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+The Project Gutenberg eBook, Edna's Sacrifice and Other Stories, by
+Frances Henshaw Baden
+
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+
+
+
+Title: Edna's Sacrifice and Other Stories
+       Edna's Sacrifice; Who Was the Thief?; The Ghost; The Two Brothers; and What He Left
+
+
+Author: Frances Henshaw Baden
+
+Release Date: March 28, 2005  [eBook #15486]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-646-US (US-ASCII)
+
+
+***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK EDNA'S SACRIFICE AND OTHER
+STORIES***
+
+
+E-text prepared by Juliet Sutherland, Diane Monico, and the Project
+Gutenberg Online Distributed Proofreading Team
+
+
+
+EDNA'S SACRIFICE, AND OTHER STORIES
+
+by
+
+FRANCES HENSHAW BADEN
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+   EDNA'S SACRIFICE
+
+   WHO WAS THE THIEF?
+
+   THE GHOST
+
+   THE TWO BROTHERS
+
+   WHAT HE LEFT
+
+
+
+
+EDNA'S SACRIFICE
+
+
+It was a cold night in September. For three days the rain had fallen
+almost unceasingly. It had been impossible for us to get out; and no
+visitors had been in. Everything looked dreary enough, and we felt so,
+truly. Of course the stoves were not prepared for use; and this night
+we (that is, Nell, Floy, Aunt Edna, and myself) were huddled in the
+corners of the sofa and arm-chairs, wrapped in our shawls. We were at
+our wits' end for something to while the hours away. We had read
+everything that was readable; played until we fancied the piano sent
+forth a wail of complaint, and begged for rest; were at the backgammon
+board until our arms ached; and I had given imitations of celebrated
+actresses, until I was hoarse, and Nell declared I was in danger of
+being sued for scandal. What more could we do? To dispel the
+drowsiness that was stealing over me, I got up, walked up and down the
+floor, and then drew up the blind, and gazed out into the deserted
+street. Not a footfall to be heard, neither man's nor beast's; nothing
+but patter, patter, patter. At length, after standing fully fifteen
+minutes--oh, joyful sound!--a coming footstep, firm and quick. My
+first thought was that those steps would stop at our door. But,
+directly after, I felt that very improbable, for who was there that
+_would_ come such a night? Papa was up north with mamma; Nell and
+Floy were visiting Aunt Edna and me, the only ones home, save the
+servants. Neither of us had as yet a lover so devoted or so demented
+as to come out, if he had anywhere to _stay in_.
+
+On and past went the steps. Turning away, I drew down the blind, and
+said: "Some one must be ill, and that was the doctor, surely: for no
+one else would go out, only those from direst necessity sent."
+
+A deep sigh escaped Aunt Edna's lips, and although partially shaded by
+her hand, I could see the shadow on the beautiful face had deepened.
+
+Why my aunt had never married was a mystery to me, for she was lovable
+in every way, and must have been very beautiful in her youth.
+Thirty-six she would be next May-day, she had told me. Thirty-six
+seemed to me, just sixteen, a very great many years to have lived. But
+aunt always was young to us; and the hint of her being an old maid was
+always resented, very decidedly, by all her nieces.
+
+"Aunt Edna," I said, "tell us a story--a love-story, please."
+
+"Oh, little one, you have read _so_ many! And what can I tell you
+more?" she answered, gently.
+
+"Oh, aunty, I want a _true_ story! Do, darling aunty, tell us your
+own. Tell us why you are blessing our home with your presence, instead
+of that of some noble man, for noble he must have been to have won
+your heart, and--hush-sh! Yes, yes; I know something about somebody,
+and I must know all. Do, please!"
+
+I plead on. I always could do more with Aunt Edna than any one else. I
+was named for her, and many called me like her--"only not nearly so
+pretty" was always added.
+
+At last she consented, saying:
+
+"Dear girls, to only one before have I given my entire confidence,
+and that was my mother. I scarce know why I have yielded to your
+persuasions, little Edna, save that this night, with its gloom and
+rain, carries me back long years, and my heart seems to join its
+pleading with yours, yearning to cast forth some of its fulness, and
+perchance find relief by pouring into your loving heart its own
+sorrows. But, darling, I would not cast my shadow over your fair brow,
+even for a brief time."
+
+With her hand still shading her face, Aunt Edna began:
+
+"Just such a night as this, eighteen years ago, dear child, my fate
+was decided. The daughter of my mother's dearest friend had been with
+us about a year. Dearly we all loved the gentle child, for scarcely
+more than child she was--only sixteen. My mother had taken her from
+the cold, lifeless form of her mother into her own warm, loving heart,
+and she became to me as a sister. So fair and frail she was! We all
+watched her with the tenderest care, guarding her from all that could
+chill her sensitive nature or wound the already saddened heart. Lilly
+was her name. Oh, what a delicate white lily she was when we first
+brought her to our home; but after a while she was won from her
+sorrow, and grew into a maiden of great beauty. Still, with
+child-like, winning ways.
+
+"Great wells of love were in her blue eyes--violet hue _he_ called
+them. Often I wondered if any one's gaze would linger on my dark eyes
+when hers were near? Her pale golden hair was pushed off her broad
+forehead and fell in heavy waves far down below her graceful shoulders
+and over her black dress. Small delicately-formed features, a
+complexion so fair and clear that it seemed transparent. In her blue
+eyes there was always such a sad, wistful look; this, and the gentle
+smile that ever hovered about her lips, gave an expression of mingled
+sweetness and sorrow that was very touching. You may imagine now how
+beautiful she was.
+
+"Her mother had passed from earth during the absence of Lilly's
+father. Across the ocean the sorrowful tidings were born to him. He
+was a naval officer. Lilly was counting the days ere she should see
+him. The good news had come, that soon he would be with her. At last
+the day arrived, but oh! what a terrible sorrow it brought. When her
+heart was almost bursting with joy, expecting every moment to be
+clasped in those dear arms--a telegraphic despatch was handed in.
+Eagerly she caught it, tore it open, read--and fell lifeless to the
+floor.
+
+"Oh! the fearful, crushing words. We read, not of his coming to Lilly,
+but of his going to her, his wife, in heaven. Yes, truly an orphan the
+poor girl was then.
+
+"In vain proved all efforts to restore her to consciousness. Several
+times, when she had before fainted, mother was the only physician
+needed. But that night she shook her head and said:
+
+"'We must have a doctor, and quickly.'
+
+"It was a terrible night. Our doctor was very remote. Your father
+suggested another, near by.
+
+"Dr.----, well, never mind his name. Your father said he had lately
+known him, and liked him much.
+
+"Through the storm he came, and by his skilful treatment Lilly was
+soon restored to consciousness, but not to health. A low nervous fever
+set in, and many days we watched with fearful hearts. Ah! during those
+days I learned to look too eagerly for the doctor's coming. Indeed, he
+made his way into the hearts of all in our home. After the dreaded
+crisis had passed, and we knew that Lilly would be spared to us, the
+doctor told mother he should have to prescribe for me. I had grown
+pale, from confinement in the sick-room, and he must take me for a
+drive, that the fresh air should bring the roses back to my cheeks.
+Willingly mother consented. After that I often went. When Lilly was
+able to come down-stairs, this greatest pleasure of my life then was
+divided with her. One afternoon I stood on the porch with her, waiting
+while the doctor arranged something about the harness.
+
+"'Oh! _how_ I wish it was my time to go!' she whispered.
+
+"'Well, darling, it shall be your time. I can go to-morrow. Run, get
+your hat and wraps,' I said, really glad to give any additional
+pleasure to this child of many sorrows.
+
+"'No, no, that would not be fair. And, Edna, don't you know that
+_to-morrow_ I would be so sorry if I went to-day? I do not mean to be
+selfish, but, oh, indeed I cannot help it! I am wishing _every time_
+to go. Not that I care for a ride--' She hesitated, flushed, and
+whispered: 'I like to be with my doctor. Don't you, Edna? Oh! I wish
+he was my father, or brother, or cousin--just to be with us all the
+time, you know.'
+
+"Just then the doctor came for me, and I had to leave her. As we drove
+off I looked back and kissed my hand to her, saying:
+
+"'Dear little thing! I wish she was going with us.'
+
+"'I do not,' the doctor surprised me by saying.
+
+"I raised my eyes inquiringly to his. In those beautiful, earnest eyes
+I saw something that made me profoundly happy. I could not speak.
+After a moment he added:
+
+"'She is a beautiful, winning child, and I enjoy her company. But when
+with her, I feel as if it was my duty to devote myself entirely to
+her--in a word, to take care of her, or, I should say, to care for
+_her_ only. And this afternoon, of all others, I do not feel like
+having Lilly with us.'
+
+"That afternoon was one of the happiest of my life. Although not a
+word of love passed his lips. I knew it filled his heart, and was for
+me. He told me of his home, his relatives, his past life. Of his
+mother he said:
+
+"'When you know her, you will love her dearly.'
+
+"He seemed to be sure that I should know her. And then--ah, well, I
+thought so too, then.
+
+"Lilly was waiting for us when we returned. He chided her for being
+out so late. It was quite dark. Tears filled her eyes as she raised
+them to his and said:
+
+"'Don't be angry. I could not help watching. Oh, why did you stay _so_
+long? I thought you would never come back. I was afraid something had
+happened--that the horse had run away, or--'
+
+"'Angry I could not be with you, little one. But I don't want you to
+get sick again. Come, now, smile away your tears and fears! Your
+friend is safe and with you again,' the doctor answered.
+
+"Taking her hand, he led her into the parlor.
+
+"He had not understood the cause of her tears. Only for him she
+watched and wept.
+
+"'_Do_ stay,' she plead, when her doctor was going.
+
+"He told her he could not, then; there was another call he must make,
+but would return after a while.
+
+"She counted the minutes, until she should see him again. Never
+concealing from any of us how dearly she loved him. She was truly as
+guileless as a child of six years.
+
+"From the first of her acquaintance with him, she had declared 'her
+doctor' was like her father. Mother, too, admitted the resemblance was
+very decided.
+
+"This it was, I think, that first made him so dear to her.
+
+"Several times, after the doctor returned that evening, I saw he
+sought opportunity to speak to me, unheard by others. But Lilly was
+always near.
+
+"Ah! it was better so. Better that from his _own_ lips I heard not
+those words he would have spoken. Doubly hard would have been the
+trial. Oh, that night when he said, 'good-by!' He slipped in my hand a
+little roll of paper. As Lilly still stood at the window, watching as
+long as she could see him, I stole away to open the paper. Then, for a
+while, I forgot Lilly, aye, forgot everything, in my great happiness.
+He loved me! On my finger sparkled the beautiful diamond--my
+engagement ring--to be worn on the morrow, 'if I could return his
+love,' he said.
+
+"Quickly I hid my treasures away, his note, and the ring--Lilly was
+coming.
+
+"She was not yet strong, and soon tired. I helped her to get off her
+clothes, and as she kissed me good-night, she said:
+
+"'I wish we had a picture of him--don't you?'
+
+"'Who, dear?' I asked.
+
+"'My doctor! Who else? You tease. You _knew_ well enough,' she
+answered, as she nestled her pretty head closer to mine.
+
+"Soon she was sleeping and dreaming of him. Sweet dreams at first I
+knew they were; for soft smiles flitted over her face.
+
+"I could not sleep. A great fear stole in upon my happiness. Did not
+Lilly love him too? How would she receive the news which soon must
+reach her? Was her love such as mine? Such as is given to but one
+alone? Or only as a brother did she love him? I must _know_ how it
+was. Heaven grant that joy for one would not bring sorrow to the
+other, I prayed. I had not long to wait. Her dreams became troubled.
+Her lips quivered and trembled, and then with a cry of agony she
+started up.
+
+"'Gone, gone, gone!' she sobbed.
+
+"It was many minutes ere I succeeded in calming and making her
+understand 'twas but a dream.
+
+"'Oh! but _so_ real, so _dreadfully_ real. I thought he did not care
+for me. That he had gone and left me, and they told me he was
+married!'
+
+"Telling this, she began to sob again.
+
+"'Lilly, dear, tell me truly--tell your sister, your very best
+friend--how it is you love your doctor?' I asked.
+
+"'How?' she returned. 'Oh, Edna, more than all the world! He is all
+that I have lost and more; and if he should die, or I should lose him,
+I would not wish to live. I _could_ not live. He loves me a little,
+does he not, Edna?'
+
+"I could not reply. Just then there was a terrible struggle going on
+in my heart. _That_ must be ended, the victory won ere I could speak.
+She waited for my answer and then said, eagerly:
+
+"'Oh, speak, _do!_ What _are_ you thinking about?'
+
+"Pressing back the sigh--back and far down into the poor heart--I gave
+her the sweet, and kept the bitter part, when I could answer.
+
+"'Yes, dear, I _do_ think he loves you a little now, and will,
+by-and-by, love you dearly. God grant he may!'
+
+"'Oh, you darling Edna! You have made me so happy!' she cried, kissing
+me; and still caressing me she fell asleep.
+
+"Next morning I enclosed the ring, with only these words:
+
+     "'Forgive if I cause you sorrow, and believe me your true
+     friend. I return the ring that I am not _free_ to accept.'
+
+"I intended that my reply should mislead him, when I wrote that I was
+not free, and thus to crush any hope that might linger in his heart.
+While at breakfast that morning, we received a telegram that grandma
+was extremely ill, and wanted me. Thus, fate seemed to forward my
+plans. I had thought to go away for a while, I told mother all. How
+her dear heart ached for me! Yet she dared not say aught against my
+decision. She took charge of the note for the doctor, and by noon I
+was on my journey. Two years passed ere I returned home. Mother wrote
+me but little news of either Lilly or her doctor after the first
+letter, telling that my note was a severe shock and great
+disappointment. Three or four months elapsed before grandma was strong
+enough for me to leave her. An opportunity at that time presented for
+my going to Europe. I wanted such an entire change, and gladly
+accepted. Frequently came letters from Lilly. For many months they
+were filled with doubts and anxiety; but after a while came happier
+and shorter ones. Ah, she had only time to be with him, and to think
+in his absence of his coming again.
+
+"When I was beginning to tire of all the wonders and grandeur of the
+old world, and nothing would still the longing for home, the tidings
+came they were married, Lilly and her doctor, and gone to his Western
+home to take charge of the patients of his uncle, who had retired from
+practice. Then I hastened back, and ever since, dear girls, I have
+been contented, finding much happiness in trying to contribute to that
+of those so dear. Now, little Edna, you have my only love-story, its
+beginning and ending."
+
+"But, aunty, do tell me his name," I said. "Indeed, it is not merely
+idle curiosity. I just feel as if I must know it--that it is for
+something very important. Now you need not smile. I'm very earnest,
+and I shall not sleep until I know. I really felt a presentiment that
+if I knew his name it might in some way effect the conclusion of the
+story."
+
+"Well, my child, I may as well tell you. Dr. Graham it was--Percy
+Graham," Aunt Edna answered, low.
+
+"Ah! did I not tell you? It was not curiosity. Listen, aunty mine.
+While you were away last winter, papa received a paper from St. Louis;
+he handed it to me, pointing to an announcement. But I will run get
+it. He told me to show it to you, and I forgot. I did not dream of all
+this."
+
+From my scrap-book I brought the slip, and Aunt Edna read:
+
+     "DIED.--Suddenly, of heart disease, on the morning of the
+     15th, Lilly, wife of Doctor Percy Graham, in the 34th year
+     of her age."
+
+Aunt Edna remained holding the paper, without speaking, for some
+minutes; then, handing it back to me, she said, softly, as if talking
+to her friend:
+
+"_Dear_ Lilly! Thank heaven, I gave to _you_ the _best_ I had to give,
+and caused you nought but happiness. God is merciful! Had _he_ been
+taken, and you left, how _could_ we have comforted you?" And then,
+turning to me, she said: "Nearly a year it is since Lilly went to
+heaven. 'Tis strange I have not heard of this."
+
+"'Tis strange from him you have not heard," I thought; "and stranger
+still 'twill be if he comes not when the year is over. For surely he
+_must_ know that you are free--" But I kept my thoughts, and soon
+after kissed aunty good-night.
+
+One month passed, and the year was out. And somebody was in our
+parlor, making arrangements to carry away Aunt Edna. I knew it was he,
+when he met me at the hall door, and said:
+
+"Edna--Miss Linden! _can_ it be?"
+
+"Yes and no, sir--both--Edna Linden; but, Doctor Graham, not _your_
+Edna. You will find her in the parlor," I answered, saucily, glad and
+sorry, both, at his coming.
+
+Ah, she welcomed him with profound joy, I know. He knew all; papa had
+told him. And if he loved the beautiful girl, he then worshipped that
+noble woman.
+
+"Thank God! Mine at last!" I heard him say, with fervent joy, as I
+passed the door, an hour after.
+
+How beautiful she was, when, a few weeks after, she became his very
+own. I stood beside her and drew off her glove. How happy he looked as
+he placed the heavy gold circlet on her finger! How proudly he bore
+her down the crowded church aisle!
+
+Ah, little Lilly was no doubt his dear and cherished wife. But _this_
+one, 'twas plain to see was the one love of his life.
+
+
+
+
+WHO WAS THE THIEF?
+
+
+Fred Loring's toilet was at length completed, and turning from the
+glass, he said:
+
+"Well, I'm off now, Nellie. Good-by."
+
+"At last! Excuse me, Fred, but just now quietness is more desirable
+than your society. It is impossible to get baby to sleep while you are
+flying about the room. She sees you, and wants to get to you,"
+answered Nellie.
+
+"All right. I'll get out of the way. By-by, baby."
+
+And kissing the little one, Fred hurried out.
+
+Ten or fifteen minutes passed. Baby was quiet at last, almost asleep,
+when the door opened, and in rushed Fred again. And up started baby,
+with a shout of welcome. An impatient look came into Nellie's eyes,
+and the tone to her words:
+
+"Oh, Fred, I had almost gotten her to sleep. And now see! And I am so
+tired. What has brought you back so soon?
+
+"Well, well, I'm sorry. But I left my revolver behind. I guess she'll
+soon be quiet again," Fred said, unlocking the drawer and taking out
+his revolver.
+
+"Fred, I declare I never _did_ see such a man. You cannot leave the
+house without being armed. Do you forget there is a law against
+carrying concealed weapons?"
+
+"I _remember_ to be on my guard, and prepared to defend myself if it
+be necessary. Every day we read accounts of persons being robbed,
+knocked down, and such like. I tell you, Nellie, _sensible_ persons go
+armed always."
+
+"Perhaps, Fred. But I think the nervous and suspicious persons are
+more likely to. Indeed, I never like to see you carrying off your
+revolver. I'm in constant fear of something dreadful happening."
+
+"But never in dread of any one murdering and robbing me. Of course
+not!" Fred snapped forth.
+
+"Oh, Fred! You are so quick and suspicious of every one, that my great
+fear is you'll hurt the wrong person some time!" said Nellie, with a
+really anxious look on her pretty face.
+
+"Indeed I am not aware of ever having gotten hold of the wrong person.
+I think you are calling on your imagination for facts, Mrs. Loring!"
+Fred said angrily.
+
+"Now, Fred, to defend myself I shall have to point to facts. Do you
+forget catching hold of poor old Uncle Tom, and choking him so he
+could not explain he was carrying the clothes to his wife to wash,
+instead of being a thief, as you supposed? And--"
+
+"And will I ever forget your handing me over to a policeman, for
+having attempted to pick your pocket in the streetcar?" exclaimed a
+bright, merry-looking girl, who entered the room during Nellie's
+attempt to defend herself from Fred's accusation.
+
+"Oh, Fan, don't, for mercy's sake, I cry quarter. Two at a time is
+more than I can stand. And besides, I had hoped that you would not
+have exposed that miserable mistake!" Fred said, with a reproachful
+look.
+
+"I intended to keep the secret. But really, Fred, I've been almost
+dying to have a good laugh with Nellie over it. And to-night the
+opportunity was too tempting to resist."
+
+"Mercy, Fan! If you tell Nellie, I'll never hear the last of it."
+
+"Oh, I must. It is too late to recede. Nellie will imagine it worse,
+if possible, than it really is. But I'll not prolong your agony. I'll
+be as brief as possible," said Fannie.
+
+And amidst the cries of "Don't! don't!" and "Yes, do, do!" Fannie
+began.
+
+"The day I reached here, just as I came out of the depot, I spied my
+beloved and respected cousin Fred entering the street car. I hurried
+up, and got in immediately after him. Even if my veil had been raised
+I could hardly have expected him to know me, as I have changed much in
+five years. As it was, my face was completely hidden. The car was much
+crowded, many standing--I next behind Fred. I was well laden with lots
+of little packages, so the idea struck me to drop a few into Fred's
+overcoat pockets. Without discovery I put what I washed into one, and
+was about slipping my porte-monnaie into the other, when my hand was
+caught with such a grip that I screamed right out. At the same time
+Fred exclaimed, 'Here is a pickpocket!' And of course there was a
+policeman there, as none was needed. I was too frightened to speak for
+an instant. At length I found voice enough to say to the officer, who
+was making his way toward me, 'The gentleman will find he is mistaken
+in a moment.'
+
+"After the first fright, I was really amused, notwithstanding the
+mortifying situation. By that time Fred had drawn forth my
+porte-monnaie. Nodding to the policeman, he said:
+
+"'An old dodge. Putting into my pocket what she has taken from some
+one else. Has any one here lost this?' he asked, holding up my
+porte-monnaie.
+
+"No one claimed it. I managed to get off my veil then, that I had
+been tugging at. I had gotten a lady in the depot to tie it tightly
+behind, as it was blowing a perfect gale when I arrived. All eyes were
+on me then, of course. And the officer, not recognizing an old
+offender, and not a very guilty-looking young one, hesitated. I looked
+eagerly at Fred, to see if he would not recognize me, but he did not.
+There was a very embarrassing pause then, that had to be ended; so I
+said, not trying to restrain my smiles:
+
+"'If you will open that porte-monnaie, Mr. Loring, you will see my
+card. I thought my acquaintance would justify my loading you with some
+of my bundles. If you will notice, your other pocket is full.'
+
+"Every one waited eagerly the result. Quickly Fred did my bidding. You
+may imagine his look, when he exclaimed:
+
+"'Fannie Loring! Bless my soul, coz, can you ever forgive me? But how
+could I know you? I've not seen you since you were a child.'
+
+"There was a shout of laughter heard then, in which Fred and I joined.
+But Fred's was not a very hearty laugh; and I think he was glad to get
+out of that car, for he made me walk at least three times as far as
+ever you and I walk when we leave the car."
+
+Nellie was almost convulsed with laughter, which baby seemed to enjoy
+very much. And Fred exclaimed:
+
+"It was not half as bad as you have made it out, Fan. And just for a
+punishment for your laughing so, Nellie, I hope baby will not go to
+sleep for hours. I'm off now."
+
+Merry rippling laughter followed him. And Fred ran down the stairs,
+and out of the house, almost hoping somebody might attempt to rob, or
+murder him even, so that his revolver might prove of great avail, and
+thus silence Nellie, who was ever talking about what she called his
+suspicious nature, when it was only necessary caution, he thought.
+
+Soon baby was sleeping soundly, notwithstanding Fred's wish to the
+contrary. And Nellie, putting her into the crib, went to the bureau to
+arrange her hair.
+
+"Why, Fred has gone without his watch!" she exclaimed. "I don't think
+he ever did that in his life before. I wonder he has not been back
+again before this!"
+
+The hours passed swiftly by. Fannie, with her merry heart, fully
+compensating Nellie for Fred's absence. Eleven o'clock came before
+they imagined it near so late. And just then they heard the hall door
+close, and a moment after Fred entered the room, and in an excited
+voice exclaimed:
+
+"Now, ladies, perhaps you will admit the good of carrying a revolver,
+when I tell you that to-night I have been robbed."
+
+"Robbed!" exclaimed Nellie and Fannie simultaneously.
+
+"Yes, robbed. But I did not stay so, many minutes, thanks to my
+revolver! Listen, and I'll tell you all about it. On my way home I
+turned Gray's corner into Fourteenth street. You know how dark and
+dismal it is about there--no lights. Well, as I turned, a fellow came
+rushing along, knocked against and nearly sent me down. And saying
+quickly, 'Excuse me, sir,' hurried on. I suspected what it was--a
+dodge they have when relieving a man of his watch or pocket-book. I
+hastened to feel for my watch. It was gone."
+
+"Why, Fred, your watch--"
+
+"Stop! Don't interrupt me. Wait until I've done."
+
+The girls exchanged looks--mirthful first, anxious after.
+
+"In a second I was after him. Presenting my revolver, I bade him hand
+me the watch. He resisted. I covered him with my pistol, and spoke
+again in a tone which convinced him I was in a dangerous mood.
+
+"'Hand me that watch.'
+
+"Out it came; and without taking a second look at me, he left. And
+thanks to my little beauty here," tapping his revolver, "I am home
+again, no worse off than when I started. Now, what say you?"
+
+"Oh, Fred! Oh, my dear, what have you done? Oh, you have robbed that
+man of his watch! Yours is on the bureau. You left it home," Nellie
+cried, in a voice of real agitation.
+
+"What? No! Surely not!" exclaimed Fred, growing very red, and starting
+toward the bureau.
+
+Fannie handed to Fred his own watch, at the same time fairly shaking
+with the laughter she had tried so hard to suppress.
+
+"Oh, Fred, forgive me. I'm only human; I must laugh or die."
+
+Peal after peal came from the merry girl, who could not restrain
+herself, although Nellie looked so reproachfully, and Fred really
+angrily at her; the former saying:
+
+"Indeed, Fannie, I'm too much frightened to laugh."
+
+Fred was too mortified to say another word for some time. At length,
+turning to Fannie, who had grown a little quiet, he snappishly said:
+
+"Pray, don't stop! I'm very happy to afford you so much amusement."
+
+Of course Fannie began anew; and Nellie trying to stop her by looks
+and motions, asked:
+
+"What shall you do, Fred?"
+
+"It is not a matter of such vital importance that you need look so
+worried, Nellie. I'll go to the police head-quarters, explain the
+matter, and leave the watch. That will be the end of it," said Fred,
+trying to assume a light, careless tone.
+
+Nellie hoped it might be the end of it; but still fearful of
+something unpleasant, asked:
+
+"Is it too late to-night to go, Fred?"
+
+"Certainly it is," Fred answered.
+
+Seeing Nellie's face still retain its anxious and frightened
+expression, Fred broke out laughing himself, saying:
+
+"You look as much frightened, Nell, as I imagine that man looked when
+I went for his watch."
+
+Next morning Fred was longer than usual getting off from home, and all
+Nellie's urging haste seemed to have the tendency to retard instead of
+accelerating his motions. But at last, to her great relief, he was
+off. After getting a few rods from home, he drew forth the stolen
+watch, and found of course it had run down. Having no key to fit it,
+he approached a jewelry store, intending to have it wound up. He had
+failed to notice the very particular attention with which a policeman
+was regarding him. Just as he was about to enter the store, he was
+tapped on the shoulder. Turning, he beheld the officer, a total
+stranger to Fred, so he knew it was not a bit of use to explain the
+case to him. So to attract as little notice as possible, he walked
+quietly along with his not very agreeable companion until they reached
+the police head-quarters.
+
+There he began his explanation. All were strange faces around him, on
+which he saw unmistakable signs of merriment when he said it was "a
+mistake." And to his immense surprise, after he had handed over the
+dreadful watch, and was turning to leave, he was made to understand he
+was a _prisoner_--the accusation, "Robbery and assault, with intent to
+kill!"
+
+He sank on the bench for a moment, so overwhelmed with surprise and
+mortification that he could with difficulty collect his senses enough
+to know what to do. Just then a gentleman entered, and said to an
+officer near:
+
+"I was surprised to hear you had caught the rascal so speedily. Where
+is the scoundrel? What does he say?"
+
+"That it was all a _mistake!_" answered the officer, with a very
+significant smile. "There he is," pointing to Fred.
+
+"Of course--the villain! And if I had been so unfortunate as not to
+have had a watch to hand over, he would have murdered and robbed me of
+what I might have of any value. The murderous rascal!--Ah! how are
+you, Loring? You here!" advancing and shaking Fred's hand cordially,
+and continuing, "Show me that cut-throat! Which is he?"
+
+The expression on Fred's countenance may possibly be imagined, but I
+cannot describe it. And when, in answer to the call, "Prisoner, stand
+up," he arose, his friend's--the plaintiff's--surprise was stupendous
+for a moment; and then breaking into a hearty chuckle, he exclaimed:
+
+"Of course _now_ I know it was a mistake."
+
+The dignity of the place was forgotten by all then, and never was such
+a shout of laughter heard before within those walls. But Fred could
+not join in it, to save him. He had too lately stood in the place of
+an individual bearing quite too many opprobrious epithets, to feel
+very light-hearted.
+
+He returned home to relieve Nellie's mind, telling her it was all
+settled--she need have now no more anxiety about it. But he never told
+her how it was settled. One thing, however, she noticed--he was not so
+fond of his revolver's companionship as he used to be. And once she
+heard him say:
+
+"If the law was more strenuous with regard to the carrying of
+concealed weapons, there would be fewer criminal indictments."
+
+
+
+
+THE GHOST
+
+
+Peeping through the leaves of the vine-covered bower, and watching
+eagerly the path through the woods, was a beautiful little maiden. An
+anxious look was in her deep blue eyes, as pressing her hands over her
+heart, as if to stop its heavy beating, she said:
+
+"Oh, why does he not come? How long a time! If he had good news, I
+know he would come quicker. Oh, I have not a mite of hope!"
+
+The pretty lips quivered then, and she stepped back, and sank on the
+mossy seat.
+
+A moment after a sound, slight as the dropping of leaves, caught her
+ear. She sprang up, and for an instant a bright light shone in her
+eyes, but quickly died away, as the slow, heavy step came nearer,
+bringing to sight a tall, noble-looking young man, whose face, if less
+stern, would have been very handsome.
+
+Without speaking, he clasped her outstretched hand and drew her within
+his arms, shaking his head sadly.
+
+"I felt it was so, or you would have come sooner," the maiden said,
+resting her head against his shoulder.
+
+"I had little, if any, hope, Susie. I went this last time because you
+bade me to."
+
+"What did father say, Frank?"
+
+"Over and over the same old story of having, since your babyhood,
+intended you to be the wife of his friend's son. Oh, if I were
+wealthier, it would be all right, I know," Frank said, his dark eyes
+flashing.
+
+"Don't talk so, dear, please. I do not like to hear you impute a wrong
+motive to my father. I will never, never listen for one moment to any
+words of love from George Forrester, or any other man but you, Frank.
+So you may be sure, if papa will not let me marry you, I will never
+marry at all," Susie said, her eyes full of tears, looking up to his.
+
+"Susie, I have made three appeals to your father during the year past;
+each time finding him, if possible, more determined to oppose our
+happiness. I will _never_ humiliate myself again, and he will _never_
+yield. Now what will you do?"
+
+"Wait, hope and pray. I can do nothing more," Susie answered, in a
+tearful voice.
+
+"Yes, Susie, darling, you can, and secure our immediate happiness. You
+can come with me, be my own true wife, love."
+
+"No--no--_no_. I _can_not. I should not secure our happiness. I should
+be miserable, and make you so."
+
+"_Then_ I have nothing more to hope for. He will not give you to me,
+and you will not come. Oh, Susie, how can you send me off? You know
+you are all the world to me! If I lose you, I lose everything. I am
+alone in the world. There are many loved ones to comfort your father,
+until he comes to his better nature and calls you back to his heart.
+Susie, am I to leave you forever?"
+
+The beautiful dark eyes were looking into his, filled with so much
+love. How could she resist?
+
+"No--no. I shall die, if you leave me--never to come again! Oh, what
+_am_ I to do? I love you better than my own life, Frank, indeed I do!
+But, father--oh, how can I desert him? He loves me more than the
+other children. I am the oldest, his first child, and so like what
+mother was. That is _why_ he loves me so. And now _she_ has gone, I
+_should_ stay--"
+
+"And break your heart and mine, too, Susie?"
+
+"If I thought, Frank, you would not mind it very long--"
+
+"You would give me up! And, in time, get into your father's way of
+thinking, and end by marrying the man he wants you to," Frank said,
+withdrawing his arm and turning away with a great sigh.
+
+"Oh, Frank, how _can_ you talk to me so?"
+
+"Well, Susie, it is useless prolonging our sorrow. I had better say
+good-by, and go forever."
+
+"No, no, Frank, dear love. Oh! what am I to do?"
+
+"Be happy, my own, and make me so. Be my wife before I return to W---.
+Go with me. Susie, your mother loved me. I know, if here, she would
+plead for me."
+
+"Yes, she loved you, and perhaps in her blessed home she will pity me,
+and win for me forgiveness, alike from heavenly as earthly father, if
+longer my heart cannot resist my love," Susie sobbed, dropping her
+golden head on her lover's bosom and promising all he wished.
+
+"The last night at home," she said. "On the morrow I must go forth, to
+return no more, the loving, dutiful child. Should he ever consent to
+have me come back, I can never be again what I once was to his heart.
+I shall have broken the trust he held in me," Susie moaned.
+
+Tenderly the brother and sister were ministered to, her hand resting
+on each little head, as their lisping voices followed hers in the
+evening prayer. Willie and Emma arose, their demure faces lifted to
+receive the good-night kiss. But Rosie, the two-and-a-half-year baby,
+the dying mother's sacred charge, wound her tiny arms about the elder
+sister, and with baby-like perversity hung on, lisping:
+
+"Now Susu pay, too. _Pease_, Susu. Do!"
+
+The baby plead; and Susie, raising her eyes to Rosie's, felt mother,
+not far away, but near, _very_ near, and pleading through her child.
+
+The sunny head was dropped again, and Susie prayed--even as Rosie had
+begged her. Prayed for guidance to the better way.
+
+Three pair of little pattering feet were resting. Three rosy faces
+pressed the downy pillow, and Susie's evening task was done.
+
+Gently she stole away.
+
+"I will go to father myself, to-night. I will plead with him until he
+must yield," Susie said, as cautiously closing, the door of the
+nursery she entered her own room.
+
+The evening was oppressive, and Susie's black dress became very
+uncomfortable. Flitting about, guided by the moonbeams, she sought for
+something of lighter texture. The mourning robe was laid aside, and a
+dress, white and fleecy, wrapped her slender form. The clustering
+ringlets were smoothed back, and rolled in a heavy coil high on the
+back of her head.
+
+"Now I will go down. Father will be alone at this hour, and--" She
+paused, raised her sweet eyes upward, and clasping her hands she
+murmured, "Mother in heaven, plead for me."
+
+Noiselessly she opened the door and glanced into the room. Her father
+sat with his back toward her, leaning on a table over which were
+scattered books and papers. In his hand he held the picture of her
+mother. She drew back a little, still, however, standing within the
+door. She dared not interrupt the sacred privacy of the hour. The
+rustle of her garments, light as it was, must have caught his ear, for
+his bowed head was raised.
+
+"Mary! my wife! my own!" he cried, starting forward, with extended
+arms. "Thank God for granting me one glimpse of you again!"
+
+Susie, awed and trembling, raised her eyes to see clothed as in life,
+the same sweet, gentle face, the rippling hair, caught back from the
+smooth, clear brow.
+
+"Mother!" she breathed forth.
+
+The room was lighted only by the moonbeams; but the vision was plainly
+seen. Another eager glance, and Susie stole away to her own room, and
+sank almost fainting into her mother's chair. A little while, and
+grown calmer, she opened her eyes, to see again, directly in front of
+her, the same vision.
+
+She started forward, stretching out her arms, and calling softly,
+"Mother."
+
+Nearer--nearer she drew, until, face to face, she stood beside the
+large mirror in front of which she had seated herself.
+
+Unwittingly in one of her mother's dresses she had robed herself, and
+gathered her curls in the manner her mother was accustomed to.
+
+"How very, very like her I am! Yes, now I know: father saw me in the
+mirror opposite which I stood. Well, I will not break his sweet
+delusion. I meant it not, Heaven knows. Oh, if mother could only come
+to him--in dreams, perhaps--to plead for me! I cannot desert him, I
+cannot; I _dare_ not! But Frank--oh, how can I give him up! I will
+give up neither, but clinging to both loved ones, will trust to Heaven
+for a happy decision."
+
+With this determination she sank to sleep, sweet and undisturbed.
+
+Early next morning, as usual, she was in the breakfast-room,
+ministering to the little ones clustering around her. The father's
+frown had lost its accustomed sternness, as he stood regarding his
+eldest child. A gentle, sympathetic light was in his eyes as they
+rested on the sweet face grown older, much, in those days of anxious
+care. How matronly she looked! So patiently listening to, and
+answering every wish of the little ones.
+
+At last they were all satisfied; and Susie seeing, as she thought, her
+father deeply interested in the morning paper, stole away to the
+trysting-place.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"I cannot leave him, Frank. _Indeed, I never_ can without his blessing
+resting on me. No, no!" she cried, as she saw the disappointed and
+stern expression of her lover's face, "I have tried, in vain, to make
+my mind up to it. How can I give up either? loving you both so well."
+
+"You have trifled with me, Susie; you have broken your promise, too.
+You will, most likely, never see me after this morning, if I go from
+you. Are you determined?"
+
+"Yes, dear, dear Frank, I am determined not to go unless father
+blesses and bids me go. I will trust my happiness to him, and God, who
+ruleth all things," Susie answered, looking very sorrowful,
+notwithstanding her faith.
+
+"Then, good-by."
+
+She raised her face, pale and pleading, to his:
+
+"Kiss me good-by, Frank, and say, 'God bless me,' please," she
+whispered.
+
+He did as she pleaded, but there was an injured air in his manner. As
+he parted from her, she sprang after him, crying:
+
+"Forgive me, Frank, if I have wounded you. Know that to me it is
+worse. One little parting look of love, darling!"
+
+"Oh, Susie, how can you?" He pressed her again to his heart, looked
+lovingly enough: but his eyes, as plain as words could, repeated
+Tennyson's lines:
+
+     "Trust me all in all,
+      Or not at all."
+
+And, determined to make one more appeal, he said:
+
+"Susie, darling! love! trust me for happiness. You will never repent
+it. Come!"
+
+"No, no. Go!"
+
+He turned off quickly, angrily then; and Susie sank, sobbing, on the
+grass.
+
+"My daughter!"
+
+She raised her eyes, heavy with tears. Beside her, with a sad but kind
+and gentle face, her father stood. With him, a puzzled, doubtful
+expression on his features, her lover.
+
+"Oh, Frank, I am so--so glad to see you again!" she cried, with as
+much joy beaming in her eyes as though their parting had been for
+years.
+
+"Yes; as it is so very long since you saw him last!" her father said,
+with a pleasant smile.
+
+"I feared it would be for years, perhaps forever," Susie said, in a
+low voice, anxiously regarding her father, and longing to beg an
+immediate explanation of her lover's return.
+
+"My daughter, what did you intend to do after sending off this young
+man? Be a dutiful child, and wed as I wish you?"
+
+"Never, never, father! I intend to be dutiful only so far as not
+wedding against your wishes, that is all--to leave the future to God,
+only praying constantly that some blessed influence may be sent to
+change your mind and heart," Susie answered, raising her eyes to his,
+filled with earnest determination.
+
+"Your prayers must have commenced already, my child. Some influence
+hath surely been sent--some blessed influence, I truly believe. Yes,
+my child, you will wed to please your father. Here, Frank, take her. I
+ought to scold you for trying to coax her from me. I heard it all this
+morning. But I forgive you for her sake, and bless you, too, boy, for
+the sake of the one in heaven who loved you. There, there, daughter,
+don't choke me with your kisses. Take her off, Frank, and make her
+happy. She is a good child, and will make a true and loving wife. God
+bless you both, my children!"
+
+And so ended Susie's intended elopement.
+
+
+
+
+THE TWO BROTHERS
+
+
+"Ah here we are!" said pleasant voice, as the driver, having jumped
+from his seat, opened the carriage door.
+
+"Yes, sir, I think so. This is the street and number--244 or 246,
+which did you say?"
+
+"'Pon my word, I've forgotten, and lost the card," answered the
+pleasant voice.
+
+"The name, sir? I'll inquire."
+
+"Never mind. I'll take a look at both houses, and see if I cannot
+decide. I'm earlier than expected, so I can look well before they come
+out to welcome me. Just dump my luggage down on the sidewalk, and make
+off for another job," said the old gentleman, handing the fare to the
+man, who soon after drove off.
+
+"Well, here are two cottages alike, and very unlike, too. This one is
+Charley's home, I know. Why? Because it is newly painted. The fencing
+all in perfect order. The grounds, although very limited, are prettily
+fixed up. Flowers and vines--ah, I like the looks of this place! And
+I'm sure I'm right in fixing it in my mind as Charley's. Some
+don't-carish fellow lives there--loves his pipe, cigars and wine, may
+be, better than his home, wife and children. Dear, dear! how those
+blinds are suffering for a coat of paint! A few dollars would make
+that fence all right. How different that entrance would look with a
+little rustic seat like this one! I wonder that fellow does not notice
+how much he might improve his place, if he only did as Charley. But
+here comes the servant. I'll get her to let me in."
+
+"Rather sooner than you expected me, ain't it? Folks not up yet? Just
+go back and open the door, my girl; let me in, and then tell Mr.
+Charles Mayfield that his uncle has come!"
+
+"Oh, sir, you mistake! It is _next_ door Mr. Charles Mayfield lives,"
+answered the girl.
+
+"Next door? No; _you_ mistake, surely. My nephew Charley can't live
+there!"
+
+"Yes, sir. But his--" What the girl was going to say was stopped by a
+jovial voice in the next door, calling out: "Uncle, here! How are
+you?" And a moment more the pleasant old gentleman was caught by both
+hands and drawn along to the next house. His nephew Charley saying:
+"I'm so delighted to see you! Come in!"
+
+Into the parlor he was carried, and seated in a very comfortable
+arm-chair. The interior was more inviting than the outside. It told
+very plainly that the wife did her duty toward making everything as
+nice as possible; in a word, making the best of her means.
+
+A very short time after a sweet-faced little woman entered, and was
+presented by Charley, saying:
+
+"Here is your niece, uncle."
+
+The old gentleman received her welcome greeting by a return of real
+affection. His heart warmed immediately to his nephew's wife. She bore
+the traces of beauty which had been chased away by an over-amount of
+care, the uncle very soon felt sure. There was an unmistakable look of
+weariness and anxiety in her eyes.
+
+Very soon Nellie, as Charley called her, excused herself, and went
+out, saying she had a very inexperienced servant, and had to oversee
+and assist her in her work.
+
+Breakfast was announced, which was one that Uncle Hiram enjoyed,
+notwithstanding the feeling which was uppermost in his mind, that the
+strong, fragrant coffee, the delicate rolls, and the steak which was
+cooked just as it should be, in a word, all that was so nice, was the
+result of Nellie's skilful hands. And she looked so tired and heated
+when she sat down to do the honors of her table. Again Uncle Hiram
+noticed that constantly her eyes wandered from the table to a door
+which entered the next room, which was partially opened. Her ear
+seemed strained to catch every sound. At length a little, feeble wail
+told the cause of her anxiety.
+
+"Will you excuse me a moment, uncle?" she asked, and continued: "Our
+babe was quite sick all night, and I feel anxious about her."
+
+A moment or so after Nellie withdrew, the servant came in, bringing a
+fresh supply of hot rolls. Then Uncle Hiram had a chance of seeing the
+help Nellie had with her many duties--a half-grown girl.
+
+"Inexperienced, truly, inefficient and insufficient," said the kind
+old man to himself; and he made a note of that on the tablets of his
+heart.
+
+Soon Nellie came back, looking much relieved, and said, smiling:
+
+"She seems much better this morning. How these little ones fill our
+heart with anxiety! I was up with her all night!"
+
+Down went another note on Uncle Hiram's tablets. Awake all night with
+a sick baby, and up cooking breakfast in the morning! No wonder her
+youth and beauty have been chased away, poor, weary, over-worked
+mother!
+
+"Who lives next door, Charley?" asked his uncle, after they had
+withdrawn from the breakfast-room.
+
+"Why, I have a surprise for you--Henry lives there."
+
+"Henry! Henry who?"
+
+"Why, Henry Mayfield, my brother."
+
+"No! Why, the last time I heard from him he was in St. Louis."
+
+"Well, he is here now, and has been for five months. His wife's
+relatives are all here. And so he having been offered a position in
+the same firm with me, accepted it. We agreed to keep it as a pleasant
+little surprise for you."
+
+"Well, I'm glad of it."
+
+Just as Uncle Hiram said so the object of their conversation came in.
+
+Henry Mayfield was not the jovial, merry fellow that Charley was, and
+not likely to be so generally a favorite. But there was an earnestness
+and determination in his bearing that inspired respect immediately.
+
+"Come, uncle! Go in with me to see my wife and little ones," said
+Henry, after sitting and talking a while. "We have a half hour yet
+before business requires us, and then, if you like, we will go down
+town together."
+
+Henry's parlor, into which he ushered his uncle, was furnished better
+than his brother's; but still it was not so prettily arranged--the
+"woman's touch" was not so plainly visible. Immediately Henry's wife
+came in to welcome her husband's uncle.
+
+She was a bright little woman, not near so delicately featured as
+Nellie; but with a youthful, well-preserved look, an easy, quiet,
+peaceful air about her that made Uncle Hiram feel quite sure, if he
+stayed her guest a month, it would not put her out a bit. If any extra
+care or worry came, it was not to her. Some one else's mind and hands
+would have to overcome any difficulties.
+
+"Henry, dear, have our boy brought in to see his uncle," she said.
+
+"Ah, ha!" thought Uncle Hiram, "I see--the shoulders best able to bear
+the burden of family cares have it. Just as it should be!"
+
+A few moments, and the baby-boy was brought in by the nurse and
+presented to the uncle. Baby, like his mother, looked happy and
+healthy.
+
+When they were about leaving for down town, Uncle Hiram heard Henry
+say:
+
+"Ada, please order the cook to delay dinner an hour to-day. I've
+business which will delay me so long."
+
+"Very well," was the smiling reply.
+
+"A cook and a nurse. That is why Ada looks so calm, healthy and happy.
+_Just_ as it _should_ be. Poor little, patient, over-worked Nellie! I
+_wonder_ how it is, both having equal means. I must find out what the
+trouble is," said Uncle Hiram to himself.
+
+Now, Charley was not a drinking man, his uncle felt sure. He knew,
+indeed, that when he first grew to manhood he had vowed never to touch
+rum in any form.
+
+The dinner at Charley's was better, if possible, than the breakfast.
+It was a real treat to the old bachelor, whose life was spent in a
+boarding-house, to partake of such good, healthy fare as Nellie gave
+him. But always he felt like partaking of it under protest.
+Nellie--little, weary, tired Nellie--ever filled his mind and heart.
+At dinner Charley brought forth his _ale_, declaring it to be "the
+very best in town." And after dinner his cigars, "none finer to be
+found," he said.
+
+Now, Uncle Hiram could partake of both without serious disadvantage
+either to his health or purse. But caring very little for either, he
+seldom used them. During the evening several gentlemen friends came in
+to call on Charley's uncle, and again ale and cigars were put out.
+
+Uncle Hiram went to calculating. Ale, fifty cents, at least, that day;
+sometimes less, sometimes more. Make the average half as
+much--twenty-five cents. Cigars always as much; frequently, as _that_
+day, treble the amount. In a month it would sum up, to the very
+lowest, fifteen dollars. And who could tell how much more? What would
+not that money, worse than lost, have secured for Charley's wife and
+children?
+
+Rest, health, peace and length of days, most likely.
+
+Now, Uncle Hiram knew well enough how it was Charley did not have
+things beautiful without and around his premises, and why Nellie's
+weary mind and tired hands could not have help and rest.
+
+But, next, he must find out how it was that with Henry things were so
+very different.
+
+The following day Uncle Hiram dined with Henry. Everything was
+excellent and well cooked; and Ada sat at the head of the table, with
+an easy, quiet grace, which perfectly relieved Uncle Hiram's mind from
+any care for her. He knew very well Ada's husband sought in every way
+to relieve her of all unnecessary care and anxiety. After dinner came
+tea and coffee--nothing more. When they retired from the table Henry
+said:
+
+"Uncle, would you like a cigar or pipe? I'll get you one in a few
+moments, if you say so."
+
+"And will you join me?" asked his uncle.
+
+"I do not use either. I care not for the weed, and think it better not
+to cultivate a taste," answered Henry.
+
+"You are right, my boy--and how about wine or ale?"
+
+"Nothing of the kind, uncle."
+
+"Total abstinence, is it, Henry?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"I knew you were a temperate man, as is Charley. But he takes his
+ale, I notice," said Uncle Hiram.
+
+"Yes, I wish he did not; a man has no idea how such little things, as
+he thinks them, draw upon his purse."
+
+"I know, I know!" said Uncle Hiram. And he no longer wondered at the
+difference in Charley's and Henry's style of living. And so he had a
+good talk with Charley, and showed him how Henry, with the same
+salary, could keep two servants and beautify his home, and he not be
+able "to keep his head above water," to use his own expression.
+
+"Yes, my boy, the cause is just this--the difference between
+_temperance_ and _total_ abstinence. You'll try it now, will you not,
+for your wife's sake?" said Uncle Hiram.
+
+"Indeed I will, sir, and with many thanks to you for opening my eyes,"
+answered Charley, who really loved his wife, but was thoughtless, and
+never for a moment had considered himself at all responsible for
+Nellie's failing health, strength and beauty.
+
+When Uncle Hiram's next visit was made, he saw, before he entered the
+house, that Charley had kept his word. And when Nellie's joyous
+greeting was sounding in his ear he knew then that all was "just as it
+should be" with Nellie, as well as Ada. And the grateful little wife
+knew to whom she was indebted for the happy change, and blessed Uncle
+Hiram for it.
+
+
+
+
+WHAT HE LEFT
+
+
+     "I know not of the truth, d'ye see,
+     I tell the tale as 'twas told to me."
+
+Mark Brownson was dying, slowly, but surely, so the physician told his
+wife, and advised that if he had any business to settle, it should not
+be delayed.
+
+"He is sinking, and even now I see his mind is, at times, a little
+clouded. However, I suppose there is nothing of importance that he
+should consider," said the doctor.
+
+"He has made no will," said Mrs. Brownson,
+
+"Is that necessary? I did not know--"
+
+"I think it is very necessary, doctor, for his children's welfare. Not
+that I think it at all likely there can be any contest about what Mr.
+Brownson has. Yet to provide against any future troubles, it would be
+prudent, I think."
+
+The good doctor assented, but looked much surprised.
+
+And well he might. No one imagined old Mark Brownson had anything to
+will. But he was a very eccentric man; and the economical style of his
+establishment was likely one of his notions.
+
+"Are you suffering much pain now, Mark?" asked Mrs. Brownson, a few
+moments after, when she was seated at her husband's bedside.
+
+"Yes, yes; give me my composing draught--the opium--anything to
+relieve me," answered the suffering man.
+
+His wife obeyed, and after his groaning and restlessness had ceased,
+she said:
+
+"I want to talk to you, Mark. Can you listen now?"
+
+A nodded assent gave her permission to proceed.
+
+"Do you not think it would be as well for you to express your wishes
+with regard to the disposition of your stocks and other effects? You
+may outlive me, Mark, and this thing not be necessary, still I think
+it better to attend to such business," said Mrs. Brownson, closely
+watching the effect her words might have on the sufferer.
+
+She had feared possibly they might shock him severely, but depending
+much on the favorable influence of the opiate, she had ventured on the
+business she considered so important.
+
+A look of satisfaction replaced the anxiety of a moment before. She
+had no longer cause for fear. Calmly Mark Brownson heard her
+suggestion, and said, in a feeble voice:
+
+"What have I to will?"
+
+"Why, dear, you forget. Your long sickness and the opium--no wonder!
+There is the stock in the 'Liverpool Steamship Company,' and that in
+the 'Australian Mining Company.' Surely you have not forgotten your
+large amount in our State bonds? And how much you have in 'Fire and
+Life Insurance stock' I cannot just remember now. However, by
+reference to the papers I can tell."
+
+Again she watched her husband's face. It only expressed a rather
+puzzled brain, as though he was trying to remember.
+
+"You have such papers? I cannot think," he said.
+
+"Don't try to, dear. It is not necessary. I will just look over your
+papers, and make a statement; and when I read them over to you in
+presence of the lawyer, you can assent. You wish an equal division
+between myself and our daughters, I know. Is it not so?"
+
+"Yes, yes. You are always right," murmured her husband.
+
+"There, dear, go to sleep now. Some time when you are easy we will fix
+this," said Mrs. Brownson.
+
+And the next day, at an hour when she knew her husband's mind was best
+prepared, a lawyer was summoned, and a statement of stocks and bonds
+to the amount of two hundred thousand dollars placed before him, and
+Mark Brownson expressed his wish to have an equal division of his
+effects made between his wife and two children.
+
+The will was made, and duly signed and witnessed by two of the nearest
+neighbors and the only domestic, a worthy woman who had been with Mrs.
+Brownson for many years.
+
+A few days more, and Mark Brownson had passed from earth.
+
+Many wondered at the very quiet and unostentatious style of the last
+services for him; but the widow had said:
+
+"In death it shall be with him as he always preferred in life."
+
+And then when all was over, and the summer months were coming, Mrs.
+Brownson sold out the modest little establishment, and, with her
+daughters and their faithful servant, went to board by the seashore,
+at a very fashionable resort; but, of course, not to mingle in the gay
+festivities of the season, only to recruit her health, which was very
+much impared by long attention to her suffering husband, and to have
+the girls escape the heat and dust of the city.
+
+A few days after they were settled in their new abode, Mrs. Brownson
+said to her attendant:
+
+"Margaret, you were very much surprised by hearing Mr. Brownson's
+will."
+
+"Oh, yes, ma'am, indeed I was."
+
+"Well, Margaret, I do not wish you to mention anything about it down
+here. Mr. Brownson, you know, never let it be known to the world. And
+so it must be for the present. I do not wish my daughters to be
+married for anything but their own good qualities. They are good and
+beautiful enough to marry well, without having any other inducements
+for suitors. Now, Margaret, you know just how I feel, and what I
+mean?" said the anxious mother.
+
+"Certainly I do! And I feel as much concerned about my beautiful young
+ladies as you do, ma'am. Never fear but I will look out for their
+interest," answered the worthy woman.
+
+And to do as she said, to the best of her understanding, Margaret set
+out for a walk on the beach, with some of the other servants and their
+escorts, the waiters from the hotel. And before the next noon it was
+well known what a good chance there was for two young men to win as
+beautiful wives as ever were seen, to say nothing of the other greater
+attractions.
+
+And very soon the sisters, Maud and May, were objects of universal
+observation. Yet it was very difficult to get an introduction, the
+young gentlemen all found; for the widow kept the beautiful girls very
+much secluded.
+
+Numberless were the delicate attentions paid them, in the way of
+bouquets, books, and so on, sent by Margaret; and several cards to
+Mrs. Brownson, with the request for an introduction, accompanied by
+references--among which came those of Vernon Wadsworth and Harry
+Bennett.
+
+The first one Mrs. Brownson knew well by reputation. He was a young
+physician of very fine promise, and, being of one of the best
+families in the State, she considered him worthy of her attention. The
+other, she had heard since her arrival there, was the possessor of a
+very fair amount of worldly goods, the life-long accumulation of an
+old miser uncle. So, from the many aspirants, Mrs. Brownson selected
+these two to present to her daughters.
+
+Just at this time, Doctor Alton, Mrs. Brownson's friend and the
+physician who had attended her husband, arrived at the sea-shore; and
+through him, without any more trouble or waiting the mother's
+pleasure, young Doctor Wadsworth obtained an introduction, and
+presented his friend, Bennett.
+
+And although both of these young men did their best to keep back all
+others by various manoeuvres, many more became acquainted with the
+lovely sisters, who soon, much to their own surprise, became decidedly
+the belles of that resort.
+
+Carefully Mrs. Brownson had guarded her secret from her girls,
+fearing, perhaps, it would have a prejudicial effect, changing their
+sweet, unassuming manner, which was one of their greatest charms; or,
+perhaps, for other motives best known to herself.
+
+Although Doctor Wadsworth and young Bennett very much feared the
+approach of other suitors, it was quite needless, for the girls were
+best pleased with the first who had sought them and drawn them forth
+from their seclusion.
+
+The older one, Maud, a brilliant brunette, received with undisguised
+pleasure the devoted attention of Harry Bennett; while gentle little
+May, so fair and timid, always greeted the handsome doctor by a rosy
+flush suffusing her beautiful face; and then, from a shy, quick glance
+from the eyes, that had drooped at his approach, he would see the glad
+light that told how welcome his coming was.
+
+"We must win them, now, doctor; you see how much they are admired and
+sought here. What will it be when they are out of their mourning robes
+and in the gayeties of the city? This is our best chance. What say
+you?" asked young Bennett, a fortnight after their introduction.
+
+"Say! That the very idea of even losing _sight_ of that gentle,
+beautiful May for a day, fills my heart with misgiving and great
+anxiety. I tell you, I began this affair rather in fun--"
+
+"You mean _after funds_, perhaps!" interrupted Bennett.
+
+A flush suffused Doctor Wadsworth's face for an instant, and he
+answered:
+
+"Well, I'll admit that is not at all objectionable; but really, now
+that I know May Brownson, I would not be willing to resign her to
+another man, even if she had not a dollar in the world."
+
+There was an expression about Harry Bennett's mouth that looked as if
+his lips wanted to say: "I don't believe you"--only they did not just
+dare to. Harry Bennett was as much in love as he could be with any one
+other than himself, still he was not going to leap without looking.
+So, after learning a little more than he had already heard from
+Margaret, he was called, very urgently, to the city. After an absence
+of only two days he was back again, and stated to Doctor Wadsworth his
+knowledge of Mark Brownson's possessions. That evening Mrs. Brownson
+received proposals for both of her daughters.
+
+She must consider the matter, and consult with her friends, the
+prudent mother thought and said to the anxious suitors.
+
+This made them each more determined to secure the prize.
+
+"Dear May, plead with your mother for me!" said the ardent young
+doctor.
+
+"Mamma will consent after a while," answered the gentle girl.
+
+"After a while! Why not now? I am going away next month for a long
+time. I cannot leave you, May. Would you wish me to?"
+
+May turned pale at the thought, and raised her pleading eyes to her
+mother.
+
+It was enough. Doctor Wadsworth had used the surest weapon. A
+separation was dreaded by both mother and daughter, and each for
+different reasons. And then it was an easier thing for Harry Bennett
+to obtain the mother's consent, to claim his love at the same time.
+
+Mrs. Brownson, after giving her consent, requested a private interview
+with her prospective sons-in-law. The girls were sent from the room,
+and then Mrs. Brownson said:
+
+"I have thought possibly, gentlemen, that a very foolish rumor may
+have reached your ears respecting the wealth possessed by my
+daughters, and that--excuse me, but I must allude to it--this may in a
+measure have influenced your selecting them from the many young girls
+here--"
+
+"Oh, madam!" both men exclaimed simultaneously.
+
+"If I tell you they have nothing but their pure hearts and loving
+natures, will you not be disappointed?"
+
+"No, madam. How can you judge me so?" exclaimed both.
+
+"I am glad it is so. I would not have you marry my daughters under
+false impressions."
+
+"When May is mine, I shall think I have secured the most valuable
+fortune any man can have," said the doctor, with a really honest look
+in his eyes.
+
+"When Maud is mine, I shall _know_ I have secured _all_ I would wish,"
+added Harry Bennett, with rather a sly twinkle in his eyes.
+
+And so it was agreed that they should be united there, and after a
+very private wedding leave for an extensive bridal tour.
+
+"The old fox! Is she not a sly one? She thought to throw us off, I do
+believe. But _I_ am as bright as she," said Harry Bennett, after the
+interview.
+
+"Really, Bennett, that is not a very respectful way of speaking of the
+mother of your promised wife," replied Doctor Wadsworth.
+
+"Well, no; you are right. But just to think of her talking so to us!"
+answered Harry, with an air of injured pride.
+
+The ceremony was over. After an acquaintance of less than six weeks,
+Doctor Wadsworth and Harry Bennett had won their wives.
+
+And while the brides had retired to change their dress for the
+travelling-suit, the happy young husbands requested to speak a moment
+with their mother-in-law.
+
+"Indeed _you_ must speak; I will not," said Doctor Wadsworth, in a low
+tone, as he closed the door, and with Bennett approached Mrs.
+Brownson.
+
+After a moment's hesitation, Harry Bennett said:
+
+"Now, Mrs. Brownson, that we have proved our sincerity and real love
+for your daughters, there is no reason for any longer concealment."
+
+"About what, sir?" asked his mother-in-law.
+
+"Come, my dear madam; this is entirely useless. You have tried and
+proved us. Now to business."
+
+"Really, Mr. Bennett, I am at a loss to understand you! Will you
+please to be explicit?"
+
+"Well, madam, then I must tell you that I am perfectly well aware that
+my wife is entitled to the one-third of two hundred thousand dollars
+left by her father. Now, my dear madam, we are going on a very long
+and expensive trip, and may need more than I have in ready money.
+Now, that is just the whole truth," said Harry, who had gotten over
+his slight embarrassment, and then spoke in a very business sort of
+manner.
+
+Not so Doctor Wadsworth; he seemed very much mortified, and looked as
+if he wished he was away from that scene.
+
+"Mr. Bennett, I spoke to you about this report, and told you how false
+it was, did I not?"
+
+"Oh, yes, madam; but you see--"
+
+"You still believe this, even when I again tell you that neither I nor
+my daughters have a dollar in the world beyond the small amount I have
+now from the sale of my household effects? I assure you, sir, I speak
+the truth," said Mrs. Brownson, in a tone and manner that would have
+enforced belief.
+
+But Harry Bennett said, triumphantly:
+
+"Madam, I have seen Mr. Brownson's will."
+
+"_That_ will, my dear sir, is not worth the paper it is written on.
+Mr. Brownson was out of his _head_, and _imagined_ he was possessed of
+that sum in bonds and stock. If you can find any such possession, no
+one would welcome it more gladly than I. You can readily prove the
+truth."
+
+Harry Bennett gazed bewildered from his mother-in-law to Doctor
+Wadsworth, and then said in a low voice, as if to himself:
+
+"Caught and caged."
+
+"And I am glad of it," exclaimed the doctor, who was truly glad of
+anything to end that very embarrassing interview. "Come, Bennett, we
+must arrange our trip to suit the extent of our purse, and be happy
+with the prizes we have won."
+
+"Well, madam, I must say that the old gentleman's will _was_ worth
+something. For I'll own up now, it helped very much to secure you
+_one_ very nice young man for your son. I'll speak a word for him,
+although he has been _done up to a very Brown son!_ I'm ready now,
+Wadsworth, and we won't shorten our trip one mile; for _I've_ got a
+fortune, thanks to my old uncle. Yes, and _another_, I'll have to
+admit (there she is now), thanks to her father's will."
+
+Mrs. Brownson could not resist a smile. She had no misgivings about
+her children's future happiness. If they had not already secured their
+husbands' affection, she knew they would soon; for who could help
+loving such lovely girls!
+
+
+
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