept, maybe, to an interp’ter to do the talkin’, if any’s the count feller.” needed.” “ It was on his account I wanted you I was at sea to explain this cryptic to wait till this morning, so he might speech. All I could gather from it was have time to escape.”

that I was supposed to know no French. “ Yes. Wa’al, mournin’ clo’es is But why, I could not imagine. pretty dear. But we needn’t ’a’ wore “ This p’lice officer,” went on Bemis, any on his account. So off I goes to “ is goin’ to give you one more chance. Gouverneur Morris, like I told you.” But I’ve told him if any of his men “ And he arranged my release, of ketches you on another spree, they’re to course. I must call to-day and thank lock you up fer a month. Come on him. But why did you make such a home now.” queer scene just now at the— The grinning interpreter kept up a “ Son, you make more mistakes in running translation, under his breath, for fewer words than any man I ever met,” the official’s amusement. Bemis affixed answered Bemis. “ For one thing, a sprawling signature to two papers, Morris didn’t arrange your release. For slipped a louis into the interpreter’s another, you’d better not call on him hand, caught me roughly by the coat, to-day. An— and led me out through the vaulted arch- “Didn’t arrange my release?” said I way into the street. in astonishment. “ Then how in— There he linked his arm in mine and “ It was old Shadrach Bemis what set off at a tremendous pace. got you off,” he announced, with a lu- “What—what does it all mean?” I dicrous self-complacency. “ ” demanded in amaze. Look here ! I cried, angered by “ It means your plumb foolishness his conceited air. “ I was arrested last came near gettin’ you into all sorts of night as the Comte de Grieux, a pro- trouble,” he replied, never checking his scribed aristocrat. That is a case for gait. “ Lord, son, what a night you’ve Fouquier-Tinville, and then the guillo- give me! We’re goin’ pretty fast now, tine. Even Morris’s influence would be but it’s the slowest I’ve moved since you strained, to prove me an American and an’ me parted last evenin’.” not an emigre—and to induce the French “ Where have you been? What— government to take a lenient view of “Where ain’t I been? Fust to the my share in De Grieux’s escape. So hotel, where I makes bold to drop in fer why do you claim you set me free?” “ advice on your Perier friends. My I don’t know why I said it, son," “ What a state they was in ! But Miss he answered ruefully, unless, maybe, F.lise manages to tell me all about it. because ’twas so.” — ” ” ; ”” ” ” —

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I saw at last that there was something letter from an American, whose son had more than mere boasting in his words. got into some kind of trouble over here. The trapper was in earnest. The feller was in jail, on charge of in- “Tell me about it,” I suggested, still sultin’ the gov’ment. His father’s a' in doubt. Senator, an’ he’d got Gin’r’l Washing- “ I went to Morris,” he began, nothing ton to endorse his letter, askin’ Morris loath, “ an’ I told him the story. When to get the lad off, an’ sent it to Morris. I got to your name, up he flies in a An’ Morris got a order of release from temper. Says he’s sick o’ the very name th’ C’mittee of Public Safety, an’ of ‘ Braith.’ Says you’re a scoundrel, Say, son,” he interpolated, “ these sneakin’ under an American name an’ Frenchies sure don’t know a joke when cit’z’nship, an’ not entitled to either. He they see one. If they did, they’d a died won’t git Uncle Sam’s fingers burnt in a laughin’ every time they heard that no more of your scrapes, he says, an’ measly c’mittee called ‘ Safety.’ It’s

— ‘ ’ th’ law can take its course. Then about as —safe as an angry rattler. “What?” I gasped. “ Gouverneur I’d sooner ” Morris said this of me? “ But—” “ That, an’ a lot more jest as flatterin’ “ Oh, the story? I forgot. Waal, an’ winds up by stampin’ out of the the documents was all pinned together, room, an’ sayin’ he’ll hear nothin’ more.” translations an’ all, an’ tacked to that “ But I don’t understand. I never one long sheet of paper. The order of met Minister Morris, and none of my release was dated yesterday. An’ it was affairs have yet come before him—for made out in blank. Out o’ compliment adjustment. What can he mean by to Morris, I ’spose. I reckon it had “ Let’s git to that later. I’ve got an come that evenin’, while Morris was out, idee of my own. Will I go on with an’ he hadn’t had chance yet to— ” this story, or won’t I ? “ So you—” “ Go ahead,” I said confusedly, my “ I just unpinned the order from the brain sick with bewilderment. “ What rest, for fear it might fall into some dis- ” next? honest feller’s hands. It was foolish “ Out he stamps, leavin’ me alone in for Morris to leave it layin’ about so his place. I was just goin’ to foller, careless. For all he knew, it might ’a’ when I thinks maybe I’ll have better been used to git some other pore pris- luck with some of his sectaries. So I ’ner out o’ jail. To make sartin it hangs around, waitin’ for one of ’em shouldn’t be misused that way, I jest to happen in on the way to bed. Just put temptation out of anybody else’s to amoose myself, I looks over some of reach by fillin’ in yo.ur name.” “ ” the papers layin’ around loose on the Good old Bemis ! Good old boy ! study table. Dretful untidy chap, that I cried. But— Morris man is.” “ Or, leastways, ’twasn’t your name, “You mean you read his private pa- but this mister Dee Groo’s.” ” pers? ” “ De Grieux’s? “ I don’t know how private they was. “ That’s the one. I’d made Miss Most of ’em was in French, an’ didn’t Elise spell it out fer me; an’ I wrote mean much to me. But I found one, it straight. Then, seein’ I wasn’t wanted with an English translation pinned onto at Morris’s, an’ jest nacherally hatin’ to

it. I read that one. It was kind of be a unwelcome guest, I leaves the em- ” int’restin’ bassy. an’— “ And you read a personal document “ And came to the prefecture with ” of—” the order? “ I sure did. An’ you’d better be “ Not me. I hunted round till I thankful, instead of so stiff about it. found a jonny-darm that could speak ’Cause, if I hadn’t read it, you’d still some English, an’ I found from him be coolin’ them gilded heels of your’n where the court interp’ter lived, an’ I in jail.” routed him out of bed and brought him “Was it about me, then?” along. Told him ’bout how I was your “ Not till I made it so. It was a old uncle, sent over from the States to ” ” ” ”” ” — —

266 THE ARGOSY. bring you back. Said you was a drinkin’, I p’inted to my head, where a British dissoloot youngster, an’ that you’d got shell had took off a part of the scalp, inter trouble before, an’ I was goin’ to an’ begged him, in mem’ry of my patri- take you straight home. An’ I gave the otic wound, to — now, what are you interp’ter a bit of gold every few min- laughing at?” he ended peevishly. utes, to pay him for his bother in gettin’ “ Shad,” I groaned in despair, “ that’s up so early. By the time we got to the the twelfth utterly different version of jail, he loved me like a white-haired your last s'calp that I’ve hallo,” I twin brother.” broke off, “what’s all this?” “ ” Oh, you clever old— fraud ! I ex- We had turned into the square, where claimed. “ I’ll never stood the Abbaye prison, and wr ere about “ Oh, yes, you will. Next time you half-way across the open space. From git mad at me. But never mind all a street to. the right, burst into the square that. The interp’ter sailed into that a screaming, cursing mob of men, feller in charge of the desk in a way to women, and children. They were fight- satisfy the most fastijis. T’other feller ing, tooth and nail, to break through a wasn’t fairly awake; an’ all he could see tight cordon of National Guardsmen, clear was a couple of gold looeys I and to attack some one who walked in passed him. He had you turned out of the center of the clump of soldiers.

are ! If your cage, an’—an’ here we A i second glance—even at that dis- we’d ’a’ waited till later, there’d ’a’ been tance — showed me the prisoner they a whole lot of nosey jacks-in-office in were striving to murder was a woman charge there, an’ we mightn’t ’a’ got off a young girl. so easy.” “ But De Grieux is a French name,” “ CHAPTER XI. I objected. Why, didn’t they—know an American wouldn’t have such a A RED INTERLUDE. “ What does any of these furreners know about our country? The interp’ter For a moment my heart stood still. ach’lly asked me was it true we hunted To me, the sight of a girl in the hands buff’lo in Noo York. What’d they know of the French law meant but one thing of America or American names? No — Elise Perier. And, illogical in my more than a Yankee p’liceman would dread, I ran forward toward the on- know of French.” coming throng. “ ” “ Shad,” I said, in amaze at it all, A statue of Equality stood in the “ do you know you’ve committed theft center of the square. For better view, you’ve I its pedestal from our own embassy? That jumped up on high ; Shad- cheated the French' government? That rach scrambled up beside me. you— “What ails you, son?” he queried, “ That you’re walkin’ free, instead of eying the advancing crowd. takin’ a- course of guill’tine shavin’?” he But I had caught a glimpse of the “ is all I care captive’s at sight of it, I supplemented. That last face ; and, about. We’ll jest put the rest down to heaved a great sigh of relief. It was the charge account. But I’m kind o’ not Elise. It was no one I had ever sorry I had to fool that interp’ter. He before seen; yet, my first reaction over, was a nice feller. Seemed real int’rested— there was something in her look that in how I came to lose my scalp. An’ held my gaze, and that seemed to draw “ So you told him the scalp story, the heart out of me. too?” I queried. “What version, this It was not that the girl was beautiful, ” time? or even because she was in peril of in- “ The true one,” he snapped. “ Same stant death. Her face was not lovely. as I tell every one. .Same as—I told Not really pretty. But one to compel Minister Morris last night. I attention. “ Did you tell Gouverneur Morris She was short — little more than a about— child in statue—but with a rather broad, “ I—well—that is, T kind of pleaded powerful figure. Her long brown hair with him when he wouldn’t help me. had come undone, and poured in heavy ” ”

THE CRIMSON HARVEST. 267

masses over her shoulders, framing a time, of the mob’s presence. Lifting her dead-white face, whose huge gray eyes head proudly, she faced that yelling, glowed with an unearthly light that seething crowd, and, in a voice like a seemed to illumine her whole counte- silver trumpet’s, cried aloud: nance. “My friends! My brothers! What She was plainly clad. Not as a serv- I have done was done for the Father- ant, hut as perhaps a small shop-keeper’s land! For France! I — daughter might be dressed. Her step She got no further. A mingled howl had the grace, and her bearing the glad and roar from the rabble drowned her fearlessness of a pagan priestess. clarion shout. At the same instant the Four deep around her marched the guards clove a way through the press, guard, while other soldiers, with bayonet and the ghastly procession took up its and musket-butts, sought to batter back march again at faster pace. the surging throng. But the mob threw A crippled beggar, who had been left itself madly on the opposing weapons, behind in the increased rate of speed, shrieking, cursing, mouthing horrible paused for breath at the statue base. I threats, shaking fists and clubs at the leaned over and accosted him. barely protected maiden, who, as though “ Citizen,” I asked, tossing him a unconscious of their presence, strode on franc, “who is the prisoner? And what ” amid her encircling captors. has she done? “ The crowd was made up of the scum / don’t know,” he answered impa- of Baris. Frowzy-haired fishwives, pur- tiently over his shoulder, as he hobbled “ ” ple of face and streaming-haired; raga- off, yelling Down with her ! muffins that looked as if they had been But my gift of a coin had excited hurled from some filthy underworld by the cupidity of one of the street gamin an upheaval of Mother Earth. These, who hung to the outskirts of the mob. and a score of other types of the day, Noticing my action, he dashed back to bred of the hideously satiric slogan where we stood, and held his cap up- “Liberty! Equality! Fraternity!” ward for a similar offering. “ ” There was nothing new in the rabble I know what it’s all about ! he to hold my attention. But I marveled squawked in pride. “ For a franc I’ll none the less at their presence. A single tell you.” prisoner, or even a group of such, haled I held the silver piece in my hand to the nearest jail, was no novelty in above his head, but did not drop it into those days. Scarce enough so to evoke a his waiting, ragged cap. stray glance, a handful of mud, or the “ Speak first,” I ordered. cry “A has les Aristocrats! ” “ Citizen Marat,” he announced, fair- Yet here were close upon a thousand ly bursting with the joy of being first riffraff, not only accompanying a pris- to tell any one the great news. “ Citizen oner’s trip to the cells, but trying to tear Marat—the liberator, the friend of the her to pieces on the way thither. people, the— What did it mean? A larger, more “What of him?” I inquired, shud- rabid assemblage could scarce have gath- dering inwardly at mention of the fa- ered to escort Queen Marie Antoinette natic demagogue’s name. “ What of ” herself to the guillotine. him ? The soldiers, on their route to L’Ab- “He is dead! Murdered in his bath. baye, passed close by the base of the She,” jerking his thumb toward the van- “ Equality ” statue, on whose tall pedes- ishing procession, “ she killed him. Her tal Shadrach and I were standing. The name is Cordav, curse her ! Charlotte ’’ pressure of the throng, eddying about Cordav ! the base, caused, by sheer weight >of numbers, a momentary halt in the pro- cession’s march. CHAPTER XII. brief rest, before the outlying In that shadrach’s ideas. guards could beat a passage for their fellows through the press, the girl The fanatic, glorified face of Char- seemed to become aware, for the first lotte Cordav still fresh in my memory, ” ” ” ” —

268 THE ARGOSY.

I continued on my way, with Bemis, said grimly, “ I knoiv it. While you’ve back toward our hotel. I wanted to been mixin’ up in love business, I’ve make one more appeal to De Perier to been doin’ some figurin’ in my mind. take his daughter out from this accursed An’ I’ve come to two or three kinds o’ city, ere he and she should become hope- queer conclusions. Want to hear ’em? lessly enmeshed in the ever-spreading Don’t trouble to, unless— terror-web. “Go ahead!” I replied. “What are ” Also, I was human enough to long they ? for an interview with Elise, in the light “ Fust of all,” slowly, . he began of the previous evening’s happenings. “ there’s some one in Paris who ain’t a I knew she had noted to the full my double of yours, nor a twin brother, nor quixotic service to her betrothed, and any of them story-book things, but who that such service must go far toward looks enough like you to cause a whole wiping from her thought the former ill lot of—” opinion of me that had been forced “ I’ve gathered that much already,” upon them. I interposed, “ and— My act had not been that of a spy “ An’ have you figgerecl it out any or a kidnaper. Even prejudiced old further?” De Perier must recognize that. “ No,” I admitted, “ I have not. Though she was lost to me, and about Have—” to wed another man, it none the less “ Wa’al, / have. You don’t know gave me a little, miserable thrill of joy anything about him, rnore’n that he’s to feel I had softened her contempt of most likely one of the he-coons of this me. All I now asked was to guard and rev’lootion outfit, an’ that some folks serve her. Robbyspeer an’ his gang—thinks pretty If she was to be the wife of another, high of him; an’, thanks to that, he and if my own future life was to be but stands solid while the Robbyspeer bunch a grave of love’s memories, I was none is on top. Likewise, that there’s a whole the less minded to help her to what passel of other folks as’d look on it as happiness and refugee existence could a reel Sunday-school treat to be able to offer. snuff him out. That’s all you know If my unselfishness could not force about this ’ere feller who’s been gitten me to include De Grieux in my kinder you in such a mess of scrapes lately. feelings, who could blame me? I had Now—” acquired a very lively and natural dis- “ Yes,” I agreed, “ that’s all I know like for the graceful, brave young noble. of him. And most of that is "conjec- What unsuccessful lover would not? ture. But— Shadrach Bemis, as we walked along, “ But he knows a whole lot more broke in on my reverie, bringing me vio- about you, son.” lently back to the present. “About me? Absurd! Why he “ Son,” he observed, “ from that probably doesn’t even know I exist. mooney look of your’n, I take it you’re He—” thinkin’ of Miss Elise. An’ nice and “ Don’t know you exist, eh? I s’pose

nat’ral it is for you, too. Only this that accounts fer his usin’ your name ain’t the time for sech sugary dreams. so free an’ promiskus?” “ You got suthin’ livelier to rastle with Good— Lord, man ! I never con- jest now.” nected “ “ What, for instance? ” I asked, Of course you didn’t. You was humoring him. spendin’ your val’ble time sighin’ about “ Oh, but it must be grand to be a a girl, an’ trying to rime ‘ love ’ with youngster!” he retorted. “To be ram- ‘ dove.’ An’ yet, when you’re sane, blin' along on the edge of a canon, half you’re a real clever chap. Honest, I an inch from the prec’pice, an’ yet be wonder at your thickness these days. able to think of nothin’ but a pretty Wake up, 'man, if you don’t want ol’ ” * gal ! Missus GuilTtine to put you to sleep “ You think I’m in danger?” for good. Want to hear more of my ” “ I don’t think nothin’ about it,” he idees? ” ” ” ” ”- ”

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“ Yes,” I said, all attention now, “ I “No,” I returned, “not in the least. do.” These crazy revolutionists can cut off “ This myster’ous feller,” pursued each other’s heads to their heart’s con- Shadrach, “ maybe hasn’t seen you. He tent, but when it comes to laying mayn’t even know you’re in France. hands on an American citizen, our min- An’ lie’s passin’ himself off as you. He ister will have something to say. And got Robbyspeer an’ the public pros’ when Uncle Sam orders ‘Hands off!’ cutor to let him put Miss Elise into that people have a way of obeying him.” “ “ convent place, an’ sign your name to the H’m ! ” grunted Shadrach. All commitment. Now, the prosecutor chap you say ’bout Uncle Sam is true, son. it might be bribed to do that ; but Robbys- But when comes to your own case, peer’s said to be so straight he bends that’s a horse of another color. Didn’t backward. That’s what I can’t make Minister Morris git madder’n a wet hen out. How’d he get such a hold over the very minute I says your name? I Robbyspeer, an’ by usin’ your name? couldn’t count on findin’ one of them If he’s a rev’lootionist boss, Robbyspeer blank release orders every time I hap- must know all about him, an’ must know pen to drop in on him. Next time it his real name ain’t Braitli an’ that he might— — “ ” ain’t an American. Yet he seems That’s true ! I had to confess. “ Whoever lie is,” I put in, remember- “ This man who’s stolen my name seems ing the scene at Montmartre, “he is to have used it and my nationality once known as ‘ J ack Braith, American,’ too often, as far as Gouverneur Morris And, from the way people add the is concerned. I’m afraid I could look ‘ American,’ it looks as if they don’t be- for little help, after all, from our em- lieve it, or that they are just quoting bassy.” his own words about himself. How “ He’s imposed on Morris, somehow,” could he have got hold of my name? went on Shadrach, “ an’ Morris has And for what reason? We’ve only been found out he ain’t American. So, if here a few weeks. He must have as- it came to your usin’ that same Jersey sumed the name before then. So—it can’t name to git you out of jail, you’d be be that my arrival in Paris has li’ble to stay behind bars all your life, “ Jest what I said,” chimed in Shad- before the minister’d help you. No, rach. “ I doubt if he even knows you’re son. You see whar you stand. You’re in France. You’ve been— livin’ pretty jest a coquettin’ with the guill’tine, by quiet, up to yesterday, an’ — hangin’ on here in Paris. Let this fel- “ But if he doesn’t know I’m here ler git on your trail —which he’s bound “If he doesn’t, lie’s sure to find it to before long—an’ you’re a dead man.” out mighty soon. Some of these spies “ Upon my soul,” I laughed uncom- “ ” that happens to know him are sure to fortably, you’re a cheery companion ! mention there’s another ‘Jack Braith, “ I ain’t extra strong on refined hu- American,’ stayin’— in town. An’ when mor,” retorted Bemis, “ but I’m talkin’ he finds that out — good horse-sense, an’ you know it. I’ll “ Then we can meet, and I tell you suthin’ else, that any one but a ” “ “.Oh, son ! scoffed Bemis, you’re lover would ’a’ seen before now. This plumb foolish. D’ye s’pose he’s stole other feller has reasons for wantin’ to your name an’ nationality jest for a git Miss Elise comf’tably out of the measly joke? Not he. I don’t know way. So he put her in the convent. what his reasons is, but you can gamble What them reasons of his are I don’t they’re good, useful ones. So it looks know, not bein’ a prophet nor a mind-

plain to me he won’t be over happy at reader. But they must ’a’ been pretty learnin’ that the real Jack Braith turned strong ones to make him risk the up in Paris. Two Jack Braiths is one chance of gettin’ nabbed for misusin’ too many. An’ it ain’t much of a stretch state dockyments fer pers’nal grudges. to figger out that he’s likely to fix up An’—” a little guill’tine party for your ben’fit, “ But, tell me, what harm has Mile, ” as soon as he finds you. Now do you de Perier— ? see you’re in danger here?” “ Besides.” he went on, unheeding, ” ” !

270 THE ARGOSY.

“ it’s dollars to doughnuts that it was the frontier. I’ll think up some way to him who sicked the National Guards 'arrange it.” onto that De Groo count last night. 1 made no reply. We had turned Must have spies at the hotel. When into the Rue St. Honore, and I broke them spies tell him Miss Elise got away into a run. Into the hotel I dashed, and from the convent, he'll start another up-stairs to De Perier’s suite. game to get her locked up, if he ain’t The door swung wide. Within, a done it already. There, son! Don’t man was moving. I entered without look so sick. Pull yourself together ceremony. It was no time for etiquette and face it like a man.” observances. 1 had quickened my pace almost to a I came upon Gel at, the proprietor, run in my haste to reach the hotel. But taking inventory of some personal effects the backwoodsman’s long, easy stride that lay scattered— about. readily kept up with me. “ Where is ” I began. “ He’ll most likely ask questions at He cut me short with a grunt of the convent, too,” continued Shadrach. anger. “ “ ” “ Then I’d like to see his face when the Gone ! he snapped. He and the abbess tells him it was Jack Braith that citizeness, his daughter. An hour ago. let Miss Elise out. That’ll give him A pretty name this sort of thing will the tip you’re in Paris, if he ain’t al- give my poor hotel— with the government ready got it from somewhere else. You To think that got scand’lous little time to waste, Jack.” “Gone?” I repeated. t‘ They have ” “ What do you advise, then? left Paris?” “ Git your traps together, an’ light “ They will leave Paris by way of out o’ Paris before night.” — heaven,” he grinned. “ They were ar- “ And leave Elise here to rested—both of them—by a squad of “You. can’t help her any by stayin’. National Guardsmen. For the crime of Make her come away, too. If she won’t, ‘ harboring and aiding a proscribed then kidnap her, if you like. I’ll help aristocrat.’ The guillotine deals quickly you. Carry her and the old man acrost with such cases.” (To be continued.)

H er Ideal in the Gray Overcoat. By R. K. THOMPSON.

The man she saw in the street-car, regretted she should never see again,

only to have him turn up in the guise of a thoroughly unwelcome visitor.

“'T'HERE,” I decided, stealing a sec- ing derby to the tips of his shapely shoes 1 ond glance across the street-car, —taking in his clean-cut face, athletic “ ” sits my ideal man ! build and well-formed, perfectly.-gloved The Adonis in the light-gray over- hands—he was the capitalized Real coat looked in my direction, and I hastily Thing in twentieth-century Prince lifted my eyes to the advertisement of a Charmings. Aware of my eyes upon him, breakfast-food farther down the car. he glanced at me again—to discover my Riding up-town to the studio-apart- gaze riveted on a section of atmosphere ment I shared with Grace Marshall, an eight inches above his head. When I old school-chum, my idle gaze out of the felt him look away I took another peep opposite window had suddenly been ob- at him out of the corner of my eye. scured by the broad shoulders and hand- Why was it, I wondered a bit petulant- some head of the man who dropped into ly, that conventionality made it so hard the vacant seat across the aisle. to meet people you didn’t know, but Unconcernedly, I swept another glance liked on sight? at him. From the crown of his becom- Here was an utter stranger, a man —;

HER IDEAL IN THE GRAY OVERCOAT. 271

whose looks I admired, who would al- a little odd, since his final destination was ways be utterly a stranger to me because the same as mine. 1 hurried after him. convention labeled him, “ not properly As I entered the hall the clang of a introduced.” closing elevator-door greeted my ears. I liked the way he sat, the way he 1 was too late for more than a fleeting held his head, the way he had looked at sight of well-known gray, glimpsed me twice, without staring. Yet he was through the grille-work of the cage which simply a figure glimpsed in the passing rose with him out of my sight. about I should never see him He was gone. I for show me ; As waited the again after I left the car at the next second of the two elevators our building corner. boasts, I told myself that I had seen the Which, of course, didn’t matter, for I last of Mr. Gray Overcoat—and 1 only am not “ wooshy,” as Grace defines the sighed once. sentimental woman’s state of being. I Stepping out at my floor, I searched would continue to exist quite happily for my keys, which so persistently eluded despite the fact that I never knew the me in some crevice of my bag that my handsome stranger. eyes and hands were busily hunting Only—I did wish we could have met them as I turned down the hall. I wanted to find out if he were really as Then, the little bunch lightly jingling nice to talk to as he was nice to look at. in my hand, I lifted my eyes and looked As I signaled the conductor to stop at toward my workshop-home. And the the next crossing, snuggling closer the sight that there met my astonished gaze portfolio of sketches I carried under my brought me up sharply with a gasp of arm, I shouldn’t again have noticed the amazement. man as I rose—if he hadn’t walked down The man who had preceded me from the aisle before me, and descended from the street-car, up the street, and into this the car at the same corner. very building, was now entering the door By a coincidence he was getting oft' at of my apartments! my street. I watched him reach the side- There was no doubt about it. Before walk ahead of me, from whence he might my very eyes his unmistakable figure depart in any one of three directions stepped across the threshold. I saw and up or clown the avenue, or along the heard the door close after his easily street down which I was to go. recognizable gray overcoat. Unhesitatingly, he took the latter I felt the strength running like the . course. Following, I momentarily ex- fairy-tale gunpowder out at my knees, pected him to disappear into some one as the horrifying thought flashed like a of the shops or office-buildings along the white-light of truth into my brain. He way. But he kept right straight ahead, was a burglar. his more vigorous pace separating us by My portfolio, and with it my bag, fully a quarter of a block, yet his grace- slipped, unheeded, to the floor after the ful figure still plainly in view. keys, which dropped from my nerveless I had just asked myself where he was fingers. I leaned weakly against the wall, going, for the fifth time in two minutes, my trembling limbs jarring into being a when I started forward with an excla- million goose-pimples of fright on my mation of surprise. body. The man had turned into the entrance The rooms that Grace and I occupied of the very building for which I was were at the mercy of the man I had headed. I saw his familiar gray over- seen entering our apartments as coolly coat vanish into the hallway of the tall, and calmly as though they were his own. sandstone-fronted edifice where Grace to plunder as he would. My chum had and I had our top-floor abode. gone out that morning to visit a dozen There was nothing unusual in the fact music-pupils. I did not expect her back that he had gone in there; the building until long after I had returned from the held a score of studios and apartments, office of the art editor of a down-town at any one of which he might be calling. magazine, upon whom I had called that Yet the coincidence of his leaving the afternoon. car at the same time I did struck me as What was T to do? How was this 272 THE ARGOSY. daylight marauder, who might even now dropped my fingers from the knob with be uninterruptedly taking possession of a little sigh of relief. It was all very our silverware, to be removed? Should well for a righteous indignation at the 1 send for the janitor, or summon one desecration of my home to fill me with of the elevator-boys by a touch on the a desire to drive out the invader. But to bell near at hand, and call a policeman enter alone an apartment in which a to take him in charge. strong, healthy man was somewhere lurk- And how had he opened the door, by ing— that required a trifle more daring the way? I had arrived on the scene too than I felt was at present mine. late to discover by what means he had I was about to turn away and summon just outside assistance in evicting effected an entrance ; he was going the intruder, into the studio when I looked up after when a sound from the rooms within stepping out of the elevator. halted me. The sound was a crashing

Curiosity, at length, overcame my chord struck on our piano, and it recalled tmidity, and I stole with silent caution my waning courage like the trumpeting along the hall to the door of our apart- of a battle-horn. ments. Examination proved that it had Of all the nerve! I thought, as I took not been “jimmied;” the man had a qui^k step nearer the door. It wasn’t probably used a skeleton-key, or else he enough, I told myself as I noiselessly in- had delicately picked the lock. serted my key in the lock and turned the He was evidently a hardened expert handle, that the man had broken into at the business, I thought, for only long our flat, but he must play our piano, as experience could have taught him to open though to show how lightly he held the a door as neatly as this one had been un- consequences of his ruthess act. locked. It seemed a pity, too, that such I would show him, I thought angrily, a handsome fellow—a man whose face as I softly opened the door and stepped appeared to hold so much honesty of into the private hall of our apartment. I purpose and strength of character—could would tell him what I thought of his stoop to the occupation of a common cheek, his effrontery, his impertinence, Hat-robber. his unqualified gall. And then I would If I had not actually seen him enter turn him out of the studio into the hands that door I never would have believed of the police. it possible that he had done it. I blushed I stood outside the closed door of our to recall my thoughts of him of five parlor, listening to the song the musical minutes before—a man I had branded burglar sang as he played a rag-time ac- on sight as my ideal was a burglar! companiment, to which the sudden chord But I had no time to waste in vain he had struck was evidently an introduc- regret over the discovered clay feet of tion. He played well, I noticed, and his yet another shattered idol. Every mo- voice was fairly musical. “ ment I passed in inaction meant a length- All I get here is much obli-i-iged to ” ened opportunity for the man inside to you ! he sang spiritedly. “ rob our home. You’ll get. six months in jail, my ” As I stood outside the door, the friend, for coming in here ! I promised thought of the robber within rifling our him viciously under my breath, as I household goods roused in me the in- waited outside the door, trying to nerve stinct latent in every one to fight for myself to enter the room and confront his or her home when that cherished pos- him. session is menaced. Anger against the The song ended. I listened in vain for man who had dared to enter our rooms a break in the silence that followed. thrilled me. I was no longer afraid. I Then the thought suddenly struck me would enter the studio and myself re- that he was packing up our valuables, move its overbold occupant. stealthily robbing the parlor of its orna- I put out my hand, the strength of ments. Again the fierce rebellion against my purpose stilling the cowardly trem- the despoiling of my home stirred me to bling of my limbs, and softly turned the action. I lost my fear, threw open the handle. The door was locked, the spring- door determinedly, and stepped across catch had fastened in its closing—and I the threshold. ;!

HER IDEAL IN THE GRAY OVERCOAT. 273

The man in the gray overcoat was head, “ since you need bother to gather leaning over the front of the piano, up such a trifling amount of silver.” studying on its top a photograph in a He rose to his feet and laid the wreck- silver frame. As I paused in the door- age on top of the piano. As he dusted his way, he turned and looked at me; the hands he looked keenly at my face, while picture—one of my own I had 'given to a slow smile curved his lips. Grace—dropped clatteringly to the floor. “Come!” he said cheerily. “You In silence he stared at me over the aren’t going to cherish any ill-feeling ruin of broken glass and twisted metal. against me because, in effigy, I ‘ threw Full as were my eyes of contempt for you over ’ are you ? I dropped your pho- ” the creature, there was still room in them tograph quite by accident, I assure you ! to see, as I looked steadily at him, that “ I am more surprised at your clum- he was vastly handsomer with his hat off. siness than anything else,” I retorted, His hair waved back from a splendid thinking of the neat manner in which he brow, -behind which, I thought, with a had forced open the studio door. “ I curling lip, was a brain only capable of should have thought you far too clever earning a living for its body by house- for such carelessness.” breaking. He was stung by the sarcasm in my “ I’m afraid I’ve spoiled this picture- voice, for I could see the muscles of his frame,” he remarked, not taking his eyes jaw tighten as he clenched his teeth from my face, but indicating the wreck firmly at my words. He turned and on the floor by a slight motion of- his walked across the room. head. He smiled attractively. “ I’m “ Since you find you cannot pardon sorry for my clumsiness,” he added, “ but my unintentional carelessness,” he said, your unexpected appearance startled me.” arriving at the mantelpiece, “ I presume My appearance had startled him I had better go.” There was no cringing away from my He reached up for the heavy onyx- accusing gaze; neither was any attempt and-gold clock over the fireplace, and made to intimidate me by threatened brought it down /in his arms. Could I violence. believe my eyes? Was the man going to This burglar was probably of the new carry off our most sacred belonging school, the gentleman-cracksman type. under my very nose? “ ” Evidently he was going to bluff it out Indeed you had better go ! I cried until a means of escape from his pre- out, unsuccessfully struggling with a dicament offered itself. quaver of excitement in my voice, “ but ” Very well, I thought, if that was his not with our clock ! game I, too, would take a hand in it. I The man turned. felt no fear of him. “ But this is what I came for,” he “ It is of no consequence,” I answered said, shifting its weight more comfort- “ coldly. “ The picture has no value.” ably in his arms. And since I have it, “ I beg your pardon,” he said quickfy, I may as well leave at once.” his eyes still steadfastly on me. “ It is The vandal actually admitted that a photograph of you? Then it is de- the purpose of his visit to our apartment cidedly not valueless.” had been to steal our clock! And it was My face burned at his look and words the one possession prized above all others I could not doubt their meaning, and his by Grace and myself. Often we had told insolence angered me. each other that it was the only worth- “ Perhaps you refer to the frame?” while thing we owned. Its polished I replied evenly. “ The silver is possibly marble and gleaming gold, shedding its worth something to you.” effulgence from the parlor-mantel, His eyes widened, and, in turn, he formed the piece de resistance in the had the grace to blush. Stooping, he decoration of our home. carefully picked up the bits of bent Was I to see it stolen before my very frame and broken glass from the floor. eyes—lost to us forever? Only over my “ You must have fallen on lean days lifeless body, I mentally determined, as in your business,” I remarked spitefully, I threw out my arms, barring the door- as I watched his bowed back and lowered way with a hand on either casing. ” —— ! —

274 THE ARGOSY.

“ ” Oh, ! I no protested, while a nerv- Then I halted in surprise at the ex- ous laugh shivered through my voice. pression on her face. There was no won- “ can You go, but the clock can’t. You der in her survey of the scene she had so see it hasn’t been going for a week, so suddenly come upon ; no amazement at it ” can’t go ! I added hysterically. the unexpected sight of the strange man The would-be abductor of our treasure still standing in the center of the room. rested the sacred timepiece on the piano- Why wasn’t she astonished, awestruck, stool, and reached for his hat. frightened at the spectacle? “ 1 know,” he said, not looking at “ ” me, Hallo, kidlet ! she called to me. “ that’s why I’m going to take it away “Just got in, I see. Tom, have you because it can’t go itself.” met—” My nails dug into the woodwork as Was I dreaming, or crazy, or—what I tightened my clutch on the door-jamb. could this mean? Besides taking the mat- I could feel an icy perspiration breaking ter of my being alone in our home with out on my brow and in the palms of my a 'Burglar as something quite ordinarily hands; my eyes were wide and staring to be expected, she seemed to know the fsom the strangle-hold of fear’ that man—called him by his first name, in gripped my throat, as the man took a fact “ step toward me. Roberta,” she addressed me, “ let “ ” “ You’re not ! I cried. You’re not me introduce you to Tom Jennings. Tins ” going to do any such thing ! is my chum, Miss Fletcher, Tom. For He looked up quickly, and his lips goodness’ sake, what are you carrying puckered in a slow whistle of surprise that clock around in your hands for? as he took in my barricade of the door- You aren’t going yet? Wait till I hang way. Then his chin hardened purpose- up my hat and coat, and we’ll chat fully, and he picked up his loot. a while.” “ If you will let me pass—” he began, My roommate walked out into the stepping forward. hall. Mumbling an apology to the man “ ” Stop ! I called. in the gray overcoat, I dashed after her. “ ” The man paused and then backed away Grace ! 1 gasped, pulling her into- before me as 1 advanced slowly into the the dining-room and closing the door room, keeping my eyes fixed on his face. hastily after us. “ What does this ” In the center of the parlor he stopped, mean? and I came up until I stood directly “What does what mean, silly?” she before him. asked surprisedly, staring at my wild eyes “ How dare —you attempt to take away and flushed face. before my eyes ” 1 began. “That man out there—who is he?” “ But, my dear young lady—” he I panted. “ Where did he come from ” interrupted. how did he get in here? “ ” Stop ! I checked him, raising my “Why, Tom Jennings is an old, old hand. “ Don’t speak—this has gone far friend of mine,” Grace answered wonder- enough. Do you think that you can leave ingly. “ His father’s in the jewelry busi- •” this room with that clock— ness—worth millions, by the way—and “ But I tell you— when I met Tom on the street the other “ You tell me!” I laughed scornfully day, and told him how badly our clock " You, a—” was keeping time, he offered to come up “ 1 broke off suddenly, the word bur- and take it down to his father’s shop to glar ’’ dying in my throat at the sound be fixed. He called about fifteen minutes of a light step behind me. I wheeled ago, but I had to go out after the salad to discover the alert figure of Grace I forgot to order, and I left him here to poised in the doorway. wait till I got back. Roberta—whatever ” Just in time, I thought. Now there is the matter? were two of us to handle this fellow. I I was leaning helplessly against the would keep him in the room while my table, all the strength sapped from my chum went—down-stairs for a policeman. body in the reaction. I saw it all now • “ Grace ” I began, taking a quick why had I been so, stupid as not to un- step toward her. derstand the situation before? — ; ! —

HER IDEAL IN THE GRAY OVERCOAT. 275 a

The man I had seen entering our broken frame—and he’s in the jewelry ” apartments had been admitted by Grace business ! —who had returned earlier than I ex- “ Make him forget it,” encouraged my “ ” pected, and answered his ring which I chum. Be nice to him. Come along ! had arrived too late to hear. Then, while Together we entered the parlor. The I stood in our private hall outside the man in the gray overcoat turned from parlor door, my chum had slipped out the window and came toward us, with through the hack door that led to the his hat in his hand. Grace advanced and elevators, leaving the stranger to be dis- took it from his unresisting fingers, as covered alone in our rooms. she pushed him into our easiest easy Between nervous laughter and hys- chair. terical tears, I explained the whole story “ You’re going to stay to tea, Tom,” to Grace, from my observation of the man she informed him, turning to the samovar in the street-car to the scene with him on the little tabouret at his side. “ So she had interrupted. make yourself perfectly comfortable “ And if you ever breathe to a soul while the kettle boils.” to him—” I finished in impressive “ Well, really,” he began, half pro- warning. testingly, with a swift glance at me, “You crazy little Indian!” said my “ Miss Fletcher might object to my ta- ’ ” chum. “ Do you think I’d spoil this bud- king a cup ‘ before her very eyes— ding romance? Why you are the girl I smiled back at him. Tom raved about after he came in here “ Not at all,” I answered. “ I’ll bring as a ‘ dream of ideal beauty he saw in it to you myself, if you’ll promise to dis-

’ ” the car ! play the cleverness I know you possess 1 “ “ ” Then,” I faltered happily, then he and not drop it ! noticed me, too?” A quick light grew in his eyes, and Grace laughed as she pushed me under its glow I felt my cheeks redden, toward the parlor with a pat on the back. but I looked bravely back. My pulses “He did—so thoroughly that his de- quickened. Then, with a little gasp of scription of you was astonishingly com- sudden gladness, I turned toward Grace, plete—for a man. Come on let’s go bending busily over the tea-things. ; ” back and give him another look at you! The man had not come into our home “ But—” I hesitated, my hand on the to rob, but he had stolen something there, dining-room door, “ think of the things just the same. And he was an ideal I said to him about the silver in that burglar.

WHEN THE SUN SETS.

With sheen of shining sails aslant They pass the harbor bar, To where the storm and stress of sea And wind’s bravado are For this is best, to brave and breast The sea, to strive and win, Nor be of those who lie at ease Protecting harbors in.

But ah, when sails are frayed and torn With strivings with the sea; ’Tis good to seek again and find The shelter of the lee; And this is best, to ride and rest In peace along the shore, Nor be of those whom hungry seas Have gained to give no more Guy IVctwore Carryl. — ! ! — !

The Name of Martin Hoffman." By STEPHEN BRANDISH,

Author of “Gordon's Getaway," “ When Suspicion Struck Hard," “ At the Mercy*of the Unseen."

The astounding experience of a business man who thought all his troubles

were over just as he was on the eve of the greatest calamity in his career.

SYNOPSIS OF CHAPTERS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED.

Martin Hoffman, in charge of the Galpin Manufacturing Company during the ab- sence of young Dick Galpin, finds the concern imperiled by the rival Dalton Company. He is in despair when Theobald Thomas, a former member of the firm, offers to take over its four-hundred-thousand-dollar debt. The papers must be signed by Hoffman on the next day, when the debt falls due. A man named Gulick, of the Dalton Company, tries to bribe Hoffman to leave town until too late for this transaction. That evening, in his rooms, during a visit from George Wellingford, vice-president of the rival firm, who offers him an increased bribe, Hoffman is suddenly stricken blind. Exhausted by strain and worry, and crazed with horror at his loss of sight, he hears, as in a dream, a number of men discussing his case. He is hurried off by them in an automobile to some house, where he is carried up-stairs and laid on a bed. He feels a sudden prick on his arm, and sinks into unconsciousness.

CHAPTER V. mobile ride—of doctors and judges and

Heaven only knew what else ! He re- IX THE HOUSE OF MYSTERY. membered dreaming of raving and rais- IRST of all, the pillow was soft. ing Cain generally and Hoffman felt over it with sleepy Well, it was over, and he must get up fingers. Yes, and so far as his capacity now. He rolled to his back and opened for judging went, the cover was fine his eyes, and—there was nothing there linen. The bed, too, was distinctly soft His breath stopped 1 With a choke in and comfortable—even a little bit more his throat, he sat up and stared, or tried comfortable than usual, if that were pos- to stare, about him. Why, there was sible. nothing in sight at all ! So far as his His head ached a trifle, to be sure, but eyes were concerned, they told of abso- that was to be expected. He had had lutely nothing save an increased light- a bad day yesterday, and to-day he was ness when he stared to the left — the going to have a fine day — the biggest direction from which the faintest of day in the history of the Galpin Com- breezes was coming! pany. Then he must actually be blind! Pie It must be about eight now. He’d gasped, and reached for the button be- doze for perhaps fifteen minutes more. side his bed, the button by which, at Then he’d get up and have a cold plunge times, he ordered breakfast. It was and a breakfast, and after that get to gone the office in time to meet Thomas, and Instead of the tapestry paper, his fin- settle up all details. gers encountered a bare, painted stretch

Oh, it was glorious! Exhilaration of Avail : instead of the push-button, fairly surged through him and still there Avas paint ; — what the dickens had happened last Then it Avas all true ! The whole night ? affair which he had just imagined to be

Certainly something had gone wrong a dream Avas actual fact ! He Avas blind ! extremely soft footfall —radically wrong ! He had a vague An approached recollection of wild dreams—of an auto- him, and a Ioav, respectful voice said : *Began April Argosy. Single copies, 10 cents. ” : : ;

OF MARTIN HOFFMAN. 277 / THE NAME ” “ Will you have breakfast, sir? brother happened to bear the name of “What?” The blind man tried hard Richard and to be several hundred miles to look around. away. He took to rubbing his throb- “Breakfast, sir?” bing eyes again for a time, until Hoffman swallowed hard. His head “ The doctor said most particularly was clear now—and thank God for the that you must not rub your eyes, sir. He

fact ! He might have been mad last said that you might have breakfast and his dress if night ; but brain was working at afterward, you wished. After present, and he felt fairly able to grap- that, I think he will be up to see you, ple with conditions, and: sir. What shall I bring?” ” “ Will you kindly tell me who you “ What time is it? happen to be?” he said slowly. “ Nearly noon, sir.” “ Your special nurse, sir.” “ Then,” Hoffman pondered, “ bring “ And do I seem to need a special me a small steak and some hot rolls and ” nurse? some potatoes and a couple of . cups of “Yes, sir.” coffee. That’s enough.” “ ” “ Well, I’ll be hanged ! remarked Very well, sir.” the treasurer of the Galpin Company The shuffling footsteps departed as pensively. quietly as they had arrived. “ ” Yes, sir ! said the voice placidly. For an instant there seemed to be a “ Would you —like a little steak, sir, or whispered consultation somewhere in the some eggs, or neighborhood ; then silence fell, and the The dazed man rubbed a hand over blind man sank back and waited. his sightless eyes. Tor a long space he John Hoffman—his brother who had

thought hard. Then: never existed ! Dr. Coles’s Sanatorium, “ I am — somewhere outside of my of which he had never heard. What the home ? ” he inquired with difficulty. dickens did it all mean, anyway? “ Yes, sir.” Ten minutes of hard thought, and he “Well, where?” had found but one definite conclusion “ In Dr. Coles’s Sanatorium, sir.” it was past ten in the morning, and he

“Eh?” Hoffman reflected further. was not at the office ! That solitary fact “ Young man,” he said, “ I am blind. coursed on and on through his head. You know that?” He hadn’t been on hand to sign the “ Certainly, sir.” notes for Thomas and keep the old firm “ Well, as nearly as I am able to above water. There were three more only last night. Is days, to sure but judge, it happened be ; he very much pre- this a place for the treatment of the ferred not to use them. blind?” He thought on and on — and finally “Yes, sir.” breakfast came. He seemed to be assuming things with It was as delicate and delicious a meal hazarded an- skill an amazing accuracy. He as could produce ; its extreme ex- other query: cellence, in fact, astounded the patient. * “ I have been brought here to be He felt and ate his way through it rap- for my eyes?” idly, though and at the end, as the treated ; fin- “ Yes, sir.” gers of the attendant ceased piloting his “ Then, will you kindly tell me,” own, and the tray was removed, he came went on Hoffman gently, “ who the deuce to the subject uppermost in his mind had the assurance to take me away from with home without my permission?” “See here, you—what’s your name?” “ It was your brother, Mr. Hoffman,” “ Smith, sir.” “ right, I said the even voice. All Smith ; want to dress “ Did he give his name?” and get out of this.” “It was Mr. John Hoffman, sir,” re- “You may dress, sir — indeed, your plied the attendant patiently. clothes are here. But T don’t think the The treasurer reflected deeply. doctor would allow you out, sir.” “ Certainly, it was a rather curious state Well, the doctor hasn’t anything to of affairs—more particularly as his only say about it in this case,” Hoffman re- ” ” ”

278 THE ARGOSY. sponded serenerely. “ I’ve got to get like. Just forget business altogether, down to my office for half an hour at sir, and you’ll be at it again in a few ” least, and you’ve got to steer me there.” days, and as well as ever ! “ The doctor would never hear to it, There was a compelling monotony sir. He gave the strictest orders that about that voice. Hoffman began to you were to be kept absolutely quiet.” walk, in the weak shuffle he seemed to “ Then I’m afraid his orders are go- have acquired, and quick hands caught ing to be disobeyed,” the patient re- him and steered him to a thickly uphol- marked. “Where are my clothes?” stered chair. In silence the man brought them, and He dropped into it with a disappoint- for the first time in his adult life the ed grunt. treasurer of the Galpin Company was “ Look here, Smith,” he said with forced to allow himself to be dressed what was intended for a friendly tone, from top to toe. “where is this joint?” 'Fhe process was completed at last, “ Up-town, sir.” ” and he stretched himself. He was still “ Whereabouts? “ rather tired and stiff ; he was also stone- Oh, well up-town, sir. Shall I blind; but his head seemed to be in read 1— good shape again—and he had never “ Wait a minute. I want to ask you heard of a law barring a blind man from a few questions first. You’re sure my business transactions. brother brought me here?” “ We’ll start now,” he announced “ Why, yes, sir. With a couple of ” calmly. “ Can you get an automobile? doctors. You were in a bad state last “ The doctor said very positively just night—very much overwrought—and 'Over- now. sir, that you must not go out for worked, sir. Now, this novel a day or two.” Hoffman sighed resignedly. ” “ ” “ “ Send him here, then ! Hoffman Go on ! he said. Thank you.” commanded sharply. » The man might as well be reading a “ He’s just gone out for several hours, novel as doing anything else that came sir.” within his range as special nurse. Fur- “ Then let me ask you whether twenty thermore, it would give Hoffmaiptime to dollars would bribe you to take me down- meditate in peace, and decide what was town for an hour.” best to do under the circumstances. “ It wouldn’t, sir. It would cost me The story began. It was a late pro- my job.” said the voice in rather sorrow- duction in fiction, and the patient “ ful monotony. And you couldn’t do thanked his stars that he had read it, anything without an attendant, sir,” it for now he could pick up the tale at any went on soothingly again. “ You’d have desired point and offer sane comments. to have somebody with you, sir, and He sat back with a fair counterfeit of a there’s nobody here would dare go for contented sigh, and smiled vaguely as he twenty, or fifty, for that matter. You’d tried to assort the varied occurrences of better sit down, sir.” the last twelve hours. The man was right—eminently right! First of all, velvet - gloved effects to The hard fact struck Hoffman after the the contrary, he was being detained manner of a blow. Everything else out somewhere against his will. There was of the question, he couldn’t navigate no question whatever but that he must alone just yet under his new conditions. stay where he wr as until he devised fit- “ Yes, I’d have to have an attendant, ting means of leaving. ” fast enough ! he muttered bitterly. It might be a sanatorium for the “ But why the dickens can’t I have an blind; it might be anything else. Just attendant and— at present, he was in no position to sav “ The doctor said that, in these cases what it was, or to make any definite of temporary paralysis of the optic hypothesis upon the matter—save that nerve, absolute quiet was the first re- one intention to get out. quirement, sir,” the attendant assured Secondly, some one must have brought him. “ You’d better sit down in the big him here—and some one masquerading chair, sir, and I’ll read to you, if you as a brother of his. That last, of course. ! — — : ”

THE NAME OF MARTIN HOFFMAN. 279 was absolute nonsense. Richard was the droning tone denoted. He would South, and he was the only brother play his part as nicely as possible. The Hoffman had ever owned. sightless eyes closed again, and his And it was only yesterday morning, by breathing gradually became slow and the way, that Martin had had a letter regular. He grunted softly, and hud- from him, regretting that the end of the dled down more cozily under the blan- week would have to see him homeward ket— and, to all outward appearances, bound. he was asleep. No, Richard was altogether out of the Features peaceful and expressionless, whole proposition. Some one else had he waited patiently. The reading ceased, elected himself brother of Martin Hoff- and there was an expectant pause. Hoff- man, and had succeeded in putting him man permitted an artistic snore to es- in this place — whatever eventually it cape him. The wait grew longer; and might turn out to *be. Some one else at last came a soft: “ ” and—yes, some one who understood the Mr. Hoffman ! various business matters that were im- A long, sibilant breath was the only pending, and wished to have him out of answer. “ ” the way Mr. Hoffman ! That much seemed reasonably clear, in The snore came again. And it seemed view of certain sums that had been to have been a well-judged snore, for offered for his disappearance. That was the attendant muttered “ — it! He had been put—somewhere! Sleeping again, thank God ! Well ” Now, to find out where “ somewhere There was the sound of a chair being happened to be, and to get back to the pushed back softly. The blanket about hotel and the office and see a doctor and him was tucked in more securely, and the find out exactly what ailed his poor eyes, light steps crossed—toward the door, as and how long it was going to take to it seemed, for there was jhe slightest remedy the trouble, after the Thomas creak of a knob—and in "an indistinct business had been settled. way the man on the bed knew that, for And for a beginning the time, he was alone. “ * She stood, momentarily,— sweeping For all of ten minutes he remained him with a cold scorn, and ’ Eh? Are motionless; then, as matters seemed per- ” you sleepy, sir ? asked the voice of his manently soundless, he essayed a soft: “ ” attendant. Smith ! “ Well, to tell you the truth, I’m There was no answer. He waited a ” pretty tired, Smith ! Hoffman re- minute, and tried again: with a hearty frankness, as a “Smith!” sponded N fresh idea came suddenly. “ I’m going iAnd Smith, it appeared, had left the to lie down. Suppose you come over room. On the instant, Hoffman thrust and sit by me and go on.” one leg from under the covers—and then “ Very well, sir.” There was a cer- the other—and there was no reproving tain relief in the attendant’s voice as he voice. steered Hoffman gently from the chair. He cast off the blanket and stood The short transit concluded, the blind erect, and no one filed an objection. man stretched out luxuriously as a blan- Plrect, he waited, listening. No sound ket was laid over him. With the quick- greeted his ear. ening sense of hearing that seemed to So that the time appeared ripe for a develop more markedly every minute, he tour of investigation— a tour which, if knew that the man was taking a chair successful, might land him in the street. beside him and opening the book again And once there, lack of hat and over- —and the story went on. coat notwithstanding, he could find some And on, and on, until Hoffman found one, any one, who would tell him where himself, all things notwithstanding, very the cars were and how to get back to his near a doze. He caught himself, and home and was wide-awake again and acute in every He must not delay. Blind and strange sense save that of sight. to the place, and not altogether steady The attendant was watching him, as he might he, but he must make the — —

280 THE ARGOSY.

“ best haste possible and find the way to It is indeed the king ! It is indeed freedom before any further interference the wise one ! Bow low, ye people ! All ” came. hail, King Solomon ! Hands outstretched, he started for- ward hastily. In a fairly definite way, he knew the direction in which his at- CHAPTER VI. tendant had gone; he followed it as IN REGARD TO .CLUES. swiftly as possible, and Yes, here was a wall. Here, too, was The day-clerk, as Richard Hoffman some sort of woodwork and—ah ! here observed without much interest, stared was a door. a little as the two bell-boys hurried to He found the knob and turned it, and the elevators with the hand-baggage. walked—into a closet! He backed out Furthermore, the day-clerk observed: quickly and searched on, and in auvery “ Too bad, sir, that you were forced ” few seconds he had found another door, to return so soon. I’m very sorry, sir! “ and was seeking the knob. Well, you needn’t cry about it, Dick- ” An extremely queer sense of greater son ! Mr. Richard Hoffman comment- space impressed him as he passed ed, as he hurried by with his wife. through, inquisitive fingers, reaching “ These things are bound to happen, and waving through the air, met a ban- you know, one time and another.” ister railing, and he knew that he was “ Yes, sir. Certainly, sir. It’s al- in a corridor, and probably at the edge ways well to be prepared for them, as of the stair-well. He retreated to the it were, and to try to take them philo- wall opposite, and felt his way along sophically, Mr. Hoffman,” the day-clerk cautiously again. murmured, as the elevator-gate closed A full dozen feet of progress—and he for its trip to Suite 501. had found another door. He reached to It was in Suite 501, some seven or the left again, and learned that he was eight minutes later, that the peculiar at the turning-point of the banisters. tone worked into the elder Hoffman’s That, it seemed, must mean the head of mind and set him wondering. the stairs. “ What in blazes was the matter with Logically, they should lead to the Dickson, Madge? ” he inquired thought- main corridor below. He dared not try fully. them. He’d make a trip through this “What, dear?” doorway to the right, if it happened to “ He talked as if I’d just lost a leg be unlocked, and see what was con- or something, instead of merely being cealed. Perhaps another, and more called back unexpectedly by business,” acclimated, blind man was there who Richard went on. could tell him the way out. His wife laughed. Perhaps—excited hope surged through “ Probably Dickson knew how much him as lie tried the fastening. Exulta- you’d been counting on a winter vaca- tion succeeded suddenly as the door gave tion,” she said. way before his hand and opened with- “ But still—” He paused. “ I must ” out a sound. be getting imaginative ! Hoffman fin- Little idea as he had of his where- ished, with a laugh. “ I guess the long abouts, he was at least going somewhere, face made an impression on Dickson.

r ” and the path might lead to the outer Blast it ! I didn’t w ant to come back ! world and “ Never mind.” The maid had bus- Out of the limitless blackness there tled in, and fluffy things and things that came a sound of some one stirring. rustled and other things that swished

r There was a muffled exclamation ; the and crackled v ere being laid out from sound, then, of a sudden fall, as if some the trunks and the grips—and, for the one had thrown himself prostrate upon time, Richard Hoffman vT as a quantity the carpeted floor. ignored. And then a strange voice rose, deep, He intruded again shortly with: but querulous, in reverent and respect- “ I wonder how poor old Martin’s ” ful tones, with: getting on down-tow-n ? ” ”

THE NAME OF MARTIN HOFFMAN. 281

“ ” Er—wliat, dear? - went off at such a time as this unless “ ” I say, 1 wonder whether Martin’s some one chloroformed him ! replied going to weather the storm for the Gal- Martin’s brother. “ I’m going down to pin outfit?” the brother mused. “I the office and find out what struck ” ” doubt it like the dickens ! him ! There was no answer. Martin had The elevator, within a very few sec- been too thoroughly discussed, and his onds, landed him before the desk of the prospects in the last few weeks had been hotel, and Mr. Hoffman, the elder, came too gloomy, to allow of much specula- straight to the point with: tion. “Was my brother here last night, • ” “ I’m going to call him up and sur- Dickson ? ” prise him ! Richard Hoffman an- The clerk stared, open-mouthed. nounced. “ Why—er—yes, sir.” He walked to the telephone and “Well, where is he now?” asked for the Galpin Company’s num- “ I can’t tell that, Mr. Hoffman.” ber. He waited a little, and suddenly “Why not?” asked to be connected with Mr. Martin “ Because I don’t know.” Hoffman’s office, and: The elder brother did a little staring “Mr. Hoffman is not here to-day!” himself. the company’s Central informed him. “ Well, have you gone crazy, Dickson, “ Eh?” or have I ? ” he inquired. “ What the “ No, sir. He hasn’t been down.” deuce became of Martin? He hasn’t ” “ Are you sure? Richard swallowed left on a wild carouse, has he? You a little. didn’t —notice any signs of intoxica- “Yes, sir.” tion or “ to “ Certainly sir — Well, send some one Mr. Stound not, ; but and ask again.” Inexplicable emotion seemed to have presently He waited once more ; and choked the clerk. he caught his breath. “Well, what?” the inquirer de- “ Mr. Stound says that he isn’t there, manded rather violently. “ What in and that it is the first time in twenty thunder has happened here, anyway?” years he hasn’t been on hand before “ If you will just step inside, sir,” nine?” suggested the clerk with a studied, gen- “ Yes, sir.” tle compassion. “ Then—well, leave word for him Hoffman went through the gate brisk- that his brother called up, if he should ly, and took a chair to the rear of the happen to come in within the next hour. enclosure, beside the big safe. The Good-by.” clerk, with a final glance about the de- He hung up the receiver and turned serted lobby, followed him, and dragged to his wife with somewhat startled eyes. another to his side. “ “ Mart isn-’t down at the office,” he Do you mean to say, Mr. Hoffman,” announced, “ and they haven’t had any he said very earnestly, “ that you are word from him. I —hang it! He must not here before you were due because

Ije ill! I’m going to see.” they sent for you?” He shot out of the suite and to that " They?” other floor where Martin Hoffman “ Why, the gentlemen, of course. abode. He was back in a matter of five Your brother, and the rest.” minutes .with new information. “ I certainly haven’t heard from Mar- “ The room-maid says Martin wasn’t tin—that is, in any spectacular way such there last night, and that his bed hasn’t as you seem to suggest.” ” “ been disturbed ! he announced rather Not your brother Martin, sir. Your wildly. brother John.” “ Well, he may have taken a notion Mr. Richard Hoffman stared at him

to go off somewhere for a little relaxa- for a full minute ; then his summary tion,” his wife said gently. “ He cer- came forth with a characteristic and tainly needs it badly enough, dear.” cheerful frankness. “ “ Maybe he does, but Martin never You let it alone. Dickson—the ” ” !

282 THE ARGOSY.

booze or the pills or the pipe, or what- in line. Experience suggested a gentle ever it is,” he remarked soothingly. “ I bribe. Hoffman thrust a small bill into thought you looked funny when we first the person’s hand and came straight to came in. I never owned a brother by business, with: ” name of John, my boy. You— “ Were you on duty here last night? “But your brother John was here last “ No, sir.”

night ! He was the one who took your “Well, do you know who was?” ” other brother away, sir ! “No, sir; but I know they ain’t “ ” Took him where? now,” grinned the metered chauffeur. “ That’s more than I can say. There “Why not?” were a number of gentlemen up-stairs. “ Because the whole seven that was There was one they called * Judge,’ sir, on here last night was fired when they and three or four that they called brought back their cars. They’d been * Doctor,’ and thei\— fixing the taximeters, sir,” finished the “And then?” cut in Richard with driver. dazed patience. “Are you sure of that?” Hoffman “ And then they all went away to- asked, rather breathlessly. gether in one of those taximeter auto- “ It’s the talk o’ the whole bunch, mobiles, and Mr. Martin has not been sir.” back since, nor any of the rest of “ Then—” ” them ! The inquirer turned suddenly and hur- The elder Hoffman licked his lips. ried away. In the cigar-store on the ” “ Dickson, is this straight? he in- opposite corner there was a telephone- quired. booth, and he made for it and looked “ It’s just as the night-clerk told me, up the number of the cab company. sir. I’m sure he wasn’t mistaken.” He had the connection very shortly, “ And my brother was taken away and the superintendent of the establish- last night?” ment as well—and he learned nothing. “ sir night-man said Yes, ; and the The man had been quite right. The that he didn’t seem himself at all. He whole seven at that particular station said he was talking very wildly, and say- had been discharged on their return last ing that he was blind, and that he made evening. No, the superintendent did not a good deal of resistance when they put know the address of one'1 of them, or him in the machine.” where they had been during the night, “ Yes, I’ll bet he did, if he didn’t for that matter.

want to go, but— Oh, see here ! This He knew only that they seemed to is all too darned absurd. Where did the have been a downright bad lot, and that cab come from?” this company proposed to maintain hon- “ The stand right! across the wT ay, sir. est rates, and that any member of the I heard them call it just before I went employed force who sought to violate off my watch.” rules would be discharged on the instant “And where did they tell it to go?” his derelictions were discovered. “ I haven’t any idea of that, sir. The The elder Hoffman hung up the re- only thing I know is that your brother ceiver wearily. is gone, and that we haven’t heard a His brother had been carried off in word of him since.” an unknown cab by an unknown collec- The elder man reflected for perhaps tion of men to an unknown place!

a minute. Then he rose suddenly and It was absurd ! It was outrageous shot through the gate and across the It was, furthermore, incredible; for, in looby and out of the hotel. the present crisis of the Galpin affairs, Very abruptly it had been borne in Martin would no more have thought upon him that something distinctly un- of deserting business than he would usual had happened to Martin, and he have essayed a flight through the air; had decided to delve into the mystery at and—Hoffman took up the telephone once. once more, and called up his wife, across He made for the cab-stand, and was the street, and informed her that he was greeted with enthusiasm by the man next bound for the Galpin office. —: ”

THE NAME OF MARTIN HOFFMAN. 283

Over the Galpin establishment a sort The old man started. A trifling hesi- of dazed calm seemed to rest. He asked tation, and he closed the door and the hoy at the door where Mr. Hoffman turned to the visitor. could “ ” be found ; he was informed that God help me, sir ! he said fervent- “ Mr. Hoffman had not been down to ly. You’ll forgive me before I say business that day, but that he could see it — but, somehow, it seems to be my Mr. Stound. The infant blinked con- duty, sir.” ” fusedly—and the elder Hoffman walked “ Eh.? to the back of the store and straight “ Yesterday, sir, a gentleman came through the “ Private ” treasurer’s door. here and said that he’d loan the com- The place was just as he had left it, pany money enough to carry it through a month or two ago, save that the desk the trouble, sir—you know all about was closed and that there was a pile of that.” unopened personal letters on the out- “ Yes.” drawn arm-rest. “ And after he’d gone,” the manager With a grunt, he settled into Martin’s hurried on, “ another gentleman came, own chair and stared about — until his and he said that if Mr. Hoffman—your eye lit upon the button which was con- brother — wouldn’t be here to sign the nected with Stound’s office. On the im- necessary papers, he’d give him fifteen pulse, he leaned forward pressed it. to disappear and thousand dollars in cash ; Steps came with a rush. Formality for a week, that is.” forgotten, the door was burst open sud- “And?” denly; and Stound, with a remarkable “ And I understand your brother had change of expression, was standing be- him kicked out of the place, sir!” “ ” fore him and muttering: Which was thoroughly like him ! “ God bless me, sir! I thought it was the elder Hoffman commented. “ How ” ” your brother, sir ! I — Dear me ! d’you happen to know all about it ? “Where is my brother, Stound?” “ Well, to tell the truth, sir, I was Hoffman demanded. listening at the door, for just a minute.” “ Well, I—he’s not here, sir. I’ve “ And this morning, when my brother been expecting him every minute this didn’t turn up, you concluded imme- blessed day, sir, and it’s getting late in diately that he had met the other man ” the afternoon now, and there ain’t a sign outside and closed with the offer ? “ — of him.” Heaven forbid, sir ! I “Where’s he gone, then?” The “ All right. I’ll take your word for

elder Hoffman leaned forward earnest- it. Now, what do you know about his ” ly. “ Certainly, you’d know, if any one whereabouts at present ? did, Stound. Was there any business to “No more than I do about where I’ll take him out of town?” be mvself a hundred years from now, “ No, sir.” The old man looked at sir! floor. The visitor considered again the ; and “Wasn’t he well, then?” when he looked up, it was with a rather “ He seemed so.” hard smile. “ Well, did he seem at all indisposed “ It’s apparent that my ordinarily ” yesterday ? well-balanced brother has elected to “ He—he seemed a bit tired out, sir, drop out of sight altogether for the and no wonder. That’s all I kno.w.” time!” he observed. “Just tell that The visitor studied him with very telephone Central of yours to give me deep interest for rather more than a Delafield’s Detective Agency, and get ” minute. Then he straightened up, with Mr. Howard Delafield on the wire ! “ My dear Stound, this isn’t a melo- drama, you know. You needn’t stand there with that long face and work your C-FIAPTER VII. * fingers and snort under your beard, as THROUGH THREE DOORS. if you were concealing state secrets. If you’ve got anything to tell, or anything For the moment, Martin Hoffman ” to suggest—out with it ! stood transfixed with amazement. ” ”: ” ” : !

284 THE ARGOSY.

For the moment, too, a little chill expected every moment to hear the sound ran through him, and his head began of footsteps in the corridor. Instead, to feel trifle doubtful a ; and then, out a dismal wail answered him with: of the blackness before him, the voice “ Lo, king, I obey ; though my heart came again, intoning: turn to ashes, and be melted in the bit- “ Wonderful and mighty king ! We terness of ages ! My voice is dead ! My ” ” hail thee ! lips are as stone ! ” The blind man stopped short. It was “ Then let them stay so for a while! “ a joke of some sort ; doubtless a joke snapped the blind man. I’m frank to perpetrated by some one who didn’t real- admit that I don’t see the point of it; ize that he was sightless. and, if it’s supposed to be a joke, it’s “ Pardon me,” he said with a faint deuced bad taste, to say the very least. smile, “ but I’m not just the subject for But, if you’re not going to get up and a practical joke. I am stone-blind.” pilot me out of here, for Heaven’s sake “ ” ” All hail, King Solomon ! the voice have sense enough not to raise that row ! went on impressively. He seemed to have been taken liter-

The wanderer moistened his lips. ally ! “ Am I supposed to be King Solo- From the room before him came never mon?” he inquired mildly. a sound, save the groans of some one, “ Great king, the nations of the earth apparently near the floor. ” bow down before thee ! the voice went For an endless space, as it seemed, on monotonously. “ See, majesty, I Hoffman waited for further develop- beat my head upon the ground before ments. thee! I call aloud— None, apparently, were to come, for “ ” Then please stop calling aloud ! silence reigned—and presently the chilly Hoffman said rather sharply. 1“ I’m sensations began to run up and down his blind, I tell you. Whatever the idea is, backbone once more. please give it up. I can’t see it or you, There was something uncanny about and I can’t appreciate it at all. Where all this—something too uncanny for en- are you, anyway?” durance, in his present state. He wanted “ ” Lo, king, I lie before thee ! to get out of the place ; he wanted to “ Then, please, get up, drop your con- get down-town to his office; he wanted founded farce, and tell me the way out to find Thomas by telephone, and have of this place. I want to get a breath him back and have the deal closed of air and— before the end of the day’s banking A sharp intake of breath greeted him, hours. He wanted to see the Ridgkin and a horrified people considerably before three, and “ Oh, incomparable Solomon, thus have matters settled in full. would you leave even the humblest of' And he turned abruptly to the spot your subjects in this the first moment where the door must be. In a happy that you have appeared through all the instant he found it, and felt his way centuries! Thus must I be cast back through. into the unhallowed gloom, endured for He stepped into the corridor quickly, years before your coming? and drew the door closed and a sorrow- so many — ; Thus must I ful voice floated after with il >> “ J Great and merciless majesty ! The “ For I have indeed waited long and humblest of thy servants awaits, with patiently, lord!” the voice continued to chastened spirit, thy next coming plead. “ I have waited and prayed Though my spirit groan and my heart though the ages come and go, that you might return and reveal your- bleed ; last and nations rise and fall again, still will self ! And now you have at deigned to come, and you would go as quickly! I—” — The door snapped sharply, and .the Ah, no ! Lord, I beseech thee that “ ” was deadened to a wordless mut- Shut up ! cut in Hoffman rather sound inelegantly. tering. The voice had risen altogether too Hoffman drew a great breath, and high for complete comfort, and Hoffman pressed a hand to his eyes. —! : ”

THE NAME OF MARTIN HOFFMAN. 285

“ ” Was he crazy, or was that other indi- I —er—was delayed ! he announced vidual? Or was it all an extremely poor shakily. joke, perpetrated by some convalescent “Delayed, were you? Humph!” of the place? The voice seemed to have grown more

For the instant, his over-tried brain irascible; and the visitor catalogued it took to its tricks of unsteadiness again, suddenly as that of a rather elderly man. and he was unable to determine defi- “ Well, you’re here now, anyway. I nitely. With something of an effort, hope you’ve come for business?” ” he threw off the recollection of the “ I—er—yes! “ ’ ‘ ” whole affair as far as possible. I—er—yes ! quoted the unseen. It was time for him to go on and find “Hades! Your father never wabbled

1 Iris out, if to 1 ’ way even he had attempt around with any —er—yes ! my boy. the descent of a fire-escape in the dark- He was a man that knew the law business ” ness that surrounded hhn from one end to the other ! “ ” He’d do it, too, and take his chances; Of course ! assented Hoffman and—there was another door at his hand. dazedly. “ For a little, he felt over it. It was And you’ll be like him, all in due much like the former; perhaps it would time,” the thin voice continued, with a “ ” to nothing whatever perhaps it little kindlier ! lead ; accent. Sit down was the exit to a rear stairway—or some- “ If—if you’ll show me a chair? ” sug- thing of the sort. gested the visitor. “ I’m blind.” ” He felt on and on, and his hand en- “ Blind ? The voice rose to an countered a bolt on the hall side of the astounded scream. Pattering footsteps door. Hoffman started joyfully; this came toward Hoffman, and he felt that looked promising. The entrance to a some one was staring at him. “ Well, stairway, perhaps, or—he slid back the I’ll be hanged, boy! Here, sit here! bolt and tried the door. Now! Gently! That’s right. Down ” It opened with beautiful ease. The there ! wanderer thrust one foot forward and Thin fingers clutched the visitor’s felt his way. The floor was entirely arms, and he was lowered into a com- solid. He advanced another yard, and fortable armchair. For a minute or so level carpet. He tried again, he waited expectantly found only ; then, with a and felt about with his arms; he seemed creaking of a willow chair somewhere to be in another room now. across the room, he heard Confusedly, cursing his blindness, he “ You haven’t brought the papers, of ” felt farther to either side. There was course? “ ” nothing solid to be encountered. Well, Why—no ! “ he’d turn around and get out, and look I thought not. I thought not. 1 further for escape; and thought not. You’re so devilish un- “It is certainly high time you turned dependable, Horace. Your father would ” ! thin, cracked them up, Dansten said a have had with him ; and all made voice, some few feet before Jiim. out in proper form—and after my wait- The blind man stopped short. ing all these months to see you, too! ” ” “ What? Well—bah !

“ I say, it’s certainly high time that Hoffman moistened his lips, and tried ” you put in an appearance, Dansten ! to smile again. repeated. “ haven’t “You — er — see, it was unavoidable the sharp tones Why — you been here before? What?” this time,” he explained thickly. “ I “ Hoffman choked down the amazed Unavoidable ! Unavoidable ! Why question that was in his throat. There should you allow anything unavoidable was something here altogether beyond to enter into a case as important as his understanding, for the present. mine?” the person demanded. “Don’t He’d have to take these little pleasant- you know, Horace— don’t you know pos- ries in the spirit in which they were ad- itively—that just as soon as we put my vanced, whatever that might be. He claim before any judge, the whole ninety- tried to smile; and a vague flicker of seven millions are going to be awarded mirth came over his lips. to me by the courts? Don’t you know —! ! — ! ! ;!!

286 THE ARGOSY. that I am going to give you personally it after him. With fingers that were forty millions in cash, as soon as we get growing in intelligence by the second, the decision? Don’t you understand that he found the bolt, and jammed it back you’re not working for nothing, even if into place—and, for an instant, he stood my relatives have brought me here to and breathed hard. Italy and shut me up in this confounded That poor devil was as mad as a villa? What?” March hare! About that last fact there “ ” Of course ! Hoffman agreed. could be never the shade of a doubt. “ Then why don’t you collect the And the realization gave biting point money?” the voice rasped.. “Why do to another horrible suspicion that had you come around. here and tell me you been floating through his mind for some haven’t the papers ready? Why do you five minutes. Was he in a lunatic boggle everything, and try to excuse asylum ? ” yourself, and all that sort of rot? On the face of it, it seemed incredible “Well, I—” and yet—well, there were people in the “ ” Look here ! The voice grew an- place altogether too queer for comfort- grier. “ I’ll tell you one thing that’ll able association; and he must get out bring a blush to your cheeks! Yesterday and find his way home, and—ah a man came in here—a colored man Here was another and smaller door one of the servants of the palace, or He felt about it carefully. He felt whatever it is. He came in here merely farther, and found what seemed to be to sweep, mind you ! I looked at him, a turn in the hall, or a solid wall. and I saw that he was intelligent. I ex- At all events, this door was consider- plained the whole matter to him, and ably narrower; and—yes, it was bolted, asked him if he could attend to it, and too. This must be the back stairway; if he would. He agreed. Then I gave and perhaps it led to the street; and him five cents, for a retainer, and he said perhaps he could he would attend to everything! He said He shoved back the bolt and tried It he’d go to America at once, and be back the third knob. gave way ; and, hands here with the money inside of two days, outstretched once more, he hurried for- just as I asked him ! There! What do ward into the endless, purposeless space you think of that? And you supposed before his blind eyes. to be one of the leading lawyers in New A dozen feet, and Hoffman leaped ” York ! Bah ! back instinctively; for, out of the gloom, With a gasp, Hoffman was on his feet. had issued a wild, animal-like snarl “ I’ll tell you what I’ll do,” he said For all resemblance to human sound, 'swiftly, and rather chokingly. “ I’ll go it might have been a tiger or a lion straight back and get the papers, and On the other hand, there was a queer, have you sign them; and I’ll have the savage quality that resembled a demented money here for you before that colored man’s voice and — Hoffman was flat ” ; man possibly can. Is that satisfactory? upon the floor He turned toward the door and felt Strong, wiry hands, following the his way. A thin hand came down on crash of a chair or a table, had gripped his shoulder and patted it—and a new him so suddenly, that resistance was out series -of chills ran through Hoffman, of the question. Not altogether ignorant as a gratefully lachrymose voice squeaked of wrestling, he let go of his muscles, into his ear: and landed without a bruise—and, as “ Spoken like your father, my boy swiftly, he had bounced back to his feet, Spoken like your father! Now you’re and was reaching wildly around in the beginning to talk business! Go and darkness. left- snarl again, it get my air-ship ! It’s tied to the The came and with a hand chimney on the roof. Tell the rushing of light feet. The hands fol- engineer to take you straight to Trinity lowed, too, and all but had his throat York, and good-by, my again and the treasurer of the Galpin Church, New — ; ” Company found himself engaged, on the boy ! The treasurer of the Galpin Company second, in furious conflict. was through the door, and had closed At the mildest, it was a wild sort of ”

WHEN THE CLOCK STOPS. 287 business, and one in which, palpably, There was an instant of furious pant- he must fight or he thrashed—and per- ing. There was a sudden, tremendous haps killed. He caught himself in a relief, as the form was dragged away wild desire to scream for help, and put from him. all his mind to fighting the unseen thing There was an abrupt jerk, as Hoffman that was straining at him. was yanked bodily to his feet by two Silently, pantingly, they gripped hard. pairs of hands and raced forward. 'Phe other’s fingers slipped, and came And they were apparently out in the again to Hoffman’s neck. He caught corridor now—and now they were tear- at the wrists, and secured them with - ing along the hall—and now he was wonderful alertness. He forced them hurled headlong upon a bed, and hands down and back ; he managed even, by were holding him down. releasing the one, to turn the other very He tried to protest. His voice choked instant suddenly behind his demented antago- for an ; and then, before he could nist’s back. speak, the no longer gentle tones of He shut his teeth, and thrust out a Smith growled breathlessly into his ear: leg—and the invisible fighter was down “ The next time you try that trick, upon his face for the moment, and you’ll get vour skull cracked — hear ‘ struggling like a wild man. He was that?” rising, too, despite the well-held “ ham- “ Say, for a blind man’s home—” came ” in if he main- in a roar from merlock ; just a minute, Hoffman. tained his strength, he was going to be “ This—ain’t any blind man’s home. ” on top of Hoffman, with every prospect Bill ! the snarl informed him viciously. of choking him to death. “ This is Dr. Blatchford’s private asylum And indeed, what with years of desk for the insane—and, if you ain’t less work, Hoffman felt himself giving out buggy hereafter, you’ll get a jab of rapidly, and—the door crashed- back to morphine that’ll make you think you’ve the wall, and other steps were racing dropped into the Atlantic ! Lie down ” toward the strugglers! there ! (To be continued.) WHEN THE CLOCK STOPS. By HOWARD DWIGHT SMILEY.

How the inventor with a grudge got even with

those who had turned the cold shoulder to him.

LIHU BROOKS, inventor, stormed Did you ever hear of a top that would E furiously around the private office spin for two hours? You never did. If of the president of the Acme Air-Brake I can get that top on the market it will Company. sell like hot cakes. Every man, woman, “ Whose invention put you where you and child in the world will want one, are?” he demanded. and they will retail at a dollar each, too. “ Yours,” admitted the president with Seems to me that in view of the fact that an air of patient resignation. > I made your old company what it is you “ And you’ve made over a million out might finance this thing for me.” “ of it, ain’t you? But, Mr. Brooks,” the president gen- “ “ Something around that figure, I be- tly remonstrated, we bought your patent lieve,” the president again admitted. outright and paid you cash for it. 1 “ Well, then, it seems mighty curious can’t see where we are under any obliga- that you can’t invest five thousand in my tions to you. Your top may be a good top. Why, sir, it is the most remarkable thing, but it doesn’t look practical to top ever invented. Spins for two hours. me. I don’t believe you can get anybody 288 THE ARGOSY. to invest a dollar in a toy just because it no provisions for advertising and mar- will spin for two hours. Who wants to keting his stock. see a top spin for two hours? Your Reluctant to further mortgage his proposition is altogether too foolish for home, he again made a round of his my consideration, and, as I am very busy friends in a fruitless endeavor to raise just now, I will bid you good morning.” funds. As before, they received him Without a word Mr. Brooks snatched kindly, but they were all of the private up his top from the desk and stalked an- opinion that the old gentleman had be- grily from the office. come weak-minded in his old age, and' In turn he visited the offices of the they declined to risk a dollar in his enter- New Process Brass Company, the Briggs prise, whereat the irate inventor vowed Fire Appliance Company, the Gauss Au- dire vengeance on all of them, and pre- tomobile Brake Company, and half a pared to plaster another mortgage on Ids dozen other concerns, in a fruitless en- home. deavor to raise funds to finance his top. Before he could do this, however, Mr. At all of these places he was received Brooks was taken suddenly and serious- with due respect, for, indeed, it was to ly ill. the products of his fertile brain that each * When Dr. Harmon arrived and exam- of them owed its existence. However, ined the old gentleman he looked very none of them could see their way clear grave, and sent a messenger for Drs. to invest five thousand dollars in Mr. Evans and Grant. Brooks’s top. After a thorough examination, and a “ Then I’ll finance it myself,” he said long private consultation in the next angrily as he strode out of the last office. room, the physician returned and informed “ 1 know it’s a winner, and I’ll make a the patient that he was afflicted with an

it you see if I don’t.” incurable disease, and had less than a fortune out of ; Now, Mr. Brooks, lacking the in- month to live. stinct that makes men successful in a Mr. Brooks vT as at first stunned by this business way, had never before attempted intelligence, but the philosophy of the to finance one of his inventions, but had genius wT as his, and he quickly b«came always been satisfied to sell his patents reconciled to his fate and set about pre- outright for cash. The products of his paring for the end, with the same cool genius had made millions for other men, deliberation that had marked all his ac- but the inventor himself was in compara- tions throughout his career. He expressed tively poor circumstances. but one regret—that he could not live True, he owned a beautiful home, sur- long enough to get even with the men rounded by spacious grounds, the value who had grown rich through his inven- of which was estimated at not less than tions, and had refused him aid in his thirty thousand dollars. He also owned hour of need. a large store-building on the main street For a week he did little except lie of the town, but as this had stood empty quietly, apparently buried in deep thought for several years' it brought him no in- and contemplation. Then, one day his come. Outside of these he was practi- housekeeper heard him calling excitedly. cally penniless. a When she reached his side she found the Nevertheless, with absolute confidence old gentleman sitting up in bed, his face in the success of his enterprise, Mr. filled with elation. “ ” Brooks mortgaged his home for five thou- I’ve got ’em ! he cried exultantly. “ ” sand dollars, installed the necessary ma- I’ve got ’em ! chinery in his empty store-building, em- “For the land’s sake!” gasped the ployed several helpers, and set about good woman. “You’ve got ufflat?” manufacturing tops. “ Them,” answered the inventor enig- At the end of two months the inventor matically. “ I want you to send for Law- had ten thousand tops finished, boxed, yer Patterson right off. I’m going to and ready for shipment, and had used up make my will.” “ ” the entire five thousand dollars. Then Humph ! sniffed the housekeeper. he suddenly discovered that he had made “ I can’t see why you should make such a ! ;

WHEN THE CLOCK STOPS. 289

fuss over that. I thought you were having When Clyde read these conditions he a fit,” and she flounced indignantly from made an indignant and vigorous protest. the room. “ Why, Uncle Elihu must have been Mr. Patterson arrived shortly after- crazy when he drew up that will,” he de- ward, and remained closeted with his clared to Lawyer Patterson. “ I won’t client for three hours. The housekeeper stand for any such proceeding. It isn’t was called in once to witness the signing legal. I’ll break the will.” of the will, and then dismissed again “ You couldn’t do that,” the lawyer and when the lawyer finally emerged informed him. “ Your uncle was privi- from the room he had a number of leged to dispose of his property as he saw papers in his hand, and a grim, sardonic fit. I helped him draw up the papers, smile on his countenance. and I know that it is all perfectly legal. He appeared to be much amused over But you go ahead and do as he wishes. something, but made no comments. You’ll be satisfied in the end.” And the next day Elihu Brooks died. It took the lawyer the best part of two hours to convince the young man that he II. could not do other than follow out his uncle’s wishes, but in the end Clyde When the contents of the will were yielded to his arguments and agreed to made public, everybody in Ceresco'sat up follow' Mr. Brooks’s instructions to the and wondered. It was a most remarkable letter and accept whatever the transaction will. Those who had suspicioned that yielded. the old inventor’s mind had become weak- Therefore, the next morning Clyde in- ened before his death w$re now con- stalled the clock in the store-window, vinced that they had made a correct sur- and inserted advertisements in the two mise. local papers announcing that the sale of Clyde Brooks, a young grofcery clerk the tops and the guessing contest would of the town, nephew and only surviving start promptly at seven o’clock the fol- refative of the inventor, was made the lowing Monday morning. sole heir, with certain restrictions and The result was astonishing. The town conditions, to wit: became immediately filled with excite- He was to take immediate possession ment. Crowds gathered before the store- of the home and store. He was to oc- window to view the clock, while others cupy the former until its disposal, as set besieged Clyde and Mr. Patterson to forth in the will. learn if the report w'as really true and He was then to take the large Swiss legal. clock, which stood in Mr. Brooks’s study, On being assured that it w! as, they at

and place it in the show-window of the once lapsed into a deep and silent reflec- store, so that it could be plainly seen from tion in an earnest endeavor to figure out the street. just at what minute the clock would be He was then to announce in the town liable to stop. papers that on a certain date he would The prize was a beautiful old stone place on sale ten thousand tops, the in- mansion, ideally situated on a long, slo- vention of the late Elihu Brooks, and ping hill, overlooking Crystal Lake, and would dispose of them as follows: surrounded by stately old oaks. It had The price of each top would be one long been the envy of the wealthier resi- dollar, and each- sale would entitle the dents of the town, many of whom had purchaser to one guess as to what hour made efforts to buy it, but without avail, and minute the clock would stop. These as the late owner had refused to sell at guesses were to be registered in their any price. order, and in case two or more contest- Therefore, when the opportunity pre- ants guessed the correct time the one sented itself to them to become the pos- registering his guess first would be the sessor of the property through the process winner of the contest. of merely guessing when a clock would The prize to the w-inne^ was Mr. stop, at the rate of one dollar a guess, Brooks’s thirty-thousand-dollar home everybody started guessing.

7 A :

290 THE ARGOSY.

Clyde reached his store at five-thirty me down for an equal number of guesses, Monday morning, to get it in readiness starting at one half minute past twelve, for the rush he anticipated. However, and putting in the half minutes for the early as it was, he found the president of full twenty-four hours. The seconds the Acme Air-Brake Company already count, I presume?” “ there and waiting for him. Certainly,” answered Clyde. “How long have you been here?” More top customers began to arrive, asked Clyde, noting the tired expression and the two presidents returned to their homes. on the other’s face. “ Since midnight,” answered the presi- By noon the trade had grown so brisk that Clyde had to call in help to assist dent. “ I was determined to get the first him in passing out the packages. When crack at this guessing contest.” he closed the store for the night, he Clyde opened the store, and the presi- found that he had disposed of nearly dent promptly made a purchase of one five thousand tops. thousand four hundred and forty tops, Most of these had gone to the wealthy and registered his guesses, one for each manufacturers of the town, who had minute of the twenty-four hours. bought them up. in lots of five hundred “ There,” he remarked, as he finished. or more. “ I’ll bet I’ve got that place cinched now, The next day the trade was not so and at a mighty cheap price, too. Why, brisk. The heavy guessing of the weal- I offered Brooks thirty-five thousand for thier class had frightened off many of it, less than a year ago, and he refused.” the poorer people, who saw that they “ Of course, you understand that there had little chance of winning. However, is a five-thousand-dollar mortgage on the Clyde disposed of nearly one thousand place,” Clyde reminded him. tops, and registered an equal number I don’t care anything about that. of guesses. By the end of the week he I’ll have it lifted within twenty-four had less than five hundred tops on hand. hours after the clock stops, and will be Then Lawyer Patterson, who had lreen into the house inside of a week. moved an interested but silent watcher of the “ It was a rather mean trick to play on proceedings, handed Clyde a letter, ad- he added kindly to Clyde. you, though,” dressed to him in his uncle’s handwriting. “ The sale of the tops won’t bring you a “ A week from to-day I will hand you the home is worth. Of third of what another and last letter of instruction see what your uncle’s course, it’s easy to from your uncle,” he informed the young was he was very angry because scheme ; man. advance him money to we refused to Clyde opened the letter, and read the finance his tops, and he thinks he is get- following ting even by makng us buy them. Well, I’m perfectly willing to do so, with the My Dear Nephew: inducements he offers.” I presume you have, by now, disposed of the bulk of my beloved tops; and, if At this point, the president of the I guessed right I thought out this arrived. when New Process Brass Company . scheme for getting rid of them, most president greeted him deri- The first of them have been gobbled up by the sively. scalawags who have become rich through “You’re too late, Jones,” he laughed. my inventions, and turned me down “ I’ve got this game cinched already.” when I most needed their help. “ Oh, I don’t know,” answered Jones. Now, my boy, the first thing I want ” “ How’d you guess? you to do is to wind up the clock, and, if any of the guessers object, inform “ I began at twelve, noon, and made them that you have wound it for the a guess for every minute of the twenty- last time. four hours.” Next, take as much as is necessary “ that don’t necesarilv win the Well, from the proceeds from the sale of the to contest,” grunted Jones, turning tops and pay off the mortgage on the Clyde, and pulling out his check-book. house. Be sure to have that clear, first “ You can send fourteen hundred and of all. forty tops around to my house, and put Then I want you to send a draft for ——; ! ;!

WHEN THE CLOCK STOPS. 291

two thousand five hundred dollars to Perhaps, after all, he was better off the Jonesville Grocery Company, Jones- than he would have been if his uncle ville, Michigan. Mr. Patterson has had simply willed him the home and written them, and they will understand. store for, in that case, he would have As soon after receiving the draft as ; had a five-thousand-dollar mortgage to possible they will ship you by freight a pay, and would not have had a cent to complete stock of groceries, which you pay it with, and nothing left to start up are to install in the store—your store and then open up for business. You business. ought to be successful, as you have al- As he stood now, he was free from ready had considerable experience in debt, had a first-class grocery store, and this line. And now, my boy, rest quietly a substantial bank-account. Yes, after until a week from to-day, when I will all, perhaps it was for the best. give you final instructions; and be- my As the week’s end drew near, large lieve me. crowds gathered in front of the store, Your affectionate uncle, Elihu Brooks. to watch the clock and speculate on when it would stop. Clyde had dis- posed of the last of his tops two days When Clyde read that, he' felt that before the guesses were all in, and it he had another grievance. ; was now merely a matter of waiting “ Now, see here, Mr. Patterson,” he until the timepiece ran down. remonstrated, “ the money I’ve received Saturday came, and with it Mr. Pat- from the sale of those tops ought to terson, with the final letter of instruc- belong to me. If I pay off that mortgage tions from Clyde’s uncle. When that it will take over half of it. I can’t see young man acquainted himself with the any reason why I should pay it. Let contents, he nearly fainted from aston- the one who wins the contest do that.” ishment. The letter read: “What are you kicking about?” an- “ swered Patterson. You’ve got a full- My Dkar Nephew: grocery stock, and over two thou- fledged If I guess right, you have by now dis- sand dollars in cash left, haven’t you? posed of the last of the tops and my re- You just trust your uncle and do what venge is complete he tells you to, and you’ll Ire satisfied You are, by this time, fully settled in take my word for that.” your new grocery-store, and have plenty of Clyde was far from satisfied, how- cash with which to carry on the busi- ness. I hope that you will be success- ever. He had wanted that home, and ful, and that in time you will marry had lost it and now that he was com- ; some nice girl and go to live in the old pelled to pay off the mortgage he felt home— for, of course, you are to occupy little that his uncle was rubbing it in a that until the clock stops. harder than was necessary. The case for that clock was imported Nevertheless, he followed out the in- from Switzerland, but the works are my structions promptly. The mortgage was own invention, which I have never pat- paid next day, and the draft despatched ented or offered for sale. When you wound up the clock a week ago ta-day, and, by the middle of the week, the you did so for the first time it has been stock of groceries arrived, and were • wound in twelve years—and it is now quickly installed in the store. wound up to run for one century. con- When he looked them over and Wishing you much success and hap- sidered the matter, his bitter feelings piness, I am, toward his deceased uncle softened a Your affectionate uncle, little. Elihu Brooks.

INDIFFERENCE.

Let the world slide, let the world go A fig for care, a fig for wo If I can’t pay, why I can owe, And death makes equal the high and low. Thomas Heywood. ;

WANTED BY UNCLE SAM.* By BERTRAM LEBHAR,

Author of “ The Jailbird," “ When a Man's Hungry,” “ The Isle of Mysteries," etc.

Certain thrilling experiences that befell two army men and a sailor after they

had left the service and looked forward to a peaceful civilian existence.

SYNOPSIS OF CHAPTERS PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED.

Frank Leffingwell and A1 Randolph, arriving in New York from the Philippines, fall in with a sailor, Simon Semple, also just discharged. The three men pool their money, which, together with their discharge papers, is stolen that evening from Leffingwell’s pocket. They are accosted by a young woman who asks their protection from a man who is fol- lowing her. The man, attempting to pass them, is knocked down by Randolph and taken to the hospital with a fractured skull. Randolph is arrested, and his two friends Jeave him in jail to try to procure legal help. Seeing in a paper an advertisement offering five thousand dollars for the capture of a man named Mitchell, a deserter from Leffingwell’s regiment, they determine to earn the reward. Semple - traces to the Gondola Apartment House, on Riverside Drive, the young woman of their adventure, whose testimony they want in Randolph’s behalf. Mean- while, Leffingwell interviews the writer of the advertisement, a Mr. Addison, who also lives at the Gondola Apartments. He learns that Addison’s ward is in love with the deserter, who, Addison believes, is planning to marry her for the fortune which is to be hers on her birthday next month. Addison promises to put his own lawyer on Randolph’s case if Leffingwell will aid him in capturing Mitchell. That night, as he leaves the Gondola, Leffingwell chances to notice a light flashed in signal from the Jersey shore and answered from the windows of the apartment-house. He and Semple row across the river, where they trace the light to a little shack. As they approach the hut a bulldog rushes up|n them and fastens his teeth in Semple’s leg. At the same time two armed men, one of Vhom is Mitchell, run from the hut and force them to put up their hands.

CHAPTER XIII. to have one’s friends drop in unexpected-

' ly, you know. THE TABLES TURNED. “ By the way, let me introduce my ITCHELL’S companion gave a good friend, Mr. Beem Nomm Low M sharp command to the bulldog Wing. I believe you and your red- and the latter, with evident reluctance, headed friend have already met. Now, relinquished his hold on Simple Simon’s that we’re all properly acquainted, we leg, and walked over to his master, can converse without restraint. I trust grumbling and growling, as though in that you and your friend are prepared to protest against this order. take off your hats and stay a while, my ” Leffingwell, greatly to his surprise, dear Leffingwell ? then noticed, for the first time, thaJL the 'I’he latter scowled. “ man was a Chinaman—a one-eyed China- I wish you’d cut out this cheap sar- man, who wore clothes of American casm and get down to business,” he “ style, and had discarded his pigtail. growled. I don’t know what you in-

at this discovery was tend to do with us but, is, His amazement ; whatever it cut short by the voice of Mitchell. hurry up and do it. That’s all I ask “ So, it’s you, my dear friend Lef- of you.” “ fingwell, is it?” sneered the deserter. Now don’t be impatient, my dear “ Why, this is indeed a great and glad- Leffingwell,” said the deserter, in a mock “ some surprise. I can’t tell you how de- tone of reproach. To be quite candid lighted I am to see you. It’s so pleasant with you, I’m a little puzzled to know * Began March Argosy. Single copies, 10 cents. 292 —

WANTED BY UNCLE SAM; 293

just what to do with you. I don’t gotten that favor, my red-headed friend,” exactly relish the idea of killing you, Mitchell replied. “ But, on the other and yet I really don’t see what other hand, I haven’t forgotten the emphatic course is open to- me.” kick with which our dear friend Lef- “ ” Pooh ! exclaimed Leffingwell con- fingwell sent me speeding on my way. temptuously. “ We’re not afraid that The recollection of that kick sort of you’re going to kill us. You’re too much takes away my gratitude. Besides, I of a coward, Mitchell, to run the risk have since learned that my dear Leffing- of going to the electric-chair.” well has paid a visit to my sweetheart, “ Oh, really, I don’t think there’d be and tried to blacken my character in her very much risk of that,” the deserter eyes. “ I bullet “ True, he did not succeed but. retorted smoothly. could put a ; never- into your head, and into the red head of theless, 1 bear him a grudge for it. As

‘ your, friend here, and there’d be nobody Shakespeare remarks : He who steals to bear witness against me. My friend, my purse steals trash but he who robs ; Beem Nomm Low here, is too loyal to me of my good name,’ etc., etc. betray me; and, of course, the bulldog “ However, that is not the point. It can’t talk. I guess I can put an end to is not for the sake of revenge that T feel the pair of you very nicely, without run- constrained to kill you both, but merely ning any danger of going to the chair as a matter of self-protection. “ for it.” I very much fear that your object “ But you won’t do it,” declared Lef- in coming here now was not to pay me fingwell confidently. “ I know your a social call, hut to seize me and hand caliber too well, Mitchell, to be afraid me over to the authorities, in order to of you. You haven’t got enough nerve earn that big reward. Now, of course, to do anything like that.” I can’t afford to let you do that. My “ It isn’t exactly prudent of you to liberty is very dear to me, and I don’t talk in that manner,” the deserter re- relish the idea of languishing in a mili- torted. “If you set any value on your tary prison. “ life, and the life of your friend, you Therefore, the question presents it- should not question my courage, you self, what am I going to do with you ” know. It isn’t good policy. Your words if I don’t kill you? almost tempt me to pull this trigger He pretended to deliberate for a full just to prove to you that I have got the minute, during which time Simple Si- nerve.” mon’s face wore a very anxious and ap- “ And I tell you again that you daren’t prehensive expression, while Leffingwell’s do it,” cried Leffingwell, with a defiant under lip curled in a contemptuous recklessness which caused Simple Simon smile. “ to glance at him in surprise and trepi- I have an idea,” cried the deserter “ dation. suddenly. I think I perceive a way “ Whether you’ve got the nerve or out of the difficulty. I will have to ask not,” the latter hastened to interpose, you gentlemen to he kind enough to addressing Mitchell, “ I’m sure you step inside our humble little dwelling. wouldn’t murder us in cold blood. You But, first of all, I must request my don’t want to forget that we had you in friend, Beem Nomm Low, to search you our power earlier to-day, and were merci- both—while you continue to keep your ful enough to let you go. One good hands above your heads, of course— in turn deserves another, you know.” order to make sure that you have no life weapons.” Simple Simon was no coward ; but was dear to him, and he did not see the The one - eyed Chinaman obediently sense of throwing it away out of mere made a careful examination of their bravado. Not knowing Mitchell’s char- pockets, and reported that they carried acter as well as Leffingwell knew it, he no arms. “ did not share the latter’s positiveness that Very good,” Mitchell commented. “ the deserter was too much lacking in- That being the case, I will not trouble courage to make good his threat. you to keep your hands up any longer. “ I assure you that I have not for- It must be an uncomfortable position. 294 THE ARGOSY.

Be good enough to step this way, gentle- on the alert all the time, ready to tear men.” them to pieces, if they try to leave.” Once again Leffingwell had to struggle The Chinaman opened the door of a with a wild impulse to hurl himself upon plain wooden closet, and produced there- the deserter and endeavor to wrest his from a coil of strong rope. weapon from him. With this he securely bound the hands But he cheeked himself, with the rec- and feet of Leffingwell and Simon, so ollection that Mitchell, although not that the unfortunate men were unable to shoot him to move a possessing nerve enough limb ; and then he tied them down in cold blood, doubtless would in an upright position to two perpendic- not hesitate to commit murder, if it came ular beams which supported the roof of to a struggle. He realized that a coward the structure. is ofttimes the most dangerous of men, “ Very good,” commented Mitchell. when rendered desperate. “ Now, I guess they’re just about as And, besides, the one-eyed Celestial helpless as two strong men could be.” looked like a man who was prepared to He stood regarding his impotent vic- kill at the slightest provocation. His tims with a look of infinite satisfaction features were sinister and absolutely mer- on his dissipated face. “ ciless. Also, there was the savage bull- And now, old man,” he continued, “ dog to be reckoned with. addressing the Chinaman, I guess you Realizing that the odds were so greatly and I can leave our two friends here, against himself and Simple Simon, Lef- while we take a trip to a safer part of fingwell sullenly followed his companion the country. “ into the hut, the bulldog snapping sav- Don’t hesitate to make yourselves agely at their heels, and the revolvers of at home, gentlemen, while we are gone. Mitchell and the Chinaman leveled at If there should be anything that you re- their heads. quire, in the way of food or drink, just As they entered the place, they saw ring for the butler, and he will cheer- that it was a single-roomed structure, fully attend to your wants. “ the interior quite as wretched as the out- By the way, you can exercise your side. voices by shouting, if you wish'. There’s The wooden walls were bare and nobody for miles around to be disturbed rough plank floor was devoid by it, so you can yell all you want. Come dirty ; the of carpet or oilcloth, and the only furni- on, Beem Nomm Low, we won’t tarry ture the room contained was a rusty here any longer. Good-by, Leffingwell, oil-stove, a dirty looking cot-bed, a small, old boy. The next time we’ meet, I hope unpolished oblong table, and an old to be married to a charming young cane chair, with the seat broken and a woman worth two million dollars.” rung missing. With a laugh, he walked out of the “ Welcome, my friends,” said Mitchell, hut, followed by the one-eyed Chinaman. grinning as he noticed the look of sur- As the door closed behind them, Sim- prise with which Leffingwell regarded ple Simon looked at Leffingwell despair- these surroundings. “ 1 hope you will ingly. “ be comfortable here, and manage to Looks to me as if-we’re in a pretty make yourselves thoroughly at home, had fix,” he groaned. “ This rope is as for I am afraid I must ask you to tarry strong as double irons, and I guess that here for an indefinite period. rascal was telling the truth when he “ Kindly go to that closet, my dear said that there ain’t anybody around to Beem Nomm Low, and bring out the hear our shouts. “ coil of stout rope you will find there. Looks to me pretty much as if we’re to bind going to be here for days, and perhaps 1 guess we shall be compelled these gentlemen hand and foot, in order weeks or months before anybody dis- covers us an’, in the meantime, shall to make sure that they do not wander ; we away although, really, they would be perish from hunger and thirst. ; “ very foolish to try anything of that sort. By the way, messmate, I wonder if The dog’s teeth are very sharp—as our that cuss was serious when he told us red-headed friend knows—and he’ll be that if we wanted food or drink % we WANTED BY UNCLE SAM. 295

should ring for the butler ! I’ll be jig- on to the secret of this shanty, he won't gered if I c9n see any bell.” be fool enough to come here any more. The chances are that lie’s now on his way out of town, and .won’t come back CHAPTER XIV. to this city again until all danger is over.” HELPLESS IN A HUT. ' “ It’s too bad,” sighed Simon. “ By In a frenzy of fury and despair, Lef- the way, messmate, I wonder who owns fingwell tugged savagely at the ropes this here shack— Mitchell, or the one- which fettered his hands and feet, bind- eyed Chinaman? They make a mighty ing him to the perpendicular beam. queer pair, I’m thinking. Wonder how “ ’Tain’t no use doing that, comrade,” the divvle they ever got together.” “ Simple Simon remarked sadly. “If you I don’t know, and I don’t care,” was three times as strong as you are you growled Leffingwell. “ Such things don’t couldn’t bu’st them ropes. They’re too interest me just now. What 1 want to darned strong. You’ll only exhaust know is how we can get free of these yourself by trying it. We’re in a bad confounded ropes, and make after that

it fix ; but ain’t any use getting, excited cad before he has a chance to get far over it. Let’s take it calm and easy, away. It seems to me that, with all your and hope that somebody will come and experience on the seas, you ought to rescue us before we die of starvation.” know enough about ropes to be able to “ If only I knew where that dirty cad suggest something.” Mitchell intends to go,” groaned Leffing- “ My experience on the seas teaches well. “ That’s what’s worrying me. I me that, when a feller is lashed to a don’t care about myself, or what happens mast with ropes of the thickness of these to me but it makes my blood boil to think here, he stands about as much chance of ; that, after our rare good luck in catching freeing himself as a rat in a trap,” re- him for the second time to-day, he’s torted Simon sadly. “ These knots was managed to slip through our hands again. tied to stay, my lad. I give that there What- blanked fools we were to come Chink credit for knowing how to tie a here unarmed. If we had carried guns, knot that is a knot. I shouldn’t be sur- I feel confident that we could have got prised to learn that he’s been a seaman, the best of them.” at some time or other. “ We’d have stood an even chance, at “ The only thing for us to do is to “ least,” Simple Simon agreed. It would shout for help, 1 guess. jTain’t likely been a case of who could have fired that it will do us any good but we have ; first, I guess. At any rate, if I’d had a might as well try, anyway.” I’d have put a bullet through the shouted in gun, They unison ; but the only ugly head of that darned bulldog. The response they obtained was the furious brute didn’t do a thing to my leg. It barking of the bulldog outside. feels mighty sore where he bit me.” They could hear the savage beast, “We bungled the whole thing dis- maddened by their shouts, hurling his gracefully,” growled Leffingwell. “ We body against the closed door of the hut, rushed into this ambush like a couple of in a vain attempt to get in. blind mules. We might have suspected “ We can thank our lucky stars that that Mitchell would be armed and on that door is closed,” remarked Simon, his guard.” with a shudder. “ Bound and helpless as “ Well, we’ll know better next time,” we are, we’d make a nice meal for that remarked Simple Simon, making an he- 'vicious brute if he could get to us. I’m roic effort to appear cheerful. “ It’s mighty thankful to them fellers for not no use worrying over what’s already hap- leaving the door ajar.” pened. What’s done can’t be undone.” “ Never mind the dog,” Leffingwell “Next time?” queried Leffingwell commanded. “ Keep on shouting. If fiercely. “ There won’t be any next only somebody would come along and ” time. Do you think we stand the ghost hear us ! “ of a show of catching sight of that cad ’Tain’t very likely to happen, I’m again? Now that he knows that we’re afraid,” replied Simon. “That deserter 296 THE ARGOSY. chap said there wasn’t a soul for miles for Heaven’s sake, yell as loud as you around, and I guess he told us the truth. can.” “ ” I hope that beast ain’t able to climb They called Help ! Help ! at the through that there window,” he added top of their voices; and this time, to apprehensively. “If he does, we’re a their great joy, they heard an answering couple of goners.” shout outside the hut. “ He can’t climb through it,” Leffing- “ This way men,” cried a deep bass well assured him. “ It’s too high from voice. “ They’re in this shack. Look the ground. Keep up the shouting. out for that dog ! He seems to be vi- Simon. It’s our only hope.” cious.” “ I don’t like to shout,” replied the As though in acknowledgment of this other timorously. “ It makes that beast compliment, the bulldog’s snarls sud- so mad. Listen to him howl. It gives denly became so ferocious that Simple me the willies to hear him.” Simon’s blood came pretty near curdling. “Pooh,” exclaimed Leffingwell. “ Get out of the way there, you ugly “ There’s no need to fear the dog. His beast,” cried another voice. “Ha! howl can’t do us any harm. He can’t Would you? Not much. If you’re look- get inside.” ing for trouble you shall have it.” “ Don’t be too positive of that,” said There was a particularly ferocious Simon. “ I ain’t as sure as I’d like to snarl, a sharp report, a dismal howl, and be that he can’t leap through that win- then an eloquent silence. dow. I’d rather face ten men, with “ That settles him,” said the man’s “ forty-eight- caliber guns in their hands, voice. Sorry I had to kill him, but I than that dog. I’ve felt his teeth once, couldn’t help myself. You fellows saw and I’d rather stay here until I die than how he sprang at me. Owners of such have him take another bite out of me.” vicious dogs should keep them chained But, despite his words, he joined Lef- up, or expect to have them shot.” for the “ Hooray! ” fingwell in calling help ; and cried Simon exultantly to desperate pair continued to yell for half Leffingwell. “ They’ve shot that darned an hour, at the end of which time they dog. Whoever that feller is, I’m his were so hoarse that tl ey were compelled friend for life for doing it.” “ to desist. Who are you in . there, and what’s “ Reckon it ain’t going to do any the matter with #you? ” shouted one of f good,” sighed Simon. “If we were the men outside. “ Open the door and wrecked on a desert island, I guess we’d let us in.” stand about as much chance of attracting “ We can’t,” cried Leffingwell. “ Our anybody’s attention as we do here. I hands and feet are bound, and we can’t guess we’re up against it good and hard, move. Break in the door and' release old comrade, and must make the best us, for Heaven’s sake.” “ of it.” Better be careful there, fellows,” Gradually the howls of the bulldog somebody outside cautioned. “ This may outside died down, until, at length, they be a stall of some kind. Look out for gave way to low growls, succeeded finally treachery.” by complete silence. “Pooh! If they try anything of that Apparently, the brute had also given sort, we’ll fill every darn one of ’em full up hope—hope of gaining access to the of lead,” replied the deep bass voice “ interior of the hut, and hurling himself fiercely. Shove in the door, men, and upon his enemies. let’s see what’s going on.” But, after a lapse of about ten min- A second later the door came in with utes, the dog began to bark frantically a crash, and four uniformed men rushed again, as though something was arousing into the hut, each of them carrying a him to a fresh display of fury. revolver in his hand. “ Wonder what’s the matter with him “ We’re police officers,” announced the now,” whispered Simon. “ Can it be man with the deep bass voice. “ What’s possible that he hears anybody outside?” the matter here?” “ Perhaps he does,” rejoined Leffing- “ Can’t you see what’s the matter,” wcll hopefully. “ Let’s shout again; and, cried Leffingwell fretfully. “ We’re tied WANTED BY UNCLE SAM. 297 up here like a couple of trussed turkeys. “ I’m mighty glad you did so,” de- For Heaven’s sake, man, get a knife and clared Leffingwell. “ I suppose there’s cut us loose without any more delay.” no chance of overtaking that deserter “Ha! Who’s responsible for this?” now, eh?” he added wistfully. demanded the deep-voiced man, who “ I’m afraid not. Not unless you seemed to be in command of the squad. know in what direction he went. He “ A man named Mitchell and a one- may have crossed the river in a rowboat eyed Chinaman,” replied Leffingwell. or launch, or he may have gone inland. “ Hurry up and release us from these In either event he’s had a pretty good confounded ropes, and we’ll explain start of us, and I reckon he’s miles away everything to you.'S by this time.” “ The policemen produced jack-knives Confound him ! ” growled Leffing- and began to saw on the ropes. In a few well. “ I’d give my right hand to see minutes Leffingwell and Simple Simon that cad behind bars.” were free, and began to thank their de- liverers profusely. But the deep-voiced policeman cut CHAPTER XV. short their expressions of gratitude. AN IMPORTANT CLUE. “ Never mind thanking us,” he said gruffly. “ We’ll, dispense with all that. Before leaving the hut the river-po- Tell us instead who you are, and how licemen made a thorough search of the and why this happened. You fellows premises, but the only objects of interest 'don’t live in this place, do you?” they discovered were the carriage-lamp “ No. We came over here in a row- which Mitchell had used for signaling, boat to catch Mitchell, who is a deserter and a complete opium layout which they from the United States army, and was found in the closet. living here with the Chinaman.” The latter, they guessed, was the “ And Mitchell and the Chinaman property of the Chinaman ; but there caught you instead, eh ? ” said the police- were two pipes in the set, and Leffing- man, with a grin. well half suspected that Mitchell had Leffingwell nodded grimly. been using one of them. “Yes. I wish to goodness you fel- He mentioned his suspicion to the lows had arrived here sooner. If you’d leader of the police-squad, whose name, come an hour ago we might have caught by the way, was Sergeant Nolan. the cad after all.” The latter took the queer-looking, long “ Well, you’re mighty lucky that we’re bamboo tubes in his hand and examined “ here at all,” retorted the policeman. In them carefully. all probability you’d have been tied up “ I shouldn’t be surprised if you’re “ here for several days to come, if it hadn’t right,” he commented. This pipe here been for the watchman of that boat-club has been used by a fellow new at the across the river.” game. I can tell that by the amateurish “ Is that watchman responsible for our way he’s handled his dope. I was de- being rescued? ” cried Leffingwell in sur- tailed down in Chinatown for four years prise. before I was sent to the river-squad, and “ Yes. You see, we belong to the there ain’t much about dope smoking I river-squad, and as our launch passed the don’t know. boat-house a while ago he hailed us and “ Of one thing I’m certain, though,” suspicious who had he added “ and that is, that that de- told us of two men, ;

- borrowed one of his boats. I guess you serter chap has not been hitting the pipe were the fellows, eh? to-day. If he had been smoking the stuff

Leffingwell nodded. - within the past twenty-four hours he “ Well, our suspicions were aroused, wouldn’t have possessed sufficient energy and we decided to investigate. When to be able to turn the tables on you when we came across your moored rowboat we you broke in on him. suspected something was wrong, and “ Opium smoking makes a fellow landed to look for you and find out what drowsy and listless for hours afterward, you were after.” especially a beginner. If that fellow had ;

298 THE ARGOSY.

been up against the dope to-day, you’d they wouldn’t have gone away and left have been able to take him, gun and all, you here bound and helpless, unless they’d without a struggle on his part.” fully made up their minds to desert this “ ” Gee whiz ! exclaimed Leffingwell place for good. . “ “ disgustedly. What wretched luck I But ain't it strange that they should ” have ! have left that there confounded bulldog “ Oh, well, you’ll probably get an- and this here opium layout behind them, ” other chance at him,” remarked the ser- unless they intended to come back? geant comfortingly. “ If your friend, argued Simple Simon. the deserter, has hit the pipe once he’ll “ Well, that does seem somewhat odd probably do it again. Once a man be- but, of course, they may have decided to gins to smoke that stuff he can’t keep get rid of the dog,” replied the sergeant. “ away from it, and the chances are that As for this layout, they may have for- before very long this fellow will go to gotten about it in the excitement of the some dope-joint to roll pills and smoke moment, or they may have reckoned that himself into insensibility.” it wasn’t worth the bother of carrying “ I wonder what that girl will say away. when she learns that her lover has be- “ This is a pretty cheap outfit, and come a dope-fiend,” mused Leffingwell. they can easily get another one like it

“ I must inform Mr. Addison of the fact. for a few dollars. It wouldn’t be worth It’s another strong point against Mitch- their while to run the risk of being

ell, of course. I suppose, however, that nabbed by coming back for it.” “ foolish young woman won’t believe it. Then you wouldn’t advise us to wait She’s so infatuated with that scoundrel here for the rest of the night on the that even if she saw him with the pipe chance of their returning,” inquired Lef- to his lips I guess she’d refuse to believe fingwell. the evidence of her own eyes.” “No. I think you’d have your wait “If I were you,” went on the ser- for nothing. Even if they come back at geant, “ I’d spend a few nights in Chi- all, they ain’t likely to do so to-night. If

natown. I think you stand a good chance they haven’t beaten it to some other city, of running across either your deserter or they’re far more likely to go down to the one-eyed Chinaman or both of them Chinatown to-night than to return to down there, sooner or later.” this shack. No doubt that one-eyed Chi- “ Then you don’t think he’s gone far naman is well acquainted in the Chink away from New York, eh?” inquired section, and he’ll take that deserter to Leffingwell eagerly. some joint down there where they can “ Well, that depends upon how much pass the night in safety.” “ of a scare your unexpected visit gave Very good,” said Leffingwell grimly. him. Of course, there are Chinese quar- “ Then we’ll go to Chinatown right ters in other cities, and he and his Chink away. If that cad is there I’m going to friend may have fled to one of these. I get him to-night if I have to visit every think, however, that there’s about an den in the section.” “ even chance that they won’t bother to I suppose you know the district leave New York, but inside of a few pretty well, eh?” the sergeant inquired. “ hours will steer for the nearest place No. I’m sorry to say I don’t. I’ve where they can get opium, which, of -only been there three or four times in course, is Chinatown.” my life,” replied Leffingwell. “ “ Do ye think there’s a chance of their And I haven’t been there even that coming back here?” broke in Simple much,” added Simple Simon. Simon. The sergeant gave a roar of laughter. The sergeant shook his head. “Do you hear that, men?” he asked, “ “ I hardly think they’ll dare to re- turning to his subordinates. Here’s a turn,” he replied. “ Although, of course, young man who’s only seen Chinatown there’s a slight possibility of it. There’s three or four times in his life, and yet no telling what crazy chances men will he talks about going down there and get- take when the dope habit has unbalanced ting his man, just as if it was as easy as their brains. It’s likely, though, that picking plums out of a pie.” ” ;

WANTED BY UNCLE SAM. 299

The other policemenrfchoecl his laugh. bandage as skilfully as any surgeon “ He stands a swell*rhance,” drawled could have done but, at the same time, ; one. he advised Simple Simon to go to a hos- “ I should say so,” declared the ser- pital as soon as possible, and have the geant. “ You’d better get somebody to wound examined, in order to make sure show you around, my boy,” turning to that there was no danger of hydrophobia. Leffingwell. “ Otherwise, you stand a “ Well, after all, our luck isn’t so mighty poor chance of finding your bad, is it, old man ? ” observed Leffing- man. Those Chinks can hide a chap so well cheerfully, as they stood on the completely that even a bloodhound bank watching the police launch disap- would have difficulty in tracking him pear up the river. down. “Bad! I should say. not,” cried “ I’ll tell you what I’ll do,” he added Simon. “ Seems to me we’ve got more impulsively. “ I cfbn’t know why you’re good luck than sense. Who’d have so particularly keen on catching this de- thought we’d have got out of our serter chap” (he had not seen the ad- troubles so easy? An hour ago I vertisement in the newspaper, offering thought for sure we were doomed to die “ the five thousand dollars reward) ; but of starvation in that confounded hut. I kind of like the looks of the pair of We’re mighty fortunate to have escaped you, and I feet' disposed to help you. so easy.” “ “ The day after to-morrow I’ll have a Pooh ! 1 wasn’t alluding to that,” night off, and, if you like, I’ll make an replied Leffingwell. “ What I meant appointment to meet you, and take you was that we’re lucky that that opium through Chineeville." layout was found in the hut. If it hadn’t “ I’d be glad to accept your kind been for that discovery, we’d have had “ really offer,” replied Leffingwell ; but no reason to suspect that Mitchell and

I can’t afford to wait until the day after that one-eyed Chinaman were dope- to-morrow. That fellow may be down smokers, and that in all possibility there to-night, and, if so, I must get they’ve fled to Chinatown to spend the him before he has a chance to get night in some dope den. away.” “ It looks as if Dame Fortune, with “ Well, 1 guess you’ll find you won’t unusual generosity, is going to give us be able to accomplish anything alone another chance to catch that cad, ; for. but, of course, you’re welcome to try it, somehow, I feel positive we’ll find him and I wish you luck. We’re going back in Chinatown to-night, and, if we do, to the launch now. Want us to give you he’s not going to get away this time, a lift to the other side of the river?” I promise you.” “ Thanks. We’d like to avail our- selves of your invitation but we prom- ; CHAPTER XVI. ised to return that rowboat—to the watchman of the boat-cluh and IN CHINATOWN. “ Oh, that’s all right,” the sergeant “ we’ll attend to that. “ Messmate,” said Simple Simon to interrupted him ; We’ll take the boat in tow of our launch Leffingwell, as the pair climbed the and see that it’s returned all right. steep embankment of Riverside Drive, “ Come along, men. It’s high time we do you think we’re doing the wise were moving.” thing in going down to Chinatown to- Leffingwell and Simple Simon stepped night? Don’t you think we’d do better ” into the police launch, and were taken to wait until to-morrow ? across to the New York shore. Nor “Wait! I should say not,” replied “ was this the only courtesy which the Leffingwell emphatically. To-morrow river-policemen accorded them. night may be too late. There’s nothing Upon learning that Simple Simon had like striking while the iron is hot.” “ ” been bitten by the Chinaman’s bulldog, But think of the danger ! pro- “ one of the men, who possessed some sur- tested Simon earnestly. That deserter gical skill, washed and dressed the chap and his one-eyed Chinee friend are wound aboard the launch, applying a armed, and we ain’t. If we should run ”

/

300 THE ARGOSY. across them down there, they probably has promised to come to his rescue, and wouldn’t hesitate to put daylight through is going to put#is case in the hands of us this time.” a good lawyer, and pay all expenses. . “Pshaw! I’m not afraid of that,” “ You see, therefore, that even if exclaimed Leffingwell. “ It’ll take more anything does happen to us, A1 will be than a gun to scare me next time I get looked out for. If you wish, however, within hailing distance of that cad. I you can stay here and try to get an in- didn’t think y

f A TALE OF THE BOTTLE. By GEORGE M. A. CAIN.

The sudden recollection that sent a bookkeeper back

across the ferry toward home in double-quick time.

MITH’S hand trembled a little as on that particular morning — what no- S he took up his pen to go to work body knew — was that Smith had poi- on the long columns of figures. There soned his baby’s food. Smith did not were deep rings under his eyes. His know it himself when he came in. cheeks had grown flabby these last weeks, On the train his mind had been occu- as though the flesh had drawn away pied, as usual of late, with thoughts of “ ” from a skin that used to fit. the preparation of modified milk A grayish pallor had taken the place formula?, and there had come a vague of the fine color which office confinement feeling that, in putting up the day’s had never been able to destroy. food this morning, he had done some- “Aha!” you say. “Same old thing; thing unusual. Wherefore, while his eye one of those long, hard sprees that send sought an elusive twenty-cent error in a man to the alcoholic ward.” yesterday’s accounts, his thought searched “ Aha,” I reply, “ you’d better put his memory to discover just what he had your money on a horse that is named on mixed into his baby’s- -milk. the card. You need several more His finger reached the middle of the guesses. Mr. Smith never got off the dime column for the sixteenth time just front seat of the water-wagon in his life. as his mind recalled exactly what he had Why, he fought like a mad bull when done amiss. The pallor deepened on his they made him take whisky to bring him face. His finger shook away over into out of a chill, two years before .this the thousand-dollar row. Then it helped story begins.” the rest of his hand fish his watch from No, the truth of the matter is that his pocket. - Smith had a baby just six weeks old. Eight forty five — Heavens ! The If you had possessed a bare speaking baby’s first feeding from this morning’s acquaintance with Smith, you would preparation would be due at nine. Yes have known that. Every one at the —and he had put an extra powder into office knew. that mixture—about one or two tea- Every one knew just how much it spoonfuls. day it was born just how And the only extra powder around the weighed the ; much more the next day; just how much baby’s things was boracic acid. He was just how much and sure of it. He had kept all those things less the third day ; — so on for six times seven days. separate. He knew just what was there. Every one knew that Smith was afraid He rushed to the telephone and called to trust the nurse, or even his wife, to up a number in Harlem. prepare the milk for that precious child’s “ Louise—Louise,” he cried as soon as bottles. Every one knew how much he he heard the snap caused by the removal had to pay for certified milk, how many of the receiver at the other end. “ ounces from the top of the bottle he My name is not Louise,” came back took, how much water and milk-sugar frigidly, and there was another snap as and lime-water and barley and all the the receiver went back on its hook. rest of it went into each day’s supply of Then he remembered that he had infant food. moved to Hackensack a month before Every one knew just how many hours the baby was born. Smith had walked the floor with his There was no telephone in the Hack- first-born the previous night. ensack house, but the drug-store on the But what you would not have known nearest corner would take a message. 301 —

302 THE ARGOSY.

“Give me 15 A Hackensack,” he “ Baby is poisoned,” he wrote. “ Get shouted into the mouthpiece. the doctor immediately.” While ‘he waited for a reply, he “ How quick can you rush that watched the big hand of his timepiece through ? ” he asked of the operator, reach for and cover the figure “ XI.” “ In two minutes,” was the reply.

“ I find 15 A’s busy,” came back at Smith pulled out his watch, when it last. “ I’ll call you.” occurred to him that he would probably At ten-second intervals, Smith repeat- scare his wife to death with such a mes- ed his call—ineffectually. It was one sage. minute to nine when Central said sweet- - “ Have you got that off yet? ” he cried “ : to the ly There’s your party ; go ahead.” man whose finger was working There was a great roar in Smith’s ear. rapidly on the telegraph-key. There was Some one was yelling “Hallo!” at the a moment’s pause before the telegrapher top of his voice. Smith yelled back. replied : “ Just finished it, sir. I was The halloing continued until the precious lucky to get a clear wire in a hurry.” minute was up. The party at the other “Gracious!” shouted the husband end then moderated his voice enough to and father. “ You’ve probably killed make Smith understand. my wife with fright. Why couldn’t you ” “ You’ll have to wait till Mr. Pilham wait a minute? comes back. I’m his father — but I’m “ Why,” exclaimed the operator in deaf. There’s just been another party astonished wrath, “ you blanked idiot, trying—” you told me to send it in a hurry. What Smith dropped the receiver on to the do you mean?” hook. It was too late. But Smith did not hear him. He was His boy—the heir to his life-insurance busy writing another message. —the future bishop, governor, Presi- “ I put boracic acid in food. Doctor dent, financial magnate—was—a goner. can save him,” he scrawled. No. There was still a little hope. He handed the operator a dollar bill Boracic acid was not labeled “ Poison.” with the yellow slip, whereupon that in- Probably it was not so terribly virulent. dignant gentleman swallowed his anger Perhaps, if he could get word home in and rushed through the second message. half or thfee-quarters of an hour, a doc- Smith wondered whether this one would tor could be got who would be able to follow the first immediately, or have to do something. wait for a messenger-boy to stroll back

! could reach his it. A telegram No ; he from house to get home before a telegram could arrive. Up and down the vast waiting-room All he said to the boss was, “ I must he paced wildly. Once he counted his go niy baby’s dying.” He waited not ready cash, with a view to hiring a to hear words of sympathy. special train. He concluded that ten He ran to the ferry-house, and just dollars would hardly induce the com- caught the 9.15 boat. As he took his pany to accommodate hjm thus. seat he got out his time-table and found So he watched the sign-boards over that the next train left at 10.15. the gates. Each one he committed to The majority of the morning trains memory, then reread forty times before run into, and not out of, the city. He it was removed. must send the telegram, and take a His mind was in an agony. One chance on its reaching home in time. minute he would imagine he saw his babe He was the first man off the boat at in the throes of convulsions. Next min- the Jersey City slip. He gave one of ute he decided that the acid would prob- the deck-hands a half dollar to let him ably send the child out of this world in through the gate, and made a flying leap silent, deadly sleep. when the boat was full two yards from As he walked to and fro he overheard the float. two guards holding a whispered con- By the time the other passengers were sultation as to whether he was an es- starting up the walk, he was trying to caped inmate from some asylum, whom control the shake in his fingers and form they ought to turn over to the station the words of the message home. police. / , : ” : ”

A TALE OF THE BOTTLE. 303

Just about that time another guard have heard his son and heir by the time leisurely shoved signs into a big bul- he was half-way home from the station. letin-frame and over one of the gates, All went inside, still talking—all but indicating that the N. S. and W. the messenger-boy. He was left behind. train, for a dozen other stations and Finding himself thus neglected, he Hackensack was in condition to receive took possession of one of the chairs on prospective passengers. the veranda, and, to keep from growing Once more he was the first man impatient with the delay, took out the through the gate. But he had to wait yellow volume from his pocket and be- for the train to start, exactly like every gan to read where the hero, with a one else. In his case, that meant a wait mighty leap, bearing the heroine in his of fifteen minutes. arms, cleared the bottomless chasm and There was a delay of two minutes hid himself and his sweetheart in the more in getting out of the station-yards. long swamp-grass on the other side, just There were five stops before Hacken- in time to escape the villainous pur- sack, and Smith thought he had never suers. seen so many people getting on and off, Mrs. Smith began to talk again—or, so much baggage to be handled at each rather, continued to talk stop. “Oh, dear, what shall we do? What But there was no wreck. Neither of shall we do? Everything is all ready, the bridges was washed away, or opened doctor. There is a boiler full of hot to let a stray catboat pass. There were water for a bath. The mustard is there two tracks, and the train did not have — I put a mustard-plaster on his stom- to switch for others. It eventually ach. There are three rolls of bandages at fresh reached . Hackensack four minutes and two rolls of absorbent cotton past eleven. and— Smith sprinted up Main Street at a The doctor repeated his question: pace that almost aroused that busy “What was it you gave him?” thoroughfare from its repose. As he Smith answered in a sepulchral tone turned the corner into Pleasantdale of deep despair: “It was boracic acid. Avenue, he caught sight of the ambling Do you think you can save him?” figure of a messenger-boy ahead. The doctor paused with an expression From the opposite corner g small auto- of disappointment on his face. mobile sped toward him, regardless of “ Boracic acid? Umm-mm-mm. How ” the regulations of the town council. much of it did you give him? “ The automobile, the boy, and Smith ar- I think it was a teaspoonful,” rived at the front steps of his home mourned Smith. “Is there any hope?” siipultaneousiy. Also simultaneously, “ No-o, I hardly think— Mrs. Smith opened the door and looked “ Oh, don’t say that — don’t tell me wildly at the three. my baby—” wept Mrs. Smith.

Everybody spoke at once “No-o; I was just going to say, I “ Oh, what have you done ! Oh, doc- don’t know as that would hurt him par- ” tor, save my child ! wailed Mrs. Smith. ticularly. Might cause a slight disturb- “What you been doing to your baby?” ance. What else how much other stuff . — asked the doctor in his easy-going, un- was there to dilute the boracic?” alarmed, professionally offhand manner. “ Nine ounces of ten-per-cent milk, “ Message for Mrs. Smith,” announced one and one-half ounces each of milk- the boy, as though he were by far the sugar, and lime-water, twenty ounces of most important individual around. boiled water.” Smith rattled off the “ ” Thank God, he’s still alive ! shout- well-known formula automatically. ed Mr. Smith. The latter portion of the receipt had For, above the questions and an- to be delivered in a roar. They had nouncements, powerful enough to have entered the room where the small pa- drowned out all these sounds, the in- tient was making known his distaste with articulate shrieks of Baby Smith could things as they are. be heard. If Mr. Smith had not been Whether he was dangerously poisoned puffing so loudly, he would probably or not, he was highly uncomfortable. : I

304 THE ARGOSY.

His clothes had been removed, and re- extra powder I put in this morning. I placed with an assortment of pink and knew I had added something. I — blue blankets, from which a very red thought— I forgot the magnesia, and head and a very loud noise proceeded. thought it must be boracic acid.” “ Um-mm-mmph ! ” grunted the phy- Five minutes later, Baby Smith, his sician again, rather louder than the rather raw stomach wrapped in oil and former grunt. “ How many feedings of cotton, clothed, and in his right mind,! this mixture with boracic acid have you so far as he had any, was peacefully ” given? pulling at the rubber nipple of a warm, Smith looked at his wife. She looked white bottle. Mrs. Smith was gradually at him. coming around under treatment with an- “ I put the acid in this morning’s other bottle—of porter. preparation,” Smith explained. Mr. Smith had started to see the doc- “ Why,” exclaimed his wife, “ I tor to his automobile, and found the boy, haven’t given him any of that yet. He disgruntled over the interruption, just didn’t wake up till half past ten, and where the Indian ambush began to fire just as I got the bottle warmed to give upon the fugitive hero and heroine. The hint, your telegram came.” doctor’s chauffeur got the machine Mrs. Smith’s voice rose with the color cranked up as Smith finished signing for in her fair cheeks. the second of his telegrams. “ And you, Tom Smith, made me all “ Say, Mr. Smith,” the physician this trouble—made me take all the skin paused to utter, and his tone was very off his poor little stomach for nothing. grave and earnest, “ what became of — ” You wretch—you ” > that nurse I recommended to you ? “ A little sweet oil and cotton will “ Why,” explained Smith, “ there was fix that all right, Mrs. Smith,” broke in so little for her to do— I suppose my the doctor. “ I guess all I can do is to wife gave her a day off.” tell you to mix him some food and give “Well, look here! When she gets it to him. By the way, did you try that back, you give her my prescriptions for sugar of magnesia I told you to get yes- that baby’s food. And you let her make ” terday ? them, and take care of him—wash him, He had to wait for a reply. Smith’s dress him, feed him — and all the rest. jaw had dropped to an angle where Do that, or get another doctor to look speech was impossible. At last he came out for your family. Do you under- ” to sufficiently to stammer in a hoarse stand? whisper Smith said he understood. Then the “ Sugar of magnesia—sugar of mag- doctor told his chauffeur to proceed on nesia—why—why—why, that was the his way home. NOT FOR SALE.' By ELBERT D. WIGGIN,

Author ol " Nobody's Fool.”

The series of misadventures set on foot for one Austrian lieutenant

of hussars after he had fallen in with an American party of three.

CHAPTER XVIII. being, indeed, allowed within certain lim- its to do just about as he chose. WHERE THE CHASE ENDED. One of these privileges was the free- AXTON’S breezy personality and dom of the corridor, and he had occu- C democratic way had won him the pied a good part of the time during his favor of his keepers, and he was granted incarceration in walking up and down it a good many privileges about the prison, for exercise, or halting before one of the * Began February Abcost. Single eopiet, 10 cent*. ;

NOT FOR SALE. 305

cells to engage its inmate in welcome disdainful silence, was serenely awaiting conversation. his inevitable release. This last afternoon of his stay, how- Constantly on guard, he was never ever, he had little to say to any of his known to speak to the keepers or, indeed, fellow prisoners, being entirely engaged to any of his fellow prisoners, save in an in a consideration of the problem which occasional growling monosyllable; but he had set for himself with Muriel. no one could resist Caxton’s blithe face Up and down the restricted space he and engaging greeting, and, to the sur- paced accordingly, his eyes bent upon prise of the entire prison, Der Schnable the floor, his hands clasped meditatively had the day before returned a gruff “ ” behind his . back ; but the harder he Good morning to the American’s salu- thought, ano'the more he cudgeled his tation. brains, the farther away seemed 'any plan With this as an entering wedge, and which appealed to him as at all feasible. the exchange of cigarette papers and At last, out of his very desperation, a tobacco to facilitate friendly feelings, whimsical idea suggested itself. Why Caxton bravely assaulted the fellow’s im- not take counsel of one of these crimi- penetrable reserve and, before they part- nals by whom he was surrounded? Their ed, actually led him into quite a little lives were spent in the continual effort chat—mainly one-sided, it is true, but to evade detection and pursuit. Who, nevertheless responded to with a certain then, more likely to comprehend the hesitating amiability. wiles and feints to which Von Altdorff Only indifferent subjects had been would resort, and how best to circumvent touched upon then, of course, and them ? whether the man would discuss questions Was it not an old axiom, “'Set a rogue of a professional character was very to catch a rogue ”? problematic. Still, Caxton told himself The more he dwelt upon the notion that he could but try, and he was certain it that if the more sensible did appear ; so he Der Schnable would consent to finally decided to try it, and after men- open^up, a very mine of criminal strategy tally running over in his mind the vari- would be exposed to him. ous prisoners, to determine which one He had, too, one very strong point of most closely resembled Von Altdorff in vantage for he had learned in the ; pre- type, he selected as his mentor a hard- vious interview that the rascal was very ened ruffian, known to local fame as curious about America, having a more or Der Schnable, from the size of his nose. less well-defined idea of, emigrating Der Schnable was a churlish, scowling thither, in order, as he said, to escape the blackguard, who, according to the police, persecution of the police. stood ready to commit any crime for the Therefore, in accosting him again, sake of a few florins, and who, in fact, Caxton led the talk diplomatically to his had been charged at various times with native land, and dilated enthusiastically calendar but upon the success which about every offense in the ; might await an so wily had he proven himself in his evil- ambitious foreigner there, especially if doing, and so well did he recognize the backed up by so rich and influential a advisability of keeping a still tongue in personage as himself. “ his head, that often as he had been ar- I’ll have a line of immigration offi- rested he had never yet suffered a con- cers stretched out clear across New York viction. Bay to intercept him, if he ever ventures He was in jail now upon suspicion of to start,” he muttered under his breath complicity in a particularly flagrant high- “ but, Heaven forgive me, I’ve got to way robbery, which had taken place on pretend now that we would regard him one of the main avenues a few evenings as an original prize package.” “ before; but secure in the knowledge that Why, by Jove ! he exclaimed aloud, the authorities had no real proof against “ I wouldn’t be surprised, old man, to him, he had resisted all attempts to ex- see you on the New York police force tort a confession from him in the Aus- within a month or two after you land. trian equivalent for the “ third degree,” Wouldn’t that be a jolt to these folks and now, still wrapped in his mantle of over here that have been running you 8 A ”

306 THE ARGOSY. down, and continually giving you the scornful unconcern, and still maintained ” worst of it? his obstinate silence. “ ” “ Ah ! Dcr Schnable showed his A thousand florins if you will tell blackened fangs in a gratified smile. me where you took him,” offered Caxton. “ That would please me well, mein herr. No answer. A policeman, eh? A detective? Ah, “ Two thousand.” yes, I should make a fine success at that.” Still no answer. “ Do you believe so? Well, now, come “ Better tell for I if I ; swear that to think it over, I’ll bet you would. find any harm has come to him, I will And, by the way,” carelessly, “ I wonder spend fifty times that amount to send ” if you couldn’t help me out on a little you to the gallows ! problem in that line I’ve been puzzling Continued silence. over quite a good deal. “Two thousand florins, if you will “ ago, must un- only tell the About a month you , me name of the man who derstand, a friend of mine mysteriously hired you.” disappeared. The general public believe Der Schnable leisurely stretched him- that he left of his own free will—eloped, self out on his bunk and, closing his eyes, I that was assaulted pretended to sleep. in fact ; but know he by two men, and carried away a prisoner “Was it Captain von Altdorff?” to another part of the city.” A contemptuous snore was the only There was a quick, involuntary twitch audible response. of the listener’s shoulder, and his glance And this was the net result to all of recoiled for just the fraction of a second. Caxton’s further inquiries. In the end “ I am afraid I could make nothing of he had to desist, and return to his cell “ such a case,” he muttered. It is too with the conviction pretty strongly im- long ago, and— pressed upon his mind that Dcr Schnable “Oh, no; it is not,” rejoined Caxton was the finest performer in a purely in a low voice, bending sharply toward “ thinking part ” that he had ever seen. “ can tell me everything Yet it was maddening to know that him ; and you about the case, for you were one of the this fellow* could tell all, if only some two men who struck down Laszlo Cheg- way wr as discovered to win his confi- ” nay in the alley of the Burg Theater ! dence. There must be some method of It did not require a brick house to fall unloosing his tongue. upon the keen-witted young New Yorker, Yes, he must be made to divulge his in the way of driving home a point to knowledge. But how, how, how? his brain. A moment before he had not All that evening, and far into the held the slightest suspicion that the man night, Caxton pondered over the prob- in front of him had been concerned in lem, debating every possible means of now he knew it for a truth. persuasion, from the rack and thumb- the outrage ; That slight, involuntary twitching of screws to the offering of enormous the neck-muscles had told him the truth. bribes; but, finally, upon his perturbed Dcr Schnable, however, after that one pillow’, there fell a suggestion which telltale start, had immediately resumed seemed to him little short of an inspira-

his usual shell of surly taciturnity. tion ; and, w’ith a sigh of w’eary relief, ' ” “ I know nodings. Go away was he turned over and went to sleep. the only answer he would return to all Bright and early next morning, a of Caxton’s eager importunities. summons came for him to report at the captain’s office It was evident that he now regarded ; -and when he reached the latter merely as an agent of the po- there he found, to his satisfaction, that lice, and the friendly overtures which his long-awaited release had arrived at had been made toward him as merely a last. new form of lure wherewith to entrap “ May I ask one question upon leav- his wary feet. ing, Herr Captain?” he queried deferen- Nor could all the other’s persuasions tially. and arguments serve to swerve him from “ Certainly, mein herr. Speak on.” “ this conviction. To bribes, threats, en- How’ long, will you tell me, if it treaties, and promises alike he listened in does not conflict with your official regu- ” !

NOT FOR SALE. 307

lations, do you expect to hold the pris- And, at the same distance to the rear ?” oner known as Der Schnable as this latter man, but holding to paral- The captain frowned. lel streets, marched Tom Caxton, his “Just as long as we can, under the movements being directed at each corner charge of suspicion,” he retorted crossly. by the pseudo flower merchant, according “ We have no evidence against him, and to a prearranged code of signals. will have to discharge him eventually; Up and down through many streets but while we have him with us we are they passed, and into many different sure that he is out of mischief.” quarters of the town; for Der Schna- “ But,” interposed Caxton, “ suppose ble led them a long and devious chase. that evidence could be obtained against But, at last, as though satisfied that no him of complicity in a very serious of- possible danger threatened him, and that fense? Suppose, let us say, that he had he might proceed direct to his destina- committed a burglary, and was now tion, he settled into a brisker, less errant alarmed over some hints I had let drop, gait. showing that I had a suspicion of his Into the Pestalozzi Strasse he turned, guilt? If he were to be released this and continued along it for several blocks, morning, would it not be his first im- to cut at last into a short side street pulse to go to those with whom he had with but one exit. stored his booty, and make sure that it Caxton, arriving at the corner below, ” is still safe? saw the flower merchant beckoning ex- “ Ah, I see,” slowly. “ Then you citedly to him, and came forward upon want— a run. “ I want this man released this morn- Together they sped along the square; ing, and the moment that he leaves then halted sharply, at a gesture from yonder door, a couple of your most ex- the junkman ahead, and peeped cautious- pert spies placed upon his trail, with ly around the corner into Schwartzen- instructions not to lose sight of him for berg Platz. a single minute.” Der Schnable was just then ascending “ And you will personally press the the steps at the residence of General charge? It will be burglary, I think Chegnay ” you said? “ It will be almost anything you CHAPTER XIX. . choose to make it. Enough, at any rate, to ‘ keep him out of mischief ’ for several WITH CHISEL AND MALLET. years. And I will press it, all right. Have no fear of that. Oh, yes, I will “Well, I’ll be jiggered!” gasped ” press it ! Caxton, still hardly able to grasp the The captain leaned back in his chair, solution of the mystery, yet feeling, too, a slow gleam of satisfaction dawning that he should have grasped it long ago. in his eye at the thought of at last tri- Plain? It was as plain as a pike- umphing over the crafty Der Schnable. staff to him, now that the key to the “ Very well, mein herr,” he said riddle was thrust squarely under his crisply. “ It shall be as you say.” nose. Accordingly, half an hour or so The general, Spartan old father that thereafter, a strange procession wended he was, rather than have his son marry its way here and there throughout the contrary to his wishes, had simply hired streets of Vienna. two bravos, sent them to a spot where To the fore, slinking along as though he knew his son was sure to come, caused anxious to avoid attention, yet evidently him to be kidnaped, and was now keep- free from any suspicion that he was ing him locked up until he should agree followed, proceeded Der Schnable. to comply with the paternal wishes. Half a block behind came one of the This was the meaning of the old police spies, artistically disguised as a count’s agitation on the day of Caxton’s junkman; while still farther back loi- visit to him ; and also of his evasion and tered the other, in the role of a flower- hesitation until the American had prac- vender. tically forced him into a lie. f ;

308 THE ARGOSY.

This, too, was the meaning of that speaker’s voice which indicated that he signal would exactly as said interrupted and misunderstood do he ; and Caxton, which the old servant had tried to give having no desire to be pot-shotted in him at the door. The faithful fellow, any such fashion, not unnaturally hesi- devoted to Laszlo, no doubt, had at- tated. tempted to give him some intimation of While he was debating whether to the truth, and he had been too much stand his ground or retreat, however, he of a numskull to take it in. suddenly noticed that old Franz was Yes, that was what he had been from distorting his right eye in a peculiar

first to last, a numskull ! But he would manner, and, at the same time, nodding be one no longer. He would have Las- violently with his head toward the ad- zlo out of that house, and back into the jacent street corner. arms of his Muriel before one could say Taking these signs, therefore, as an Jack Robinson. invitation, to a rendezvous, and reflecting By this time Der Schnable had fin- that discretion is ever the better part ished short colloquy with old Franz of valor, he parleyed but, a no longer ; upon the doorstep, and had lurched off withdrawing from the inhospitable door- street so Caxton, dismissing his step with as dignity up the ; much as he could police allies, sauntered blithely up to master, took his stand around the corner the house, with the same question which to await developments. had been upon his lips when he was Nor did he find that he had been mis- there before. taken in his reading of the signals;. for. The gray-haired servitor gave a quick presently, almost before he had got well start of recognition upon seeing him settled down to his vigil, Franz came again, but almost immediately let fall trotting along with a market-basket upon over his features the deferentially ex- his arm. pressionless mask which is the mark of “ Are you really a friend to my young the butler the world over. master, sir? ” he questioned, peering into “ The Count Laszlo Chegnay is not Caxton’s face as though he would read at home, sir,” he replied, without a quiver his very soul. in his face. “ He has not been here for “ As good a one as he will ever have, time, and I do not know when he my man and prepared to be a friend some ; will return.” to you, too, if you will help me get him Caxton thrust forward a quick foot, out of that house. Come now, tell me and held open the door, which the other just where he is confined, and what is ” had started to close. the best way of getting to him? “ “ ” You mean,” and he mockingly mim- Oh, sir, don’t ask me that ! and icked the man’s precise tone, “ that the the old servant began to tremble vio- “ Count Laszlo is home, has been for some- lently. I can answer no questions. I time, and you can’t tell me when he will can tell you nothing. The old master depart. Well, I can tell you; he will compelled all of us to take a binding and be leaving here in just about three min- terrible oath that we would disclose none utes, or else the whole kit and caboodle of the affairs of the family to any out- of you will be bundled off to the station- sider.” house. Now, are you going to stand out Caxton began to lose patience. ” of the way and let me go to my friend? “ All right, then. So much the worse At that moment, however, there came for him, and you, too. The only thing a harsh, imperative hail from over the left for me is to call in the help of the banisters. police.” “ “ Franz,” it called, is that the im- Old Franz drew himself up with a pudent Yankee who called here the other touch of arrogance. “ “ day and annoyed us so? If it is, tell You talk nonsense,” he said. The him if he does not immediately cease his police would not dare to invade the resi- stupid threats and go away from my dence of General Chegnay. A civil writ house, I shall open fire on him from might possibly get you in some time the upper windows with my pistols.” but that would doubtless take several There was a ring of resolution in the weeks.” ; ’;

NOT FOR SALE. 309

his recent the even with From own experience, two of them to help ; and the American had no doubt that it would work was rendered the . more onerous by and he saw, too, that the butler was necessity for keeping down any undue speaking from an intimate familiarity amount of noise. with local customs, when he so con- Indeed, Caxton’s blistered palms temptuously denied any fear at the threat would more than once have tempted him of calling in the police. to stop, had there not come an occasional “ What am I to do, then? ” demanded tap-tap from the other side of the parti- Caxton, almost desperately. tion to show him that his efforts were A shrewd gleam came into the other’s being eagerly watched in that direction. eye. The afternoon waned ; the daylight “ I thought the American gentleman faded, and night came on ; but still the might perhaps be looking for lodgings,” two strange companions worked steadily,

r he said significantly. energetically ' aw ay. Caxton asked many “ Lodgings?” questions; but to them all the old man “ Yes, there are some excellent ones returned the invariable shuddering re- immediately next door do us. If I might ply, that he had “ taken an oath ” and ; venture a suggestion, I would recommend the American’s curiosity remained un- the back room on the third floor,” satisfied. “ Ah, I begin to see. The windows What would meet them on the other in that room; are they adjacent to the side of that wall, Caxton kept wonder- windows in your house, or is there any ing? Was it only Chegnay that they had passage between them up over the set out to rescue, or was the woman roofs?” known as Jay Van Brunt there, also? , “ Alas, mein herr; our windows are Then, too, was Chegnay in good very tightly barred and shuttered, and health, able to leave without assistance when the time should or* there is no passage of any kind between come ; had he the two houses.” been injured at the time of his abduc- “ Then why the dickens should I tion, and now in shape requiring a vehicle want to take this room you speak of? or ambulance? But, to all these queries, You don’t expect me to break down the old Franz returned never a word. ” wall, do you? At times, too, Caxton questioned in “ If the American gentleman should his own heart whether he might not care to amuse himself in that way,” re- simply be walking into a trap cunningly joined Franz discreetly, “ I have an ex- baited for him by the general and Franz; cellent cold chisel and mallet, which I and, although he was not afraid of any I bodily injury, wavered little would be pleased to lend him ; and he a at the shall also be most happy to assist him thought of what Austrian law might do in the work.” to him for so bold an invasion into the “Well, I’ll be jiggered!” again ejac- premises of one of the aristocrats. ulated Caxton; and then he began to But, at last, the partition was all down “ laugh. That must certainly have been to a mere intervening shell ; and, with a a peach of an oath that the old gentleman sudden impulse, the American threw his made you swear, friend; but it all goes weight quickly against it, and brought to show the truth of the old saying, that the whole thing down with a crash which there’s more than one way of killing a echoed through both houses like a crack • cat. On the whole, I guess your scheme of doom. so, For a moment his vision obscured is as good as any I can frame up ; was if you will bring along the ‘ excellent by the clouds of dust and mortar; and cold chisel and mallet/ I’ll rent the then he recognized, with a thrill of re- room, and rve can proceed to our di- lief, that he had not wrought in vain versions.” for through the aperture, with out- He spoke less lightly of the task, stretched hand, stepped Laszlo. “ though, before the day was done; for it We must hurry, though,” the Aus- “ proved to be 'a long and tiresome job, trian exclaimed. My father is already that of making a breach in the solid thundering at my door, and he will brem: masonry of those old-fashioned walls, in by another minute. Ach, him m el s’ ; ;

310 THE ARGOSY.

“ interrupting himself sharply. And I tached captain, and of the almost insane ” almost forgot something ! fury into which the latter had been As he spoke, he dived hurriedly back goaded by the knowledge that Muriel through the hole and when he reap- had been won by another; ; so that now peared again, he was clasping a bulky there was but one thought in both their manuscript to his breast. minds. “ It is my opera,” he exclaimed simply. The man, crazed by his hopeless yearn- “ I have had plenty of time to finish ing, was attempting to secure by craft it, all alone here with my thoughts, and and force the prize which had been de- I ended it to-day. It would have been nied to his suing.

an irreparable loss if 1 had left that be- He had lured the girl away, upon

hind but I ready now. Come, let some pretext or another ; am —madmen are ” us go ! always most plausible in their explana- It was, indeed, time that they should tions—and now, having her in his power, fly; for to the general’s crashing blows was planning to carry her off, and force against the door, and vociferous threats, her into marrying him. was now added a clamor for the police In America, such a supposition, upon from the other dwelling. the grounds they had, would have seemed

Caxton threw open the door to his exaggerated and absurd ; but here in the room, and disclosed his landlady and a passionate south, where men’s minds group of women in the hall outside, all were still attuned to the measure of feu- shrieking at the” top of their voices. dal tim.es, and where they themselves He made no attempt to explain mat- had just been concerned in abductions, but, thrusting a roll mysteries, rescues of six- ters to her ; simply and quite the of bills into her hand, seized Chegnay teenth century pattern, it seemed the most by the arm and hurried him down the natural conclusion in the world. stairs. Stricken speechless, therefore, at the Out of the house they dashed, then, news, and at the dire possibilities in- through the crowd gathering outside volved, they stood staring at each other, and, just as a couple of gens d’armes aghast, for the space of half a dozen started for them, they leaped into a pass- breaths. Then, seized by a common im- ing cab and were whirled away. pulse, they turned together, and hastened Of course, there was but /one destina- wildly down the street. tion for either of them; and equally of Up and down they gazed ea’gerly course, their tongues ran like mad, in but nowhere in sight could they descry questions and explanations, all the way any sign of either the captain or his com- to the hotel. But a sudden silence fell panion. Then, while they stood at a on both when they arrived at the mil- loss, uncertain what next to do, a high- lionaire’s apartments and found father pitched. foppish voice broke on then- and daughter both away. ears; and Horowitz, who had been loun- “ Do you know where Miss Muriel ging in front of the hotel, advanced has gone?” questioned Caxton of the airily with outstretched hand toward maid who had m'et them. Laszlo. “ “ Oh, yes, sir. Captain Von Altdorff Why, my dear Chegnay,” he ex- called for her, in great excitement, about claimed loftily, taking no notice what- ” “ ten minutes ago, and she left with him ! ever of Caxton. When did you return ? Ah, but you took us all by surprise, you clever dog. And now you are a staid old CHAPTER XX. benedict, of course. Back from the de-. lights of the honeymoon SOLFERINO BREAKS ANOTHER RECORD. to get papa’s blessing, and all that sort of thing, eh?”

Von Altdorff ! But Laszlo* hoarsely cut in upon his For a moment the two men stood ga- bantering. zing at each other in consternation. “ Have you seen anything of Von Caxton had told Laszlo, in the cab Altdorff?” he demanded, gripping the coming along, of the painful scene be- other by the shoulder with an intensity tween Van ‘Brunt and the gray mus- which caused the little man to wince. ” ” ” ,

NOT FOR SALE. 311

“ Von Altdorff ? Why, certainly. He the last girth was hardly buckled before left here only a few moments ago with he had vaulted into his seat and given ” the charming Miss Bonner. They got an ardent “ Voj'waerts! to his willing into a carriage which was waiting, and steed. drove away like the very dickens. 1 Then, rat-a-tat-tat, rat-a-tat-tiat (fame was just wondering what it all meant, the clang of iron-shod hoofs upon the and why— pavement, and the two were off along “ Drove off?” snapped Caxton. “ In the wide avenues, and under the glare of what direction?” the electric lamps, in a surging gallop. Horowitz ‘fixed his eye-glasses, and re- Caxton was something of a horseman warded the interruption with a cold and himself, having spent a good part of his stare. youth upon a Western but haughty ranch ; he “ I have not the honor of your ac- was free to confess that he had never quaintance, Yankee,” he started to say seen such an exhibition of riding as was insultingly hut, seeing a dangerous given by his companion that night. ; gleam come into the American’s eyes, Chegnay and the splendid animal he he skipped nimbly to the other side of bestrode seemed to be one creature, the Chegnay, and addressed his remark to horse sensing as though by instinct the him. wishes of his master in regard to speed “ As I was telling you, my dear Las- and direction, and requiring hardly a zlo,” he observed hastily, “ Von Altdorff word or the slightest pressure upon the and Miss Bonner drove away together in bridle-rein. carriage and where do you think they Eyes straight ahead, his clear-cut, a ; went? To the Arsenal, of all places in handsome profile gleaming like marble the world. And at this time of night, in the white glow of the arc-lamps, pos- too. What do you suppose it can pos- sessed of but one purpose, to overtake sibly mean?” and win at any hazard, the lover rode “To the Arsenal?” incredulously. like a veritable unleashed demon, whirl-

“ Yes, sir. I don’t wonder that you ing heedlessly around corners, dashing are surprised. But it is nevertheless the in and out between trolley-cars, cabs, and

truth. I distinctly -heard him give the automobiles at unchecked speed, risking

order to the kutscher. ‘ To the Arsenal,’ life and limb a dozen times at the chance he said, and— of a slip upon the asphalt or a stumble But already the other two had ceased across the car-tracks. to pay any attention to him. At almost every corner policemen held “ Shall we take a carriage or motor- up excited batons, and a constant mutter car ? ” the American was questioning of curses from drivers and chauffeurs sharply. “ A motor, I guess, by all followed in. their wake; but Chegnay ” means? never slackened pace nor drew rein at

“No,” swiftly decided Laszlo ; “horses. 'any of the interruptions. We do not know ,where the trail may His one cry to Solferino was Vor- lead, and a motor might get stalled. We ivacrts !—the one passion of his soul, can get good mounts at the stable just Vorwaerts! Ever and always, Vor- indeed, horse, waerts back of the hotel ; my own Solferino, is there.” And the gallant chestnut responded The colloquy had taken scarcely half well to his demand. Head grandly up, a second, and almost before the last word eye flashing, all his muscles of whipcord was out the two had turned and were and steel in magnificent play, Solferino making for the stable on a run, leaving swept onward like a meteor—twisting, poor Horowitz, his curiosity piqued and turning, evading obstacles sometimes by unsatisfied, to turn over a dozen new scarcely more than a hairsbreadth, yet queries in his buzzing brain, and annoy easily, gracefully, without a misstep, and almost every one who came by with his never for one moment losing his splendid agitated demands for an explanation. stride. Meanwhile, the horses were being led Caxton followed as best he could upon out and saddled, although all too slowly his inferior mount. A dozen times his impatience for Chegnay’s ; and, indeed, heart was in his throat, when his com-

/ ! ; ! !

312 THE ARGOSY.

would essay some especial hazard passionate cry of remonstrance panion ; A burst but he was ashamed not to venture where from Laszlo’s lips, as though it had been the other so daringly led, and by pure torn from his very heart. The hand miracle, so it seemed to him, he escaped which held the whip he never used upon unscathed. Solferino rose in a quick gesture, and Now, however, they had passed beyond came down in a sharp, stinging cut across the fortifications, the limits of the old the mettlesome creature’s flank. town, and were on freer, less encumbered Resenting the unaccustomed punish- streets, where the risks were less constant ment, the horse sprang forward like an and the going easier than on the slippery arrow shot from a bow. asphalt. Down the little declivity he fairly- Caxton ranged up beside his comrade bolted, his head swinging wide at every and, by the active use of spur and whip, leap—a blind, plunging whirlwind of managed to keep his sweating beast wrath and protest and speed. upon more even terms with Solferino, It was useless for Caxton to attempt who, for all his charging rush, had not to follow. He could but sit his horse at yet turned a hair. It was hard work, the top of the hill, and gaze in stupefied though, at the best his mount could do wonder at the swift unfolding of events. for ever at more and more frequent in- What Chegnay intended to do he could tervals Laszlo would give his sharp, im- not divine indeed, it is doubtful if the ” ; patient cry of Vorwaerts ! and the chest- Austrian had any distinct idea himself. nut would answer with a new and more His lover’s heart simply realized that its surprising burst of speed. idol was being carried away from him, At last, however, the end—at least, and he acted upon the impulse of one the end of their first stage—was in sight. who feels that he must do something. Up a little ascent they tore, and down in Something, no matter how hopeless the the hollow beneath them they could see outcome the dark mass of buildings which form The air-ship, Caxton saw, had not yet the square of the Arsenal. answered to its power, but, carried by Usually, at night the place was gloomy the wind, drifted low over the squat this evening, to their buildings of the Arsenal, and deserted ; but and out toward surprise, it presented a scene of the great- the road, .its drag-rope trailing behind it est activity. The wide yard, with its like a serpent held in the talons of some row of sheds for the housing of Von gigantic bird of prey. Altdorff’s ballrooms, was all alight with Out over the road the vessel drifted, the glow of arc-lamps, and a crowd of then started to lift, just as Chegnay and workmen could be seen in the center Solferino whirled toward it, with a clat- about the huge gas-bag of the largest ter of charging hoofs. one, which, fully inflated, swayed un- Like a flash, Laszlo saw his opportu- steadily and tugged hard at its moorings. nity. Every instant the balloon was Chegnay mounting the And then, as Caxton and higher ; end of the drag- stared with uncomprehending eyes, they rope now dangled above the height of saw the crowd scatter back, and in the a man’s head. " broad illumination beheld Von AltdorfE “ Springe! and Muriel advance and take their places The lieutenant's hands, gathering up in the basket. the reins, gripped down like a vise on A murmur of voices was borne to their either side of his horse’s neck. Solferino, ears, the bark of a sharp, authoritative almost running away, \jet knew the fa- scattered still far- miliar signal too well to disobey. order ; then the men ther back, and the restraining ropes were He caught himself at the very begin- let go. ning of another leap and, bunching his Up into the air shot the big, cigar- mighty muscles, shot upward. shaped bag, with its dangling cordage Up, as he had done before*the assem- and human freight. The staccato cough bled thousands upon that never-to-be- of its motor hummed out upon the air, forgotten Field Day. Up, like the un- the propeller began slowly to revolve. coiling of a watch-spring. Up, and still Thev were off up, in one magnificent spectacular effort !

NOT FOR SALE. 313

And, at the very summit of it, Laszlo new energy coursing through him, and kicked his feet free of the stirrups, let he fastened upon that cord with a clutch go his clenching hold upon the bridle of desperation. and, with outstretched hands, seized and But this, he knew, could not last long. clung to the dangling drag-rope, which Presently his muscles would give way switched just within his reach. under the strain, his hold would become The chestnut, unexpectedly relieved of weakened, and then would come the end, his burden, came down to earth with an with that awful plunge downward. His awkward thud, stumbling and slipping, brain reeled before the horror of his im- but regained his footing and, with un- pending fate. checked speed, galloped away into the No, he determined fiercely, he would darkness. not sell his life so cheaply. There is Caxton, however, from his position always a way out of every pass, if one

upon the hillside had no eyes for him. has but the capability to see it, and the All his faculties were centered upon the resolution to act. slender, athletic figure of his friend Nerving himself to the experiment, clinging, cat-like, to that swaying rope. he again cautiously dropped his glance For a second the balloon seemed about earthward. No help there. They were to settle under the added weight. It evidently several hundred feet above listed unsteadily, curveted, and sank a terra firma, and mounting higher every dozen feet. Then, catching the full moment. • effect of its power, together with a slight Hastily he raised his glance again, rising of the wind, it righted and shot and took a deep breath, gripping the upward toward the stars rope now until the veins stood out in lumps upon his hands. That downward look, prepared for it though he had been, CHAPTER XXI. had nearly proved his undoing, and he saw he must attempt it no more. T'WI.Vr EARTH AND SKY. What was there to do, then? Could Ah, it is well sometimes to be a trained he clamber up the rope and reach the athlete, with sinews hardened to endur- car swinging lightly above him? Hith- ance, and a brain accustomed to the erto lie had hung supine, in order to quick calculation of chances in an emer- relieve as much as possible the pull upon gency. his arms. I.aszlo had entertained no other idea Did he have the strength, in his un- when he seized the drag-rope but that strung condition, to climb that length his weight would bring the balloon to of twisting rope, and support himself earth, and that he could hold it there by like a fly upon the under side of the car sheer strength until he had secured an until he could work up over the edge? from Von Altdorff and res- It seemed impossible but accounting ; —and Cheg- cued Muriel. • nay gritted his teeth— it had to be done. Now, however, as he felt himself lift- Even in that moment of shuddering ed like a feather by the expanding pres- fear, however, I.aszlo took time to think sure of the gas and, glancing down, saw upon the possible danger of his under- the earth dropping away from him as taking to the woman he loved. Would though it were tumbling into space, he his attempt be apt to tilt the car in gave himself up for lost. which she sat, and possibly precipitate He turned sick and giddy with that her out into space? one downward look, and not daring to He noted the arrangement of the cords cast his eyes in that direction again, by which it was held, and decided that closed them, hanging meanwhile, weak that chance might be safely risked. and nerveless, to the slowly gyrating All these reflections and inward de- batings take time rope. in the telling ; but, as His very terror, though, was, in a way, a matter of fact—although it seemed

for feeling his flaccid centuries long to Laszlo it a stimulus to him ; — was not grip relax upon the strands, and his more than forty seconds or a minute at fingers slowly slipping, his peril sent the outside from the moment that he had 314 THE ARGOSY.

first clutched the drag-rope until he was of Solferino’s down into the valley, and swarming up it hand over hand. he had simply ascribed the jerk of the Exercise of this sort had been one of car, when Laszlo caught hold, to the his favorite “stunts” at gymnasium prac- snarling of the drag-rope against some tise. but he found it a very different obstruction. thing to negotiate a rope whirling as a It was only, indeed, when the car tail to a flying balloon from ascending began to bob about under the stress of the same length upon one firmly attached, the other’s energetic climbing, that he and with a net underneath in case of realized at last there was a stowaway accident. upon the voyage. Then he at once start- Nevertheless, under the circumstances, ed to render every assistance in his he made what must be considered excel- power.

' lent progress, and was beginning to flat- And Chegnay, in truth, was now in ter himself on his advance, when sud- sore need. denly he sustained another shock which His strength was rapidly failing. He again nearly sent him tumbling, and so could no longer advance an inch his ; once more left him shaking and inert. arms felt as though they were being torn As he was hauling himself up with out by the roots; his hands were cramp- careful skill, every faculty intent upon ing so that he must soon let go. his feat, a voice spoke to him from above. An awful horror of that empty void his to- He opened eyes and glanced below surged over him ; a black haze ward the car, but, on account of the seemed to rise before his eyes and muffle darkness, could make out no one leaning him in its folds. For a moment he over. Nor, although the voice continued thought he was really falling. Then his to speak, he could not distinguish, such vision cleared, and a harbinger of hope was the pounding of the blood in his twinkled encouragingly to his glance. It , ears, a single word which was said. was a tiny lantern slung over the side, He supposed, however, that it must be in order to give him dight for his ad- an admonition from Von Altdorff, and venture. wondered, with a new apprehension, if He saw, too, that a strand of rope,

it might perhaps be a threat from his with a plummet. on the end, was being

enemy. swung toward him pendulum-wise ; and All along he had recognized that he although it required all his resolution to must have assistance from those in the make the attempt, he finally summoned car in order to accomplish his project; up bravery enough to let go for a mo- but now it struck him, with 'dire signifi- ment with one hand and grab the line as cance, that the air-ship’s pilot -was his it swished by. sworn foe, a madman crazed with jeal- To his delight, it proved to be a slip- ousy of him. noose, and when he had succeeded in Still, even' a fiend would hardly re- adjusting this under his shoulders, and fuse the hand of succor to a fellow- felt a firm pull of support on it from in the nothingness l>eing in such a predicament ; and, any above, beneath seemed event, he could be no worse off than he suddenly to lose half its terror for him. was at present. He must simply hope His strength came back with a bound. for the best, and go ahead. He felt fresh and alert again; in fact, Therefore, he resumed his arduous the moral support of that cord far ex- climb. ceeded all the physical advantages he Now, as a matter of fact, Von. Alt- gained from it. dorff had just discovered the presence of Still, even with all the assistance that the other on the rope at the moment he could be rendered him, his was still far spoke, and his utterance had been an from being any holiday job, and when he excited adjuration to hold on at any finally drew himself up to the rim of the cost. basket, it is doubtful if there was another He had not the slightest idea who ounce of exertion left in his entire frame. Chegnay was, for, absorbed in the tick- Von Altdorff, putting Muriel at the lish business of starting off, neither he other side to balance the weight as much nor Muriel had observed that wild dash as possible, reached out and, grasping ”

NOT FOR SALE. 315 him under the arms, dragged him into But again she laid her hand upon his safety. mouth. Then he lifted his lantern to the sweat- “ I have the letter in her own hand- ing, haggard face of the man he had writing,” she said. rescued, to see whom it might be, but Then she drew him a little to one side. there was a startled gasp behind him “ It is a long story you have to hear, from Muriel, and, with a glad cry of dear,” she continued, a touch of gentle “ ” “ Laszlo ! Laszlo ! he saw her gather reproof in her tone. Full of .miscon- the stranger in her arms. ceptions and misunderstandings—yes, and follies, it will of perhaps ; but do no good to your comprehension of it con- CHAPTER XXII. stantly to interrupt, or to scout at the truth of everything in it which may IN FRIENDLY CLASP. sound strange to you. So, you must “Chegnay?” incredulously demand- listen quietly until the end, and then you ed the captain of the air-ship. can either believe or disbelieve, as you Laszlo, faint and exhausted though he see fit. But, if I know you rightly, you was, straightened up and threw one arm will decide at its conclusion that a sin- protectingly about Muriel’s shoulder. cere apology is due from you to Captain “Yes; Chegnay,” he panted. “Here, von Altdorff.” at any cost, to demand where you are Accordingly, his hand tucked in hers, ” taking my affianced wife ! he kept silence while she unfolded to He looked so fierce, so ready to him a revelation of all that had taken spring upon the other in a savage out- place. burst, that Muriel hurriedly thrust her- She told him first of the interchange self between them. 'of identities between herself and her “ But, Laszlo, Laszlo,” she protested cousin and of the reasons which had eagerly, “ you are making^ a great mis- brought it about; and although he had take. I am going with Captain von heard it all from Caxton before, lie Altdorff of my own free— will. There would not mar the sweetness of her con- are excellent reasons for fession by letting her know for a moment “ “No doubt,” sneeringly. But I do that it was a twice-told tale. 1 not think those excellent reasons ’ of Then, when suitable absolution and his will satisfy me. He will have to forgiveness had been granted under cover explain more fully why he has tried to of the darkness, she took up the story of put this shame upon an honorable “ Joy’s ” love-affair, and showed him woman, and the one, too, to whom I am plainly that there had never been any betrothed.” real question of rivalry between himself “ Hush, Laszlo,” and she placed an and Von Altdorff. imperatively silencing hand against his “ He has loved her from the begin- lips. “ We have all cruelly misjudged ning,” said Muriel, “ just as you have Altdorif, and you are still loved me and Captain von ; when he believed, from doing so. He has intended no injury papa’s blundering answer, that he had to me, and he is in great trouble. He lost her, he was roused to a pitch of is taking me to the death-bed of the jealous frenzy, just as you would have woman he loves as much as you do me. been if you thought you had lost me. “ “ Yes, it is the girl you knew as Joy She came to the Arsenal that- very Van Brunt, but who is really Muriel morning and, unfortunately, saw fit to Bonner, the actress. He has loved her, coquette with him. A balloon was short- and only her all the time; and now she ly to be sent up. Roused almost to the is lying alarmingly ill, with but faint point of distraction, maddened by her hope for her recovery. She sent for me seeming rebuffs, he induced her to enter

I to come to her, and that is why have the basket ; then took her aloft with him. accompanied him upon this trip.” and carried her away. None but a few “ And you believe such a trumped-up of his workmen were about, and he could story? ” broke in her lover, frankly skep- trust them to keep silence. “ tical. “ Why—” He took her to an estate of his, a 316 THE ARGOSY.

| lonely place in the mountains, near leave her, he did so. In it she asked me in to her, if possible but, Gmunden, and left her there the to come ; whether charge of his housekeeper. She pretend- I did so or not, to see that he was fully ed to he incensed with him for carrying absolved from all blame in connection her off that she would not listen to his with her disappearance or death. left, telling her “ I, of course, to protestations ; and he agreed comply with that he would, return to Vienna, get a her request, and merely stopping to leave priest, and marry her by fprce. That a hasty note for papa, hurried back with was the very thing she wanted him to do, Captain von Altdorff to the Arsenal. fact for she did not dare The rest you know.” as a matter of ; risk confessing to him who she really The conversation between Laszlo and was, and she had been trying by her Muriel had been carried on almost in assumed coldness to spur him to this very whispers at one side of the car but now ; point. as she finished, and Chegnay glanced “ But richly have they both had to somewhat curiously at the figure of their pay for their follies,” Muriel continued, pilot, the thought struck him that they with a sad shake of her head. “ His might have screamed at the top of their

air-ship, the only one he had capable of voices, for all the difference it would making a distance as far as Gmunden, have made to him. broke down upon the return journey; Entirely oblivious of them, he was and since his estate is in a wild spot, leaning forward over the front of the inaccessible to either telegraph or tele- car, now adjusting a lever, now tighten- phone, he was unable to send any word. ing a belt, his one thought to get the “ Then she, believing that he had de- most speed out of his delicate and com- serted her, fell into violent hysterics, last- plicated machinery, his eyes only turn- ing a day and night, and when he did ing from the steady beat of his engines finally get back he found her raving in to gaze with strained yearning toward the delirium of brain-fever. Gmunden. “ Since that time his condition has It was daylight when at last they ar- been a pitiable one. He knew that he rived, the peaks all about them tinging was shadowed by our detectives, and has with the rosy light of dawn. lived constantly in fear of being arrested To the south towered the lofty Dach- for the crime of her abduction. He has stein, with its little glacier and cap of not dared to go to Gmunden. News virgin snow, and nearer at hand, toward from there has reached him but slowly; the left, loomed up the rugged mass of and between fearing for her, and fearing the Traunstein, while the foreground was the consequences of his mad act, his life filled up with the pine-covered Salzburg has-been one continual inferno. Alps, through a ridge in which rushed “ Last night he could stand it no the Traun, foaming in cascade after cas- but risked everything cade-down to meet the y longer, however, Danube. and took the trip and, to his joy at first, Upon one of the wildest, most deso- he found her conscious. Conscious, and late summits the air-ship settled slowly, in a more chastened, sweeter humor than and Von Altdorff, only his haggard eyes he had ever known. showing the anxiety which was gnawing “ She still refused, though, to receive at his heart, assisted his passengers to his vows of love until she had complete- alight, and led them hurriedly over a ly unbosomed herself of all the story of rocky path through the pine forest back her deceptions. And, when he had as- to the house, a mere shooting-box erected sured her that none of it made any differ- many years before. ence to his affection, she .fell then to On tiptoe, scarcely knowing what to weeping and, confessing that she too expect, for the housekeeper was with the loved hint, yet told him that it could invalid, and nobody else about, they fol- never be, since the doctor had shortly lowed him to the sick-chamber, and just before informed her that she would prob- as they entered saw the sun break through ably not get well. the eastern window in a flood of golden “ She urged him, also, to carry a letter glory. to me, and although it tore his heart to It shone full upon the pallid face ;

NOT FOR SALE. 317

of the sick woman, sending a thousand royalty had deigned to honor ; for it was glints into her waving hair, and giving rumored that despite the fact it was a a delicate, spiritual beauty to her face new production, it would mark the fare- which she had hitherto lacked. well to the stage of Muriel Bonner, the The old dame in attendance rose quick- great Vienna favorite, she having con- ly to draw the shade; but Joy already sented to appear for this one night only.

had opened her eyes, and was gazing with And what a success it was ! And what rapturous, half-incredulous glance at a surprise came on top of it, when it was Von Altdorff. learned that Muriel Bonner was in reality “ ” “ Oh, Felix, Felix ! she cried, I the daughter of Cyrus Van Brunt, the have been waiting and longing for you millionaire, while the real owner of the so, to tell you the good news. Love is name was the dashing young lady who a wonderful medicine, my own, and the a few weeks before had married Captain doctor now tells me that I shall get von Altdorff. well.” But all that is ancient history. Every- Muriel touched Laszlo upon the hand body knows the story of the first produc- and, making a sign to the old woman, tion of “ For the Red Ribbon,” and of the three of them withdrew, leaving the the romance which crowned the life of ecstatic pair alone. its gifted young composer. A little later the captain came out to Only one person dissented from the them, and one would never have known general verdict of praise for the piece at that he had passed a night of sleepless- that first production, and of hearty good ness and anguish. He looked as though wishes for the young couple with whom twenty years had dropped from his shoul- it was associated. - ders, and he greeted them with a laugh That was Max Horowitz, and he was like a boy’s. so resentful of the fact that he had been “ My congratulations to you, dear old cheated of spreading this sensation' that Felix,” cried Chegnay, extending his he was like a viper swelled out with hand. venom. “And mine to you,” returned Von Alt- “ Yes,” he said superciliously in the “ dorff, grasping it with hearty pressure. foyer, the critics seem to be applauding So the feud between them was made up. a little; but, as for me, I’m free to con- fess that I never sat through such a bore- some thing in all my life. Then the CHAPTER XXIII. Yankee actress is so rotten. It’s plain to be seen that those stories of her having caxton’s secret. been drilled like an automaton for ‘ Mile. There is a lilting waltz air which has Modiste ’ are all true. It’s certainly been played, sung, hummed, and whis- lucky for her that she’s an heiress, and tled by thousands of people, but which doesn’t have to stay on the stage, and still retains its popularity through a still luckier for Chegnay. He’ll never

quality it possesses of a peculiarly quaint make his salt writing operas.” and delicate beauty. “Is that so?” cut in Caxton, who Ask any street-boy for its name, and happened to have overheard this last “ he will tell you it is the waltz-motif from remark. Well, I just heard one of the “ ” it also re- critics For the Red Ribbon ; yet greatest in the world say that he mains a marked favorite with connois- would rather have Chegnay’s talent than seurs and musicians of ability. Even all of his father-in-law’s copper mines the table d’hote orchestras cannot utterly and as for Muriel, there is not now nor

spoil it. ever was a woman who could touch her

It has been played in almost every on the stage, or off of it, either.” theater in this country and Europe; but “ Oh, it’s not hard to understand your the first time it was even rendered was approval of her,” sneered Horowitz. in the Burg Theater, at Vienna, with “ You are in love with her yourself, and the composer in the conductor’s chair, always have been.” “ ” “ and his wife taking the stellar role. Gee ! reflected the American. Am It was a great occasion, which even I beginning to show it so bad that even !

318 THE ARGOSY. a little cad like this can notice it? If half-way across the world, and spend six so, it is certainly lucky I am leaving for months in jail, just for the pleasure of Columbia’s shores to-morrow. What’s dusting your pants once more. the use, Caxton? She would never have “And, oh, Horowitz,” he added gloat- had you, and that ends the matter.” ingly, “ what a spanking that will be ” Aloud, however, his remarks were of What a spanking that will be ! a different tenor. But the gossip had shrunk back terri- “ Look here, shrimp,” he said, tower- fied before the flashing eye and sternly ing threateningly over the hussar, “ if set face bent toward him. “ you ever dare to breathe, utter, say, or 1 never will say it, mein Jierr,” he even think such a thing again I’ll come shrieked. “ I never will even think it.” THE END.

Why Galway Lost His Temper. By ROBERT RUSSELL.

certainly _ This man appeared to have some

justification for getting mad, but yet —

ALWAY was a very nice fellow, “ It is directly— in the rear,” returned G and his friends always forgave the dignitary “ up a flight of stairs.” the rare outbursts of temper, which were Back went Galway. the only evident faults to which he was Reaching the very back part of the obliged to plead guilty. It was on one establishment, he spied a small stair- of the hottest days of a hot August that case, and started to ascend it. It was he gave way to this temper under par- a long flight, and he wondered that an ticularly exasperating circumstances. establishment which catered to such a It was to be a momentous day for fashionable clientele would put its pa- as he entered the large jew- trons him ; and to such trouble over a matter of elry store, for the purpose of having his repairs. pocketbook repaired, he was full of an- At length he reached the top, and ticipation for the evening. was confronted by a row of forbidding The establishment had manufactured doors, and again the sign “ Repairs ” the valuable case, and was one well was missing. Desiring to be sure ' that known throughout the country, boasting the department was not here, and anx- a maze of departments. It was not to ious that the slight indignation, which be wondered at, therefore, that Galway now began to manifest itself, should not did not seek to ascertain the location of be unjustified, Galway spoke to a young the repair counter himself, but accosted man who passed him at that moment. a floor-walker for the information. “ I am looking for the repair depart- “ At the rear of the store,” responded ment,” he said ratter irritably. “ Is it ” that dignified official. on this floor ? To the rear, therefore, went the young “No, sir,” replied the other; “it is man. Looking about him in this local- on the floor below, reached by a short ity, Galway read all sorts of signs, none stairway—only a few steps up.” “ of which included the word Repairs.” “ Ah,” soliloquized Galway, “ it’s a Being a resolute person, and not to be wonder that they could not be more ex- side-tracked or inclined to shift respon- plicit.” sibility, he returned to the front of the As he descended the long stairway his store and again addressed the man whom impatience gradually rose, so that by the he had previously interviewed. time he gained the ground floor again “ What part of the rear contains the his vexation, combined with the heat of repair department ? ” he asked without the day, made him feel a decidedly the slightest trace of impatience. abused person. ” ” —;

WHY GALWAY LOST HIS TEMPER. 319

He was very careful, now, to examine of an establishment like this dividing up the full length of the rear of the store, its departments in that way. Here, and at last discovered a short flight of you,” he called to a young man passing stairs, at the top of which appeared a at that moment, “ you look as though counter that looked as if it might lend you had some authority in this place. itself to repairing. Tell me the name of the clothes-model Galway presented himself at this who stands at the front of the store, counter in due course. His voice was and tell me this man’s name who refuses low as he spoke. to repair my card-case, and tell me who “Is this the repair department?” he is the proper person to whom a com- inquired. plaint— should be made of carelessness “Yes, sir. What can I do for you?” and “ I am glad,” commented Galway, Of course, Galway carried the thing “ that, after several trips up and down too far. But remember his temper your store, and after mounting innumer- and the heat. able stairs, I have at last found the The passing young man, whom Gal- place I want. It does seem strange that way had grasped by the arm, forcefully in an establishment like this a man can- removed the hand, and looked at the not be properly directed in the first customer from head to foot. place, I— “If you will be calm a moment,” he “ “ I am very sorry, sir, that you have said slowly, I will be glad to answer been put to any inconvenience, and if any questions you may ask.” you will make a complaint at the man- But the fact that the other had ac- ager’s- office, the firm will be under tually taken hold of him made Galway obligation to you. Who directed you more incensed than ever. wrongly? ” “ And you might include your own “ A greatly overdressed man, who name, also, young man,” he exploded. stands at the front of -the store, in the “ I am not accustomed to being taken first place, and the same individual in hold of by jewelry salesmen.” “ the second place. You are the first in- My name is Prentice,” replied the “ telligent employee I have met in the other, and I am hardly a salesman establishment.” but that does not matter. If you do “ Do as I suggest, sir, and I assure not desire to talk reasonably, I will you the person who is responsible will show you to the department which will lie severely reprimanded. And now, attend to your card-case — and suggest what can I do for you?” that you go to Mr. Crofty himself with “ “ I have here,” said Galway, a card- your complaint. He is at present some case made by your firm, and which I fifty miles from any railroad, in the cherish very highly. The lining has Adirondacks — you might possibly have worn out, and I have brought it here assumed a rational bearing by the time to be repaired. I trust that you will be you reached him. This way, sir.” as expeditious as possible.” Galway was a really decent fellow The young man behind the counter and as he followed Prentice, muttering took the case in bis hands, and held it that he would immediately leave the a moment with a perplexed look on his place were it not for the fact that face. Then he spoke hesitatingly: Crofty & Co. had made the case, he be- “ I am very sorry, sir, again to put gan to realize that he had been a little you to trouble, but, you see, this depart- hasty. ment does all the repairing except—this There was no evidence of repentance fine leather-work. You will find that in his bearing, however, as he handed department on the south side of the over the card-case to the proper per- building.” son, left his. name and address, and It was now that Galway forgot all quitted the store. about the pleasurable evening in store Outside, the sun was blistering hot, for him, and ceased attempting to con- and it was not until Galway had some- trol his wrath. what cooled his burning body by means “ ” “ of a cold glass of mineral water that he Again ! he cried. Whoever heard ; ” : ;

320 THE ARGOSY. / again began to think of the pleasure in Regardless of wilted collar and ex- store for him that evening. tremely uncomfortable clothing, he start- In the spring he had left, at its most ed in hot haste for the establishment of interesting stage, an affair of the heart, Crofty & Co. The massive front door which was not only his first, but which was just being shut as he got there. consumed him with even a greater in- “ Closed, sir,” said the watchman. tensity than his miserable temper. Miss “ But I must see some one in author- Ailing was now to be in town for a ity,” insisted Galway. week, and he had persuaded her over the At that moment there emerged from telephone to dine with him that evening. the entrance the well-dressed floor-walker Her house was closed for the summer, who had been the means of Galway’s and he considered it a great honor that previous irritation. The latter quickly she had dropped him a note, asking him approached him. to call at the hotel where she was stop- “ I left a card-case here this after- ping with friends. And he was en- noon to be repaired—and it is very neces- thralled when she had so far overlooked sary that I obtain a paper from it.” the conventionalities as to accept his in- “ I remember the occasion well,” re- vitation for dinner. plied the other, “ but it is too late now.” “ He was due to call for her at seven. But. it is most important— is there ” It was now only five, but he hastened no way? to his near-by apartment in order to be The dignified young man looked at punctuality itself, gnd to remind her Galway with something of satisfaction that the two months which had passed in his eyes. since he had seen her in nowise changed “ No, sir,” he said. “ Every one has the intensity of his feelings. left, and—

“ Let’s see,” he said to himself, as he As luck would have it, at that instant, entered his room and closed the door, Prentice, who really seemed to be a per- “ how long must I allow to reach her son in authority in the establishment, hotel?” appeared from another entrance, and ap- He reached for his card-case. proached the trio. “ Oh, of course, I left the ease at “Ah,” he ejaculated, not with satis- Crofty’s to be fixed— Her hotel is the faction, but with interest. “ The repair — ” —the—the ” And the young man department? “ stood still—thinking. Sir,” began Galway, now all humil- “ Of course I know it,” he went on. ity, “ I lost my temper this afternoon

“ ‘ ’ It begins with a W —the West- but at present I have discovered that I moreland — no —r the Weland ——no, she left in the card-case, which is now in wouldn’t stop there—the—the ” and your possession, a paper which it is most again the perspiration gathered on Gal- important I see at once. Will you do way’s brow. « me the favor of finding out if it is still With a sudden inspiration, he seized there — they cannot have begun work ” the telephone-book, and began searching upon the case yet ? for all the hotels, the names of which The tall young man looked at Galway began with “ W.” Unsuccessful here, with the same calm interest and amuse- he spent many more minutes looking ment which had possessed his features haphazard for the names of other hotels when he suggested a trip into the moun- and finally threw down the book, with tains to find Mr. Crofty, and replied the most hopeless ejaculation. good-humoredly Then he began a search of his pockets “ We all lose our tempers occasionally. for the note which would give the re- Come with me, and I will see what I quired clue. Nothing to be found—he can do.” must have left it in the miserable card- Together they entered the building, case. and went at once to the repair depart- Yes, he was sure of that now; and, ment which it had taken Galway so long after a hasty glance at his watch, he as- to find. Here they discovered a con- certained that with haste he might be scientious workman still laboring over a able to reach the store before they closed. delicate piece of leather. —;;; ”” ”—I

WHY GALWAY LOST HIS TEMPER. 321

situation and, There, sitting just The was soon explained ; where a ray of the after a long search, the card-ease dis- electric lights fell upon her face, sat covered—empty. Helen Ailing; and beyond her, in the “ You must have taken everything out darkness, a man. of it, sir,” said Prentice. Without a moment’s hesitation, Galway “ 1 thought I did,” admitted Galway spoke to her. “ “ but when I could not find the paper You must have thought it awfully 1 wanted, I thought it must be here strange, Helen, that I did not call— for but—do you mind telling me all the you—but I lost your address, and hotels you know with names beginning The girl interrupted him. “ with ‘W’?” I knew it was something like that, Prentice looked at Galway in aston- and waited till nine o’clock, when I ishment; and, as they left the building, called up your apartment on the tele- his sense of humor could no longer with- phone. It’s all right, of course—we can stand the incongruity of Galway’s former dine together some other evening — confident anger, and his present humility. wanted to tell you something—perhaps After a quiet laugh, however, he sug- I can do it now—but first let me present gested two or three, and then spoke of you— looking them up in the telephone-book. All eagerness, Galway bowed to the “ Oh, I’ve done that,” cried the dis- young man in the darkness, and turned tracted young man. “ Thank you for again to the girl. your kindness,” he had the grace to add. “ First of all, Helen, let me write Slowly, and with a broken spirit, Gal- down the name of the hotel where you way returned to his apartment. As the are stopping,” and he looked in vain for clock struck the hour of seven, and he a paper on which to inscribe it. realized that somewhere in that great At last, crumpled up in his trouser’s city the girl of his heart was waiting for pocket, he found a scrap and hurriedly him to take her out to dinner, the place drew it out. had never seemed so desolate. “ It’s the Windmere,” said the girl “ thought “ Dinner by himself.” The a new place ; not yet even in the tele- disgusted him. But, finally, as the same phone-book, but awfully nice. And now clock was striking the hour of nine, he let me tell you why I wanted to see you realized that nature must be fortified so much. You are my oldest friend in and he rose to go out to partake of the city — and — and I wanted you to some food. know of my engagement. This,” with He wanted lights and coolness—to get a little wave of her hand toward the far away from his accustomed haunts man in the darkness, “ is the happy and he took a car for a distant dining- man— place on the banks of the river. But Galway was looking at the slip

There were lights there a plenty ; and of paper on which he had written the quiet corners out-of-doors, where he address. It was her note to him bearing could imagine himself sitting with Miss her hotel telephone number, on the back Ailing—and he would be sitting thus, of which was written the names of the too, as soon as she called him up on three culprits of the afternoon. And the following day to hear his explana- then he remembered his consuming anger tion. But he sat alone now, watching at the moment he had jotted them down the lights on the river, and hearing faint- —and the last name—was Prentice. ly the low spoken words of the couples The tall man came out of the dark- occupying the quiet corners. ness. He had finished his dinner, and was “ I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. about to leave for his lonely apartment, Galway this afternoon,” he said, with a when he fancied he heard his name twinkle in his eye. spoken. Yes, there it was again, and It was Prentice. coming from one of the deliciously “ Good night,” said Galway, tearing shaded dining-places. into little bits the note he had received With some curiosity, Galway rose and from Miss Ailing. walked in the direction of the sound. Then he hurried from the spot. 9 A TROUBLE IN BUNCHES.* By SEWARD W. HOPKINS,

Author of “By Bullet Persuasion," “Taking Big Chances,” “The Hoodoo Ranch,” etc.

A matter of one American obliging another starts with a mistake,

opening the way to crimes, casualties, and catastrophes galore.

CHAPTER XVIII. “Your name?” he demanded, taking up a large door in wmcn ne Kept a record TIIF, PRISON AT SANTA ROSA. of prisoners. “ HE prison at Santa Rosa was not Robert Eraser,” I answered. ” T an imposing piece of architecture, “ Your business here? but it was certainly a prison. I had fre- “ In the prison?” I asked. quently ridden by it in days when I had “ In Santa Rosa,” he said, with a no idea that I should ever be incarcerated heavy frown. “ there, and 1 had felt great sympathy I am a physician and chemist. 1 for the poor devils who were prisoners, was sent here by a New York society to whether guilty of crime or not. study certain plants and barks.” It was a low, one-story building—at “ And, having been assured of your least, only one story above the level of hospitality, you abused it.” “ the ground—and was built of adobe I did not. I have committed no blocks. Its cold, unornamentecl front crime at all.” faced the road that led out along the Rio “ Ha! You and your countrymen have Rico, and the rear of the prison was on strange ideas of crime. We will give you the edge of the river-bank. a lesson. We have already your partner The cells, or dungeons as they were in crime. Put them together,” he said called, were, as Balover had written, mis- to another keeper. “ Let them console erable holes. They had almost no venti- each other. They will leave here together lation, and but little light. The principal for—” prisoners were kept in the cells under- He did not finish his sentence, but a ground, from which there was no escape. cold chill ran through me as I realized The building surrounded an open what he meant.” court, or patio, which would be called in “ I am wounded,” I explained. “ May ” the United States a prison-yard. Here I not have some attention? the executions were held. “ We have no surgeon here. Anyway, It was the custom in Santa Rosa, when a few wounds more or less will make no any great offender was shot, to march all difference in the end.” the prisoners out into the patio and ar- With this brutal remark, he waved to range them on three sides, leaving the the keepers, and I was hustled down a blank wall at one end to receive the bul- flight of stone steps. lets that did not lodge in the body of the By the light of a lantern a door was victim. unlocked, and I saw Balover lying on a It was about midnight when we pile of dirty straw in a corner of a filthy reached the prison. My wounds were cell. now quite painful, and I was so weak I “ In with you,” said one of the keep- hardly cared what they did with me ers, and in a moment the door was closed afterward if they would only let me have and I was left in perfect darkness. a little rest then. “ Balover,” I said. We were admitted, and the head keeper “What! What! Who is that? Is it of the place was aroused. He received —it can’t be Fraser!” replied Balover. us in a little office. “ It is Fraser,” I said. * Began February Argosy , Single copies, 10 cents. !

TROUBLE IN BUNCHES. 323

“ “ What is it—a plot—a plan to get If we don’t eat, and an opportunity me out ? ” he asked eagerly. to escape should offer, we wouldn’t be “ It was to be,” I answered. “ But, able to take it,” I said. “ ” like all the rest of the business, I’ve made Opportunity to escape ! Balover “ a mess of it. I did leave O’Donnell’s echoed. Who ever heard of escaping ” camp to come and help you, but I am from one of these burial holes? worse off than you are. I am wounded, “ But that messenger you sent with and I have lost Don Manuel’s money.” your letter escaped.” “ Then, it’s all up with you, too,” he “ True. But he was a minor prisoner, said. and wasn’t down here. He had the run There was no recrimination—no mur- of the prison-court, and had people out- muring nor fault-finding. Balover was side to help him.” as hrave a fellow as I had ever seen. “ Can’t we bribe somebody there to ” “If you are wounded,” he went on, pass letters for us? I asked. “ lie down on this straw. It isn’t very “ We can try it.” clean, nor very dry; but it’s better than We watched the little iron grating the floor.” Balover had mentioned in his letter. For I lay down alongside of him, and so hours no one came near it. Then two men great was my exhaustion that even while were walking past, and stopped right over he was speaking to me I fell asleep. the grating to continue their conversa- When I awoke I saw the miserable con- tion. dition of the place we were in, and the “ They’ve got the two Americans,” effect his imprisonment was having on said one. “ Both in the underground Balover. His eyes were sunken and dim, dungeon. I heard the captain say they his cheeks hollow and white, with a sickly were to he shot. I don’t know when.” look all over his face. I had not been searched when I en- “ They don’t need to shoot a man tered. They do not always attend to here,” I remarked. “ All that is neces- those things in a South American prison sary is to keep him here. He’ll die. soon at night. My revolver had been taken enough.” from me, but I still had some money. I “ I wish they’d hurry up and have it poked a piece of gold through the over,” said Balover. “ I see no hope -of grating. getting out. In some way these fools have " Sefiors” I called softly. “ got it into their heads that we are great Who spoke? ” asked one of the two. ” criminals. You can’t drive any sense “ Did you not hear a voice? into them. They are densely ignorant, “ I did. Some one said ‘ sefiors/ Ah and hate us for our nationality. I The American. Down here—sec?” thought all South America liked the I saw both their faces as they peered

States. But Santa Rosa hates us. There down at me. I is no doubt that I am to be shot. And, “Will you carry a letter for us?” I as they have put you in with me, I sup- asked. “ We will pay you well.” pose that will be your fate.” “ It is impossible,” said the one who “ 1 tried to see our consul, but he was had spoken before. “ I would not at- on board some ship in the harbor,” I tempt it. Everybody is watched. The explained. “If we could only com- order has gone forth that you are to be municate with him, he might do some- shot. Any person caught with a letter thing.” from you would also be shot. Farewell, “f>h, the consul at Santa Rosa can’t sefiors.” do anything. He never did. O’Donnell With that, the two walked off. might. But I reckon he’s got about all he can do to stay here and keep out of prison. He never comes into Santa CHAPTER XIX. Rosa.” DYNAMITE. They brought us our breakfast. I will not attempt to tell what it was, because My heart sank. It is no pleasant thing I don’t know. It was a nauseating mess, to realize that you are to die within a anyway, but we knew we must eat. short time. I suppose a person after ” —

324 THE ARGOSY. months or years of suffering welcomes thing. I’ve threatened them with men- such knowledge as the forerunner of a of-war. I’ve tried to bribe them with all blessed relief. the money my uncle is worth. I’ve prom- But two young men, with everything ised them good positions in the States. to live for, could hardly be expected to I’ve done everything. The trouble is, we look upon the prospect with equanimity. are too prominent. If we were obscure, Yet never in all the time that has no-account devils, we might get out. As ” passed since then, during which 1 have it is bang! practised my profession, have I seen any- Cheerful talk in a damp, dark cell. one face death with the cool, almost inso- But our spirits were not quite as lively lent courage of Jim Balover. as our talk. Our minds were keyed up to “ I hope, as long as they are going to the breaking-point, and if, in the attempt shoot us, they will shoot us together,” he to appear calm, we slopped over some- remarked. “ Even in death l suppose a times, it could hardly be called unnat- fellow likes company.” ural.

“ I can’t see that it makes any differ- That day passed wearily. Evidently ence,” I rejoined. “ It will be over in they were in no hurry to finish their job. a minute. These fellows don’t leave any There was no gloating over us, no abusive blanks, as they do in time of war in our language. No one came near us at all army when they shoot a man. Every- except to bring what they called food. body shoots to kill. One little order, and . We slept but little that night. it’s all over.” “ Fraser,” said Balover as we lay side “ It wouldn’t be so bad,” he went on, by side on the straw, “ I’ve got a peculiar

“ if it wasn’t for the two girls. I sup- feeling that you are going to get out of pose, of course, Isobel is safe—some- this and I am not. I don’t know what where—but it’s tough going and leaving makes me feel that way. But I do. And her when I know she loves me.” I want you to promise me something.” “ “ It is. 1 feel the same way.” I’ll promise anything,” I told him. ” “ You? Are you in love? Is it Kate? “ It is easy to promise when you know “ Yes,” I answered, with a sigh. “ It you can’t fulfil. I fail to see any reason is Kate, and she seems to love me. I for such an idea as you have. If you came after reading your letter, and we are shot, of course I’ll be.” bade each other a fond good - by. On “Well, I don’t know. T hope I’m her part it was almost a farewell, because right. Anyway, if you do escape by any she feared some disaster. But I was miracle, hunt till you find Isobel. Tell going to do wonders. Kick up a shindy her that her name was the last word on with the consul, give old Don Manuel my lips. And assure her of my love.” “ back his money and win his friendship, I’ll do that—but if I have a chance and have you out of here in no time. W hat to do it, you will yourself.” have I done? Lost Don Manuel’s money, We spent the night mostly in talking got myself cut up into beefsteaks, and in this way, and were worn out when here I am now waiting to be shot like morning came. a mad dog. Kate was right. I’ve done While we were eating our breakfast a nothing but mess everything since I tried cloud came over the grating and a piece to take Isobel to you.” of paper dropped to the floor. “ It “ ” Oh, don’t blame yourself for that. Ah, a friend has found us out ! ex- was my fault. In the first place, I had claimed Balover. no business to ask you to help me. And He sprang forward and picked up the 1 should have told you about Kate.” paper. “ I’m glad you didn’t. I am sorry you As he opened it I saw in the dim light have not seen Isobel, but the kiss Kate that his face turned paler. gave me when I came away is worth a “ What is it? ” I asked. “ great deal." Not a message from a friend,” he re- “It isn’t worth getting shot for.” plied. “ Well—there is no use— arguing about I took the paper. It was printed in that. If we could only Spanish, and was a general order, to be “ Well, we can’t. I’ve tried every- scattered or posted in various places. ! I ” !

TROUBLE IN BUNCHES. 325

The purport of it was that the two no- We heard the great bell in the Santa torious Americans—and our crimes were Rosa cathedral chime the hour of mid- all mentioned and magnified—had been night. “ ” captured, and would be shot in the Two hours more ! I heard Balover prison - yard at two o’clock in the mutter. “ Only two hours more to live.” morning. Those two hours were dismal and long, There was a choking and stifled feel- but at last they were over. ing in my throat. It had not been so We heard a drum. The ground in difficult to he calm when there was hope which our cell was dug seemed to tremble of escape. But with this hope gone, with with the tramp of feet. the notice of our execution in my hands, “ It is time.” said Balover. “ A few all my calmness seemed to leave me. minutes and all will be— “ ” Poor Kate ! Poor Kate ! I mur- Suddenly there was a terrific explo- mured. “ How I would like to see you sion. Detonation after detonation split

once more before 1 die ! I doubt now, the air. The ground seemed to heave Balover, if it was right for me to let her upward. Gaping holes were made in the know I loved her.” top of our cell as the earth and stone “ Well, you couldn’t help it, could and adobe came crashing through. you? How can you hide love? I’m “ The ships have bombarded the ” sorry that Isobel loves me now. Yet— town ! cried Balover, grasping my arm. don’t know. It’s something of a com- It did not seem like a bombardment to fort.” me. The explosions seemed to be in the •Small comfort it was to me to know prison itself. “ that the girl whose love I had won, and Whatever it is,” I said, “ here’s a hole from whom I had had only that farewell big enough to crawl through. Come on. kiss, was to be left grieving in the wilds It can’t be any worse even if we are of South America. 1 knew she was safe caught.” now with O’Donnell, but my thoughts We wriggled ourselves up through a were far from cheerful. hole, and found ourselves in the long hall That day was the most miserable I ever of the prison. Men were rushing about experienced. Every hour that brought with lanterns, shouting, cursing, and try- us nearer the terrible ending of our lives ing to find out what was the matter. made us more depressed. We were not noticed. Nobody paid At last we gave up trying to carry on any attention to us. Everybody was any conversation, and just paced back scared out of his wits. and forth in the dungeon, glancing down We reached the road. at the floor as we passed each other, “ Run,” 1 said to Balover—“ run for neither daring to look each other in the your life. Let’s get hack to O’Donnell’s face lest both should break down and camp.” give way to our pent-up feelings. We started. Beyond the prison there At noon we received our dinner. It was a dark clump of woods. As we ran was better than the meals we had been along the road, from these woods a figure given before, and we ate it, I don’t know darted toward us. all condemned to death do why ; but men “Bob! Jim! Wait, we’ve got horses.” eat heartily. Great Heaven, it was Kate Arnold And at supper - time we had another And then from the trees, leading two good meal. Then darkness fell. horses, came Mary O’Donnell. It was now merely a question of a few “ We didn’t dare bring any more. We hours. If we had had any hope that the can ride these two and hurry,” said Kate. consul would act in our behalf, that hope We wasted no time, but Balover took vanished with the daylight. We knew Mary and I took Kate, and we bounded no official work would be done after away. nightfall. “ I don’t understand how you hap- Oh, what a dreary, horrible waiting! pened to be there when the explosion Waiting for thS summons to follow a • took place,” I said to Kate when we had guide to the patio, and there stand up to gone far enough to slacken our pace a be shot dead little. 326 THE ARGOSY.

“ We were the explosion,” replied She agreed. Kate. “ Didn’t you know what that We were courteously received at the was? Well, that was dynamite. Mary embassy. “ knew where her father kept it. He had I think we know all about you,” said to go up in the hills last evening, and a a high official. “ We have even now as passing hunter gave us the notice of your a guest a young lady from Santa Rosa. execution. Mary and I were frantic for She has interested the ambassador in the a time, and I happened to say I’d like to matter, but we feared it would be too blow up the old prison. Mary said late. Anyway, you are in safe hands

' Let’s.’ Well, to make a short story of now.” “ ” it, we took the dynamite and shattered Who is the young lady? I asked in the jail. Thank God, we didn’t hurt you. surprise. But you were going to be shot, anyway. “ Why—Senorita Isobel Fernandez, We took the chance of either getting you the daughter of the old don. She ran out or killing you.” away from home, rather than go to Spain,

Here was a girl ! I hugged her as we and sought refuge here. Learning that hurried to the mining camp. she was engaged to marry an American, There was, of course, a sensation. But of course we gave her our most hearty with horses loaned us by O’Donnell, and protection.” a guide who knew a roundabout way to In ten minutes Isobel was in Balover’s the border, we started on a long journey arms,, and there were two weddings in- to Argentina. stead of one. We reached the Plate River, and found You can imagine the rest—the long ex- boatman who would take us to Buenos planations, the laughter, and tears a the ; Ayres. though there was little to cry about, At Buenos Ayres we rested, and on the except joy. morning following our arrival Kate and We sailed for New York, where we

1 talked over our affairs. Still are, a little older, but just as happy, “ I’ve got money enough,” I said, and Balover and I are both prosperous. “ and a profession. You are practically We often argue. I insist that I did mistress of your own affairs. Why wait? not give him any assistance when he Let us go to the United States embassy asked it, and he insists that I did. I leave and be married.” you to judge. THE END. A MILLIONAIRE’S DILEMMA. By M. GERTRUDE MILLER.

How a wealthy Californian came to run amuck

in a New York hotel noted for its quiet elegance.

HEN Sam Johnson registered at porters, might be waiting for him. The W Denver or Chicago hotels, every- capitalist whom he had come East to body got busy, and the best room in the meet, in connection with a railroad deal, house was at his disp'osal. For be it had, however, designated a quiet hotel, known that from Chicago to the Coast, in order to keep the matter out of the Sam Johnson was popularly known as papers, and Johnson’s arrival attracted the “ Mining King.” no attention. It was, therefore, from force of habit The clerk appeared no more con- that, upon reaching New York late one cerned by the bold signature, “ Sam Saturday afternoon, in the teeth of a Johnson, California,” than if he had northwest blizzard, he looked about him signed “ John Doe, New York ” ; and, as he alighted from the cab to see how indeed, beyond a certain freedom of many of the “ boys,” as he termed re- movement gained in the open, there was A MILLIONAIRE’S DILEMMA. 327

little in Johnson’s personal appearance of fate, he had no New York acquaint- to indicate the magnate. ances outside of the millionaire class. Upon learning his name, the clerk The girl at the switchboard opened handed him a telegram which had just her eyes when Johnson asked her to call come. With the aid of his code- key, up Henry Abbott. She knew the Ab- Johnson grasped the fact that the botts had sailed for Europe that morn- storm had delayed this wire, which ing, for the “ Society ” column was stated that the gentleman daily he had come perused by her ; but experience to see had concluded to meet him in had warned her not to make suggestions. Chicago, instead of New York. John- “ The Riviera for the winter,” was son gave utterance to an exclamation of the curt information at the other end annoyance, then philosophically decided of the wire. “ that, now he was here, he might as well Ah— too bad— I had hoped to see take in the allurements of the “ Great the old man while I was here. Try White Way.” With this end in view, William Thayer.” immediately upon reaching his room he Thayer’s was a name to conjure with examined the contents of his pocket- in the East but he had ; seemed a small book. man when Sam Johnson “ put him up ” “ By George, I must have blown a at the leading Frisco club and enter- ” roll ! he said to himself when he found tained him at his ranch. just a dollar in loose change. “ Egypt—been gone a month,” was He, however, took out his check-book the laconic answer of the caretaker at with the easy assurance of a man on the Thayer residence. good terms with his bankers, mentally Seven other gentlemen of equal so- calculating that five hundred would do cial and financial eminence were sug- “ as a starter.” He accordingly signed gested, but with equally futile results. the check with that peculiar series of Some were on the Atlantic, one yachting little kinks and flourishes affected by in the Caribbean— all were unavailable moneyed men. for purposes of identification. “ I didn’t bring much cash with me,” When Sam Johnson had paid for he said pleasantly, as he handed the these calls he found himself down to check, a few moments later, to the clerk. ten cents, and, for the moment, at a loss That individual puckered his brow, what to do next. So absorbed was he and, after a whispered consultation with in his own thoughts that he failed to the manager, promptly returned it.. observe the curious glance bestowed upon “ We don’t cash out-of-town checks him by the priestess of the switchboard. for strangers,” he said shortly. A sudden idea came to him as he Johnson’s cheerful smile vanished. strolled across the lobby: why not try “ Do you know who I am?” he thun- to dispose of his return ticket to San dered. Francisco. He decided to breast the The clerk smiled superciliously. gale and make the attempt. “ I don’t care a rap who you are,” he It would have been an “eye-opener,” remarked indifferently. “ Rules are to say the least, could he have heard rules.” the conversation at the desk as the re- “ May I ask if you are in the habit volving door swung to behind him. of insulting your guests?” “ Say, whatever you got hold of A certain glint in the Californian’s now?” asked the telephone girl. “Is eye, unpleasantly suggestive of firearms, he an anarchist, or just crazy? Why, warned the clerk, and he spoke in a he’s called up nine of the richest men conciliatory tone: in New York—said he knew them inti- “ If you can find anybody to identify mately — and the papers have all told you, we might accommodate you.” they were out of town.” As Johnson sauntered over toward the The clerk glanced up, interested. “ I telephone-booth, which was presided don’t like his looks, either,” he re- “ over by a haughty young woman attired marked ; but we’ll gamble on him till in a princesse gown, his thoughts were Monday morning, and then it’ll either working overtime; By a strange freak be cash up or get out.” 328 THE ARGOSY.

As Sam Johnson crossed over into the But not one person had he ever seen be- avenue, he had considerable trouble in fore. keeping his feet against the rapidly in- As he stood on the steps watching the creasing storm. The street lamps shone last motor whirl away, Johnson realized dimly through the snow. For the first how a fellow down and out on his luck time in twenty years he was without must feel, looking on at a prosperous, money in a big city. pleasure-seeking crowd with whom lie He smiled rather grimly at the irony has nothing in common. “ of Fate—a penniless millionaire. What Why, my check for a hundred thou- a newspaper story it would make ! But sand would be honored anywhere from meantime, he must get some cash. A Chicago to Frisco,” he reflected, “ and railroad ticket - office informed him it here I am in New York, as destitute as would take some time, perhaps a week, a hobo.” to arrange about the ticket, and Johnson With a sigh for the play he must turned angrily on his heel. forego, Sam Johnson hurried back to his Contrary to the usual run of self- hotel, suddenly recollecting he had not made men, Johnson was without osten- dined. tation in his dress, and wore no jewelry, “ I'm good for at least five square except a pearl scarf-pin and a watch. meals anyhow, between now and Mon- The former was a present from his wife. day morning,” lie told himself. For a moment the handsome interior of The food might have been execrable, his dining-room at home flashed before or it might have been ambrosia, for all his mind, and a vision of the one woman he knew, however, since he barely tasted in the world, lonely in all her luxury it. With a reckless air, Johnson tossed because he was not there. No, he could his last dime to the waiter and left the not pawn the scarf-pin. dining-room. The watch was a gift from some fel- Once in his own apartment again, he low miners on the day they all struck laughed to himself over the ridiculous luck together. He remembered how predicament. awkwardly they had made the presenta- To work off his irritation, he paced tion, yet how sincere a tribute of affec- restlessly back and forth. As he did so, tion it was. He would starve rather than the main heads of a speech on the “ Ex- part with that memento of the past. pansion of the West,” which he was due

. A hotel on the corner gave him a new to deliver a week hence at the Chicago inspiration. Chamber of Commerce dinner, came into

“ ‘ By Jove ! I’ll wire Bill Adams col- his mind. In imagination, he saw before lect ’ for funds,” he thought. him the sleek, prosperous members of Bill had been the spokesman of the that dignified body. As the subject pos- watch donors. Sam Johnson laughed to sessed him, his voice grew louder and himself as he thought of that gentleman louder. now, the meek husband of one of Chi- “Say, No. 520’s crazy!” exclaimed a cago’s social meteors. small bell-boy, running excitedly up to “ Sorry, sir,” said the Western Union the desk. “ He’s yellin’ and talkin’ to “ ” operator, but there’s another blizzard himself up there to beat the band ! starting in on the track of this one, and A sudden light dawned upon the the wires are down. You can leave the clerk. message, if you like, and take your “ I thought that fellow was off his chances. We may be able to reach Chi- bat.” he said, turning to the manager. cago by Monday.” “ Well, if he is,” suggested the latter “ — And / have the reputation of being —a small, excitable man “ you’d bet- a lucky fellow,” Johnson reflected bit- ter call up Belford right away. We terly as he turned away from the tele- can’t take any chances. Remember what graph-office. / a time we had with that crazy Dutch- The lobby was filled with well-dressed man last year—claimed he was an at- people bound to theater and opera, and tache of the German embassy, and he mingled with them, hoping to find turned out to be an anarchist on his way among that throng some familiar face. to Washington to kill the President.” !

A MILLIONAIRE’S DILEMMA. 329

The clerk picked up the telephone. osity, they had crept up noiselessly from “ Belford Hospital,” he said quickly. time to time to reconnoiter. It was on “ Dr. Belknap, of the psychopathic one of these occasions that Johnson ward— in a hurry. Oh, 1 say, is that flung the door open suddenly and found you, doctor? This is the Grantley. Jimmy crouched at the keyhole. We’ve got a fellow here who imagines The Californian had spent a sleepless he’s a California millionaire, hut it’s night, and his temper was completely my private belief he hasn’t a cent.” beyond control. Jimmy screamed lustily The voice at the other end answered as Johnson grabbed him. “ calmly : We can’t do anything unless he grows violent—you’ve got to be care- II. ful in such cases. If you have any trouble with him, however, call upon A half-hour later, two gentlemen us.” who had just been telephoning were as- “ You keep watch of 520, Jimmy,” tonished to behold a frantic, wild-eyed, cautioned the clerk, returning to his disheveled person dragged through the desk. “ If he goes off his head, run corridor, loudly protesting. His collar right down here.” was torn, blood streamed from a cut in The small bell-boy had been all ears his forehead, and two- Belford attend- during this conversation, and his face ants who had him in charge seemed to betokened intense interest. With an ap- meet with no check from the manage- preciative grin, he was off like a shot. ment. The telephone girl stepped up to the “What’s all this about?” asked one desk. of the onlookers, turning to the tele- “ No. 520’s just tried to have me get phone girl. Senator Bradley, of California, at his “ Oh, just a lunatic who imagines he’s Washington home,” she said excitedly, a millionaire from California. He’s “ and they told me he was at the White been calling up the biggest men in New House. No. 520 says to get him, any- York—tried to get a big check cashed how, even if I have to call the President last night, but they were on to him right in order to do it. Do you s’pose lie’s away so the minute he got violent, they ” ; another? she added in an undertone. phoned the insane ward at Belford. The manager walked back to the They’re taking him off now,” and the booth with her. “ Instead of the White girl shrugged her shoulders indifferently. House, he’ll get me on the wire,” he an- The gentleman addressed suddenly nounced decidedly. caught sight of the victim’s face. “ Yes,' sir,” as an excited voice sound- “ By all that’s holy, if that isn’t Sam ed from the upper regions, “ I’ll get the Johnson 1” he exclaimed. White House right away—and when I “ What’s left of him, Duncan,” John- do, I’ll call you.” son called out faintly. Meantime, Johnson’s restlessness had Mr. Duncan turned angrily to the increased to fever heat. A half-hour manager. elapsed, and he was not yet connected “ What in the name of common sense with Senator Bradley. He rang fran- do you mean ? ” he demanded. “ Why, tically for bell-boys—no response this gentleman is known from one end “ Never mind that Washington call,” of the West to the other. If he’s out of he said finally, taking up th

330 THE ARGOSY. house is at your disposal. Only tell us was hopeless now! For when this gen- what we can do to square things— tleman, who always selected the Grant- Before Johnson could answer, the ley for his private “ deals,” and had loud “ Choo! Clioo!” of an automobile left a golden train of gratuities in his sounded at the door, and a pompous in- wake — when he once learned how his dividual, fur-coated and capped, fairly friend had been maltreated, they would burst through the revolving-door. see him no more at that hostelry, nor his “ How fortunate I am to get here in benefactions. time,” the newcomer exclaimed, rushing Sam Johnson may have caught the up to the Californian and extending his appeal in their eyes, or it may have been hand. “ I hurried on here at once, when his irrepressible sense of humor— for he “ the Auditorium told me—you had just laughingly replied : Oh, nothing, Mr. left. But what on earth Piermortt, I’ve just been ‘seeing New His eye suddenly lighted on Johnson’s York,’ that’s all. I thought we moved I disreputable appearance. some out our way ; but must confess, The clerk and manager exchanged for speed and excitement, we aren’t in significant glances. Clearly their case it with Gotham!” SOMETHING FOR NOTHING. By ROBERT CARLTON BROWN.

The confessions of a bluffer in connection with an epi-

sode in which he himself was perfectly on the level.

F anybody had come along at that the time and fell to pretending that I I moment and offered me twenty real was a gambler not that I have ever ; dollars for my chances of heaven, and been anything else, although a mighty I’ve always considered them pretty good, poor one. Well, I’d take a card off

I’d have taken the money without a mo- the top and put my fifteen cents on it to ment’s hesitation. hold it down. Then I’d look in the You don’t hesitate when you’re bust- glass at my face, beautifully bedecked ed, you know; there’s no use. If op- with whiskers, and meander on this portunity had knocked on my door, wise she’d have never got away with it. I’d “ Bill, I’ll bet you it’s a red card.” have opened up so quick and pulled her “What’ll you bet?” I’d answer my- in and put her in the refrigerator for self. safe keeping that there’d never have “ Three dollars,” was my quick come- been a chance for her to get out and do back, and then I’d flash the anemic roll any more knocking. and Jay it on top of the card. But nothing turned up. I’d hocked After that I’d turn the card up and everything I had, except my socks, and find that it was black. l only had a clean pair of them left. You see, luck was against me. 1 friend I knew and couldn’t win even mind-money as I’d called on every ; and used every persuasive argument I could for paying those friendly little bets, I’d think of. But all to no avail. just chalk them up on the bureau and

Here I was, fifteen cents in loose offer to double that the next one would change in my pocket and three well- be a heart. worn dollars in my wallet. Sure enough, when I turned the card There wasn’t any use of praying; I’d it would be a spade. You couldn’t beat got past that. So 1 sat there in my it. I could have gambled on my luck elegant suite, consisting of a hall bed- without fear, but there’s no use gam- room, and absently fingered over the bling that way. three cellars. And the worst of it all was I was in

I pulled out a pack of cards to pass wrong on the love-game, too. When SOMETHING FOR NOTHING. 331 you get in wrong that way there are Understand me right, I didn’t intend only two things left to do: go out and to commit suicide or matrimony. I drown your sorrow or yourself. wasn’t that desperate. I just thought You see, this girl wasn’t any common that a nice little lonesome walk down article. She was ace high, but she made on the dock would fall in .well with my me feel like a deuce-spot when I looked present mood, so I lit out for the Bat- at her. tery. I’d been telling her right along we’d I went down on one of the steamer get hitched up, and she’d been calling piers and stood around- in the way, half on me to produce the goods in the shape hoping that somebody would come along of an engagement-ring. Well, what and push me off. But nobody did, and could I do? so I kept on walking around. It was a cinch I couldn’t tell her how All of a sudden I looked down. busted I was, for there’s nothing will Then I looked up. kill love quicker; and I couldn’t give After that I looked around, pretend- any plausible excuse about the ring, ex- ing that I was searching for the Lusi- cept that I hadn’t found a stone good tania, or some other mere speck on the enough for her. horizon, but in reality I was trying to After that gag wore out, I told her see if anybody was watching me. I’d got the ring and I was having it Nobody was. So, with one quick engraved. The jeweler had been work- lunge, I shot out my arm and picked ing on it about a week now. and I was it up. beginning to think he’d never get Then I held it up to the light and through. So was she. admired it. Well, I kept on playing cards, until The stone was as pretty a one-carat I stood about three hundred out against diamond as I ever saw in my life.

then I struck with a The gem was set in a ring. I slipped myself ; and was brilliant idea. the thing on my little finger and flashed No, I wasn’t going out to make a it in the sun. My chest got in between name for myself and win her. I hadn’t the sun and the ring, and I could hardly any game to work or anything of that see it for being so puffed up. sort. The idea was quite common and Well, I didn’t waste much more time sordid, and not at all in the class with on that pier. I didn’t like the scenery,- most of them. anyway. What was the use of looking It was only that I remembered a for the owner, I argued. Of course, friend, an old “ bar-keep,” who was the the person who had lost it had sailed to only one on my calling-list that I hadn’t Africa that morning, and foreign ad- touched. vertising would be so expensive. Of course, I couldn’t slight him; so Yes, I decided to keep it and not say I jumped up, having just lost another a word to the coroner or any other of hundred to myself, and, leaving the the city officials. cards as they lay, I took down my two- I jumped on a car, and felt languidly clollar Panama and made a noise like go- in my pocket for some loose change, as ing away. though it weren’t worth the mentioning. The noise was very effective. My 1 found it, all right. Fifteen cents was landlady rushed out with an open hand. all. I looked at it with surprise, just as

I knew she couldn’t hurt me much with- though I thought I had any more, ex- out doubling it up, so I walked right cept the three ones, which immediately past her and didn’t bat an eye. became small change in my eyes, dazzled When I struck the street I was unde- as they were by the diamond. cided. It might be well to end it all by It’s the surest thing you know that I falling through a handy man - hole. got off at Mabel’s street. Some way or For a minute I wished that some pass- other, I couldn’t think of anything else. ing air-ship would drop a bag of ballast Didn’t I have the engagement - ring and obliterate me. But then courage now, and couldn’t we hock it and get came, and I decided to take my fate in married? My luck had changed. Mabel came to the I my own hands. door ; went in. —

332 THE ARGOSY.

When we sat down I flashed it on her. had breakfasted that morning on three “Oh, Bill!” she said. cigarettes and the last drop in my flask. I took the bouquet and bowed for the She didn’t order very strong, and I applause. It was all very nice. I was feeling mighty happy. couldn’t have expected anything better Joe de Free came in, and I called if I’d paid twice the price for the en- him over. He caught sight of the ring

gagement-ring. and tried hard not to notice it. I saw “ But, Bill,” she broke out suddenly, him turn green, however. He used to slipping the ring over her thumb, “ it be in love with Mabel. ” doesn’t fit ! Well, he didn’t say much ; he never “Confound that jeweler, anyway!” liked me, anyway. But he looked holes I exclaimed, grabbing the ring away in that ring, and then smiled and took from her. “ What right’s he got in- •the table farthest away from us. I knew sulting my bride-to-be by making the it made the right sort of a killing, be- thing so large? Still, he probably made cause Joe knew diamonds; and he stuck the ring after the regular pattern, and up his nose at this one, which clearly didn’t figure on your fingers being so showed that it was a pretty good much smaller than the rest of them.” sparkler. She fell for it—women always do I was tickled at the way he took my and she handed me a sweet smile when sudden rise in the world, and so was

I told her I’d have it fixed up for her Mabel ; she never liked him, anyway, right away. after the first time she saw me.

I slipped the ring on my little finger, You see, she knew he’d be watching and we both sat there admiring it, like us, and she wanted to show him she had looking at an all - day a man with a roll so she her two children ; changed sucker. mind, called back the waiter, and lit Well, finally her happiness began run- into that menu as though she was com- ning away with her, and she suggested ing down the home-stretch. something about going out and getting The pace was a little too fast for me. a little lunch to celebrate the occasion. It went over my pile the third time she I 1 hung back for a minute ; she gave me opened her mouth. But I figured a queer look, and suggested that the ring could call the head waiter aside and tell must have busted me. him to hold off the balance until I could “ Not on your life,” I came back at send my check over. I’ve done that be- “ her. A little thing like that ! Why, fore. girl. 1 was thinking of buying you a Having the three in my pocket to pair of those stones, but 1 couldn’t find show that I was right gave me confi- another as good as this one to match. dence, and I knew I could get out of it Put on your duds and we’ll go right some way by paying that part in cash. out. It showed I had the right spirit, any- “ But I’m not eating much myself to- way. day,” I added, as 1 remembered the fact The only thing that worried me was that three little bones was all that there that Joe would see me do it, and I was between me and being dead broke. couldn’t stand for that. But I figured

I was just chuckling to myself about I could excuse myself and see the head the whole thing, and dreaming over waiter before the bill came, and have it what I was going to do to the bookies fixed without Joe de Free getting wise. next day after I hocked that sparkler, Of course, I couldn’t say anything to when she came back all dressed up, like the girl. I peeked around the edge of she was going to the races. the table to see if she had her hand-bag a few with her but, no, nothing doing she Well, I managed to side-step ; — of the swellest joints on the Great was out to lunch on my invitation. White Way, and finally hauled up at a Well, I sat there and quailed in pretty good place where I .figured she spirit while she ate it on toast. I didn’t two-fifty; get blue around the gills in fact, I could fill her face for about ; and I counted on myself for one little never have since I learned to bluff at highball, just for company, although I poker. : ;: : :

SOMETHING FOR NOTHING. 333

The game got kind of interesting, and told it to the priest. The only weak I watched her eat as though I enjoyed point in it was that I knew what the it. She urged me to take something wallet contained, and they didn’t. “ and Joe was looking, so I took a little I’ve had too much of this around lobster salad just to keep her company. here,” he told me at length, looking “ It was all I could do to keep from me over carefully. I don’t cater to picking up the dish and letting it all the trade of the sporting fraternity, down my mouth at once. I was that anyway, and I think the best thing you hungry. can do is to wait peacefully until I call Well, you know, all good things come up the patrol.” to an end, and mine came with a sudden I thought wildly of Joe. Then I de- shock. cided in a hurry that I’d rather go to The waiter tiptoed around to my side the station than borrow money of him. and whispered in my ear Suddenly I caught sight of my ring. “ It’s Saturday afternoon, and I wait I had forgotten all about that. out in Fort George in a hotel over Sun- Pulling the diamond off. I assumed please pay your bill my most haughty manner and remarked day ; would you “ now, so I can get away?” Possibly you will be willing to keep Well, there was nothing to do but this as a deposit until I return with the pay, and very little to pay with. cash for this trifling lunch?” With my best thousand-dollar air, I It killed him. I could hear his last reached into my pocket and said breath as he passed away. “ Certainly, garfon.” Taking the ring, he started a series Of course, he thought I was the real of bowings and pardonings. I began goods. I even deceived myself for a to think I was king of the South Sea minute. Islands and that I was hiring him just But only a minute. to do that. I felt again. I got so forgiving and generous all My wallet was not there. of a sudden that I had a mind to- give Then I searched in my other pockets. the waiter half my kingdom as a tip. Nothing doing. Meanwhile, the waiter But just then the throne fell. was waiting, which, being his business, Possibly you never heard a throne

but I caught fall. I never didn’t worry me much ; did before. They make sight of Joe looking at me out of the an uproarious crash. tail of his eye, and Mabel was toying You see, this was how it was: . with her fork and looking kind of Joe de Free had heard part of the fussed. argument and noticed me offering the Then I remembered suddenly that I diamond as security. I had seen him had left the three bills at home on the making for the table on a gallop, but I cards, when the sudden inspiration came figured he only wanted to lend me to go out and look up that old bar- money. keep friend. What was my surprise when he butted I told the waiter about it, and he in and grabbed the ring, at the same time smiled, as though he had heard the story yelling before. Maybe he had, for it’s one of “ It’s a phony diamond. It ain’t my best. worth fifteen cents. They make ’em I didn’t know what to do, so I didn’t over in Connecticut and sell ’em by the

do anything. barrel ; they buy ’em down on the Bow- Then it occurred to me to call the ery by the bushel, and you can get ’em head waiter. anywhere by the peck.” He came and looked me over. It That finished me. I waited patiently w-as a careful scrutiny. I felt as though for somebody to come along and carry- I were taking, a civil-service examina- out the remains on a stretcher. I knew tion in bluffing, and was about to have it would be me. Who else could it be? my examiniation-paper marked sixteen, My head hit what used to be my on the basis of one hundred points. chest, and I gave one groan as I looked I told him my story, too. I’d have at Mabel. ! —;

334 THE ARGOSY.

Joe was standing beside her with that The head waiter lifted me back to my blooming leer of his, and of course she rightful throne as king of the South Sea thought I did it all on purpose. It Islands, and I dismissed him with a hurt her pretty hard, I guess, and I wave of my hand when I began to feel hated to see Joe standin’ so close to her. that his salaaming act was getting pretty But what could I do? poor. The head waiter cremated what was The waiter rushed back, his hand left of me with a fiery stare and started trembling with its load of bills. in the direction of the telephone, which Skinning off fives to the number of I knew to be an instrument used on oc- six, the elderly gentleman handed me casions to call the police. the thirty with a smile and slipped the Just as he left the tableau around the ring in his pocket. table, in which 1 was playing villain I paid my bill and cut for the door, and Joe hero, an old fellow I had no- Mabel hanging weakly to my arm. ticed at the table next to us bounced up Just as I got out I saw the old man and butted in. coming through the door. “Wait a minute!” he hollered, grab- I turned to thank him as he got into bing the head waiter by the sleeves and a taxicab. “ “ pulling him back. Don’t -thank me,” he said ; even “ ” Let me see that diamond ! he went if it was a poor diamond, I wanted, it.” on. “But for when and for why?” I The head waiter handed it over murmured weakly. “You don’t mean dumbly, and I saw the old man’s eyes that it isn't a diamond, after all?” light up. “ It’s the rottenest fake I ever saw,” I didn’t hope. What was the use? he told me, “ and you played a pretty He was probably a detective, anyway. poor game yourself.” Oh, but 1 was in wrong “Me! Played a game?” I cried, “You gentlemen are mistaken; that trying hard to understand. is a diamond, but it is full of flaws and “ Sure. You knew it was a phony yellow,” he continued, after a careful diamond all the time,” he smiled. scrutiny of the stone. “ I did not. But if it’s a fake, why Joe’s jaw fell. He hadn’t had a good why on earth did you pay me thirty for look at the thing, anyway. it then?” I cried. The head waiter looked at the vener- “ Bo,” and he pulled my ear closer, able gentleman and began to back water. “ bo, that hundred-dollar bill I changed “ I’ll give you thirty dollars for it was a phony, too. I’ve been trying to right now,” the old gentleman offered get rid of it all day. I saw the chance at length. there and took it. I’m much obliged to “ It belongs to him,” said the waiter, you.” drawing toward me. Giving the driver an order, he spun “Will you take thirty for it?” the off. old gentleman asked kindly, stepping I stood dazed on the curb, staring over to me. after him. until Mabel grabbed me and “ Will I —will I —will I take—say led me off as meek as a lamb. that again, please,” I stammered. “ Have you got the price of a mar- “ I’ve offered you thirty,” he repeat- riage license?” she asked.

ed ; “will you take it?” I pulled out the remainder of the For some minutes I tried to get the thirty and answered: “Why?” nerve to reply then I held my hand “Because,” she replied, “ we’re go- ; “ out limply and answered : Lay it ing to get one. You need somebody to there.” look after you.” Pulling out the healthiest pocketbook I was convinced that she was' right

1 have seen in years, the old gentleman and, as I had the price and felt a change peeled a hundred-dollar bill from the in my luck, I called up a taxi and we outside and handed it to the waiter. started off. “ Get that changed,” he ordered. Just as we were turning the corner Joe disappeared. Mabel looked back. AT THE END OK HIS ROPE. 335

Suddenly she grabbed my arm. stuck the restaurant-keeper for a hun- “ What’s that man dancing up and dred. down on the sidewalk for ? ” was her My blood boiled. He had accused question. me of trying to work a game when I

I took a look. was absolutely on the square. The fel- The man she was talking about was low he had stung ought to get his the proprietor of the restaurant, and he money back. was jumping around wildly in front of I stepped over to the table, after whis- his place. pering to my wife to wait a moment and “ That doesn’t seem to be a look of watch what happened. joy on his face, does it?” I smiled. When I confronted him he turned “ But what’s the matter with him?” deathly pale. I felt sorry for him for 1 “ Stung, I guessr’ a second—but no longer. It wasn’t until later that I really real- Then 1 found that he had just be- ized who had got the worst of the deal friended somebody or other, as he had that made me a happy man for life and me, and had sent a fifty out to be put the crook just seventy dollars ahead. changed. Then I realized why the restaurant- I hurried after the waiter and asked keeper was dancing around. to see the bill. Sure enough, it was a phony. About a week after that my wife and Then I bawled him out. I hit a bunch of luck, and consequently Well, I paid back to the restaurant- fed our faces at the Waldorf. keeper the thirty that had put me on my Just as we were being seated I saw a feet, so that left only seventy for the little group around a near-by corner. counterfeiter to return. And when he To my boundless surprise, I made out got our two rolls together you never saw the face of the man who had given me such a happy hash-house proprietor in thirty for the phony diamond, and thus your life.

AT THE END OF HIS ROPE.

By FRED V. GREENE, Jr.

Three thousand miles from home, hope gone, and the realization that you are being

hounded by a man who has done you a service and is eager to make a touch.

” H, good morning, Walker ! the whole, I think it is very good—very Myers wheeled around in his good, indeed.” chair and faced the young playwright, Walker’s breath was coming in short, who stood at a respectful distance from quick gasps. Now, perhaps, he need the theatrical manager’s desk. not remember that he had only money “ I’m glad you came in,” he contin- enough to last until a set day, and that ued, “ because I wanted to see you re- day rapidly approaching. garding this play of yours. Just draw “Then you—take it?” he said slowly. “ that chair up here.” Well, no ; not exactly.” Myers Walker did so, and a nervous ex- could not fail to notice Walker’s coun- pectancy came over him. Was his work tenance as it slowly paled to the color

really going to be accepted? of chalk. “ Neither do I say I will not “ I’ve read your play,” Myers con- take it,” the manager hastened to add. “ tinued. “ That is, I’ve read it over I want a little more time to give it a hurriedly; and I’m frank in saying I second reading.”

like it. Of course, there are some little “More time?” the younger man re- defects—or, at least, they appear defects peated bitterly. “ That’s what you all to me—but they are so unimportant that say, and then, in the end, it comes back we could easily smooth them out. On to me.” ;

336 THE ARGOSY.

“ Well, of course I don’t know what ambition to write a successful play. the others have said,” the manager went The germ of this desire was not left “ as for I serious, and very long in its original on ; but, me, am state, but grew business. is give rapidly as built mean To-day Monday ; Walker upon a plot that me until Wednesday to decide, and I had struck his fancy; and, as the play assure you I will give you a positive neared completion, he began to dream answer then. It will be yes or no.” of fame and riches. “ Very well, sir,” Walker assented in Contrary to the usual experiences of tones of disappointment. He seemed young dramatists, Walker was successful completely discouraged. “ I shall come in interesting a manager even before the back on Wednesday.” play was finished, and a few months later —“ Yes, in the afternoon,” Myers added he saw the beginning of his dream real- • “ about three o’clock. Is that agree- ized—the city was billed from one end able to you?” to the other with posters announcing the “ It is.” new play. The rising of the manager to his feet Then fate dealt him a cruel blojv. told Walker more plainly than words The play, while not being ranked with that the interview was at an end, and, the season’s failures, was certainly not a accepting the extended hand, he walked success; and after a two-weeks’ run, was toward the door, where he sud- consigned to that graveyard has slowly , which denly faced about. t proved a resting-place for the hopes and “ Do you think — do you think — ambitions of so many playwrights. you’ll queried falteringly. not in- use it?” he But Walker was discouraged ; “Come back Wednesday — three stead, he saw defects in the play he did o’clock,” was the manager’s noncom- not realize existed at the rehearsals. mittal reply, aRd the playwright hastily With this as a stimulus to further left the office. effort, he resigned his position—he had Upon reaching the sidewalk, Walker about a thousand dollars saved up—and stood for some moments, lost in thought. threw himself heart and soul into the He did not heed the passing throng. At work a new play demanded. In due last he brought out his express company time it was completed to his satisfaction, book, and counted carefully the remain- and he set out upon the task of finding ing checks. a manager. “ Just enough to last me the week Here he met his Waterloo. The man- out,” he mused as he replaced the book ager who had put on his first play would in his pocket. “ If Myers does not take not even read the new one—he had lost the play—well, it’s the Annapolis for me heavily on the other—and Walker trav- on .Saturday. In the meantime, to eat eled from one theatrical office to the and sleep, I must count every penny be- next but the same reply met him on all fore I spend it. Well, I’ve got to have sides—they were supplied with plays for some more money, so I might as well get at least two seasons. it now.” At length, in absolute disgust with He turned and walked slowly across American theaters, he decided to invade the square, headed in the direction of a new field, and immediately began the express company’s offices. preparations for a trip to London. He Stanley Walker was distinctly Ameri- gathered together all his available assets, can. Tall, broad-shouldered, and with converted them into express-orders, rep- an air of self-confidence that marks the resenting about three hundred dollars, self-made man, he was liked and re- and sailed for England. spected .by all with whom he came in Immediately upon his arrival he contact. started on his rounds of the theatrical As society reporter for one of the offices. But no manager greeted him leading newspapers of New York, he with outstretched hand—the right reach- had come in touch in a small way with ing eagerly for the manuscript and the the stage and its celebrities. Not as left tendering a good-sized check for closely as might be thought, perhaps, advance royalties. but enough to instil into his heart the Failure stared the dramatist in the — ””

AT THE END OF HIS ROPE. 827 face, and, although he fought against it, coin toward him and, moving aside a he began to realize his hopes were ebb- trifle, proceeded to count it. ing rapidly. But faster still, his funds At that instant he heard the stranger were dwindling away. query: “ Has that remittance arrived ” Then came a sudden turn that yet? brought him from the depths of despair Walker was on the point of glancing to the heights of hope. up at the man whose voice he had in- He ventured, one day, timorously into stantly recognized as distinctly Ameri- Mr. Augustus Myers’s office again, after can. Then a thought struck him. repeated efforts to see him. The man- Here was a fellow countryman in a ager had now returned to the city, he strange land, evidently in need of funds, learned. Breathlessly he awaited the who might recognize him as from the answer of the boy who had taken his United States and, seeing him counting card to the inner office. what looked like a large amount of He could hardly believe it true when money, request a temporary loan. If that watch -dog came back and pompous- he did, what could he say, and how ly pushed him into the sanctum sancto- could rum. “No; not yet, sir,” the voice of the The interview was very brief—Mr. cashier broke in upon Walker’s thoughts. “ Myers said he would be glad to read Good Heavens, man ! I’ve got to the play if Walker would leave it for live, and I can’t return to New York a few days; and after arranging for an without funds. Are you positive my ” interview for the following Monday, the cable was sent? young dramatist took his departure. “Yes, sir; positive,” the cashier as- Monday came at last, and he again sured him. presented himself at Myers’s office. His “ Well, I’m in a pretty hole, I must

heart beat rapidly as he listened to the say. If I only knew some one here in manager’s words, and although there London— was nothing definite arranged, he felt At that instant Walker dropped the now that the future did hold something gold coins into his pocket, and they in store for him. clicked together noisily. Then he real-

But when . he reached the sidewalk, ized the stranger had stopped abruptly and carefully counted the express checks, in his speech, and a peculiar intuition he ascertained that, for the present at told him the American was staring at least, it was not ready cash. He had his back. “ just enough funds to last until Saturday, What could 1 say or do if he should and leave sufficient to pay his passage ask me to loan him some money?” home, and then it would have to be one flashed through Walker’s mind. “ I

of the slower steamship lines. couldn’t do it, and he wouldn’t believe When he reached the express com- me, and— pany’s offices he took out the checks he He felt a hand upon his arm, and wished converted into English cur- knew his fears had been realized. On rency, leaving in the book just enough the impulse of the moment, he slipped to pay his passage. from under the weight of the stranger’s “ In gold, please,” he said as he hand and, without a glance toward him, passed them through the' window. dashed from the office at full speed, and The clerk took the checks, examined springing into a waiting hansom, ordered the signatures carefully, then proceeded the driver to make all possible haste to to count out the requested amount in his hotel. sovereigns and some silver. II. The money was pushed out to him just as Walker realized that another The cab tore up the traffic-thronged man had entered and stood behind him, street at a reckless pace, Walker not awaiting his turn at the window. A daring even to look behind, fearing he quick glance disclosed a tall person in might be followed. A strange feeling a gray suit. had come over him at thought of the The playwright pulled the pile of dire plight of his fellow countryman. 10 A ! ;

338 THE ARGOSY.

“ Why, his case is even worse than “ Well, I don’t care if he is,” Walker mine,” the dramatist reflected, settling declared. “ I’ll face him this time with- back in the cushions. “ I can get back out compunction. It’s really his fault to New York, while he—well, Heaven if I dropped the check-book, because, in only knows what he’ll do.” my haste to get away, I may not have “ Then he added quickly : Pshaw put it in my pocket securely.” He’ll get his remittance any moment, Nevertheless, he had a strong fear of and then he’ll undoubtedly be a great meeting the man, a dread that increased deal better off than I am. From the side to such an extent that as he neared the glance I caught, he looked pretty pros- office he kept a careful lookout for a perous, anyway.” tall fellow in a gray suit. And it was Certain now that he was not followed, with a feeling of relief that he sprang he interested himself in the crowds to the sidewalk when the cab drew up through which he was being driven, and to the curb, because a quick survey of the incident was forgotten. But some the interior of the office assured him the moments later it returned forcibly. dreaded person had left. “(food Heavens!” he exclaimed Walker hurried to the cashier’s win- aloud. “ The last time I was at the ex- dow. press office I left my address there, with “ I have lost my check-book,” he in- orders to forward to my hotel any mail formed that individual, “ and wish to that might arrive. Suppose the stranger prevent payment of the checks.” should ask the cashier who f was, and The cashier looked him over carefully

if he knew where I was stopping, and for a moment, then queried: “Your lie should tell him? My running 'away name, sir?” “ as I did would only make matters look Walker—Stanley Walker,” the dra- worse, and he would not believe me matist answered impatiently. “ You when I showed him how much I have know me— I was here only a few mo- left in my check-book.” ments ago.”

Instinctively, his hand sought the “ Yes, sir, I do,” was the response pocket in which he had placed it. It “ but it is a form I am forced to follow. was not there! Flow much was there in the book?” Thinking he might have absently re- “ Eight ten-dollar checks and one moved it to a different pocket, he rapid- five-dollar one. I evidently dropped it ly felt from one to the other. But his right after I left here.” Then he added eager fingers did not close upon the in an appealing tone: “ Please try to book, and in utter dismay he realized it find it. I must have that amount to was gone. get me back to New York.” He sprang to his feet and searched the The cashier’s face did not relax a cab, but without success. particle as he slowly opened a drawer “ I may have dropped it in the express of his desk. company’s office,” he muttered. “If I “ I have it here, Mr. Walker. The did, I am safe, because the checks are man who was behind you saw you drop not negotiable by any one but me. I’ll it as you ran out, and handed it to me.” order the driver to return, anyway.” Walker reached for the extended Signaling the man, he directed him to check-book, but his eyes were riveted go back to their starting-place. upon the cashier’s face. “ What a fool thing to do,” he mut- “ That man— that American—the one “ tered. Unless I find it, I’m as badly in the gray suit—found it?” he stam- off—no, I’m worse off—than that stran- mered. ger. Because he undoubtedly has some “ Yes, sir.” one to cable to for money, while I have “What shall I do?” the playwright nobody.” queried blankly. “ Should I reward As they neared the express office, the him? He needs money— I heard his thought occurred to him that there was conversation with you.” a possibility the American might not Walker now felt his position to be have left there, but be waiting around, more complex than ever. Surely this hoping for the r^ply to his cable. friendless stranger was entitled to some- —” ”

AT THE END OF HIS ROPE. 339

thing, yet how could he afford to re- back as possible into the cushions, but ward him? the stranger did not look in the direc- Perhaps, by stinting himself, he could tion of the cab, and a sigh of relief spare him a pound, but this amount broke from its occupant. might be considered an insult. Before “ I suppose he’s been to the hotel to these thoughts thaf raced through his interview me,” Walker muttered, “ and brain had resolved themselves into any tell me how much 1 am indebted to definite decision, the cashier said: him, and that a small temporary loan “ I think he is going to hunt you up, would be greatly appreciated.” sir. He opened the book and looked at He glanced around as he stepped the checks before he handed them to from the cab, then hurriedly paid the me, and then asked if I knew what hotel driver and dismissed him. He walked Mr. Walker was stopping at.” rapidly into the hotel lobby, and as he “And you told him?” Walker que- passed the desk the clerk called to him: ried, aghast at the new turn of events. “ There was a gentleman here to see you “ sir I Yes, ; fortunately, had your only a few moments ago, Mr. Walker.” address, and gave it to him.” “ I know it,” the dramatist snapped. Walker heaved a sigh of 'despair, so “ Oh, you saw him, then.” deep and sad that the cashier was “No, I did not.” Walker realized alarmed. that he had said more than he intended, “ “ I hope I did right in giving it to and added in a more genial tone : But him,” he ventured. I felt sure some one would call this “Yes — no — oh,, it didn’t matter.” morning.” Then he turned abruptly and started to- “ The gentleman seemed quite disap- ward his cab, the charges for which he pointed not to find you in,” the clerk knew were accumulating rapidly. continued. “ He asked me if I knew Again he directed the driver to his when you would return, and as you had hotel, and then leaned his chin dejected- given me no direction, I had to tell him ly on his hands. I did not. He said he would come back “What next?” he mused. “As if I this afternoon.” hadn’t /troubles enough already! If “Oh, is that so?” Walker’s tone there were a cheap steamer leaving to- was careless in the extreme. day, darned if I wouldn’t take it and “ Yes, and he left his card and— save the cost of my board and lodging “ Let me see who this persistent per- till Saturday. I can get a job on a son is,” the other interrupted, reaching New York newspaper easily enough.” out his hand for the bit of pasteboard. Then suddenly: The clerk fumbled among some papers “No, I’m hanged if I will; I’ll stay on his desk, then searched under it care- till Saturday, and see the game to the fully, but his quest proved fruitless, and finish. But if I do that, I’ve got to he avoided Walker’s inquiring looks as - “ keep dodging that gray suited fellow. he said nervously : I had it only a Because now I owe him a reward, 1 sup- minute ago, but 1 can’t find it now. It pose, and I know he would not accept seems to have disappeared, but I’ll come

thinks I it it it. But he waffts a loan ; he across and send up to you.” could not refuse him, after what he’s “ Don’t trouble yourself. It is of done, but as luck—my brand of luck small importance.” would have it, I’ve got to do so. And There was a sarcastic tinge to Walk- now he >as my hotel address—that— er’s tone that the clerk mistook as l>eing proves my theory as to what he wants directed towards himself. “ He paused, then added, almost plain- Oh, I’ll find it, sir. It must be “ tively : I don’t know why 1 am cursed right here.” with such confounded ill luck.” “Very well; if you do, send it up He was now within a block of his to me. I am going to my. room, and am hotel, and at this instant he saw, cross- at home to no one.” Then, with more ing the street just ahead of him, the determination in his tone that usual, he tall, gray-suited American. repeated: “Understand me— I am at Instinctively, Walker pressed as far home to no one.” \ ;

340 THE ARGOSY.

He turned from the desk, and, as he cause I lost the card; because I’ll find crossed the lobby, caught a glimpse of it—” a person entering the hotel. It was just “ Nothing to do with it,” the play- fleeting glance but it “ a ; was enough. wright interrupted tersely. I’ll be He recognized the gray-suited American. down in five minutes.” Hardly conscious of what he was do- He stalked away from the desk; and, ing, he sprang behind a convenient upon reaching his room, hastily packed screen, without being seen by his caller, his trunk and rang for the porter, after and awaited the interview between him which he descended to the office again. and the clerk, being close enough easily “ We’re sorry to have you go, Mr. to overhear their conversation. Walker,” the clerk said with real regret, “Is Mr. Walker in?” he heard the “ very sorry. Will you leave an address stranger inquire. for us to forward any mail that may ” “ I do not think he is,” the clerk re- come? plied evasively. “ There will be none,” was the blunt “ Well, find out,” the stranger com- reply. “ Hence, 1 do not need to leave manded. my address; but, in case there should be “ Yes, sir, of course. Page, go up any letters, hold them for me. I’ll com- to Mr. Walker’s room, one hundred and municate with you in a day or two.” fourteen, and see if he is in.” Walker quickly paid his bill then ; It seemed an age to the screen-shel- hurried to the waiting cab. tered dramatist before there was further “ A pretty state of affairs,” he grum- the desk it off conversation at ; and then bled, as the vehicle rumbled toward was the announcement by the bell-boy: the address given to the driver. “ Forced “ Mr. Walker is not in.” to move because an insistent American He could almost see the clerk turn to is determined that I shall lend him ” the stranger, as he heard him inquire money. Confound him and his nerve ! “ suavely : Is there any word you wish he added vindictively. to leave, sir?” “ No.” There seemed a thoughtfulness III. “ in his tone as he added : But I could have sworn I saw him get out of a cab “ Fairlv decent hotel,” Walker com- here about five minutes ago. I was mented, as he unpacked the articles standing on the next corner—-oh, well, necessary for the brief stay at his new as soon as he returns tell him I called. abode, “ although I can’t say that I You have my card?” should care to stop here any longer than “ Yes, sir—yes, sir,” the clerk hastened Saturday. But it will do ' until then. to reply. The one great thing in its favor is that “ Very good.” it is some cheaper than my last hotel. The sound of retreating footsteps told “Heavens, what an existence!” he Walker the man was moving toward the added, as he flung himself dejectedly into after a brief wait, he emerged a chair. “ It’s enough to drive person door ; and, a from his hiding-place. crazy, this waiting for one manager “ That’s the man, sir,” the clerk said, after another either to ‘accept or turn as the guest approached him. down a play.” “ So I judged,” he returned. “ I didn’t He took his pipe from his pocket, see him, and I don’t want to. Let me and, lighting it, puffed away in thought- look at your London, guide.” ful silence. He was building air-castles The clerk hastened to produce (the thinking of what would occur if Myers for Walker should 'accept the play. book ; and, some moments, pored over its pages. Then, without For some unknown reason, he pinned “ looking up, he directed : Make up a heap of faith to this man. He re- my bill immediately, and have a cab at called the old saying, about the darkness “ the door in five minutes. I’m going to before the dawn, and muttered : Well, leave.” if I’m not in the deepest darkness just “Why so soon?” the clerk broke out at present. I want to drop out of ex- in amazement. “ 1 hope. sir. it isn’t be- istence before it becomes any denser.” —:

AT THE END OF HIS ROPE. 341

For some time after the last few “ And just as much of a one for me,” flakes of tobacco in his pipe had burned Miss Bailey returned, laying her hand in out, Walker sat in the depths of a brown the one Walker had extended. “ And study; at length he stretched his limbs so this is where you are keeping your- and roused himself. self, is it?” “ “ I shouldn’t be wasting my time this Yes, keeping myself is a good way way,” he murmured. “ I ought to be to express it. I assure you no one is re- planning a new play. But I don’t sponsible for me.” think I could work out the simplest miss- “ Well, why not jump in and take a ing - Jetter rebus just at present, much spin with me,” she suggested. “ I will less concoct a plot. But surely I can’t drop you any place you say.” stay in this room all day to-day and to- “ And I accept the invitation very

. I I morrow. Yet, suppose must ; be- gratefully,” Walker returned, taking the cause, as sure as I go out, I’ll come face vacant seat at the young lady’s right. to face with that persistent American.” “ Why, it’s just like being in New York, “ Oh, well, I’ve got to eat. I’m going to see you again. How are you getting to risk.it.” on? As I remember it, your new play He left the hotel, and made his way was to open a few’ days after I left for to a restaurant. After a simple luncheon, London.” “ ” he strolled aimlessly around the city, Splendid ! she announced gleefully. taking care to avoid the Strand and the “ It was the one big success of the sea- vicinity of the express station. Finally son ! Think of it—you have the honor he decided to run out to Golder’s Green, of sitting alongside a full-fledged star. so headed for the nearest tube-station. Don’t you feel impressed?” It was long after dark when he “ I don’t know,” Walker laughed. reached his hotel again. His afternoon “ I can’t see that the quick change from outing had given him an appetite, and he a little star into a great big one has permitted himself the extravagance of altered you to any noticeable extent.” hearty dinner, after he soon Then his face sobered a which ; and he added went to bed. thoughtfully: “So the plav was a hit, “ Confound it, I can’t stay indoors to- eh?” “ day,” he told himself the next morning. Indeed, it was ! Why, at the Satur- “ I’ve got to get some exercise. I think, day matinees they had .to move the or- after breakfast, I’ll take a stroll, and chestra under the stage.” wind up at the hotel I left yesterday. “ The play was written by Burton, It’s barely possible there may be some wasn’t it?”

there. I it to- “ Yes is mail But do wish was ; and he certainly very clever. morrow, so I could end this uncertainty But how about yourself? Your last play ” regarding Myers.” was not very successful, was it ? lie hunted up a small restaurant, par- “No; not if the box-office receipts took of a light breakfast, then walked be taken as a criterion,” Walker laughed slowly in the direction of the Strand. bitterly. “ It ran only two weeks.” As he turned into this famous street, a “ That’s too bad,” Miss Bailey sym- “ cab pulled up at the curb beside him, pathized. I heard about it.; and “ and a voice exclaimed : Why, Mr. why, just think, I haven’t seen you since ” Walker, of all people ! you were on the Recorder. You must The young dramatist faced about, and bridge that gap of time, and tell me all saw a smiling, feminine face leaning that has happened in the interim.” “ far out of a hansom. Really, there isn’t anything to tell,” For an instant he could not realize the dramatist answered slowly. “ I he was staring fixedly at Miss Hope wrote the play that was a failure—so Bailey, an actress he had often come in much you know. I wrote another.” He his ex- paused contact with during newspaper a moment ; then added grimly “ periences. His amazement quickly gave I have it yet.” way to a broad smile of pleasure at meet- “No one has accepted it?” ing her again, and he advanced eagerly. “No one,” Walker repeated sullenly. “ “ Well, this is a surprise,” he said. I came to London to market it. I 342 THE ARGOSY. have been unsuccessful in my mission, nothing interfere,” ringing in his ears, and leave for New York on Saturday.” he turned toward his former hostelry “Is it a woman’s play?” the actress and entered the lobby. queried eagerly. “Any mail for me?” he queried of “No; it is written for a man. And, the clerk. “ as luck would have it, all the managers No, sir. no mail,” was the reply. claim they want a play for a woman “ But—” star. I have reached the conclusion that “Anybody called?” he went on. men stars are things of the past.” “Yes, sir; a gentleman was here late “ I know an actress who is looking for yesterday afternoon to see you.” “ a good play. She is to be at my New I don’t doubt that,” Walker laughed. York dinner — why, there, I never “ I hope you explained that I had left thought of it ! Are you engaged for without giving any address.” Wednesday night?” “ Yes, sir, I did. He seemed quite “ Until Saturday, my entire time is at disappointed, but left his card, saying my disposal,” Walker replied gloomily. that if we heard from you to tell you “ Then you must join us,” Miss Bailey that he wanted to see you as soon as went on enthusiastically. “ I am giving possible.” a dinner that night to the New Yorkers “ Well, of all the display of congealed ” I know who are in London just now. nerve and brass ! the dramatist splut- You will come?” tered. “ Let me see the card, anyway. “ Thank you ever so much, and I I’d like to know who this American is.” shall be delighted to do so.” The play- “ He isn’t an American,” the clerk wright’s eyes glistened at the pleasant explained. “ This is the card he lefL” prospect. Walker took it carelessly, allowing his “ Here is my card. We will count on eyes to glance at it inquisitively. Then your presence. By the way, do you re- an exclamation of surprise and joy burst member Carroll Dempster, who made from his lips.

‘ ’ “ ” the big hit in The Crossroads ? He Myers ! he exclaimed. Facing the is in town, and will be with us, too. I clerk, he queried eagerly: “He said know I can assure you a jolly time.” he wanted to see me immediately?” “ it I’ll sir; I don’t doubt ; and be mighty “Yes, he said it was very impor- glad to come.” There was a truly sin- tant, and seemed quite put out to think cere ring to Walker’s tone. “ Just ahead you had left no address.” is my hotel and, if you’ll drop me there, Walker hesitated a ; moment ; then you may then continue your drive with- turned upon his heel and hurried to the out the gloomy companion you have had street. Here he hailed a passing cab, for some moments.” and ordered the man to drive to the

' “ If you care to drive on with me, manager’s office. “ I’ll guarantee to lift you out of the I can’t believe he has accepted the depths you seem to be in.” play,” he kept telling himself. “ It

But Walker pleaded an engagement. seems too good to be true ! Yet what In truth, he felt embittered against the else should he be so anxious to see me world and himself. about? It must be that!” It annoyed him to learn of the success Although the driver was urging his of others. It only seemed to magnify horse to an unusual speed, it seemed to the enormity of his failure. And while the now thoroughly aroused dramatist the meeting with Hope Bailey had been as if he would never reach his destina- a joyous surprise, the news of what tion. But, at length, the cab drew up made him so discon- before the building Walker paid others were doing ; the solate that he well knew lie should only fare, and hurried within. “ prove a bore if he acted on her sug- I wish to see Mr. Myers,” he an- “ gestion. nounced to the office-boy. Here is mv He shook her hand warmly as he card.” “ alighted in front of the hotel he had Mr. Myers ain’t in, sir,” the bov left the day previous, and with the replied, without offering to accept the words: “To-morrow night and let card. —

AT THE END OF HIS ROPE. 343

“ Yes, he is,” Walker insisted. “ He Yet Walker could not nerve himself sent for me—in fact, ne called upon to send his regrets. He pondered over me yesterday, and not iinding me in, the subject for some time, and at length left word for me to come here as soon reached a plan of action—he would call as possible:” Miss Bailey on the phone Thursday, and “ Well, I don’t know nothing about plead a business engagement which came that,” the boy said slowly. “ But I do up at the last moment, and did not give know he ain’t in now. He was here him an opportunity to write. yesterday, but he left for Paris last His dinner scarcely was touched ; and night.” he hurried to his room again, where he The dramatist’s face fell. flung himself into an easy chair. Here “He has gone to Paris, you say?” he sat far into the night, smoking and he repeated blankly. thinking. “ Yes ; and he told me himself that The next morning he awoke to the he would not be back till Thursday realization that his head throbbed and morning. If he wants to see you, you ached. He felt ill—sick mentally and had better come around then.” physically. He endeavored to eat a Without a word, Walker faced about, light breakfast, but gave it up in disgust and shambled out of the office. —his stomach rebelled at the very sight “ ” It’s no use ! he fairly moaned. of food. Then suddenly his eyes blazed fire; It was late in the afternoon when and he ground his teeth together. Walker strolled out into the street, “ It’s that American’s fault ! Of thinking the air might benefit him. In- course, Myers has decided to take the stinctively, his footsteps turned toward play—that’s certain. But the suspense the building in which were located the of it would have been ended if I had Myers offices, and, without heeding his not changed my hotel. And that man direction, he kept on, and was presently ” standing “ forced me to it—curse him ! before the place. Myers may Then he calmed down, as he again have returned,” he told himself. “ I’ll found himself upon the street. just drop in, anyway, and find out.” “ Oh, well, it will be all right Thurs- But the manager was still in Paris. “ day, I am certain,” he told himself. He went over there to see some play that was to go on last night,” the IV. boy informed him. “ Mr. Myers heard it was a good one, so he went over to The remainder of the day dragged see if he could get it. He was going slowly by, Walker feeling too impatient to see the final dress-rehearsal.” to busy himself with any work. Walker’s face blanched, and he stag- Suddenly the thoughts of his engage- gered at this piece of news. ment for the next evening occurred to Could it be Myers would take it in him; but he quickly decided he would preference to his own? He felt com- not avail himself of the good time Miss pletely crushed now. Bailey had promised. He knew every He made his way slowly back to his one there would be successful people of hotel. He was glad now that he had the day; while he—well, he had just made no preparations to accept Miss simply failed. He felt he could not Bailey’s invitation—he surely could not endure the stories of their attainments go now. He retired early to his room, these would only accentuate his own con- to be alone with his discouragement. dition. The next morning found him in the When he had accepted the invitation same gloomy state of mind, although, the day before, this had not occurred to shining through it all, there was a ray but now he saw the folly of at- of hope. But it was so small that often him ; tending. He knew he could not be him- it was lost completely for moments at a self his depressed spirits would time then would appear, only ; and ; to be certainly be noticed. . It would certainly quickly swallowed once more in the be in strong contrast with the jovial, darkness of despair through which he happy people around him. was groping. — —

344 THE ARGOSY.

He felt a growing repugnance for “ Just a moment, please.” London, and began to plan for his ar- Walker knew he was not a good one

rival in New York. With these thoughts at inventing excuses ; and nervously uppermost in his mind, he started for rested first upon one foot, tffien upon Myers’s place again. the other, while he waited for the voice Although he knew the theatrical man- he had asked for. ager did not make a practise of reaching “ Anyway,” he reasoned to himself, his office before eleven o’clock in the “ this is better than being face to face. morning, Walker presented himself there She cannot see my countenance giving about nine-thirty, hoping that by some the lie to my words.” chance Myers might arrive before his Just then a voice which he recognized regular time. But, as the moments queried: ‘‘Is this you, Mr. Walker?” the office “ It is passed slowly, and the hands of ; and good morning, Miss clock neared the hour of eleven, the Bailey,” was the stammered response. (I » playwright’s nervousness increased until T “ it became a positive torture. Now make it a good excuse while Suddenly the unkept engagement of you are about it,” the other interrupted. the night before came before him. It “ Really, I am very angry. Why did had entirely slipped his memory during you not join us last night?” the morning, and he realized he had “Business prevented!” Walker de- committed a breach of etiquette that de- clared so positively that he was himself manded an immediate explanation of amazed at the truthful sound of the some description. statement. “ A manager sent for me, Yet he feared to leave the manager’s regarding my play, and, of course, I office, feeling certain Myers might come had to respond.” in at any moment. And he might not “And it was accepted, after all?” stay, and Miss Bailey inquired eagerly. In the midst of his thoughts, Walker’s “No—not yet.” Walker’s tone was eyes had wandered to the telephone in- doleful in the extreme. “ But he is look-

strument upon the wall ; and a resolution ing quite favorably upon it. These came to him. Here was an opportunity things all take time, you know.”

to phone without expense, and still re- “ Well-, his looking favorably upon it main on the watch for his quarry. is something,” the voice remarked quiet- “ Would you object to my using ly. “ But, really, you should have com- your telephone a moment?” he inquired municated with me. Perhaps I am sel- pleasantly of the boy, forcing a smile to fish in even thinking this way, because his face. “ I have forgotten to make a I know business before pleasure every call that is necessary, and if I go out to time. But Carroll was so disappointed. do so, I may miss Mr. Myers.” You see, I had told him you were to The lad did not deign to look up from be here, and he said he wanted to see the paper in which he appeared so in- you very much.” terested. “And who is Carroll?” Walker “ All right,” he agreed. queried. Walker stepped to the instrument, “ Why, Carroll Dempster, foolish,” and, after ascertaining the telephone was the chiding reply. “ He says he number of the hotel at which Miss knows you. You ought to know him Bailey was stopping, removed the re- he made the big success in ‘ The Cross- ” ceiver and asked for the connection. roads.’ A brief wait and a voice at the other “ I remember him,” the other re- ; “ end informed him : This is the Royal turned. I knew him before he was —with whom do you wish to speak?” prominent.” “ Miss Bailey,” the playwright replied. “ He said he was quite anxious to see ” “ Is she in? you,” Miss Bailey went on, “ and asked “ I will find I do not know ; but out if I knew where you were stopping. “ for you,” came over the wire. Who Fortunately, I remembered where I had shall I sav wishes to speak to her?” dropped you the other day. and told him. “ Mr. Walker.” He smiled very strangely, and said he ;; ;

AT THE END OF HIS ROPE. 345 would call upon you. Do you know The bell in the private office suddenly why the name of your hotel should rang, and the boy hastened to answer cause him to smile?” the summons. He quickly returned, and “I — I don’t know,” Walker stam- ushered the dramatist into the manager’s mered. presence. He was on the point of correcting “ Sorry to have kept you waiting. her with regard to his stopping-place Walker,” Myers began, as he fumbled but, on second thought, refrained from idly among the papers that cluttered his doing so. desk. “ But sit down a moment.” “ He probably only wants to tell me The playwright pulled up a chair, of his success,” he mused. and leaned forward expectantly. “ But I wish you would dine with “ Well, Walker, your play is a good us some evening before you go,” Miss one, and I certainly think it will make Bailey continued. “ I mean, with Mr. a hit when produced.” Dempster and myself.” “Then you take it?” the other broke “ I will try it,” Thank you ; to arrange in excitedly. “ Walker said as if he meant it. “ I will Not so fast,” Myers cautioned, while communicate with you as soon as I can Walker’s face broke into a nervous smile. “ arrange it. There is not much time left, After you left, Monday, I settled down and I have a great deal to attend to to read it thoroughly. The more I read,

I leave for the I liked it before New York. Again more ; and my only wonder I repeat my regrets regarding last eve- is that some manager did not pounce ning.” upon it long ago.” “ Well, I accept your apology,” she Walker’s spirits soared far above terra- laughed. “ Good-by, for the present.” firma and he could hardly realize that As Walker turned from the telephone, he was not dreaming, or that his ears he heard heavy steps in the hallway were not playing a cruel trick upon him. and his eyes lighted up expectantly as “ So I decided it was just what I wan- the manager entered the room. ted ; and, as you perhaps already know, I “Oh, hallo, Walker; you here?” was called at your hotel— or, at least, it was greeting the frown that gathered the to his ; but one you gave me— arrange mat- upon his forehead did not escape the ters, and get them settled up quickly. dramatist. I do not need to tell you that the clerk “ Yes, sir,” he responded. “ I am there informed me you had departed here because you sent for me.” only a short while before, leaving no “ So I did. But I want to see what new address.” mail there is for me. Just sit down a The playwright stared fixedly at the few moments, and then I’ll see you.” man before him, only by great effort re- He nodded toward a vacant chair, fraining from breaking in upon him and and Walker settled in it, while the man- demanding an end to the uncertainty. ager hurried on toward his private office. “ I left word that if you called to tell For some time the playwright was you I wished to see you. On my way kept waiting, endeavoring to draw some down-town, I met a friend who told me conclusion from Mr. Myers’s words or of a new play that was in the final re- looks. But, although he tried to reason hearsals in Paris, and for which great it out from all sides, in the end he things were predicted, and with the found himself as much in the dark as English rights still open.” ever. Myers was not looking at Walker as True, the man’s frown did not fore- he talked, so did not see the sudden cast success; yet his words were cheerful. change in the other’s face. Indeed, the if did Then he had sent for him ; and, he American was swaying in his chair, as not want to see him, he could have dis- if he were about to swoon. But the missed him with a few remarks. manager kept on. “ But just as Walker felt certain all So I jumped over to Paris—I saw was well, the frown would come before the play—and have the signed contracts him, and banish the hopes he clung to for the English production here in my so tenaciously. pocket.” ” ” — ;

346 THE ARGOSY.

He glanced up at the man before him, dazed was he over the terrible disap- and his face clouded at what he saw pointment. He kept muttering in an there. undertone: “Failure! Failure!” Walker’s head had sunk upon his In fact, his actions seemed so strange chest, and he swayed back and forth as to the passers-by that many of them 1 , if every few seconds he would fall to turned and stared after him, thinking the floor. But, as the other stopped he must be mentally unsound. talking, the dramatist quickly braced up. When he reached his hotel he rushed “Then you—don’t want—my play?” directly to his room, where he remained he inquired thickly. in a sort of stupor for some time. He “ I can’t use two,” the manager de- stared unseeingly at the opposite wall, clared. “ And I like this new one better a dull, blank expression in his eyes. than I do yours. Of course, it may not Then suddenly they lighted up with I have seen it tried out, a of rage, he sprang to his be as good ; but gleam and so I feel practically safe in taking it.” feet. “ ” His voice lowered to one of real sym- That American ! he cried, as he pathy. paced up and down the narrow room “ “ I hope you will soon find a manager he’s to blame for it all. He forced to produce yours, Walker.— I really me to change my hotel ! He forced me think it excellent, and to miss Myers! He forced me to fail- “ ” Yet you don’t want it yourself,” ure ! Walker said, in a hollow voice. His teeth ground together, and he “Why, how can I use it?” Myers added, in a tone that almost resembled returned impatiently. “ Really, it’s your a whistle as the words shot through own fault that we have not already them: “ If I had him here now, I’d do signed our contracts. I had decided to something desperate—something I would take it, and went to find —you. If you regret later.” hadn’t changed your hotel Sheer exhaustion—mental and physi- “ You’d have taken it,” Walker in- cal—at last caused him to slow down terrupted bitterly. from the steady stride with which he “ Exactly ! Why, we’d already have had continued to pace back and forth, begun to pick the cast. Here is your and a few moments later he flung him- manuscript.” self upon the bed, where, tired out, na- The other took it mechanically, and, ture quickly closed his eyes, and he fell for a moment, neither spoke. Walker’s into a heavy sleep'. eyes had a far-away look in them as he The next morning he felt quite him- stared at the opposite wall. Then his self again. The recollection that with- face hardened, and he burst out vin- in the next twenty-four hours he would

dictively : be on his way to New York had a cheer- “ ” That American ! He’s to blame ! ing effect. London had grown positive- “ What do you mean?” Myers queried. ly distasteful to him, and he looked for- “ I mean—” the playwright paused, ward eagerly to a return to his native then seemingly bringing himself back to land. the present, a look —of despair spread After breakfast he carefully placed over his countenance “ I mean that his check-book in his pocket and started I’ve reached the end-—of my rope!” out for the express office, having already The manager stared questioningly at planned to secure the cash and then go but, before he could inquire fur- to the steamship company’s office for his him ; ther, Walker rose from his chair and ticket. It was early in the summer, so strode rapidly from the room, venting he was sure of finding accommodation. his spite upon the world in general by As he stood before the cashier’s win- noisily slamming the door after him. dow, he noticed there was a strange man behind the enclosure, and his fingers V. trembled with nervousness as—he pushed the checks through the grating. Walker hurried back to his hotel as “ By the way, Mr. Walker,” the man one in a semiconscious condition, so said as he glanced at the signature, —”

AT THE END OF HIS ROPE. 347

“ there was a man here yesterday, asking The cab that had been summoned was if we had any idea where you could be already waiting at the door when he de- found.” scended to the office and paid his bill, The dramatist glanced up angrily, and while his luggage was being loaded upon a steely glitter showed in his eyes. the vehicle. “ There was ? ” he repeated slowly. All Walker’s troubles had faded into “Yes; and he seemed anxious to lo- insignificance when he entered the car- cate you. I made a memorandum of it.” riage the driver mounted his box, ; and The fellow fumbled among some papers. with a snap of his whip the dramatist

“ Ah, here it is. His name is Mr. realized that his unsuccessful stay in Dempster.” London was about to draw to a close. Walker’s expression softened. The cab drew up before the St. Pan- “ Tell Mr. Dempster, if he calls eras Station, where the boat train started, again, that I am leaving town very sud- and the playwright watched the porters denly,” he said, “ and as I will be miles as they took charge of his baggage. It away before he will know where I have lacked a half hour of the time for the been staying, it is no use leaving an —ad- train to depart, but he made his way to dress for him. Tell him—tell him his carriage and took a seat by an open There was just a faint trace of a choke window, from which point he watched as he added: “I may see him in New the busy throng upon the platform. York this winter.” So completely taken up was he with Walker hurried to the street after the scene before him that he did not counting his money. hear his name called by a young man, “ I suppose I ought to see Miss Bailey and not until this same person stood di- before I go,” he mused, “ but I simply rectly by his window did he notice him. cannot nerve myself to the ordeal. Be- “ Walker, for Heaven’s sake come out ” cause it is an ordeal to me—forced to here a moment ! the newcomer ordered. listen to the achievements of others. “ I must see you.” Then she would probably have callers, In surprise he turned toward the voice and—yes, Dempster might drop in, too. and recognized Carroll Dempster. For I shall not give him the opportunity of one brief second the dramatist hesitated, telling me of his great success, when I then he hurried to the station platform, can’t come back at him with regard to his curiosity as to what this man wanted myself, except with the plain, unvar- spurring him on. nished statement—I’m at the end of my “ He can’t talk very long,” he con- rope. Perhaps things may change be- soled himself as he stopped in front of fore the winter, and then I’ll be glad to the actor. see him. But not now,” and he shook A glance at the clock showed that the his head decisively. train would leave in ten minutes. The anticipation of the trip seemed to “ Well, of all of the will-o’-the-wisps lighten his mind of a great load as he I’ve ever heard of, you are the worst,” left the steamship office. The rest of Dempster declared, wringing the play- the day found him in a cheerful mood wright’s hand. “ I’ve hunted London something so new to him for so many from one end to the other, and now weeks that he marveled at it. He spent that I’ve got you just as you are leaving the afternoon sightseeing — there were town, I must talk quickly. In the first many points of interest he had over- place, you must stay here another week.” looked—and that evening the packing of Walker stared at the man in astonish- his trunk seemed to give him a new lease ment. “ ” on life. Why, impossible, Dempster ! he The next morning he awoke to find exclaimed. “ I’ve already got my cabin.” “ the sun streaming into his window, and Never mind that,” the other insisted. this tended to increase his good spirits. “ Travel is light at this time of the year, He had a pleasant smile for the hotel and the steamship company will change help with whom he came in contact, and your ticket for some future date. even extracted from his small supply of You’ve got to do it, because I reallv cash a little token for each one. crossed the ocean to see you.” ”;

348 THE ARGOSY.

“ I don’t understand,” the dramatist had passed it up, but were willing I faltered. should try it if I saw anything in it. Suddenly the thought that the pur- Upon inquiry, I found you had gone to chase of his ticket had used up nearly London, so took a trip across, killing all his money, and that at the present two birds with one stone—a short vaca- time he did not even have enough to tion and an endeavor to find you.” pay for a week’s stay at a good hotel, “ And you succeeded in both,” Walker caused his positive response: laughed.

“ I really couldn’t do it, Dempster. “ Yes, but came very near failure,” the T I’ve got to get to New Y ork on this other interposed. “ Ever since I saw steamer. Very important.” you in the express office that morn- “ Important, eh? ” the other mimicked. ing—” “ “ ” There is something far more impor- You ! A look of blank amazement in tant to you right here London ; and came over the dramatist’s face. He you will stay at my hotel as my guest, stared at the other, and a look of under- and go back next Saturday with Miss standing showed itself. “ Bailey and myself. I want that play of Tall American—gray suit,” he mum- yours.” bled. “ ” “ You want—my play ! cried Walker And when 1 went to your hotel, and in a tone of utter astonishment. you had moved without leaving any ad- “ Yes, 1 want it, and I came to Lon- dress— Say, Walker, what ails you?” don to get it. I’ve had a merry chase “ Nothing, really; ” but the playwright after you, and now I want my answer. smiled strangely as he made this reply. “ Do 1 get it?” Well, all right, but you look con- Before the dramatist could overcome foundedly funny; just as if you had seen his surprise and joy enough to reply, the a ghost. Then Miss Bailey told me she train beside them pulled slowly out of had seen you, and that you were to be the station. He had not even heard the with us at her dinner. But you didn’t “ ” guard’s call of All aboard ! show up. I was mighty disappointed “Come, do I get it?” Dempster re- and as she said you spoke of sailing to- peated. day, I came down to the boat train.— A smile scattered itself over Walker’s Luckily for me, I caught you just as countenance, and he broke into a hearty “ Just as I reached the end of my yet nervous laugh. rope,” Walker interrupted. “ Of course, if you want it.” “What do you mean?” the other “ Then come with me,” the actor went queried. on. “ You are my guest for the next “ Nothing. Just a saying of mine, week. But. first of all, we’ll get your used in connection with theatrical man- steamer ticket exchanged for next week’s agers.” “ boat. I’ll telegraph ahead to hold your Well, I felt 1 had reached the end luggage until then.” of mine, as far as securing a play for Walker had as yet been unable fully Miss Bailey and myself was concerned,” said to grasp the import of the good news, Dempster ; then in a cautious whis- and as Dempster returned to his side per added: “it’s a secret, Walker, but and led the way to a waiting cab, he I’ll let you in on it. Miss B. and I are queried: “ How do you know you want engaged to be married, and I guess it’ll the play? You haven’t read it, have take place as soon as we get to New you?” York. Naturally, we would like to play

“ I certainly have,” was the quick together, and although the majority of reply. “ I chanced upon it in New managers object to such an arrangement, York. Seldon & Co., the play-brokers, mine have consented, providing we find have a cOpy, and while there one day the play.” “ thev gave it to me to read. I saw im- But mine is a man’s play,” Walker mediately what I could do with it, and said fearfully. thoroughly, I “ I know it but there is fine after going over the script ; a part put it up to my managers. They had for Miss Bailey, and we have a new had it some time before, they said, but idea regarding it whereby it can be TWENTY-FOUR HOURS START. 349 greatly strengthened. That work is up day morning. 1 wanted to surprise her to you. If you agree, as soon as we Thursday night with the good news. strike Broadway, you’ll get the signed She told me then you had phoned her, contracts and the advance royalties. Is but she did not know where you were. ” it a bargain ? The clerk at the hotel where she “ Here’s my hand on it,” was dropped you informed us that you had Walker’s answer. left.” “ ” “ Bully ! cried Dempster in his And so I had.” Walker turned and hearty way. “Just ahead is the steam- looked the other straight in the eyes. ship office. We’ll get your tickets “ Do you know, Dempster, that but for changed then, on to my hotel.” you 1 would have placed my play with ; '1’he cab pulled up at the curb, and Myers, the manager?” both men sprang to the pavement. “ How is that ? ” the other queried in “ While you’re inside, I’m going to surprise. telephone Miss Bailey,” Dempster said. “ Never mind now. This sidewalk is “ You see, I told her nothing of my not the choicest place to converse. I’ll plans regarding your play until yester- explain some day.” TWENTY-FOUR HOURS START. By BURKE JENKINS.

The sad state of an ambitious young man

doomed forever to be a trailer and worse.

“ HE astrologer swore roundly, I am,” admitted Chanedra calmly, T though not in Persian, when both for effect and to moderate the oth- the little bell tinkled cheerily in an- er’s nervousness. “ Won’t you be seat- nouncement of another arrival. ed?” Of course it meant more money, but The young man sat down tentatively even so public a servant as a reader of on the very edge of the chair indicated the stars for struggling humanity cer- and jumped into wordiness. tainly must have some time to himself. It “ Now, it isn’t that I’ve got any faith was already eleven-thirty, and he had in predictions or fortune-telling, or any- “ made it a rule to give no audiences later thing of that sort,” he began, but it’s than eleven. just as the very last resort. This thing’s to any sleep? it’s got to be Indeed, when was he get got to be stopped ; explained, Did he not have a date with a star that or something. It’s getting too much for ” was to rise about 2 A.M., the meeting to me ! take place on his roof, with a telescope “Just a minute, my dear fellow,” in- as chaperon? terrupted Chanedra coldly. “If you have

But though he grumbled thus, Chan- no faith, why are you here? And if I edra, the soothsayer, whose advertisement am to follow your story, suppose you be- appeared every Sunday, tucked his feet gin with some common source that both into his tasseled slippers, drew on his of us can understand.” somber cloak, dropped into his most The evenness of the astrologer’s tone effective stride, opened the door, and told upon the youth. “ gave entran.ce to his visitor. I never noticed the thing until after

That the young fellow who rushed in 1 had graduated from college,” he went excitedly needed something was most evi- on in a far more collected manner. “ In- dent, and perhaps he was right in think- deed, the very first instance was the time ing that here was the place he could get I tried to -start The Galloper.” “ it. You are still too vague for me,” v ” “ You are Chanedra. the astrologist? broke in the seer. he cried wildly. “ Well, then, I’ll state facts as clearly ’ ”

350 THE ARGOSY.

us I can. As I indicated, I graduated nicety. I got out my model of it and some four years ago. I was accounted sent it to Washington. bright enough in my studies, and ranked “'Fhe result? After the customary well enough up. I was rather versatile delay, I received a letter, along with my of accomplishments and found some model, which was therewith returned. difficulty in deciding upon my vocation in The letter stated that, by the most re- life. Finally, however, it seemed best to markable coincidence, they had issued the me to start a newspaper in a small way, patent rights upon an identical affair for I had been particularly successful in such as mine, which they had received college journalism. the very day before mine arrived at the “ Accordingly, I rented a little plant patent office. The letter eyen intimated with a front office, and got out a first that they wondered how I should have edition of what I was pleased to call The got hold of the idea so soon. Can you Galloper. 1 worked pretty hard on the beat that? make-up of the sheet, and was more than “ Then I wrote a novel and took it to satisfied when I scanned it over before I a publisher. I saw his brow cloud as he sent it out. But not fifteen minutes scanned the opening sentences of my

after the papers left the place an ac- manuscript ; then he turned on me quaintance of mine came trotting into sharply. “ the office. ‘ You made a little mistake in bring- “ ‘ Well,’ said he, with a grin, ‘ I’m ing this particular manuscript to me,’ blamed if I can see the joke in the thing, said he, ‘ for it happens that I have just,

but I it’s some new only yesterday, consented to publish the Dobson ; suppose advertising wrinkle of yours.’ original.’ “ ‘ What’re you talking about?’ I “ The thing was getting on my nerves asked him. by now. Four other attempts I made to “ ‘ Why, look here.’ He slipped from forestall my unseen and premature copy- his pocket a copy of my new paper, The ist. Until finally to-night the last straw Galloper, then he once more fished into fell on me. I’m not boring you?” his coat and brought out another paper. “ Scarcely,” answered the astrologer

“ ‘ Look at the elate on this,” said he. softly.

“ ‘ “ ‘ Why, it’s the 30th,’ said I. It’s my Of course, you must know,” the first issue.’ young man continued, “ that my best “ ‘ Now look at this one,’ and he prof- efforts to succeed in the world were being fered the other sheet to me. put forth in the hope of inducing a cer- “ That paper, which bore the strongest tain young lady to share her fortunes possible likeness to my own, was dated with— “ ” “ the 29th. A-ha ! sibilated Chanedra. They “ ‘ What the— are always in things.” “ ‘ And what’s more,’ continued he, ‘ I “ Yes,” assented the other, “ and this bought this paper yesterday.’ very night, frenzied almost beyond my-

“ ‘ ’ What ! 1 cried. self, I rushed over to her house, threw “‘Then you know nothing of it?’ myself at her feet, and poured out my “ ‘ Not I,’ 1 answered truthfully, but he love for her. Would she come to me and went away, laughing at what he took for let us make our way together?” ” my drollery. “ And the result? “ “ days I tried to run that Listen. She Three more was kind ; too kind, for paper, but every one of my editions had I guessed even before she had said it. been duplicated and set on sale; and, Only last night she had been proposed to mark you this, before, a day before, I had and had accepted that mythical, mystical ” printed them myself, or indeed had even enemy of mine ! written half of them. Somebody cer- “What!” cried the astrologer, be- tainly had a wonderful scoop on me. trayed into genuine surprise. “ You “ Then, one night, 1 had an idea come have even seen this other?” “ to me while I was in bed. It was a patent Oh, how I’ve tried ! But something, for an automatic door-opener. It was almost uncanny, always prevents my run- practical in every detail—worked to a ning up with him. He’s a veritable will- : ;

IT IS THE MAN. 351

o’-the-wisp to me, though he’s anything “ You must be mistaken. You’re chaf- but such to others. fing me. How do you know when the “ But, tell me, have you ever heard of fellow was born, anyway? A-ha, now ” such a case? Am I losing my mind? Can I’ve got you ! ” you help me? “ Have you? Well, it appears that Chanedra rose languidly and stepped again he had the head start of you; for over to where a ponderous volume lay in this very room, at this very hour last open upon a small table. night, I gave him a reading and advised “ Where were you born? ” he asked as him to propose to the girl.” “ he turned the pages. Great Heaven ! And 1 ? Must I “ I was born in Philadelphia.” go through my entire life doing the things “ When ? Be exact as to time.” this scoundrel does on the following “ The morning of July 26, 1873.” day?” For a full five minutes the seer con- “I see no other way,” answered the sulted the page; then he turned slowly seer compassionately. “ ” upon his caller and said Then I’ll kill myself ! cried the “ There is little I can do for you, miserable young man. young man. But I can help you to “ I’m afraid even that is denied you,” understand the most unfortunate circum- answered Chanedra calmly, “ for, as he stances under which you were born.” happens to have achieved the object of “How? What?” the other cried his heart, and sees a happy life before eagerly. him, it seems to me that he will be the “ Well, it happened that upon the last man to commit suicide. Of course, morning of the 25th of July of that very you understand that he must do the deed year, and in the self-same city of Phila- the day before you can ever hope to

delphia, this ‘ other ’ you speak of was carry out the purpose.” born. You see the significance, don’t Then it was, on that instant, that the you? The same stars ruled the planets visitor dashed madly out into the mid- that and so the same destinies night while Chanedra, the astrologer, at time; ; will be yours. But with this exception folded another dollar bill among the —he has twenty - four hours start of others, winked at the telescope, and ” you ! crawled into bed. IT IS THE MAN. By MARIE B. SCHRADER.

A story about two men and a woman, with an experiment

in boat-sailing as an important episode in the game.

“ T UST what I wanted.” “ Easily said,” returned his compan- “ J Edward Grant threw down the ion, but in times like the present it is, letter, but quickly picked it up again, I fear, a 'subject which ean’t readily be

and read it over again carefully. dismissed.” “ Talk about the force of thought, and “ Business is dull,” went on Grant all that sort of thing, I would like to “ and that’s one reason why I am glad know how you explain this,” he said to to escape for a while from the worry of the friend who was whiling away an it. For several days I have been think- hour of a dull afternoon in idle chat. ing of leaving town, but hadn’t settled “What is it?” inquired the visitor. upon a definite plan. I tried to remem- “A prospective sale of property?” ber where my different friends spend “ I wish it were,” answered the real- their week-ends, but couldn’t locate a estate man. “ Not business. Pleasure single one of them. Just when T had pure and simple, and I mean to forget about determined to remain at home ” that there is such a word as ‘ property.’ along comes this invitation. It’s from 352 THE ARGOSY.

Hudson. You know Wellington Hud- They had all heard it before, but no son.” one was willing to admit that fact. Men “ The fellow who won the race last were too scarce to worry over their petty year with his yacht, the Sylphide?” weaknesses. “ “ “ ” The same,” answered Grant. He’s Hallo, Grant ! exclaimed Hudson, he a bully sort. Money to burn ; and with a genuine tone of hearty welcome in

“ ‘ burns it, too. Two automobiles and his voice. Your telegram said, De- property galore. All he has to think lighted.’ The expression is mutual. I about is what he will do to amuse' him- never was so glad to see anybody in my self. For the past month he has been at life.” Athol Beach. He wants me to join him Thereupon he introduced every woman for a visit. Needless to say I shall not in the circle. Grant scanned them all think twice before accepting. Here casually, and then his host excused him- goes.” self, and the two strolled off down the With these few words Grant rang a piazza. messenger call and busied himself with “Now, old chap,” said Hudson, “turn the wording of his telegram, which con- yourself loose. The place is yours. We sisted of the one word, “ Delighted.” will do anything you say, go anywhere “ I don’t believe in stringing out a you like. What do you think of the ” wire to ten cvords just because I have the ladies? privilege of sending that many for the Grant gave him a bored look. same cost as one,” he explained in an- “ Oh, I know how you size them up,” “ swer to his friend’s expression of surprise went on Hudson ; but what is a fellow at his brevity. to do ? One must have society of some “When do you leave, Grant?” kind. And, after all, they mean well.” “ “ ” As soon as I can pack my steamer- Oh, these people who mean well ! trunk. The first train out will suit me.” complained Grant. “ To tell the truth, “But what about business matters?” it would be a refreshing change to find “ There are none. My assistant, Brown, some one who isn’t so anxious to please.” will attend to everything. I am not going “ There is one of that very type right to Europe, you know, and can get back here in this hotel,” said Hudson. “ I on short notice.” have been wondering how she exercises He looked at his watch. such a powerful fascination over all the “ I must hurry if I am to catch that men. The women hate her. That goes three o’clock train. It is usually crowd- without saying. She is the sort who ed on Fridays. So long, old chap.” doesn’t care about anybody or anything, “ By the way, Grant, don’t drift into unless she wants to, and several men a summer flirtation while wading in the have already proved that she doesn’t briny.” want to care about them. She says what “ Oh, don’t worry. I can take care of she thinks regardless of the results. “ myself. Besides, I am not susceptible. I don’t intend to give you the idea I have the technique down fine, but I that she is rude. Nothing of the sort. never have put my heart in the game. She is only thoroughly independent. A Then, too, flirtations are, to say the least, spoiled child. Has had her own way all expensive.” her life, and is dreadfully stubborn in He hustled things, and was set down consequence.” “ at his friend’s stopping-place late that I see,” remarked Grant. “ Every afternoon. man bows before her, consequently she He looked around for Hudson, and dis- doesn’t care about any of them.” “ covered that gentleman at one end of the That’s it exactly,” answered Hud- “ piazza, almost completely concealed from son. How well you understand. She view by a circle of young women of is utterly different from any other girl various types and ages. They were all you ever met before.” enthusiastic over something he was tell- “Is she?" inquired Grant, with a “ ing them, which later proved to be noth- quizzical look. Do 'you know much ” ing newer than the old, old story of how about women ? “ his yacht won the race. My dear boy, they are like open : ” :

IT IS THE MAN. 353

books to me. All their little idiosyncra- of her charms. She, quite by accident, sies of temperament—all their petty of course, will overhear us, and her esti- tricks. Why, I have never met one who mation of you will go up ninety per could mystify me.” cent.” “ ” “ Except this one? My dear hoy, you’ve struck it. How “ clever Well, yes ; except this one.” you are.” “And you are in love with her?” At this point in the conversation they ” “ How ^lid you guess it? entered the elevator. As Grant removed “ Intuition, I suppose.” his hat he looked up, and there beside “ I don’t mind owning that I am. him stood one of the prettiest young However, I am not alone. I wish I were. women he had ’ever seen. Every man in the hotel is mad about her. There was a certain modesty, combined

She is young, beautiful, and wealthy. with independence, in her 1 fearing, that What more could one desire?” attracted him instantly, and when she “ Nothing,” replied Grant, “ if all you raised her large brown eyes they seemed say is true. But, old fellow, you’ve got to go straight through him. to show me. I’ve heard of these para- Hudson greeted her warmly. gons of beauty and wealth before, and “ How 'did you enjoy your afternoon, the description given me by the infatu- Miss Wakefield?” he inquired politely. ated man was never a true likeness of “ Oh, immensely,” she replied, with a the baffling original. No detective could sweet smile. have used it as a trustworthy aid in a Grant pinched Hudson’s arm. search for the heroine.” “ Oh, Miss Wakefield,” went on Hud- “ “ Wait until you see her,” said Hud- son, may I present my friend, Mr. son. “ She’s out on the Walk now.” Grant, of New York?” “ Sorry I must restrain my impa- Miss Wakefield recognized the intro-* tience,” rejoined Grant, with a good-na- duction with a- charming, but indifferent tured smile. “ She probably won’t pay smile. any attention to me, either.” Hudson gave Grant a significant look, “ I guess you’re right.” as much as to say, “ How did that strike ” “ Well, I like that,” said Grant, some- you ? but that gentleman merely re- what piqued. turned the greeting perfunctorily, and “ Have you registered yet? No? Come then turned his head the other way. right up to the desk. Then we will go All three stepped out on the same floor. up to your room.” The young woman nodded to them, and “ Hudson, you’re too kind.” walked rapidly down the hall. Hudson “ Nothing of the sort. Come, we will and Grant strolled leisurely after her. “ ” go up and look things over.” .So that’s the wonderful creature ? For a moment Hudson appeared em- exclaimed Grant.

barrassed, then added in a hesitating “How did you figure it out?” asked voice Hudson in surprise. _ “ “ I have engaged the room next hers Oh, she’s the only one who came for you.” anywhere near your glowing descrip- “ You did. How singular that you tion,” answered Grant nonchalantly. ” should chance to get it ? Miss Wakefield had already disap- “Singular? Nothing of the sort. I peared within her room as the two en- had all kinds of trouble in getting it. tered the adjoining one. You sec, old fellow, I have been just a “ Well, here we are,” said Hudson. “ little bit selfish in inviting you down I’ll stay down for a while. It’s time here. My rooms are on the next floor, to dress for dinner. You can go ahead I and I thought that when you came down while talk ; then we will go up to my —er—the walls fire very thin—and when room, and you can talk while I dress.” we talked—er. You 'see, her room is He leaned over to Grant, and added right next to yours, and— in a whisper “ “ I understand,” broke in Grant. You “ She can hear every word. I will intend that we shall have some confiden- start the conversation now, and you must tial chats concerning your appreciation help me out.” 11 A ” ”” : : : : .

354 THE ARGOSY.

“ ” I understand,” whispered Grant in “ And you think she is beautiful ? return. “ Fire away. Now. let me see, “ Very,” answered Hudson enthusi- you want to impress her with the intensity astically; “and so graceful.”

' “ of your admiration. That’s the idea, I consider her only rather pretty. ” isn’t it ? She certainly has no pretensions to “ That’s it,” answered Hudson in a beauty,” went on Grant. “ Have you whisper. “ Here goes.” met Miss Anderson? Now, I wouldn’t “ The young lady I introduced you to hesitate one second in calling her a in the elevator is the one I have told you beauty. Then, there’s the Selden-Mason

so much about.” he went on in tones a, girj. She’s another. I could name any little louder than he ordinarily employed. number who have your ‘ beauty ’ left at ” “ “Oh ! exclaimed Grant. You don’t the post. As for grace, she is not awk- ” mean it? ward, but she isn’t graceful either.” “ “ Why, you say that as if you were Grant, I won’t permit you to say surprised,” returned Hudson. such things. You must be blind.” “Well, I was,” admitted Grant. “ You “ I am,” responded Grant, “ as far as told me she —was very beautiful and some women are concerned. By the way, charming and there’s a favor I want to ask of you.” Hudson slapped him approvingly on “ Anything you like, old man,” said the back and whispered Hudson. “ “ Old man, you’re all right. Keep it It is this. Don’t mention to Miss up. Keep it up.” Wakefield that I am anything but a Then, aloud, he continued plain, ordinary man. Promise me.” “ “ So I did. Words are inadequate to Certainly,” answered Hudson. “ express all that I would like to say about For instance,” continued Grant, “you her. There isn’t another girl in the place needn’t mention my financial standing.” who can compare with her. Now, isn’t “ Oh, I wouldn’t think of speaking she all that I have said. Isn’t she the about that,” replied Hudson. most beautiful— “ Good. I wouldn’t (‘are to have her “ That’s just it,” broke in Grant. “ A know about my real estate and all that.' moment ago you said that I appeared The moment you say property some wom- surprised when I discovered that she was en imagine that you are so much richer the object of your adoration, and the than you are. By the way, I got rid of reason was— that million-dollar piece of land the He hesitated a moment, then added in other day. It has been bothering me to resounding, even tones death. I didn’t know what to do with it. “ Hudson. I can’t agree with you. You Now, I don’t have to think about the have greatly overestimated her charms. thing any more. So, you see, I have She must have hypnotized you.” nothing to worry me while down here.” Hudson looked blankly at Grant for “ That’s fine,” exclaimed Fludson. a moment, then said in a low voice: Then he returned to his subject. “ Miss “ By Jove, old chap, you’re a born act- Wakefield is very intellectual,” he said. “ or! For a moment I almost thought, Is that so?” inquired Grant. “One you meant every word of it. However, would never imagine it. By the way, I didn’t expect you to go as far as that.” Hudson, don’t mention the fact that I “As far as what?” asked Grant. write, will you? And don’t, by any “ Why, most fellows would have tried chance, tell any one that I can play the to beat me out at the game of winning piano. Some time I will play you my her good opinion. They would move latest composition, but not down here. heaven and earth to let her know how I want to get away from all these things. much they admire her. Instead of that My latest novel will be out soon. I’ll you are deliberately ruining yourself send you a copy. After I am gone you with her, while my stock goes way up. can mention these facts, but at present I I couldn’t have asked you to do such a prefer to be plain Edward Grant. No- thing, but it’s a great idea. Blaze away.” body can possibly interest me, so I don’t Hudson chuckled to himself, as Grant want to be bothered with answering ques- continued in a loud voice tions about what I have done.” : ”

IT IS THE MAN. 355

“ My dear Grant,” said Hudson in a “ You seem greatly interested in books, low voice, “ you have finished yourself Miss Wakefield?” “ completely. To tell the truth, I was Oli, I am,” she replied. “ Aren’t just a bit afraid of you as far as Miss you?” Wakefield was concerned, but after all “ Not at all,” answered Grant, giving you have just said she won’t even look Hudson a look, as if to command silence at you.” on his part. “ Tell her any old thing you like about “How strange!” exclaimed Miss me,” returned Grant in a loud voice, Wakefield. “ I am rather a good student “ except the truth. Tell her I am a of the peculiar characteristics of differ-

bookkeeper, if you care to do so.” . ent persons, and from my experience in

As he finished, Grant looked at his analyzing faces, heads, and hands 1 watch. should say that you ought to be exceed- “ You have just fifteen minutes to get ingly interested in literature of all kinds.” “ into your evening clothes,” he said. There is only one book I read,” said “ Grant ; but that one doesn’t consume much of my time, and I don’t enjoy it. I read it completely through from start A quarter of an hour later the two to finish in two glances. The end is a men found themselves on the way to the sad one.” dining-room. Hudson stopped to talk “ And what book can that be? ” asked with a tall, dignified elderly woman, who Miss Wakefield,’ with undisguised curi- proved to be Mrs. Wakefield. She took osity. an immediate liking to Grant, much to “ My bank-book, of course,” replied Hudson’s discomfiture, for, try as he Grant with a smile, and turned his at- might, he had never succeeded in im- tention to Mrs. Wakefield. pressing the lady with his good points. He was apparently absorbed in' listen- He was rather surprised when she in- ing to her remarks, but distinctly heard cited him and his friend to join herself Miss Wakefield say to Hudson: and daughter at their table. “ Your friend seems to be a clever “ Mr. Wakefield and my sister have fellow.” gone to New York,” she explained, “so “ Think so? ” answered Hudson care- there will be two vacant places.” lessly. “ By the way, Miss Wakefield, Needless to say, Hudson was delight- what about that sailing party?” ed. Grant accepted as a matter of “ Oh, I haven’t thought much about course. Miss Wakefield joined them a it, beyond suggesting that we have one,” little later, and Grant found himself in was the reply. close touch with her. However, he per- Then she returned to Grant and in-

mitted Hudson to fill all the spare time quired : for small talk that the young woman “ Are you fond of the water, Mr. ” donated. Grant? Hudson put forth his best powers of “ I love it,” he answered. conversation, and when the meal was “ So do I,” she continued, with enthu- half over was so satisfied with his own siasm. “ Many persons don’t care much efforts that he conveyed his pleasure about it—that is, about sailing. If it is thereat by covert glances at Grant. a trifle rough, you know— Miss Wakefield only spoke to the new- “ I understand,” broke in Grant. comer now- and then, and he never ven- “ Rough weather never affects me. I tured to endeavor to draw her into a chat. am a good sailor. That’s about the only It was always she who introduced the accomplishment I possess. The rougher various topics. the better for me.” Everything of interest at the seaside “ It must be great to be out in a resort was discussed, and then Miss storm?” went on the young lady. Wakefield mentioned the titles of several “ I’ve been in a number of them. Got popular novels which she had read. She upset several times, and so forth. Just criticized them in regard to characters escaped drowning, and all that.” and plots, until Grant remarked “Oh!” exclaimed Miss* Wakefield in 356 THE ARGOSY. admiration. “ You must tell me all With these words she gathered up her about your experiences.” skirts and, taking Grant’s arm in a Hudson frowned. The idea of Grant friendly fashion, as if she had known figuring as the hero in a series of roman- him all her life instead of but a few tic happenings didn’t exactly appeal to hours, started down the steps to the him. Accordingly, he sought to “ butt Boardwalk. ” into the conversation. Hudson stood for a moment as if “ Miss Wakefield is a splendid sailor,” petrified. He couldn’t say or do any- said “ she sail a boat with he ; and can thing. In the meantime the two figures the best of them. She has promised to were rapidly disappearing in the 'crowd. look over my yacht when it comes down, It was Mrs. Wakefield’s voice that haven’t you, Miss Wakefield?” brought Hudson back to a sense of the “ Yes,” answered the girl politely. conventionalities . and politeness. “ But tell me, Mr. Grant, do you know “ If you don’t mind, Mr. Hudson, will anything about boats?” you excuse me? My daughter is such a “ I have studied them all my life,” walker. It is difficult for me to keep up was the reply. with her. Suppose you leave me and “ Well, then,” continued Miss Wake- join Elizabeth and your friend. If you field, “ perhaps you can settle a disputed hurry I am sure you can overtake them.” point for me. It all centers about the “ I don’t think I shall bother about management of a sailboat. The most doing that,” replied Hudson, trying his fascinating chapter in ‘ The Green of the best to control his feelings. Sea ’ contains a situation which I con- After he had found a chair for Mrs. sider impossible. I’m curious to know Wakefield he took himself to a dark what you think of it, both from a literary corner of the piazza, where he smoked standpoint as well as from the possibility a cigar and muttered into his mustache of the thing. I believe that such episodes all the expressive words of his vocabu- must be accurately described or not at lary. all. Then, too, I want your opinion con- The moon was sailing high when, cerning the construction of the various from his sequestered refuge, Hudson de- chapters.” scried Grant and Miss Wakefield return- “ But, Miss Wakefield,” interrupted ing from the Boardwalk. They were Hudson, “ Grant knows" nothing about laughing and chatting in high spirits as such matters. He is not interested in they came up the steps and strolled down books. Are you, Grant?” the piazza toward him. Hudson gave his friend a piercing He saw them looking at the occupants look. of the rocking-chairs. Finally they “ Absolutely not,” quickly answered reached him. “ ” Grant. Ah, here he is ! exclaimed Grant. “ Oh, I had forgotten that,” said Miss “ Where did you and mother disap- “ do about pear to?” inquired Miss Wakefield ; but you know Wakefield. Then, “ boats, so that is enough. I will explain without waiting for an answer : We the entire story to you, and you can give have had such a delightful evening, me your ideas. You must have some haven’t we, Mr. Grant? We didn’t no- ideas, you know, even if you don’t wish tice that you two people were not fol- to have them,” she added, with a charm- lowing us until we reached the Casino. ing smile. We were so interested in the boat ques- A few moments later the dinner-party tion.” broke up, and the four people wandered “ Well,” asked Hudson, with grim po- out on the veranda. liteness, determined to die game, “did ” “ What do you say to a stroll on the you settle it? beach?” suggested Hudson. “ Not yet,” answered Grant. “ “ Just the thing,” replied Miss Wake- But we will to-morrow,” added Miss “ field. “ Come with us, mother. Mr. Wakefield. Mr. Grant and I are going Hudson will take care of you, while Mr. to get up at six o’clock and take a sail. Grant and I finish our little discussion There is nothing like practical demon- about the book.” stration in order. to prove things. Now, IT IS THE MAN. 357 he contends that the b&at could be han- “ You might as well be sensible about “ dled as it was in the book, and I say it it,” continued Gr.ant. What’s the use can’t. By luncheon to-morrow we will of worrying your soul out about some- give you the solution.” body who refuses to worry about you? “ 1 shall await it with intense inter- Didn’t I do everything under the sun to est,” remarked Hudson, with a tinge of follow out your instructions?” sarcasm. “ Yes, you did,” answered Hudson. “*Now, Mr. Grant,” cautioned the “Then, why blame me?” asked girl, “ be sure you are .awake at six and Grant. “ You can’t make a woman love ready ''at six-thirty.” you if she doesn’t want to. Now, can ” “ I’ll believe it when I see him. He you? won’t be waiting for you. It’s a safe “You’re right. Grant. I’m several bet,” said Hudson. kinds of a fool. It isn’t your fault. “ You may depend upon me, Miss You’ve played square. She seems to be Wakefield,” put in Grant. “ I would greatly taken with you, but you said you sit up all night if necessary.” didn’t admire her particularly. It would With these words the young woman serve her right to fall in love with some said good night and left the two men to one who didn’t return the feeling. She themselves. would get a dose of what I have had. Neither spoke for a few minutes. Go as far as you like, old chap, but don’t Then Hudson lit a fresh cigar and re- lose your heart.” “ marked : I’m not very susceptible,” answered ” “ So you enjoyed yourself? Grant evasively, “ but I will say that “ Now, look here, old man. 1 know she has a charming personality.” “ how. you feel about it, but if you will After a while you will-suddenly dis- think a moment you will see that I am cover that she is beautiful,” said Hudson not to blame. I understand, and per- suspiciously. haps 1 would be in the same sort of a “ Maybe.” humor if I were in your place. The III. plain truth is, the girl likes you, but she doesn’t love you.” The next morning, bright and early, “ ” What ! exclaimed Hudson in a Grant and Miss Wakefield set out for rage. “ You have the nerve to tell me theij- sailing trip. They returned, half- ” this to my face? starved, in the middle of the afternoon. “ “Yes, I have, because I am sure you Did you settle the question ? ” asked can see things as I do. Miss Wakefield Hudson. knows that you are in love with her; “Why, no,”. answered Miss Wakefield, that you want to spend all your time and with a blush. “ We became interested all your money at her command. De- in other things, and forgot all about it.” spite all this, what does she do? Walks “We are going out again,” explained off with a man she had only known a Grant. “ Besides, we couldn’t have few hours.” settled the matter to-day, for the sea “ I suppose you mean me to draw the was smooth. It is necessary for it to conclusion that she is madly in love with be rough.” you—a case of love at first sight?” For several days Hudson barely saw sneered Hudson. Grant except at meals; for Miss Wake- “ Nothing of the sort, old chap. Leave field was always needing his services. “ me out of it. I don’t count. I have only I say, Hudson, I don’t feel quite arrived'. You have been here a month. right in leaving you out, as I am your You have been with her every day of guest,” he remarked more than once. that time. Now, turn back the calendar “ Oh, that’s nothing, Grant. Miss and see if you have made any progress in Wakefield invites me; but I know she her affections. The best proof that you does it merely from a sense ’of courtesy. have riot is the fact that you sent for me How are you getting along?” to help matters along.” “ Famously.” “ “ And a fine mess you have made of Have you discovered that she is things, too,” savagely remarked Hudson. beautiful yet?” ” ”

358 THE ARGOSY.

“ Not yet but she is graceful. Quite Grant looked at her ; but she was ; ” intellectual, too ! gazing out at the horizon. “ ” “ Ah ! exclaimed Hudson, with a The sky and the sea,” he repeated. world of meaning in his tone. “ By the “What about ourselves?” way, have you put at rest that eternal “Ourselves?” she asked, with an un- dispute over the boat?” certain query in her voice. “ ” “No; but I am sure you will be re- Yes us two ! Are we congenial ? ; — lieved to learn that it is to be settled “ Why ” She paused, not knowing to-morrow.” just wfiat to say. “ ” “ “ Good ! said Hudson. And you Shall I answer the question for my- ” are going to get up at six again? self?” “ Sure. I can’t miss it this time, for She nodded, and began playing with she has promised to set her alarm-clock a piece of rope that lay coiled near by. ' ” right by the door which separates our “ You won’t feel offended? two rooms.” “ No,” she said in a low voice, wait- “ So,” muttered Hudson. “ You’ve ing for his next words. reached that stage, have you?” “ I have never known any girl like The next day the alarm-clock aroused you,” he went on. “ Why, there’s so Grant at the promised hour. By six- much to you. You! That little word thirty the two young people were on spells everything that is good and beauti- their way to where their boat lay. ful and—and sensible. So few women “ The sea is just right this time,” re- have real sense. But you’ve got it. I marked Miss Wakefield. “ We won’t would rather be with you than all the forget why we came, will we?” other girls in the world put together.” “ “ ” I’ll try- not to,” answered Grant, Mr. Grant ! she exclaimed, quite with a long, admiring glance which overcome.

to turn her head “ I it I caused her suddenly mean ; although didn’t intend the other way. to tell you so to-day. I wish that this They were soon seated in the boat, boat could sail on and on with us two, and sailing gaily over the choppy sea. and never go back to land again.” The girl again explained the details of “ Oh, that would be lovely,” she ex- the chapter toJiim, and they maneuvered claimed, quite carried away by his glow- with the sail. ing words, and hardly realizing that she “ You see, it could happen jus*as I had seriously committed herself. said,” concluded Grant. “ Do you mean it? ” he almost shouted. “Then I was wrong?” asked Miss “Oh,” she said. “ I—I— Wakefield. Grant nearly fell over the side of the “ Yes. I am sorry.” boat in his haste to reach her; and if “ Oh, I don’t care.” they had been closer to land, the bathers “ It won’t hurt you to be in the wrong would have seen their first kiss. once,” went on Grant. “It would spoil you always to be right.” IV. “ See here,” interrupted the girl, “ do I look like the sort of person who could When the first happy realization of be spoiled?” their mutual affection was over, they be- “ No. Come to think of it, you gan planning the manner in which they couldn’t be,” answered Grant. “ Al- would break the news to Mrs. Wakefield though, to tell the truth, when I first and Hudson. came down here I did think so. I take “ We can tell them how we maneu- ” / it all back now. Will you forgive me? vered with the sail,” said Elizabeth, “ There’s nothing to forgive." she an- “ and then we can gradually lead up swered. to— By the way, we never did finish “Isn’t this an ideal day?” he asked, that point about the construction of the with quick change of subject. novel.” “ Perfect. The sky, the sea, and— “ Why, I know nothing about writing she hesitated — “ everything is so con- novels,” said Hudson. genial.” “ Oh, yes, you do, too, you dear boy,” : ;:

IT IS THE MAN. 359

“ insisted Elizabeth. You are a wonder- supposition, and, at the same time, play- ful man. I can’t compare with you. ing ‘square’ with my friend Hudson, I am nothing but a girl of average abil- who did realize that walls have ears, I ity; while you, you are a genius.” decided to reverse the usual order of “I! A genius? I’m nothing of the procedure. sort,” protested Grant. “ Instead of posing as a genius, and “ You’re too modest. But there’s one trying to carry out the bluff, I simply thing I admire about you.” appeared as myself, a person of no ac- “ Look here, little girl, what put it complishments whatever—only a young ” into your head that I am a genius? business man who has yet to make his “ Why, you did yourself ! And you mark in the world. You are the only didn’t want to let me knowj all the won- girl I ever cared for. What you think derful things you can do.” of me now, I don’t but I know ; ask you “ I don’t as yet quite understand,” again, will you be my wife?” said Grant. Grant stood before her, with strength “ I know all about you,” continued showing in every muscle, and honesty the other. “ All about your novels and and determination in his face, as the your musical compositions, and your real boat neared the shore. estate.” Elizabeth did not hesitate a moment. “ Oh,” exclaimed Grant, as the full She placed her hands in his. meaning of her words dawned upon him. “ Your power of discernment did not “ “ Yes,” she continued, 1 must say mislead you,” she said. “ It is the' man that you used original tactics. The who has won my heart and hand.” others were not willing to go on their “Do you really mean it?” exclaimed own merits, but were obliged to resort Grant, hardly crediting his senses. to artificial methods to attract me. But For an answer, Elizabeth looked at vou, on the contrary, concealed from me him with a glance the meaning of which your true identity; and if walls had not he could not fail to read. At this mo- ears, I should not have been the wiser.” ment the sail swept around, hiding them She threw both arms around his neck from the view of those on the shore in an impulsive, girlish manner, and and Grant held her in his arms for one added brief moment, while their lips met. “ You’re the finest man I’ve ever met.” Grant disengaged himself from her V. embrace, and, taking her two hands in his, looked her full in the eyes. Hudson was the first person to greet “ Girlie,” he said, “ I’m afraid your them as they stepped ashore. His pri- estimate of me will change when you mary inquiry was: “ realize what ‘ original methods ’ I used.” Well, have you settled the ques- A peculiar smile came over his glow- tion?” “ ing face. Yes, old man, the great question has “ been settled are first I have no excuse to make for my ; and you the one “ ” actions,” he added. I throw myself to offer congratulations ! s absolutely on your mercy.” “What?” exclaimed Hudson. “ It’s the truth, I’ve Elizabeth looked at him with a puz- Hudson ; won,” zled expression. answered Grant, taking Elizabeth’s hand. “Why, what do you mean?” she Hudson proved equal to the situation, asked. and promptly extended his felicitations. “ Simply this,” replied Grant. “ I saw Then, in a mischievous way, he asked “ the mistakes that all these other fellows Do you think she is beautiful now?” and, “ I never thought otherwise, from had made in trying to win you ; realizing the fact that you were not to the moment I first saw her,” answered be dazzled by hollow pretension, and Grant, as the .three strolled toward Mrs. also knowing that you are not the ordi- Wakefield, who, comfortably seated on nary type of girl, I determined that it the beach, was reading a book which was “ the man himself who would count none other than The Green of the was ” most in your esteem. Acting on that Sea! — : ;

AN ENTICING PROSPECT. By RALPH ENGLAND.

The matter of mountain air, pretty girls, and restful

quiet in selecting a location for a summer holiday.

\\ THAT you need, my boy, said big. black type, others were printed in VV the doctor, examining my italics, several were illustrated with tongue with some concern, “ is a few half-tone or line-cut pictures of preten- weeks of thorough rest. tious looking hotels and farmhouses. “ Your system is badly run down. There was one little advertisement in You’ve been working too hard, I pre- one of the papers, however, which was sume. You require recreation more a great contrast to all the others because than medicine. Go out into the coun- of the modesty of its claims. try. Select a nice, quiet place up in the It was a plain little six-line notice, mountains. Loaf there for two or three which seemed quite out of place among weeks. Don’t worry. Don’t do any- the more pretentious announcements. thing except bask in God’s glorious sun- It read shine, and fill your lungs with fine, Shady Bower clear, crisp mountain air. That is all Farm, Greene County, situated in the heart of the Catskill except my bill, which is five dollars, Mountains, 6,000 feet above sea-level please.” bathing, rowing, and fishing free to I handed the physician his fee and guests; good, wholesome food; board, went home to look over the summer re- seven dollars per week. sort advertisements in the daily papers, in search of a suitable spot in the moun- It was the conservative tone of this tains where 1 could take the rest cure announcement which appealed to me prescribed and endeavor to restore my most of all. shattered nervous system. “No doubt this fellow’s place is just There was apparently no dearth of as good, if not better, than these others,” such places. All advertisements sound- I said to myself. “It isn’t always the ed so alluring that it was extremely dif- man who makes the most noise who has ficult to make a selection. the best wares to offer. The proprietor Each advertiser claimed that his par- of Shady Bower Fann is probably too ticular retreat was the best in the world. modest and too simple to proclaim the Each declared that the air to be breathed merits of his establishment above a on his premises was the very finest whisper.” brand of air to be breathed anywhere. That fact spoke well for him, in my As for the quality of the food and opinion. I judged him to be an hon- sleeping accommodations, and the nat- est, simple child of Nature, uncontam- ural beauties of the surrounding scenery, inated by contact with the guile and none of the resort-keepers who adver- hypocrisy of city life, who looked you tised was willing to yield first place in straight in the eye when he addressed these important respects. you, and who would rather die than The advertisements varied in phrase- dilute the milk. ology, of course. Some of them were There was something about the name written in the first person, some in the of the place, too, which attracted me. “ ” third—at least, three of them were in Shady Bower Farm ! It certainly verse—the advertisers evidently being sounded enticing. I could almost of the firm opinion that mere prose smell the new-mown hay and hear the could not do justice to their establish- melodious swishing of the tree-branches ments. as they were swept by the keen, invig- Some of the advertisements were in orating mountain breezes. ! :

AN ENTICING PROSPECT. 361

And, in addition, the cheapness of In response I got another penciled the board was an important considera- epistle, as follows tion. Most of the other advertisements quoted prices far above my means. Healthy ! Why, we haven't even got a graveyard Seven dollars a week was really very around these parts. Five years ago a doctor located ten miles reasonable, especially when rowing, from this place. He thought he was go- bathing, and boating were thrown in ing to make a comfortable living, I gratis. So I decided upon Shady Bower reckon. He is now an inmate of our Farm. county poorhouse. I mention this to I wrote a letter to the proprietor, ask- show you that we ain't got no use for ing for furtfier particulars, and stating a physician around here. We don't even that I was a young man whose health need a horse-doctor. Our live stock was somewhat impaired, and who was never ails. The pure mountain air keeps them healthy. looking for a nice, quiet, healthy spot As for bein’ restful, my dear friend, in the mountains in which to recuperate. let me assure you that Shady Bower I received a reply almost immediately. Farm can’t be beat in that respect, It was written in lead-pencil on ruled though I do say it myself. paper, and this fact pleased me im- This is the place where Rip Van mensely. It is a pet theory of mine that Winkle fell into his long sleep. It the character of people can be judged wasn’t no magic liquor which caused by their correspondence. Rip to doze off. It was the restful at- Surely, a man who used a- pencil in- mosphere of Meritville, Greene County. I guess I stead of pen and ink, and ruled paper can’t say no more. When can I expect you? instead of a more pretentious letter- head. must be a simple, unsophisticated, This sounded encouraging. As a all-right sort of fellow, I argued. The matter of fact, it sounded just a little favorable mental picture of the proprie- too encouraging to suit me. tor of Shady Bower Farm which I had In accordance with my physician’s already formed was heightened by the advice. I was seeking a quiet place; but receipt of this letter. I didn’t want one that was too quiet. It read as follows: I am young and romantically in- clined, and my vacation plans included Dear Friend: the summer girl. What was the use of I got your note and was very glad to free hear from you. If you decide to come, rowing, bathing, and fishing unless there I am sure I can make you comfortable were pretty girls to row, bathe, and give you a good time. and fish with? My farm is really a very beautiful Unless Farmer Snookins’s place was place. Folks do tell me that it is the enlivened by the presence of the sum- prettiest spot in all the Catskills. I mer girl, I decided that, whatever its reckon they are jollying me some; but other natural advantages, Shady Bower come and see for yourself. Write me Fann was not the place for me. when you expect to arrive, and I will So I sent him a telegram, inquiring: meet the train with my rig, Yours respectfully, Are there any pretty girls stopping Farmer Hiram Snookins. with you?

that letter began. I liked the way He replied by letter, as follows: “ ” Dear Friend ! How delightfully cordial and unconventional it sounded Pretty gals? Say, my dear fellow. I’ve got a score of them on my farm. Surely, it fellow who hailed you as a The young lady who won the beauty- friend before he' had seen your face prize, recently offered by a New York would simply exude hospitality when newspaper, is at present one of my were actually his guest. you boarders. The others run her pretty I cautious, however. I wrote an- was close, though, when it comes to looks. other letter to Farmer Snookins, asking They’re the prettiest lot of gals I’ve him if he was quite sure that his place ever seed in all my life. Come and take was healthy and restful. your pick of them. I’ve told them that ” /

362 THE ARGOSY.

you’re coinin’, and they’re all terribly At length I approached a shabby, anxious to meet you. dirty - looking, bearded man, cvho stood near a wagon which was even dirtier That settled the matter. I packed looking than he was. my trunk, bought a ticket, wired Farmer I had noticed this wagon before but ; Snookins that I was on my way, and the idea that it could be used for the boarded a Hudson River boat that very transportation of passengers had not * day. occurred to me. Its appearance indi- I left the boat at Catskill Landing cated that it was there for the purpose and took the mountain railroad to Merit- of hauling a load of mud or coal or ville. some such cargo. The train ride was long, dusty, and “ I beg your pardon, my friend,” I - uncomfortable : but I comforted myself said to the shabby, dirty faced man, with pleasant thoughts of Shady Bower “ you haven’t seen anything of a rig Farm, honest, hospitable Farmer Hiram from Shady Bower Farm, have you?” Snookins, and his bevy of pretty girl “ Sure,” he replied, eying me with boarders — especially the young lady surprise. “ There it is.” “ ” who had won the beauty prize awarded Good Heavens ! I gasped, seeing by a New York newspaper. I promised that he pointed to the dirty, dilapidated myself many delightful hours with this wagon. “ Surely, not that—

proved possessor of pulchritude. “ That’s Shady • Bower Farm’s rig,” “ ” “ All out for Meritville ! shouted said he, regarding me sternly. Are the conductor at length. “Change here you Mr. Mortimer Collingw’ood, the for Savo, Hillside, Highbend, Ganon- new boarder?” ” “ bury, and Brookdale ! Yes,” I stammered, and began to Quite a- few of us left the train. wish myself back in New York. There were young men, old men, young The discovery that that wretched- women, old women, whole families, and looking conveyance and the half- single, solitary persons, like myself, who starved, weak-kneed horses attached to stepped upon the platform.. -it were the property of my prospective I noticed a dozen or more farmers’ host was certainly a great shock, but I rigs drawn up alongside the little depot. quickly rallied. 1 Some of these rigs were quite smart I thought of the young lady boarder looking, and all of them bore signs de- who had won the beauty prize and the noting their destination. score of other pretty girls who were to

I scanned these signs eagerly. . I be found at Shady Bower Farm, and I read: “Dow’s Fruit Farm,” “Sherman began to make excuses to myself for the House,” “Swiss Manor,” “Hillside appearance of that rig. “ Villa,” Hotel Canonbury,” etc., on Perhaps it was only a borrowed vehi- not a sign of any various wagons ; but cle, I reflected. Maybe my host’s regu- vehicle from Shady Bower Farm could lar conveyance had broken down, and I discover. rather than disappoint me he had pressed My fellow passengers who had this outfit into service. alighted with me climbed aboard the I turned to the man with a sigh of waiting wagons, laughing and chatter- relief. ing, and were driven away to their re- “Where is Farmer Snookins?” I spective destinations. inquired pleasantly. When the last of them had gone I “ I am Farmer Snookins,” he an- stood alone upon the deserted platform, swered, gazing at me defiantly. gazing mournfully at my trunk and This certainly was shock number two. dress-suit case, and began to feel de- The proprietor of* Shady Bower Farm cidedly dejected and uncomfortable. sadly differed from the mental picture I Farmer Snookins had promised posi- had conceived. tively to meet the train and transport In addition to being dirty, shabby, me and my baggage. His failure to and. unkempt, he wasn’t at all in ap- make good at the start did not look very pearance an honest, simple child of encouraging. Nature.

\ AN ENTICING PROSPECT. 363

His face was extremely sinister-look- cided to spend my vacation at Shady ing, his eyes and, Farm. the prospect of were beady ; instead of Bower Even looking you straight in the face, he had meeting the bevy of beautiful boarders, a habit of gazing at his large and ill- including the fortunate winner of the shod feet. pulchritude prize, could no longer I am optimistically inclined, however. cheer me. “ After all,” I reflected, “ appear- At length, just as I was beginning ances are often deceiving. This fellow to believe that the ride would never may possess a heart of gold, despite his come to an end, we drew up in front of ill-favored countenance.” a dilapidated two-story farmhouse, which I held out my hand impulsively. in wretchedness of appearance quite “ Farmer Snookins,” I said, “ I am matched -the wagon arid Farmer Snook- very glad to meet you. I hope that our ins. acquaintance will prove mutually pleas- Night had already descended, but ant.” there was not a single light in this “Huh!” he grunted. “Jump in the gloomy looking building— not even the rig, and we’ll be gettin’ along. We’re flicker of a candle in one of the win- late already. Why in thunderation dows. didn’t you tell me who you was before? I turned to my companion fearfully. Is this here your trunk?” “What place is this?” I demanded

I nodded. hoarsely ; but I knew intuitively what “ Well, you’d better give me a hand his answer would be. “ in gettin’ it into the wagon, I reckon.” This is Shady Bower Farm,” he an- I complied. There was something swered, and he added to the words a about Farmer Snookins’s demeanor chuckle that sounded positively fiendish. “ which forced compliance. I began to Get out,” he commanded, “ and feel pretty miserable and decidedly un- give a hand with the trunk. Don’t sit comfortable. My host’s manner was gaping there, young feller. Everybody no more prepossessing than his looks. helps on Shady Bower Farm. We “ I suppose it’s just surface gruffness, haven’t any use for shirkers around though,” I reassured myself, still opti- here.” mistic. “ The natural gruffness of a son “ But I didn’t come here to work,” of the soil, I guess.” I protested indignantly. I climbed aboard the wagon, and Of course, I should not have minded Farmer Snookins seated himself beside helping him with the trunk, for it was me and took the reins. obviously too heavy for him to handle

It was a long, tedious ride, and for alone ; but I resented the command- the most part a painfully silent one. ing tone in which he spoke, and I made Mr. Snookins was not much of a con- up my mind that it was high time for versationalist, it appeared. He rarely us to arrive at an understanding. “ spoke unless I addressed myself to him, I never heard of a hoarding-house and then he generally replied in mono- where the guests were expected to do the syllables. work of a hired man,” I went on “ The man’s manner soon began to get haughtily. I do not wish to appear on my nerves. There was something disobliging, Mr. Snookins; but I must almost uncanny about him as he sat be- positively refuse to be bossed by you.” side me, grim and silent. He shrugged his shoulders, and, My spirits began to grow more and pursing his lips, emitted a shrill whistle. more depressed as the. ride progressed. I heard a swishing in the long grass, To add to my -discomfort, the mountain and suddenly six of the most ferocious roads we traveled were so rough that I boarhounds I had ever seen dashed up was shaken and rattled until I was on to the wagon and began to growl and the verge of collapse. If that wagon snarl in a manner which filled me with had any springs at all, they certainly terror. did not serve the purpose for which they “ These here dogs belong to me,” said were put there. Farmer Snookins quietly. “At a word How I wished now that I had not de- from me they would tear you to pieces. — ;

364 THE ARGOSY.

Now, are you going to give me a hand queer they tolerate such tyrannical treat- with that trunk?” ment.” “ Send away those dogs, and I’ll do It suddenly dawned upon me that anything you say,” I gasped, my teeth perhaps there were no other boarders. chattering with fear. I had not seen nor heard signs of any. I assisted him in lifting the trunk into My belief in the score of pretty summer the house, the savage-looking dogs en- girls, of whom Farmer Snookins had circling us and snapping at me as I did boasted in his letter, had vanished by so in a manner that made my blood run this time. cold. The proprietor of Shady Bower Farm He led the way up a shorj flight of had deceived in other me respects ; so stairs, and with my help, deposited the what reason was there for supposing trunk in a small front room. that his alluring letter had told the “ This is your bedroom,” he said. truth about these beautiful maidens? I “ You can retire now, if you like. I was fully convinced now that the young guess you must be tired after your long lady who had won the prize for beauty trip.” s offered by a New York newspaper was “ “ I’m hungry,” I told him. It is nothing more than a myth—a figment several hours since I dined. Aren’t you of Farmer Snookins’s imagination. going to give some supper?” * I sleep length I me went to at ; for was “ We don’t serve suppers at Shady so exhausted from my trip that even Bower Farm,” he replied coldly. “ If my disappointment and my fears could you’re up early to-morrow morning, not keep me awake. you’ll get some breakfast. Good night.” I was aroused at about six the fol- He poked his head in at the door lowing morning by the ringing of a again a few seconds later. rising-bell. * I forgot to tell you that I let them I dressed hastily, and hurried down- dogs run around lpose at night,” he re- stairs, remembering that Farmer Snook- marked. “ They’re hungry, and they ins had intimated that I would get no ain’t got any prejudice against human breakfast unless I was early at the table. flesh. I merely mention this in case I found my way unaided to the dining- you might be thinking of taking an eve- room. Farmer Snookins was not there ning stroll.” but a young girl was laying the cloth With these words he went out again. as I entered the room. I flung myself dejectedly on the bed and She appeared surprised to see me; began to ponder upon the situation. and I was joyfully surprised to see her. This was certainly the queerest board- She was beautiful enough to be the ing-house I had ever struck. I was holder of the pulchritude prize the being treated more like a prisoner than farmer had mentioned in his letter. She a guest. was, without doubt, one of the prettiest I made up my mincl that 1 would girls I had ever beheld, although her leave the place the next day. face was pale and her eyes looked as I went to the window, and, throwing if she had l)een crying. it open, gazed out at the surrounding At sight of her, I began to waver in landscape. my determination to leave Shady Bower There' didn’t seem to be another Farm immediately after breakfast. human habitation for miles around “ Perhaps this place isn’t so bad, after nothing but farmlands and wild moun- all,” I mused. “ I might try to stick tain country. From beneath my window it out for a day or two, anyway.” “ came the howls of one of the ferocious Good morning,” I said aloud. “ morning,” she replied boarhounds. „ Good very “ I certainly shall not stay here any cordially. longer than to-morrow morning, even “ Have I the pleasure of addressing if I have to pay a whole week’s board Farmer Snookins’s daughter?” I' in- quired for, seeing that she was in order to get away,” I said to myself, ; busy with a shudder. “ I wonder what kind laying the table, I assumed that she must of people the other boarders are. Tt is be a member of the household. ” ” :

AN ENTICING PROSPECT. 3(55

She shook her head negatively. “ Yes.” ” “ Are you employed here, then ? “ That’s good. Your talent will come _ Again she shook her head and, step- in handy. My barn needs painting. ; ping over to my side, she whispered in That will keep you employed for the my ear these startling words balance of the day, I reckon.” “ I am a prisoner in this place, like “ But I am not that kind of a paint- “ yourself.” er,” I protested. 1 paint pictures.” “What?” I gasped. “You surely “ My barn is a picture,” he replied can’t mean that you— grimly. “ Don’t argue with me, young “ ” “ Hush ! she whispered. For man. You’d better get busy right away.” “ Heaven’s sake not so loud, or he will Now, see here”’ I exclaimed, sum- hear us. I came here as a boarder a moning all my courage, “ we might as week ago. I have been here ever since.” well have an understanding right now, “ And do you mean to say that he Mr. Hiram Snookins. I did not come makes you wait at table and do the here to work. As I told you in my let- housework?” I exclaimed indignantly. ter, I came here for rest and quiet. 1

She nodded; and her eyes fillpd with am paying you board, and 1 don’t in- tears. tend to be treated like a hired man. I “ Why do you stand for it? Why won’t stand for it, in fact.” “ don’t you leave?” I demanded. Is that so?” he replied, without the “ I can’t,” she replied, with an ex- slightest trace of emotion. pression that was pitiful. “I am a pris- He went to the window and whistled. oner here. I cannot get away. You, The six ferocious-looking boarhounds too, will find that you— came bounding over the window-sill. looked She did not finish the sentence ; for They even more powerful and just then Farmer Snookins entered the savage by daylight than they had ap- room, and took his seat at the head of peared in the dusk of the preceding eve- the table. ning. “ ” Bring on the breakfast ! he com- They crouched obediently at his feet, manded gruffly. the foam dropping from their cruel, dis- The girl complied with a submissive- tended jaws, a wicked light in their ness that made my blood boil. bloodshot eyes. She brought in three platters of “Going to paint that barn?” he in- corned beef, some stewed corn, and some quired laconically. “ bread and butter. Of course I am,” I answered hastily. “ “ Sit down, both of you,” the farmer I was only joking when I refused just

commanded us sternly. now. If there is anything I enjoy it is- The girl seated herself obediently at painting barns. Where shall I find ” the table; so jiid I. There was some- paint-pot and brush ? thing about our host’s manner which “ In the barn,” he answered. “'See

brooked no opposition. that you make a good job of it, or you’ll We ate in silence. After we had fin- have to do it all over again. I don’t ished, Farmer Snookins again addressed like sloppy work. You’ll find a ladder himself to the girl. there, too. Get along now.” “ “ Go into the kitchen,” he commanded, By the way, Mr. Snookins,” I said “ “ and shell the peas for dinner. When timidly, I am sorry to have to inform you get through with them, you can you that I shall have to leave you this darn my socks.” evening. I have some important business If she had been under a hypnotic spell, to transact in New York. Of course, 1 she could not have obeyed him more shall return here—when that business meekly. has been attended to.” After she had left the room, he turned I looked at him eagerly as I said those to me. words. Would he fall for this none too “What do you do for a living?” he subtle ruse, I wondered uneasily? “ inquired. You will leave here when I get good “ I am an artist,” I replied. and ready to let you go,” he answered “A painter, you mean?” gruffly. “ I guess that important busi- . :

366 THE ARGOSY. ness transaction in New York will have As though in answer to my un- to wait for a few weeks, my friend. uttered thought, our tyrannical host Go along to your work now.” spoke again I walked toward the barn slowly and “ I guess I’ll have to lock you up sadly. My brain was in a whirl. My in the barn while I’m away,” he said. heart was as heavy as lead. “ You’d better not try to get out neither, Could this be the twentieth century, for them dogs will be outside waitin’ it really and New’ York State? Was for you. They’ll be extra hungry, . and possible that this fellow could keep me savage, too. I haven’t given them any- here and make me do his bidding thing to eat this morning, so as to be against my will? sure that their appetites will be good.” It certainly looked as if it were pos- He grinned at the look of discomfiture for, as it seemed, here was I repress. I sible ; absurd which could not understood

1 actually getting the ladder and paint- now why the girl had made no effort to pot out of the barn, and starting in to escape during the absence of. our captor do the work of a house-painter— I, who on the preceding day. possessed the soul of an artist, and who True to his word, after Farmer had come to this place on a physician’s Snookins had harnessed up the pair of instructions to take a short, perfect rest. wretched - looking horses to the dirty, And yet, what else could I do? To dilapidated wagon, he put us inside the make sure that I did not loaf. Farmer barn, and locked the door on the outside Snookins sent one of his boarhounds to with a padlock. Then he ordered his watch me. six boarhounds to stand guard outside, brute squatted on his haunches The v and drove off, confident that we could at the foot of the ladder, and growled not get away. ' so ominously every time I ceased slinging After he had gone, I looked at the paint, that I worked more industriously girl, and the girl looked at me. De- than I had ever worked in my life. spair was written on our faces. “ At noon my tyrannical host came to This is a pretty state of affairs,” summon me to dinner. I groaned. The meal consisted of cold roast meat; “ It is terrible,” she replied, with a green peas, and potatoes. The girl laid sob. the table, and then joined us, as she had “ Do you mean to tell me that you done at breakfast. I again noticed how have actually been kept a prisoner here beautiful she was; and the sad, despair- for a week? ” I inquired. “ ing look on her pale face filled me with Yes. And I fear I shall remain here a determination to find some means of for the rest of my life,” she sobbed. rescuing her and myself from our ex- “ There doesn’t seem to be any chance traordinary captivity. of getting out of the clutches of this After we had finished eating, Farmer odious wretch.” Snookins announced that he intended to “ How did you come to select this make another trip to the railroad-station place?” I asked. that afternoon to bring back some more “ I was attracted by his advertisement guests who had succumbed to the lure in the paper—the same as you were, I of his advertisement in the newspaper. suppose,” she answered. “ I am a New My heart beat joyously at his words. York school-teacher, and I was looking I fancied I saw a chance to escape from ’for a nice, quiet place in which to spend this place while our captor was away. a few weeks of my vacation. “ 1 glanced across the table at the girl, According to the advertisement, thinking that she also must perceive this Shady Bower Farm seemed to be just the kind opportunity ; but, to my surprise, there of place I sought; and, in was not the slightest trace of hope on addition, the board was very cheap. I her face. wrote for further particulars, and re- “ I wonder why she did not try to get ceived such a nice, cordial letter in re- away yesterday while Farmer Snookins ply that I packed my trunks and came was at the depot bringing me here?” I up here immediately. That wretch can asked myself. certainly write nice letters.” —

AN ENTICING PROSPECT. 367

“ Yes, I know—confound him,” I with a sudden ray of hope. “If so, they groaned. “ It was his letters that lured will soon become alarmed at not hearing me here, too. What is his game, any- from you, and will come here to investi- way? Why does he act in this extra- gate.” ordinary fashion? He must be crazy.” “ No, they w'on’t,” she answered sadly. “ “ Of course he’s crazy,” replied the Even though that farmer is insane, he girl. “ Haven’t you noticed the mad is very shrewd. He doesn’t overlook a glint in his eyes. He is violently in- single detail. I have received several sane. Do you know what he calls this letters from my friends since I have been place?” here. “ Shady Bower Farm, I believe he has “He reads them all; and he forced named it.” me to answer them. He makes me send “ Oh, that’s what he calls it in the them pretty souvenir postals, telling he’s advertisement ; but got another name them what a fine place this is, and that for it. He calls it ‘ The Asylum for the I am having a perfectly delightful time. Sane.’ He told me the other day, with I am obliged to write as he dictates a fiendish chuckle, that -there are so many otherwise, he -threatens to set his dogs institutions for insane people that he on me. I fully believe that he w'ould deemed it high time that the sane folks do it, too.”

had an asylum, too. That’s why he “Good Heavens! How terrible!” I keeps us here.” v gasped. “ I can see now that we are “ ” “ How terrible ! I gasped. Do going to have a hard job getting out you mean to say that you haven’t had of this madman’s clutches!—but I am a single chance to get away in the past going to find a way,” I added, with as seven days?” much confidence as I could summon “ How could I ? Those terrible dogs under the circumstances. “ are running around loose all the time, Oh, it is brave of you to talk so day and night. They would tear me to hopefully,” she declared, regarding me pieces at the first opportunity. And, admiringly. “ It gives me courage to besides, he goes about armed. He’s a hear you. I am so glad that you are regular walking arsenal. He carries a here. It makes this terrible situation loaded revolver in every pocket; and he so much easier to bear.” told me the first day I got here that he I myself did not feel particularly glad that I w'as would fill me full of lead if I attempted there ; but I delicately re- to escape.” frained from telling her so. “ ” “ “ “ Horrors ! I ejaculated. But By the way,” I remarked, we nevertheless we must find some way to might as well introduce ourselves to each escape. We must match our wits against other. My name is Mortimer Colling- his cunning.” wood. Would you mind telling me ” “ I wish we could,” she sighed. “ I yours? am afraid, though, that our wits would “Janet Meredith,” she answered. “ avail us little against the teeth of those It is a pretty name,” I declared. terrible dogs.” “ I am delighted to meet you, Miss “ Haven’t you had an opportunity to Meredith—even under, these most dis-

• communicate with people on the out- tressing circumstances.” side ? ” I inquired, with a shudder. It w'as evening before Farmer Snook- “ Surely you must have been able to get ins returned and released us from the word to somebody.” barn. “ No. He’s too clever to permit He brought with him a nice-looking that,” was her discouraging reply. “ He young couple. “ won’t allow' us to get within speaking Poor things,” I whispered to Miss distance of anybody. That’s v’hy he Meredith, regarding the neu'comers with locks us up in here when he goes to the sympathy. railway-depot.” The young man appeared to be much “ Well, don’t your friends know' that worried. His wife was on the verge of you are here? Didn’t you leave them tears. I could see at a glance that your address when you came?” I asked, Farmer Snookins had already begun to 368 THE ARGOSY.

“ impress his new guests with his startling “Now,” said the farmer, . are you idiosyncrasies. going to give me a hand, or are you ” We made their acquaintance on the not? front porch. The young man took ad- The young man assisted him in lifting vantage of an opportunity to take me the trunk up-stairs. It cannot be truth- aside and whisper in my ear. fully said that he did so cheerfully; but “ Say, old man,” he said anxiously, he certainly went about the task with - “ what kind of a ranch is this, anyway? plenty of alacrity.

I don’t believe I like the fellow who The newly wed couple did not carry runs it at all.” out their intention of leaving Shady “ You’ll like him still less when you’ve Bower Farm next morning for a more been here a few days,” I retorted grimly. congenial place. Very much against “ I don’t intend to stay here a few their wills, of course, they started in to days,” he answered with a frown. “ My spend their honeymoon by doing chores wife and 1 are on our honeymoon. We' for Farmer Snookins. can’t afford anything very swell ; and The young husband chopped wood, his his when we saw advertisement we and made himself generally useful ; thought it would suit us perfectly. bride assisted Miss Meredith with the “ We intended to stay here for three kitchen work. weeks; but that farmer’s manner doesn’t “ It’s a darned outrage,” the young suit me at all. He’s already got my man confided to me, when we had a wife frightened almost out of her wits. chance to exchange a few words'without We’ve got to stay over nighj, I guess. being overheard. “ It doesn’t seem pos- It is too late to find another boarding- sible that such a state of affairs could shall certainly leave the exist in these less house ; but we days ; and than a hun- first thing to-morrow morning.” dred miles from New York City. We “ Maybe you’ll stay here longer than really ought not to submit to it. We you think,” I said gently. ought to stand together, and assert our “ Oh, no, we won’t,” he answered in- independence.” nocently. “ I don’t like the looks of “ Perhaps we ought,” I replied, “ but the place at all—and, besides, there are I don’t think those dogs would receive mosquitoes here. One bit me on the nose a declaration of independence from us just now. My wife and I can’t stand very graciously. I guess you’d better mosquitoes. We shall leave right after keep on chopping wood, and say nothing breakfast to-morrow morning.” for the present.” I did not have the heart to impart The young husband volunteered the to him the cruel truth. He would find suggestion that it would be a good idea

it out soon enough, I reflected. to poison the dogs. “ Come here and give me a hand lift- We all heartily agreed with him that ing this trunk up to your room,” Farmer it would be an excellent idea; but we Snookins commanded him sternly. were sadly handicapped in its execution “ Do nothing of the sort, Percival,” by the lamentable fact that we were exclaimed the young man’s bride indig- quite unable to procure the necessary nantly. “ The idea of his asking such poison.

I a thing of you ! We did not come here proposed making an attempt to get with the away while the dogs were to work. If he needs help asleep ; but trunk, let him get one of the farm- Miss Meredith assured us that the brutes hands.” never slept with more than one eye Farmer Snookins did not make any closed; and, besides, as she pointed out, answer to this mutinous outburst. He Farmer Snookins always locked all the merely pursed his lips, and gave vent doors at night and took away the keys. to a shrill whistle. During the day the dogs never let us I knew from bitter experience what out of their sight. that meant. The six ferocious boar- I was a prisoner for a whole week hounds came bounding onto the porch. before I hit upon what really seemed They encircled the young couple with like a feasible plan of effecting our es- savage growls. cape.

i AN ENTICING PROSPECT. 369

1 mentioned it to Miss Meredith, when Farmer Snookins, who has gone insane. There we had an opportunity to exchange a are nine of us, and we have been imprisoned here for weeks. Don’t fail few words alone. to come well armed, for Farmer Snook- “ I’ve got an idea,” I announced. ins is armed to the teeth, and he has six “ Is it good one? ” she asked eagerly. a savage boarhounds. For Heaven’s sake “ Well, I think it will work. Listen, don’t fail us in our hour of need, or our and I’ll explain it to you. You’ve heard, blood will be on your head. Hurry! of course, of shipwrecked mariners, Hurry! Hurry! Help! Help! Help! stranded on desert islands, getting news “ of their predicament to the outside world I guess that is strong enough,” 1 by enclosing messages in glass bottles remarked, eying my work with satisfac- ” which they cast into the sea? tion. 1 rolled the paper tightly, and “ Yes,” she assented eagerly. placed it inside a small bottle which had

“ Well, I intend to follow their ex- contained tooth wash. Then I jammed ample,” I went on. “ I have managed the cork in so snugly that the bottle was to get hold of a small glass bottle.” thoroughly water-tight, and threw it into “ But I don’t see how that could be the brook. done,” she exclaimed. “ We haven’t any Miss Janet Meredith and l observed sea to throw a bottle into and bottles with much satisfaction that there was ; won’t float on land, you know. If you just enough current to the tiny stream to

threw it on the ground, nobody would carry the bottle away. be likely to discover it.” We watched that improvised bearer of

“ 1 don’t intend to throw it on the our forlorn hope until it drifted out of ground,” I answered. “ Look, Miss sight. Then we both sighed, and walked Meredith. Do you see that little brook slowly away. “ ” I do hope that somebody finds it there? .

I pointed to a tiny stream which ran and reads that message,” Miss Meredith past the rear of Shady Bower Farm. remarked fervently. “ That stream must wend its way to My emotion was too great to permit of some creek or river around here,” 1 went words. I squeezed her little hand

on excitedly. “ I was studying it this sympathetically, and noticed with de-

morning. Luckily for us, it has been light that she did not appear to resent it. All that day we wondered and wor- swollen by recent "rains ; and, small ried. though it is, it ought to have enough Every time our eyes met, each current to carry away a small bottle. could see that that little bottle and its precious contents in 1 am going to put a message in a little were uppermost the other’s thoughts. glass bottle, and throw it into the brook. said nothing to pris- If we are4ucky, it will be carried out We our fellow into deeper water and finally to the river, oners about what we had done. Of course, if successful, and somebody will pick it up and hurry my plan was we would all benefit by it but there to our rescue.” ; was “ Oh, how very clever of you!” she no use in taking them into our con- exclaimed, clapping her little hands. fidence at present. “I do hope that you will succeed! If That evening Farmer Snookins sum- us you get me out of this horrid place, I moned all into the barn. There shall never forget you, Mr. Colling- was something about his man- wood.” ner which filled me with terror. His These words made me more than ever eyes were bloodshot and rolling. His mouth worked spasmodically. coun- determined not to fail. His tenance, ordinarily sinister, looked I wrote on a piece of paper, with my now fountain pen, the following stirring mes- positively fiendish. When we were all assembled before sage : him, he stood there regarding us with a Help! Help! Help! Whoever reads leer of triumph, rubbed his palms to- this, get men and guns and hasten to gether in a satisfied way, and gave vent Shady Bower Farm, Meritville, Greene to several chuckles, the sound of which County. We are kept prisoners here by made my blood run cold. 12 A 370 THE ARGOSY.

“ [ knew that something unusual was And the three minutes are up. too,” “ about to happen; but I did not guess he added. The festive hour has ar- the awful fate that fiend in human form rived. Slaves, prepare to defend your- had mapped out for us. selves, if you can, for here come the “ . Ladies and gentlemen,” he began, wild beasts to devour you.” “ in a rasping voice, I have assembled He pursed his lips, and was about to you here in order to give you a great give vent to the whistle, which meant treat. My asylum for the sane has been our doom. an immense success. I am very well But just then we heard wild howls of pleased with the way my original idea fury, followed by the sharp reports of has worked. My experiment has given firearms and the shouting of many men.

me great pleasure ; but, nevertheless, I Before Farmer Snookins could turn, a have decided that it is time to bring it burly man had entered the barn, and to an end.” brought the stock of a rifle crashing Each of us heaved a heartfelt sigh down upon his head. of relief. We thought that he was about The burly man was followed by sev- to announce we could have our freedom. eral others. We turned to our deliverers “ T have decided to bring my experi- with exclamations of gratitude and joy. ment to an end by a great and thrilling “ Thank goodness we were in time,” spectacle,” he went on, chuckling at the said the burly man, kneeling and tying hopeful look on our faces. the prostrate farmer’s hands and feet “ I once read in a book that in ancient with ropes. “ I am the sheriff of the .times slaves were thrown into the arena county, ladies and gentlemen. The note along with wild beasts. This barn, will you sent in the bottle was picked up in make an excellent arena, and those pet the creek by a feller in a naphtha launch, dogs -of mine are certainly wild beasts. and handed to me. “ I haven’t given them a morsel of food I didn’t know whether it was a hoax this day, in order that their appetites or not, but I decided to act at once. I should be thoroughly whetted.” got my posse together, and we came here We understood him now, and looked as quick as we could. at each other in horror and despair. “ I’ve been sort of suspicious of this “ Good Heavens,” I gasped. “ You feller Snookins for some time past. Every don’t mean to say that you are really time I’ve met him on the road I’ve fan- going to be inhuman enough to set those cied he looked and acted sort of queer. “ dogs on us?” He ain’t been exactly right, I He laughed sardonically. guess, since his wife and daughter were “ I reckon you’ve got my idea exactly, drowned, a year ago. I didn’t suppose, friend,” he chuckled. “ In three min- though, that he was really violently in- utes I shall whistle for my faithful pets, sane. I figured out that he was harm- and then the fun will begin.” less.” “ He again rubbed the palms of his Well, he wasn’t harmless, I assure hands together. I looked into that cruel you,” I declared grimly. “If you had face, and foresaw that we were all arrived one second later you would have nevertheless, I tried to found our mangled bodies. He was just doomed ; but, plead with him. about to order those terrible dogs of his “ “ Have mercy,” I begged. Give us to tear us limb from limb, when you and a little more time. Or, if you must kill your men gallantly intervened. By the us, shoot us down. Don't let those terri- way, what have you done with those ” ble dogs tear us to pieces. Have a little dogs? “ pity.” Shot ’em all dead,” he answered, “ No, no,” he replied, laughing loud with a grunt of satisfaction. “ Thanks and shaking his head. “ It wouldn’t be to the warning contained in .that bottle, half as much fun to shoot you down. we came here fully prepared to handle I’ve thought of that, but it would all be them brutes. They attacked us, but we over too quick. The dogs will furnish were too quick for them. Each and a much more thrilling spectacle. It’s every one of them lias a bullet through going to be the dogs. his head.” ;

A COLD DAY FOR THE GEORGIA MAN. 371

My breast expanded with a heartfelt the beautiful girl suddenly reeled and sigh of relief. fell fainting into my arms. “ I guess you are all free to depart Of course it was an unconscious act now, ladies and gentlemen, whenever on her part, but her hands were certainly you are ready,” announced the sheriff, clasped around my neck when she opened with a pleasant smile. “ I reckon you her eyes. won’t want to hang around Shady Bower “ After all, this harrowing experi- Farm after the experience you have had.” ence possessed some compensating ad- “ I reckon not,” I replied. “ I am vantages,” I remarked to the sheriff. awfully glad that my bottle plan worked “ So I perceive,” he replied, with a so well. Aren’t you, Miss Meredith?” laugh. “ Don’t forget to send me an But instead of answering my question invitation, young feller.”

A Cold Day For the Georgia Man. By GEORGE MARIANO.

Not much trouble in getting this overcoat

at a bargain, but lots of it afterward.

“\A 7ANTER good overcoat, cheap as dollars was his limit for an overcoat. He VV dirt?” had just seen one at four-ninety-five that Walter Babbit looked as though he he would have turned up his nose at a needed several things besides an over- week ago. But to-day was colder than coat. The store-clothes he had bought any of the other days. before leaving Simpson Comers were de- He was just about to enter the little cidedly not of the smart cut worn by shop when the stranger accosted him the young men he saw in the places where with the question that showed the men- he applied for work. Then, three weeks’ tal insight of a mind-reader. tramping had caused their appearance to Babbit turned around and looked in deteriorate sadly. wonder at the possessor of such occult His shoes had literally gone to pieces. powers. His derby hat had come to grief in a 'I’he stranger was a short, thick-set rush at a Subway station, and positively young man about Babbit’s own age. He refused'to give up one or two dents. wore a rather shabby outer garment with * But the one need that impressed itself its collar turned up at the neck. His hat most deeply upon him this cold evening was drawn over his eyes, which were a was that of an overcoat. All day he had trifle shifty. wandered about searching for employ- The lad from Georgia could not help ment, and shivering. The cheap meals feeling a bit suspicious, but any propo- had brought him to his last ten-dollar sition offering a good overcoat cheap was bill, but had failed to warm him. interesting. He was not used to New York’s De- “ Come along and I’ll show you a real cember weather. For Simpson Corners bargain," the man urged, and Babbit is in Georgia, as any map big enough to started off with him. mark a village of four hundred inhabit- They went through some side streets ants will show you. And December in and, but for the fact that they were all Georgia is different from December in fairly well lighted, the country youth New York; would have felt a little nervous. He had For the past week Walter Babbit had a sort of feeling that he was being led eyed every window of the cheap tailor- by a very roundabout course to reach a shops he passed. He had read every near-by place. price-tag looking for one that should He was quite sure that he walked three come inside the five-dollar mark. or four blocks north after going some For he had made up his mind that five blocks south. When, at last, they pulled 372 THE ARGOSY. up before an unpretentious apartment- “ I’ve only got ten dollars to my house, Babbit was uncomfortably admit- name,” he ventured. ting to himself that he had lost his bear- “ Well,” the other replied, “ I’ll let ings. you have it fer that. You’re needin’ a They climbed three or four flights of coat pretty bad, an’ I’m glad of the stairs, and the man finally paused and chanct to help yer.” produced a key from one of his pockets. The Georgian was on the point of With this he admitted himself and Bab- giving up his last dollar for the splendid bit to a rear suite of rooms. bargain. Then he remembered that an Inside everything was a confusion of overcoat was not the only thing he unassorted objects. Several sets of fine needed. silver lay heaped upon the floor. Small His room in the cheap boarding-house hits of bric-a-brac were scattered about. was paid for three days more. But his Various pieces of women’s wearing ap- meals were not included in that. parel, especially furs, were piled in a He had tried for two weeks to get work corner. In another corner were a num- and failed. It might be two weeks more ber of boxes of cigars. before anything would show up. No, Against one wall was stacked a heap he could not spare all his money. of unbroken bolts of cloth. A_jich piece “ I couldn’t give the ten.” he sighed. “ of tapestry had been thrown in another I’m looking for work, and I have to corner. Three or four gold watches and keep something for my meals. I don’t a couple of fancy little clocks gave out care to spend more than five dollars for the impression that time was carefully an overcoat just now.” “ measured here. Make it seven-fifty and split the There was not a chair or table or any diff,” the man haggled. other piece of furniture in the room. The bargain ended in Babbit’s paying Neither was there a window or door save six dollars for the coat. He put it on the one- by which they had entered. Wal- and slipped the change into a pocket. ter Babbit noted the strangeness of it all. The man generously offered to pilot and accepted the stranger’s explanation him back to the place he had come from. that he had just moved into the flat and The Southerner thanked him and said he had no time to put things in order. would prefer now to be put on his way “ Here’s the coat,” the man finally an- to his lodgings on Eighth Avenue. nounced triumphantly, after he had rum- He was led about by more side streets maged the pile of women’s apparel. before his benefactor informed him that “What’ll you gimme for it?” this was Eighth Avenue, and that he was Babbit looked at the garment in amaze- but ten blocks from home. Then the ment. It was such a coat as he had never stranger, with a curt. “ So long,” disap- hoped to possess. peared around a corner. Its inner lining was of most beautiful Walter Babbit had walked twenty or fur. The outside was of a soft, black, thirty blocks in either direction on genteel-looking material, the name of Eighth Avenue in the course of his search which was beyond the Southerner’s for a room and, later, in his less success- knowledge of cloths. ful hunt for employment. He thought Sorrowfully he shook his head. he was fairly familiar with certain land- “ I couldn’t even make an offer on a marks. And he felt quite sure now that coat like that,” he faltered. those landmarks were wanting. The stranger fairly beamed upon the He glanced at the gilt number on the splendid garment. nearest door. It was 1569. The number “ I know you couldn’t, young feller. of his lodging-house was 312. That coat is worth about five hundred He walked south half a block to the dollars. It wouldn’t be for sale, either, corner, and glanced up to see the number if—if my poor brother hadn’t died las’ of the street. It was Fifty-Seventh. His week. I ain’t got the heart to wear it. room was near the corner of Twelfth. I’d give it to you if I wasn’t so blamed Then he noticed the name of the street hard up. Come on, make an offer.” upon which he was walking. It was Babbit smiled deprecatingly. Madison Avenue., A COLD DAY FOR THE GEORGIA MAN. 373

He walked another block and read the slow. He suddenly felt very tired and next sign. He was still on Madison hungry. He stopped once more and Avenue. looked longingly inside the windows of “ “ This is queer,” he muttered. I an almost empty restaurant he was pass- suppose that fellow thought it was a joke ing. to put a green man so far out of his way. A man at the table nearest the window Oh, well, I’m not so cold but what I can suddenly glanced up. There was a mo- stand a good walk now.” mentary look of compassion in his eye, The streets through which he had then a slight smile of amusement, which, passed with the stranger had been quite in turn, gave place to marked astonish- deserted. As Babbit walked along the ment, mingled with wrath. The man in- more crowded avenue he became aware terested Babbit almost as much as Babbit that people were looking at him curi- seemed to interest him. ously. It dawned upon him that the For an instant he seemed to be puz- overcoat was just a trifle out of keeping zling out some line of action. Then, with the rest of his garments. slowly and easily, he arose from the table, “ Wonder what they think I am? ” he handed a bill to the waiter, who hurried thought, without worrying particularly. forward with a rather unusually light The warmth was so welcome that the overcoat for the season, and came out. mere matter of people’s opinion did not Babbit was sufficiently interested in weigh with him. him to notice that he eyed the overcoat Hardly had he thought out this ques- very keenly as he passed, and that his tion when it was answered by one of a steps quickened after he had walked a gay crowd of young people who crossed dozen paces. the avenue directly in front of him. One He had just turned from staring after of them pointed him out and exclaimed: this stranger when a rather flashily

“Pipe mine new ' ofercoadt, Jakey!” in dressed youth made a sudden dash at mocking tones. him from the opposite side of the street. “ Wonder where he stole it! ” put in a “ Come here, you,” this young man feminine voice. snapped indignantly. “ What in the ” It was fortunate that the voice was devil are you doing with my overcoat? feminine. Babbit’s hot Southern blood Again the angry flush came to Babbit’s went to his forehead in a way that would face. But he did not splutter or offer have been dangerous for any man who fight. had thus spoken. “ This is not your overcoat. I just But as the late purchaser of the over- bought it,” he tried to say calmly. coat walked on, and his wrath cooled, a “ You did, did you? I’ll see about that lot of his satisfaction over his bargain when a policeman comes along. Here, waned. The suggestion that he had let me have a look at the inside pocket.” stolen the garment reminded him of Babbit felt a sudden freezing around thieves in general. Somehow this con- his heart. Without a murmur he opened nected in his mind with the strange room the coat and let the young man examine in which he had made his purchase. the white cloth sewed inside the pocket. Suddenly he stopped in the middle of “ Now,” the other sneered triumphant- “ “ a well-lighted block and exclaimed : By ly, perhaps you can explain why your ” ” George, I’ll wager it was a stolen coat! tailor has put my name on this tag?

He stood there, wondering what . he Babbit looked in terror at the indelible should do. For his life he could not re- writing. “James B. Moore” was very trace his steps to the unpretentious apart- distinct. More writing followed, pre- ment-house. He had no more idea where sumably an address. “ it was than he would have had if the Well, young fellow, I won’t give you house had been located on the moon. up to the, police. You look as though His perturbation was increased as three you were up against it enough to be or four more passers-by stared at his in- strongly tempted. Just let me have my congruous combination of raiment. coat, and I’ll keep mum.” He started again on his way, without The flashily dressed youth led the way any elasticity in his step. His gait was toward a partially shadowed spot at the ” —

374 THE ARGOSY.

foot of ail imposing front stoop. The bruised member. Babbit was too fright- Southerner felt grateful for this. It ened to talk. Only one idea seemed to was less humiliating to have to give up possess his mind. He was being ar- his finery where the light so rested taken to jail like was not — a thief ; he was glaring. He even murmured, “Thank accused of robbery, and he did not see you,” as the young man walked away how he could ever prove that he was not with the garment drawn over the one he guilty. already wore. And this was the end of the fortune Then, as he still stood and tried to he had expected to make in the country’s grasp the situation, it dawned upon him metropolis. that he had put his last four dollars in the His meditation ended as he was jerked inside pocket of that overcoat. He start- up before the sergeant’s desk in the po- ed to run after the young man who had lice-station. been so generous as not to prosecute him. “ Got this one almost with the goods He did not run far. on,” the policeman announced as he sa- “ ” “ That’s the man ! an excited voice luted his superior. It’s one of the gang exclaimed, as a big policeman grabbed that has been workin’ Harlem. This Babbit’s wrist. “ But lie’s—he’s taken here gentleman saw him standin’ in front off my coat.” of the St. Jarvis with his overcoat on. “ Where’d you put it?” the officer It was taken three nights ago.” growled, giving the wrist a wrench that “Where’s the coat?” the sergeant in- caused all its owner’s fingers to ache. quired. Babbit was so astonished that he could “ That’s where the young devil got the not speak for a few seconds. His jaw best of us. He shifted it to a pal while dropped, and refused to close for the Mr. Moore came after me.” “ ” enunciation of words. Humph ! and the sergeant looked “ Come on, now—be quick ! Where’s puzzled. He had once been on the that coat?” The officer emphasized the plain-clothes service, and had an interest question with another twist of the wrist in details. “ Looks as though he’d been that brought a groan from Babbit’s lips. expecting to get caught. Are you sure, It also brought back his power of speech. Mr. Moore, this is the man you saw?” “ Why—why,” he stammered, “ I gave “Sure? Of course, I’m sure. Why, it back to Mr. Moore.” if I didn’t remember his face, I couldn’t The excited man, whom Babbit now help noticing that hat when it was on recognized as the one who had showed so top of a two-hundred-dollar overcoat.” much interest from the window of the Mr. Moore was honestly indignant restaurant, looked angrier and more ex- that his identification should be ques- cited than ever. The policeman nearly tioned. broke the Southerner’s arm. “ Well, let’s have your pedigree, you “ “ ” None of that, bo,” he cried. You young rascal ! What’s your name ? tell us quick where your pal went with “ Walter Babbit,” the Southerner an- that coat, or we’ll know why.” swered in choking tones. “ I— I don’t know where he went. I He wished he could think of some I was just starting after him.” other name wherewith to keep his own “ Well, how in Tophet could you start family from the disgrace, but he couldn’t after him if you don’t know where he do so on the spur of the moment. went?” the policeman sneered. “Age?” “ He went that way,” and Babbit “ Twenty-two.” pointed. “ I don’t know where.” “Where do you live?” “ ” “ Humph ! grunted the officer. We’ll “ Simpson Corners, Georgia,” Babbit just take him to the station, Mr. Moore. “ began ; then corrected himself : That I guess we’ll get somethin’ outer him is, l lived there till I came here to look there. Will you come along to make the for a position.” charge? “ What kind of position were you “ I certainly will,” the man replied. looking for?” the sergeant grinned. With another wrench on the wrist the “ I studied bookkeeping at the Atlanta officer slipped a shining band over that Business College.” A COLD DAY FOR THE GEORGIA MAN. 375

“ ” Ah ! and the sergeant smiled still ed outside, and there was a hurried more. “ Looking for a position of trust scuffling of feet at the door. ” in some bank or business house? “ Take him in,” the sergeant com- Babbit mistook the significance of the manded, eager to get the one case out of smile and answered, “ Yes, sir.” the way before the newcomers should be “ And thought you would practise on presented. a few second-story windows till you He lowered his eyes to the blotter as ” could get at a safe easily? Babbit was being led to the pen. The ” “ Wh—what? crowd from a gambling-house raid were “ Oh, cut out this bluffing,” the offi- being led into the room. cial growled impatiently. “If you want “Just one moment,” the official to tell now where your pals are, all called after Babbit and his leader. right. If not, we’ll get that out of you “ Where, did you say, is your present ” later.” residence ? “ I don’t know where I got the coat. The prisoner turned about to reply. I’m not familiar enough with the city. As he swung around, his eyes passed ” I couldn’t tell where they took me,” over the bunch of “ material witnesses Babbit pleaded. the raiders had secured from the gam- “ Take him to the pen. I’ll be in bling-den. there in a minute.” The sergeant nod- Then his mouth opened in wonder. ded significantly, and the policeman He forgot to reply to the question, that who had arrested him started to obey. had been asked. In the group was a “ a sergeant.” rich, fur-lined over- Wait moment, young man , whose It waS the complainant who now in- coat was opened to reveal the flashy terrupted. He had seemed to be inter- clothes within. “ ” ested in Babbit’s face from the moment That’s the man 1 gave the coat to 1 they had entered the room. Babbit exclaimed. “ I don’t like to go without hearing “ That looks like my coat,” Mr. Moore the fellow’s story before I make the com- seconded. plaint,” he added. The youth made a quick dodge to get “ Well, come on with your yarn. away. Being arrested as a witness Make it short.” the sergeant snapped at against a gambling-house was not seri- Babbit. ous. He had not minded that. But the That young man then began and re- overcoat proposition was different. hearsed the whole course of events since He was stopped, however, by a quick he had been offered a bargain in over- policeman at the door of the station- coats that evening. In fact, he went house. “ further back under the inspiration of Well, say, Slick Jim, I guess you questions from Mr. Moore and the ser- overstepped the mark getting that coat geant, and told something of his hard- back again,” the sergeant snapped at the ships in town since his arrival. new prisoner. “ Perhaps you can help ” “But where, was this house?” the clear up this mystery? sergeant asked again as Babbit finished. Slick Jim helped. Mr. Moore soon “ I don’t know where they took me. had his overcoat once more. The search I haven’t the slightest idea.” of its pockets, however, failed to reveal “ You see, Mr. Moore, it’s no use. It’s the four dollars of Walter Babbit., hardly likely that he could be taken to a “Lost them on the wheel,” Slick Jim house and brought back without knowing admitted boldly. where he went. New York is a little Babbit realized that he must go out better laid out than that. We’ll get once more into the cold coatless—and more out of him between now and morn- this time penniless as well. He almost ing.” wished for the warm shelter of the sta- The man behind the desk saw that his tion-house rather than the journey to words were taking good effect. lower Eighth Avenue. “ I’ll be around to make the charge,” “ Just a moment, Mr. Babbit.” Mr. Mr. Moore promised. Moore stopped him at the outer door of “ The clang of the patrol-wagon sound- the station. I had offered twenty-five ; ;—

376 THE ARGOSY. dollars reward for the recovery of that “ Pretty hard on clothes, aren’t you?” coat. I didn’t mention it inside for fear he asked. the policeman would claim it.” Babbit felt his heart sinking and stam- He held out two yellow bills and one mered, “ Yes, sir,” like a schoolboy green one. Then he paused as though caught in some glaring and interdicted about to say something more. naughtiness. “ “ Look here, young man,” he began Still, 1 guess I want you. Here, I’ll again. “ Have you got any letters of give you a week’s salary in advance. I reference from — say, the business col- know I can trust you, but I couldn’t lege in Atlanta? I rather like your face, have any one in my office who didn’t if that isn’t too much to say to it.” look a bit better dressed than you do. For the first time in three weeks Bab- And here’s my place of business. Please hit took his letter from the head of the be there at eight-thirty to-morrow morn- Atlanta Business College out of its en- ing. Get yourself some new clothes in velope before being told that the person the meanwhile. Good night, and avoid he wanted to show it to had not time to further trouble.” read it. And before the astonished young man It was a good letter. He had felt could more than say “Thank you,” Mr. that it would be sure to land him some- Moore was sprinting after an up-town where. It showed that he had held the car. highest marks in all classes throughout Babbit looked through half - tearful the course of study. eyes at two more yellow bills and one Mr. Moore read it through silently more green one. Then he hunted for a and handed it back. He looked Babbit shop where he could buy a less expen- over with a look of disapproval in his sive overcoat at not quite so good a bar- eyes. gain.

THE HERO.

What makes a hero?—not success, not fame, Inebriate merchants, and the loud acclaim Of glutted Avarice—caps tossed up in air, Or pen of journalist with flourish fair; Bells pealed, stars, ribbons, and a titular name These, though his rightful tribute, he can spare; His rightful tribute, not his end or aim, Or true reward; for never yet did these Refresh the soul, or set the heart at ease. What makes a hero? An heroic mind. Expressed in action, in endurance proved. And if there be preeminence of right. Derived through pain well suffered, to the height Of rank heroic, ’tis to bear unmoved, Not toil, not risk, not rage of sea or wind, Not the brute fury of barbarians blind, But worse—ingratitude and poisonous darts, Launched by the country he has served and loved: This, with a free, unclouded spirit pure; This, in the strength of silence to endure, A dignity to noble deeds imparts Beyond the gauds and trappings of renown This is the hero’s complement and crown This missed, one struggle has been wanting still, One glorious triumph of the heroic will, One self-approval in his heart of hearts. Sir Henry Taylor. —

A HAND-BAG TOO MANY. By ROBERT KEENE.

Wherein is set forth the awful predicament of a good

lady with a bad memory, in the shopping district.

“T BEG your pardon, madam — you “If it weren’t for that young man’s ” A dropped your bag ! honesty, I might have lost it. And sup-

Miss Hutchison turned in the nar- pose I had?” row, crowded aisle of the department- She trembled at the thought. store. Facing her stood an alert -eyed' In the bag was more than two thou- young man, hat in hand, holding out to sand dollars—a sum withdrawn from her a plain, black-leather shopping-case. her bank not two hours before with “ ” Dear me ! exclaimed the little, which to purchase letters of credit—and white-haired lady, staring at the famil- the steamer tickets for herself and niece, iar-appearing chatelaine he proffered. who were to sail for a summer in Europe “ Why,” raising her empty hands and the next day. clapping them hastily to her belt Suppose she losTthose tickets and all “ ” why, so I did ! that money ! The vision of the calamity The young man pressed the bag into that would follow caused her to catch her clasp. her breath.

“ I picked it up from the floor behind And she had nearly done it. She had you,” he explained briefly, turning away. escaped such ill fortune by a hair- “ Not at all,” he called over his shoulder breadth. in answer to her half-uttered speech of However, she thought gratefully, her thanks; “^you’re quite welcome!” grasp on the bag in her hand tightening, Then, stepping back into the crowd she had avoided the catastrophe. around them, he wheeled down another Arrived aNfhe end of the aisle, Miss aisle, and disappeared. Hutchison stepped out into the rotunda. “ ” Well ! Miss Hutchison stood And a glance at the clock, hung in the flusteredlv looking after his departing dome, brought an ejaculation of surprise figure. Her eyes dropped to the shop- to her lips. ping-case in her hands. “ Well, I’m It was noon, and she had arranged very fortunate, I’m sure, to get back my to meet Marion, her niece, not later than bag! half after eleven. She was nearly half “ And very stupid,” she added. to an hour late, she realized, as she turned drop it.” hastily up another aisle. Lifting her gaze to glance swiftly An hour before, Marion and she had about her, she thankfully perceived that parted on the second floor of the store, no one watched the embarrassment she promising to meet again at the glove felt at the exposure of her carelessness. counter. Miss Hutchison, arriving there No one—that is, save a heavily mus- fifteen minutes ahead of time, had tached man in a brown derby hat, stand- whiled away a few tedious moments in ing beside the opposite counter. He the selection of a pair of suedes, and de- turned at the moment that she looked in parted. his direction, his eyes sweeping her from She intended returning promptly. But head to foot in a slow stare, and then the minutes had slipped by uncounted in walked indifferently away. her aimless wandering about the store, Blushing slightly, Miss Hutchison and now she was late. moved forward with the stream of shop- How foolish she had been to leave the pers flowing down the aisle. counter, in the first place. Marion, ar-

“ 1 can’t understand my carelessness riving to find her gone, might go off in she told herself. in dropping that bag,” search of her ; thus they both would be ! ! —

378 THE ARGOSY. lost in vain seeking of each other Even at that distance she could see through the crowded store. plainly a long scratch on its upturned Still, she was only t\y.enty minutes side—a mark she remembered accidental- wait for her. Yet, ly to have been late ; her niece would made some time before she thought worriedly, she should not with a hat-pin. have parted front the girl at all. She readily understood how the bag There was Marion’s troublesome love- came on the counter. She had carelessly affair, Miss Hutchison remembered with left it behind when she went away from a catch of her breath. the department a half-hour ago. When the niece had confessed to her But—she raised the black-leather case love for Tom Somebody-or-other (her she held in her hands—but if the bag on aunt did not know who nor what he the counter was hers, to whom did the was), she had put her foot emphatically one she carried belong? down upon the match. The young man who gave it to her told

“ •— You are too young • entirely too her that he had picked it up behind her young!” was her one objection—the un- on the floor. She did not have her own her niece’s every her alterable answer to bag with ; therefore he had thought argument. the case hers, since she alone, probably, She refused to see the girl’s lover, of all the women about him, was empty- turned a deaf ear to all praise of his handed. good qualities, and at last, driven to And her mistake in taking the strange desperation, was preparing to carry chatelaine was no less simple than his Marion off with her to Europe. error in giving it to her. The case in “ She’s a dear,” the girl informed Tom her hands was the exact duplicate, in Clinton, who raved vainly over the im- point of size and general appearance, of possibility of the situation “ and I know her own—of a thousand others in daily ; she’d agree with me that you’re one, too, use. Without the scratch upon her bag, if she’d only agree to see you. But she. she could not have told the difference be- won’t. tween the two, even if they were placed “ I’m all she has to love iq the world, side by side before her. Tom, and she hates to lose me-—yet. In Here she had been carrying around a a year or so I’m sure she’ll change her strange shopping-case under the impres- mind. But, until then, we’ll just have sion that it was her own—congratulating to wait. And, remember, she thinks she’s herself upon the recovery of her bag doing the best thing for me. She’s really and all the time her precious chatelaine, a darling.” the receptacle of her money and the The “ darling ” now turned down the steamer tickets, was lost aisle containing the glove department. For over half an hour that unpreten- The passageway between the two counters tious-appearing shopping-case had been her swift lying in plain view was comparatively deserted ; on the counter. And glance down its length unobstructed. in it was over two thousand dollars in And Marion was not there. bills—to say nothing of the six hundred Her worst fears were realized. They dollars’ worth of tickets as well. had missed each other. Surely good fortune followed in her She would ask the salesgirl if any one footsteps to-day. She had thought herself answering to her neice’s description had lucky when the bag she imagined to be been there. Miss Hutchison stepped her own was returned to her. Now, she hastily forward. was really fortunate in actually recover- She was within two yards of the coun- ing her property. ter and breathlessly hurrying on—when Miss Hutchison stepped quickly to the she stopped short with a startled gasp. counter. “ Lying beside a pile of boxes on the I left my bag here a few minutes counter was a plain, black-leather shop- ago,” she said to the saleswoman. “ That ping-case—her bag is it,” reaching out her hand to the case With widened eyes she stared at the before her. chatelaine. There could be no doubt “ I beg your pardon,” replied the girl,

it it her own. picking up the bag and laying it about ; was down ! ” —

A HAND-BAG TOG MANY. 379

on the ledge of Jhc shelf behind her. woman around him did. I took the bag. “ This belongs to some one else.” thinking it was mine, when 1 discovered “ ” Some one else! Miss Hutchison ex- that the one I owned was gone—you can claimed. “ I’m sure you’re wrong—the see for yourself how much alike the two ” bag belongs to me! are. “ The girl watched her with a smile upon That young man and 1 both made a her lips. mistake. You’re making one, too, In- “ Do you think you lost your bag, holding back my property. Now, won’t ” madam?” she asked slowly. you please return my bag to me? “ ” Certainly I don’t think it ! the little The girl looked at her in silence. The lady answered a trifle sharply. “ I know smile had left her lips, and she considered I lost it. The bag you’ve just picked up the older woman quite gravely. is mine.” “ Well, you see,” she said slowly at The smile deepened on the salesgirl’s length, “ it’s very peculiar, you know face. She leaned confidentially over the you having a bag in your hands and then counter. coming to claim this one. I don’t want “ You’ve made a mistake,” she said in to make any mistake.” “ “ ” an amused tone. Your bag isn’t lost— But that’s just what you are doing ! you're carrying it in your hands right Miss Hutchison cried earnestly. “ I tell ” now! you that bag behind you on the shelf is ” Miss Hutchison gasped, and, lifting mine ! “ the bag she held, stared from it to the Well.” hesitated the girl, “ you see. 1 young woman’s smiling face. don’t know. Maggie—she’s the girl “ You’re mistaken,” she replied quick- that waited on you, 1 guess—she told me “ ly. This bag isn’t mine— I don’t know that somebody’d left her bag here, and whose it is. But the one behind you be- to give it to the party when she called. longs to me.” But she didn’t say anything about the “ You’re sure you haven’t made some person who left it having two bags. And mistake?” The girl’s voice was kind, I don’t—” “ as though she was speaking to an un- Where is the other girl—the one who ”• reasonable child. “ Surely you wouldn’t waited on me? be carrying somebody else’s bag instead “ Maggie? She’s gone home. You of your own?” see — Miss Hutchison sat down on the stool “ When will she return? ” Miss Hutch- before the counter. The situation was ison impatiently interrupted again. “ She aggravating in the extreme. Here she was, can identify me and give me back my within sight of her bag and its precious bag.” “ contents, but she couldn’t get it because She won’t be back.” calmly an- this stupid girl thought the bag she held nounced the other. “ She went home in her hands was her own. Oh, it was sick, and she won’t be here till to-morrow maddening morning.” “ You wouldn’t be carrying two bags, The little lady received the informa- would you? ” the young woman was say- tion in stunned silence. This girl would ing. not surrender her bag because she did Collecting her scattered wits, the little not know her. The salesgirl who could lady leaned forward and impressively identify her was not there. How was addressed her. she to secure her property, then? “ Listen,” she began. “ A young man “This is most annoying!” she ex- “ picked this bag up from the floor behind claimed at last. 1 don’t know what I me on the other side of the store, and can do to convince you that the bag you gave it to me. I had left my bag—the are keeping from me is really mine.” one behind you—here on this counter, The girl pondered the situation for a where I bought a pair of gloves not more moment. than half an hour ago. “ Well, ma’am,” she said finally, “ you “ Of course, the man thought the chat- understand I’m willing to give you your elaine was mine; I was near it, and did bag if I know it’s yours. But I don’t not carry a bag. as probably every other want to get into any trouble over it. If ”

380 THE ARGOSY.

I turned it over to you, and somebody so could he devise than to hand the bag came along after you’d gone, and I found over to the first woman he saw without you hadn’t—well— a shopping-case, explain that he had “ 1 can tell you everything that’s in picked the bag up near her on the floor, it,” cried the other, suddenly struck with trust to luck that she might indeed have the idea. “ Just hold the bag down under dropped hers, and substitute his booty- the counter, where 1 can’t see it, and I’ll sack for her property? identify everything it contains.” Had that happened to her? Miss The girl smiled again, this time pity- Hutchison felt a cold perspiration break ingly. out on her body. “ “ No, ma’am,” she grinned ; that’s She remembered the young man’s man- too easy. Suppose the bag belonged to ner when he had given her the bag she somebody you knew, and you’d seen held. She recalled that he had hurried whatever was in it—you could tell me off immediately after she took the case all right. We girls that need our jobs from him. have got to be awful careful or we’ll get Was he a thief? Had he made her a fired, you see.” party to his crime by turning over to her Miss Hutchison’s teeth closed with an the stolen goods to escape detection? angry snap. The situation was intoler- What was in the bag he had given able—and there seemed no way out of her? If she had looked into it in the it. first place, she would have avoided the Why had that young man ever handed mistake she had made. And if the case her the hateful bag she carried? If he contained stolen property when she re- hadn’t troubled to return to her what was ceived it, that property was still there. not hers, she would not be in her present There was just one way to find out. difficulty. With a swift turn of her wrist, she opened And why hadn’t she been more care- the bag she held on her knees as she sat ful in accepting it? Why hadn’t she on the low stool before the counter. kept her wits about her and examined Dropping her eyes, she shot a swift the bag before she took it? glance within. Then, with a half- Suddenly she sat erect upon the stool. smothered cry, she snapped the clasp Into her mind had flashed a sudden, hor- hastily shut and looked fearsomely about rifying thought. her. It had not occurred to her before, but The chatelaine was crammed—literal- —had that young man really picked up ly stuffed to bursting with a disordered the bag, as he said he did? mass of expensive laces, gold watches, Suppose—she shuddered at the possi- odd bits of jewelry, an embroidered scarf bility—suppose lie had lied? Suppose or two—a jumble which fairly shrieked the bag was his and he had wished to be its identity to be “ loot.” rid of it? Oh, where was Marion? the little lady Why should lie wish that? Because thought agonizedly. She needed her; he did not want to be seen carrying the needed some one near her to bolster her case. waning courage. Perhaps the young man was a shop- She cast a second nervous glance lifter.1 around her. At the realization that no She had read stories of the desperate one had seen the inside of the case, she means taken to avoid capture by this drew a deep sigh of relief and sharply order of criminals. caught her breath. This might be one of those stories hap- Her eyes met those of a familiar face pening in real life. The young man, if at the corner of the aisle, ten yards dis-

lie was a shoplifter with a bag full of tant, on her left. loot, might have been pursued through The same thickly-mustached man in the store. the brown derby hat who had stared at The first thing he would do would be her after she received the strange bag, to try to get rid of the incriminating evi- was now watching her. dence of his guilt. His eyes seemed to bore two holes into And what more natural means of doing her head with the intensity of his gaze. ; ! — ” ! ” ”

A HAND-BAG TOO MANY. 381

” Miss Hutchison felt the color rushing “I — 1 don’t understand you ! she into her cheeks as she turned away her said weakly. “Who—who are you?” timid glance. “I’m the store-detective — see?” the Who was that man? He frightened man explained in a hoarse whisper. “ I'm her. Her eyes dropped again to the onto what you got in that grip, see? shopping-case in her lap. Did he know Now, you want to keep quiet and not what was in it? she wondered nervously. make no fuss, or you’ll have me snap the She must get rid of the bag. The bracelets onto you right out here in ” danger of its contents being discovered front of everybody. See? “ ” and found in her possession was too great. B-bracelets ! Miss Hutchison stut- Forgotten was her previous distress at tered between her chattering teeth. her failure to recover her own chatelaine “ W-what d-do you m-mean?” “ in the new anxiety to be rid of the other. Handcuffs — darbies — manacles is ” But how was she to do away with the what I mean—see? he whispered fierce- bag of stolen goods? ly. “ Now, you want to keep quiet and The burden of the problem was too come along with me without no trouble.” much for her to bear unaided. If Marion She was arrested ! Oh, this was ter- would only come, she thought worriedly, rible, terrible. If Marion would only they two could devise some means out of come the difficulty. “ B-but,” she stammered, her eyes “ Say,” broke in the voice of the sales- pleadingly searching— the face of the man woman, watching her troubled face from bending over her “ but you—you are “ behind the counter, I’m awful sorry making a mistake ! 1 am not what —you about that bag; honestly I am! I don’t think me to be—truly. I can explain know but what it does belong to you, “ No, you won’t! ” the other interrupt- “ and—well—oh, gee ! I wisht I knew ed in a hard undertone. There’s noth- ” what to do about it ! in’ to explain. You’re caught with the Miss Hutchison looked up at the girl, goods, and you’ll have to come along with her lip trembling at the sympathy in her me.” ” voice. “ W-where are you going to take me? The young woman had a kind face the little lady asked helplessly. perhaps she could help her. If she told “ I’ll take you to the manager’s office; her what was in the bag she held, pos- he’d like to see a slick shoplifter like sibly the girl could advise her how best you ! We’ll search you there.” to dispose of it. “Search me!” Miss Hutchison rose Suddenly she determined to throw tremblingly to her feet. “ Oh,—you can’t herself upon the shopwoman’s mercies. —you won’t do that ! Please She brought the leather case up from She broke off abruptly as her eyes, her lap and laid it down on the counter. raised to the man’s face, swept down the Her fingers twisted tremblingly at the aisle behind him. clasp, the bag slipped half-open—and a Marion was advancing toward Her hand gripped her lightly on the shoul- down the passageway. der. At last ! Now she would not be alone The tiny little lady turned with a nerv- in her trouble; her niece would help her. “ ” ous little cry—to look up into the heavily Marion ! she called to the approach- mustached face of the man in the brown ing girl, “ Mar— derby. Her voice died in her throat; the girl “ ” Don’t open that bag, lady ! the man was not alone—with her was a man, a “ unless said in a low, grim voice ; not young man you want to get yourself pinched before It was the young man who had given ” the whole store ! her the bag of stolen goods Miss Hutchison stared wildly into his She turned swiftly to the fellow with lowered face. His first words confirmed the mustache standing beside her. “ ” her suspicions as to the consequences of There ! she cried excitedly, point- the discovery of the shoplifter’s bag in ing to the advancing couple. “ There is her possession. This man, then, knew the person whom you want — there is ” what was in it. your shoplifter ! ” ”” ” ” — : .;

382 THE ARGOSY.

The man in the brown derby turned took this case to be mine— and then he swiftly. His jaw hardened as he caught hurried off. sight of the alert-eyed young man com- “ Inside the bag is a mass of stolen ing up the aisle. property. This man was probably pur- “ ” Why, auntie ! exclaimed Marion. sued through the store, wished to get rid

“ Whatever is the matter? What has of his loot, and so turned it over to me. ” happened? You see— “Marion!” Miss Hutchison gasped “Wait!” The young man stepped the question. “ What are you doing determinedly forward. “ You must let ” with that—that man ? me explain. I gave you this bag, just “ ” Oh, it’s Tom—Tom Clinton ! the as you said I did, telling you that I had “ girl answered hastily. — Let me intro- picked it up, from the floor behind you. this is is I duce you. Tom, That true ; found the bag and gave “ ” Stop ! the little lady checked her. it ’to you because you were the nearest Then, aquiver with indignation, she woman to it without a bag of some sort, stepped forward and faced the young and I thought it belonged to you. But man. I did not know what was in it. I never “ So you are the man who dares to saw it before I picked it up-— it was ” ” love my niece ! and she addressed him not mine ! j in a voice which trembled— with anger. Miss Hutchison stared at him speech- “ You—a common thief, a lessly. His story was plausible; there “ ” Why, aunt ! Marion broke in was no reason why it could not be true. amazedly. And he was the man her niece loved. “ ” Stop ! her aunt interrupted her. Marion surely would know if he were a “ Marion, you have been deceived in this criminal. man. He is a thief—a criminal!” Perhaps she had made a mistake in “ There is some mistake here, I’m accusing him. But positive,” and the young man addressed “ But if you are not guilty,” she the indignant, flashing-eyed lady before stammered faintly, “ who is the shoplift- ” him. “ You surely do not mean— er to whom this bag belongs? “You surely do not mean to deny The man in the brown derby cleared that you gave me this bag, do you? ” his his throat and stepped out from behind accuser cried fiercely. the little lady. “ ” “ I gave it to you, yes ! the other an- Now, don’t make a fuss about this swered surprisedly. “ But— right out in the open,” he cautioned the “ That will do,” Miss Hutchison broke three. “ You don’t want to rouse the ” in. “ You gave me this bagful of whole store, do you ? stolen lace and jewelry and other things. They looked at him in silence. You hear that? ” and she turned excited- “ I’m the house-detective,” the man ly to the black-mustached man who now explained to the girl and her fiance. stood behind her. “ He admits that he “ We can arrange this thing* if you’ll gave the bag to me—he is the one you keep quiet, so there won’t be any scandal ” can take before your manager and in which the old lady —nodding at Miss

’ — ‘ search ! Show him this slick shop- Hutchison “is mixed up. Just keep ” lifter! cool now, and I’ll fix this thing.” — “ “ Will you let me explain ” Mar- But who is the thief to whom this ion’s companion began. bag belongs?” the little lady asked “ ” “ Explain ! scornfully demanded worriedly. Until he is found, I shall Miss Hutchison. “ Explain—what have be under suspicion because I have the, you to explain?” stolen goods.” “ “ Marion,” as she turned to her niece, I don’t know who he is,” replied standing in wide-eyed astonishment be- Marion’s friend, “ but I’m going to see side her, “ this—this man came up to me if I can’t find him.” in this store half an hour ago and gave He turned away. As he passed Marion, me this bag. He told me he picked it he whispered in her ear “ up from the floor near me— had left This is my chance. Your aunt is in 1^ trouble my own bag here on this counter, and so ; and if I can get her out of it, ” ” !

A HAND-BAG TOO MANV. 383

I’m certain her objection to our engage- money, and I’ll beat it. If you don’t, ment will end. I’ve got a clue that I’ll I’ll take you both to the manager’s of- follow up in the next five minutes and fice, have you searched—both of you, report on right away. Wait for me.” mind—and then take you to jail. Which He walked hurriedly down the aisle. is it?” The man in the brown derby looked The little lady glanced questioningly after him sharply; and then, stepping to again at Marion. the counter beside them, beckoned Miss “ Do as he says, aunt,” whispered her Hutchison and her niece to draw near. niece. “ You must save yourself from “ Now,” he said in a confidential un- this dreadful predicament.” dertone, “ here’s what I’ll do. You turn Miss Hutchison looked timidly at the over that bag to me,' I’ll report the goods man bending over her shoulder. in it to the office, and let you get away. “ You understand,” she said slowly, “Of course, 1 could pinch you and “ that I am innocent of any wrong-do- make a lot of trouble that you wouldn’t ing—” like to have happen. But I’ll "keep my “ I only understand that I’m taking eyes shut, so to speak, this time, and let graft and runnin’ the danger of gettin’ you go.” fired out of my job,” he answerd quick- He turned to Marion and winked ly. “ Conte on, now hand over that bag ; ” knowingly toward her aunt. and a hundred dollars ! “ I can see the old lady ain’t a pro- The little lady detached a bill from

fessional crook. I understand what’s the the bundle in her bag and slipped it, matter with her.” He wagged his head with the shoplifter’s chatelaine, into his shrewdly. “ Kleptomaniacs can’t help hands. Almost before they realized it, their habits— she ain’t to blame.” so swift was his departure, the man was “ ” But ! Miss Hutchison gasped ama- gone. “ — “ Well,” the little lady sighed wearily, zedly ; you “ Say,” the shopgirl behind the counter “ that’s over with now. I’ve got rid of interrupted, “ I’ve changed my mind that hateful case of stolen property, and about givin’ you that bag of yours.” I have my own bag again. I suppose She cast a scornful glance at the mus- I’m very fortunate to get out of all this tached man. annoyance as easily as I have.” “ “ ” I don’t believe you’re a shoplifter, That horrid man ! Marion ex-

nor a ‘ klep,’ neither,” she announced. claimed angrily. “To think that he With a determined gesture, she hand- would accuse you of being a—a thief ed the little lady her precious satchel. I hope he does lose his wretched job for “ There you are, madam,” she said, glow- treating you as he did— and then making ” ering again at the man beside them. you pay him for it ! “ Those fly cops think they know it all,” Miss Hutchison rose. she sniffed contemptuously; “but they “ I’m lucky, I guess, to escape any- don’t.” thing worse,” she said. “ Come, dear, The little lady hurriedly opened the we’ll go now.” “ ” bag, and the eyes of the brown-derbied Oh, wait ! the girl cried in some man at her side glistened as he caught embarrassment. “Tom — Mr. Clinton sight of the roll of bills within. promised to be back and asked me to “ Now, let’s get down to business,” wait for him.” he whispered hastily. “ You give me “ Marion,” began— her aunt sharply. that bag and—and a hundred dollars out “ we will not stay “ ” of that roll, and I’ll let you go.” Look—auntie ! her niece interrupt- Miss Hutchison looked uncertainly at ed, staring behind the little lady. her niece. Should she do as the man Miss Hutchison turned quickly. asked—pay a bribe to save herself from Coming toward them down the aisle the consequences of a crime she had not was a group of men led by Tom Clinton, committed? The two women stared in whose footsteps followed the fellow helplessly at each other. in the brown derby, his arms linked in ” “ Quick ! hissed the low voice at those of two strangers. their side. “ Turn over that bag and the “ Here’s your shoplifter. Miss Hutchi- ; ”

384 THE ARGOSY. son,” Mr. Clinton announced as the “ 1 seen her open it up here at this party halted at her side. “ This man who counter, so 1 went up and pretended to told us he was the house-detective here be a detective that was goin’ to arrest is the thief himself. her—threw a scare into her so’s she’d “ I suspected that all wasn’t well,” he give up the bag. “ “ continued. The way the man kept Then I seen the wad of bills she cautioning us to be quiet struck me as a fmd, and 1 thought 1 could carry the little odd. It seemed that he was more game further and get some cash out of anxious than we were to avoid notoriety. her on the bluff . If I hadn’t done that,” “ So I went at once to the manager of he ended ruefully, “ I’d have got away. the store, asked him for a description of Hanging around to get that money was the detective, and was immediately intro- what gave these men a chance to get me ” duced to this gentleman —he bowed to before I got off.” one of the two men between whom the Miss Hutchison looked from the thief thief stood— “ as none other than the to the young man standing at her niece’s genuine special officer. side. HR came forward and returned to “ I explained the situation to the man- her the money she had given the psuedo- ager,” he nodded to the second of the detective. two men holding the shoplifter—“and “ Thank you,” she said. we three started to the scene at once. “ He wasn’t such a bad sort of a fel- “ On the way we met this crook just low, after all,” she thought, as she care- getting ready to leave the store, collared fully surveyed him. “ He was quite him, and he has confessed.” He turned clever, too, to foil that man’s game. to the black-mustached man. Perhaps— “ Tell your story 'to the ladies as you Marion, watching the softened expres-

told it to us,” he ordered. sion upon her aunt’s face, advanced to “ Why, there ain’t nothin’ to tell, I Tom Clinton and linked her arm in his. guess, they don’t already know,” the man “ Don’t you think, auntie— ” she be- answered with a wry smile. “ Somebody gan shyly. knocked the bag out of my hand and I Miss Hutchison instantly burned her saw this young feller pick it up and give bridges.

it to the old lady. Then I followed her, “ I think,” she said firmly, “ that we’d ” trvin’ to get it back, some way. better go to lunch—all three of us !

A SUMMER SONG.

Though the days of summer are lighter In the breath of perfume and flowers, And the skies are cloudless and brighter Than ever were ours ;

Though ,the flush of the streams onflowing May murmur a wood-noted song, And the wild-hearted daisy is growing The woodside along

Yet the sullen, sad silence of winter May keep with the trend of the heart, And meetings come only to glint a Rare moment, and part.

For rather the somber clouds starting Than ever the skies’ lightest hue, If lightness comes but with the parting From you. Archibald Douglas.

( THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION.

Heat that makes complete

There are thousands of houses that need only to be furnished with the home- making comfort of Steam, Hot -Water, or Vacuum heating to secure good ten- ants or ready purchasers. No one will long live in a poorly heated house, and the vacant house goes to pieces much faster than one which is occupied.

will attract and hold tenants at 10% to 15 % higher rentals; property sells quicker, and owner gets back the full cost of the heating outfit. IDEAL Boilers and AMERICAN Radiators are annually re- placing thousands of old-fashioned heating equipments that have been found wasteful and wanting in OLD cottages, houses, stores, churches, schools, etc. Ever hear of any one going back to other forms of heating once they have tried our way? Any argument in that to you?

Don’t delay investigating this well-paying permanent investment with its marked fuel, labor, and repair savings, besides the greater comfort, health protection, cleanliness, safety, and durability. Just the season to get the services of the most skill- v ful fitters. Prices are now most favorable.

Write to-day for free val- uable book, telling how to save heating dollars and the way to save build- ings from emptiness and A No. 3015 IDEAL Boiler and 175 ft. A No. 3-22 IDEAL Boiler and 400 of 38-in. AMERICAN Radiators, ft. of 38-in. AMERICAN Radiators, decay. Our definite in- costing owner were costing owner were the $ 118 , used the $ 205 , used to Steam heat this cottage. to Hot-Water heat this cottage. formation and booklets At these prices the goods can be bought of any reputable, competent fitter. •put you under no obliga- This did not Include cost of labor, pipe, valves, freight, etc., which installa- tion is extra and varies according to climatic and other conditions. tion whatsoever to buy.

Showrooms Write Dept. A34 all large cities AmericanRadiator company CHICAGO

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Away from the

Commonplace — Into the realm of the rarest confection de-

lights — you will class NABISCO SUGAR WAFERS

Out of the ordinary in dainty form, in delightful goodness, in dessert adaptability.

In Ten Cent Tins

Also in j twenty-five

ccr.t tins

NATIONAL BISCUIT COMPANY

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.T' e H°us*^KxjPPepV‘«™i>

1

p» , T. 4 j/a fi tj i" J • - m YjkAfr- S ipm

Copyright, 1909, The House of Kuppenheimer, Chicago

There are Kuppenheimer Clothes for men of all ages and tastes.

If you’re young and happy, look it. You’ll find in the new Kuppenheimer styles many designs and patterns that are distinctly young-mannish— decidedly right. They’re quality clothes — for men who give a second thought

ID lOOkS. Our fni* cent ronnacf

CHICAGO NEW YORK BOSTON

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M. P. Durable Exterior Varnish is a wonderful varnish for outside or inside exposed woodwork. Especially adapted for front doors, window sash and sills. Is very elastic and flows out with a beautiful deep lustre. Is for use upon exposed parts of residences, buildings, yachts, etc., or wher- ever an exterior or spar varnish is required. Price $4.00 per Gallon Quarts $1.00 each

For sale by paint dealers everywhere. If not at yours, we will send by express prepaid on receipt of price.

Full descriptive price list on application. THE GLIDDEN VARNISH COMPANY

Makers of high grade varnishes for all purposes 2508 ROCKEFELLER BLDG. CLEVELAND, OHIO

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Two Salary Increases and Their Meaning The man on the left has found a fifty-cent raise in his pay envelope—given to him, not because his work warrants it, but simply because he's been at the same old job since goodness knows when, and that he means well, despite his lack of training. The other fellow has found an extra Five Dollar bill in his envelope.

Because he’s worth it. Because he not only means well, but does well. Because he leads where the other chap follows. In other words, because he's an expert. The International Correspondence Schools of Scranton have brought substantial salary increases to thousands of poorly paid but ambitious men by fitting them for the work they like best. Distance was no obstacle. Age didn’t hinder. Lack of schooling did not prevent. Long working hours did not deter." SALARm/m COUPON The I.C.S. went to these men. Trained them at home. In spare time. Without selling 1 INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENCE SCHOOLS \M them ; a book. Box NO , Scranton, Pa. , 1 1 i

i Please explain, without! urther obligation ou my part, how i I can advancement in the position i qualify for employment or , A Substantial Increase for before which I have YOU i marked X I 1

i Mark the attached learn coupon and how Bookkeeper Meehan. Draughtsman i Telephone Engineer you can win many substantial salary in- Stenographer i Lighting Supt. Advertisement Writer Elec. i creases at the occupation you have natural Mech. Engineer a Show Card Writer i Plumber A Steam Fitter liking for. Window Trimmer i Besides merely ensuring you Stationary Engineer Commercial Law i more money now, an I. C. S. training will Civil Engineer Illustrator llullding Contractor i bring you lasting success. On an average, Civil Service Architect Draughtsman i Chemist i 300 students every month VOLUNTARILY Architect Textile Mill Supt. Structural Engineer i Electrician report salary increases and promotions re- Banking i

Elec. Engineer Mining Engineer i ceived as the direct result of I. C. S. training. i During February the number was 275. • i Same

Marking the coupon costs you nothing 1 i

1 1 » and places you under no obligation. Then, Street aiwl No. i mark it i NOW. 1 * Citv State

l i

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THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION.

Every- thing for A Fortune Is Yours—$10,000 in cash and •0,000 worth of stock in The r „ Miami Cycle & Mf g. Co. —is offered Summer in the “ Bond Behind the Factory” to any one who can prove that the solution of the Crank Hanger problem, as published in our — ” pamphlet “The Three Reasons —has been fig- Wear ured incorrectly. Send for a copy of the Bond. It*a All in the Crank Hanger.

at the The Best

National World’s B icycl

Made - to - Measure Silk pushes farther and faster, with less work, than any Suits, Ready-Made Lin- other bicycle. This isn’t a mystery. The Racycle has 27.94* less pressure on the bearings than any gerie Dresses, Tub Suits, ordinary bicycle. It is the best hill climber and easiest running wheel made. all the new Waists and This season's construction makes the Racycle Skirts — everything new Crank Hanger unbreakable. In our 1909 models clusters and crowns in in Summer wear for La- we are making head, seat frame construction all of Drop Forged steel, and dies, Misses and Children head fitting's turned from solid bar stock—features not found in any other bicycle. — all are shown in your Our 1909 Catalog and pamphlet—“The Three Rea- FREE copy of the sons’*—which fully explains BIG PRIZE problem, sent for 2c stamp. FREE if you mentiou this pub- “NATIONAL” Summer lication and ask for Catalog B. We make no Style Book. cheap Racycles, but you can gel yours cheap by securing us an agent. IMimthe want YOU to write CRANkI We The Miami Cycle & Mfg. Co., Middletown, 0.,U. S. A. HambwJ for your copy of the “NATIONAL” Style Book to-day. We want you to realize just how great a benefit the “NATIONAL” will be to you—how much satisfaction and economy and real pleasure there will be to YOU in wearing “NATIONAL” clothes. May we expect to hear from you? TAILORED SUITS E, Made-to-Measure

In addition to all New York’s desirable New Styles in summer Ready-Made Apparel your “NATIONAL” Look Style Book will show you the famous new fashion Up Bed Prices plates of “NATIONAL” Made-to-Measure Tailored Before You Buy Suits in silks and other light weight fabrics delight- Make your money go as far as it will in bed fully cool for Summer wear. And each of these will buying. We make a most dependable bed be cut to your order out of your choice of our 400 at a modest price. materials, and we take all the risk of fitting you and pleasing you perfectl}'. The “NATIONAL” Policy Sanitaire Beds to $25—Absolutely Guaranteed Each “NATIONAL” Garment has the “NATIONAL ($5 GUARANTEE TAG ” attached. This is our signed guar- Stand rigid. Have ball bearing steel or brass casters. “ Five and six coats hard enamel— this is why we can give antee which says : Your money back if you ask for it.” an absolute ten years guarantee, which means they • prepay postage or express charges on all We practically last a lifetime. ‘•NATIONAL” Garments to anywhere in the United Original designs by our own designer. Finishes in States. delicate tints, gold or natural wood. Ask about our Won’t you write to-day for your “NATIONAL” Style springs and babies’ cribs. Book and Samples which we will send you free. Sendfor our Free (O-page Catalog. Try a Sanitaire Bed 30 Nights Free. Money backij not as represented. National Cloak and Suit Company 247 West 24th St., New York City Marion Iron < Brass Bed Co. 671 Sanitaire Ave.. Marion, Largest Ladies’ Outfitting Establishment in the World lnd« Mall Orders Only No Agents or Branch Stores

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There is But One “Holeproof Hosiery”

It has the name “Holeproof” on the toe. Please do not judge the genuine by heavy and coarse imitations.

“Holeproof” is the original guaranteed hosiery. We

worked 31 years to perfect it. No maker with less expe- rience can make a hose as good. It is light, soft and attractive. There are a hundred other hosieries with guarantees like ours. But you don’t want hose cumbersome, heavy and coarse. “Holeproof” today costs the same as the common.

You may as well have it. We pay an average of 63c a pound for our yarn. Ours comes from Egypt. We use 3-ply yarn throughout with a 6-ply heel and toe. Thus we get superior wear. We spend $30,000 a year for inspection. You’ll insist on “Holeproof” if you’ll compare all kinds. But don’t say merely “Holeproof Hose.” Look for the name on the toe, else you may get an imitation not even half so good. If you want the most for your money you must see that you get “Holeproof.” This guarantee comes in each box of six pairs: “If any or all of these hose come to holes or need darning within six months from the day you buy them, we will replace them free.” Ask for our Free Book- | Holeproof Sox— pairs, 81.50. Medium and light weight. feet nappy. I 6 | Black, black with white feet, light and dark tan, navy blue, pearl gray, lavender, light blue, green, gun-metal, and mode. Sizes, 9/£ to 12. Six pairs of a size and weight in a box. All one color or assorted, as desired. Holeproof Sox (extra light weight)—Made entirely of Sea Island cotton. 6 pairs, 82. Holeproof Lustre -Sox — 6 pairs, 83. Finished like silk. Extra light weight. Black, navy blue, light and dark tan, 6 Pairs-Guaranteed 6 Months—$1.50 pearl gray, lavender, light blue, green, gun-metal, khaki and mode. Sizes, 9J4 to 12. —up to $3.00 Holeproof Full-Fashioned Sox— 6 pairs, 83. Same colors and sizes as Lustre-Sox. The genuine "Holeproof" are sold in your Holeproof Stockings— 6 pairs, 82. Medium weight. Black, town. On request we will tell you the tan, and black with white feet. Sizes, 8 to 11. dealers’ names. Or we will ship direct, Holeproof Lustre-Stockings— 6 pairs, 83. Fin- charges prepaid, on receipt of remittance. ished like silk. Extra light weight. Tan and black. Sizes, 8 to 11. “Holeproof” are made for men, women Boys* Holeproof Stockings—6 pairs, 83. Black and children. Ask your people to try them. and tan. Specially reinforced knee, heel and toe.^ Sizes, 5 to 11. Misses’ Holeproof Stockings — 6 pairs, 83. Black and tan. Specially reinforced knee, heel X and toe. Sizes, 5 to 9 A. These are the best Reg. V. S. Pat. children’s hose made today. office, 1906. Holeproof Hosiery Co., 299 Fourth St., Milwaukee, Wis.

In answering this advertisement it is desirable that you mention The Argosy. THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION. PERFECTION MARINE ENGINES

*31 This engine ap- peals at once to those who want the slick- est finished, best built engine ever sold at a reasonable price. Com- parison proves that the “ Perfection ” equals the most expensive engines-- beats most of them. In quality of materials, workmanship, strength, of durability, power, accessibility ; and in economy j

operation, it stands alone as the biggest value to be had. Price quoted is for engine complete « jj. P a * r bearings elevated « complete €J Finest babbitted ; J commutator with enclosed gears. Choice of improved generator or float- feed carburetor, etc. Sold on our Here's Your Chance * Square deal ” plan. Every engine guaranteed to give satisfaction. You take no risk. Write for It’s k more than a chance —you can make it Catalog—gives complete in- / in which every a certainty because it depends entirely upon formation buyer is interested. yourself. It’s your opportunity to rise to one . FAILLE perfection I of the countless positions open to the trained MOTOR CO. 1827 2nd Ave. r 2 to 25 H. I*. man and obtain a trained man’s salary. DETROIT MICH. One to four cyl.

The man who sits in his private office and “ hires and fires "and lays out your work was no more qualified to fill that position a few years ago than you are to-day. He saw his chance and made the most of it. He obtained his training and know* DOYOUHEARWELLP ledge by study. You can do the same— the American Tlie stolz lilectroplione—A \ew. Electrical, Scientific School will help you. and Practical Invention for those who are Deaf or Partially Deaf- MAY NOW RE TESTED IN YOl'R OWN HOME. Don't be afraid to mail the coupon, you won’t be bothered by Deaf or partially deaf people trial agents or collectors. Like all strictly educational institutions may now make a month's of the Stolz Electrophone at home. This personal, practical the American School depends, for growth, upon reputation and test serves to prove that the device satisfies, with ease, every the success of students. its requirement of a perfect hearing device. Write for particu- lars at once, before the offer is withdrawn, for by this Don't let a little thing like filling in and mailing a coupon personal test plan the final selection of the one completely stand between you and success, congenial work and more pay. satisfactory hearing aid is made easy and inexpensive for Accept your chance to-day. every one. This new invention, the Stolz Elec-

trophone (U. S. Patent No. 7<>3,5 75 1 ren- WE HELP MEN HELP THEMSEL VES ders unnecessary such clumsy, unsightly and frequently harmful devices as trum- pets, horns, tubes, ear drums, fans, etc. i It is a tiny electric telephone that fits on the ear and which, the instant it is ap- plied, magnifies the sound waves in such FREE INFORMATION COUPON manner as to cause an astonishing increase in the clearness of alt sounds. It overcomes the buzzing and roaring ear noises and, also, so American School of Correspondence, constantly and electrically exercises the vital Chicago, U. S. A.: parts of the ear that, usually, the natural un- aided hearing itself is gradually restored. Please send me your free Bulletin of Engineering information Itiisincss Say. " Whut Three Men and advise me how I can qualify for position marked X." The Electrophone is very satisfactory. Being small in size and great in heaving qualities makes it preferable to any I have tried, and I believe I have tried nil Engineer ...Structural Draftsman ..Electrical of them. M. IV. HOYT. Wholesale Grocer, Mich- ..Draftsman ..Heating and Ventilating Engr. igan Avenue and River Street, Cbioago. ..Civil Engineer ..Plumber The Stoi.z Electrophone Co., Chicaeo. 111. ..Mechanical Engineer ..Architect Gentlemen : —1 have used your Electrophone since July, 1 908. It enables me to hear speakers ..Hydraulic Engineer ..Stationary Engineer over 50 feet away. Without it I could not hear ..Structural Engineer ..Textile Boss their voices. It has improved my natural hearing ..Municipal Engineer ..Sheet Metal Pattern Draftsman at least 50 per cent, and has stopped the head noises which were so annoying. Refer to me at any time. Yours truly, E. P. ROGERS, Suite 908, 159 La salle St., Chicago. III. ..Railroad Engineer ..College Preparatory Course I have now used your Electrophone ovi r a year, and know that it is a first-class, scientific hearing device. Without it people have to shout directly in my ear to make me hear. With it, I can hear distinctly when spoken to in an ordinary tone. Best ot all. it has stopped my head NOiSBR, which were a terrible aggravation. LEWIS W. MAY. NAME Cashier, 100 Washington Street, Chicago. Write to, or call (call if you caiO at our Chicago offices for particulars of our personal teat offer and list of other prominent endorsers who will ADDRESS auswer inquiries. Physicians cordially invited to investigate aurists' opinions. OCCUPATION.. STOLZ ELECTROPHONE CO., 1866 Stewart Bldg., 7th Floor, Chicago 5-'09 Argosy, Branch Offices : Philadelphia, Cincinnati, Seattle, Los Angeles, Pitts burg. Louisville, Cleveland, Indianapolis, Des Moines, Toronto. Foreign Office, 82-85 Fleet Street, London, England.

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YEARLY

Make Money Out of Others’ Fun Pleasing; the Public Pays Big; Profits, and owners of our famous attractions frequently make from $8, 00() to $10,000 every year. We make everything; in the Riding Gallery line from a hand -power Merry-Go-Round to the highest grade Carousselles. Bring in hundreds of dollars daily. It is a delightful, attractive, big paying, healthful business. Just the thing for the man who can’t stand indoor work, or is not fit for heavy work. Just the business for the man who has some money and wants to invest it to the best advantage. Our goods are the finest appearing, easiest running, and most attractive line manufactured. They are simple in construction and require no special knowledge to operate. If you want to get into a money-making business write to-day for catalogue and particulars. HERSCHELL- SPILLMAN CO. Park Amusement Outfitters 272 Sweeney Street, N. Tonawanda, H. Y., U. S. A.

Buy Daverman’s Books and Build Cheaply and Well. $Jocmo $2400

Full Blue Print Plans $10.00 This is one of the 200 houses shown in our big book of plans, “Modern Homes,” with designs costing from $800 to $20,000, MESOFTWME with every kind of dwelling in all forms of construction. Price of this great book is only 25c and 14c for postage. Get Our California Bungalows Positively the greatest bungalow book ever published at any price. Real California bungalows at reasonable prices. Value of ANDSHAPELY

this 1 for book $ , but we send it to you for only 25c and 5c postage. Sold throughout the world. Depots: London, 27, Charterhouse Sq.; Paris, 5, Rue de la Paix; Cottages and Bungalows Australia, R. Towns

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THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION. FINEST FLAVOR are made ' (viANUFACTUREj) So fine that brushing the by us and are sold BY thE || teeth becomes a pleasure •ct from our own SHEFFIELD rarely neglected. The factory and in no other way. Dealers’ and agents’ profits and d children use it without entifrice l°- urging. This fragrant anti- every unnecessary cost eliminated. septic Creme makes the Every dollar is piano value through and mouth fresh, sweet and through, the best that 40 years of experience can produce. aseptically clean for hours AN ABSOLUTELY FREE TRIAL after each brushing. It is for 20 days, in your own home, no cost or obligation. an excellent protection ALL FREIGHTS PAID and all risks assumed by us. against decay of the tooth Pioneers of the direct plan of piano selling, our unpar- structure and a scientific cleans- alleled success has brought forth many imitators, but no ing polish for tooth enamel and competitors either as to the excellence of our product or the CREME fillings. The dentifrice favored , by the profession since 1850. integrity and economy of our methods. Forty years of daily

The new key saves your fingers. increasing business and 45,000 satisfied buyers testify to this. dentifrice Sold everywhere or by mail 26e. Trial tube 4e. by mail. Address Ask a Wing customer what he thinks of Wing Pianos and Wing methods. will send SHEFFIELD DENTIFRICE CO. We NEW LONDON you names in your locality for the asking. CONN ,1.8. A. “the book of complete rFRFFIVIL.IL, INFORMATION ABOUT PIANOS." A copyrighted book of 152 pages with many illustrations. A complete reference book on the piano subject. trade MARK' History of the piano, descriptions of every part, how to judge good and had materials, workmanship, etc. Tcaches you how to buy intelligently. You need this book. Free for the asking from the old house of WING & SON, 370-387 W. 13th St., New York

STYLE THIS SUIT TO 1 r NEATNESS YOUR MEASURE 4>1D COMFORT Boys, how do you like my suit? See the style? THE IMPROVED Your tailor would ask $30.00 for such a suit; I’ll make it to your measure for $15.00. Let me be your tailor. I positively guarantee correct style, fit and workmanship, at $12.50 to $25.00 fine custom-made suits at less than ready-made prices. TAILORED TO ORDER I cut the cloth to measure and make it up just as you want it. You cannot order my class of tail- GARTER oring through any clothing store. I am a custom-tailor, selling direct The Name is stamped on to you, therefore save you the every loop—-Be sure it’s there middleman’s profit. My system of home measurements is so easy that you can’t make a mistake. THE I pay expressage. PORTFOLIO OF SAMPLES FREE My new portfolio contains sam- CUSHION ples of cloth in all the new weaves BUTTON and designs for Spring and Sum- mer; also fashion plate showing CLASP the latest New York modes for LIES FLAT TO THE LEG-NEVER 1909. It is free for the asking. Send for it today. For ten years SLIPS, TEARS, NOR UNFASTENS in the same location I’ve made clothes for thousands of satisfied WORN ALL OVER THE WORLD customers; I’ll satisfy you or re- fund your money. Sample pair, Silk 50c., Cotton 25c. Tailor to the Kings of America — 4111 Kincy Mailed on receipt of price. the well-dressed young men! Who are you? Write me. GEORGE FROST CO., Makers Boston, Mass., U.S.A. KING TAILORING COMPANY 203 -WEST WATER STREET INSIST ON HAVING THE GENUINE MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN REFUSE ALL SUBSTITUTES i

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Main Hall—side wall beautiful reddish tan Alabastine with lighter tone for ceiling. Reception Room—charming and rich olive green Alabastine with greenish white ceiling. Large Living Room warm cinnamon brown Alabastine side wall with colonial buff ceiling. Write us for Alabastine num- bers that will give these effects. A Home of Refinement The artistic success of a home depends upon the colors chosen for the walls. There is no material for tinting your walls as good as

The Sanitary-Wall Coating The colors are permanent and do not rub off they give that artistic soft velvety effect. COLOR SCHEMES FREE Send us an outline of your rooms, whether they are apartment, dwelling, office or church, and we will send you a correct color scheme free. Give the trim of your woodwork—the kind of a build- PIANOS ing and the number of windows as well as the di- mensions of the rooms. Whatever the building, whether public or private, large or small, Alabas- The tone, touch and magnifi- tine will give a better colored wall at a less ex- qualities of the pense for maintenance than any other material. cent wearing vose Piano are only explained by the Alabastine is more artistic than wall paper, more effective than paint, more permanent than kalsomine exclusive patented features and the high-grade material and superb “Dainty Wall Decorations” workmanship that enter into their is a richly printed and profusely illustrated book. The illustrations are in colors on heavy plated paper, construction. The vose is an ideal beautifully bound with an embossed cover in colors and contains new designs for decorating every room piano for the home. Over 60,000 sold. in the home. If you are planning decorating or re- Delivered in the decorating any apartment in your home, send 10 United States free of cents in silver or U. S. stamps for'this useful and beau- charge. Satisfaction tiful book. It is a complete course in wall decoration. guaranteed. Liberal allowance for old pianos and FREE SAMPLES time payments accepted. Send to-day for free wall and ceiling designs done in Alabastine and for color card and name of dealer FREE — If you are interested in your town. Alabastine is a dry powder and is to be mixed with in pianos, let us send you our beauti- cold water. It comes in 16 beautiful tints and in pure white. Alabastine is carefully packed in sealed pack- fully illustrated catalog, that gives ages—it sells for 55 cents for any of the 16 tints, and 50 cents for a pure brilliant white. full information. The best dealers sell Alabastine. ALABASTINE COMPANY vose & SONS PIANO CO. 824 Granville Avenue, - Grand Rapids, Mich. 155 Boylston St. BOSTON, MASS. Dept. 634, 105 Water St., New York City, N. Y.

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50 CALIFORNIA Ostriches Interesting facts con- to your cerning them. Never before in the history of our career, has a season An ostrich egg weighs three pounds started off With such a rush. and contains thirty times as much meat as a hen’s egg. An ostrich chick stands the fact have Of course that we done away with twelve inches high, when hatched. agents and are selling suits direct to you, letting you An ostrich grows at the rate of one foot a make the agents’ profit, is greatly responsible for the month until six months old. A full-grown large increase in our business. bird measures eight feet high and weighs Why shouldn’t there be an increase when we more than 300 pounds. are selling the greatest $20 made-to-measure When running, the ostrich has a stride of 22 feet. The bill of an ostrich opens four suit for $13.50 ? Why shouldn’t men jump to this inches, and oranges are easily swallowed great clothes opportunity in the face of getting whole. such superior tailoring as wT e produce, for so little price ? CATALOGUE FREE. Beautifully illustrated. Contains inter- for will Just remember, $13.50 we make esting history of ostrich farming in Cali-

to your measure a positive $20 suit. fornia. How the feathers are grown , cliiqied and cared and complete for , a We give you the finest fabrics f t price list of all our latest styles of plumes, and styles to choose from. We Send for boas, stoles, muffs, fans, etc.

guarantee the fit, finish and tail- Samples Tourists from all parts of the world make perfect in every re- and Style oring to be it a point to visit the Cawston Farm. spect, and this guarantee means Book FREE A Cawston ostrich plume makes a delight- that if you are not in everywise ful souvenir of the Golden State. pleased with the gar- Direct to you at producer's prices. Free delivery—satisfaction guaranteed. ment when it*s com- plete, we insist that you return the clothes. fAVSTON Style Book, and V > OSTRICH FARM 50 Samples Free P. O. Box, 97 SOUTH PASADENA, CAL.

The finest custom tailored catalogue ever issued. It Sent on Approval. Send No Money. $1.50 tells, in a true clear way, WE WILL TRUST YOU TEN DAYS, hair switch all you should know Send a lock of your hair, and we will mail a 2 % oz. about the Bell Tailors, 32-in, short stem fine human hair switch to match. If our clothes, our styles, you find it a big bargain, remit $1.50 in ten days, or sell 3 and Extra our fabrics, and our custom- jret 5'Oilr switch free. shades a little more. Inclose 5c postage. Free beauty ers. It tells you why you book showing latest style of hair dressing — also overpay if you buy tailoring high grade through an agent, representa- switches, tive or dealer. pompa- We prove that ordering your dours, wigs, etc. clothes direct from us, means a saving to you of 33 ? to 50#.

Isn’t it worth your while sending for our catalogue ? BELL TAILORS, Geisha Diamonds OF YEW YORK THE LATEST SCIENTIFIC DISCOVERY Dept E. Bright, sparkling, beautiful. For brilliancy Cor. Walker and Center Sts., they equal the genuine, standing all test and NEW YORK CITY. puzzle experts. Oue twentieth the expense. Sent free with privilege of examination. For particulars, prices, etc., address BELL TAILORS,o/ NEWYORK THE R. GREGG MFG. 4 1MPT. CO. Dept. 15, 52-58 W. Jarksou Houl., - Chisago, III, We Say A Crooked Spine May Be Straightened—and We Prove It The most successful as well as remarkable method of correcting all spinal troubles is by the use of the great Sheldon Spinal Appliance, endorsed by physicians all over the country. By its use, right in your own home, you may straighten your crooked spine, correct hunch-back and other spinal defects. It relieves pressure at the affected parts of the spine, the cartilage between the vertebrae is made to expand, all soreness is relieved, and the spine is straightened —all with- out pain or inconvenience. The age or sex of the sufferer makes no difference; we have corrected Spinal Curvature in babies of two years and in grandparents of eighty and over. It matters not if the curvature is of recent development or long standing; regardless of its cause or condition, we can relieve it. We Let You Use the Sheldon Appliance 30 Days and guarantee satisfaction or no pay. Every Sheldon Appliance is made to fit each particular case. It does not chafe or irritate and it is not noticeable under the clothing. Plaster and sole leather jackets weigh many pounds, but the Sheldon Appliance weighs only a few ounces. Read our Free Book and of the wonderful work this appliance has accomplished in every part of the country. Send for the book with full information and proofs, free. PHILO BURT MFG. CO.. 255 5th Street. JAMESTOWN. N. Y.

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The Reason Why “Old English*’ Floor Wax produces so beautifully that rich subdued lustre which makes the floors become a pride of the home is simply because it is exceptional in its “ quality.” Floor waxes are made essentially from two ingredients—a hard expensive wax and a soft, cheap wax. It is easy to put in too much cheap wax. “Old English’’ Floor Wax is always the same—THE VERY BEST—no matter what the cost. That’s why it proves to be the most attractive, most economical, most easily applied, most satisfactory finish For Floors, Furniture and All Interior Woodwork It is equally suitable for the finest inlaid hardwood floors or plain pine floors. It never flakes nor becomes stick v. nor shows heel marks or scratches. It preserves the floor and is sanitary. You can always rely on ©lb English ifloor lai “ The Wax with a Guarantee ’’ Perhaps you are interested to know more about how to make floors beautiful and keep them so. Then by all means you should Send for our New Book— Free “ Beautiful Floors Their Finish and Care” It gives valuable, expert advice, in plain terms on such subjects as Woods Fit for Flooring Finishing Kitchen, Pantry and Cleaning and Polishing Bathroom Floors Hardwood Floors Finishing Dancing Floors Finishing New Floors Finishing Furniture and Inter* Finishing Old Floors ior Woodwork, etc., etc. Stopping Cracks in Floors Removing Varnish, Shellac or Care of Waxed Floors Paint -if used as directed “Old English’’ Floor Wax is guaranteed to give satisfaction when used as directed or money refunded.

but u must use it as directed.

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KNEE DRAWER GARTERS For SUMMER Tlie finishing The cool garter—at every movement the central ventilating mesh touch to the con 1 of the leg-band admits a flow of fresh air to the skin. The comfort- fort of summer dress able garter—the fabric is unyielding as leather, but as agreeable in its —the garter as light firmness and freedom from binding and rubbing as the softest elastic. and cool as the goods No metal part touches the leg. The convenient garter—the clasp is a in your summer suit. spring hook fastened or loosened with one hand. The pendant is made At dealers 25c—or of the finest lisle elastic, adjustable to long or short legs. The secure we send them direct garter—the grip holds tighter and tighter as you walk, but cannot tear or wear the sock. on receipt of price. PIONEER^ PIONEER asking for a pair in any of the present season’s color SUSPENDERS styles. Their comfort is proved by the sale of 4,000,000 pairs last year. Satisfaction guaranteed by unconditional warranty—new pair or money back. Extra lengths for tall men. At dealers 50c—or sent direct on receipt of price. PIONEER SUSPENDER COMPANY, Makers of Pioneer Belts. 718 Market Street. PHILADELPHIA

GET THIS $1200.00 NEXT | MONTH! I WHAT A BLESSING TO ALWAYS HAVE MONEY IN ABUNDANCE

'1 u’s easy* Hundreds Getting Rich the “ New Way.” Said to be world’s greatest and surest money maker. One man actually made $ 1 281 .00 IN ONE MONTH, $51.50 IN 15 MINUTES, $800.00 IN 8 DAYS. Not a fairy tale, fake or humbug, but absolutely true sworn statement. New, wonderful discovery. Causing great enthusiasm. Readers, listen, see, read how this invention has made, is making thousands of dollars for others Does $1200 Monthly •‘My sales 51281.00 one month, *1118.00 another. Rest thing SWORN STATEMENT BY INTEREST YOU? ever sold. Not one complaint from 2000 customers.” M. G. ST0NEMAN, MONT. “SOLD $2212.00 IN 2 WEEKS. Notone dissatisfied user,” writes Korstad & Mercer, Minn. “My sales $1680.00 IN 73 DAYS,” writes C. D. Rasp, Wis. “Canvassed 60 PEOPLE-GOT 55 ORDERS. Sold $320.00 in 16 days,” writes W. H. Reese, Pa. “Enclosed order for $115.00 FIRST DAY’S WORK. Best tiling I ever worked,” writes L. H. Langley, N. D. “Everybody thinks apparatus finest thing. Sold 15 one afternoon, “writes Miss Eva Edwards, Nev., after ordering 73. ‘‘1 averaged $164.25 WEEKLY for three months, undoubtedly best line on market,” writes J.W. Beem, Kas. “ Finest seller I ever saw, catches the eye. Don’t want anything better. SELLS OUT OF 10 HOUSES,’’ writes Wm. Maroney, Okla. “ A man that can’t sell your outfit couldn’t sell bread in a famine, send 48 “ more,” writes T. B. Casliman, Minn. I make $100.00 DAILY,” writes J. Sevegne, N. Y. HUNDREDS MEN AND WOMEN TELL OF WONDERFUL SUCCESS equipping town and farm homes with Allen’s Portable Bath Apparatus. 50,000 already sold. Acknowledged best thing ever happened for humanity. Nothing like it. Gives every home a

modern bath room for only $5.00. Think of it ! Costs nothing to operate. Used wher- ever water in any form exists. So energizes water that 1 gallon does more than tub full old way. Gives cleansing, friction, massage, shower baths altogether or separately. Cleanses almost automatically. Makes bathing 5 minute operation. Only clean, running water touches body—no immersion. No tubs, buckets, bowls, wash-rags or sponges— no plumbing. Insures cleanliness without drudgery—prolongs life— prevents disease. Small but mighty—carried in grip. Endorsed by famous Battle Creek Sanitarium and other celebrated authorities. Most popular, easiest, quickest, surest selling household article going. Let us give you an appointment worth $40.00 to $60.00 weekly plus freedom from drudgery, long hours, wage earning, bosslsm, job hunting. We want more AGENTS, SALESMEN, MANAGERS, either sex, at home or traveling, all or spare time to fill orders, appoint, supply, control sub-agents. Hustlers getting rich. EXPERIENCE I'NNECKSSARY. Simply supply enormous demand already made—that’s all. Every customer anxious to boost vonr business. No easier, quicker, certain way to make money. Exciting business— big profits —popular goods, guaranteed by an old reliable #50, 000.00 house—absolutely no competition exclusive territory— co-operation ami assistance. CREI1IT AilVKUT—8K1UD !VO lWO.\KV—only your name and address on a postal card today for world’s greatest agency offer, valuable booklets, credit plan, proofs of phenomenal success — ALL “SKK IT ENERGIZE” FREE. COSTS NOTHING TO INVESTIGATE. MEET US THAT FAR ANYHOW. Sec. view Comb. Portable and Bathroom Outfit. THE ALLEN MFC. CO. ,1305 ALLEN BLDC.,TOLEDO, OHIO

In answering any advertisement on this page it is desirable that you mention The Argosy. THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION. New Invention! Nothing Else Like It THE MOST WONDERFUL STOVE EVER INVENTED Consumes 395 Barrels of Air to One Gallon Common Kerosene Oil Causing Great Excitement Wherever Exhibited Fuel drawn principally from atmosphere. Uses 395 barrel* ofair while e«»ii*iiiiiiiisr one iral Ion of'oi I. Wood and coal cost money. ONLY FKKi; I’lKI, I.S AIR. Supply unlim- ited No trust in control. Air belongs to rich and poor alike. ys a Harrison’s Chance Ahead Valveless, Wick- for the ambitious man to obtain a technical education without leaving home or giving up less, Automatic his work. Oil-Gas and Air- / THE CYCLOPEDIA OF Burner Stove Automatically generates gas CIVIL ENGINEERING from kerosene oil, mixing it with air. Burns like gas. Intense hot fire. Combus- is adapted for Home Study because it is compiled from tion perfect. To operate— text bookjt turn knob — oil runs into prepared especially for the American School burner— touch a match: it of Correspondence Courses. This set of books has more generates gas, which Sectional passes Cut of Generator. up-to-date, accurate money-saving through air mixer, drawing information on Re- in about a barrel of air to every large spoonful of oil consumed. inforced Concrete, irrigation and Water Power Develop- That** all. It is self-regulating, no more attention. Same beat ment than any other similar set of books. Also contains all day or all night. For more or less heat, simply turn knob. complete There it remains until you come again. To put fire out turn and authoritative information on Steel Construc- knob, raising burner—oil runs back into can, fire’s out. As near tion, Railroad Engineering, Cost Analysis, Bridge Analysis perfection as anything in this world. No dirt, soot or ashes. No and Design, Highway Construction, leaks—nothing to clog or close up. No wick— not even a valve, Sewers and Drains, yet heat is and Sanitation, under proper control. I>. CARN, IM>., writes : in fact it covers thoroughly every branch “ It costs me only 4 2 cent* a (lay for fuel." I,. IN, y NOR R of Civil Engineering, big or little. VT„ writes: “ , The Harrison Oil-Gas Gener- ’ ators are wonderful savers of fuel, at least Just to introduce our methods of Correspondence Study, 50 to 75 per rent, over wood and coal.” I we are offering these K. ARNOLD. NCR., writes: “.Saved books at a special price of $24.00, 8 1.25 a month for fuel by using the payable $2.00 down and $2.00 a month. The regular Harrison Oil-Gas Stove. My range cost me price is $48.00. If the books are not what you want, H $5.60 per month, and the Harrison 81.25 per month. Objectionable features return them at our expense. We will pay transportation of other stoves wiped out.” charges both ways. NOT LIKE THOSE SOLO IN STORES IMPORTANT SUBJECTS COVERED One, two Plane Surveying—Mechanical Drawing— Plotting and Topog- raphy — Railroad Engineering—Statics —Strength of Materials— or three Roof Trusses and Mill Building Construction — Cost Analysis in burner Relation to Engineering— Masonry — Practical Problems in Con- sizes— struction—Hydraulics— House Drainage and Sanitation—River and Harbor Improvements. with or without Order promptly and we will oven. include FREE for one year as a monthly supplement, the

Ideal for cooking, roasting, baking, ironing, canning fruit, pic- nics, cottages, camping, also for heating houses, stores, rooms, TECHNICAL WORLD MAGAZINE etc., with radiating attachment. No more carrying coal, kind- a live, up-to-the minute, dollar-and-a-half ling. ashes, soot and dirt. No hot fiery kitchens. Absolutely monthly, crowded with safe from explosion. Not dangerous like gasoline. Simple, dur- special articles on the most recent applications of the principles covered able-lasts for years. Saves expense, drudgery and fuel bills. in the Cyclopedia: splendidly illustrated with scores of special photographs. ALL SIZES. PRICES LOW-$3.25 and up. Sent to any address. Send no money — only send your name and address. Write today for our 30-day trial offer—full de= American School of Correspondence, Chicago, U. S. A. scription—thousands of testimonials. 1909 Proposition. Circulars FREE. FREE OFFER COUPON EXCITING BUSINESS FOR AGENTS AMERICAN SCHOOL OF CORRESPONDENCE: SALESMEN—MANAGERS—MEN OR WOMEN at home or traveling:, all or part Please send set Cyclopedia of Civil Engineering for 5 days' free exam- time showing taking orders—appointing agents. MESSRS. HKAD&FRA- — — ination. Also Technical World for 1 year I will send $2 within 5 days : “ for $81.00. Sell like ZE {, TEXAS, write Enclose order RUSH. hot cakes. and $2 a month until I have paid $24.00. otherwise l will notify you “ and SOLD 40 STOVES IN OUR TOWN.’’ B. L. HUESTED, MICH., writes : BEEN hold the books subject to your order Title not to pass until fully paid. OUT ONE DAY AND SOLD 11 STOVES.” This patent new. NOTHING LIKE IT. Demand enormous. Agents reaping great harvest. Where operated people stop on street, leave their homes, places of business, miss trains to Name . watch tills generator—excites curiosity—watch it as though a tiling of life. Show a dozen—sell ten. WRITE TODAY FOR SPECIAL AGENTS’ NEW Address PLAN. SEND NO MONEY. World unsupplied. Get in early for territory. Occupation — THE WORLD MFG. COMPANY Employer 7181 World Bldg., CINCINNATI, OHIO Argosy, '09.

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> M

The “Pull Fastener” does all that can be COMPLEXION accomplished by string, tape, straps or rub- ber bands does it quicker easier and better. CLEAN-UP — , Fastened or loosened instantaneously. Easts To clean the skin, protect it against dust high winds and hot sun and clear twenty times longer than rubber bands. , ; it of grime after motoring, traveling One of the most wonderful inventions of the century. A neces- or any exposure, put D. & R. Perfect Cold sity to everyone. Made in thirty-eight different styles. Send Cream on a hot wet cloth and wipe the face 10c. for an assortment. Money back if not satisfied. thoroughly. This brings impurities and grime out of the pores, refreshes, cools and heals the irritated tissues and prevents dryness, rough- ness, infection and premature wrinkling. pull-fastener A Mfd. under U. S. Patent No. 756,496

DAGGETT & RAMSDELL’S At- ENTS I Bright, energetic men and women WAITED I can make good money selling the “ PULL FASTENER.” Sells on sight—good Perfect Cold Cream commission. Here’s an opportunity to start uses a is a standard household article with a hundred ; a high-grade business of your own. Experi- fragrant cleansing emollient which demonstrates the ” ence preferable, not essential. Write for principles that “ skin cleanliness is skin health and but travel- agency proposition : the basis of real beauty. Jars, 36c up ; to er’s tubes, 10c up, at the best shops in both Americas, burope, Egypt, PULL FASTENER COMPANY India and the Orient. 330 Cox Building, Rochester, N. Y.

Always ask for it by name. SAMPLE MAILED FREE. Daggett & Ramsdell Dept, a

P. Si It. Olds., W. 14ili st. NEW YOKE

- ^GOULD L K[7i7in ijrtTrmTnjxrTTdu/ 2j-7rr9

TnAoe Mark RtG US Pat Off One Package Free! Just to prove to you how good our Shoe Cream is for your shoes. If you once try Eagle fields Brand Shoe Cream, you will always buy it. '•REALLY DELIGHTFUL Eagle Brand (lV "Oointy Shoe Cream Jttint CoVered Please don’t compare Eagle Brand Shoe Cream with common shoe blacking or acid polishes. Candy Coated Eagle Brand Shoe Cream is a pure oil waterproof dressing with a delicate fragrance. There is not a drop of turpentine in it. There is nothing else like Chewing it for use on black, brown, red or russet shoes, and Cum it preserves their original color. It protects the leather—makes it soft, smooth and Particularly ’Desirable pliable. Is as good for ladies’ and children’s use as lor men’s. It doesn’t rub off and soil the hands or after IDinner garments. It comes in a glass jar and is convenient to handle. Send us 25c and name of your shoe dealer. / YOUR GOOD MOTHER Then we’ll send you a regular 25c package, to- / that gether with certificates, good at your dealer’s for / ^ KNOWS the children’s another 25c package. Mention color desired. /^> cravings for Sweets must be Or send us 10c and receive a 10c package and certificates good for another 10c package. / ^ satisfied. We will also send you our book ^ Try Chiclets "The Care of Shoes” I* ^ This book was written for us by ex- / ^ i Sold in S$10$and 25$ packets perienced men who know the peculiar /«&Q s tendencies of leather. This is the only / f? frank fleer &. Company 3nc. book of its kind ever published. p63tATELPB2A.tl.SAandCoronto.Can. AMERICAN SHOE POLISH CO. 216 Franklin Street, Chicago

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THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION.

of great interest to Every Prospective Mother. Something new — only scientific garment of the^ kind ever invented. Combines solid comfort and ease with “fine form” and elegant appearance the home, on the street, and in society. — Always drapes -evenly in front and back — no bulkiness — no draw-strings — no lacing — no ripping or basting. — Can be worn the year found. ft Made in several styles, and at prices lower than you can buy the material and have them made at home. rprr Send for our Fine Illustrated Book — “Fine-Form T IvLL Maternity Skirt”— It’s Free to every woman writ- ing for it. Tells all about these skirts, their advantages, styles, material, and cost. Gives opinions of physicians, dressmakers, and users. 10 Days Free Triad. When you get our book, if your dealer has not yet been supplied with Fine-Form Maternity Skirts, make your selection of material and style, and we will make the garment to your order. When you get it, wear it ten days, and

if you don't find it exactly as represented, send it back and we will cheerfully refund every cent paid. Other Skirts If not in need of a maternity skirt, remember our famous B & W j dress and walking skirts will positively please you — same guarantee — Illustrated book free. Which book shall we send f Write to-day to Beyer & Williams Co., Dept.86, Buffalo, N, Y. warning WHY DON’T YOU OET THIS PHONOGRAPH ON To protect yon against disappointment we caution yon that - Fine-Form Hlaternity Skirt is the only “Maternity Skirt on the market, as it i9 the only skirt which can always be made to drape evenly, front and back— all substitutes offered will rise in front FREE TRIAL? during development—a fault so repulsive to every woman of refined For almost four years I have been making the most liberal tastes. No pattern can be purchased anywhere for this garment. Ita phonograph offer ever known! I have given hosts of people the special features are protected by patents. opportunity of the genuine Edison Phonograph right in their own homes on ABSOLUTELY FREE TRIAL.

So far yon have missed all this. Why? Possibly you don't quite under- stand my offer yet. Listen lUt^T /*! F F'§ n m I will send you this Genuine Edison MwM W Standard Outfit (the newest model) complete with one dozen Edison Gold Moulded Records for an Puts a Pazor in absolutely free trial. 1 don’t ask any money down or In advance. Just a plain offer to ship you tliis phonograph and records on a free trial so that you can hear It and play It In your own home. I can’t make this offer any plainer, any clearer, any better than A-l Condition It is. There is no catch about It anywhere. Why # Want to Lend You Thla Phonograph i I know that there are thousands of people who have never heard the Genuine Edison Phonograph. That's why I am making this offer I can’t tell you one-twentieth of the wonders of Edison, nothing I can say or The secret of easy shaving lies the write will make you hear the grand, full beauty of its tones. The only in the quality of your strop. Way to make you actually realize these things for yourself is to There’s no “knack” in having a lend you a Genuine Edison Phonograph free and let you try it. sharp razor if is “Torrey.” your strop a IF" YOU )NANT TO KEEP IT—you may do so. but it is NOT A few strokes on a compulsory. If you do wish to keep it, either remit us the price in full, or if you prefer, we will allow you to pay for it on the easiest kinds of payments.

OUR EASY PAYMENT PLAN I have decided on an easy TORREY payment plan that gives you absolute use of the phonograph while paying for it. $2.00 a month pays for an outfit. There is absolutely no lease or mortgage of any kind. STROP GET THE LATEST EDISON Torrey - puts a razor in the finest Strops are CATALOGS sold for 60c, j£ F“m £5; L possible trim for i you our superbly Illustrated Edison Catalog, and 75c, $1.00, $1.60, cool and easy shave. the latest list of Edison Gold Moulded Records $2.00 and $2.50. (over 1500). No obligations, just get the < Ask your dealer Sent postpaid if postal card will do, but you must for Torrey not at dealers. alogs. A Torrey’s send me your name and address right VL©s Strops and Oil-Edge away. Don't Delay! Razors. Dressing keeps a strop soft and pliable. Write for free cata- F. K. BABSON, logue containing much Edison Phonograph valuable information for Distributors men who shave. ^

J.R. TORREY & CO. Cl DEPT. M Edison Block. WORCESTER, Dept. 1«75, CHICAGO MASS. ILL.

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THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION. 1 H.P Detroit Engine ^2950 3-5-7-10-12-14 and 40 H. P. at proportionate prices. Starts without cranking; no cams, valves, springs or sprockets. Only three moving parts. Uses alcohol, gasoline, naphtha, distillate, kerosene, coal oil, etc. All bearings babbitted. Cylinders and pistons ground. Crank shaft forged steel. For your Row Boat. Sail Boat. Launch. 10,000 in use. All sizes ready to ship. Send for testimonials and free catalog. DETROIT ENGINE WORKS, 1200 Jefferson Ave., Detroit, Mich.

EXCEPTIONAL BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Fireless Cooker $5.00 to $15.00 Per Day You'll Be Surprised at the easily made printing El Only $75.00 tiusi ness calling Low Direct Price I'll Make You and cards, cash required. Satisfaction (ruaranteed by full 30 day’s trial or no charge—Pays for etc. Drug and self fastest—Cooks fastest—No experience necessary—Saves 80 percent department stores, Start a business . on fuel, time and work shop windows, of your i own. No Ljiiii j jiaiiMMiiniiifcaigi Non-rusting metal lined parka and fairs eiperienc F1HELC3S COOKER Perfect insulation — Steam offer good loca- *0lP 0*4*11 V.t;AV6!.'.W's rm‘: -. can’t escape—Boils, Steams, tions. required. C. TO PlTASC-WHlTE. FOR IOA Stews—Roasts, Bakes, Fries bteams town . T0RVpnifei> -Sent WC fj \ promptly on ™ ® 1 Stews 30 FULL DAYS* Roasts FREE TRIAL CompleteWlth Roast- ini' Attachment. Also GENUINE ALUMINUM COOKING UTENSILS FREE Send name today for over The original Automatic Card Printing Press. Size 12 x 21 x 24 inches. 126 splendid Recipe Book Prints 120 cards a minute. $75.00 cash ami $25.00 per month for 8 months, and Catalog Free,and low buys the greatest modern money maker, including automatic self-feeding direct-to-vou factoryprices. and inking card press, 14 fonts standard type, ten drawer type cabinet, >VM. CAMPBELL CO. 10,000 blank cards and full assortment of tools, etc. FREE—Our new cata- log. Dept. 1U ) Tells what others have done. 21st St.. Detroit, Mich. AUTOMATIC PRINTING PRESS CO.. BOOK FREE Originators and Manufacturers. 169 Dearborn Street, Chicago.

MEDAL of highest award DEAF 25 YEARS 171 JAMESTOWN EXPOSITION Gan Now Hear Whispers Add TONE to Your Stationery in I was deaf for 25 years. the OFFICE, BANK, SCHOOL I can now hear a whisper or HOME by using only the with my artificial EAR ashburne Patent Adjustable W DRUMS in my ears. You Medicated Ear Drum cannot see them in my w «f\ Y” PAPER Pat. July 15,1908 ears. I Cannot Feel U.IV. FASTENERS Them for they are perfectly comfortable. I will tell you a true story— How There is genuine pleasure in Write and I Myself Hear. their use as weii as Perfect Se- I Got Deaf—and How Made Address curity. Easily put on or taken QEQm pm WAY off with the thumb and finger. ” 38 Adelaide St., Detroit, Mich I Can be used repeatedly and ‘‘they alrvays work- Made of

I brass, sizes. Put up in brass boxes of 100 Fasteners each. 3 Don't Throw it Aw

Handsome. Compact. Strong. No Slipping, NEVER ! I All Stationers. Send 10c for sample box of 50. assorted. Illustrated booklet free. Liberal discount to the trade. Syracuse, N. Y. The 0. K. Mfg. Co. N9 I B They mend all leaks in all utensils—tin brass.copper.graniteware, hot water bags etc. No solder, cement or rivet. Anyone can use them; fit any surface; two million In use. Send for sample pkg. 10c. Complete DEAFNESS pkg. assorted sizes. 25c coBtpaid. Agents wanted. The Morley’Phone” Collette Mfg. Co., Box 516, Amsterdam, N. Y. A miniature Telephone for the Ear — Invisible, V* easily adjusted, and en- GROW MUSHROOMS tirely comfortable. Makes For BIG and QUICK PROFITS or for YOUR OWN USE low sounds whispers and Ten years’ experience enables me to give plainly heard. Over fifty practical instructions that will add $5 to thousand sold, giving Instant relief per week to your Income without in- deafness and $00 from head noises. terfering with regular occupation. For full There are but few cases of deafness particulars and free book, address _ that cannot be benefited. Write for booklet and testimonials. JACKSON MUSHROOM FARM 3150 N. Western Ave.. Uliimgo, 111. THE MORLEY COMPANY, Dept. 10 Perry Bldg., 16th and Chestnut Sts., Philadelphia IT PAYS BIG To Amuse The We Ship on Approval Public With Motion Pictures without a cent deposit, prepay the freight and allow NO EXPEDIENCE NECESSARY as our in- every 10 DAYS FREE TRIAL on bicycle. IT ONLY struction Book and“Busine88 Guide” tells all. COSTS one cent to learn our unheard of prices and We furnish Complete Outfit with Big Adver- marvelous offers on highest grade 1908 models. tising Posters, etc. Humorous dramas brimful of fun, travel, history, religion, temperance FACTORY PRICES fiSM&t work and songs illustrated. One man can do it. one at any price until you write for our new large Art Astonishing Opportunity in any locality for Catalog and learn our wonderful proposition on the first a man with a little money to showin churches, sample Dicycle going to your town. school houses, lodge halls, theaters, etc and DinCD ACCHTC everywhere are making big VHUC.il Mllull I O money exhibiting and selling operate Five Cent Theatres '££££ our bicycles. We Sell cheaper than any other factory. Motion Picture Films and Song Slides rented. Tires, Coaster-Brakes, single wheels, parts, repairs Profits $10 to over $100 per night. Others and sundries at usual prices. half Do Not Wait; do it, why not you? It's easy; write to us, we'll tell you how. Catalog free. write today for our latest special offer. A Chemical Bank Bldg., CHICAGO, ILL. tilllUMSIUClllAmiKPmpnt JUpjJlJ^linnlv LU.f MEAD CYCLE CO. Dept. D3I CHICAGO 1038 J -Golden Gate Ave. . San Francisco

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THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION. PER “I MADE $12 DAY Selling This 7-Piece Kitchen Set' $450 From sworn statemi nt oj H. S. CUNXINGHA AT. VWI "TP" are coining in One none y selling from 50 to 500 sets per Day week. You can do it. Send your address today and let us Operating PROVE IT. Experience un- the necessary. We show you how lo make $3 to $10 a day. OUT- FIT FREE to workers. Circling-Wave Amusement Device THOMAS MFG. CO. Small capital required. A healthy and profitable busi- 484 Home Bldg., Dayton, Ohio. ness for one not able for hard labor. A great machine to travel with from town to town. Is operated by gasoline en- gine. Music by high-class organ. Machine will pay for itself You in a few days’ operation. Write for Catalogue and Prices. 10 Days ARMITAGE & GUINN, Springville, Erie Co., N. Y., U.S. A. Patented August, 1907. *1.5 Each Send for our free Boat Book Do not think of buying a launch until you see our Four Launch Cnnti nn mnnoir writs to-day for this handsome 14-inch, beautifully aenu no money* curled, carefully selected Ostrich Feather, any eolor. If you find It a big bargain remit 91-85 each, or sell 3 feathers and Bargains get your own free. F.nolose 6c. postage. Write for catalogue. ANNA AYERS. Dent. 33. 21 Quincy St.. CHICAGO Only $121 for Arizona Ruby CDEC this complete 16 To Introduce Our llllaM foot latiuch. 2 ^ Genuine Imported H. P. guaranteed, self-starting engine. $144 for 9V6 mile per hour Speedaway/’ $153 for 1 Mexican Diamonds canopy topped “ Winner.” $160 for Auto-topped 8 H. P. We will Bend you FREE a Genuine Arizona Ruby In the rough, with Illustrated Catalogue “Comfort.” All 16 feet in length. Engine result of 80 of GENUINE MEXICAN DIAMONDS and other Gems. .Meilcan Diamonds exactly re- years* experience. Weedless wheel and rudder. Shipped diamonds, stand acid tests, are cut by experts, and yet semble finest genuine blue-white immediately on approval. Send postal for our handsome we sell at l-40th the cost. Only gem of its kind Guaranteed Permanently Brilliant. catalogue today— it’s a gem. For 50c deposit as guarantee of good faith, we send on ap- SDFAIII Aprrn C. T. WRIGHT 5r EGIAL Or r Lll. proval, registered, either )jorl carat Mexican Diamond at ENGINE CO., 105 Washington St., special price. Money back if desired. Agents Wanted. Write today. Catalogue FREE. Greenville, Mich. Mexican Diamond Imp. Co., Dept. EP5, Las Cruces, N.M. Credit and Big Commissions START YOUR GAS ENGINE WITH THE TO AGENTS MOTSINGER AUTO-SPARKER Agents can make from $5.00 to $10.00 per and run it without the aid of batteries. Not day introducing our Embroidered Pat- a cheap magneto but the original high grade terns and Fancy Goods. Large commis- _ jkr-A si'eed controlled friction driven dynamo, w Perfectly Insulated, “water and dust- sions paid. Send for our samples and ,, - roo,* Fully Guaranteed. Operates catalogue. money necessary, as we v f'RvS P No — .. the "make & break”and "jump spark, ” extend liberal credit. Write for Charges all storage batteries for igni- SCHWARTZ IMPORTING CO., tion lighting on a email scale, per- THE Cata- * 1404 Washington Ave. St. Louis, Mo. log spjfc fectly with our special switch board In i^r the circuit. Ten years actual service with over 36,000 Auto-sparkers in operation to Own testify to its merit. MOTSINGER DEVICE MFG. CO. 1^1 Main. St. PENDLETON, INDIANA, USA Cards, circulars, book, I

newspaper. Press $5. Larger size $18. Saves you money. Also big profits printing for others. Type “I MADE $88.16 setting easy, printed instructions first, 3 days/* writes Mr. Reed of Ohio. Mr. Woodward earns sent. Write factory for catalogue SIT© a month. AtiENTN all making money. Mr. of presses, type, paper, cards, etc. M. L. Smith turned out $301.00 in two weeks. Rev. Crawford made $7.00 first day. THE PRESS CO., Meriden, Conn. LET US START YOU in Gold, Silver, Nickel and Metal plating. Prof. Gray’s new electro plating machine plates on watches, jewelry, table ware and all metal goods. Prof. Gray’s new Farmers ’‘Ever- Ready" Royal immersion process, latest Too I Kit does It. method. Goods come out instantly Agents going wild with fine brilliant, beautiful over results. M.Sny- thick plate ready to deliver der made $46 in2hfs. —no polishing or grinding. Joseph Pine took 65 Every family, hotel and res- orders in two days. M. 42 in 9 hrs. Had no D. Finch sold taurant wants goods plated. experience. Youcandoit. To show it means a sale. FREE ilAMPLEto workers. Foote Mfg. Co., Dept. 861 Dayton, 0. AGENTS HAVE ALL Rowboait«20- THEY CAN DO— people bring it. You can hire boys to do the plating as we do. Men and women gather work for small per cent. Work is fine- 20 different Designs no way to do it better. No experience required—we leaoh Can ship immediately in any quantity. Need you. Outfits ready for work when received. Materials cost No Boathouse. Never Leak, Rust, Check, Crack about 10 cents to do $1.00 worth of plating. S3T"Demand for or Rot. Every boat has water tight compart- plating is enormous. WE ARE RESPONSIBLE and ment, so cannot sink. Write for FREE Illus- guarantee everything. trated Catalog and Special Prices. Call or write today. Our new plan, testimonials, circulars and MICHIGAN STEEL BOAT C0.,110 Bellevue Ave., Detroit, Jlieh. SAMPLE FREE. Don’t wait. Send us your address anyway. GRAY & CO. PLATING WORKS, 1 1 GO Gray Building, Cincinnati, Ohio.

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MEN’S and WOMEN’S^ Fine Clothing on Easiest Terms of Payment In my two big Chicago stores I have an immense line of the latest style creations in men’s and women's high grade Spring and Summer Clothing. You may select from this mam- ’ moth stock anything you desire in wearing apparel. I’ll give you the lowest spot-cash price and let you Pay Me As You Are Able Send at once for my beautiful Art Catalog of Spring and A WOMAN’S OPPORTUNITY Summer Styles I NEED YOU You can easily find just what WILL YOU LET ME TELL YOU HOW TO you want illustrated and de- EARN $20 TO $30 PER WEEK. scribed it. YOU CAN OBTAIN THIS SALARY THROUGH in It explains my MY INSTRUCTIONS AND whole plan of selling and pay- ments. With the catalog will come samples of fabrics, meas- Sempre Giovine urement blanks, etc. (Sem-pray Jo-ve-nay, meaning “Always Young’’) We Guarantee Satisfaction "Queen of Beautifiers” which is used by scores of society and you accept and pay for no leaders and America’s most beautiful and attractive women. Endorsed by Eminent Health Authorities and guar- clothing unless perfectly suited. anteed under the Pure Food and Drug Act of June 30, 1 906. Send for Catalog Today. The number assigned to it under this law is No. 1853. If you will investigate my proposition, lam per- fectly willing to allow your intelligence to give the BERNHARD’S cSA™. decision. It is an honorable, congenial occupation, which Jos. Bernhard, Pres., 136 Clark St., Chicago. has been accepted by thousands of women. W rite me to-day for full particulars and learn how to obtain a beautiful complexion. Enclose 10 cents in U. S. postage to cover cost of mailing with coupon and you will receive a briquette of Sempre Giovine. Flash Like Genuine Address me personally, Day or night. You can own a diamond equal in brilliancy to any genuine Stone at one- Mrs. J. C. Carr, Pres. MARIETTA STANLEY CO. thirtieth the coat. 503 Fourth St., Grand Rapids, Mich. BARODA DIAMONDS Ii\ SOLID GOLD KI.YC* I am interested. Enclosed find 10c. a briquette Send me stand acid test and expert examination. We of “Sempre Giovine” and particulars. guarantee them. See them first, then pay. Catalogue Free. Patent Ring Measure included for FIVE two-cent stamps. 603 TDK BARODA CO. Dept. 32, 230 North Staie Street, Chicago. 1909 BOOK FREE Write for our handsome 1900 Free Hook, telling how to make money breeding squabs. The greatest success of the 20tli Century in feathers. We were first, the originators. Cloth-bound book now 003 pages, 114 illus. It’s great. PLYMOUTH ROCK SQUAB CO.,«l Howard St.. Melrose, Mass. 1C FOOT STEEL LAUNCH XU With 2H.P. Engine Complete 18-21-25 foot launches at proportionate prices. All launches fitted with! ggtwo cycle reversing engines with speed controlling lever; simplest engine made; starts I without cranking, lias only 3 moving parts. Steel rowboats, $20.00. All boats fitted! with water-tight compartments; cannot sink, need no boat house. We are the largest! manufacturers of pleasure boats in the world. Orders filled the day they are received.! We sell direct to user, cutting out all middle-men’s profits. Free Catalogue. Michigan Steel Boat Co., 1200 Jefferson Ave., Detroit. Mich. WRITE WITH COMFORT accommodates itself to your hand. Bends to ease pressure of the muscles Tftllf CD’C Cl HCTIP DCIIIMI RFR ; I I rCHnULIItll lUVvLn O CL AO U and prevents writers’ and book-keepers’ cramp. Eliminates perspiration ; makes the day’s work easy and pleasant. Price 25c. five for 81.U0. If your stationer cannot supply you, send us his address and we will give you a sample free. Enclose seven two-cent stamps for postage and packing. CUTTER-TOWER COMPANY, 184 Summer Street, Boston, Mass. Dept. AA. Stationer'8 Name -d d’dress

In answering any advertisement on this page it is desirable that you mention The Argosy. —

THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION. STARTLING Watch Offer

The cap is the thing.

Do you realize the difference in caps? A man looks fine in a fine cap The Great and he looks cheap in a cheap one. Burlington The finest cap in this country is the HEID- Special at a CAP. It is made of exclusive English cap cloths and Harris Island Homespuns. It has “ No-Trust Price! the lines and the kick,” and it makes you look a thoroughbred. The world’s masterpiece of watch manufacture now sold direct! It is sold by the best hatters and haberdashers in the The most amazing offer ever made in the whole history leading cities. Send for the Cap Book. It shows the of the watch industry — an offer which has absolutely cap styles followed by the best dressers. PARALYZED competition — the offer of the genuine Burlington Special direct to the public at the rock-bottom NO-TRUST PRICE, without middlemen’s profits. The HEIDCAP— $1.00, $1.50, $2.50 Send for book to Department “A” FRANK P. HEID & COMPANY, PHILADELPHIA The Fight is On!

be bound by any system of price-boosting con- We will not ” tracts with dealers. We will not submit to any “ high-profit selling scheme. We will not be dictated to by ANY Trust. VENTRILOQUISM NO MATTER WHAT IT COSTS, we are determined to Taught Any or Boy push our independent line even if we should have to fight Man a combination of all the Watch Manufacturers of the by Mail at Home. This is no special gift as country ! you have supposed, but an art. I have And so we are making this offer—the most sweeping, taught thousands in all parts of the world. astounding offer ever made on a high-grade watch. The Cost small. Send today 2-cent stamp for famous BURLINGTON direct and at the same price particulars and proofs. WHOLESALE Jewelers must pay. Q. A. SMITH. Room i 06 1 —2040 Knoxville Av„ PEORIA, ILL And in order to make the proposition doubly easy for the public we will even allow this rock-bottom price, if desired, on terms d>o ein R/l aL Don’t miss this wonder- SAFETY RAZORS of *pZ.OU a Month, fully liberal offer. Sign and mail coupon now. Rock-bottom, no-trust price, whether GIVEN AWAY. you buy for cash or time. To quickly introduce the celebrated Ideal Shaving and Complexion Soap, which beautifies, removes pimples, POST YOURSELF! blotches and all facial eruptions, leaving skin soft and clear anti to prove what we claim is true, we will send a box of values, trust- soap together with the latest new Improved Safety Be sure to get posted on watches and watch A method prices and no-trust prices before you buy a Razor outfit in a fine handsome case, all complete for ^ values ! shaving, to any one answering this advertisement at watch. Learn to judge watch silver to 1 once and enclosing lO cts. or stamps help Get the Burlington l pay boxing, packing, mailing, etc. AddresR, The Am. * Soap Works, Dept. A. R., 95 Chambers St., N. Y. City. Watch Company’s ^Fish Will Bite FREE WATCH BOOK *** like hungry wolves any season if you Read our startling exposure of the amazing use MAGIC-FISH-LURE. Best bait conditions which exist in tne watch trade w ever discovered for attracting all kinds of fish. today. Read about the anti-trust fight. ~ x.iVA® If you like to pull out the finny beauties right Read about our great $1,000.00 Chal- and left, and catch a big string every time you lenge. Learn how you can Judge go fishing don’t fail to try this wonderful bait. watch values. Send your name . V ^ ^ ^ Enough for a whole seasons good fishing sent and address for this valuable ^ by mail for 25cts. Perfect satisfaction or money FltUlO BOOK now-TO- . , ^ -S&Kc® refunded. Interesting booklet and price list of DAY. Sign and mail coupon. fishermen’s specialties free. Write for them LINGTON ° J. F. GREGORY, Desk 2, 8t. Louis, Mo BU B ^ WATCH CO. . WJ? WATER SUPPLY FOR? COUNTRY HOUSES. Il.pt* 1075 > THE PROBLEM SOLVED. Millard Sta. | Chicago V No elevated tank to freeze Ills. or leak. Tank located in cel- W lar. Any pressure up to 60 VV4£ ,•••- lbs. The ideal fire protec- tion. Send for Illustrated Catalogue *'46.” Let our Engineers figure out j- your needs. LVNT-MOSS COMPANY. 4» South Market Street, ROSTOV. THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION. l yia^gN

w t;.,. t

is proof against the strain of racing or coasting or the jars of rough roads, because of the WT Truss Bridge which holds the frame absolutely rigid, preventing r sagging and spreading, “give” and “play.” Thus the Iver Johnson is wonderfully easy running and far stronger and longer-lived than other bicycles. ^

. Write for Catalogue

giving full description of all models with prices and options; also the name

M k —f of your dealer. .

«vcr Johnson’s Arms & Cycle Works

1 40 River St., Fitchburg, Mass. TRUSS BRIDGE i Manufacturers of lver A Johnson Revolvers A i {"Hammer the I Hamyner”) and j II Single Barrel ft Shotguns. j®

Trust the Trus&

Stretch—be comfortable —in a ROXFORD Shirt =n Now you can get the new style short sleeve, knee length, coat-shirt underwear in good long- wearing balbriggan —that satisfactory knitted material that follows every movement of arm and shoulder and muscle. Your size will fit you; ample and easy in crotch and seat. Non-shrinking. Absorbs perspiration prevents chilling. ;

There is a little book on Roxford Underwear For Men and Boys. It tells about this great improvement in masculine undergarments. Send for it before you purchase your Spring underwear. It is well worth writing for. Long sleeve shirts Ribbed and flat union suits Short sleeve shirts Ankle length drawers Sleeveless shirts (no buttons) Knee length drawers Bachelor shirts (no buttons) Short stout drawers Coat shirts (short or long sleeves) Long slim drawers Any style, any weight, for any climate. SOc., 75c., $1.00. Send your name for the Book and please yourself.

Roxford Knitting Company, Dept. C, Philadelphia

In answering any advertisement on this page it is desirable that you mention The Ahuosy. THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION. DISCOUNTS! Highest Grade Steel FishingRods DIAMONDS Represent established superoritv whether fish- ing from a canoe, or the bank, wading or standing in a boat. “ BRISTOL” Rods are strong— stand the strain. Can be used by greenhorns, amateurs and professionals, and are the favorites with all. at Special No other rods of any kind are so convenient, reliable or satisfactory. “BRISTOL” Rods are beautiful to — light, to look at, beautiful use DISCOUNTS. snappy, flexible— not too stiff, not too limber. Look for the three year guarantee tag tied to every genuine. The name “BRISTOL” is on the reel END today for the complete Mar- seat. Sold everywhere. Write us if your dealer ’ catalog and price list, to- does not handle “ BRISTOL ” Rods. shall Special FISH HOOK DISGORGER (saves fingers, hook gether with the Discount Sheet. and fish), mailed free with catalogue. You may have heard of the high quality the Geo. Marshall goods, but you Horton Co. of E. The Mfg. will surely be surprised at our special dis- 45 Horton BRISTOL, counts on even the finest, pure white CONN. diamonds. Discounts also on cut glass, silver and jewelry. Marshall’s “F” Grade- “F” irst and finest grade- diamonds of the rarest beauty —are shipped prepaid, on money down. approval ; no Marshall’s "F” grade dia- monds are gems of perfect cut and color and of dazzling COHe-paCHT brilliancy. They are the dia- TMDl FURNITURE monds that show their qual- ity. Their appearance in itself is proof of their grade. A signed guarantee of quality You CAN’T Be Fooled accompanies every Marshall diamond. “ Come-packt ” Sectional Furniture comes “in the white” Not one jeweler in ten carries in and the finished sections are ready to put together. You see stock a diamond equal to the Marshall just l( what you get—and you get QUARTER-sawed WHITE P” irst grade, and the jeweler’s so- Oak every time. No chance to disguise defects or substi- called first grade is generally about tute cheap woods. A few minutes only equal to Marshall’s second or even needed to fasten the sections and apply third grade.

whatever stain you select — we include it HERE are shown three stones of : beauty, all “F" grade Tiffany free. It’s a pleasure and a satisfaction -prices $76, $46 and $28. We allow terms of $7.60, $4.60 or $2.80 a respectively. Or for all cash, 8 per cent ofl'. Remember, please: to KNOW you have the best obtainable. month —Any diamond shipped prepaid on approval—not one cent in advance, nothing to pay unless completely satisfied after lull examination. Rc( uest Catalog on i Send name Ai kv Price List & Special address c coupon— ^ Discount Sheet that Is " -TaF Now be sure to get this 50 1 No.l. — $| 0 catalog and discount sheet * ** With Cushions. and our approval-shipment /J offer BEFORE you buy a diamond or jewelry. /. And You Save OVER HALF Write today. e manufacture and ship direct to you at lower than prices 6eo. E. Marshall, dealers pay. Why pav middlemen’s profits, store rents, clerks’ wages, etc., as well as high freights and costly (INC.) packing—two more items that add to the PRICE, not the

THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION.

™ " tress. We have been making mattresses for over 50 vears and the

result ol our experience is given in our handsome 144-page book, “The Test of Time”

mailed free. Send for it and learn all about the

of an Ostermoor dealer or by express, prepaid, when no dealer can supply

Compreaelng the Ostermoor sheets by It is easy for you to get the genuine. hand. We ship you a full size mattress, 4 ft. 6 in. wide, 6 ft. 3 in. long, weight 45 lbs., direct by express pre- paid, same day your check for $15 is received by us. Made in two parts, 50 cen ts extra. Smaller sizes, smaller prices. Beware of imitations. The Ostermoor label is sewn on end of the genuine. See that it is there. ctcisxeoED OSTRRMOOR&CO..I lO Elizabeth St.. New York u s sat orr Canada: Alaska Feather and Down Co., Ltd., Montreal

Send for Free Samples and Our Great Clothing Offer Write at once for these samples and see how far superior they are at lowest cash price to the clothes you can buy anywhere else.

Write for our no money down offer—how we will ship a suit or overcoat nothing down not C. O. D. to us either. You take the garment to your home, try it on then and there; if satisfactory send us our rock-bottom price. And if you don’t want to send rall cash at once you can send a few dollars now, balance during ;ine next month or two—we give you time to pay just as the local tailor gives time to the business men in town. So get your suit now; not necessary to wait until it is convenient to send all the cash.

We ship direct, and the money you can save on your clothing will surprise you; you can dress twice as well as now and still save money; our free suit samples will —surely—convince you.

If you want to save money on your clothing, if you want to wear as fine a suit or overcoat as anybody in your town wears, if you want your clothing direct at lowest prices and pay while wearing them—then write today for our free clothing samples. Write like this; “Gentlemen; Send me your free clothing samples."

Address BABSON BROS., 19th and California Ave., Dept. 1075 Chicago, III.

In answering any advertisement on this page it is desirable that you mention The Argosy. THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION. A BUSINESS OPENING FOR YOU In Connection With the Greatest Popular Success of Recent Years

COUNTY REPRESENTATIVES WANTED FOR THE IDEAL VACUUM CLEANER “IT EATS UP THE DIRT.” In every County of every State of this Union, we are going to have a first-class representative for the IDEAL VACUUM CLEANER. There is a chance for you to get your County, if you act promptly. Each Comity Representative must have headquarters at his County Seat or most important centre, and from there, with horse and wagon, he must cover his territory from end to end, and demonstrate his machine with energy and enterprise. There is absolutely no limit on what an active, intelligent man can earn. The popular success of the IDEAL VACUUM CLEANER has created a new record in manu- facturing. The first year’s demand forced us to enlarge our factory in Newark, N, J., three times. It now covers 68 ooo square feet and has a capacity of 1,000 machines a day. Wherever the IDEAL VACUUM CLEANER is demonstrated, people want it. Wherever it is actually worked, the news of its wonders is spread far and near.

The IDEAL VACUUM CLEANER has made In the great majority of cases, the IDEAL thoroughly practical for all, the only absolutely VACUUM CLEANER is operated by hand, but it dustless, thoroughly efficient and strictly sanitary also comes with a little motor that does the same system of cleaning that the world has ever known. work. Is readily attached to any electric light It is a neat, strong, compact, portable machine fixture. No skill of any kind is needed to operate weighing 20 pounds, that contains right within it. The saving it effects in time, labor, strength, itself all the parts of the most efficient Vacuum health and actual money is tremendous. The Cleaning system. Sold at $25, it does the work of poorer you are, the greater is your need of it. Send power plants costing a thousand dollars and up- us $25 for a fully equipped machine, and you will wards, and does it better and with more convenience. promptly be convinced. Write for our booklet. The IDEAL VACUUM CLEANER is the greatest event In the history of household economy since the sewing machine. Within a few years it, like the sewing machine, will enter every home. Its use in the business world is equally as wide. It appeals to each and ever}' class. This is the time of the fattest harvest for the men who sell this machine. They are tele- graphing in their orders instead of waiting for the mail. We prefer men who have had experi- ence in selling sewing machines and other first-class propositions. The first who write, however, are the likeliest to get the territory they want, providing they have the proper references. Our terms are liberal. We stick by you as long as you stick by us. Today is the day to apply for your territory. If you have got any juice in your veins, act now.

THE AMERICAN VACUUM CLEANER COMPANY, 225 & 227 Fifth Ave., New York City

In answering this advertisement it is desirable that you mention The Aroosy. —

THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION.

D.

Regal Shoes are now made on the new REGAL/ORM Last

And as a result of this Regal invention and patent, which is owned exclusively by us, they are the only ready-to-wear shoes in which you can obtain perfect custom fit. The REGAL/ORM; Last is made in two

sections, which are withdrawn, one after the other, from the finished Regal Shoe— first part A, then part B. This permits Regal Shoes to be shaped in perfect proportion at the instep or “waist,” duplicating the snugness found here - tofore only in the highest -priced : custom shoes. 'k All other ready-to-wear shoes are built on old-style, solid wooden lasts, and must therefore be i made large at the “waist,” to allow the broadest part of the last to be with-

drawn . This explains their tendency to wrinkle

• ' . £ over the instep and under the arch, and to let the A foot slide forward and crowd against the toe of the shoe. Remember that only in Regal Shoes can you get the small, xSianaf snug, custom instep, made possible by the Last rffEGAL REGAL/ORM The Latest Regal Triumph O PENNIES INTO SLOT 6\J\Ji\J\J\JAA AAA MACHINES EACH DAY As the result of some recent legal proceedings it was brought out that 200,000 pennies each dav are dropped into the slot machines of the Subway and Elevated Railway Stations in New "York City. YOU CAN REAP A HARVEST OF PENNIES IN YOUR SPARE TIME By investing a small amount of money in STANDARD PEANUT VENDING MACHINES from 5Of to 800# profit can be made without interfering with your present occupation. OPERATORS EVERYWHERE ARE MAKING AMAZING PROFITS. One man in a lead- ing University is paying his way through college on the profits from fourteen of the.se machines. Another operator is making from $50 to $75 a week from 100 machines. Write us for other instances of success with these machines. THE STANDARD PEANUT VENDING MACHINES are the most perfect vending machines on the market. They cannot get out of order and will not rust out. If you are interested at all, drop us a postal, and we will convince you that there is big money to be made operating our machines, and that we can quote you the lowest prices. STANDARD MANUFACTURING CO., 410-412 West IOth Street, INDIANAPOLIS. IND.

In answering any advertisement on this page it is desirable that you mention The Argosy. THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION. Smart R^egal Styles for Spring The 252 Regal models for Spring are duplicates of the new Spring styles produced by the most famous and highest priced London and New York custom bootmakers. In every line and curve these Regal Spring models possess distinctive custom smartness. The new Regal Oxfords are built on special Oxford lasts. They do not chafe the heel or gape at the ankle, but fit smoothly and evenly at every point.

The advantages of Regal quarter- sizes are now everywhere recognized. They afford double the usual number of fit- tings and insure an exact fit for every foot. Regal Shoes are sold directly from the Regal facto ries to you, with all intermediate profits eliminated. ? 0 $ 4 and 5

Also the greatest $3.50 shoe values in the world. SPRING AND SUMMER STYLE BOOK—Illustrates the correct models for both men and women. It’s an acknowledged authority on styles. Magazine size. Handsome cover in colors. Free on request. If you don’t live near one of the 624 Regal Stores and agen- cies. order from the Regal Mail Order Department. If the shoes are not exactly as ordered, we will cheerfully exchange them, or refund your money, if desired. REGAL SHOE COMPANY Mail Order Dept., 509 SUMMER STREET, BOSTON, MASS. Mail Order Sub -Stations : Factory, Whitman, Mass., Box 905. San Francisco, Cal., Phelan Building. London, Eng., 97 Cheapside, cor. Lawrence Lane. E. C.

8 8'A

In answering any advertisement on this page it is desirable that you mention The Argosy. —

THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION. SUMMER UNDERWEAR % Joiollimt "I’m so glad I insisted on the label. I learned that last

summer. This summer I looked for the "Porosknit" label

first and I know I got the coolest thing for warmest weather

fit and wearing quality too." Ask your dealer for it. Ih/f CIVT’CL Shirts and C Union Suits lVlllilN O Drawers, each OUC. $1.00 BOYS' Shirts and Drawers, each 25c. Union Suits 50c

Styles and sizes > In the new booklet. Send for it now.

C H.A LME RS;K N I T T I N G CKTPlP'A N Y |37|Washingt6ft Street, Am stew*! an*, N. Y.,

You are insured against accident and positively protected with the 2“ Tnple Action (Trade Mark) Safety Police Revolver

Triple Action is the only way to real revolver safety. This is the only Triple Action weapon made. After firing, the third or triple movement lifts the hammer up and above the firing pin, With Walnut Army Grip ; 22, altogether out of the danger-zone, then keeps it against a wall 32 and 38 Calibre, nickel and blued. Blued 4 inch barrel, of solid steel. Before you buy a revolver have your dealer $10.00. At all hardware and show you this one. You can see the safety principle at a glance. sporting goods stores, but sent post-paid on receipt of price, if If you’re looking for an absolutely safe revolver—a weapon that your dealer does not have it. shoots straight and hard when you want it to, and that positively cannot be discharged unless you actually pull the trigger—the Hopkins and Allen Oar latest Gan Guide and Cata- log sent free on request. Shows Triple Action Safety Police, is the revolver that you need. Blued our entire line of revolvers, rifles Finish THE HOPKINS & ALLEN ARMS CO., 10 Chestnut St., Norwich, Conn. and shotguns. Write for it NOW.

In answering any advertisement on this page it is desirable that you mention The Argosy. !

THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION.

The Prudential made the

Greatest Gain in

Insurance in Force in 1908 of Any Life Insurance Company in the World!

Giant Strides of a Giant Company:

Gain in Life Insurance in Force, in 1908, over 97 Million Dollars Paid Policyholders, during 1908, over - 19 Million Dollars Dividend Fund to Credit of Participating Policies, Dec. 31, 1908, nearly - - 15 Million Dollars

Total Payments to Policyholders Since Organization, Plus Amount Held at Interest to Their Credit, Over 313 Million Dollars

Other 1908 Features: Expenses Reduced. New Monthly Income Policy Inaugurated. Loaned to Policyholders, on Security of their Policies, to Dec. 31, 1908, over 10 Million Dollars. Tax Payments in 1908, nearly 1/4 Million Dollars. The Prudential Insurance Co. of America. Write for Incorporated as a Stock Company by the State of New Jersey. Rates of New Policies. Address Dept. 98 JOHN F. DRYDEN, President. Horae Office, Newark, N. J_

In answering this advertisement it is desirable that you mention Tub Argosy. — —

THE ARGOSY—ADVERTISING SECTION.

Gillette Safety Razor New Pocket Edition

If you are a GILLETTE user call ERE is news in- on some progressive dealer at once deed — for the and examine this new razor. H If you have never used the two million men who GILLETTE now is the time to get acquainted. shave themselves every You can shave yourself in from morning with the two to five minutes with the GILLETTE—a clean, satisfying shave. Gillette Safety Razor. No stropping, no honing. Our first announcement of the The pocket-case is of gold, silver latest GILLETTE achievement the or gun metal. Plain polished orrichly New Pocket Edition—the GILLETTE engraved in floral and Empire de- Safety Razor in such compact form signs. Inside the pocket-case are that it can be carried like a card case handle and blade box—triple silver- in the waistcoat pocket, or slipped plated or 14K. gold plated. Prices, into the side of a traveling bag. $5 to $7.50, on sale everywhere. Same size blade as before, same You should know GILLETTE principle work- Shaving brush of ; but neater, more Brush—a new manlike, the most perfect shaving GILLETTE quality—bristles gripped implement in the world— as compact in hard rubber : and GILLETTE Shav- and as beautifully finished as a piece ing Stick—a shaving soap worthy of of jewelry and the blades are fine. the Gillette Safety Razor.

New York, Times Bldg. Canadian Office Chicago, Stock Exchange Bldg. GILLETTE SALES CO. 63 St. Alexander St. London Montreal Office , 554 Kimball Building, Boston 17 Holborn Viaduct , E. C. Factories: Boston. Montreal, London, Berlin, Paris

In answering this advertisement it is desirable that you mention The Argosy.