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diff --git a/old/10729-h/10729-h.htm b/old/10729-h/10729-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..c8d41f5 --- /dev/null +++ b/old/10729-h/10729-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,10970 @@ +<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN"> +<html> +<head> +<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=iso-8859-1"> +<title>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Jack's Ward, by Horatio Alger, Jr.</title> + <style type="text/css"> + <!-- + * { font-family: Times;} + P { text-indent: 1em; + margin-top: .75em; + font-size: 12pt; + text-align: justify; + margin-bottom: .75em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; } + HR { width: 33%; } + hr.full { width: 100%; } + a:link {color:blue; + text-decoration:none} + link {color:blue; + text-decoration:none} + a:visited {color:blue; + text-decoration:none} + a:hover {color:red} + // --> + </style> +</head> +<body> +<h1>The Project Gutenberg eBook, Jack's Ward, by Horatio Alger, Jr.</h1> +<pre> +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at <a href = "https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a></pre> +<p>Title: Jack's Ward</p> +<p>Author: Horatio Alger, Jr.</p> +<p>Release Date: January 16, 2004 [eBook #10729]</p> +<p>Language: English</p> +<p>Character set encoding: iso-8859-1</p> +<p>***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JACK'S WARD***</p> +<center><h3>E-text prepared by David Garcia<br> + and the Project Gutenberg Online Distributed Proofreading Team</h3></center> + + <hr class="full"> + + <p> + + </p> + <h1> + JACK'S WARD + </h1> + <center> + OR + </center> + <h2> + THE BOY GUARDIAN + </h2> + <center> + <b>BY HORATIO ALGER, JR.</b> + </center> + +<br> + <center> + 1910 + </center> + <p> + + </p> + <hr> + + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <h2> + Contents + </h2> + <table border="0" summary="" align="center"> + <tr> + <td> + <a href="#BIB">BIOGRAPHY AND BIBLIOGRAPHY</a><br> + <br> + <a href="#CH1">CHAPTER I—JACK HARDING GETS A + JOB</a><br> + <a href="#CH2">CHAPTER II—THE EVENTS OF AN + EVENING</a><br> + <a href="#CH3">CHAPTER III—JACK'S NEW PLAN</a><br> + <a href="#CH4">CHAPTER IV—MRS. HARDING TAKES A + BOARDER</a><br> + <a href="#CH5">CHAPTER V—THE CAPTAIN'S + DEPARTURE</a><br> + <a href="#CH6">CHAPTER VI—THE LANDLORD'S + VISIT</a><br> + <a href="#CH7">CHAPTER VII—THE NEW YEAR'S + GIFT</a><br> + <a href="#CH8">CHAPTER VIII—A LUCKY RESCUE</a><br> + <a href="#CH9">CHAPTER IX—WHAT THE ENVELOPE + CONTAINED</a><br> + <a href="#CH10">CHAPTER X—JACK'S MISCHIEF</a><br> + <a href="#CH11">CHAPTER XI—MISS HARDING'S + MISTAKE</a><br> + <a href="#CH12">CHAPTER XII—SEVEN YEARS</a><br> + <a href="#CH13">CHAPTER XIII—A MYSTERIOUS + VISITOR</a><br> + <a href="#CH14">CHAPTER XIV—PREPARING FOR A + JOURNEY</a><br> + <a href="#CH15">CHAPTER XV—THE JOURNEY</a><br> + <a href="#CH16">CHAPTER XVI—UNEXPECTED + QUARTERS</a><br> + <a href="#CH17">CHAPTER XVII—SUSPENSE</a><br> + <a href="#CH18">CHAPTER XVIII—HOW IDA + FARED</a><br> + <a href="#CH19">CHAPTER XIX—BAD MONEY</a><br> + <a href="#CH20">CHAPTER XX—DOUBTS AND + FEARS</a><br> + <a href="#CH21">CHAPTER XXI—AUNT RACHEL'S + MISHAPS</a><br> + <a href="#CH22">CHAPTER XXII—THE FLOWER + GIRL</a><br> + <a href="#CH23">CHAPTER XXIII—JACK OBTAINS + INFORMATION</a><br> + <a href="#CH24">CHAPTER XXIV—JACK'S + DISCOVERY</a><br> + <a href="#CH25">CHAPTER XXV—CAUGHT IN A + TRAP</a><br> + <a href="#CH26">CHAPTER XXVI—DR. ROBINSON</a><br> + <a href="#CH27">CHAPTER XXVII—JACK BEGINS TO + REALIZE HIS SITUATION</a><br> + <a href="#CH28">CHAPTER XXVIII—THE SECRET + STAIRCASE</a><br> + <a href="#CH29">CHAPTER XXIX—JACK IS + DETECTED</a><br> + <a href="#CH30">CHAPTER XXX—JACK'S TRIUMPH</a><br> + <a href="#CH31">CHAPTER XXXI—MR. JOHN + SOMERVILLE</a><br> + <a href="#CH32">CHAPTER XXXII—A PROVIDENTIAL + MEETING</a><br> + <a href="#CH33">CHAPTER XXXIII—IDA IS + FOUND</a><br> + <a href="#CH34">CHAPTER XXXIV—NEVER TOO LATE TO + MEND</a><br> + <a href="#CH35">CHAPTER XXXV—JACK'S RETURN</a><br> + <a href="#CH36">CHAPTER XXXVI—CONCLUSION</a> + </td> + </tr> + </table> + <hr> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p><a name="BIB"><!-- BIB --></a> + <h2> + BIOGRAPHY AND BIBLIOGRAPHY + </h2> + <p> + Horatio Alger, Jr., an author who lived among and for boys + and himself remained a boy in heart and association till + death, was born at Revere, Mass., January 13, 1834. He was + the son of a clergyman; was graduated at Harvard College in + 1852, and at its Divinity School in 1860; and was pastor of + the Unitarian Church at Brewster, Mass., in 1862-66. + </p> + <p> + In the latter year he settled in New York and began drawing + public attention to the condition and needs of street boys. + He mingled with them, gained their confidence, showed a + personal concern in their affairs, and stimulated them to + honest and useful living. With his first story he won the + hearts of all red-blooded boys everywhere, and of the seventy + or more that followed over a million copies were sold during + the author's lifetime. + </p> + <p> + In his later life he was in appearance a short, stout, + bald-headed man, with cordial manners and whimsical views of + things that amused all who met him. He died at Natick, Mass., + July 18, 1899. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Alger's stories are as popular now as when first + published, because they treat of real live boys who were + always up and about—just like the boys found everywhere + to-day. They are pure in tone and inspiring in influence, and + many reforms in the juvenile life of New York may be traced + to them. Among the best known are: + </p> + <p> + <i>Strong and Steady; Strive and Succeed; Try and Trust; + Bound to Rise; Risen from the Ranks; Herbert Carter's Legacy; + Brave and Bold; Jack's Ward; Shifting for Himself; Wait and + Hope; Paul the Peddler; Phil the Fiddler; Slow and Sure; + Julius the Street Boy; Tom the Bootblack; Struggling Upward; + Facing the World; The Cash Boy; Making His Way; Tony the + Tramp; Joe's Luck; Do and Dare; Only an Irish Boy; Sink or + Swim; A Cousin's Conspiracy; Andy Gordon; Bob Burton; Harry + Vane; Hector's Inheritance; Mark Mason's Triumph; Sam's + Chance; The Telegraph Boy; The Young Adventurer; The Young + Outlaw; The Young Salesman</i>, and <i>Luke Walton</i>. + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p><a name="RULE4_2"><!-- RULE4 2 --></a> + <h2> + JACK'S WARD + </h2> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p><a name="CH1"><!-- CH1 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER I + </h2> + <center> + JACK HARDING GETS A JOB + </center> + <p> + "Look here, boy, can you hold my horse a few minutes?" asked + a gentleman, as he jumped from his carriage in one of the + lower streets in New York. + </p> + <p> + The boy addressed was apparently about twelve, with a bright + face and laughing eyes, but dressed in clothes of coarse + material. This was Jack Harding, who is to be our hero. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir," said Jack, with alacrity, hastening to the + horse's head; "I'll hold him as long as you like." + </p> + <p> + "All right! I'm going in at No. 39; I won't be long." + </p> + <p> + "That's what I call good luck," said Jack to himself. "No boy + wants a job more than I do. Father's out of work, rent's most + due, and Aunt Rachel's worrying our lives out with predicting + that we'll all be in the poorhouse inside of three months. + It's enough to make a fellow feel blue, listenin' to her + complainin' and groanin' all the time. Wonder whether she was + always so. Mother says she was disappointed in love when she + was young. I guess that's the reason." + </p> + <p> + "Have you set up a carriage, Jack?" asked a boy acquaintance, + coming up and recognizing Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Jack, "but it ain't for long. I shall set down + again pretty soon." + </p> + <p> + "I thought your grandmother had left you a fortune, and you + had set up a team." + </p> + <p> + "No such good news. It belongs to a gentleman that's inside." + </p> + <p> + "Inside the carriage?" + </p> + <p> + "No, in No. 39." + </p> + <p> + "How long's he going to stay?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know." + </p> + <p> + "If it was half an hour, we might take a ride, and be back in + time." + </p> + <p> + Jack shook his head. + </p> + <p> + "That ain't my style," he said. "I'll stay here till he comes + out." + </p> + <p> + "Well, I must be going along. Are you coming to school + to-morrow?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, if I can't get anything to do." + </p> + <p> + "Are you trying for that?" + </p> + <p> + "I'd like to get a place. Father's out of work, and anything + I can earn comes in handy." + </p> + <p> + "My father's got plenty of money," said Frank Nelson, + complacently. "There isn't any need of my working." + </p> + <p> + "Then your father's lucky." + </p> + <p> + "And so am I." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know about that. I'd just as lieve work as not." + </p> + <p> + "Well, I wouldn't. I'd rather be my own master, and have my + time to myself. But I must be going home." + </p> + <p> + "You're lazy, Frank." + </p> + <p> + "Very likely. I've a right to be." + </p> + <p> + Frank Nelson went off, and Jack was left alone. Half an hour + passed, and still the gentleman, who had entered No. 39, + didn't appear. The horse showed signs of impatience, shook + his head, and eyed Jack in an unfriendly manner. + </p> + <p> + "He thinks it time to be going," thought Jack. "So do I. I + wonder what the man's up to. Perhaps he's spending the day." + </p> + <p> + Fifteen minutes more passed, but then relief came. The owner + of the carriage came out. + </p> + <p> + "Did you get tired of waiting for me?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "No," said Jack, shrewdly. "I knew the longer the job, the + bigger the pay." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose that is a hint," said the gentleman, not offended. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps so," said Jack, and he smiled too. + </p> + <p> + "Tell me, now, what are you going to do with the money I give + you—buy candy?" + </p> + <p> + "No," answered Jack, "I shall carry it home to my mother." + </p> + <p> + "That's well. Does your mother need the money?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir. Father's out of work, and we've got to live all + the same." + </p> + <p> + "What's your father's business?" + </p> + <p> + "He's a cooper." + </p> + <p> + "So he's out of work?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir, and has been for six weeks. It's on account of the + panic, I suppose." + </p> + <p> + "Very likely. He has plenty of company just now." + </p> + <p> + It may be remarked that our story opens in the year 1867, + memorable for its panic, and the business depression which + followed. Nearly every branch of industry suffered, and + thousands of men were thrown out of work, and utterly unable + to find employment of any kind. Among them was Timothy + Harding, the father of our hero. He was a sober, steady man, + and industrious; but his wages had never been large, and he + had been unable to save up a reserve fund, on which to draw + in time of need. He had an excellent wife, and but one + child—our present hero; but there was another, and by + no means unimportant member of the family. This was Rachel + Harding, a spinster of melancholy temperament, who belonged + to that unhappy class who are always prophesying evil, and + expecting the worst. She had been "disappointed" in early + life, and this had something to do with her gloomy views, but + probably she was somewhat inclined by nature to despondency. + </p> + <p> + The family lived in a humble tenement, which, however, was + neatly kept, and would have been a cheerful home but for the + gloomy presence of Aunt Rachel, who, since her brother had + been thrown out of employment, was gloomier than ever. + </p> + <p> + But all this while we have left Jack and the stranger + standing in the street. + </p> + <p> + "You seem to be a good boy," said the latter, "and, under the + circumstances, I will pay you more than I intended." + </p> + <p> + He drew from his vest pocket a dollar bill, and handed it to + Jack. + </p> + <p> + "What! is all this for me?" asked Jack, joyfully. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, on the condition that you carry it home, and give it to + your mother." + </p> + <p> + "That I will, sir; she'll be glad enough to get it." + </p> + <p> + "Well, good-by, my boy. I hope your father'll find work + soon." + </p> + <p> + "He's a trump!" ejaculated Jack. "Wasn't it lucky I was here + just as he wanted a boy to hold his horse. I wonder what Aunt + Rachel will have to say to that? Very likely she'll say the + bill is bad." + </p> + <p> + Jack made the best of his way home. It was already late in + the afternoon, and he knew he would be expected. It was with + a lighter heart than usual that he bent his steps homeward, + for he knew that the dollar would be heartily welcome. + </p> + <p> + We will precede him, and give a brief description of his + home. + </p> + <p> + There were only five rooms, and these were furnished in the + plainest manner. In the sitting room were his mother and + aunt. Mrs. Harding was a motherly-looking woman, with a + pleasant face, the prevailing expression of which was a + serene cheerfulness, though of late it had been harder than + usual to preserve this, in the straits to which the family + had been reduced. She was setting the table for tea. + </p> + <p> + Aunt Rachel sat in a rocking-chair at the window. She was + engaged in knitting. Her face was long and thin, and, as Jack + expressed it, she looked as if she hadn't a friend in the + world. Her voice harmonized with her mournful expression, and + was equally doleful. + </p> + <p> + "I wonder why Jack don't come home?" said Mrs. Harding, + looking at the clock. "He's generally here at this time." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps somethin's happened," suggested her sister-in-law. + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean, Rachel?" + </p> + <p> + "I was reading in the <i>Sun</i> this morning about a boy + being run over out West somewhere." + </p> + <p> + "You don't think Jack has been run over!" + </p> + <p> + "Who knows?" said Rachel, gloomily. "You know how careless + boys are, and Jack's very careless." + </p> + <p> + "I don't see how you can look for such things, Rachel." + </p> + <p> + "Accidents are always happening; you know that yourself, + Martha. I don't say Jack's run over. Perhaps he's been down + to the wharves, and tumbled over into the water and got + drowned." + </p> + <p> + "I wish you wouldn't say such things, Rachel. They make me + feel uncomfortable." + </p> + <p> + "We may as well be prepared for the worst," said Rachel, + severely. + </p> + <p> + "Not this time, Rachel," said Mrs. Harding, brightly, "for + that's Jack's step outside. He isn't drowned or run over, + thank God!" + </p> + <p> + "I hear him," said Rachel, dismally. "Anybody might know by + the noise who it is. He always comes stamping along as if he + was paid for makin' a noise. Anybody ought to have a + cast-iron head that lives anywhere within his hearing." + </p> + <p> + Here Jack entered, rather boisterously, it must be admitted, + in his eagerness slamming the door behind him. + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p><a name="CH2"><!-- CH2 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER II + </h2> + <center> + THE EVENTS OF AN EVENING + </center> + <p> + "I am glad you've come, Jack," said his mother. "Rachel was + just predicting that you were run over or drowned." + </p> + <p> + "I hope you're not very much disappointed to see me safe and + well, Aunt Rachel," said Jack, merrily. "I don't think I've + been drowned." + </p> + <p> + "There's things worse than drowning," replied Rachel, + severely. + </p> + <p> + "Such as what?" + </p> + <p> + "A man that's born to be hanged is safe from drowning." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you for the compliment, Aunt Rachel, if you mean me. + But, mother, I didn't tell you of my good luck. See this," + and he displayed the dollar bill. + </p> + <p> + "How did you get it?" asked his mother. + </p> + <p> + "Holding horses. Here, take it, mother; I warrant you'll find + a use for it." + </p> + <p> + "It comes in good time," said Mrs. Harding. "We're out of + flour, and I had no money to buy any. Before you take off + your boots, Jack, I wish you'd run over to the grocery store, + and buy half a dozen pounds. You may get a pound of sugar, + and quarter of a pound of tea also." + </p> + <p> + "You see the Lord hasn't forgotten us," she remarked, as Jack + started on his errand. + </p> + <p> + "What's a dollar?" said Rachel, gloomily. "Will it carry us + through the winter?" + </p> + <p> + "It will carry us through to-night, and perhaps Timothy will + have work to-morrow. Hark, that's his step." + </p> + <p> + At this moment the outer door opened, and Timothy Harding + entered, not with the quick, elastic step of one who brings + good tidings, but slowly and deliberately, with a quiet + gravity of demeanor in which his wife could read only too + well that he had failed in his efforts to procure work. + </p> + <p> + Reading all this in his manner, she had the delicacy to + forbear intruding upon him questions to which she saw it + would only give him pain to reply. + </p> + <p> + Not so Aunt Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "I needn't ask," she began, "whether you've got work, + Timothy. I knew beforehand you wouldn't. There ain't no use + in tryin'! The times is awful dull, and mark my words, + they'll be wuss before they're better. We mayn't live to see + 'em. I don't expect we shall. Folks can't live without money; + and if we can't get that, we shall have to starve." + </p> + <p> + "Not so bad as that, Rachel," said the cooper, trying to look + cheerful; "I don't talk about starving till the time comes. + Anyhow," glancing at the table, on which was spread a good + plain meal, "we needn't talk about starving till to-morrow + with that before us. Where's Jack?" + </p> + <p> + "Gone after some flour," replied his wife. + </p> + <p> + "On credit?" asked the cooper. + </p> + <p> + "No, he's got money enough to pay for a few pounds," said + Mrs. Harding, smiling with an air of mystery. + </p> + <p> + "Where did it come from?" asked Timothy, who was puzzled, as + his wife anticipated. "I didn't know you had any money in the + house." + </p> + <p> + "No more we had; but he earned it himself, holding horses, + this afternoon." + </p> + <p> + "Come, that's good," said the cooper, cheerfully. "We ain't + so bad off as we might be, you see, Rachel." + </p> + <p> + "Very likely the bill's bad," she said, with the air of one + who rather hoped it was. + </p> + <p> + "Now, Rachel, what's the use of anticipating evil?" said Mrs. + Harding. "You see you're wrong, for here's Jack with the + flour." + </p> + <p> + The family sat down to supper. + </p> + <p> + "You haven't told us," said Mrs. Harding, seeing her + husband's cheerfulness in a measure restored, "what Mr. + Blodgett said about the chances for employment." + </p> + <p> + "Not much that was encouraging," answered Timothy. "He isn't + at all sure when it will be safe to commence work; perhaps + not before spring." + </p> + <p> + "Didn't I tell you so?" commented Rachel, with sepulchral + sadness. + </p> + <p> + Even Mrs. Harding couldn't help looking sober. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose, Timothy, you haven't formed any plans," she said. + </p> + <p> + "No, I haven't had time. I must try to get something else to + do." + </p> + <p> + "What, for instance?" + </p> + <p> + "Anything by which I can earn a little; I don't care if it's + only sawing wood. We shall have to get along as economically + as we can—cut our coat according to our cloth." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, you'll be able to earn something, and we can live very + plain," said Mrs. Harding, affecting a cheerfulness she + didn't feel. + </p> + <p> + "Pity you hadn't done it sooner," was the comforting + suggestion of Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "Mustn't cry over spilt milk," said the cooper, + good-humoredly. "Perhaps we might have lived a leetle more + economically, but I don't think we've been extravagant." + </p> + <p> + "Besides, I can earn something, father," said Jack, + hopefully. "You know I did this afternoon." + </p> + <p> + "So you can," said his mother, brightly. + </p> + <p> + "There ain't horses to hold every day," said Rachel, + apparently fearing that the family might become too cheerful, + when, like herself, it was their duty to be profoundly + gloomy. + </p> + <p> + "You're always tryin' to discourage people, Aunt Rachel," + said Jack, discontentedly. + </p> + <p> + Rachel took instant umbrage at these words. + </p> + <p> + "I'm sure," said she, mournfully, "I don't want to make you + unhappy. If you can find anything to be cheerful about when + you're on the verge of starvation, I hope you'll enjoy + yourselves, and not mind me. I'm a poor, dependent creetur, + and I feel I'm a burden." + </p> + <p> + "Now, Rachel, that's all foolishness," said Timothy. "You + don't feel anything of the kind." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps others can tell how I feel better than I can + myself," answered his sister, with the air of a martyr. "If + it hadn't been for me, I know you'd have been able to lay up + money, and have something to carry you through the winter. + It's hard to be a burden on your relations, and bring a + brother's family to this poverty." + </p> + <p> + "Don't talk of being a burden, Rachel," said Mrs. Harding. + "You've been a great help to me in many ways. That pair of + stockings, now, you're knitting for Jack—that's a help, + for I couldn't have got time for them myself." + </p> + <p> + "I don't expect," said Aunt Rachel, in the same sunny manner, + "that I shall be able to do it long. From the pains I have in + my hands sometimes, I expect I'm goin' to lose the use of 'em + soon, and be as useless as old Mrs. Sprague, who for the last + ten years of her life had to sit with her hands folded on her + lap. But I wouldn't stay to be a burden—I'd go to the + poorhouse first. But perhaps," with the look of a martyr, + "they wouldn't want me there, because I'd be discouragin' 'em + too much." + </p> + <p> + Poor Jack, who had so unwittingly raised this storm, winced + under the last words, which he knew were directed at him. + </p> + <p> + "Then why," asked he, half in extenuation, "why don't you try + to look pleasant and cheerful? Why won't you be jolly, as Tom + Piper's aunt is?" + </p> + <p> + "I dare say I ain't pleasant," said Rachel, "as my own nephew + twits me with it. There is some folks that can be cheerful + when their house is a-burnin' down before their eyes, and + I've heard of one young man that laughed at his aunt's + funeral," directing a severe glance at Jack; "but I'm not one + of that kind. I think, with the Scriptures, that there's a + time to weep." + </p> + <p> + "Doesn't it say there's a time to laugh, too?" asked Mrs. + Harding. + </p> + <p> + "When I see anything to laugh about, I'm ready to laugh," + said Aunt Rachel; "but human nater ain't to be forced. I + can't see anything to laugh at now, and perhaps you won't by + and by." + </p> + <p> + It was evidently quite useless to persuade Rachel to + cheerfulness, and the subject dropped. + </p> + <p> + The tea things were cleared away by Mrs. Harding, who then + sat down to her sewing. Aunt Rachel continued to knit in grim + silence, while Jack seated himself on a three-legged stool + near his aunt, and began to whittle out a boat, after a model + lent him by Tom Piper, a young gentleman whose aunt has + already been referred to. + </p> + <p> + The cooper took out his spectacles, wiped them carefully with + his handkerchief, and as carefully adjusted them to his nose. + He then took down from the mantelpiece one of the few books + belonging to his library—"Dr. Kane's Arctic + Explorations"—and began to read, for the tenth time, it + might be, the record of these daring explorers. + </p> + <p> + The plain little room presented a picture of graceful + tranquillity, but it proved to be only the calm which + preceded the storm. + </p> + <p> + The storm in question, I regret to say, was brought about by + the luckless Jack. As has been said, he was engaged in + constructing a boat, the particular operation he was now + intent upon being the excavation, or hollowing out. Now + three-legged stools are not the most secure seats in the + world. This, I think, no one will deny who has any practical + acquaintance with them. Jack was working quite vigorously, + the block from which the boat was to be fashioned being held + firmly between his knees. His knife having got wedged in the + wood, he made an unusual effort to draw it out, in which he + lost his balance, and disturbed the equilibrium of his stool, + which, with its load, tumbled over backward. Now, it very + unfortunately happened that Aunt Rachel sat close behind, and + the treacherous stool came down with considerable force upon + her foot. + </p> + <p> + A piercing shriek was heard, and Aunt Rachel, lifting her + foot, clung to it convulsively, while an expression of pain + disturbed her features. + </p> + <p> + At the sound, the cooper hastily removed his spectacles, and, + letting "Dr. Kane" fall to the floor, started up in great + dismay. Mrs. Harding likewise dropped her sewing, and jumped + to her feet in alarm. + </p> + <p> + It did not take long to see how matters stood. + </p> + <p> + "Hurt ye much, Rachel?" inquired Timothy. + </p> + <p> + "It's about killed me," groaned the afflicted maiden. "Oh, I + shall have to have my foot cut off, or be a cripple anyway." + Then, turning upon Jack fiercely: "You careless, wicked, + ungrateful boy, that I've been wearin' myself out knittin' + for. I'm almost sure you did it a purpose. You won't be + satisfied till you've got me out of the world, and + then—then, perhaps"—here Rachel began to + whimper—"perhaps you'll get Tom Piper's aunt to knit + your stockings." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't mean to, Aunt Rachel," said Jack, penitently, eying + his aunt, who was rocking to and fro in her chair. "You know + I didn't. Besides, I hurt myself like thunder," rubbing + himself vigorously. + </p> + <p> + "Served you right," said his aunt, still clasping her foot. + </p> + <p> + "Shan't I get something for you to put on it, Rachel?" asked + Mrs. Harding. + </p> + <p> + But this Rachel steadily refused, and, after a few more + postures indicating a great amount of anguish, limped out of + the room, and ascended the stairs to her own apartment. + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p><a name="CH3"><!-- CH3 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER III + </h2> + <center> + JACK'S NEW PLAN + </center> + <p> + Aunt Rachel was right in one thing, as Jack realized. He + could not find horses to hold every day, and even if he had + succeeded in that, few would have paid him so munificently as + the stranger of the day before. In fact, matters came to a + crisis, and something must be sold to raise funds for + immediate necessities. Now, the only article of + luxury—if it could be called so—in the possession + of the family was a sofa, in very good preservation, indeed + nearly new, for it had been bought only two years before when + business was good. A neighbor was willing to pay fifteen + dollars for this, and Mrs. Harding, with her husband's + consent, agreed to part with it. + </p> + <p> + "If ever we are able we will buy another," said Timothy. + </p> + <p> + "And, at any rate, we can do without it," said his wife. + </p> + <p> + "Rachel will miss it." + </p> + <p> + "She said the other day that it was not comfortable, and + ought never to have been bought; that it was a shameful waste + of money." + </p> + <p> + "In that case she won't be disturbed by our selling it." + </p> + <p> + "No, I should think not; but it's hard to tell how Rachel + will take anything." + </p> + <p> + This remark was amply verified. + </p> + <p> + The sofa was removed while the spinster was out, and without + any hint to her of what was going to happen. When she + returned, she looked around for it with surprise. + </p> + <p> + "Where's the sofy?" she asked. + </p> + <p> + "We've sold it to Mrs. Stoddard," said Mrs. Harding, + cheerfully. + </p> + <p> + "Sold it!" echoed Rachel, dolefully. + </p> + <p> + "Yes; we felt that we didn't need it, and we did need money. + She offered me fifteen dollars for it, and I accepted." + </p> + <p> + Rachel sat down in a rocking-chair, and began straightway to + show signs of great depression of spirits. + </p> + <p> + "Life's full of disappointments!" she groaned. "Our paths is + continually beset by 'em. There's that sofa. It's so pleasant + to have one in the house when a body's sick. But, there, it's + gone, and if I happen to get down, as most likely I shall, + for I've got a bad feeling in my stummick this very minute, I + shall have to go upstairs, and most likely catch my death of + cold, and that will be the end of me." + </p> + <p> + "Not so bad as that, I hope," said Mrs. Harding, cheerfully. + "You know when you was sick last, you didn't want to use the + sofa; you said it didn't lay comfortable. Besides, I hope + before you are sick we may be able to buy it back again." + </p> + <p> + Aunt Rachel shook her head despondingly. + </p> + <p> + "There ain't any use in hoping that," she said. "Timothy's + got so much behindhand that he won't be able to get up again; + I know he won't!" + </p> + <p> + "But, if he only manages to find steady work soon, he will." + </p> + <p> + "No, he won't," said Rachel, positively. "I'm sure he won't. + There won't be any work before spring, and most likely not + then." + </p> + <p> + "You are too desponding, Aunt Rachel." + </p> + <p> + "Enough to make me so. If you had only taken my advice, we + shouldn't have come to this." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know what advice you refer to, Rachel," said Mrs. + Harding, patiently. + </p> + <p> + "No, I don't expect you do. My words don't make no + impression. You didn't pay no attention to what I said, + that's the reason." + </p> + <p> + "But if you'll repeat the advice, Rachel, perhaps we can + still profit by it," answered Mrs. Harding, with + imperturbable good humor. + </p> + <p> + "I told you you ought to be layin' up something agin' a rainy + day. But that's always the way. Folks think when times is + good it's always a-goin' to be so, but I know better." + </p> + <p> + "I don't see how we could have been much more economical," + said Mrs. Harding, mildly. + </p> + <p> + "There's a hundred ways. Poor folks like us ought not to + expect to have meat so often. It's frightful to think what + the butcher's bill must have been for the last two months." + </p> + <p> + Inconsistent Rachel! Only the day before she had made herself + very uncomfortable because there was no meat for dinner, and + said she couldn't live without it. Mrs. Harding might have + reminded her of this, but the good woman was too kind and + forbearing to make the retort. She really pitied Rachel for + her unhappy habit of despondency. So she contented herself by + saying that they must try to do better in future. + </p> + <p> + "That's always the way," muttered Rachel; "shut the stable + door after the horse is stolen. Folks never learn from + experience till it's too late to be of any use. I don't see + what the world was made for, for my part. Everything goes + topsy-turvy, and all sorts of ways except the right way. I + sometimes think 'tain't much use livin'!" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, you'll feel better by and by, Rachel." + </p> + <p> + "No, I shan't; I feel my health's declinin' every day. I + don't know how I can stand it when I have to go to the + poorhouse." + </p> + <p> + "We haven't gone there yet, Rachel." + </p> + <p> + "No, but it's comin' soon. We can't live on nothin'." + </p> + <p> + "Hark, there's Jack coming," said his mother, hearing a quick + step outside. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, he's whistlin' just as if nothin' was the matter. He + don't care anything for the awful condition of the family." + </p> + <p> + "You're wrong there, Rachel; Jack is trying every day to get + something to do. He wants to do his part." + </p> + <p> + Rachel would have made a reply disparaging to Jack, but she + had no chance, for our hero broke in at this instant. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Jack?" said his mother, inquiringly. + </p> + <p> + "I've got a plan, mother," he said. + </p> + <p> + "What's a boy's plan worth?" sniffed Aunt Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, don't be always hectorin' me, Aunt Rachel," said Jack, + impatiently. + </p> + <p> + "Hectorin'! Is that the way my own nephew talks to me?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, it's so. You don't give a feller a chance. I'll tell + you what I'm thinking of, mother. I've been talkin' with Tom + Blake; he sells papers, and he tells me he makes sometimes a + dollar a day. Isn't that good?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, that is very good wages for a boy." + </p> + <p> + "I want to try it, too; but I've got to buy the papers first, + you know, and I haven't got any money. So, if you'll lend me + fifty cents, I'll try it this afternoon." + </p> + <p> + "You think you can sell them, Jack?" + </p> + <p> + "I know I can. I'm as smart as Tom Blake, any day." + </p> + <p> + "Pride goes before a fall!" remarked Rachel, by way of a + damper. "Disappointment is the common lot." + </p> + <p> + "That's just the way all the time," said Jack, provoked. + </p> + <p> + "I've lived longer than you," began Aunt Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, a mighty lot longer," interrupted Jack. "I don't deny + that." + </p> + <p> + "Now you're sneerin' at me on account of my age, Jack. + Martha, how can you allow such things?" + </p> + <p> + "Be respectful, Jack." + </p> + <p> + "Then tell Aunt Rachel not to aggravate me so. Will you let + me have the fifty cents, mother?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Jack. I think your plan is worth trying." + </p> + <p> + She took out half a dollar from her pocketbook and handed it + to Jack. + </p> + <p> + "All right, mother. I'll see what I can do with it." + </p> + <p> + Jack went out, and Rachel looked more gloomy than ever. + </p> + <p> + "You'll never see that money again, you may depend on't, + Martha," she said. + </p> + <p> + "Why not, Rachel?" + </p> + <p> + "Because Jack'll spend it for candy, or in some other foolish + way." + </p> + <p> + "You are unjust, Rachel. Jack is not that kind of boy." + </p> + <p> + "I'd ought to know him. I've had chances enough." + </p> + <p> + "You never knew him to do anything dishonest." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose he's a model boy?" + </p> + <p> + "No, he isn't. He's got faults enough, I admit; but he + wouldn't spend for his own pleasure money given him for + buying papers." + </p> + <p> + "If he buys the papers, I don't believe he can sell them, so + the money's wasted anyway," said Rachel, trying another tack. + </p> + <p> + "We will wait and see," said Mrs. Harding. + </p> + <p> + She saw that Rachel was in one of her unreasonable moods, and + that it was of no use to continue the discussion. + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p><a name="CH4"><!-- CH4 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV + </h2> + <center> + MRS. HARDING TAKES A BOARDER + </center> + <p> + Jack started for the newspaper offices and bought a supply of + papers. + </p> + <p> + "I don't see why I can't sell papers as well as other boys," + he said to himself. "I'm going to try, at any rate." + </p> + <p> + He thought it prudent, however, not to buy too large stock at + first. He might sell them all, but then again he might get + "stuck" on a part, and this might take away all his profits. + </p> + <p> + Jack, however, was destined to find that in the newspaper + business, as well as in others, there was no lack of + competition. He took his place just below the Astor House, + and began to cry his papers. This aroused the ire of a rival + newsboy a few feet away. + </p> + <p> + "Get away from here!" he exclaimed, scowling at Jack. + </p> + <p> + "What for?" said Jack. + </p> + <p> + "This is my stand." + </p> + <p> + "Keep it, then. This is mine," retorted Jack, composedly. + </p> + <p> + "I don't allow no other newsboys in this block," said the + other. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you? You ain't the city government, are you?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't want any of your impudence. Clear out!" + </p> + <p> + "Clear out yourself!" + </p> + <p> + "I'll give you a lickin'!" + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps you will when you're able." + </p> + <p> + Jack spoke manfully; but the fact was that the other boy + probably was able, being three years older, and as many + inches taller. + </p> + <p> + Jack kept on crying his papers, and his opponent, incensed at + the contemptuous disregard of his threats, advanced toward + him, and, taking Jack unawares, pushed him off the sidewalk + with such violence that he nearly fell flat. Jack felt that + the time for action had arrived. He dropped his papers + temporarily on the sidewalk, and, lowering his head, butted + against his young enemy with such force as to double him up, + and seat him, gasping for breath, on the sidewalk. Tom + Rafferty, for this was his name, looked up in astonishment at + the unexpected form of the attack. + </p> + <p> + "Well done, my lad!" said a hearty voice. + </p> + <p> + Jack turned toward the speaker, and saw a stout man dressed + in a blue coat with brass buttons. He was dark and bronzed + with exposure to the weather, and there was something about + him which plainly indicated the sailor. + </p> + <p> + "Well done, my lad!" he repeated. "You know how to pay off + your debts." + </p> + <p> + "I try to," said Jack, modestly. "But where's my papers?" + </p> + <p> + The papers, which he had dropped, had disappeared. One of the + boys who had seen the fracas had seized the opportunity to + make off with them, and poor Jack was in the position of a + merchant who had lost his stock in trade. + </p> + <p> + "Who took them papers?" he asked, looking about him. + </p> + <p> + "I saw a boy run off with them," said a bystander. + </p> + <p> + "I'm glad of it," said Tom Rafferty, sullenly. + </p> + <p> + Jack looked as if he was ready to pitch into him again, but + the sailor interfered. + </p> + <p> + "Don't mind the papers, my lad. What were they worth?" + </p> + <p> + "I gave twenty cents for 'em." + </p> + <p> + "Then here's thirty." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think I ought to take it," said Jack. "It's my + loss." + </p> + <p> + "Take it, my boy. It won't ruin me. I've got plenty more + behind." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, sir; I'll go and buy some more papers." + </p> + <p> + "Not to-night. I want you to take a cruise with me." + </p> + <p> + "All right, sir." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose you'd like to know who I am?" said the sailor, as + they moved off together. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose you're a sailor." + </p> + <p> + "You can tell that by the cut of my jib. Yes, my lad, I'm + captain of the <i>Argo</i>, now in port. It's a good while + since I've been in York. For ten years I've been plying + between Liverpool and Calcutta. Now I've got absence to come + over here." + </p> + <p> + "Are you an American, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; I was raised in Connecticut, but then I began going to + sea when I was only thirteen. I only arrived to-day, and I + find the city changed since ten years ago, when I used to + know it." + </p> + <p> + "Where are you staying—at what hotel?" + </p> + <p> + "I haven't gone to any yet; I used to stay with a cousin of + mine, but he's moved. Do you know any good boarding place, + where they'd make me feel at home, and let me smoke a pipe + after dinner?" + </p> + <p> + An idea struck Jack. They had an extra room at home, or could + make one by his sleeping in the sitting room. Why shouldn't + they take the stranger to board? The money would certainly be + acceptable. He determined to propose it. + </p> + <p> + "If we lived in a nicer house," he said, "I'd ask you to + board at my mother's." + </p> + <p> + "Would she take me, my lad?" + </p> + <p> + "I think she would; but we are poor, and live in a small + house." + </p> + <p> + "That makes no odds. I ain't a bit particular, as long as I + can feel at home. So heave ahead, my lad, and we'll go and + see this mother of yours, and hear what she has to say about + it." + </p> + <p> + Jack took the way home well pleased, and, opening the front + door, entered the sitting room, followed by the sailor. + </p> + <p> + Aunt Rachel looked up nervously, and exclaimed: "A man!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am," said the stranger. "I'm a man, and no mistake. + Are you this lad's mother?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir!" answered Rachel, emphatically. "I am nobody's + mother." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, an old maid!" said the sailor, whose mode of life had + made him unceremonious. + </p> + <p> + "I am a spinster," said Rachel, with dignity. + </p> + <p> + "That's the same thing," said the visitor, sitting down + opposite Aunt Rachel, who eyed him suspiciously. + </p> + <p> + "My aunt, Rachel Harding, Capt. Bowling," introduced Jack. + "Aunt Rachel, Capt. Bowling is the commander of a vessel now + in port." + </p> + <p> + Aunt Rachel made a stiff courtesy, and Capt. Bowling eyed her + curiously. + </p> + <p> + "Are you fond of knitting, ma'am?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "I am not fond of anything," said Rachel, mournfully. "We + should not set our affections upon earthly things." + </p> + <p> + "You wouldn't say that if you had a beau, ma'am," said Capt. + Bowling, facetiously. + </p> + <p> + "A beau!" repeated Rachel, horror-stricken. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am. I suppose you've had a beau some time or other." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think it proper to talk on such a subject to a + stranger," said Aunt Rachel, primly. + </p> + <p> + "Law, ma'am, you needn't be so particular." + </p> + <p> + Just at this moment, Mrs. Harding entered the room, and was + introduced to Capt. Bowling by Jack. The captain proceeded to + business at once. + </p> + <p> + "Your son, here, ma'am, told me you might maybe swing a + hammock for me somewhere in your house. I liked his looks, + and here I am." + </p> + <p> + "Do you think you would be satisfied with our plain fare, and + humble dwelling, Capt. Bowling?" + </p> + <p> + "I ain't hard to suit, ma'am; so, if you can take me, I'll + stay." + </p> + <p> + His manner was frank, although rough; and Mrs. Harding + cheerfully consented to do so. It was agreed that Bowling + should pay five dollars a week for the three or four weeks he + expected to stay. + </p> + <p> + "I'll be back in an hour," said the new boarder. "I've got a + little business to attend to before supper." + </p> + <p> + When he had gone out, Aunt Rachel began to cough ominously. + Evidently some remonstrance was coming. + </p> + <p> + "Martha," she said, solemnly, "I'm afraid you've done wrong + in taking that sailor man." + </p> + <p> + "Why, Rachel?" + </p> + <p> + "He's a strange man." + </p> + <p> + "I don't see anything strange about him," said Jack. + </p> + <p> + "He spoke to me about having a beau," said Aunt Rachel, in a + shocked tone. + </p> + <p> + Jack burst into a fit of hearty laughter. "Perhaps he's going + to make you an offer, Aunt Rachel," he said. "He wants to see + if there's anybody in the way." + </p> + <p> + Rachel did not appear so very indignant. + </p> + <p> + "It was improper for a stranger to speak to me on that + subject," she said, mildly. + </p> + <p> + "You must make allowances for the bluntness of a sailor," + said Mrs. Harding. + </p> + <p> + For some reason Rachel did not seem as low-spirited as usual + that evening. Capt. Bowling entertained them with narratives + of his personal adventures, and it was later than usual when + the lamps were put out, and they were all in bed. + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p><a name="CH5"><!-- CH5 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER V + </h2> + <center> + THE CAPTAIN'S DEPARTURE + </center> + <p> + "Jack," said the captain, at breakfast, the next morning, + "how would you like to go round with me to see my vessel?" + </p> + <p> + "I'll go," said Jack, promptly. + </p> + <p> + "Very likely he'll fall over into the water and be drowned," + suggested Aunt Rachel, cheerfully. + </p> + <p> + "I'll take care of that, ma'am," said Capt. Bowling. "Won't + you come yourself?" + </p> + <p> + "I go to see a vessel!" repeated Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "Yes; why not?" + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid it wouldn't be proper to go with a stranger," + said Rachel, with a high sense of propriety. + </p> + <p> + "I'll promise not to run away with you," said the captain, + bluntly. "If I should attempt it, Jack, here, would + interfere." + </p> + <p> + "No, I wouldn't," said Jack. "It wouldn't be proper for me to + interfere with Aunt Rachel's plans." + </p> + <p> + "You seem to speak as if your aunt proposed to run away," + said Mr. Harding, jocosely. + </p> + <p> + "You shouldn't speak of such things, nephew; I am shocked," + said Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "Then you won't go, ma'am?" asked the captain. + </p> + <p> + "If I thought it was consistent with propriety," said Rachel, + hesitating. "What do you think, Martha?" + </p> + <p> + "I think there is no objection," said Mrs. Harding, secretly + amazed at Rachel's entertaining the idea. + </p> + <p> + The result was that Miss Rachel put on her things, and + accompanied the captain. She was prevailed on to take the + captain's arm at length, greatly to Jack's amusement. He was + still more amused when a boy picked up her handkerchief which + she had accidentally dropped, and, restoring it to the + captain, said, "Here's your wife's handkerchief, gov'nor." + </p> + <p> + "Ho! ho!" laughed the captain. "He takes you for my wife, + ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Ho! ho!" echoed Jack, equally amused. + </p> + <p> + Aunt Rachel turned red with confusion. "I am afraid I ought + not to have come," she murmured. "I feel ready to drop." + </p> + <p> + "You'd better not drop just yet," said the captain—they + were just crossing the street—"wait till it isn't so + muddy." + </p> + <p> + On the whole, Aunt Rachel decided not to drop. + </p> + <p> + The <i>Argo</i> was a medium-sized vessel, and Jack in + particular was pleased with his visit. Though not outwardly + so demonstrative, Aunt Rachel also seemed to enjoy the + expedition. The captain, though blunt, was attentive, and it + was something new to her to have such an escort. It was + observed that Miss Harding was much less gloomy than usual + during the remainder of the day. It might be that the + captain's cheerfulness was contagious. For a stranger, Aunt + Rachel certainly conversed with him with a freedom remarkable + for her. + </p> + <p> + "I never saw Rachel so cheerful," remarked Mrs. Harding to + her husband that evening after they had retired. "She hasn't + once spoken of life being a vale of tears to-day." + </p> + <p> + "It's the captain," said her husband. "He has such spirits + that it seems to enliven all of us." + </p> + <p> + "I wish we could have him for a permanent boarder." + </p> + <p> + "Yes; the five dollars a week which he pays are a great help, + especially now that I am out of work." + </p> + <p> + "What is the prospect of getting work soon?" + </p> + <p> + "I am hoping for it from day to day, but it may be weeks + yet." + </p> + <p> + "Jack earned fifty cents to-day by selling papers." + </p> + <p> + "His daily earnings are an important help. With what the + captain pays us, it is enough to pay all our living expenses. + But there's one thing that troubles me." + </p> + <p> + "The rent?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, it is due in three weeks, and as yet I haven't a dollar + laid by to meet it. It makes me feel anxious." + </p> + <p> + "Don't lose your trust in Providence, Timothy. He may yet + carry us over this difficulty." + </p> + <p> + "So I hope, but I can't help feeling in what straits we shall + be, if some help does not come." + </p> + <p> + Two weeks later, Capt. Bowling sailed for Liverpool. + </p> + <p> + "I hope we shall see you again sometime, captain," said Mrs. + Harding. + </p> + <p> + "Whenever I come back to New York, I shall come here if + you'll keep me," said the bluff sailor. + </p> + <p> + "Aunt Rachel will miss you, captain," said Jack, slyly. + </p> + <p> + Capt. Bowling turned to the confused spinster. + </p> + <p> + "I hope she will," said he, heartily. "Perhaps when I see her + again, she'll have a husband." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, Capt. Bowling, how can you say such things?" gasped + Rachel, who, as the time for the captain's departure + approached, had been subsiding into her old melancholy. + "There's other things to think of in this vale of tears." + </p> + <p> + "Are there? Well, if they're gloomy, I don't want to think of + 'em. Jack, my lad, I wish you were going to sail with me." + </p> + <p> + "So do I," said Jack. + </p> + <p> + "He's my only boy, captain," said Mrs. Harding. "I couldn't + part with him." + </p> + <p> + "I don't blame you, ma'am, not a particle; though there's the + making of a sailor in Jack." + </p> + <p> + "If he went away, he'd never come back," said Rachel, + lugubriously. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know about that, ma'am. I've been a sailor, man and + boy, forty years, and here I am, well and hearty to-day." + </p> + <p> + "The captain is about your age, isn't he, Aunt Rachel?" said + Jack, maliciously. + </p> + <p> + "I'm only thirty-nine," said Rachel, sharply. + </p> + <p> + "Then I must have been under a mistake all my life," said the + cooper to himself. "Rachel's forty-seven, if she's a day." + </p> + <p> + This remark he prudently kept to himself, or a fit of + hysterics would probably have been the result. + </p> + <p> + "I wouldn't have taken you for a day over thirty-five, + ma'am," said the captain, gallantly. + </p> + <p> + Rachel actually smiled, but mildly disclaimed the compliment. + </p> + <p> + "If it hadn't been for my trials and troubles," she said, "I + might have looked younger; but they are only to be expected. + It's the common lot." + </p> + <p> + "Is it?" said the captain. "I can't say I've been troubled + much that way. With a stout heart and a good conscience we + ought to be jolly." + </p> + <p> + "Who of us has a good conscience?" asked Rachel, in a + melancholy tone. + </p> + <p> + "I have, Aunt Rachel," answered Jack. + </p> + <p> + "You?" she exclaimed, indignantly. "You, that tied a tin + kettle to a dog's tail yesterday, and chased the poor cat + till she almost died of fright. I lie awake nights thinking + of the bad end you're likely to come to unless you change + your ways." + </p> + <p> + Jack shrugged his shoulders, but the captain came to his + help. + </p> + <p> + "Boys will be boys, ma'am," he said. "I was up to no end of + tricks myself when I was a boy." + </p> + <p> + "You weren't so bad as Jack, I know," said Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you for standing up for me, ma'am; but I'm afraid I + was. I don't think Jack's so very bad, for my part." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't play the tricks Aunt Rachel mentioned," said Jack. + "It was another boy in our block." + </p> + <p> + "You're all alike," said Rachel. "I don't know what you boys + are all coming to." + </p> + <p> + Presently the captain announced that he must go. Jack + accompanied him as far as the pier, but the rest of the + family remained behind. Aunt Rachel became gloomier than + ever. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know what you'll do, now you've lost your boarder," + she said. + </p> + <p> + "He will be a loss to us, it is true," said Mrs. Harding; but + we are fortunate in having had him with us so long." + </p> + <p> + "It's only puttin' off our misery a little longer," said + Rachel. "We've got to go to the poorhouse, after all." + </p> + <p> + Rachel was in one of her moods, and there was no use in + arguing with her, as it would only have intensified her + gloom. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Jack was bidding good-by to the captain. + </p> + <p> + "I'm sorry you can't go with me, Jack," said the bluff + sailor. + </p> + <p> + "So am I; but I can't leave mother." + </p> + <p> + "Right, my lad; I wouldn't take you away from her. But + there—take that, and don't forget me." + </p> + <p> + "You are very kind," said Jack, as the captain pressed into + his hand a five-dollar gold piece. "May I give it to my + mother?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly, my lad; you can't do better." + </p> + <p> + Jack stood on the wharf till the vessel was drawn out into + the stream by a steam tug. Then he went home. + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p><a name="CH6"><!-- CH6 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI + </h2> + <center> + THE LANDLORD'S VISIT + </center> + <p> + It was the night before the New Year. In many a household in + the great city it was a night of happy anticipation. In the + humble home of the Hardings it was an evening of anxious + thought, for to-morrow the quarter's rent was due. + </p> + <p> + "I haven't got a dollar to meet the rent, Martha," said the + cooper, in a depressed tone. + </p> + <p> + "Won't Mr. Colman wait?" + </p> + <p> + "I'm afraid not. You know what sort of a man he is, Martha. + There isn't much feeling about him. He cares more for money + than anything else." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps you are doing him an injustice." + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid not. Did you never hear how he treated the + Underhills?" + </p> + <p> + "How?" + </p> + <p> + "Underhill was laid up with rheumatic fever for three months. + The consequence was that when quarter day came round he was + in about the same situation with ourselves—a little + worse, even, for his wife was sick also. But, though Colman + was aware of the circumstances, he had no pity; he turned + them out without ceremony." + </p> + <p> + "Is it possible?" asked Mrs. Harding, uneasily. + </p> + <p> + "And there's no reason for his being more lenient with us. I + can't but feel anxious about to-morrow, Martha." + </p> + <p> + At this moment, verifying an old adage, which will perhaps + occur to the reader, who should knock but Mr. Colman himself. + Both the cooper and his wife had an instinctive foreboding as + to his visit. + </p> + <p> + He came in, rubbing his hands in a social way, as was his + custom. No one, to look at him, would have suspected the + hardness of heart that lay veiled under his velvety softness + of manner. + </p> + <p> + "Good-evening, Mr. Harding," he said, affably. "I trust you + and your excellent wife are in good health." + </p> + <p> + "That blessing, at least, is continued to us," said the + cooper, gravely. + </p> + <p> + "And how comfortable you're looking, too, eh! It makes an old + bachelor like me feel lonesome when he contrasts his own + solitary room with such a scene of comfort as this. You've + got a comfortable home, and dog cheap, too. All my other + tenants are grumbling to think you don't have to pay any more + for such superior accommodations. I've about made up my mind + that I must ask you twenty-five dollars a quarter hereafter." + </p> + <p> + All this was said very pleasantly, but the pill was none the + less bitter. + </p> + <p> + "It seems to me, Mr. Colman," answered the cooper, soberly, + "you have chosen rather a singular time for raising the + rent." + </p> + <p> + "Why singular, my good sir?" inquired the landlord, urbanely. + </p> + <p> + "You know, of course, that this is a time of general business + depression; my own trade in particular has suffered greatly. + For a month past I have not been able to find any work." + </p> + <p> + Colman's face lost something of its graciousness. + </p> + <p> + "And I fear I shall not be able to pay my quarter's rent + to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + "Indeed!" said the landlord, coldly. "Perhaps you can make it + up within two or three dollars." + </p> + <p> + "I can't pay a dollar toward it," said the cooper. "It's the + first time, in the five years I've lived here, that this + thing has happened to me. I've always been prompt before." + </p> + <p> + "You should have economized as you found times growing + harder," said Colman, harshly. "It is hardly honest to live + in a house when you know you can't pay the rent." + </p> + <p> + "You shan't lose it, Mr. Colman," said the cooper, earnestly. + "No one ever yet lost anything by me, and I don't mean anyone + shall, if I can help it. Only give me a little time, and I + will pay all." + </p> + <p> + The landlord shook his head. + </p> + <p> + "You ought to have cut your coat according to your cloth," he + responded. "Much as it will go against my feelings I am + compelled, by a prudent regard to my own interests, to warn + you that, in case your rent is not ready to-morrow, I shall + be obliged to trouble you to find another tenement; and + furthermore, the rent of this will be raised five dollars a + quarter." + </p> + <p> + "I can't pay it, Mr. Colman," said Timothy Harding, gravely. + "I may as well say that now; and it's no use agreeing to pay + more rent. I pay all I can afford now." + </p> + <p> + "Very well, you know the alternative. Of course, if you can + do better elsewhere, you will. That's understood. But it's a + disagreeable subject. We won't talk of it any more now. I + shall be round to-morrow forenoon. How's your excellent + sister—as cheerful as ever?" + </p> + <p> + "Quite as much so as usual," answered the cooper, dryly. + </p> + <p> + "There's one favor I should like to ask," he said, after a + pause. "Will you allow us to remain here a few days till I + can look about a little?" + </p> + <p> + "I would with the greatest pleasure in the world," was the + reply; "but there's another family very anxious to take the + house, and they wish to come in immediately. Therefore I + shall be obliged to ask you to move out to-morrow. In fact, + that is the very thing I came here this evening to speak + about, as I thought you might not wish to pay the increased + rent." + </p> + <p> + "We are much obliged to you," said the cooper, with a tinge + of bitterness unusual to him. "If we are to be turned into + the street, it is pleasant to have a few hours' notice of + it." + </p> + <p> + "Turned out of doors, my good sir! What disagreeable + expressions you employ! If you reflect for a moment, you will + see that it is merely a matter of business. I have an article + to dispose of. There are two bidders, yourself and another + person. The latter is willing to pay a larger sum. Of course + I give him the preference, as you would do under similar + circumstances. Don't you see how it is?" + </p> + <p> + "I believe I do," replied the cooper. "Of course it's a + regular proceeding; but you must excuse me if I think of it + in another light, when I reflect that to-morrow at this time + my family may be without a shelter." + </p> + <p> + "My dear sir, positively you are looking on the dark side of + things. It is actually sinful for you to distrust Providence + as you seem to do. You're a little disappointed, that's all. + Just take to-night to sleep on it, and I've no doubt you'll + see things in quite a different light. But + positively"—here he rose, and began to draw on his + gloves—"positively I have stayed longer than I + intended. Good-night, my friends. I'll look in upon you in + the morning. And, by the way, as it's so near, permit me to + wish you a happy New Year." + </p> + <p> + The door closed upon the landlord, leaving behind two anxious + hearts. + </p> + <p> + "It looks well in him to wish that," said the cooper, + gloomily. "A great deal he is doing to make it so. I don't + know how it seems to others; for my part, I never say them + words to anyone, unless I really wish 'em well, and am + willing to do something to make 'em so. I should feel as if I + was a hypocrite if I acted anyways different." + </p> + <p> + Martha was not one who was readily inclined to think evil of + anyone, but in her own gentle heart she could not help + feeling a repugnance for the man who had just left them. Jack + was not so reticent. + </p> + <p> + "I hate that man," he said, decidedly. + </p> + <p> + "You should not hate anyone, my son," said Mrs. Harding. + </p> + <p> + "I can't help it, mother. Ain't he goin' to turn us out of + the house to-morrow?" + </p> + <p> + "If we cannot pay our rent, he is justified in doing so." + </p> + <p> + "Then why need he pretend to be so friendly? He don't care + anything for us." + </p> + <p> + "It is right to be polite, Jack." + </p> + <p> + "I s'pose if you're goin' to kick a man, it should be done + politely," said Jack, indignantly. + </p> + <p> + "If possible," said the cooper, laughing. + </p> + <p> + "Is there any tenement vacant in this neighborhood?" asked + Mrs. Harding. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, there is one in the next block belonging to Mr. + Harrison." + </p> + <p> + "It is a better one than this." + </p> + <p> + "Yes; but Harrison only asks the same rent that we have been + paying. He is not so exorbitant as Colman." + </p> + <p> + "Couldn't we get that?" + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid if he knows that we have failed to pay our rent + here, that he will object." + </p> + <p> + "But he knows you are honest, and that nothing but the hard + times would have brought you to this pass." + </p> + <p> + "It may be, Martha. At any rate, you have lightened my heart + a little. I feel as if there was some hope left, after all." + </p> + <p> + "We ought always to feel so, Timothy. There was one thing + that Mr. Colman said that didn't sound so well, coming from + his lips; but it's true for all that." + </p> + <p> + "What do you refer to?" + </p> + <p> + "I mean that about not distrusting Providence. Many a time + have I been comforted by reading the verse: 'Never have I + seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.' As + long as we try to do what is right, Timothy, God will not + suffer us to want." + </p> + <p> + "You are right, Martha. He is our ever-present help in time + of trouble. When I think of that, I feel easier." + </p> + <p> + They retired to rest thoughtfully but not sadly. + </p> + <p> + The fire upon the hearth flickered and died out at length. + The last sands of the old year were running out, and the new + morning ushered in its successor. + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p><a name="CH7"><!-- CH7 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII + </h2> + <center> + THE NEW YEAR'S GIFT + </center> + <p> + "Happy New Year!" was Jack's salutation to Aunt Rachel, as + with an unhappy expression of countenance she entered the + sitting room. + </p> + <p> + "Happy, indeed!" she repeated, dismally. "There's great + chance of its being so, I should think. We don't any of us + know what the year may bring forth. We may all be dead and + buried before the next new year." + </p> + <p> + "If that's the case," said Jack, "let us be jolly as long as + life lasts." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know what you mean by such a vulgar word," said Aunt + Rachel, disdainfully. "I've heard of drunkards and such kind + of people being jolly; but, thank Providence, I haven't got + to that yet." + </p> + <p> + "If that was the only way to be jolly," said Jack, stoutly, + "then I'd be a drunkard; I wouldn't carry round such a long + face as you do, Aunt Rachel, for any money." + </p> + <p> + "It's enough to make all of us have long faces," said his + aunt, sourly, "when you are brazen enough to own that you + mean to be a miserable drunkard." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't say any such thing," said Jack, indignantly. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps I have ears," remarked Aunt Rachel, sententiously, + "and perhaps I have not. It's a new thing for a nephew to + tell his aunt that she lies. They didn't use to allow such + things when I was young. But the world's going to rack and + ruin, and I shouldn't wonder if the people was right that say + it's coming to an end." + </p> + <p> + Here Mrs. Harding happily interposed, by asking Jack to go + round to the grocery in the next street, and buy a pint of + milk for breakfast. + </p> + <p> + Jack took his hat and started with alacrity, glad to leave + the dismal presence of Aunt Rachel. + </p> + <p> + He had scarcely opened the door when he started back in + surprise, exclaiming: "By hokey, if there isn't a basket on + the steps!" + </p> + <p> + "A basket!" repeated his mother, in surprise. "Can it be a + New Year's present? Bring it in, Jack." + </p> + <p> + It was brought in immediately, and the cover being lifted, + there appeared a female child, apparently a year old. + </p> + <p> + All uttered exclamations of surprise, each in itself + characteristic. + </p> + <p> + "What a dear, innocent little thing!" said Mrs. Harding, with + true maternal instinct. + </p> + <p> + "Ain't it a pretty un?" exclaimed Jack, admiringly. + </p> + <p> + "It looks as if it was goin' to have the measles," said Aunt + Rachel, "or scarlet fever. You'd better not take it in, + Martha, or we may all catch it." + </p> + <p> + "You wouldn't leave it out in the cold, would you, Rachel? + The poor thing might die of exposure." + </p> + <p> + "Probably it will die," said Rachel, mournfully. "It's very + hard to raise children. There's something unhealthy in its + looks." + </p> + <p> + "It don't seem to me so. It looks plump and healthy." + </p> + <p> + "You can't never judge by appearances. You ought to know + that, Martha." + </p> + <p> + "I will take the risk, Rachel." + </p> + <p> + "I don't see what you are going to do with a baby, when we + are all on the verge of starvation, and going to be turned + into the street this very day," remarked Rachel, + despondently. + </p> + <p> + "We won't think of that just now. Common humanity requires us + to see what we can do for the poor child." + </p> + <p> + So saying, Mrs. Harding took the infant in her arms. The + child opened its eyes, and smiled. + </p> + <p> + "My! here's a letter," said Jack, diving into the bottom of + the basket. "It's directed to you, father." + </p> + <p> + The cooper opened the letter, and read as follows: + </p> + <p> + "For reasons which it is unnecessary to state, the guardians + of this child find it expedient to intrust it to others to + bring up. The good account which they have heard of you has + led them to select you for that charge. No further + explanation is necessary, except that it is by no means their + intention to make this a service of charity. They, therefore, + inclose a certificate of deposit on the Broadway Bank of five + hundred dollars, the same having been paid in to your credit. + Each year, while the child remains in your charge, the same + will in like manner be placed to your credit at the same + bank. It may be as well to state, further, that all attempt + to fathom whatever of mystery may attach to this affair will + prove useless." + </p> + <p> + The letter was read in amazement. The certificate of deposit, + which had fallen to the floor, was picked up by Jack, and + handed to his father. + </p> + <p> + Amazement was followed by a feeling of gratitude and relief. + </p> + <p> + "What could be more fortunate?" exclaimed Mrs. Harding. + "Surely, Timothy, our faith has been rewarded." + </p> + <p> + "God has listened to our cry!" said the cooper, devoutly, + "and in the hour of our sorest need He has remembered us." + </p> + <p> + "Isn't it prime?" said Jack, gleefully; "five hundred + dollars! Ain't we rich, Aunt Rachel?" + </p> + <p> + "Like as not," observed Rachel, "the certificate isn't + genuine. It doesn't look natural it should be. I've heard of + counterfeits afore now. I shouldn't be surprised at all if + Timothy got took up for presenting it." + </p> + <p> + "I'll take the risk," said her brother, who did not seem much + alarmed at the suggestion. + </p> + <p> + "Now you'll be able to pay the rent, Timothy," said Mrs. + Harding, cheerfully. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, and it's the last quarter's rent I mean to pay Mr. + Colman, if I can help it." + </p> + <p> + "Why, where are you going?" asked Jack. + </p> + <p> + "To the house belonging to Mr. Harrison that I spoke of last + night, that is, if it isn't already engaged. I think I will + see about it at once. If Mr. Colman should come in while I am + gone, tell him I will be back directly; I don't want you to + tell him of the change in our circumstances." + </p> + <p> + The cooper found Mr. Harrison at home. + </p> + <p> + "I called to inquire," asked Mr. Harding, "whether you have + let your house?" + </p> + <p> + "Not as yet," was the reply. + </p> + <p> + "What rent do you ask?" + </p> + <p> + "Twenty dollars a quarter. I don't think that unreasonable." + </p> + <p> + "It is satisfactory to me," was the cooper's reply, "and if + you have no objections to me as a tenant, I will engage it at + once." + </p> + <p> + "Far from having any objections, Mr. Harding," was the + courteous reply, "I shall be glad to secure so good a tenant. + Will you go over and look at the house?" + </p> + <p> + "Not now, sir; I am somewhat in haste. Can we move in + to-day?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly." + </p> + <p> + His errand satisfactorily accomplished, the cooper returned + home. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile the landlord had called. + </p> + <p> + He was a little surprised to find that Mrs. Harding, instead + of looking depressed, looked cheerful rather than otherwise. + </p> + <p> + "I was not aware you had a child so young," he remarked, + looking at the baby. + </p> + <p> + "It is not mine," said Mrs. Harding, briefly. + </p> + <p> + "The child of a neighbor, I suppose," thought the landlord. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile he scrutinized closely, without appearing to do so, + the furniture in the room. + </p> + <p> + At this point Mr. Harding entered the house. + </p> + <p> + "Good-morning," said Colman, affably. "A fine morning, Mr. + Harding." + </p> + <p> + "Quite so," responded his tenant, shortly. + </p> + <p> + "I have called, Mr. Harding, to ask if you are ready with + your quarter's rent." + </p> + <p> + "I think I told you last evening how I was situated. Of + course I am sorry." + </p> + <p> + "So am I," interrupted the landlord, "for I may be obliged to + have recourse to unpleasant measures." + </p> + <p> + "You mean that we must leave the house." + </p> + <p> + "Of course you cannot expect to remain in it, if you are + unable to pay the rent. I suppose," he added, making an + inventory of the furniture with his eyes, "you will leave + behind a sufficient amount of furniture to cover your debt." + </p> + <p> + "Surely you would not deprive us of our furniture!" + </p> + <p> + "Is there any injustice in requiring payment of honest + debts?" + </p> + <p> + "There are cases of that description. However, I will not put + you to the trouble of levying on my furniture. I am ready to + pay your dues." + </p> + <p> + "Have you the money?" asked Colman, in surprise. + </p> + <p> + "I have, and something over. Can you cash my check for five + hundred dollars?" + </p> + <p> + It would be difficult to picture the amazement of the + landlord. + </p> + <p> + "Surely you told me a different story last evening," he said. + </p> + <p> + "Last evening and this morning are different times. Then I + could not pay you. Now, luckily, I am able. If you will + accompany me to the bank, I will draw some money and pay your + bill." + </p> + <p> + "My dear sir, I am not at all in haste for the money," said + the landlord, with a return of his affability. "Any time + within a week will do. I hope, by the way, you will continue + to occupy this house." + </p> + <p> + "I don't feel like paying twenty-five dollars a quarter." + </p> + <p> + "You shall have it for the same rent you have been paying." + </p> + <p> + "But you said there was another family who had offered you an + advanced rent. I shouldn't like to interfere with them. + Besides, I have already hired a house of Mr. Harrison in the + next block." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Colman was silenced. He regretted too late the hasty + course which had lost him a good tenant. The family referred + to had no existence; and, it may be remarked, the house + remained vacant for several months, when he was glad to rent + it at the old price. + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p><a name="CH8"><!-- CH8 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII + </h2> + <center> + A LUCKY RESCUE + </center> + <p> + The opportune arrival of the child inaugurated a season of + comparative prosperity in the home of Timothy Harding. To + persons accustomed to live in their frugal way, five hundred + dollars seemed a fortune. Nor, as might have happened in some + cases, did this unexpected windfall tempt the cooper or his + wife to enter upon a more extravagant mode of living. + </p> + <p> + "Let us save something against a rainy day," said Mrs. + Harding. + </p> + <p> + "We can if I get work soon," answered her husband. "This + little one will add but little to our expenses, and there is + no reason why we shouldn't save up at least half of it." + </p> + <p> + "So I think, Timothy. The child's food will not amount to a + dollar a week." + </p> + <p> + "There's no tellin' when you will get work, Timothy," said + Rachel, in her usual cheerful way. "It isn't well to crow + before you are out of the woods." + </p> + <p> + "Very true, Rachel. It isn't your failing to look too much at + the sunny side of the picture." + </p> + <p> + "I'm ready to look at it when I can see it anywhere," + answered his sister, in the same enlivening way. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you see it in the unexpected good fortune which came + with this child?" asked Timothy. + </p> + <p> + "I've no doubt you think it very fortunate now," said Rachel, + gloomily; "but a young child's a great deal of trouble." + </p> + <p> + "Do you speak from experience, Aunt Rachel?" asked Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said his aunt, slowly. "If all babies were as cross + and ill-behaved as you were when you were an infant, five + hundred dollars wouldn't begin to pay for the trouble of + having them around." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Harding and his wife laughed at the manner in which the + tables had been turned upon Jack, but the latter had his wits + about him sufficiently to answer: "I've always heard, Aunt + Rachel, that the crosser a child is, the pleasanter he will + grow up. What a very pleasant baby you must have been!" + </p> + <p> + "Jack!" said his mother, reprovingly; but his father, who + looked upon it as a good joke, remarked, good-humoredly: + "He's got you there, Rachel." + </p> + <p> + But Rachel took it as a serious matter, and observed that, + when she was young, children were not allowed to speak so to + their elders. + </p> + <p> + "But I don't know as I can blame 'em much," she continued, + wiping her eyes with the corner of her apron, "when their own + parents encourage 'em in it." + </p> + <p> + Timothy was warned, by experience of Rachel's temper, that + silence was his most prudent course. Anything that he might + say would only be likely to make matters worse than before. + </p> + <p> + Aunt Rachel sank into a fit of deep despondency, and did not + say another word till dinner time. She sat down to the table + with a profound sigh, as if there was little in life worth + living for. Notwithstanding this, it was observed that she + had a good appetite. Indeed, Miss Harding appeared to thrive + on her gloomy views of life and human nature. She was, it + must be acknowledged, perfectly consistent in all her + conduct, so far as this peculiarity was concerned. Whenever + she took up a newspaper, she always looked first to the space + appropriated to deaths, and next in order to the column of + accidents, casualties, etc., and her spirits were visibly + exhilarated when she encountered a familiar name in either + list. + </p> + <p> + The cooper continued to look out for work; but it was with a + more cheerful spirit. He did not now feel as if the comfort + of his family depended absolutely on his immediate success. + Used economically, the money he had by him would last eight + months; and during that time it was hardly possible that he + should not find something to do. It was this sense of + security, of having something to fall back upon, that enabled + him to keep up good heart. It is too generally the case that + people are content to live as if they were sure of constantly + retaining their health, and never losing their employment. + When a reverse does come, they are at once plunged into + discouragement, and feel the necessity of doing something + immediately. There is only one way of fending off such an + embarrassment; and that is, to resolve, whatever may be the + amount of one's income, to lay aside some part to serve as a + reliance in time of trouble. A little economy—though it + involves self-denial—will be well repaid by the feeling + of security it engenders. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Harding was not compelled to remain inactive as long as + he feared. Not that his line of business revived—that + still remained depressed for a considerable time—but + another path was opened to him. + </p> + <p> + Returning home late one evening, the cooper saw a man steal + out from a doorway, and attack a gentleman, whose dress and + general appearance indicated probable wealth. + </p> + <p> + Seizing him by the throat, the villain effectually prevented + his calling for help, and at once commenced rifling his + pockets, when the cooper arrived on the scene. A sudden blow + admonished the robber that he had more than one to deal with. + </p> + <p> + "What are you doing? Let that gentleman be!" + </p> + <p> + The villain hesitated but a moment, then springing to his + feet, he hastily made off, under cover of the darkness. + </p> + <p> + "I hope you have received no injury, sir," said Mr. Harding, + respectfully, addressing the stranger he had rescued. + </p> + <p> + "No, my worthy friend; thanks to your timely assistance. The + rascal nearly succeeded, however." + </p> + <p> + "I hope you have lost nothing, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Nothing, fortunately. You can form an idea of the value of + your interference, when I say that I have fifteen hundred + dollars with me, all of which would doubtless have been + taken." + </p> + <p> + "I am glad," said Timothy, "that I was able to do you such a + service. It was by the merest chance that I came this way." + </p> + <p> + "Will you add to my indebtedness by accompanying me with that + trusty club of yours? I have some distance yet to go, and the + money I have with me I don't want to lose." + </p> + <p> + "Willingly," said the cooper. + </p> + <p> + "But I am forgetting," continued the gentleman, "that you + will yourself be obliged to return alone." + </p> + <p> + "I do not carry enough money to make me fear an attack," said + Mr. Harding, laughing. "Money brings care, I have always + heard, and the want of it sometimes freedom from anxiety." + </p> + <p> + "Yet most people are willing to take their share of that." + </p> + <p> + "You are right, sir, nor I can't call myself an exception. + Still I would be satisfied with the certainty of constant + employment." + </p> + <p> + "I hope you have that, at least." + </p> + <p> + "I have had until three or four months since." + </p> + <p> + "Then, at present, you are unemployed?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir." + </p> + <p> + "What is your business?" + </p> + <p> + "I am a cooper." + </p> + <p> + "I will see what I can do for you. Will you call at my office + to-morrow, say at twelve o'clock?" + </p> + <p> + "I shall be glad to do so, sir." + </p> + <p> + "I believe I have a card with me. Yes, here is one. And this + is my house. Thank you for your company. Let me see you + to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + They stood before a handsome dwelling house, from whose + windows, draped by heavy crimson curtains, a soft light + proceeded. The cooper could hear the ringing of childish + voices welcoming home their father, whose life, unknown to + them, had been in such peril, and he felt grateful to + Providence for making him the instrument of frustrating the + designs of the villain who would have robbed the merchant, + and perhaps done him further injury. Timothy determined to + say nothing to his wife about the night's adventure, until + after his appointed meeting for the next day. Then, if any + advantage accrued to him from it, he would tell the whole + story. + </p> + <p> + When he reached home, Mrs. Harding was sewing beside the + fire. Aunt Rachel sat with her hands folded in her lap, with + an air of martyr-like resignation to the woes of life. + </p> + <p> + "I've brought you home a paper, Rachel," said her brother, + cheerfully. "You may find something interesting in it." + </p> + <p> + "I shan't be able to read it this evening," said Rachel, + mournfully. "My eyes have troubled me lately. I feel that it + is more than probable I am getting blind; but I trust I shall + not live to be a burden to you, Timothy. Your prospects are + dark enough without that." + </p> + <p> + "Don't trouble yourself with any fears of that sort, Rachel," + said the cooper, cheerily. "I think I know what will enable + you to use your eyes as well as ever." + </p> + <p> + "What?" asked Rachel, with melancholy curiosity. + </p> + <p> + "A pair of spectacles." + </p> + <p> + "Spectacles!" retorted Rachel, indignantly. "It will be a + good many years before I am old enough to wear spectacles. I + didn't expect to be insulted by my own brother. But I ought + not to be surprised. It's one of my trials." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't mean to hurt your feelings, Rachel," said the + cooper, perplexed. + </p> + <p> + "Good-night!" said Rachel, rising and taking a lamp from the + table. + </p> + <p> + "Come, Rachel, don't go up to bed yet; it's only nine + o'clock." + </p> + <p> + "After what you have said to me, Timothy, my self-respect + will not allow me to stay." + </p> + <p> + Rachel swept out of the room with something more than her + customary melancholy. + </p> + <p> + "I wish Rachel wasn't quite so contrary," said the cooper to + his wife. "She turns upon a body so sudden it's hard to know + how to take her. How's the little girl, Martha?" + </p> + <p> + "She's been asleep ever since six o'clock." + </p> + <p> + "I hope you don't find her very much trouble? That all comes + on you, while we have the benefit of the money." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think of that, Timothy. She is a sweet child, and I + love her almost as much as if she were my own. As for Jack, + he perfectly idolizes her." + </p> + <p> + "And how does Rachel look upon her?" + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid she will never be a favorite with Rachel." + </p> + <p> + "Rachel never took to children much. It isn't her way. Now, + Martha, while you are sewing, I will read you the news." + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p><a name="CH9"><!-- CH9 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX + </h2> + <center> + WHAT THE ENVELOPE CONTAINED + </center> + <p> + The card which had been handed to the cooper contained the + name of Thomas Merriam, No. —— Pearl Street. + </p> + <p> + Punctually at twelve, he presented himself at the + countingroom, and received a cordial welcome from the + merchant. + </p> + <p> + "I am glad to see you," he said, affably. "You rendered me an + important service last evening, even if the loss of money + alone was to be apprehended. I will come to business at once, + as I am particularly engaged this morning, and ask you if + there is any way in which I can serve you?" + </p> + <p> + "If you could procure me a situation, sir, you would do me a + great service." + </p> + <p> + "I think you told me you were a cooper?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Does this yield you a good support?" + </p> + <p> + "In good times it pays me two dollars a day, and on that I + can support my family comfortably. Lately it has been + depressed, and paid me but a dollar and a half." + </p> + <p> + "When do you anticipate its revival?" + </p> + <p> + "That is uncertain. I may have to wait some months." + </p> + <p> + "And, in the meantime, you are willing to undertake some + other employment?" + </p> + <p> + "I am not only willing, but shall feel very fortunate to + obtain work of any kind. I have no objection to any honest + employment." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Merriam reflected a moment. + </p> + <p> + "Just at present," he said, "I have nothing better to offer + you than the position of porter. If that will suit you, you + can enter upon its duties to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + "I shall be very glad to undertake it, sir. Anything is + better than idleness." + </p> + <p> + "As to the compensation, that shall be the same that you have + been accustomed to earn by your trade—two dollars a + day." + </p> + <p> + "I only received that in the best times," said Timothy, + conscientiously. + </p> + <p> + "Your services as porter will be worth that amount, and I + will cheerfully pay it. I will expect you to-morrow morning + at eight, if you can be here at that time." + </p> + <p> + "I will be here promptly." + </p> + <p> + "You are married, I suppose?" said the merchant, inquiringly. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir; I am blessed with a good wife." + </p> + <p> + "I am glad of that. Stay a moment." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Merriam went to his desk, and presently came back with a + sealed envelope. + </p> + <p> + "Give that to your wife," he said. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, sir." + </p> + <p> + Here the interview terminated, and the cooper went home quite + elated by his success. His present engagement would enable + him to bridge over the dull time, until his trade revived, + and save him from incurring debts, of which he had a just + horror. + </p> + <p> + "You are just in time, Timothy," said Mrs. Harding, + cheerfully, as he entered. "We've got an apple pudding + to-day." + </p> + <p> + "I see you haven't forgotten what I like, Martha." + </p> + <p> + "There's no knowing how long you'll be able to afford + puddings," said Rachel, dolefully. "To my mind it's + extravagant to have meat and pudding both, when a month hence + you may be in the poorhouse." + </p> + <p> + "Then," said Jack, "I wouldn't eat any if I were you, Aunt + Rachel." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, if you grudge me the little I eat," said his aunt, in + serene sorrow, "I will go without." + </p> + <p> + "Tut, Rachel! nobody grudges you anything here," said her + brother; "and as to the poorhouse, I've got some good news to + tell you that will put that thought out of your head." + </p> + <p> + "What is it?" asked Mrs. Harding, looking up brightly. + </p> + <p> + "I have found employment." + </p> + <p> + "Not at your trade?" + </p> + <p> + "No; but at something else which will pay equally well till + trade revives." + </p> + <p> + Here he told the chance by which he was enabled to serve Mr. + Merriam the evening previous, and then he gave an account of + his visit to the merchant's countingroom, and the engagement + which he had made. + </p> + <p> + "You are indeed fortunate, Timothy," said his wife, her face + beaming with pleasure. "Two dollars a day, and we've got + nearly the whole of the money left that came with this dear + child. Why, we shall be getting rich soon!" + </p> + <p> + "Well, Rachel, have you no congratulations to offer?" asked + the cooper of his sister, who, in subdued sorrow, was eating + as if it gave her no pleasure, but was rather a self-imposed + penance. + </p> + <p> + "I don't see anything so very fortunate in being engaged as a + porter," said Rachel, lugubriously. "I heard of a porter once + who had a great box fall upon him and kill him instantly; and + I was reading in the <i>Sun</i> yesterday of another out West + somewhere who committed suicide." + </p> + <p> + The cooper laughed. + </p> + <p> + "So, Rachel, you conclude that one or the other of these + calamities is the inevitable lot of all who are engaged in + this business?" + </p> + <p> + "You may laugh now, but it is always well to be prepared for + the worst," said Rachel, oracularly. + </p> + <p> + "But it isn't well to be always looking for it, Rachel." + </p> + <p> + "It'll come whether you look for it or not," retorted his + sister, sententiously. + </p> + <p> + "Then suppose we waste no time thinking about it, since, + according to your admission, it's sure to come either way." + </p> + <p> + Rachel did not deign a reply, but continued to eat in serene + melancholy. + </p> + <p> + "Won't you have another piece of pudding, Timothy?" asked his + wife. + </p> + <p> + "I don't care if I do, Martha, it's so good," said the + cooper, passing his plate. "Seems to me it's the best pudding + you ever made." + </p> + <p> + "You've got a good appetite, that is all," said Mrs. Harding, + modestly disclaiming the compliment. + </p> + <p> + "Apple puddings are unhealthy," observed Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "Then what makes you eat them?" asked Jack. + </p> + <p> + "A body must eat something. Besides, life is so full of + sorrow, it makes little difference if it's longer or + shorter." + </p> + <p> + "Won't you have another piece, Rachel?" + </p> + <p> + Aunt Rachel passed her plate, and received a second portion. + Jack winked slyly, but fortunately his aunt did not observe + it. + </p> + <p> + When dinner was over, the cooper thought of the sealed + envelope which had been given him for his wife. + </p> + <p> + "Martha," he said, "I nearly forgot that I have something for + you." + </p> + <p> + "For me?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, from Mr. Merriam." + </p> + <p> + "But he don't know me," said Mrs. Harding, in surprise. + </p> + <p> + "At any rate, he first asked me if I was married, and then + handed me this envelope, which he asked me to give to you. I + am not quite sure whether I ought to allow strange gentlemen + to write letters to my wife." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Harding opened the envelope with considerable curiosity, + and uttered an exclamation of surprise as a bank note fell + out, and fluttered to the carpet. + </p> + <p> + "By gracious, mother!" said Jack, springing to get it, + "you're in luck. It's a hundred-dollar bill." + </p> + <p> + "So it is, I declare," said his mother, joyfully. "But, + Timothy, it isn't mine. It belongs to you." + </p> + <p> + "No, Martha, I have nothing to do with it. It belongs to you. + You need some clothes, I am sure. Use part of it, and I will + put the rest in the savings bank for you." + </p> + <p> + "I never expected to have money to invest," said Mrs. + Harding. "I begin to feel like a capitalist. When you want to + borrow money, Timothy, you'll know where to come." + </p> + <p> + "Merriam's a trump and no mistake," said Jack. "By the way, + when you see him again, father, just mention that you've got + a son. Ain't we in luck, Aunt Rachel?" + </p> + <p> + "Boast not overmuch," said his aunt. "Pride goes before + destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." + </p> + <p> + "I never knew Aunt Rachel to be jolly but once," said Jack + under his breath; "and that was at a funeral." + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p> + <p> + + </p><a name="CH10"><!-- CH10 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER X + </h2> + <center> + JACK'S MISCHIEF + </center> + <p> + One of the first results of the new prosperity which had + dawned upon the Hardings, was Jack's removal from the street + to the school. While his father was out of employment, his + earnings seemed necessary; but now they could be dispensed + with. + </p> + <p> + To Jack, the change was not altogether agreeable. Few boys of + the immature age of eleven are devoted to study, and Jack was + not one of these few. The freedom which he had enjoyed suited + him, and he tried to impress it upon his father that there + was no immediate need of his returning to school. + </p> + <p> + "Do you want to grow up a dunce, Jack?" said his father. + </p> + <p> + "I can read and write already," said Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Are you willing to enter upon life with that scanty supply + of knowledge?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, I guess I can get along as well as the average." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know about that. Besides, I want you to do better + than the average. I am ambitious for you, if you are not + ambitious for yourself." + </p> + <p> + "I don't see what good it does a feller to study so hard," + muttered Jack. + </p> + <p> + "You won't study hard enough to do you any harm," said Aunt + Rachel, who might be excused for a little sarcasm at the + expense of her mischievous nephew. + </p> + <p> + "It makes my head ache to study," said Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps your head is weak, Jack," suggested his father, + slyly. + </p> + <p> + "More than likely," said Rachel, approvingly. + </p> + <p> + So it was decided that Jack should go to school. + </p> + <p> + "I'll get even with Aunt Rachel," thought he. "She's always + talking against me, and hectorin' me. See if I don't." + </p> + <p> + An opportunity for getting even with his aunt did not + immediately occur. At length a plan suggested itself to our + hero. He shrewdly suspected that his aunt's single + blessedness, and her occasional denunciations of the married + state, proceeded from disappointment. + </p> + <p> + "I'll bet she'd get married if she had a chance," he thought. + "I mean to try her, anyway." + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, with considerable effort, aided by a + school-fellow, he concocted the following letter, which was + duly copied and forwarded to his aunt's address: + </p> + <pre> + "DEAR GIRL: Excuse the liberty I have taken in writing to you; + but I have seen you often, though you don't know me; and you are + the only girl I want to marry. I am not young—I am about your age, + thirty-five—and I have a good trade. I have always wanted to be + married, but you are the only one I know of to suit me. If you think + you can love me, will you meet me in Washington Park, next Tuesday, + at four o'clock? Wear a blue ribbon round your neck, if you want to + encourage me. I will have a red rose pinned to my coat. + + "Don't say anything to your brother's family about this. They may not + like me, and they may try to keep us apart. Now be sure and come. + DANIEL." +</pre> + <p> + This letter reached Miss Rachel just before Jack went to + school one morning. She read it through, first in surprise, + then with an appearance of pleasure. + </p> + <p> + "Who's your letter from, Aunt Rachel?" asked Jack, + innocently. + </p> + <p> + "Children shouldn't ask questions about what don't concern + 'em," said his aunt. + </p> + <p> + "I thought maybe it was a love letter," said he. + </p> + <p> + "Don't make fun of your aunt," said his father, reprovingly. + </p> + <p> + "Jack's question is only a natural one," said Rachel, to her + brother's unbounded astonishment. "I suppose I ain't so old + but I might be married if I wanted to." + </p> + <p> + "I thought you had put all such thoughts out of your head + long ago, Rachel." + </p> + <p> + "If I have, it's because the race of men are so shiftless," + said his sister. "They ain't worth marrying." + </p> + <p> + "Is that meant for me?" asked the cooper, good-naturedly. + </p> + <p> + "You're all alike," said Rachel, tossing her head. + </p> + <p> + She put the letter carefully into her pocket, without + deigning any explanation. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose it's from some of her old acquaintances," thought + her brother, and he dismissed the subject. + </p> + <p> + As soon as she could, Rachel took refuge in her room. She + carefully locked the door, and read the letter again. + </p> + <p> + "Who can he be?" thought the agitated spinster. "Do I know + anybody of the name of Daniel? It must be some stranger that + has fallen in love with me unbeknown. What shall I do?" + </p> + <p> + She sat in meditation for a short time. Then she read the + letter again. + </p> + <p> + "He will be very unhappy if I frown upon him," she said to + herself, complacently. "It's a great responsibility to make a + fellow being unhappy. It's a sacrifice, I know, but it's our + duty to deny ourselves. I don't know but I ought to go and + meet him." + </p> + <p> + This was Rachel's conclusion. + </p> + <p> + The time was close at hand. The appointment was for that very + afternoon. + </p> + <p> + "I wouldn't have my brother or Martha know it for the world," + murmured Rachel to herself, "nor that troublesome Jack. + Martha's got some blue ribbon, but I don't dare to ask her + for it, for fear she'll suspect something. No, I must go out + and buy some." + </p> + <p> + "I'm goin' to walk, Martha," she said, as she came + downstairs. + </p> + <p> + "Going to walk in the forenoon! Isn't that something + unusual?" + </p> + <p> + "I've got a little headache. I guess it'll do me good," said + Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "I hope it will," said her sister-in-law, sympathetically. + </p> + <p> + Rachel went to the nearest dry-goods store, and bought a yard + of blue ribbon. + </p> + <p> + "Only a yard?" inquired the clerk, in some surprise. + </p> + <p> + "That will do," said Rachel, nervously, coloring a little, as + though the use which she designed for it might be suspected. + </p> + <p> + She paid for the ribbon, and presently returned. + </p> + <p> + "Does your head feel any better, Rachel?" asked Mrs. Harding. + </p> + <p> + "A little," answered Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "You've been sewing too steady lately, perhaps?" suggested + Martha. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps I have," assented Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "You ought to spare yourself. You can't stand work as well as + when you were younger," said Martha, innocently. + </p> + <p> + "A body'd think I was a hundred by the way you talk," said + Rachel, sharply. + </p> + <p> + "I didn't mean to offend you, Rachel. I thought you might + feel as I do. I get tired easier than I used to." + </p> + <p> + "I guess I'll go upstairs," said Rachel, in the same tone. + "There isn't anybody there to tell me how old I am gettin'." + </p> + <p> + "It's hard to make Rachel out," thought Mrs. Harding. "She + takes offense at the most innocent remark. She can't look + upon herself as young, I am sure." + </p> + <p> + Upstairs Rachel took out the letter again, and read it + through once more. "I wonder what sort of a man Daniel is," + she said to herself. "I wonder if I have ever noticed him. + How little we know what others think of us! If he's a likely + man, maybe it's my duty to marry him. I feel I'm a burden to + Timothy. His income is small, and it'll make a difference of + one mouth. It may be a sacrifice, but it's my duty." + </p> + <p> + In this way Rachel tried to deceive herself as to the real + reason which led her to regard with favoring eyes the suit of + this supposed lover whom she had never seen, and about whom + she knew absolutely nothing. + </p> + <p> + Jack came home from school at half-past two o'clock. He + looked roguishly at his aunt as he entered. She sat knitting + in her usual corner. + </p> + <p> + "Will she go?" thought Jack. "If she doesn't there won't be + any fun." + </p> + <p> + But Jack, whose trick I am far from defending, was not to be + disappointed. + </p> + <p> + At three o'clock Rachel rolled up her knitting, and went + upstairs. Fifteen minutes later she came down dressed for a + walk. + </p> + <p> + "Where are you going, Aunt Rachel?" asked Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Out for a walk," she answered, shortly. + </p> + <p> + "May I go with you?" he asked, mischievously. + </p> + <p> + "No; I prefer to go alone," she said, curtly. + </p> + <p> + "Your aunt has taken a fancy to walking," said Mrs. Harding, + when her sister-in-law had left the house. "She was out this + forenoon. I don't know what has come over her." + </p> + <p> + "I do," said Jack to himself. + </p> + <p> + Five minutes later he put on his hat and bent his steps also + to Washington Park. + </p><a name="CH11"><!-- CH11 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI + </h2> + <center> + MISS HARDING'S MISTAKE + </center> + <p> + Miss Rachel Harding kept on her way to Washington Park. It + was less than a mile from her brother's house, and though she + walked slowly, she got there a quarter of an hour before the + time. + </p> + <p> + She sat down on a seat near the center of the park, and began + to look around her. Poor Rachel! her heart beat quicker than + it had done for thirty years, as she realized that she was + about to meet one who wished to make her his wife. + </p> + <p> + "I hope he won't be late," she murmured to herself, and she + felt of the blue ribbon to make sure that she had not + forgotten it. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Jack reached the park, and from a distance surveyed + with satisfaction the evident nervousness of his aunt. + </p> + <p> + "Ain't it rich?" he whispered to himself. + </p> + <p> + Rachel looked anxiously for the gentleman with the red rose + pinned to his coat. + </p> + <p> + She had to wait ten minutes. At last he came, but as he + neared her seat, Rachel felt like sinking into the earth with + mortification when she recognized in the wearer a stalwart + negro. She hoped that it was a mere chance coincidence, but + he approached her, and raising his hat respectfully, said: + </p> + <p> + "Are you Miss Harding?" + </p> + <p> + "What if I am?" she demanded, sharply. "What have you to do + with me?" + </p> + <p> + The man looked surprised. + </p> + <p> + "Didn't you send word to me to meet you here?" + </p> + <p> + "No!" answered Rachel, "and I consider it very presumptuous + in you to write such a letter to me." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't write you a letter," said the negro, astonished. + </p> + <p> + "Then what made you come here?" demanded the spinster. + </p> + <p> + "Because you wrote to me." + </p> + <p> + "I wrote to you!" exclaimed Rachel, aghast. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, you wrote to me to come here. You said you'd wear a + blue ribbon on your neck, and I was to have a rose pinned to + my coat." + </p> + <p> + Rachel was bewildered. + </p> + <p> + "How could I write to you when I never saw you before, and + don't know your name. Do you think a lady like me would marry + a colored man?" + </p> + <p> + "Who said anything about that?" asked the other, opening his + eyes wide in astonishment. "I couldn't marry, nohow, for I've + got a wife and four children." + </p> + <p> + Rachel felt ready to collapse. Was it possible that she had + made a mistake, and that this was not her unknown + correspondent, Daniel? + </p> + <p> + "There is some mistake," she said, nervously. "Where is that + letter you thought I wrote? Have you got it with you?" + </p> + <p> + "Here it is, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + He handed Rachel a letter addressed in a small hand to Daniel + Thompson. + </p> + <p> + She opened it and read: + </p> + <pre> + "Mr. Thompson: I hear you are out of work. I may be able to give + you a job. Meet me at Washington Park, Tuesday afternoon, at four + o'clock. I shall wear a blue ribbon round my neck, and you may have + a red rose pinned to your coat. Otherwise I might not know you. + + "RACHEL HARDING." +</pre> + <p> + "Some villain has done this," said Rachel, wrathfully. "I + never wrote that letter." + </p> + <p> + "You didn't!" said Daniel, looking perplexed. "Who went and + did it, then?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, but I'd like to have him punished for it," + said Rachel, energetically. + </p> + <p> + "But you've got a blue ribbon," said Mr. Thompson. "I can't + see through that. That's just what the letter said." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose somebody wrote the letter that knew I wear blue. + It's all a mistake. You'd better go home." + </p> + <p> + "Then haven't you got a job for me?" asked Daniel, + disappointed. + </p> + <p> + "No, I haven't," said Rachel, sharply. + </p> + <p> + She hurriedly untied the ribbon from her neck, and put it in + her pocket. + </p> + <p> + "Don't talk to me any more!" she said, frowning. "You're a + perfect stranger. You have no right to speak to me." + </p> + <p> + "I guess the old woman ain't right in her head!" thought + Daniel. "Must be she's crazy!" + </p> + <p> + Poor Rachel! she felt more disconsolate than ever. There was + no Daniel, then. She had been basely imposed upon. There was + no call for her to sacrifice herself on the altar of + matrimony. She ought to have been glad, but she wasn't. + </p> + <p> + Half an hour later a drooping, disconsolate figure entered + the house of Timothy Harding. + </p> + <p> + "Why, what's the matter, Rachel?" asked Martha, who noticed + her woe-begone expression. + </p> + <p> + "I ain't long for this world," said Rachel, gloomily. "Death + has marked me for his own." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you feel well this afternoon, Rachel?" + </p> + <p> + "No; I feel as if life was a burden." + </p> + <p> + "You have tired yourself with walking, Rachel. You have been + out twice to-day." + </p> + <p> + "This is a vale of tears," said Rachel, hysterically. + "There's nothin' but sorrow and misfortune to be expected." + </p> + <p> + "Have you met with any misfortune? I thought fortune was + smiling upon us all." + </p> + <p> + "It'll never smile on me again," said Rachel, despondently. + </p> + <p> + Just then Jack, who had followed his aunt home, entered. + </p> + <p> + "Have you got home so quick, Aunt Rachel?" he asked. "How did + you enjoy your walk?" + </p> + <p> + "I shall never enjoy anything again," said his aunt, + gloomily. + </p> + <p> + "Why not?" + </p> + <p> + "Because there's nothing to enjoy." + </p> + <p> + "I don't feel so, aunt. I feel as merry as a cricket." + </p> + <p> + "You won't be long. Like as not you'll be took down with + fever to-morrow, and maybe die." + </p> + <p> + "I won't trouble myself about it till the time comes," said + Jack. "I expect to live to dance at your wedding yet, Aunt + Rachel." + </p> + <p> + This reference was too much. It brought to Rachel's mind the + Daniel to whom she had expected to link her destiny, and she + burst into a dismal sob, and hurried upstairs to her own + chamber. + </p> + <p> + "Rachel acts queerly to-day," said Mrs. Harding. "I think she + can't be feeling well. If she don't feel better to-morrow I + shall advise her to send for the doctor." + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid it was mean to play such a trick on Aunt + Rachel," thought Jack, half repentantly. "I didn't think + she'd take it so much in earnest. I must keep dark about that + letter. She'd never forgive me if she knew." + </p> + <p> + For some days there was an added gloom on Miss Rachel's + countenance, but the wound was not deep; and after a time her + disappointment ceased to rankle in her too sensitive heart. + </p><a name="CH12"><!-- CH12 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII + </h2> + <center> + SEVEN YEARS + </center> + <p> + Seven years slipped by unmarked by any important change. The + Hardings were still prosperous in an humble way. The cooper + had been able to obtain work most of the time, and this, with + the annual remittance for little Ida, had enabled the family + not only to live in comfort, but even to save up one hundred + and fifty dollars a year. They might even have saved more, + living as frugally as they were accustomed to do, but there + was one point in which they would none of them consent to be + economical. The little Ida must have everything she wanted. + Timothy brought home nearly every day some little delicacy + for her, which none of the rest thought of sharing. While + Mrs. Harding, far enough from vanity, always dressed with + extreme plainness, Ida's attire was always of good material + and made up tastefully. + </p> + <p> + Sometimes the little girl asked: "Mother, why don't you buy + yourself some of the pretty things you get for me?" + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Harding would answer, smiling: "Oh, I'm an old woman, + Ida. Plain things are best for me." + </p> + <p> + "No, I'm sure you're not old, mother. You don't wear a cap. + Aunt Rachel is a good deal older than you." + </p> + <p> + "Hush, Ida. Don't let Aunt Rachel hear that. She wouldn't + like it." + </p> + <p> + "But she is ever so much older than you, mother," persisted + the child. + </p> + <p> + Once Rachel heard a remark of this kind, and perhaps it was + that that prejudiced her against Ida. At any rate, she was + not one of those who indulged her. Frequently she rebuked her + for matters of no importance; but it was so well understood + in the cooper's household that this was Aunt Rachel's way, + that Ida did not allow it to trouble her, as the lightest + reproach from Mrs. Harding would have done. + </p> + <p> + Had Ida been an ordinary child, all this petting would have + had an injurious effect upon her mind. But, fortunately, she + had the rare simplicity, young as she was, which lifted her + above the dangers which might have spoiled her otherwise. + Instead of being made vain and conceited, she only felt + grateful for the constant kindness shown her by her father + and mother, and brother Jack, as she was wont to call them. + Indeed it had not been thought best to let her know that such + were not the actual relations in which they stood to her. + </p> + <p> + There was one point, much more important than dress, in which + Ida profited by the indulgence of her friends. + </p> + <p> + "Martha," the cooper was wont to say, "Ida is a sacred charge + in our hands. If we allow her to grow up ignorant, or only + allow her ordinary advantages, we shall not fulfill our duty. + We have the means, through Providence, of giving her some of + those advantages which she would enjoy if she had remained in + that sphere to which her parents doubtless belong. Let no + unwise parsimony on our part withhold them from her." + </p> + <p> + "You are right, Timothy," said his wife; "right, as you + always are. Follow the dictates of your own heart, and fear + not that I shall disapprove." + </p> + <p> + "Humph!" said Aunt Rachel; "you ain't actin' right, accordin' + to my way of thinkin'. Readin', writin' and cypherin' was + enough for girls to learn in my day. What's the use of + stuffin' the girl's head full of nonsense that'll never do + her no good? I've got along without it, and I ain't quite a + fool." + </p> + <p> + But the cooper and his wife had no idea of restricting Ida's + education to the rather limited standard indicated by Rachel. + So, from the first, they sent her to a carefully selected + private school, where she had the advantage of good + associates, and where her progress was astonishingly rapid. + </p> + <p> + Ida early displayed a remarkable taste for drawing. As soon + as this was discovered, her adopted parents took care that + she should have abundant opportunity for cultivating it. A + private master was secured, who gave her lessons twice a + week, and boasted everywhere of the progress made by his + charming young pupil. + </p> + <p> + "What's the good of it?" asked Rachel. "She'd a good deal + better be learnin' to sew and knit." + </p> + <p> + "All in good time," said Timothy. "She can attend to both." + </p> + <p> + "I never wasted my time that way," said Rachel. "I'd be + ashamed to." + </p> + <p> + Nothing could exceed Timothy's gratification, when, on his + birthday, Ida presented him with a beautifully drawn sketch + of his wife's placid and benevolent face. + </p> + <p> + "When did you do it, Ida?" he asked, after earnest + expressions of admiration. + </p> + <p> + "I did it in odd minutes," she answered, "when I had nothing + else to do." + </p> + <p> + "But how could you do it, without any of us knowing what you + were about?" + </p> + <p> + "I had a picture before me, and you thought I was copying it, + but, whenever I could do it without being noticed, I looked + up at mother as she sat at her sewing, and so, after a while, + I finished the picture." + </p> + <p> + "And a fine one it is," said the cooper, admiringly. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Harding insisted that Ida had flattered her, but this + Ida would not admit. + </p> + <p> + "I couldn't make it look as good as you, mother," she said. + "I tried, but somehow I didn't succeed as I wanted to." + </p> + <p> + "You wouldn't have that difficulty with Aunt Rachel," said + Jack, roguishly. + </p> + <p> + Ida could not help smiling, but Rachel did not smile. + </p> + <p> + "I see," she said, with severe resignation, "that you've + taken to ridiculing your poor aunt again. But it's only what + I expect. I don't never expect any consideration in this + house. I was born to be a martyr, and I expect I shall + fulfill my destiny. If my own relations laugh at me, of + course I can't expect anything better from other folks. But I + shan't be long in the way. I've had a cough for some time + past, and I expect I'm in consumption." + </p> + <p> + "You make too much of a little joke, Rachel," said the + cooper, soothingly. "I'm sure Jack didn't mean anything." + </p> + <p> + "What I said was complimentary," said Jack. + </p> + <p> + Rachel shook her head incredulously. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, it was. Ask Ida. Why won't you draw Aunt Rachel, Ida? I + think she'd make a very striking picture." + </p> + <p> + "So I will," said Ida, hesitatingly, "if she will let me." + </p> + <p> + "Now, Aunt Rachel, there's a chance for you," said Jack. + "Take my advice, and improve it. When it's finished it can be + hung up in the Art Rooms, and who knows but you may secure a + husband by it." + </p> + <p> + "I wouldn't marry," said Rachel, firmly compressing her lips; + "not if anybody'd go down on their knees to me." + </p> + <p> + "Now, I'm sure, Aunt Rachel, that's cruel of you," said Jack, + demurely. + </p> + <p> + "There ain't any man I'd trust my happiness to," pursued the + spinster. + </p> + <p> + "She hasn't any to trust," observed Jack, <i>sotto voce</i>. + </p> + <p> + "Men are all deceivers," continued Rachel, "the best of 'em. + You can't believe what one of 'em says. It would be a great + deal better if people never married at all." + </p> + <p> + "Then where would the world be a hundred years hence?" + suggested her nephew. + </p> + <p> + "Come to an end, most likely," answered Aunt Rachel; "and I'm + not sure but that would be the best thing. It's growing more + and more wicked every day." + </p> + <p> + It will be seen that no great change has come over Miss + Rachel Harding, during the years that have intervened. She + takes the same disheartening view of human nature and the + world's prospects as ever. Nevertheless, her own hold upon + the world seems as strong as ever. Her appetite continues + remarkably good, and, although she frequently expresses + herself to the effect that there is little use in living, she + would be as unwilling to leave the world as anyone. It is not + impossible that she derives as much enjoyment from her + melancholy as other people from their cheerfulness. + Unfortunately her peculiar mode of enjoying herself is + calculated to have rather a depressing influence upon the + spirits of those with whom she comes in contact—always + excepting Jack, who has a lively sense of the ludicrous, and + never enjoys himself better than in bantering his aunt. + </p> + <p> + "I don't expect to live more'n a week," said Rachel, one day. + "My sands of life are 'most run out." + </p> + <p> + "Are you sure of that, Aunt Rachel?" asked Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I've got a presentiment that it's so." + </p> + <p> + "Then, if you're sure of it," said her nephew, gravely, "it + may be as well to order the coffin in time. What style would + you prefer?" + </p> + <p> + Rachel retreated to her room in tears, exclaiming that he + needn't be in such a hurry to get her out of the world; but + she came down to supper, and ate with her usual appetite. + </p> + <p> + Ida is no less a favorite with Jack than with the rest of the + household. Indeed, he has constituted himself her especial + guardian. Rough as he is in the playground, he is always + gentle with her. When she was just learning to walk, and in + her helplessness needed the constant care of others, he used, + from choice, to relieve his mother of much of the task of + amusing the child. He had never had a little sister, and the + care of a child as young as Ida was a novelty to him. It was + perhaps this very office of guardian to the child, assumed + when she was young, that made him feel ever after as if she + were placed under his special protection. + </p> + <p> + Ida was equally attached to Jack. She learned to look to him + for assistance in any plan she had formed, and he never + disappointed her. Whenever he could, he would accompany her + to school, holding her by the hand, and, fond as he was of + rough play, nothing would induce him to leave her. + </p> + <p> + "How long have you been a nursemaid?" asked a boy older than + himself, one day. + </p> + <p> + Jack's fingers itched to get hold of his derisive questioner, + but he had a duty to perform, and he contented himself with + saying: "Just wait a few minutes, and I'll let you know." + </p> + <p> + "I dare say you will," was the reply. "I rather think I shall + have to wait till both of us are gray before that time." + </p> + <p> + "You will not have to wait long before you are black and + blue," retorted Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Don't mind what he says, Jack," whispered Ida, fearing that + he would leave her. + </p> + <p> + "Don't be afraid, Ida; I won't leave you. I'll attend to his + business another time. I guess he won't trouble us + to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile the boy, emboldened by Jack's passiveness, + followed, with more abuse of the same sort. If he had been + wiser, he would have seen a storm gathering in the flash of + Jack's eye; but he mistook the cause of his forbearance. + </p> + <p> + The next day, as they were going to school, Ida saw the same + boy dodging round the corner with his head bound up. + </p> + <p> + "What's the matter with him, Jack?" she asked. + </p> + <p> + "I licked him like blazes, that's all," said Jack, quietly. + "I guess he'll let us alone after this." + </p> + <p> + Even after Jack left school, and got a position in a store at + two dollars a week, he gave a large part of his spare time to + Ida. + </p> + <p> + "Really," said Mrs. Harding, "Jack is as careful of Ida as if + he was her guardian." + </p> + <p> + "A pretty sort of a guardian he is!" said Aunt Rachel. "Take + my word for it, he's only fit to lead her into mischief." + </p> + <p> + "You do him injustice, Rachel. Jack is not a model boy, but + he takes the best care of Ida." + </p> + <p> + Rachel shrugged her shoulders, and sniffed significantly. It + was quite evident that she did not have a very favorable + opinion of her nephew. + </p><a name="CH13"><!-- CH13 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII + </h2> + <center> + A MYSTERIOUS VISITOR + </center> + <p> + About eleven o'clock one forenoon Mrs. Harding was in the + kitchen, busily engaged in preparing the dinner, when a loud + knock was heard at the front door. + </p> + <p> + "Who can it be?" said Mrs. Harding. "Aunt Rachel, there's + somebody at the door; won't you be kind enough to see who it + is?" + </p> + <p> + "People have no business to call at such an hour in the + morning," grumbled Rachel, as she laid down her knitting + reluctantly, and rose from her seat. "Nobody seems to have + any consideration for anybody else. But that's the way of the + world." + </p> + <p> + Opening the outer door, she saw before her a tall woman, + dressed in a gown of some dark stuff, with strongly marked, + and not altogether pleasant, features. + </p> + <p> + "Are you the lady of the house?" inquired the visitor, + abruptly. + </p> + <p> + "There ain't any ladies in this house," answered Rachel. + "You've come to the wrong place. We have to work for a living + here." + </p> + <p> + "The woman of the house, then," said the stranger, rather + impatiently. "It doesn't make any difference about names. Are + you the one I want to see?" + </p> + <p> + "No, I ain't," said Rachel, shortly. + </p> + <p> + "Will you tell your mistress that I want to see her, then?" + </p> + <p> + "I have no mistress," said Rachel. "What do you take me for?" + </p> + <p> + "I thought you might be the servant, but that don't matter. I + want to see Mrs. Harding. Will you call her, or shall I go + and announce myself?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know as she'll see you. She's busy in the kitchen." + </p> + <p> + "Her business can't be as important as what I've come about. + Tell her that, will you?" + </p> + <p> + Rachel did not fancy the stranger's tone or manner. Certainly + she did not manifest much politeness. But the spinster's + curiosity was excited, and this led her the more readily to + comply with the request. + </p> + <p> + "Stay here, and I'll call her," she said. + </p> + <p> + "There's a woman wants to see you," announced Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "Who is it?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know. She hasn't got any manners, that's all I know + about her." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Harding presented herself at the door. + </p> + <p> + "Won't you come in?" she asked. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I will. What I've got to say to you may take some + time." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Harding, wondering vaguely what business this strange + visitor could have with her, led the way to the sitting room. + </p> + <p> + "You have in your family," said the woman, after seating + herself, "a girl named Ida." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Harding looked up suddenly and anxiously. Could it be + that the secret of Ida's birth was to be revealed at last? + Was it possible that she was to be taken from her? + </p> + <p> + "Yes," she answered, simply. + </p> + <p> + "Who is not your child?" + </p> + <p> + "But I love her as much. I have always taught her to look + upon me as her mother." + </p> + <p> + "I presume so. My visit has reference to her." + </p> + <p> + "Can you tell me anything of her parentage?" inquired Mrs. + Harding, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + "I was her nurse," said the stranger. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Harding scrutinized anxiously the hard features of the + woman. It was, at least, a relief to know that no tie of + blood connected her with Ida, though, even upon her + assurance, she would hardly have believed it. + </p> + <p> + "Who were her parents?" + </p> + <p> + "I am not permitted to tell." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Harding looked disappointed. + </p> + <p> + "Surely," she said, with a sudden sinking of the heart, "you + have not come to take her away?" + </p> + <p> + "This letter will explain my object in visiting you," said + the woman, drawing a sealed envelope from a bag which she + carried in her hand. + </p> + <p> + The cooper's wife nervously broke open the letter, and read + as follows: + </p> + <pre> + "MRS. HARDING: Seven years ago last New Year's night a child was + left on your doorsteps, with a note containing a request that you + would care for it kindly as your own. Money was sent at the same + time to defray the expenses of such care. The writer of this note + is the mother of the child, Ida. There is no need to explain here + why I sent away the child from me. You will easily understand that + it was not done willingly, and that only the most imperative + necessity would have led me to such a step. The same necessity + still prevents me from reclaiming my child, and I am content still + to leave Ida in your charge. Yet there is one thing I desire. You + will understand a mother's wish to see, face to face, her own + child. With this view I have come to this neighborhood. I will not + say where I am, for concealment is necessary to me. I send this + note by a trustworthy attendant, Mrs. Hardwick, my little Ida's + nurse in her infancy, who will conduct Ida to me, and return her + again to you. Ida is not to know who she is visiting. No doubt she + believes you to be her mother, and it is well that she should so + regard you. Tell her only that it is a lady, who takes an interest + in her, and that will satisfy her childish curiosity. I make this + request as IDA'S MOTHER." +</pre> + <p> + Mrs. Harding read this letter with mingled feelings. Pity for + the writer; a vague curiosity in regard to the mysterious + circumstances which had compelled her to resort to such a + step; a half feeling of jealousy, that there should be one + who had a claim to her dear, adopted daughter, superior to + her own; and a strong feeling of relief at the assurance that + Ida was not to be permanently removed—all these + feelings affected the cooper's wife. + </p> + <p> + "So you were Ida's nurse?" she said, gently. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am," said the stranger. "I hope the dear child is + well?" + </p> + <p> + "Perfectly well. How much her mother must have suffered from + the separation!" + </p> + <p> + "Indeed you may say so, ma'am. It came near to breaking her + heart." + </p> + <p> + "I don't wonder," said sympathizing Mrs. Harding. "I can + judge of that by my own feelings. I don't know what I should + do, if Ida were to be taken from me." + </p> + <p> + At this point in the conversation, the cooper entered the + house. He had come home on an errand. + </p> + <p> + "It is my husband," said Mrs. Harding, turning to her + visitor, by way of explanation. "Timothy, will you come here + a moment?" + </p> + <p> + The cooper regarded the stranger with some surprise. His wife + hastened to introduce her as Mrs. Hardwick, Ida's old nurse, + and placed in her husband's hands the letter which we have + already read. + </p> + <p> + He was not a rapid reader, and it took him some time to get + through the letter. He laid it down on his knee, and looked + thoughtful. + </p> + <p> + "This is indeed unexpected," he said, at last. "It is a new + development in Ida's history. May I ask, Mrs. Hardwick, if + you have any further proof? I want to be careful about a + child that I love as my own. Can you furnish any other proof + that you are what you represent?" + </p> + <p> + "I judged that the letter would be sufficient. Doesn't it + speak of me as the nurse?" + </p> + <p> + "True; but how can we be sure that the writer is Ida's + mother?" + </p> + <p> + "The tone of the letter, sir. Would anybody else write like + that?" + </p> + <p> + "Then you have read the letter?" asked the cooper, quickly. + </p> + <p> + "It was read to me before I set out." + </p> + <p> + "By whom?" + </p> + <p> + "By Ida's mother. I do not blame you for your caution," said + the visitor. "You must be deeply interested in the happiness + of the dear child, of whom you have taken such excellent + care. I don't mind telling you that I was the one who left + her at your door, seven years ago, and that I never left the + neighborhood until I saw you take her in." + </p> + <p> + "And it was this that enabled you to find the house to-day?" + </p> + <p> + "You forget," corrected the nurse, "that you were not then + living in this house, but in another, some rods off, on the + left-hand side of the street." + </p> + <p> + "You are right," said Timothy. "I am inclined to believe in + the truth of your story. You must pardon my testing you in + such a manner, but I was not willing to yield up Ida, even + for a little time, without feeling confident of the hands she + was falling into." + </p> + <p> + "You are right," said Mrs. Hardwick. "I don't blame you in + the least. I shall report it to Ida's mother as a proof of + your attachment to the child." + </p> + <p> + "When do you wish Ida to go with you?" asked Mrs. Harding. + </p> + <p> + "Can you let her go this afternoon?" + </p> + <p> + "Why," said the cooper's wife, hesitating, "I should like to + have a chance to wash out some clothes for her. I want her to + appear as neat as possible when she meets her mother." + </p> + <p> + The nurse hesitated, but presently replied: "I don't wish to + hurry you. If you will let me know when she will be ready, I + will call for her." + </p> + <p> + "I think I can get her ready early to-morrow morning." + </p> + <p> + "That will answer. I will call for her then." + </p> + <p> + The nurse rose, and gathered her shawl about her. + </p> + <p> + "Where are you going, Mrs. Hardwick?" asked the cooper's + wife. + </p> + <p> + "To a hotel," was the reply. + </p> + <p> + "We cannot allow that," said Mrs. Harding, kindly. "It's a + pity if we cannot accommodate Ida's old nurse for one night, + or ten times as long, for that matter." + </p> + <p> + "My wife is quite right," said the cooper, hesitatingly. "We + must insist on your stopping with us." + </p> + <p> + The nurse hesitated, and looked irresolute. It was plain she + would have preferred to be elsewhere, but a remark which Mrs. + Harding made, decided her to accept the invitation. + </p> + <p> + It was this: "You know, Mrs. Hardwick, if Ida is to go with + you, she ought to have a little chance to get acquainted with + you before you go." + </p> + <p> + "I will accept your kind invitation," she said; "but I am + afraid I shall be in your way." + </p> + <p> + "Not in the least. It will be a pleasure to us to have you + here. If you will excuse me now, I will go out and attend to + my dinner, which I am afraid is getting behindhand." + </p> + <p> + Left to herself, the nurse behaved in a manner which might be + regarded as singular. She rose from her seat, and approached + the mirror. She took a full survey of herself as she stood + there, and laughed a short, hard laugh. Then she made a + formal courtesy to her own reflection, saying: "How do you + do, Mrs. Hardwick?" + </p> + <p> + "Did you speak?" asked the cooper, who was passing through + the entry on his way out. + </p> + <p> + "No," answered the nurse, rather awkwardly. "I may have said + something to myself. It's of no consequence." + </p> + <p> + "Somehow," thought the cooper, "I don't fancy the woman's + looks; but I dare say I am prejudiced. We're all of us as God + made us." + </p> + <p> + When Mrs. Harding was making preparations for the noonday + meal, she imparted to Rachel the astonishing information + which has already been detailed to the reader. + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe a word of it," said Rachel, resolutely. "The + woman's an impostor. I knew she was, the very minute I set + eyes on her." + </p> + <p> + This remark was so characteristic of Rachel, that her + sister-in-law did not attach any special importance to it. + Rachel, of course, had no grounds for the opinion she so + confidently expressed. It was consistent, however, with her + general estimate of human nature. + </p> + <p> + "What object could she have in inventing such a story?" asked + Mrs. Harding. + </p> + <p> + "What object? Hundreds of 'em," said Rachel, rather + indefinitely. "Mark my words; if you let her carry off Ida, + it'll be the last you'll ever see of her." + </p> + <p> + "Try to look on the bright side, Rachel. Nothing is more + natural than that her mother should want to see her." + </p> + <p> + "Why couldn't she come herself?" muttered Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "The letter explains." + </p> + <p> + "I don't see that it does." + </p> + <p> + "It says that same reasons exist for concealment as ever." + </p> + <p> + "And what are they, I should like to know? I don't like + mysteries, for my part." + </p> + <p> + "We won't quarrel with them, at any rate, since they enable + us to keep Ida with us." + </p> + <p> + Aunt Rachel shook her head, as if she were far from + satisfied. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Mrs. Harding, "but I ought to invite + Mrs. Hardwick in here. I have left her alone in the front + room." + </p> + <p> + "I don't want to see her," said Rachel. Then, changing her + mind suddenly: "Yes, you may bring her in. I'll soon find out + whether she's an impostor or not." + </p> + <p> + The cooper's wife returned with the nurse. + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Hardwick," she said, "this is my sister, Miss Rachel + Harding." + </p> + <p> + "I am glad to make your acquaintance, ma'am," said the + visitor. + </p> + <p> + "Rachel, I will leave you to entertain Mrs. Hardwick, while I + get ready the dinner." + </p> + <p> + Rachel and the nurse eyed each other with mutual dislike. + </p> + <p> + "I hope you don't expect me to entertain you," said Rachel. + "I never expect to entertain anybody ag'in. This is a world + of trial and tribulation, and I've had my share. So you've + come after Ida, I hear?" with a sudden change of tone. + </p> + <p> + "At her mother's request," said the nurse. + </p> + <p> + "She wants to see her, then?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "I wonder she didn't think of it before," said Rachel, + sharply. "She's good at waiting. She's waited seven years." + </p> + <p> + "There are circumstances that cannot be explained," commenced + the nurse. + </p> + <p> + "No, I dare say not," said Rachel, dryly. "So you were her + nurse?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am," answered the nurse, who did not appear to enjoy + this cross-examination. + </p> + <p> + "Have you lived with Ida's mother ever since?" + </p> + <p> + "No—yes," stammered the stranger. "Some of the time," + she added, recovering herself. + </p> + <p> + "Umph!" grunted Rachel, darting a sharp glance at her. + </p> + <p> + "Have you a husband living?" inquired the spinster. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," answered Mrs. Hardwick. "Have you?" + </p> + <p> + "I!" repeated Rachel, scornfully. "No, neither living nor + dead. I'm thankful to say I never married. I've had trials + enough without that. Does Ida's mother live in the city?" + </p> + <p> + "I can't tell you," said the nurse. + </p> + <p> + "Humph! I don't like mystery." + </p> + <p> + "It isn't any mystery," said the visitor. "If you have any + objections to make, you must make them to Ida's mother." + </p> + <p> + "So I will, if you'll tell me where she lives." + </p> + <p> + "I can't do that." + </p> + <p> + "Where do you live yourself?" inquired Rachel, shifting her + point of attack. + </p> + <p> + "In Brooklyn," answered Mrs. Hardwick, with some hesitation. + </p> + <p> + "What street, and number?" + </p> + <p> + "Why do you want to know?" inquired the nurse. + </p> + <p> + "You ain't ashamed to tell, be you?" + </p> + <p> + "Why should I be?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know. You'd orter know better than I." + </p> + <p> + "It wouldn't do you any good to know," said the nurse. "I + don't care about receiving visitors." + </p> + <p> + "I don't want to visit you, I am sure," said Rachel, tossing + her head. + </p> + <p> + "Then you don't need to know where I live." + </p> + <p> + Rachel left the room, and sought her sister-in-law. + </p> + <p> + "That woman's an impostor," she said. "She won't tell where + she lives. I shouldn't be surprised if she turns out to be a + thief." + </p> + <p> + "You haven't any reason for supposing that, Rachel." + </p> + <p> + "Wait and see," said Rachel. "Of course I don't expect you to + pay any attention to what I say. I haven't any influence in + this house." + </p> + <p> + "Now, Rachel, you have no cause to say that." + </p> + <p> + But Rachel was not to be appeased. It pleased her to be + considered a martyr, and at such times there was little use + in arguing with her. + </p><a name="CH14"><!-- CH14 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV + </h2> + <center> + PREPARING FOR A JOURNEY + </center> + <p> + Later in the day, Ida returned from school. She bounded into + the room, as usual, but stopped short in some confusion, on + seeing a stranger. + </p> + <p> + "Is this my own dear child, over whose infancy I watched so + tenderly?" exclaimed the nurse, rising, her harsh features + wreathed into a smile. + </p> + <p> + "It is Ida," said the cooper's wife. + </p> + <p> + Ida looked from one to the other in silent bewilderment. + </p> + <p> + "Ida," said Mrs. Harding, in a little embarrassment, "this is + Mrs. Hardwick, who took care of you when you were an infant." + </p> + <p> + "But I thought you took care of me, mother," said Ida, in + surprise. + </p> + <p> + "Very true," said Mrs. Harding, evasively; "but I was not + able to have the care of you all the time. Didn't I ever + mention Mrs. Hardwick to you?" + </p> + <p> + "No, mother." + </p> + <p> + "Although it is so long since I have seen her, I should have + known her anywhere," said the nurse, applying a handkerchief + to her eyes. "So pretty as she's grown up, too!" + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Harding glanced with pride at the beautiful child, who + blushed at the compliment, a rare one, for her adopted + mother, whatever she might think, did not approve of openly + praising her appearance. + </p> + <p> + "Ida," said Mrs. Hardwick, "won't you come and kiss your old + nurse?" + </p> + <p> + Ida looked at her hard face, which now wore a smile intended + to express affection. Without knowing why, she felt an + instinctive repugnance to this stranger, notwithstanding her + words of endearment. + </p> + <p> + She advanced timidly, with a reluctance which she was not + wholly able to conceal, and passively submitted to a caress + from the nurse. + </p> + <p> + There was a look in the eyes of the nurse, carefully guarded, + yet not wholly concealed, which showed that she was quite + aware of Ida's feeling toward her, and resented it. But + whether or not she was playing a part, she did not betray + this feeling openly, but pressed the unwilling child more + closely to her bosom. + </p> + <p> + Ida breathed a sigh of relief when she was released, and + moved quietly away, wondering what it was that made the woman + so disagreeable to her. + </p> + <p> + "Is my nurse a good woman?" she asked, thoughtfully, when + alone with Mrs. Harding, who was setting the table for + dinner. + </p> + <p> + "A good woman! What makes you ask that?" queried her adopted + mother, in surprise. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said Ida. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know anything to indicate that she is otherwise," + said Mrs. Harding. "And, by the way, Ida, she is going to + take you on a little excursion to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + "She going to take me!" exclaimed Ida. "Why, where are we + going?" + </p> + <p> + "On a little pleasure trip; and perhaps she may introduce you + to a pleasant lady, who has already become interested in you, + from what she has told her." + </p> + <p> + "What could she say of me?" inquired Ida. "She has not seen + me since I was a baby." + </p> + <p> + "Why," answered the cooper's wife, a little puzzled, "she + appears to have thought of you ever since, with a good deal + of affection." + </p> + <p> + "Is it wicked," asked Ida, after a pause, "not to like those + who like us?" + </p> + <p> + "What makes you ask?" + </p> + <p> + "Because, somehow or other, I don't like this Mrs. Hardwick, + at all, for all she was my old nurse, and I don't believe I + ever shall." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes, you will," said Mrs. Harding, "when you find she is + exerting herself to give you pleasure." + </p> + <p> + "Am I going with her to-morrow morning?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes. She wanted you to go to-day, but your clothes were not + in order." + </p> + <p> + "We shall come back at night, shan't we?" + </p> + <p> + "I presume so." + </p> + <p> + "I hope we shall," said Ida, decidedly, "and that she won't + want me to go with her again." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps you will feel differently when it is over, and you + find you have enjoyed yourself better than you anticipated." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Harding exerted herself to fit Ida up as neatly as + possible, and when at length she was got ready, she thought + with sudden fear: "Perhaps her mother will not be willing to + part with her again." + </p> + <p> + When Ida was ready to start, there came upon all a little + shadow of depression, as if the child were to be separated + from them for a year, and not for a day only. Perhaps this + was only natural, since even this latter term, however brief, + was longer than they had been parted from her since, in her + infancy, she had been left at their door. + </p> + <p> + The nurse expressly desired that none of the family should + accompany her, as she declared it highly important that the + whereabouts of Ida's mother should not be known. + </p> + <p> + "Of course," she added, "after Ida returns she can tell you + what she pleases. Then it will be of no consequence, for her + mother will be gone. She does not live in this neighborhood. + She has only come here to see her child." + </p> + <p> + "Shall you bring her back to-night?" asked Mrs. Harding. + </p> + <p> + "I may keep her till to-morrow," said the nurse. "After seven + years' absence her mother will think that short enough." + </p> + <p> + To this, Mrs. Harding agreed, though she felt that she should + miss Ida, though absent but twenty-four hours. + </p><a name="CH15"><!-- CH15 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV + </h2> + <center> + THE JOURNEY + </center> + <p> + The nurse walked as far as Broadway, holding Ida by the hand. + </p> + <p> + "Where are we going?" asked the child, timidly. "Are you + going to walk all the way?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said the nurse; "not all the way—perhaps a mile. + You can walk as far as that, can't you?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes." + </p> + <p> + They walked on till they reached the ferry at the foot of + Courtland Street. + </p> + <p> + "Did you ever ride in a steamboat?" asked the nurse, in a + tone meant to be gracious. + </p> + <p> + "Once or twice," answered Ida. "I went with Brother Jack + once, over to Hoboken. Are we going there now?" + </p> + <p> + "No; we are going to the city you see over the water." + </p> + <p> + "What place is it? Is it Brooklyn?" + </p> + <p> + "No; it is Jersey City." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, that will be pleasant," said Ida, forgetting, in her + childish love of novelty, the repugnance with which the nurse + had inspired her. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, and that is not all; we are going still further," said + the nurse. + </p> + <p> + "Are we going further?" asked Ida, in excitement. "Where are + we going?" + </p> + <p> + "To a town on the line of the railroad." + </p> + <p> + "And shall we ride in the cars?" asked Ida. + </p> + <p> + "Yes; didn't you ever ride in the cars?" + </p> + <p> + "No, never." + </p> + <p> + "I think you will like it." + </p> + <p> + "And how long will it take us to go to the place you are + going to carry me to?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know exactly; perhaps three hours." + </p> + <p> + "Three whole hours in the cars! How much I shall have to tell + father and Jack when I get back!" + </p> + <p> + "So you will," replied Mrs. Hardwick, with an unaccountable + smile—"when you get back." + </p> + <p> + There was something peculiar in her tone, but Ida did not + notice it. + </p> + <p> + She was allowed to sit next the window in the cars, and took + great pleasure in surveying the fields and villages through + which they were rapidly whirled. + </p> + <p> + "Are we 'most there?" she asked, after riding about two + hours. + </p> + <p> + "It won't be long," said the nurse. + </p> + <p> + "We must have come ever so many miles," said Ida. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, it is a good ways." + </p> + <p> + An hour more passed, and still there was no sign of reaching + their journey's end. Both Ida and her companion began to feel + hungry. + </p> + <p> + The nurse beckoned to her side a boy, who was selling apples + and cakes, and inquired the price. + </p> + <p> + "The apples are two cents apiece, ma'am, and the cakes are + one cent each." + </p> + <p> + Ida, who had been looking out of the window, turned suddenly + round, and exclaimed, in great astonishment: "Why, Charlie + Fitts, is that you?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, Ida, where did you come from?" asked the boy, with a + surprise equaling her own. + </p> + <p> + "I'm making a little journey with this lady," said Ida. + </p> + <p> + "So you're going to Philadelphia?" said Charlie. + </p> + <p> + "To Philadelphia!" repeated Ida, surprised. "Not that I know + of." + </p> + <p> + "Why, you're 'most there now." + </p> + <p> + "Are we, Mrs. Hardwick?" inquired Ida. + </p> + <p> + "It isn't far from where we're going," she answered, shortly. + "Boy, I'll take two of your apples and four cakes. And, now, + you'd better go along, for there's somebody over there that + looks as if he wanted to buy something." + </p> + <p> + "Who is that boy?" asked the nurse, abruptly. + </p> + <p> + "His name is Charlie Fitts." + </p> + <p> + "Where did you get acquainted with him?" + </p> + <p> + "He went to school with Jack, so I used to see him + sometimes." + </p> + <p> + "With Jack?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Brother Jack. Don't you know him?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes, I forgot. So he's a schoolmate of Jack?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, and he's a first-rate boy," said Ida, with whom the + young apple merchant was evidently a favorite. "He's good to + his mother. You see, his mother is sick most of the time, and + can't work much; and he's got a little sister—she ain't + more than four or five years old—and Charlie supports + them by selling things. He's only sixteen years old; isn't he + a smart boy?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said the nurse, indifferently. + </p> + <p> + "Sometime," continued Ida, "I hope I shall be able to earn + something for father and mother, so they won't be obliged to + work so hard." + </p> + <p> + "What could you do?" asked the nurse, curiously. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know as I can do much yet," answered Ida, modestly; + "but perhaps when I am older I can draw pictures that people + will buy." + </p> + <p> + "Have you got any of your drawings with you?" + </p> + <p> + "No, I didn't bring any." + </p> + <p> + "I wish you had. The lady we are going to see would have + liked to see some of them." + </p> + <p> + "Are we going to see a lady?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; didn't your mother tell you?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I believe she said something about a lady that was + interested in me." + </p> + <p> + "That's the one." + </p> + <p> + "And shall we come back to New York to-night?" + </p> + <p> + "No; it wouldn't leave us any time to stay." + </p> + <p> + "West Philadelphia!" announced the conductor. + </p> + <p> + "We have arrived," said the nurse. "Keep close to me. Perhaps + you had better take hold of my hand." + </p> + <p> + As they were making their way slowly through the crowd, the + young apple merchant came up with his basket on his arm. + </p> + <p> + "When are you going back, Ida?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Hardwick says not till to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + "Come, Ida," said the nurse, sharply. "I can't have you + stopping all day to talk. We must hurry along." + </p> + <p> + "Good-by, Charlie," said Ida. "If you see Jack, just tell him + you saw me." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I will," was the reply. + </p> + <p> + "I wonder who that woman is with Ida?" thought the boy. "I + don't like her looks much. I wonder if she's any relation of + Mr. Harding. She looks about as pleasant as Aunt Rachel." + </p> + <p> + The last-mentioned lady would hardly have felt flattered at + the comparison. + </p> + <p> + Ida looked about her with curiosity. There was a novel + sensation in being in a new place, particularly a city of + which she had heard so much as Philadelphia. As far back as + she could remember, she had never left New York, except for a + brief excursion to Hoboken; and one Fourth of July was made + memorable by a trip to Staten Island, under the guardianship + of Jack. + </p> + <p> + They entered a horse car just outside the depot, and rode + probably a mile. + </p> + <p> + "We get out here," said the nurse. "Take care, or you'll get + run over. Now turn down here." + </p> + <p> + They entered a narrow and dirty street, with unsightly houses + on each side. + </p> + <p> + "This ain't a very nice-looking street," said Ida. + </p> + <p> + "Why isn't it?" demanded her companion, roughly. + </p> + <p> + "Why, it's narrow, and the houses don't look nice." + </p> + <p> + "What do you think of that house there?" asked Mrs. Hardwick, + pointing to a dilapidated-looking structure on the right-hand + side of the street. + </p> + <p> + "I shouldn't like to live there," answered Ida. + </p> + <p> + "You wouldn't, hey? You don't like it so well as the house + you live in in New York?" + </p> + <p> + "No, not half so well." + </p> + <p> + The nurse smiled. + </p> + <p> + "Wouldn't you like to go in, and look at the house?" + </p> + <p> + "Go in and look at the house?" repeated Ida. "Why should we?" + </p> + <p> + "You must know there are some poor families living there that + I am interested in," said Mrs. Hardwick, who appeared amused + at something. "Didn't your mother ever tell you that it is + our duty to help the poor?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes, but won't it be late before we get to the lady?" + </p> + <p> + "No, there's plenty of time. You needn't be afraid of that. + There's a poor man living in this house that I've made a good + many clothes for, first and last." + </p> + <p> + "He must be much obliged to you," said Ida. + </p> + <p> + "We're going up to see him now," said her companion. "Take + care of that hole in the stairs." + </p> + <p> + Somewhat to Ida's surprise, her guide, on reaching the first + landing, opened a door without the ceremony of knocking, and + revealed a poor, untidy room, in which a coarse, unshaven man + was sitting, in his shirt sleeves, smoking a pipe. + </p> + <p> + "Hello!" exclaimed this individual, jumping up. "So you've + got along, old woman! Is that the gal?" + </p> + <p> + Ida stared from one to the other in amazement. + </p><a name="CH16"><!-- CH16 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI + </h2> + <center> + UNEXPECTED QUARTERS + </center> + <p> + The appearance of the man whom Mrs. Hardwick addressed so + familiarly was more picturesque than pleasing, He had a + large, broad face, which, not having been shaved for a week, + looked like a wilderness of stubble. His nose indicated + habitual indulgence in alcoholic beverages. His eyes were + bloodshot, and his skin looked coarse and blotched; his coat + was thrown aside, displaying a shirt which bore evidence of + having been useful in its day and generation. The same remark + may apply to his nether integuments, which were ventilated at + each knee, indicating a most praiseworthy regard to the laws + of health. + </p> + <p> + Ida thought she had never seen so disgusting a man. She + continued to gaze at him, half in astonishment, half in + terror, till the object of her attention exclaimed: + </p> + <p> + "Well, little gal, what you're lookin' at? Hain't you never + seen a gentleman before?" + </p> + <p> + Ida clung the closer to her companion, who, she was surprised + to find, did not resent the man's familiarity. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Dick, how've you got along since I've been gone?" + asked the nurse, to Ida's astonishment. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, so-so." + </p> + <p> + "Have you felt lonely any?" + </p> + <p> + "I've had good company." + </p> + <p> + "Who's been here?" + </p> + <p> + Dick pointed significantly to a jug. + </p> + <p> + "That's the best company I know of," he said, "but it's 'most + empty. So you've brought along the gal," he continued. "How + did you get hold of her?" + </p> + <p> + There was something in these questions which terrified Ida. + It seemed to indicate a degree of complicity between these + two which boded no good to her. + </p> + <p> + "I'll tell you the particulars by and by." + </p> + <p> + At the same time she began to take off her bonnet. + </p> + <p> + "You ain't going to stop, are you?" asked Ida, startled. + </p> + <p> + "Ain't goin' to stop?" repeated the man called Dick. "Why + shouldn't she stop, I'd like to know? Ain't she at home?" + </p> + <p> + "At home!" echoed Ida, apprehensively, opening wide her eyes + in astonishment. + </p> + <p> + "Yes; ask her." + </p> + <p> + Ida looked inquiringly at Mrs. Hardwick. + </p> + <p> + "You might as well take off your things," said the latter, + grimly. "We ain't going any further to-day." + </p> + <p> + "And where's the lady you said you were going to see?" + </p> + <p> + "The one that was interested in you?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "Well, I'm the one," she answered, with a broad smile and a + glance at Dick. + </p> + <p> + "I don't want to stay here," said Ida, now frightened. + </p> + <p> + "Well, what are you going to do about it?" + </p> + <p> + "Will you take me back early to-morrow?" entreated Ida. + </p> + <p> + "No, I don't intend to take you back at all." + </p> + <p> + Ida seemed at first stupefied with astonishment and terror. + Then, actuated by a sudden, desperate impulse, she ran to the + door, and had got it partly open, when the nurse sprang + forward, and seizing her by the arm, pulled her violently + back. + </p> + <p> + "Where are you going in such a hurry?" she demanded. + </p> + <p> + "Back to father and mother," answered Ida, bursting into + tears. "Oh, why did you bring me here?" + </p> + <p> + "I'll tell you why," answered Dick, jocularly. "You see, Ida, + we ain't got any little girl to love us, and so we got you." + </p> + <p> + "But I don't love you, and I never shall," said Ida, + indignantly. + </p> + <p> + "Now don't you go to saying that," said Dick. "You'll break + my heart, you naughty girl, and then Peg will be a widow." + </p> + <p> + To give due effect to this pathetic speech, Dick drew out a + tattered red handkerchief, and made a great demonstration of + wiping his eyes. + </p> + <p> + The whole scene was so ludicrous that Ida, despite her fears + and disgust, could not help laughing hysterically. She + recovered herself instantly, and said imploringly: "Oh, do + let me go, and father will pay you." + </p> + <p> + "You really think he would?" said Dick, in a tantalizing + tone. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes; and you'll tell her to take me back, won't you?" + </p> + <p> + "No, he won't tell me any such thing," said Peg, gruffly; "so + you may as well give up all thoughts of that first as last. + You're going to stay here; so take off that bonnet of yours, + and say no more about it." + </p> + <p> + Ida made no motion toward obeying this mandate. + </p> + <p> + "Then I'll do it for you," said Peg. + </p> + <p> + She roughly untied the bonnet—Ida struggling vainly in + opposition—and taking this, with the shawl, carried + them to a closet, in which she placed them, and then, locking + the door, deliberately put the key in her pocket. + </p> + <p> + "There," said she, grimly, "I guess you're safe for the + present." + </p> + <p> + "Ain't you ever going to carry me back?" + </p> + <p> + "Some years hence I may possibly," answered the woman, + coolly. "We want you here for the present. Besides, you're + not sure that they want you back." + </p> + <p> + "Not want me back again?" + </p> + <p> + "That's what I said. How do you know but your father and + mother sent you off on purpose? They've been troubled with + you long enough, and now they've bound you apprentice to me + till you're eighteen." + </p> + <p> + "It's a lie!" said Ida, firmly. "They didn't send me off, and + you're a wicked woman to tell me so." + </p> + <p> + "Hoity-toity!" said the woman. "Is that the way you dare to + speak to me? Have you anything more to say before I whip + you?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," answered Ida, goaded to desperation. "I shall complain + of you to the police, just as soon as I get a chance, and + they will put you in jail and send me home. That is what I + will do." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Hardwick was incensed, and somewhat startled at these + defiant words. It was clear that Ida was not going to be a + meek, submissive child, whom they might ill-treat without + apprehension. She was decidedly dangerous, and her + insubordination must be nipped in the bud. She seized Ida + roughly by the arm, and striding with her to the closet + already spoken of, unlocked it, and, rudely pushing her in, + locked the door after her. + </p> + <p> + "Stay there till you know how to behave," she said. + </p> + <p> + "How did you manage to come it over her family?" inquired + Dick. + </p> + <p> + His wife gave substantially the account with which the reader + is already familiar. + </p> + <p> + "Pretty well done, old woman!" exclaimed Dick, approvingly. + "I always said you was a deep un. I always says, if Peg can't + find out how a thing is to be done, then it can't be done, + nohow." + </p> + <p> + "How about the counterfeit coin?" she asked. + </p> + <p> + "We're to be supplied with all we can put off, and we are to + have half for our trouble." + </p> + <p> + "That is good. When the girl, Ida, gets a little tamed down, + we'll give her something to do." + </p> + <p> + "Is it safe? Won't she betray us?" + </p> + <p> + "We'll manage that, or at least I will. I'll work on her + fears, so she won't any more dare to say a word about us than + to cut her own head off." + </p> + <p> + "All right, Peg. I can trust you to do what's right." + </p> + <p> + Ida sank down on the floor of the closet into which she had + been thrust. Utter darkness was around her, and a darkness as + black seemed to hang over all her prospects of future + happiness. She had been snatched in a moment from parents, or + those whom she regarded as such, and from a comfortable and + happy, though humble home, to this dismal place. In place of + the kindness and indulgence to which she had been accustomed, + she was now treated with harshness and cruelty. + </p><a name="CH17"><!-- CH17 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII + </h2> + <center> + SUSPENSE + </center> + <p> + "It doesn't, somehow, seem natural," said the cooper, as he + took his seat at the tea table, "to sit down without Ida. It + seems as if half the family were gone." + </p> + <p> + "Just what I've said to myself twenty times to-day," remarked + his wife. "Nobody can tell how much a child is to them till + they lose it." + </p> + <p> + "Not lose it," corrected Jack. + </p> + <p> + "I didn't mean to say that." + </p> + <p> + "When you used that word, mother, it made me feel just as if + Ida wasn't coming back." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know why it is," said Mrs. Harding, thoughtfully, + "but I've had that same feeling several times today. I've + felt just as if something or other would happen to prevent + Ida's coming back." + </p> + <p> + "That is only because she's never been away before," said the + cooper, cheerfully. "It isn't best to borrow trouble, Martha; + we shall have enough of it without." + </p> + <p> + "You never said a truer word, brother," said Rachel, + mournfully. "Man is born to trouble as the sparks fly upward. + This world is a vale of tears, and a home of misery. Folks + may try and try to be happy, but that isn't what they're sent + here for." + </p> + <p> + "You never tried very hard, Aunt Rachel," said Jack. + </p> + <p> + "It's my fate to be misjudged," said his aunt, with the air + of a martyr. + </p> + <p> + "I don't agree with you in your ideas about life, Rachel," + said her brother. "Just as there are more pleasant than + stormy days, so I believe there is much more of brightness + than shadow in this life of ours, if we would only see it." + </p> + <p> + "I can't see it," said Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "It seems to me, Rachel, you take more pains to look at the + clouds than the sun." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," chimed in Jack, "I've noticed whenever Aunt Rachel + takes up the newspaper, she always looks first at the deaths, + and next at the fatal accidents and steamboat explosions." + </p> + <p> + "If," retorted Rachel, with severe emphasis, "you should ever + be on board a steamboat when it exploded, you wouldn't find + much to laugh at." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I should," said Jack, "I should laugh—" + </p> + <p> + "What!" exclaimed Rachel, horrified. + </p> + <p> + "On the other side of my mouth," concluded Jack. "You didn't + wait till I'd finished the sentence." + </p> + <p> + "I don't think it proper to make light of such serious + matters." + </p> + <p> + "Nor I Aunt Rachel," said Jack, drawing down the corners of + his mouth. "I am willing to confess that this is a serious + matter. I should feel as they say the cow did, that was + thrown three hundred feet up into the air." + </p> + <p> + "How's that?" inquired his mother. + </p> + <p> + "Rather discouraged," answered Jack. + </p> + <p> + All laughed except Aunt Rachel, who preserved the same severe + composure, and continued to eat the pie upon her plate with + the air of one gulping down medicine. + </p> + <p> + In the morning all felt more cheerful. + </p> + <p> + "Ida will be home to-night," said Mrs. Harding, brightly. + "What an age it seems since she went away! Who'd think it was + only twenty-four hours?" + </p> + <p> + "We shall know better how to appreciate her when we get her + back," said her husband. + </p> + <p> + "What time do you expect her home, mother? What did Mrs. + Hardwick say?" + </p> + <p> + "Why," said Mrs. Harding, hesitating, "she didn't say as to + the hour; but I guess she'll be along in the course of the + afternoon." + </p> + <p> + "If we only knew where she had gone, we could tell better + when to expect her." + </p> + <p> + "But as we don't know," said the cooper, "we must wait + patiently till she comes." + </p> + <p> + "I guess," said Mrs. Harding, with the impulse of a notable + housewife, "I'll make some apple turnovers for supper + to-night. There's nothing Ida likes so well." + </p> + <p> + "That's where Ida is right," said Jack, smacking his lips. + "Apple turnovers are splendid." + </p> + <p> + "They are very unwholesome," remarked Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "I shouldn't think so from the way you eat them, Aunt + Rachel," retorted Jack. "You ate four the last time we had + them for supper." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't think you'd begrudge me the little I eat," said his + aunt, dolefully. "I didn't think you counted the mouthfuls I + took." + </p> + <p> + "Come, Rachel, don't be so unreasonable," said her brother. + "Nobody begrudges you what you eat, even if you choose to eat + twice as much as you do. I dare say Jack ate more of the + turnovers than you did." + </p> + <p> + "I ate six," said Jack, candidly. + </p> + <p> + Rachel, construing this into an apology, said no more. + </p> + <p> + "If it wasn't for you, Aunt Rachel, I should be in danger of + getting too jolly, perhaps, and spilling over. It always + makes me sober to look at you." + </p> + <p> + "It's lucky there's something to make you sober and stiddy," + said his aunt. "You are too frivolous." + </p> + <p> + Evening came, but it did not bring Ida. An indefinable sense + of apprehension oppressed the minds of all. Martha feared + that Ida's mother, finding her so attractive, could not + resist the temptation of keeping her. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose," she said, "that she has the best claim to her, + but it would be a terrible thing for us to part with her." + </p> + <p> + "Don't let us trouble ourselves about that," said Timothy. + "It seems to me very natural that her mother should keep her + a little longer than she intended. Think how long it is since + she saw her. Besides, it is not too late for her to return + to-night." + </p> + <p> + At length there came a knock at the door. + </p> + <p> + "I guess that is Ida," said Mrs. Harding, joyfully. + </p> + <p> + Jack seized a candle, and hastening to the door, threw it + open. But there was no Ida there. In her place stood Charlie + Fitts, the boy who had met Ida in the cars. + </p> + <p> + "How are you, Charlie?" said Jack, trying not to look + disappointed. "Come in and tell us all the news." + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Charlie, "I don't know of any. I suppose Ida has + got home?" + </p> + <p> + "No," answered Jack; "we expected her to-night, but she + hasn't come yet." + </p> + <p> + "She told me she expected to come back to-day." + </p> + <p> + "What! have you seen her?" exclaimed all, in chorus. + </p> + <p> + "Yes; I saw her yesterday noon." + </p> + <p> + "Where?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, in the cars," answered Charlie. + </p> + <p> + "What cars?" asked the cooper. + </p> + <p> + "Why, the Philadelphia cars. Of course you knew it was there + she was going?" + </p> + <p> + "Philadelphia!" exclaimed all, in surprise. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, the cars were almost there when I saw her. Who was that + with her?" + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Hardwick, her old nurse." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't like her looks." + </p> + <p> + "That's where we paddle in the same canoe," said Jack. + </p> + <p> + "She didn't seem to want me to speak to Ida," continued + Charlie, "but hurried her off as quick as possible." + </p> + <p> + "There were reasons for that," said the cooper. "She wanted + to keep her destination secret." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know what it was," said the boy, "but I don't like + the woman's looks." + </p><a name="CH18"><!-- CH18 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII + </h2> + <center> + HOW IDA FARED + </center> + <p> + We left Ida confined in a dark closet, with Peg standing + guard over her. + </p> + <p> + After an hour she was released. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said the nurse, grimly, "how do you feel now?" + </p> + <p> + "I want to go home," sobbed the child. + </p> + <p> + "You are at home," said the woman. + </p> + <p> + "Shall I never see father, and mother, and Jack again?" + </p> + <p> + "That depends on how you behave yourself." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, if you will only let me go," pleaded Ida, gathering hope + from this remark, "I'll do anything you say." + </p> + <p> + "Do you mean this, or do you only say it for the sake of + getting away?" + </p> + <p> + "I mean just what I say. Dear, good Mrs. Hardwick, tell me + what to do, and I will obey you cheerfully." + </p> + <p> + "Very well," said Peg, "only you needn't try to come it over + me by calling me dear, good Mrs. Hardwick. In the first + place, you don't care a cent about me; in the second place, I + am not good; and finally, my name isn't Mrs. Hardwick, except + in New York." + </p> + <p> + "What is it, then?" asked Ida. + </p> + <p> + "It's just Peg, no more and no less. You may call me Aunt + Peg." + </p> + <p> + "I would rather call you Mrs. Hardwick." + </p> + <p> + "Then you'll have a good many years to call me so. You'd + better do as I tell you, if you want any favors. Now what do + you say?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Aunt Peg," said Ida, with a strong effort to conceal + her repugnance. + </p> + <p> + "That's well. Now you're not to tell anybody that you came + from New York. That is very important; and you're to pay your + board by doing whatever I tell you." + </p> + <p> + "If it isn't wicked." + </p> + <p> + "Do you suppose I would ask you to do anything wicked?" + demanded Peg, frowning. + </p> + <p> + "You said you wasn't good," mildly suggested Ida. + </p> + <p> + "I'm good enough to take care of you. Well, what do you say + to that? Answer me?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "There's another thing. You ain't to try to run away." + </p> + <p> + Ida hung down her head. + </p> + <p> + "Ha!" exclaimed Peg. "So you've been thinking of it, have + you?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," answered Ida, boldly, after a moment's hesitation. "I + did think I should if I got a good chance." + </p> + <p> + "Humph!" said the woman, "I see we must understand one + another. Unless you promise this, back you go into the dark + closet, and I shall keep you there." + </p> + <p> + Ida shuddered at this fearful threat—terrible to a + child of but eight years. + </p> + <p> + "Do you promise?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Ida, faintly. + </p> + <p> + "For fear you might be tempted to break your promise, I have + something to show you." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Hardwick went to the closet, and took down a large + pistol. + </p> + <p> + "There," she said, "do you see that?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Aunt Peg." + </p> + <p> + "Do you know what it is for?" + </p> + <p> + "To shoot people with," answered the child. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said the nurse; "I see you understand. Well, now, do + you know what I would do if you should tell anybody where you + came from, or attempt to run away? Can you guess, now?" + </p> + <p> + "Would you shoot me?" asked Ida, terror-stricken. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I would," said Peg, with fierce emphasis. "That's just + what I'd do. And what's more even if you got away, and got + back to your family in New York, I would follow you, and + shoot you dead in the street." + </p> + <p> + "You wouldn't be so wicked!" exclaimed Ida. + </p> + <p> + "Wouldn't I, though?" repeated Peg, significantly. "If you + don't believe I would, just try it. Do you think you would + like to try it?" she asked, fiercely. + </p> + <p> + "No," answered Ida, with a shudder. + </p> + <p> + "Well, that's the most sensible thing you've said yet. Now + that you are a little more reasonable, I'll tell you what I + am going to do with you." + </p> + <p> + Ida looked eagerly up into her face. + </p> + <p> + "I am going to keep you with me for a year. I want the + services of a little girl for that time. If you serve me + faithfully, I will then send you back to New York." + </p> + <p> + "Will you?" asked Ida, hopefully. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, but you must mind and do what I tell you." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes," said Ida, joyfully. + </p> + <p> + This was so much better than she had been led to fear, that + the prospect of returning home at all, even though she had to + wait a year, encouraged her. + </p> + <p> + "What do you want me to do?" she asked. + </p> + <p> + "You may take the broom and sweep the room." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Aunt Peg." + </p> + <p> + "And then you may wash the dishes." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Aunt Peg." + </p> + <p> + "And after that, I will find something else for you to do." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Hardwick threw herself into a rocking-chair, and watched + with grim satisfaction the little handmaiden, as she moved + quickly about. + </p> + <p> + "I took the right course with her," she said to herself. "She + won't any more dare to run away than to chop her hands off. + She thinks I'll shoot her." + </p> + <p> + And the unprincipled woman chuckled to herself. + </p> + <p> + Ida heard her indistinctly, and asked, timidly: + </p> + <p> + "Did you speak, Aunt Peg?" + </p> + <p> + "No, I didn't; just attend to your work and don't mind me. + Did your mother make you work?" + </p> + <p> + "No; I went to school." + </p> + <p> + "Time you learned. I'll make a smart woman of you." + </p> + <p> + The next morning Ida was asked if she would like to go out + into the street. + </p> + <p> + "I am going to let you do a little shopping. There are + various things we want. Go and get your hat." + </p> + <p> + "It's in the closet," said Ida. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes, I put it there. That was before I could trust you." + </p> + <p> + She went to the closet and returned with the child's hat and + shawl. As soon as the two were ready they emerged into the + street. + </p> + <p> + "This is a little better than being shut up in the closet, + isn't it?" asked her companion. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes, ever so much." + </p> + <p> + "You see you'll have a very good time of it, if you do as I + bid you. I don't want to do you any harm." + </p> + <p> + So they walked along together until Peg, suddenly pausing, + laid her hands on Ida's arm, and pointing to a shop near by, + said to her: "Do you see that shop?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Ida. + </p> + <p> + "I want you to go in and ask for a couple of rolls. They come + to three cents apiece. Here's some money to pay for them. It + is a new dollar. You will give this to the man that stands + behind the counter, and he will give you back ninety-four + cents. Do you understand?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Ida, nodding her head. "I think I do." + </p> + <p> + "And if the man asks if you have anything smaller, you will + say no." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Aunt Peg." + </p> + <p> + "I will stay just outside. I want you to go in alone, so you + will learn to manage without me." + </p> + <p> + Ida entered the shop. The baker, a pleasant-looking man, + stood behind the counter. + </p> + <p> + "Well, my dear, what is it?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "I should like a couple of rolls." + </p> + <p> + "For your mother, I suppose?" said the baker. + </p> + <p> + "No," answered Ida, "for the woman I board with." + </p> + <p> + "Ha! a dollar bill, and a new one, too," said the baker, as + Ida tendered it in payment. "I shall have to save that for my + little girl." + </p> + <p> + Ida left the shop with the two rolls and the silver change. + </p> + <p> + "Did he say anything about the money?" asked Peg. + </p> + <p> + "He said he should save it for his little girl." + </p> + <p> + "Good!" said the woman. "You've done well." + </p><a name="CH19"><!-- CH19 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX + </h2> + <center> + BAD MONEY + </center> + <p> + The baker introduced in the foregoing chapter was named + Harding. Singularly, Abel Harding was a brother of Timothy + Harding, the cooper. + </p> + <p> + In many respects he resembled his brother. He was an + excellent man, exemplary in all the relations of life, and + had a good heart. He was in very comfortable circumstances, + having accumulated a little property by diligent attention to + his business. Like his brother, Abel Harding had married, and + had one child. She had received the name of Ellen. + </p> + <p> + When the baker closed his shop for the night, he did not + forget the new dollar, which he had received, or the disposal + he told Ida he would make of it. + </p> + <p> + Ellen ran to meet her father as he entered the house. + </p> + <p> + "What do you think I have brought you, Ellen?" he said, with + a smile. + </p> + <p> + "Do tell me quick," said the child, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + "What if I should tell you it was a new dollar?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, papa, thank you!" and Ellen ran to show it to her + mother. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said the baker, "I received it from a little girl + about the size of Ellen, and I suppose it was that that gave + me the idea of bringing it home to her." + </p> + <p> + This was all that passed concerning Ida at that time. The + thought of her would have passed from the baker's mind, if it + had not been recalled by circumstances. + </p> + <p> + Ellen, like most girls of her age, when in possession of + money, could not be easy until she had spent it. Her mother + advised her to deposit it in some savings bank; but Ellen + preferred present gratification. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, one afternoon, when walking out with her mother, + she persuaded her to go into a toy shop, and price a doll + which she saw in the window. The price was seventy-five + cents. Ellen concluded to buy it, and her mother tendered the + dollar in payment. + </p> + <p> + The shopman took it in his hand, glanced at it carelessly at + first, then scrutinized it with increased attention. + </p> + <p> + "What is the matter?" inquired Mrs. Harding. "It is good, + isn't it?" + </p> + <p> + "That is what I am doubtful of," was the reply. + </p> + <p> + "It is new." + </p> + <p> + "And that is against it. If it were old, it would be more + likely to be genuine." + </p> + <p> + "But you wouldn't condemn a bill because it is new?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly not; but the fact is, there have been lately many + cases where counterfeit bills have been passed, and I suspect + this is one of them. However, I can soon ascertain." + </p> + <p> + "I wish you would," said the baker's wife. "My husband took + it at his shop, and will be likely to take more unless he is + put on his guard." + </p> + <p> + The shopman sent it to the bank where it was pronounced + counterfeit. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Harding was much surprised at his wife's story. + </p> + <p> + "Really!" he said. "I had no suspicion of this. Can it be + possible that such a young and beautiful child could be + guilty of such an offense?" + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps not," answered his wife. "She may be as innocent in + the matter as Ellen or myself." + </p> + <p> + "I hope so," said the baker; "it would be a pity that so + young a child should be given to wickedness. However, I shall + find out before long." + </p> + <p> + "How?" + </p> + <p> + "She will undoubtedly come again sometime." + </p> + <p> + The baker watched daily for the coming of Ida. He waited some + days in vain. It was not Peg's policy to send the child too + often to the same place, as that would increase the chances + of detection. + </p> + <p> + One day, however, Ida entered the shop as before. + </p> + <p> + "Good-morning," said the baker; "what will you have to-day?" + </p> + <p> + "You may give me a sheet of gingerbread, sir." + </p> + <p> + The baker placed it in her hand. + </p> + <p> + "How much will it be?" + </p> + <p> + "Twelve cents." + </p> + <p> + Ida offered him another new bill. + </p> + <p> + As if to make change, he stepped from behind the counter and + placed himself between Ida and the door. + </p> + <p> + "What is your name, my child?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "Ida, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Ida? But what is your other name?" + </p> + <p> + Ida hesitated a moment, because Peg had forbidden her to use + the name of Harding, and had told her, if ever the inquiry + were made, she must answer Hardwick. + </p> + <p> + She answered reluctantly: "Ida Hardwick." + </p> + <p> + The baker observed her hesitation, and this increased his + suspicion. + </p> + <p> + "Hardwick!" he repeated, musingly, endeavoring to draw from + the child as much information as possible before allowing her + to perceive that he suspected her. "And where do you live?" + </p> + <p> + Ida was a child of spirit, and did not understand why she + should be questioned so closely. + </p> + <p> + She said, with some impatience: "I am in a hurry, sir, and + would like to have the change as soon as you can." + </p> + <p> + "I have no doubt of it," said the baker, his manner suddenly + changing, "but you cannot go just yet." + </p> + <p> + "Why not?" asked Ida. + </p> + <p> + "Because you have been trying to deceive me." + </p> + <p> + "I trying to deceive you!" exclaimed Ida. + </p> + <p> + "Really," thought Mr. Harding, "she does it well; but no + doubt she is trained to it. It is perfectly shocking, such + artful depravity in a child." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you remember buying something here a week ago?" he + asked, in as stern a tone as his good nature would allow him + to employ. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," answered Ida, promptly; "I bought two rolls, at three + cents apiece." + </p> + <p> + "And what did you offer me in payment?" + </p> + <p> + "I handed you a dollar bill." + </p> + <p> + "Like this?" asked the baker, holding up the one she had just + offered him. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir." + </p> + <p> + "And do you mean to say," demanded the baker, sternly, "that + you didn't know it was bad when you offered it to me?" + </p> + <p> + "Bad!" gasped Ida. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, spurious. Not as good as blank paper." + </p> + <p> + "Indeed, sir, I didn't know anything about it," said Ida, + earnestly; "I hope you'll believe me when I say that I + thought it was good." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know what to think," said the baker, perplexed. "Who + gave you the money?" + </p> + <p> + "The woman I board with." + </p> + <p> + "Of course I can't give you the gingerbread. Some men, in my + place, would deliver you up to the police. But I will let you + go, if you will make me one promise." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, I will promise anything, sir," said Ida. + </p> + <p> + "You have given me a bad dollar. Will you promise to bring me + a good one to-morrow?" + </p> + <p> + Ida made the required promise, and was allowed to go. + </p><a name="CH20"><!-- CH20 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX + </h2> + <center> + DOUBTS AND FEARS + </center> + <p> + "Well, what kept you so long?" asked Peg, impatiently, as Ida + rejoined her at the corner of the street. "I thought you were + going to stay all the forenoon. And Where's your + gingerbread?" + </p> + <p> + "He wouldn't let me have it," answered Ida. + </p> + <p> + "And why wouldn't he let you have it?" said Peg. + </p> + <p> + "Because he said the money wasn't good." + </p> + <p> + "Stuff and nonsense! It's good enough. However, it's no + matter. We'll go somewhere else." + </p> + <p> + "But he said the money I gave him last week wasn't good, and + I promised to bring him another to-morrow, or he wouldn't + have let me go." + </p> + <p> + "Well, where are you going to get your dollar?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, won't you give it to me?" said the child. + </p> + <p> + "Catch me at such nonsense!" said Mrs. Hardwick, + contemptuously. "I ain't quite a fool. But here we are at + another shop. Go in and see if you can do any better there. + Here's the money." + </p> + <p> + "Why, it's the same bill I gave you." + </p> + <p> + "What if it is?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't want to pass bad money." + </p> + <p> + "Tut! What hurt will it do?" + </p> + <p> + "It's the same as stealing." + </p> + <p> + "The man won't lose anything. He'll pass it off again." + </p> + <p> + "Somebody'll have to lose it by and by," said Ida. + </p> + <p> + "So you've taken up preaching, have you?" said Peg, + sneeringly. "Maybe you know better than I what is proper to + do. It won't do for you to be so mighty particular, and so + you'll find out, if you stay with me long." + </p> + <p> + "Where did you get the dollar?" asked Ida; "and how is it you + have so many of them?" + </p> + <p> + "None of your business. You mustn't pry into the affairs of + other people. Are you going to do as I told you?" she + continued, menacingly. + </p> + <p> + "I can't," answered Ida, pale but resolute. + </p> + <p> + "You can't!" repeated Peg, furiously. "Didn't you promise to + do whatever I told you?" + </p> + <p> + "Except what was wicked," interposed Ida. + </p> + <p> + "And what business have you to decide what is wicked? Come + home with me." + </p> + <p> + Peg seized the child's hand, and walked on in sullen silence, + occasionally turning to scowl upon Ida, who had been strong + enough, in her determination to do right, to resist + successfully the will of the woman whom she had so much + reason to dread. + </p> + <p> + Arrived at home, Peg walked Ida into the room by the + shoulder. Dick was lounging in a chair. + </p> + <p> + "Hillo!" said he, lazily, observing his wife's frowning face. + "What's the gal been doin', hey?" + </p> + <p> + "What's she been doing?" repeated Peg. "I should like to know + what she hasn't been doing. She's refused to go in and buy + gingerbread of the baker." + </p> + <p> + "Look here, little gal," said Dick, in a moralizing vein, + "isn't this rayther undootiful conduct on your part? Ain't it + a piece of ingratitude, when Peg and I go to the trouble of + earning the money to pay for gingerbread for you to eat, that + you ain't even willin' to go in and buy it?" + </p> + <p> + "I would just as lieve go in," said Ida, "if Peg would give + me good money to pay for it." + </p> + <p> + "That don't make any difference," said the admirable + moralist. "It's your dooty to do just as she tells you, and + you'll do right. She'll take the risk." + </p> + <p> + "I can't," said the child. + </p> + <p> + "You hear her!" said Peg. + </p> + <p> + "Very improper conduct!" said Dick, shaking his head in grave + reproval. "Little gal, I'm ashamed of you. Put her in the + closet, Peg." + </p> + <p> + "Come along," said Peg, harshly. "I'll show you how I deal + with those that don't obey me." + </p> + <p> + So Ida was incarcerated once more in the dark closet. Yet in + the midst of her desolation, child as she was, she was + sustained and comforted by the thought that she was suffering + for doing right. + </p> + <p> + When Ida failed to return on the appointed day, the Hardings, + though disappointed, did not think it strange. + </p> + <p> + "If I were her mother," said the cooper's wife, "and had been + parted from her for so long, I should want to keep her as + long as I could. Dear heart! how pretty she is and how proud + her mother must be of her!" + </p> + <p> + "It's all a delusion," said Rachel, shaking her head, + solemnly. "It's all a delusion. I don't believe she's got a + mother at all. That Mrs. Hardwick is an impostor. I know it, + and told you so at the time, but you wouldn't believe me. I + never expect to set eyes on Ida again in this world." + </p> + <p> + The next day passed, and still no tidings of Jack's ward. Her + young guardian, though not as gloomy as Aunt Rachel, looked + unusually serious. + </p> + <p> + There was a cloud of anxiety even upon the cooper's usually + placid face, and he was more silent than usual at the evening + meal. At night, after Jack and his aunt had retired, he said, + anxiously: "What do you think is the cause of Ida's prolonged + absence, Martha?" + </p> + <p> + "I can't tell," said his wife, seriously. "It seems to me, if + her mother wanted to keep her longer it would be no more than + right that she should drop us a line. She must know that we + would feel anxious." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps she is so taken up with Ida that she can think of no + one else." + </p> + <p> + "It may be so; but if we neither see Ida to-morrow, nor hear + from her, I shall be seriously troubled." + </p> + <p> + "Suppose she should never come back," suggested the cooper, + very soberly. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, husband, don't hint at such a thing," said his wife. + </p> + <p> + "We must contemplate it as a possibility," said Timothy, + gravely, "though not, as I hope, as a probability. Ida's + mother has an undoubted right to her." + </p> + <p> + "Then it would be better if she had never been placed in our + charge," said Martha, tearfully, "for we should not have had + the pain of parting with her." + </p> + <p> + "Not so, Martha," her husband said, seriously. "We ought to + be grateful for God's blessings, even if He suffers us to + retain them but a short time. And Ida has been a blessing to + us all, I am sure. The memory of that can't be taken from us, + Martha. There's some lines I came across in the paper + to-night that express just what I've been sayin'. Let me find + them." + </p> + <p> + The cooper put on his spectacles, and hunted slowly down the + columns of the daily paper till he came to these beautiful + lines of Tennyson, which he read aloud: + </p> + <pre> + "'I hold it true, whate'er befall; + I feel it when I sorrow most; + 'Tis better to have loved and lost, + Than never to have loved at all.'" +</pre> + <p> + "There, wife," he said, as he laid down the paper; "I don't + know who writ them lines, but I'm sure it's some one that's + met with a great sorrow and conquered it." + </p> + <p> + "They are beautiful," said his wife, after a pause; "and I + dare say you're right, Timothy; but I hope we mayn't have to + learn the truth of them by experience. After all, it isn't + certain but that Ida will come back." + </p> + <p> + "At any rate," said her husband, "there is no doubt that it + is our duty to take every means that we can to recover Ida. + Of course, if her mother insists upon keepin' her, we can't + say anything; but we ought to be sure of that before we yield + her up." + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean, Timothy?" asked Martha. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know as I ought to mention it," said the cooper. + "Very likely there isn't anything in it, and it would only + make you feel more anxious." + </p> + <p> + "You have already aroused my anxiety. I should feel better if + you would speak out." + </p> + <p> + "Then I will," said the cooper. "I have sometimes been + tempted," he continued, lowering his voice, "to doubt whether + Ida's mother really sent for her." + </p> + <p> + "How do you account for the letter, then?" + </p> + <p> + "I have thought—mind, it is only a guess—that + Mrs. Hardwick may have got somebody to write it for her." + </p> + <p> + "It is very singular," murmured Martha. + </p> + <p> + "What is singular?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, the very same thought has occurred to me. Somehow, I + can't help feeling a little distrustful of Mrs. Hardwick, + though perhaps unjustly. What object can she have in getting + possession of the child?" + </p> + <p> + "That I can't conjecture; but I have come to one + determination." + </p> + <p> + "What is that?" + </p> + <p> + "Unless we learn something of Ida within a week from the time + she left here, I shall go on to Philadelphia, or else send + Jack, and endeavor to get track of her." + </p><a name="CH21"><!-- CH21 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI + </h2> + <center> + AUNT RACHEL'S MISHAPS + </center> + <p> + The week slipped away, and still no tidings of Ida. The house + seemed lonely without her. Not until then did they understand + how largely she had entered into their life and thoughts. But + worse even than the sense of loss was the uncertainty as to + her fate. + </p> + <p> + "It is time that we took some steps about finding Ida," the + cooper said. "I would like to go to Philadelphia myself, to + make inquiries about her, but I am just now engaged upon a + job which I cannot very well leave, and so I have concluded + to send Jack." + </p> + <p> + "When shall I start?" exclaimed Jack. + </p> + <p> + "To-morrow morning," answered his father. + </p> + <p> + "What good do you think it will do," interposed Rachel, "to + send a mere boy like Jack to Philadelphia?" + </p> + <p> + "A mere boy!" repeated her nephew, indignantly. + </p> + <p> + "A boy hardly sixteen years old," continued Rachel. "Why, + he'll need somebody to take care of him. Most likely you'll + have to go after him." + </p> + <p> + "What's the use of provoking a fellow so, Aunt Rachel?" said + Jack. "You know I'm 'most eighteen. Hardly sixteen! Why, I + might as well say you're hardly forty, when we all know + you're fifty." + </p> + <p> + "Fifty!" ejaculated the scandalized spinster. "It's a base + slander. I'm only thirty-seven." + </p> + <p> + "Maybe I'm mistaken," said Jack, carelessly. "I didn't know + exactly how old you were; I only judged from your looks." + </p> + <p> + At this point, Rachel applied a segment of a pocket + handkerchief to her eyes; but, unfortunately, owing to + circumstances, the effect instead of being pathetic, as she + intended it to be, was simply ludicrous. + </p> + <p> + It so happened that a short time previous, the inkstand had + been partially spilled upon the table, through Jack's + carelessness and this handkerchief had been used to sop it + up. It had been placed inadvertently upon the window seat, + where it had remained until Rachel, who was sitting beside + the window, called it into requisition. The ink upon it was + by no means dry. The consequence was, that, when Rachel + removed it from her eyes, her face was discovered to be + covered with ink in streaks mingling with the tears that were + falling, for Rachel always had a plentiful supply of tears at + command. + </p> + <p> + The first intimation the luckless spinster had of her mishap + was conveyed in a stentorian laugh from Jack. + </p> + <p> + He looked intently at the dark traces of sorrow on his aunt's + face—of which she was yet unconscious—and + doubling up, went off into a perfect paroxysm of laughter. + </p> + <p> + "Jack!" said his mother, reprovingly, for she had not + observed the cause of his amusement, "it's improper for you + to laugh at your aunt in such a rude manner." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, I can't help it, mother. Just look at her." + </p> + <p> + Thus invited, Mrs. Harding did look, and the rueful + expression of Rachel, set off by the inky stains, was so + irresistibly comical, that, after a hard struggle, she too + gave way, and followed Jack's example. + </p> + <p> + Astonished and indignant at this unexpected behavior of her + sister-in-law, Rachel burst into a fresh fit of weeping, and + again had recourse to the handkerchief. + </p> + <p> + "This is too much!" she sobbed. "I've stayed here long + enough, if even my sister-in-law, as well as my own nephew, + from whom I expect nothing better, makes me her + laughingstock. Brother Timothy, I can no longer remain in + your dwelling to be laughed at; I will go to the poorhouse + and end my miserable existence as a common pauper. If I only + receive Christian burial when I leave the world, it will be + all I hope or expect from my relatives, who will be glad + enough to get rid of me." + </p> + <p> + The second application of the handkerchief had so increased + the effect, that Jack found it impossible to check his + laughter, while the cooper, whose attention was now drawn to + his sister's face, burst out in a similar manner. + </p> + <p> + This more amazed Rachel than Martha's merriment. + </p> + <p> + "Even you, Timothy, join in ridiculing your sister!" she + exclaimed, in an "<i>Et tu, Brute</i>" tone. + </p> + <p> + "We don't mean to ridicule you, Rachel," gasped her + sister-in-law, "but we can't help laughing." + </p> + <p> + "At the prospect of my death!" uttered Rachel, in a tragic + tone. "Well, I'm a poor, forlorn creetur, I know. Even my + nearest relations make sport of me, and when I speak of + dying, they shout their joy to my face." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," gasped Jack, nearly choking, "that's it exactly. It + isn't your death we're laughing at, but your face." + </p> + <p> + "My face!" exclaimed the insulted spinster. "One would think + I was a fright by the way you laugh at it." + </p> + <p> + "So you are!" said Jack, with a fresh burst of laughter. + </p> + <p> + "To be called a fright to my face!" shrieked Rachel, "by my + own nephew! This is too much. Timothy, I leave your house + forever." + </p> + <p> + The excited maiden seized her hood; which was hanging from a + nail, and was about to leave the house when she was arrested + in her progress toward the door by the cooper, who stifled + his laughter sufficiently to say: "Before you go, Rachel, + just look in the glass." + </p> + <p> + Mechanically his sister did look, and her horrified eyes + rested upon a face streaked with inky spots and lines seaming + it in every direction. + </p> + <p> + In her first confusion Rachel jumped to the conclusion that + she had been suddenly stricken by the plague. Accordingly she + began to wring her hands in an excess of terror, and + exclaimed in tones of piercing anguish: + </p> + <p> + "It is the fatal plague spot! I am marked for the tomb. The + sands of my life are fast running out." + </p> + <p> + This convulsed Jack afresh with merriment, so that an + observer might, not without reason, have imagined him to be + in imminent danger of suffocation. + </p> + <p> + "You'll kill me, Aunt Rachel! I know you will," he gasped. + </p> + <p> + "You may order my coffin, Timothy," said Rachel, in a + sepulchral voice; "I shan't live twenty-four hours. I've felt + it coming on for a week past. I forgive you for all your + ill-treatment. I should like to have some one go for the + doctor, though I know I'm past help." + </p> + <p> + "I think," said the cooper, trying to look sober, "you will + find the cold-water treatment efficacious in removing the + plague spots, as you call them." + </p> + <p> + Rachel turned toward him with a puzzled look. Then, as her + eyes rested for the first time upon the handkerchief she had + used, its appearance at once suggested a clew by which she + was enabled to account for her own. + </p> + <p> + Somewhat ashamed of the emotion which she had betrayed, as + well as the ridiculous figure which she had cut, she left the + room abruptly, and did not make her appearance again till the + next morning. + </p> + <p> + After this little episode, the conversation turned upon + Jack's approaching journey. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know," said his mother, "but Rachel is right. + Perhaps Jack isn't old enough, and hasn't had sufficient + experience to undertake such a mission." + </p> + <p> + "Now, mother," expostulated Jack, "you ain't going to side + against me, are you?" + </p> + <p> + "There is no better plan," said his father, quietly. + </p><a name="CH22"><!-- CH22 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII + </h2> + <center> + THE FLOWER GIRL + </center> + <p> + Henry Bowen was a young artist of moderate talent, who had + abandoned the farm on which he had labored as a boy, for the + sake of pursuing his favorite profession. He was not + competent to achieve the highest success. But he had good + taste and a skillful hand, and his productions were pleasing + and popular. He had formed a connection with a publisher of + prints and engravings, who had thrown considerable work in + his way. + </p> + <p> + "Have you any new commission to-day?" inquired the young + artist, on the day before Ida's discovery that she had been + employed to pass off spurious coin. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said the publisher, "I have thought of something which + may prove attractive. Just at present, pictures of children + seem to be popular. I should like to have you supply me with + a sketch of a flower girl, with, say, a basket of flowers in + her hand. Do you comprehend my idea?" + </p> + <p> + "I believe I do," answered the artist. "Give me sufficient + time, and I hope to satisfy you." + </p> + <p> + The young artist went home, and at once set to work upon the + task he had undertaken. He had conceived that it would be an + easy one, but found himself mistaken. Whether because his + fancy was not sufficiently lively, or his mind was not in + tune, he was unable to produce the effect he desired. The + faces which he successively outlined were all stiff, and + though beautiful in feature, lacked the great charm of being + expressive and lifelike. + </p> + <p> + "What is the matter with me?" he exclaimed, impatiently. "Is + it impossible for me to succeed? It's clear," he decided, + "that I am not in the vein. I will go out and take a walk, + and perhaps while I am in the street something may strike + me." + </p> + <p> + He accordingly donned his coat and hat, and emerged into the + great thoroughfare, where he was soon lost in the throng. It + was only natural that, as he walked, with his task uppermost + in his thoughts, he should scrutinize carefully the faces of + such young girls as he met. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps," it occurred to him, "I may get a hint from some + face I see. It is strange," he mused, "how few there are, + even in the freshness of childhood, that can be called models + of beauty. That child, for example, has beautiful eyes, but a + badly cut mouth. Here is one that would be pretty, if the + face were rounded out; and here is a child—Heaven help + it!—that was designed to be beautiful, but want and + unfavorable circumstances have pinched and cramped it." + </p> + <p> + It was at this point in the artist's soliloquy that, in + turning the corner of a street, he came upon Peg and Ida. + </p> + <p> + The artist looked earnestly at the child's face, and his own + lighted up with sudden pleasure, as one who stumbles upon + success just as he had begun to despair of it. + </p> + <p> + "The very face I have been looking for!" he exclaimed to + himself. "My flower girl is found at last." + </p> + <p> + He turned round, and followed Ida and her companion. Both + stopped at a shop window to examine some articles which were + on exhibition there. + </p> + <p> + "It is precisely the face I want," he murmured. "Nothing + could be more appropriate or charming. With that face the + success of the picture is assured." + </p> + <p> + The artist's inference that Peg was Ida's attendant was + natural, since the child was dressed in a style quite + superior to her companion. Peg thought that this would enable + her, with less risk, to pass spurious coin. + </p> + <p> + The young man followed the strangely assorted pair to the + apartments which Peg occupied. From the conversation which he + overheard he learned that he had been mistaken in his + supposition as to the relation between the two, and that, + singular as it seemed, Peg had the guardianship of the child. + This made his course clearer. He mounted the stairs and + knocked at the door. + </p> + <p> + "What do you want?" demanded a sharp voice. + </p> + <p> + "I should like to see you just a moment," was the reply. + </p> + <p> + Peg opened the door partially, and regarded the young man + suspiciously. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know you," she said, shortly. + </p> + <p> + "I presume not," said the young man, courteously. "We have + never met, I think. I am an artist. I hope you will pardon my + present intrusion." + </p> + <p> + "There is no use in your coming here," said Peg, abruptly, + "and you may as well go away. I don't want to buy any + pictures. I've got plenty of better ways to spend my money + than to throw it away on such trash." + </p> + <p> + No one would have thought of doubting Peg's word, for she + looked far from being a patron of the arts. + </p> + <p> + "You have a young girl living with you, about seven or eight + years old, have you not?" inquired the artist. + </p> + <p> + Peg instantly became suspicious. + </p> + <p> + "Who told you that?" she demanded, quickly. + </p> + <p> + "No one told me. I saw her in the street." + </p> + <p> + Peg at once conceived the idea that her visitor was aware of + the fact that the child had been lured away from home; + possibly he might be acquainted with the cooper's family? or + might be their emissary. + </p> + <p> + "Suppose you did see such a child on the street, what has + that to do with me?" + </p> + <p> + "But I saw the child entering this house with you." + </p> + <p> + "What if you did?" demanded Peg, defiantly. + </p> + <p> + "I was about," said the artist, perceiving that he was + misapprehended, "I was about to make a proposition which may + prove advantageous to both of us." + </p> + <p> + "Eh!" said Peg, catching at the hint. "Tell me what it is and + we may come to terms." + </p> + <p> + "I must explain," said Bowen, "that I am an artist. In + seeking for a face to sketch from, I have been struck by that + of your child." + </p> + <p> + "Of Ida?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, if that is her name. I will pay you five dollars if you + will allow me to copy her face." + </p> + <p> + "Well," she said, more graciously, "if that's all you want, I + don't know as I have any objections. I suppose you can copy + her face here as well as anywhere?" + </p> + <p> + "I should prefer to have her come to my studio." + </p> + <p> + "I shan't let her come," said Peg, decidedly. + </p> + <p> + "Then I will consent to your terms, and come here." + </p> + <p> + "Do you want to begin now?" + </p> + <p> + "I should like to do so." + </p> + <p> + "Come in, then. Here, Ida, I want you." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Peg." + </p> + <p> + "This gentleman wants to copy your face." + </p> + <p> + Ida looked surprised. + </p> + <p> + "I am an artist," said the young man, with a reassuring + smile. "I will endeavor not to try your patience too much, or + keep you too long. Do you think you can stand still for half + an hour without too much fatigue?" + </p> + <p> + He kept her in pleasant conversation, while, with a free, + bold hand he sketched the outlines of her face. + </p> + <p> + "I shall want one more sitting," he said. "I will come + to-morrow at this time." + </p> + <p> + "Stop a minute," said Peg. "I should like the money in + advance. How do I know you will come again?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly, if you desire it," said Henry Bowen. + </p> + <p> + "What strange fortune," he thought, "can have brought them + together? Surely there can be no relation between this sweet + child and that ugly old woman!" + </p> + <p> + The next day he returned and completed his sketch, which was + at once placed in the hands of the publisher, eliciting his + warm approval. + </p><a name="CH23"><!-- CH23 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII + </h2> + <center> + JACK OBTAINS INFORMATION + </center> + <p> + Jack set out with that lightness of heart and keen sense of + enjoyment that seem natural to a young man of eighteen on his + first journey. Partly by boat, partly by cars, he traveled, + till in a few hours he was discharged, with hundreds of + others, at the depot in Philadelphia. + </p> + <p> + He rejected all invitations to ride, and strode on, carpetbag + in hand, though, sooth to say, he had very little idea + whether he was steering in the right direction for his + uncle's shop. By dint of diligent and persevering inquiry he + found it at last, and walking in, announced himself to the + worthy baker as his nephew Jack. + </p> + <p> + "What? Are you Jack?" exclaimed Mr. Abel Harding, pausing in + his labor. "Well, I never should have known you, that's a + fact. Bless me, how you've grown! Why, you're 'most as big as + your father, ain't you?" + </p> + <p> + "Only half an inch shorter," answered Jack, complacently. + </p> + <p> + "And you're—let me see—how old are you?" + </p> + <p> + "Eighteen; that is, almost. I shall be in two months." + </p> + <p> + "Well, I'm glad to see you, Jack, though I hadn't the least + idea of your raining down so unexpectedly. How's your father + and mother and your adopted sister?" + </p> + <p> + "Father and mother are pretty well," answered Jack; "and so + is Aunt Rachel," he continued, smiling, "though she ain't so + cheerful as she might be." + </p> + <p> + "Poor Rachel!" said Abel, smiling also. "Everything goes + contrary with her. I don't suppose she's wholly to blame for + it. Folks differ constitutionally. Some are always looking on + the bright side of things, and others can never see but one + side, and that's the dark one." + </p> + <p> + "You've hit it, uncle," said Jack, laughing. "Aunt Rachel + always looks as if she was attending a funeral." + </p> + <p> + "So she is, my boy," said Abel, gravely, "and a sad funeral + it is." + </p> + <p> + "I don't understand you, uncle." + </p> + <p> + "The funeral of her affections—that's what I mean. + Perhaps you mayn't know that Rachel was, in early life, + engaged to be married to a young man whom she ardently loved. + She was a different woman then from what she is now. But her + lover deserted her just before the wedding was to have come + off, and she's never got over the disappointment. But that + isn't what I was going to talk about. You haven't told me + about your adopted sister." + </p> + <p> + "That's the very thing I've come to Philadelphia about," said + Jack, soberly. "Ida has been carried off, and I've come in + search of her." + </p> + <p> + "Been carried off? I didn't know such things ever happened in + this country. What do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + Jack told the story of Mrs. Hardwick's arrival with a letter + from Ida's mother, conveying the request that her child + might, under the guidance of the messenger, be allowed to pay + her a visit. To this and the subsequent details Abel Harding + listened with earnest attention. + </p> + <p> + "So you have reason to think the child is in Philadelphia?" + he said, musingly. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Jack; "Ida was seen in the cars, coming here, by + a boy who knew her in New York." + </p> + <p> + "Ida?" repeated the baker. "Was that her name?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; you knew her name, didn't you?" + </p> + <p> + "I dare say I have known it, but I have heard so little of + your family lately that I had forgotten it. It is rather a + singular circumstance." + </p> + <p> + "What is a singular circumstance?" + </p> + <p> + "I will tell you, Jack. It may not amount to anything, + however. A few days since a little girl came into my shop to + buy a small amount of bread. I was at once favorably + impressed with her appearance. She was neatly dressed, and + had a very honest face. Having made the purchase she handed + me in payment a new dollar bill. 'I'll keep that for my + little girl,' thought I at once. Accordingly, when I went + home at night, I just took the dollar out of, the till and + gave it to her. Of course, she was delighted with it, and, + like a child, wanted to spend it at once. So her mother + agreed to go out with her the next day. Well, they selected + some knick-knack or other, but when they came to pay for it + the dollar proved counterfeit." + </p> + <p> + "Counterfeit?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; bad. Issued by a gang of counterfeiters. When they told + me of this, I said to myself, 'Can it be that this little + girl knew what she was about when she offered me that?' I + couldn't think it possible, but decided to wait till she came + again." + </p> + <p> + "Did she come again?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; only day before yesterday. As I expected, she offered + me in payment another dollar just like the other. Before + letting her know that I had discovered the imposition I asked + her one or two questions with the idea of finding out as much + as possible about her. When I told her the bill was a bad + one, she seemed very much surprised. It might have been all + acting, but I didn't think so then. I even felt pity for her, + and let her go on condition that she would bring me back a + good dollar in place of the bad one the next day. I suppose I + was a fool for doing so, but she looked so pretty and + innocent that I couldn't make up my mind to speak or act + harshly to her. But I am afraid that I was deceived, and that + she was an artful character after all." + </p> + <p> + "Then she didn't come back with the good money?" + </p> + <p> + "No; I haven't seen her since." + </p> + <p> + "What name did she give you?" + </p> + <p> + "Haven't I told you? It was the name that made me think of + telling you. She called herself Ida Hardwick." + </p> + <p> + "Ida Hardwick?" repeated Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Ida Hardwick. But that hasn't anything to do with your + Ida, has it?" + </p> + <p> + "Hasn't it, though?" said Jack. "Why, Mrs. Hardwick was the + woman who carried her away." + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Hardwick—her mother?" + </p> + <p> + "No; not her mother. She said she was the woman who took care + of Ida before she was brought to us." + </p> + <p> + "Then you think this Ida Hardwick may be your missing + sister?" + </p> + <p> + "That's what I don't know yet," said Jack. "If you would only + describe her, Uncle Abel, I could tell better." + </p> + <p> + "Well," said the baker, thoughtfully, "I should say this + little girl was seven or eight years old." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Jack, nodding; "what color were her eyes?" + </p> + <p> + "Blue." + </p> + <p> + "So are Ida's." + </p> + <p> + "A small mouth, with a very sweet expression, yet with + something firm and decided about it." + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "And I believe her dress was a light one, with a blue ribbon + round the waist." + </p> + <p> + "Did she wear anything around her neck?" + </p> + <p> + "A brown scarf, if I remember rightly." + </p> + <p> + "That is the way Ida was dressed when she went away with Mrs. + Hardwick. I am sure it must be she. But how strange that she + should come into your shop!" + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps," suggested his uncle, "this woman, representing + herself as Ida's nurse, was her mother." + </p> + <p> + "No; it can't be," said Jack, vehemently. "What, that ugly, + disagreeable woman, Ida's mother? I won't believe it. I + should just as soon expect to see strawberries growing on a + thorn bush." + </p> + <p> + "You know I have not seen Mrs. Hardwick." + </p> + <p> + "No great loss," said Jack. "You wouldn't care much about + seeing her again. She is a tall, gaunt, disagreeable woman; + while Ida is fair and sweet-looking. Ida's mother, whoever + she is, I am sure, is a lady in appearance and manners, and + Mrs. Hardwick is neither. Aunt Rachel was right for once." + </p> + <p> + "What did Rachel say?" + </p> + <p> + "She said the nurse was an impostor, and declared it was only + a plot to get possession of Ida; but then, that was to be + expected of Aunt Rachel." + </p> + <p> + "Still it seems difficult to imagine any satisfactory motive + on the part of the woman, supposing her not to be Ida's + mother." + </p> + <p> + "Mother or not," returned Jack, "she's got possession of Ida; + and, from all that you say, she is not the best person to + bring her up. I am determined to rescue Ida from this + she-dragon. Will you help me, uncle?" + </p> + <p> + "You may count upon me, Jack, for all I can do." + </p> + <p> + "Then," said Jack, with energy, "we shall succeed. I feel + sure of it. 'Where there's a will there's a way.'" + </p> + <p> + "I wish you success, Jack; but if the people who have got Ida + are counterfeiters, they are desperate characters, and you + must proceed cautiously." + </p> + <p> + "I ain't afraid of them. I'm on the warpath now, Uncle Abel, + and they'd better look out for me." + </p><a name="CH24"><!-- CH24 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV + </h2> + <center> + JACK'S DISCOVERY + </center> + <p> + The first thing to be done by Jack was, of course, in some + way to obtain a clew to the whereabouts of Peg, or Mrs. + Hardwick, to use the name by which he knew her. No mode of + proceeding likely to secure this result occurred to him, + beyond the very obvious one of keeping in the street as much + as possible, in the hope that chance might bring him face to + face with the object of his pursuit. + </p> + <p> + Following out this plan, Jack became a daily promenader in + Chestnut, Walnut and other leading thoroughfares. Jack became + himself an object of attention, on account of what appeared + to be his singular behavior. It was observed that he had no + glances to spare for young ladies, but persistently stared at + the faces of all middle-aged women—a circumstance + naturally calculated to attract remark in the case of a + well-made lad like Jack. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid," said the baker, "it will be as hard as looking + for a needle in a haystack, to find the one you seek among so + many faces." + </p> + <p> + "There's nothing like trying," said Jack, courageously. "I'm + not going to give up yet a while. I'd know Ida or Mrs. + Hardwick anywhere." + </p> + <p> + "You ought to write home, Jack. They will be getting anxious + about you." + </p> + <p> + "I'm going to write this morning—I put it off, because + I hoped to have some news to write." + </p> + <p> + He sat down and wrote the following note: + </p> + <pre> + "DEAR PARENTS: I arrived in Philadelphia right side up with care, + and am stopping at Uncle Abel's. He received me very kindly. I have + got track of Ida, though I have not found her yet. I have learned as + much as this: that this Mrs. Hardwick—who is a double-distilled + she-rascal—probably has Ida in her clutches, and has sent her on two + occasions to my uncle's. I am spending most of my time in the streets, + keeping a good lookout for her. If I do meet her, see if I don't get + Ida away from her. But it may take some time. Don't get discouraged, + therefore, but wait patiently. Whenever anything new turns up you will + receive a line from your dutiful son, + + "JACK." +</pre> + <p> + Jack had been in the city eight days when, as he was + sauntering along the street, he suddenly perceived in front + of him, a shawl which struck him as wonderfully like the one + worn by Mrs. Hardwick. Not only that, but the form of the + wearer corresponded to his recollections of the nurse. He + bounded forward, and rapidly passing the suspected person, + turned suddenly and confronted the woman of whom he had been + in search. + </p> + <p> + The recognition was mutual. Peg was taken aback by this + unexpected encounter. + </p> + <p> + Her first impulse was to make off, but Jack's resolute + expression warned her that he was not to be trifled with. + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Hardwick?" exclaimed Jack. + </p> + <p> + "You are right," said she, rapidly recovering her composure, + "and you, if I am not mistaken, are John Harding, the son of + my worthy friends in New York." + </p> + <p> + "Well," ejaculated Jack, internally, "she's a cool un, and no + mistake." + </p> + <p> + "My name is Jack," he said, aloud. + </p> + <p> + "Did you leave all well at home?" asked Peg. + </p> + <p> + "You can't guess what I came here for?" said Jack. + </p> + <p> + "To see your sister Ida, I presume." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," answered Jack, amazed at the woman's composure. + </p> + <p> + "I thought some of you would be coming on," continued Peg, + who had already mapped out her course. + </p> + <p> + "You did?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; it was only natural. What did your father and mother + say to the letter I wrote them?" + </p> + <p> + "The letter you wrote them?" exclaimed Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Certainly. You got it, didn't you?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know what letter you mean." + </p> + <p> + "A letter, in which I wrote that Ida's mother had been so + pleased with the appearance and manners of the child, that + she could not determine to part with her." + </p> + <p> + "You don't mean to say that any such letter as that has been + written?" said Jack, incredulously. + </p> + <p> + "What? Has it not been received?" inquired Peg. + </p> + <p> + "Nothing like it. When was it written?" + </p> + <p> + "The second day after our arrival," said Peg. + </p> + <p> + "If that is the case," said Jack, not knowing what to think, + "it must have miscarried; we never received it." + </p> + <p> + "That is a pity. How anxious you all must have felt!" + </p> + <p> + "It seems as if half the family were gone. But how long does + Ida's mother mean to keep her?" + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps six months." + </p> + <p> + "But," said Jack, his suspicions returning, "I have been told + that Ida has twice called at a baker's shop in this city, and + when asked what her name was, answered, Ida Hardwick. You + don't mean to say that you pretend to be her mother." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I do," replied Peg, calmly. "I didn't mean to tell you, + but as you've found out, I won't deny it." + </p> + <p> + "It's a lie," said Jack. "She isn't your daughter." + </p> + <p> + "Young man," said Peg, with wonderful self-command, "you are + exciting yourself to no purpose. You asked me if I pretended + to be her mother. I do pretend, but I admit frankly that it + is all pretense." + </p> + <p> + "I don't understand what you mean," said Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Then I will explain to you, though you have treated me so + impolitely that I might well refuse. As I informed your + father and mother in New York, there are circumstances which + stand in the way of Ida's real mother recognizing her as her + own child. Still, as she desires her company, in order to + avert suspicion and prevent embarrassing questions being + asked while she remains in Philadelphia, she is to pass as my + daughter." + </p> + <p> + This explanation was tolerably plausible, and Jack was unable + to gainsay it. + </p> + <p> + "Can I see Ida?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + To his great joy, Peg replied: "I don't think there can be + any objection. I am going to the house now. Will you come + with me now, or appoint some other time." + </p> + <p> + "Now, by all means," said Jack, eagerly. "Nothing shall stand + in the way of my seeing Ida." + </p> + <p> + A grim smile passed over Peg's face. + </p> + <p> + "Follow me, then," she said. "I have no doubt Ida will be + delighted to see you." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose," said Jack, with a pang, "that she is so taken up + with her new friends that she has nearly forgotten her old + friends in New York." + </p> + <p> + "If she had," answered Peg, "she would not deserve to have + friends at all. She is quite happy here, but she will be very + glad to return to New York to those who have been so kind to + her." + </p> + <p> + "Really," thought Jack, "I don't know what to make of this + Mrs. Hardwick. She talks fair enough, though looks are + against her. Perhaps I have misjudged her." + </p><a name="CH25"><!-- CH25 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV + </h2> + <center> + CAUGHT IN A TRAP + </center> + <p> + Jack and his guide paused in front of a large three-story + brick building. The woman rang the bell. An untidy servant + girl made her appearance. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Hardwick spoke to the servant in so low a voice that + Jack couldn't hear what she said. + </p> + <p> + "Certainly, mum," answered the servant, and led the way + upstairs to a back room on the third floor. + </p> + <p> + "Go in and take a seat," she said to Jack. "I will send Ida + to you immediately." + </p> + <p> + "All right," said Jack, in a tone of satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + Peg went out, closing the door after her. She, at the same + time, softly slipped a bolt which had been placed upon the + outside. Then hastening downstairs she found the proprietor + of the house, a little old man with a shrewd, twinkling eye, + and a long, aquiline nose. + </p> + <p> + "I have brought you a boarder," she said. + </p> + <p> + "Who is it?" + </p> + <p> + "A lad, who is likely to interfere in our plans. You may keep + him in confinement for the present." + </p> + <p> + "Very good. Is he likely to make a fuss?" + </p> + <p> + "I should think it very likely. He is high-spirited and + impetuous, but you know how to manage him." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes," nodded the old man. + </p> + <p> + "You can think of some pretext for keeping him." + </p> + <p> + "Suppose I tell him he's in a madhouse?" said the old man, + laughing, and thereby showing some yellow fangs, which by no + means improved his appearance. + </p> + <p> + "Just the thing! It'll frighten him." + </p> + <p> + There was a little further conversation in a low tone, and + then Peg went away. + </p> + <p> + "Fairly trapped, my young bird!" she thought to herself. "I + think that will put a stop to your troublesome appearance for + the present." + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Jack, wholly unsuspicious that any trick had been + played upon him, seated himself in a rocking-chair and waited + impatiently for the coming of Ida, whom he was resolved to + carry back to New York. + </p> + <p> + Impelled by a natural curiosity, he examined attentively the + room in which he was seated. There was a plain carpet on the + floor, and the other furniture was that of an ordinary bed + chamber. The most conspicuous ornament was a large + full-length portrait against the side of the wall. It + represented an unknown man, not particularly striking in his + appearance. There was, besides, a small table with two or + three books upon it. + </p> + <p> + Jack waited patiently for twenty minutes. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps Ida may be out," he reflected. "Still, even if she + is, Mrs. Hardwick ought to come and let me know. It's dull + work staying here alone." + </p> + <p> + Another fifteen minutes passed, and still no Ida appeared. + </p> + <p> + "This is rather singular," thought Jack. "She can't have told + Ida I am here, or I am sure she would rush up at once to see + her brother Jack." + </p> + <p> + At length, tired of waiting, Jack walked to the door and + attempted to open it. + </p> + <p> + There was a greater resistance than he anticipated. + </p> + <p> + "Good heavens!" thought Jack, in consternation, as the real + state of the case flashed upon him, "is it possible that I am + locked in?" + </p> + <p> + He employed all his strength, but the door still resisted. He + could no longer doubt that it was locked. + </p> + <p> + He rushed to the windows. They were two in number, and looked + out upon a yard in the rear of the house. There was no hope + of drawing the attention of passersby to his situation. + </p> + <p> + Confounded by this discovery, Jack sank into his chair in no + very enviable state of mind. + </p> + <p> + "Well," thought he, "this is a pretty situation for me to be + in. I wonder what father would say if he knew that I had + managed to get locked up like this? I am ashamed to think I + let that treacherous woman, Mrs. Hardwick, lead me so quietly + into a snare. Aunt Rachel was about right when she said I + wasn't fit to come alone. I hope she'll never find out about + this adventure of mine. If she did, I should never hear the + last of it." + </p><a name="CH26"><!-- CH26 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVI + </h2> + <center> + DR. ROBINSON + </center> + <p> + Time passed. Every hour seemed to poor Jack to contain at + least double the number of minutes. Moreover, he was getting + hungry. + </p> + <p> + A horrible suspicion flashed across his mind. + </p> + <p> + "The wretches can't mean to starve me, can they?" he asked + himself. Despite his constitutional courage he could not help + shuddering at the idea. + </p> + <p> + He was unexpectedly answered by the opening of the door, and + the appearance of the old man. + </p> + <p> + "Are you getting hungry, my dear sir?" he inquired, with a + disagreeable smile upon his features. + </p> + <p> + "Why am I confined here?" demanded Jack, angrily. + </p> + <p> + "Why are you confined? Really, one would think you didn't + find your quarters comfortable." + </p> + <p> + "I am so far from finding them agreeable, that I insist upon + leaving them immediately," returned Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Then all you have got to do is to walk through that door." + </p> + <p> + "You have locked it." + </p> + <p> + "Why, so I have," said the old man, with a leer. + </p> + <p> + "I insist upon your opening it." + </p> + <p> + "I shall do so when I get ready to go out, myself." + </p> + <p> + "I shall go with you." + </p> + <p> + "I think not." + </p> + <p> + "Who's to prevent me?" said Jack, defiantly. + </p> + <p> + "Who's to prevent you?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; you'd better not attempt it. I should be sorry to hurt + you, but I mean to go out. If you attempt to stop me, you + must take the consequences." + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid you are a violent young man. But I've got a man + who is a match for two like you." + </p> + <p> + The old man opened the door. + </p> + <p> + "Samuel, show yourself," he said. + </p> + <p> + A brawny negro, six feet in height, and evidently very + powerful, came to the entrance. + </p> + <p> + "If this young man attempts to escape, Samuel, what will you + do?" + </p> + <p> + "Tie him hand and foot," answered the negro. + </p> + <p> + "That'll do, Samuel. Stay where you are." + </p> + <p> + He closed the door and looked triumphantly at our hero. + </p> + <p> + Jack threw himself sullenly into a chair. + </p> + <p> + "Where is the woman that brought me here?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "Peg? Oh, she couldn't stay. She had important business to + transact, my young friend, and so she has gone. She commended + you to our particular attention, and you will be just as well + treated as if she were here." + </p> + <p> + This assurance was not calculated to comfort Jack. + </p> + <p> + "How long are you going to keep me cooped up here?" he asked, + desperately, wishing to learn the worst at once. + </p> + <p> + "Really, my young friend, I couldn't say. I don't know how + long it will be before you are cured." + </p> + <p> + "Cured?" repeated Jack, puzzled. + </p> + <p> + The old man tapped his forehead. + </p> + <p> + "You're a little affected here, you know, but under my + treatment I hope soon to restore you to your friends." + </p> + <p> + "What!" ejaculated our hero, terror-stricken, "you don't mean + to say you think I'm crazy?" + </p> + <p> + "To be sure you are," said the old man, "but—" + </p> + <p> + "But I tell you it's a lie," exclaimed Jack, energetically. + "Who told you so?" + </p> + <p> + "Your aunt." + </p> + <p> + "My aunt?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Mrs. Hardwick. She brought you here to be treated for + insanity." + </p> + <p> + "It's a base lie," said Jack, hotly. "That woman is no more + my aunt than you are. She's an impostor. She carried off my + sister Ida, and this is only a plot to get rid of me. She + told me she was going to take me to see Ida." + </p> + <p> + The old man shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + "My young friend," he said, "she told me all about + it—that you had a delusion about some supposed sister, + whom you accused her of carrying off." + </p> + <p> + "This is outrageous," said Jack, hotly. + </p> + <p> + "That's what all my patients say." + </p> + <p> + "And you are a mad-doctor?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "Then you know by my looks that I am not crazy." + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me, my young friend; that doesn't follow. There is a + peculiar appearance about your eyes which I cannot mistake. + There's no mistake about it, my good sir. Your mind has gone + astray, but if you'll be quiet, and won't excite yourself, + you'll soon be well." + </p> + <p> + "How soon?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, two or three months." + </p> + <p> + "Two or three months! You don't mean to say you want to + confine me here two or three months?" + </p> + <p> + "I hope I can release you sooner." + </p> + <p> + "You can't understand your business very well, or you would + see at once that I am not insane." + </p> + <p> + "That's what all my patients say. They won't any of them own + that their minds are affected." + </p> + <p> + "Will you supply me with some writing materials?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; Samuel shall bring them here." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose you will excuse my suggesting also that it is + dinner time?" + </p> + <p> + "He shall bring you some dinner at the same time." + </p> + <p> + The old man retired, but in fifteen minutes a plate of meat + and vegetables was brought to the room. + </p> + <p> + "I'll bring the pen and ink afterward," said the negro. + </p> + <p> + In spite of his extraordinary situation and uncertain + prospects, Jack ate with his usual appetite. + </p> + <p> + Then he penned a letter to his uncle, briefly detailing the + circumstances of his present situation. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid," the letter concluded, "that while I am shut up + here, Mrs. Hardwick will carry Ida out of the city, where it + will be more difficult for us to get on her track. She is + evidently a dangerous woman." + </p> + <p> + Two days passed and no notice was taken of the letter. + </p><a name="CH27"><!-- CH27 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVII + </h2> + <center> + JACK BEGINS TO REALIZE HIS SITUATION + </center> + <p> + "It's very strange," thought Jack, "that Uncle Abel doesn't + take any notice of my letter." + </p> + <p> + In fact, our hero felt rather indignant, as well as + surprised, and on the next visit of Dr. Robinson, he asked: + "Hasn't my uncle been here to ask about me?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said the old man, unexpectedly. + </p> + <p> + "Why didn't you bring him up here to see me?" + </p> + <p> + "He just inquired how you were, and said he thought you were + better off with us than you would be at home." + </p> + <p> + Jack looked fixedly in the face of the pretended doctor, and + was convinced that he had been deceived. + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe it," he said. + </p> + <p> + "Oh! do as you like about believing it." + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe you mailed my letter to my uncle." + </p> + <p> + "Have it your own way, my young friend. Of course I can't + argue with a maniac." + </p> + <p> + "Don't call me a maniac, you old humbug! You ought to be in + jail for this outrage." + </p> + <p> + "Ho, ho! How very amusing you are, my young friend!" said the + old man. "You'd make a first-class tragedian, you really + would." + </p> + <p> + "I might do something tragic, if I had a weapon," said Jack, + significantly. "Are you going to let me out?" + </p> + <p> + "Positively, I can't part with you. You are too good + company," said Dr. Robinson, mockingly. "You'll thank me for + my care of you when you are quite cured." + </p> + <p> + "That's all rubbish," said Jack, boldly. "I'm no more crazy + than you are, and you know it. Will you answer me a + question?" + </p> + <p> + "It depends on what it is," said the old man, cautiously. + </p> + <p> + "Has Mrs. Hardwick been here to ask about me?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly. She takes a great deal of interest in you." + </p> + <p> + "Was there a little girl with her?" + </p> + <p> + "I believe so. I really don't remember." + </p> + <p> + "If she calls again, either with or without Ida, will you ask + her to come up here? I want to see her." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I'll tell her. Now, my young friend, I must really + leave you. Business before pleasure, you know." + </p> + <p> + Jack looked about the room for something to read. He found + among other books a small volume, purporting to contain "The + Adventures of Baron Trenck." + </p> + <p> + It may be that the reader has never encountered a copy of + this singular book. Baron Trenck was several times imprisoned + for political offenses, and this book contains an account of + the manner in which he succeeded, after years of labor, in + escaping from his dungeon. + </p> + <p> + Jack read the book with intense interest and wondered, + looking about the room, if he could not find some similar + plan of escape. + </p><a name="CH28"><!-- CH28 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVIII + </h2> + <center> + THE SECRET STAIRCASE + </center> + <p> + The prospect certainly was not a bright one. The door was + fast locked. Escape from the windows seemed impracticable. + This apparently exhausted the avenues of escape that were + open to the dissatisfied prisoner. But accidentally Jack made + an important discovery. + </p> + <p> + There was a full-length portrait in the room. Jack chanced to + rest his hand against it, when he must unconsciously have + touched some secret spring, for a secret door opened, + dividing the picture in two parts, and, to our hero's + unbounded astonishment, he saw before him a small spiral + staircase leading down into the darkness. + </p> + <p> + "This is a queer old house!" thought Jack. "I wonder where + those stairs go to. I've a great mind to explore." + </p> + <p> + There was not much chance of detection, he reflected, as it + would be three hours before his next meal would be brought + him. He left the door open, therefore, and began slowly and + cautiously to go down the staircase. It seemed a long one, + longer than was necessary to connect two floors. Boldly Jack + kept on till he reached the bottom. + </p> + <p> + "Where am I?" thought our hero. "I must be down as low as the + cellar." + </p> + <p> + While this thought passed through his mind, voices suddenly + struck upon his ear. He had accustomed himself now to the + darkness, and ascertained that there was a crevice through + which he could look in the direction from which the sounds + proceeded. Applying his eye, he could distinguish a small + cellar apartment, in the middle of which was a printing + press, and work was evidently going on. He could distinguish + three persons. Two were in their shirt sleeves, bending over + an engraver's bench. Beside them, and apparently + superintending their work, was the old man whom Jack knew as + Dr. Robinson. + </p> + <p> + He applied his ear to the crevice, and heard these words: + </p> + <p> + "This lot is rather better than the last, Jones. We can't be + too careful, or the detectives will interfere with our + business. Some of the last lot were rather coarse." + </p> + <p> + "I know it, sir," answered the man addressed as Jones. + </p> + <p> + "There's nothing the matter with this," said the old man. + "There isn't one person in a hundred that would suspect it + was not genuine." + </p> + <p> + Jack pricked up his ears. + </p> + <p> + Looking through the crevice, he ascertained that it was a + bill that the old man had in his hand. + </p> + <p> + "They're counterfeiters," he said, half audibly. + </p> + <p> + Low as the tone was, it startled Dr. Robinson. + </p> + <p> + "Ha!" said he, startled, "what's that?" + </p> + <p> + "What's what, sir?" said Jones. + </p> + <p> + "I thought I heard some one speaking." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't hear nothing, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Did you hear nothing, Ferguson?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose I was deceived, then," said the old man. + </p> + <p> + "How many bills have you there?" he resumed. + </p> + <p> + "Seventy-nine, sir." + </p> + <p> + "That's a very good day's work," said the old man, in a tone + of satisfaction. "It's a paying business." + </p> + <p> + "It pays you, sir," said Jones, grumbling. + </p> + <p> + "And it shall pay you, too, my man, never fear!" + </p> + <p> + Jack had made a great discovery. He understood now the + connection between Mrs. Hardwick and the old man whom he now + knew not to be a physician. He was at the head of a gang of + counterfeiters, and she was engaged in putting the false + money into circulation. + </p> + <p> + He softly ascended the staircase, and re-entered the room he + left, closing the secret door behind him. + </p><a name="CH29"><!-- CH29 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIX + </h2> + <center> + JACK IS DETECTED + </center> + <p> + In the course of the afternoon, Jack made another visit to + the foot of the staircase. He saw through the crevice the + same two men at work, but the old man was not with them. + Ascertaining this, he ought, in prudence, immediately to have + retraced his steps, but he remained on watch for twenty + minutes. When he did return he was startled by finding the + old man seated, and waiting for him. There was a menacing + expression on his face. + </p> + <p> + "Where have you been?" he demanded, abruptly. + </p> + <p> + "Downstairs," answered Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Ha! What did you see?" + </p> + <p> + "I may as well own up," thought Jack. "Through a crack I saw + some men at work in a basement room," he replied. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know what they were doing?" + </p> + <p> + "Counterfeiting, I should think." + </p> + <p> + "Well, is there anything wrong in that?" + </p> + <p> + "I suppose you wouldn't want to be found out," he answered. + </p> + <p> + "I didn't mean to have you make this discovery. Now there's + only one thing to be done." + </p> + <p> + "What's that?" + </p> + <p> + "You have become possessed of an important—I may say, a + dangerous secret. You have us in your power." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose," said Jack, "you are afraid I will denounce you + to the police?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, there is a possibility of that. That class of people + has a prejudice against us, though we are only doing what + everybody likes to do—making money." + </p> + <p> + "Will you let me go if I keep your secret?" + </p> + <p> + "What assurance have we that you would keep your promise?" + </p> + <p> + "I would pledge my word." + </p> + <p> + "Your word!" Foley—for this was the old man's real + name—snapped his fingers. "I wouldn't give that for it. + That is not sufficient." + </p> + <p> + "What will be?" + </p> + <p> + "You must become one of us." + </p> + <p> + "One of you!" + </p> + <p> + "Yes. You must make yourself liable to the same penalties, so + that it will be for your own interest to remain silent. + Otherwise we can't trust you." + </p> + <p> + "Suppose I decline these terms?" + </p> + <p> + "Then I shall be under the painful necessity of retaining you + as my guest," said Foley, smiling disagreeably. + </p> + <p> + "What made you pretend to be a mad-doctor?" + </p> + <p> + "To put you off the track," said Foley. "You believed it, + didn't you?" + </p> + <p> + "At first." + </p> + <p> + "Well, what do you say?" asked Foley. + </p> + <p> + "I should like to take time to reflect upon your proposal," + said Jack. "It is of so important a character that I don't + like to decide at once." + </p> + <p> + "How long do you require?" + </p> + <p> + "Two days. Suppose I join you, shall I get good pay?" + </p> + <p> + "Excellent," answered Foley. "In fact, you'll be better paid + than a boy of your age would be anywhere else." + </p> + <p> + "That's worth thinking about," said Jack, gravely. "My father + is poor, and I've got my own way to make." + </p> + <p> + "You couldn't have a better opening. You're a smart lad, and + will be sure to succeed." + </p> + <p> + "Well, I'll think of it. If I should make up my mind before + the end of two days, I will let you know." + </p> + <p> + "Very well. You can't do better." + </p> + <p> + "But there's one thing I want to ask about," said Jack, with + pretended anxiety. "It's pretty risky business, isn't it?" + </p> + <p> + "I've been in the business ten years, and they haven't got + hold of me yet," answered Foley. "All you've got to do is to + be careful." + </p> + <p> + "He'll join," said Foley to himself. "He's a smart fellow, + and we can make him useful. It'll be the best way to dispose + of one who might get us into trouble." + </p><a name="CH30"><!-- CH30 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXX + </h2> + <center> + JACK'S TRIUMPH + </center> + <p> + The next day Jack had another visit from Foley. "Well," said + the old man, nodding, "have you thought over my proposal?" + </p> + <p> + "What should I have to do?" asked Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Sometimes one thing, and sometimes another. At first we + might employ you to put off some of the bills." + </p> + <p> + "That would be easy work, anyway," said Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, there is nothing hard about that, except to look + innocent." + </p> + <p> + "I can do that," said Jack, laughing. + </p> + <p> + "You're smart; I can tell by the looks of you." + </p> + <p> + "Do you really think so?" returned Jack, appearing flattered. + </p> + <p> + "Yes; you'll make one of our best hands." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose Mrs. Hardwick is in your employ?" + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps she is, and perhaps she isn't," said Foley, + noncommittally. "That is something you don't need to know." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, I don't care to know," said Jack, carelessly. "I only + asked. I was afraid you would set me to work down in the + cellar." + </p> + <p> + "You don't know enough about the business. We need skilled + workmen. You couldn't do us any good there." + </p> + <p> + "I shouldn't like it, anyway. It must be unpleasant to be + down there." + </p> + <p> + "We pay the workmen you saw good pay." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I suppose so. When do you want me to begin?" + </p> + <p> + "I can't tell you just yet. I'll think about it." + </p> + <p> + "I hope it'll be soon, for I'm tired of staying here. By the + way, that's a capital idea about the secret staircase. Who'd + ever think the portrait concealed it?" said Jack. + </p> + <p> + As he spoke he advanced to the portrait in an easy, natural + manner, and touched the spring. + </p> + <p> + Of course it flew open. The old man also drew near. + </p> + <p> + "That was my idea," he said, in a complacent tone. "Of course + we have to keep everything as secret as possible, and I + flatter myself—" + </p> + <p> + His remark came to a sudden pause. He had incautiously got + between Jack and the open door. Now our hero, who was close + upon eighteen, and strongly built, was considerably more than + a match in physical strength for Foley. He suddenly seized + the old man, thrust him through the aperture, then closed the + secret door, and sprang for the door of the room. + </p> + <p> + The key was in the lock where Foley, whose confidence made + him careless, had left it. Turning it, he hurried downstairs, + meeting no one on the way. To open the front door and dash + through it was the work of an instant. As he descended the + stairs he could hear the muffled shout of the old man whom he + had made prisoner, but this only caused him to accelerate his + speed. + </p> + <p> + Jack now directed his course as well as he could toward his + uncle's shop. One thing, however, he did not forget, and that + was to note carefully the position of the shop in which he + had been confined. + </p> + <p> + "I shall want to make another visit there," he reflected. + </p> + <p> + Meantime, as may well be supposed, Abel Harding had suffered + great anxiety on account of Jack's protracted absence. + Several days had elapsed and still he was missing. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid something has happened to Jack," he remarked to + his wife on the afternoon of Jack's escape. "I think Jack was + probably rash and imprudent, and I fear, poor boy, he may + have come to harm." + </p> + <p> + "He may be confined by the parties who have taken his + sister." + </p> + <p> + "It is possible that it is no worse. At all events, I don't + think it right to keep it from Timothy any longer. I've put + off writing as long as I could, hoping Jack would come back, + but I don't feel as if it would be right to hold it back any + longer. I shall write this evening." + </p> + <p> + "Better wait till morning, Abel. Who knows but we may hear + from Jack before that time?" + </p> + <p> + "If we'd been going to hear we'd have heard before this," he + said. + </p> + <p> + Just at that moment the door was flung open. + </p> + <p> + "Why, it's Jack!" exclaimed the baker, amazed. + </p> + <p> + "I should say it was," returned Jack. "Aunt, have you got + anything to eat? I'm 'most famished." + </p> + <p> + "Where in the name of wonder have you been, Jack?" + </p> + <p> + "I've been shut up, uncle—boarded and lodged for + nothing—by some people who liked my company better than + I liked theirs. But I've just made my escape, and here I am, + well, hearty and hungry." + </p> + <p> + Jack's appetite was soon provided for. He found time between + the mouthfuls to describe the secret staircase, and his + discovery of the unlawful occupation of the man who acted as + his jailer. + </p> + <p> + The baker listened with eager interest. + </p> + <p> + "Jack," said he, "you've done a good stroke of business." + </p> + <p> + "In getting away?" said Jack. + </p> + <p> + "No, in ferreting out these counterfeiters. Do you know there + is a reward of a thousand dollars offered for their + apprehension?" + </p> + <p> + "You don't say so!" exclaimed Jack, laying down his knife and + fork. "Do you think I can get it?" + </p> + <p> + "You'd better try. The gang has managed matters so shrewdly + that the authorities have been unable to get any clew to + their whereabouts. Can you go to the house?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; I took particular notice of its location." + </p> + <p> + "That's lucky. Now, if you take my advice, you'll inform the + authorities before they have time to get away." + </p> + <p> + "I'll do it!" said Jack. "Come along, uncle." + </p> + <p> + Fifteen minutes later, Jack was imparting his information to + the chief of police. It was received with visible interest + and excitement. + </p> + <p> + "I will detail a squad of men to go with you," said the + chief. "Go at once. No time is to be lost." + </p> + <p> + In less than an hour from the time Jack left the haunt of the + coiners, an authoritative knock was heard at the door. + </p> + <p> + It was answered by Foley. + </p> + <p> + The old man turned pale as he set eyes on Jack and the + police, and comprehended the object of the visit. + </p> + <p> + "What do you want, gentlemen?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "Is that the man?" asked the sergeant of Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "Secure him." + </p> + <p> + "I know him," said Foley, with a glance of hatred directed at + Jack. "He's a thief. He's been in my employ, but he's run + away with fifty dollars belonging to me." + </p> + <p> + "I don't care about stealing the kind of money you deal in," + said Jack, coolly. "It's all a lie this man tells you." + </p> + <p> + "Why do you arrest me?" said Foley. "It's an outrage. You + have no right to enter my house like this." + </p> + <p> + "What is your business?" demanded the police sergeant. + </p> + <p> + "I'm a physician." + </p> + <p> + "If you are telling the truth, no harm will be done you. + Meanwhile, we must search your house. Where is that secret + staircase?" + </p> + <p> + "I'll show you," answered Jack. + </p> + <p> + He showed the way upstairs. + </p> + <p> + "How did you get out?" he asked Foley, as he touched the + spring, and the secret door flew open. + </p> + <p> + "Curse you!" exclaimed Foley, darting a look of hatred and + malignity at him. "I wish I had you in my power once more. I + treated you too well." + </p> + <p> + We need not follow the police in their search. The + discoveries which they made were ample to secure the + conviction of the gang who made this house the place of their + operations. To anticipate a little, we may say that Foley was + sentenced to imprisonment for a term of years, and his + subordinates to a term less prolonged. The reader will also + be glad to know that to our hero was awarded the prize of a + thousand dollars which had been offered for the apprehension + of the gang of counterfeiters. + </p> + <p> + But there was another notable capture made that day. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Hardwick was accustomed to make visits to Foley to + secure false bills, and to make settlement for what she had + succeeded in passing off. + </p> + <p> + While Jack and the officers were in the house she rang the + door bell. + </p> + <p> + Jack went to the door. + </p> + <p> + "How is this?" she asked. + </p> + <p> + "Oh," said Jack, "it's all right. Come in. I've gone into the + business, too." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Hardwick entered. No sooner was she inside than Jack + closed the door. + </p> + <p> + "What are you doing?" she demanded, suspiciously. "Let me + out." + </p> + <p> + But Jack was standing with his back to the door. The door to + the right opened, and a policeman appeared. + </p> + <p> + "Arrest this woman," said Jack. "She's one of them." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose I must yield," said Peg, sulkily; "but you shan't + be a gainer by it," she continued, addressing Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Where is Ida?" asked our hero, anxiously. + </p> + <p> + "She is safe," said Peg, sententiously. + </p> + <p> + "You won't tell me where she is?" + </p> + <p> + "No; why should I? I suppose I am indebted to you for this + arrest. She shall be kept out of your way as long as I have + power to do so." + </p> + <p> + "Then I shall find her," said Jack. "She is somewhere in the + city, and I'll find her sooner or later." + </p> + <p> + Peg was not one to betray her feelings, but this arrest was a + great disappointment to her. It interfered with a plan she + had of making a large sum out of Ida. To understand what this + was, we must go back a day or two, and introduce a new + character. + </p><a name="CH31"><!-- CH31 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXI + </h2> + <center> + MR. JOHN SOMERVILLE + </center> + <p> + Jack's appearance on the scene had set Mrs. Hardwick to + thinking. This was the substance of her reflections: Ida, + whom she had kidnaped for certain reasons of her own, was + likely to prove an incumbrance rather than a source of + profit. The child, her suspicions awakened in regard to the + character of the money she had been employed to pass off, was + no longer available for that purpose. + </p> + <p> + Under these circumstances Peg bethought herself of the + ultimate object which she had proposed to herself in + kidnaping Ida—that of extorting money from a man who + has not hitherto figured in our story. + </p> + <p> + John Somerville occupied a suite of apartments in a handsome + lodging house in Walnut Street. A man wanting yet several + years of forty, he looked many years older than that age. + Late hours and dissipated habits, though kept within + respectable limits, left their traces on his face. At + twenty-one he inherited a considerable fortune, which, + combined with some professional income—for he was a + lawyer, and not without ability—was quite sufficient to + support him handsomely, and leave a considerable surplus + every year. But latterly he had contracted a passion for + gaming, and, shrewd though he might be naturally, he could + hardly be expected to prove a match for the wily + <i>habitues</i> of the gaming table, who had marked him for + their prey. + </p> + <p> + The evening before his introduction to the reader he had + passed till a late hour at a fashionable gaming house, where + he had lost heavily. + </p> + <p> + His reflections on waking were not the most pleasant. For the + first time within fifteen years he realized the folly and + imprudence of the course he had pursued. The evening previous + he had lost a thousand dollars, for which he had given his + IOU. Where to raise the money he did not know. After making + his toilet, he rang the bell and ordered breakfast. + </p> + <p> + For this he had but scanty appetite. He drank a cup of coffee + and ate part of a roll. Scarcely had he finished, and + directed the removal of the dishes, than the servant entered + to announce a visitor. + </p> + <p> + "Is it a gentleman?" he inquired, hastily, fearing that it + might be a creditor. He occasionally had such visitors. + </p> + <p> + "No, sir." + </p> + <p> + "A lady?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir." + </p> + <p> + "A child? But what could a child want of me?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir. It isn't a child," said the servant, in reply. + </p> + <p> + "Then if it's neither a gentleman, lady nor child," said + Somerville, "will you have the goodness to inform me what + sort of a being it is?" + </p> + <p> + "It's a woman, sir," answered the servant, his gravity + unmoved. + </p> + <p> + "Why didn't you say so when I asked you?" + </p> + <p> + "Because you asked me if it was a lady, and this + isn't—leastways she don't look like one." + </p> + <p> + "You can send her up, whoever she is," said Somerville. + </p> + <p> + A moment afterward Peg entered his presence. + </p> + <p> + John Somerville looked at her without much interest, + supposing that she might be a seamstress, or laundress, or + some applicant for charity. So many years had passed since he + had met with this woman that she had passed out of his + remembrance. + </p> + <p> + "Do you wish to see me about anything?" he asked. "You must + be quick, for I am just going out." + </p> + <p> + "You don't seem to recognize me, Mr. Somerville." + </p> + <p> + "I can't say I do," he replied, carelessly. "Perhaps you used + to wash for me once." + </p> + <p> + "I am not in the habit of acting as laundress," said the + woman, proudly. + </p> + <p> + "In that case," said Somerville, languidly, "you will have to + tell me who you are, for it is quite out of my power to + remember all the people I meet." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps the name of Ida will assist your recollection; or + have you forgotten that name, too?" + </p> + <p> + "Ida!" repeated John Somerville, throwing off his indifferent + manner, and surveying the woman's features attentively. + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "I have known several persons of that name," he said, + recovering his former indifferent manner. "I haven't the + slightest idea to which of them you refer. You don't look as + if it was your name," he added, with a laugh. + </p> + <p> + "The Ida I mean was and is a child," she said. "But there's + no use in beating about the bush, Mr. Somerville, when I can + come straight to the point. It is now about seven years since + my husband and myself were employed to carry off a + child—a female child of a year old—named Ida. You + were the man who employed us." She said this deliberately, + looking steadily in his face. "We placed it, according to + your directions, on the doorstep of a poor family in New + York, and they have since cared for it as their own. I + suppose you have not forgotten that?" + </p> + <p> + "I remember it," he said, "and now recall your features. How + have you fared since I employed you? Have you found your + business profitable?" + </p> + <p> + "Far from it," answered Peg. "I am not yet able to retire on + a competence." + </p> + <p> + "One of your youthful appearance," said Somerville, + banteringly, "ought not to think of retiring under ten + years." + </p> + <p> + "I don't care for compliments," she said, "even when they are + sincere. As for my youthful appearance, I am old enough to + have reached the age of discretion, and not so old as to have + fallen into my second childhood." + </p> + <p> + "Compliments aside, then, will you proceed to whatever + business brought you here?" + </p> + <p> + "I want a thousand dollars," said Peg, abruptly. + </p> + <p> + "A thousand dollars!" repeated Somerville. "Very likely. I + should like that amount myself. Did you come here to tell me + that?" + </p> + <p> + "I have come here to ask you to give me that amount." + </p> + <p> + "Have you a husband?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "Then let me suggest that your husband is the proper person + to apply to in such a case." + </p> + <p> + "I think I am more likely to get it out of you," said Peg, + coolly. "My husband couldn't supply me with a thousand cents, + even if he were willing." + </p> + <p> + "Much as I am flattered by your application," said + Somerville, with a polite sneer, "since it would seem to + place me next in estimation to your husband, I cannot help + suggesting that it is not usual to bestow such a sum on a + stranger, or even a friend, without an equivalent rendered." + </p> + <p> + "I am ready to give you an equivalent." + </p> + <p> + "Of what nature?" + </p> + <p> + "I am willing to be silent." + </p> + <p> + "And how can your silence benefit me?" + </p> + <p> + "That you will be best able to estimate." + </p> + <p> + "Explain yourself, and bear in mind that I can bestow little + time on you." + </p> + <p> + "I can do that in a few words. You employed me to kidnap a + child. I believe the law has something to say about that. At + any rate, the child's mother may have." + </p> + <p> + "What do you know about the child's mother?" demanded + Somerville, hastily. + </p> + <p> + "All about her!" said Peg, emphatically. + </p> + <p> + "How am I to credit that? It is easy to claim a knowledge you + do not possess." + </p> + <p> + "Shall I tell you the whole story, then? In the first place, + she married your cousin, after rejecting you. You never + forgave her for this. When, a year after marriage, her + husband died, you renewed your proposals. They were rejected, + and you were forbidden to renew the subject on pain of + forfeiting her friendship forever. You left her presence, + determined to be revenged. With this object you sought Dick + and myself, and employed us to kidnap the child. There is the + whole story, briefly told." + </p> + <p> + "Woman, how came this within your knowledge?" he demanded, + hoarsely. + </p> + <p> + "That is of no consequence," said Peg. "It was for my + interest to find out, and I did so." + </p> + <p> + "Well?" + </p> + <p> + "I know one thing more—the residence of the child's + mother. I hesitated this morning whether to come here, or to + carry Ida to her mother, trusting to her to repay from + gratitude what I demand from you because it is for your + interest to comply with my request." + </p> + <p> + "You speak of carrying the child to her mother. How can you + do that when she is in New York?" + </p> + <p> + "You are mistaken," said Peg, coolly. "She is in + Philadelphia." + </p> + <p> + John Somerville paced the room with hurried steps. Peg felt + that she had succeeded. + </p> + <p> + He paused after a while, and stood before her. + </p> + <p> + "You demand a thousand dollars," he said. + </p> + <p> + "I do." + </p> + <p> + "I have not that amount with me. I have recently lost a heavy + sum, no matter how. But I can probably get it to-day. Call + to-morrow at this time—no, in the afternoon, and I will + see what I can do for you." + </p> + <p> + "Very well," said the woman, well satisfied. + </p> + <p> + Left to himself, John Somerville spent some time in + reflection. Difficulties encompassed him—difficulties + from which he found it hard to find a way of escape. He knew + how difficult it would be to meet this woman's demand. + Gradually his countenance lightened. He had decided what that + something should be. + </p> + <p> + When Peg left John Somerville's apartments, it was with a + high degree of satisfaction at the result of the interview. + All had turned out as she wished. She looked upon the + thousand dollars as already hers. The considerations which + she had urged would, she was sure, induce him to make every + effort to secure her silence. + </p> + <p> + Then, with a thousand dollars, what might not be done? She + would withdraw from the business, for one thing. It was too + hazardous. Why might not Dick and she retire to the country, + lease a country inn, and live an honest life hereafter? There + were times when she grew tired of the life she lived at + present. It would be pleasant to go to some place where they + were not known, and enroll themselves among the respectable + members of the community. She was growing old; she wanted + rest and a quiet home. Her early years had been passed in the + country. She remembered still the green fields in which she + played as a child, and to this woman, old and sin-stained, + there came a yearning to have that life return. + </p> + <p> + But her dream was rudely broken by her encounter with the + officers of the law at the house of her employer. + </p><a name="CH32"><!-- CH32 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXII + </h2> + <center> + A PROVIDENTIAL MEETING + </center> + <p> + "By gracious, if that isn't Ida!" exclaimed Jack, in profound + surprise. + </p> + <p> + He had been sauntering along Chestnut Street, listlessly + troubled by the thought that though he had given Mrs. + Hardwick into custody, he was apparently no nearer the + discovery of his young ward than before. What steps should he + take to find her? He could not decide. In his perplexity his + eyes rested suddenly upon the print of the "Flower Girl." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," he said, "that is Ida, fast enough. Perhaps they will + know in the store where she is to be found." + </p> + <p> + He at once entered the store. + </p> + <p> + "Can you tell me anything about the girl in that picture?" he + asked, abruptly, of the nearest clerk. + </p> + <p> + "It is a fancy picture," he said. "I think you would need a + long time to find the original." + </p> + <p> + "It has taken a long time," said Jack. "But you are mistaken. + That is a picture of my sister." + </p> + <p> + "Of your sister!" repeated the salesman, with surprise, half + incredulous. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," persisted Jack. "She is my sister." + </p> + <p> + "If it is your sister," said the clerk, "you ought to know + where she is." + </p> + <p> + Jack was about to reply, when the attention of both was + called by a surprised exclamation from a lady who had paused + beside them. Her eyes also were fixed upon the "Flower Girl." + </p> + <p> + "Who is this?" she asked, in visible excitement. "Is it taken + from life?" + </p> + <p> + "This young man says it is his sister," said the clerk. + </p> + <p> + "Your sister?" repeated the lady, her eyes fixed inquiringly + upon Jack. + </p> + <p> + In her tone there was a mingling both of surprise and + disappointment. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, madam," answered Jack, respectfully. + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me," she said, "there is very little personal + resemblance. I should not have suspected that you were her + brother." + </p> + <p> + "She is not my own sister," explained Jack, "but I love her + just the same." + </p> + <p> + "Do you live in Philadelphia? Could I see her?" asked the + lady, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + "I live in New York, madam," said Jack; "but Ida was stolen + from us about three weeks since, and I have come here in + pursuit of her. I have not been able to find her yet." + </p> + <p> + "Did you call her Ida?" demanded the lady, in strange + agitation. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, madam." + </p> + <p> + "My young friend," said the woman, rapidly, "I have been much + interested in the story of your sister. I should like to hear + more, but not here. Would you have any objection to coming + home with me, and telling me the rest? Then we will together + concert measures for recovering her." + </p> + <p> + "You are very kind, madam," said Jack, bashfully; for the + lady was elegantly dressed, and it had never been his fortune + to converse with a lady of her social position. "I shall be + glad to go home with you, and shall be very much obliged for + your advice and assistance." + </p> + <p> + "Then we will drive home at once." + </p> + <p> + With natural gallantry, Jack assisted the lady into the + carriage, and, at her bidding, got in himself. + </p> + <p> + "Home, Thomas!" she directed the driver; "and drive as fast + as possible." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, madam." + </p> + <p> + "How old was your sister when your parents adopted her?" + asked Mrs. Clifton. + </p> + <p> + Jack afterward ascertained that this was her name. + </p> + <p> + "About a year old, madam." + </p> + <p> + "And how long since was that?" asked the lady, waiting for + the answer with breathless interest. + </p> + <p> + "Seven years since. She is now eight." + </p> + <p> + "It must be," murmured the lady, in low tones. "If it is + indeed, as I hope, my life will indeed be blessed." + </p> + <p> + "Did you speak, madam?" + </p> + <p> + "Tell me under what circumstances your family adopted her." + </p> + <p> + Jack related briefly how Ida had been left at their door in + her infancy. + </p> + <p> + "And do you recollect the month in which this happened?" + </p> + <p> + "It was at the close of December, the night before New + Year's." + </p> + <p> + "It is, it must be she!" ejaculated Mrs. Clifton, clasping + her hands, while tears of joy welled from her eyes. + </p> + <p> + "I—I don't understand," said Jack, naturally + astonished. + </p> + <p> + "My young friend," said the lady, "our meeting this morning + seems providential. I have every reason to believe that this + child—your adopted sister—is my daughter, stolen + from me by an unknown enemy at the time of which I speak. + From that day to this I have never been able to obtain the + slightest clew that might lead to her discovery. I have long + taught myself to think of her as dead." + </p> + <p> + It was Jack's turn to be surprised. He looked at the lady + beside him. She was barely thirty. The beauty of her girlhood + had ripened into the maturer beauty of womanhood. There was + the same dazzling complexion, the same soft flush upon the + cheeks. The eyes, too, were wonderfully like Ida's. Jack + looked, and as he looked he became convinced. + </p> + <p> + "You must be right," he said. "Ida is very much like you." + </p> + <p> + "You think so?" said Mrs. Clifton, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, madam." + </p> + <p> + "I had a picture—a daguerreotype—taken of Ida + just before I lost her; I have treasured it carefully. I must + show it to you when we get to my house." + </p> + <p> + The carriage stopped before a stately mansion in a wide and + quiet street. The driver dismounted and opened the door. Jack + assisted Mrs. Clifton to alight. + </p> + <p> + Bashfully our hero followed the lady up the steps, and, at + her bidding, seated himself in an elegant parlor furnished + with a splendor which excited his admiration and wonder. He + had little time to look about him, for Mrs. Clifton, without + pausing to remove her street attire, hastened downstairs with + an open daguerreotype in her hand. + </p> + <p> + "Can you remember Ida when she was first brought to your + house?" she asked. "Did she look anything like this picture?" + </p> + <p> + "It is her image," answered Jack, decidedly. "I should know + it anywhere." + </p> + <p> + "Then there can be no further doubt," said Mrs. Clifton. "It + is my child you have cared for so long. Oh! why could I not + have known it before? How many lonely days and sleepless + nights it would have spared me! But God be thanked for this + late blessing! I shall see my child again." + </p> + <p> + "I hope so, madam. We must find her." + </p> + <p> + "What is your name, my young friend?" + </p> + <p> + "My name is Harding—Jack Harding." + </p> + <p> + "Jack?" repeated the lady, smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, madam; that is what they call me. It would not seem + natural to be called John." + </p> + <p> + "Very well," said Mrs. Clifton, with a smile which went to + Jack's heart at once, and made him think her, if any more + beautiful than Ida; "as Ida is your adopted sister—" + </p> + <p> + "I call her my ward. I am her guardian, you know." + </p> + <p> + "You are a young guardian. But, as I was about to say, that + makes us connected in some way, doesn't it? I won't call you + Mr. Harding, for that would sound too formal. I will call you + Jack." + </p> + <p> + "I wish you would," said our hero, his face brightening with + pride. + </p> + <p> + It almost upset him to be called Jack by a beautiful lady, + who every day of her life was accustomed to live in a + splendor which it seemed to Jack could not be exceeded even + by royal state. Had Mrs. Clifton been Queen Victoria herself, + he could not have felt a profounder respect and veneration + for her than he did already. + </p> + <p> + "Now, Jack," said Mrs. Clifton, in a friendly manner which + delighted our hero, "we must take measures to discover Ida + immediately. I want you to tell me about her disappearance + from your house, and what steps you have taken thus far + toward finding her." + </p> + <p> + Jack began at the beginning and described the appearance of + Mrs. Hardwick; how she had been permitted to carry Ida away + under false representations, and the manner in which he had + tracked her to Philadelphia. He spoke finally of her arrest, + and her obstinate refusal to impart any information as to + where Ida was concealed. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Clifton listened attentively and anxiously. There were + more difficulties in the way than she had supposed. + </p> + <p> + "Can you think of any plan, Jack?" she asked, anxiously. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, madam," answered Jack. "The man who painted the picture + of Ida may know where she is to be found." + </p> + <p> + "You are right," said the lady. "I will act upon your hint. I + will order the carriage again instantly, and we will at once + go back to the print store." + </p> + <p> + An hour later Henry Bowen was surprised by the visit of an + elegant lady to his studio, accompanied by a young man of + seventeen. + </p> + <p> + "I think you are the artist who designed 'The Flower Girl,'" + said Mrs. Clifton. + </p> + <p> + "I am, madam." + </p> + <p> + "It was taken from life?" + </p> + <p> + "You are right." + </p> + <p> + "I am anxious to find the little girl whose face you copied. + Can you give me any directions that will enable me to find + her?" + </p> + <p> + "I will accompany you to the place where she lives, if you + desire it, madam," said the young artist, politely. "It is a + strange neighborhood in which to look for so much beauty." + </p> + <p> + "I shall be deeply indebted to you if you will oblige me so + far," said Mrs. Clifton. "My carriage is below, and my + coachman will obey your orders." + </p> + <p> + Once more they were on the move. In due time the carriage + paused. The driver opened the door. He was evidently quite + scandalized at the idea of bringing his mistress to such a + place. + </p> + <p> + "This can't be the place, madam," he said. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said the artist. "Do not get out, Mrs. Clifton. I will + go in, and find out all that is needful." + </p> + <p> + Two minutes later he returned, looking disappointed. + </p> + <p> + "We are too late," he said. "An hour since a gentleman + called, and took away the child." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Clifton sank back in her seat in keen disappointment. + </p> + <p> + "My child! my child!" she murmured. "Shall I ever see thee + again?" + </p> + <p> + Jack, too, felt more disappointed than he was willing to + acknowledge. He could not conjecture what gentleman could + have carried away Ida. The affair seemed darker and mere + complicated than ever. + </p><a name="CH33"><!-- CH33 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIII + </h2> + <center> + IDA IS FOUND + </center> + <p> + Ida was sitting alone in the dreary apartment which she was + now obliged to call home. Peg had gone out, and, not feeling + quite certain of her prey, had bolted the door on the + outside. She had left some work for the child—some + handkerchiefs to hem for Dick—with strict orders to + keep steadily at work. + </p> + <p> + While seated at work, she was aroused from thoughts of home + by a knock at the door. + </p> + <p> + "Who's there?" asked Ida. + </p> + <p> + "A friend," was the reply. + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Hardwick—Peg—isn't at home," returned Ida. + </p> + <p> + "Then I will come in and wait till she comes back," answered + the voice outside. + </p> + <p> + "I can't open the door," said the child. "It's fastened + outside." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, so I see. Then I will take the liberty to draw the + bolt." + </p> + <p> + Mr. John Somerville opened the door, and for the first time + in seven years his glance fell upon the child whom for so + long a time he had defrauded of a mother's care and + tenderness. + </p> + <p> + Ida returned to the window. + </p> + <p> + "How beautiful she is!" thought Somerville, with surprise. + "She inherits all her mother's rare beauty." + </p> + <p> + On the table beside Ida was a drawing. "Whose is this?" he + inquired. + </p> + <p> + "Mine," answered Ida. + </p> + <p> + "So you have learned to draw?" + </p> + <p> + "A little," answered the child, modestly. + </p> + <p> + "Who taught you? Not the woman you live with?" + </p> + <p> + "No," said Ida. + </p> + <p> + "You have not always lived with her, I am sure?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir." + </p> + <p> + "You lived in New York with a family named Harding, did you + not?" + </p> + <p> + "Do you know father and mother?" asked Ida, with sudden hope. + "Did they send you for me?" + </p> + <p> + "I will tell you that by and by, my child. But I want to ask + you a few questions first. Why does this woman, Peg, lock you + in whenever she goes away?" + </p> + <p> + "I suppose," said Ida, "she is afraid I'll run away." + </p> + <p> + "Then she knows you don't want to live with her?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes, she knows that," said the child, frankly. "I have + asked her to take me home, but she says she won't for a + year." + </p> + <p> + "And how long have you been with her?" + </p> + <p> + "About three weeks, but it seems a great deal longer." + </p> + <p> + "What does she make you do?" + </p> + <p> + "I can't tell what she made me do first." + </p> + <p> + "Why not?" + </p> + <p> + "Because she would be very angry." + </p> + <p> + "Suppose I should promise to deliver you from her, would you + be willing to go with me?" + </p> + <p> + "And you would carry me back to my father and mother?" asked + Ida, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + "Certainly, I would restore you to your mother," was the + evasive reply. + </p> + <p> + "Then I will go with you." + </p> + <p> + Ida ran quickly to get her bonnet and shawl. + </p> + <p> + "We had better go at once," said Somerville. "Peg might + return, you know, and then there would be trouble." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes, let us go quickly," said Ida, turning pale at the + remembered threats of Peg. + </p> + <p> + Neither knew as yet that Peg could not return if she would; + that, at this very moment, she was in legal custody on a + charge of a serious nature. Still less did Ida know that in + going she was losing the chance of seeing Jack and her real + mother, of whose existence, even, she was not yet aware; and + that this man, whom she looked upon as her friend, was in + reality her worst enemy. + </p> + <p> + "I will conduct you to my own rooms, in the first place," + said her companion. "You must remain in concealment for a day + or two, as Peg will undoubtedly be on the look-out for you, + and we want to avoid all trouble." + </p> + <p> + Ida was delighted with her escape, and with the thoughts of + soon seeing her friends in New York. She put implicit faith + in her guide, and was willing to submit to any conditions + which he saw fit to impose. + </p> + <p> + At length they reached his lodgings. + </p> + <p> + They were furnished more richly than any room Ida had yet + seen; and formed, indeed, a luxurious contrast to the dark + and scantily furnished apartment which she had occupied since + her arrival in Philadelphia. + </p> + <p> + "Well, you are glad to get away from Peg?" asked John + Somerville, giving Ida a comfortable seat. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, so glad!" said Ida. + </p> + <p> + "And you wouldn't care about going back?" + </p> + <p> + The child shuddered. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose," she said, "Peg will be very angry. She would + beat me, if she got me back again." + </p> + <p> + "But she shan't. I will take good care of that." + </p> + <p> + Ida looked her gratitude. Her heart went out to those who + appeared to deal kindly with her, and she felt very grateful + to her companion for delivering her from Peg. + </p> + <p> + "Now," said Somerville, "perhaps you will be willing to tell + me what it was Peg required you to do." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Ida; "but she must never know that I told." + </p> + <p> + "I promise not to tell her." + </p> + <p> + "It was to pass bad money." + </p> + <p> + "Ha!" exclaimed her companion, quickly. "What sort of bad + money?" + </p> + <p> + "It was bad bills." + </p> + <p> + "Did she do much in that way?" + </p> + <p> + "A good deal. She goes out every day to buy things with the + money." + </p> + <p> + "I am glad to learn this," said John Somerville, + thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + "Why?" asked Ida, curiously; "are you glad she is wicked?" + </p> + <p> + "I am glad, because she won't dare to come for you, knowing I + can have her put in prison." + </p> + <p> + "Then I am glad, too." + </p> + <p> + "Ida," said her companion, after a pause, "I am obliged to go + out for a short time. You will find books on the table, and + can amuse yourself by reading. I won't make you sew, as Peg + did," he added, smiling. + </p> + <p> + "I like to read," she said. "I shall enjoy myself very well." + </p> + <p> + "If you get tired of reading, you can draw. You will find + plenty of paper on my desk." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Somerville went out, and Ida, as he had recommended, read + for a time. Then, growing tired, she went to the window and + looked out. A carriage was passing up the street slowly, on + account of a press of other carriages. Ida saw a face that + she knew. Forgetting her bonnet in her sudden joy, she ran + down the stairs into the street, and up to the carriage + window. + </p> + <p> + "Oh! Jack!" she exclaimed; "have you come for me?" + </p> + <p> + It was Mrs. Clifton's carriage, just returning from Peg's + lodgings. + </p> + <p> + "Why, it's Ida!" exclaimed Jack, almost springing through the + window of the carriage in his excitement. "Where did you come + from, and where have you been all this time?" + </p> + <p> + He opened the door of the carriage and drew Ida in. + </p> + <p> + "My child, my child! Thank God, you are restored to me!" + exclaimed Mrs. Clifton. + </p> + <p> + She drew the astonished child to her bosom. Ida looked up + into her face in bewilderment. Was it nature that prompted + her to return the lady's embrace? + </p> + <p> + "My God! I thank thee!" murmured Mrs. Clifton, "for this, my + child, was lost, and is found." + </p> + <p> + "Ida," said Jack, "this lady is your mother." + </p> + <p> + "My mother!" repeated the astonished child. "Have I got two + mothers?" + </p> + <p> + "This is your real mother. You were brought to our house when + you were an infant, and we have always taken care of you; but + this lady is your real mother." + </p> + <p> + Ida hardly knew whether to feel glad or sorry. + </p> + <p> + "And you are not my brother, Jack?" + </p> + <p> + "No, I am your guardian," said Jack, smiling. + </p> + <p> + "You shall still consider him your brother, Ida," said Mrs. + Clifton. "Heaven forbid that I should seek to wean your heart + from the friends who have cared so kindly for you! You may + keep all your old friends, and love them as dearly as ever. + You will only have one friend the more." + </p> + <p> + "Where are we going?" asked Ida, suddenly. + </p> + <p> + "We are going home." + </p> + <p> + "What will the gentleman say?" + </p> + <p> + "What gentleman?" + </p> + <p> + "The one that took me away from Peg's. Why, there he is now!" + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Clifton followed the direction of Ida's finger, as she + pointed to a gentleman passing. + </p> + <p> + "Is he the one?" asked Mrs. Clifton, in surprise. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, mamma," answered Ida, shyly. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Clifton pressed Ida to her bosom. It was the first time + she had ever been called mamma, for when Ida had been taken + from her she was too young to speak. The sudden thrill which + this name excited made her realize the full measure of her + present happiness. + </p> + <p> + Arrived at the house, Jack's bashfulness returned. Even Ida's + presence did not remove it. He hung back, and hesitated about + going in. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Clifton observed this. + </p> + <p> + "Jack," she said, "this house is to be your home while you + are in Philadelphia. Come in, and Thomas shall go for your + luggage." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps I had better go with him," said Jack. "Uncle Abel + will be glad to know that Ida is found." + </p> + <p> + "Very well; only return soon. As you are Ida's guardian," she + added, smiling, "you will need to watch over her." + </p> + <p> + "Well!" thought Jack, as he re-entered the elegant carriage, + and gave the proper direction to the coachman, "won't Uncle + Abel be a little surprised when he sees me coming home in + this style! Mrs. Clifton's a trump! Maybe that ain't exactly + the word, but Ida's in luck anyhow." + </p><a name="CH34"><!-- CH34 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIV + </h2> + <center> + NEVER TOO LATE TO MEND + </center> + <p> + Meanwhile Peg was passing her time wearily enough in prison. + It was certainly provoking to be deprived of her freedom just + when she was likely to make it most profitable. After some + reflection she determined to send for Mrs. Clifton, and + reveal to her all she knew, trusting to her generosity for a + recompense. + </p> + <p> + To one of the officers of the prison she communicated the + intelligence that she had an important revelation to make to + Mrs. Clifton, absolutely refusing to make it unless the lady + would visit her in prison. + </p> + <p> + Scarcely had Mrs. Clifton returned home after recovering her + child, than the bell rang, and a stranger was introduced. + </p> + <p> + "Is this Mrs. Clifton?" he inquired. + </p> + <p> + "It is." + </p> + <p> + "Then I have a message for you." + </p> + <p> + The lady looked at him inquiringly. + </p> + <p> + "Let me introduce myself, madam, as one of the officers + connected with the city prison. A woman was placed in + confinement this morning, who says she has a most important + communication to make to you, but declines to make it except + to you in person." + </p> + <p> + "Can you bring her here, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "That is impossible. We will give you every facility, + however, for visiting her in prison." + </p> + <p> + "It must be Peg," whispered Ida—"the woman that carried + me off." + </p> + <p> + Such a request Mrs. Clifton could not refuse. She at once + made ready to accompany the officer. She resolved to carry + Ida with her, fearful that, unless she kept her in her + immediate presence, she might disappear again as before. + </p> + <p> + As Jack had not yet returned, a hack was summoned, and they + proceeded at once to the prison. Ida shuddered as she passed + within the gloomy portal which shut out hope and the world + from so many. + </p> + <p> + "This way, madam!" + </p> + <p> + They followed the officer through a gloomy corridor, until + they came to the cell in which Peg was confined. + </p> + <p> + Peg looked up in surprise when she saw Ida enter with Mrs. + Clifton. + </p> + <p> + "What brought you two together?" she asked, abruptly. + </p> + <p> + "A blessed Providence," answered Mrs. Clifton. + </p> + <p> + "I saw Jack with her," said Ida, "and I ran out into the + street. I didn't expect to find my mother." + </p> + <p> + "There is not much for me to tell, then," said Peg. "I had + made up my mind to restore you to your mother. You see, Ida, + I've moved," she continued, smiling grimly. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, Peg," said Ida, her tender heart melted by the woman's + misfortunes, "how sorry I am to find you here!" + </p> + <p> + "Are you sorry?" asked Peg, looking at her in curious + surprise. "You haven't much cause to be. I've been your worst + enemy; at any rate, one of the worst." + </p> + <p> + "I can't help it," said the child, her face beaming with a + divine compassion. "It must be so sad to be shut up here, and + not be able to go out into the bright sunshine. I do pity + you." + </p> + <p> + Peg's heart was not wholly hardened. Few are. But it was long + since it had been touched, as now, by this warm-hearted pity + on the part of one whom she had injured. + </p> + <p> + "You're a good girl, Ida," she said, "and I'm sorry I've + injured you. I didn't think I should ever ask forgiveness of + anybody; but I do ask your forgiveness." + </p> + <p> + The child rose, and advancing toward her old enemy, took her + large hand in hers and said: "I forgive you, Peg." + </p> + <p> + "From your heart?" + </p> + <p> + "With all my heart." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, child. I feel better now. There have been times + when I have thought I should like to lead a better life." + </p> + <p> + "It is not too late now, Peg." + </p> + <p> + Peg shook her head. + </p> + <p> + "Who will trust me when I come out of here?" she said. + </p> + <p> + "I will," said Mrs. Clifton. + </p> + <p> + "You will?" repeated Peg, amazed. + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "After all I have done to harm you! But I am not quite so bad + as you may think. It was not my plan to take Ida from you. I + was poor, and money tempted me." + </p> + <p> + "Who could have had an interest in doing me this cruel + wrong?" asked the mother. + </p> + <p> + "One whom you know well—Mr. John Somerville." + </p> + <p> + "Surely you are wrong!" exclaimed Mrs. Clifton, in unbounded + astonishment. "That cannot be. What object could he have?" + </p> + <p> + "Can you think of none?" queried Peg, looking at her + shrewdly. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Clifton changed color. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps so," she said. "Go on." + </p> + <p> + Peg told the whole story, so circumstantially that there was + no room for doubt. + </p> + <p> + "I did not believe him capable of such great wickedness," + ejaculated Mrs. Clifton, with a pained and indignant look. + "It was a base, unmanly revenge to take. How could you lend + yourself to it?" + </p> + <p> + "How could I?" repeated Peg. "Madam, you are rich. You have + always had whatever wealth could procure. How can such as you + understand the temptations of the poor? When want and hunger + stare us in the face we have not the strength that you have + in your luxurious homes." + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me," said Mrs. Clifton, touched by these words, half + bitter, half pathetic. "Let me, at any rate, thank you for + the service you have done me now. When you are released from + your confinement come to me. If you wish to change your mode + of life, and live honestly henceforth, I will give you the + chance." + </p> + <p> + "After all the injury I have done you, you are yet willing to + trust me?" + </p> + <p> + "Who am I that I should condemn you? Yes, I will trust you, + and forgive you." + </p> + <p> + "I never expected to hear such words," said Peg, her heart + softened, and her arid eyes moistened by unwonted emotion; + "least of all from you. I should like to ask one thing." + </p> + <p> + "What is it?" + </p> + <p> + "Will you let her come and see me sometimes?" pointing to Ida + as she spoke. "It will remind me that this is not all a + dream—these words which you have spoken." + </p> + <p> + "She shall come," said Mrs. Clifton, "and I will come too, + sometimes." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you." + </p> + <p> + They left the prison behind them, and returned home. + </p> + <p> + There was a visitor awaiting them. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Somerville is in the drawing room," said the servant. + "He said he would wait till you came in." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Clifton's face flushed. + </p> + <p> + "I will go down and see him," she said. "Ida, you will remain + here." + </p> + <p> + She descended to the drawing room, and met the man who had + injured her. He had come with the resolve to stake his all + upon one desperate cast. His fortunes were desperate. But he + had one hope left. Through the mother's love for the + daughter, whom she had mourned so long, whom as he believed + he had it in his power to restore to her, he hoped to obtain + her consent to a marriage which would retrieve his fortunes + and gratify his ambition. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Clifton entered the room, and seated herself quietly. + She bowed slightly, but did not, as usual, offer her hand. + But, full of his own plans, Mr. Somerville took no note of + this change in her manner. + </p> + <p> + "How long is it since Ida was lost?" inquired Somerville, + abruptly. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Clifton heard this question in surprise. Why was it that + he had alluded to this subject? + </p> + <p> + "Seven years," she answered. + </p> + <p> + "And you believe she yet lives?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I am certain of it." + </p> + <p> + John Somerville did not understand her. He thought it was + only because a mother is reluctant to give up hope. + </p> + <p> + "It is a long time," he said. + </p> + <p> + "It is—a long time to suffer," said Mrs. Clifton, with + deep meaning. "How could anyone have the heart to work me + this great injury? For seven years I have led a sad and + solitary life—seven years that might have been + gladdened and cheered by my darling's presence!" + </p> + <p> + There was something in her tone that puzzled John Somerville, + but he was far enough from suspecting that she knew the + truth, and at last knew him too. + </p> + <p> + "Rosa," he said, after a pause, "I, too, believe that Ida + still lives. Do you love her well enough to make a sacrifice + for the sake of recovering her?" + </p> + <p> + "What sacrifice?" she asked, fixing her eye upon him. + </p> + <p> + "A sacrifice of your feelings." + </p> + <p> + "Explain. You speak in enigmas." + </p> + <p> + "Listen, then. I have already told you that I, too, believe + Ida to be living. Indeed, I have lately come upon a clew + which I think will lead me to her. Withdraw the opposition + you have twice made to my suit, promise me that you will + reward my affection by your hand if I succeed, and I will + devote myself to the search for Ida, resting not day or night + till I have placed her in your arms. This I am ready to do. + If I succeed, may I claim my reward?" + </p> + <p> + "What reason have you for thinking you would be able to find + her?" asked Mrs. Clifton, with the same inexplicable manner. + </p> + <p> + "The clew that I spoke of." + </p> + <p> + "And are you not generous enough to exert yourself without + demanding of me this sacrifice?" + </p> + <p> + "No, Rosa," he answered, firmly, "I am not unselfish enough. + I have long loved you. You may not love me; but I am sure I + can make you happy. I am forced to show myself selfish, since + it is the only way in which I can win you." + </p> + <p> + "But consider a moment. Put it on a different ground. If you + restore me my child now, will not even that be a poor + atonement for the wrong you did me seven years + since"—she spoke rapidly now—"for the grief, and + loneliness, and sorrow which your wickedness and cruelty have + wrought?" + </p> + <p> + "I do not understand you," he said, faltering. + </p> + <p> + "It is sufficient explanation, Mr. Somerville, to say I have + seen the woman who is now in prison—your paid + agent—and that I need no assistance to recover Ida. She + is in my house." + </p> + <p> + "Confusion!" + </p> + <p> + He uttered only this word, and, rising, left the presence of + the woman whom he had so long deceived and injured. + </p> + <p> + His grand scheme had failed. + </p><a name="CH35"><!-- CH35 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXV + </h2> + <center> + JACK'S RETURN + </center> + <p> + It is quite time to return to New York, from which Ida was + carried but three short weeks before. + </p> + <p> + "I am beginning to feel anxious about Jack," said Mrs. + Harding. "It's more than a week since we heard from him. I'm + afraid he's got into some trouble." + </p> + <p> + "Probably he's too busy to write," said the cooper, wishing + to relieve his wife's anxiety, though he, too, was not + without anxiety. + </p> + <p> + "I told you so," said Rachel, in one of her usual fits of + depression. "I told you Jack wasn't fit to be sent on such an + errand. If you'd only taken my advice you wouldn't have had + so much worry and trouble about him now. Most likely he's got + into the House of Reformation, or somewhere. I knew a young + man once who went away from home, and never came back again. + Nobody ever knew what became of him till his body was found + in the river half eaten by fishes." + </p> + <p> + "How can you talk so, Rachel?" said Mrs. Harding, "and about + your own nephew, too?" + </p> + <p> + "This is a world of trial and disappointment," said Rachel, + "and we might as well expect the worst, for it's sure to + come." + </p> + <p> + "At that rate there wouldn't be much joy in life," said + Timothy. "No, Rachel, you are wrong. God did not send us into + the world to be melancholy. He wants us to enjoy ourselves. + Now, I have no idea that Jack has jumped into the river, or + become food for the fishes. Even if he should happen to + tumble in, he can swim." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose," said Rachel, with mild sarcasm, "you expect him + to come home in a coach and four, bringing Ida with him." + </p> + <p> + "Well," said the cooper, good-humoredly, "that's a good deal + better to anticipate than your suggestion, and I don't know + but it's as probable." + </p> + <p> + Rachel shook her head dismally. + </p> + <p> + "Bless me!" interrupted Mrs. Harding, looking out of the + window, in a tone of excitement, "there's a carriage just + stopped at the door, and—yes, it is Jack and Ida, too!" + </p> + <p> + The strange fulfillment of her own ironical suggestion struck + even Aunt Rachel. She, too, hastened to the window, and saw a + handsome carriage drawn, not by four horses, but by two, + standing before the door. + </p> + <p> + Jack had already jumped out, and was now assisting Ida to + alight. No sooner was Ida on firm ground than she ran into + the house, and was at once clasped in the arms of her adopted + mother. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, mother," she exclaimed, "how glad I am to see you once + more!" + </p> + <p> + "Haven't you a kiss for me, too, Ida?" said the cooper, his + face radiant with joy. "You don't know how much we've missed + you." + </p> + <p> + "And I am so glad to see you all, and Aunt Rachel too!" + </p> + <p> + To her astonishment, Aunt Rachel, for the first time in her + remembrance, kissed her. There was nothing wanting to her + welcome home. + </p> + <p> + But the observant eyes of the spinster detected what had + escaped the cooper and his wife, in their joy at Ida's + return. + </p> + <p> + "Where did you get this handsome dress, Ida?" she asked. + </p> + <p> + Then, for the first time, the cooper's family noticed that + Ida was more elegantly dressed than when she went away. She + looked like a young princess. + </p> + <p> + "That Mrs. Hardwick didn't give you this gown, I'll be + bound!" said Aunt Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, I've so much to tell you," said Ida, breathlessly. "I've + found my mother—my other mother!" + </p> + <p> + A pang struck to the honest hearts of Timothy Harding and his + wife. Ida must leave them. After all the happy years which + they had watched over and cared for her, she must leave them + at length. + </p> + <p> + While they were silent in view of their threatened loss, an + elegantly dressed lady appeared on the threshold. Smiling, + radiant with happiness, Mrs. Clifton seemed, to the cooper's + family, almost a being from another sphere. + </p> + <p> + "Mother," said Ida, taking the hand of the stranger, and + leading her up to Mrs. Harding, "this is my other mother, who + has always taken such good care of me, and loved me so well." + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Harding," said Mrs, Clifton, her voice full of feeling, + "how can I ever thank you for your kindness to my child?" + </p> + <p> + "My child!" + </p> + <p> + It was hard for Mrs. Harding to hear another speak of Ida + this way. + </p> + <p> + "I have tried to do my duty by her," she said, simply. "I + love her as if she were my own." + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said the cooper, clearing his throat, and speaking a + little huskily, "we love her so much that we almost forgot + that she wasn't ours. We have had her since she was a baby, + and it won't be easy at first to give her up." + </p> + <p> + "My good friends," said Mrs. Clifton, earnestly, "I + acknowledge your claim. I shall not think of asking you to + make that sacrifice. I shall always think of Ida as only a + little less yours than mine." + </p> + <p> + The cooper shook his head. + </p> + <p> + "But you live in Philadelphia," he said. "We shall lose sight + of her." + </p> + <p> + "Not unless you refuse to come to Philadelphia, too." + </p> + <p> + "I am a poor man. Perhaps I might not find work there." + </p> + <p> + "That shall be my care, Mr. Harding. I have another + inducement to offer. God has bestowed upon me a large share + of this world's goods. I am thankful for it since it will + enable me in some slight way to express my sense of your + great kindness to Ida. I own a neat brick house, in a quiet + street, which you will find more comfortable than this. Just + before I left Philadelphia, my lawyer, by my directions, drew + up a deed of gift, conveying the house to you. It is Ida's + gift, not mine. Ida, give this to Mr. Harding." + </p> + <p> + The child took the parchment and handed it to the cooper, who + took it mechanically, quite bewildered by his sudden good + fortune. + </p> + <p> + "This for me?" he said. + </p> + <p> + "It is the first installment of my debt of gratitude; it + shall not be the last," said Mrs. Clifton. + </p> + <p> + "How shall I thank you, madam?" said the cooper. "To a poor + man, like me, this is a most munificent gift." + </p> + <p> + "You will best thank me by accepting it," said Mrs. Clifton. + "Let me add, for I know it will enhance the value of the gift + in your eyes, that it is only five minutes' walk from my + house, and Ida will come and see you every day." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, mamma," said Ida. "I couldn't be happy away from father + and mother, and Jack and Aunt Rachel." + </p> + <p> + "You must introduce me to Aunt Rachel," said Mrs. Clifton, + with a grace all her own. + </p> + <p> + Ida did so. + </p> + <p> + "I am glad to make your acquaintance, Miss Rachel," said Mrs. + Clifton. "I need not say that I shall be glad to see you, as + well as Mr. and Mrs. Harding, at my house very frequently." + </p> + <p> + "I'm much obleeged to ye," said Aunt Rachel; "but I don't + think I shall live long to go anywheres. The feelin's I have + sometimes warn me that I'm not long for this world." + </p> + <p> + "You see, Mrs. Clifton," said Jack, his eyes dancing with + mischief, "we come of a short-lived family. Grandmother died + at eighty-two, and that wouldn't give Aunt Rachel long to + live." + </p> + <p> + "You impudent boy!" exclaimed Aunt Rachel, in great + indignation. Then, relapsing into melancholy: "I'm a poor, + afflicted creetur, and the sooner I leave this scene of trial + the better." + </p> + <p> + "I'm afraid, Mrs. Clifton," said Jack, "Aunt Rachel won't + live to wear that silk dress you brought along. I'd take it + myself, but I'm afraid it wouldn't be of any use to me." + </p> + <p> + "A silk dress!" exclaimed Rachel, looking up with sudden + animation. + </p> + <p> + It had long been her desire to have a new silk dress, but in + her brother's circumstances she had not ventured to hint at + it. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Mrs. Clifton, "I ventured to purchase dresses for + both of the ladies. Jack, if it won't be too much trouble, + will you bring them in?" + </p> + <p> + Jack darted out, and returned with two ample patterns of + heavy black silk, one for his mother, the other for his aunt. + Aunt Rachel would not have been human if she had not eagerly + examined the rich fabric with secret satisfaction. She + inwardly resolved to live a little longer. + </p> + <p> + There was a marked improvement in her spirits, and she + indulged in no prognostications of evil for an unusual + period. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Clifton and Ida stopped to supper, and before they + returned to the hotel an early date was fixed upon for the + Hardings to remove to Philadelphia. + </p> + <p> + In the evening Jack told the eventful story of his adventures + to eager listeners, closing with the welcome news that he was + to receive the reward of a thousand dollars offered for the + detection of the counterfeiters. + </p> + <p> + "So you see, father, I am a man of fortune!" he concluded. + </p> + <p> + "After all, Rachel, it was a good thing we sent Jack to + Philadelphia," said the cooper. + </p> + <p> + Rachel did not notice this remark. She was busily discussing + with her sister-in-law the best way of making up her new + silk. + </p><a name="CH36"><!-- CH36 --></a> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVI + </h2> + <center> + CONCLUSION + </center> + <p> + As soon as arrangements could be made, Mr. Harding and his + whole family removed to Philadelphia. The house which Mrs. + Clifton had given them exceeded their anticipations. It was + so much better and larger than their former dwelling that + their furniture would have appeared to great disadvantage in + it. But Mrs. Clifton had foreseen this, and they found the + house already furnished for their reception. Even Aunt Rachel + was temporarily exhilarated in spirits when she was ushered + into the neatly furnished chamber which was assigned to her + use. + </p> + <p> + Through Mrs. Clifton's influence the cooper was enabled to + establish himself in business on a larger scale, and employ + others, instead of working himself for hire. Ida was such a + frequent visitor that it was hard to tell which she + considered her home—her mother's elegant residence, or + the cooper's comfortable dwelling. + </p> + <p> + Jack put his thousand dollars into a savings bank, to + accumulate till he should be ready to go into business for + himself, and required it as capital. A situation was found + for him in a merchant's counting-room, and in due time he was + admitted into partnership and became a thriving young + merchant. + </p> + <p> + Ida grew lovelier as she grew older, and her rare beauty and + attractive manners caused her to be sought after. It may be + that some of my readers are expecting that she will marry + Jack; but they will probably be disappointed. They are too + much like brother and sister for such a relation to be + thought of. Jack reminds her occasionally of the time when + she was his little ward, and he was her guardian and + protector. + </p> + <p> + One day, as Rachel was walking up Chestnut Street, she was + astonished by a hearty grasp of the hand from a bronzed and + weather-beaten stranger. + </p> + <p> + "Release me, sir," she said, hysterically. "What do you mean + by such conduct?" + </p> + <p> + "Surely you have not forgotten your old friend, Capt. + Bowling," said the stranger. + </p> + <p> + Rachel brightened up. + </p> + <p> + "I didn't remember you at first," she said, "but now I do." + </p> + <p> + "Now tell me, how are all your family?" + </p> + <p> + "They are all well, all except me—I don't think I am + long for this world." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes, you are. You are too young to think of leaving us + yet," said Capt. Bowling, heartily. + </p> + <p> + Rachel was gratified by this unusual compliment. + </p> + <p> + "Are you married?" asked Capt. Bowling, abruptly. + </p> + <p> + "I shall never marry," she said. "I shouldn't dare to trust + my happiness to a man." + </p> + <p> + "Not if I were that man?" said the captain, persuasively. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, Capt. Bowling!" murmured Rachel, agitated. "How can you + say such things?" + </p> + <p> + "I'll tell you why, Miss Harding. I'm going to give up the + sea, and settle down on land. I shall need a good, sensible + wife, and if you'll take me, I'll make you Mrs. Bowling at + once." + </p> + <p> + "This is so unexpected, Capt. Bowling," said Rachel; but she + did not look displeased. "Do you think it would be proper to + marry so suddenly?" + </p> + <p> + "It will be just the thing to do. Now, what do you + say—yes or no." + </p> + <p> + "If you really think it will be right," faltered the agitated + spinster. + </p> + <p> + "Then it's all settled?" + </p> + <p> + "What will Timothy say?" + </p> + <p> + "That you've done a sensible thing." + </p> + <p> + Two hours later, leaning on Capt. Bowling's arm, Mrs. Rachel + Bowling re-entered her brother's house. + </p> + <p> + "Why, Rachel, where have you been?" asked Mrs. Harding, and + she looked hard at Rachel's companion. + </p> + <p> + "This is my consort, Capt. Bowling," said Rachel, nervously. + </p> + <p> + "This is Mrs. Bowling, ma'am," said the captain. + </p> + <p> + "When were you married?" asked the cooper. It was dinner + time, and both he and Jack were at home. + </p> + <p> + "Only an hour ago. We'd have invited you, but time was + pressing." + </p> + <p> + "I thought you never meant to be married, Aunt Rachel," said + Jack, mischievously. + </p> + <p> + "I—I don't expect to live long, and it won't make much + difference," said Rachel. + </p> + <p> + "You'll have to consult me about that," said Capt. Bowling. + "I don't want you to leave me a widower too soon." + </p> + <p> + "I propose that we drink Mrs. Bowling's health," said Jack. + "Can anybody tell me why she's like a good ship?" + </p> + <p> + "Because she's got a good captain," said Mrs. Harding. + </p> + <p> + "That'll do, mother; but there's another reason—because + she's well manned." + </p> + <p> + Capt. Bowling evidently appreciated the joke, judging from + his hearty laughter. He added that it wouldn't be his fault + if she wasn't well rigged, too. + </p> + <p> + The marriage has turned out favorably. The captain looks upon + his wife as a superior woman, and Rachel herself has few fits + of depression nowadays. They have taken a small house near + Mr. Harding's, and Rachel takes no little pride in her snug + and comfortable home. + </p> + <p> + One word more. At the close of her term of imprisonment, Peg + came to Mrs. Clifton and reminded her of her promise. Dick + was dead, and she was left alone in the world. Imprisonment + had not hardened her, as it often does. She had been redeemed + by the kindness of those whom she had injured. Mrs. Clifton + found her a position, in which her energy and administrative + ability found fitting exercise, and she leads a laborious and + useful life in a community where her history is not known. As + for John Somerville, with the last remnants of a once + handsome fortune, he purchased a ticket to Australia, and set + out on a voyage for that distant country. But he never + reached his destination. The vessel was wrecked in a violent + storm, and he was not among the four that were saved. + Henceforth Ida and her mother are far from his evil + machinations, and we may confidently hope for them a happy + and peaceful life. + </p> +<br> +<hr class="full"> +<p>***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JACK'S WARD***</p> +<p>******* This file should be named 10729-h.txt or 10729-h.zip *******</p> +<p>This and all associated files of various formats will be found in:<br /> +<a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/1/0/7/2/10729">https://www.gutenberg.org/1/0/7/2/10729</a></p> +<p>Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed.</p> + +<p>Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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