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| author | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 04:36:01 -0700 |
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| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 04:36:01 -0700 |
| commit | 4c7d852d9548ba4b3251e762d24e30295fff6c4c (patch) | |
| tree | 9b3672bdae8f050388709bc169a814f0a8c7b4dd /11111-h | |
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| -rw-r--r-- | 11111-h/11111-h.htm | 10727 |
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diff --git a/11111-h/11111-h.htm b/11111-h/11111-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ac26c4d --- /dev/null +++ b/11111-h/11111-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,10727 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> + <head> + <meta content="pg2html (binary v0.17)" name="linkgenerator" /> + <title> + Only an Irish Boy, by Horatio Alger, Jr. + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .75em; margin-bottom: .75em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 5%; margin-right: 5%; text-align: justify; font-size: 80%; font-style: italic;} + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + .xx-small {font-size: 60%;} + .x-small {font-size: 75%;} + .small {font-size: 85%;} + .large {font-size: 115%;} + .x-large {font-size: 130%;} + .indent5 { margin-left: 5%;} + .indent10 { margin-left: 10%;} + .indent15 { margin-left: 15%;} + .indent20 { margin-left: 20%;} + .indent25 { margin-left: 25%;} + .indent30 { margin-left: 30%;} + .indent35 { margin-left: 35%;} + .indent40 { margin-left: 40%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {position: absolute; right: 1%; font-size: 0.6em; + font-variant: normal; font-style: normal; + text-align: right; background-color: #FFFACD; + border: 1px solid; padding: 0.3em;text-indent: 0em;} + .side { float: left; font-size: 75%; width: 15%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; text-align: left; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + .head { float: left; font-size: 90%; width: 98%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; text-align: center; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + p.pfirst, p.noindent {text-indent: 0} + span.dropcap { float: left; margin: 0 0.1em 0 0; line-height: 0.8 } + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} +</style> + </head> + <body> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 11111 ***</div> + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + ONLY AN IRISH BOY + </h1> + <h3> + Or, Andy Burke's Fortunes + </h3> + <h2> + by Horatio Alger, Jr. + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + <b>CONTENTS</b> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> <b>ONLY AN IRISH BOY</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I — ANDY BURKE </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II — A SKIRMISH </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III — ANDY AND HIS MOTHER </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV — MRS. PRESTON </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V — A PROFITABLE JOB </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI — THE TWO OLD MAIDS </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII — ANDY OBTAINS A PLACE </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII — THE MIDNIGHT ALARM </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX — WHAT FOLLOWED </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X — ANDY'S DEBUT AT SCHOOL </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI — A GAME OF BALL </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII — A LITTLE DIFFICULTY </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII — GODFREY'S REBELLION </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV — MR. STONE IS CALLED TO + ACCOUNT </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV — MRS. PRESTON'S DISCOMFITURE + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI — THE CHRISTMAS PRESENT </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII — INTRODUCES AN ADVENTURER + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII — RIDING WITH A HIGHWAYMAN + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX — BAFFLED A ROBBER </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX — HOW THE NEWS WAS RECEIVED </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI — A MODEL WIFE </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII — COLONEL PRESTON'S RECOVERY + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII — MRS. BURKE HAS GOOD FORTUNE + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER XXIV — ANDY'S JOURNEY </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER XXV — THE MERCHANT FROM PORTLAND + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER XXVI — SPINNING THE WEB </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER XXVII — THE DROP GAME </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER XXVIII — THE GUEST OF TWO HOTELS + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0029"> CHAPTER XXIX — A STARTLING EVENT </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0030"> CHAPTER XXX — COLONEL PRESTON'S WILL </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0031"> CHAPTER XXXI — MRS. PRESTON'S INTENTIONS + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0032"> CHAPTER XXXII — MRS. PRESTON'S REVENGE </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0033"> CHAPTER XXXIII — ANDY LOSES HIS PLACE </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0034"> CHAPTER XXXIV — THE WILL AT LAST </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0035"> CHAPTER XXXV — MRS. PRESTON IS UNPLEASANTLY + SURPRISED </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0036"> CHAPTER XXXVI — ALL'S WELL THAT ENDS WELL + </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0001" id="link2H_4_0001"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + ONLY AN IRISH BOY + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I — ANDY BURKE + </h2> + <p> + "John, saddle my horse, and bring him around to the door." + </p> + <p> + The speaker was a boy of fifteen, handsomely dressed, and, to judge from + his air and tone, a person of considerable consequence, in his own + opinion, at least. The person addressed was employed in the stable of his + father, Colonel Anthony Preston, and so inferior in social condition that + Master Godfrey always addressed him in imperious tones. + </p> + <p> + John looked up and answered, respectfully: + </p> + <p> + "Master Godfrey, your horse is sick of the disease, and your father left + orders that he wasn't to go out on no account." + </p> + <p> + "It's my horse," said Godfrey; "I intend to take him out." + </p> + <p> + "Maybe it's yours, but your father paid for him." + </p> + <p> + "None of your impudence, John," answered Godfrey, angrily. "Am I master, + or are you, I should like to know!" + </p> + <p> + "Neither, I'm thinking," said John, with a twinkle in his eye. "It's your + father that's the master." + </p> + <p> + "I'm master of the horse, anyway, so saddle him at once." + </p> + <p> + "The colonel would blame me," objected John. + </p> + <p> + "If you don't, I'll report you and get you dismissed." + </p> + <p> + "I'll take the risk, Master Godfrey," said the servant, good-humoredly. + "The colonel won't be so unreasonable as to send me away for obeying his + own orders." + </p> + <p> + Here John was right, and Godfrey knew it, and this vexed him the more. He + had an inordinate opinion of himself and his own consequence, and felt + humiliated at being disobeyed by a servant, without being able to punish + him for his audacity. This feeling was increased by the presence of a + third party, who was standing just outside the fence. + </p> + <p> + As this third party is our hero, I must take a separate paragraph to + describe him. He was about the age of Godfrey, possibly a little shorter + and stouter. He had a freckled face, full of good humor, but at the same + time resolute and determined. He appeared to be one who had a will of his + own, but not inclined to interfere with others, though ready to stand up + for his own rights. In dress he compared very unfavorably with the young + aristocrat, who was biting his lips with vexation. In fact, though he is + my hero, his dress was far from heroic. He had no vest, and his coat was + ragged, as well as his pants. He had on a pair of shoes two or three times + too large for him. They had not been made to order, but had been given him + by a gentleman of nearly double his size, and fitted him too much. He wore + a straw hat, for it was summer, but the brim was semi-detached, and a part + of his brown hair found its way through it. + </p> + <p> + Now Godfrey was just in the mood for picking a quarrel with somebody, and + as there was no excuse for quarreling any further with John, he was rather + glad to pitch into the young stranger. + </p> + <p> + "Who are you?" he demanded, in his usual imperious tone, and with a + contraction of the brow. + </p> + <p> + "Only an Irish boy!" answered the other, with a droll look and a slight + brogue. + </p> + <p> + "Then what business have you leaning against my fence?" again demanded + Godfrey, imperiously. + </p> + <p> + "Shure, I didn't know it was your fence." + </p> + <p> + "Then you know now. Quit leaning against it." + </p> + <p> + "Why should I, now? I don't hurt it, do I?" + </p> + <p> + "No matter—I told you to go away. We don't want any beggars here." + </p> + <p> + "Shure, I don't see any," said the other boy, demurely. + </p> + <p> + "What are you but a beggar?" + </p> + <p> + "Shure, I'm a gintleman of indepindent fortune." + </p> + <p> + "You look like it," said Godfrey, disdainfully. "Where do you keep it?" + </p> + <p> + "Here!" said the Irish boy, tapping a bundle which he carried over his + shoulder, wrapped in a red cotton handkerchief, with a stick thrust + through beneath the knot. + </p> + <p> + "What's your name?" + </p> + <p> + "Andy Burke. What's yours?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't feel under any obligations to answer your questions," said + Godfrey, haughtily. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you? Then what made you ask me?" + </p> + <p> + "That's different. You are only an Irish boy." + </p> + <p> + "And who are you?" + </p> + <p> + "I am the only son of Colonel Anthony Preston," returned Godfrey, + impressively. + </p> + <p> + "Are you, now? I thought you was a royal duke, or maybe Queen Victoria's + oldest boy." + </p> + <p> + "Fellow, you are becoming impertinent." + </p> + <p> + "Faith, I didn't mean it. You look so proud and gintale that it's jist a + mistake I made." + </p> + <p> + "You knew that we had no dukes in America," said Godfrey, suspiciously. + </p> + <p> + "If we had, now, you'd be one of them," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "Why? What makes you say so?" + </p> + <p> + "You're jist the picture of the Earl of Barleycorn's ildest son that I saw + before I left Ireland." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey possessed so large a share of ridiculous pride that he felt + pleased with the compliment, though he was not clear about its sincerity. + </p> + <p> + "Where do you live?" he asked, with a slight lowering of his tone. + </p> + <p> + "Where do I live? Shure, I don't live anywhere now, but I'm going to live + in the village. My mother came here a month ago." + </p> + <p> + "Why didn't you come with her?" + </p> + <p> + "I was workin' with a farmer, but the work gave out and I came home. Maybe + I'll find work here." + </p> + <p> + "I think I know where your mother lives," said John, who had heard the + conversation. "She lives up the road a mile or so, in a little house with + two rooms. It's where old Jake Barlow used to live." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, sir. I guess I'll be goin', then, as my mother'll be expectin' + me. Do you know if she's well?" and a look of anxiety came over the boy's + honest, good-natured face. + </p> + <p> + The question was addressed to John, but of this Godfrey was not quite + sure. He thought the inquiry was made of him, and his pride was touched. + </p> + <p> + "What should I know of your mother, you beggar?" he said, with a sneer. "I + don't associate with such low people." + </p> + <p> + "Do you mane my mother?" said Andy, quickly, and he, too, looked angry and + threatening. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I do. What are you going to do about it?" demanded Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + "You'd better take it back," said Andy, his good-humored face now dark + with passion. + </p> + <p> + "Do you think I am afraid of such a beggar as you?" sneered Godfrey. "You + appear to forget that you are speaking to a gentleman." + </p> + <p> + "Shure, I didn't know it," returned Andy, hotly. "You're no gentleman if + you insult my mother, and if you'll come out here for a minute I'll give + you a bating." + </p> + <p> + "John," said Godfrey, angrily, "will you drive that beggar away?" + </p> + <p> + Now, John's sympathies were rather with Andy than with his young master. + He had no great admiration for Godfrey, having witnessed during the year + he had been in his father's employ too much of the boy's arrogance and + selfishness to feel much attachment for him. Had he taken any part in the + present quarrel, he would have preferred espousing the cause of the Irish + boy; but that would not have been polite, and he therefore determined to + preserve his neutrality. + </p> + <p> + "That ain't my business, Master Godfrey," he said. "You must fight your + own battles." + </p> + <p> + "Go away from here," said Godfrey, imperiously advancing toward that part + of the fence against which Andy Burke was leaning. + </p> + <p> + "Will you take back what you said agin' my mother?" + </p> + <p> + "No, I won't." + </p> + <p> + "Then you're a blackguard, if you are a rich man's son." + </p> + <p> + The blood rushed to Godfrey's face on the instant. This was a palpable + insult. What! he, a rich man's son, the only son and heir of Colonel + Anthony Preston, with his broad acres and ample bank account—he to + be called a blackguard by a low Irish boy. His passion got the better of + him, and he ran through the gate, his eyes flashing fire, bent on + exterminating his impudent adversary. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II — A SKIRMISH + </h2> + <p> + Andy Burke was not the boy to run away from an opponent of his own size + and age. Neither did he propose to submit quietly to the thrashing which + Godfrey designed to give him. He dropped his stick and bundle, and squared + off scientifically at his aristocratic foe. + </p> + <p> + Godfrey paused an instant before him. + </p> + <p> + "I'm going to give you a thrashing," he said; "the worst thrashing you + ever had." + </p> + <p> + "Are you, now?" asked Andy, undismayed. "Come on, thin; I'm ready for + you." + </p> + <p> + "You're an impudent young ruffian." + </p> + <p> + "So are you." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey's aristocratic blood boiled at this retort, and he struck out at + Andy, but the latter knew what was coming, and, swift as a flash, warded + it off, and fetched Godfrey a blow full upon his nose, which started the + blood. Now, the pain and the sight of the blood combined filled him with + added fury, and he attempted to seize Andy around the waist and throw him. + But here again he was foiled. The young Irish boy evaded his grasp, and, + seizing him in turn, by an adroit movement of the foot, tripped him up. + Godfrey fell heavily on his back. + </p> + <p> + Andy withdrew a little, and did not offer to hold him down, as Godfrey + would have been sure to do under similar circumstances. "Have you got + enough?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "That wasn't fair," exclaimed Godfrey, jumping up hastily, deeply + mortified because he had been worsted in the presence of John, who, sooth + to say, rather enjoyed his young master's overthrow. + </p> + <p> + He rushed impetuously at Andy, but he was blinded by his own impetuosity, + and his adversary, who kept cool and self-possessed, had, of course, the + advantage. So the engagement terminated as before—Godfrey was + stretched once more on the sidewalk. He was about to renew the assault, + however, when there was an interruption. This interruption came in the + form of Colonel Preston himself, who was returning from a business meeting + of citizens interested in establishing a savings bank in the village. + </p> + <p> + "What's all this, Godfrey?" he called out, in a commanding tone. + </p> + <p> + Godfrey knew that when his father spoke he must obey, and he therefore + desisted from the contemplated attack. He looked up at his father and + said, sulkily: + </p> + <p> + "I was punishing this Irish boy for his impertinence." + </p> + <p> + John grinned a little at this way of putting it, and his father said: + </p> + <p> + "It looked very much as if he were punishing you." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't get fair hold," said Godfrey, sulkily. + </p> + <p> + "So he was impertinent, was he? What did he say?" + </p> + <p> + "He said I was no gentleman." + </p> + <p> + Andy Burke listened attentively to what was said, but didn't attempt to + justify himself as yet. + </p> + <p> + "I have sometimes had suspicions of that myself," said his father, + quietly. + </p> + <p> + Though Godfrey was an only son, his father was sensible enough to be fully + aware of his faults. If he was indulged, it was his mother, not his + father, that was in fault. Colonel Preston was a fair and just man, and + had sensible views about home discipline; but he was overruled by his + wife, whose character may be judged from the fact that her son closely + resembled her. She was vain, haughty, and proud of putting on airs. She + considered herself quite the finest lady in the village, but condescended + to associate with the wives of the minister, the doctor, and a few of the + richer inhabitants, but even with them she took care to show that she + regarded herself superior to them all. She was, therefore, unpopular, as + was her son among his companions. However, these two stood by each other, + and Mrs. Preston was sure to defend Godfrey in all he did, and complained + because his father did not do the same. + </p> + <p> + "I didn't think you'd turn against me, and let a low boy insult me," + complained Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + "Why do you call him low?" + </p> + <p> + "Because he's only an Irish boy." + </p> + <p> + "Some of our most distinguished men have been Irish boys or of Irish + descent. I don't think you have proved your point." + </p> + <p> + "He's a beggar." + </p> + <p> + "I'm not a beggar," exclaimed Andy, speaking for the first time. "I never + begged a penny in all my life." + </p> + <p> + "Look at his rags," said Godfrey, scornfully. + </p> + <p> + "You would be in rags, too, if you had to buy your own clothes. I think I + should respect you very much more under the circumstances," returned his + father. + </p> + <p> + "The colonel's a-givin' it to him," thought John, with a grin. "'Twon't do + the young master any harm." + </p> + <p> + "What is your name?" inquired Colonel Preston, turning now to our hero, as + his son seemed to have no more to say. + </p> + <p> + "Andy Burke." + </p> + <p> + "Do you live here?" + </p> + <p> + "I've just come to town, sir. My mother lives here." + </p> + <p> + "Where does she live?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know, sir, just. He knows," pointing out John. + </p> + <p> + "I calcerlate his mother lives in old Jake Barlow's house," said John. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, the Widow Burke. Yes, I know. I believe Mrs. Preston employs her + sometimes. Well, Andy, if that's your name, how is it that I catch you + fighting with my son? That is not very creditable, unless you have good + cause." + </p> + <p> + "He called my mother a low woman," said Andy, "and then he run up and hit + me." + </p> + <p> + "Did you do that, Godfrey?" + </p> + <p> + "He was putting on too many airs. He talked as if he was my equal." + </p> + <p> + "He appears to be more than your equal in strength," said his father. + "Well, was that all?" + </p> + <p> + "It was about all." + </p> + <p> + "Then I think he did perfectly right, and I hope you'll profit by the + lesson you have received." + </p> + <p> + "He is a gentleman," thought Andy. "He ain't hard on a boy because he's + poor." + </p> + <p> + Colonel Preston went into the house, but Godfrey lingered behind a moment. + He wanted to have a parting shot at his adversary. He could fight with + words, if not with blows. + </p> + <p> + "Look here!" he said, imperiously; "don't let me see you round here + again." + </p> + <p> + "Why not?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't want to see you." + </p> + <p> + "Then you can look the other way," said Andy, independently. + </p> + <p> + "This is my house." + </p> + <p> + "I thought it was your father's." + </p> + <p> + "That's the same thing. You'd better stay at home with your mother." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you," said Andy; "you're very kind. May I come along the road + sometimes?" + </p> + <p> + "If you do, walk on the other side." + </p> + <p> + Andy laughed. He was no longer provoked, but amused. + </p> + <p> + "Then, by the same token, you'd better not come by my mother's house," he + said, good-humoredly. + </p> + <p> + "I don't want to come near your miserable shanty," said Godfrey, + disdainfully. + </p> + <p> + "You may come, if you keep on the other side of the road," said Andy, + slyly. + </p> + <p> + Godfrey was getting disgusted; for in the war of words, as well as of + blows, his ragged opponent seemed to be getting the better of him. He + turned on his heel and entered the house. He was sure of one who would + sympathize with him in his dislike and contempt for Andy—this was, + of course, his mother. Besides, he had another idea. He knew that Mrs. + Burke had been employed by his mother, occasionally, to assist in the + house. It occurred to him that it would be a fine piece of revenge to + induce her to dispense hereafter with the poor woman's services. Bent on + accomplishing this creditable retaliation, he left his young opponent + master of the field. + </p> + <p> + "I must be goin'," said Andy, as he picked up his bundle and suspended it + from his stick. "Will I find the house where my mother lives, easy?" + </p> + <p> + The question was, of course, addressed to John, who had just turned to go + to the stable. + </p> + <p> + "You can't miss it," answered John. "It's a mile up the road, stands a + little way back. There's a few hills of potatoes in the front yard. How + long since you saw your mother?" + </p> + <p> + "It's three months." + </p> + <p> + "Does she know you are coming to-day?" + </p> + <p> + "No. I would have wrote to her, but my fingers isn't very ready with the + pen." + </p> + <p> + "Nor mine either," said John. "I'd rather take a licking any time than + write a letter. Come round and see us some time." + </p> + <p> + "The boy'll lick me," said Andy, laughing. + </p> + <p> + "I guess you can manage him." + </p> + <p> + Andy smiled, for it was his own conviction, also. With his bundle on his + shoulder he trudged on, light of heart, for he was about to see his mother + and sister, both of whom he warmly loved. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III — ANDY AND HIS MOTHER + </h2> + <p> + The house in which the Widow Burke and her daughter lived was a very + humble one. It had not been painted for many years, and the original coat + had worn off, leaving it dark and time-stained. But when Mrs. Burke came + to town, a short time before, it was the only dwelling she could hire that + was held at a rent within her means. So she and Mary, who was now eleven + years old, had moved in their scanty furniture and made it look as much + like a home as possible. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Burke had not always been as poor as now. She was the daughter of an + Irish tradesman, and had received quite a good education. In due time she + married a small farmer, who was considered to be in fair circumstances, + but there came a bad year, and misfortunes of various kinds came together. + The last and heaviest of all was fever, which prostrated her husband on a + bed of sickness. Though his wife watched over him night and day with all + the devotion of love, it was all of no avail. He died, and she found + herself left with about a hundred pounds—after his debts were paid. + She was advised to go to America with her two children, and did so. That + was five years before. They had lived in various places—but the + little sum she had left over, after the passage of the three was paid, had + long since melted away, and she was forced to get a living as she could. + </p> + <p> + Since she had come to Crampton, leaving Andy at work for a farmer in the + place where they had last lived, she had obtained what sewing she could + from the families in the village, and had besides obtained a chance to + help about the ironing at Colonel Preston's. Washing was too hard for her, + for her strength was not great. + </p> + <p> + At the time of our introduction she was engaged in making a shirt, one of + half a dozen which she had engaged to make for Dr. Plympton, the village + doctor. She had no idea that Andy was so near, having heard nothing of his + having left his place, but it was of him she was speaking. + </p> + <p> + "I wish I could see Andy," she sighed, looking up from her work. + </p> + <p> + "So do I, mother." + </p> + <p> + "The sight of him would do my eyes good, he's such a lively lad, Andy is—always + in good spirits." + </p> + <p> + "Shure, he's got a good heart, mother dear. It wouldn't be so lonely like + if he was here." + </p> + <p> + "I would send for him if there was anything to do, Mary; but we are so + poor that we must all of us stay where we can get work." + </p> + <p> + "When do you go to Colonel Preston's, mother? Is it to-morrow?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, my dear." + </p> + <p> + "I'm always lonely when you are away." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps you would come with me, Mary, dear. Mrs. Preston wouldn't object, + I'm thinkin'." + </p> + <p> + "If Andy was at home I wouldn't feel so lonely." + </p> + <p> + While she was speaking Andy himself had crept under the window, and heard + her words. He was planning a surprise, but waited for the last moment to + announce himself. He waited to hear what reply his mother would say. + </p> + <p> + "I think we'll see him soon, Mary, dear." + </p> + <p> + "What makes you say so, mother?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know. I've got a feeling in my bones that we'll soon meet. The + blessed saints grant that it may be so." + </p> + <p> + "Your bones are right this time, mother," said a merry voice. + </p> + <p> + And Andy, popping up from his stooping position, showed himself at the + window. + </p> + <p> + There was a simultaneous scream from Mary and her mother. + </p> + <p> + "Is it you, Andy?" exclaimed Mary. + </p> + <p> + "It isn't nobody else," said Andy, rather ungrammatically. + </p> + <p> + "Come in, Andy, my darling—come in, and tell me if you are well," + said his mother, dropping the shirt on which she was at work, and rising + to her feet. + </p> + <p> + "I'll be with you in a jiffy," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + And, with a light leap, he cleared the window sill, and stood in the + presence of his mother and sister, who vied with each other in hugging the + returned prodigal. + </p> + <p> + "You'll choke me, Sister Mary," said Andy, good-humoredly. "Maybe you + think I'm your beau." + </p> + <p> + "Don't speak to her of beaux, and she only eleven years old," said his + mother. "But you haven't told us why you came." + </p> + <p> + "Faith, mother, it was because the work gave out, and I thought I'd pack + my trunk and come and see you and Mary. That's all." + </p> + <p> + "We are glad to see you, Andy, dear, but," continued his mother, taking a + survey of her son's appearance for the first time, "you're lookin' like a + beggar, with your clothes all in rags." + </p> + <p> + Andy laughed. + </p> + <p> + "Faith, it's about so, mother. There was no one to mend 'em for me, and + I'm more used to the hoe than the needle." + </p> + <p> + "I will sew up some of the holes when you're gone to bed, Andy. Are you + sure you're well, lad?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, mother? Jist wait till you see me atin', mother. You'll think I've + got a healthy appetite." + </p> + <p> + "I never thought, Andy. The poor lad must be hungry. Mary, see what there + is in the closet." + </p> + <p> + "There's nothing but some bread, mother," said Mary. + </p> + <p> + Indeed bread and potatoes were the main living of the mother and daughter, + adopted because they were cheap. They seldom ventured on the extravagance + of meat, and that was one reason, doubtless, for Mrs. Burke's want of + strength and sometimes feeling faint and dizzy while working at her + needle. + </p> + <p> + "Is there no meat in the house, Mary?" + </p> + <p> + "Not a bit, mother." + </p> + <p> + "Then go and see if there's an egg outside." + </p> + <p> + The widow kept a few hens, having a henhouse in one corner of the back + yard. The eggs she usually sold, but Andy was at home now, and needed + something hearty, so they must be more extravagant than usual. + </p> + <p> + Mary went out, and quickly returned with a couple of eggs. + </p> + <p> + "Here they are, mother, two of them. The black hen was settin' on them, + but I drove her away, and you can hear her cackling. Shure, Andy needs + them more than she does." + </p> + <p> + "Will you have them boiled or fried, Andy?" asked his mother. + </p> + <p> + "Any way, mother. I'm hungry enough to ate 'em raw. It's hungry work + walkin' ten miles wid a bundle on your back, let alone the fightin'." + </p> + <p> + "Fighting!" exclaimed Mrs. Burke, pausing in drawing out the table. + </p> + <p> + "Fightin', Andy?" chimed in Mary, in chorus. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, mother," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "And who did you fight with?" asked the widow, anxiously. + </p> + <p> + "With a boy that feels as big as a king; maybe bigger." + </p> + <p> + "What's his name?" + </p> + <p> + "I heard his father call him Godfrey." + </p> + <p> + "What, Godfrey Preston?" exclaimed Mrs. Burke in something like + consternation. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, that's the name. He lives in a big house a mile up the road." + </p> + <p> + "What made you fight with him, Andy?" inquired his mother, anxiously. + </p> + <p> + "He began it." + </p> + <p> + "What could he have against you? He didn't know you." + </p> + <p> + "He thought as I only was an Irish boy he could insult me, and call me + names, but I was too much for him." + </p> + <p> + "I hope you didn't hurt him?" + </p> + <p> + "I throwed him twice, mother, but then his father came up and that put a + stop to the fight." + </p> + <p> + "And what did his father say?" + </p> + <p> + "He took my part, mother, when he found out how it was, and scolded his + son. Shure, he's a gentleman." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Colonel Preston is a gentleman." + </p> + <p> + "And that's where he isn't like his son, I'm thinkin'." + </p> + <p> + "No. Godfrey isn't like his father. It's his mother he favors." + </p> + <p> + "Faith, and I don't call it favoring," said Andy. Is the old lady as ugly + and big-feelin' as the son?" + </p> + <p> + "She's rather a hard woman, Andy. I go up to work there one day every + week." + </p> + <p> + "Do you, mother?" said Andy, not wholly pleased to hear that his mother + was employed by the mother of his young enemy. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Andy." + </p> + <p> + "What is it you do?" + </p> + <p> + "I help about the ironing. To-morrow's my day for going there." + </p> + <p> + "I wish you could stay at home, and not go out to work, mother," said + Andy, soberly. "You don't look strong, mother, dear. I'm afraid you're not + well." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes, Andy, I am quite well. I shall be better, too, now that you are + at home. I missed you very much. It seemed lonely without you." + </p> + <p> + "I must find out some way to earn money, mother," said Andy. "I'm young + and strong, and I ought to support you." + </p> + <p> + "You can help me, Andy," said Mrs. Burke, cheerfully. + </p> + <p> + She took up the shirt and resumed her sewing. + </p> + <p> + "I'm afraid you're too steady at the work, mother," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "I shall be ironing to-morrow. It's a change from sewing, Andy. Mary, it's + time to take off the eggs." + </p> + <p> + Andy was soon partaking of the frugal meal set before him. He enjoyed it, + simple as it was, and left not a particle of the egg or a crumb of the + bread. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV — MRS. PRESTON + </h2> + <p> + Whenever Godfrey Preston had any difficulty with his father, he always + went to his mother, and from her, right or wrong, he was sure to obtain + sympathy. So in the present instance, failing to receive from his father + that moral support to which he deemed himself entitled, on entering the + house he sought out his mother. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston, who was rather a spare lady, with thin lips and a sharp, + hatchet-like face, was in her own room. She looked up as Godfrey entered. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Godfrey, what's the matter?" she asked, seeing on her son's face an + unmistakable expression of discontent. + </p> + <p> + "Matter enough, mother. Father's always against me." + </p> + <p> + "I know it. He appears to forget that you are his son. What is it now?" + </p> + <p> + "He came up just as I was thrashing a boy down in the yard." + </p> + <p> + "What boy?" + </p> + <p> + "Nobody you know, mother. It was only an Irish boy." + </p> + <p> + "What was your reason for punishing him?" asked Mrs. Preston, adopting + Godfrey's version of the affair. + </p> + <p> + "He was impudent to me. He was leaning against the fence, and I ordered + him away. He was a ragged boy, with a bundle on a stick. Of course, when + he wouldn't move, I went out and thrashed him." + </p> + <p> + "Was your father there?" + </p> + <p> + "He came up in the midst of it, and, instead of taking my part, he took + the part of the Irish boy." + </p> + <p> + "I don't see how Mr. Preston can be so unfair," said his wife. "It is his + duty to stand by his family." + </p> + <p> + "I felt ashamed to have him scold me before the impudent boy. Of course, + he enjoyed it, and I suppose he will think he can be impudent to me + again." + </p> + <p> + "No doubt. I will speak to your father about it. He really shouldn't be so + inconsiderate. But what is that stain on your coat, Godfrey? I should + think you had been down on your back on the ground." + </p> + <p> + "Oh," said Godfrey, rather embarrassed, "I happened to slip as I was + wrestling with the fellow, and fell on my back. However, I was up again + directly and gave it to him, I can tell you. If father hadn't stopped me + I'd have laid him out," he continued, in a swaggering tone. + </p> + <p> + It will be seen that Godfrey did not always confine himself to the truth. + Indeed, he found it rather hard at all times to admit either that he had + been in the wrong or had been worsted. Even if his mother sometimes + suspected that his accounts were a trifle distorted, she forbore to + question their accuracy. Mother and son had a sort of tacit compact by + which they stood by each other, and made common cause against Colonel + Preston. + </p> + <p> + "Don't you know the boy? Doesn't he live in the neighborhood?" asked Mrs. + Preston, after a pause. + </p> + <p> + "He's just come into the town, but I'll tell you who he is. He's the son + of that woman that comes to work for you once a week." + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Burke?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; he told me that his name was Andy Burke." + </p> + <p> + "He ought to know his place too well to be impudent to one in your + position." + </p> + <p> + "So I think." + </p> + <p> + "I shall speak to Mrs. Burke about her son's bad behavior." + </p> + <p> + "I wish you'd discharge her. That's a good way to punish the boy." + </p> + <p> + "I shouldn't object to doing that, Godfrey, but Mrs. Burke is a capital + hand at ironing shirts. Yours and your father's never looked so nice as + they have since she has been here." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey looked a little discontented. Being essentially mean, he thought + it would be an excellent plan to strike the son through the mother. + </p> + <p> + "You might threaten her, mother, a little. Tell her to make her boy behave + himself, or you'll discharge her." + </p> + <p> + "I will certainly speak to her on the subject, Godfrey." + </p> + <p> + At the table Mrs. Preston introduced the subject of Godfrey's wrongs. + </p> + <p> + "I am surprised, Mr. Preston, that you took part against Godfrey when he + was rudely assaulted this morning." + </p> + <p> + "I thought Godfrey in the wrong, my dear. That was my reason." + </p> + <p> + "You generally appear to think your own son in the wrong. You are ready to + take part with any stranger against him," said Mrs. Preston, in a + complaining manner. + </p> + <p> + "I don't think you are quite right just there," said her husband, + good-humoredly. "I must say, however, that Godfrey generally is in the + wrong." + </p> + <p> + "You are very unjust to him." + </p> + <p> + "I don't mean to be. I would be glad to praise him, but he is so + overbearing to those whom he considers his inferiors, that I am frequently + ashamed of his manner of treating others." + </p> + <p> + "The boy has some reason to feel proud. He must maintain his position." + </p> + <p> + "What is his position?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't think you need to ask. As our son he is entitled to a degree of + consideration." + </p> + <p> + "He will receive consideration enough if he deserves it, but this is a + republic, and all are supposed to be on an equality." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston tossed her head. + </p> + <p> + "That's well enough to say, but don't you consider yourself above a man + that goes round sawing wood for a living?" + </p> + <p> + "At any rate I would treat him with courtesy. Because I am richer, and + have a better education, it is no reason why I should treat him with + contempt." + </p> + <p> + "Then I don't share your sentiments," said Mrs. Preston. "I am thankful + that I know my position better. I mean to uphold the dignity of the + family, and I hope my son will do the same." + </p> + <p> + Colonel Preston shrugged his shoulders as his wife swept from the room. He + knew of old her sentiments on this subject, and he was aware that she was + not likely to become a convert to his more democratic ideas. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid she will spoil Godfrey," he thought. "The boy is getting + intolerable. I am glad this Irish boy gave him a lesson. He seems a + fine-spirited lad. I will help him if I can." + </p> + <p> + "Ellen," said Mrs. Preston the next morning, "when Mrs. Burke comes let me + know." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "She's come," announced Ellen, half an hour later. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston rose from her seat and went into the laundry. + </p> + <p> + "Good-morning, Mrs. Preston," said Mrs. Burke. + </p> + <p> + "Good-morning," returned the other, stiffly. "Mrs. Burke, I hear that your + son behaved very badly to my Godfrey yesterday." + </p> + <p> + "It isn't like Andy, ma'am," said the mother, quietly. "He's a good, + well-behaved lad." + </p> + <p> + "Godfrey tells me that he made a brutal assault upon him, quite forgetting + his superior position." + </p> + <p> + "Are you sure Master Godfrey didn't strike him first?" asked the mother. + </p> + <p> + "Even if he had, your son shouldn't have struck back." + </p> + <p> + "Why not?" asked Mrs. Burke, her eyes flashing with spirit, meek as she + generally was. + </p> + <p> + "Because it was improper," said Mrs. Preston, decisively. + </p> + <p> + "I don't see that, ma'am. Andy isn't the boy to stand still and be + struck." + </p> + <p> + "Do I understand," said Mrs. Preston, in a freezing tone, "that you uphold + your son in his atrocious conduct?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am. I stand up for Andy, for he's a good boy, and if he struck + Master Godfrey it was because he was struck first." + </p> + <p> + "That is enough," said Mrs. Preston, angrily. "I shall not require your + services after to-day, Mrs. Burke." + </p> + <p> + "Just as you like, ma'am," said Mrs. Burke, with quiet pride, but she + thought, with a sinking heart, of the gap which this would make in her + scanty income. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V — A PROFITABLE JOB + </h2> + <p> + After finishing her work at Colonel Preston's Mrs. Burke went home. She + did not see Mrs. Preston again, for the latter sent her the money for her + services by Ellen. + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Preston says you're not to come next week," said Ellen. + </p> + <p> + "She told me so herself this morning. She is angry because I took the part + of my boy against Master Godfrey." + </p> + <p> + "Godfrey's the hatefulest boy I ever see," said Ellen, whose grammar was a + little defective. "He's always putting on airs." + </p> + <p> + "He struck my Andy, and Andy struck him back." + </p> + <p> + "I'm glad he did," said Ellen, emphatically. "I hope he'll do it again." + </p> + <p> + "I don't want the boys to fight. Andy's a peaceable lad; and he'll be + quiet if he's let alone. But he's just like his poor father, and he won't + let anybody trample on him." + </p> + <p> + "That's where he's right," said Ellen. "I'm sorry you're not coming again, + Mrs. Burke." + </p> + <p> + "So am I, Ellen, for I need the money, but I'll stand by my boy." + </p> + <p> + "You iron real beautiful. I've heard Mrs. Preston say so often. She won't + get nobody that'll suit her so well." + </p> + <p> + "If you hear of anybody else that wants help, Ellen, will you send them to + me?" + </p> + <p> + This Ellen faithfully promised, and Mrs. Burke went home, sorry to have + lost her engagement, but not sorry to have stood up for Andy, of whom she + was proud. + </p> + <p> + Andy was at home when she returned. He had found enough to do at home to + occupy him so far. The next day he meant to go out in search of + employment. When his mother got back she found him cutting some brush + which he had obtained from the neighboring woods. + </p> + <p> + "There, mother," he said, pointing to a considerable pile, "you'll have + enough sticks to last you a good while." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, Andy, dear. That'll save Mary and me a good deal of trouble." + </p> + <p> + There was nothing in her words, but something in her tone, which led Andy + to ask: + </p> + <p> + "What's the matter, mother? Has anything happened?" + </p> + <p> + "I've got through working for Mrs. Preston, Andy." + </p> + <p> + "Got through? For to-day, you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "No; I'm not going to work there again." + </p> + <p> + "Why not?" + </p> + <p> + "She complained of you, Andy." + </p> + <p> + "What did she say, mother?" asked our hero, listening with attention. + </p> + <p> + "She said you ought not to have struck Godfrey." + </p> + <p> + "Did you tell her he struck me first?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I did." + </p> + <p> + "And what did she say, thin?" + </p> + <p> + "She said that you ought not to have struck him back." + </p> + <p> + "And what did you say, mother?" + </p> + <p> + "I said my Andy wasn't the boy to stand still and let anybody beat him." + </p> + <p> + "Good for you, mother! Bully for you! That's where you hit the nail on the + head. And what did the ould lady say then?" + </p> + <p> + "She told me I needn't come there again to work." + </p> + <p> + "I'm glad you're not goin', mother. I don't want you to work for the likes + of her. Let her do her own ironin', the ould spalpeen!" + </p> + <p> + In general, Andy's speech was tolerably clear of the brogue, but whenever + he became a little excited, as at present, it was more marked. He was more + angry at the slight to his mother than he would have been at anything, + however contemptuous, said to himself. He had that chivalrous feeling of + respect for his mother which every boy of his age ought to have, more + especially if that mother is a widow. + </p> + <p> + "But, Andy, I'm very sorry for the money I'll lose." + </p> + <p> + "How much is it, mother?" + </p> + <p> + "Seventy-five cents." + </p> + <p> + "I'll make it up, mother." + </p> + <p> + "I know you will if you can, Andy; but work is hard to get, and the pay is + small." + </p> + <p> + "You might go back and tell Mrs. Preston that I'm a dirty spalpeen, and + maybe she'd take you back, mother." + </p> + <p> + "I wouldn't slander my own boy like that if she'd take me back twenty + times." + </p> + <p> + "That's the way to talk, mother," said Andy, well pleased. "Don't you be + afeared—we'll get along somehow. More by token, here's three dollars + I brought home with me yisterday." + </p> + <p> + Andy pulled out from his pocket six silver half-dollars, and offered them + to his mother. + </p> + <p> + "Where did you get them, Andy?" she asked, in surprise. + </p> + <p> + "Where did I get them? One way and another, by overwork. We won't starve + while them last, will we?" + </p> + <p> + Andy's cheerful tone had its effect upon his mother. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps you're right, Andy," she said, smiling. "At any rate we won't cry + till it's time." + </p> + <p> + "To-morrow I'll go out and see if I can find work." + </p> + <p> + "Suppose you don't find it, Andy?" suggested his sister. + </p> + <p> + "Then I'll take in washing," said Andy, laughing. "It's an iligant washer + I'd make, wouldn't I now?" + </p> + <p> + "Nobody'd hire you more than once, Andy." + </p> + <p> + By and by they had supper. If they had been alone they would have got + along on bread and tea; but "Andy needs meat, for he's a growing boy," + said his mother. + </p> + <p> + And so Mary was dispatched to the butcher's for a pound and a half of + beefsteak, which made the meal considerably more attractive. Mrs. Burke + felt that it was extravagant, particularly just as her income was + diminished, but she couldn't bear to stint Andy. At first she was not + going to eat, herself, meaning to save a part for Andy's breakfast; but + our hero found her out, and declared he wouldn't eat a bit if his mother + did not eat, too. So she was forced to take her share, and it did her + good, for no one can keep up a decent share of strength on bread and tea + alone. + </p> + <p> + The next morning Andy went out in search of work. He had no very definite + idea where to go, or to whom to apply, but he concluded to put in an + application anywhere he could. + </p> + <p> + He paused in front of the house of Deacon Jones, a hard-fisted old farmer, + whose reputation for parsimony was well known throughout the village, but + of this Andy, being a newcomer, was ignorant. + </p> + <p> + "Wouldn't you like to hire a good strong boy?" he asked, entering the + yard. + </p> + <p> + The deacon looked up. + </p> + <p> + "Ever worked on a farm?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "Can you milk?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "Where did you work?" + </p> + <p> + "In Carver." + </p> + <p> + "What's your name?" + </p> + <p> + "Andy Burke." + </p> + <p> + "Where do you live?" + </p> + <p> + "With my mother, Mrs. Burke, a little way down the road." + </p> + <p> + "I know—the Widder Burke." + </p> + <p> + "Have you got any work for me?" + </p> + <p> + "Wait a minute, I'll see." + </p> + <p> + The deacon brought out an old scythe from the barn, and felt of the edge. + There was not much danger in so doing, for it was as dull as a hoe. + </p> + <p> + "This scythe needs sharpening," he said. "Come and turn the grindstone." + </p> + <p> + "Well, here's a job, anyhow," thought Andy. "Wonder what he'll give me." + </p> + <p> + He sat down and began to turn the grindstone. The deacon bore on heavily, + and this made it hard turning. His arms ached, and the perspiration stood + on his brow. It was certainly pretty hard work, but then he must be + prepared for that, and after all he was earning money for his mother. + Still the time did seem long. The scythe was so intolerably dull that it + took a long time to make any impression upon it. + </p> + <p> + "Kinder hard turnin', ain't it?" said the deacon. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "This scythe ain't been sharpened for ever so long. It's as dull as a + hoe." + </p> + <p> + However, time and patience work wonders, and at length the deacon, after a + careful inspection of the blade of the scythe, released Andy from his toil + of an hour and a half, with the remark: + </p> + <p> + "I reckon that'll do." + </p> + <p> + He put the scythe in its place and came out. + </p> + <p> + Andy lingered respectfully for the remuneration of his labor. + </p> + <p> + "He ought to give me a quarter," he thought. But the deacon showed no + disposition to pay him, and Andy became impatient. + </p> + <p> + "I guess I'll be goin'," he said. + </p> + <p> + "All right. I ain't got anything more for you to do," said the deacon. + </p> + <p> + "I'll take my pay now," said Andy, desperately. + </p> + <p> + "Pay? What for?" inquired the deacon, innocently. + </p> + <p> + "For turning the grindstone." + </p> + <p> + "You don't mean ter say you expect anything for that?" said the deacon in + a tone of surprise. + </p> + <p> + "Yes I do," said Andy. "I can't work an hour and a half for nothing." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't expect to pay for such a trifle," said the old man, fumbling in + his pocket. + </p> + <p> + Finally he brought out two cents, one of the kind popularly known as + bung-towns, which are not generally recognized as true currency. + </p> + <p> + "There," said he in an injured tone. "I'll pay you, though I didn't think + you'd charge anything for any little help like that." + </p> + <p> + Andy looked at the proffered compensation with mingled astonishment and + disgust. + </p> + <p> + "Never mind," he said. "You can keep it. You need it more'n I do, I'm + thinkin'!" + </p> + <p> + "Don't you want it?" asked the deacon, surprised. + </p> + <p> + "No, I don't. I'm a poor boy, but I don't work an hour and a half for two + cents, one of 'em bad. I'd rather take no pay at all." + </p> + <p> + "That's a cur'us boy," said the deacon, slowly sliding the pennies back + into his pocket. "I calc'late he expected more just for a little job like + that. Does he think I'm made of money?" + </p> + <p> + As Andy went out of the yard, the idea dawned upon the deacon that he had + saved two cents, and his face was luminous with satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI — THE TWO OLD MAIDS + </h2> + <p> + "He's the meanest man I ever saw," thought Andy. "Does he think I work on + nothing a year, and find myself? Divil a bit of work will I do for him + agin, if I know it." But better luck was in store for Andy. Quarter of a + mile farther on, in a two-story house, old-fashioned but neat, lived two + maiden ladies of very uncertain age, Misses Priscilla and Sophia Grant. I + am not aware that any relationship existed between them and our + distinguished ex-President. Nevertheless, they were of very respectable + family and connections, and of independent property, owning bank stock + which brought them in an annual income of about twelve hundred dollars, in + addition to the house they occupied, and half a dozen acres of land + thereunto pertaining. Now, this was not a colossal fortune, but in a + country place like Crampton it made them ladies of large property. + </p> + <p> + Priscilla was the elder of the two, and general manager. Sophia contented + herself with being the echo of her stronger-minded sister, and was very + apt to assent to her remarks, either by repeating them, or by saying: + "Just so." She was a mild, inoffensive creature, but very charitable and + amiable, and so little given to opposition that there was always the + greatest harmony between them. They kept a gardener and out-of-door + servant of all work, who cultivated the land, sawed and split their wood, + ran of errands, and made himself generally useful. He had one drawback, + unfortunately. He would occasionally indulge to excess in certain fiery + alcoholic compounds sold at the village tavern, and, as natural + consequence, get drunk. He had usually the good sense to keep out of the + way while under the influence of liquor, and hitherto the good ladies had + borne with and retained him in their employ. + </p> + <p> + But a crisis had arrived. That morning he had come for orders while + inebriated, and in his drunken folly had actually gone so far as to call + Miss Priscilla darling and offer to kiss her. + </p> + <p> + Miss Priscilla was, of course, horrified, and so expressed herself. + </p> + <p> + "Law, Sophia," she said, "I came near fainting away. The idea of his + offering to kiss me." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "So presuming." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "Of course, I couldn't think of employing him any longer." + </p> + <p> + "Couldn't think of it." + </p> + <p> + "He might have asked to kiss me again." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "Or you!" + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia, in some excitement of manner. + </p> + <p> + "The neighbors would talk." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "So I told him that I was very sorry, but it would be necessary for him to + find work somewhere else." + </p> + <p> + "But who will do our work?" inquired Sophia, with a rare, original + suggestion. + </p> + <p> + "We must get somebody else." + </p> + <p> + "So we must," acquiesced Sophia, as if she had suddenly received light on + a very dark subject. + </p> + <p> + "But I don't know who we can get." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + At that moment there was a knock at the door. Priscilla answered it in + person. They kept no domestic servant, only a gardener. + </p> + <p> + "I've brought the load of wood you ordered, ma'am," said the teamster. + "Where shall I put it?" + </p> + <p> + "In the backyard. John—no, John has left us. I will show you, + myself." + </p> + <p> + She put on a cape-bonnet and indicated the place in the yard where she + wanted the wood dumped. + </p> + <p> + Then she returned to the house. + </p> + <p> + "It's very awkward that John should have acted so," she said, in a tone of + annoyance. "I don't know who is to saw and split that wood." + </p> + <p> + "We couldn't do it," said Sophia, with another original suggestion. + </p> + <p> + "Of course not. That would be perfectly absurd." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe there is enough wood sawed and split to last through the + day." + </p> + <p> + "We must have some split." + </p> + <p> + "Of course. But I really don't know of anyone in the neighborhood that we + could get." + </p> + <p> + "John." + </p> + <p> + "John has gone away. You know why." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps he wouldn't kiss us if we told him not to," suggested Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid you are a goose," said Priscilla, composedly. + </p> + <p> + "Just so," slipped out of Sophia's mouth from force of habit, but her + sister was so used to hearing it that she took no particular notice of it + on the present occasion. + </p> + <p> + It was just at this time that Andy, released from his severe and + unrequited labor for Deacon Jones, came by. He saw the wood being unloaded + in the back yard, and an idea struck him. + </p> + <p> + "Maybe I can get the chance of sawin' and splittin' that wood. I'll try, + anyway. I wonder who lives there?" + </p> + <p> + He immediately opened the front gate, and marching up to the front door, + knocked vigorously. + </p> + <p> + "There's somebody at the door," said Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps it's John come back," said Priscilla. "I am afraid of going to + open it. He might want to kiss me again." + </p> + <p> + "I'll go," said Sophia, rising with unwonted alacrity. + </p> + <p> + "He might want to kiss you." + </p> + <p> + "I'll tell him not to." + </p> + <p> + "We'll both go," said Priscilla, decisively. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, the two sisters, for mutual protection, both went to the + door, and opened it guardedly. Their courage returned when they saw that + it was only a boy. + </p> + <p> + "What do you want?" asked Priscilla. + </p> + <p> + "Just so," chimed in Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "You've got a load of wood in the back yard," commenced Andy. + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "Do you want it sawed and split?" + </p> + <p> + "Just so," answered the younger sister, brightening up. + </p> + <p> + "Can you do it?" inquired Priscilla. + </p> + <p> + "Try me and see," answered Andy. + </p> + <p> + "You're not a man." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," chimed in her sister. + </p> + <p> + "Faith, and I soon will be," said Andy. "I can saw and split wood as well + as any man you ever saw." + </p> + <p> + "What is your name?" + </p> + <p> + "Andy Burke." + </p> + <p> + "Are you a—Hibernian?" inquired Priscilla. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know what you mane by that same," said Andy, perplexed. + </p> + <p> + "To what nation do you belong?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, that's what you want, ma'am. I'm only an Irish boy." + </p> + <p> + "And you say your name is Burke?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Are you related to Burke, the great orator? He was an Irishman, I + believe." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "He was my great-grandfather, ma'am," answered Andy, who had never heard + of the eminent orator, but thought the claim would improve his chances of + obtaining the job of sawing and splitting wood. + </p> + <p> + "Your great-grandfather!" exclaimed Priscilla, in astonishment. "Really, + this is most extraordinary. And you are poor?" + </p> + <p> + "If I wasn't I wouldn't be goin' round sawin' wood, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "To think that the grandson of the great Burke should come to us for + employment," said Priscilla, who was in some respects easily taken in. "I + think we must hire him, Sophia." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps he could take John's place altogether." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "I must find out whether he understands gardening." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + Andy stood by, waiting patiently for the decision, and hoping that it + might be favorable. Of course, it was wrong for him to tell a lie, but he + thought his engagement depended upon it, and, although a very good boy in + the main, he was not altogether perfect, as my readers are destined to + find out. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII — ANDY OBTAINS A PLACE + </h2> + <p> + "Do you understand the care of a garden?" asked Miss Priscilla. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," answered Andy, promptly. + </p> + <p> + "Then you are used to agricultural labor?" + </p> + <p> + "I've been workin' on a farm all summer." + </p> + <p> + "Our man has just left us, and we must hire somebody else." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," chimed in Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "And if you are competent——" + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "Try me," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "I really think we'd better, Sophia," said Priscilla, turning to her + sister. + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "We'll try you for a week. What compensation do you require?" + </p> + <p> + "Is it wages you mane?" + </p> + <p> + Of course, Sophia was the speaker. + </p> + <p> + "How much did you give the man you had before me?" asked Andy, shrewdly. + </p> + <p> + "Twenty-five dollars a month and board." + </p> + <p> + "That'll suit me," said Andy, audaciously. + </p> + <p> + At the farmer's for whom he had been working he had received board and a + dollar a week. + </p> + <p> + "But you are a boy. Men folks get more than boys." + </p> + <p> + "I'll do as much work as he did any day," said Andy, stoutly. + </p> + <p> + "I really don't know what to say. I think we'll give you five dollars the + first week, and then we will decide about the future." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "I'm to eat here?" inquired Andy. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, you will make your home here. We will put you in John's room." + </p> + <p> + "When shall I begin?" + </p> + <p> + "We shall need some wood split at once." + </p> + <p> + "All right, ma'am; but it's dinner time. I'll just go home and get a bite + to keep up my strength." + </p> + <p> + "You can have your dinner here. It will be ready in half an hour." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "All right," said Andy; "I'm agreeable." + </p> + <p> + "Do you live in the village?" + </p> + <p> + "I do now. My mother lives up the road a bit." + </p> + <p> + "Very well. Go and split some wood, and we'll call you in to dinner. + You'll find the ax and the saw in the shed." + </p> + <p> + Andy found the articles referred to, and straight-way went to work. He was + really a "smart boy to work," as the phrase is, and he went to work with a + will. He was greatly elated at having secured so profitable a job. He + meant to give satisfaction, so as to keep it. Five dollars a week and + board seemed to him a magnificent income, and compared very favorably with + his wages at Farmer Belknap's, where he had been working all summer. + </p> + <p> + "It's lucky I came here," he said to himself, as he plied the saw + energetically; "but what queer old ladies they are, especially the one + that's always sayin' 'just so.' If I'd tell her I'd got fifty-seven + grand-children I'll bet she'd say, 'Just so.'" + </p> + <p> + Miss Sophia was looking out of the back window to see how their new "man" + worked. Occasionally Priscilla, as she was setting the table, glanced out + of the window in passing. + </p> + <p> + "He takes hold as if he knew how," she observed. + </p> + <p> + "Just so," responded her sister. + </p> + <p> + "I think he works faster than John." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "It's very strange that he should be the great-grandson of the great + Burke." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "And that he should be sawing wood for us, too." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "I think we must be kind to him, sister." + </p> + <p> + "Just so. He won't try to kiss you, Priscilla," said Sophia, with a sudden + thought. + </p> + <p> + "You are a goose, sister," said Priscilla. + </p> + <p> + "Just so," assented the other, from force of habit. + </p> + <p> + In due time dinner was ready, and Andy was summoned from the woodpile. He + was in nowise sorry for the summons. He had a hearty appetite at all + times, and just now it was increased by his unrequited labor in turning + the grindstone for Deacon Jones, as well as by the half-hour he had spent + at his new task. + </p> + <p> + The Misses Grant did their own work, as I have before observed. They were + excellent cooks, and the dinner now upon the table, though plain, was very + savory and inviting. Andy's eyes fairly danced with satisfaction as they + rested on the roast beef and vegetables, which emitted an odor of a highly + satisfactory character. At the farmer's where he had last worked, the + table had been plentifully supplied, but the cooking was very rudimentary. + </p> + <p> + "Sit down, Andrew," said Miss Priscilla. "I think that is your name." + </p> + <p> + "They call me 'Andy,' ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "That means Andrew. Shall I give you some meat?" + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Will you have it rare or well done?" + </p> + <p> + "Well done, ma'am. I have it rare enough, anyhow." + </p> + <p> + "Sophia, Andrew has made a joke," said Priscilla, with a decorous smile. + </p> + <p> + "Just so, Priscilla," and Sophia smiled also. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose your family has been reduced to poverty, Andrew, or you would + not be seeking employment of this character?" + </p> + <p> + "True for you, ma'am," said Andy, with his mouth full. + </p> + <p> + "How was your family property lost?" + </p> + <p> + "Faith, ma'am, by speculation," said Andy, hazarding a guess. + </p> + <p> + "That is very sad. Sophia, we must never speculate." + </p> + <p> + "Just so, Priscilla." + </p> + <p> + "Or we might lose all our money." + </p> + <p> + "And have to saw wood for a living," said Sophia, with another brilliant + idea. + </p> + <p> + Andy was so amused at the picture thus suggested that he came near + choking, but recovered himself, after a violent attack of coughing. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid, Sophia, we should scarcely make a living in that way," said + Priscilla, with a smile. + </p> + <p> + "Just so," acquiesced her sister. + </p> + <p> + "How long have you been in this country, Andrew?" + </p> + <p> + "Six years, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + Andy kept at work industriously. His appetite proved to be quite equal to + the emergency, but his evident enjoyment of the dinner only gratified the + ladies, who, though eccentric, were kind-hearted, and not in the least + mean. + </p> + <p> + "What will I do, ma'am?" asked our hero. + </p> + <p> + "You may go on sawing wood." + </p> + <p> + So Andy resumed work, and worked faithfully during the afternoon. By this + time there was a large pile of wood ready for the stove. + </p> + <p> + At half-past four Miss Priscilla appeared at the door. + </p> + <p> + "Andrew," she said. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Do you feel tired?" + </p> + <p> + "A little, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Does your mother know where you are?" + </p> + <p> + "No, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Would you like to go home and tell her?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am, I would." + </p> + <p> + "You can go now or after supper, as you prefer." + </p> + <p> + "Then I'll go now." + </p> + <p> + "But remember, we want you to come back and sleep here. We do not feel + safe without a man in the house." + </p> + <p> + Andy felt rather flattered at being referred to as a man. + </p> + <p> + "I'll be back any time you name, ma'am," he said. + </p> + <p> + "Then be here at nine o'clock." + </p> + <p> + "Very well, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + Andy put on his coat and hurried home. He wanted to tell his mother and + Mary the good news about his engagement at such unexpected good wages. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Burke looked up inquiringly as he entered the house. + </p> + <p> + "Where have you been, Andy?" she asked. "I thought I had lost you." + </p> + <p> + "You don't lose me so easy, mother. Shure, I've been at work." + </p> + <p> + "At work?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes—I've got a place." + </p> + <p> + "What, already? You are lucky, Andy." + </p> + <p> + "You'll think so, mother. How much do you think I get besides board, + mind?" + </p> + <p> + "A dollar a week?" + </p> + <p> + "What do you say to three dollars?" + </p> + <p> + "You're a lucky boy, Andy. I'm glad for you." + </p> + <p> + "What do you say to five dollars a week, mother?" asked Andy, in + exultation. + </p> + <p> + "You're jokin' now, Andy," said his sister. "I don't believe you've got a + place at all." + </p> + <p> + "I have, thin, and it's five dollars a week I'm to get. Ask the ould maids + I'm workin' for." + </p> + <p> + "The Miss Grants?" + </p> + <p> + "I expect so. They're mighty queer old ladies. One of 'm is always sayin' + 'just so.'" + </p> + <p> + "That is Miss Sophia Grant." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Andy, mimicking her. + </p> + <p> + "You mustn't do that, Andy. Then it's them you're workin' for?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, and they're mighty kind. I'm goin' back to sleep there to-night. + They want a man to purtect them." + </p> + <p> + Mary laughed. + </p> + <p> + "Do you call yourself a man, Andy? What could you do if a burglar tried to + get in?" + </p> + <p> + "I'd give him what Paddy did the drum," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "Supper is ready," announced his mother. + </p> + <p> + It was a cheerful meal. Andy had done much better than his mother + expected, and it seemed likely that they would get along in spite of her + being discharged by Mrs. Preston. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII — THE MIDNIGHT ALARM + </h2> + <p> + "It's time for me to be goin' back," said Andy, as the clock indicated + twenty minutes to nine. + </p> + <p> + "I wish you could sleep at home, Andy," said his mother. + </p> + <p> + "They want me to purtect them," said our hero, with a little importance. + "I'll pack my clothes in a handkerchief." + </p> + <p> + "I've got a little carpetbag," said his mother. "That looks more + respectable. When you have earned enough money, you must have a new suit + of clothes." + </p> + <p> + "How much will they cost, mother?" + </p> + <p> + "I think we can get a cheap suit for fifteen or twenty dollars. When you + have got the money, we will call on the tailor and see." + </p> + <p> + "Shure, I'll feel like a gentleman with a suit like that." + </p> + <p> + "Mary, go and get the carpetbag. I've packed Andy's clothes all ready for + him." + </p> + <p> + Mary soon reappeared with the carpetbag, and Andy set out on his return. + </p> + <p> + Presently, as the clock struck nine, he knocked at the door of the Misses + Grant. The elder opened the door for him. + </p> + <p> + "You are punctual, Andrew," she said, approvingly. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Are those your clothes?" pointing to the bag he carried. + </p> + <p> + "What few I've got, ma'am. I'm goin' to buy some more when I've got money + enough." + </p> + <p> + "That is right. We want you to look respectable." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," remarked Sophia, who felt that it was time for her to speak. + </p> + <p> + Then a brilliant idea seized her. + </p> + <p> + "If he was a girl, we could give him some of our dresses." + </p> + <p> + "But he isn't," said matter-of-fact Priscilla. + </p> + <p> + "Or if we were men," continued Sophia, with another brilliant idea. + </p> + <p> + "But we are not." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," assented her sister, now brought to the end of her suggestions. + </p> + <p> + By this time Andy was in the house, holding his cap in one hand, and his + carpetbag in the other. + </p> + <p> + "Do you feel tired?" asked Priscilla. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Then, perhaps you would like to go to bed?" + </p> + <p> + "I would, if it's just the same to you, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Very well, follow me, and I will show you your room. Sophia, perhaps you + had better come, too." + </p> + <p> + They went up the front stairs. The house proper had two rooms on the lower + floor, and the two chambers over them. But there was, besides, an + extension behind, used as a kitchen, and over this was the room which had + been used by John, the former servant. + </p> + <p> + "This is your room, Andrew," said Miss Priscilla. "Sophia, will you lift + the latch?" + </p> + <p> + The door being opened, revealed a small chamber, with the ceiling partly + sloping. There were two windows. It was very plainly furnished, but looked + very comfortable. Andy glanced about him with a look of satisfaction. It + was considerably more attractive than the bed in the attic which he had + occupied at the house of the farmer for whom he had last worked. + </p> + <p> + "We've put the feather bed at the bottom, as it's summer," said Miss + Priscilla. + </p> + <p> + "All right, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "There's one thing you've forgotten, Priscilla," suggested Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "What is that?" + </p> + <p> + "The gun." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes. I am glad you reminded me of it. Andrew, can you fire off a + gun?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am," said Andrew, glibly. + </p> + <p> + He had never done it, but he had seen a gun fired, and always wanted to + make a trial himself. + </p> + <p> + "As you are the only menfolks in the house, we should expect you to fire + at any robbers that tried to enter the house." + </p> + <p> + "Do you expect any, ma'am?" asked Andy, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + "No; but some might come. Of course, we cannot fire guns—it would be + improper, as we are ladies." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," interrupted Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "So we shall leave that to you. Do you think you would dare to?" + </p> + <p> + "Would I dare, is it?" asked Andy. "Shure, I'd be glad of the chance." + </p> + <p> + "I see you are brave. I'll show you the gun now." + </p> + <p> + She went to the closet in the corner of the room, and pointed out a big, + unwieldy musket to Andy. It was in the corner. + </p> + <p> + "Is it loaded, ma'am?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "Yes; it has been loaded for a year or more. John never had occasion to + use it, and I hope you won't. If any robber should come," added the + kind-hearted spinster, "perhaps you had better only shoot him in the arm, + and not kill him." + </p> + <p> + "Just as you say, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "I believe that is all I have to say. Sophia, shall we go to our own + room?" + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + So the two maidens withdrew, and Andy was left to his own reflections. He + undressed himself quickly, and deposited himself in the bed, which proved + to be very comfortable. + </p> + <p> + He went to bed, but there was one thing that prevented his going to sleep. + This was the gun. He had never even had one in his hand, and now there was + one at his absolute disposal. It made him feel a sense of his importance + to feel that, upon him, young as he was, devolved the duty of defending + the house and its occupants from burglary. + </p> + <p> + "And why not? Shure, I'm 'most a man," reflected Andy. "I can shoot off a + gun as well as anybody. I wonder will robbers come to-night!" thought + Andy. + </p> + <p> + He rather wished they would, so that he might have an excuse for firing + the gun. However, of this there seemed very little chance, for had not + Miss Priscilla said that it had been loaded for more than a year, and + during all that time John had never had occasion to use it? This seemed + rather discouraging. + </p> + <p> + "I wonder would they let me go out gunning with it?" thought Andy. + </p> + <p> + Somehow or other, he could not get his mind off the gun, and, after a + lapse of an hour, he was as wide awake as ever. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, Priscilla and Sophia were both asleep, not being interested in + the gun. + </p> + <p> + Finally it occurred to Andy that he would get up and look at the gun. He + wanted to make sure that he understood how to fire it. It was important + that he should do so, he reasoned to himself, for might not a burglar come + that very night? Then, suppose he was unable to fire the gun, and in + consequence of his ignorance, both he and the two ladies should be + murdered in their beds. Of course, this was not to be thought of, so Andy + got out of bed, and, finding a match, lit the candle and put it on the + bureau, or chest of drawers, as they called it in the country. + </p> + <p> + Then he stepped softly to the closet and took out the gun. + </p> + <p> + "Murder! how heavy it is!" thought Andy. "I didn't think it was half as + heavy. There must be a pound of bullets inside. Now," he said to himself, + "suppose a big thafe was to poke his dirty head in at the winder and say, + 'Give me all your money, or I'll break your head'—I'd put up with + the gun and point at him this way." + </p> + <p> + Here Andy brought the gun into position with some difficulty and put his + finger near the trigger. + </p> + <p> + "And I'd say," continued Andy, rehearsing his part, "'Jump down, you + thafe, or I'll put a bullet through your head.'" + </p> + <p> + At that unlucky moment his finger accidentally pulled the trigger, and + instantly there was a tremendous report, the noise being increased by the + shattering of the window panes by the bullet. + </p> + <p> + Probably the charge was too heavy, for the gun "kicked," and Andy, to his + astonishment, found himself lying flat on his back on the floor, with the + gun lying beside him. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, murder!" ejaculated the bewildered boy, "is it dead I am? Shure, the + divil's in the gun. What will the ould wimmen say? They'll think it's + bloody burglars gettin' into the house. Shure, I'll slip on my pants, for + they'll be coming to see what's happened." + </p> + <p> + He picked himself up, and slipped on his pants. He had scarcely got them + on when the trembling voice of Miss Priscilla was heard at the door. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX — WHAT FOLLOWED + </h2> + <p> + The report of the gun, as may be supposed, had aroused both the ladies + from their sleep. + </p> + <p> + "Did you hear it?" ejaculated Miss Priscilla, clutching her sister by the + arm. + </p> + <p> + "Just so," muttered Sophia, in bewilderment. "It's the gun." + </p> + <p> + "Burglars!" exclaimed Sophia, in alarm. + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid so. What shall we do?" + </p> + <p> + "Run away," suggested Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "No, we must not leave the boy to be murdered." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps he has shot them?" said Sophia, with a gleam of hope. + </p> + <p> + "At any rate, it is our duty to go and see what has happened." + </p> + <p> + "I'm afraid," whimpered Sophia, covering up her head. + </p> + <p> + "Then you can stay here," said the more courageous Priscilla. "I will go." + </p> + <p> + "And leave me alone?" + </p> + <p> + "I must." + </p> + <p> + "I'll go too, then," said Sophia, her teeth chattering with fear. + </p> + <p> + So they crept out of bed, and throwing shawls over their shoulders, + advanced into the entry, trembling with excitement and fear. + </p> + <p> + "If we should find Andy weltering in his gore?" suggested Priscilla. + </p> + <p> + "Don't say such horrid things, or I shall scream," said her sister. + </p> + <p> + Then came the tremulous knock mentioned at the close of the last chapter. + </p> + <p> + Andy opened the door in person, and met the gaze of the two Miss Grants, + Sophia almost ready to drop with fright. + </p> + <p> + "Do you see any gore, Priscilla?" she asked, tremulously. + </p> + <p> + "Are you hurt, Andrew?" asked the elder sister. + </p> + <p> + "No, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Did you fire the gun?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "What made you? Did any burglars try to get in?" + </p> + <p> + "Not exactly, ma'am," said Andy; "but I thought there might be some." + </p> + <p> + "Did you see any?" + </p> + <p> + "Not exactly," said Andy, a little embarrassed; "but I heard a noise." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "Why didn't you wait till they appeared at the window, Andrew?" + </p> + <p> + "Because, ma'am, they would fire at me first. I wanted to scare 'em away." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps you were right. You don't see any traces of them outside, do + you?" + </p> + <p> + "You can look for yourself, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + The two ladies went to the window, which as already explained, had + suffered from the discharge, and peered out timidly, but, of course, saw + no burglars. + </p> + <p> + "Are you sure there were any burglars, Andrew?" asked Priscilla. + </p> + <p> + "No, ma'am, I couldn't swear to it." + </p> + <p> + "Well, no harm has been done." + </p> + <p> + "Except breakin' the winder, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Never mind; we will have that mended to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + "Were you afraid, Andrew?" asked Miss Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "Not a bit," answered Andy, valiantly. "I ain't afraid of burglars, as + long as I have a gun. I'm a match for 'em." + </p> + <p> + "How brave he is!" exclaimed the timid lady. "We might have been killed in + our beds. I'm glad we hired him, Priscilla." + </p> + <p> + "As there is nothing more to do, we had better go to bed." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "That's a bully way to get out of a scrape," said Andy to himself, as the + ladies filed out of his chamber. "I expected they'd scold me. Plague take + the old gun—it kicks as bad as a mule. Oh, Andy, you're a lucky boy + to get off so well." + </p> + <p> + The next day Andy obtained permission to take out the gun in the afternoon + when his chores were done. + </p> + <p> + "I want to get used to it, ma'am," he said. "It kicked last night." + </p> + <p> + "Dear me, did it?" asked Sophia. "I didn't know guns kicked. What do they + kick with? They haven't got any legs." + </p> + <p> + Andy explained as well as he could what he meant by the gun's kicking, and + said it was because it had not been used for a good while, and needed to + be taken out. + </p> + <p> + "It needs exercise, just like horses, ma'am," he said. + </p> + <p> + "That is singular, Andrew," said Priscilla. + </p> + <p> + "Just so," observed her sister. + </p> + <p> + "It's a fact, ma'am," said Andy. "It gets skittish, just like horses—but + if I take it out sometimes, it'll be all right." + </p> + <p> + "Very well, you may take it, only be careful." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, I'll be careful, ma'am," said Andy, with alacrity. + </p> + <p> + "Now, I'll have some fun," he said to himself. + </p> + <p> + He found a supply of powder and some shot in the closet, and proceeded to + appropriate them. + </p> + <p> + "Come back in time for supper, Andrew," said Miss Priscilla. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am, I'm always on hand at meal times," answered our hero. + </p> + <p> + "That's because he's hungry," said Sophia, brilliantly. + </p> + <p> + "You're right, ma'am," said Andy; "my stomach always tells me when it's + supper time." + </p> + <p> + "It's as good as a watch," said Priscilla, smiling. + </p> + <p> + "And a good deal cheaper," observed Sophia, with another brilliant idea. + </p> + <p> + Andy started up the road with his gun over his shoulder. It was his + intention after going a little distance to strike into the fields, and + make for some woods not far away, where he thought there would be a good + chance for birds or squirrels. He hadn't gone many steps before he + encountered Godfrey Preston, his antagonist of three days previous. + </p> + <p> + Now, Godfrey hadn't seen or heard anything of Andy since that day. He had + learned from his mother with great satisfaction that she had discharged + Mrs. Burke from her employment, as this, he imagined, would trouble Andy. + But of Andy himself he knew nothing, and was not aware that he had already + secured a place. When he saw our hero coming along, his curiosity led him + to stop and find out, if he could, where he was going with the gun he + carried on his shoulder, and where he obtained it. So he looked intently + at Andy, waiting for him to speak, but Andy preferred to leave that to + him. + </p> + <p> + "Whose gun is that?" asked Godfrey, in the tone of one who was entitled to + ask the question. + </p> + <p> + "Shure, it belongs to the owner," said Andy, with a smile. + </p> + <p> + "Of course, I know that," said Godfrey, impatiently. "I'm not quite a + fool." + </p> + <p> + "Not quite," repeated Andy, emphasizing the last word in a way which made + Godfrey color. + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean?" he said. + </p> + <p> + "What do I mane? It was only your words I repeated." + </p> + <p> + "Then, don't trouble yourself to repeat them—do you hear?" + </p> + <p> + "Thank you; I won't." + </p> + <p> + "You didn't tell me whose gun that is." + </p> + <p> + "No, I didn't." + </p> + <p> + "Very likely you stole it," said Godfrey, provoked. + </p> + <p> + "Maybe you'll go and tell the owner." + </p> + <p> + "How can I when you haven't told me whose it is?" + </p> + <p> + "No more I did," said Andy with apparent innocence. + </p> + <p> + "Where are you going with it?" + </p> + <p> + "Goin' out shootin'." + </p> + <p> + "So I supposed." + </p> + <p> + "Did you, now? Then what made you ask?" returned Andy. + </p> + <p> + "You are an impudent fellow," said Godfrey, provoked. + </p> + <p> + "I never am impudent to gentlemen," said Andy, pointedly. + </p> + <p> + "Do you mean to say that I am not a gentleman?" demanded the other, + angrily. + </p> + <p> + "Suit yourself," said Andy, coolly. + </p> + <p> + "You're only an Irish boy." + </p> + <p> + "Shure, I knew that before. Why can't you tell me some news? I'm an Irish + boy and I'm proud of the same. I'll never go back on ould Ireland." + </p> + <p> + "The Irish are a low set." + </p> + <p> + "Are they now? Maybe you never heard of Burke, the great orator." + </p> + <p> + "What of him?" + </p> + <p> + "Shure, he was an Irishman; and isn't my name Andy Burke, and wasn't he my + great-grandfather?" + </p> + <p> + "He must be proud of his great-grandson," said Godfrey, sarcastically. + </p> + <p> + "I never axed him, but no doubt you're right. But it's time I was goin', + or I shan't get any birds. Would you like to come with me?" + </p> + <p> + "No, I am particular about the company I keep." + </p> + <p> + "I'm not, or I wouldn't have invited you," said Andy, who was rather + quicker witted than his opponent. + </p> + <p> + "I should like to know where he got that gun," said Godfrey to himself, + following with his eyes the retreating figure of our hero. "I am sure that + isn't his gun. Ten to one he stole it from somebody." + </p> + <p> + But Godfrey's curiosity was not destined to be gratified that afternoon, + as it might have been if he had seen Andy turning into the yard of the + Misses Grant two hours afterward. He had not shot anything, but he had got + used to firing the gun, and was not likely to be caught again in any such + adventure as that recorded in the last chapter. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X — ANDY'S DEBUT AT SCHOOL + </h2> + <p> + The first of September came, and with it came the opening of the fall + schools. On the first day, when Andy, at work in the yard, saw the boys + and the girls go by with their books, he felt a longing to go, too. He + knew very well that his education had been very much neglected, and that + he knew less of books than a boy of his age ought to do. + </p> + <p> + "I wish I could go to school this term," he said to himself; "but it's no + use wishin'. Mother needs my wages, and I must keep on workin'." + </p> + <p> + The same thought had come to the Misses Grant. Andy had been in their + employ now for six weeks, and by his unfailing good humor and readiness to + oblige, had won their favor. They felt interested in his progress, and, at + the same moment that the thought referred to passed though Andy's mind, + Miss Priscilla said to her sister: + </p> + <p> + "The fall school begins to-day. There's Godfrey Preston just passed with + some books under his arm." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose Andrew would like to be going to school with other boys of his + age." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you think we could spare him to go half the day?" + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia, with alacrity. + </p> + <p> + "There isn't so much work to do now as there was in the summer, and he + could do his chores early in the morning. He could go to school in the + forenoon and work in the afternoon." + </p> + <p> + "Just so, Priscilla. Shall we give him less wages?" + </p> + <p> + "No, I think not. He needs the money to give his mother." + </p> + <p> + "Call him in and tell him," suggested Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "It will do at dinner time." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + When the dinner was over, and Andy rose from the table, Miss Priscilla + introduced the subject. + </p> + <p> + "Are you a good scholar, Andrew?" + </p> + <p> + "I'm a mighty poor one, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Did you ever study much?" + </p> + <p> + "No, ma'am, I've had to work ever since I was so high," indicating a point + about two feet from the ground. + </p> + <p> + "Dear me," said Sophia, "you must have been very small." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am, I was very small of my size." + </p> + <p> + "I've been thinking, Andrew, that perhaps we could spare you half the day, + so that you could go to school in the forenoon—you could learn + something in three hours—should you like it?" + </p> + <p> + "Would I like it, ma'am? Wouldn't I, though? I don't want to grow up a + poor, ignorant crathur, hardly able to read and write." + </p> + <p> + "Then you can go to school to-morrow, and ask the teacher if he will take + you for half the day. You can get up early, and get your chores done + before school." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes, ma'am, I can do that easy." + </p> + <p> + "I think we have some schoolbooks in the house. Some years ago we had a + nephew stay with us, and go to school. I think his books are still in the + closet." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, ma'am. It'll save me buyin', and I haven't got any money to + spare." + </p> + <p> + "We shall give you the same wages, Andrew, though you will work less." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, ma'am. You're very kind." + </p> + <p> + "Try to improve your time in school, as becomes the great-grandson of such + a distinguished orator." + </p> + <p> + "I'll try, ma'am," said Andy, looking a little queer at this allusion to + the great Edmund Burke. In fact, he was ashamed of having deceived the + kind old ladies, but didn't like now to own up to the deception lest they + should lose confidence in him. But he determined hereafter to speak the + truth, and not resort to deception. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, at twenty minutes of nine, Andy left the house provided + with books, and joyfully took his way to the schoolhouse, which was a + quarter of a mile distant. As he ascended the small hill on which it + stood, he attracted the attention of a group of boys who had already + arrived. Among them was his old adversary, Godfrey Preston. + </p> + <p> + "Is that Irish boy coming to school?" he said in a tone of disgust. + </p> + <p> + "What? Andy Burke? I hope so," said Charles Fleming, "he's a good fellow." + </p> + <p> + "He's only an Irish boy," said Godfrey, with a sneer. + </p> + <p> + "And I am only an American boy," said Charles, good-humoredly. + </p> + <p> + "You can associate with him if you want to; I shan't," said Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + "That's where I agree with you, Godfrey," said Ben Travers, who made + himself rather a toady of Godfrey's. + </p> + <p> + Andy had now come up, so that Charles Fleming did not reply, but called + out, cordially: + </p> + <p> + "Are you coming to school, Andy?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "I'm glad of it." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you," said Andy. "What's the matter with them fellows," as Godfrey + and Bill Travers walked off haughtily, tossing their heads. + </p> + <p> + Charles Fleming laughed. + </p> + <p> + "They don't think we are good enough for their company," he said. + </p> + <p> + "I'm not anxious for it," said Andy. "I like yours better." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't think you could get away from work to come to school. Are you + working for Miss Grant now?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, but she lets me come to school half the day. She's a bully ould + lady." + </p> + <p> + "Well, half a loaf's better than no bread. Will you sit with me? I've got + no one at my desk. Say yes." + </p> + <p> + "It's just what I'd like, Charlie, but maybe Godfrey Preston wants to sit + with me. I wouldn't like to disappoint him," said Andy, with sly humor. + </p> + <p> + "Sit with me till he invites you, then." + </p> + <p> + "That'll be a long day." + </p> + <p> + They went into the schoolhouse, and Andy deposited his books in the desk + next to Charlie Fleming's. He couldn't have wished for a better or more + agreeable companion. Charlie was the son of Dr. Fleming, the village + physician, and was a general favorite in the town on account of his sunny, + attractive manner. But, with all his affability, he was independent and + resolute, if need be. He was one of the leaders of the school. Godfrey + aspired also to be a leader, and was to some extent on account of his + father's wealth and high standing, for, as we have seen, Colonel Preston + was not like his son. Still, it is doubtful whether anyone was much + attached to Godfrey. He was too selfish in disposition, and offensively + consequential in manner, to inspire devoted friendship. Ben Travers, + however, flattered him, and followed him about, simply because he was the + son of a rich man. Such cases occur sometimes among American schoolboys, + but generally they are too democratic and sensible to attach importance to + social distinctions in the schoolroom, or in the playground. + </p> + <p> + When the teacher—a certain Ebenezer Stone, a man of thirty or upward—entered, + Andy went up to him and asked permission to attend school a part of the + time. As there had been such cases in former terms, no objection was + offered by the teacher, and Andy went back to his seat, a regularly + admitted member of the school. + </p> + <p> + It was found necessary to put him in a low class to begin with. He was + naturally bright, but, as we know, his opportunities of learning had been + very limited, and he could not be expected to know much. But Andy was old + enough now to understand the worth of knowledge, and he devoted himself so + earnestly to study that in the course of three weeks he was promoted to a + higher class. This, however, is anticipating. + </p> + <p> + When recess came, the scholars poured out upon the playround. Charles + Fleming and Godfrey Preston happened to pass out side by side. + </p> + <p> + "I see you've taken that Irish boy to sit with you," he said. + </p> + <p> + "You mean Andy Burke? Yes, I invited him to be my desk-fellow." + </p> + <p> + "I congratulate you on your high-toned and aristocratic associate," + observed Godfrey, sarcastically. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you. I am glad to have him with me." + </p> + <p> + "I wouldn't condescend to take him into my seat." + </p> + <p> + "Nor do I. There isn't any condescension about it." + </p> + <p> + "He works for a living." + </p> + <p> + "So does my father, and so does yours. Are you going to cut your father's + acquaintance for that reason?" + </p> + <p> + "My father could live without work." + </p> + <p> + "He doesn't choose to, and that's where he shows his good sense." + </p> + <p> + "It's a different kind of work from sawing and splitting wood, and such + low labor." + </p> + <p> + "It strikes me, Godfrey, that you ought to have been born somewhere else + than in America. In this country labor is considered honorable. You ought + to be living under a monarchy." + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe in associating with inferiors." + </p> + <p> + "I don't look upon Andy Burke as my inferior," said Charlie. "He is poor, + to be sure, but he is a good fellow, and helps support his mother and + sister, as I would do in his place." + </p> + <p> + "Charlie Fleming," was heard from the playground, "come and choose up for + baseball." + </p> + <p> + Without waiting for an answer, Charlie ran to the field alongside the + schoolhouse, where the game was to take place. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI — A GAME OF BALL + </h2> + <p> + "Come here," said Conrad Fletcher; "come here, Charlie, and choose up for + a game. We must make haste, or recess will be over." + </p> + <p> + "All right, Conrad." + </p> + <p> + The first choice devolved upon Conrad. He chose Ephraim Pinkham, noted as + a catcher. + </p> + <p> + "I take Elmer Rhodes," said Charlie. + </p> + <p> + "John Parker," said Conrad. + </p> + <p> + "Henry Strauss." + </p> + <p> + "Godfrey Preston," was Conrad's next choice. + </p> + <p> + "Can you play, Andy?" asked Charlie. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "Then, I take you." + </p> + <p> + "I've a good mind to resign," said Godfrey, in a low voice, to Ben + Travers. "I don't fancy playing with that Irish boy." + </p> + <p> + However, he was too fond of playing to give up his place, notwithstanding + his antipathy to Andy. + </p> + <p> + Charlie Fleming's side went in first, and Charlie himself went to the bat. + The pitcher was Godfrey. He was really a fair pitcher, and considered + himself very superior. Charlie finally succeeded in hitting the ball, but + rather feebly, and narrowly escaped losing his first base. He saved it, + however. + </p> + <p> + Next at the bat was Elmer Rhodes. He hit one or two fouls, but not a fair + ball. Finally he was put out on three strikes; meanwhile, however, Charlie + Fleming got round to third base. Henry Strauss succeeded in striking the + ball, but it was caught by center field, rapidly sent to first base, + before Henry could reach it, then thrown to the catcher in time to prevent + Charlie Fleming from getting in. He ran half-way to home base, but seeing + his danger, ran back to third base. Next Andy took the bat. + </p> + <p> + "Knock me in, Andy," called out Charlie Fleming. + </p> + <p> + "All right" said Andy, quietly. + </p> + <p> + "Not if I can prevent it," said Godfrey to himself, and he determined by + sending poor balls, to get our hero out on three strikes. The first ball, + therefore, he sent about six feet to the right of the batter. Andy stood + in position, but, of course, was far too wise to attempt hitting any such + ball. The next ball went several feet above his head. Of this, too, he + took no notice. The third would have hit him if he had not dodged. + </p> + <p> + "Why don't you knock at the balls?" asked Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + "I will, when you give better ones," said Andy, coolly. + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe you know how to bat," said Godfrey, with a sneer. + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe you know how to pitch," returned Andy. + </p> + <p> + "How's that?" sending another ball whizzing by his left ear. + </p> + <p> + "I want them waist-high," said Andy. "My waist is about two feet lower + than my ears." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey now resolved to put in a ball waist-high, but so swiftly that Andy + could not hit it; but he had never seen Andy play. Our hero had a + wonderfully quick eye and steady hand, and struck the ball with such force + to left field, that not only Charlie Fleming got in, without difficulty, + but Andy himself made a home run. + </p> + <p> + "That's a splendid hit," exclaimed Charlie, with enthusiasm. "I didn't + think you could play so well." + </p> + <p> + "I've played before to-day," said Andy, composedly. "I told you I would + get you in, and I meant what I said." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey looked chagrined at the result. He meant to demonstrate that Andy + was no player, but had only contributed to his brilliant success; for, had + he not sent in so swift a ball, the knock would not have been so forcible. + </p> + <p> + As there were but six on a side, two outs were considered all out. + </p> + <p> + "Who will catch?" asked Charlie Fleming; "I want to pitch." + </p> + <p> + "I will," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "All right! If you can catch as you can bat, we'll cut down their score." + </p> + <p> + Andy soon showed that he was no novice at catching. He rarely let a ball + pass him. When Godfrey's turn came to bat, one was already out, and Andy + determined to put Godfrey out if it was a possible thing. One strike had + been called, when Godfrey struck a foul which was almost impossible to + catch. But now Andy ran, made a bound into the air, and caught it—a + very brilliant piece of play, by which Godfrey and his side were put out. + The boys on both sides applauded, for it was a piece of brilliant fielding + which not one of them was capable of. That is, all applauded but Godfrey. + He threw down his bat spitefully, and said to Fleming: + </p> + <p> + "You didn't give me good balls." + </p> + <p> + "I gave you much better than you gave Andy," said Charlie. + </p> + <p> + "That's so!" chimed in two other boys. + </p> + <p> + "I won't play any more," said Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + Just then the bell rang, so that the game was brought to a close. Andy + received the compliments of the boys on his brilliant playing. He received + them modestly, and admitted that he probably couldn't make such a catch + again. It was very disagreeable to Godfrey to hear Andy praised. He was + rather proud of his ball-playing, and he saw that Andy was altogether his + superior, at any rate in the opinion of the boys. However, he ingeniously + contrived to mingle a compliment with a sneer. + </p> + <p> + "You're more used to baseball than to books," he said. + </p> + <p> + "True for you," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "You're a head taller than any of the boys in your class." + </p> + <p> + "I know that," said Andy. "I haven't been to school as much as you." + </p> + <p> + "I should be ashamed if I didn't know more." + </p> + <p> + "So you ought," said Andy, "for you've been to school all your life. I + hope to know more soon." + </p> + <p> + "Anyway, you can play ball," said Charlie Fleming. + </p> + <p> + "I'd rather be a good scholar." + </p> + <p> + "I'll help you, if you want any help." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, Charlie." + </p> + <p> + They had now entered the schoolroom, and Andy took up his book and studied + hard. He was determined to rise to a higher class as soon as possible, for + it was not agreeable to him to reflect that he was the oldest and largest + boy in his present class. + </p> + <p> + "Very well," said the teacher, when his recitation was over. "If you + continue to recite in this way, you will soon be promoted." + </p> + <p> + "I'll do my best, sir," said Andy, who listened to these words with + pleasure. + </p> + <p> + "I wish you were coming in the afternoon, too, Andy," said his friend, + Charlie Fleming, as they walked home together. + </p> + <p> + "So do I, Charlie, but I must work for my mother." + </p> + <p> + "That's right, Andy; I'd do the same in your place. I haven't such foolish + ideas about work as Godfrey Preston." + </p> + <p> + "He ain't very fond of me," said Andy, laughing. + </p> + <p> + "No; nor of anybody else. He only likes Godfrey Preston." + </p> + <p> + "We got into a fight the first day I ever saw him." + </p> + <p> + "What was it about?" + </p> + <p> + "He called my mother names, and hit me. So I knocked him flat." + </p> + <p> + "You served him right. He's disgustingly conceited. Nobody likes him." + </p> + <p> + "Ben Travers goes around with him all the time." + </p> + <p> + "Ben likes him because he is rich. If he should lose his property, you'd + see how soon he would leave him. That isn't a friend worth having." + </p> + <p> + "I've got one consolation," said Andy, laughing; "nobody likes me for my + money." + </p> + <p> + "But someone likes you for yourself, Andy," said Charlie. + </p> + <p> + "Who?" + </p> + <p> + "Myself, to be sure." + </p> + <p> + "And I like you as much, Charlie," said Andy, warmly. "You're ten times as + good a fellow as Godfrey." + </p> + <p> + "I hope so," said Charlie. "That isn't saying very much, Andy." + </p> + <p> + So the friendship was cemented, nor did it end there. Charlie spoke of + Andy's good qualities at home, and some time afterward Andy was surprised + by an invitation to spend the evening at Dr. Fleming's. He felt a little + bashful, but finally went—nor was he at all sorry for so doing. The + whole family was a delightful one, and Andy was welcomed as a warm friend + of Charlie's, and, in the pleasant atmosphere of the doctor's fireside, he + quite forgot that there was one who looked down upon him as an inferior + being. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Fleming had himself been a poor boy. By a lucky chance—or + Providence, rather—he had been put in the way of obtaining an + education, and he was not disposed now, in his prosperity, to forget his + days of early struggle. + </p> + <p> + Andy found that, in spite of the three hours taken up at school, he was + able to do all that was required of him by the Misses Grant. They were + glad to hear of his success at school, and continued to pay him five + dollars a week for his services. This money he regularly carried to his + mother, after paying for the new clothes, of which he stood so much in + need. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII — A LITTLE DIFFICULTY + </h2> + <p> + It has already been said that Godfrey Preston was a conceited and arrogant + boy. He had a very high idea of his own importance, and expected that + others would acknowledge it; but he was not altogether successful. He + would like to have had Andy Burke look up to him as a member of a superior + class, and in that case might have condescended to patronize him, as a + chieftain might in the case of a humble retainer. But Andy didn't want to + be patronized by Godfrey. He never showed by his manner that he felt + beneath him socially, and this greatly vexed Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + "His mother used to iron at our house," he said to Ben Travers one day; + "but my mother discharged her. I don't see why the boys treat him as an + equal. I won't, for my part." + </p> + <p> + "Of course, he isn't your equal," said the subservient Ben. "That's a good + joke." + </p> + <p> + "He acts as if he was," said Godfrey, discontentedly. + </p> + <p> + "It's only his impudence." + </p> + <p> + "You are right," said Godfrey, rather liking this explanation. "He is one + of the most impudent boys I know. I wish my father would send me to a + fashionable school, where I shouldn't meet such fellows. That's the worst + of these public schools—you meet all sorts of persons in them." + </p> + <p> + "Of course you do." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose this Burke will be a hod-carrier, or something of that kind, + when he is a man." + </p> + <p> + "While you are a member of Congress." + </p> + <p> + "Very likely," said Godfrey, loftily; "and he will claim that he was an + old schoolmate of mine. It is disgusting." + </p> + <p> + "Of course it is. However, we needn't notice him." + </p> + <p> + "I don't mean to." + </p> + <p> + But in the course of the next week there was an occurrence which compelled + Godfrey to "notice" his detested schoolfellow. + </p> + <p> + Among the scholars was a very pleasant boy of twelve, named Alfred Parker. + He was the son of a poor widow, and was universally liked for his amiable + and obliging disposition. One morning, before school, he was engaged in + some game which required him to run. He accidentally ran against Godfrey, + who was just coming up the hill, with considerable force. Now, it was very + evident that it was wholly unintentional; but Godfrey was greatly + incensed. + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean by that, you little scamp?" he exclaimed, furiously. + </p> + <p> + "Excuse me, Godfrey; I didn't mean to run into you." + </p> + <p> + "That don't go down." + </p> + <p> + "Indeed, I didn't. I didn't see you." + </p> + <p> + "I can't help it. You ought to have been more careful. Take that, to make + you more careful." + </p> + <p> + As he said this, he seized him by the collar, and, tripping him, laid him + flat on his back. + </p> + <p> + "For shame, Godfrey!" said another boy standing by; but as it was a small + boy, Godfrey only answered: + </p> + <p> + "If you say that again, I'll serve you the same way." + </p> + <p> + Alfred tried to get up, but Godfrey put his knee on his breast. + </p> + <p> + "Let me up, Godfrey," said Alfred, piteously. "I can't breathe. You hurt + me." + </p> + <p> + "I'll teach you to run into me," said the bully. + </p> + <p> + "I didn't mean to." + </p> + <p> + "I want to make sure of your not doing it again." + </p> + <p> + "Do let me up," said Alfred. + </p> + <p> + In return, Godfrey only pressed more heavily, and the little fellow began + to cry. But help was near at hand. Andy Burke happened to come up the hill + just then, and saw what was going on. He had a natural chivalry that + prompted him always to take the weaker side. But besides this, he liked + Alfred for his good qualities, and disliked Godfrey for his bad ones. He + did not hesitate a moment, therefore, but ran up, and, seizing Godfrey by + the collar with a powerful grasp, jerked him on his back in the twinkling + of an eye. Then, completely turning the tables, he put his knee on + Godfrey's breast, and said: + </p> + <p> + "Now, you know how it is yourself. How do you like it?" + </p> + <p> + "Let me up," demanded Godfrey, furiously. + </p> + <p> + "That's what Alfred asked you to do," said Andy, coolly. "Why didn't you + do it?" + </p> + <p> + "Because I didn't choose," answered the prostrate boy, almost foaming at + the mouth with rage and humiliation. + </p> + <p> + "Then I don't choose to let you up." + </p> + <p> + "You shall suffer for this," said Godfrey, struggling, but in vain. + </p> + <p> + "Not from your hands. Oh, you needn't try so hard to get up. I can hold + you here all day if I choose." + </p> + <p> + "You're a low Irish boy!" + </p> + <p> + "You're lower than I am just now," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "Let me up." + </p> + <p> + "Why didn't you let Alfred up?" + </p> + <p> + "He ran against me." + </p> + <p> + "Did he mean to?" + </p> + <p> + "No, I didn't, Andy," said Alfred, who was standing near. "I told Godfrey + so, but he threw me over, and pressed on my breast so hard that it hurt + me." + </p> + <p> + "In this way," said Andy, increasing the pressure on his prostrate enemy. + </p> + <p> + Godfrey renewed his struggles, but in vain. + </p> + <p> + "Please let him up now, Andy," said Alfred, generously. + </p> + <p> + "If he'll promise not to touch you any more, I will." + </p> + <p> + "I won't promise," said Godfrey. "I won't promise anything to a low + beggar." + </p> + <p> + "Then you must feel the low beggar's knee," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "You wouldn't have got me down if I had been looking. You got the + advantage of me." + </p> + <p> + "Did I? Well, then, I'll give you a chance." + </p> + <p> + Andy rose to his feet, and Godfrey, relieved from the pressure, arose, + too. No sooner was he up than he flew like an enraged tiger at our hero, + but Andy was quite his equal in strength, and, being cool, had the + advantage. + </p> + <p> + The result was that in a few seconds he found himself once more on his + back. + </p> + <p> + "You see," said Andy, "it isn't safe for you to attack me. I won't keep + you down any longer, but if you touch Alfred again, I'll give you + something worse." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey arose from the ground, and shook his fist at Andy. + </p> + <p> + "I'll make you remember this," he said. + </p> + <p> + "I want you to remember it yourself," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + Godfrey didn't answer, but made his way to the schoolroom, sullenly. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, Andy," said Alfred, gratefully, "for saving me from Godfrey. + He hurt me a good deal." + </p> + <p> + "He's a brute," said Andy, warmly. "Don't be afraid of him, Alfred, but + come and tell me if he touches you again. I'll give him something he won't + like." + </p> + <p> + "You must be very strong, Andy," said the little boy, admiringly. "You + knocked him over just as easy." + </p> + <p> + Andy laughed. + </p> + <p> + "Did you ever know an Irish boy that couldn't fight?" he asked. "I'm + better with my fists than with my brains, Alfred." + </p> + <p> + "That's because you never went to school much. You're getting on fast, + Andy." + </p> + <p> + "I'm tryin', Alfred," he said. "It's a shame for a big boy like me not to + know as much as a little boy like you." + </p> + <p> + "You'll soon get ahead of me, Andy." + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Godfrey had taken his place in school, feeling far from + comfortable. He was outraged by the thought that Andy, whom he regarded as + so much beneath him, should have had the audacity to throw him down, and + put his knees on his breast. It made him grind his teeth when he thought + of it. What should he do about it? He wanted to be revenged in some way, + and he meant to be. + </p> + <p> + Finally he decided to report Andy to the teacher, and, if possible, induce + him to punish him. + </p> + <p> + "The teacher knows that my father's a man of influence," he said to + himself. "He will believe me before that ragamuffin. If he don't, I'll try + to get him turned away." + </p> + <p> + When, therefore, the bell rang for recess, and the rest of the scholars + hurried to the playground, Godfrey lingered behind. He waited till all the + boys were gone, and then went up to the teacher. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Godfrey, what is it?" asked the master. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Stone, I want to make a complaint against Andrew Burke," said + Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + "What has he done?" + </p> + <p> + "He is a brute," said Godfrey, in an excited manner. "He dared to come up + behind my back before school began, and knock me down. Then he put his + knee on my chest, and wouldn't let me up." + </p> + <p> + "What made him do it?" + </p> + <p> + "He knows I don't like him, and am not willing to associate with him." + </p> + <p> + "Was that all the reason?" asked the teacher, keenly. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose so," said Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + "I was not aware that Andy Burke was quarrelsome," said the teacher. "He + behaves well in school." + </p> + <p> + "Because he knows he must." + </p> + <p> + "Very well; I will inquire into the matter after recess." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey went back to his seat, triumphant. He didn't doubt that his enemy + would be severely punished. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII — GODFREY'S REBELLION + </h2> + <p> + Having made his complaint, Godfrey waited impatiently for the recess to + close, in order that he might see retribution fall upon the head of Andy. + He had not long to wait. Meanwhile, however, he was missed in the + playground. + </p> + <p> + "Where's Godfrey?" asked one of the boys. + </p> + <p> + "He don't want to come out. He got a licking from Andy Burke." + </p> + <p> + "I ain't much sorry. It'll cure him of some of his airs." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know about that. It comes natural to him to put on airs." + </p> + <p> + "If anybody has insulted Godfrey," remarked Ben Travers, his toady, "he + had better look out for himself." + </p> + <p> + "Do you hear that, Andy? Ben Travers says you must look out for yourself." + </p> + <p> + "Who's goin' to punish me?" asked Andy. "If it's Ben, let him come on." + </p> + <p> + But Ben showed no disposition to "come on." He could talk and threaten, + but when words were to be succeeded by blows he never was on hand. In fact + he was a coward, and ought to have kept quiet, but it is just that class + that are usually most noisy. + </p> + <p> + Andy had no idea that Godfrey would complain to the teacher in a matter + where he was so clearly in the wrong, nor would he if he had not relied + upon his father's position to carry him through. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Stone is a poor man," he thought, "and he won't dare to take the part + of a low Irish boy against the only son and heir of Colonel Preston. He + knows on which side his bread is buttered, and he won't be such a fool as + to offend my father." + </p> + <p> + While he said this he knew that it was very doubtful whether his father + would espouse his cause, but then Mr. Stone would probably suppose he + would, which would answer the same purpose on the present occasion. + </p> + <p> + When Andy re-entered the schoolroom with the rest of the boys at the + termination of recess, he saw Godfrey in his seat. The latter darted at + him a glance of malicious triumph. + </p> + <p> + When the noise of entering was over, Mr. Stone said: + </p> + <p> + "Andrew Burke, come forward!" + </p> + <p> + Considerably surprised, Andy came forward, and looked up with a modest + self-possession into the teacher's face. + </p> + <p> + "A complaint has been entered against you, Andrew," Mr. Stone began. + </p> + <p> + "What is it, sir?" asked Andy. + </p> + <p> + "You are charged by Godfrey Preston with violently assaulting and throwing + him down, just before school commenced. Is this true?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir," answered Andy, promptly. + </p> + <p> + "You are charged with kneeling down upon him, and preventing his getting + up." + </p> + <p> + "That is true," said Andy, quite composedly. + </p> + <p> + "I am surprised that you should have acted in this manner," said Mr. + Stone. "I did not think you quarrelsome or a bully." + </p> + <p> + "I hope I am not," said Andy. "Did Godfrey tell you why I knocked him + over?" + </p> + <p> + "He said it was because he would not associate with you." + </p> + <p> + Andy laughed. + </p> + <p> + "I hope you'll excuse my laughing, sir," he said, respectfully; "but I'd + rather associate with any of the boys than with Godfrey. I like him least + of all." + </p> + <p> + "Then, that is the reason you attacked him, is it?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Then, what was it?" + </p> + <p> + "If you don't mind, sir, I'd like to have you ask Alfred Parker." + </p> + <p> + "Alfred Parker," called out the teacher, "come forward." + </p> + <p> + Alfred obeyed. + </p> + <p> + "Do you know why Andrew attacked Godfrey Preston?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir; it was on my account." + </p> + <p> + "On your account! Explain." + </p> + <p> + "This morning, before school, I was playing with another boy, and + accidentally ran into Godfrey. He got mad, and threw me over violently. + Then he pressed his knee on my breast till I could hardly breathe. I + begged him to let me up, but he would not, though he knew that it was only + an accident. While I was lying on the ground, Andy Burke came up. He no + sooner saw me than he ran up, and threw Godfrey off, and got on him in the + same manner, and I think he served him right." + </p> + <p> + As he uttered these last words, Godfrey scowled ominously, but Andy's face + brightened up. He was glad that Alfred was brave enough to speak up for + him. + </p> + <p> + "This alters the case considerably," said the teacher. "Is there any other + boy who witnessed the affair, and can substantiate what has been said? If + so, let him raise his hand." + </p> + <p> + Herman Reynolds raised his hand. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Herman, what do you know about it? Were you present?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir, I was. It was just as Alfred said it was." + </p> + <p> + "What have you to say, Godfrey?" asked Mr. Stone, sternly. + </p> + <p> + "I don't mean to be insulted by an Irish boy," said Godfrey, haughtily. + </p> + <p> + "Remember where you are, sir, and speak in a more becoming manner. Did you + attack Alfred Parker, as he says?" + </p> + <p> + "He had no business to run into me." + </p> + <p> + "Answer my question." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I did." + </p> + <p> + "And did you kneel on his breast?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "Oblige me by saying, 'Yes, sir.'" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir," said Godfrey, reluctantly. + </p> + <p> + "Why do you complain, then, of being treated in a similar manner by + Andrew?" + </p> + <p> + "He has no business to touch me." + </p> + <p> + "If he had not interfered when he saw you maltreating his young + schoolfellow, I should have been ashamed of him," said the teacher. + </p> + <p> + This so far chimed in with the sentiment of the boys that they almost + involuntarily applauded; and one boy, arising, exclaimed: + </p> + <p> + "Three cheers for the teacher!" + </p> + <p> + The three cheers were given with a will, and, though they were, strictly + speaking, out of order, Mr. Stone was a sensible man, and the only notice + he took of it was to say: + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, boys. I am glad to find that you agree with me on this point, + and that your sympathies are with the weak and oppressed. Godfrey Preston, + your complaint is dismissed. I advise you to cease acting the part of a + bully, or you may get another similar lesson. Andrew, when you exert your + strength, I hope it will always be in as just a cause. You may take your + seat, and you also, Alfred." + </p> + <p> + The boys would have applauded again, but Mr. Stone said, waving his hand: + </p> + <p> + "Once is enough, boys. Time is precious, and we must now go on with our + lessons. First class in arithmetic." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey had been equally surprised and angry at the turn that affairs had + taken. He was boiling with indignation, and nervously moved about in his + seat. After a slight pause, having apparently taken his determination, he + took his cap, and walked toward the door. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Stone's attention was drawn to him. + </p> + <p> + "Where are you going, Godfrey?" he demanded, quickly. + </p> + <p> + "Home," said Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + "You will wait till the end of school." + </p> + <p> + "I would rather not, sir." + </p> + <p> + "It makes no difference what you would rather do, or rather not do. Are + you sick?" + </p> + <p> + "No, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Then you have no good cause for leaving, and I shall not permit you to do + so." + </p> + <p> + "I have been insulted, sir, and I don't wish to stay." + </p> + <p> + "By whom?" demanded the teacher, sharply. + </p> + <p> + Godfrey would like to have said, "By you," but he saw the teacher's keen + eye fixed upon him, and he didn't dare to do it. He hesitated. + </p> + <p> + "By whom?" repeated Mr. Stone. + </p> + <p> + "By Andrew Burke." + </p> + <p> + "That is no good reason for your leaving school, or would not be, if it + were true, but it is not. He has only meted out to you the same punishment + you undertook to inflict upon a smaller boy. Take your seat." + </p> + <p> + "My father will take me away from school," said Godfrey, angrily. + </p> + <p> + "We shall none of us mourn for your absence. Take your seat." + </p> + <p> + This last remark of the teacher still further incensed Godfrey, and led + him temporarily to forget himself. Though he had been bidden to take his + seat, he resolved to leave the schoolroom, and made a rush for the door. + But Mr. Stone was there before him. He seized Godfrey by the collar and + dragged him, shaking him as he proceeded, to his seat, on which he placed + him with some emphasis. + </p> + <p> + "That is the way I treat rebels," he said. "You forget yourself, Preston. + The next time you make up your mind to resist my commands, count in + advance on a much severer lesson." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey was pale with passion, and his hands twitched convulsively. He + only wished he had Mr. Stone in his power for five minutes. He would treat + him worse than he did Alfred Parker. But a boy in a passion is not a very + pleasant spectacle. It is enough to say that Godfrey was compelled to stay + in school for the remainder of the forenoon. As soon as he could get away, + he ran home, determined to enlist his mother in his cause. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV — MR. STONE IS CALLED TO ACCOUNT + </h2> + <p> + At home Godfrey gave a highly colored narrative of the outrageous manner + in which he had been abused, for so he chose to represent it. He gave this + account to his mother, for his father was not at home. Indeed, he was + absent for a day or two in a distant city. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston was indignant. + </p> + <p> + "It is an outrage, Godfrey," she said, compressing her thin lips. "How did + Mr. Stone dare to treat you in this way?" + </p> + <p> + "I was surprised, myself," said Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + "Had he no more respect for your father's prominent position?" + </p> + <p> + "It looks as if he didn't." + </p> + <p> + "He is evidently unfit to keep the school. I shall try to persuade your + father to have him turned away." + </p> + <p> + "I wish he might be," said Godfrey. "It would teach him to treat me with + proper respect. Anybody would think that Irish boy was the son of the most + important man in town." + </p> + <p> + Both Godfrey and his mother appeared to take it for granted that a teacher + should treat his pupils according to their social position. This is + certainly very far from proper, as all my youthful readers will, I hope, + agree. + </p> + <p> + "I don't want to go back to school this afternoon, mother," said Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + "I don't wonder," said his mother. "I will tell you what I will do. I will + send a letter to Mr. Stone by you, asking him to call here this evening. I + will then take occasion to express my opinion of his conduct." + </p> + <p> + "That's good, mother," said Godfrey, joyfully. + </p> + <p> + He knew that his mother had a sharp tongue, and he longed to hear his + mother "give it" to the teacher whom he hated. + </p> + <p> + "Then, you think I had better go to school this afternoon?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, with the note. If Mr. Stone does not apologize, you need not go + to-morrow. I will go upstairs and write it at once." + </p> + <p> + The note was quickly written, and, putting it carefully in his inside + pocket, Godfrey went to school. As he entered the schoolroom he stepped up + to the desk and handed the note to Mr. Stone. + </p> + <p> + "Here is a note from my mother," he said, superciliously. + </p> + <p> + "Very well," said the teacher, taking it gravely. + </p> + <p> + As it was not quite time to summon the pupils, he opened it at once. + </p> + <p> + This was what he read: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "MR. STONE: Sir—My son Godfrey informs me that you have + treated him in a very unjust manner, for which I find it + impossible to account. I shall be glad if you can find time + to call at my house this evening, in order that I may hear + from your lips an explanation of the occurrence. Yours, in + haste, + "Lucinda Preston." +</pre> + <p> + "Preston," said Mr. Stone, after reading this note, "you may say to your + mother that I will call this evening." + </p> + <p> + He did not appear in the least disturbed by the contents of the note he + had received from the richest and—in her own eyes—the most + important lady in the village. In fact, he had a large share of + self-respect and independence, and was not likely to submit to browbeating + from anyone. He tried to be just in his treatment of the scholars under + his charge, and if he ever failed, it was from misunderstanding or + ignorance, not from design. In the present instance he felt that he had + done right, and resolved to maintain the justice of his conduct. + </p> + <p> + Nothing of importance occurred in the afternoon. Godfrey was very quiet + and orderly. He felt that he could afford to wait. With malicious joy, he + looked forward to the scolding Mr. Stone was to get from his mother. + </p> + <p> + "He won't dare to talk to her," he said to himself. "I hope she'll make + him apologize to me. He ought to do it before the school." + </p> + <p> + Evidently Godfrey had a very inadequate idea of the teacher's pluck, if he + thought such a thing possible. + </p> + <p> + School was dismissed, and Godfrey went home. He dropped a hint to Ben + Travers, that his mother was going "to haul Mr. Stone over the coals," as + he expressed it. + </p> + <p> + "Are you going to be there?" asked Ben, when Godfrey had finished. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Godfrey. "It'll be my turn then." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps Mr. Stone will have something to say," said Ben, doubtfully. + </p> + <p> + "He won't dare to," said Godfrey, confidently. "He knows my father could + get him kicked out of school." + </p> + <p> + "He's rather spunky, the master is," said Ben, who, toady as he was, + understood the character of Mr. Stone considerably better than Godfrey + did. + </p> + <p> + "I'll tell you all about it to-morrow morning," said Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + "All right." + </p> + <p> + "I expect he'll apologize to me for what he did." + </p> + <p> + "Maybe he will," answered Ben, but he thought it highly improbable. + </p> + <p> + "Did you give my note to Mr. Stone?" asked his mother. + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "What did he say?" + </p> + <p> + "He said he'd come around." + </p> + <p> + "How did he appear?" + </p> + <p> + "He looked a little nervous," said Godfrey, speaking not according to + facts, but according to his wishes. + </p> + <p> + "I thought so," said Mrs. Preston, with a look of satisfaction. "He will + find that he has made a mistake in treating you so outrageously." + </p> + <p> + "Give it to him right and left, mother," said Godfrey, with more force + than elegance. + </p> + <p> + "You might express yourself more properly, my son," said Mrs. Preston. "I + shall endeavor to impress upon his mind the impropriety of his conduct." + </p> + <p> + At half-past seven, Mr. Stone rang the bell at Mrs. Preston's door, and + was ushered in without delay. + </p> + <p> + "Good-evening, Mrs. Preston," he said, bowing. "Your son brought me a note + this afternoon, requesting me to call. I have complied with your request." + </p> + <p> + "Be seated, Mr. Stone," said the lady frigidly, not offering her hand. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you," said the teacher, with equal ceremony, and did as invited. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose you can guess the object of my request," said Mrs. Preston. + </p> + <p> + "I think you stated it in your note." + </p> + <p> + "I desire an explanation of the manner in which you treated my son this + forenoon, Mr. Stone." + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me, madam; your son is in the room." + </p> + <p> + "Well, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "I decline discussing the matter before him." + </p> + <p> + "I cannot understand why you should object to his presence." + </p> + <p> + "I am his teacher, and he is subject to my authority. You apparently + desire to find fault with the manner in which I have exercised that + authority. It is improper that the discussion upon this point should take + place before him." + </p> + <p> + "May I stay in the room, mother?" asked Godfrey, who was alarmed lest he + should miss the spectacle of Mr. Stone's humiliation. + </p> + <p> + "I really don't see why not," returned his mother. + </p> + <p> + "Madam," said Mr. Stone, rising, "I will bid you good-evening." + </p> + <p> + "What, sir; before we have spoken on the subject?" + </p> + <p> + "I distinctly decline to speak before your son, for the reasons already + given." + </p> + <p> + "This is very singular, sir. However, I will humor your whims. Godfrey, + you may leave the room." + </p> + <p> + "Can't I stay?" + </p> + <p> + "I am compelled to send you out." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey went out, though with a very ill grace. + </p> + <p> + "Now, madam," said the teacher, "I have no objection to telling you that I + first reprimanded your son for brutal treatment of a younger schoolmate, + and then forcibly carried him back to his seat, when he endeavored to + leave the schoolroom without my permission." + </p> + <p> + It was Mrs. Preston's turn to be surprised. She had expected to overawe + the teacher, and instead of that found him firmly and independently + defending his course. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Stone," she said, "my son tells me that you praised an Irish boy in + your school for a violent and brutal assault which he made upon him." + </p> + <p> + "I did not praise him for that. I praised him for promptly interfering to + prevent Godfrey from abusing a boy smaller and younger than himself." + </p> + <p> + "Godfrey had good cause for punishing the boy you refer to. He acted in + self-defense." + </p> + <p> + "He has doubtless misrepresented the affair to you, madam, as he did to + me." + </p> + <p> + "You take this Andrew Burke's word against his?" + </p> + <p> + "I form my judgment upon the testimony of an eyewitness, and from what I + know of your son's character." + </p> + <p> + "From your own statement, this low Irish boy——" + </p> + <p> + "To whom do you refer, madam?" + </p> + <p> + "To the Irish boy." + </p> + <p> + "I have yet to learn that he is low." + </p> + <p> + "Do you mean to compare him with my son?" + </p> + <p> + "In wealth, no. Otherwise, you mustn't blame me for saying that I hold him + entirely equal in respectability, and in some important points his + superior." + </p> + <p> + "Really, sir, your language is most extraordinary." + </p> + <p> + At this moment there was an interruption. Godfrey had been listening at + the keyhole, but finding that difficult, had opened the door slightly, but + in his interest managed to stumble against it. The door flew open, and he + fell forward upon his knees on the carpet of the sitting-room. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV — MRS. PRESTON'S DISCOMFITURE + </h2> + <p> + Godfrey rose to his feet, red with mortification. His mother looked + disconcerted. Mr. Stone said nothing, but glanced significantly from + Godfrey to Mrs. Preston. + </p> + <p> + "What is the matter, Godfrey?" she asked, rather sharply. + </p> + <p> + "It was an accident," said Godfrey, rather sheepishly. + </p> + <p> + "You can go out and shut the door, and take care not to let such an + accident happen again. For some unknown reason, Mr. Stone prefers that you + should not be present, and, therefore, you must go." + </p> + <p> + For once, Godfrey found nothing to say, but withdrew in silence. + </p> + <p> + "You appear to have formed a prejudice against Godfrey, Mr. Stone," said + Mrs. Preston. + </p> + <p> + "I may have formed an unfavorable judgment of him on some points," said + the teacher. "I judge of him by his conduct." + </p> + <p> + "To say that Andrew Burke is his superior is insulting to him and his + family, as well as ludicrous." + </p> + <p> + "I beg pardon, Mrs. Preston, but I must dissent from both your statements. + Andrew Burke possesses some excellent qualities in which Godfrey is + deficient." + </p> + <p> + "He is a poor working boy." + </p> + <p> + "He is none the worse for that." + </p> + <p> + "He should remember his position, and treat my son with proper respect." + </p> + <p> + "I venture to say that Godfrey will receive all the respect to which he is + entitled. May I ask if you expect him to be treated with deference, + because his father is richer than those of the other boys?" + </p> + <p> + "It seems to me only proper." + </p> + <p> + "Do you expect me to treat him any better on that account?" + </p> + <p> + "I think my son's social position should command respect." + </p> + <p> + "Then, Mrs. Preston, I entirely disagree with you," said Mr. Stone, + firmly. "As a teacher, I have nothing whatever to do with the social + position of the children who come to me as pupils. From me a poor boy will + receive the same instruction, and the same treatment precisely as the son + of rich parents. If he behaves as he should, he will always find in me a + friend, as well as a teacher. Your son Godfrey shall have no just + complaint to make of my treatment. I will give him credit for good conduct + and faithful study, but no more than to Andrew Burke, or to any other + pupil under the same circumstances." + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Stone, I am surprised at your singular style of talking. You wish to + do away with all social distinctions." + </p> + <p> + "I certainly do, madam, in my schoolroom, at least. There must be social + differences, I am aware. We cannot all be equally rich or honored, but + whatever may be the world's rule, I mean to maintain strict impartiality + in my schoolroom." + </p> + <p> + "Will you require Andy Burke to apologize to Godfrey?" + </p> + <p> + "Why should I?" + </p> + <p> + "For his violent assault upon him." + </p> + <p> + "Certainly not. He was justified in his conduct." + </p> + <p> + "If my son was doing wrong, the Irish boy, instead of interfering, should + have waited till you came, and then reported the matter to you." + </p> + <p> + "And, meanwhile, stood by and seen Alfred Parker inhumanly treated?" + </p> + <p> + "I presume the matter has been greatly exaggerated." + </p> + <p> + "I do not, madam." + </p> + <p> + "Do I understand that you decline to make reparation to my son?" + </p> + <p> + "Reparation for what?" + </p> + <p> + "For the manner in which he has been treated." + </p> + <p> + "I must have talked to little purpose, if I have not made it clear that + your son has only received his deserts. Of course, he is entitled to no + reparation, as you term it." + </p> + <p> + "Then, Mr. Stone," said Mrs. Preston, her thin lips compressed with + indignation, "since Godfrey cannot meet with fair treatment, I shall be + compelled to withdraw him from your school." + </p> + <p> + "That must be as you please, madam," said the teacher, quite unmoved by + the threatened withdrawal of his richest pupil. + </p> + <p> + "I shall report to Colonel Preston your treatment of his son." + </p> + <p> + "I have no objection, madam." + </p> + <p> + "You are pursuing a very unwise course in alienating your wealthiest + patrons." + </p> + <p> + "I have no patrons, madam," said Mr. Stone, proudly. "I return faithful + service for the moderate wages I receive, and the obligation, if there is + any, is on the part of those whose children I instruct." + </p> + <p> + "Really," thought Mrs. Preston, "this man is very independent for a poor + teacher." + </p> + <p> + She resolved upon another shot, not in the best of taste. + </p> + <p> + "You must not be surprised, Mr. Stone," she said, "if the school trustees + refuse to employ you again." + </p> + <p> + "You mistake me utterly," said the teacher, with dignity, "if you suppose + that any such threat or consideration will make me swerve from my duty. + However, though I did not propose to mention it, I will state that this is + the last term I shall teach in this village. I have been engaged at double + the salary in a neighboring city." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston was disappointed to hear this. It was certainly vexatious + that the man who had treated her son with so little consideration, who had + actually taken the part of a working boy against him, should be promoted + to a better situation. She had thought to make him feel that he was in her + power, but she now saw that her anticipations were not to be realized. + </p> + <p> + As she did not speak, Mr. Stone considered the interview closed, and rose. + </p> + <p> + "Good-evening, Mrs. Preston," he said. + </p> + <p> + "Good-evening, sir," she responded, coldly. + </p> + <p> + He bowed and withdrew. + </p> + <p> + When Godfrey, who was not far off, though he had not thought it best to + play the part of eavesdropper again, heard the door close, he hurried into + the room. + </p> + <p> + "Well, mother, what did he say?" he inquired, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + "He obstinately refused to make any reparation to you." + </p> + <p> + "Did you tell him what you thought of his treatment of me?" said Godfrey, + rather surprised that his mother's remonstrance had produced no greater + effect. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I expressed my opinion very plainly. I must say that he's a very + impudent man. The idea of a poor teacher putting on such airs!" continued + Mrs. Preston, tossing her head. + </p> + <p> + "What did he say?" + </p> + <p> + "That that Irish boy was superior to you." + </p> + <p> + "I'd like to knock him over," said Godfrey, wrathfully. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston was a lady, and it is not to be supposed that she should join + in her son's wish. Still, it did not occur to her that she should mourn + very much if Mr. Stone met with a reverse. She would like to see his pride + humbled, not reflecting that her own was greater and less justifiable. + </p> + <p> + "You ought to have told him that he would lose his school," said Godfrey. + "That would have frightened him, for he is a poor man, and depends on the + money he gets for teaching." + </p> + <p> + "He is not going to teach here after this term." + </p> + <p> + "Good! Did he tell you that?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "He is afraid of me, after all." + </p> + <p> + "You are mistaken, Godfrey. He is offered considerably higher pay in + another place." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey's countenance fell. It was as disagreeable to him as to his mother + to learn that Mr. Stone was to be promoted in his profession. + </p> + <p> + "Shall I have to go to school again, mother?" he asked, after a pause. + </p> + <p> + "No," said Mrs. Preston, with energy. "Upon that I have determined. While + Mr. Stone is teacher, you shall not go back. I will take care to let it be + known in the neighborhood why I keep you at home. I hope the next teacher + will be a man who understands the respect due to social position. I don't + care to have you put on an equality with such boys as Andrew Burke. He is + no fit associate for you." + </p> + <p> + "That is what I think, mother," said Godfrey. "The low beggar! I'd like to + come up with him. Perhaps, I shall have a chance some day." + </p> + <p> + When Colonel Preston returned home, the whole story was told to him; but, + colored though it was, he guessed how matters actually stood, and was far + from becoming his son's partisan. He privately went to Mr. Stone and + obtained his version of the affair. + </p> + <p> + "You did right, Mr. Stone," he said, at the end. "If my son chooses to act + the bully, he must take the consequences. Mrs. Preston does not look upon + it in the same light, and insists upon my taking Godfrey from school. For + the sake of peace, I must do so, but you must not construe it as showing + any disapproval on my part of your course in the matter." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, Colonel Preston," said the teacher, warmly. "I can only regret + Mrs. Preston's displeasure. Your approval I highly value, and it will + encourage me in the path of duty." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI — THE CHRISTMAS PRESENT + </h2> + <p> + Godfrey didn't return to school at all. He fancied that it would be more + aristocratic to go to a boarding school, and, his mother concurring in + this view, he was entered as a scholar at the Melville Academy, situated + in Melville, twelve miles distant. Once a fortnight he came home to spend + the Sunday. On these occasions he flourished about with a tiny cane, and + put on more airs than ever. No one missed him much, outside of his own + family. Andy found the school considerably more agreeable after his + departure. + </p> + <p> + We will now suppose twelve months to have passed. During this time Andy + has grown considerably, and is now quite a stout boy. He has improved also + in education. The Misses Grant, taking a kind interest in his progress, + managed to spare him half the day in succeeding terms, so that he + continued to attend school. Knowing that he had but three hours to learn, + when the others had six, he was all the more diligent, and was quite up to + the average standard for boys of his age. The fact is, Andy was an + observing boy, and he realized that education was essential to success in + life. Mr. Stone, before going away, talked with him on this subject and + gave him some advice, which Andy determined to follow. + </p> + <p> + As may be inferred from what I have said, Andy was still working for the + Misses Grant. He had grown accustomed to their ways, and succeeded in + giving them perfect satisfaction, and accomplished quite as much work as + John, his predecessor, though the latter was a man. + </p> + <p> + As Christmas approached, Miss Priscilla said one day to her sister: + </p> + <p> + "Don't you think, Sophia, it would be well to give Andrew a Christmas + present?" + </p> + <p> + "Just so," returned Sophia, approvingly. + </p> + <p> + "He has been very faithful and obliging all the time he has been with us." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "I have been thinking what would be a good thing to give him." + </p> + <p> + "A pair of spectacles," suggested Sophia, rather absent-mindedly. + </p> + <p> + "Sophia, you are a goose." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," acquiesced her sister, meekly. + </p> + <p> + "Such a gift would be very inappropriate." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "A pair of boots," was the next suggestion. + </p> + <p> + "That would be better. Boots would be very useful, but I think it would be + well to give him something that would contribute to his amusement. Of + course, we must consult his taste, and not out own. We are not boys." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia, promptly. "And he is not a lady," she added, + enlarging upon the idea. + </p> + <p> + "Of course not. Now, the question is, what do boys like?" + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia, but this admission did not throw much light upon + the character of the present to be bought. + </p> + <p> + Just then Andy himself helped them to a decision. He entered, cap in hand, + and said: + </p> + <p> + "If you can spare me, Miss Grant, I would like to go skating on the pond." + </p> + <p> + "Have you a pair of skates, Andrew?" + </p> + <p> + "No, ma'am," said Andy; "but one of the boys will lend me a pair." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Andrew; you can go, if you will be home early." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am—thank you." + </p> + <p> + As he went out, Miss Priscilla said: + </p> + <p> + "I have it." + </p> + <p> + "What?" asked Sophia, alarmed. + </p> + <p> + "I mean that I have found out what to give to Andrew." + </p> + <p> + "What is it?" + </p> + <p> + "A pair of skates." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia. "He will like them." + </p> + <p> + "So I think. Suppose we go to the store while he is away, and buy him a + pair." + </p> + <p> + "Won't he need to try them on?" asked her sister. + </p> + <p> + "No," said Priscilla. "They don't need to fit as exactly as boots." + </p> + <p> + So the two sisters made their way to the village store, and asked to look + at their stock of skates. + </p> + <p> + "Are you going to skate, Miss Priscilla?" asked the shopkeeper, jocosely. + </p> + <p> + "No; they are for Sophia," answered Priscilla, who could joke + occasionally. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, Priscilla," answered the matter-of-fact Sophia, "you didn't tell me + about that. I am sure I could not skate. You said they were for Andrew." + </p> + <p> + "Sophia, you are a goose." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "It was only a joke." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + The ladies, who never did things by halves, selected the best pair in the + store, and paid for them. When Andy had returned from skating, Priscilla + said: "How did you like the skating, Andrew?" + </p> + <p> + "It was bully," said Andrew, enthusiastically. + </p> + <p> + "Whose skates did you borrow?" + </p> + <p> + "Alfred Parker's. They were too small for me, but I made them do." + </p> + <p> + "I should suppose you would like to have a pair of your own." + </p> + <p> + "So I should, but I can't afford to buy a pair, just yet. + </p> + <p> + "I'll tell you what I want to do, and maybe you'll help me about buyin' + it." + </p> + <p> + "What is it, Andrew?" + </p> + <p> + "You know Christmas is comin', ma'am, and I want to buy my mother a nice + dress for a Christmas present—not a calico one, but a thick one for + winter." + </p> + <p> + "Alpaca or de laine?" + </p> + <p> + "I expect so; I don't know the name of what I want, but you do. How much + would it cost?" + </p> + <p> + "I think you could get a good de laine for fifty cents a yard. I saw some + at the store this afternoon." + </p> + <p> + "And about how many yards would be wanted, ma'am?" + </p> + <p> + "About twelve, I should think." + </p> + <p> + "Then it would be six dollars." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia, who thought it about time she took part in the + conversation. + </p> + <p> + "I've got the money, ma'am, and I'll give it to you, if you and Miss + Sophia will be kind enough to buy it for me." + </p> + <p> + "To be sure we will, Andrew," said Priscilla, kindly. "I am glad you are + such a good son." + </p> + <p> + "Just so, Andrew." + </p> + <p> + "You see," said Andy, "mother won't buy anything for herself. She always + wants to buy things for Mary and me. She wants us to be well-dressed, but + she goes with the same old clothes. So I want her to have a new dress." + </p> + <p> + "You want her to have it at Christmas, then?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am, if it won't be too much trouble." + </p> + <p> + "That is in two days. To-morrow, Sophia and I will buy the dress." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you. Here's the money," and Andy counted out six dollars in bills, + of which Miss Priscilla took charge. + </p> + <p> + The next day they fulfilled their commission, and purchased a fine dress + pattern at the village store. It cost rather more than siX — + dollars, but this they paid out of their own pockets, and did not report + to Andy. Just after supper, as he was about to go home to spend Christmas + Eve, they placed the bundle in his hands. + </p> + <p> + "Isn't it beautiful!" he exclaimed, with delight. "Won't mother be glad to + get it?" + </p> + <p> + "She'll think she has a good son, Andrew." + </p> + <p> + "Shure, I ought to be good to her, for she's a jewel of a mother." + </p> + <p> + "That is right, Andrew. I always like to hear a boy speak well of his + mother. It is a great pleasure to a mother to have a good son." + </p> + <p> + "Shure, ma'am," said Andy, with more kindness of heart than discretion, "I + hope you'll have one yourself." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia, with the forced habit upon her. + </p> + <p> + "Sophia, you are a goose!" said Priscilla, blushing a little. + </p> + <p> + "Just so, Priscilla." + </p> + <p> + "We are too old to marry, Andrew," said Priscilla; "but we thank you for + your wish." + </p> + <p> + "Shure, ma'am, you are only in the prime of life." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia, brightening up. + </p> + <p> + "I shall be sixty next spring. That can hardly be in the prime of life." + </p> + <p> + "I was readin' of a lady that got married at seventy-nine, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + Miss Priscilla did not care to pursue the subject. + </p> + <p> + "We have thought of you," she continued, "and, as you have been very + obliging, we have bought you a Christmas present. Here it is." + </p> + <p> + Andy no sooner saw the skates than his face brightened up with the most + evident satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + "It's just what I wanted," he said, joyfully. "They're regular beauties! + I'm ever so much obliged to you." + </p> + <p> + "Sophia wanted to get you a pair of spectacles, but I thought these would + suit you better." + </p> + <p> + Andy went off into a fit of laughter at the idea, in which both the ladies + joined him. Then, after thanking them again, he hurried home, hardly + knowing which gave him greater pleasure, his own present, or his mother's. + </p> + <p> + I will not stop to describe Andy's Christmas, for this is only a + retrospect, but carry my reader forward to the next September, when Andy + met with an adventure, which eventually had a considerable effect upon his + fortunes. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII — INTRODUCES AN ADVENTURER + </h2> + <p> + Colonel Preston, as I have already said, was a rich man. He owned no real + estate in the town of Crampton, except the house in which he lived. His + property was chiefly in stocks of different kinds. Included in these was a + considerable amount of stock in a woolen manufacturing establishment, + situated in Melville, some twelve miles distant. Dividends upon these were + paid semi-annually, on the first of April and October. It was the custom + of Colonel Preston at these dates to drive over to Melville, receive his + dividends, and then drive back again. + </p> + <p> + Now, unfortunately for the welfare of the community, there are some + persons who, unwilling to make a living by honest industry, prefer to + possess themselves unlawfully of means to maintain their unprofitable + lives. Among them was a certain black-whiskered individual, who, finding + himself too well known in New York, had sought the country, ready for any + stroke of business which might offer in his particular line. Chance led + his steps to Melville, where he put up at the village inn. He began at + once to institute inquiries, the answers to which might serve his purpose, + and to avert suspicion, casually mentioned that he was a capitalist, and + thought of settling down in the town. As he was well dressed, and had a + plausible manner, this statement was not doubted. + </p> + <p> + Among other things, he made inquiries in regard to the manufactory, what + dividends it paid, and when. Expressing himself desirous of purchasing + some stock, he inquired the names of the principal owners of the stock. + First among them was mentioned Colonel Preston. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps he might sell some stocks," suggested the landlord. + </p> + <p> + "Where can I see him?" asked James Fairfax, for this was the name assumed + by the adventurer. + </p> + <p> + "You can see him here," answered the landlord, "in a day or two. He will + be here the first of the month to receive his dividends." + </p> + <p> + "Will he stop with you?" + </p> + <p> + "Probably. He generally dines with me when he comes over." + </p> + <p> + "Will you introduce me?" + </p> + <p> + "With pleasure." + </p> + <p> + Mr. Fairfax appeared to hear this with satisfaction, and said that he + would make Colonel Preston an offer for a part of his stock. + </p> + <p> + "Most of my property is invested in real estate in New York," he said; + "but I should like to have some manufacturing stock; and, from what you + tell me, I think favorably of the Melville Mills." + </p> + <p> + "We should be glad to have you settle down among us," said the landlord. + </p> + <p> + "I shall probably do so," said Fairfax. "I am very much pleased with your + town and people." + </p> + <p> + In due time Colonel Preston drove over. As usual, he put up at the hotel. + </p> + <p> + "Colonel," said the landlord, "there's a gentleman stopping with me who + desires an introduction to you." + </p> + <p> + "Indeed! What is his name?" + </p> + <p> + "James Fairfax." + </p> + <p> + "Is he from this neighborhood?" + </p> + <p> + "No; from the city of New York." + </p> + <p> + "I shall be happy to make his acquaintance," said the colonel, + courteously; "but it must be after I return from the mills. I shall be + there a couple of hours, probably. We are to have a directorial meeting." + </p> + <p> + "I will tell him." + </p> + <p> + Colonel Preston attended the directors' meeting, and also collected his + dividend, amounting to eight hundred dollars. These, in eight + one-hundred-dollar bills, he put in his pocketbook, and returned to the + hotel for dinner. + </p> + <p> + "Dinner is not quite ready, colonel," said the landlord. "It will be ready + in fifteen minutes." + </p> + <p> + "Where is the gentleman who wished to be introduced to me?" asked Colonel + Preston, who thought it would save time to be introduced now. + </p> + <p> + "I will speak to him." + </p> + <p> + He went directly to a dark-complexioned man with black whiskers, and eyes + that were rather sinister in appearance. The eyes oftenest betray the real + character of a man, where all other signs fail. But Colonel Preston was + not a keen observer, nor was he skilled in physiognomy, and, judging of + Mr. Fairfax by his manner merely, was rather pleased with him. + </p> + <p> + "You will pardon my obtruding myself upon you, Colonel Preston," said the + stranger, with great ease of manner. + </p> + <p> + "I am happy to make your acquaintance, sir." + </p> + <p> + "I am a stranger in this neighborhood. The city of New York is my home. I + have been led here by the recommendations of friends who knew that I + desired to locate myself in the country." + </p> + <p> + "How do you like Melville?" + </p> + <p> + "Very much—so much, that I may settle down here. But, Colonel + Preston, I am a man of business, and if I am to be here, I want some local + interest—some stake in the town itself." + </p> + <p> + "Quite natural, sir." + </p> + <p> + "You are a business man yourself, and will understand me. Now, to come to + the point, I find you have a manufactory here—a woolen manufactory, + which I am given to understand is prosperous and profitable." + </p> + <p> + "You are correctly informed, Mr. Fairfax. It is paying twelve per cent. + dividends, and has done so for several years." + </p> + <p> + "That is excellent. It is a better rate than I get for most of my city + investments." + </p> + <p> + "I also have city investments—bank stocks, and horse-railroad + stocks, but, as you say, my mill stock pays me better than the majority of + these." + </p> + <p> + "You are a large owner of the mill stock; are you not, Colonel Preston?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir; the largest, I believe." + </p> + <p> + "So I am informed. Would you be willing to part with any of it?" + </p> + <p> + "I have never thought of doing so. I am afraid I could not replace it with + any other that would be satisfactory." + </p> + <p> + "I don't blame you, of course, but it occurred to me that, having a + considerable amount, you might be willing to sell." + </p> + <p> + "I generally hold on to good stock when I get possession of it. Indeed, I + would buy more, if there were any in the market." + </p> + <p> + "He must have surplus funds," thought the adventurer. "I must see if I + can't manage to get some into my possession." + </p> + <p> + Here the landlord appeared, and announced that dinner was ready. + </p> + <p> + "You dine here, then?" said Fairfax. + </p> + <p> + "Yes; it will take me two hours to reach home, so I am obliged to dine + here." + </p> + <p> + "We shall dine together, it seems. I am glad of it, as at present I happen + to be the only permanent guest at the hotel. May I ask where you live?" + </p> + <p> + "In Crampton." + </p> + <p> + "I have heard favorably of it, and have been intending to come over and + see the place, but the fact is, I am used only to the city, and your + country roads are so blind, that I have been afraid of losing my way." + </p> + <p> + "Won't you ride over with me this afternoon, Mr. Fairfax? I can't bring + you back, but you are quite welcome to a seat in my chaise one way." + </p> + <p> + The eyes of the adventurer sparkled at the invitation. Colonel Preston had + fallen into the trap he had laid for him, but he thought it best not to + accept too eagerly. + </p> + <p> + "You are certainly very kind, Colonel Preston," he answered, with affected + hesitation, "but I am afraid I shall be troubling you too much." + </p> + <p> + "No trouble whatever," said Colonel Preston, heartily. "It is a lonely + ride, and I shall be glad of a companion." + </p> + <p> + "A lonely ride, is it?" thought Fairfax. "All the better for my purpose. + It shall not be my fault if I do not come back with my pockets well lined. + The dividends you have just collected will be better in my pockets than in + yours." + </p> + <p> + This was what he thought, but he said: + </p> + <p> + "Then I will accept with pleasure. I suppose I can easily engage someone + to bring me back to Melville?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes; we have a livery stable, where you can easily obtain a horse and + driver." + </p> + <p> + The dinner proceeded, and Fairfax made himself unusually social and + agreeable, so that Colonel Preston congratulated himself on the prospect + of beguiling the loneliness of the way in such pleasant company. Fairfax + spoke of stocks with such apparent knowledge that the colonel imagined him + to be a gentleman of large property. It is not surprising that he was + deceived, for the adventurer really understood the subject of which he + spoke, having been for several years a clerk in a broker's counting-room + in Wall Street. The loss of his situation was occasioned by his + abstraction of some securities, part of which he had disposed of before he + was detected. He was, in consequence, tried and sentenced to three years' + imprisonment. At the end of this period he was released, with no further + taste for an honest life, and had since allied himself to the class who + thrive by preying upon the community. + </p> + <p> + This was the man whom Colonel Preston proposed to take as his companion on + his otherwise lonely ride home. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII — RIDING WITH A HIGHWAYMAN + </h2> + <p> + "Get into the chaise, Mr. Fairfax," said Colonel Preston. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you," said the adventurer, and accepted the invitation. + </p> + <p> + "Now we are off," said the colonel, as he took the reins, and touched the + horse lightly with the whip. + </p> + <p> + "Is the road a pleasant one?" inquired Fairfax. + </p> + <p> + "The latter part is rather lonely. For a mile it runs through the woods—still, + on a summer day, that is rather pleasant than otherwise. In the evening, + it is not so agreeable." + </p> + <p> + "No, I suppose not," said Fairfax, rather absently. + </p> + <p> + Colonel Preston would have been startled could he have read the thoughts + that were passing through the mind of his companion. Could he have known + his sinister designs, he would scarcely have sat at his side, chatting so + easily and indifferently. + </p> + <p> + "I will postpone my plan till we get to that part of the road he speaks + of," thought Fairfax. "It would not do for me to be interrupted." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose it is quite safe traveling anywhere on the road," remarked the + adventurer. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes," said Colonel Preston, with a laugh. "Thieves and highway + robbers do not pay us the compliment of visiting our neighborhood. They + keep in the large cities, or in places that will better reward their + efforts." + </p> + <p> + "Precisely," said Fairfax; "I am glad to hear it, for I carry a + considerable amount of money about me." + </p> + <p> + "So do I, to-day. This is the day for payment of mill dividends, and as I + have occasion to use the money, I did not deposit it." + </p> + <p> + "Good," said Fairfax, to himself. "That is what I wanted to find out." + </p> + <p> + Aloud he said: + </p> + <p> + "Oh, well, there are two of us, so it would be a bold highwayman that + would venture to attack us. Do you carry a pistol?" + </p> + <p> + "Not I," said Colonel Preston. "I don't like the idea of carrying firearms + about with me. They might go off by mistake. I was reading in a daily + paper, recently, of a case where a man accidentally shot his son with the + pistol he was in the habit of carrying about with him." + </p> + <p> + "There is that disadvantage, to be sure," said Fairfax. "So, he has no + pistol. He is quite in my power," he said to himself. "It's a good thing + to know." + </p> + <p> + "By the way," he asked, merely to keep up the conversation, "are you a + family man, Colonel Preston?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir; I have a wife, and a son of fifteen." + </p> + <p> + "You have the advantage of me in that respect. I have always been devoted + to business, and have had no time for matrimony." + </p> + <p> + "Time enough yet, Mr. Fairfax." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes, I suppose so." + </p> + <p> + "If you are going to settle down in our neighborhood, I can introduce you + to some of our marriageable young ladies," said Colonel Preston, + pleasantly. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you," said Fairfax; in the same tone. "I may avail myself of your + offer." + </p> + <p> + "Won't you take supper at my home this evening?" said the colonel, + hospitably. "I shall be glad to introduce Mrs. Preston. My son is at + boarding school, so I shall not be able to let you see him." + </p> + <p> + "Have you but one child, then?" + </p> + <p> + "But one. His absence leaves us alone." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey's absence would have been lamented more by his father, had his + character and disposition been different. But he was so arrogant and + overbearing in his manners, and so selfish, that his father hoped that + association with other boys would cure him in part of these objectionable + traits. At home, he was so much indulged by his mother, who could see no + fault in him, as long as he did not oppose her, that there was little + chance of amendment. + </p> + <p> + So they rode on, conversing on various topics, but their conversation was + not of sufficient importance for me to report. At length they entered on a + portion of the road lined on either side by a natural forest. Fairfax + looked about him. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose, Colonel Preston, these are the woods you referred to?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir." + </p> + <p> + "How far do they extend?" + </p> + <p> + "About a mile." + </p> + <p> + They had traversed about half a mile, when Fairfax said: + </p> + <p> + "If you don't object, Colonel Preston, I will step out a moment. There's a + tree with a peculiar leaf. I would like to examine it nearer to." + </p> + <p> + "Certainly, Mr. Fairfax," said the colonel, though he wondered what tree + it could be, for he saw no tree of an unusual character. + </p> + <p> + The chaise stopped and Fairfax jumped off. But he seemed to have forgotten + the object of dismounting. Instead of examining the foliage of a tree, he + stepped to the horse's head, and seized him by the bridle. + </p> + <p> + "What are you going to do, Mr. Fairfax?" asked Colonel Preston, in + surprise. + </p> + <p> + By this time Fairfax had withdrawn a pistol from his inside pocket, and + deliberately pointed it at his companion. + </p> + <p> + "Good heavens! Mr. Fairfax, what do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "Colonel Preston," said the adventurer, "I want all the money you have + about you. I know you have a considerable sum, for you have yourself + acknowledged it." + </p> + <p> + "Why," exclaimed Colonel Preston, startled, "this is highway robbery." + </p> + <p> + "Precisely!" said Fairfax, bowing mockingly. "You have had the honor of + riding with a highwayman. Will you be good enough to give me the money at + once? I am in haste." + </p> + <p> + "Surely, this is a joke, Mr. Fairfax. I have heard of such practical jokes + before. You are testing my courage. I am not in the least frightened. Jump + in the chaise again, and we will proceed." + </p> + <p> + "That's a very kind way of putting it," said Fairfax, coolly; "but not + correct. I am no counterfeit, but the genuine article. Fairfax is not my + name. I won't tell you what it is, for it might be inconvenient." + </p> + <p> + No man can look with equanimity upon the prospect of losing money, and + Colonel Preston may be excused for not wishing to part with his eight + hundred dollars. But how could he escape? He had no pistol, and Fairfax + held the horse's bridle in a strong grasp. If he could only parley with + him till some carriage should come up, he might save his money. It seemed + the only way, and he resolved to try it. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Fairfax," he said, "if you are really what you represent, I hope you + will consider the natural end of such a career. Turn, I entreat you, to a + more honest course of life." + </p> + <p> + "That may come some time," said Fairfax; "but at present my necessities + are too great. Oblige me by producing your pocketbook." + </p> + <p> + "I will give you one hundred dollars, and keep the matter a secret from + all. That will be better than to expose yourself to the penalty of the + law." + </p> + <p> + "Colonel Preston, a hundred dollars will not satisfy me. You have eight + hundred dollars with you, and I shall not leave this spot till it is + transferred to my possession." + </p> + <p> + "If I refuse?" + </p> + <p> + "You will subject me to the unpleasant alternative of blowing your brains + out," said the other, coolly. + </p> + <p> + "You surely would not be guilty of such a crime, Mr. Fairfax?" said + Colonel Preston, with a shudder. + </p> + <p> + "I would rather not. I have no desire to take your life, but I must have + that money. If you prefer to keep your money, you will compel me to the + act. You'll gain nothing, for in that case I shall take both—your + life first, and your money afterward." + </p> + <p> + "And this is the man with whom I dined, and with whom, a few moments + since, I was conversing freely!" thought Colonel Preston. + </p> + <p> + The adventurer became impatient. + </p> + <p> + "Colonel Preston," he said, abruptly, "produce that money instantly, or I + will fire." + </p> + <p> + There was no alternative. With reluctant hand the colonel drew out his + pocketbook, and was about to hand it with its contents to the highwayman, + when there was a sudden crash in the bushes behind Fairfax, his pistol was + dashed from his hand, and our young hero, Andy Burke, with resolute face, + stood with his gun leveled at him. All happened so quickly that both + Colonel Preston and Fairfax were taken by surprise, and the latter, still + retaining his hold upon the bridle, stared at the young hero, who had so + intrepidly come between him and his intended victim. + </p> + <p> + With an oath he stopped, and was about to pick up the pistol which had + fallen from his hands, but was arrested by the quick, decisive tones of + Andy: + </p> + <p> + "Let that pistol alone! If you pick it up, I will shoot you on the spot." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX — BAFFLED A ROBBER + </h2> + <p> + Fairfax paused at Andy's threat. He was only a boy, it is true, but he + looked cool and resolute, and the gun, which was pointed at him, looked + positively dangerous. But was he to be thwarted in the very moment of his + triumph, by a boy? He could not endure it. + </p> + <p> + "Young man," he said, "this is dangerous business for you. If you don't + make yourself scarce, you won't be likely to return at all." + </p> + <p> + "I'll take the risk," said Andy, coolly. + </p> + <p> + "Confound him! I thought he'd be frightened," said Fairfax to himself. + </p> + <p> + "I don't want to kill you," he said, with a further attempt to intimidate + Andy. + </p> + <p> + "I don't mean to let you," said our hero, quietly. + </p> + <p> + "You are no match for me." + </p> + <p> + "With a gun I am." + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe it is loaded." + </p> + <p> + "If you try to pick up that pistol, I'll convince you; by the powers, I + will," said Andy, energetically. + </p> + <p> + "What is to prevent my taking away the gun from you?" + </p> + <p> + "Faith," returned Andy, quaintly, "you'll take the powder and ball first, + I'm thinkin'." + </p> + <p> + Fairfax thought so, too, and that was one reason why he concluded not to + try it. + </p> + <p> + It was certainly a provoking position for him. + </p> + <p> + There lay the pistol on the ground, just at his feet; yet, if he tried to + pick it up, the boy would put a bullet through him. It was furthermore + provoking to reflect that, had he not stopped to parley with Colonel + Preston, he might have secured the money, which he so much desired, before + Andy had come up. There was one other resource. He had tried bullying, and + without success. He would try cajoling and temptation. + </p> + <p> + "Look here, boy," he said, "I am a desperate man. I would as leave murder + you as not." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you," said Andy. "But I'd rather not have it done." + </p> + <p> + "I don't want to hurt you, as I said before, but you mustn't interfere + with me." + </p> + <p> + "Then you mustn't interfere with the colonel." + </p> + <p> + "I must have the money in his pocketbook." + </p> + <p> + "Must you? Maybe, I'll have something to say, to that." + </p> + <p> + "He has eight hundred dollars with him." + </p> + <p> + "Did he tell you?" + </p> + <p> + "No matter; I know. If you won't interfere with me, I'll give you two + hundred of it." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you for nothing, then," said Andy, independently. "I'm only a poor + Irish boy, but I ain't a thafe, and never mane to be." + </p> + <p> + "Bravo, Andy!" said Colonel Preston, who had awaited with a little anxiety + the result of the offer. + </p> + <p> + Fairfax stooped suddenly, but before he could get hold of the pistol, Andy + struck him on the head with the gun-barrel, causing him to roll over, + while, in a quick and adroit movement, he himself got hold of the pistol + before Fairfax had recovered from the crack on his head. + </p> + <p> + "Now," said Andy, triumphantly, with the gun over his shoulder, and + presenting the pistol, "lave here mighty quick, or I'll shoot ye." + </p> + <p> + "Give me back the pistol, then," said the discomfited ruffian. + </p> + <p> + "I guess not," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "It's my property." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know that. Maybe you took it from some thraveler." + </p> + <p> + "Give it to me, and I'll go off peaceably." + </p> + <p> + "I won't take no robber's word," said Andy. "Are you goin'?" + </p> + <p> + "Give me the pistol. Fire it off, if you like." + </p> + <p> + "That you may load it again. You don't catch a weasel asleep," answered + Andy, shrewdly. "I've a great mind to make you march into the village, and + give you up to the perlice." + </p> + <p> + This suggestion was by no means pleasant for the highwayman, particularly + as he reflected that Andy had shown himself a resolute boy, and doubly + armed as he now was, it was quite within his power to carry out his + threat. + </p> + <p> + "Don't fire after me," he said. + </p> + <p> + "I never attack an inimy in the rare," said Andy, who always indulged in + the brogue more than usual under exciting circumstances. + </p> + <p> + I make this explanation, as the reader may have noticed a difference in + his dialect at different times. + </p> + <p> + "We shall meet again, boy!" said Fairfax, menacingly, turning at the + distance of a few feet. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, sir. You needn't thrubble yourself," said Andy, "I ain't + anxious to mate you." + </p> + <p> + "When we do meet, you'll know it," said the other. + </p> + <p> + "Maybe I will. Go along wid ye!" said Andy, pointing the pistol at him. + </p> + <p> + "Don't shoot," said Fairfax, hastily, and he quickened his pace to get out + of the way of a dangerous companion. + </p> + <p> + Andy laughed as the highwayman disappeared in the distance. + </p> + <p> + "I thought he wouldn't wait long," he said. + </p> + <p> + "Andy," said Colonel Preston, warmly, "you have behaved like a hero." + </p> + <p> + "I'm only an Irish boy," said Andy, laughing. "Shure, they don't make + heroes of such as I." + </p> + <p> + "I don't care whether you are Irish or Dutch. You are a hero for all + that." + </p> + <p> + "Shure, sir, it's lucky I was round whin that spalpeen wanted to rob you." + </p> + <p> + "How did you happen to be out with a gun this afternoon?" + </p> + <p> + "I got my work all done, and Miss Grant said I might go out shootin' if I + wanted. Shure, I didn't expect it 'ud been robbers I would be afther + shootin'." + </p> + <p> + "You came up just in the nick of time. Weren't you afraid?" + </p> + <p> + "I didn't stop to think of that when I saw that big blackguard p'intin' + his pistol at you. I thought I'd have a hand in it myself." + </p> + <p> + "Jump into the chaise, Andy, and ride home with me." + </p> + <p> + "What, wid the gun?" + </p> + <p> + "To be sure. We won't leave the gun. That has done us too good service + already to-day." + </p> + <p> + "I've made something out of it, anyway," said Andy, displaying the pistol, + which was silver-mounted, and altogether a very pretty weapon. "It's a + regular beauty," he said, with admiration. + </p> + <p> + "It will be better in your hands than in the real owner's," said Colonel + Preston. + </p> + <p> + By this time Andy was in the chaise, rapidly nearing the village. + </p> + <p> + "If you hadn't come up just as you did, Andy, I should have been poorer by + eight hundred dollars." + </p> + <p> + "That's a big pile of money," said Andy, who, as we know, was not in the + habit of having large sums of money in his own possession. + </p> + <p> + "It is considerably more than I would like to lose," said Colonel Preston, + to whom it was of less importance than to Andy. + </p> + <p> + "I wonder will I ever have so much money?" thought Andy. + </p> + <p> + "Now, I'll tell you what I think it only right to do, Andy," pursued the + colonel. + </p> + <p> + Andy listened attentively. + </p> + <p> + "I am going to make you a present of some money, as an acknowledgment of + the service you have done me." + </p> + <p> + "I don't want anything, Colonel Preston," said Andy. "I didn't help you + for the money." + </p> + <p> + "I know you didn't, my lad," said the colonel, "but I mean to give it to + you all the same." + </p> + <p> + He took out his pocketbook, but Andy made one more remonstrance. + </p> + <p> + "I don't think I ought to take it, sir, thankin' you all the same." + </p> + <p> + "Then I will give you one hundred dollars for your mother. You can't + refuse it for her." + </p> + <p> + Andy's eyes danced with delight. He knew how much good this money would do + his mother, and relieve her from the necessity of working so hard as she + was now compelled to do. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, sir," he said. "It'll make my mother's heart glad, and save + her from the hard work." + </p> + <p> + "Here is the money, Andy," said the colonel, handing his young companion a + roll of bills. + </p> + <p> + Again Andy poured out warm protestations of gratitude for the munificent + gift, with which Colonel Preston was well pleased. + </p> + <p> + "I believe you are a good boy, Andy," he said. "It is a good sign when a + boy thinks so much of his mother." + </p> + <p> + "I'd be ashamed not to, sir," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + They soon reached the village. Andy got down at the Misses Grant's gate, + and was soon astonishing the simple ladies by a narrative of his encounter + with the highwayman. + </p> + <p> + "Do you think he'll come here?" asked Sophia, in alarm. "If he should come + when Andy was away——" + </p> + <p> + "You could fire the gun yourself, Sophia." + </p> + <p> + "I should be frightened to death." + </p> + <p> + "Then he couldn't kill you afterward." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," answered Sophia, a little bewildered. + </p> + <p> + "Were you shot, Andrew?" she asked, a minute afterward. + </p> + <p> + "If I was, I didn't feel it," said Andy, jocosely. + </p> + <p> + Andy's heroic achievement made him still more valued by the Misses Grant, + and they rejoiced in the handsome gift he had received from the colonel, + and readily gave him permission to carry it to his mother after supper. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX — HOW THE NEWS WAS RECEIVED + </h2> + <p> + It is always pleasant to carry good news, and Andy hastened with joyful + feet to his mother's humble dwelling. + </p> + <p> + "Why, Andy, you're out of breath. What's happened?" asked Mrs. Burke. + </p> + <p> + "I was afraid of bein' robbed," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "The robber wouldn't get much that would steal from you, Andy." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know that, mother. I ain't so poor as you think. Look there, + now!" + </p> + <p> + Here he displayed the roll of bills. There were twenty fives, which made + quite a thick roll. + </p> + <p> + "Where did you get so much, Andy?" asked his sister Mary. + </p> + <p> + "How much is it?" asked his mother. + </p> + <p> + "A hundred dollars," answered Andy, proudly. + </p> + <p> + "A hundred dollars!" repeated his mother, with apprehension. "Oh, Andy, I + hope you haven't been stealing?" + </p> + <p> + "Did you ever know me to stale, mother?" said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "No, but I thought you might be tempted. Whose money is it?" + </p> + <p> + "It's yours, mother." + </p> + <p> + "Mine!" exclaimed Mrs. Burke, in astonishment. "You're joking now, Andy." + </p> + <p> + "No, I'm not. It's yours." + </p> + <p> + "Where did it come from, then?" + </p> + <p> + "Colonel Preston sent it to you as a present." + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid you are not tellin' me the truth, Andy," said his mother, + doubtfully. "Why should he send me so much money?" + </p> + <p> + "Listen, and I'll tell you, mother, and you'll see it's the truth I've + been tellin'." + </p> + <p> + Thereupon he told the story of his adventure with the highwayman and how + he had saved Colonel Preston from being robbed. + </p> + <p> + His mother listened with pride, for though Andy spoke modestly, she could + see that he had acted in a brave and manly way, and it made her proud of + him. + </p> + <p> + "So the colonel," Andy concluded, "wanted to give me a hundred dollars, + but I didn't like to take it myself. But when he said he would give it to + you, I couldn't say anything ag'inst that. So here it is, mother, and I + hope you'll spend some of it on yourself." + </p> + <p> + "I don't feel as if it belonged to me, Andy. It was you that he meant it + for." + </p> + <p> + "Keep it, mother, and it'll do to use when we nade it." + </p> + <p> + "I don't like to keep so much money in the house, Andy. We might be + robbed." + </p> + <p> + "You can put part of it in the savings bank, mother." + </p> + <p> + This course was adopted, and Andy himself carried eighty dollars, and + deposited it in a savings bank in Melville, a few days afterward. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Colonel Preston told the story of Andy's prowess, at home. But + Mrs. Preston was prejudiced against Andy, and listened coldly. + </p> + <p> + "It seems to me, Colonel Preston," she said, "you are making altogether + too much of that Irish boy. He puts on enough airs to make one sick + already." + </p> + <p> + "I never observed it, my dear," said the colonel, mildly. + </p> + <p> + "Everyone else does. He thought himself on a level with our Godfrey." + </p> + <p> + "He is Godfrey's superior in some respects." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, well, if you are going to exalt him above your own flesh and blood, I + won't stay and listen to you." + </p> + <p> + "You disturb yourself unnecessarily, my dear. I have no intention of + adopting him in place of my son. But he has done me a great service this + after-noon, and displayed a coolness and courage very unusual in a boy of + his age. But for him, I should be eight hundred dollars poorer." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, well, you can give him fifty cents, and he will be well paid for his + services, as you call them." + </p> + <p> + "Fifty cents!" repeated her husband. + </p> + <p> + "Well, a dollar, if you like." + </p> + <p> + "I have given him a hundred dollars." + </p> + <p> + "A hundred dollars!" almost screamed Mrs. Preston, who was a very mean + woman. "Are you insane?" + </p> + <p> + "Not that I am aware of, my dear." + </p> + <p> + "It is perfectly preposterous to give such a sum to such a boy." + </p> + <p> + "I ought to say that I gave it to him for his mother. He was not willing + to accept it for himself." + </p> + <p> + "That's a likely story," said Mrs. Preston, incredulously. "He only wants + to make a favorable impression upon you—perhaps to get more out of + you." + </p> + <p> + "You misjudge him, my dear." + </p> + <p> + "I know he is an artful, intriguing young rascal. You give him a hundred + dollars, yet you refused to give Godfrey ten dollars last week." + </p> + <p> + "For a very good reason. He has a liberal allowance, and must keep within + it. He did not need the money he asked for." + </p> + <p> + "Yet you lavish a hundred dollars on this boy." + </p> + <p> + "I felt justified in doing so. Which was better, to give him that sum, or + to lose eight hundred?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't like the boy, and I never shall. I suppose he will be strutting + around, boasting of his great achievement. If he had a gun it was nothing + to do." + </p> + <p> + "I suspect Godfrey would hardly have ventured upon it," said the colonel, + smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, of course, Godfrey is vastly inferior to the Irish boy!" remarked + Mrs. Preston, ironically. "You admire the family so much that I suppose if + I were taken away, you would marry his mother and establish her in my + place." + </p> + <p> + "If you have any such apprehensions, my dear, your best course is to + outlive her. That will effectually prevent my marrying her, and I pledge + you my word that, while you are alive, I shall not think of eloping with + her." + </p> + <p> + "It is very well to jest about it," said Mrs. Preston, tossing her head. + </p> + <p> + "I am precisely of your opinion, my dear. As you observe, that is + precisely what I am doing." + </p> + <p> + So the interview terminated. It was very provoking to Mrs. Preston that + her husband should have given away a hundred dollars to Andy Burke's + mother, but the thing was done, and could not be undone. However, she + wrote an account of the affair to Godfrey, who, she knew, would sympathize + fully with her view of the case. I give some extracts from her letter: + </p> + <p> + "Your father seems perfectly infatuated with that low Irish boy. Of + course, I allude to Andy Burke. He has gone so far as to give him a + hundred dollars. Yesterday, in riding home from Melville, with eight + hundred dollars in his pocketbook, he says he was stopped by a highwayman, + who demanded his money or his life. Very singularly, Andy came up just in + the nick of time with a gun, and made a great show of interfering, and + finally drove the man away, as your father reports. He is full of praise + of Andy, and, as I said, gave him a hundred dollars, when two or three + would have been quite enough, even had the rescue been real. But of this I + have my doubts. It is very strange that the boy should have been on the + spot just at the right time, still more strange that a full-grown man + should have been frightened away by a boy of fifteen. In fact, I think it + is what they call a 'put-up job.' I think the robber and Andy were + confederates, and that the whole thing was cut and dried, that the man + should make the attack, and Andy should appear and frighten him away, for + the sake of a reward which I dare say the two have shared together. This + is what I think about the matter. I haven't said so to your father, + because he is so infatuated with the Irish boy that it would only make him + angry, but I have no doubt that you will agree with me. [It may be said + here that Godfrey eagerly adopted his mother's view, and was equally + provoked at his father's liberality to his young enemy.] Your father says + he won't give you the ten dollars you asked for. He can lavish a hundred + dollars on Andy, but he has no money to give his own son. But sooner or + later that boy will be come up with—sooner or later he will show + himself in his true colors, and your father will be obliged to confess + that he has been deceived. It puts me out of patience when I think of him. + </p> + <p> + "We shall expect you home on Friday afternoon of next week, as usual." + </p> + <p> + Andy was quite unconscious of the large space which he occupied in the + thoughts of Mrs. Preston and Godfrey, and of the extent to which he + troubled them. He went on, trying to do his duty, and succeeding fully in + satisfying the Misses Grant, who had come to feel a strong interest in his + welfare. + </p> + <p> + Three weeks later, Sophia Grant, who had been to the village store on an + errand, returned home, looking greatly alarmed. + </p> + <p> + "What is the matter, Sophia?" asked her sister. "You look as if you had + seen a ghost." + </p> + <p> + "Just so, Priscilla," she said; "no, I don't mean that, but we may all be + ghosts in a short time." + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "Smallpox is in town!" + </p> + <p> + "Who's got it?" + </p> + <p> + "Colonel Preston; and his wife won't stay in the house. She is packing up + to go off, and I expect the poor man'll die all by himself, unless + somebody goes and takes care of him, and then it'll spread, and we'll all + die of it." + </p> + <p> + This was certainly startling intelligence. Andy pitied the colonel, who + had always treated him well. It occurred to him that his mother had passed + through an attack of smallpox in her youth, and could take care of the + colonel without danger. He resolved to consult her about it at once. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI — A MODEL WIFE + </h2> + <p> + Colonel Preston, returning from a trip to Boston, in which, probably, he + had been unconsciously exposed to the terrible disease referred to, was + taken sick, and his wife, wholly unsuspicious of her husband's malady, + sent for the doctor. + </p> + <p> + The latter examined his patient and, on leaving the sick-chamber, beckoned + Mrs. Preston to follow him. + </p> + <p> + "What is the matter with him, doctor?" asked Mrs. Preston. The physician + looked grave. + </p> + <p> + "I regret to say, Mrs. Preston, that he has the smallpox." + </p> + <p> + "The smallpox!" almost shrieked Mrs. Preston. "Oh! what will become of + me?" + </p> + <p> + Dr. Townley was rather disgusted to find her first thought was about + herself, not about her stricken husband. + </p> + <p> + "It's catching, isn't it, doctor?" she asked, in great agitation. + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry to say that it is, madam." + </p> + <p> + "Do you think I will take it?" + </p> + <p> + "I cannot take it upon myself to say." + </p> + <p> + "And I was in the same room with him," wailed Mrs. Preston, "and never + knew the awful danger! Oh, I wouldn't have the smallpox for this world! If + I didn't die, I should be all marked up for life." + </p> + <p> + "You haven't much beauty to spoil," thought the doctor; but this thought + he prudently kept to himself. + </p> + <p> + "I must leave the house at once. I will go to my brother's house till he + has recovered," said Mrs. Preston, in agitation. + </p> + <p> + "What!" exclaimed the doctor, in surprise, "and leave your husband alone!" + </p> + <p> + "I can't take care of him—you must see that I can't," said Mrs. + Preston, fretfully. "I can't expose my life without doing him any good." + </p> + <p> + "I expose myself every time I visit him," said the doctor. "I never had + the smallpox. Have you been vaccinated?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I believe so—I'm sure I don't know. But people sometimes take + the smallpox even after they have been vaccinated. I should be so + frightened that I could do no good." + </p> + <p> + "Then," said the doctor, gravely, "you have decided to leave your + husband?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, doctor, I must. It is my duty—to my boy," answered Mrs. + Preston, catching at this excuse with eagerness. "I must live for him, you + know. Of course, if I could do any good, it would be different. But what + would Godfrey do if both his father and mother should die?" + </p> + <p> + She looked up into his face, hoping that he would express approval of her + intentions; but the doctor was too honest for this. In truth, he was + disgusted with the woman's selfishness, and would like to have said so; + but this politeness forbade. At any rate, he was not going to be trapped + into any approval of her selfish and cowardly determination. + </p> + <p> + "What do you wish to be done, Mrs. Preston?" he asked. "Of course, your + husband must be taken care of." + </p> + <p> + "Hire a nurse, doctor. A nurse will do much more good than I could. She + will know just what to do. Most of them have had the smallpox. It is + really much better for my husband that it should be so. Of course, you can + pay high wages—anything she asks," added Mrs. Preston, whose great + fear made her, for once in her life, liberal. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose that will be the best thing to do. You wish me, then, to engage + a nurse?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, doctor, if you will be so kind." + </p> + <p> + "When do you go away?" + </p> + <p> + "At once. I shall pack up my clothes immediately. On the whole, I think I + will go to the town where Godfrey is at school, and board there for the + present. I must see him, and prevent him from coming home." + </p> + <p> + "You will go into your husband's chamber and bid him good-by?" + </p> + <p> + "No; I cannot think of it. It would only be useless exposure." + </p> + <p> + "What will he think?" + </p> + <p> + "Explain it to him, doctor. Tell him that I hope he will get well very + soon, and that I feel it my duty to go away now on Godfrey's account. I am + sure he will see that it is my duty." + </p> + <p> + "I wonder what excuse she would have if she had no son for a pretext?" + thought the doctor. + </p> + <p> + "Well," he said, "I will do as you request." + </p> + <p> + "See that he has the best of care. Get him two nurses, if you think best. + Don't spare expense." + </p> + <p> + "What extraordinary liberality in Mrs. Preston," thought the physician. + </p> + <p> + He went back into the chamber of his patient. + </p> + <p> + "Doctor," said Colonel Preston, "you didn't tell me what was the matter + with me. Am I seriously sick?" + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry to say that you are." + </p> + <p> + "Dangerously?" + </p> + <p> + "Not necessarily. You have the smallpox." + </p> + <p> + "Have I?" said the patient, thoughtfully. + </p> + <p> + "It's an awkward thing to tell him that his wife is going to leave him," + the doctor said to himself. "However, it must be done." + </p> + <p> + "Have you told my wife, doctor?" + </p> + <p> + "I just told her." + </p> + <p> + "What does she say?" + </p> + <p> + "She is very much startled, and (now for it), thinks, under the + circumstances, she ought not to run the risk of taking care of you on + account of Godfrey." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps she is right," said Colonel Preston, slowly. + </p> + <p> + He was not surprised to hear it, but it gave him a pang, nevertheless. + </p> + <p> + "She wants me to engage a nurse for you." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, that will be necessary." + </p> + <p> + There was a pause. + </p> + <p> + "When is she going?" he asked, a little later. + </p> + <p> + "As soon as possible. She is going to board near the school where Godfrey + is placed." + </p> + <p> + "Shall I see her?" + </p> + <p> + "She thinks it best not to risk coming into the chamber, lest she should + carry the infection to Godfrey." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose that is only prudent," returned the sick man, but in his heart + he wished that his wife had shown less prudence, and a little more feeling + for him. + </p> + <p> + "Have you thought of any nurse?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "I have thought of the widow Burke." + </p> + <p> + "She might not dare to come." + </p> + <p> + "She has had the disease. I know this from a few slight marks still left + on her face. Of course, you would be willing to pay a liberal price?" + </p> + <p> + "Any price," said Colonel Preston, energetically. "It is a service which, + I assure you, I shall not soon forget." + </p> + <p> + "I must see her at once, for your wife will leave directly." + </p> + <p> + "Pray, do so," said Colonel Preston. "Tell my wife," he said, after a + pause, "that I hope soon to have recovered, so that it may be safe for her + to come back." + </p> + <p> + There was a subdued bitterness in his voice, which the doctor detected, + and did not wonder at. He gave the message, as requested. + </p> + <p> + "I am sure I hope so, Dr. Townley," said Mrs. Preston. "I shall be + tortured with anxiety. I hope you will write me daily how my poor husband + is getting along?" + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps the paper might carry the infection," said the doctor, testing + the real extent of her solicitude. + </p> + <p> + "I didn't think of that," answered Mrs. Preston, hastily. "On the whole, + you needn't write, then. It might communicate the disease to Godfrey." + </p> + <p> + "She finds Godfrey very useful," the doctor thought. + </p> + <p> + "I will bear my anxiety as I can," she continued. "Have you thought of + anyone for a nurse?" + </p> + <p> + "I have thought of Mrs. Burke." + </p> + <p> + "She is poor, and will come if you offer her a good price. Try to get + her." + </p> + <p> + "I think she will come. I must go at once, for your husband needs + immediate attention." + </p> + <p> + "Get her to come at once, Dr. Townley! Oh, do! My husband may want + something, and I can't go into the room. My duty to my dear, only son will + not permit me. I hope Mr. Preston understands my motives in going away?" + </p> + <p> + "I presume he does," said the doctor, rather equivocally. + </p> + <p> + "Tell him how great a sacrifice it is for me to leave his bedside. It is a + terrible trial for me, but my duty to my son makes it imperative." + </p> + <p> + The doctor bowed. + </p> + <p> + He drove at once to the humble dwelling of Mrs. Burke. + </p> + <p> + His errand was briefly explained. + </p> + <p> + "Can you come?" he asked. "I am authorized to offer you ten dollars a week + for the time you spend there." + </p> + <p> + "I would come in a minute, doctor, but what shall I do with Mary?" + </p> + <p> + "She shall stay at my house. I will gladly take charge of her." + </p> + <p> + "You are very kind, doctor. I wouldn't want to expose her, but I don't + mind myself. I don't think I am in danger, for I've had the smallpoX + — already." + </p> + <p> + "Can you be ready in five minutes? Tell Mary to pack up her things, and go + to my house at once. We'll take good care of her." + </p> + <p> + In less than an hour Mrs. Burke was installed at the bedside of the sick + man as his nurse. As she entered the house, Mrs. Preston left it, bound + for the railway depot. + </p> + <p> + "I'm so glad you're here," she said, greeting the widow Burke with + unwonted cordiality. "I am sure you will take the best care of my husband. + I have told the doctor to pay you whatever you ask." + </p> + <p> + "I'll do my best, Mrs. Preston, but not for the money," answered Mrs. + Burke. "Your husband shall get well, if good care can cure him." + </p> + <p> + "I've no doubt of it; but the carriage is here, and I must go. Tell my + husband how sorry I am to leave him." + </p> + <p> + So Mrs. Preston went away, leaving a stranger to fulfill her own duties at + the bedside of her husband. + </p> + <p> + Thus it happened that, when Andy came home, he found his mother already + gone, and his sister on the point of starting for the doctor's house. His + idea had already been carried out. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII — COLONEL PRESTON'S RECOVERY + </h2> + <p> + Four weeks afterward, we will introduce the reader into the bedchamber of + Colonel Preston. His sickness has been severe. At times recovery was + doubtful, but Mrs. Burke has proved a careful and devoted nurse, + intelligent and faithful enough to carry out the directions of the + physician. + </p> + <p> + "How do you feel this morning, Colonel Preston?" asked the doctor, who had + just entered the chamber. + </p> + <p> + "Better, doctor. I feel quite an appetite." + </p> + <p> + "You are looking better—decidedly better. The disease has spent its + force, and retreated from the field." + </p> + <p> + "It is to you that the credit belongs, Dr. Townley." + </p> + <p> + "Only in part. The greater share belongs to your faithful nurse, Mrs. + Burke." + </p> + <p> + "I shall not soon forget my obligations to her," said the sick man, + significantly. + </p> + <p> + "Now, Colonel Preston," said Mrs. Burke, "you are making too much of what + little I have done." + </p> + <p> + "That is impossible, Mrs. Burke. It is to your good nursing and the + doctor's skill that I owe my life, and I hardly know to which the most." + </p> + <p> + "To the doctor, sir. I only followed out his directions." + </p> + <p> + "At the expense of your own health. You show the effects of your + long-continued care." + </p> + <p> + "It won't take long to pick up," said Mrs. Burke, cheerfully. + </p> + <p> + "Is the danger of contagion over, doctor?" asked the patient. + </p> + <p> + "Quite so." + </p> + <p> + "Then, would it not be well to write to Mrs. Preston? Not that I mean to + give up my good nurse just yet; that is, if she is willing to stay." + </p> + <p> + "I will stay as long as you need me, sir." + </p> + <p> + "That is well; but Mrs. Preston may wish to return, now that there's no + further danger." + </p> + <p> + "I will write to her at once." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you." + </p> + <p> + The following letter was dispatched to Mrs. Preston: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "MRS. PRESTON:— + "Dear Madam: It gives me great pleasure to inform you that + your husband is so far recovered that there is no danger now + of infection. You can return with safety, and he will, + doubtless, be glad to see you. He has been very ill, + indeed—in danger of his life; but, thanks to the devotion of + Mrs. Burke, who has proved an admirable nurse, he is now on + the high road to recovery. Yours respectfully, + "John Townley." +</pre> + <p> + "I think that will bring her," said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + But he reckoned without his host. + </p> + <p> + The next day he received the following letter, on scented paper: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "MY DEAR DOCTOR TOWNLEY: You cannot think how rejoiced I am + to receive the tidings of my husband's convalescence. I have + been so tortured with anxiety during the last four weeks! You + cannot think how wretchedly anxious I have been. I could not + have endured to stay away from his bedside but that my duty + imperatively required it. I have lost flesh, and my anxiety + has worn upon me. Now, how gladly will I resume my place at + the bedside of my husband, restored by your skill. I am glad + the nurse has proved faithful. It was a good chance for her, + for she shall be liberally paid, and no doubt the money will + be welcome. But don't you think it might be more prudent for + me to defer my return until next week? It will be safer, I + think, and I owe it to my boy to be very careful. You know, + the contagion may still exist. It is hard for me to remain + longer away, when I would fain fly to the bedside of Mr. + Preston, but I feel that it is best. Say to him, with my + love, that he may expect me next week. Accept my thanks for + your attention to him. I shall never forget it; and believe + me to be, my dear doctor, your obliged + "Lucinda Preston." +</pre> + <p> + Dr. Townley threw down this letter with deep disgust. + </p> + <p> + "Was ever any woman more disgustingly selfish?" he exclaimed. "Her husband + might have died, so far as she was concerned." + </p> + <p> + Of course, he had to show this letter to Colonel Preston. + </p> + <p> + The latter read it, with grave face, and the doctor thought he heard a + sigh. + </p> + <p> + "My wife is very prudent," he said, with a touch of bitterness in his + voice. + </p> + <p> + "She will be here next week," said the doctor, having nothing else to + answer. + </p> + <p> + "I think she will run no risk then," said the sick man, cynically. + </p> + <p> + But Mrs. Preston did not return in a week. It was a full week and a half + before she arrived at her own house. + </p> + <p> + The doctor was just coming out of the front door. + </p> + <p> + "How is my husband?" she asked. + </p> + <p> + "Not far from well. He is still weak, of course." + </p> + <p> + "And are you sure," she said, anxiously, "that there is no danger of + infection?" + </p> + <p> + "Not the slightest, madam," said Dr. Townley, coldly. + </p> + <p> + "I am so glad I can see him once more. You cannot imagine," she exclaimed, + clasping her hands, "how much I have suffered in my suspense!" + </p> + <p> + The doctor remained cool and unmoved. He didn't feel that he could respond + fittingly, being absolutely incredulous. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston saw it, and was nettled. She knew that she was a hypocrite, + but did not like to have the doctor, by his silence, imply his own + conviction of it. + </p> + <p> + "Mine has been a hard position," she continued. + </p> + <p> + "Your husband has not had an easy time," said the doctor, significantly. + </p> + <p> + "But he has had good care—Mrs. Burke was a good nurse?" + </p> + <p> + "Admirable." + </p> + <p> + "She must be paid well." + </p> + <p> + "I offered her ten dollars a week." + </p> + <p> + "Humph!" said Mrs. Preston, doubtfully, in whose eyes five dollars would + have been liberal compensation. "It has been a good chance for her." + </p> + <p> + "It is far from adequate," said the doctor, disgusted. "Money cannot pay + for such service as hers, not to speak of the risk she ran, for cases have + been known of persons being twice attacked by the disease." + </p> + <p> + "You don't think my husband will have a relapse?" asked Mrs. Preston, with + fresh alarm. + </p> + <p> + "Not if he has the same care for a short time longer." + </p> + <p> + "He shall have it. She must stay. Of course her duties are lighter now, + and six dollars a week for the remainder of the time will be enough—don't + you think so?" + </p> + <p> + "No, I don't," said the doctor, bluntly; "and, moreover, I am quite sure + your husband will not consent to reducing the wages of one whose faithful + care has saved his life." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, well, you know best," said Mrs. Preston, slowly. "I am quite willing + that she should be well paid." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston went upstairs, and entered her husband's chamber. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, my dear husband!" she exclaimed, theatrically, hurrying across the + room, with affected emotion. "I am so glad to find you so much better!" + </p> + <p> + "I am glad to see you back, Lucinda," said Colonel Preston; but he spoke + coldly, and without the slightest affectation of sentimental joy. "I have + passed through a good deal since you left me." + </p> + <p> + "And so have I!" exclaimed his wife. "Oh, how my heart has been rent with + anxiety, as I thought of you lying sick, while duty kept me from your + side." + </p> + <p> + "Is Godfrey well?" asked her husband, taking no notice of her last speech. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, poor boy! He sends his love, and is so anxious to see you." + </p> + <p> + "Let him come next Friday afternoon," said the sick man, who doubted this + statement, yet wanted to believe it true. + </p> + <p> + "He shall. I will write to him at once." + </p> + <p> + So Mrs. Preston resumed her place in the house; but from that time there + was a something she could not understand in her husband's manner. He was + graver than formerly, and sometimes she saw him watching her intently, + and, after a little, turn away, with a sigh. + </p> + <p> + He had found her out in all her intense selfishness and want of feeling, + and he could never again regard her as formerly, even though she tried + hard at times, by a show of affection, to cover up her heartless neglect. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0023" id="link2HCH0023"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII — MRS. BURKE HAS GOOD FORTUNE + </h2> + <p> + Mrs. Burke remained a week longer to nurse Colonel Preston. At the end of + this time Mr. Preston thought he was well enough to dispense with a nurse, + and accordingly she prepared to take leave. + </p> + <p> + "I shall always remember your kind service, Mrs. Burke," said the colonel, + warmly. + </p> + <p> + "It was only my duty, sir," said the widow, modestly. + </p> + <p> + "Not all would have done their duty so faithfully." + </p> + <p> + "I am glad to see you well again," said the widow. + </p> + <p> + "Not more than I am to get well, I assure you," said he. "Whenever you are + in any trouble, come to me." + </p> + <p> + With these words, he placed in her hands an envelope, which, as she + understood, contained the compensation for her services. She thanked him, + and took her departure. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston was curious to know how much her husband paid the nurse, and + asked the question. + </p> + <p> + "A hundred dollars," he replied. + </p> + <p> + "A hundred dollars!" she repeated, in a tone which implied disapproval. "I + thought she agreed to come for ten dollars a week." + </p> + <p> + "So she did." + </p> + <p> + "She has not been here ten weeks; only about six." + </p> + <p> + "That is true, but she has richly earned all I gave her." + </p> + <p> + "Ten dollars a week I consider very handsome remuneration to one in her + position in life," said Mrs. Preston, pointedly. + </p> + <p> + "Lucinda, but for her attention I probably should not have lived through + this sickness. Do you think a hundred dollars so much to pay for your + husband's life?" + </p> + <p> + "You exaggerate the value of her services," said his wife. + </p> + <p> + "Dr. Townley says the same thing that I do." + </p> + <p> + "You are both infatuated with that woman," said Mrs. Preston, impatiently. + </p> + <p> + "We only do her justice." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, well, have it your own way. But I should have only paid her what I + agreed to. It is a great windfall for her." + </p> + <p> + "She deserves it." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston said no more at this time, for she found her husband too + "infatuated," as she termed it, to agree with her. She did, however, open + the subject to Godfrey when he came home, and he adopted her view of the + case. + </p> + <p> + "She and her low son are trying to get all they can out of father," he + said. "It's just like them." + </p> + <p> + "I wish I could make your father see it," said Mrs. Preston, "but he seems + prepossessed in her favor." + </p> + <p> + "If he can give a hundred dollars to her, he can give me a little extra + money; I'm going to ask him." + </p> + <p> + So he did the same evening. + </p> + <p> + "Will you give me ten dollars, father?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "What for?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, for various things. I need it." + </p> + <p> + "I give you an allowance of three dollars a week." + </p> + <p> + "I have a good many expenses." + </p> + <p> + "That will meet all your reasonable expenses. I was far from having as + much money as that when I was of your age." + </p> + <p> + "I don't see why you won't give me the money," said Godfrey, + discontentedly. + </p> + <p> + "I don't think you need it." + </p> + <p> + "You are generous enough to others." + </p> + <p> + "To whom do you refer?" + </p> + <p> + "You give plenty of money to that Irish boy and his mother." + </p> + <p> + "They have both rendered me great services. The boy saved me from being + robbed. The mother, in all probability, saved me from falling a victim to + smallpox. But that has nothing to do with your affairs. It is scarcely + proper for a boy like you to criticise his father's way of disposing of + his money." + </p> + <p> + "I confess I think Godfrey is right in commenting upon your extraordinary + liberality to the Burkes," observed Mrs. Preston. + </p> + <p> + "Lucinda," said her husband, gravely, "when my own wife deserted my sick + bed, leaving me to wrestle alone with a terrible and dangerous disease, I + was fortunate enough to find in Mrs. Burke a devoted nurse. The money I + have paid her is no adequate compensation, nor is it all that I intend to + do for her." + </p> + <p> + There was a part of this speech that startled Mrs. Preston. Never before + had her husband complained of her desertion of him in his sickness, and + she hoped that he had been imposed upon by the excuse which she gave of + saving herself for Godfrey. Now she saw that in this she had not been + altogether successful, and she regretted having referred to Mrs. Burke, + and so brought this reproach upon herself. She felt it necessary to say + something in extenuation. + </p> + <p> + "It was because I wanted to live for Godfrey," she said, with a flushed + face. "Nothing but that would have taken me away from you at such a time. + It was a great trial to me," she continued, putting up her handkerchief to + eyes that were perfectly dry. + </p> + <p> + "We will say no more about it," said Colonel Preston, gravely. "I shall + not refer to it, unless you undervalue my obligations to Mrs. Burke." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston thought it best not to reply, but on one thing that her + husband had said, she commented to Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + "Your father speaks of giving more money to Mrs. Burke. I suppose we shall + not know anything about it if he does." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps he will leave her some money in his will," said Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + "Very likely. If he does, there is such a thing as contesting a will—that + is, if he gives her much." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston was right. Her husband did intend to give his devoted nurse + something in his will, but of that more anon. There was one thing which he + did at once, and that was to buy the cottage which Mrs. Burke occupied, + from the heir, a non-resident. Mrs. Burke didn't learn this until she went + to pay her rent to the storekeeper, who had acted as agent for the owner. + </p> + <p> + "I have nothing to do with the house any longer, Mrs. Burke," he said. + </p> + <p> + "Then who shall I pay rent to?" said Mrs. Burke. + </p> + <p> + "To Colonel Preston, who has recently bought the house." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Burke, therefore, called at the house of the colonel. + </p> + <p> + Mr. and Mrs. Preston were sitting together when the servant announced that + she wished to speak to him. + </p> + <p> + "You seem to have a good deal of business with Mrs. Burke," said his wife, + in a very unpleasant tone. + </p> + <p> + "None that I care to conceal," he said, smiling. "Show Mrs. Burke in here, + Jane," he continued, addressing the servant. + </p> + <p> + "Good-morning, Mrs. Burke," he said, pleasantly. + </p> + <p> + "Good-morning," said Mrs. Preston, coldly. + </p> + <p> + "Good-morning, sir, I'm glad to see you looking so much better." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, yes, I am feeling pretty well now." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't find out till just now, Colonel Preston, that you were my + landlord." + </p> + <p> + Here Mrs. Preston pricked up her ears, for it was news to her also, as her + husband had not mentioned his recent purchase. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I thought I would buy the house, as it was in the market." + </p> + <p> + "I have come to pay my rent. I have been in the habit of paying fifteen + dollars a quarter." + </p> + <p> + "I won't be a hard landlord," said Colonel Preston. "You are welcome to + live in the house, if it suits you, free of all rent." + </p> + <p> + "This is too much kindness," said Mrs. Burke, quite overwhelmed by the + unexpected liberality. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston thought so, too, but could not well say anything. + </p> + <p> + "There's been kindness on both sides, Mrs. Burke. Put up your money, I + don't want it, but I have no doubt you will find use for it. Buy yourself + a new dress." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, Colonel Preston. You are very generous, and I am very + grateful," said the widow. + </p> + <p> + "I have something to be grateful for also, Mrs. Burke. If you want any + repairs, just let me know, and they shall be attended to." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, sir, but the house is very comfortable." + </p> + <p> + She soon took her leave. + </p> + <p> + "When did you buy that house, Colonel Preston?" asked his wife. + </p> + <p> + "A month since." + </p> + <p> + "You didn't say anything about it to me." + </p> + <p> + "Nor to anyone else, except those with whom I did the business." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston would like to have said more, but she did not think it + expedient, remembering what she had brought upon herself before. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0024" id="link2HCH0024"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIV — ANDY'S JOURNEY + </h2> + <p> + Toward the first of April of the succeeding year, Miss Sophia Grant took a + severe cold, not serious, indeed, but such as to make it prudent for her + to remain indoors. This occasioned a little derangement of her sister's + plans; for both sisters were in the habit, about the first of April and of + October, of taking a journey to Boston—partly for a change, and + partly because at these times certain banks in which they owned stock + declared dividends, which they took the opportunity to collect. But this + spring it seemed doubtful if they could go. Yet they wanted the money—a + part of it, at least. + </p> + <p> + "Send Andrew," suggested Miss Sophia, after her sister had stated the + difficulty. + </p> + <p> + In general Miss Priscilla did not approve Sophia's suggestions, but this + struck her more favorably. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know but we might," she said, slowly. "He is a boy to be + trusted." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "And I think he is a smart boy." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "He can take care of himself. You remember how he saved Colonel Preston + from the robber?" + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "Then, on the other hand, he has never been to Boston." + </p> + <p> + "He could ask." + </p> + <p> + "I don't suppose there would be any particular difficulty. I could give + him all the necessary directions." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + "I'll propose it to him." + </p> + <p> + So, after supper, as Andy was going out into the woodshed for an armful of + wood, Miss Priscilla stopped him. + </p> + <p> + "Were you ever in Boston, Andy?" asked she. + </p> + <p> + "No, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "I wish you had been." + </p> + <p> + "Why, ma'am?" + </p> + <p> + "Because I should like to send you there on some business." + </p> + <p> + "I'll go, ma'am," said Andy, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + Like most boys of his age, no proposition could have been more agreeable. + </p> + <p> + "Do you think you could find your way there, and around the city?" + </p> + <p> + "No fear of that, ma'am," said Andy, confidently. + </p> + <p> + "We generally go ourselves, as you know, but my sister is sick, and I + don't like to leave her." + </p> + <p> + "Of course not, ma'am," said Andy, quite approving any plan that opened + the way for a journey to him. + </p> + <p> + "We own bank stock, and on the first of April they pay us dividends. Now, + if we send you, do you think you can get to the bank, get the money, and + bring it back safe?" + </p> + <p> + "I'll do it for you, ma'am," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "Well, I'll think of it between now and next week. If we send you at all, + you must start next Monday." + </p> + <p> + "I'll go any day, ma'am," said Andy, "any day you name." + </p> + <p> + Miss Priscilla finally decided to send Andrew, but cautioned him against + saying anything about it, except to his own family. + </p> + <p> + On Monday morning, just before the morning train was to start, Andrew + appeared on the platform of the modest village depot with a small + carpetbag in his hand, lent him by the Misses Grant. + </p> + <p> + "Give me a ticket to Boston," said he to the station master. + </p> + <p> + Godfrey Preston, who was about to return to his boarding school, had just + purchased a ticket, and overheard this. He didn't much care to speak to + Andy, but his curiosity overcame his pride. + </p> + <p> + "Are you going to Boston?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "What are you going for?" + </p> + <p> + "Important business." + </p> + <p> + "Has Miss Grant turned you off?" + </p> + <p> + "She didn't say anything about it this morning. Why, do you want to take + my place?" + </p> + <p> + "Do you think I'd stoop to be a hired boy?" said Godfrey, haughtily. + </p> + <p> + "You wouldn't need to stoop," said Andy; "you ain't any too tall." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey winced at this. He was not tall of his age, and he wanted to be. + Andy had been growing faster than he, and was now, though scarcely as old, + quite two inches taller. + </p> + <p> + "It makes no difference about being tall," he rejoined. "I am a gentleman, + and don't have to work for a living like you do." + </p> + <p> + "What are you going to be when you grow up?" + </p> + <p> + "A lawyer." + </p> + <p> + "Then won't you work for money?" + </p> + <p> + "Of course." + </p> + <p> + "Then you'll be a hired man, and work for a living." + </p> + <p> + "That's very different. When are you coming back?" + </p> + <p> + "When I've finished my business." + </p> + <p> + "How soon will that be?" + </p> + <p> + "I can't tell yet." + </p> + <p> + "Humph! I shouldn't wonder if you were running away." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you tell anybody," said Andy, in a bantering tone. + </p> + <p> + "Where did you get the money to pay for your ticket?" + </p> + <p> + "What would you give to know?" + </p> + <p> + "You are impudent," said Godfrey, his cheek flushing. + </p> + <p> + "So are your questions," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "I dare say you stole it." + </p> + <p> + "Look here, Godfrey Preston," said Andy, roused to indignation by this + insinuation, "you'd better not say that again, if you know what's best for + yourself." + </p> + <p> + He advanced a step with a threatening look, and Godfrey instinctively + receded. + </p> + <p> + "That comes of my speaking to my inferior," he said. + </p> + <p> + "You can't do that." + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know anybody that's inferior to you." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey turned on his heel wrathfully, muttering something about a "low + beggar," which Andy, not hearing, did not resent. + </p> + <p> + The whistle of the locomotive was heard, and the cars came along. + </p> + <p> + With high anticipation of pleasure, Andy got aboard. He had before him a + journey of close upon a hundred miles, and he wished it had been longer. + He had never been much of a traveler, and the scenes which were to greet + his eyes were all novel. He had heard a good deal of Boston also, and he + wanted to see it. + </p> + <p> + Besides the money which Miss Grant had given him to defray his expenses, + he had with him ten dollars of his own. Since his mother had received the + two donations from Colonel Preston she made Andy keep half his wages for + his own use. These were now seven dollars a week, so he kept three and a + half, and of this sum was able to lay up about half. So he had a supply of + money in his trunk, of which he had taken with him ten dollars. + </p> + <p> + "Maybe I'll see something I want to buy in the city," he said to himself. + </p> + <p> + I don't mean to dwell upon the journey. There is nothing very exciting in + a railway trip, even of a hundred miles, nowadays, unless, indeed, the + cars run off the track, or over the embankment, and then it is altogether + too exciting to be agreeable. For the sake of my young hero, whom I really + begin to like, though he was "only an Irish boy," I am glad to say that + nothing of that sort took place; but in good time—about the time + when the clock on the Old South steeple indicated noon—Andy's train + drove into the Boston & Maine Railway depot, fronting on Haymarket + Square. + </p> + <p> + "Inquire your way to Washington Street." + </p> + <p> + That was the first direction that Andy had received from Miss Priscilla, + and that was what our hero did first. + </p> + <p> + The question was addressed to a very civil young man, who politely gave + Andy the necessary directions. So, in a short time, he reached Washington + Street by way of Court Street. + </p> + <p> + The next thing was to inquire the way to the Merchants' Bank, that being + the one in which the ladies owned the largest amount of stock. + </p> + <p> + "Where is the Merchants' Bank?" asked Andy of a boy, whose blacking-box + denoted his occupation. + </p> + <p> + "I'll show you, mister," said the boy. "Come along." His young guide, + instead of taking him to the bank, took him to the side door of the + court-house, and said: + </p> + <p> + "Go in there." + </p> + <p> + It was a massive stone building, and Andy, not suspecting that he was + being fooled, went in. Wandering at random, he found his way into a room, + where a trial was going on. That opened his eyes. + </p> + <p> + "He cheated me," thought Andy. "Maybe I'll get even with him." + </p> + <p> + He retraced his steps, and again found himself in the street. His + fraudulent young guide, with a grin on a face not over clean, was awaiting + his appearance. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXV — THE MERCHANT FROM PORTLAND + </h2> + <p> + "Look here, young chap," said Andy, "what made you tell me that was the + Merchants' Bank?" + </p> + <p> + "Isn't it?" asked the bootblack, with a grin. + </p> + <p> + "It's the bank where you'll be wanted some time. Shouldn't wonder if + they'd make a mistake and lock you up instead of your money." + </p> + <p> + "Have you got any money in the Merchants' Bank?" asked the other. + </p> + <p> + "I'm goin' to see if they won't give me some. If you hadn't cheated me, + maybe I'd have invited you to dine with me at my hotel." + </p> + <p> + "Where are you stoppin'?" asked the street boy, not quite knowing how much + of Andy's story to believe. + </p> + <p> + "At the most fashionable hotel." + </p> + <p> + "Parker's?" + </p> + <p> + "You're good at guessin'. Perhaps you'd like to dine there?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know as they'd let me in," said the boy, doubtfully; "but I'll + show you where there's a nice eatin' house, where they don't charge half + so much." + </p> + <p> + "'Twouldn't be fashionable enough for me. I shall have to dine alone. See + what comes of tryin' to fool your grandfather." + </p> + <p> + Andy went on, leaving the boy in doubt whether his jest had really lost + him a dinner. + </p> + <p> + Andy didn't go to the Parker House, however. His expenses were to be paid + by the Misses Grant, and he felt that it wouldn't be right to be + extravagant at their expense. + </p> + <p> + "I shall come across an eatin' house presently," he said to himself. + </p> + <p> + Not far off he found one with the bill of fare exposed outside, with the + prices. Andy examined it, and found that it was not an expensive place. He + really felt hungry after his morning's ride, and determined, before he + attended to his business, to get dinner. He accordingly entered, and + seated himself at one of the tables. A waiter came up and awaited his + commands. + </p> + <p> + "What'll you have?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "Bring me a plate of roast beef, and a cup of coffee," said Andy, "and be + quick about it, for I haven't eaten anything for three weeks." + </p> + <p> + "Then I don't think one plate will be enough for you," said the waiter, + laughing. + </p> + <p> + "It'll do to begin on," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + The order was quickly filled, and Andy set to work energetically. + </p> + <p> + It is strange how we run across acquaintances when we least expect it. + Andy had no idea that he knew anybody in the eating house, and therefore + didn't look around, feeling no special interest in the company. Yet there + was one present who recognized him as soon as he entered, and watched him + with strong interest. The interest was not friendly, however, as might be + inferred from the scowl with which he surveyed him. This will not be a + matter of surprise to the reader when I say that the observer was no other + than Fairfax, whose attempt to rob Colonel Preston had been defeated by + Andy. + </p> + <p> + He recognized the boy at once, both from his appearance and his voice, and + deep feelings of resentment ran in his breast. To be foiled was + disagreeable enough, but to be foiled by a boy was most humiliating, and + he had vowed revenge, if ever an opportunity occurred. For this reason he + felt exultant when he saw his enemy walking into the eating house. + </p> + <p> + "I'll follow him," he said to himself, "and it'll go hard if I don't get + even with him for that trick he played on me." + </p> + <p> + But how did it happen that Andy did not recognize Fairfax? + </p> + <p> + For two reasons: First, because the adventurer was sitting behind him, and + our hero faced the front of the room. Next, had he seen him, it was + doubtful if he would have recognized a man whom he was far from expecting + to see. For Fairfax was skilled in disguises, and no longer was the + black-whiskered individual that we formerly knew him. From motives of + prudence, he had shaved off his black hair and whiskers, and now appeared + in a red wig, and whiskers of the same hue. If any of my readers would + like to know how effectual this disguise is, let them try it, and I will + guarantee that they won't know themselves when they come to look at their + likeness in the mirror. + </p> + <p> + After disposing of what he had ordered, Andy also ordered a plate of apple + dumpling, which he ate with great satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + "I wouldn't mind eatin' here every day," he thought. "Maybe I'll be in + business here some day myself, and then I'll come here and dine." + </p> + <p> + Fairfax was through with his dinner, but waited till Andy arose. He then + arose and followed him to the desk, where both paid at the same time. He + was careless of recognition, for he felt confident in his disguise. + </p> + <p> + "Now," thought Andy, "I must go to the bank." + </p> + <p> + But he didn't know where the bank was. So, when he got into the street, he + asked a gentleman whom he met: "Sir, can you direct me to the Merchants' + Bank?" + </p> + <p> + "It is in State Street," said the gentleman. "I am going past it, so if + you will come along with me, I will show you." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, sir," said our hero, politely. + </p> + <p> + "Merchants' Bank!" said Fairfax to himself, beginning to feel interested. + "I wonder what he's going there for? Perhaps I can raise a little money, + besides having my revenge." + </p> + <p> + He had an added inducement now in following our hero. + </p> + <p> + When Andy went into the bank, Fairfax followed him. He was in the room + when Andy received the dividends, and, with sparkling eyes, he saw that it + was, a thick roll of bills, representing, no doubt, a considerable sum of + money. + </p> + <p> + "That money must be mine," he said to himself. "It can't be the boy's. He + must have been sent by some other person. The loss will get him into + trouble. Very likely he will be considered a thief. That would just suit + me." + </p> + <p> + Andy was careful, however. He put the money into a pocketbook, or, rather, + wallet, with which he had been supplied by the Misses Grant, put it in his + inside pocket, and then buttoned his coat up tight. He was determined not + to lose anything by carelessness. + </p> + <p> + But this was not his last business visit. There was another bank in the + same street where it was necessary for him to call and receive dividends. + Again Fairfax followed him, and again he saw Andy receive a considerable + sum of money. + </p> + <p> + "There's fat pickings here," thought Fairfax. "Now, I must manage, in some + way, to relieve him of that money. There's altogether too much for a + youngster like him. Shouldn't wonder if the money belonged to that man I + tried to rob. If so, all the better." + </p> + <p> + In this conjecture, as we know, Fairfax was mistaken. However, it made + comparatively little difference to him whose money it was, as long as + there was a chance of his getting it into his possession. The fact was, + that his finances were not in a very flourishing condition just at + present. He could have done better to follow some honest and respectable + business, and avoid all the dishonest shifts and infractions of law to + which he was compelled to resort, but he had started wrong, and it was + difficult to persuade him that even now it would have been much better for + him to amend his life and ways. In this state of affairs he thought it a + great piece of good luck that he should have fallen in with a boy in + charge of a large sum of money, whom, from his youth and inexperience, he + would have less trouble in robbing than an older person. + </p> + <p> + Andy had already decided how he would spend the afternoon. He had heard a + good deal about the Boston Museum, its large collection of curiosities, + and the plays that were performed there. One of the pleasantest + anticipations he had was of a visit to this place, the paradise of country + people. Now that his business was concluded, he determined to go there at + once. But first he must inquire the way. + </p> + <p> + Turning around, he saw Fairfax without recognizing him. + </p> + <p> + "Can you direct me to the Boston Museum?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "Certainly, with pleasure," said Fairfax, with alacrity. "In fact, I am + going there myself. I suppose you are going to the afternoon performance?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Have you ever been there?" + </p> + <p> + "No; but I have heard a good deal about it. I don't live in the city." + </p> + <p> + "Nor do I," said Fairfax. "I am a merchant of Portland, Maine. I have come + to the city to buy my winter stock of goods. As I only come twice a year, + I generally try to enjoy myself a little while I am here. Do you stay in + the city overnight?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "So do I. Here is the Museum." + </p> + <p> + They had reached the Museum, which, as some of my readers are aware, is + situated in Tremont Street. + </p> + <p> + "We go up these stairs," said Fairfax. "If you don't object, we will take + seats together." + </p> + <p> + "I shall be glad to have company," said Andy, politely. + </p> + <p> + Reserved seats adjoining were furnished, and the adventurer and his + intended victim entered the Museum. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0026" id="link2HCH0026"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVI — SPINNING THE WEB + </h2> + <p> + There was a short interval before the play commenced. This Andy improved + by examining the large stock of curiosities which have been gathered from + all parts of the world for the gratification of visitors. Fairfax kept at + his side, and spoke freely of all they saw. There was something about him + which seemed to Andy strangely familiar. Was it in his features, or in his + voice? He could not tell. The red whig and whiskers misled him. Andy + finally set it down as a mere chance resemblance to someone whom he had + met formerly, and dismissed it from his mind. + </p> + <p> + At length the increasing crowds pouring into the lecture-room reminded + them that the play was about to begin. + </p> + <p> + "Shall we go in and take our seats?" said Fairfax. + </p> + <p> + Andy assented, and they were speedily in their seats. + </p> + <p> + I do not propose to speak of the play. It was a novelty to Andy to see a + dramatic representation, and he thoroughly enjoyed it. Fairfax was more + accustomed to such things, but pretended to be equally interested, feeling + that in this way he could ingratiate himself better into Andy's + confidence. + </p> + <p> + At last it was over, and they went out of the building. + </p> + <p> + "How did you like it?" asked Fairfax. + </p> + <p> + "Tiptop," said Andy, promptly. "Don't you think so?" + </p> + <p> + "Capital," answered Fairfax, with simulated delight. "I am glad I had + company. I don't enjoy anything half as well alone. By the way, where do + you pass the night?" + </p> + <p> + "At some hotel—I don't know which." + </p> + <p> + "Suppose you go to the Adams House. I've got to stop overnight somewhere, + and it might be pleasanter going in company." + </p> + <p> + "Where is the Adams House?" + </p> + <p> + "On Washington Street, not very far off—ten or fifteen minutes' + walk." + </p> + <p> + "If it's a good place, I'm willing." + </p> + <p> + "It is an excellent hotel, and moderate in price. We might go up there + now, and engage a room, and then spend the evening where we like." + </p> + <p> + "Very well," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + They soon reached the Adams House—a neat, unpretending hotel—and + entered. They walked up to the desk, and Fairfax spoke to the clerk. + </p> + <p> + "Can you give us a room?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly. Enter your names." + </p> + <p> + "Shall we room together?" asked Fairfax, calmly. + </p> + <p> + Now Andy, though he had had no objection to going to the theater with his + present companion, did not care to take a room with a stranger, of whom he + knew nothing. He might be a very respectable man, but somehow, Andy did + not know why, there was something in his manner which inspired a little + repulsion. Besides, he remembered that he had considerable money with him, + and that consideration alone rendered it imprudent for him to put himself + in the power of a companion. So he said, a little awkwardly: + </p> + <p> + "I think we'd better take separate rooms." + </p> + <p> + "Very well," said Fairfax, in a tone of indifference, though he really + felt very much disappointed. "I thought it might have been a little more + sociable to be together." + </p> + <p> + Andy did not take the hint, except so far as to say: + </p> + <p> + "We can take rooms alongside of each other." + </p> + <p> + "I can give you adjoining rooms, if you desire," said the clerk. + </p> + <p> + Fairfax here entered his name in the hotel register as "Nathaniel Marvin, + Portland, Maine," while Andy put down his real address. His companion's + was, of course, fictitious. He did not venture to give the name of + Fairfax, as that might be recognized by Andy as that of the highwayman, + with whose little plans he had interfered. + </p> + <p> + A servant was called, and they went up to their rooms, which, as the clerk + had promised, were found to be adjoining. They were precisely alike. + </p> + <p> + "Very comfortable, Mr. Burke," said Fairfax, in a tone of apparent + satisfaction. "I think we shall have a comfortable night." + </p> + <p> + "I guess so," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "Are you going to stay here now?" + </p> + <p> + "No; I'm going to wash my face, and then take a walk around. I want to see + something of the city." + </p> + <p> + "I think I'll lie down awhile; I feel tired. Perhaps we shall meet later. + If not, I shall see you in the morning." + </p> + <p> + "All right," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes he went out. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0027" id="link2HCH0027"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVII — THE DROP GAME + </h2> + <p> + Fairfax had an object in remaining behind. He wanted to see if there was + any way for him to get into Andy's room during the night, that he might + rob him in his sleep. To his great satisfaction, he found that there was a + door between the two rooms, for the accommodation of persons in the same + party, who wished to be in adjoining apartments. It was, however, locked, + but Fairfax was not unprepared for such an emergency. He took a bunch of + keys from his pocket, and tried them, one after another, in the lock. + There was one that would very nearly fit. For this again, Fairfax was + prepared. He took from the same pocket a file, and began patiently to file + away the key till it should fit. He tried it several times before he found + that it fitted. But at last success crowned his efforts. The door opened. + </p> + <p> + His eyes danced with exultation, as he saw this. + </p> + <p> + "I might as well be in the same room," he said, to himself. "Now, you + young rascal, I shall take your money, and be revenged upon you at the + same time." + </p> + <p> + He carefully locked the door, and then, feeling that he had done all that + was necessary to do at present, went downstairs, and took supper. Andy was + out, and did not see him. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, our young hero was out seeing the sights. He walked up + Washington Street, and at Boylston Street turned and reached Tremont + Street, when he saw the Common before him. It looked pleasant, and Andy + crossed the street, and entered. He walked wherever fancy led, and then + found himself, after a while, in a comparatively secluded part. Here he + met with an adventure, which I must describe. + </p> + <p> + Rather a shabby-looking individual in front of him suddenly stooped and + picked up a pocketbook, which appeared to be well filled with money. He + looked up, and met Andy's eyes fixed upon it. This was what he wanted. + </p> + <p> + "Here's a pocketbook," he said. "Somebody must have dropped it." + </p> + <p> + Andy was interested. + </p> + <p> + "It seems to have considerable money in it," said the finder. + </p> + <p> + "Open it, and see," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "I hain't time. I have got to leave the city by the next train. I mean, I + haven't time to advertise it, and get the reward which the owner will be + sure to offer. Are you going to stay in the city long?" + </p> + <p> + "I'm going out to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + "I must go. I wish I knew what to do." + </p> + <p> + He seemed to be plunged into anxious thought. + </p> + <p> + "I'll tell you what I'll do," he said, as if a bright idea had suddenly + struck him. "You take the pocketbook, and advertise it. If the owner is + found, he will give you a reward. If not, the whole will belong to you." + </p> + <p> + "All right," said Andy. "Hand it over." + </p> + <p> + "Of course," said the other, "I shall expect something myself, as I was + the one to find it." + </p> + <p> + "I'll give you half." + </p> + <p> + "But I shall be out of the city. I'll tell you what give me ten dollars, + and I'll make it over to you." + </p> + <p> + "That's rather steep," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "Heft it. There must be a lot of money inside." + </p> + <p> + "I'm afraid the reward might be less than ten dollars," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "Well, I'm in a great hurry—give me five." + </p> + <p> + It is possible that Andy, who was not acquainted with the "drop game," + might have agreed to this, but a policeman hove in sight, and the shabby + individual scuttled away without further ceremony, leaving Andy a little + surprised, with the pocketbook in his hand. + </p> + <p> + "What's he in such a hurry for?" thought our hero. + </p> + <p> + He opened the pocketbook, and a light flashed upon him, as he perceived + that there was no money inside, but was stuffed with rolls of paper. + </p> + <p> + "He wanted to swindle me," thought Andy. "It's lucky I didn't pay him five + dollars. Anyway, I'll keep it. The pocketbook is worth something." + </p> + <p> + He put it in his pocket, without taking the trouble to remove the + contents. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0028" id="link2HCH0028"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXVIII — THE GUEST OF TWO HOTELS + </h2> + <p> + Andy wandered about till nine o'clock, determined to see as much of the + city as possible in the limited time which he had at his disposal; but at + last he became tired, and returned to the hotel. Fairfax was seated in the + reading-room. He looked up as Andy entered. + </p> + <p> + "Have you been looking around the city?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "Yes," said Andy; "I wanted to improve my time." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose, as this is your first visit, you see a good deal that is new?" + </p> + <p> + "It's all new," said Andy. "I feel tired, walking around so much." + </p> + <p> + "No doubt. Are you going to bed now?" + </p> + <p> + "I guess I'll turn in." + </p> + <p> + "I shan't go up quite yet. I have been staying here quietly, and I don't + feel tired. I shall go up in the course of an hour or two." + </p> + <p> + "Good-night, then," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "Good-night. I hope you'll sleep sound," said Fairfax, who was certainly + entirely sincere in this wish, as the success of his plans depended on the + soundness of our hero's repose. + </p> + <p> + Andy went upstairs, and lighted the gas in his bedroom. He noticed the + door communicating with the next one, and tried it, but found it to be + locked. + </p> + <p> + "That's all right," said Andy. "Nobody can get in that way." + </p> + <p> + He locked the principal door, and bolted it, also, which seemed to make + him perfectly secure. + </p> + <p> + "Now," thought he, after undressing, "where shall I put the money?" + </p> + <p> + This was an important question, as he had between five hundred and a + thousand dollars belonging to the Misses Grant, of which it was his duty + to take even more care than if it belonged to himself. + </p> + <p> + "I guess I'll put it under the bolster," he reflected, "covering it up + with the sheet. Nobody can get in, that I can see, but it is best to be + careful." + </p> + <p> + In emptying his pockets, he came across the pocketbook, with its sham + contents, of which mention has already been made. + </p> + <p> + "I'll leave that in my pocket," he said to himself, with a smile. "I'm not + afraid of losing that. By the powers, it wouldn't be much of a prize to + the man that took it; I'm sure of that." + </p> + <p> + He laid his clothes on a chair, in the middle of the room, and jumped into + bed, when he soon sank into a deep sleep. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, Fairfax remained below in the reading-room. He was not at all + sleepy, as he had told Andy, and his mind was full of the scheme of + robbery, which appeared so promising. He was glad Andy had retired so + early, as he would be asleep sooner, and this would make things favorable + for his entering his young companion's chamber. It was his intention, + after he had secured the "plunder"—to adopt a Western phrase—to + come downstairs and leave the hotel, not to return, as otherwise, as soon + as Andy should discover his loss, the door between the two rooms would, + naturally, point to him as the thief. + </p> + <p> + He didn't go up to his room till half-past ten. This was an hour and a + half later than Andy retired, and would give him a chance to get fast + asleep. + </p> + <p> + "He must be asleep now," he thought. + </p> + <p> + On reaching the corridor on which both of the chambers were situated, he + stood a moment before Andy's door, and listened. It was not often that our + young hero was guilty of snoring, but to-night he was weary, and had begun + to indulge in this nocturnal disturbance. The sounds which he heard were + very satisfactory to Fairfax. + </p> + <p> + "The boy's fast asleep," he muttered. "I'll go into his room, and make + quick work of it. Fairfax, you're in luck, for once. Fortune has taken a + turn." + </p> + <p> + Softly he opened the door of his own room, and entered. He lit the gas, + and then, going to the door of communication between the two rooms, he + listened again. There was no cessation of the sounds which he had heard + from the outside. He determined to make the attempt at once. Taking the + proper key from his pocket, he fitted it into the lock, and, turning it, + the door opened, and he stepped into the adjoining apartment. It was dark, + for Andy had extinguished the gas on going to bed, but the gas from his + own room made it sufficiently light for his purpose. He at once caught + sight of Andy's clothes lying on the chair, where he had placed them. He + glanced cautiously at our hero, as he lay extended upon the bed, with one + arm flung out, but he saw no reason for alarm. Quickly he glided to the + chair with noiseless step (he had removed his boots, by way of + precaution), and thrust his hand into the pocket of the coat. It came in + contact with the false pocketbook, which seemed bulky and full of money. + Fairfax never doubted that it was the right one, and quickly thrust it + into his own pocket. Just then Andy moved a little in bed, and Fairfax + retreated, hastily, through the door, closing it after him. + </p> + <p> + "Now, the sooner I get out of this hotel, the better!" he thought. "The + boy may wake and discover his loss. It isn't likely, but it may happen. At + any rate it's very much better to be on the safe side." + </p> + <p> + He did not stop to examine the prize which he had secured. He had no doubt + whatever that it contained the money he was after. To stop to count it + might involve him in peril. He, therefore, put on his boots, and glided + out of the chamber and downstairs. + </p> + <p> + To the clerk who was at the desk he said, as he surrendered his key: + </p> + <p> + "How late do you keep open? Till after midnight?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly," was the reply. + </p> + <p> + "All right. I may be out till late." + </p> + <p> + He left the key, and went out into the street. He hailed a passing car in + Tremont Street, and rode for some distance. In Court Street he got on + board a Charlestown car, and in half an hour found himself in the city + everywhere known by the granite shaft that commemorates the battle of + Bunker Hill. He made his way to a hotel, where he took a room, entering + here under the name of James Simmons, Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Anxious + to examine his prize, he desired to be shown at once to a chamber. He + followed the servant who conducted him with impatient steps. The stolen + money was burning in his pocket. He wanted to know how much he had, and + was more than half resolved to take an early train the next morning for + the West, where he thought he should be secure from discovery. + </p> + <p> + "Is there anything wanted, sir?" asked the servant, lingering at the door. + </p> + <p> + "No, no," said Fairfax, impatiently. "It's all right." + </p> + <p> + "Might be a little more polite," muttered the snubbed servant, as he went + downstairs. + </p> + <p> + "Now for it!" exclaimed Fairfax, exultingly. "Now, let me see how much I + have got." + </p> + <p> + He drew the pocketbook from his pocket, and opened it. His heart gave a + quick thump, and he turned ashy pale, as his glance rested upon the + worthless roll of brown paper with which it had been stuffed. + </p> + <p> + "Curse the boy!" he cried, in fierce and bitter disappointment. "He has + fooled me, after all! Why didn't I stop long enough to open the pocketbook + before I came away? Blind, stupid fool that I was! I am as badly off as + before—nay, worse, for I have exposed myself to suspicion, and + haven't got a penny to show for it." + </p> + <p> + I will not dwell upon his bitter self-reproaches, and, above all, the + intense mortification he felt at having been so completely fooled by a + boy, whom he had despised as verdant and inexperienced in the ways of the, + world—to think that success had been in his grasp, and he had missed + it, after all, was certainly disagreeable enough. It occurred to him that + he might go back to the Adams House even now, and repair his blunder. It + was not likely that Andy was awake yet. He was very weary, and boys of his + age were likely, unless disturbed, to sleep through the night. He might + retrieve his error, and no one would be the wiser. + </p> + <p> + "I'll do it," he said, at length. + </p> + <p> + He went downstairs, and left the hotel without the knowledge of the clerk. + Jumping into the horse-cars, he returned to Boston, and entered the Adams + House about half-past twelve o'clock. He claimed his key at the desk, and + went upstairs to his room. He had scarcely lit the gas, however, when a + knock was heard at the door. Opening it unsuspiciously, he turned pale, as + he recognized the clerk, in company with an officer of the law. + </p> + <p> + "What's wanted?" he faltered. + </p> + <p> + "You are wanted," was the brief reply. + </p> + <p> + "What for?" he gasped. + </p> + <p> + "You are charged with entering the adjoining room, and stealing a + pocketbook from the boy who sleeps there." + </p> + <p> + "It's a lie!" he said, but his tone was nervous. + </p> + <p> + "You must submit to a search," said the officer. + </p> + <p> + "Do you mean to insult me?" demanded Fairfax, assuming an air of outraged + virtue. + </p> + <p> + "Not at all. I am only giving you a chance to clear yourself from + suspicion." + </p> + <p> + "I am a respectable merchant from Portland. I was never so insulted in my + life," said Fairfax. + </p> + <p> + "If the charge proves groundless, I will make you an ample apology," said + the officer. + </p> + <p> + Fairfax was compelled to submit to the search. He cursed his stupidity in + not throwing away the worthless pocketbook, but this he had neglected to + do, and, of course, it was very significant evidence against him. Not only + was this found, but the variety of keys already referred to. + </p> + <p> + "You carry a great many keys," said the officer. + </p> + <p> + "It isn't a crime to carry keys, is it?" demanded Fairfax, sullenly. + </p> + <p> + "Not if no improper use is made of them. I suspect that one of them will + open the door into the next chamber." + </p> + <p> + The keys were tried, and one did open the door. As the light flashed into + the room, Andy got up. + </p> + <p> + "Come here, young man," said the officer. "Can you identify that + pocketbook?" + </p> + <p> + "I can," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "Is it yours?" + </p> + <p> + "When I went to bed, it was in the pocket of my coat, lying on that + chair." + </p> + <p> + "It is certainly a wonderful pocketbook. I have just found it in that + gentleman's pocket." + </p> + <p> + Fairfax's eyes were bent malignantly upon Andy. A light flashed upon him. + Now, he recognized him. + </p> + <p> + "I know you," he said. "You are the man that stopped Colonel Preston, and + tried to rob him." + </p> + <p> + "You lie, curse you!" exclaimed Fairfax, springing forward, and trying to + throw himself upon Andy. But he was not quick enough. The officer had + interposed, and seized him by the collar. + </p> + <p> + "Not so fast, Mr. Marvin, or whatever your name is. We don't allow any + such games as that. Sit down till I want you." + </p> + <p> + The baffled adventurer was jerked into a chair, from which he continued to + eye Andy savagely. + </p> + <p> + "What's that affair you were talking about, young man?" asked the officer. + </p> + <p> + Andy briefly related his adventure with Fairfax on a former occasion. + </p> + <p> + "I'll trouble you to come with me, Mr. Marvin, or Fairfax," said the + officer. "There's another hotel where lodgings are provided for such as + you." + </p> + <p> + Resistance was useless, and the detected thief, though his name was + registered at two hotels, was compelled to occupy a less agreeable room at + the station-house. How he was detected will be explained in the next + chapter. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0029" id="link2HCH0029"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIX — A STARTLING EVENT + </h2> + <p> + Sometimes, the mere presence of a person in the room is sufficient to + interrupt even sound repose. At all events, whether it was the entrance of + Fairfax, acting in some mysterious way upon Andy, or the light that + streamed into the room, his slumber was disturbed, and his eyes opened + just as the adventurer was retiring, with his supposed booty. + </p> + <p> + Our hero did not immediately take in the situation. He was naturally a + little bewildered, being just aroused from sleep, but in a short time the + real state of the case dawned upon him. + </p> + <p> + "By the powers!" he said to himself, "it's that man that went to the + museum with me! He saw my money, and he came in for it! I'll get up and + see." + </p> + <p> + Quietly and noiselessly he got out of bed, and, going to the chair, felt + in his pockets, and so discovered the loss of the stuffed pocketbook. + </p> + <p> + Andy wanted to laugh, but forbore, lest the sound should be heard in the + next room. + </p> + <p> + "It's a good joke on the dirty thafe!" said Andy, to himself. "He's + welcome to all the money, he's got—it won't carry him far, I'm + thinkin'." + </p> + <p> + Prudence suggested another thought. When Fairfax found out the + worthlessness of his booty, would he not come back and search for the real + treasure? + </p> + <p> + "If he does, I'll fight him," thought Andy. + </p> + <p> + Still, he knew the conflict would be unequal, since the other was + considerably his superior in strength. However, Andy determined that, come + what might, he would defend his trust, "or perish in the attempt." But, + while he was coming to this determination, he heard the door of the + adjoining chamber open softly, and then he could hear steps along the + corridor. Evidently, the thief had not found out the actual character of + his booty, but was going off under the impression that it was valuable. + </p> + <p> + "Maybe he'll come back," thought Andy. "I guess I'd better go down and + give notice at the desk. Then, if he comes back, he'll get into hot + water." + </p> + <p> + He hastily dressed himself, and, locking his door, went downstairs. First, + however, he removed the money from under his pillow, and put it into his + pocket. He found the clerk at the desk. + </p> + <p> + "Has the man that came in with me gone out?" asked Andy. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Marvin?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "He went out about five minutes ago." + </p> + <p> + "Did he say anything about coming back?" + </p> + <p> + "He said it would be late when he returned. He asked me if we kept open + after twelve. Did you want to find him?" + </p> + <p> + "I should like to have the police find him," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "How is that?" asked the clerk, surprised. + </p> + <p> + "He has robbed me." + </p> + <p> + "Did you leave your door unlocked?" + </p> + <p> + "No; but there was a door between our rooms. He opened it, and stole a + pocketbook from the pocket of my coat." + </p> + <p> + "While you were asleep?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; but I awoke just in time to see him go through the door." + </p> + <p> + "How much money was there in it?" + </p> + <p> + "That's the joke of it," said Andy, laughing; "there was no money at all, + only some folds of paper. He got hold of the wrong pocketbook." + </p> + <p> + Thereupon, he told the story of the "drop game," of which he came near + being a victim, and what a useful turn the bogus treasure had done him. + </p> + <p> + "There's the right pocketbook," he said, in conclusion. "I wish you would + take care of it for me till to-morrow. The money isn't mine, and I don't + want to run any more risk with it." + </p> + <p> + "I'll lock it up in the safe for you," said the clerk. "Is there much?" + </p> + <p> + "Several hundred dollars." + </p> + <p> + "You were very fortunate in escaping as you did," said the clerk. + </p> + <p> + "True for you," said Andy. "He may come back when he finds out how he has + been fooled." + </p> + <p> + "If he does, I'll call a policeman. We'll make short work with him." + </p> + <p> + The reader has already heard how Fairfax (or Marvin) did return, and how + he met with a reception he had not calculated upon. Andy was informed in + the morning that it would be necessary for him to appear as a witness + against him in order to secure his conviction. This he did the next day, + but the judge delayed sentence, on being informed that the accused was + charged with a more serious offense, that of stopping a traveler on the + highway. His trial on this count must come before a higher court, and he + was remanded to prison till his case was called in the calendar. Andy was + informed that he would be summoned as a witness in that case also, as well + as Colonel Preston, and answered that he would be ready when called upon. + </p> + <p> + We will so far anticipate events as to say that the testimony of Andy and + the colonel was considered conclusive by the court, and, on the strength + of it, Mr. Fairfax, alias Marvin, was sentenced to several years' + imprisonment at hard labor. + </p> + <p> + Andy met with no further adventures in his present visit, but had the + satisfaction of delivering the money he had been sent to collect to Miss + Priscilla Grant. + </p> + <p> + Now, advancing our story some three months, we come to an afternoon when + Miss Sophia Grant, returning from a walk, with visible marks of + excitement, rushed, breathless and panting, into her sister's presence. + </p> + <p> + "What's the matter, Sophia?" asked Priscilla. + </p> + <p> + "Such an awful thing!" she gasped. + </p> + <p> + "What is it?" + </p> + <p> + "You won't believe it." + </p> + <p> + "Tell me at once what it is!" + </p> + <p> + "It seems so sudden!" + </p> + <p> + "Good heavens! Sophia, why do you tantalize me so?" + </p> + <p> + "Just so!" gasped Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "If you don't tell me, I'll shake you!" + </p> + <p> + "Colonel Preston's dead—dropped dead in the store ten minutes ago. I + was there, and saw him." + </p> + <p> + This startling intelligence was only too true. Suddenly, without an + instant's warning, the colonel had been summoned from life—succumbing + to a fit of apoplexy. This event, of course, made a great sensation in the + village, but it is of most interest to us as it affects the fortunes of + our young hero. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0030" id="link2HCH0030"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXX — COLONEL PRESTON'S WILL + </h2> + <p> + Mrs. Preston was a cold woman, and was far from being a devoted wife. She + was too selfish for that supreme love which some women bestow upon their + husbands. Still, when Colonel Preston's lifeless form was brought into the + house, she did experience a violent shock. To have the companion of nearly + twenty years so unexpectedly taken away might well touch the most callous, + and so, for a few minutes, Mrs. Preston forgot herself and thought of her + husband. + </p> + <p> + But this was not for long. The thought of her own selfish interests came + back, and in the midst of her apparent grief the question forced itself + upon her consideration, "Did my husband make a will?" + </p> + <p> + Of course, she did not give utterance to this query. She knew what was + expected of her, and she was prudent enough to keep up appearances before + the neighbors, who poured into the house to offer their sympathy. She + received them with her cambric handkerchief pressed to her eyes, from + which, by dint of effort, she succeeded in squeezing a few formal tears, + and, while her bosom appeared to heave with emotion, she was mentally + calculating how much Colonel Preston had probably left. + </p> + <p> + "Shan't I stay with you, my dear Mrs. Preston?" said worthy Mrs. Cameron, + in a tone full of warm interest and sympathy. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you," said Mrs. Preston, in a low voice; "you are very kind, but I + would rather be left alone." + </p> + <p> + "But it must be so sad for you to be alone in your sorrow," said her + neighbor. + </p> + <p> + "No. I can bear sorrow better alone," said the newly made widow. "Perhaps + I am peculiar, but I would prefer it." + </p> + <p> + "If you really wish it," said the other, reluctantly. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I wish it. Thank you for your kind offer, but I know my own + feelings, and the presence of others would only increase my pain." + </p> + <p> + This was what she said to others who made the same offer. It did not + excite great surprise, for Mrs. Preston had never leaned upon anyone for + sympathy, nor was she ready with her sympathy when others were in trouble. + She was self-poised and self-contained, and, in fact, for this reason was + not popular with her neighbors. Still, in this her distress they were + ready to forget all this and extend the same cordial sympathy which they + would have done in other cases. There was but one person whose company she + did crave at this time and this was her son, Godfrey. So, when Alfred + Turner offered to go for him the next morning, she accepted his offer with + thanks. + </p> + <p> + At last she was left alone. The servant had gone to bed, and there was no + one but herself and her dead husband in the lower part of the house. She + no longer sat with her handkerchief pressed before her eyes. Her face wore + its usual look of calm composure. She was busily thinking, not of her + husband's fate, but of her own future. + </p> + <p> + "Did he leave a will? And, if so, how much did he leave me?" she thought. + </p> + <p> + If there was a will, it was probably in the house, and Mrs. Preston + determined to find it, if possible. + </p> + <p> + "Of course, all ought to come to me and Godfrey," she soliloquized. "I + don't think it is right to leave money to charitable institutions as long + as a wife and child are living. Fortunately, my husband had no brothers or + sisters, or perhaps he would have divided the property. If there is no + will, I shall have my thirds, and shall have the control of Godfrey's + property till he comes of age. I think I will go to Boston to live. My + friend, Mrs. Boynton, has a very pleasant house on Worcester Street. I + should like to settle down somewhere near her. I don't know how much Mr. + Preston was worth, but I am sure we shall have enough for that. I always + wanted to live in the city. This village is intolerably stupid, and so are + the people. I shall be glad to get away." + </p> + <p> + Could the good women, whose kind hearts had prompted them to proffer their + sympathy, have heard these words they would not have been likely to + obtrude any more on the hard, cold woman who held them in such low + estimation. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston took the lamp in her hand, and began to explore her husband's + desk. She had often thought of doing so, but, as his death was not + supposed to be so near, she had not thought that there was any immediate + cause of doing so. Besides, it had almost been her belief that he had made + no will. Now she began to open drawers and untie parcels of papers, but it + was some time before she came to what she sought. At length, however, her + diligence was rewarded. In the middle of a pile of papers, she found one + labeled on the outside: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + MY WILL. +</pre> + <p> + Her heart beat as she opened it, and, though there was no need, for it was + now past ten o'clock, and there was not likely to be a caller at that late + hour, she looked cautiously about her, and even peered out of the window + into the darkness, but could find no one whose observation she might fear. + </p> + <p> + I am not about to recite at length the items in the will, which covered a + page of foolscap. It is enough to quote two items, which Mrs. Preston read + with anger and dissatisfaction. They are as follows: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "Item.—To my young friend, Andy Burke, son of the widow + Burke, of this village, in consideration of a valuable + service rendered to me on one occasion, and as a mark of my + regard and interest, I give and bequeath the sum of five + thousand dollars; and to his mother, as a token of gratitude + for her faithful nursing when I was dangerously sick with the + smallpox, I give and bequeath, free of all incumbrance, the + cottage in which she at present resides. + + "Item.—To the town I give five thousand dollars, the + interest to be annually appropriated to the purchase of books + for a public library, for the benefit of all the citizens, + provided the town will provide some suitable place in which + to keep them." +</pre> + <p> + All the balance of the property was left to his wife and son, in equal + proportions, his wife to be the guardian of Godfrey till he should have + attained his majority. As Colonel Preston was well known to be rich, this + seemed to be an adequate provision, but Mrs. Preston did not look upon it + in that light. On the contrary, she was deeply incensed at the two + legacies of which mention has been made above. + </p> + <p> + "Was ever anything more absurd than to waste five thousand dollars and a + house upon that Irish boy and his mother?" she said to herself. "I don't + suppose it was so much my husband's fault. That artful woman got around + him, and wheedled him into it. I know now why she was so willing to come + here and take care of him when he was sick. She wanted to wheedle him into + leaving money to her low-lived boy. She is an artful and designing hussy, + and I should like to tell her so to her face." + </p> + <p> + The cold and usually impassible woman was deeply excited. Her selfish + nature made her grudge any of her husband's estate to others, except, + indeed, to Godfrey, who was the only person she cared for. As she thought + over the unjust disposition, as she regarded it, which her husband had + made of his property, a red spot glowed in her usually pale cheek. + </p> + <p> + Then it was another grievance that money should have been left to the + town. + </p> + <p> + "What claim had the town on my husband," she thought, "that he should give + it five thousand dollars? In doing it, he was robbing Godfrey and me. It + was wrong. He had no right to do it. What do I care for these people? They + are a set of common farmers and mechanics, with whom I condescend to + associate because I have no one else here, except the minister's and the + doctor's family, to speak to. Soon I shall be in the city, and then I + don't care if I never set eyes on any of them again. In Boston I can find + suitable society." + </p> + <p> + The more Mrs. Preston thought of it, the more she felt aggravated by the + thought that so large a share of her husband's property was to go to + others. She fixed her eyes thoughtfully on the document which she held in + her hand, and a strong temptation came to her. + </p> + <p> + "If this should disappear," she said to herself, "the money would be all + mine and Godfrey's, and no one would be the wiser. That Irish boy and his + mother would stay where they belonged, and my Godfrey would have his own. + Why should I not burn it? It would only be just." + </p> + <p> + Deluding herself by this false view, she persuaded herself that it was + right to suppress the will. With steady hand she held it to the flame of + the lamp, and watched it as it was slowly consumed. Then, gathering up the + fragments, she threw them away. + </p> + <p> + "It is all ours now," she whispered, triumphantly, as she prepared to go + to bed. "It was lucky I found the will." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0031" id="link2HCH0031"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXI — MRS. PRESTON'S INTENTIONS + </h2> + <p> + Godfrey returned home on the day after his father's death. He had never + witnessed death before, and it frightened him, for the time, into + propriety. He exhibited none of the stormy and impetuous grief which a + warm-hearted and affectionate boy would have been likely to exhibit. It + was not in his nature. + </p> + <p> + When he and his mother were left alone, he showed his resemblance to her, + by asking: + </p> + <p> + "Do you know how much property father left?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't know. He never told me about his affairs as he ought. I think he + must have left near a hundred thousand dollars." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey's eyes sparkled. + </p> + <p> + "That's a pile of money," he said. "It goes to me, don't it?" + </p> + <p> + "To us," said Mrs. Preston. + </p> + <p> + "A woman doesn't need so much money as a man," said Godfrey, selfishly. + </p> + <p> + "You are not a man yet," said his mother, dryly. "Your father may have + left a will. In that case, he may have left a part of his property to + others." + </p> + <p> + "Do you think he has?" inquired Godfrey, in alarm. + </p> + <p> + "I don't think any will will be found," said his mother, quietly. "He + never spoke to me of making one." + </p> + <p> + "Of course not. That wouldn't be fair, would it?" + </p> + <p> + "It is fitting that the property should all go to us." + </p> + <p> + "When shall I get mine?" + </p> + <p> + "When you are twenty-one." + </p> + <p> + "That's a long time to wait," said Godfrey, grumblingly. + </p> + <p> + "You are only a boy yet. I shall probably be your guardian." + </p> + <p> + "I hope you'll give me a larger allowance than father did." + </p> + <p> + "I will." + </p> + <p> + "Must I go back to boarding school? I don't want to." + </p> + <p> + "If I go to Boston to live, as I think I shall, I will take you with me, + and you can go to school there." + </p> + <p> + "That'll be jolly," said Godfrey, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. + "I've got tired of this miserable town." + </p> + <p> + "So have I," said his mother. "We shall have more privileges in Boston." + </p> + <p> + "I can go to the theater as often as I please there, can't I?" + </p> + <p> + "We will see about that." + </p> + <p> + "How soon shall we move to the city?" + </p> + <p> + "As soon as business will allow. I must settle up your father's affairs + here." + </p> + <p> + "Can't I go beforehand?" + </p> + <p> + "Would you leave me alone?" asked his mother, with a little touch of + wounded affection, for she did feel attached to her son. He was the only + one, indeed, for whom she felt any affection. + </p> + <p> + "You won't miss me, mother. It'll be awfully stupid here, and you know + you'll be coming to the city as soon as you get through with the + business." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston was disappointed, but she should not have been surprised. Her + only son reflected her own selfishness. + </p> + <p> + "It would not look well for you to go to the theater just at the present," + she said. + </p> + <p> + "Why not?" + </p> + <p> + "So soon after your father's death." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey said nothing, but looked discontented. It was early to think of + amusement, while his father lay yet unburied in the next room. He left the + room, whistling. He could not gainsay his mother's objections, but he + thought it hard luck. + </p> + <p> + A funeral in a country village is a public occasion. Friends and neighbors + are expected to be present without invitation. Among those who assembled + at the house were Mrs. Burke and Andy. They felt truly sorry for the death + of Colonel Preston, who had been a friend to both. Mrs. Preston saw them + enter, and, notwithstanding the solemnity of the occasion, the thought + intruded: "They're after the legacy, but they will be disappointed. I've + taken good care of that." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey saw them, also, and his thought was a characteristic one: + </p> + <p> + "What business has that Irish boy at my father's funeral? He ought to know + better than to poke himself in where he is not wanted." + </p> + <p> + Even Godfrey, however, had the decency to let this thought remain + unspoken. The services proceeded, and among those who followed on foot in + the funeral procession were Andy and his mother. It never occurred to them + that they were intruding. They wanted to show respect for the memory of + one who had been a friend to them. + </p> + <p> + On the day after the funeral Squire Tisdale called at the house, invited + by Mrs. Preston. The squire had a smattering of law, and often acted as + executor in settling estates. + </p> + <p> + "I invited you to come here, Squire Tisdale," said Mrs. Preston, "to speak + about my affairs. Of course, it is very trying to me to think of business + so soon after the death of my dear husband"—here she pressed her + handkerchief to her tearless eyes—"but I feel it to be my duty to + myself and my boy." + </p> + <p> + "Of course," said the squire, soothingly. "We can't give way to our + feelings, however much we want to." + </p> + <p> + "That is my feeling," said Mrs. Preston, whose manner was wonderfully cool + and collected, considering the grief which she desired to have it thought + she experienced for her husband. + </p> + <p> + "Did Colonel Preston leave a will?" asked the squire. + </p> + <p> + "I don't think he did. He never mentioned making one to me. Did you ever + hear of his making any?" + </p> + <p> + "I can't say that I ever did. I suppose it will be best to search." + </p> + <p> + "Won't it be more proper for you to make the search, Squire Tisdale?" said + the widow. "I am an interested party." + </p> + <p> + "Suppose we search together. You can tell me where your husband kept his + private papers." + </p> + <p> + "Certainly. He kept them in his desk. I locked it as soon as he died; but + here is the key. If there is a will, it is probably there." + </p> + <p> + "Very probably. We shall soon ascertain, then." + </p> + <p> + Squire Tisdale took the key, and Mrs. Preston led the way to her late + husband's desk. A momentary fear seized her. + </p> + <p> + "What if there was an earlier will, or two copies of the last?" she + thought. "I ought to have made sure by looking over the other papers." + </p> + <p> + But it was too late now. Besides, it seemed very improbable that there + should be another will. Had there been an earlier one, it would, + doubtless, have been destroyed on the drafting of the one she had found. + She reassured herself, therefore, and awaited with tranquillity the result + of the search. + </p> + <p> + The search was careful and thorough. Mrs. Preston desired that it should + be so. Knowing the wrong she had done to Andy and his mother, as well as + the town, she was unnecessarily anxious to appear perfectly fair, and + assured Squire Tisdale that, had there been a will, its provisions should + have been carried out to the letter. + </p> + <p> + "There is no will here," said the squire, after a careful search. + </p> + <p> + "I did not expect you would find one," said the widow; "but it was + necessary to make sure." + </p> + <p> + "Is there any other place where your husband kept papers?" + </p> + <p> + "We will look in the drawers and trunks," said Mrs. Preston; "but I don't + think any will be found." + </p> + <p> + None was found. + </p> + <p> + "Can I do anything more for you, Mrs. Preston?" asked the squire. + </p> + <p> + "I should like your advice, Squire Tisdale. I am not used to business, and + I would like the aid of your experience." + </p> + <p> + "Willingly," said the squire, who felt flattered. + </p> + <p> + "As my husband left no will, I suppose the estate goes to my son and + myself?" + </p> + <p> + "Undoubtedly." + </p> + <p> + "How ought I to proceed?" + </p> + <p> + "You should apply for letters of administration, which will enable you to + settle up the property." + </p> + <p> + "Will you help me to take the necessary steps?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly." + </p> + <p> + "I should like to settle the estate as rapidly as possible, as I intend to + remove to Boston." + </p> + <p> + "Indeed? We shall be sorry to lose you. Can you not content yourself + here?" + </p> + <p> + "Everything will remind me of my poor husband," said Mrs. Preston, with + another application of the handkerchief to her still tearless eyes. + </p> + <p> + Squire Tisdale was impressed with the idea that she had more feeling than + he had thought. + </p> + <p> + "I didn't think of that," he said, sympathetically. "No doubt you are + right." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston lost no time in applying for letters of administration. + </p> + <p> + "As soon as I get them," she said to herself, "I will lose no time in + ejecting that Irishwoman from the house my husband bought for her. I'll + make her pay rent, too, for the time she has been in it." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0032" id="link2HCH0032"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXII — MRS. PRESTON'S REVENGE + </h2> + <p> + Andy Burke was passing the house of Mrs. Preston, within a month after + Colonel Preston's death, when Godfrey, who had not gone back to boarding + school, showed himself at the front door. + </p> + <p> + "Come here!" said Godfrey, in an imperious tone. + </p> + <p> + Andy turned his head, and paused. + </p> + <p> + "Who are you talking to?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "To you, to be sure." + </p> + <p> + "What's wanted?" + </p> + <p> + "My mother wants to see you." + </p> + <p> + "All right; I'll come in." + </p> + <p> + "You can go around to the back door," said Godfrey, who seemed to find + pleasure in making himself disagreeable. + </p> + <p> + "I know I can, but I don't mean to," said Andy, walking up to the front + entrance, where Godfrey was standing. + </p> + <p> + "The back door is good enough for you," said the other, offensively. + </p> + <p> + "I shouldn't mind going to it if you hadn't asked me," said Andy. "Just + move away, will you?" + </p> + <p> + Godfrey did not stir. + </p> + <p> + "Very well," said Andy, turning; "tell your mother you would not let me + in." + </p> + <p> + "Come in, if you want to," said Godfrey, at length, moving aside. + </p> + <p> + "I don't care much about it. I only came to oblige your mother." + </p> + <p> + "Maybe you won't like what she has to say," said Godfrey, with a + disagreeable smile. + </p> + <p> + "I'll soon know," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + He entered the house, and Godfrey called upstairs: "Mother, the Burke boy + is here." + </p> + <p> + "I'll be down directly," was the answer. "He can sit down." + </p> + <p> + Andy sat down on a chair in the hall, not receiving an invitation to enter + the sitting-room, and waited for Mrs. Preston to appear. He wondered a + little what she wanted with him, but thought it likely that she had some + errand or service in which she wished to employ him. He did not know the + extent of her dislike for him and his mother. + </p> + <p> + After a while Mrs. Preston came downstairs. She was dressed in black, but + showed no other mark of sorrow for the loss of her husband. Indeed, she + was looking in better health than usual. + </p> + <p> + "You can come into the sitting-room," she said, coldly. + </p> + <p> + Andy followed her, and so did Godfrey, who felt a malicious pleasure in + hearing what he knew beforehand his mother intended to say. + </p> + <p> + "I believe your name is Andrew?" she commenced. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "Your mother occupies a house belonging to my late husband." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, ma'am," answered Andy, who now began to guess at the object of the + interview. + </p> + <p> + "I find, by examining my husband's papers, that she has paid no rent for + the last six months." + </p> + <p> + "That's true," said Andy. "She offered to pay it, but Colonel Preston told + her he didn't want no rent from her. He said she could have it for + nothing." + </p> + <p> + "That's a likely story," said Godfrey, with a sneer. + </p> + <p> + "It's a true story," said Andy, in a firm voice, steadily eying his young + antagonist. + </p> + <p> + "This may be true, or it may not be true," said Mrs. Preston, coldly. "If + true, I suppose my husband gave your mother a paper of some kind, agreeing + to let her have the house rent-free." + </p> + <p> + "She hasn't got any paper," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "I thought not," said Godfrey, sneering. "You forgot to write her one." + </p> + <p> + "Be quiet, Godfrey," said his mother. "I prefer to manage this matter + myself. Then, your mother has no paper to show in proof of what you + assert?" + </p> + <p> + "No, ma'am. The colonel didn't think it was necessary. He just told my + mother, when she first came with the rent, that she needn't trouble + herself to come again on that errand. He said that she had nursed him when + he was sick with the smallpox, and he'd never forget it, and that he'd + bought the house expressly for her." + </p> + <p> + "I am aware that your mother nursed my husband in his sickness," said Mrs. + Preston, coldly. "I also know that my husband paid her very handsomely for + her services." + </p> + <p> + "That's true, ma'am," said Andy. "He was a fine, generous man, the colonel + was, and I'll always say it." + </p> + <p> + "There really seems no reason why, in addition to this compensation, your + mother should receive a present of her rent. How much rent did she pay + before my husband bought the house?" + </p> + <p> + "Fifteen dollars a quarter." + </p> + <p> + "Then she has not paid rent for six months. I find she owes my husband's + estate thirty dollars." + </p> + <p> + "Colonel Preston told her she wasn't to pay it." + </p> + <p> + "How do I know that?" + </p> + <p> + "My mother says it, and she wouldn't tell a lie," said Andy, indignantly. + </p> + <p> + "I have nothing to say as to that," said Mrs. Preston. "I am now managing + the estate, and the question rests with me. I decide that your mother has + been sufficiently paid for her services, and I shall claim rent for the + last six months." + </p> + <p> + Andy was silent for a moment. Then he spoke: + </p> + <p> + "It may be so, Mrs. Preston. I'll speak to the doctor, and I'll do as he + says." + </p> + <p> + "I don't know what the doctor has to do with the matter," said Mrs. + Preston, haughtily. + </p> + <p> + "He wants to get an excuse for not paying," said Godfrey, with a sneer. + </p> + <p> + "Mind your business," said Andy, excusably provoked. + </p> + <p> + "Do you hear that, mother?" said Godfrey. "Are you going to let that + beggar insult me before your very face?" + </p> + <p> + "You have spoken very improperly to my son," said Mrs. Preston. + </p> + <p> + "He spoke very improperly to me at first," said Andy, sturdily. + </p> + <p> + "You do not appear to understand the respect due to me," said Mrs. + Preston, with emphasis. + </p> + <p> + "If I've treated you disrespectfully, I'm sorry," said Andy; "but Godfrey + mustn't insult me, and call me names." + </p> + <p> + "We have had enough of this," said Mrs. Preston. "I have only to repeat + that your mother is indebted to me for six months' rent—thirty + dollars—which I desire she will pay as soon as possible. One thing + more: I must request her to find another home, as I have other plans for + the house she occupies." + </p> + <p> + "You're not goin' to turn her out of her house, sure?" said Andy, in some + dismay. + </p> + <p> + "It is not her house," said Mrs. Preston; though it occurred to her that + it might have been, if she had not suppressed the will. But, of course, + Andy knew nothing of this, nor did he suspect anything, since neither he + nor his mother had the faintest idea of being remembered in Colonel + Preston's will, kind though he had been to them both in his life. + </p> + <p> + "I know it isn't," said Andy; "but she's got used to it. I don't know any + other place we can get." + </p> + <p> + "That is your lookout," said Mrs. Preston. "I have no doubt you can get in + somewhere. As I said, the house is mine, and I have other views for it." + </p> + <p> + "Can't we stay till the end of the quarter, ma'am?" + </p> + <p> + "No; I wish to finish my business here as soon as possible, and then shall + go to Boston." + </p> + <p> + "How long can we stay, then?" + </p> + <p> + "Till the first of the month." + </p> + <p> + "That's only three days." + </p> + <p> + "It is long enough to find another place. That is all I have to say," and + Mrs. Preston turned to go. + </p> + <p> + Andy rose, and followed her, without a word. He saw that it would be of no + use to appeal for more time. Her tone was so firm and determined that + there evidently was no moving her. + </p> + <p> + "What will we do?" thought Andy, as he walked slowly and silently along + the road. + </p> + <p> + He felt the need of consulting somebody older and more experienced than + himself. Just in the nick of time he met Dr. Townley, in whose friendship + he felt confidence. + </p> + <p> + "Can you stop a minute, Dr. Townley?" he said. "I want to speak to you + about something." + </p> + <p> + "I can spare two minutes, if you like, Andy," said the doctor, smiling. + </p> + <p> + Andy explained the case. + </p> + <p> + "It is quite true," said the doctor. "Colonel Preston intended your mother + to pay no rent—he told me so himself; but, as your mother has no + written proof, I suppose you will have to pay it. Shall I lend you the + money?" + </p> + <p> + "No need, doctor. We've got money enough for that. But we must move out in + three days. Where shall we go?" + </p> + <p> + "I'll tell you. I own the small house occupied by Grant Melton. He sets + out for the West to-morrow, with his family. I'll let it to your mother + for the same rent she's been paying." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you," said Andy, gratefully. "It's better than the house we've been + living in. It's a good change." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps you won't like me for a landlord so well as Mrs. Preston," said + the doctor, smiling. + </p> + <p> + "I'll risk it," said Andy. + </p> + <p> + Two days afterward the transfer was made. Mrs. Preston was disappointed, + and Godfrey still more so, to find their malice had done the widow Burke + no harm. + </p> + <p> + By advice of the doctor, Andy deferred paying the thirty dollars claimed + as rent, availing himself of the twelve months allowed for the payment of + debts due the estate of one deceased. + </p> + <p> + "If it was anybody else, I'd pay at once," said Andy; "but Mrs. Preston + has treated us so meanly that I don't mean to hurry." + </p> + <p> + The delay made Mrs. Preston angry, but she was advised that it was quite + legal. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0033" id="link2HCH0033"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIII — ANDY LOSES HIS PLACE + </h2> + <p> + Andy and his mother moved into Dr. Townley's cottage. It was rather an + improvement upon the house in which they had lived hitherto, but, then, + there was this great difference: For the one they had no rent to pay, but + for the other they paid fifty dollars rent. Dr. Townley would gladly have + charged nothing, but he was a comparatively poor man, and could not afford + to be as generous as his heart would have dictated. He had a fair income, + being skillful and in good practice, but he had a son in college, and his + expenses were a considerable drain upon his father's purse. Still, with + the money saved, and Andy's weekly earnings, the Burkes were able to live + very comfortably and still pay the rent. But a real misfortune was in + store for Andy. + </p> + <p> + Miss Sophia Grant was taken sick with lung fever. The sickness lasted for + some weeks, and left her considerably debilitated. + </p> + <p> + "What do you think of Sophia, Dr. Townley?" asked Priscilla, anxiously. + "She remains weak, and she has a bad cough. I am feeling alarmed about + her." + </p> + <p> + "I'll tell you what I think, Miss Priscilla," said the doctor, "though I + am sorry to do it. The fact is, the air here is altogether too bracing for + your sister. She will have to go to some inland town, where the east winds + are not felt." + </p> + <p> + "Then I must go, too," said Miss Priscilla. "We have lived together from + girlhood, and we cannot be separated." + </p> + <p> + "I supposed you would be unwilling to leave her, so I am afraid we must + make up our minds to lose you both." + </p> + <p> + "Do you think, doctor, that Sophia will, by and by, be strong enough to + return here?" + </p> + <p> + "I am afraid not. The effects of lung fever are always felt for a long + time. She will improve, no doubt, but a return to this harsh air would, I + fear, bring back her old trouble." + </p> + <p> + "I asked because I wanted to know whether it would be best to keep this + place. After what you have told me, I shall try to sell it." + </p> + <p> + "I am truly sorry, Miss Priscilla." + </p> + <p> + "So am I, Dr. Townley. I don't expect any place will seem so much like + home as this." + </p> + <p> + "Have you any particular place that you think of going to?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; I have a niece married in a small town near Syracuse, New York + State. They don't have east winds there. I'll get Priscilla (she's named + after me) to hunt up a cottage that we can live in, and move right out + there. I suppose we'd better go soon?" + </p> + <p> + "Better go at once. Weak lungs must be humored." + </p> + <p> + "Then I'll write to Priscilla to get me a boarding house, and we'll start + next week." + </p> + <p> + There was one person whom this removal was likely to affect seriously, and + this was our young hero. + </p> + <p> + "I hope Andy'll be able to get a place," said Priscilla, after she had + communicated the doctor's orders to her sister. + </p> + <p> + "Just so, Priscilla. He's a good boy." + </p> + <p> + "I will give him a good recommendation." + </p> + <p> + "Just so. Does he know it?" + </p> + <p> + "No. I will call him in and tell him, so that he can be looking out for + another position." + </p> + <p> + "Just so." + </p> + <p> + Andy answered the call of Miss Priscilla. He had been sawing wood, and + there was sawdust in his sleeves. + </p> + <p> + "How long have you been with us, Andy?" asked his mistress. + </p> + <p> + "Over a year, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + "I wish I could keep you for a year to come." + </p> + <p> + "Can't you?" asked Andy, startled. + </p> + <p> + "No, Andy." + </p> + <p> + "What's the matter, Miss Priscilla? Have I done anything wrong?" + </p> + <p> + "No, Andy. We are both of us quite satisfied with you." + </p> + <p> + "You haven't lost any money, ma'am, have you? I'll work for less, if you + can't afford to pay as much as you've been paying." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, Andy, but it isn't that. My sister's lungs are weak, and Dr. + Townley has ordered her to move to a less exposed place. We are going to + move away from the town." + </p> + <p> + "I'm sorry," said Andy, and he was, for other reasons than because he was + about to lose a good place. + </p> + <p> + "We shall miss you, Andy." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," chimed in Miss Sophia, with a cough. + </p> + <p> + "You see how weak my sister's lungs are. It's on her account we are + going." + </p> + <p> + "Shan't you come back again, ma'am?" + </p> + <p> + "No, Andy. The doctor says it will never be safe for us to do so. I hope + you will get a good place." + </p> + <p> + "I hope so, ma'am; but you needn't think of that." + </p> + <p> + "We are prepared to give you a good recommendation. We feel perfectly + satisfied with you in every way." + </p> + <p> + "Just so," said Sophia. + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, ma'am, and you, too, Miss Sophia. I've tried to do my duty + faithfully by you." + </p> + <p> + "And you have, Andy." + </p> + <p> + "How soon do you go, ma'am?" + </p> + <p> + "Next week, if we can get away. The doctor says we can't get away too + soon. So you had better be looking around, to see if you can get a place + somewhere." + </p> + <p> + "I will, ma'am; but I'll stay with you till the last day. You'll need me + to pack up for you." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, we shall. To-morrow I'll write you the recommendation." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, ma'am." + </p> + <p> + Andy did not sleep as much as usual that night. His wages were the main + support of his mother and sister, and he could think of no other place in + the village where he was likely to be employed. He had a little money + saved up, but he didn't like the idea of spending it. Besides, it would + not last long. + </p> + <p> + "I wish Dr. Townley wanted a boy," thought Andy. "I'd rather work for the + doctor than for anybody else in the village. He's a nice man, and he cares + just as much for poor folks as he does for rich folks. I am sure he likes + me better than he does Godfrey Preston." + </p> + <p> + But Dr. Townley already had a boy, whom he did not like to turn off. Nor + could he have afforded to pay Andy as high wages as he had received from + the Misses Grant. There really seemed to be no vacant place in the village + for our young hero to fill, and, of course, this troubled him. + </p> + <p> + Next week the Misses Grant got away from the village. They gave Andy as a + present an old-fashioned silver watch, about the size and shape of a + turnip. Andy was glad to get it, old-fashioned as it was, and he thanked + them warmly. + </p> + <p> + The day afterward he was walking slowly along the village street, when he + came upon Godfrey Preston strutting along, with an air of importance. He + and his mother had removed to Boston, but they were visiting the town on a + little business. + </p> + <p> + "Hello, there!" said Godfrey, halting. + </p> + <p> + "Hello!" said Andy. + </p> + <p> + "You've lost your place, haven't you?" asked Godfrey, with a sneer. + </p> + <p> + "Yes." + </p> + <p> + "How are you going to live?" + </p> + <p> + "By eating, I expect," answered Andy, shortly. + </p> + <p> + "If you can get anything to eat, you mean?" + </p> + <p> + "We got enough so far." + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps you won't have, long. You may have to go to the poorhouse." + </p> + <p> + "When I do, I shall find you there." + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean?" demanded Godfrey, angrily. + </p> + <p> + "I mean I shan't go there till you do." + </p> + <p> + "You're proud for a beggar." + </p> + <p> + "I'm more of a gentleman than you are." + </p> + <p> + "I'd thrash you, only I won't demean myself by doing it." + </p> + <p> + "That's lucky, or you might get thrashed yourself." + </p> + <p> + "You're only an Irish boy." + </p> + <p> + "I'm proud of that same. You won't find me go back on my country." + </p> + <p> + Godfrey walked away. Somehow, he could never get the better of Andy. + </p> + <p> + "I hope I'll see you begging in rags, some day," he thought to himself. + </p> + <p> + But boys like Andy are not often reduced to such a point. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0034" id="link2HCH0034"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXIV — THE WILL AT LAST + </h2> + <p> + The next three months passed very unsatisfactorily for Andy. In a small + country town like that in which he lived there was little opportunity for + a boy, however industrious, to earn money. The farmers generally had sons + of their own, or were already provided with assistants, and there was no + manufacturing establishment in the village to furnish employment to those + who didn't like agriculture. Andy had some idea of learning the carpenter + trade, there being a carpenter who was willing to take an apprentice, but, + unfortunately, he was unwilling to pay any wages for the first year—only + boarding the apprentice—and our hero felt, for his mother's sake, + that it would not do to make such an engagement. + </p> + <p> + When the three months were over, the stock of money which Andy and his + mother had saved up was almost gone. In fact, he had not enough left to + pay the next quarter's rent to Dr. Townley. + </p> + <p> + Things were in this unsatisfactory state, when something happened that had + a material effect upon Andy's fortunes, and, as my readers will be glad to + know, for their improvement. + </p> + <p> + To explain what it was, I must go back to a period shortly before + Colonel's Preston's death. One day he met the doctor in the street, and + stopped to speak to him. + </p> + <p> + "Dr. Townley," he said, "I have a favor to ask of you." + </p> + <p> + "I shall be very glad to serve you, Colonel Preston," said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + Thereupon Colonel Preston drew from his inside pocket a sealed envelope of + large size. + </p> + <p> + "I want you to take charge of this for me," he said. + </p> + <p> + "Certainly," said the doctor, in some surprise. + </p> + <p> + "Please read what I have written upon the envelope." + </p> + <p> + The doctor, his attention called to the envelope, read, inscribed in + large, distinct characters: + </p> + <p> + "Not to be opened till six months after my death." + </p> + <p> + "I see you want an explanation," said the colonel. "Here it is—the + paper contained in this envelope is an important one. I won't tell you + what it is. When you come to open it, it will explain itself." + </p> + <p> + "But, colonel, you are likely to live as long as I. In that case, I can't + follow your directions." + </p> + <p> + "Of course, we can't tell the duration of our lives. Still, I think you + will outlive me. If not, I shall reclaim the paper. Meanwhile, I shall be + glad to have you take charge of it for me." + </p> + <p> + "Of course I will. It is a slight favor to ask." + </p> + <p> + "It may prove important. By the way, there is no need of telling anyone, + unless, perchance, your wife. I don't want to force you to keep anything + secret from her. Mrs. Townley, I know, may be depended upon." + </p> + <p> + "I think she may. Well, Colonel Preston, set your mind at rest. I will + take care of the paper." + </p> + <p> + When Colonel Preston died, not long afterward, the doctor naturally + thought of the paper, and, as no will was left, it occurred to him that + this might be a will; but, in that case, he couldn't understand why he + should have been enjoined to keep it six months before opening it. On the + whole, he concluded that it was not a will. + </p> + <p> + Seated at the supper table, about this time, Mrs. Townley said, suddenly: + </p> + <p> + "Henry, how long is it since Colonel Preston died?" + </p> + <p> + "Let me see," said the doctor, thoughtfully. "It is—yes, it is siX + — months to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + "Then it is time for you to open that envelope he gave into your charge." + </p> + <p> + "So it is. My dear, your feminine curiosity inspired that thought," said + the doctor, smiling. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps you are right. I own I am a little inquisitive in the matter." + </p> + <p> + "I am glad you mentioned it. I have so much on my mind that I should have + let the day pass, and I should be sorry not to fulfill to the letter the + promise I made to my friend." + </p> + <p> + "Have you any suspicion as to the nature of the document?" + </p> + <p> + "I thought it might be a will; but, if so, I can't understand why a delay + of six months should have been interposed." + </p> + <p> + "Colonel Preston may have had his reasons. Possibly he did not fully trust + his wife's attention to his requests." + </p> + <p> + "It may be so. I am afraid his married life was not altogether harmonious. + Mrs. Preston always struck me as a very selfish woman." + </p> + <p> + "No doubt of that." + </p> + <p> + "She evidently regarded herself as superior to the rest of us." + </p> + <p> + "In that respect Godfrey is like her. He is a self-conceited, disagreeable + young jackanapes. I wouldn't give much for his chances of honorable + distinction in life. I'll tell you of a boy who will, in my opinion, beat + him in the race of life." + </p> + <p> + "Who is that?" + </p> + <p> + "Andy Burke." + </p> + <p> + "Andy is a good boy, but I am afraid the family is doing poorly now." + </p> + <p> + "So I fear. The, fact is, there doesn't appear to be much opening for a + lad like Andy in this village." + </p> + <p> + "I hear that Mr. Graves, the storekeeper, who is getting old, wants to get + a boy, or young man, with a small capital to take an interest in his + business, and, eventually, succeed him." + </p> + <p> + "That would be a good chance for Andy, if he had the small capital; but he + probably hasn't ten dollars in the world." + </p> + <p> + "That's a pity." + </p> + <p> + "If I were a capitalist, I wouldn't mind starting him myself; but as you, + my dear, are my most precious property, and are not readily convertible + into cash, I don't quite see my way to do anything to assist him." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't think of you, Henry. Country doctors are not likely to get rich. + But I thought Colonel Preston, who seemed to take an interest in the boy, + might do something for him." + </p> + <p> + "If he had lived, he might have done so—probably he would. But Mrs. + Preston and Godfrey hate the Burkes like poison, for no good reason that I + know of, and there is no chance of help from that quarter." + </p> + <p> + "I should think not." + </p> + <p> + The next day, Dr. Townley, immediately after breakfast, drew the envelope + already referred to from among his private papers, and, breaking the seal, + opened it. + </p> + <p> + To his surprise and excitement, he discovered that the inclosure was the + last will and testament of his deceased friend. Accompanying it was the + following note: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "MY DEAR FRIEND, DR. TOWNLEY: This is the duplicate of a will + executed recently, and expresses my well-considered wishes as + to the disposition of my property. The original will may have + been found and executed before you open this envelope. In + that case, of course, this will be of no value, and you can + destroy it. But I am aware that valuable papers are liable to + loss or injury, and, therefore, I deem it prudent to place + this duplicate in your possession, that, if the other be + lost, you may see it carried into execution. I have named you + my executor, and am sure, out of regard to me, you will + accept the trust, and fulfill it to the best of your ability. + I have always felt the utmost confidence in your friendship, + and this will account for my troubling you on the present + occasion. + "Your friend, + "Anthony Preston." +</pre> + <p> + From this letter Dr. Townley turned to the perusal of the will. The + contents filled him with equal surprise and pleasure. + </p> + <p> + "Five thousand dollars to Andy Burke!" he repeated. "That is capital! It + will start the boy in life, and with his good habits it will make him sure + of a competence by and by. With half of it he can buy an interest in + Graves' store, and the balance will, if well invested, give him a handsome + addition to his income. Then there's the bequest for the town library—a + capital idea, that! It will do a great deal to make the town attractive, + and be a powerful agency for refining and educating the people." + </p> + <p> + Just then Mrs. Townley, who knew what her husband was about, came into the + room. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Henry," she said, "is the paper important?" + </p> + <p> + "I should say it was. It is Colonel Preston's last will and testatment." + </p> + <p> + "Is it possible? How does he leave his property?" + </p> + <p> + "He leaves five thousand dollars for a town library." + </p> + <p> + "Does he remember Andy Burke?" + </p> + <p> + "He leaves him five thousand dollars, and gives his mother the house they + used to live in." + </p> + <p> + "That's splendid! But what will Mrs. Preston say?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, that remains to be seen," said the doctor, laughing. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0035" id="link2HCH0035"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXV — MRS. PRESTON IS UNPLEASANTLY SURPRISED + </h2> + <p> + Dr. Townley thought it best to consult with the town authorities as to the + course to be pursued, since, as it appeared, the town was interested in + the will. It was decided that the doctor and Mr. Graves, who was the + Chairman of the Selectmen, should go to Boston the next day and inform + Mrs. Preston of the discovery of the will. Until after this interview it + was deemed best not to mention the matter to Andy or his mother. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston was established in a showy house at the South End. At last + she was living as she desired to do. She went to the theater and the + opera, and was thinking whether she could afford to set up a carriage. + Godfrey she had placed at a private school, and was anxious to have him + prepare for admission to Harvard College, but in this hope she seemed + destined to be disappointed. Godfrey wanted to see life and enjoy himself, + and had no intention of submitting to the drudgery of hard study. + </p> + <p> + "Godfrey," said his mother one morning, "I have received a letter from + your teacher, complaining that you don't work." + </p> + <p> + "I'm not going to work myself to death," answered Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + "I don't expect you to hurt yourself with work, but I want you to go to + college." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, well, I'll get in somehow." + </p> + <p> + "Don't you want to stand well as a scholar?" she asked. + </p> + <p> + "I leave that to the poor fellows that have got to work for a living. I am + rich." + </p> + <p> + "You may lose your money." + </p> + <p> + "I don't mean to." + </p> + <p> + "Suppose you do?" + </p> + <p> + "Then I will go to work." + </p> + <p> + "I should like to have you graduate well at college and then study law. + You might get into Congress," said his mother. + </p> + <p> + "I guess I'll know enough for that," said Godfrey, carelessly. "I want to + have a good time." + </p> + <p> + That was not the worst of it, however. He extorted from his mother a large + allowance, which he spent at bars and billiard saloons, and one day was + brought home drunk by a schoolfellow. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, Godfrey, how can you do so?" exclaimed the selfish woman, for once + fairly alarmed on another's account. + </p> + <p> + "Hush up, old woman!" hiccoughed Godfrey. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston was mortified to think this should be said to her before + Godfrey's schoolmate. + </p> + <p> + "He does not know what he is saying," she said, apologetically. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I do," persisted Godfrey. "I'm a—a gen'leman's son. I don't + want you to interfere with gen'leman's son." + </p> + <p> + He was put to bed, and awoke the next morning with a splitting headache. + It was the morning of the day which the doctor and Mr. Graves had chosen + to call on Mrs. Preston. She was preparing to go out, when a servant came + upstairs to announce that two gentlemen were in the parlor, and wanted to + see her. + </p> + <p> + "Two gentlemen! What do they look like, Nancy?" + </p> + <p> + "One of 'em looks like he was from the country, mum." + </p> + <p> + This referred to Mr. Graves, who did have a rustic look. The doctor would + readily have passed for a Bostonian. + </p> + <p> + "Did they give their names?" + </p> + <p> + "No, mum." + </p> + <p> + "I will go down directly. I suppose they won't stay long." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston sailed into the parlor with the air of a city lady, as she + proudly imagined, but stopped short in some surprise when she recognized + her visitors. Of course, she did not suspect the nature of their business. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Townley arose as she entered. + </p> + <p> + "Good-morning, Mrs. Preston," he said. "I hope I find you well?" + </p> + <p> + "I am quite well," said Mrs. Preston, coldly, for she had never liked the + doctor. She had an unpleasant feeling that he understood her, and was not + among her admirers. "Good-morning, Mr. Graves. You come to the city + occasionally?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't often get time to come up, but the doctor thought I ought to + come." + </p> + <p> + "Indeed! I am sorry to say that I am just going out." + </p> + <p> + "I must ask you to defer going till we have communicated our business," + said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + "Business?" repeated Mrs. Preston, seating herself in some surprise. + </p> + <p> + "Yes—business of importance. In short, your husband's will has come + to light." + </p> + <p> + "My husband's will!" exclaimed Mrs. Preston. "I thought——" + </p> + <p> + She checked herself suddenly. She was about to say, "I thought I had + destroyed it," and that would have let the cat out of the bag with a + vengeance. + </p> + <p> + "You thought that he left no will," said the doctor, finishing the + sentence for her. "He really left two——" + </p> + <p> + "Two!" + </p> + <p> + "That's it—he executed two—exactly alike. One he left in my + hands." + </p> + <p> + "That is a likely story!" said Mrs. Preston, excitedly. "If that is the + case, why, I ask, have we heard nothing of this before?" + </p> + <p> + "Because it was contained in an envelope, which I was requested not to + open for six months after his decease. The time having expired——" + </p> + <p> + "May I ask what are the provisions of this pretended will?" demanded Mrs. + Preston, in visible excitement. + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Preston," said the doctor, with dignity, "you appear to forget that + you are addressing a gentleman. I am above fabricating a will, as you seem + to insinuate. As to the provisions, it leaves five thousand dollars to the + town for the establishment of a public library, and five thousand dollars + to Andy Burke, besides the small house in which she used to live to the + widow Burke." + </p> + <p> + The worst had come. In spite of her criminal act, she must lose the ten + thousand dollars; and, worst of all, those whom she hated and despised + were to profit by her loss. + </p> + <p> + "This is simply outrageous, Dr. Townley," she said. + </p> + <p> + "You are speaking of your husband's will, Mrs. Preston." + </p> + <p> + "I don't believe he made it." + </p> + <p> + "There can be no doubt of it. Mr. Graves has examined it, and he and + myself are so familiar with the handwriting of your husband that we have + no hesitation in pronouncing the will genuine." + </p> + <p> + "Colonel Preston must have been insane if he really made such a will." + </p> + <p> + "I was his medical adviser," said Dr. Townley, quietly, "and I never + detected the least sign of an unsound mind." + </p> + <p> + "The fact of robbing his wife and child to enrich an Irishwoman and her + son is proof enough of his insanity." + </p> + <p> + "Pardon me, madam, but such bequests are made every day. Outside of their + legacies your husband left ample fortune, and there is no danger of your + being impoverished." + </p> + <p> + "Did you bring the will with you?" + </p> + <p> + "No. I did not feel like incurring the risk." + </p> + <p> + "I shall contest the will," said Mrs. Preston, passionately. + </p> + <p> + "I would not advise you to. The proof of its genuineness is overwhelming. + I suppose you never saw the other will?" + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston, at this unexpected question, in spite of her strong nerves, + turned pale, and faltered: + </p> + <p> + "Of course not," she said, after a slight pause. + </p> + <p> + "Your husband asserts positively in a note to me that he made one," said + the doctor, bending his eyes searchingly upon her, for he suspected the + truth, and that it was distrust of his wife that led Colonel Preston to + take the precaution he had done. "Its disappearance is mysterious." + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean?" cried Mrs. Preston, sharply, and not altogether + without alarm. + </p> + <p> + "I meant only to express my surprise." + </p> + <p> + "If your business is over, I will go out." + </p> + <p> + "I have only this to say, that, being named in the will as executor, I + shall take immediate measures to have the will admitted to probate. Should + you make up your mind to contest it, you can give me due notice through + your legal adviser. In that case," he added, significantly, "the question + of the disappearance of the other will will come up." + </p> + <p> + "I will consult my lawyer," said Mrs. Preston. + </p> + <p> + Though she said this, her determination was already made. "Conscience + makes cowards of us all," and the doctor's last hint alarmed her so much + that she decided to make no opposition to the setting up of the will. But + it was a bitter pill to swallow. + </p> + <p> + "Graves," said Dr. Townley, as he left the house, "that woman destroyed + the other will." + </p> + <p> + "Do you think so?" asked Mr. Graves, startled. + </p> + <p> + "I feel sure of it. Let me predict also that she will not contest this + will. She is afraid to." + </p> + <p> + And the doctor was right. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0036" id="link2HCH0036"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXXVI — ALL'S WELL THAT ENDS WELL + </h2> + <p> + Andy was quite unconscious of the good fortune which had come to him. + Though a manly and stout-hearted boy, he was, in fact, getting + discouraged. He was willing and anxious to work, but there seemed to be no + work for him to do. He would have left home some time since to try his + fortune elsewhere, but for the entreaties of his mother, who didn't like + to lose him. + </p> + <p> + In the morning after Dr. Townley's visit to Boston, our hero knocked at + the doctor's front door. + </p> + <p> + "Is Dr. Townley at home?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, Andy," said the doctor, who overheard the inquiry. "Come right in. + You're just the boy I want to see." + </p> + <p> + Andy entered, twirling his hat awkwardly in his hand. + </p> + <p> + "Good-morning, Andy," said the doctor, cordially. "Take a seat." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, sir," said Andy, but did not sit down. + </p> + <p> + "What is the matter? You are looking rather blue this morning." + </p> + <p> + "Faith, doctor, and that's the way I feel entirely." + </p> + <p> + "You're not sick, are you? Let me feel your pulse." + </p> + <p> + "No, I'm not sick, but it's discouraged I am." + </p> + <p> + "Why should a stout boy in good health be discouraged?" + </p> + <p> + "I can't get any work to do, and I'm afraid we'll all starve." + </p> + <p> + "It strikes me," said the doctor, fixing his eyes on Andy, enjoying the + effect of his intended announcement, "that I wouldn't talk of starving, if + I were as rich as you are, Andy." + </p> + <p> + "As rich as me?" echoed Andy. "Shure, doctor, you're jokin'." + </p> + <p> + "Not at all." + </p> + <p> + "Why, I haven't got but seventy-five cents in the world." + </p> + <p> + "Now it's you that are joking, Andy." + </p> + <p> + "I wish I was," sighed Andy. + </p> + <p> + "Why, I had it on good authority that you were worth five thousand + dollars." + </p> + <p> + Andy stared in earnest. + </p> + <p> + "I see you're laughin' at me, doctor," he said, suspecting that Dr. + Townley was making game of him. + </p> + <p> + "No, I am not. I am in earnest." + </p> + <p> + "Who told you such a big falsehood as that, now?" asked our hero, + bewildered. + </p> + <p> + "Perhaps I dreamed that somebody told me Colonel Preston had left you five + thousand dollars in his will." + </p> + <p> + "Are you jokin'? Is it true?" asked Andy, eagerly, something in the + doctor's face telling him that he really meant what he said. + </p> + <p> + "Maybe I dreamed, too, that the colonel left your mother the house she + used to live in." + </p> + <p> + "Is it true, doctor? Tell me, quick!" said Andy, trembling with + excitement. + </p> + <p> + "Yes, my boy, it's all true, and I'm glad to be the first to congratulate + you on your good fortune." + </p> + <p> + He held out his hand, which our hero seized, and then, unable to repress + his exultation, threw up his cap to the ceiling and indulged in an + extempore dance, the doctor meanwhile looking on with benevolent + gratification. + </p> + <p> + "Excuse me, doctor; I couldn't help it," he panted. + </p> + <p> + "It's all right, Andy. Are you discouraged now?" + </p> + <p> + "Divil a bit, doctor. It's wild I am with joy." + </p> + <p> + "And you don't think of starving yet, eh, Andy?" + </p> + <p> + "I'll wait a bit. But why didn't I know before?" + </p> + <p> + "Sit down, and I'll tell you all about it." + </p> + <p> + So Andy heard the account, which need not be repeated. + </p> + <p> + "Now," continued the doctor, "I'll tell you what plan I have for you. Mr. + Graves wants to take a boy into his store who will buy an interest in the + business and become his partner. He thinks well of you, and is willing to + take you. What do you say?" + </p> + <p> + "I'll do whatever you think best, doctor." + </p> + <p> + "Then I think this is a good opening for you. Mr. Graves wants to retire + from business before long. Probably by the time you are twenty-one he will + leave everything in your hands. You will be paid weekly wages and perhaps + be entitled to a portion of the profits—more than enough to support + you all comfortably. What do you say? Shall we have a new firm in the + village? + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + "GRAVES & BURKE." +</pre> + <p> + Andy's eyes sparkled with proud anticipation. It was so far above any + dream he had ever formed. + </p> + <p> + "It's what I'd like above all things," he said. "Oh, what will mother say? + I must go and tell her." + </p> + <p> + "Go, by all means, Andy, and when you have told her, come back, and I'll + go over with you to Mr. Graves' store, and we'll talk over the + arrangements with him." + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Burke's delight at her own success and that of Andy may be imagined. + She, too, had been getting despondent, and it seemed almost like a fairy + tale to find herself the owner of a house, and her boy likely to be taken + into partnership with the principal trader in the village. She invoked + blessings on the memory of Colonel Preston, through whose large-hearted + generosity this had come to pass, but could not help speculating on what + Mrs. Preston would say. She understood very well that she would be very + angry. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Preston did not dispute the will. She might have done so, but for her + fear that her own criminal act would be brought to light. Godfrey, who was + even more disturbed than she was at the success of "that low Irish boy," + begged her to do it, but in this case she did not yield to his entreaties. + She had never dared to take him into confidence respecting her destruction + of the other will. + </p> + <p> + While we are upon this subject, we may as well trace out the future career + of Mrs. Preston. Some years later she was induced, by the expectation of + aiding her social standing, to marry an adventurer who appeared to be + doing a flourishing business as a State Street broker. By spurious + representations, he managed to get hold of her property, and to be + appointed Godfrey's guardian. The result may be foreseen. He managed to + spend or waste the whole and when Godfrey was twenty-one, he and his + mother were penniless. Andy, who was now sole representative of the firm + of Graves & Burke, and in receipt of an excellent income, heard of the + misfortunes of his old enemy, and out of regard to the memory of his old + benefactor voluntarily offered Mrs. Preston an allowance of five hundred + dollars. It cost her pride a great deal to accept this favor from the boy + she had looked down upon as "only an Irish boy," but her necessity was + greater than her pride, and she saw no other way of escaping the + poorhouse. So she ungraciously accepted. But Andy did not care for thanks. + He felt that he was doing his duty, and he asked no other reward than that + consciousness. Mrs. Preston was allowed to make her home, rent free, in + Mrs. Burke's old house, Andy having built a better and more commodious + one, in which he had installed his mother as mistress. Mrs. Preston grew + old fast, in appearance, and fretted without ceasing for the fortune and + position which she had lost. Her husband left her, and has not since been + heard of. As for Godfrey, Andy secured him a passage to California, where + he led a disreputable life. There is a rumor that he was killed in a + drunken brawl at Sacramento not long since, but I have not been able to + learn whether this is true or not. His loss of fortune had something to do + with his going to the bad, but I am afraid, with his character and + tendencies, that neither in prosperity nor in adversity would he have + built up a good character, or led an honorable career. His course had + been, in all respects, far different from that of our hero, who, already + prosperous, seems likely to go on adding to his wealth, and growing in the + esteem of the best portion of the community. His success, aided, indeed, + by good fortune, has served to demonstrate the favorable effects of + honesty, industry, and good principles, upon individual success. He is not + the first, nor will he be the last, to achieve prosperity and the respect + of the community, though beginning life as "only an Irish boy." + </p> + <h3> + THE END + </h3> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Transcriber's comments: + + Spelling has been left as in the original book. Specifically, the + dialect and typographical errors have been left unchanged. +</pre> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 11111 ***</div> +</body> +</html> |