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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6833f05 --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +* text=auto +*.txt text +*.md text diff --git a/16805-h.zip b/16805-h.zip Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..aff304c --- /dev/null +++ b/16805-h.zip diff --git a/16805-h/16805-h.htm b/16805-h/16805-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..9cee874 --- /dev/null +++ b/16805-h/16805-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,10617 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="us-ascii"?> + +<!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> + The Jungle Fugitives and Others, by Edward S. Ellis + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + body { margin:5%; 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> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg eBook, The Jungle Fugitives, by Edward S. Ellis + +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: The Jungle Fugitives + + +Author: Edward S. Ellis + + +Release Date: October 6, 2005 [eBook #16805] +Last Updated: May 31, 2019 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-646-US (US-ASCII) + + +***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE JUNGLE FUGITIVES*** + + +E-text prepared by Al Haines + + + +</pre> + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + THE JUNGLE FUGITIVES AND OTHERS + </h1> + <h3> + A Tale of Life and Adventure in India + </h3> + <h3> + Including also Many Stories of American Adventure, Enterprise and Daring + </h3> + <h2> + by + </h2> + <h2> + Edward S. Ellis + </h2> + <h3> + 1903 + </h3> + <hr /> + <p> + <b>CONTENTS</b> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0001"> <b>THE JUNGLE FUGITIVES.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER + I. — IN THE SPRING OF 1857. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER + II. — ON AN AFTERNOON. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER + III. — YANKEE MARKSMANSHIP. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER + IV. — FLIGHT. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER + V. — COMPANIONS IN FLIGHT. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER + VI. — ON THE GANGES. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER + VII. — AN UNEXPECTED MEETING. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER + VIII. — MUSTAD. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER + IX. — SCOUTING. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER + X. — ALONG SHORE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER + XI. — A COLLISION. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER + XII. — A WHITE MAN'S VICTORY. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER + XIII. — UNDER THE BANK. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER + XIV. — THE SOUND OF FIRING. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER + XV. — GONE! </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER + XVI. — A SHADOWY PURSUIT. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER + XVII. — ALMOS. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER + XVIII. — DOCTOR AND PATIENT. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER + XIX. — ASIATIC HONOR. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0021"> <b>LOST IN THE WOODS.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER + I. — THE CABIN IN THE WOOD. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER + II. — A POINTED DISCUSSION. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER + III. — MISSING. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0023"> CHAPTER + IV. — THE SEARCH BY HUGH AND TOM. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0024"> CHAPTER + V. — A LITTLE CHILD SHALL LEAD THEM. </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0027"> IN THE NICK OF TIME. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0028"> LOST IN THE SOUTH SEA. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0029"> AN UNPLEASANT COMPANION. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0030"> A STIRRING INCIDENT. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0031"> CYCLONES AND TORNADOES. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0032"> LOST IN A BLIZZARD. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0033"> THROWING THE RIATA. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0034"> A WATERSPOUT. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0035"> AN HEROIC WOMAN. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0036"> THE WRITING FOUND IN A BOTTLE. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0037"> THAT HORNET'S NEST. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0038"> A YOUNG HERO. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0039"> OVERREACHED. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0040"> A BATTLE IN THE AIR. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0041"> WHO SHALL EXPLAIN IT? </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0042"> <b>A FOOL OR A GENIUS.</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0025"> CHAPTER + I. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0026"> CHAPTER + II. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0027"> CHAPTER + III. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2HCH0028"> CHAPTER + IV. </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> + THE JUNGLE FUGITIVES. + </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. — IN THE SPRING OF 1857. + </h2> + <p> + All through India, with its fanatical population five times as great as + that of England, the rumblings of the coming uprising had been heard for + months. The disaffection had been spreading and taking root. The + emissaries of the arch-plotters had passed back and forth almost from end + to end of the vast empire, with their messages of hatred and appeal. The + people were assured that the "Inglese loge" were perfecting their + insidious schemes for overthrowing their religion, and the faithful + everywhere were called upon to crush the infidels in the dust. The evil + seed fell upon the rankest of soil, and grew with a vigor and exuberance + that threatened to strangle every other growth. + </p> + <p> + The plot, as agreed upon, was that a general uprising was to take place + throughout India on the last day of May, 1857, but, as is often the case + in such far-reaching schemes, the impatience of the mutineers precipitated + the tremendous tragedy. + </p> + <p> + The first serious outbreak took place at Meerut on Sunday, May 10th, just + three weeks previous to the time set for the general uprising. That town, + with its population of about 40,000 at that time, lies thirty-two miles + northeast from Delhi, which was to be the capital of the resurrected Mogul + Empire. It was the precipitancy of this first revolt that prevented its + fullest success. The intention was to kill every white man, woman and + child in the place. Two regiments were clamorous for beginning the + massacre, but the Eleventh Native Infantry held back so persistently that + the others became enraged and fired a volley among them, killing a number. + Thereupon the Eleventh announced themselves ready to take their part in + the slaughter that was to free India from the execrated "Inglese loge." + </p> + <p> + Seeing now for the first time the real peril, the colonel of the Eleventh + made an impassioned appeal to the regiment to stand by its colors and to + take no part in the useless revolt. While he was speaking, a volley + riddled his body, and he tumbled lifeless from his saddle. The Eleventh, + however, covered the flight of the other officers, but helped to release a + thousand prisoners, suffering punishment for various offenses, and then + the hell fire burst forth. + </p> + <p> + The bungalows of the officers, the mess houses of the troops, and all the + buildings between the native lines and Meerut were fired, and the whole + became a roaring conflagration, whose glare at night was visible for + miles. + </p> + <p> + When an appeal was made to the Emperor of Delhi by the troopers, he + inquired their errand. The lacklustre eyes flashed with a light that had + not been seen in them for years, the bowed form acquired new energy, and + he gave orders to admit the troopers. + </p> + <p> + Their message was enough to fan into life the slumbering fires of ambition + in the breast of a dying person. + </p> + <p> + He yielded to the dazzling dream. A throne of silver, laid away for years, + was brought into the "hall of special audience," and the tottering form + was helped to the seat, into which he sank and looked around upon his + frenzied followers. Mohammed Suraj-oo-deen Shah Gezee was now the Great + Mogul of India. A royal salute of twenty-one guns was fired by two troops + of artillery from Meerut in front of the palace, and the wild multitudes + again strained their throats. To the thunder of artillery, the strains of + martial music and the shouting of the people, the gates of the palace were + flung open, and Prince Mirza Mogul, with his brother, Prince Abu Beker, at + the head of the royal bodyguard, rode forth, the king following in an open + chariot, surrounded by his bodyguard. + </p> + <p> + With impressive slowness this strange procession made its way through the + principal street, the populace becoming as frantic as so many ghost + dancers. Finally a halt was made at the Juma Musjeed, the largest mosque + in India, where the banner of the Prophet was unfurled and the Mogul + Empire proclaimed. + </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. — ON AN AFTERNOON. + </h2> + <p> + Almost due east from Delhi Dr. Hugh Marlowe, a venerable American + physician, had lived for more than twenty years. Since the death of his + wife, six years previous to the Mutiny, he had dwelt alone with his only + daughter, Mary, and their single servant, Mustad, a devout Mussulman. A + portion of the time mentioned had been passed without the society of his + beloved child, who spent several years in New England (where the physician + himself was born and had received his education) at one of the fashionable + schools. + </p> + <p> + Shortly after her graduation, Miss Marlowe met Jack Everson, fresh from + Yale, and the acquaintance ripened into mutual love, though the filial + affection of the young woman was too profound to permit her to form an + engagement with the young man until the consent of her father was + obtained, and he would not give that consent until he had met and + conversed with the young gentleman face to face and taken his measure, as + may be said. + </p> + <p> + "If he doesn't esteem you enough to make a little journey like the one + from America to this country he isn't worth thinking about." + </p> + <p> + "But he <i>will</i> make the journey," said the blushing daughter, patting + the bronzed cheek of the parent whom she idolized as much as he idolized + her. + </p> + <p> + "Don't be to sure of that, my young lady; romantic young girls like you + have altogether too much faith in the other sex." + </p> + <p> + "But he <i>has</i> started," she added with a sly smile. + </p> + <p> + "He has, eh? He will change his mind before he reaches here. How far has + he got?" + </p> + <p> + "He was due in England many weeks ago." + </p> + <p> + "Well, well! How soon will he arrive <i>here</i>?" + </p> + <p> + "I think he is due now." + </p> + <p> + "Very probably, but his fancy will give out before he reaches this + out-of-the-way place." + </p> + <p> + "I think not, papa." + </p> + <p> + "Of course not, of course not; I just told you that that is the way with + all foolish girls like you." + </p> + <p> + The old gentleman had assumed a stern earnestness, and he added: "I tell + you he will never show himself here! I know what I'm talking about." + </p> + <p> + "But he <i>is</i> here, papa; let me introduce you to Jack Everson, a + physician like yourself." + </p> + <p> + All this time the smiling young man was standing directly behind the old + doctor, who was lazily reclining in a hammock on the shaded lawn, smoking + a cheroot, while his daughter sat on a camp stool, with one hand resting + on the edge of the hammock, so as to permit her gently to sway it back and + forth. As she spoke the tall, muscular American walked forward and + extended his hand. + </p> + <p> + "Doctor, I am glad to make your acquaintance," he said, in his cheery way. + The astonished physician came to an upright position like the clicking of + the blade of a jackknife, and meeting the salutation, exclaimed: + </p> + <p> + "Well, I'll be hanged! I never knew a girl so full of nonsense and tricks + as Mary. You are welcome, doctor, to my house; let me have a look at you!" + </p> + <p> + Jack Everson laughingly stepped hack a couple of paces and posed for + inspection. The elder deliberately drew his spectacle case from his + pocket, adjusted the glasses and coolly scrutinized the young man from + head to foot. + </p> + <p> + "You'll do," he quietly remarked, removing his glasses and returning them + to the morocco case; "now, if you'll be good enough to seat yourself, + we'll talk over matters until dinner time. When did you arrive?" + </p> + <p> + Jack seated himself on the remaining camp stool, a few paces from the + happy young lady, accepted a cheroot from his host, and the conversation + became general. Like most Americans, when at home or travelling, Jack + Everson kept his eyes and ears open. He heard at Calcutta, his starting + point, at Benares, Allahabad, Cawnpore and other places, the whisperings + of the uprising that was soon to come, and his alarm increased as he + penetrated the country. + </p> + <p> + "Worse than all," he said gravely, speaking of his trip, "one of my + bearers spoke English well, and quite an intimacy sprang up between us. + Since his companions could not utter a word in our language, we conversed + freely without being understood. He was reticent at first concerning the + impending danger and professed to know nothing of it, but this forenoon be + gave me to understand, in words that could not be mistaken, that the whole + country would soon be aflame with insurrection." + </p> + <p> + "Did he offer any advice?" asked Dr. Marlowe, less impressed with the news + than was his visitor or his daughter. + </p> + <p> + "He did; he said that the escape of myself and of your family could be + secured only by leaving this place at the earliest moment possible." + </p> + <p> + "But whither can we go? We are hundreds of miles from the seacoast and + should have to journey for weeks through a country swarming with enemies." + </p> + <p> + "I asked him that question, and his answer was that we should make for + Nepaul." + </p> + <p> + "That is the province to the east of us. It is a mountainous country, a + long way off, and hard to reach. Why should he advise us to go thither?" + </p> + <p> + "I questioned him, but he seemed to fear that his companions would grow + suspicious over our conversation and he said nothing more. I thought he + would add something definite when we came to separate, and, to loosen his + tongue, I gave him an extra fee, but he added never a word, and, unless I + am mistaken, regretted what he had already said." + </p> + <p> + "It seems to me," observed the daughter, "that the man knew it is + impossible for us to get to the seacoast, and believed that by going + further into the interior we should reach the people who are not affected + by the insurrection. Wide as it may be, there must be many points that + will not feel it." + </p> + <p> + "That is the true reason," said her parent, "but, confound it! I have + lived in this spot for twenty years; the little town of Akwar lies near, + and there is hardly a person in it who has not been my patient. I am known + even in Meerut and Delhi, and I can hardly believe the mutineers, for such + they seem to be, will harm me or my friends." + </p> + <p> + "You once told me," replied Mary, "that when an appeal was made to the + religion of this people they knew no such thing as fear or mercy." + </p> + <p> + "And I told you the truth," said her father gravely. "But since we have + weapons and plenty of ammunition, and know how to handle the firearms we + shall not be led like lambs to the slaughter." + </p> + <p> + "That is true enough," said Jack, "but it will be of little avail, when + our enemies are numbered by the hundred and perhaps the thousand." + </p> + <p> + "I take it, then, that you favor an abandonment of our home?" + </p> + <p> + "I do, and with the least possible delay." + </p> + <p> + "And you, my daughter, are you of the same mind?" + </p> + <p> + "I am," was the emphatic response. + </p> + <p> + "Then my decision is that we shall start for the interior and stay there + until it is safe to show ourselves again among these people, provided it + ever shall be safe." + </p> + <p> + "When shall you start?" + </p> + <p> + The parent looked at the sky. + </p> + <p> + "It is two or three hours to nightfall. We will set out early to-morrow + morning before the sun is high in the sky." + </p> + <p> + "But will we not be more liable to discovery?" asked Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Not if we use care. I am familiar with the country for miles in every + direction. We shall have to travel for the first two or three days through + a thick jungle, and it is too dangerous work to undertake in the + night-time. This, you know, is the land of the cobra and the tiger, not to + mention a few other animals and reptiles equally unpleasant in their + nature. Last night," continued the doctor, "I saw a glare in the sky off + to the westward on the opposite side of the river in the direction of + Meerut. I wonder what it meant?" + </p> + <p> + "By Jove!" exclaimed Jack, "that explains something that the palanquin + bearer said to me about there being so many Inglese where there are none + to-day. I could not catch his meaning, though he mentioned Meerut. But he + gave me to understand that it was not quite time yet for the uprising, + which would come in a few weeks." + </p> + <p> + "Those things are apt to be precipitated. I have no doubt that the + mutineers burned the city last night. If so, the main body will hurry to + Delhi, which, being the ancient capital of the Mogul Empire, will become + the new one. Some of the rebels may take it into their heads to come in + this direction. What is the matter, Dr. Everson?" + </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. — YANKEE MARKSMANSHIP. + </h2> + <p> + As Jack Everson was seated he faced the broad, sluggish Ganges, with the + low, green banks beyond. He was looking over the water, in the rays of the + declining sun, when he saw something that caused him to rise hastily from + his seat and peer earnestly across the river toward the opposite shore. + Observing his action, the doctor asked his question. Both he and his + daughter, rising to their feet, gazed in the same direction. It was easy + to see what had attracted the attention of their guest. A party of + horsemen, fully twenty, if not more, in number, had approached the river + and were now halted on the other side, looking across in the direction of + Dr. Marlowe's home, as if debating the question of making it a visit. + </p> + <p> + "Let me get my glass," said Mary, starting toward the house, hardly a + hundred feet distant. + </p> + <p> + "Allow me to bring it," interrupted Jack. "It is on one of the chairs on + the veranda, and I want my rifle." + </p> + <p> + Taking the glass from him on his return, the young woman levelled it at + the group of horsemen on the other side. + </p> + <p> + "I cannot make out who they are," she said, passing the glass to her + father. + </p> + <p> + It took the parent but a few seconds to answer the question. One sweeping + glance told him. + </p> + <p> + "They are Ghoojurs," he remarked, with as much calmness as he could + assume. + </p> + <p> + "And who are Ghoojurs?" asked Jack Everson, less excited than his friends. + </p> + <p> + "They belong to the nomadic tribes which originally occupied India, and + are among the worst wretches in the world. They are brigands and robbers, + who are to be dreaded at all times. Now, if the revolt has broken out, + they will be as merciless as tigers." + </p> + <p> + "It looks as if they intended to make us a visit, doctor?" + </p> + <p> + "Alas! there can be no earthly doubt of it." + </p> + <p> + "Let us hurry into the jungle," said Mary, her face paling with fear. "We + have not a minute to waste." + </p> + <p> + "The advice is good, but before acting on it I should like to make an + experiment." + </p> + <p> + During this brief interval Jack Everson had carefully examined his rifle + to assure himself that it was in good condition. + </p> + <p> + "Heavens, man!" exclaimed Dr. Marlowe, "you are not going to try a shot at + them?" + </p> + <p> + "That is my intention." + </p> + <p> + "They are a mile distant!" + </p> + <p> + "One of my medals was won for hitting a target at exactly that distance," + replied Jack, continuing his preparations. + </p> + <p> + "It is impossible that you should succeed." + </p> + <p> + "But not impossible that I should try, so please don't bother the man at + the wheel." + </p> + <p> + "They have ridden into the water," added the young woman, still nervous + and excited. + </p> + <p> + "Which will serve to shorten the distance somewhat." + </p> + <p> + "Why not wait until they are halfway across; or, better still, not wait at + all?" inquired the doctor. + </p> + <p> + Jack Everson made no reply, but, lying down on his back, he slightly + separated his raised knees, and, by crossing his ankles, made a rest for + the barrel of his rifle. The left arm was crooked under his head, so as to + serve as a pillow or support, leaving the hand to steady the stock of his + gun, while the right inclosed the trigger guard. + </p> + <p> + The horsemen, instead of riding side by side, were strung along in a line, + with the leader several paces in advance and mounted on a rather large + horse of a coal-black color. Directly behind him came one upon a bay, + while a little further back rode another on a white steed. There could be + no question that they were on their way to kill without mercy. + </p> + <p> + The situation was intensely trying to father and daughter. The whole party + of Ghoojurs had entered the Ganges and were steadily approaching. The + water was so shallow that it could be seen as it splashed about the bodies + of the riders, who were talking and laughing, as if in anticipation of the + enjoyment awaiting them. They preserved their single file, like so many + American Indians in crossing a stream, and their last thought must have + been of any possible danger that could threaten them from the three on the + further bank. + </p> + <p> + The situation was becoming unbearable when the rifle cracked with a noise + no louder than a Chinese cracker, and a faint puff of smoke curled upward + from the muzzle of the weapon. At the same moment the Ghoojur at the + front, on his black horse, flung up his arms and tumbled sideways into the + water, which splashed over his animal's head. Frightened, the horse + reared, pawed the air, and, whirling about, galloped back to the bank, + sending the water flying in showers from his hoofs. + </p> + <p> + "Score me a bull's-eye!" called Jack Everson, who in his pleasure over his + success, could not wait for the result. + </p> + <p> + "But see!" cried Mary, "you have only infuriated them. Oh! father, how can + we save ourselves?" + </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. — FLIGHT. + </h2> + <p> + The success of the first shot gave Jack Everson self-confidence and he + took less time in aiming the second, which was as unerring as the first. + Another Ghoojur plunged off his horse and gave but a single struggle when + he sank from sight in the shallow water. + </p> + <p> + "Another bull's-eye!" called Jack, proceeding to reload his piece. "I + hope, doctor, you are keeping a correct score; I must have credit for all + I do." + </p> + <p> + "Now for my distinguished friend on the milk-white steed," said Jack, + proceeding to adjust his telescopic sight to that individual. "If they + will send over the three horses it will give us one apiece." + </p> + <p> + But the Ghoojurs had had enough of this fearful business. They saw that + some unaccountable fatality was at work and it was madness for them to + remain. With never a suspicion of the truth they wheeled their animals + about and sent them galloping for the bank which they had left a short + time before full of hope and anticipation. + </p> + <p> + "I'm sorry for that," reflected Jack Everson, "for it mixes things and I + can't pick out my man, but here goes." + </p> + <p> + In one sense, his opportunity was better than before; for, while he could + not select his particular target, he had but to aim at the bunch to make + sure of hitting somebody, which is precisely what he did. + </p> + <p> + The Ghoojur whom he punctured did not fall, for the reason that two of his + friends reached out and prevented him. It was a piece of supererogation on + their part, for when the party emerged from the Ganges upon dry land that + fellow was of no further account. + </p> + <p> + Jack now showed more haste than before in reloading his weapon, fearing + that the party would get beyond his reach before he could fire for the + fourth time. Much to his regret, they did so, for though he made the shot, + it was necessarily so hurried that it inflicted no injury, and the whole + party galloped out of sight over the slight swell without showing any + further concern for their companions left behind. Jack now rose to his + feet with the question: + </p> + <p> + "What is my record, doctor?" + </p> + <p> + "Three bull's-eyes; your score is perfect." + </p> + <p> + "Hardly, for the last was a miss; however, three out of a possible four is + pretty fair when the circumstances are considered. I suspect that that + particular party is not likely to give us further trouble." + </p> + <p> + "No, they will not forget the lesson." + </p> + <p> + "If we can induce our enemies to make their approach by the same ford and + when the sun is shining this will become truly amusing." + </p> + <p> + "But the Ghoojurs will not repeat that mistake. This affair has served + another purpose," added the physician, "we must not delay our departure." + </p> + <p> + "Do you advise our going while it is night?" + </p> + <p> + "I advised the contrary a little while ago, but I confess I am afraid to + stay in the house, even for a few hours. However, we will take our dinner + there, gather a few belongings and then hurry off. We shall find some spot + where it will be safe to pass the night, and where we are not likely to be + molested, because no one will know where to find us." + </p> + <p> + All glanced in the direction of the other shore, and seeing nothing to + cause misgiving moved to the house, a low, roomy structure, though of + moderate proportions, with a broad veranda extending along two sides. It + was time for the evening meal, and there was some surprise felt that + Mustad, the servant, had not summoned them before. + </p> + <p> + This surprise turned to astonishment and alarm when it was discovered that + Mustad was not in the house. No preparation had been made for dinner, and + though his name was called several times in a loud voice, there was no + response. + </p> + <p> + "He has left us," said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + "What does it mean?" asked Mary. + </p> + <p> + "It can have but one meaning: by some legerdemain, such as our own Indians + show in telegraphing news from one mountain top to another, word has + reached Mustad of what has taken place, and he has been called upon to + join the faithful, and has been only too glad to do it." + </p> + <p> + "I should think he would have attempted to do us harm before going." + </p> + <p> + "He is too great a coward." + </p> + <p> + "But his fanaticism will make him reckless." + </p> + <p> + "When he gets among his friends then he will be among the worst." + </p> + <p> + "But, father, he was always meek and gentle and respectful." + </p> + <p> + "Those are the kind who become directly the opposite." + </p> + <p> + "Do you think he would harm us?" + </p> + <p> + "I have no doubt of it," was the reply of the doctor. "I know the breed; I + have twice been the means of saving his life through my medicines, and + Mary nursed him for three weeks when he was suffering from a fever." + </p> + <p> + "Yon may be doing him an injustice," ventured Jack Everson, to whom the + judgment of his friend seemed bitter. + </p> + <p> + "I wish I could think so, but, Mary, if you can provide us with something + in the way of food, Mr. Everson and I will get the things together that we + are to take with us." + </p> + <p> + Dr. Marlowe wisely decided not to burden themselves with unnecessary + luggage. Jack took from his trunk a few needed articles and stowed them + into a travelling bag whose supporting strap could be flung over one + shoulder. Though a physician himself, admitted to practice, he had brought + none of his instruments with him, for the good reason that he saw no sense + in doing so. Into the somewhat larger bag of the elder doctor were placed + his most delicate instruments and several medical preparations, mostly the + results of his experiments. They were too precious to be lost if there was + any way of preserving them. Mary packed her articles in a small travelling + bag, the strap of which she, too, flung over her shoulder, though Jack + asked to be allowed to relieve her. + </p> + <p> + It was after the hurried meal had been eaten by lamplight that the three + completed their preparations for departure. That to which they paid the + most attention was their means of defense. Jack Everson had brought a + plentiful supply of cartridges for his superb breechloader; and the belt + was already secured around his body. Dr. Marlowe never allowed his supply + of ammunition to run low, so that the two were well supplied in that + respect. + </p> + <p> + Jack was pleased to find that the revolver belonging to Mary Marlowe was + of the same calibre as his own, so that the cartridges could be used + indiscriminately. + </p> + <p> + "I remember," he said to her, when the parent was just beyond hearing, + "that you were quite skillful with your weapon." + </p> + <p> + "Not specially so, but what skill I gained is due to your tuition." + </p> + <p> + "Not so much to that as to the aptness of the pupil." + </p> + <p> + "Your remark is more gallant than true, but I hope I shall not be called + upon to use this weapon as you used yours awhile ago." + </p> + <p> + "Such is my prayer, but if the necessity arises do not hesitate." + </p> + <p> + "Be assured I shall not," she replied, with a flash of her fine eyes and a + compression of her lips. + </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. — COMPANIONS IN FLIGHT. + </h2> + <p> + Everything needed having been gathered, the lamps were extinguished, and + with the physician in the lead, the three passed out of the front door to + the veranda. The doctor decided to leave the door unfastened, since it was + useless to secure it. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly, when the doctor was about to give the word to move, he saw a + shadowy figure in the direction of the river. + </p> + <p> + "Sh!" he whispered; "it looks as if we had waited too long; some one is + approaching. Be ready to use your gun or to retreat into the house if + necessary to fight it out there." + </p> + <p> + "It is a white man," said the daughter in an undertone; "he may be a + patient." + </p> + <p> + It was clear by this time that the stranger was not a native, for he was + dressed in civilized costume and his gait was that of a European. He did + not perceive the silent figures until within a few paces of the veranda, + when he paused abruptly, as if startled. + </p> + <p> + "Good evening," he said in English. "Is this Dr. Marlowe?" + </p> + <p> + "It is; who are you?" + </p> + <p> + "My name is Anderson; I was looking for you." + </p> + <p> + "In what way can I serve you?" + </p> + <p> + "You have heard the news, I suppose," said the man, keeping his position, + and looking up to the three, who were now all on the edge of the veranda; + "the native soldiers at Meerut mutinied yesterday, killed most of their + officers, plundered the city, slaying every white person they could find, + after which most of them hurried to Delhi." + </p> + <p> + "You bring dreadful tidings; I had heard nothing definite, but suspected + all that you have told me. Are you alone and why do you come to me?" + </p> + <p> + "I fled with my wife and two other families, Turner and Wharton, from the + outskirts of Meerut as soon as there seemed a chance for us. We made our + way to the river, found a boat and paddled to this place, for we had no + sail and there was scarcely any wind." + </p> + <p> + "Where are your friends?" + </p> + <p> + "I left them by the edge of the river in the boat, promising to rejoin + them in a few minutes." + </p> + <p> + "Have you no companions, but those you named?" + </p> + <p> + "None; my wife and I buried two children last Summer; Mr. Turner has none, + and Mr. Wharton and his young wife were but recently married." + </p> + <p> + "You have not told me why you come to me?" + </p> + <p> + "Chiefly to warn you of your peril and to beseech you to fly before it is + too late." + </p> + <p> + "I thank you very much for your solicitude; it was kind on the part of you + and your friends, but it strikes me that one place is about as safe as + another." + </p> + <p> + "We are so far from the large cities and the coast that it is useless to + attempt to reach any of them. Our first aim was to get as far from Meerut + as possible; then as we found ourselves approaching your home, it seemed + to us there was a chance for our lives by pushing to the northward, into + the wilder and less settled country, where the flames of the insurrection + may not reach." + </p> + <p> + "Your sentiments are our own; you have been wonderfully fortunate in + getting this far; my friends and I have seen enough to warn us to lose no + time, and we were on the point of starting when I saw you." + </p> + <p> + "May I ask what course you intend to take?" + </p> + <p> + "I have lived here for twenty years, so that I am acquainted with the + section. My intention was to follow a slightly travelled road, which, in + fact, is little more than a bridle path, until several miles beyond Akwar, + when we should come back to the main highway and keep to that for fifty or + perhaps a hundred miles. By that time, we should be safe, if such a thing + as safety is possible." + </p> + <p> + "Your plan is a good one, but is not mine better?" + </p> + <p> + "What is that?" + </p> + <p> + "I, too, am familiar with this part of the country; a stream empties into + the Ganges just eastward of your house, hardly a half mile distant; it + must have its source somewhere among the foothills of the Himalayas. At + any rate, it is navigable for all of a hundred miles. It seems to me that + when paddling up that stream at night, between the wooded banks, there + will be less chance of being discovered by enemies than when travelling + overland, as you contemplate." + </p> + <p> + "I am favorably impressed with your plan; do I understand you to invite us + to join your party?" + </p> + <p> + "You are more than welcome; our boat will accommodate us all without + crowding, but I regret to say we have but a single gun among us. That is + mine, which I left with my friends against my return." + </p> + <p> + "We are well supplied in that respect; we accept your invitation with many + thanks." + </p> + <p> + As the doctor spoke he stepped down from the veranda, followed by the + others, and Mr. Anderson led the way across the lawn to the river, where + his friends were awaiting his coming with many misgivings. A general + introduction followed. A common danger makes friends of strangers, and in + a few minutes all were as well acquainted as if they had known one another + for days and weeks. Anderson and Turner were men in middle life, while + Wharton was of about the same age as Jack Everson. They had lived for + several years on the outskirts of Meerut, but it was young Wharton who + discovered the impending peril, and it was due to him that the three + families escaped the fate of hundreds of others on that woful night. The + young wife and Mary Marlowe became intimate friends at once, while, as has + been said, there was a hearty, genuine comradeship immediately established + among all. + </p> + <p> + The boat was larger than Dr. Marlowe and his companions suspected. It was + more than twenty feet in length, with a cabin at the stern, a place for a + mast, though there was neither mast nor sail on board. Anderson had spoken + of paddling to this point, when, had he spoken correctly, he would have + said that no paddles were used, but that the craft was propelled by means + of poles. + </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. — ON THE GANGES. + </h2> + <p> + While all the members of the party were cheered by hope, none forgot that + a dreadful peril impended. Enough time had passed since the revolt at + Meerut for the news to spread even beyond the little town of Akwar, which + was within a fourth of a mile of the home of Dr. Marlowe. He was aware + that some of the most fanatical Mussulmans in all India lived there. The + action of the servant Mustad, who owed his life to the father and child, + was proof of what might be expected from these miscreants when swept off + their feet by the delirium that was spreading with the frightful swiftness + of a prairie fire. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly no time was lost. There was a hurried scrambling on board, the + water fortunately being deep enough near shore to allow all to step upon + the boat dry shod. The faint moon revealed the smooth surface of the + Ganges for nearly a hundred yards from land, but the further shore was + veiled in darkness. It was at this juncture that Miss Marlowe made an + annoying discovery. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, papa, I have forgotten my pistol!" + </p> + <p> + "Wait and I'll soon get it," she added, starting to leap the short + distance from the gunwale to land, but Jack Everson caught her arm. + </p> + <p> + "You must not think of it; tell me where you left the weapon and I'll + bring it." + </p> + <p> + "I laid it on the table in the dining-room and in the hurry forgot it when + we left." + </p> + <p> + Jack turned to his friends. + </p> + <p> + "Don't wait here," he said, aware of the nervousness of the whole party. + "Push down stream, and I'll quickly overtake you." + </p> + <p> + Without waiting for further explanation, he leaped the slight space and + started up the lawn on a loping trot. For convenience he left his rifle + behind, but made sure that his revolver was in his hip pocket. He did not + apprehend that he would need the weapon in the short time he expected to + be absent, but if anything went awry it would be more useful than the + rifle. + </p> + <p> + In that moment of profound stillness following the disappearance of the + young man among the trees grouped about the lawn, the motionless people on + the boat felt a thrill of terror at the unmistakable sound of oars from + some point on the river not distant. + </p> + <p> + "Let us land and take refuge in your house," suggested young Wharton; "we + cannot make a decent fight in this boat." + </p> + <p> + "We shall have a better chance than in the house," was the reply of the + physician; "the bank of the river is shaded by trees a little further + down; we must lose no time in getting there, and avoid the least noise." + </p> + <p> + There were two long poles belonging to the boat, one of which was grasped + by Wharton, while Anderson swayed the other, the remainder watching their + movements, which could not have been more skillful. Pressing the end + against the bank, and afterwards against the clayey bottom, the craft + speedily swung several rods from shore. + </p> + <p> + While the two men were thus employed, the others peered off in the gloom + and listened for a repetition of the sounds that had frightened them a few + minutes before. They were not heard again, nor could the straining vision + detect anything of the dreaded object, which could not be far away. Not a + person on board doubted that a number of their enemies were near and + searching for them. Dr. Marlowe would have taken comfort from this fact + had the circumstances been different; for the men who were hunting for him + would go to his house, since it was there they must gain their first + knowledge of his flight; but, as he viewed it, it was impossible that they + should be wholly ignorant of the boat and its occupants, which must have + made most of the distance before night closed in. + </p> + <p> + It followed, therefore, that if they were looking for the doctor and his + family they were also looking for the boat and the fugitives it contained. + The low-lying shore, with no trees fringing the bank, was the worst place + for him and his friends, and he was in a fever of eagerness to reach the + protecting shadows along shore. The nerves of all were keyed to the + tensest point, when they caught the dim outlines of the overhanging + growth, with the leafage as exuberant as it always is in a subtropical + region at that season of the year. The men toiled with vigor and care, + while the others glanced from the gloom of the river to the deeper gloom + of the bank, which seemed to recede as they labored toward it. With a + relief that cannot be imagined the bulky craft glided into the bank of + deeper gloom, which so wrapped it about that it was invisible from any + point more than a dozen yards distant. + </p> + <p> + It is inconceivable how a narrower escape could have come about, for the + two men had hardly ceased poling, allowing the boat to move forward with + the momentum already gained, when their enemies were discovered. Mary + Marlowe's arm was interlocked with that of her father, when she nervously + clutched it and whispered: + </p> + <p> + "Yonder is their boat!" + </p> + <p> + All saw the terrifying sight at the same moment. Almost opposite, and + barely fifty yards out on the river, could be traced a moving shadow, the + outlines of which showed a craft similarly shaped to their own, except + that it was somewhat smaller and sat lower in the water. The men were too + dimly seen for their number to be counted or their motions observed, but, + as in the former instance, the sounds indicated that they were using + paddles. + </p> + <p> + Since it was certain that the natives were searching for the fugitives in + the boat under the shadows of the bank every one of the latter wondered + that the pursuers remained out in the stream, when there was need of + unimpeded vision. They half expected their enemies to turn to the left and + come directly for them. But nothing of the kind took place. The craft + headed down the river, the sound of the paddles so slight that only the + closely listening ear could hear them, until it melted in the gloom and + vanished from sight. + </p> + <p> + It was a vast relief for the moment, but little comfort could our friends + take from the fact. Their enemies were not likely to go far, when they + would suspect that something of the nature described had occurred, and + they would return and grope along shore for their victims. So certain was + Dr. Marlowe of this turn that he believed the wisest course was for the + entire party to abandon the boat, and, as may be said, "take to the + woods." They had the whole night before them, and, with his intimate + knowledge of the roads, paths and trails of the country and jungles, he + was confident of guiding them beyond danger and to some place where, when + morning dawned, there would be little to fear in the way of discovery. + </p> + <p> + This course would have been taken except for the absence of Jack Everson. + There was no way of apprising him of the change of plan, and, with his + ignorance of the topography of their surroundings, he would be certain to + go astray, and for any one in his situation, to go astray meant death. + </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. — AN UNEXPECTED MEETING. + </h2> + <h3> + Meanwhile, Mr. Jack Everson found matters exceedingly interesting. + </h3> + <p> + When he informed his friends that he would rejoin them in the course of a + few minutes the possibility of anything interfering with his promise did + not occur to him. That danger threatened every member of the little + company may be set down as self-evident, but what could happen to disturb + him in the brief interval spent in running up the slope, dashing into the + house and back again to the river's side? + </p> + <p> + Such were his thoughts as he entered the shadows and hurriedly approached + the front veranda. Although he had reached this spot within the preceding + twenty-four hours the evening meal and the preparations for flight had + given him sufficient knowledge of the interior to remove all difficulty in + going straight to the table in the dining-room and taking the forgotten + revolver therefrom. + </p> + <p> + The first tingle of misgiving came to the young man when he was close to + the porch and about to step upon it. He remembered that it was himself who + had extinguished the lamp on the table as the three were about to pass + into the hall and out of doors, but lo! a light was shining from that very + room. What could it mean? + </p> + <p> + "That's deuced queer," he thought, coming to an abrupt halt; "I screwed + down that lamp and blew into the chimney in the orthodox fashion, so it + couldn't have been that I unconsciously left the wick burning." + </p> + <p> + At this juncture he made another significant discovery. The front door + which he had seen Dr. Marlowe close was partly open. The inference was + inevitable: some one was in the house. In the brief time that had passed + one or more persons had entered and were busy at that moment in the + interior. Perhaps they had been watching among the shadows on the outside + for the occupants to leave the way open for them to pass within. + </p> + <p> + Prudence dictated that Jack Everson should not linger another moment. + Indeed, he ought to have counted himself fortunate that he had made his + discovery in time to save himself from running into a trap. He should + return to his friends with the alarming news and help them in getting away + with the utmost haste possible. But Jack did nothing of the sort. + </p> + <p> + The chief cause of his lingering was his desire to obtain the revolver + belonging to Miss Marlowe. Recalling the paucity of firearms among the + people on the boat he felt that a single weapon could be ill spared. But + above and beyond this cold truth was a vague, shuddering suspicion, + amounting to a belief, that the young woman would soon need that very + weapon; that, without it she would become another of the unspeakable + victims of the fiends who made the Sepoy Mutiny one of the most hideous + blots that darken the pages of history. He compressed his lips and swore + that the revolver should be recovered, if the thing were possible, failing + in which he would compel her to take his own. + </p> + <p> + The first thing was to learn whether there was more than one person in the + house and what business had brought them there. His own return was not + expected, so that that advantage was in his favor. He stepped lightly upon + the veranda and, like a burglar in his stocking feet, passed across the + porch and pushed back the door far enough to admit him. This required but + a few inches, and the hinges gave out not the slightest creak. The + entrance to the dining-room was closed, so that all was darkness, but he + plainly saw the yellow thread along the edges of the door, caused by the + lamp in the room beyond. + </p> + <p> + Once within the hall he listened intently, but could not detect the + slightest sound within the building. He had already drawn his revolver, + and held it ready for instant use. Knowing the value of seconds, he began + moving along the hall toward the door, which was only a few paces distant, + and had passed half the space when a muttered execration escaped him, for + his foot struck some object that was kicked the remaining length of the + hall with a clatter that he verily believed must have been heard by his + friends on the boat. + </p> + <p> + No use now for precaution. Determined to have the other weapon, but not + unmindful of the peril involved, he strode the few remaining steps and + hastily shoved open the door of the dining-room. If a foe was there with + the revolver he was quite likely to hold it levelled at the intruder, + because of which Jack, when he burst into the room, held his own weapon + pointed, so as to prevent any enemy from "getting the drop" on him. + </p> + <p> + For one moment the young man believed it was all a mistake and that, + despite the precaution taken upon leaving the house, he had not + extinguished the lamp, whose wick had recovered its vigor, but the + suspicion was hardly formed when he knew there was no foundation for it. + In the first place no lamp ever acts that way, and, the front door having + been closed, could not open of itself. More convincing than all was the + fact that Mary Marlowe's revolver, which had brought him back, was + missing. + </p> + <p> + Diagonally across the dining-room from where Jack Everson stood was the + door leading to the rear of the house. This was open for three or four + inches, and while searching the apartment with all the keenness of his + powerful vision, he distinctly saw it move. The distance was no more than + an inch, but he was not mistaken, and knew it had been drawn that much + nearer shut. Since no air was stirring the conclusion was inevitable that + some one was on the other side who was aware of the entrance of the + American. + </p> + <p> + The position of the lamp on the table threw the crevice caused by the + slight opening of the door in shadow, and all was blank darkness beyond. + But, looking in that direction, Jack caught the gleam of a pair of eyes, + peering from the gloom like the orbs of a jungle tiger gathering himself + for a spring. Nothing could be seen but the glow of the eyes, that seemed + to have something of the phosphorescence of the cat species, but he could + not mistake the meaning of what he saw. + </p> + <p> + Jack had partly lowered his revolver, after the first glance around the + room, but it now came to a level again with the suddenness of lightning + and was pointed straight at the gleaming eyes, as he spoke in a low, + deadly tone: + </p> + <p> + "Come forth or I'll send a bullet through your infernal brain!" + </p> + <p> + Never was man more fairly caught. In the language of the West, Jack + Everson had the drop on him, and none could be more alive to the fact than + the fellow who was thus taken at disadvantage. It was merited punishment + for his foolhardiness in inviting his own discomfiture. At first the + chances of the two were equal, but the white man was more alive to the + situation. + </p> + <p> + The Asiatic showed his appreciation of the situation by stepping forward + into the lamplight. + </p> + <p> + Incredible as it may seem, he not only held a pistol in his right hand, + but it was half raised and pointed at Jack Everson. + </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. — MUSTAD. + </h2> + <p> + The East Indian who stood before Jack Everson, thoroughly cowed and + submissive, was unusually tall, dark, and thin to emaciation. He wore a + turban, a light linen jacket which encompassed his chest to below the + waist, with a sash or girdle, loose flapping trousers and sandals. In the + girdle at his waist was a long, formidable knife or yataghan, which he + would have been glad to bury in the heart of the man who had thus brought + him to his knees. + </p> + <p> + When Jack Everson demanded to know his identity the fellow replied in a + low voice that was not lacking in a certain musical quality: + </p> + <p> + "Mustad!" + </p> + <p> + The young man half expected the answer. + </p> + <p> + "What business brings you here?" + </p> + <p> + "He is my master; I work for him. I have been to see my aged mother, who + is very ill. I have just returned to serve my master." + </p> + <p> + "That is not true! You went away to bring some of your people to kill the + doctor and his family." + </p> + <p> + "Sahib does Mustad great wrong," replied that individual in a grieved + voice. "I love my master and my mistress. I am not ungrateful. I would + give my life sooner than harm a hair of their heads. Where have they + gone?" + </p> + <p> + It was the last question that removed all lingering doubt of the native's + treachery. He had returned to bring about their overthrow, but knew not + where to look for them. When he could ascertain whither they had fled he + and his brother miscreants would be at their heels. + </p> + <p> + "Suppose I should tell you that they had gone to Meerut or Delhi?" + </p> + <p> + "Allah be praised!" exclaimed the other devoutly; "for then they will be + safe." + </p> + <p> + "Is there no trouble in Meerut or Delhi?" + </p> + <p> + "What trouble can there be!" asked Mustad, with well-feigned simplicity. + "It is in those cities that the missionaries and many of the Inglese live. + They have lived there many years. What harm could befall them?" + </p> + <p> + By this time Jack Everson had lost all doubt of the perfidy of the man. He + could not fail to know what had taken place within the preceding + twenty-four hours in the cities named, and he lacked his usual cunning + when he tried to deceive his questioner. + </p> + <p> + The young man saw that it was a waste of time to question Mustad. No + reliance could be placed on anything he said. + </p> + <p> + "You will wait here, then, until Dr. Marlowe comes back?" + </p> + <p> + Mustad vigorously nodded his head and replied: + </p> + <p> + "I shall wait, and my eyes will be filled with tears until I see the good + man and his child again. When will they come to their home?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, the best thing you can do is to wait here until you see them + again." + </p> + <p> + As Jack made this remark he took a quick step forward and picked up the + revolver. He did not pause to examine it, but was sure that none of the + chambers had been discharged. Slipping the weapon into his coat pocket, + and still grasping his own, he said: + </p> + <p> + "I think I shall go out on the veranda and await the return of the + doctor." + </p> + <p> + As he made this remark he committed a mistake for which there was no + excuse. Instead of backing out of the room he turned about and started + through the open door into the hall. The walking cane against which he had + once struck his foot still lay where he had kicked it, and he tripped over + it a second time. The mishap, slight as it was, saved his life. As he + stumbled in the gloom something whizzed like the rush of a cobra's head + past his temple, nipping his hat and striking the opposite wall with force + enough to kill two or three men. It was the yataghan of Mustad, who had + drawn and hurled it with inconceivable quickness and with an aim so + unerring that it would have brained the unsuspecting American but for his + fortunate stumble. + </p> + <p> + The furious Jack whirled around with the purpose of sending a bullet + through the brain of the wretch, but something like a shadow flitted + through the lamplight while Jack was in the act of turning and, before he + could secure any aim, the scoundrel had vanished. Determined not to be + balked the young man let fly, and then, bounding across the room, snapped + back the door, meaning to repeat the shot at the first glimpse of Mustad. + But the latter was familiar with all the turnings of the house, while Jack + knew nothing of that portion of the building. He could neither see nor + hear anything, and did not deem it prudent to use the lamp to help in the + search, though it was hard to retire from the field and leave the + miscreant unpunished. + </p> + <p> + To do so, however, was the wiser course, and again he moved into the hall. + This time he backed thither, though, since Mustad had no weapon, it was + impossible that the attempt upon the young man's life should be repeated. + The outer door was opened, and once more he stood on the veranda. + </p> + <p> + Before venturing across the lawn in the direction of the river he spent a + minute or two in peering into the surrounding gloom and listening. He may + have been mistaken, but he fancied he heard more than one person moving + stealthily about in the house. Once he was sure he caught the sound of + whispered words, so that the astounding fact was established that during + the few minutes occupied in talking with Mustad he had a friend within + instant call. + </p> + <p> + "All of which goes to prove that these people are cowards at heart," was + the sage conclusion of Jack Everson. "They will throw away their lives for + the sake of Islamism, and they will fight like wildcats if a man turns his + back upon them; but when he stands face to face they are whipped curs." + </p> + <p> + Since there was no doubt that Mustad and his companions would be on the + alert to note the course taken by Everson, so as to learn what had become + of his friends, the young man saw the need of misleading them. He took + care not to return to the river over his own trail. Instead of doing so he + moved to the right, as if on his way to the nearby town of Akwar. When + satisfied he was beyond range of the keen vision of those in the house of + Dr. Marlowe he made an abrupt change, which led him toward the Ganges, + forgetting, when he did so, that there might be natives in the vicinity + who were not in the building at all. + </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. — SCOUTING. + </h2> + <p> + Had Mr. Jack Everson spent a few years in Hindoostan he would not have + made the blunders that we are obliged to record concerning his movements + after parting from his friends on the boat. He had acquitted himself + pluckily while in the house of the physician, but his escape from death at + the hands of Mustad and his companion was providential and, under similar + circumstances, was not likely to be repeated once in a thousand times. + </p> + <p> + Moreover, with his knowledge, already gained, of Asiatic cunning, he ought + to have reflected that if two of their dusky enemies were within the house + there were likely to be others in the immediate neighborhood. It looked as + if Mustad had entered the dwelling expecting to find the physician there. + He was prepared with an excuse for his abrupt departure and an explanation + that would satisfy his indulgent master and mistress. Keeping his + companion in the background the wretch could then complete his plans for + turning the party over to the fury of their brother murderers, who + probably were calmly waiting on the outside for the signal. + </p> + <p> + Nothing of all this, we repeat, entered the head of Jack until he had made + the change in the course he was following and had passed down the slope to + the river bank. His effort to mislead his enemies necessarily took him + some distance above the point where he had left the boat, and he now set + out to find his way to it. It was while he was engaged in doing so that he + became aware that he was followed. + </p> + <p> + "Well, I'll be hanged!" he muttered, coming to an abrupt stop; "it seems + to me that these infernal imps are everywhere." + </p> + <p> + He had not seen any one, but a rustling, grating noise in the shadow of + the nearest tree told him where the immediate danger lay. Believing that + an unexpected course was best he wheeled and ran at full speed toward the + tree, which contained a large number of dense, wide-spreading branches. + </p> + <p> + The result was surprising. Instead of one native, two leaped out from + cover and ran away at full speed. They had been stealing after him, on the + watch for a chance to bring him down by a blow in the back, when the + tables were turned in this unexpected manner. Jack, therefore, had no + hesitation in firing at the one on his right, and immediately after at his + companion, whose superior speed had placed him considerably in advance. As + a consequence, he missed the latter, while the first emitted a screech, + leaped high in air and sprawled forward on his face as dead as Julius + Caesar. + </p> + <p> + The fact that his pursuers were two in number led the young man to believe + they were Mustad and his companion, whom he had heard in the house. A few + minutes later he made another halt. He was able, despite the gloom, to + identify the spot where he had left the boat, but it was not in sight. + </p> + <p> + "I told them not to wait for me, and they acted on my suggestion. They + can't be far off, and I hope have run into no trouble." + </p> + <p> + The occurrences of the last quarter of an hour gave Jack a vivid idea of + the increasing peril. The natives from the nearby town were hunting for + the physician, his daughter and himself, all of whom had not left the + house a minute too soon and now, while he paused on the shore of the river + and listened, he too caught the sound that had filled his friends with + dread. There were no noises from the jungles to the eastward, though at + times the outcries are terrifying, and the shouts and shrieks of the + mutineers and their victims at Meerut and Delhi were too far away to reach + his ears, but he heard now and then the faint sound of paddles out on the + stream. + </p> + <p> + "Anderson spoke of using paddles," reflected Jack, "but it was a misnomer, + for they have none, and they would not have pushed so far out from shore + when they knew I expected to return so soon. All that proves that a party + of devils have also a boat and are hunting for the one in which our new + friends are groping for safety." + </p> + <p> + This threatened to make a new complication, but the plain course for Jack + was to keep along the shore of the river and press his search for the + craft, which he was certain was not far off. + </p> + <p> + His experience had taught him the need of unceasing vigilance, and as he + advanced, he scrutinized the ground in front and on every hand, like a + scout stealing into a hostile camp. Within less time than he counted upon + he saw the boat lying close to shore, where his friends were awaiting him. + As soon as he recognized the craft he announced himself in a guarded + undertone, to guard against any mistake, and the next moment clambered + aboard, where, it need not be said, he was warmly welcomed. + </p> + <p> + After they had exchanged greetings the doctor asked: + </p> + <p> + "Did I not hear the report of your pistol a little while ago?" + </p> + <p> + "Inasmuch as I discharged it very probably you did." + </p> + <p> + Thereupon Jack told of what he had seen and done since leaving the boat to + recover the pistol of Miss Marlowe. It was a story of deep interest to + all, and his account of his meeting with the faithless Mustad deeply + stirred his master. + </p> + <p> + "Despite my denunciation of the fellow I confess I had a lingering + suspicion that I might have been mistaken; but all doubt now is removed. + There is no native in all India to be more dreaded than he." + </p> + <p> + "I have a faint hope that it was he with whom I made my fourth + bull's-eye," remarked Jack. + </p> + <p> + "Hardly likely. Probably there were two others skulking on the outside and + waiting for a chance at us." + </p> + <p> + "But they had all the chance they could have asked at <i>me</i>." + </p> + <p> + "It may have been the doctor and his daughter whom they were the most + eager to secure," suggested Mr. Turner. + </p> + <p> + "That is my belief," added Anderson. + </p> + <p> + "And mine, too," joined the doctor himself. "It seems to be a trait of our + perverse human nature to hate with the deepest intensity those who have + done us the greatest kindness." + </p> + <p> + This remark meant more to Jack Everson than to any one else, for he + believed that it was the daughter who was the special object of the + natives. That reminded him of the weapon he had secured. + </p> + <p> + "Here," he said, "take it before I forget to return it." + </p> + <p> + "You risked a good deal for my sake," she said gratefully, accepting the + weapon, "and I cannot thank you sufficiently—— Well, I + declare!" + </p> + <p> + She was in the act of placing the pistol in the pocket of her dress when + she made the discovery that her weapon was already there. Jack Everson had + taken Mustad's own property from him. + </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. — ALONG SHORE. + </h2> + <p> + The curious incident served to lift for a brief time the oppression that + rested upon all. The remarkable part of it was how Miss Marlowe could + believe she had left her revolver in her home when it was in the pocket of + her dress, where, it would seem, she ought to have felt it while walking + across the lawn to the boat, even if she had forgotten to examine that + most natural receptacle for it when she first missed the weapon. + </p> + <p> + "It is the most stupid thing I ever did," she declared. "I meant to keep + it in my hand while coming from the house, and, awaking to the fact that + it was not there, did not stop to examine my pocket. It is too bad." + </p> + <p> + "We have gained an additional means of defense," observed Mr. Turner, "and + that may be decisive before we are through with this business." + </p> + <p> + Now that all were together again each was impatient to be on the move. + Wharton and Turner began using the poles with the skill shown some time + before, and once more the unwieldy craft swung slowly down the Ganges, + with all on board alert for the first sign of their enemies. The women + were advised to remain in the small cabin, where they would be safe + against stealthy shots. + </p> + <p> + As the boat crept under the shadows along shore the spirits of all + improved, for it seemed that with every rod placed behind, them the danger + was diminished, and by and by would vanish altogether. + </p> + <p> + "That, however, cannot be," said the doctor to Jack Everson, as they sat a + little apart from the rest, near the bow of the craft. "In truth, I see + but one possible escape for this party." + </p> + <p> + "What is that?" + </p> + <p> + "I have already referred to it. It will take us weeks to reach Calcutta on + the east or Bombay on the west, and between us and each of these points + the hell fire will rage for months to come. To go south is equally + suicidal, since it would take us into the heart of the insurrection. I + repeat that there is but one thing to be done: that is to push northward, + as I said, until we reach a people too far removed to be affected by this + deviltry." + </p> + <p> + "To find a simple people where our knowledge of medicine will cause us to + be looked upon as superior beings. I have discovered a remedy for the bite + of a cobra which will stand one in good stead, should a native be bitten. + They believe, you know, as does the rest of the world, that the bite of + this serpent is certain death. But I have discovered a remedy, the + necessary drugs of which I carry in this case," touching the leather case + strapped to his back. + </p> + <p> + "Beyond all doubt. You have tested this remedy of yours?" + </p> + <p> + "I have, twice." + </p> + <p> + "Upon man or brute?" + </p> + <p> + "Upon both." + </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 COLLISION. + </h2> + <p> + Although the two physicians were deeply interested in the question of + toxicology they could not forget their situation and its perils. The craft + had nearly completed its half mile to the mouth of the tributary which it + was intended to ascend, when the polemen, pausing for a moment's rest, + whispered that they heard the sound of paddles again. + </p> + <p> + "<i>There they are</i>!" + </p> + <p> + It was Jack Everson who uttered the exclamation, loud enough for all to + hear. He pointed down stream as he spoke, and every one perceived the + dreaded boat returning. + </p> + <p> + Although nearer at hand than before, it seemed to be following the course + of the river, and there was hope that it would again pass without + discovering the shrinking ones so near land. + </p> + <p> + When first observed the other boat was fifty yards out and not quite so + far down stream. Moving against the current its progress was slower than + before, but its advance was plainly perceptible. The craft of the white + people had lost the momentum imparted by the poling, and was now + controlled only by the current, which was so sluggish close to the land + that the motion was hardly noticeable. + </p> + <p> + The hopes of our friends steadily rose until the other boat was almost + directly abreast. It would seem that if the occupants intended attacking + they would have veered inward before this, but there could be no assurance + so long as they remained visible. + </p> + <p> + Every one started when the gaunt, sloping figure suddenly became upright + at the prow of the boat and stood motionless. He had ceased using the pole + that he had been plying with so much vigor. At the same moment the noise + of the paddles ceased, proving that the men controlling them had also + stopped work. What could it mean? + </p> + <p> + No one of the white people stirred or whispered. Could they have done so + they would have checked the beating of their hearts through fear of being + betrayed. Surely something had awakened the suspicion of the natives. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly some one spoke on board the craft. The voice was audible, but the + doctor, who was a master of Hindoostanee, could not catch what was said. + At the same instant a splash was heard, and the lank form bent over, as he + pressed the long pole against the bottom of the river and resumed his slow + walking toward the stern. The noise of paddles, too, was heard again. The + craft had resumed its progress, and for an instant every one believed it + was about to pass by. Then Jack Everson said: + </p> + <p> + "By heaven! they're coming for us!" + </p> + <p> + All saw that the boat was swinging around so as to head toward them. + </p> + <p> + "Into the cabin, quick!" commanded the doctor, and the women quickly + scrambled out of sight, while the men lay down, so as to screen their + bodies as much as possible. + </p> + <p> + "It won't do to let them come too near," added the physician. "Try to make + every shot tell." + </p> + <p> + As he spoke he took the best aim he could and fired. Jack Everson was but + a moment behind him, and Anderson discharged his gun almost + simultaneously. + </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 WHITE MAN'S VICTORY. + </h2> + <p> + It was clear that the reception was a stunning surprise to the Asiatics in + the other boat. In times of confusion and terror strong men often sit + dazed and meekly submit to massacre when sturdy resistance would leave a + far different tale to tell. Such was the case at Meerut, at Delhi, at + Cawnpore, at Lucknow and scores of places where the human fiends revelled + in massacre and crime. + </p> + <p> + But here, where evidently the same submissiveness was expected, the + miscreants were fired upon before they had discharged a single shot + themselves. Not only that, but the Caucasians kept the thing up. This was + contrary to all rule and precedent. + </p> + <p> + If, however, the white men did not wait to be slain, neither did the dusky + barbarians sit still and allow themselves to be shot down. They ceased + paddling and appealed to their guns, whose bullets began whistling about + the heads of the defenders in the other boat. + </p> + <p> + Who of our friends did it will never be known, but one of them perforated + the gaunt scoundrel who, with his form bent over, was pushing the pole + while he stalked the length of the boat, returning again to the prow to + repeat the performance. The fellow emitted a screech like a wounded tiger + and leaped several feet in air, coming down on the gunwale, over which he + toppled into the water and was seen no more. It was the spirited defiance + of the white men that told. Screening themselves as best they could they + continued firing, Jack Everson occasionally adding a shot from his + revolver by way of variety. The conformation of the other boat and its + crowded condition prevented the natives from sheltering themselves as did + those who were using them as targets. In short, the wretches were getting + the worst of the business, and it did not take them long to learn the + fact. Left without control, their boat began drifting with the current, + which being stronger than along shore gradually carried it down stream and + out of sight. So long, however, as it was visible its occupants continued + firing, while the white people did still better, for they sent several + shots after their enemies when they could see nothing and fired wholly by + guess. + </p> + <p> + There could be no question that the promptness of Dr. Marlowe and the + vigor of the resistance threw their foes into a sort of panic from which + they did not recover until beyond range. They had been taught a lesson + that they were sure to remember for a long time; though, when our friends + came to think the matter over, after finding no one of them had been hurt, + they could not escape the belief that the consequences were certain to be + of the most serious nature to themselves, and in this conclusion, sad to + say, they were not mistaken. + </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. — UNDER THE BANK. + </h2> + <p> + A few minutes later an open space appeared in front of the boat. It was + the month of the tributary flowing into the Ganges from the left or north, + and was more than a hundred yards across. Since it was necessary to stem + the current in order to take advantage of this refuge, the doctor + contemplated it with misgiving, for the work of poling it up stream + promised to be laborious. He had not forgotten his original plan of + abandoning the boat and striking across the country on foot, taking + advantage of the less-frequented roads and paths that were well known to + him. He was relieved, however, to find the flow so languid that it was + easy to make headway against it. + </p> + <p> + "I have never followed this stream far," he remarked, "and, therefore, + have less knowledge of it than the rest of the country, but my impression + is that it cannot serve us long." + </p> + <p> + "It will be time enough to leave the boat and take to the woods when we + can go no further," said Jack Everson; "but we cannot get away from the + main stream too soon." + </p> + <p> + This was self-evident. It was not likely that the natives after their + decisive repulse would abandon their purpose of massacring the party, but + they would be more guarded in what they did and probably secure + reinforcements, an easy thing to do when the sanguinary wretches + everywhere were thirsting for victims. + </p> + <p> + Jack had seized one of the poles, and he and young Wharton plied them with + so much sturdiness that the heavy craft made better progress than at any + time since it was used as a vehicle of safety. The course of the tributary + was winding, and our friends had not gone far when they were shut out from + the sight of any persons passing up and down the main river, even if close + to the northern bank. + </p> + <p> + Would the natives suspect the course taken by the whites? That was the + all-important question that must soon be answered. After searching up and + down the Ganges without success, it was likely they would penetrate the + stratagem and follow them, in which event the fugitives would be in a + critical situation, since the straightness of the stream and the wooded + shores would place them at much greater disadvantage than if they remained + upon the Ganges. + </p> + <p> + When the boat had ascended the tributary for perhaps an eighth of a mile + it was deemed safe to lessen the work of poling. Careful listening failed + to detect any sound of pursuit, and there was ground for hoping that their + enemies neither knew nor suspected what had been done. + </p> + <p> + Several facts had become apparent. The densely wooded shores offered + excellent concealment. By running the boat beneath the dense branches and + among the heavy vegetation the keenest-eyed Asiatics might pass up or down + stream almost within arm's length without suspecting its presence. But the + tributary had perceptibly narrowed and its current was swifter than at the + mouth. All this pointed to the truth of what Dr. Marlowe suspected—the + stream could not serve them much further. + </p> + <p> + The night was now so far advanced that the women took the advice of their + friends and withdrew to the cabin for slumber. Their quarters were + cramped, but they made themselves fairly comfortable. The night was cooler + than the day, but only sufficiently so to be pleasant. It was not deemed + probable that anything would be seen of their enemies before the morrow, + and perhaps not even then. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Marlowe insisted upon taking his turn in poling, but since there were + four vigorous men without him, they would not consent. When two had toiled + for an hour or more, they gave way to the other couple, and the progress + thus continued without interruption, while the time slowly dragged along. + The resting spells gave each the opportunity for sleep, thus husbanding + their vigor for the morrow. Finding that there was nothing to which he + could turn his hand, the physician reclined at the bow and soon joined the + others in dreamland. + </p> + <p> + It was probably one o'clock when Jack Everson, who had been sleeping for + nearly an hour, was awakened by a gentle shaking of his shoulder. Opening + his eyes and looking up he saw Wharton bending over him. + </p> + <p> + "All right," remarked the American; "I'm ready for my turn," and he rose, + yawning, to his feet. + </p> + <p> + "I think we had better rest until morning." + </p> + <p> + "Why?" + </p> + <p> + "The current has become so rapid that it is hard to make progress; this + stream can't be of much further use to us." + </p> + <p> + It needed but a glance around in the gloom to see that it was as his + friend had declared. The boat was so close to the left-hand shore that it + was held motionless by Anderson at the bow, who gripped an overhanging + branch, with one hand. The water rippled around the front of the craft, + and when Jack dipped the end of one of the poles into the current it swept + downward at a rate that astonished him. + </p> + <p> + "I esteem your advice good," he said, "but it will not do to leave the + boat in sight." + </p> + <p> + With the help of the limbs and the use of the poles it was easy to force + the craft under the bank, where it was screened from observation. Then it + was secured in place against drifting and all work for the time was over. + </p> + <p> + Wharton and Jack Everson were the only persons awake. The women had been + sleeping for several hours, while Anderson and Turner had long since + joined the venerable doctor in the realms of unconsciousness. The two + young men sat down where they could speak in low tones without being + overheard. + </p> + <p> + "It won't do for all of us to sleep at the same time," remarked Jack; "the + scoundrels may be creeping up stream after us." + </p> + <p> + "That is hardly possible; I am sure that for the present we are as safe as + if in the heart of London." + </p> + <p> + "I cannot believe as you do; since I have just enjoyed an hour's sleep I + will act as sentinel until daybreak. I can easily keep awake for the few + hours that remain." + </p> + <p> + "As you think best, though I am sure it is an unnecessary precaution." + </p> + <p> + "We must not forget that there are perils from the jungle as well as from + the river. There is no saying what wild beast may pay us a visit." + </p> + <p> + Inasmuch as Jack could not be dissuaded from his purpose, and Wharton + began to suspect his friend was half right, the question was decided. + Wharton stretched out on the deck, falling asleep almost immediately, and + Jack thus found himself the only one with his senses at command and with + the safety of the others dependent upon him. + </p> + <p> + He took his place near the cabin, where the women were slumbering, with + his breechloader in hand. He was never more wide awake and was sure he + would remain so for hours to come. Wharton had offered to divide the duty + with him in acting as sentinel, but our hero preferred to keep the matter + in his own hands. He was sure his friend did not realize the full peril of + their situation. + </p> + <p> + The stillness was broken only by the peculiar cries in the jungle, which + it may be said were never wholly silent. First on the right, then on the + left, then from the front, and again from different points on both sides + of the stream he heard the sounds, some faint and far away, with others + alarmingly close. The hoarse snarl of the tiger, the finer cry of the + leopard, the squawking of night birds, with other noises that he could not + identify, were continually in the air. Had they been heard for the first + time he would have been in a tremor of fear and nervousness; but man soon + becomes accustomed to danger, and the nearest must come still nearer to + cause his pulse an additional throb. + </p> + <p> + Jack Everson was sensible that through this medley of strange noises there + was one sound that was continuous and never changing. So faint that at + first he and Wharton failed to notice it, it now impressed itself too + distinctly upon his consciousness for him to be mistaken. It was a low, + steady hum or moaning, such as the traveller hears when miles inland from + the ocean. He could not identify it, though he made several guesses, and + was still speculating unsatisfactorily, when he received a startling + reminder that there was a new peril at his very feet. + </p> + <p> + The first notice was a faint purring sound, as if made by a gigantic cat, + accompanied by a rustling of the vegetation scarcely a dozen feet away. He + instantly grasped his rifle with both hands and was alert. It was + impossible to distinguish ordinary objects in the gloom, but suddenly two + small circles glittered with a greenish light and the purring was + succeeded by a low, cavernous growl. Then it all became clear to him: a + royal Bengal tiger was stealing upon the boat and was probably gathering + himself for a leap at that very moment. + </p> + <p> + Had all the occupants been asleep the frightful terror would have played + sad havoc with them before they could defend themselves. As it was, it + looked as if more than one fatality must follow his attack. + </p> + <p> + But for that phosphorescent gleam of the brute's eyes Jack Everson would + not have been able to locate him, but the glow of the two objects defined + the outlines and locality of the horrible thing as unmistakably as if the + sun were overhead. The occasion was one in which everything depended upon + promptness. The tiger was likely to shift his position and turn his head + so that the eyes would fail to show. + </p> + <p> + Jack reflected that there probably were a number of spots in the anatomy + of the jungle terror that were more vulnerable than others; that a + well-aimed bullet might be instantly fatal in one, while able to inflict + only a partial wound in another. Be that as it may, he was sure that a + conical bullet driven between the eyes and through bone, muscle and brain + by a rifle that could kill a man at the distance of a mile must do + effective work when that brain was not a dozen feet distant from the + muzzle of the weapon. At any rate, there was no time for inquiry and he + did not hesitate. + </p> + <p> + Aiming for a point midway between the gleaming orbs he pressed the + trigger. It takes a well-aimed weapon to kill a royal Bengal tiger, even + at a short distance, but Jack's rifle was well aimed. The tiny sphere of + lead darted through the brain and along the spinal marrow as if fired with + the vicious energy of a charge of dynamite. + </p> + <p> + It so happened that the tiger was in the act of making his graceful but + fearful leap that was to land him upon the breast of the young man, who + had risen to his feet just before firing. The check at that instant + produced a queer result, the like of which is not often seen. The shock of + the bullet crashing into the head of the muscular beast at the instant he + was calling into play his prodigious strength intensified that strength to + a sudden and astonishing degree. The consequence was that the tiger, + instead of making the leap he intended, made one twice as great and + overshot the mark. From out the gloom the beautiful sinewy body, of which + only a glimpse could be caught, emerged as if fired from the throat of a + Columbiad and, curving over the shoulders of the man and the boat, dropped + into the stream with a splash that sent the water flying in every + direction. + </p> + <p> + Beyond the line of shadow, where the faint moonlight fell upon him, the + tiger was seen to be a beast of extraordinary size. He emitted one rasping + snarl while sailing through the air, but was already dead when he fell + into the water, where it could not be seen he had made a struggle. The + sinewy body dipped out of sight, bobbed up again and the next minute was + swept beyond view by the rapid current. + </p> + <p> + Rather strangely, not one of the women was awakened by the report of the + rifle so near them, and of the men Dr. Marlowe and Anderson were the only + ones who rose to a sitting posture and anxiously inquired the cause of the + firing. + </p> + <p> + "I discovered an animal prowling near the boat," replied Jack, who thought + it well not to disturb them with the whole truth, "and I winged him." + </p> + <p> + "You are sure you killed him?" asked the doctor; "most likely it was a + tiger." + </p> + <p> + "I am quite sure of that, and am just as sure that, considered strictly as + a tiger, he is of no further account. I made another bull's-eye in his + case." + </p> + <p> + "How many is that?" asked the physician, entering into the spirit of the + jest. + </p> + <p> + "My fifth, counting only those that I am sure of." + </p> + <p> + "You are doing well; keep it up; let the good work go on," replied the + elder, again adjusting himself for slumber, quite content to leave the + valiant young American in charge of the boat and its occupants. Jack had + it in mind to question him about that distant murmuring sound that puzzled + him, but when ready to do so he discovered that the doctor was again + asleep and he did not disturb him. + </p> + <p> + The fact that one denizen of the jungle had paid the boat a visit was + ground for looking for a call from another. Jack remained, therefore, on + the alert, and though under ordinary circumstances he would have fallen + asleep he kept wide awake until the growing light in the sky told of the + coming day. Before the sun was fairly above the horizon all were astir. + They bathed faces and hands in the roiled water and greeted one another + with thankfulness that the night had passed without harm to any member of + the little company. + </p> + <p> + When the three men and their wives fled from Meerut they took with them + enough food to last for several days. There is little excuse for people + dying of starvation in any part of India, though sad to say it is only + recently that thousands were swept away by famine. Fruit is abundant and + little meat is necessary in hot countries. Before the morning meal was + partaken of Jack Everson asked Dr. Marlowe to explain the cause of the low + moaning noise that had been in his ears for moat of the night. The elder + listened for a minute and replied: + </p> + <p> + "What I expected! We are very near the head of navigation; that sound + comes from falls or rapids, above which we cannot go with this boat." + </p> + <p> + This announcement precipitated a discussion as to what was the best course + to follow. The physician left no doubt of his sentiments. + </p> + <p> + "The devils will be prowling up this stream within a few hours; I should + not be surprised if they are near us this moment; the boat is of no + further use to us." + </p> + <p> + The three, Anderson, Turner and Wharton, did not agree with him. The craft + had served them so well that they were unwilling to abandon it. They + seemed to believe that it offered a much safer means of defense than they + could find anywhere on land. + </p> + <p> + "But you cannot stay forever on it," protested the doctor impatiently. + </p> + <p> + "We do not expect to," replied Anderson; "we may decide to descend to the + Ganges again, and continue down the river." + </p> + <p> + "Whither?" + </p> + <p> + "To Cawnpore or some point nearer." + </p> + <p> + The doctor was aghast. + </p> + <p> + "You mean to leap straight into the hornet's nest; those are the places, + of all others, that must be avoided." + </p> + <p> + "It may be as you say, but I am hopeful that the English garrisons have + been able to hold out against the mutineers." + </p> + <p> + "It is a woeful mistake, my friend; if you persist in it we must part + company." + </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. — THE SOUND OF FIRING. + </h2> + <p> + Jack Everson was hardly less impatient than the doctor over the obstinacy + of their lately made friends. He reminded them that the physician had + spent a score of years in that part of the world, with which he was so + familiar that his judgment ought to outweigh theirs, but the argument was + useless. They had decided to stick to the boat that had served them so + well and could not be dissuaded. Their plan, as they had intimated, now + that they found they could go little further up stream, was to descend to + the Ganges, with a view of working their way down to some of the cities, + where they hoped to find the English had succeeded in holding out against + the mutineers. + </p> + <p> + Could this be done, and could such a haven be reached, all would be well, + but the doctor assured them they were leaning upon a broken reed. When it + became evident that all persuasions were useless the parties separated. A + common peril had brought them near to one another and it was impossible + that that they should part except as friends. All felt the solemnity of + the hour. Each wife kissed and embraced Mary Marlowe, and like her shed + tears at what they felt was probably the final parting, so far as this + world was concerned. The men warmly shook hands and there was more than + one tremulous voice when the three passed over the side of the boat and + said farewell. + </p> + <p> + The latter walked some distance through the jungle, which was so dense + that they were obliged to follow one of the numerous paths made by the + animals in going to and coming from the water. The doctor, by virtue of + his superior knowledge, took the lead, with his daughter close behind, and + Jack Everson bringing up the rear. They were silent and thoughtful, for + their spirits were oppressed by a deep gloom and the feeling that + something dreadful impended. + </p> + <p> + Not far off the path which they were following expanded into a natural + clearing two or three rods in extent. When they reached the spot the + doctor halted and faced his companions. + </p> + <p> + "I now know where we are," he said in an undertone; "we have to follow + this path a little way back, when we enter a hilly and rough country, + where the jungle is more open. It is cut up by numerous trails like this, + most of which have been made by the feet of wild animals, but one of them + leads northward and finally enters a highway, which if followed far enough + will land us in the Nepaul country." + </p> + <p> + "I assume from what you have said that it will not be safe to stick to + this road?" said Jack. + </p> + <p> + "No; for two or three days while travelling over it we shall be in + constant danger; our task will be to make our way over it without + attracting the notice of any of our enemies who are scouring the country + for us." + </p> + <p> + "Is the thing possible?" + </p> + <p> + "I should not undertake it did I not think so; the danger will threaten + for probably a hundred miles, though growing steadily less as we proceed." + </p> + <p> + "Will it not be safer to do our travelling by night?" asked the daughter. + </p> + <p> + "That is what I mean to do after reaching the more plainly marked path, + which connects with the highway. I see no risk in pushing through the + jungle by day, since the only foes we are likely to encounter are + four-footed ones. If we meet any such we must refrain from firing, since + the reports of our guns will be sure to draw attention to us. I mean, of + course," explained the doctor, "that our weapons are not to be appealed to + unless there is no escape otherwise, as was the case with the tiger." + </p> + <p> + While he was speaking, Mary gave a faint gasp and caught his arm. She and + Jack were facing the point toward which his back was turned. Seeing that + it was something behind him that had startled both, the doctor turned his + head. As if to emphasize the words just spoken, he saw an immense spotted + leopard, motionless in the trail not more than fifty feet away. Evidently + he was trotting to the stream, when he caught sight of the three persons, + stopped short, raised his head and stared wonderingly at them. + </p> + <p> + The leopard shares the reputation of the tiger for deadly ferocity and + daring. When more than 20,000 persons are killed in India every year by + wild animals and serpents, it will be found that the leopard is one of the + most active among these factors of death, and holds his own well up with + the tiger. + </p> + <p> + Like the venomous serpent, the leopard had a terrible beauty all his own. + As he stood with head raised, eyes glaring, mouth slightly parted and his + long tail lashing his sides with a force that made the thumping against + his glossy ribs plainly audible, his pose was perfect. What a picture he + made! + </p> + <p> + The question that was to be quickly answered was whether the fearful brute + would allow himself to be turned aside from the path and withdraw again + into the jungle with his thirst unslaked. If he did he would not be + molested; if he presumed to advance upon the party, whom he evidently held + in slight fear, let him be prepared for the consequences! + </p> + <p> + Jack Everson fumbled his rifle and looked with sparkling eyes at the + beast. + </p> + <p> + "What a chance for another bull's-eye!" he said, in a low voice. "I would + take him right between and above his forelegs, where I should be sure of + reaching his heart." + </p> + <p> + "Don't fire unless he advances to attack us," warned the elder. + </p> + <p> + It would be hard to say what induced the leopard to retreat, for, as has + been said, he is one of the most dangerous denizens of the jungle; but, + while our friends were expecting a charge from him, he wheeled about and + trotted off. + </p> + <p> + "It looks as if he had learned something of your skill," remarked the + doctor with a smile. + </p> + <p> + Again, while the words were in the mouth of the speaker, he was + interrupted, this time in a more terrifying manner than before. + </p> + <p> + From the direction of the stream which they had left but a short time + previous, and undoubtedly from the boat itself, came the reports of + firearms. There were no shouts or outcries, but the firing was rapid and + apparently made by gun and pistol. + </p> + <p> + "They have been attacked!" exclaimed Mary; "we must go to their help!" + </p> + <p> + She impulsively started along the path, but her father seized her arm and + said sternly: + </p> + <p> + "Remain here! It is no place for you; Jack and I will do what we can." + </p> + <p> + Perhaps in the excitement of the moment the parent did not fully + comprehend the danger of leaving his daughter alone in the jungle, even at + so slight a distance and for so brief a time as he anticipated, with + nothing but a revolver as a means of defence; but he and Jack Everson were + eager to rush to the aid of their friends, and they hurried over the trail + without even looking back at her. + </p> + <p> + The young man was slightly behind his companion and both broke into a + loping trot. Each held his rifle in hand, on the alert to use it the + instant the opportunity presented itself. + </p> + <p> + It will be borne in mind that the distance from the slight natural opening + to the boat was short, and a few minutes sufficed for the two men to cover + it; but a strange thing happened. The reports of firearms which had broken + out with such suddenness ceased with the same abruptness, and the silence + because of the contrast was tenfold more oppressive than before. + </p> + <p> + "What can that mean?" asked Jack, as his companion slackened his pace. + </p> + <p> + "<i>It means that they are through</i>!" replied the doctor, whose face + was of deathly paleness. "My God! what have we escaped!" + </p> + <p> + "We shall soon know," replied Jack, catching the awful significance of the + words; and then he added to himself: + </p> + <p> + "We may have escaped it, but for how long?" + </p> + <p> + A few rods further and they were at the side of the stream, and the boat + loomed to view through the thick undergrowth and vegetation. + </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. — GONE! + </h2> + <p> + Neither Jack Everson nor Dr. Marlowe forgot his own personal danger in + hurrying to the help of their imperilled friends. If the two were too late + to be of any assistance they were imminently likely to precipitate + themselves into the same whirlpool of woe and death. They had slowed their + gait to a walk as they neared the spot, and when they caught the dim + outlines of the boat the two stood still. + </p> + <p> + So far as they could see there was no change in its surroundings. It was + still moored against the bank, so close that any one could step aboard, + but no sign of living person was visible on or about it. There was + something so uncanny in it all that but for their mutual knowledge they + would have doubted the evidence of their senses. + </p> + <p> + "I don't understand it," whispered Jack. "Suppose you stay here while I + steal nigh enough to learn something that will help clear up the horrible + mystery." + </p> + <p> + "You are running frightful risk," said the doctor; "I cannot advise you to + try it." + </p> + <p> + "All the same, I shall do it." + </p> + <p> + Thus, it will be observed that the three persons composing the little + party became separated from one another for greater or less distances. The + daughter was waiting, two or three hundred yards away, for the return of + her father and lover, while they had just parted company, though they + expected to remain in sight of each other. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Marlowe stood in the path, partly sheltering himself behind a couple + of tree trunks, but with his eyes fixed upon his young friend, who walked + cautiously but unhesitatingly forward. Jack held his rifle in a trailing + position at his side, his shoulders bent slightly forward, while he + stepped lightly, his senses alert, like those of a scout entering the camp + of an enemy. That he was running into great danger was self-evident, but + he was determined not to turn back until he learned something of the + strange occurrences. + </p> + <p> + Watching his young friend, the doctor saw him stop when at the side of the + motionless boat. His profile showed first on one side and then, on the + other, while he listened for the slightest sound that could give an atom + of knowledge. Apparently the effort was useless, for the next moment he + placed his left hand on the gunwale and vaulted lightly upon deck. He + stood a few moments as if transfixed, then turning abruptly about leaped + to the ground, and, breaking into a run, hurried back to his friend, who + noticed that his face was more ghastly than before, while his eyes stared + as if they still looked upon unutterable things. + </p> + <p> + "What is it?" asked the elder in a ghostly whisper. + </p> + <p> + "My God! don't ask me to tell!" + </p> + <p> + "You forget that we are both physicians." + </p> + <p> + "But not that we are human beings; thank Heaven forever that you did not + look upon the sight my eyes saw a moment ago. Let it suffice, doctor, to + say that of the three men and women to whom we bade good-bye within the + past twenty minutes not one is alive! The fiends have been there." + </p> + <p> + Not the least singular fact connected with this hideous incident was that + the devils who committed the unspeakable crime had vanished, so far as + could be seen, as utterly as if the ground had opened beneath their feet + and swallowed them. Two men had come back upon the scene within a few + minutes after all this was done, and yet the doers were nowhere in sight. + What was the meaning of their hasty departure? + </p> + <p> + It was unreasonable to think they had gone far. They must be in the + vicinity. They must have noticed the absence of the doctor and his + companions; doubtless they were looking for them along shore; possibly + they had started over some of the trails and ere long would strike the one + along which the three had fled. + </p> + <p> + "A wonderful Providence has preserved us thus far," said Jack Everson; + "but it is too much to expect we shall emerge unscathed from this hell + hole." + </p> + <p> + "I hope nothing will happen to Mary before we rejoin her." + </p> + <p> + "We shall be with her in a minute." + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, a vague fear disturbed both. The parent was again leading, + and he unconsciously hastened his footsteps. Only a slight distance beyond + they came to the small opening where they had left her standing but a + brief while before. Since the men had passed over the intervening distance + to the river it was unlikely that anything had occurred to alarm the young + woman, but there was no saying what might happen in those times and in + that part of the world. + </p> + <p> + The real shock came to the parent when he turned in the trail and saw the + open space but failed to observe his daughter. He hurried on without + speaking, but Jack, directly behind him, had made the discovery, for a + moment he was so breathless and dizzy that he barely saved himself from + falling. His heart became lead, and the awful conviction got hold of him + that the most woeful affliction of all had come upon them, and that his + betrothed was lost irrecoverably. + </p> + <p> + But the sight of the anguish of the parent when he turned about and + faintly gasped, "Where is my child?" brought the self-command of the young + man back. + </p> + <p> + It was the despairing question wrung from the heart of the parent, with a + grief that was no keener than that of Jack Everson himself. Here was + another instance of the appalling suddenness with which tragedies began + and were completed in this infernal country. A band of half a dozen was + cut off within the space of a few minutes, and now, in still less time, a + young woman vanished as if she had never been. + </p> + <p> + Jack did not dare trust his voice in the effort to speak, but when his + eyes met those of the parent he shook his head, saying by the gesture: + </p> + <p> + "God have mercy, I cannot answer." + </p> + <p> + But strong men do not remain dazed and helpless in the presence of a + shuddering calamity. If any one thing could be set down as certain it was + that Miss Marlowe had left the place by fleeing deeper into the jungle. + She could not have approached them without being observed: therefore they + must seek her by taking the same direction. + </p> + <p> + The energy of the man more than threescore under the spur of his anguish + was like that of the athlete of one-third of his years. He still led the + way, and, after the brief halt under the fearful blow, he rallied and + compelled Jack Everson to keep upon a trot to save himself from falling + behind. + </p> + <p> + A hundred paces from the opening they reached a point where the trails + forked. They stopped, the parent being the first to do so. + </p> + <p> + "Jack," said he, using the less formal name, for under the awful shadow + they had drawn nearer to each other, "we can't afford to make any + mistake." + </p> + <p> + "There shall be none if you tell me how to prevent it." + </p> + <p> + "She must have followed one of these paths, but who shall say which?" + </p> + <p> + He stooped over and peered at the ground. Within the dim hush of the + jungle he was unable to discern the slightest disturbance of the earth. + </p> + <p> + "No use of that," said the doctor, reading his intention; "therefore we + will separate; one of us will overtake them." + </p> + <p> + "Have you any idea of the identity of these devils?" + </p> + <p> + "I think they are Ghoojurs, but it makes no difference; Mussulmans and + Hindoos are the same; each of us has a rifle and revolver; if you get + sight of them don't wait to notify me; shoot to kill; you know how to do + it." + </p> + <p> + "I shall shrink from nothing, but the case may be hopeless." + </p> + <p> + "If it is will you promise me one thing?" asked, the parent of the young + man looking him in the eye. + </p> + <p> + "I do; what is the pledge?" + </p> + <p> + "That you point your gun at her?" + </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. — A SHADOWY PURSUIT. + </h2> + <p> + It was a fearful pledge to exact, but Jack Everson gave it without + hesitation. + </p> + <p> + "You understand me; enough; let us lose no more time; I will turn to the + right; good-bye; we are all in the hands of God." + </p> + <p> + There was not a tear in the eye of the parent. His heart might be torn by + grief, but he was now the Roman from whose lips no murmuring was heard. + </p> + <p> + It seemed to Jack Everson that the strangeness of the incidents of the + past hour had lifted him into a state of exaltation. He never felt calmer + nor more self-possessed than when hurrying over the path, rifle in hand, + revolver at his hip with the belief that there was not one chance in a + thousand that he would ever again look upon the one who had won his heart + when the two were on the other side of the world and for whose sake he was + ready to go to the uttermost lengths of the earth. + </p> + <p> + His feeling was: "They have stolen her from us, but by the Eternal she + shall cost them dear!" + </p> + <p> + There was no thought of what all this implied to himself. He did not care + what the consequences were, so far as he was concerned. It came to be a + legend among the men desperately defending their families and themselves + during the horrors of the Sepoy mutiny, that in fighting the unspeakable + fiends, the European should save a bullet apiece for his dear ones and one + for himself. + </p> + <p> + Such was the resolve of the young American who was now making all haste to + find his beloved and her captors, and settling down into that resolution + he acted with the coolness of a veteran. + </p> + <p> + The first truth that impressed itself upon him was that the path which he + was following steadily ascended, being quite steep in many places. This + showed as a matter of course that he was attaining higher ground. He was + not familiar enough with the country to know that he was approaching a + steep ridge of hills, for the doctor had told him nothing of the fact, and + the elevated section had been passed in the boat at night. He observed, + too, that his course trended to the right, proving that he was penetrating + deeper into the country. + </p> + <p> + "If the line that the doctor is following holds straight on we must + approach each other, but his may turn more than mine—confound it!" + </p> + <p> + He had reached a point where the paths forked again. Supposing he had been + fortunate enough to take the right course at the beginning, how could he + maintain it? + </p> + <p> + Swallowing his exasperation, he reflected coolly. The trail to the left + was less travelled than the one which kept directly forward. He believed + the Ghoojurs had kept to it possibly because there was less danger of + pursuit. One fact was self-evident: nothing was to be gained by standing + still, while there was a chance of accomplishing something by going on. + With scarcely a minute's hesitation he advanced at a rapid stride over the + more faintly marked course, peering in advance for a glimpse of his + enemies. + </p> + <p> + Since the latter had not gained much start it would seem that he ought to + be close upon them, always provided he was traveling in their actual + footsteps. The ground continued rough and broken, but it had no effect on + his progress. Something like a shadow whisked across the path in front at + the moment of his passing round a turn. Some animal had caught sight of + him, and, scared by the vision, had leaped into the jungle at the side. + Whether it was a tiger, leopard, cheetah, wild boar or another brute he + did not know or care. If it dared to dispute his way he would shoot. + </p> + <p> + He was pressing forward in this reckless, desperate fashion, when he + dropped as if he had collided with a stone wall, and his heart almost + ceased its beating. He had caught the faint report of a firearm. It came + from a point on his right and sounded as if caused by a revolver, rather + than a larger weapon. The thought that came to him was that it was the + pistol of Mary Marlowe! + </p> + <p> + "She is at bay; she may have fired it at herself, and yet I do not think + she would do that until some of the bullets had reached the wretches who + have captured her. I am following the wrong path, for this one leads me + away from her." + </p> + <p> + Without an instant's hesitation he turned and began his return on a loping + trot. He was incensed with himself because of his mistake, and yet there + was no reasonable cause for such feeling, but grief is as thoughtless as + love, and he was stirred to the very depth of his soul by both. Reaching + the last forking, he did not pause, but set out over the main trail. + </p> + <p> + In front of him towered a mass of rocks higher than any he had yet seen. + The path wound about these, but instead of following it, he climbed to the + highest part. + </p> + <p> + "I may gain sight of something from up there," was his thought as he + pushed on, "that will be of some help." + </p> + <p> + And he did see something from the crest which fairly took away his breath. + </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. — ALMOS. + </h2> + <p> + Mary Marlowe was an obedient daughter, and when her father checked her + move to go to the aid of the imperilled ones on the boat, and peremptorily + ordered her to wait where she was, she obeyed without protest. She would + have been glad to bear them company, but knew she would be more of a + hindrance than a help. + </p> + <p> + It was less than five minutes after the disappearance of her father and + betrothed when she was frightened by hearing a slight sound directly + behind her in the path. Her thought naturally was that some wild animal + was stealing upon her, but the first glance told a more dreadful story. + Five men, who, from their ragged, scant attire, their dark complexion and + wild expression of features, she knew to belong to the terrible bandits + called Ghoojurs, had come upon her unnoticed, and pausing within a half + dozen paces, were looking fixedly at her. + </p> + <p> + The sight was so startling that the young woman gasped and recoiled. She + would have fled after her friends had not the leader made a gesture, + accompanied by the command: + </p> + <p> + "Stay where you are or you shall be killed! I know you as the daughter of + the doctor, and we seek you and him." + </p> + <p> + Each of the Ghoojurs carried a long, muzzle-loading gun, and every one had + a yataghan thrust into a girdle around his waist, the weapon being a foot + or more in length, and with a point of needle-like fineness. The leader + spoke in Hindustani, which was as familiar to the young woman as her own + tongue. + </p> + <p> + The young woman possessed quick wit. She could not doubt that the five, + including Almos and Mustad, were now her deadly enemies. Whether they had + taken part in the massacre of those left on the boat could not be + conjectured, but the probabilities were the other way, since it would have + been well-nigh impossible for them to reach their present position from + the river without colliding with Dr. Marlowe and Jack Everson. + </p> + <p> + Mary showed her shrewdness by acting as if the two men were the friends + they had always shown themselves when their former meetings took place. + </p> + <p> + "Why, Almos," she said, forcing a smile in which there was no pleasure, + "we have not met before since you came to my home and my father gave you + medicine that cured your illness. How do you do?" + </p> + <p> + And she had the courage to advance a step and offer her dainty hand, but + the brute refused it. With a shake of his head he retreated a step and + said: + </p> + <p> + "My caste will not allow me." + </p> + <p> + "But it allowed you to take drink and food from my hand and medicine from + that of my father," she said, stung by the repulse. + </p> + <p> + "I did evil, for which Allah has pardoned me; the faithful have been + summoned to drive the infidels from India; the followers of Islam have + heard the call, and they are flocking to the banner of the Prophet from + all parts of Hindostan; not one infidel shall be left in all the land." + </p> + <p> + During these few moments Mustad stood directly behind the leader, with a + fixed grin in which there was a certain shamefacedness, for with all his + fierce fanaticism he could not forget the gentle, sweet nature of the one + who had become a prisoner nor the unvarying kindness he had received at + her hands. True, the devil in his nature was roused, and there could be + little question that he was acting as guide to these murderers while they + hunted for the doctor and his family. + </p> + <p> + "And do you mean to help kill those who have been your friends, Mustad?" + she asked, with her penetrating eyes fixed upon him. + </p> + <p> + Had the two been alone, it is possible the edge would have been taken off + the response, but with four Ghoojurs at his elbow, and one of them the + furious Almos, he dared not be behind them in savagery. + </p> + <p> + "This is a war for our deen; when we fight for that we know none but the + followers of the Prophet! The Inglese loge stole our homes and our land + from us! They have put lard on the cartridges of the Sepoys that the + faithful may become unclean and be shut out of paradise! I hate them all! + I have no friends among them! I shall never sheath my knife nor stay my + hand while one remains alive in India." + </p> + <p> + "Let it be as you say," she calmly replied, seeing that it was useless to + hold converse with the wretch. + </p> + <p> + Her wish was to keep the party where they were until Jack and her father + could have time to return. Here would be an opportunity for the young man + to make a few more bull's-eyes, but Almos was too wise to run the risk. He + was not afraid to fight two men, even though not so well armed as they, + but his wish was first to place the young woman beyond their reach—for + when the fight came it would be to the death. + </p> + <p> + "No harm shall come to you," said the leader in a gentler tone. "Walk + forward over the path and we will guard you against harm." + </p> + <p> + "Whither do you intend to take me?" she asked, debating whether to obey or + to make a fight then and there and force matters to an issue. + </p> + <p> + "To Akwar." + </p> + <p> + "Why there?" + </p> + <p> + "To place you among friends that your enemies may not reach you." + </p> + <p> + "Why not take me to my home?" + </p> + <p> + "It has been burned and the men are hiding among the trees that they may + slay you when you and your father return." + </p> + <p> + After a moment's hesitation she obeyed, taking the path along which her + parent soon after pressed in the desperate effort to recover her from her + captors. + </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. — DOCTOR AND PATIENT. + </h2> + <p> + The bright wits of Miss Marlowe were active. Mustad took the lead along + the path, she following next, while Almos, the leader of the Ghoojurs, and + his three companions, brought up the rear. Like most of the trails through + the Asiatic jungles, this was inclosed on each side by a growth of trees, + undergrowth and matted vegetation of such density that it was next to + impossible for any one to pick his way forward or backward except by + keeping within the path itself. To step aside into the jungle would + immediately involve one in so inextricable a tangle that he could move + only with the greatest difficulty. + </p> + <p> + An attempt to escape, therefore, by darting to one side was not to be + thought of, and she knew that her only hope lay with her absent friends. + She was confident that they would speedily return, and, finding her gone, + start in immediate pursuit. A collision between them and the Ghoojurs was + imminent. + </p> + <p> + The latter acted as if their only interest lay in their prisoner. So far + as she could judge no attention was paid to the rear, whence the danger of + attack threatened. The place of Mustad, at the head, confirmed her + suspicion that he had been playing the part of guide for the rest from the + first. + </p> + <p> + She did not doubt that her home and its contents had been burned by the + wretches, but under the circumstances the matter gave her little concern. + She was inclined to believe that her captors meant to conduct her into the + town of Akwar, nearby, and with her knowledge of the fanatical hatred of + the population against all Christians she still hoped to find some friends + there who would protect her from harm. And thus it was that she was not in + the state of collapse or despair that might be supposed. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly a pistol was fired from some point at the rear beyond her + captors, and out of sight. All the men instantly stopped, grasped their + arms and looked back, the young woman doing the same. Her thought was: + "That was father or Jack, but he did not hit any one; therefore, it wasn't + Jack." + </p> + <p> + While the six were looking expectantly to the rear Dr. Marlowe, his face + flushed, and his whole appearance, showing his intense excitement, came + into sight. He was panting from his severe exertion, and raised his hand + as a signal for the Ghoojurs to wait for him. It is probable that he would + have received a shot, but for an interruption that was as unexpected as it + was remarkable. Almos, the leader of the Ghoojurs, emitted a yell that + could have been heard a half-mile away, and leaped several feet in the + air, while his companions with exclamations of terror hastily recoiled + from him. + </p> + <p> + "Great Allah! He has been bitten!" exclaimed the horrified Mustad, almost + knocking the young woman off her feet in his rush towards his master; but + one of the others had perceived the monstrous cobra, and, clubbing his + gun, he beat the life out of it with one blow, before it could glide away + into the jungle. It looked as if this part of the country was specially + pestered by the dreadful reptiles. + </p> + <p> + Almos knew he was doomed. All hope had vanished, and, dropping to the + ground, he bared his bronzed ankle, looked at the tiny points where the + horrible poison had been injected into his system, and then, like the + fatalist be was, he calmly folded his arms and waited for the last moment + that was rushing upon him. He was a faithful follower of the Prophet and + knew how to meet the inevitable that awaits us all. His companions, awed + and silent, stood around, unable to say or do anything that could give him + comfort. Miss Marlowe, after walking part way to the group, paused and + looked at them and at her father, who was hurrying to the spot. She + wondered that Almos had permitted the killing of the cobra, since the + snake is looked upon as sacred in India, and few natives can be induced to + injure one. The Ghoojurs probably slew it in the flurry of the moment. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Marlowe had heard the cry and noted the excitement, but did not + suspect the cause until he drew near the spot. Then Mustad, familiar with + the skill of the medical man, beckoned to him and said: + </p> + <p> + "Make haste, great sahib, Almos has been bitten by a snake; no one can + save him but you." + </p> + <p> + The stricken chief, from his seat on the ground, looked up in the face of + the white man, of whose wonderful skill he had received proof in his own + self. The countenance of the Ghoojur was of ashen hue, and the yearning + expression of his eyes told of the hope that had been kindled within his + breast. + </p> + <p> + Now that the physician had dropped into what may be called his + professional character, he was himself again. He set down the caba + containing his instruments, and medicaments, adjusted his glasses, and + stooping over, intently studied the wound made by the cobra. Then he drew + out his watch, as if he were timing the pulse beats of a patient. + </p> + <p> + "It is one minute and a half since you were bitten," he said, still + holding the timepiece in his hand, but looking into the face of Almos; "in + three more minutes and a half no power but Allah can save you." + </p> + <p> + Catching the full meaning of these words, the Ghoojur leader quivered with + suddenly renewed hope. + </p> + <p> + "Can you save me?" he asked in Hindustani. + </p> + <p> + "I have in there," replied the physician, tapping his caba with his long + forefinger, "that which will render the bite of the snake as harmless as + the peck of a bird that flies in the air, but barely three minutes remain + in which to apply it." + </p> + <p> + "Then I beseech you, do not wait," said the eager Almos, shoving his foot + towards the doctor; "great is the English doctor; be quick; why do you + tarry?" + </p> + <p> + "Before I heal you," replied Dr. Marlowe, with maddening deliberation, "I + must be paid my fee; I have attended you before and refused to accept what + you offered, but now I demand payment before applying the remedy." + </p> + <p> + "You shall have it; name it, I beg you; all that I have shall be yours if + you will save me, but haste, O great physician, haste!" + </p> + <p> + "It is strong, and will do its work well, if it be given the chance." + </p> + <p> + He next drew out a lancet, with its edge like a razor's. Almos + breathlessly watched him, but when he expected the doctor to begin work, + he leaned back and said: + </p> + <p> + "Why should I bring you back from death, when you are seeking the lives of + my daughter and myself? The best thing I can do is to let you die, as you + will do in two minutes and a half more," he added, looking again at his + watch; "the venom of the cobra works fast and it will soon strike your + heart." + </p> + <p> + "You promised to save me if I would pay you in advance. + </p> + <p> + "So I will." + </p> + <p> + "Name your fee; be quick with it!" + </p> + <p> + "It is that you and the rest of the Ghoojurs shall leave me and mine + alone; that you shall depart at once; that you shall not attempt to + follow, nor harm us in any way. Without that pledge on your part, I shall + let you die like the dog that you are. What is your answer?" + </p> + <p> + "I promise; I promise!" exclaimed Almos, almost beside himself with + excitement and renewed hope. "I will guide you through the jungle to a + safe point, and will watch over you till all danger is gone." + </p> + <p> + "You have given me your promise, but you may break it; swear by the mantle + of the Prophet, or I shall let you die." + </p> + <p> + "I swear by the mantle of the Prophet!" the Ghoojur chieftain fairly + shrieked, "that I will do as I have promised! Quick, quick, or it will be + too late!" + </p> + <p> + "You have made the most sacred vow that a Mussulman can make; I will test + it by saving your life." + </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. — ASIATIC HONOR. + </h2> + <p> + One quick movement with the lancet made an incision across the red specks + left by the fangs of the cobra, and into the opening he poured a + teaspoonful of the yellowish fluid, which was so much like liquid fire and + pepper that even the dusky scoundrel gasped with agony. Then he was made + to open his mouth and swallow something from a large bottle, which, as + regards strength and flavor, was a twin of that which was consuming his + flesh. + </p> + <p> + All at once the countenance of the physician expanded with a beaming smile + as he looked at his patient and said gently as if speaking to his own + child: + </p> + <p> + "All danger is past, Almos." + </p> + <p> + From the abundance of rags which fluttered about his person, the doctor + tore a piece and bandaged the wound. Then he said in a business-like tone: + </p> + <p> + "I am through; now you and the rest of you may go." + </p> + <p> + Almos hesitated. + </p> + <p> + "You have saved my life: is there nothing I can do for you?" + </p> + <p> + "I have just told you what to do—<i>leave</i>?" + </p> + <p> + Probably there would have been less promptness in complying with the + command had there been less in uttering it. As it was, Almos, without a + word, motioned to the rest of his band, and led the way down the path in + the direction of the stream, the four tramping after him like so many + ragged phantoms. + </p> + <p> + Dr. Marlowe was more eager to leave the place than he would permit his + child to know. He had no faith in Almos's promise, knowing that the + Ghoojur chieftain would break his oath, which he and his brother fanatics + did not consider binding when made to infidels, and the only hope, + therefore, was for the fugitives to conceal themselves from the miscreants—a + thing which the physician's intimate knowledge of the country would enable + him to do. + </p> + <p> + Footfalls sounded along the path over which the two had just come, and a + minute later Almos, Mustad and their three companions emerged into the + opening and approached the couple, one of whom suspected nothing until her + father spoke. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Almos, what do you want?" demanded Dr. Marlowe, calmly looking up + at the Ghoojur chieftain, as he paused in front of him and made a salaam. + </p> + <p> + "We have come for the infidel and his daughter; our deen commands us to + put them to death." + </p> + <p> + "What does the oath you gave me a little while ago command you to do?" + </p> + <p> + "That was made to an infidel; it is not binding upon a true son of the + Prophet." + </p> + <p> + "A true son of the devil!" exclaimed the physician, unable to repress his + rage. + </p> + <p> + Turning to his daughter, he said: + </p> + <p> + "My child, you have a pistol; when they make a move, shoot; leave Almos to + me and save your last bullet for yourself." + </p> + <p> + "The infidels shall be destroyed everywhere," said Almos; "none of the + Inglese loge shall be left in India. The faithful have risen and they will + crush them all, for so commands the Prophet——" + </p> + <p> + Dr. Marlowe had placed his hand on the butt of his revolver at his hip, + meaning to whip out the weapon and fire before the miscreant had finished + his high-sounding tomfoolery. His daughter had also grasped hers, + intending to obey to the letter the command of her parent, when the + Ghoojur chieftain abruptly paused in his speech, staggered for a moment, + and then sank to the ground like a bundle of rags, with the breath of life + gone from his body. + </p> + <p> + The incident would have been as inexplicable to parent and child as to the + Ghoojurs, had they not caught the faint, far-away report of a rifle, + which, if heard by the bandits, was not associated by them with the + startling thing that had taken place before their eyes. But the doctor and + Mary knew the connection. + </p> + <p> + And about half-a-mile away, on the top of that huge rock, hot enough under + the flaming sun to roast eggs, Jack Everson had assumed the same position + that he held the afternoon before on the bank of the Ganges, when he + checked the advance of the Ghoojur horsemen across the river. With the aid + of the glasses, he had descried the forms of his beloved and her father + when the bright eyes failed to detect his own. Then, when about to start + to join them, he observed their visitors, and the glass again helped to + identify them, after which he "proceeded to business." + </p> + <p> + The instant he made his aim sure he pulled the trigger, came to a sitting + position, readjusted a cartridge, and placing the glasses to his eyes that + he might see the more plainly, watched the result of his shot. + </p> + <p> + "By Jove; another bull's-eye!" he gleefully exclaimed, as he saw his man + stagger and fall almost at the feet of Dr. Marlowe. "I don't know the + gentleman's name, but a first-class obituary notice is in order. That + makes six, and now for the seventh. I really hope the doctor is keeping + score for me." + </p> + <p> + The professional eye of the physician saw where the pellet of lead had + passed through the chest of Almos, but it was not observed by Mustad or + the other Ghoojurs, who probably attributed it in some way to the bite of + the cobra, in spite of the miraculous cure that seemed to have been + wrought before their eyes. The three remained in the background, but the + fall of the leader appeared to add flames to the hatred of Mustad, who, + assuming the mantle of the fallen chieftain, stepped to the front. + </p> + <p> + "You shall not escape us!" he hissed; "all the Inglese loge shall die!" + </p> + <p> + "But before any more of them perish, you shall go to the infernal regions + to keep company with the imp that has just gone thither." + </p> + <p> + The doctor had learned from the exhibition of the preceding afternoon the + time required by Jack Everson to repeat his marvelous shots. He knew, + therefore, about the moment when a second was due, and he decided to make + its arrival as dramatic as possible. + </p> + <p> + "You stand almost on the same spot where stood Almos; he dropped dead + before me, and," raising his hand impressively, "I command you to do the + same." + </p> + <p> + Mustad obeyed. + </p> + <p> + Again the faint report swept across the extent of jungle, travelling with + almost the same speed as the bullet, which, like its predecessor, bored + through the dusky chest of the victim and lost itself in the vegetation + beyond. Mustad gasped, convulsively clasped one hand to his breast, flung + out both arms, groped blindly for an instant, and then slumped down as + dead as one of the mummies of the Pyramids. + </p> + <p> + And the young American, still reclining on that gray, blistering rock, + again rose to a sitting posture and clapped the glasses to his eyes to + observe more clearly the result of his last trial at markmanship. + </p> + <p> + "That makes seven bull's-eyes!" was his delighted exclamation, "but I have + done as well when the distance was twice as great. I must keep the number + in mind, for it will be like the doctor to insist that I made but six out + of a possible eight. I notice that three gentlemen are left and require + attention." + </p> + <p> + With the same care as before, he lay back and drew bead on the group, but + the next moment uttered an impatient exclamation and straightened up + again. + </p> + <p> + "They have fled; only Mary and her father are left, and there's no call to + send any bullets in their direction." + </p> + <p> + The fall of Mustad at the command of the wrathful physician was more than + the other Ghoojurs could stand. Suspecting no connection between the + almost inaudible reports and the terrifying incidents, they believed their + only hope was in headlong flight. Without a word they dashed down the + trail, quickly passing from sight, and were seen no more. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Jack Everson, finding no demand for long shooting, sprang from + the rock and made all haste to the spot where he had recognized his + friends, and where they awaited his coming with an anxiety that could not + have been more intense. That others of their enemies were in the + neighborhood was certain, and their vengeance could not be restrained or + turned aside as had been that of the Ghoojurs. A collision between them + and the fugitives must be fatal to the latter. + </p> + <p> + Great, therefore, was the delight of father and daughter when the brave + fellow bounded into sight, his whole concern, as it seemed, being to learn + whether the score kept by the doctor agreed with his own. When assured + that it did, he announced that he was at the disposal of the venerable + physician and his daughter. + </p> + <p> + The three pushed steadily toward Nepaul, cheered by the knowledge that + with every mile passed their danger lessened. They were in great peril + more than once. Twice they exchanged shots with marauding bands, and once + their destruction seemed inevitable; but good fortune attended them, and + at the end of a week they entered the wild, mountainous and + sparsely-settled region, where at last all danger was at an end. + </p> + <p> + So it came about that when the young people took their final departure + down the Ganges for Calcutta, thence to return to the United States, Dr. + Marlowe went with them. He and his son-in-law formed a partnership in the + practice of their profession, and it is only a few years since that the + aged physician was laid to rest. He was full of years and honors, and + willing to go, for he knew that the happiness of his daughter could be in + no safer hands than those of Jack Everson. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0021" id="link2H_4_0021"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LOST IN THE WOODS. + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. — THE CABIN IN THE WOOD. + </h2> + <p> + Harvey Bradley had been superintendent of the Rollo Mills not quite a year + when, to his annoyance, the first strike in their history took place. + </p> + <p> + Young Bradley was a college graduate, a trained athlete, and a bright and + ambitious man, whose father was president of the company in New York which + owned the extensive mills. It was deemed best to have a direct + representative of the corporation on the ground, and Harvey qualified + himself for the responsible situation by a six-months' apprenticeship, + during all of which he wrought as hard as any laborer in the + establishment. + </p> + <p> + He made his home in the remote village of Bardstown, where the Rollo Mills + had been built. He lived with his Aunt Maria, (who went all the way from + New York with her favorite nephew that she might look after him), and his + sister Dollie, only six years old. The plan was that she should stay until + Christmas, when her father was to come and take her home. Aunt Maria, with + the help of honest Maggie Murray, kept house for Harvey, who found his + hands and brains fully occupied in looking after the interests of the + Rollo Mills, which gave employment to two hundred men, women and children. + </p> + <p> + All went well with the young superintendent for some months after the + assumption of his duties. He was alert, and surprised every one by his + practical knowledge. He was stern and strict, and, after warning several + negligent employes, discharged them. This did not help his popularity, + but, so long as the directors were satisfied, Harvey cared for the opinion + of no one else. + </p> + <p> + When dull times came, Superintendent Bradley scaled down the wages of all, + including his own. The promise to restore them, as soon as business + warranted the step, averted the threatened strike. Within a month the + restoration took place, but every employe was required to work a half hour + over time without additional pay. + </p> + <p> + A strike was averted for the time, but the friendly feeling and mutual + confidence that ought to exist between the employer and the employed was + destroyed. The latter kept at work, and the former felt that he had not + sacrificed his dignity nor his discipline. + </p> + <p> + But the discontent increased. One day Hugh O'Hara, the chief foreman, and + Thomas Hansell, one of the most influential of the workmen, called upon + Mr. Bradley, and speaking for the employes, protested against the new + arrangement. They said every man, woman and child was willing to work the + extra half hour, but inasmuch as the need for such extra time indicated an + improvement in business, they asked for the additional pay to which they + were clearly entitled. + </p> + <p> + Harvey was looking for such protest and he was prepared. He said it was an + error to think there was an improvement in business. While in one sense it + might be true, yet the price of the manufactured goods had fallen so low + that the mills really made less money than before. The wages that had been + paid were better than were warranted by the state of trade. Now, when the + employes were asked to help in a slight degree their employers who had + done so much for them, they would not do so. O'Hara and Hansell, showing a + wish to discuss the matter, the superintendent cut them short by saying + that it was idle to talk further. He would not make any reduction in their + time, nor would he pay any extra compensation. + </p> + <p> + That night 200 employes of the Rollo Mills quit work, with the intention + of staying out until justice was done them. Harvey asserted that he would + never yield; he would spend a few days in overhauling the machinery and in + making a few needed repairs; then, if the employes chose, they could come + back. All who did not do so would not be taken back afterwards. New hands + would be engaged and in a short time the mills would be running the same + as before. + </p> + <p> + O'Hara and Hansell warned the superintendent that serious trouble would + follow any such course. While making no threat themselves, they told him + that blood was likely to be shed. Harvey pooh-poohed and reminded them + that a few men and children would make sorry show in fighting the whole + state, for, in the event of interference by the strikers, he meant to + appeal to the authorities. + </p> + <p> + The repairs needed at the mills were soon made. Steam was gotten up and + the whistle called the hands to work. Only O'Hara and Hansell came + forward. They explained that all would be glad to take their places if the + superintendent would allow them a slight increase of pay for overwork. + They had held a meeting and talked over the matter, and now abated a part + of their first demand; they were willing to accept one-half rate for + overtime. + </p> + <p> + The superintendent would not yield a jot. The most that he would consent + to do was to wait until noon for them to go to work. The two men went away + muttering threats; not one of the hands answered the second call to work. + </p> + <p> + Quite sure that such would be the result, Harvey had telegraphed to + Carville, fifty miles away, for sixty men, to take the place of those who + had quit work. He asked only for men, since it would have been unwise to + bring women and children to become involved in difficulties. + </p> + <p> + By some means this step became known, and, as is always the case, it added + fuel to the flames. Warning notices were sent to the superintendent that + if the new hands went to work they would be attacked; Bradley himself was + told to keep out of sight unless ready to come to the terms of the + strikers. Even in his own home, he could not be guaranteed safety. His + house as well as the mills would be burnt. + </p> + <p> + Harvey felt no special alarm because of these threats; he did not believe + that those who made them dare carry them out. But that night the mills + escaped destruction only by the vigilance of the extra watchmen. The same + evening Aunt Maria was stopped on the village street and told that it was + best she should lose no time in moving away with her little niece Dollie, + since it was more than likely the innocent would suffer with the guilty. + For the first time, Harvey understood the earnestness of the men; but he + clung to his resolution all the same. + </p> + <p> + You can see how easily the trouble could have been ended. The employes had + abated their first demand and were willing to compromise. Had Harvey + spoken his honest thoughts, he would have said the men were right, or at + any rate he ought to have agreed to their proposal to submit the dispute + to arbitration; but he was too proud to yield. + </p> + <p> + "They will take it for weakness on my part," was his thought; "it will + make an end of all system and open the way for demands that in the end + will destroy the business." + </p> + <p> + The sixty new hands reached Bardstown and were about as numerous as the + men who wrought in the mills before the strike. They looked like a + determined band, who would be able to take care of themselves in the + troubles that impended. + </p> + <p> + The arrivals were received with scowls by the old employes, who hooted and + jeered them as they marched grimly to the mills. No blows were struck, + though more than once an outbreak was imminent. It was too late in the day + to begin work, but the new hands were shown through the establishment, + with a view of familiarizing them to some extent with their new duties. + Most of them had had some experience in the same kind of work, but there + was enough ignorance to insure much vexation and loss. + </p> + <p> + The night that followed was so quiet that Harvey believed the strikers had + been awed by his threat to appeal to the law and by the determined front + of the new men. + </p> + <p> + "It's a dear lesson," he said to himself, "but they need it, and it is + high time it was taught to them." + </p> + <p> + The next morning the whistle sent out its ear-splitting screech, whose + echoes swung back and forth, like so many pendulums between the hills, but + to the amazement of Harvey Bradley, not a person was seen coming toward + the mills. The whistle called them again, and Hugh O'Hara and Tom Hansell + strolled leisurely up the street to the office, where Mr. Bradley + wonderingly awaited them. + </p> + <p> + "You'll have to blow that whistle a little louder," said O'Hara, with a + tantalizing grin. + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean, sir?" + </p> + <p> + "Those chaps all left town last night; they must be about forty miles + away; you see we explained matters to them; I don't think, if I was you, I + would feel bad about it; they believe they can get along better at + Carville than at Bardstown." + </p> + <p> + For the first time since the trouble began, Harvey Bradley lost his + temper. To be defied and taunted in this manner was more than he could + bear. He vowed over again that not one of the strikers should do another + day's work for him, even if he begged for it on his knees and he was + starving. He at once telegraphed to Vining, fully one hundred miles away, + where he knew there were many people idle, for one hundred men who would + not only come, but stay. He preferred those who knew something about the + business, but the first need was that the men would remain at their posts, + and if necessary fight for their positions. He guaranteed larger wages + than he had ever paid experienced hands, but he wanted no man who would + not help hold the fort against all comers. The superintendent was on his + mettle; he meant to win. + </p> + <p> + Having sent off this message, for which it cannot be denied, Harvey had + every legal and moral warrant, he set out on a long tramp through the + woods at the rear of Bardstown. It was a crisp autumn day, and the long + brisk walk did him much good. The glow came to his cheeks, his blood was + warmed, and his brain cleared by the invigorating exercise. So much indeed + did he enjoy it that he kept it up until, to his surprise, he saw that it + was growing dark, and he was several miles from home. + </p> + <p> + It was snowing, though not heavily. He walked fast, but, when night had + fully come, paused with the uncomfortable discovery that he was hopelessly + lost in the woods. + </p> + <p> + "Well, this is pleasant!" he exclaimed, looking around in vain for some + landmark in the gloom. "I believe I shall have to spend the night out + doors, though I seem to be following some sort of path." + </p> + <p> + He struck a match, shading it with his hand from the chilly wind, and + stooped down. Yes; there was an unmistakable trail, and with renewed hope + he hurried on, taking care not to stray to either side. Within the next + ten minutes, to his delight, he caught the twinkle of a star-like point of + light among the trees, a short distance ahead. + </p> + <p> + While making his way hopefully forward, Harvey became aware of a singular + fact. The air around him was tainted with a peculiar odor, such as he had + never met before. It was of a rank nature, and, while not agreeable, could + not be said to be really unpleasant. It might have interested him more, + but for his anxiety to reach the shelter which was now so near at hand. + </p> + <p> + Arriving at the cabin, he found the latch-string hanging out. A sharp + pull, the door was swung inward and Harvey stepped into a small room, lit + up by a crackling wood-fire on the hearth. + </p> + <p> + As he entered, two men who were smoking their pipes, looked up. The + visitor could not hide his expression of surprise, for they were Hugh + O'Hara and Thomas Hansell, the last persons in the world he wished to see. + </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 II. — A POINTED DISCUSSION. + </h2> + <p> + Hugh O'Hara was in middle life. He was of Scotch descent, and, in his + younger days, had received a fair education. Even now he spent much time + over his books. He talked well, and was not without a certain grace of + manner founded, no doubt, on his knowledge of human nature, which gave him + great influence with others. It was this, as much as his skill, that made + him the leading foreman at a time when a score of others had the right by + seniority of service to the place. + </p> + <p> + But Hugh had dipped into the springs of learning just enough to have his + ideas of right and wrong turned awry and to form a distaste for his lot + that made his leadership dangerous. Besides, he had met with sorrows that + deepened the shadows that lay across his pathway. In that little cabin he + had seen a young wife close her eyes in death, and his only child, a sweet + girl of five years, not long afterward was laid beside her mother. Many + said that Hugh buried his heart with Jennie and had not been the same man + since. He was reserved, except to one or two intimate friends. Shaggy, + beetle-browed and unshaven, his looks were anything but pleasing to those + who did not fully know him. + </p> + <p> + Tom Hansell was much the same kind of man, except that he lacked the book + education of his companion and leader. He had strong impulses, and was + ready to go to an extreme length in whatever direction he started, but he + always needed a guiding spirit, and that he found in Hugh O'Hara. + </p> + <p> + The latter, after burying his child, moved into the village, saying that + he never wanted to look again upon the cabin that had brought so much + sorrow to him. Most people believed he could not be led to go near it, and + yet on this blustery night he and Tom Hansell were seated in the structure + without any companions except the well known hound Nero, and were smoking + their pipes and plotting mischief. + </p> + <p> + Hugh and Tom were in their working clothes—coarse trousers, shirts, + and heavy shoes, without vest or coat. Their flabby caps lay on the floor + behind them, and their tousled hair hung over their foreheads almost to + their eyes. Tom had no side whiskers, but a heavy mustache and chin + whiskers, while the face of Hugh was covered with a spiky black beard that + stood out from his face as if each hair was charged with electricity. + </p> + <p> + Nero, the hound, raised his nose from between his paws and looked up at + the visitor. Then, as if satisfied, he lowered his head and resumed his + nap. + </p> + <p> + Bradley, as I have said, was angry with himself for walking into such a + trap. It was not fear, but a deep dislike of the man who was the head and + front of the trouble at the mills. He was the spokesman and leader of the + strikers, and he was the real cause of the stoppage of the works. Harvey + looked upon him as insolent and brutal, and he was sure that no + circumstances could arise that would permit him to do a stroke of work in + the Rollo Mills again. + </p> + <p> + "Good evening," said Harvey stiffly, "I did not expect to find you here." + </p> + <p> + Hansell nodded in reply to the salutation, but Hugh simply motioned with + the hand that held the pipe toward a low stool standing near the middle of + the apartment. + </p> + <p> + "Help yourself to a seat, Mr. Bradley; the presence of Tom and myself here + is no odder than is your own." + </p> + <p> + "I suppose not," replied Harvey with a half-laugh, as he seated himself; + "I started out for a walk to-day and went too far—that is, so far + that I lost my way. I had about made up my mind that I would have to sleep + in the woods, when I caught the light from your window and made for it." + </p> + <p> + The glance that passed between Hugh and Tom—sly as it was—did + not elude the eye of Harvey Bradley. He saw that his explanation was not + believed, but he did not care; there was no love between him and them, + and, had it not looked as if he held them in fear, he would have turned + and walked away after stepping across the threshold. As it was, he meant + to withdraw as soon as he could do it without seeming to be afraid. + </p> + <p> + "Is this the first time you have taken a walk up this way?" asked Hugh. + </p> + <p> + "The fact that I lost my way ought to answer that question; how far is it, + please, to Bardstown?" + </p> + <p> + "An even mile by the path you came." + </p> + <p> + "But I didn't come by any path, except for a short distance in front of + this place." + </p> + <p> + "Then how did you get here?" + </p> + <p> + "Is there no way of traveling through the woods except by the road that + leads to your door?" + </p> + <p> + The conversation was between Harvey and Hugh alone. Tom was abashed in the + presence of two such persons, and nothing could have led him to open his + mouth unless appealed to by one or the other. Neither made any allusion to + the strike. After the superintendent's rebuff, Hugh scorned to do so, + while Harvey would have stultified himself had he invited any discussion. + The repugnance between the two men was too strong for them calmly to + debate any question. Besides Hugh and Tom were suspicious; they did not + believe that the presence of the superintendent was accidental; there was + a sinister meaning in it which boded ill for Hugh and his friends, and the + former, therefore, was in a vicious mood. + </p> + <p> + With the conditions named, a wrangle may be set down as one of the + certainties. But Harvey Bradley had defied the fury of half a hundred men, + and he meant to teach this marplot his proper place. There was a + threatening gleam in his eye, but he puffed a few seconds at his pipe, and + then, glaring through the rank smoke that curled upward from his face + said: + </p> + <p> + "There are a good many ways by which Hugh O'Hara's cabin can be found, but + those who come on honest errands stick to the path." + </p> + <p> + "Which explains why the path is so little worn," was the reply of Harvey. + </p> + <p> + "Aye, and your feet have done mighty little to help the wearing of the + same." + </p> + <p> + "If those who live in the cabin were honest themselves, they would not + tremble every time the latch-string is pulled, nor would they be scared if + they saw a visitor stop to snuff the air in this neighborhood." + </p> + <p> + This was an ill-timed remark, and Harvey regretted the words the moment + they passed his lips. He saw Hugh and Tom glance at each other; but the + words, having been spoken, could not be recalled, nor did the + superintendent make any attempt to modify them. Before the others could + answer, he added: + </p> + <p> + "I have heard it said that Hugh O'Hara held this place in such strong + disfavor that nothing could lead him to spend a night here, yet he smokes + his pipe and plots mischief as if the cabin is the one place in the world + with which he is content." + </p> + <p> + These words were not soothing in their effect, nor did the speaker mean + that they should be. Hugh was insolent, and the superintendent resented + it. + </p> + <p> + The only proof of the rising anger in the breast of O'Hara was the + vigorous puffing of his pipe. Tom, as I have said, was too awed to say + anything at all. + </p> + <p> + "I am of age and free born," growled Hugh, looking into the glowing embers + and speaking as if to himself; "where I go and what I do concerns no one + but myself." + </p> + <p> + "Not so long as you go to the proper place and do only what is right," + said Harvey, who, sitting back a few feet from the fire, looked calmly at + the fellow whose rough profile was outlined against the fiery background + behind him. + </p> + <p> + "Men interpret right according to their own ideas, and they seldom agree, + but most people will pronounce that person the worst sort of knave who + robs poor men of what they earn and looks upon them as he looks upon the + beasts of the field—worth only the amount of money they bring to + him." + </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 III. — MISSING. + </h2> + <p> + The conversation was taking a dangerous shape. Harvey saw that it would + not do for him to stay. Both these men were fierce enough to fly at his + throat. That little cabin in the woods was liable to become the scene of a + tragedy unless he bridled his tongue or went away. + </p> + <p> + Disdaining to say so much as "good-night," he rose to his feet, opened the + door, shut it behind him, and walked out in the blustery darkness. + </p> + <p> + "I would rather spend the night fighting tigers than to keep the company + of such miscreants. But the new hands will be here in a few days, and the + fellows will be taught a lesson which they will remember all their lives. + I suppose I ought to pity their dupes, but they should have enough sense + to see that these men are their worst enemies. It will be a bright day for + the Rollo Mills and for Bardstown when they are well rid of them." + </p> + <p> + The superintendent did not pause to think where he was going when he + stepped into the open air. The cold wind struck his face and a few fine + particles touched his cheek. The sky had partly cleared, so that he could + see the fine coating of snow around him, but after all, very little had + fallen. + </p> + <p> + "If I can keep the path," he thought, "I will reach the village, but that + is no easy matter—ah! there it is again." + </p> + <p> + The peculiar odor that had mystified him before was in the air. He + recalled that Hugh and Tom had made an allusion to it that he did not + understand. + </p> + <p> + "It may come from their chimney and be caused by something burning; but I + looked closely at the wood on the hearth and saw nothing else." + </p> + <p> + A natural impulse led him, after walking a few rods, to look behind him. + He had heard nothing, but knowing the surly mood of the couple, he thought + it probable they might follow him. + </p> + <p> + The door of the cabin, was drawn wide open and the form of a man stood out + to view, as if stamped with ink on the flaming background made by the fire + beyond. His lengthened shadow was thrown down the path almost to the feet + of Harvey. The fellow no doubt was peering into the gloom and listening. + </p> + <p> + "I wonder whether they mean to dog me," said Harvey; "it will be an easy + matter to do so, for they know every part of the wood, while I am a + stranger. They are none too good to put me out of the way; it is such men + who have no fear of the law, but they shall not take me unawares." + </p> + <p> + While still looking toward the cabin, all became dark again. The door was + closed, but he could not be sure whether the man stood outside or within. + </p> + <p> + "If he means to do me harm he will soon be at my heels." + </p> + <p> + But the straining eyes could not catch the outlines of any one, and the + only sound was the moaning wind among the bare branches. + </p> + <p> + "He has gone back into the house, but may come out again." + </p> + <p> + And so, while picking his way through the dim forests, you may be sure + that Harvey Bradley looked behind him many times. It makes one shiver with + dread to suspect that a foe is softly following him. Harvey had buttoned + his pea jacket to his chin and he now turned up the collar, so that it + touched his ears. His hands were shoved deep into the side pockets and the + right one rested upon his revolver that he had withdrawn from its usual + place at his hip. He was on the alert for whatever might come. + </p> + <p> + He was pleased with one fact: the path to which so many references were + made, was so clearly marked that he found it easy to avoid going wrong. + </p> + <p> + "If I had had sense enough to take the right course when I first struck + it, I would have been home by this time." + </p> + <p> + After turning around several times without seeing or hearing anything + suspicious, he came to believe that however glad O'Hara and Hansell might + be to do him harm, they lacked the courage, unless almost sure against + detection. + </p> + <p> + "Hugh will stir up others to go forward, but he will take good care to + protect himself." + </p> + <p> + The dull roar that he once fancied he heard when tramping aimlessly during + the day, was now so distinct that he knew he must be near a stream. The + path crossed it at no great distance. + </p> + <p> + Sure enough, he had only turned a bend and gone down a little slope when + he reached the margin of a deep creek, fully twenty feet wide. It flowed + smooth and dark at his feet, but the turmoil to the left showed that it + tumbled over the rocks, not far away. + </p> + <p> + Harvey was anything but pleased, when he saw the bridge by which the + stream had to be passed. It was merely the trunk of a tree, that lay with + the base on the side where he stood, while the top rested on the other + bank. Whoever had felled the tree had trimmed the trunk of its branches + from base to top—the result being more ornamental than useful, for + the protuberances would have served to help the footing of a passenger. + The trunk in the middle was no more than six inches in diameter, and being + a little worn by the shoes that had trod its length, the footing was + anything but secure. With the sprinkling of snow it was more treacherous + than ever. + </p> + <p> + "Must I cross <i>that</i>?" Harvey said aloud, with a feeling akin to + dismay. + </p> + <p> + "You can do so or swim, whichever you choose." + </p> + <p> + These words were spoken by a man standing on the other side, and who was + about to step on the support, when he paused on seeing another on the + point of doing the same from the opposite bank. In the dim light, Harvey + saw him only indistinctly, but judged that he himself was recognized by + the other. + </p> + <p> + "I suppose it's safe enough for those accustomed to it," said Harvey in + reply, "but I prefer some other means; do you intend to use it?" + </p> + <p> + "That I do; I want no better; if you are afraid, get out of the way, for I + am late." + </p> + <p> + Harvey moved to the right, and watched the other, who stepped upon the + support and walked over with as much certainty as if treading a pavement + on the street. + </p> + <p> + Harvey looked closely, and as the fellow came toward him, he recognized + him as one of his former employes. He was Jack Hansell—a brother of + Tom, and like him a close associate of Hugh O'Hara, the leader. + </p> + <p> + "You are out late, Jack," remarked the superintendent, as the other left + the log. To his surprise, Jack did not answer, but quickly disappeared up + the path by which the superintendent had reached the spot. + </p> + <p> + "He is surly and ill-mannered, like all of them; no doubt he is on his way + to the cabin to plot mischief with the others." + </p> + <p> + Since nothing was to be gained by waiting, Harvey now stepped on the trunk + and began gingerly making his way across. It was a hard task, and just + beyond the middle, he lost his balance. He was so far along, however, that + a vigorous jump landed him on the other bank. + </p> + <p> + A little beyond he caught the twinkling lights of the village, and he + hastened his steps, now that, as it may be said, home was in sight. He + felt as if he was famishing, and the thought of the luscious supper + awaiting his return, gave him such speed that he was soon at his own door. + </p> + <p> + Though it was late, he saw his aunt was astir, for the lights were burning + brightly. Before he could utter the greeting on his tongue, he was + terrified by the scared face of his relative. + </p> + <p> + "Why, aunt, what is the matter? Are you ill?" + </p> + <p> + "Oh, Harvey!" she wailed; "haven't you brought Dollie with you?" + </p> + <p> + "Dollie!" repeated the other; "I haven't seen her since I left home." + </p> + <p> + "Then you will never see her again," and, overcome by her terrible grief, + the good woman sank into the nearest chair, covered her face with her + apron and wept. + </p> + <p> + Harvey Bradley stood petrified. Bright-eyed Dollie, whom he had left a few + hours before, rosy, happy, overflowing with bounding spirits, was gone, + and the sobbing Aunt Maria declared she would never be seen again. + </p> + <p> + Stepping into the room, Harvey laid his hand on his aunt's shoulder and in + a trembling voice said: + </p> + <p> + "Why, aunt, what does this mean? Are you in earnest? What has become of + Dollie? Tell me, I beseech you." + </p> + <p> + "She is lost; she is lost! Oh, why did we ever bring her to this dreadful + country? I wish none of us had ever seen it." + </p> + <p> + "But what about Dollie? Where is she? How long has she been gone? Compose + yourself and tell." + </p> + <p> + It was not until he spoke sharply that the hysterical woman was able to + make known that the child had been absent for hours, no one knew where. + When she learned that noon that her big brother would not be back till + night, Dollie had pouted because he had gone off without telling her. She + was not sure she could ever forgive him. However, she ate her dinner, and + soon after went out to play. Some hours later her aunt went to the door to + call her, but she was not within sight or hearing. Maggie was sent to look + for her, but soon came back with word that she could not be found. + </p> + <p> + The child had been seen a couple of hours before, running in the direction + of the path that led into the mountains, as if she was fleeing from some + one, Maggie had gone as far as she dared in quest of her, but her loudest + shouts brought no reply and she returned. + </p> + <p> + The word brought by the servant, as may well be believed, filled the aunt + with the wildest grief. Beyond all doubt, Dollie had formed a sudden + resolve to hunt up her brother Harvey, who had gone away and left her at + home. She had strayed so far into the mountains that she was lost. + Fortunately, she was warmly dressed at the time, but exposed as she must + be to the wintry winds and cold, she could not hold out until morning + unless rescued very soon. + </p> + <p> + Harvey was stricken with an anguish such as he had never known before, but + he knew that not a minute was to be lost. Dollie must be found at once or + it would be too late. It added a poignancy to his woe to know that in + coming down the mountain path, he must have passed close to her, who was + in sore need of the help he was eager to give. + </p> + <p> + "Have you made no search for her?" he asked. + </p> + <p> + "I could not believe she would not come back until it began to grow dark. + I thought she could not be far away; Maggie and I hunted through the + village, inquiring of every one whom we saw; many of the people were kind, + and two or three have gone to hunt for her; I started to do so, but did + not go far, when I was sure she had come back while I was away, and I + hurried home only to find she was not here." + </p> + <p> + "Are you sure any one is looking for her?" + </p> + <p> + "There are several." + </p> + <p> + "Well," said Harvey, impatient with the vacillation shown by his aunt, "I + shall not come back until she is found." + </p> + <p> + His hand was on the knob of the door when his distressed relative sprang + to her feet. + </p> + <p> + "Harvey;" she said in a wild, scared manner, "shall I tell you what I + believe?" + </p> + <p> + "Of course." + </p> + <p> + "Dollie did not lose herself: some of those awful men did it." + </p> + <p> + "Do you mean the strikers?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; they have taken her away to spite you." + </p> + <p> + "Impossible!" exclaimed the young man, passing out the door and striding + up the single street that ran through the village. + </p> + <p> + But though unwilling to confess it to himself, the same shocking suspicion + had come to him at the moment he learned that Dollie was lost. Could it be + that some of the men, grown desperate in their resentment, had taken this + means of mortally injuring him? Was there any person in the wide world who + would harm an innocent child for the sake of hurting a strong man? Alas, + such things had been done, and why should they not be done again? The + words that he overheard between Hugh O'Hara and Tom Hansell proved them + capable of dark deeds. Could it be that some of the hints thrown out by + them during that brief interview in the cabin bore any relation to the + disappearance of Dollie. + </p> + <p> + At the moment Harvey turned away from his own house it was his intention + to rouse the village and to ask all to join in the hunt for the child, but + a feeling of bitter resentment led him to change his purpose. No; they + would rejoice over his sorrow; they would give him no aid, and, if they + had had a hand in her taking off, they would do what they could to baffle + him in his search. Slight as was his hope, he would push on alone. + </p> + <p> + "O'Hara and Hansell know all about it; I will search the neighborhood of + the path all the way to their cabin and then compel them to tell what they + know; if they refuse——" + </p> + <p> + He shut his lips tight and walked faster than ever. He strove to fight + back the tempestuous emotions that set his blood boiling. He was moved by + a resolve that would stop at nothing; he would not believe that there was + no hope; he knew he could force the miscreants to give up their secret, + and had a hair of his little sister's head been harmed the punishment + should be swift and terrible. + </p> + <p> + "When Dollie is found," he muttered, determined to believe she must be + restored to him, "I will send her and Aunt Maria away, and then have it + out with these fellows; I'll make them rue the day they began the fight." + </p> + <p> + These were dreadful thoughts, but there was excuse for them, his grief + made him half frantic. + </p> + <p> + The path over which he believed Dollie had either strayed or been led or + carried, entered the woods about a hundred yards from the village and + gradually sloped and wound upward for a mile, when it passed the door of + Hugh O'Hara's cabin and lost itself in the solitude beyond. + </p> + <p> + The sky had cleared still more during the interval since he came down the + mountain side, and he could not only see the course clearly, but could + distinguish objects several rods away, when the shadow of the overhanging + trees did not shut out the light. But the season was so far along that few + leaves were left on the limbs and it was easy, therefore, for him to keep + the right course. + </p> + <p> + He had not gone far when he stopped and shouted the name of Dollie. The + sound reached a long way, and he repeated the call several times, but only + the dismal wind among the limbs gave answer. + </p> + <p> + Striding forward, he stood a few minutes later on the margin of the creek + that was spanned by the fallen tree. + </p> + <p> + "She would not have dared to walk over," was his thought: "she must have + been on this side, if she wandered off alone." + </p> + <p> + A moment later he added: + </p> + <p> + "No; for the very reason that it is dangerous, Dollie would run across; it + would be no trouble for her to do so, and there is just enough peril to + tempt her. Could she have fallen in?" + </p> + <p> + He looked at the dark water as it swept forward and shivered. + </p> + <p> + "Rivers and lakes and seas and streams are always thirsting for human + life, and this may have seized her." + </p> + <p> + Tramping through the undergrowth that lined the bank he fought his way + onward until he stood beside the rocks where the waters made a foaming + cascade, as they dashed downward toward the mills far away. + </p> + <p> + "If she did fall in, she must be somewhere near this spot——" + </p> + <p> + His heart seemed to stop beating. Surely that dark object, half submerged + and lying against the edge of the bank, where the water made an eddy, must + be her body. He ran thither and stooped down. + </p> + <p> + "Thank God," was his exclamation, after touching it with his hands, and + finding it a piece of dark wood that had been carried there from the + regions above. + </p> + <p> + Back he came to where the fallen tree spanned the creek, and hurried + across. No snow was falling, but the earth was white with the thin coating + that had filtered down hours before. + </p> + <p> + "Had it come earlier in the day," he thought, "it would help us to trace + her, but now it will hide her footprints." + </p> + <p> + Hardly a score of steps from the creek his foot struck something soft, and + he stooped down. Straightening up, he held a small hood in his hand, such + as children wear in cold weather. Faint as was the light, he recognized it + as Dollie's; he had seen her wear it many times. + </p> + <p> + "What can it mean?" he asked himself; "I must have stepped over or on that + on my way down, but did not notice it. Yes, Dollie is on this side the + stream, but where?" + </p> + <p> + Aye, that was the question. Once more he raised his voice and shouted with + might and main, but as before no answer came back. + </p> + <p> + Harvey was now master of himself. He had recovered from the shock that at + first almost took away his senses and he was able to think and act with + his usual coolness. But with this, the belief that Hugh and Tom had + something to do with the disappearance of Dollie grew until at times he + was without any doubt at all. Occasionally, however, he wavered in his + belief. + </p> + <p> + Thus it was that two theories offered themselves. The first was that + Dollie had set out to find him and had wandered up the mountain path to + some point above the bridge and then had strayed from it and become lost. + Worn out, she had laid down and was at that moment asleep. + </p> + <p> + The corollary of this theory was that she had perished with cold, or would + thus perish before daylight. True, she was well clad when she went out + that afternoon to play, but her hood was gone and she could not escape the + biting wind that pierced the heavy clothing of Harvey himself. Then, too, + there was the danger from the wild beasts, of which he had had too late an + experience to forget. + </p> + <p> + Should it prove that Dollie went off in the manner named, then Harvey made + a great error in setting out alone to search for her. He ought to have + roused the village, and, with the hundreds scouring the mountains, helped + by torches and dogs, discovery could not be delayed long. + </p> + <p> + The other and darker theory was that she had been seen by some of his + enemies as she went into the woods and had been coaxed to some + out-of-the-way place, where her abductors meant to hold and use her as a + means of bringing the superintendent to terms. All must have known that no + method could be so effective as that. + </p> + <p> + It was hard to believe that the evil-minded men would go any further. Yet + it was easy for them to do so; they could make way with a little child + like her and have it seem that her death was caused by falling over the + rocks or by some other accident that might easily come to her. + </p> + <p> + "O'Hara and Hansell must have known all about it when I was in their + cabin. They were afraid to assail me in the cabin, for I was prepared, and + the fear of the law kept them from following me after I left their place." + </p> + <p> + Harvey was thinking hard when he caught the well-known light, among the + trees in the cabin. + </p> + <p> + "He, Tom and Jack, precious scamps all of them, are exulting over the + sorrow they have caused, but they shall pay for it." + </p> + <p> + The latch-string had not yet been withdrawn. Harvey gave it a jerk, + followed by a spiteful push that threw the door wide open. Disappointment + awaited him. Neither Hugh nor Tom was there, but Jack, looking like a twin + brother of Tom, was in the act of lighting the pipe that his relative had + probably left for his use. He was alone, not even the hound being present. + </p> + <p> + Jack had partly risen to his feet to reach the pouch of tobacco on the + short mantel above the fireplace. He paused and looked over his shoulder + with a startled expression at the visitor who made such an emphatic + entrance. + </p> + <p> + "Why—why, Mr. Bradley," he stammered, "I didn't know it was you; + will you take a seat?" + </p> + <p> + "Where are Hugh and Tom?" + </p> + <p> + "They went out some time ago." + </p> + <p> + "Where did they go?" demanded Harvey in an angry voice. + </p> + <p> + "Down to—the—that is, I don't know." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, you do know. I want no trifling; I will not stand it." + </p> + <p> + The fellow, though flustered at first, quickly regained his + self-possession. He had evidently checked himself just in time to keep + back some important knowledge. + </p> + <p> + "Where have they gone?" repeated the superintendent, bursting with + impatience. + </p> + <p> + But Jack Hansell was himself again—sullen and insolent as ever. He + had an intense dislike of his employer—a dislike that had deepened + within the past few days. He slowly sat down and smoked a full minute + before making reply to Harvey, who felt like throttling him. + </p> + <p> + "I told you I didn't know," he finally said, looking into the embers and + speaking as if to the glowing coals. + </p> + <p> + "But you do know." + </p> + <p> + "So I do, but I know another thing as well, and that is that there ain't + any reason why I should tell you if I don't choose to." + </p> + <p> + It took a great effort of the will for Harvey to hold himself from doing + violence to the man who said he was not bound to tell what he preferred to + keep to himself: but the superintendent saw that nothing could be gained + by violence. The man who can keep cool during a dispute has ten-fold the + advantage over one who does not restrain himself. + </p> + <p> + After all, Jack Hansell was of small account. It was O'Hara, his master, + and mayhap his companion, whom Harvey Bradley must see. If Tom chose to + tell the truth he could do so, but if he would not, no one could force him + to say the words. + </p> + <p> + All this was clear to the young man, who, checking his anger, added in a + lower tone: + </p> + <p> + "You are not bound to answer any question I ask you, even when you have no + reason for your refusal, but you cannot decline to say when they are + likely to be back." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, I can, for I don't know." + </p> + <p> + "I wish to see O'Hara on a matter of the first importance." + </p> + <p> + "But he may not want to see you, and I ain't the man to make things + unpleasant for a friend." + </p> + <p> + "You certainly expect them back to-night, do you not?" + </p> + <p> + Jack smoked his pipe a few seconds before giving heed to this simple + question. Then, turning slowly toward Harvey, who was still standing in + the middle of the room, he said: + </p> + <p> + "You had better sit down, for you won't find Hugh and Tom any sooner by + keeping your feet. What do you want to see 'em for?" + </p> + <p> + "That I can explain only to them, though it is Hugh whom I particularly + want to meet." + </p> + <p> + The superintendent took the seat to which he was invited. It was the stool + on which he sat when in the cabin before. It cost him a greater effort + than can be explained to defer to this defiant fellow, who a few weeks or + even days before would have cringed at his feet like a dog. + </p> + <p> + "That being the case," added Jack, between the puffs at his pipe, "why + you'll have to wait till they come back. That may be inside of five + minutes, and not for an hour; maybe," added Jack in the game exasperating + manner, "that nothing will be seen of 'em till daylight. You see that + since they have been cheated out of their work they have plenty of time to + loaf through the country." + </p> + <p> + "Any man who is too lazy to work can find time to turn his hand to + dishonest tricks," said the superintendent, meaning that the words should + not be misunderstood. + </p> + <p> + "Sometimes the tricks that you call dishonest pay better than working for + a superintendent who wants all the wages himself," was the impudent reply + of Jack Hansell. + </p> + <p> + "That is the excuse of the man who is bad at heart and who prefers wrong + to right. Our state prisons are full of that sort of people." + </p> + <p> + "Yes—and there are a good many people that ought to be in prison + that ain't there." + </p> + <p> + "I am sure no one is better qualified than you to speak on that matter." + </p> + <p> + "Except yourself." + </p> + <p> + It struck Harvey just then that he was doing an unworthy thing in holding + such a conversation with any man. If he had anything of the kind to say, + he ought to speak it openly. He now did so. + </p> + <p> + "There is not a particle of doubt, Jack Hansell, that you and your brother + and Hugh O'Hara are engaged in business that ought to place you all behind + the bars." + </p> + <p> + "If you think it safe to talk that way before Tom and Hugh you will now + have the chance." + </p> + <p> + "I will be glad to tell them to their faces what I have told you." + </p> + <p> + "All right; there they come." + </p> + <p> + Footsteps and voices in such low tones were heard outside that it was + clear the men brought important news with them. And such indeed proved to + be the case. + </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 IV. — THE SEARCH BY HUGH AND TOM. + </h2> + <p> + Never did one person do another a greater injustice than did Harvey + Bradley when he believed that either Hugh O'Hara or any one else had aught + to do with the absence of his little sister Dollie. No men had a hand in + the sad business, nor could any one have been led to harm a hair of her + head. Had Harvey asked for help, no one in the village would have held + back from doing all that could be done to restore the child to her + friends. + </p> + <p> + The first news that came to Hugh O'Hara's cabin of the loss of the child + was brought by Jack Hansell, who went thither on a far different errand. + After a long talk on business, he gave the tidings, adding: + </p> + <p> + "I met him at the creek, but thought I wouldn't tell him, for it would do + no good. I kept my eyes open for the gal, but seen nothing of her." + </p> + <p> + Hugh jerked the pipe from his mouth. + </p> + <p> + "What's that you are saying? The little girl lost?" + </p> + <p> + "That's it; she's been missing since noon; they think she come up the path + and got lost in the mountains." + </p> + <p> + "Good gracious!" gasped Hugh, starting to his feet, "that is bad; do you + know," he added, turning to Tom and speaking with a slight tremor, "that + that little girl Dollie is about the age my Jennie was when she died?" + </p> + <p> + "I hadn't thought of that," replied Tom. + </p> + <p> + "And," continued Hugh, swallowing a lump in his throat, "she looks so much + like Jennie that I've often felt as if I would give all I have—which + ain't much—to hold the little one on my knee as I used to hold my + baby. She is a sweet child and likes me; we've had many a talk together + that no one beside us knows about. She's so gentle, so innocent, so good + that it seems to me I see my own darling before me when she looks up in my + face. Come, boys," he added, decisively, as he walked to the farther end + of the room, picked up a lantern and lit the candle inside. + </p> + <p> + "Come where?" asked Tom, in amazement. + </p> + <p> + Hugh turned half angrily toward him. + </p> + <p> + "Do you think that I could rest while that child is lost in the mountains? + Mr. Bradley hasn't acted right toward us and I bear him no good will, but + this isn't <i>he</i>—it's a little child—she looks and acts + like my Jennie, that's dead and gone." + </p> + <p> + "But, Hugh, you forget—what about the place?" + </p> + <p> + "Let it go to the dogs for all I care! What does it amount to against the + life of the little one? But we'll let Jack stay; if any of the boys come, + send them out to help in the hunt; it'll do them more good than to break + the law." + </p> + <p> + "Suppose some that are strangers come?" said Jack with a grin. + </p> + <p> + Hugh O'Hara gave a hollow laugh. + </p> + <p> + "Send them out, too, to help in the search; we'll be sure to find her when + the whole country gets to work. If I was down in the village I would have + every man, woman and child in the woods, and wouldn't let them eat or + drink or sleep till she's found. Tom, there's no one that knows the woods + better than we and Nero. Let's be off!" + </p> + <p> + The door was drawn inward, and Jack Hansell was left alone. He lit his + pipe, smoked it out, refilled it and was in the act of refilling it, when + Harvey Bradley came in—as has been made known in another place. + While the man sat smoking and alone in the cabin, he fell to brooding over + the troubles at the mills. Thus it came to pass that his feelings were so + bitter at the time the superintendent entered that he kept back every hint + that the absent men were engaged in the most "honest" business in the + world—that is, they were looking for the missing child. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Hugh and Tom went at the task not only with zeal, but with a + sagacity that gave promise of good results. As Hugh had said, they knew + every foot of the mountains for miles, they were free from the flurry that + at first ran away with the judgment of the superintendent, and they were + used to prowling through the woods. Still further Nero had been trained to + follow the faintest footprints. + </p> + <p> + "Now, Tom," said the leader, when they had walked a short ways, "we can't + do anything till we get on the trail of the little one." + </p> + <p> + "What do you think has become of her?" + </p> + <p> + "She's somewhere in the woods asleep or dead, with the chances about even + for either." + </p> + <p> + "Jack says she was seen coming up the mountain path early this afternoon." + </p> + <p> + "Well, she has kept to it till she has either slipped out of the path + without knowing it or she has done it on purpose. She has strolled along + until it became dark or she was tired. Then she has lain down on the + leaves and gone to sleep. Nero, find the trail of the little girl." + </p> + <p> + "But," said Tom, "the night is so cold." + </p> + <p> + "So it is, but if the girl went out to play she was well clad, and, if she + knew enough, she has crept under the lee of a rock or into the bushes, + where the wind can't reach her. If she did the same, she hasn't frozen to + death." + </p> + <p> + "But there are wild animals in these parts." + </p> + <p> + "I know that, and she would make a meal that any of them would be glad to + get; we can only hope they didn't find her." + </p> + <p> + Just then Nero, who had been nosing the path in front, uttered a whine and + turned aside. Hugh held up the lantern and saw that he had gone to the + right. He was following a trail of some kind; whether it was that of the + one whom they were seeking was to be learned. It would take a fine scent + to trace the tiny footsteps under the carpet of snow, but such an exploit + is not one-tenth as wonderful as that of the trained dogs in Georgia, + which will stick to the track of a convict when it has been trampled upon + by hundreds of others wearing similar dress and shoes, and will keep to it + for miles by running parallel to the trail and at a distance of a hundred + feet. + </p> + <p> + But in the latter case the canines have an advantage at the start; they + are put upon the track or directed to hunt for it where it is known to + exist; they are given a clew in some form. + </p> + <p> + The hound Nero was skilful in taking a scent, but his ability was not to + be compared to that of the dogs to which I have referred, nor indeed was + it necessary that it should be. But he had great intelligence, and acted + as if he understood every word said to him by his master. He had saved + Hugh and his friends many a time by giving warning from afar of the + approach of strange parties. It may seem incredible that he should know + what was wanted of him, but there is the best reason for saying he + understood it all. Having no part of the little one's clothing to help, he + was without the clew which would appear to be indispensable. His master, + however, was satisfied the dog had struck the right trail. + </p> + <p> + "Stick to it, Nero," said Hugh, encouragingly, "not too fast, but be sure + you're right." + </p> + <p> + Without pause, the two followed the dog, Hugh in front with lantern in + hand. The woods were so cluttered with undergrowth that they could not go + fast, seeing which Nero suited his pace to theirs. Now and then he ran + ahead, as if impatient with the slow progress of the couple, and then he + calmly awaited their approach. + </p> + <p> + "Hark!" + </p> + <p> + The single word "<i>Dollie</i>!" rang through the arches of the woods. + They recognized the voice as that of the superintendent, who was hurrying + over the path they had left, and who was not far away. In fact, Hugh held + the lantern in front of him so as to hide its rays. + </p> + <p> + "I am sorry for him," he said, "but we don't want him with us." + </p> + <p> + "It cannot be," remarked Tom, after they had struggled further, "that she + has gone as far as this; Nero must be off the track." + </p> + <p> + At this moment the dog emitted a low, baying whine that would have + startled any one had he not known its meaning. It was the signal which the + remarkable animal always gave when close to the end of a trail. + </p> + <p> + "We shall soon know the worst," said Hugh, crashing through the wood with + such haste that Tom had to hurry almost into a trot to save himself from + dropping behind. + </p> + <p> + The singular call of the dog was heard again. He wanted his friends to + move faster. It came from a point slightly to the left. + </p> + <p> + "Here he is!" exclaimed Hugh, making a sharp turn and showing more + excitement than at any time during the evening. + </p> + <p> + "I see him! There he stands!" added Tom, stumbling forward. + </p> + <p> + With his right hand Hugh raised the lantern above his head, so that its + glare was taken from their eyes. The hound was close to a rock that rose + some six or eight feet above the ground, and his nose was pointed toward + the base of the black mass. At the same moment the men saw something dark + and light mixed together, like a bundle of clothing. One bound and Hugh + was on his knees, the lamp held even with his forehead while he peered + downward and softly drew the clothing aside. Tom was also stooping low and + leaning forward with bated breath. + </p> + <p> + There lay little Dollie Bradley, sleeping as sweetly as if nestling beside + her big brother in the warm bed at home. She must have wandered through + the woods until, worn out, she reached this spot. Then she had thrown + herself on the earth beside the rock and had fallen asleep. Having lost + her hood, her head was without any covering, except her own native hair, + which was abundant. Besides, rugged people do not need to cover their + heads while asleep, even in cold weather. + </p> + <p> + It was fortunate for Dollie that she was so warmly wrapped. One arm was + doubled under her head, and the cheek that rested on it was pushed just + enough out of shape to add to her picturesqueness. Her heavy coat having + been buttoned around her body, kept its form and could not have been + better arranged. The chubby legs were covered by thick stockings, and the + feet were protected by heavy shoes. True, she ran much risk in lying upon + the cold earth, with nothing between her and the ground, but there was + hope that no serious harm would follow. + </p> + <p> + The rock not only kept off the wind, but screened her from the snow. It + was almost certain that the little one had been asleep several hours. + </p> + <p> + Hugh gently examined the limbs and body to see whether there was any hurt. + Her peaceful sleep ought to have satisfied him, but he was not content. + Not a scratch, however, was found, though her clothing had suffered a good + deal. + </p> + <p> + "Take the lantern," said he in a husky voice to his companion. Then, + softly pushing his brawny arms under the dimpled form, he lifted it as + tenderly as its mother could have done. Tom smoothed the clothing so as to + cover the body as fully as possible. Hugh doffed his coarse cap and + covered the mass of silken tresses that streamed over his shoulder. + </p> + <p> + Dollie muttered as a child will do when disturbed in its slumber, but, + fitting her head to the changed position, she slept on as sweetly as ever. + </p> + <p> + "Now lead the way," added Hugh, "and be careful where you step." + </p> + <p> + Tom was only too glad to do his part. Nero, as happy as the others, walked + in advance, in his dignified manner, now and then wagging his tail and + whining with delight. None knew better than he the noble work he had done. + </p> + <p> + Tom used great care. When the bushes could not be avoided, Hugh shoved + them aside with one hand, that they might not brush against the face + resting so close to his own. Perhaps he held the velvety cheek nearer his + shaggy beard than was needed, but who can chide him when his heart glowed + with the sorrowful pleasure that came from the fancy that his own Jennie, + whom he had so often pressed to his breast, was resting there again? + </p> + <p> + A tear dropped on the cheek of the little one. In that hour new resolves + entered the heart of O'Hara. He had been sullen, discontented, and had + long led a life that grieved his conscience. + </p> + <p> + By and by when they came back to the path they found the walking easier + than before. + </p> + <p> + "Hugh," said Tom, stopping short and facing about, "ain't you tired of + carryin' the kid? 'cause if you are, I'm ready to give you a lift." + </p> + <p> + "No; I wish I could carry her forever!" + </p> + <p> + All too soon the glimmer from the cabin window fell upon them, and they + paused at the door to make sure the clothing of the child was arranged. + They acted as if they were getting ready to go into the presence of + company. + </p> + <p> + "I don't know as I've done right in not carrying her home," said Hugh, + "but she has been out too long already in the night air; we'll take her in + and keep her while you run down to the village and let the folks know she + is safe." + </p> + <p> + "Is she still asleep?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, hark! some of the boys seem to be inside," added Hugh, as the sound + of voices came to them from within. + </p> + <p> + The door was pushed open and the two men and dog entered. + </p> + <p> + Harvey Bradley had risen to his feet, and for one second he stared angrily + at the newcomers. You will recall that hot words had just passed between + him and Jack Hansell, and both were in an ugly mood. Then Harvey quickly + recognized the form in the arms of Hugh and rushed forward. + </p> + <p> + "Is she alive?" + </p> + <p> + "Aye, alive and without a scratch," replied Hugh, deftly taking the hat + from the head of the little sleeper and placing her in the outstretched + arms. + </p> + <p> + "How thankful I am," exclaimed Harvey, kissing the cold red cheeks over + and over again, and pressing her to his heart; "yes—she is well—she + was lost and is found—she was dead and is alive again." + </p> + <p> + "What are you laughing at?" demanded Hugh, wiping his eyes and glaring + savagely at Jack Hansell, who, with open mouth, was looking on in a + bewildered way; "haven't you manners enough to know when gentlemen are + present?" + </p> + <p> + Jack seemed to think that the only way to behave was by keeping his mouth + closed. He shut his jaws with a click like that of a steel trap and never + said a word. + </p> + <p> + Harvey Bradley sat down on the stool from which he had arisen, first + drawing it closer to the fire, and unfastened the outer clothing of the + little one. He saw that all was well with her. Then he looked up with + moistened eyes and said in a tremulous voice: + </p> + <p> + "Hugh, tell me all about it." + </p> + <p> + The short story was soon told. The hardy fellow made light of what he had + done, but the superintendent, who kept his eyes fixed on his face, saw the + sparkle of tears that the speaker could not keep back. It was hard for any + one of the three to believe that only a brief while before they were ready + to fly at each other's throats. Harvey was melted not only by the rescue + of his sister, but by the remembrance of the dreadful injustice done Hugh + O'Hara and his friends, when he allowed himself to think they had taken + part in the disappearance of Dollie, who, through all the talk, continued + sleeping. + </p> + <p> + "I can never thank you for what you have done," said the superintendent, + hardly able to master his emotion, "but I shall show you that the charge + of ingratitude can never be laid at my door." + </p> + <p> + "That's all right," replied Hugh, in his off-hand fashion; "Tom and I are + glad to do a turn like that; nobody could want to see any harm come to + such a child, no matter how they might feel toward others related to her. + Do you mean to take her home to-night?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes; her aunt is frantic with grief." + </p> + <p> + "But Tom can run down there quicker than you can with the little one." + </p> + <p> + "No doubt, but we shall feel better to have her with us. She seems to be + well, and we can bundle her up warmly. There may, after all, be serious + results from this exposure, and it is best that we should have her where + we can give her every care." + </p> + <p> + And drawing the hood from his pocket he fixed it upon Dollie's head. She + opened her eyes for a moment and mumbled something, but sank into sleep + again. Harvey explained how it was he came to have the headgear with him. + </p> + <p> + "I have a favor to ask of you, Mr. Bradley," said O'Hara, shifting from + one foot to another and as confused as a school-boy. + </p> + <p> + "Anything that you ask shall be granted, if it be in my power to grant + it," replied Harvey with a fervor that could leave no doubt of his + sincerity. + </p> + <p> + "It's a long distance to the village, and I will be glad if you will let + me carry her." + </p> + <p> + He made as if he simply wished to assist the superintendent. The latter + knew better, but he did not say so. + </p> + <p> + "I shall be glad to have your aid; you have had a rest for several days, + and a little exercise like this won't hurt you." + </p> + <p> + Hugh brought forth his best coat and gathered it around Dollie, as if he + was tucking her up in her trundle bed. Then Harvey placed her with much + care in his arms and made sure they were fully prepared to go out doors. + </p> + <p> + The Hansell brothers quietly looked on during these proceedings. They felt + that there was no special use for them, and therefore they kept in the + background. The hound Nero showed much interest. He walked around Hugh and + Harvey, whining and wagging his tail as if he thought his views ought to + have some weight in the questions the couple were called upon to consider. + </p> + <p> + "Come, Nero," said his master, as he drew the door inward. The dog shot + through like a flash and the tramp to the village was begun. + </p> + <p> + Hardly a word was spoken on the way, but when the house was reached Hugh + handed his burden over to Harvey and, refusing to go in, started to move + off. The superintendent put out his free hand. + </p> + <p> + "Hugh, I want you to come and see me to-morrow afternoon; will you do so?" + </p> + <p> + "I will. Good-night." + </p> + <p> + "Good-night." + </p> + <p> + Hugh O'Hara had walked but a short distance up the mountain path when he + was caught in a driving snow-storm. He cared little for it, however, and + reached the cabin in due time, there to perform a strange duty. + </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 V. — A LITTLE CHILD SHALL LEAD THEM. + </h2> + <p> + When Hugh O'Hara came to the door of Harvey Bradley, he was in his best + dress—the same that he wore to church on Sundays. Aunt Maria met him + on the threshold, and, in tremulous tones, thanked him. Then she led the + way to the back parlor, where the young superintendent awaited him. The + moment he entered, there came a flash of sunshine and a merry exclamation, + and with one bound, little Dollie (none the worse, apparently, for her + adventure the night before) landed in the iron-like arms and kissed the + shaggy-bearded fellow, who laughingly took a chair and held her a willing + captive on his knee. + </p> + <p> + Harvey sat smiling and silent until the earthquake was over. Then, as his + chief foreman looked toward him, he said: + </p> + <p> + "As I said last night, Hugh, the service you have done is beyond payment. + You know what a storm set in just after Dollie was brought home, she never + could have lived through that." + </p> + <p> + "It would have gone hard with her, I'm afraid," replied the embarrassed + visitor; "does the little one feel no harm?" + </p> + <p> + "We observe nothing except a slight cold, which the doctor says is of no + account. I have made up my mind to give to you, Hugh——" + </p> + <p> + The latter raised his hand in protest. He could accept money for any + service except that of befriending the blue-eyed darling on his knee. + </p> + <p> + "Never refer to that again." + </p> + <p> + Harvey laughed. + </p> + <p> + "I looked for something of the kind; I have a few words to add. I found + out this morning that there was a mortgage of $600 against your little + home in the village. I don't believe in mortgages, and that particular one + has now no existence. If you see any way to help undo what I have done go + ahead, but I beg you not to refuse another small present that I have + prepared for you." + </p> + <p> + And Harvey turned as if about to take something from his desk, but stopped + when he saw Hugh shake his head almost angrily. + </p> + <p> + "I would do a good deal to oblige you, Mr. Bradley, but you must not ask + that. I would have been better pleased had you let the mortgage alone; my + wife and little one are under the sod, and it matters nought to me whether + I have a place to lay my head. But," he added with a faint smile, "what's + done can't be undone, and, since you have asked me, I will drop the + matter, but nothing more, I pray you, on the other subject." + </p> + <p> + "Hugh," said the superintendent, like one who braces himself for a duty + that has its disagreeable as well as its pleasant features, "you know that + I had sent to Vining for men to take the places of those who are on + strike?" + </p> + <p> + "I heard something of the kind, sir." + </p> + <p> + "They were to start for Bardstown to-night and are due to-morrow." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir." + </p> + <p> + "I countermanded the order by telegraph this morning; not a man will + come." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir." + </p> + <p> + "The whistle will blow to-morrow as usual, ten minutes before 7 o'clock, + and I shall expect every one of you to be in place; I have agreed to your + terms." + </p> + <p> + Hugh looked at the superintendent a moment and then asked a singular + question: + </p> + <p> + "Is it because I found Dollie that you agree to our terms?" + </p> + <p> + "Why do you ask that?" + </p> + <p> + "Because, if that is the reason, I will not accept the terms, for you + would be doing out of gratitude an act which your judgment condemned." + </p> + <p> + Harvey Bradley felt his respect for this man increase tenfold. Such + manliness was worthy of all admiration. He hastened to add: + </p> + <p> + "There's where, I am glad to say, you are in error. Now you know as well + as I do that in order to keep discipline the employer must insist upon his + rights. If he were to give all that is asked his business would be + destroyed. But, on the other hand, labor has rights as well as capital, + and the two can never get along together until this truth is respected by + both. In all disputes, there should be an interchange of views, a full + statement of grievances by those who are dissatisfied, and a fair + consideration of them by the party against whom they exist." + </p> + <p> + O'Hara was not afraid to look his employer in the face and say: + </p> + <p> + "That has been my opinion all along, Mr. Bradley, and had it been yours + this lock-out would never have come." + </p> + <p> + "I admit it. You came to me from the employes and asked for a discussion + of the differences between us. I thought you insolent, and refused to + listen to you. Therein I did you all an injustice, for which I apologize." + </p> + <p> + "It gives me joy to hear you speak thus, Mr. Bradley." + </p> + <p> + "Seeing now my mistake, there is but the one course before me. I am + convinced that in all cases of trouble like ours the court of first resort + should be arbitration. The wish to be just is natural to every one, or at + least to the majority of mankind. If the parties concerned cannot agree, + they should appeal to those in whom both have confidence to bring about an + agreement between them; that is according to the golden rule. Employer and + employed, labor and capital, should be friends, and arbitration is the + agent that shall bring about that happy state of things." + </p> + <p> + "But I do not see that there has been any arbitration in this dispute." + </p> + <p> + "But there has been all the same." + </p> + <p> + "Where is the arbitrator?" + </p> + <p> + "She sits on your knee wondering what all this talk means. I tell you, + Hugh, there is a good deal more in those little heads than most people + think. Yesterday morning, when Dollie sat in her high chair at the + breakfast-table, she heard her aunt and me talking about the strike. + Though she could not understand it all, she knew there was trouble between + me and my employes. I was out of patience and used some sharp words. She + listened for a few minutes while busy with her bread and milk, and then + what do you think she said?" + </p> + <p> + "I am sure I have no idea," replied O'Hara, patting the head of the + laughing child, "but whatever it was, it was something nice." + </p> + <p> + "She says, 'Brother Harvey, when I do anything wrong, you take me on your + knee and talk to me and that makes me feel so bad that I never do that + kind of wrong again. Why don't you take those bad men on your knee and + talk to them, so they won't do so again?' I showed her that such an + arrangement was hardly practicable, and then she fired her solid shot that + pierced my ship between wind and water: 'Brother Harvey, maybe it's <i>you</i> + that has done wrong; why don't you sit down on their knees <i>and let them + give you a talking to</i>? Then you won't be bad any more." + </p> + <p> + Hugh and Harvey broke into laughter, during which Dollie, who had become + tired of sitting still full two minutes, slid off O'Hara's knee and ran + out of the room. + </p> + <p> + "We smile at the odd conceits of the little ones," continued Harvey, "but + you know that the truest wisdom has come from the mouths of babes. I + hushed her, but what she said set me thinking—'<i>Why don't you let + them give you a good talking to</i>?' <i>That</i> was the very thing you + had asked and I had refused. I set out to take a long walk, and was absent + most of the day. Her question kept coming up to me, and I tried to drive + it away. The effort made me angry and ended in a decision to be sterner + than ever. I would not yield a point; I would import a body of men at + large expense and keep them at work, just because I was too proud to undo + what I knew was wrong. + </p> + <p> + "Still my conscience troubled me, but for all that I don't think I would + have yielded. Pride, the greatest of all stumbling-blocks, was in my way. + Reaching home, I learned that Dollie was lost; then, of course, every + other thought went from my head. Nothing else could be done until she was + found." + </p> + <p> + Harvey was about to tell his guest his suspicion that he had had a hand in + the abduction of the child, but he was ashamed, and really there was no + call for such a confession. + </p> + <p> + "Well, it was you who found her. I repeat that my debt to you can never be + paid. And yet I do not believe that that obligation would have led me to + yield, where I felt that a principle was at stake. It was the words of + Dollie, spoken yesterday, that stuck to me. They kept me awake most of the + night and played a part in the dreams that I had about her being lost in + the woods and eaten up by panthers and all sorts of creatures. When I + awoke this morning, the mists had cleared away. I saw my error, and fully + made up my mind to do all I could to correct it. I went to the telegraph + office before breakfast and sent a message to Vining countermanding the + order for the men. Then I came back and had just finished my meal when a + message was brought to my house. Odd, wasn't it?" + </p> + <p> + "I see nothing odd in a telegram for you." + </p> + <p> + "I mean in the telegram itself." + </p> + <p> + "I could not answer that unless I saw it." + </p> + <p> + "Of course," said Harvey with a laugh, wheeling about in his chair and + picking up one of the yellow slips of paper which the Western Union + furnishes its patrons gratis. + </p> + <p> + "There, read <i>that</i>," he added, passing it to Hugh O'Hara, who looked + at it with no little curiosity. + </p> + <p> + It was dated in the city of New York and signed by Johnson W. Bradley, + father of Harvey, and President of the Rollo Mills Company. This was the + body of the telegram: + </p> + <p> + "Don't lose sight of the interests of your men. Before hiring other hands + <i>try arbitration</i>." + </p> + <p> + "That <i>is</i> rather odd," said Hugh; leaning forward, so as to hand the + telegram back to his employer, "but it is sound wisdom all the same." + </p> + <p> + "Undoubtedly; but are you convinced that I agree to your terms not because + of gratitude, but because I believe them right?" + </p> + <p> + "I am satisfied," said Hugh; "have you sent the notice to the hands?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes. I wonder that you did not hear of it on the way here." + </p> + <p> + Hugh smiled. + </p> + <p> + "Of course I heard of it. I knew it long ago, but I did not know <i>why</i> + you had decided to restore our time to what it was and to pay the same + wages; <i>that</i> I have learned from yourself. And now that you have + done your part so well," added Hugh, rising to leave, "I assure you that + we shall do ours; we shall give you the best service we can. No one shall + misinterpret your action or try to take advantage of it." + </p> + <p> + The superintendent was wise enough to avoid a mistake to which persons, + placed as was he, are liable—that is, he did not overdo his part. He + was so happy over the return of his little sister that he was willing not + only to give the old wages and time asked for by his employes, but he felt + like adding to them. He meant to make the pay of O'Hara greater than + before, but changed his purpose at the last moment. + </p> + <p> + Had he added to the pay of his chief foreman it would have changed the + ratio between that and the wages of the others, unless theirs, too, was + increased. In that event, a reproof was likely to come from the directors, + and he would find it hard to retrace his steps. + </p> + <p> + Justice called for him to do just what he had done; it would be weak to do + more. "Hugh," said he, also rising to his feet, "I am not quite through + with you; I am now going to ask you to do <i>me</i> a favor." + </p> + <p> + "I guess it's safe to promise in advance that I will do it—that is, + of course, if it be in my power to do it." + </p> + <p> + "It is in your power. Last night, when I was in the woods near your cabin, + I noticed a strange odor in the air; I could not imagine its cause, but I + know now what it was." + </p> + <p> + "What was it?" asked O'Hara, turning crimson. + </p> + <p> + "You and some of your friends have been illicitly making whiskey. You have + a distillery somewhere in the mountains, and, while working in the mills + during the day, you have taken turns in running the still at night. I will + not ask you to tell me how long you have been doing this, but you know as + well as I that it is a crime." + </p> + <p> + The two men were silent a moment and then Hugh, without any appearance of + agitation, said: + </p> + <p> + "You have spoken the truth; the still was not more than a hundred feet + from the cabin, and caused the smell you noticed." + </p> + <p> + "How could you three attend to it when you were in the cabin?" + </p> + <p> + "Some one was generally close by. The pipe that carried off the fumes ran + into the chimney of our cabin and mixed with the smoke. We took turns in + looking after it. Tom and I had been there earlier in the evening, and + Jack was to look in now and then against our coming back. But," added + Hugh, "you said you had a favor to ask of me." + </p> + <p> + "So I have; I ask you to destroy that still, root and branch, and never + take a hand in anything of the kind again." + </p> + <p> + "I cannot do that." + </p> + <p> + "Why not? You are engaged in breaking the laws of your country, for which + there is a severe penalty. Now that you will have steady work, you cannot + make the plea that would have been yours if the strike continued. Why + can't you do as I ask you to do?" + </p> + <p> + "Because it has already been done. After I got back to the cabin last + night, Tom and Jack and I went out and wound up the business. The worm has + been thrown down the rocks, where it can never be found, the mash has been + scattered to the four winds, and everything smashed to general flinders. + It took us nearly to daylight to finish it, but we stuck to it till the + job was done." + </p> + <p> + "I am delighted to hear that, what was the cause of all this?" + </p> + <p> + "I guess it must have been the little arbitrator," said O'Hara, with a + smile; "they say that when a man does a bad act he feels like doing + others. That may or may not be true, but I know that when a man does a + good deed, the impulse to do more is awakened, and whatever good there is + in him is strengthened. I have been a bad man; I grew desperate after the + death of Jennie; but when I held your Dollie in my arms it seemed that + some of her goodness found its way into my heart. I resolved with the help + of heaven to be a better man. The first step toward becoming so was to + stop the unlawful work in which I had been engaged only a short time. + </p> + <p> + "I thought that Tom and Jack would make trouble, but I didn't care, for I + could manage them. To my surprise, however, they seemed to feel just as I + did. So they fell to work with a will, and the job couldn't have been done + more thoroughly. Now, if you will allow me to kiss Dollie, who has come + back, I will bid you both good day." + </p> + <p> + Harvey Bradley shook hands with his visitor, during which he handed him a + liberal sum of money for Tom Hansell, who had taken part in the search for + Dollie. He sent naught to Jack, for he deserved none. Then he went with + Hugh to the outer door, giving him a number of encouraging words on the + way. + </p> + <p> + The whistle of the Rollo Mills never screeched more cheerily than it did + the next morning, and there was never a happier band of employes than the + 300, young and old, who took their places again in the works. + </p> + <p> + A short time afterward Harvey Bradley opened and furnished a room where + the best of reading was given free to all who chose to accept the + privilege. Still later in the season a night school was started, and the + skilled teacher who took charge was liberally paid by the board of + directors, who never made a better investment of money. + </p> + <p> + The interest shown by the superintendent in the welfare of his employes + proved to be seed sowed in good ground. All wrought faithfully and well, + and when on the 1st of January the balance sheet was made up, lo! the net + profits of the Rollo Mills were greater than ever before. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0027" id="link2H_4_0027"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + IN THE NICK OF TIME. + </h2> + <p> + It may sound like slander for me to say that the elephant, which is + admittedly one of the most intelligent members of the animal creation, is + also one of the most vicious and treacherous. But it is a fact all the + same. I have seen one of those beasts, that had been fed and treated with + the greatest kindness for years by his keeper, turn upon him like a tiger, + and, seizing him with that wonderful trunk of his, dash him to death + before he could do more than utter a cry of protest and terror. + </p> + <p> + I have seen another, after waiting weeks for the opportunity, suddenly + grasp an innocent person, and, kneeling upon him with his beam-like legs, + knead him out of all semblance of humanity. + </p> + <p> + Columbus, who was the main attraction of Barnum's establishment some forty + years ago, killed several keepers, and was likely to start on one of his + terrible rampages at any moment. The giving away of a bridge in New + England so injured him that he died, long before any of my young readers + were born. + </p> + <p> + An elephant, fully as bad as Columbus, was Vladdok, who was brought to + this country when quite young. A glimpse at his enormous ears told his + African nativity at once, those from Asia and Ceylon having much smaller + ears. He belonged to the old traveling circus of Blarcom & Burton, and + made several journeys through our country in the days when those + establishments found no use for the railways, but patiently plodded from + town to town, delighting the hearts and eyes of our grandfathers and + grandmothers when they were children just as we are now. + </p> + <p> + Vladdok had killed two keepers, besides badly wounding a couple of + spectators in Memphis, when he yielded to one of his vicious moods. He had + been fired upon and wounded more times than any one could remember, and + Mr. Blarcom, who always traveled with his show, had been on the point more + than once of ordering his destruction; but he was of such large size and + possessed such extraordinary intelligence, that he constituted the main + attraction of the exhibition and he hesitated, well aware that sooner or + later, the wicked fellow would die "with his boots on." + </p> + <p> + It was after an afternoon performance in one of the Western States that + Vladdok indulged in his last rampage. His sagacious keeper had come to + understand the animal so well, that he knew the outbreak was coming. While + Vladdok was unusually tractable and obedient, there was a dangerous + glitter in his small eyes, and an occasional nervous movement of his head, + which proved that he was only biding his time and waiting for the grand + chance to present itself. + </p> + <p> + Fortunately, he did not rebel until after the exhibition was over, and the + crowds had departed. Then, with a fierce trumpeting and one vast shiver of + his enormous bulk, he made a dash which snapped his chains like so much + whip-cord and went through the side of the tent as though it were + cardboard. + </p> + <p> + On his wild charge, which set all the rest of the animals in a panic, he + reached for his keeper, who with prodding spear and shouts, interposed + himself in his path and tried to check him. But the man's inimitable + dexterity and good fortune enabled him to dodge the beast and escape by a + hair's breadth. The next minute, the elephant reached the public highway, + down which he swung awkwardly but swiftly, on an excursion that was + destined to be the most tragic in his whole career. + </p> + <p> + The first object on which he vented his wrath was a team of horses, driven + by a farmer, whose wife was sitting beside him on the front seat. Neither + they nor the team knew their danger until the avalanche of fury was upon + them. The animals screamed in an agony of fright, and were rearing and + plunging, when Vladdok grasped one with his trunk, lifted him in the air + and dashed him to death. The other broke loose and plunged off at such + headlong speed, that the elephant followed him only a few paces, when he + turned to attack the man and woman. + </p> + <p> + But they were nowhere in sight, and, with a trumpet of disgust, he wheeled + about, and turning from the highway, took to the woods. + </p> + <p> + The couple were saved by a singular occurrence. The violent rearing and + backing of the horses overturned the wagon body, and the farmer and his + better half were caught beneath it, before they could escape. They had + sense enough to remain quiet, until the brute left, when they crept out, + none the worse for their mishap. + </p> + <p> + "Consarn his pictur!" exclaimed the husband; "if that don't beat all + creation! I allers said that circuses and shows was a burnin' shame, and + now I <i>know</i> it; I'll make the owner of that elephant pay ten + thousand dollars for the damage he done us, for he scart you and me so bad + Betsy, that we'll never grow another inch." + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, the runaway kept things moving. He knew his keeper and + attendants were hot on his trail, and his sudden change of course was + undoubtedly with a view of misleading them. It is hardly to be supposed + that he expected to find any "game" in the woods, but nevertheless he did. + </p> + <p> + It so happened that Jack Norton and Billy Wiggins, a couple of boys not + more than fourteen years of age, were engaged on a little hunt that same + afternoon. The teachers had sent such bad reports home about them that + their parents inflicted the most awful kind of punishment; they did not + permit them to attend the circus, to which they had been looking forward + for weeks. The father of Billy was specially stern, and forbade his + hopeful to take his gun, when he joined Jack on a little hunting ramble in + the woods. Mr. Norton felt some slight compunctions, when he noted how + patiently his boy accepted his fate, and relented to that degree that he + permitted him to take his rifle, though he knew there was little chance of + his securing any game. + </p> + <p> + The boys had walked about a mile, and, coming to a fallen tree, sat down + to rest awhile, for the day was warm and the gun which they had taken + turns in carrying, was heavy. + </p> + <p> + "I guess this hunt ain't agoin' to amount to much," sighed Jack, as he + leaned the rifle against the prostrate trunk, on which they were seated. + </p> + <p> + "Why not?" asked Billy. + </p> + <p> + "'Cause there ain't nothin' to hunt; I heerd Budge Jones say that when he + was a boy, these woods used to be full of bears and deers and tigers and + lions and giraffes and that sort of thing." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, and the folks were so mean they killed 'em all, but I've the idea, + Jack, that maybe some of the lions or tigers has hid somewhere in the + woods and we might find 'em." + </p> + <p> + "Golly! I don't know whether I'd want to find 'em or not," replied Jack, + looking about him, with a scared expression. + </p> + <p> + "Why not? Hain't you got a gun?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, but while I was killin' one the others might chaw me all to pieces; + but if there was only one, I wouldn't care, if he was an elephant as big + as a barn——" + </p> + <p> + "My gracious! there he comes!" + </p> + <p> + A terrific crashing of the undergrowth caused both lads to glance + affrightedly behind them, and there, sure enough, was Vladdok, the fearful + elephant, almost upon them. They started to run, their courses so + diverging that the beast was forced to select one and let the other alone + for the moment. He fixed upon Billy Wiggins, who had taken barely twenty + steps, when the trunk of the beast inclosed his waist and he was lifted, + as if he was a feather from the ground, and the next instant he felt + himself whizzing through space. + </p> + <p> + A marvelous providence saved him. Instead of dashing him against a tree, + or upon the ground, the elephant, in one of his mad freaks, flung him from + him as though he was a ball. He spun through the air, the leaves and limbs + whizzing against his face and body, and instinctively clutching with both + hands, succeeded in grasping enough branches to support the weight of his + body and check his descent. + </p> + <p> + Then, when he collected his senses and stared around, he found that he was + a dozen yards above the ground, with the elephant beneath, looking up, and + apparently waiting for him to fall within his reach, that he might finish + him. + </p> + <p> + "Not much," muttered Billy; "I'm going to stay here and I don't believe + you know how to climb a tree. Helloa! how do you like <i>that</i>?" + </p> + <p> + Jack Norton had dashed only a few yards, when the terrified look he cast + over his shoulder told him the elephant was giving his whole attention to + Billy, and seemed to have forgotten all about him. Instantly he was filled + with alarm for his young friend, and started back to the log to get his + rifle, that neither had thought of in the panic. + </p> + <p> + As he knelt behind the fallen tree, to make his aim sure, he descried a + queer object going through the limbs of a large oak, and did not identify + it, until it lodged fast, as his friend Billy Wiggins. + </p> + <p> + Jack had no more idea of the fatal point at which to aim his weapon than + you have, but knowing that he must do something, and, with a dread that + the elephant after all, might succeed in climbing the oak and getting at + his friend, he let fly. + </p> + <p> + Gordon Cumming himself could not have done better. The tiny bullet bored + its way into the vast bulk, just back of the fore leg and went directly + through the heart. The huge brute, as if conscious that he was mortally + hurt, swung part way round, so as to face the point whence the shot had + come. Catching sight of the kneeling youngster, with the muzzle of his + rifle still smoking, he plunged toward him. He took a couple of steps, + swayed to one side, moved uncertainly forward again, then stopped, tried + to steady himself, and finally went over sideways, like a mountain, + crashing the saplings and undergrowth near him, and snapping one of his + magnificent tusks into splinters. He was dead. + </p> + <p> + When the boys fully comprehended what had taken place, they were not a + little alarmed and puzzled, and started home, wondering whether their game + was a descendant of the creatures that used to inhabit that section, or + whether he was a visitor to these parts. They had not gone far, however, + when they met the attaches of the menagerie and circus to whom they + related what had occurred. + </p> + <p> + The proprietors were relieved on learning the whole truth, for there could + be little doubt that the sudden ending of the career of Vladdok was the + means of saving more than one person from death. + </p> + <p> + As for Jack Norton and Billy Wiggins, it was generally conceded that they + spoke the truth, when they declared: + </p> + <p> + "Our fathers wouldn't let us go to the circus that afternoon, but I guess + we had a bigger circus than any of you all to ourselves." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0028" id="link2H_4_0028"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LOST IN THE SOUTH SEA. + </h2> + <p> + Captain William Gooding was commander of the <i>Tewksbury Sweet</i>, of + Portland, Maine, and was lost in the South Pacific in the spring of 1889. + This fine American bark sailed from New Castle, New South Wales, on the + 17th of March, bound for Hong Kong. Everything went well until the 9th of + the following month, when she encountered a severe gale. Despite all that + skillful seamanship could do, and in the face of the most strenuous + exertions, she struck the dangerous Susanne Reef, near Poseat Island, one + of the Caroline group of the South Sea. + </p> + <p> + The wreck was a total one. The vessel broke up rapidly, and seeing that + nothing could be done, the captain and crew, numbering ten men in all, + took to one of the boats, carrying with them only a single chronometer + belonging to the ship. Even after entering the small boat they were still + in great danger, and only succeeded after the utmost difficulty in + reaching a small islet some miles to the southward. The storm was still + raging so violently that the shelter was a most welcome one, though as + there were no animals or vegetation, or even water upon the island, their + stay of necessity could be only temporary. They had saved nothing to eat + or drink, and to remain where they were meant a lingering death. + </p> + <p> + After several hours waiting, the tempest abated somewhat, and launching + their boat once more, they rowed toward the main island. + </p> + <p> + "The end is likely to be the same in either case," remarked the captain to + the second mate, George W. Harrison, as they approached the land. + </p> + <p> + "And why?" inquired the latter: "we shall find food and water there." + </p> + <p> + "True enough; but there are no fiercer savages on the South Sea than those + of this island, and I have never heard that they were particularly + friendly toward the crews of shipwrecked vessels." + </p> + <p> + "They may not discover us until we can signal some passing ship." + </p> + <p> + "There is no possibility of any such good fortune as that." + </p> + <p> + "Stranger things have happened, and—" + </p> + <p> + "Does that look like it?" interrupted the captain in some excitement, + pointing toward the island. + </p> + <p> + The sight that met the gaze of every one was startling. Fully thirty + canoes, each filled with eight or ten natives, were putting off from shore + and heading toward them. Several of the crew favored turning about, and + putting to sea; but that would have been not only hopeless, but would have + invited attack. Nothing is so encouraging to an enemy as flight on the + part of his opponent. It impels him to greater exertions and gives him a + bravery which otherwise he may not feel. + </p> + <p> + The savages, in their light, graceful craft, and with their great skill in + manipulating them, would have overhauled the white men "hand over hand." + There was a faint hope that by presenting a bold front, and acting as + though they believed in the friendship of the savages that they might + spare the unfortunates. At any rate, it was clear there was no choice but + to go ahead, and the white men did so, rowing leisurely and calmly, though + the chances in doing so were hastening their own doom. + </p> + <p> + There could be no mistaking the ardor of the ferocious natives. They + paddled with might and main, and fully a dozen, in their eagerness, leaped + into the sea and swam ahead of their canoes. They were magnificent + swimmers, speeding through the water like so many dolphins. The Americans, + even in their frightful peril, could not repress their admiration. + </p> + <p> + "Did you ever see anything like it?" asked first mate Watchman; "they are + like so many sharks." + </p> + <p> + "They are indeed," was the significant response of Captain Gooding, "and I + would like it better if they were real sharks." + </p> + <p> + "Here they are!" + </p> + <p> + Sure enough; they surrounded the boat in a twinkling, and shouting and + screeching like so many demons, clambered over the gunwales until there + was danger of swamping the craft. + </p> + <p> + Had our friends possessed firearms, they would have made a desperate + resistance, and possibly might have beaten off their assailants; but, as + it was, they acted the part of wisdom in offering no opposition to the + presence or actions of their unwelcome visitors. + </p> + <p> + The latter proved that they meant business from the first, for hardly were + they in the boat when they began stripping the officers and sailors of + their property. When they ceased the men had nothing left but their + undershirts, their despoilers flinging the garments into the canoes that + now crowded around. + </p> + <p> + No more plunder being obtainable, the fleet headed for land, with their + captives in anything but a cheerful frame of mind. The shore was lined + with women and children, who answered the shouts of their friends in the + boats by running back and forth, screeching and yelling and dancing, as if + unable to restrain themselves until the arrival of their victims. + </p> + <p> + The sailors believed they would be speedily killed and eaten, the latter + horror might have been escaped had they known, what they afterward + learned, that the savages of those islands are not cannibals. + </p> + <p> + The poor fellows stepped from their boat upon the shore, where they were + immediately environed by the fierce men, women and children, half naked, + wild, boisterous, and seemingly impatient to rend them to pieces. The + prisoners could do nothing but meekly await the next step in the tragedy. + </p> + <p> + It was during these trying moments that the sailors were astounded to + hear, amid the babel of voices, several words spoken in English. Staring + about them to learn the meaning of such a strange thing, they saw a man + attired as were the others, that is with only a piece of cloth about his + hips, whose complexion and features showed that he belonged to the same + race with themselves. + </p> + <p> + He advanced in a cheery, hearty way, and shaking hands with the new + arrivals, said: + </p> + <p> + "I think you did not expect to find me here." + </p> + <p> + "Indeed we did not," was the reply; "you appear to be an Englishman." + </p> + <p> + "So I am, and I am anxious to give you all the help I can, for your + situation is anything but a desirable one." + </p> + <p> + "There can be no doubt of that. But how is it that you are here? Were you + shipwrecked like ourselves?" + </p> + <p> + "No; I may say I was deserted. My name is Charles Irons, and I was left at + Poseat by a trading vessel four years ago." + </p> + <p> + "How came that?" + </p> + <p> + "I was to act as the agent of a company of traders on the Cocoanut + Islands. Well, the vessel left me, as I first told you, and that was the + last of it. They forgot all about me, or more likely, did not care to keep + their promise, for I have never seen anything of the vessel since." + </p> + <p> + "What an outrage!" + </p> + <p> + "It was, and there couldn't have been a more wretched person than I was + for several months. I looked longingly out to sea for the ship that never + came, and chafed like a man who is bound hand and foot. But," added the + Englishman with a smile, "there is nothing like making the best of things. + You can accustom yourself almost to anything if you will only make up your + mind to do so. I was among these people and there was no help for it, so I + decided to adopt their ways and become one of them." + </p> + <p> + "You decided when in Rome to do as the Romans do," suggested the captain, + who, like his companions, was greatly cheered, not only by the presence + and friendship of the Englishman, but by the fact that the savages, who + watched the interview with interest, showed no disposition to interfere. + </p> + <p> + "That's it. There are a great many worse people in this world than these. + They are not cannibals, as are many of their neighbors, and they have + never harmed me." + </p> + <p> + "But what about us?" was the anxious inquiry. + </p> + <p> + The Englishman looked grave. + </p> + <p> + "I cannot say what their intentions are, but I am afraid they are bad. + They have been used ill by some of the vessels that have stopped here, and + are naturally suspicious of all white people. Then, too, they are + revengeful, and like all barbarians are satisfied, if aggrieved against + our race, to get their satisfaction out of any member of it, whether he is + the one who injured them, or is entirely innocent." + </p> + <p> + "You seem to be regarded with high favor here." + </p> + <p> + "I am. I stand next to the chief in authority, so you see I have reason to + believe I may be of some service to you. You may be sure that I shall + leave no stone unturned to help you." + </p> + <p> + The captain and his companions gave expression to their deep gratitude, + and Irons continued in his bluff, pleasant manner: + </p> + <p> + "I guess I am about as much a savage as any of them. If I hadn't been I + never would have obtained any control over them. I have seven native + wives, and find I am forgetting a great many details of civilization, + while my desire to return home is growing less every day. After all, what + difference does it make where you are? A man has only a few years to live, + and as long as he is contented, he is a fool to rebel." + </p> + <p> + There may have been good philosophy in all this, and the captain did not + attempt to gainsay it, but, all the same, it was hard for him to + understand how any one could be so placed as to lose his yearning for his + home and his native land. + </p> + <p> + It was several days afterward, when the captives had become somewhat + accustomed to their surroundings, that Captain Gooding found he and his + men were mixed in their reckoning. + </p> + <p> + "It is a question among us whether this is Thursday or Friday," said he, + addressing Irons; "can you settle it for us?" + </p> + <p> + The Englishman looked at the captain in an odd way and replied: + </p> + <p> + "I haven't the remotest idea of what day in the week it is, nor what is + the month. It seems four years ago that I was left here, but I am not sure + of it. Will you please give me the year and month?" + </p> + <p> + "This is April, 1889." + </p> + <p> + The Englishman bent his head for a few minutes in deep thought. He was + recalling the past, with its singular incidents of his career. When he + looked up he said: + </p> + <p> + "Yes; it is four years and more since I was abandoned, and if you stay + that long you will be content to remain all your lives." + </p> + <p> + The captain shook his head, and his eyes were dimmed as he replied: + </p> + <p> + "I never could forget the loved ones at home, Irons; I would prefer death + at once to a lingering imprisonment here." + </p> + <p> + "Well, I am going to help you all to leave just as soon as it can be done. + I understand how you feel, and sympathize with you." + </p> + <p> + The Englishman proved himself the most valuable kind of a friend. The + authority which he possessed over these savage South Sea Islanders was + stretched to the utmost, but he never hesitated to employ it. But for his + presence the Americans would have been put to death within a few hours at + most of their arrival on the mainland, and without his aid it would have + been impossible for them ever to have gotten away. + </p> + <p> + When everything was in shape, Irons hired a canoe of the natives for the + use of his friends. The craft was not large enough to contain all the + party, and since all real peril had passed, there was no fear in following + the course that had been agreed upon. + </p> + <p> + Captain Gooding, second mate Harrison; and one of the sailors left Poseat + in the canoe, first mate Watchman and his six companions remaining on the + island. This was ten days after the loss of the <i>Tewksbury Sweet</i>. + </p> + <p> + Captain Gooding and all the sailors were in the best of spirits, for they + were confident that their wearisome captivity was substantially over. The + three made their way from island to island, stopping at eight different + points, sometimes for days, and even weeks. Finally they arrived at Ruk, + where they found a missionary station, and received the most hospitable + treatment. + </p> + <p> + The good men owned a boat abundantly large enough to carry twenty persons, + and the captain asked its use with which to bring the rest of his crew + from Poseat. This was asking more than would be supposed, for the + missionaries told them that they were surrounded by hostile natives, who + were liable to an outbreak at any hour, in which event the only means of + escape the white men possessed was the boat. + </p> + <p> + The missionaries, however, gave their consent, and Captain Gooding, + hoisting sail in the staunch centre-boarder, set sail for Poseat, where he + safely arrived, without unnecessary delay. He found the first mate and his + sailors well and in high spirits, though they were beginning to wonder + whether their captain, like the friends of Irons, had not forgotten, and + concluded to leave them to themselves. + </p> + <p> + No objection was offered to their departure, and bidding an affectionate + good-by to the Englishman, who had proven the best kind of a friend, they + returned to the missionary island. Two months later the missionary vessel, + the <i>Morning Star</i>, arrived, and carried them all to Honolulu, which + was reached in November. Thence Captain Gooding and a part of the crew + were brought by the steamer <i>Australia</i> to San Francisco, from which + point the captain made his way to his home in Yarmouth, where his family + and friends welcomed him back as one risen from the dead, for they had + long given up hope of ever seeing him again. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0029" id="link2H_4_0029"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + AN UNPLEASANT COMPANION. + </h2> + <p> + "Say, Jack, the shellbarks are droppin' thick down in Big Woods. What a + chance for a fellow to lay up a bushel or two before the crowd gets down + there in the morning." + </p> + <p> + "Wouldn't it, though, Ned!" I replied wistfully, for if there was anything + I had a fondness for, it was shellbarks. + </p> + <p> + We were trudging home to our dinner, for Ned and I lived close to the + schoolhouse, much to the envy of some less fortunate pupils who brought + their noonday meal with them in tin pails. It was a late September Friday, + and a soft golden haze lay on hillside and woodland, and the quail were + whistling in the furrows; and, as Ned spoke, I could see in my mind's eye + just how Big Woods would look that afternoon with the soft sunlight + slanting through the trees, and glimmering on the quiet waters of the + creek. + </p> + <p> + "Well, Jack, will you go?" said Ned abruptly. + </p> + <p> + "You mean will I play truant?" I asked, a little startled. + </p> + <p> + "Yes; there's no danger, Jack; we'll tell the teacher we had to stay home + to cut corn." + </p> + <p> + At first, I resisted Ned's appeal. I had played truant once before, a long + time ago, and the memory of the punishment that I received in the woodshed + at home was still strongly impressed on my memory. + </p> + <p> + But this, I thought, was an exceptional case, I badly wanted a bushel or + two of shellbarks, and I knew full well that, unless they were gathered + that afternoon, they wouldn't be gathered at all; for bright and early the + next morning all the boys in the neighborhood would be down in Big Woods, + armed with clubs and baskets and sacks, and even the squirrels would stand + a poor show after that invasion. + </p> + <p> + In our selfishness, we never thought that other people might have a + fondness for shellbarks as well as ourselves. So, after a little more + pleading on Ned's part, I gave in, and we agreed to meet down at the foot + of our orchard, as soon as dinner was over, for Ned lived right across, on + the next farm. In a corner of the barn, I found my old chestnut club, a + hickory stave, well coiled with lead at the top. Shoving this under my + jacket, so no prying eyes could see it, I joined Ned at the meeting-place, + and off we went in high spirits for the Yellow-breeches. + </p> + <p> + It was a good mile to Big Woods, for we had to circle away down to Hake's + Mill to get across the creek, but we felt well repaid for our trouble when + we arrived there. The fallen nuts lay thick amid the dead leaves, and up + on the half-naked trees the splitting hulls hung in clusters, willing to + drop their burden at the least rustle of the breeze. + </p> + <p> + We heaped the shellbarks in great piles, ready to stow away in Ned's big + wheat bag; and, when the ground was cleaned up pretty well, and the leaves + had been thoroughly raked, we turned our attention to a close cluster of + trees that stood close by the creek. These nuts were unusually large, and + thin-shelled. The hulls were cracked apart, but very few nuts lay on the + ground, so I hauled out my club, and drove it fairly into the heart of the + tree. A shower of nuts came down, with a merry clatter that gladdened our + hearts; but the club, striking the trunk of the tree, bounded sideways and + lodged in the crotch of a limb overhanging the creek, some twenty or + thirty feet above the water. + </p> + <p> + Here was a dilemma. I didn't want to lose that club, for it had done good + service in past autumns, and had gone through a great many hairbreadth + escapes. + </p> + <p> + If we tried to dislodge it by hurling sticks or stones, it would fall into + the water, and just at that point the creek was very deep, and moreover, + as popular tradition held, a treacherous undertow existed which would + render the recovery of the club impossible. + </p> + <p> + "Climb the tree, Jack," said Ned; "that's your only chance." + </p> + <p> + I was always considered a pretty good climber, so, after a little + hesitation (for this was an unusually difficult tree), I started up the + slippery trunk, and, with Ned's friendly aid, pulled myself among the + lower limbs. + </p> + <p> + It was an easy matter to reach the particular bough that I wanted, but + then came the tug. I was half-inclined to give up the whole thing and go + down to the ground, but Ned kept egging me on so confidently that I + determined to go through with it. + </p> + <p> + Straddling the limb, I took a firm hold with both hands in front of me, + for no other boughs were close enough to be grasped, and thus inch by inch + I moved cautiously forward. + </p> + <p> + The branch creaked and groaned, and at last began to bend in such an + alarming fashion that I stopped short. + </p> + <p> + There was the club, not four feet away now, and far below I could see the + quiet waters of the creek, wrinkling the reflected foliage as a dropping + nut or stray leaf rippled the surface. + </p> + <p> + "You're nearly there, now," cried Ned, with hearty encouragement; "just a + little more, Jack, and you'll have it. + </p> + <p> + "But the limb will break," I called down. + </p> + <p> + "No, it won't," he insisted, "don't be afraid." + </p> + <p> + That settled it. I wasn't afraid, and Ned should know it. + </p> + <p> + I took a firmer grip on the bough, and slid forward half a foot. + </p> + <p> + Crack, crack,—the big branch slowly began to split, and as I made a + frantic effort to crawl back, a strange noise from the bushy part of the + tree overhead turned my gaze upward. + </p> + <p> + It's a wonder my hair didn't turn white that very instant, for what I saw + was a big, tawny wild-cat, with blazing eyes and quivering claws, crouched + on a narrow limb. I knew the animal was going to spring, and I tried to + shout as loudly as I could, but my tongue stuck to the roof of my mouth, + and the only sound I made was an odd cry that caused Ned to laugh, for he + couldn't see what was the matter from where he stood. + </p> + <p> + Then like a streak the brute plumped down on my back, and with a tremendous + splash, limb, wildcat, and myself went into the creek. + </p> + <p> + I heard Ned shout, as the water closed over me, and then everything became + dark. + </p> + <p> + I rose to the surface terribly frightened, for, sad to relate, I had never + learned to swim, and Ned could do very little in that direction. Instead + of clutching at the empty air, as most drowning persons do, I caught hold + of something substantial; and when the water was out of my eyes and out of + my stomach, for I had swallowed about a pint, I saw that I was hanging to + the bushy end of the broken limb. That was all very well, but the next + thing I observed was not so pleasant, for six feet distant, on the thick + part of the branch, sat the wild-cat, apparently none the worse for his + fall. His sharp claws were driven into the bark, and he was calmly licking + his dripping fur. Meanwhile the current was sweeping us down stream, and + Ned was running along the bank in a sad state of fright and excitement. My + back began to hurt pretty badly, and I discovered that my face was torn + and bleeding in one or two places, though whether this was caused by the + fall or by the wild-cat I did not know. + </p> + <p> + "Swim, Jack, let go and swim," shouted Ned, and then, remembering perhaps + that I was unable to follow his instructions, he suddenly turned and ran + back through the woods at the top of his speed, instead of making any + effort to help me. + </p> + <p> + I was badly scared before, and now, when I saw, as I supposed, my last + hope vanish, I began to shout for help as loudly as I could. + </p> + <p> + But at the very first cry the wild-cat lifted his head, and emitted a + vicious snarl. As I howled louder than ever, he advanced a foot or two + along the limb, ripping off the bark, and fixing his big glaring eyes + savagely on my face. + </p> + <p> + I was terrified into silence, and, as soon as I ceased shouting, the brute + stopped and coolly proceeded to lick his fur again. + </p> + <p> + Apparently, he did not object to my presence so long as I remained quiet. + The worst of it was that my end of the branch was pretty far down in the + water, and threatened every moment to carry me entirely under the surface. + </p> + <p> + In this precarious situation, I drifted down the creek, until the bend + drew near that sweeps round to Hake's Mill. Here the country was a little + more open, and a farmhouse came into sight over the brow of a hill. + </p> + <p> + There was a chance of rescue, and in spite of my previous experience, I + decided to try it, for my limbs were becoming chilled, and I knew I could + not hold on much longer. + </p> + <p> + "Help! Help!" I cried with might and main. No answer came back, but before + I could shout a third time the wild-cat uttered a snarl, and began + creeping toward me, inch by inch, and lashing the water fiercely with his + tail. Lower and lower sank the branch, until my shoulders were submerged, + and still the beast kept advancing. + </p> + <p> + I continued to shout, but no welcome voice responded, only empty echoes + floating back from the hills. + </p> + <p> + Then I must have given up all hope, for I remember wondering vaguely what + had become of Ned, and what they were doing in school, and whether my + absence was noticed or not. + </p> + <p> + The cold water was rippling about my neck now, and the wild-cat was so + close that I could note the horrible colors of the glaring eyes, and feel + the hot breath in my face. I wondered how it would feel when those two + rows of needle-like teeth met in my flesh; and then, before I could think + any more, a deafening report filled my ears, and, through the cloud of + smoke that rolled over the creek, the wild-cat bounded high in air, and + fell into the water with a loud splash. That was all I remembered then. + The next thing I knew, I was lying in a grassy hollow, alongside the + creek, while Ned and an old farmer bent over me, and threw water in my + face. Ned's desertion was explained. He had cut off the bend in the creek + by running over the hill, and, accompanied by the farmer, who happened to + be down in the woods hunting rabbits, they had arrived just in time to + shoot the wild-cat and drag me out of the water. That was the last time I + played truant. I didn't lose my share of the shellbarks, for Ned went down + early the next morning and got them, but I did lose the chestnut club, and + what was worse, in spite of my sore back, I spent a very unpleasant + quarter of an hour out in the woodshed, just two days later, and Ned, I am + happy to say, passed through the same edifying experience. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0030" id="link2H_4_0030"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + A STIRRING INCIDENT. + </h2> + <p> + India is the home of the deadliest serpents and fiercest wild beasts on + the globe. When it is stated that more than twenty thousand persons are + killed annually by the snakes and animals of that country, some idea may + be formed of its attractions in the way of a residence. To this should be + added the fact that, during certain seasons, the climate is like that of + Sahara itself. For days and nights the thermometer stands above one + hundred degrees in the shade and in the city of Madras, unacclimated + persons have died at midnight in their beds from apoplexy caused by the + appalling temperature. + </p> + <p> + Among the venomous serpents of India, the <i>cobra di capello</i> holds + foremost rank, though it is claimed that a still more deadly reptile has + been found in the interior, and I believe the British Museum has one of + these terrible creatures, whose bite brings death with the suddenness of + the lightning stroke. However, the cobra has been known to strike two + persons in instant succession, proving fatal to both within ten minutes of + each other. It is hard to conceive of any serpent more venomously + destructive than this. + </p> + <p> + On one of the flaming Sunday mornings, when there was not a cloud in the + brazen skies, a well known missionary came home from early service and + seated himself at the breakfast-table with his family. The door of the + dining-room was open and the Teluga school-teacher was outside, when he + became interested in a novel sight. A frog was hopping along the front + veranda, with an immense cobra chasing it. The serpent struck at it + repeatedly, but the fugitive, in its desperation, eluded each blow, giving + utterance to pitiful cries, as a frog will do when pursued by a snake. + </p> + <p> + The end of the veranda reached, the frog leaped off, and the cobra dropped + to the ground in hot pursuit, but a box, standing near, offered shelter. + The creature scrambled beneath, just in time to avoid another swift blow + of the reptile, which was unable to follow it. The cobra glided around the + box, seeking some avenue by which to reach his victim, but, finding none, + moved off in the grass and disappeared. + </p> + <p> + The teacher hurried into the dining-room, with the announcement of what he + had seen. The missionary listened gravely and then inquired: + </p> + <p> + "Where is the cobra now?" + </p> + <p> + "I cannot tell, sir; he moved off among the flower-pots, but I do not know + whither he went." + </p> + <p> + "It is not my practice to go shooting on Sunday," remarked the minister, + "but it won't do to have that serpent where it is liable to bite one of + us. He must have a hole somewhere near the flower-pots; please keep watch + while I get my pistol." + </p> + <p> + The missionary always kept a loaded revolver for use when traveling + through the jungle at night, and he speedily stepped out on the veranda, + with the weapon in hand, and started to find the cobra. + </p> + <p> + Two large native flower-pots stood within a couple of yards of the + veranda. Each contained a fragrant rose, of which the good man's wife was + very fond. Every day she spent some time sprinkling them with water or + removing the dead leaves, never suspecting what proved to be the fact that + while thus employed, she continually moved about a spot where an immense + cobra lay coiled. + </p> + <p> + An opening was discovered directly between the flower pots, partly + concealed by the grass. It was about as thick as a man's wrist, and + descended perpendicularly, expanding into a small chamber. + </p> + <p> + The minister called for a hand-mirror, and with little trouble threw the + bright reflection of the sun into the hole, a little more than a foot + deep, fully lighting up the interior. + </p> + <p> + The cobra was there! It lay motionless in a glistening coil, as if resting + from its fruitless pursuit of the frog and brooding over its + disappointment. It was an alarming sight, but the good man kept cool, and + meant business from the start. + </p> + <p> + Taking a piece of broken wagon tire, he thrust it slantingly into the + hole, to hold the serpent a prisoner, and shoving the muzzle of his + revolver forward, he let fly. + </p> + <p> + Not the slightest motion followed. He had missed. He now gently turned the + tire edgewise and fired again. A furious writhing followed, proving that + the snake had been hit hard. The tire was instantly turned over flat to + prevent its coming out. It struck fiercely at the iron, which in a minute + was shifted on its edge again, and the missionary emptied the remaining + chambers of his revolver down the hole. Then he turned up the tire once + more, and allowed the hideous head to dart forth. + </p> + <p> + The minister had brought with him a pair of large hedge shears, with which + he seized the protruding neck, drew out the snake and gave it a flirt + toward the compound. He was so absorbed with his task that he had not + noticed the crowd of men, women and children that had gathered to watch + the results of his hunt. When they saw a huge cobra flying through the air + toward them, there was a scampering and screaming, which might have been + less had they known that the grip of the shears had dislocated the + serpent's neck. + </p> + <p> + The good man did not forget that whenever you find one deadly serpent, + another is quite certain to be close at hand. He had passed the wagon tire + to the teacher, when he began pulling out the wounded cobra, and asked him + to insert it again without an instant's delay. This was done, and + returning with the hand-glass, the missionary once more conveyed the rays + into the underground chamber. + </p> + <p> + Sure enough a second cobra was there, wriggling and squirming in a way to + show that he had received some of the bullets intended for his companion. + The revolver was reloaded and a fusillade opened, standing off a few + paces, the marksman waited for the head to come forth that he might seize + and draw it out as he had done with the other. + </p> + <p> + The wounded reptile continued its furious squirming and striking, but its + head did not appear, until shot after shot had been fired. At last it + showed itself, and was immediately gripped with the shears. Dropping the + pistol, the missionary employed both hands in the effort, and running + backward a few steps, the whole frightful length of the serpent was drawn + out upon the ground. + </p> + <p> + Remembering their former experience, the crowd moved away, but the + missionary spared them a second fright. + </p> + <p> + Both cobras being helpless, an examination was made of them. The second + one showed the marks of fourteen pistol balls through his body, any three + of which would have proved fatal, but he was still full of fight, and died + while trying to strike the persons near him. + </p> + <p> + The serpents were now stretched out on the veranda and measured one of + them five feet eleven inches long, and the other six feet two inches. The + last is an extraordinary size, rarely seen even in the favorite haunts of + the reptile. An investigation of their home left no doubt that they had + been living for months right among the flower pots that were attended to + daily, and within six feet of the veranda and twelve feet of the door of + the missionary's study. + </p> + <p> + As for the frog that crawled under the box just in time to save himself, + he was well and flourishing at the last accounts. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0031" id="link2H_4_0031"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CYCLONES AND TORNADOES. + </h2> + <p> + Science as yet has not been able to grasp the laws that govern cyclones. + They seem to be the result of some intensely electric condition of the + elements, which finds an expression in that form. Cyclones, until within a + few years, meant those circular tempests encountered in the Pacific and + Indian oceans. They are the most destructive of all storms, being far more + deadly than monsoons and tornadoes. + </p> + <p> + All navigators, when caught in a cyclone know how to get out of it. They + have only to sail at right angles to the wind, when they will either pass + beyond the outer rim of the circular sweep, or reach the center, where the + ocean is calm. + </p> + <p> + The diameters of the ocean cyclones range from fifty to five hundred or a + thousand miles. Professor Douglas, of Ann Arbor University, entertains his + friends now and then by manufacturing miniature cyclones. He first + suspends a large copper plate by silken cords. The plate is heavily + charged with electricity, which hangs below in a bag-like mass. He uses + arsenious acid gas, which gives the electricity a greenish tint. That mass + of electricity becomes a perfect little cyclone. It is funnel-shaped and + spins around like a top. When he moves the plate over a table, his cyclone + catches up pennies, pens, pith balls and other small articles, and + scatters them in every direction. + </p> + <p> + Cyclones never touch the equator, though the ocean ones are rare outside + the torrid one. They are caused by the meeting of contrary currents of + winds, and are known under the names of hurricanes, typhoons, whirlwinds + or tornadoes. Those terrifying outbursts which now and then cause so much + destruction in our own country seem to be the concentration of the + prodigious force of an immense ocean cyclone within a small space, which + renders them resistless. + </p> + <p> + A writer in the <i>N. Y. Herald</i> gives some interesting facts regarding + these scourges of the air. While the cyclone, as we have shown, may have a + diameter of hundreds of miles, the track of a tornado is often limited to + a few hundred feet, and rarely has the width of half a mile. + </p> + <p> + The cyclone carries with it a velocity of as much as 100 to 140 miles an + hour. It sends a certain amount of warning ahead of its track, and the + acceleration of the wind's speed at any given point, is gradual. + </p> + <p> + The tornado falls almost without notice, or rather the indications are + often so similar to those of an ordinary thunderstorm that only a skilled + and careful observer can detect the difference. + </p> + <p> + The phenomena and effects of cyclones in the West Indies have long been + subjects of study and observation. As the center approaches a ship she is + assaulted by wind of a terrible force and a sea that is almost + indescribable. The water no longer runs in waves of regular onward motion, + but leaps up in pyramids and peaks. The wind swirls and strikes until + wherever there is a chance for vibration or flutter, even in tightly + furled sails, the fabric soon gives way. I once saw a brig go drifting + past us in a West Indies cyclone with everything furled and closely lashed + with sea gaskets. We were in company nearly at the height of the storm, + when the center was only a few miles away. There was a spot in the bunt of + the foretopsail where the sail was not tightly stowed, and for several + hours it had doubtless been fluttering under tremendous pressure. As I + watched her a little white puff went out of the bunt of the topsail, and + then the destruction of the sail was rapid. Long ribbons of canvas went + slithering off as if a huge file had rasped the yard arm, and in a short + time there was nothing left on the yard except the bolt ropes and the reef + tackles. We could do nothing to help the crew, for it was doubtful whether + we could keep off the reefs ourselves, and the brig passed out of sight to + her certain doom. + </p> + <p> + The local tornado that so frequently plays havoc with property and life in + the West is, like the cyclone, a revolving force, but it carries with it a + variety of phenomena wholly distinct from those that accompany the larger + storm. Many of the effects of one tornado are wholly absent in others, and + the indications that in one case have been followed by a terrible disaster + are not infrequently found at other times to presage merely a heavy + thunder shower. + </p> + <p> + The freaks of a tornado are wholly unaccountable. In some cases not an + object in its track will fail to feel its power for long distances; in + other instances it will seem to act like a cannon-ball that plows up the + earth on striking, then rises and strikes again, leaving the space between + untouched. Sometimes it will go through a forest leveling the trees as + though a gang of axemen had plied their tools on lines laid out by + surveyors, nothing outside the track being touched; but again in similar + windfalls there will be found occasional pockets scored in the forest + growth jutting off the right line, like small lagoons opening into a + flowing stream. These seem to have been caused by a sort of attendant + whirlwind—a baby offspring from the main monster, which, having + sprung away from the chief disturbance, scoops a hole in the woods and + then expires or rejoins the original movement. + </p> + <p> + I have seen one of the most violent and, so to speak, compressed of these + storms, cut a road through thick woods so that at a distance the edges + stood out clear and sharp against the sky as would those of a railway + cutting through earth. Trees standing at the edge of the track had their + branches clean swept one side while on the other there was no perceptible + disturbance of the foliage. + </p> + <p> + Sometimes the tornado acts like an enormous scoop, catching up every + movable thing and sweeping it miles away: and again it becomes a + depositor, as if, tired of carrying so much dead weight, it dumped it upon + the earth preparatory to grabbing up a new cargo. These effects are + particularly noticeable in the tornado that goes by jumps. When it strikes + and absorbs a mass of debris it seems to spring up again like a projectile + that grazes the surface. For a space there will be a very high wind and + some damage, but no such disaster as the tornado has previously wrought. + Out of the clouds will come occasional heavy missiles and deluges of + water. Then down goes the tornado again crashing and scattering by its own + force and adding to its destructive power by a battery of timbers and + other objects brought along from the previous impact. Relieved of these + masses, it again gathers up miscellaneous movables and repeats its + previous operation. + </p> + <p> + The force with which these objects strike is best seen when they fall + outside of the tornado's path, since the work done by the missile is not + then disturbed by the general destructive force of the storm. Thus, near + Racine, Wis., I have known an ordinary fence rail, slightly sharpened on + one end, to be driven against a young tree like a spear and pierce it + several feet. The velocity of the rail must have been something enormous, + or otherwise the rail would have glanced from such a round and elastic + object. + </p> + <p> + Many of the settlers in the tornado districts of Southern Minnesota, Iowa, + Kansas, and Nebraska excavate a deep cellar beneath their houses and cover + it with heavy timbers as a place of refuge for their families when a + tornado threatens to strike them. While these dugouts are usually + effective, they are not always so. There have been instances where + families having only time to descend and not time enough to close the trap + door have been exposed to the storm's full fury by the tornado getting + into the opening and lifting off the whole roof after having first swept + away the house above. Another pathetic case resulted in the death of a + whole family by an extraordinary freak of the tornado. The storm first + struck a large pond and swept up all the water in it. Its next plunge + deposited this water on one of these dugouts, and the family were drowned + like chipmunks in a hole. + </p> + <p> + Some of the western tornadoes are accompanied by electrical manifestations + to an extent that has originated a belief in electricity as their cause. + These disturbances are very marked in some cases, while in others they + have not been noticed. In one tornado in Central Illinois electricity + played very peculiar antics not only in the tornado's track, but also at + some distance from it. In the ruined houses all the iron work was found to + have been strongly magnetized, so that pokers, flatirons and other metal + objects were found adhering to each other. Just off the tornado's track + the same effects were noticed, and several persons experienced sharp + electric shocks during the passage of the storm. Afterward it was found + that the magnetic influence was so strong that clocks and watches were + stopped and rendered wholly useless. + </p> + <p> + The scooping action of the tornado sometimes makes considerable changes in + the topography of the country, as when it gathers up the water of a large + pond or water course and makes a new pond or opens a new channel. At + Wallingford the water in a pond of very large size was taken bodily from + its bed, carried up a hill and dropped nearly in one mass, so that gullies + and ravines were cut in every direction. + </p> + <p> + There is a divide in Northeastern Illinois between streams flowing into + Lake Michigan and those running to the Mississippi. So level is a portion + of the land on the summit, and so slight the elevation above the lake, + that in wet seasons the surface-water seems almost as willing to go one + way as the other; and on one occasion the upper streams of the Desplaines + River were nearly permanently diverted toward the lake by a tornado that + gathered up the water and scored the surface in its track toward the east. + </p> + <p> + Many are the stories told of the way in which objects are carried away by + the wind and left in strange places. In one Illinois tornado two children + and an infant were caught up. The dead bodies of the children were found + only a few hundred feet distant, but the infant was picked up alive more + than a mile away from the spot where the tornado swept the children up. An + accordion that must have come a long distance—for it was never + claimed—was found so entangled in the branches of a tree that it was + alternately pulled apart and pressed together by the wind, thus creating + such weird and uncanny music during a whole night that an already + sufficiently scared settlement of negroes were kept in a state of frantic + dismay until daylight revealed the cause. + </p> + <p> + In another case a farmer who followed the tornado's track in search of + missing cattle was astonished to discover one of his cows lodged about + twenty feet above the ground in the branches of a half-stripped maple. + </p> + <p> + "I allers knew that was an active heifer," he remarked, as he came in + sight of her hanging over the slanting limb, "but I never allowed she + could climb a tree." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0032" id="link2H_4_0032"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + LOST IN A BLIZZARD. + </h2> + <p> + If I were given my choice between a visit from a cyclone or a blizzard, I + would unhesitatingly choose the former. True, there is no resisting its + terrific power, and a man caught in its embrace is as helpless as a child + when seized by a Bengal tiger; but there is a chance of escape, and the + whole thing is over in a few minutes. You may be lifted into the air and + dropped with only a few broken bones, or, by plunging into a "cyclone + pit," the fury of the sky may glide harmlessly over your head; but in the + case of a blizzard, however, let me tell you the one woeful experience of + my life. + </p> + <p> + The snow fell steadily for two days and nights, and looking out from my + home in western Kansas I saw that it lay fully three feet on a level. By a + strange providence my wife, who had been my brave and faithful helper for + several years, was away on a visit to her friends in Topeka, and my only + companion was my servant Jack, a middle-aged African, who in his youth was + a slave in Kentucky. + </p> + <p> + Things had not gone well with us of late. The grasshoppers and drought + played the mischief with out crops, and it was a question with me for + months whether the wisest course to take was not to throw up my hands, let + everything go to the bow-wows and, in the dry-goods firm, that I knew was + returning to St. Louis, resume my situation still open for me. A man hates + to confess himself beaten, and I decided to remain where I was one more + year. Then, if there was no improvement, I would turn my back on Kansas + forever. + </p> + <p> + "Master Thomas," said Jack, as the dismal December afternoon drew to a + close, "thar isn't a pound ob flour in de house. Shall I go to de village + and get some?" + </p> + <p> + "No; I will go myself." + </p> + <p> + It was the sudden realization of the unutterable loneliness I would feel + without any companion that led me to this rash declaration. The town was + only a mile distant, but it would require hours to make the journey there + and back, and I could not bear the thought of being without the society of + any one for that time. I had read everything in the house; the single + horse and cow I owned had been looked after, and there was absolutely + nothing to do but to sit down before the scant fire, listen to the sifting + of the snow against the window panes, and give way to gloomy reverie. + </p> + <p> + Anything was preferable to this, and it was with a feeling akin to relief + that I added: + </p> + <p> + "I might do so had I not noticed this afternoon that he had gone lame." + </p> + <p> + "Better let de flour go, den, for de snow am too deep and de storm to + heavy for you to tramp all de way to town and back again." + </p> + <p> + "No; while I haven't much fear of our starving, yet, if the snow-fall + continues, we shall be in a bad way. I can carry twenty-five pounds + without trouble, and will be back in a few hours; then the storm may rage + as hard as it pleases, for all we care." + </p> + <p> + The preparations were quickly made, and, to shorten my story, I may say + that, after a laborious tramp, I reached the village without mishap, + bought my quarter of a hundred of flour, slung it over my shoulder, and + started on my return. + </p> + <p> + By this time I had made several disquieting discoveries. The snow was + falling faster than ever, the cold was increasing, a gale was blowing, + and, under the circumstances, of course there was not a glimmer of light + in the sky. My course was directly across the prairie, and in the event of + my tracks being obliterated by the snow—as was almost certain to be + the case—it was almost impossible for me to prevent myself from + going astray. + </p> + <p> + My hope lay in Jack's promise that he would keep a bright light burning in + the upper story to guide me on my course. On a clear night this light was + visible from the village, but somehow or other I failed to take into + account the state of the weather. The air was full of eddying flakes, + which would render the headlight of a locomotive invisible a hundred yards + distant. Strange that this important fact never occurred to me until I was + fully a fourth of a mile from the village. Then, after looking in vain for + the beacon light, the danger of my situation struck me, and I halted. + </p> + <p> + "I am certain to go wrong," I said to myself. + </p> + <p> + "It is out of my power to follow a direct course without something to + serve as a compass. I will go back to the village and wait till morning." + </p> + <p> + Wheeling about in my tracks, I resumed my wearisome tramp through the + heavy snow, and kept it up until I was certain I had travelled fully a + fourth of a mile. Then when I paused a moment and gazed ahead and around, + I was confronted by blank darkness on every hand. What a proof of a man's + tendency to go wrong, that in aiming at a village of fifty dwellings, and + only a fourth of a mile away, I had missed it altogether! + </p> + <p> + This discovery gave me my first thrill of real alarm. I shouted, but my + voice fell dead in the snowy air. The gale was blowing more furiously than + ever, and the cold was so intense that it penetrated my thick clothing and + caused my teeth to rattle together! + </p> + <p> + "You can be of no use to me," I exclaimed, flinging away the small bag of + flour. "The village can't be far off, and I will find it." + </p> + <p> + Determined to retain my self-possession, I made a careful calculation of + the proper course to follow, and plunged into my work with more vigor than + ever. I continually glanced up in quest of the flickering lights, and + listened, in the hope of hearing some sound that could guide me, but + nothing of the kind was seen or heard, and it was not long before the + terrible truth burst upon me that I was lost. + </p> + <p> + Aye, and lost in a blizzard! The wind had risen almost to a hurricane; the + cold cut through the thickest clothing, and the snow struck my face like + the prick of millions of needles. I shouted again, but, convinced that it + was a useless waste of strength, I soon ceased. + </p> + <p> + It was certain death to remain motionless, and almost equally fatal to + push on; but there <i>was</i> a possibility that I might strike the right + direction, and anything was preferable to remaining idle. And so, with a + desperation akin to despair, I threw all the vigor at my command into my + benumbed limbs, and bent every possible energy to the life and death task + before me. + </p> + <p> + The sleet drove against my cheeks with such spiteful and penetrating + fierceness that I could make no use of my eyes, I could only bend my head + to the blast and labor through the snow, praying that Providence would + guide my footsteps in the right direction. + </p> + <p> + I was plodding forward in this heavy, aimless fashion when I noticed that + the violence of the gale was drifting the snow. Sometimes I would strike a + space of several yards where it did not reach to my ankles. Then I would + suddenly lurch into a wall that reached to my shoulders. After wallowing + through this, I might strike a shallow portion again, where, while walking + quite briskly, a windrow of snow would be hurled against my breast and + face with such fury as to force me backward and off my feet. + </p> + <p> + Bracing myself, I waited until there was a sufficient lull in the blizzard + for me to make some use of my eyes. I blinked and peered toward the + different points of the compass, but without catching the first twinkle of + light. + </p> + <p> + "I am lost—lost—" I moaned; "there is no help for me!" + </p> + <p> + An extraordinary collapse must have come over me, for my senses seemed to + forsake me on the instant. I went down in the eddying, blinding snow, and + knew no more. + </p> + <p> + At the moment of giving way I was less than a hundred yards from the + easternmost house of the village. My despairing cry was heard, and + hospitable hands carried me into the dwelling within a quarter of an hour + after losing my consciousness. Intelligent and prompt treatment prevented + any serious consequences, but the remembrance of that brief time exposed + to the fury of the blizzard will remain with me to my dying day. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0033" id="link2H_4_0033"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + THROWING THE RIATA. + </h2> + <p> + The skill shown by cattlemen in throwing the riata or lasso often + approaches the marvelous. What is more wonderful than the duel described + in the <i>San Francisco Examiner</i>, between Mexican vaqueros, in which + the only weapons used were their riatas? The victor overcame the other by + throwing his noose, so that his enemy's noose passed right through it, and + the conqueror lassoed the other man's arms against his side and jerked him + from his steed. + </p> + <p> + The despatch then went on to tell of the skill of the victorious riata + man, and mentioned among other wonderful feats, his lassoing an antelope + running at high speed 100 feet away. To make the test more extraordinary, + the correspondent wrote that he would pick out one of the animal's feet + and get the noose around that alone. + </p> + <p> + An <i>Examiner</i> reporter called on Louis Ohnimus, Superintendent of + Woodward's Gardens, who wielded a riata for many years, and probably knows + as much about throwing the lasso as any man on the coast, and asked him if + the feats referred to were possible. + </p> + <p> + "The Mexican may have won the duel by lassoing his adversary, riata and + all," was the answer. "It is not an uncommon thing for them to settle + their differences by such a fight, and I have heard of the trick of + ringing the other man's rope, but if that man can catch an antelope one + hundred feet away, by the foot or any other way, he is a better riata man + than I ever encountered. In the first place mighty few men are strong + enough to throw a rope such a distance. Then an ordinary riata is only + fourteen or sixteen yards long—twenty yards is a very long one. So, + you see, a forty-foot throw is a pretty good one." + </p> + <p> + He was asked to explain how to throw a lasso, and consented to do so. + </p> + <p> + "The first thing about this business," said Mr. Ohnimus, "is to have a + perfect riata. If you have one perfectly stretched, oiled, and in a + thoroughly good condition, you can throw well; if your rope is kinky or + uneven, you will find it impossible to do accurate work." + </p> + <p> + "What do you consider a good riata?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, I can only tell you how a good one is made. First, the rawhide is + cut in thin strips, as long as possible, and half tanned with the hair on. + Then these strips are soaked and stretched over a block. Then they are + braided into a rope, care being taken, of course, to pull the strands as + tight as possible. When the riata is made it should be buried for a week, + ten days, or even a fortnight, in the sand. It takes up moisture from the + ground, without getting hard. Soaking it in water won't do, nor will + anything else that I know of except, as I say, burying it. When the riata + is resurrected it should again be left for a time stretched over a block, + with a weight to hold it taut. Then the hair should be sandpapered off the + outside, and when the riata is greased with mutton tallow and properly + noosed it is ready for use. Every vaquero that pretends to take care of + his apparatus will bury his riata and stretch it every six or eight + months. + </p> + <p> + "A hair rope does not make a good riata. It is useful to stretch around + camp at night to keep snakes away. For some reason snakes will not cross a + hair rope. + </p> + <p> + "Now, as to throwing it: + </p> + <p> + "The riata, say, is hanging from the horn of the saddle—not tied, + but ready for use. No vaquero who understands his trade ties his rope to + his saddle. He knows that his life may depend on his ability to let go of + his rope in an instant, and he isn't going to chance killing himself or + his horse. You see, the vaquero might be on a side hill, and a bull or + steer he wishes to catch be on a trail below him, and the ground between + them to be too steep to admit of his riding down to it. Now, suppose the + noose, instead of catching around the horns of the steer, should circle + his neck and draw down to his shoulders? Accidents are, of course, as + likely to happen in catching cattle as in anything else, and give a bull + such a hold and he could pull a house, let alone a mustang. That would be + one case where it would be very handy to let go quickly. Then a man is + likely to get his hand caught, and if he can't let his rope go free he is + likely to lose a finger or two. + </p> + <p> + "Our vaquero is trotting along with his rope hanging at his saddle bow or + fastened behind him. He sees a deer or whatever else he wants to catch, + and grabs his rope with the left hand if he is a right-handed man, though + a man to really excel in this business should be ambi-dextrous. A + right-handed man can, under ordinary circumstances, rope a steer; but he + has frequently to turn his horse to gain a good position. Now it sometimes + happens that your horse is in a position where you can't turn; then it + would be awkward, unless you could throw with either hand. I usually throw + with my left hand, though I can use either. + </p> + <p> + "I take up the rope from the saddle bow, so." + </p> + <p> + He lifted his riata in his right hand. His little finger held the standing + end of the rope, the third and middle finders supported the coil, and the + noose dangled from his first finger, while his thumb steadied the whole + rope and held it from slipping. The coils were not more than a foot or a + foot and a half in diameter. The noose was the same size. + </p> + <p> + "That's a smaller noose than you would use on the range, is it not?" + </p> + <p> + "No," answered Mr. Ohnimus, "the vaquero never carries his noose long. If + he did, it would be constantly getting tangled up in the horse's legs. He + makes it larger when he swings it. But to get back to the process of + lassoing. As our cowboy gets close to his quarry, he takes the noose in + his lasso hand. I will use my left, as it is a trifle handier for me. He + grips the rope, not too firmly, holding the standing part and the side of + the noose about half the length of the loop away from the knot. That is to + enable him to swing the noose so that it will fall open. If he holds it at + the knot he will throw a long, narrow noose that is very likely to cross + and kink. + </p> + <p> + "Meanwhile I, representing our cowboy, hold the remaining coils in my + other hand, only changing the position of my forefinger so as to secure + better control of the coils. Then comes the third maneuver—enlarging + the noose. Of course, you have to have a larger noose than one a foot in + diameter to drop over a steer's horns forty feet away. The noose is + enlarged by swinging the noose in your lasso hand until the centrifugal + force pulls it out the size you wish (this is the reason you do not grasp + it too firmly), letting go with the other hand, of course, as many coils + as are necessary to make the noose the right size. Now you have the noose + in the air you do not cease making it circle around your head until you + let it go. When the noose has been let out to the right size the next + trouble is to keep it open and to avoid entangling it in the brush or + other surrounding obstructions. You keep it open, as I said, by holding + the noose from quarter to half its length from the knot, and by a peculiar + twist of the wrist that is only attainable by practice. To keep it clear + of the brush is often a more difficult job, for the cowboy is not always + in a clear place when he wants to throw his rope. Then it is that his + judgment comes into play and determines whether his cast is a lost one or + not. I have seen vaqueros swing a lasso swiftly almost in the midst of a + thicket, and keep it clear without losing speed, and then let it drive + straight as an arrow between two close trees and rope an object that could + not pass where the noose had gone. Such skill, to be sure, comes only + after long practice. + </p> + <p> + "Well, now we have got the noose circling about the vaquero's head, and + the next thing is to let it fly. There is not much to describe about this + part of throwing a riata, important though it may be. It is only incessant + practice that will enable a man to make a certain cast. The main thing is + to swing the rope just long enough—neither so long as to give it a + side-wise motion when you throw it, nor short enough to prevent its + getting all the force you require. Then the riata man must throw at a + particular limb or projection. This thing of tossing blindly at an object + and trusting to luck that the animal will get into the rope somehow will + not do. You must pick out your mark as carefully as if you were shooting + at it, and then time it. A steer jumping along changes his position + constantly as regards you. If you throw at his head high up the chances + are that it will be away down when your rope reaches him, and you will + overthrow. Now, if you pick out a foot you must reckon so that that foot + will be off the ground when your rope reaches him. The noose does not + travel like a bullet, and this element of time is most important. + </p> + <p> + "Of even more importance is it that the distances are gauged correctly. + You remember I spoke about holding the coils lightly in two or three + fingers. Well, that is done in order that as many coils as may be + considered necessary may be let go. If you are wielding a riata you know + that each of your coils is almost two feet or two and one half feet long. + So if you want to lasso something twenty feet away you let go ten coils. + </p> + <p> + "As to letting go, you simply open your hand at the correct time and the + rope slips off. + </p> + <p> + "But even after you have roped your steer your work is not over. Almost + any animal can pull you from your horse, and to prevent this you must get + your rope around the horn of your saddle. There is where you have to be + quick. There are two ways of making this hitch that are used ordinarily. + The one I prefer is simply to take two turns around the horn, taking care + that the second turn comes lower and overlaps the other. No pull in the + world could make that rope slip, while I can, simply by throwing off one + turn, let it all slide off. This other fashion, which is really taking a + 'half-inch' around the horn, holds just as fast, but you have to push the + rope through to loosen it. You see, in making this sudden twist, a finger + is very likely to get caught, and I have known many fingers being taken + off before such a hitch could be unfastened. + </p> + <p> + "It is often advisable to take an extra twist around anything you have + lassoed, and this is done by simply throwing a coil. Practice again is the + only thing that can teach this. + </p> + <p> + "Now you have the whole theory of throwing a rope. + </p> + <p> + "There are four sorts of throws, but they are all made alike, only the + position of the arm being different. They are the overthrow, the + underthrow, the sidethrow, and the backthrow." + </p> + <p> + "Backthrow?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, backthrow—catching an object behind you—something that + you need not even see. That sounds difficult, does it? Well, you stand + behind me and you can see it done." + </p> + <p> + The reporter took his station twenty feet behind Mr. Ohnimus, quite out of + sight, of course. He swung the loop around his head, and, without turning, + let it fly backward. It circled the newspaper man exactly, and by pulling + it quickly Ohnimus had his arms pinioned to his side. + </p> + <p> + "Are there any more trick throws?" asked the reporter. + </p> + <p> + "Lots of them. I never put myself up as a crack riata man, and I am out of + practice now, but I can lay the noose on the ground at my feet and kick it + around your neck, or pick it off the ground from my horse and land it + around you while the horse is going at full speed, and do lots of things + like that, but none of them is any good. That backthrow has been used by + the Mexican highwaymen to considerable advantage. You see, in that country + the traveler always looks out for danger from the rear and is prepared for + it, but when a pleasant horseman rides past him, playing with his riata, + and wishing him 'Good-day' as he passes, he is likely to consider the + danger as gone by, as well as the man. That has caused the death of a good + many. The bandit gets the right distance ahead and then lassoes him as I + did you. A touch of his spur jerks his victim from the saddle and that + ends it." + </p> + <p> + "How is the lasso as a weapon of defence?" + </p> + <p> + "Good. A quick riata man can beat a fellow with a pistol at fairly close + quarters." + </p> + <p> + "How?" + </p> + <p> + "Well, here is a pistol. Put it in your pocket and draw it on me as I come + toward you." + </p> + <p> + The reporter did as he was directed. He had not raised the weapon when the + noose was around his hand and the pistol was jerked a dozen feet. + </p> + <p> + "Try again, and tighter," said Ohnimus. + </p> + <p> + The reporter did so. The pistol was not jerked from his hand this time, + but before he could snap it Ohnimus had thrown a coil around his neck and + pulled his pistol hand up over his shoulder. In another instant a second + coil was around the reporter's body, and both arms were fastened firmly to + his sides. He could not move that pistol an inch. No clearer demonstration + of the use of the lasso as a weapon of defence was possible. + </p> + <p> + "What is the most difficult animal, in your opinion, to catch with the + lasso?" was asked. + </p> + <p> + "A sea lion," answered the rope thrower. "I have caught them off the + southern coast. They go right through a noose. The only way to get them is + to throw the rope around his neck and back of one flipper. A hog is hard + to catch, too. He pulls his legs out of a noose without half trying, and + you can't hold him by the neck or body. The only way is to get him like + the sea lion—back of one foreleg." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0034" id="link2H_4_0034"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + A WATERSPOUT. + </h2> + <p> + Doubtless many of my readers have heard of the dreadful encounters of + vessels with waterspouts, when the ship escaped destruction by firing a + cannon-ball into the waterspout, thus causing it to break apart. + </p> + <p> + Now these things are by no means such terrible objects as many believe. No + doubt the vessels of the present day are larger and stronger than + formerly, and perhaps waterspouts have become smaller. Be as it may, the + people who go down to the sea in ships need give themselves no uneasiness + about them, for really they amount to little. + </p> + <p> + The <i>Slavonia</i>, of the Hamburg line left Brunshausen, on the Elbe, on + February 26 last, under the command of Capt. H. Schmidt. She had only two + passengers. The weather was squally and the air full of mist when she + reached the outer Banks, 900 miles from New York, shortly after sunrise on + Sunday, March 16. The big vessel was heading west by north, when, at 7 + o'clock, Second Mate Erichsen, who was on the bridge, saw emerge through + the mist on the starboard side of the ship, at the distance of about a + thousand feet, a towering column which united sea and sky. The column was + in front of the ship to starboard, and was moving in a southeasterly + direction, apparently at the rate of eight knots an hour. + </p> + <p> + Although the Slavonia was running 9 1/2 knots, the column seemed likely to + pass in front of the steamship when their paths crossed. Accordingly + Erichsen did not try to alter the course of the Slavonia; indeed, he would + not have altered it had he known ship and spout were sure to meet, for he + had encountered waterspouts before and wasn't afraid of them. All he did—in + fact, all he had time to do—was to call Third Mate Lorentzen, also + an expert in waterspouts. + </p> + <p> + On rushed the <i>Slavonia</i>, heading west by north: nearer came the + waterspout, heading south by east. It soon became evident that the spout + could not get by before the <i>Slavonia</i> reached it, and it was now too + late to slow up—indeed, a collision was manifestly unavoidable from + the start. Lorentzen had scarcely reached the bridge when the watery + Philistine was upon the Samson. It just hit the steamer's bows on the + starboard side, as depicted in the second cut. A rushing noise accompanied + the column, and the water foamed in its wake. Immediately above was a + great black cloud from which clouds less dark descended to form a funnel, + or inverted cone. The middle of the column was white, apparently because + it contained snow. + </p> + <p> + The column's narrowest diameter was about twelve feet, while it was three + times as broad as its base, which reproduced in water and inverted the + cloud-formed funnel above. The whole column rotated with a spiral motion. + </p> + <p> + The waterspout, when it approached, took all the wind out of the + fore-staysail of the steamship, which went blind, but the schooner-sail + still kept full, and presently the fore-staysail filled again. + </p> + <p> + The Slavonia shook under the shock caused by contact with the column of + water, but kept on her course none the worse for the collision. A few + flakes of snow on her bow were the only evidence of the collision after + the pillar of water had passed off to port. + </p> + <p> + While the vessel was uninjured, the waterspout soon showed signs that it + had received its death-blow. As it sailed off to the southeast it parted + in the middle, and the cone of water which formed its base and the cone of + cloud which formed its top began to grow smaller by degrees. The + waterspout was slowly but surely ceasing to be a waterspout when it + disappeared from view in the misty distance some fifteen minutes or more + from the time it was sighted. + </p> + <p> + The <i>Slavonia's</i> encounter with the waterspout took place in latitude + 42 degrees 22 minutes north and longitude 52 degrees 35 minutes west. This + is rather far north for waterspouts so early in the year. The waterspout + crop is generally more plentiful when thunder and lightning are on top, + which is in warmer weather. The temperature of the air at the time of the + encounter was 37 degrees; water 54 degrees. It had been cold during the + night, but grew warmer in the morning. The clouds which overspread the + firmament were of the cumulus pattern. + </p> + <p> + Erichsen and Lorentzen have not only seen other waterspouts, but the + first, when on a sailing vessel in the tropics, ran into the very middle + of one with no worse result than to deluge the deck of the ship with water + as a heavy shower would have done. He thinks an unusually large waterspout + might possibly sink a very small vessel, say a pilot boat, but with a ship + of ordinary size he considers bombarding a waterspout with cannon a waste + of powder. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0035" id="link2H_4_0035"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + AN HEROIC WOMAN. + </h2> + <p> + Every boy and girl should learn to swim. When one recalls how easily the + art is acquired, and the many occasions that are liable to arise, we + cannot but wonder that the accomplishment is so universally neglected by + the other sex. It is pleasant to note, however, that swimming is growing + to be popular among women, and the day is not far distant, when the + majority of young ladies will become the rivals of their brothers in their + ability to keep their heads above water. + </p> + <p> + Torres Strait separates Australia from Papua or New Guinea; and connects + the Arafura Sea on the west, with the Coral Sea on the east. Its current + is swift and the waters from time immemorial have been dangerous to + navigation. It has been the scene of many shipwrecks, and it is only a few + months since that the steamer <i>Quetta</i> was lost in those waters. One + hundred and sixteen persons perished on that terrible night in the South + Pacific, but among the survivors was Miss Lacy, whose experience was not + only among the most interesting and thrilling ever recorded, but + emphasizes the statement we have made at the opening of our sketch. + </p> + <p> + Miss Lacy says she was sitting in the saloon, engaged in writing a letter, + the other ladies practicing for a concert which it was intended to give on + shipboard. Everything was going along, merrily, and all were in high + spirits, when, without the least warning, they were startled by a harsh, + grating noise, the steamer rocked violently, and nearly every one was + thrown into the wildest panic. + </p> + <p> + The confusion and shouts above showed that some fearful disaster had + occurred. Instantly Miss Lacy made a rush for the deck to learn what it + meant. Quick as were her movements, she found the ship was already + sinking. Going aft was like climbing a steep hill, but she saw that one + portion was high above water, and she struggled bravely to reach it. But, + so rapidly did the <i>Quetta</i> go down that she had hardly gone forward, + when the steamer was swallowed up in the furious waters. + </p> + <p> + That which followed is beyond description. In an instant, two hundred + human beings were struggling frantically, shrieking in their terror for + the help which was nowhere to be found, clutching each other, praying and + drowning by the score. + </p> + <p> + Miss Lacy was caught in this fearful swirl, and was in imminent danger of + being dragged down by those around her, who were crazed by the one wild, + despairing hope of saving themselves, no matter at what cost. But she was + a powerful swimmer, and retaining her self-command, she shook herself free + of several who attempted to cling to her. The whirlpool caused by the + sinking of the steamer pulled her beneath the water, but, with the same + wonderful presence of mind she had shown from the first, she fought her + way to the surface, and swam from the dangerous spot. + </p> + <p> + Finding herself her own mistress, and fully aware that her life now + depended on her ability to swim, she removed all her superfluous clothing + and moved hither and thither in the darkness, in the hope of coming upon + some of the survivors. + </p> + <p> + It was about midnight, that she heard some one shout. The gloom was too + powerful for her to distinguish anything, but she swam toward the point, + whence the call issued, and came upon a raft, that had been hastily thrown + together by the chief officer of the <i>Quetta</i>. Several persons were + clinging to it, and she accepted the invitation to avail herself of the + temporary refuge and give her weary limbs a rest. + </p> + <p> + The dismal hours wore slowly away, and at last the growing light in the + eastern sky told that the longed-for day was breaking. As soon as the rays + of the sun illumined the wild waste of waters, every eye scanned the ocean + in quest of some sail; but on every side was the vast heavy sea, with no + sign of life except on the little raft. It was water, water everywhere, + with not a drop to drink nor a morsel of food to eat, and with no prospect + of escaping a lingering death of the most distressing nature. + </p> + <p> + The discouraging feature of the situation to Miss Lacy was that their rude + support was making no progress at all. They had no means of propelling it, + and, had they possessed such means, no one knew what course to follow. It + looked as if days and nights must be passed on the raft, until one by one + the survivors succumbed or ended their sufferings by plunging into the sea + which they had striven so hard to escape. + </p> + <p> + Far away, however, on the verge of the horizon, an object rose dimly to + view, which, after carefully studying for some time, the shipwrecked + people agreed was a small island, but, as we have stated, they were + powerless to propel their craft thither, and could only gaze and sigh for + the refuge that was as much beyond their reach, as though it were a + thousand leagues distant. + </p> + <p> + "I am going to swim to it!" exclaimed Miss Lacy. + </p> + <p> + "Are you mad?" demanded the astonished chief-officer; "it is utterly + impossible." + </p> + <p> + "I prefer to risk it rather than remain here." + </p> + <p> + "But it is much further off than it seems to be; these waters are full of + sharks and you will never live to swim half the distance. Dismiss the idea + at once." + </p> + <p> + "Good-by!" + </p> + <p> + And the brave woman took a header into the sea, and with a long graceful + stroke, that compelled the admiration of every one of the amazed + survivors, began swimming toward the supposed refuge. + </p> + <p> + But the chief-officer knew more about the difficulties in her way than she + did. She grievously miscalculated the distance, and, though she was a + swimmer of amazing skill and endurance, she began to believe she had + undertaken a task beyond her power of accomplishment. + </p> + <p> + She swam directly toward the island, husbanding her strength like a wise + person, but making steady progress, until before the afternoon was half + gone, she knew she had placed many a long mile behind her. When she looked + back she could see nothing of the raft and her friends, but as she rose on + the crest of an immense swell, she plainly discerned the island. It still + was in the verge of the horizon, and it was hard for her to see that she + was apparently no nearer to it than when she started. + </p> + <p> + Besides this alarming fact, she was threatened by a still greater peril. + As the chief-officer had warned her, the waters abounded with sharks, of + the man-eating species, who were liable to dart forward and seize her at + any moment; but, in recalling her extraordinary experience, Miss Lacy says + that at no time did she feel any fear of them. She knew they were liable + to discover her at any moment, but they did not, and fortunately indeed + she escaped their ferocious jaws. + </p> + <p> + Her greatest suffering was from the blazing sun, whose rays shot downward + upon her head with pitiless power. When she found her brain growing dizzy, + she averted the danger of sunstroke by dropping or swimming for some + distance below the surface. This always cooled or refreshed her, though + she felt her face and neck blistering under the fierce rays. + </p> + <p> + In striving to recall her experience, Miss Lacy is unable to remember a + large portion of the time she spent in the water. She believes she slept + for several hours. What an extraordinary situation! Alone in the midst of + the vast strait in the southern Pacific, surrounded by sharks, with no + friendly sail in sight, and yet slumbering and unconscious. + </p> + <p> + Of course she was not swimming all this time. When she found herself + growing weary, she floated on her back for long periods, then propelled + herself first upon one side and then upon the other, and all the time the + dim misty object in the distance remained as far away as ever. Finally, + when she raised her head and looked for it, she was dismayed at being + unable to detect it at all. It had vanished. + </p> + <p> + Then she knew that it had been an optical delusion from the first. There + was no island or land in sight. She was alone on the vast deep. + </p> + <p> + But the heroic woman did not despair. After she had been in the water + twenty hours altogether, and was in the last stage of exhaustion, she was + picked up by a boat belonging to the search steamer <i>Albatross</i>. For + several hours succeeding her rescue she was delirious, but it was not long + before she was entirely herself, having given a signal proof of the value + of swimming as a lady's accomplishment. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0036" id="link2H_4_0036"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + THE WRITING FOUND IN A BOTTLE. + </h2> + <p> + Let me assure the readers, at the beginning of this sketch, that it is + strictly true in every particular. I have no ambition to shine as a writer + of fiction, and, at the request of a number of friends acquainted with the + remarkable circumstances, have sat down to relate, in a straightforward + manner as is at my command; the part that I took in the history of the + famous <i>Buried Treasure</i>. + </p> + <p> + Not the least singular part of this strange business was that, of the + three individuals concerned two were boys, one being my son Frank (named + for his father) and a playmate, Arthur Newman. The latter was thirteen + years old, while Frank was only a few months his senior. + </p> + <p> + They were inseparable playmates from early childhood; and as we lived near + a broad, deep inlet, which put in from the Atlantic, they learned to swim + at the age of ten, and soon learned to manage a yacht as well as veterans. + I was sometimes anxious because of their venturesome disposition, but + although they frequently ventured outside, sometimes in very nasty + weather, no accident ever befell them, and the parents of both boys + gradually learned to dismiss all fear concerning them, under the belief + that, as they grew older, they became better fitted to take care of + themselves. + </p> + <p> + One day in March Frank told me that a suspicious brig had been standing + off shore for the better part of a week, and he and Arthur had come to the + conclusion that it was a pirate. I laughed heartily at their fancy, and + assured them that the days of buccaneers and sea rovers were long since + past, and they must dismiss all such absurd ideas from their minds. + </p> + <p> + The following week the Atlantic sea-board was devastated by one of the + fiercest storms that had been known for years. Reports of wrecks and + disasters to shipping reached us for several days after, and Frank + remarked one evening at supper that he believed his suspected pirate was + one of the unfortunate vessels that had gone down with all on board. I + smiled at his words, but when I learned that the beach was strewn with + wreckage, and that a great deal of it had washed into the inlet, I thought + it probable that he was right, so far as the fate of the strange ship was + concerned. + </p> + <p> + It was near the close of the month that my boy brought home a tightly + corked bottle, which he and Arthur had found while cruising in the inlet. + When he said that there was a piece of rolled paper inside, I felt enough + curiosity to withdraw the stopper with the aid of a strong corkscrew, and + to make an examination. + </p> + <p> + Sure enough there was a small roll of thick, vellum-like paper, on which, + in a cramped hand, evidently written years before, was the following: + </p> + <p> + "<i>Three feet under the Beacon Tree</i>." + </p> + <p> + For a minute or two I was puzzled, and then, as if by inspiration, the + whole truth burst upon me. + </p> + <p> + The Beacon Tree was the name of an immense poplar that stood near the + mouth of the inlet. The fish-hawks had builded their nests in the forked + tops for a half century. I remember hearing my father say it was struck by + lightning long before and although its upper branches were shattered, and + it had been as dead as a fence-post ever since, yet its immense size, + great height, and peculiar, silver-like appearance caused it to become a + prominent landmark to the vessels when approaching the coast, and long + before I was born it gained the name of the Beacon Tree, by which title it + was known to unnumbered hundreds of sailors and sea-faring men. + </p> + <p> + "There is a treasure buried under that tree," I said to Frank, suppressing + my excitement so far as I could. "More than likely it was placed there by + some freebooter a long time ago, and these people were awaiting a chance + to dig it up." + </p> + <p> + "Maybe Captain Kidd buried it," suggested the boy. + </p> + <p> + "Possibly he did, for there is reason to believe that he hid a great deal + of treasure along the Atlantic coast. Now, since Arthur was with you when + you found this bottle, he has the same claim to the treasure that you + have. We will not say anything to his father, and you must take particular + care not to give a hint to a living soul. Go over and tell Arthur to come + here this evening. I will furnish the shovels and lantern, and when we are + sure that no one will see us, we will slip over to the Beacon Tree and + dig." + </p> + <p> + I recall that I was never so absolutely sure of anything in my life as I + was that valuable treasure lay buried under the old poplar. My wife, to + whom I showed the little roll of paper, expressed a doubt, and smilingly + hinted that perhaps I was too much impressed by that brilliant sketch of + Edgar A. Poe called "The Gold Bug." + </p> + <p> + "Of course," I answered, "disappointment may await us, and I know these + bottles picked up at sea are frequently frauds; but the age of the writing + and the peculiar circumstances convince me that this is genuine. I am sure + <i>something</i> will be found under the Beacon Tree." + </p> + <p> + Meantime Frank had hurried off to acquaint Arthur with the amazing + discovery, and to warn him against dropping a hint to any one. My son soon + returned with the word that his friend was "b'iling" with excitement, but + alas! his parents were going to spend that evening with a neighbor, and + since they would not be back until late, there was no possible way of his + joining us. + </p> + <p> + The boys were not more disappointed than I, and the impulse was strong + upon me to make the venture without the help of Arthur, meaning, of course + that such a proceeding should not affect his share in the find; but it did + not strike me that that would be exactly right, and Arthur was informed + that we three would attend to the business the following evening. + </p> + <p> + I could not avoid strolling out to the Beacon Tree the next day. I did so + in the most off-hand manner and with the most unconcerned expression I + could assume; but had any one scrutinized my countenance, I am sure he + would easily have detected the deep agitation under which I was laboring. + </p> + <p> + I was considerably disturbed, upon examining the immediate surroundings of + the tree, to discover signs which looked as if some one had been digging + there quite recently. + </p> + <p> + "The secret has become known and the treasure has been carried off," I + gasped, with a rapidly throbbing heart. + </p> + <p> + Reflection, however, reassured me. No one had seen the writing in the + bottle beside myself (though evidently it must have been known to others), + and it was certain that if any person had succeeded in unearthing the + hidden wealth, he would not have taken the trouble to hide all signs with + such extreme care. Closer examination, too, convinced me there had been no + digging about the tree at all. And yet I was mistaken. + </p> + <p> + We three reached the old poplar the next evening between ten and eleven + o'clock. Arthur had escaped inquiry by slipping out of his bedroom window + after bidding his parents good-night; and, inasmuch as the lantern which I + carried was not lit until we arrived at the tree, we were confident of + escaping attention. Still I watched sharply, and was greatly relieved to + discover no persons abroad at that hour beside ourselves. + </p> + <p> + Since the treasure was located but three feet below the surface, in sandy + soil, I brought only one shovel, while the boys watched me, one holding + the lantern, and both casting furtive glances around to guard against + eavesdroppers. It would be useless to deny my excitement. My heart at + times throbbed painfully, and more than once I was on the point of ceasing + until I could regain mastery of myself. + </p> + <p> + "Pop, you must be nearly deep enough," said Frank, in a guarded undertone. + </p> + <p> + "I'm pretty near to the place," I replied stopping a minute to draw my + handkerchief across my perspiring forehead. + </p> + <p> + "I'm afraid there's somebody watching us," added Arthur. + </p> + <p> + "Where?" I asked in affright, staring around in the gloom. + </p> + <p> + "I thought I saw a man moving out yonder." + </p> + <p> + "Well, it's too late for him to interfere now," I said, compressing my + lips and renewing my digging more determinedly than ever; "I carry a + revolver with me, and I don't mean to be robbed." + </p> + <p> + The next moment my heart gave a great throb, for the shovel struck + something hard. + </p> + <p> + "Hold the lantern down here, Frank, quick!" I commanded in a hoarse voice. + </p> + <p> + He obeyed, but to my disappointment the object proved to be a large stone. + </p> + <p> + "I guess it's under that," I whispered, stopping work for a moment. + </p> + <p> + "Pop, there's another piece of paper," said Frank. + </p> + <p> + I stooped over and picked it up. I saw that there was writing on it, and + holding it up beside the lantern read: + </p> + <p> + "Dig three feet under the Beacon Tree and you will be an April fool." + </p> + <p> + Once again the truth flashed across me. The whole thing was a practical + joke. + </p> + <p> + "Boys," said I, "what day of the month is this?" + </p> + <p> + They reflected a moment and answered: + </p> + <p> + "Why, it's the first of April." + </p> + <p> + "Let's go home," I added, stepping out of the excavation, "and here's a + half a dollar apiece if you don't tell anybody about it." + </p> + <p> + As we moved mournfully away I was sure I heard a chuckling laugh somewhere + near in the darkness, but the author of it was prudent enough to keep + beyond reach. + </p> + <p> + It was not until three months afterward that I learned all the facts + connected with the writing found in a bottle. My neighbor, the father of + Arthur Newman, on whom I had played several jokes, adopted this means of + retaliating on me. He took my son and his own into his confidence, and I + am grieved to say that the young rascals were just as eager as he. When I + proposed to make the search on the last day of March, my friend resorted + to the subterfuge I have mentioned, so as to insure that it should not + take place until the following evening, which was unquestionably + appropriate for my first and last essay in digging for buried treasure. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0037" id="link2H_4_0037"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + THAT HORNET'S NEST. + </h2> + <p> + There was an indignation meeting of the boys at Bushville school, one + sultry day in August. From stress of circumstances it was held at the noon + recess, in the piece of woods back of the old stone building, and on the + banks of the crystal stream in which the youngsters swam and revelled at + morning, noon and night, during the long, delicious days of summer. + </p> + <p> + All the lads, not quite a score, belonging to the Bushville school, were + present at the impromptu convention, but the proceedings were chiefly in + charge of the lads, Tom Britt, Dick Culver and Fred Armstrong. There were + but a few months' difference in their ages, none of which was more than + fourteen years, but all were so much larger and older than the rest that + they were looked up to as leaders in everything except study. + </p> + <p> + It cannot be denied that the three were indolent by nature, inclined to + rebel at authority, and their enforced attendance at school was the + affliction of their lives. They had given their teachers no end of + trouble, and more than once had combined in open rebellion against their + instructors. Tom's father was a trustee, and like the parents of many + ill-trained youths, including those of Dick and Fred, he could see nothing + wrong in the conduct of his son. As a consequence, discipline at times was + set at naught in the Bushville institutions, and one of the best teachers + ever employed by the district threw up his situation in disgust, and went + off without waiting to collect his month's salary. + </p> + <p> + The successor of this gentleman was Mr. Lathrop, a young man barely turned + twenty, with a beardless face, a mild blue eye, a gentle voice, and such a + soft winning manner that the three leaders gave an involuntary sniff of + contempt when they first saw him and agreed that he would not last more + than a week at the most. + </p> + <p> + "We'll let up on him, for a few days," Tom explained to some of his + friends, "so as to give him time to get acquainted. I b'lieve in letting + every fellow have a show, but he's got to walk mighty straight between now + and the end of this week," added the youth impressively; "I ain't in favor + of standing any nonsense." + </p> + <p> + A nodding of heads by Dick and Fred showed that Tom had voiced their + sentiments. + </p> + <p> + But, somehow or other, Mr. Lathrop was different from the teachers that + had preceded him. He never spoke angrily or shouted, and his first act on + entering the schoolroom was to break up the long tough hickory "gad" lying + on his desk and to fling it out of the window. The next thing he did, + after calling the school to order, was to tell the gaping, open-eyed + children the most entertaining story to which they had ever listened. The + anecdote had its moral too, for woven in and out and through its charming + meshes was the woof of a life of heroic suffering, of trial and reward. + </p> + <p> + At its conclusion, the teacher said to the pupils that if they were + studious and transgressed no rules, he would be glad to tell them another + story the next day, if they would remain a few minutes after the hour of + dismissal. The treat was such a rare one that all the girls and most of + the boys resolved to earn the right to enjoy it. + </p> + <p> + "I'm going to hear the yarn, too," muttered Tom Britt, "for he knows how + to tell 'em, but as for behaving myself that depends." + </p> + <p> + On the following afternoon, when five o'clock arrived (in those days most + of the country schools opened at eight and closed at five, with an hour at + noon, and not more than two weeks vacation in summer. I have attended + school on more than one Saturday, Fourth of July and Christmas), the + school was all expectation. When Mr. Lathrop saw the bright eyes turned + eagerly toward him, a thrill of pleasure stirred his heart, for he felt + that his was the hand to sow good seed, or this was the soil where it + could be made to spring up and bear fruit a hundred fold. + </p> + <p> + "I am glad," said he, in his winning voice, "to know that you have done + well and earned the right to hear the best story that I can tell. You have + been studious, obedient and careful to break no rules, and I am sure that + as we become better acquainted, we shall like each other and get on well + together. + </p> + <p> + "I wish I could say you had <i>all</i> done well, but it grieves me to + tell you, what you know, that one boy has neglected his lessons, been + tardy or so indifferent to my wishes that it would not be right that he + should be allowed to sit with the rest of you and listen to the incident I + am about to relate. I refer to Thomas Britt. Thomas, you will please take + your books and hat and go home." + </p> + <p> + The words came like a thunderclap. No one expected it, least of all the + youth himself. Every eye was turned toward him and his face flushed + scarlet. He quickly rallied from the daze into which he was thrown at + first, and with his old swagger, looked at the teacher and replied with an + insolence that was defiance itself: + </p> + <p> + "My father is trustee, and I've as much right here as you or any one else, + and I'm going to stay till I'm ready to go home and you can't——" + but, before he had completed his defiant sentence, the slightly built + teacher was at his side and had grasped the nape of his coat. It seemed to + the lad, that an iron vise had caught his garment and a span of horses + were pulling at him. He clutched desperately at everything within reach + and spread his legs apart and curled up his toes in the effort to hook + into something that would stay proceedings, but it was in vain. Out he + came from the seat, and to the awed children who were looking on it seemed + that his body was elongated to double its length during the process,—and + he was run through the open door, and his hat tossed after him. Then the + teacher walked quietly back to his seat behind the desk on the platform, + and without the slightest sign of flurry or mental disturbance, he told + one of the sweetest and most delightful incidents to which his pupils had + ever listened. He closed with the promise to give them another at the end + of the week, if they continued in the good course on which they were so + fairly started. + </p> + <p> + "He catched me foul," explained the indignant Tom Britt the following day + in discussing his hurried exit from the schoolroom; "if he had only let me + know he was coming, it would be him that dove out the door instead of me." + </p> + <p> + The sullen youth did not receive much sympathy at first, for Mr. Lathrop + was steadily winning the affections of the pupils; but Dick and Fred + rebelled at such quiet submission to authority, and acted so sullenly that + they, too, were shut out from the privilege of listening to the next story + related by the teacher to the rest of the school. It had been agreed among + the three boys that they should refuse to depart when ordered to do so by + the instructor, and that when he made a move toward them, they would + assail him simultaneously and rout him "horse, foot and dragoons." + </p> + <p> + But the business was conducted with such a cyclone rush that the plan of + campaign was entirely overturned. Before the rebels could combine, all + three were out doors, so shaken up that they agreed that a new system of + resistance would have to be adopted. + </p> + <p> + And thus it came about that at the noon recess, one day of the following + week, the boys of Bushville school gathered in the cool shade of the woods + to listen to the plan of the three malcontents for destroying the + authority of the school. It was mainly curiosity on the part of the + younger portion, who had little sympathy with the motives of the leaders + and were quite sure they would meet with failure. + </p> + <p> + "I've made up my mind that I won't stand it," announced Tom, after the + situation had been freely discussed; "no boy with any spirit will allow a + teacher to run him out of school in the style he served me." + </p> + <p> + "What then made you let him do it?" asked little freckled-face Will + Horton, from where he lay on the ground. + </p> + <p> + "Didn't I tell you he catched me foul?" demanded Tom, glaring at the + urchin; "if I'd knowed what was coming things would have been different." + </p> + <p> + "Dick and Fred knowed he was coming for <i>them</i>," added Will, "for he + walked clear across the schoolroom." + </p> + <p> + "You've got too much to say," retorted Dick Culver, angrily; "when we want + your advice we'll ask for it." + </p> + <p> + "Well, boys, you had better make up your minds to behave yourselves and + then there won't be any trouble," was the sensible advice of Jimmy + Thompson, who had perched himself on a log, and was swinging his bare feet + back and forth; "Mr. Lathrop is the best teacher we ever had and he suits + the rest of us first rate." + </p> + <p> + "Of course he suits all boys that ha'n't any spirit," was the crushing + response of the leader, "but I've a plan that'll teach him that me and + Dick and Fred ain't that kind of chaps." + </p> + <p> + "How are you going to help yourself?" + </p> + <p> + After several mysterious hints and nods of the head, Tom revealed his + stupendous scheme for bringing the teacher to terms. + </p> + <p> + "You know the big hornet's nest over in Bear Hollow?" + </p> + <p> + Inasmuch as there wasn't a boy in the crowd who hadn't shied stones at the + object named (always without hitting it), no further information was + necessary. + </p> + <p> + "Well, I'm going to put that nest in the teacher's desk, and when he comes + in, takes his seat and raises the lid, won't there be music?" + </p> + <p> + The scheme was so prodigious that for a full half minute all stared open + mouthed at their leader without speaking. + </p> + <p> + "The teacher never locks his desk at noon, so it will be easy enough to + slip it in before he gets back." + </p> + <p> + "But when he opens the desk and the hornets sail out, what will become of + <i>us</i>?" was the pertinent inquiry of Will Horton. + </p> + <p> + "Why the minute the things begin to swarm out I'll yell, and we'll all + rush out doors." + </p> + <p> + "Won't the teacher do the same thing?" + </p> + <p> + "But he'll be the last and he'll catch it the worst. He'll be right among + the critters, and they'll just go for him, so his head will swell up like + a bushel basket and we'll have a week's vacation. By that time he'll learn + how to treat us fellers." + </p> + <p> + "<i>I</i> am," was the proud reply; "come on and I'll show you." + </p> + <p> + As he spoke, Tom sprang to his feet and started on a trot toward Bear + Hollow, with the others streaming after him. + </p> + <p> + It cannot be denied that the youth displayed considerable pluck and + coolness when he came to the test. There hung the hornet's nest from the + lower limb of an oak, so near the ground that it could be easily reached + by one of the larger boys. It was gray in color and of enormous size. It + resembled in shape an overgrown football or watermelon, pendant by one + end. In some portions faint ridges were visible, like the prints left by + tiny wavelets on the sand. Near the base was a circular opening about as + large as an old-fashioned penny. This was the door of the hornets' + residence, through which all the occupants came and went. + </p> + <p> + The boys halted at a safe distance, and even Tom paused a few minutes to + make a reconnoissance before going nearer. + </p> + <p> + "You fellows stay here, and don't any of you throw stones or yell!" he + said, in a guarded undertone; "for if them hornets find out what is up, + they'll come swarming out by the million and sting us all to death." + </p> + <p> + The promise was readily made, and Tom went forward like a hero, the eyes + of all of his playmates fixed upon him. It was noticed be carried a large + silken handkerchief in his hand—one that he had secured at home for + this special purpose. + </p> + <p> + He advanced stealthily until within some ten feet, when he halted again. + With his gaze centered on the gray, oblong object, he saw one of the dark + insects suddenly crawl to view through the opening. + </p> + <p> + "I wonder if he suspects anything," thought Tom, half disposed to turn + about and run; "no—he's all right," he added, as the hornet spread + his wings, and shot off like a bullet through the air. + </p> + <p> + Still intently watching the orifice, the boy moved softly forward until + directly under the nest. Then, with the deliberation of a veteran, he + deftly enfolded it with the large silk handkerchief, easily wrenched it + loose from its support, tied the covering over the top so securely that + not an inhabitant of the nest could possibly escape, and rejoined in + triumph his companions. + </p> + <p> + "Now you'll see fun!" he exclaimed, as he led the whole party trooping in + the direction of the schoolhouse; "keep mum, and don't tell any of the + girls what's up." + </p> + <p> + It was a grand scheme and it looked as if there could be no hitch in it. + What compunctions the other boys might have felt against the attempt to + cause pain to their teacher were forgotten in the excitement of the coming + sport. + </p> + <p> + The residents of the oblong home must have been surprised, to put it + mildly, when they found the house swinging along, in the grasp of some + great giant, themselves enveloped in gloom, and the only avenue of escape + sealed up. They hummed, and buzzed and raised a tempest within, but it was + in vain: they were prisoners and must remain such until the ogre chose to + release them. + </p> + <p> + Everything seemed to join to help the young rebel. The girls were playing + so far from the school building, that they gave no heed to the procession + which passed into the structure. One glance told Tom that it was without + an occupant, and he strode hastily to the desk, the others pausing near + the door, ready to dash out in the event of disaster. + </p> + <p> + The desk was unlocked and Tom raised the lid. The nest was laid on its + side, in the middle, but it was so big that he had to displace several + books to make room for it. Then the knots were untied, the handkerchief + flirted free, the lid lowered, and the deed was done. + </p> + <p> + Tom joined his companions with a radiant face. "Not a word," he cautioned, + "be extra good this afternoon; even I'll try to behave myself for once, + but we won't have to wait long." + </p> + <p> + "S'posin' them hornets lift the lid of the desk and come out before the + teacher gets here?" suggested Will Horton. + </p> + <p> + "What are you talking about?" was the scornful question of Dick Culver; + "how can a hornet raise the lid of a desk?" + </p> + <p> + "I don't mean that <i>one</i> will do it, but, if they all join together + and put their shoulders to it, they'll lift more than you think." + </p> + <p> + But this contingency was too vague to be feared. A quarter of an hour + later, Mr. Lathrop entered the building with his brisk step, bidding such + children as he met a pleasant good afternoon, and hanging his hat on the + peg in the wall behind his desk, rang the bell for the children to + assemble, and took his seat in his chair on the platform. + </p> + <p> + The observant instructor quickly saw that something unusual was in the + wind. There was a score of signs that he detected in the course of a few + minutes, but he could have no idea what it all meant. He was on the alert, + however, and did not remain long in suspense. + </p> + <p> + The first hint was the sound of loud and angry buzzing within his desk. + While wondering what it meant, and in doubt whether to investigate, he + observed a hornet emerging through the key-hole. Before it could shake + itself free, he shoved him back with his key, which was inserted and + turned about, so effectually blocking the opening, that the insects were + held secure. + </p> + <p> + The teacher read the whole story, and it needed only a brief study of Tom + Britt's actions to make sure that he was the guilty one. + </p> + <p> + Much to the disappointment of the boys, Mr. Lathrop seemed to find no + occasion for opening his desk. It remained closed through the whole + afternoon and, when the moment for dismissal arrived, the only one to + remain was Tom Britt, who, while conducting himself fairly well, had made + a bad failure with every recitation. His mind seemed to be too + pre-occupied with some other matter to absorb book knowledge. + </p> + <p> + The boys loitered around the playground, waiting to see the end of it all. + Tom sat with his hands supporting his head, and his elbow on the desk, + morose, sullen and disappointed. + </p> + <p> + "I wonder if he suspects anything," he muttered; "I don't see how he can, + for nobody told him. It's queer he has never opened his desk all the + afternoon. I never knew him to do anything like that before—Gracious + alive!" + </p> + <p> + Just then Tom felt as if some one had jabbed a burning needle into his + neck. Almost at the same instant came a similar dagger thrust on the top + of his head, where he always wore his hair short. Uttering a gasp of + affright, he leaped from his seat, with a score of fierce hornets buzzing + about his ears. The terrified glance around the room showed that the + teacher had slipped noiselessly out of the door, but, before doing so, he + had raised the lid of his desk to its fullest extent. + </p> + <p> + The next moment Tom bounded through the door, striking at the insects that + were doing painful execution about the exposed parts of his body. It was + not until after a long run that he was entirely freed of them and was able + to take an inventory of his wounds. + </p> + <p> + It was a lesson the lad never forgot. In the final contest between him and + his teacher, he was conquered and he admitted it. Mr. Lathrop made a study + of his character, and having proven himself physically his master, set out + to acquire the moral conquest that was needed to complete the work. It + need hardly be added that he succeeded, for he was a thoughtful, + conscientious instructor of youth, who loved his work, and who toiled as + one who knows that he must render an account of his stewardship to Him who + is not only loving and merciful, but just. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0038" id="link2H_4_0038"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + A YOUNG HERO. + </h2> + <p> + Reuben Johnson leaned on his hoe, and, looking up at the sun, wondered + whether, as in the Biblical story, it had not been stationary for several + hours. He was sure it was never so long in descending to the horizon. + </p> + <p> + "Wake up, Rube," sharply called his Uncle Peter, smartly hoeing another + row a few paces behind him, "doan be idlin' your time; de sun am foah + hours high yit." + </p> + <p> + The nephew started and raised his implement, but stopped. He was staring + at the corner of the fence just ahead, where sat the jug of cold water, + with the Revolutionary musket leaning against the rails. The crows were so + annoying that the double-loaded weapon was kept ready to be used against + the pests when they ventured too near. + </p> + <p> + "See dar, uncle!" said Rube in a scared voice. The old man also ceased + work, adjusted his iron-rimmed spectacles, and looked toward the fence. + </p> + <p> + Within a few feet of where the flint lock musket inclined against the + rails, a yellow dog was trying to push his way through. Watching his + efforts for a few minutes, the elder said: + </p> + <p> + "Rube, I wish we had de gun; dat dog ain't peaceable." + </p> + <p> + "He am mad; dis ain't de place fur us." + </p> + <p> + "Slip down to de fence and got de gun; dat's a good boy!" + </p> + <p> + "Gracious!" gasped the youth; "it am right dar by de dog." + </p> + <p> + "He won't notice you; run behind him and be quick 'bout it, or he'll chaw + us bofe to def." + </p> + <p> + "He'll chaw <i>me</i> suah if I goes near him," was the reply of Rube, who + felt little ardor for the task his relative urged upon him. + </p> + <p> + "Ain't it better dat <i>one</i> ob us should go dead, dan bofe should be + obstinguished?" asked the uncle reproachfully. + </p> + <p> + "Dat 'pends which am de one to go dead; if it am <i>me</i>, it am better + for <i>you</i>, but I don't see whar <i>I'm</i> to come in; 'spose you see + wheder you can got de gun—" + </p> + <p> + "Dar he comes!" whispered Uncle Pete. + </p> + <p> + Sure enough the cur, having twisted his body between the rails, began + trotting toward the couple that were watching him with such interest. + </p> + <p> + There was good reason for fear, since the canine was afflicted with the + rabies in the worst form. He showed no froth at the jaws, for animals thus + affected do not, but his eyes were fiery, his mouth dry, the consuming + fever burning up all moisture. He moaned as if in pain, his torture + causing him to snap at everything in reach. He had bitten shrubbery, + branches, wood and other objects, and now made for the persons with the + purpose of using his teeth on them. + </p> + <p> + "Rube," said his uncle, "stand right whar you am! No use ob runnin', for + he'll cotch you; when he gets nigh 'nough bang him wid your hoe; if dat + don't fotch him, I'll gib him anoder whack and dat'll finish him suah." + </p> + <p> + Fate seemed to have ordered that the younger person should hold the van in + the peril, though he was tempted to take his place by his relative, so + that the attack of the dog should be met by both at the same instant. This + promised to be effective, but the time was too brief to permit any plan of + campaign. + </p> + <p> + The brute was already within a hundred yards of Rube, who, with his hoe + drawn back, as though it were a club, tried to calm his nerves for the + struggle. He would have fled, had he not known that that would draw + pursuit to himself. He was inclined to urge his uncle to join him in a + break for freedom, the two taking diverging routes. Since the canine could + not chase both at the same time, such a course was certain to save one, + but, inasmuch as the youth was at the front, he knew he must be the + victim, and the prospect of a mad dog nipping at his heels, with fangs + surcharged with one of the most fearful venoms known, was too terrifying + to be borne. He, therefore, braced himself, and, with a certain dignity + and courage, held his ground. + </p> + <p> + A dog suffering from the rabies often shows odd impulses. This one was + within fifty feet of Rube, when he turned at right angles and trotted + toward the other side of the cornfield. + </p> + <p> + "<i>Now's</i> your time, chile!" called Uncle Pete; "got de gun quick, and + if he comes back we'll be ready for him." + </p> + <p> + It was the first suggestion that struck the nephew favorably, and he acted + upon it at once. The dog might change his mind again and return to the + attack, in which event no weapon could equal a loaded gun. + </p> + <p> + As Rube ran with his broad-brimmed hat flapping in his eyes, he kept + glancing over his shoulder, to make sure the brute was not following him, + while his uncle held his position, with his hoe grasped and his eye fixed + on the animal, trotting between the hills of corn. He managed also to note + the action of his nephew, who was making good time, and whose progress + caused the hearts of the two to heat high with hope. + </p> + <p> + Had the fence ahead of the dog been open, doubtless he would have soon + passed out of sight; but, as if recalling his trouble in entering the + field, and possibly seeing his error in leaving two victims, he stopped + only an instant in front of the rails, when he turned and came at a + swifter gait than before, straight for Uncle Pete. + </p> + <p> + The latter stared a second or two and then shouted: + </p> + <p> + "Quick, Rube! he means <i>me</i> dis time!" And he dashed off, not to join + his nephew, but to reach the side of the field opposite the nose of the + animal. + </p> + <p> + By this time the youth had his hands on the smoothbore musket and his + courage came back. He saw his uncle crashing over the hills, the picture + of dismay, while the dog rapidly gained on him. + </p> + <p> + "Hey dar! hey dar!" shouted Rube, breaking into a run and trying to draw + attention to himself. But the brute only sped the faster. He was near the + middle of the procession, but gaining on the fugitive, who had thrown + aside his hoe, flung his hat to the ground, and was making better progress + than when he used to run races with the boys in his younger days. + </p> + <p> + The fence was near and he strained every nerve. It looked as if man and + dog would reach it at the same moment, but the former put forth an extra + spurt and arrived a pace or two ahead, with the cur at his heels. + </p> + <p> + Rube, however, was not far to the rear. Seeing the crisis had come, he + stopped short, brought the musket to his shoulder, and, taking the best + aim he could, let fly with the whole load that clogged several inches of + the barrel. + </p> + <p> + He did not observe at the moment of pressing the trigger that his uncle + and the dog were in line, but it could have made no difference, since the + shot had to be made at that instant or not at all. + </p> + <p> + Just as the weapon was fired, Uncle Pete with a great bound cleared the + fence, landing on his hands and knees; and, rolling over on his back, + kicked the air with such vigor that his shoes flew off, one after the + other, as if keeping time with his frenzied outcries. + </p> + <p> + The yellow cur was scared, as a shark is sometimes driven off by the loud + splashing of a swimmer, and, though he leaped the fence, he wheeled again, + and, without harming the man, ran down the highway toward the Woodvale + school. + </p> + <p> + For a moment after firing, Rube Johnson believed he was killed. The flint + shot a spark among the powder grains, there was a flash, a hiss, and then, + as the fire worked its way to the charge inside, the explosion came and he + toppled over, half stunned, with the gun flying a dozen feet away. + </p> + <p> + But his fear for his relative brought him to his feet, and he hurried to + the old gentleman, who was climbing uncertainly to an upright posture. + </p> + <p> + "What's de matter?" asked Rube; "you ain't bit." + </p> + <p> + "I know dat; I warn't yellin' on <i>dat</i> 'count." + </p> + <p> + "What fur den?" + </p> + <p> + "You black rascal, you shot me instid ob de yaller dog." + </p> + <p> + "Lemme see," said Rube, turning his uncle round and scanning him from head + to foot. + </p> + <p> + "I done pepper you purty well, uncle, but dare ain't any ob de slugs dat + hit yer—only de fine bird shot." + </p> + <p> + "How many ob dem?" was the rueful question. + </p> + <p> + "I don't tink dar's more dan five or six hundred; Aunt Jemimer can gib her + spar time de next six weeks pickin' 'em out; she'll enj'y it, but dat shot + ob mine scared off de mad dog, and yer oughter be tankful to me, uncle, + all yer life." + </p> + <p> + It was recess at the Woodvale school, and the forty-odd boys and girls + were having a merry time on the playgrounds, which included the broad + highway. Within the building, Mr. Hobbs, the young teacher was busy + "setting copies," his only companion just then being Tod Clymer, a + pale-faced cripple, who, unable to take part in the sports of the other + boys, preferred to stay within doors and con his lessons, in which he was + always far in advance of the rest. + </p> + <p> + A strange confusion outside caused him to raise his head and look through + the window near him. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, Mr. Hobbs," he said, "there's a mad dog!" + </p> + <p> + The teacher started up, and saw the yellow cur running about the grounds, + snapping at the children, while a couple of boys had already raised the + fearful cry, and there was a scattering in all directions. Although + without any weapon, the instructor was on the point of hurrying out to the + help of the children, when he observed the canine coming toward the outer + door. He tried to close it in his face, but the brute was too quick and + was inside before he could be stopped. He made for the second door, + leading into the session-room, but, in this instance, the teacher slammed + it shut just in time. + </p> + <p> + Instead of going out the dog slunk into the entry and crawled under a + bench, so nearly behind the outer door that he was invisible to any one + beyond. + </p> + <p> + "Mr. Hobbs," said Tod Clymer a moment later, "will you please help me out + of the window?" + </p> + <p> + "I think you are safer here," replied the teacher, "for he cannot reach + you, but you will not be able to get away from him outside." + </p> + <p> + "I want to leave, please, very much." + </p> + <p> + It was a strange request, and the teacher waited some minutes before + complying, but the heart of the lame boy was so set upon it, that he + finally assisted him to the window furthest from where the dog was + crouching, gently lifted him down to the ground, and then passed his + crutches to him. + </p> + <p> + "Now, Tod," said he kindly, "don't tarry a moment, for there's no saying + how soon he will be outside again. The other children are away, but you + cannot run like them." + </p> + <p> + "Thank you," replied Tod, who never forgot to be courteous, as he + carefully adjusted the collars of his crutches under his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hobbs motioned from the window for several of the boys to keep off. + With a natural curiosity, they were stealing closer to the building, in + the hope of finding out what the rabid dog was doing. + </p> + <p> + The teacher, seeing his gestures were understood, turned back, when to his + surprise, he noticed the top of Tom Clymer's straw hat, as it slowly rose + and sank, moving along the front of the building toward the front door. + </p> + <p> + Instead of hurrying off, as he should have done, the lad was making his + way toward the very spot where the dreadful animal was crouching. + </p> + <p> + "Why, Tod, what are you doing?" called Mr. Hobbs through the open window; + "you will surely be bitten." + </p> + <p> + Instead of replying or heeding the words, the lad turned his pale face + toward his friend and shook his head, as a warning for him to make no + noise. Then he resumed his advance to the open outer door, doing so with + great care and stealth, as if afraid of being heard by the brute. + </p> + <p> + The entrance to the old Woodvale school building was reached by two steps, + consisting of the same number of broad high stones worn smooth by the feet + of the hundreds of children that had trod them times without number. To + make his way into the entry where the pupils hung their hats and bonnets + on the double rows of pegs, Tod had to move slowly and carefully use his + crutches. Being tipped with iron he could not set them down on the smooth + stones without causing noise. + </p> + <p> + But he acted without hesitation. The teacher read his purpose and knew it + was useless to try to check him. He leaned his head out of the window and + held his breath, while he watched him. + </p> + <p> + Tod never faltered, though none could have understood the danger he ran + better than he. He had a brother and sister among the children that had + scattered in such haste before the snapping cur, and who were gathering + again around the building despite the warning gesture of the teacher. + </p> + <p> + He could not know whether they had all escaped or not, but he was sure + that if the dog came forth again, more than one of them must suffer, and + in those days there was no Pasteur with his wonderful cure to whom the + afflicted ones could be taken. + </p> + <p> + Tod did not tremble, though it seemed to him the brute must hear the + tumultuous throbbing of his heart and rush forth. Puny as was his + strength, he meant that, if he did so, he would steady himself on his one + support, and grasping the other with both hands, strike the dog with might + and main. It is doubtful whether the blow would have stunned the dog, for + the little fellow's confidence in himself was greater than his bodily + powers warranted. + </p> + <p> + At the moment he rested the end of the crutch on the smooth surface of the + second stone, it slipped, and only by a strong wrench did he save himself + from falling. The noise was heard by the animal, who was not six feet + distant, and he emitted another moan, which can never be forgotten by + those that have heard it. + </p> + <p> + Certain that the cur was about to rush forth, Tod steadied himself on the + single crutch, and, reversing the other, held it firmly in his weak hands. + He knew the shuffling sound was caused by the animal moving: uneasily + about the entry, and it was strange he did not burst through the open + door. But he did not do so, and, like a flash, the cripple shifted his + weapon in place under his shoulder. Then, with the same coolness he had + shown from the first, he reached his hand forward and grasped the latch. + </p> + <p> + The smart pull he gave, however, did not stir it. It resisted the effort, + as though it was fastened in position. If such were the fact, his scheme + was futile. + </p> + <p> + Setting down both crutches, Tod now leaned against the jamb to prevent + himself from falling, seized the handle with both hands, and drew back + suddenly and with all his might. This time the door yielded and was + closed. + </p> + <p> + As it did so, the rabid animal flung himself against it with a violence + that threatened to carry it off its hinges, but it remained firm and he + was a prisoner. + </p> + <p> + "You are a hero!" called the teacher in a voice tremulous with suppressed + emotion. + </p> + <p> + "I guess we've got him fast, but look out, Mr. Hobbs, that he doesn't + reach you." + </p> + <p> + "I think there is little danger of that," said the other, looking + anxiously at the inner door, "but we must get help to dispose of him + before he can do further injury." + </p> + <p> + By this time, so many of the children had come back to the playgrounds + that several of those living near were sent home for assistance. It + quickly arrived; for Reuben Johnson and his uncle lost no time in + spreading the news, and three young men, each with a loaded gun, appeared + on the scene, eager to dispose of the dangerous animal. The latter was at + such disadvantage that this was done without trouble or risk. + </p> + <p> + Providentially none of the children had been bitten, though more than one + underwent a narrow escape. Such animals as had felt the fangs of the rabid + cur were slain, and thus no harm resulted from the brief run of the brute. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0039" id="link2H_4_0039"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + OVERREACHED. + </h2> + <p> + Bushrod, or "Bush" Wyckoff was only twelve years old when he went to work + for Zeph Ashton, who was not only a crusty farmer, but one of the meanest + men in the country, and his wife was well fitted to be the life partner of + such a parsimonious person. + </p> + <p> + They had no children of their own, and had felt the need for years of a + willing, nimble-footed youngster to do the odd chores about the house, + such as milking cows, cutting and bringing in wood, running of errands, + and the scores of odd little jobs which are easy enough for boys, but + sorely try the stiff and rheumatic limbs of a man in the decline of life. + </p> + <p> + Bush was a healthy little fellow—not very strong for his years, but + quick of movement, bright-witted, willing, and naturally a general + favorite. The misfortunes which suddenly overtook his home roused the + keenest sympathy of his neighbors. His father was a merchant in New York, + who went to and from the metropolis each week day morning and evening, to + his pleasant little home in New Jersey. One day his lifeless body was + brought thither, and woe and desolation came to the happy home. He was + killed in a railway accident. + </p> + <p> + The blow was a terrible one, and for weeks it seemed as if his stricken + widow would follow him across the dark river; but her Christian fortitude + and her great love for their only child sustained her in her awful grief, + and she was even able to thank her Heavenly Father that her dear boy was + spared to her. + </p> + <p> + But how true it is that misfortunes rarely come singly. Her husband had + amassed a competency sufficient to provide comfortably for those left + behind; but his confidence in his fellow-men was wofully betrayed. He was + one of the bondsmen of a public official who made a hasty departure to + Canada, one evening, leaving his business in such a shape that his + securities were compelled to pay fifty thousand dollars. Two others were + associated with Mr. Wyckoff, and with the aid of their tricky lawyers they + managed matters so that four-fifths of the loss fell upon the estate of + the deceased merchant. + </p> + <p> + The result swept it away as utterly as were the dwellings in the Johnstown + Valley by the great flood. The widow and her boy left their home and moved + into a little cottage, with barely enough left to keep the wolf of + starvation from the door. + </p> + <p> + It was then that Bush showed the stuff of which he was made. He returned + one afternoon and told his mother, in his off-hand way, that he had + engaged to work through the summer months for Mr. Ashton, who not only + agreed to pay him six dollars a month, but would allow him to remain at + home over night, provided, of course, that he was there early each morning + and stayed late enough each day to attend to all the chores. + </p> + <p> + The tears filled the eyes of the mother as she pressed her little boy to + her heart, and comprehended his self-sacrificing nature. + </p> + <p> + "You are too young, my dear child, to do this; we have enough left to keep + us awhile, and I would prefer that you wait until you are older and + stronger." + </p> + <p> + "Why, mother, I am old enough and strong enough now to do all that Mr. + Ashton wants me to do. He explained everything to me, and it won't be work + at all, but just fun." + </p> + <p> + "Well, I hope you will find it so, but if he does not treat you kindly, + you must not stay one day." + </p> + <p> + Bush never complained to his mother, but he did find precious little fun + and plenty of the hardest kind of work. The miserly farmer bore down + heavily on his young shoulders. He and his wife seemed to be continually + finding extra labor for the lad. The little fellow was on hand each + morning, in stormy as well as in clear weather, at daybreak, ready and + willing to perform to the best of his ability whatever he was directed to + do. Several times he became so weak and faint from the severe labor, that + the frugal breakfast he had eaten at home proved insufficient, and he was + compelled to ask for a few mouthfuls of food before the regular dinner + hour arrived. Although he always remained late, he was never invited to + stay to supper, Mr. Ashton's understanding being that the mid-day meal was + the only one to which the lad was entitled. + </p> + <p> + But for his love for his mother, Bush would have given up more than once. + His tasks were so severe and continuous that many a time he was hardly + able to drag himself homeward. Every bone in his body seemed to ache, and + neither his employer nor his wife ever uttered a pleasant or encouraging + word. + </p> + <p> + But no word of murmuring fell from his lips. He resolutely held back all + complaints, and crept away early to his couch under the plea that it was + necessary in order to be up betimes. The mother's heart was distressed + beyond expression, but she comforted herself with the fact that his term + of service was drawing to a close, and he would soon have all the rest and + play he wanted. + </p> + <p> + Bush allowed his wages to stand until the first of September, when his + three months expired. He had counted on the pride and happiness that would + be his when he walked into the house and tossed the whole eighteen dollars + in his mother's lap. How her eyes would sparkle, and how proud he would + be! + </p> + <p> + "Lemme see," said the skinflint, when settling day arrived; "I was to give + you four dollars a month, warn't I?" + </p> + <p> + "It was six," replied Bush, respectfully. + </p> + <p> + "That warn't my understanding, but we'll let it go at that; I've allers + been too gin'rous, and my heart's too big for my pocket. Lemme see." + </p> + <p> + He uttered the last words thoughtfully, as he took his small account-book + from his pocket, and began figuring with the stub of a pencil. "Three + months at six dollars will be eighteen dollars." + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir; that's right." + </p> + <p> + "Don't interrupt me, young man," sternly remarked the farmer, frowning at + him over his spectacles. "The full amount is eighteen dollars—Kerrect—L—em—m—e + see; you have et seven breakfasts here; at fifty cents apiece that is + three dollars and a half. Then, l—em—m—e see; you was + late eleven times, and I've docked you twenty-five cents for each time; + that makes two dollars and seventy-five cents." + </p> + <p> + Inasmuch as Bush's wages amounted hardly to twenty-five cents a day, it + must be admitted that this was drawing it rather strong. + </p> + <p> + "L—em—m—e see," continued Mr. Ashton, wetting the pencil + stub between his lips, and resuming his figuring; "your board amounts to + three dollars and a half; your loss of time to two seventy-five; that + makes six and a quarter, which bein' took from eighteen dollars, leaves + 'leven seventy-five. There you are!" + </p> + <p> + As he spoke, he extended his hand, picked up a small canvas bag from the + top of his old-fashioned writing-desk, and tossed it to the dumfounded + boy. The latter heard the coins inside jingle, as it fell in his lap, and, + as soon as he could command his voice, he swallowed the lump in his + throat, and faintly asked: + </p> + <p> + "Is that—is that right, Mr. Ashton?" + </p> + <p> + "Count it and see for yourself," was the curt response. + </p> + <p> + This was not exactly what Bush meant, but he mechanically unfastened the + cord around the throat of the little bag, tumbled the coins out in his hat + and slowly counted them. They footed up exactly eleven dollars and + seventy-five cents, proving that Mr. Ashton's figuring was altogether + unnecessary, and that he had arranged the business beforehand. + </p> + <p> + While Bush was examining the coins, his heart gave a sudden quick throb. + He repressed all signs of the excitement he felt, however. + </p> + <p> + "How do you find it?" asked the man, who had never removed his eyes from + him, "Them coins have been in the house more'n fifty year—that is, + some of 'em have, but they're as good as if they's just from the mint, and + bein' all coin, you can never lose anything by the bank bustin'." + </p> + <p> + "It is correct," said Bush. + </p> + <p> + "Ar' you satisfied?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, sir." + </p> + <p> + "Then sign this receipt, and we're square." + </p> + <p> + The lad sat down at the desk and attached his name in a neat round hand to + the declaration that he had received payment in full for his services from + Mr. Zephaniah Ashton, up to the first of September of the current year. + </p> + <p> + "This is all mine, Mr. Ashton?" + </p> + <p> + "Of course—what do you mean by axin' that?" + </p> + <p> + "Nothing; good-day." + </p> + <p> + "Good-day," grunted the miser, turning his back, as a hint for him to + leave—a hint which Bush did not need, for he was in a tumult of + excitement. + </p> + <p> + "That is the queerest thing that ever happened," he said to himself when + he reached the public highway, and began hurrying along the road in the + direction of Newark. "If he had paid me my full wages I would have told + him, but all these are mine, and I shall sell them; won't Professor + Hartranft be delighted, but not half as much as mother and I will be." + </p> + <p> + That evening Mr. Ashton and his wife had just finished their supper when + Professor Hartranft, a pleasant, refined-looking gentleman, knocked at + their door. + </p> + <p> + "I wish to inquire," said he, after courteously saluting the couple, + "whether you have any old coins in the house." + </p> + <p> + "No," was the surly response of the farmer, "we don't keep 'em." + </p> + <p> + "But you <i>had</i> quite a collection." + </p> + <p> + "I had 'leven dollars and seventy-five cents' worth, but I paid 'em out + this mornin'." + </p> + <p> + "To a boy named Bushrod Wyckoff?" + </p> + <p> + "Yas." + </p> + <p> + "They were given to him unreservedly?—that is, you renounce all + claim upon them?" + </p> + <p> + "What the blazes ar' you drivin' at?" demanded the angry farmer. "I owed + him 'leven dollars and seventy-five cents for wages, and I paid him + purcisely that amount, and have his receipt in full. I'd like to know what + business it is of yours anyway." + </p> + <p> + Now came the professor's triumph. + </p> + <p> + "Young Wyckoff called at my office this afternoon, and I bought a number + of the coins from him." + </p> + <p> + "What!" exclaimed the amazed farmer, "you didn't pay him nothin' extra for + that rusty old money, did you? You must be crazy." + </p> + <p> + "I did, and shall make a handsome thing of it. For instance, among the + coins which you gave him was a copper penny, with a liberty cap, of 1793; + I paid Bush three dollars for that; I gave him twenty-five dollars for a + half dime coined in 1802; twenty dollars for a quarter dollar of 1827; the + same sum for a half dollar, fillet head, of 1796; and, what caps all, five + hundred dollars for a silver dollar of 1804. There are only five or six of + the latter in existence, and I shall sell this specimen for at least eight + hundred dollars. Mr. Ashton, sometimes a mean man overreaches himself, and + it looks as though you had made a mistake. I bid you good-day, sir." + </p> + <p> + The numismatist spoke the truth; and when the miserly old farmer realized + how completely he had turned the tables on himself, it is enough to say + that his feelings may be "better imagined than described." + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0040" id="link2H_4_0040"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + A BATTLE IN THE AIR. + </h2> + <p> + One of the most interesting towns I ever visited is New Braunfels, Texas. + It was founded by a colony of Germans, and experienced the most + distressing trials during its early days; but it is now a picture of + thrift and industry. The cowboy who attempts to ride through New + Braunfels, with his revolvers displayed, is promptly pulled off his + mustang and compelled to pay a round fine for violating a city ordinance. + If he undertakes to "kick," it won't help him a bit, and probably will + increase the penalty imposed. Our German cousins propose to run that town + to suit themselves, and they succeed quite well. + </p> + <p> + The rivers of Texas are subjected to violent rises, often as great as + twenty feet in an hour or less. Such sudden floods play havoc with the + bridges along the bank, but I noticed in riding into New Braunfels an + ingenious arrangement of the wooden structure by which, no matter how high + the stream may rise, the bridge accommodates itself, and floats on the + surface, while securely held from being carried away by the current. + </p> + <p> + But I set out to tell you a true incident of what happened a few years + since, to a bright, lively youngster, sixteen years old, who lives in New + Braunfels, and is brimful of pluck. His name is Lee Hemingway; he is an + orphan, and if his life is spared, he is certain to be heard from when he + reaches man's estate. + </p> + <p> + Prof. McInery, the well-known naturalist, spent several weeks last spring + in the neighborhood of New Braunfels, hunting ornithological specimens for + his collection, and he offered fifty dollars to any one who would bring + him an eagle's nest, with living eaglets or with eggs in it. + </p> + <p> + When Lee Hemingway learned of the offer, he determined to earn it. It was + rather early in the season for our emblematical birds to hatch their + young, but, by carefully watching a pair, he succeeded in finding where + their nest was made. It was on the summit of an almost insurmountable + bowlder, rising nearly a hundred and twenty-five feet in the valley of the + Guadaloupe. + </p> + <p> + The bravest man might well shrink from attempting to scale the + perpendicular sides of this mass of rock, but as young Hemingway gazed + longingly up the side to the nest, he noticed that the stone had become + coated, in the course of time, with earth, which was covered with tangled + vines and stunted vegetation. + </p> + <p> + "I believe I can climb that," thought the sturdy lad, after scrutinizing + the herculean task, and watching one of the eagles soaring far above the + summit. "I think there is enough foothold, and I can use the vines to help + pull me up; but, if the eagles should catch me at it, they would make + music." + </p> + <p> + It was the birds that caused him more dread than the forty odd yards of + rock. We knew their fierce nature, and, if they discovered his designs + against their home, as they were almost certain to do, they would assail + him with a fury that must be resistless in his cramped position. + </p> + <p> + The professor advised him not to make the attempt, but the daring youth + had to earn his own living, and the prize of fifty dollars was too + tempting to be resisted. + </p> + <p> + "<i>I'll do it</i>!" he exclaimed, after considering the question, "if you + will keep watch with your gun for the eagles." + </p> + <p> + "Of course I'll do <i>that</i>," replied the professor, delighted with the + prospect of securing that which he had sought so long in vain. + </p> + <p> + The preparations for the work were simple. With a basket, furnished with a + lid, slung to his back, in which to secure the eggs or eaglets, young + Hemingway began his laborious and dangerous ascent, while the professor, + gun in hand, watched him from the ground below. + </p> + <p> + The boy quickly proved the possession of unusual skill as a climber. With + the help of the vines he went steadily upward, hunting secure places for + his feet and testing every support before trusting his weight to it. Once + or twice, the professor thought the lad had made a mistake and was on the + point of paying the penalty, but he never faltered nor slipped. Higher and + higher he ascended until at last the feat was accomplished, and the very + summit reached. + </p> + <p> + His heart throbbed with pleasure when he discovered two young eagles in + the nest. They were no more than a couple of days old, and he had no + trouble in placing them and a portion of the nest in the basket, which was + again strapped to his back, and, after a brief rest, he started to + descend. + </p> + <p> + Nothing was seen of the parent eagles, and he was congratulating himself + on his good fortune, when bang went the professor's gun. At the same + moment a shadow flitted over his head, and looking up he saw that instead + of one, both of the eagles had arrived. + </p> + <p> + The lad had not descended half-way and the professor's shot did not harm + either of them. They landed on the summit of the rocks, and, if a bird can + feel astonishment, they must have felt it when they looked around and + discovered nothing of their home. + </p> + <p> + But the great American bird is not the one to submit tamely to such an + outrage. They began an immediate investigation, and, when they caught + sight of a boy scrambling down the side of the rocks with a basket + strapped to his back, from which came a number of familiar squeak-like + chirpings, they had no trouble in understanding matters. + </p> + <p> + The style in which they went for that same boy was a sight to behold. + There was no hesitation or maneuvering; but, with outstretched wings and + hoarse screeches, they dashed toward him like a couple of cyclones. The + youth saw that he was caught in a desperate fix, for he had no weapons, + and had to cling to the vines with one hand to save himself from being + dashed to the ground below. + </p> + <p> + He ducked his head to ward off their beaks and talons from his eyes, and + tried hard to beat them back with his free hand. + </p> + <p> + This was impossible. Their beaks struck him repeatedly in the head, + bringing blood, which flowed over his face and almost blinded him, while + they savagely buffeted him with their great wings, until he was in danger + of being knocked from his position. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile, the alarmed professor could do nothing for his young friend. + The eagles kept so close to him, that, if he tried, he was as likely to + hit one as the other. He walked back and forth, on the alert for such a + chance, and fortunately had not long to wait. One of the furious birds, + circled off a few feet, as if to gather impetus for a decisive charge, + when, taking a quick aim, the gentleman fired. + </p> + <p> + The shot was unerring and killed the female. She fluttered into a large + sapling that sprouted from a large crevice in the rocks, about eight feet + above the boy's head, and lay motionless. Although nearly blinded by + blood, young Hemingway now attempted a feat which he was convinced offered + the only means of saving his life. + </p> + <p> + He drew himself up to the foot of the tree, and once there, braced himself + firmly with his feet, and tied his handkerchief around his forehead, to + keep the blood out of his eyes. Seizing the dead bird by the feet, he + swung it around with might and main and struck the male, which had + continued beating him incessantly. + </p> + <p> + It was a strange weapon—a dead eagle against a live one, and the + boy's constrained position prevented his using it with much effect. So + lacking, indeed, were the blows in force, that the male flew directly at + his face. The sorely beset lad dropped the dead bird and fastened both + hands around the throat of his assailant. The latter fought desperately, + but the young hero never released his grip, until it ceased its struggles. + Then he flung it from him, and it tumbled downward to the professor's + feet. + </p> + <p> + This gentleman had done his best to help his young friend, but was unable + to do so. The lad, after resting awhile, picked his way down to the + ground, where his feet had hardly touched when he fainted in the + professor's arms. He soon rallied, however, though his wounds were so + severe that he was obliged to keep his bed for several weeks. + </p> + <p> + The two eaglets were found uninjured, and were safely carried to the + professor's home, as were the bodies of the dead birds. They were mounted + by Professor McInery, who, in consideration of the danger undergone by the + boy, and the two extra birds, presented Lee with $100, and no one will + deny that the money was well earned. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0041" id="link2H_4_0041"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + WHO SHALL EXPLAIN IT? + </h2> + <p> + Let me begin by saying that I was never a believer in signs, omens, or the + general superstitions which, it must be admitted, influence most people to + a greater or less degree. I have been the thirteenth guest at more than + one table, without my appetite being affected; I have tipped over my + salt-cellar without a twinge of fear; I have never turned aside to avoid + passing under a leaning ladder, and I do not care a jot whether the first + glimpse of the new moon is over my right or left shoulder. + </p> + <p> + I had a little boy Bob, who was fourteen years old on the last anniversary + of American independence. Being our only son, his mother and myself held + him close to our hearts. In fact, I am sure no little fellow was ever + regarded with more affectionate love than our Bob. The painful story + which, with much hesitation, I have set out to tell is one, therefore, + that no member of our little family can ever forget. + </p> + <p> + We always tried to act the part of sensible parents toward our little boy. + He never stepped inside of a school-house until he was seven years old, + and, when he did so, it was to stay only a brief while. It was six months + before he became acquainted with every letter of the alphabet, and no + youngster of his years ever ruined more clothing than he. The destruction + of shoes, hats, and trousers was enough to bankrupt many a father, and it + often provoked a protest from his mother. I have seen him, within a half + hour after having his face scrubbed until it shone like an apple, present + himself in such ragged attire and with so soiled a countenance, that it + took a second glance to identify him. + </p> + <p> + And yet, as I sit here writing by the evening lamp, I am glad to recall + that I never scolded Bob. I would have been sadly neglectful of my duty + had I failed to reprove and advise him, and I am sure he honestly strove + to obey my wishes; but the sum and substance of it all was, he couldn't do + it. He was a vigorous little fellow, overrunning with animal spirits, high + health, and mischief; and it was a pleasure to me to see him laying the + firm foundation of a lusty constitution, which, in later years, could + laugh at disease. + </p> + <p> + And then when he did take a start in his studies, he advanced with a speed + that astonished his teacher. At the age of twelve there was not a girl or + boy in school (and some of them were several years older than he) who + could hold his own with him. I took some credit to myself for all this, + for I believed it was largely due to the common-sense I used in his early + youth. The foundation was strong and secure, and the building erected upon + it was upon solid rock. + </p> + <p> + During the last two or three years I suffered from a great fear. Between + the school-house and our home was a mill-pond, which in many places was + fully a dozen feet deep. I knew what a temptation this was to the boys + during the long, sultry summer weather, and there was not a day when a + dozen youngsters, more or less, were not frolicking and splashing in it. + </p> + <p> + One afternoon, when I sauntered thither, I found fully a score of them in + the height of enjoyment, and the wildest and most reckless fellow was my + Bob. When he observed me standing on the shore he was so anxious to + astonish me that he ventured into the water up to his chin, I shouted to + him to come to shore, for he was in fearful peril, and it needed only a + few inches further advance for him to drown before help could reach him. + </p> + <p> + "Bob," said I, in a voice and manner that could not be mistaken, "if you + ever do that again I'll whip you within an inch of your life." + </p> + <p> + "I won't, pop," he replied, in such meek tones that, parent-like, my heart + reproached me at once. + </p> + <p> + "Now," I added more gently, "every boy ought to learn to swim, and until + he is able to do so, he should keep out of deep water. If you will promise + me that you will never venture into a depth above your waist until a good + swimmer, you may bathe here; otherwise you shall never come near it." + </p> + <p> + He gave me his promise, and, telling him that he had been in the water + long enough for that afternoon, I asked him to dress himself and come home + with me. + </p> + <p> + I felt that I had been weak. I ought to have forbidden him ever to enter + the mill-pond unless in my company, and thus that which followed never + could have occurred. I did not tell his mother what had taken place, for I + knew she would insist on a strict prohibition of his aimless swimming + efforts. + </p> + <p> + To tell the truth, there were two reasons why I did not forbid Bob to + enter the mill-pond. I knew it would be the most cruel kind of punishment, + and, I may as well confess it, I didn't believe the boy would obey me if + he gave the pledge. The temptation was too strong to be resisted. Alas! + how often our affection closes our eyes to the plainest duty! + </p> + <p> + And now I have reached a point which prompts me to ask the question at the + head of this sketch, "Who Shall Explain It?" I have my own theory, which I + shall submit, with no little diffidence, later on. + </p> + <p> + It was on Saturday afternoon, the ninth of last August, that I became a + victim to a greater depression of spirits than I had known for years. I + felt nothing of it during the forenoon, but it began shortly after the + midday meal and became more oppressive with each passing minute. I sat + down at my desk and wrote for a short time. I continually sighed and drew + deep inspirations, which gave me no relief. It was as if a great and + increasing weight were resting on my chest. Had I been superstitious, I + would have declared that I was on the eve of some dreadful calamity. + </p> + <p> + Writing became so difficult and distasteful that I threw down my pen, + sprang from my chair, and began rapidly pacing up and down the room. My + wife had gone to the city that morning to visit her relatives, and was not + to return until the following day; so I was alone, with only two servants + in the house. + </p> + <p> + I couldn't keep the thoughts of Bob out of my mind. Saturday being a + holiday, I had allowed him to go off to spend the afternoon as he chose; + and, as it was unusually warm, there was little doubt where and how he was + spending it. He would strike a bee-line for that shady mill-pond, and they + would spend hours plashing in its cool and delicious depths. + </p> + <p> + I looked at the clock; it was a few minutes past five, and Bob ought to + have been home long ago. What made him so late? + </p> + <p> + My fear was growing more intense every minute. The boy was in my mind + continually to the exclusion of everything else. Despite all my philosophy + and rigid common-sense, the conviction was fastening on me that something + dreadful had befallen him. + </p> + <p> + And what was that something? He had been drowned in the mill-pond. I + glanced out of the window, half expecting to see a party bearing the + lifeless body homeward. Thank Heaven, I was spared that woful sight, but I + discerned something else that sent a misgiving pang through me. + </p> + <p> + It was Mrs. Clarkson, our nearest neighbor, rapidly approaching, as if the + bearer of momentous tidings. + </p> + <p> + "She has come to tell me that Bob is drowned," I gasped, as my heart + almost ceased its beating. + </p> + <p> + I met her on the threshold, with a calmness of manner which belied the + tumult within. Greeting her courteously, I invited her inside, stating + that my wife was absent. + </p> + <p> + "I thank you," she said, "but it is not worth while. I thought I ought to + come over and tell you." + </p> + <p> + "Tell me what?" I inquired, swallowing the lump in my throat. + </p> + <p> + "Why, about the awful dream I had last night." + </p> + <p> + I was able to smile faintly, and was partly prepared for what was coming. + </p> + <p> + "I am ready to hear it, Mrs. Clarkson." + </p> + <p> + "Why, you know it was Friday night, and I never had a dream on a Friday + night that didn't come true—never! Where's Bob?" she abruptly asked, + peering around me, as if to learn whether he was in the hall. + </p> + <p> + "He's off somewhere at play." + </p> + <p> + "Oh, Mr. Havens, you'll never see him alive again!" + </p> + <p> + Although startled in spite of myself, I was indignant. + </p> + <p> + "Have you any positive knowledge, Mrs. Clarkson, on the matter?" + </p> + <p> + "Certainly I have; didn't I just tell you about my dream?" + </p> + <p> + "A fudge for your dream!" I exclaimed, impatiently; "I don't believe in + any such nonsense." + </p> + <p> + "I pity you," she said, though why I should be pitied on that account is + hard to understand. + </p> + <p> + "But what was your dream?" + </p> + <p> + "I saw your Bob brought home drowned. Oh, I can see him now," she added, + speaking rapidly, and making a movement as if to wring her hands; "his + white face—his dripping hair and clothes—his half-closed eyes—it + was dreadful; it will break his mother's heart—" + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Clarkson, did you come here to tell me <i>that</i>?" + </p> + <p> + "Why, of course I did; I felt it was my duty to prepare you—" + </p> + <p> + "Good day," I answered, sharply, closing the door and hastily entering my + study. + </p> + <p> + She had given me a terrible shock. My feelings were in a tumult difficult + to describe. My philosophy, my self-command, my hard sense and scepticism + were scattered to the winds, I had fought against the awful fear, and was + still fighting when my neighbor called; but her visit had knocked every + prop from beneath me. + </p> + <p> + She had hardly disappeared when I was hurrying through the woods by the + shortest route to the mill-pond. I knew Bob had been there, and all that I + expected to find was his white, ghastly body in the cold, cruel depths. + </p> + <p> + "Oh, my boy!" I wailed, "I am to blame for your death! I never should have + permitted you to run into such danger. I should have gone with you and + taught you to swim—I can never forgive myself for this—never, + never, never. It will break your mother's heart—mine is already + broken—" + </p> + <p> + "<i>Pop, just watch me</i>!" + </p> + <p> + Surely that was the voice of my boy! I turned my head like a flash, and + there he was, with his hands together over his head, and in the act of + diving into the mill-pond. Down he went with a splash, his head quickly + reappearing, as he flirted the hair and water out of his eyes, and struck + out for the middle of the pond. + </p> + <p> + "What are you doing, Bob?" + </p> + <p> + "You just wait and see, pop." + </p> + <p> + And what did that young rascal do but swim straight across that pond and + then turn about and swim back again, without pausing for breath? Not only + that, but, when in the very deepest portion, he dove, floated on his back, + trod water, and kicked up his heels like a frisky colt. + </p> + <p> + "How's that, pop? You didn't know I could swim, did you?" he asked, as he + came smilingly up the bank. + </p> + <p> + "I had no idea of such a thing," I replied, my whole being fluttering with + gratitude and delight; "I think I'll have to reward you for that." + </p> + <p> + And when he had donned his clothes, and we started homeward, I slipped a + twisted bank-bill into his hands. I am really ashamed to tell its + denomination, and Bob and I never hinted anything about it to his mother. + </p> + <p> + And now as to the question, Who shall explain it? I think I can. I have a + weakness for boiled beef and cabbage. The meat is healthful enough, but, + as every one knows, or ought to know, cabbage, although one of the most + digestible kinds of food when raw, is just the opposite in a boiled state. + I knew the consequences of eating it, but in the absence of my good wife + that day I disposed of so much that I deserved the oppressive indigestion + that followed. + </p> + <p> + That fact, I am convinced, fully explains the dreadful "presentiment" + which made me so miserable all the afternoon. + </p> + <p> + On our way home we passed the house of Mrs. Clarkson. I could not forbear + stopping and ringing her bell. She answered it in person. + </p> + <p> + "Mrs. Clarkson, Bob is on his way home from swimming, and I thought I + would let him hear about that wonderful dream—" + </p> + <p> + But the door was slammed in my face. + </p> + <p> + I said at the opening of this sketch that I "had" a boy named Bob. God be + thanked, I have him yet, and no lustier, brighter, or more manly youth + ever lived, and my prayer is that he may be spared to soothe the declining + years of his father and mother, whose love for him is beyond the power of + words to tell. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0042" id="link2H_4_0042"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + A FOOL OR A GENIUS. + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0025" id="link2HCH0025"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. + </h2> + <p> + Josiah Hunter sat on his porch one summer afternoon, smoking his pipe, + feeling dissatisfied, morose and sour on account of his only son Tim, who, + he was obliged to confess to himself, gave every indication of proving a + disappointment to him. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hunter was owner of the famous Brereton Quarry & Stone Works, + located about a mile above the thriving village of Brereton, on the + eastern bank of the Castaran river, and at a somewhat greater distance + below the town of Denville. The quarry was a valuable one and the owner + was in comfortable circumstances, with the prospect of acquiring + considerable more of a fortune out of the yield of excellent building + stone. The quarry had been worked for something like ten years, and the + discovery that he had such a fine deposit on his small farm was in the + minds of his neighbors equivalent to the finding of a gold mine, for as + the excavation proceeded, the quality of the material improved and Mr. + Hunter refused an offer from a company which, but for the stone, would + have been a very liberal price for the whole farm. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hunter had been a widower ever since his boy was three years old, and + the youth was now fourteen. His sister Maggie was two years his senior, + and they were deeply attached to each other. Maggie was a daughter after + her father's own heart,—one of those rare, sensible girls who cannot + be spoiled by indulgence, who was equally fond of her parent and who stood + unflinchingly by her brother in the little differences between father and + son, which, sad to say, were becoming more frequent and serious with the + passing weeks and months. It is probable that the affection of the parent + for the daughter prevented him from ever thinking of marrying again, for + she was a model housekeeper, and he could not bear the thought of seeing + anyone come into the family and usurp, even in a small degree, her + functions and place. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Hunter was getting on in years, and nothing was more natural than that + he should wish and plan that Tim should become his successor in the + development of the valuable quarry that was not likely to give out for + many a year to come. But the boy showed no liking for the business. He was + among the best scholars in the village school, fond of play and so well + advanced in his studies that his parent determined to begin his practical + business training in earnest. He looked upon a college education as a + waste of so many years, taken from the most precious part of a young man's + life, and it must be said that Tim himself showed no wish to attend any + higher educational institution. + </p> + <p> + Tim had assisted about the quarry, more or less for several years. Of + course he was too young to do much in the way of manual labor, but there + were many errands that he ran, beside helping to keep his father's + accounts. He wrote an excellent hand, was quick in figures and had such a + command of language that all his parent had to do was to tell him the + substance of the letter he wished written, to have the boy put it in + courteous but pointed and clear form. The elder had never detected an + error in the computations of the younger, who had no trouble at all when + the operations included difficult fractions. + </p> + <p> + All this was good in its way, but it could not be denied that Tim had no + liking for the business itself. His father had told him repeatedly that he + must prepare himself for the active management of the stone works, and + that to do so required something more than quickness in figures and skill + in letter writing. But it was in vain. Tim was never at the works unless + by direct command of his parent, and seized the first opportunity to get + away. + </p> + <p> + "No person can succeed in a business which he dislikes," remarked Mr. + Hunter to Maggie who on this summer afternoon sat on the front porch, + plying her deft needle, while the waning twilight lasted, with Bridget + inside preparing the evening meal. + </p> + <p> + "I think that is true, father," was her gentle reply. + </p> + <p> + "And that boy hates the stone business and I can't understand why he + should." + </p> + <p> + "Isn't it also true, father, that one cannot control his likes and + dislikes? Tim has told me he can't bear the thought of spending his life + in getting out great blocks of stone and trimming them into shape for + building. He said he wished he could feel as you do, but there's no use of + his trying." + </p> + <p> + "Fudge!" was the impatient exclamation; "what business has a boy of his + years to talk or think about what sort of business he prefers? It is my + place to select his future avocation and his to accept it without a + growl." + </p> + <p> + "He will do that, father." + </p> + <p> + "Of course he will," replied the parent with a compression of his thin + lips and a flash of his eyes; "when I yield to a boy fourteen years old, + it will be time to shift me off to the lunatic asylum." + </p> + <p> + "Why, then, are you displeased, since he will do what you wish and do it + without complaint? + </p> + <p> + "I am displeased because he is dissatisfied and has no heart in his work. + He shows no interest in anything relating to the quarries and it is + becoming worse every day with him." + </p> + <p> + "Didn't he help this forenoon?" + </p> + <p> + "Yes, because I told him he must be on hand as soon as he was through + breakfast and not leave until he went to dinner." + </p> + <p> + "Did you say nothing about his working this afternoon?" + </p> + <p> + "No; I left that out on purpose to test him." + </p> + <p> + "What was the result?" + </p> + <p> + "I haven't seen hide or hair of him since; I suppose he is off in the + woods or up in his room, reading or figuring on some invention. Do you + know where he is?" + </p> + <p> + "He has been in his room almost all the afternoon and is there now." + </p> + <p> + "Doing what?" + </p> + <p> + "I guess you have answered that question," replied Maggie laying aside her + sewing because of the increasing shadows, and looking across at her father + with a smile. + </p> + <p> + "That's what makes me lose all patience. What earthly good is it for him + to sit in his room drawing figures of machines he dreams of making, or + scribbling over sheets of paper? If this keeps up much longer, he will + take to writing poetry, and the next thing will be smoking cigarettes and + then his ruin will be complete." + </p> + <p> + Maggie's clear laughter rang out on the summer air. She was always + overflowing with spirits and the picture drawn by her parent and the look + of profound disgust on his face as he uttered his scornful words stirred + her mirth beyond repression. + </p> + <p> + "What are you laughing at?" he demanded, turning toward her, though + without any anger in his tones, for he could never feel any emotion of + that nature toward such a daughter. + </p> + <p> + "It was the idea of Tim writing poetry or rhyme and smoking cigarettes. + I'll guarantee that he will never do either." + </p> + <p> + "Nor anything else, you may as well add." + </p> + <p> + "I'll guarantee that if he lives he will do a good many things that will + be better than getting out and trimming stone." + </p> + <p> + This was not the first time that Maggie had intimated the same faith, + without going into particulars or giving any idea upon what she based that + faith. The parent looked sharply at her and asked: + </p> + <p> + "What do you mean? Explain yourself." + </p> + <p> + But the daughter was not yet ready to do so. She had her thoughts or + dreams or whatever they might be, but was not prepared as yet to share + them with her parent. He was not in the mood, and for her to tell all that + was in her mind would be to provoke an outburst that would be painful to + the last degree. She chose for the present to parry. + </p> + <p> + "How can I know, father, what ambition Tim has? He is still young enough + to change that ambition, whatever it may be." + </p> + <p> + "And he's <i>got</i> to change it, as sure as he lives! I am tired of his + fooling; he is fourteen years old, big, strong, and healthy; if he would + take hold of the work and show some interest in it, he would be able in a + couple of years to take charge of the whole business and give me a rest, + but he is frittering away valuable time until I've made up my mind to + permit it no longer." + </p> + <p> + The parent knocked the bowl of his pipe against the column of the porch + and shook his head in a way that showed he meant every word he said. + Maggie was troubled, for she had feared an outbreak between him and Tim, + and it seemed to be impending. She dreaded it more than death, for any + violence by her beloved parent toward her equally beloved brother would + break her heart. That parent, naturally placid and good-natured, had a + frightful temper when it was aroused. She could never forget that day when + in a quarrel with one of his employes, he came within a hair of killing + the man and for the time was a raging tiger. + </p> + <p> + There was one appeal that Maggie knew had never failed her, though she + feared the day would come when even that would lose its power. She + reserved it as the last recourse. When she saw her father rise to his + feet, and in the gathering gloom noted the grim resolute expression on his + face, she knew the crisis had come. + </p> + <p> + "Tell him to come down-stairs; we may as well have this matter settled + here and now." + </p> + <p> + "Father," she said in a low voice of the sweetest tenderness, "you will + not forget what he did two years ago?" + </p> + <p> + The parent stood motionless, silent for a minute, and then gently resumed + his seat, adding a moment later, + </p> + <p> + "No; I can never forget that; never mind calling him just now." + </p> + <p> + And what it was that Tim Hunter did "two years ago" I must now tell you. + </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 II. + </h2> + <p> + Bear in mind that Tim Hunter was twelve years old at the time, being the + junior by two years of his sister Maggie. + </p> + <p> + On the day which I have in mind, he had spent the forenoon fishing, and + brought home a mess of trout for which he had whipped one of the mountain + brooks, and which furnished the family with the choicest sort of a meal. + The father complimented him on his skill, for that was before the parent's + patience had been so sorely tried by the indifference of the lad toward + the vocation to which the elder meant he should devote his life. He left + the lad at liberty to spend the rest of the day as he chose, and, early in + the afternoon, he proposed to his sister that they should engage in that + old game of "jackstones" with which I am sure you are familiar. + </p> + <p> + Years ago the country lads and lassies generally used little bits of + stones, instead of scraggly, jagged pieces of iron, with which they amuse + themselves in these days. Tim had seen some of the improved jackstones; + and, borrowing one from a playmate, he made a clay mould from it, into + which he poured melted lead, repeating the operation until he had five as + pretty and symmetrically formed specimens as one could wish. It was with + these in his hands, that he led the way to the barn for a game between + himself and sister. + </p> + <p> + The big, spacious structure was a favorite place for spending their + leisure hours. The hard, seedy floor, with the arching rafters overhead + could not be improved for their purpose. The shingles were so far aloft + that the shade within was cool on sultry summer days, and it was the + pleasantest kind of music to hear the rain drops patter on the roof and + the wind whistle around the eaves and corners. The mow where the hay was + stored was to the left, as you entered the door, and under that were the + stalls where the horses munched their dinner and looked solemnly through + the opening over the mangers at the two children engaged at play. Between + where they sat and the rafters, the space was open. + </p> + <p> + Maggie took her seat in the middle of the floor, and her brother placed + himself opposite. Before doing so, he stepped to the nearest stall and + picked up a block of wood six inches in diameter and two feet in length. + This he laid on the floor and seated himself upon it, tossing the + jackstones to his sister to begin the game. + </p> + <p> + She was his superior, for her pretty taper fingers were more nimble than + his sturdy ones, and, unless she handicapped herself by certain + conditions, she invariably won in the contest of skill. She tossed them + one after the other, then two or three or more at a time, snatching up the + others from the floor and going through the varied performance with an + easy perfection that was the wonder of Tim. Once or twice, she purposely + missed some feat, but the alert lad was sure to detect it, and declared he + would not play unless she did her best, and, under his watchful eye, she + could not escape doing so. As I have said, the only way to equalize + matters was for her to handicap herself, and even then I am compelled to + say she was more often winner than loser. + </p> + <p> + Sitting on the block of wood tipped up on one end, Tim kept his eyes on + the bits of metal, popping up in the air and softly dropping into the + extended palm, and wondered again why it was so hard for him to do that + which was so easy for her. Finally she made a slip, which looked honest, + and resigned the stones to him. + </p> + <p> + Now, you know that in playing this game, you ought to sit on the floor or + ground; for if your perch is higher, you are compelled to stoop further to + snatch up the pieces and your position is so awkward that it seriously + interferes with your success. + </p> + <p> + The very first scramble Tim made at the stones on the floor was not only a + failure, but resulted in a splinter catching under the nail of one of his + fingers. Maggie laughed. + </p> + <p> + "Why do you sit way up there?" she asked; "you can't do half as well as + when you are lower down like me." + </p> + <p> + "I guess you're right," he replied, as he pushed the block away and + imitated her. "I 'spose I'll catch the splinters just the same." + </p> + <p> + "There's no need of it; you mustn't claw the stones, but move your hand + gently, just as I do. Now, watch me." + </p> + <p> + "It's a pity that no one else in the world is half as smart as you," + replied the brother with fine irony, but without ill nature. "Ah, wasn't + that splendid?" + </p> + <p> + Which remark was caused by the plainest kind of fluke on the part of + Maggie, who in her effort to instruct her brother, forgot one or two nice + points, which oversight was fatal. + </p> + <p> + "Well," said she, "I didn't fill my fingers with splinters." + </p> + <p> + "Nor with jackstones either; if I can't do any better than you I'm sure I + can't do any worse." + </p> + <p> + "Well, Smarty, what are you waiting for?" + </p> + <p> + "For you to pay attention." + </p> + <p> + "I'm doing that." + </p> + <p> + With cool, careful steadiness, Tim set to work, and lo! he finished the + game without a break, performing the more difficult exploits with a skill + that compelled the admiration of his sister. + </p> + <p> + "I'm glad to see that you're not such a big dunce as you look; I've been + discouraged in trying to teach you, but you seem to be learning at last." + </p> + <p> + "Wouldn't you like me to give you a few lessons?" + </p> + <p> + "No; for, if you did, I should never win another game," was the pert + reply; "I wonder whether you will ever be able to beat me again." + </p> + <p> + "Didn't you know that I have been fooling with you all the time, just as I + fool a trout till I get him to take the hook?" + </p> + <p> + Maggie stared at him with open mouth for a moment and then asked in an + awed whisper: + </p> + <p> + "No; I didn't know that: did <i>you</i>?" + </p> + <p> + "Never mind; the best thing you can do is to tend to bus'ness, for I'm not + going to show you a bit of mercy." + </p> + <p> + During this friendly chaffing, both noticed that the wind was rising. It + moaned around the barn, and enough of it entered the window far above + their heads for them to feel it fan their cheeks. An eddy even lifted one + of the curls from the temple of the girl. This, however, was of no special + concern to them, and they continued their playing. + </p> + <p> + Each went through the next series without a break. Tim was certainly doing + himself honor, and his sister was at a loss to understand it. But you know + that on some days the player of any game does much better than on others. + This was one of Tim's best days and one of Maggie's worst, for he again + surpassed her, though there could be no doubt that she did her very best, + and she could not repress her chagrin. But she was too fond of her bright + brother to feel anything in the nature of resentment for his success. + </p> + <p> + "There's one thing certain," she said, shaking her curly head with + determination; "you can't beat me again." + </p> + <p> + "I wouldn't be so rash, sister; remember that I mean bus'ness to-day." + </p> + <p> + "Just as if you haven't always done your best; it's you that are bragging, + not I." + </p> + <p> + Tim had taken the stones in his right hand with the purpose of giving them + the necessary toss in the air, when a blast of wind struck the barn with a + force that made it tremble. They distinctly felt the tremor of the floor + beneath them. He paused and looked into the startled face of his sister + with the question: + </p> + <p> + "Hadn't we better run to the house?" + </p> + <p> + "No," she replied, her heart so set on beating him that she felt less fear + than she would have felt had it been otherwise; "it's as safe here as in + the house; one is as strong as the other; if you want to get out of + finishing the game, why, I'll let you off." + </p> + <p> + "You know it isn't that, Maggie; but the barn isn't as strong as the + house." + </p> + <p> + "It has stood a good many harder blows than this; don't you see it has + stopped? Go on." + </p> + <p> + "All right; just as you say," and up went the pronged pieces and were + caught with the same skill as before. Then he essayed a more difficult + feat and failed. Maggie clapped her hands with delight, and leaned forward + to catch up the bits and try her hand. + </p> + <p> + At that instant something like a tornado or incipient cyclone struck the + barn. They felt the structure swaying, heard the ripping of shingles, and + casting his eyes aloft, Tim saw the shingles and framework coming down + upon their heads. + </p> + <p> + It was an appalling moment. If they remained where they were, both would + be crushed to death. The door was too far away for both to reach it; + though it was barely possible that by a quick leap and dash he might get + to the open air in the nick of time, but he would die a hundred times over + before abandoning his sister. The open window was too high to be reached + from the floor without climbing, and there was no time for that. + </p> + <p> + The action of a cyclone is always peculiar. Resistless as is its power, it + is often confined to a very narrow space. The one to which I am now + referring whipped off a corner of the roof, so loosening the supports that + the whole mass of shingles and rafters covering the larger portion came + down as if flung from the air above, while the remainder of the building + was left unharmed, the terrified horses not receiving so much as a + scratch. + </p> + <p> + There was one awful second when brother and sister believed that the next + would be their last. Then Tim threw his arm around the neck of Maggie and + in a flash drew her forward so that she lay flat on her face and he + alongside of her; but the twinkling of an eye before that he had seized + the block of wood, rejected some time before as a chair, and stood it on + end beside his shoulder, keeping his right arm curved round it so as to + hold it upright in position, while the other arm prevented Maggie from + rising. + </p> + <p> + "Don't move?" he shouted amid the crashing of timbers and the roaring of + the gale; "lie still and you won't be hurt." + </p> + <p> + She could not have disobeyed him had she tried, for the words were in his + mouth when the fearful mass of timber descended upon them. + </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 III. + </h2> + <p> + Do you understand what Tim Hunter did? Had the mass of timber descending + upon him and his sister been unchecked, they would not have lived an + instant. Had it been shattered into small fragments by the cyclone, the + ingenious precaution which a wonderful presence of mind enabled hint to + make, would have been of no avail. + </p> + <p> + Take a block of seasoned oak, six inches through, and two feet in height, + and interpose it squarely against an approaching body and it is almost as + powerful in the way of resistance as so much metal. It would take an + ironclad to crush it to pulp, by acting longitudinally or along its line + of length. This block stood upright, and received a portion of the + rafters, covered by the shingles and held them aloft as easily as you can + hold your hat with your outstretched arm. From this point of highest + support, the debris sloped away until it rested on the floor, but the open + space, in which the brother and sister lay, was as safe as was their + situation, before the gale loosened the structure. + </p> + <p> + Tim called to his sister and found that not so much as a hair of her head + had been harmed, and it was the same with himself. All was darkness in + their confined quarters, but the wrenched framework gave them plenty of + air to breathe. + </p> + <p> + Who can picture the feelings of the father, when he saw the collapse of + the roof of the barn and knew that his two children were beneath? He + rushed thither like a madman, only to be cheered to the highest + thankfulness the next moment at hearing their muffled assurances that both + were all right. A brief vigorous application of his axe and the two were + helped out into the open air, neither the worse for their dreadful + experience. + </p> + <p> + The parent could hardly believe what had been done by his boy, when Maggie + told him, until an examination for himself showed that it was true. He + declared that neither he nor anyone would have thought of the means and + applied it with such lightning quickness. It certainly was an + extraordinary exhibition of presence of mind and deserved all the praise + given to it. The Brereton <i>Intelligencer</i> devoted half a column to a + description of the exploit and prophesied that that "young man" would be + heard from again. For weeks and months there was nothing at the disposal + of Mr. Hunter which was too good for his boy and it is probable that the + indulgence of that period had something to do with making Tim dissatisfied + with the prospect of spending all his life as a "hewer of stone." + </p> + <p> + Gradually as the effects of the remarkable rescue wore off, the impatience + of the parent grew until we have seen him on the point of calling to + account the boy who had really been the means of saving two lives, for his + own was as much imperilled as the sister's. Once more she appealed to that + last recourse, and once more it did not fail her. When he recalled that + dreadful scene, he could not help feeling an admiring gratitude for his + boy. Although silent and reserved some time later, when the three gathered + round the table for their evening meal, nothing unpleasant was said by the + parent, though the sharp-witted Tim felt a strong suspicion of the cause + of his father's reserve. + </p> + <p> + Later in the evening, the latter sat down by the table in the sitting room + and took up his copy of the Brereton <i>Intelligencer</i>, which had + arrived that afternoon. He always spent his Thursday evenings in this + manner, unless something unusual interfered, the local news and selected + miscellany affording enough intellectual food to last him until retiring + time. + </p> + <p> + While he was thus occupied, Tim and Maggie played checkers, there being + little difference in their respective skill. They were quiet, and when + necessary to speak, did so in low tones, so as not to disturb the parent. + </p> + <p> + An hour had passed, when he suddenly turned, with his spectacles on his + nose, and looked at the children. The slight resentment he still felt + toward Tim caused him to address himself directly to his sister: + </p> + <p> + "Maggie, do you know who has been writing these articles in the paper for + the last few weeks?" + </p> + <p> + She held a king suspended as she was on the point of jumping a couple of + Tim's and asked in turn: + </p> + <p> + "What articles?" + </p> + <p> + "They are signed 'Mit' and each paper for the last two or three months has + had one of them." + </p> + <p> + "No, sir; I do not know who wrote them." + </p> + <p> + "Well, whoever he is he's a mighty smart fellow." + </p> + <p> + "Maybe it's a 'she,'" suggested Maggie, as she proceeded to sweep off the + board the two kings of Tim that had got in the path of her single one. + </p> + <p> + "Fudge! no woman can write such good sense as that. Besides, some of them + have been on the tariff, the duties of voters, the Monroe Doctrine and + politics: what does any woman know about such themes as those?" + </p> + <p> + "Don't some women write about them?" + </p> + <p> + "I haven't denied that, but that doesn't prove that they know anything of + the subjects themselves." + </p> + <p> + The miss could make no suitable response to this brilliant remark and did + not attempt to do so, while Tim said nothing at all, as if the subject had + no attraction to him. + </p> + <p> + By and by the parent uttered a contemptuous sniff. He was reading "Mit's" + contribution, and for the first time came upon something with which he did + not agree. + </p> + <p> + "He's 'way off there," remarked the elder, as if speaking to himself. + </p> + <p> + "What is it, father?" asked Maggie, ceasing her playing for the moment, + for her affection always led her to show an interest in whatever + interested him. + </p> + <p> + "The article is the best I have read until I get toward the end. Listen: + 'No greater mistake can be made than for a parent to force a child into + some calling or profession for which he has no liking. The boy will be + sure to fail.' Now, what do you think of <i>that</i>?" + </p> + <p> + "The latter part sounds very much like what you said to me this + afternoon." + </p> + <p> + "It isn't that, which is true enough, but the idea that a boy knows better + than his father what is the right profession for him to follow. That + doctrine is too much like Young America who thinks he knows it all." + </p> + <p> + "Read on, father; let me hear the rest." + </p> + <p> + The father was silent a minute or two, while he skimmed through the + article. + </p> + <p> + "It isn't worth reading," he remarked impatiently, thereby proving that he + had been hit by the arguments which he found difficult to refute. Maggie + made no comment, but smiled significantly at Tim across the board, as they + resumed their game. + </p> + <p> + In truth, Mr. Hunter had come upon some sentiments that set him to + thinking, such, for instance, as these: "It may be said with truth in many + cases, that the father is the best judge of what the future of his son + should be. In fact no one can question this, but the father does not + always use that superior knowledge as he should. Perhaps he has yielded to + the dearest wish of the mother that their son should become a minister. + The mother's love does not allow her to see that her boy has no gifts as a + speaker and no love for a clergyman's life. He longs to be a lawyer or + doctor. Will any one deny that to drive the young man into the pulpit is + the greatest mistake that can be made? + </p> + <p> + "Sometimes a father, with an only son, perhaps, intends that he shall be + trained to follow in his footsteps. The boy has a dislike for that calling + or profession,—a dislike that was born with him and which nothing + can remove. His taste runs in a wholly different channel; whatever talent + he has lies there. While it may be convenient for him to step into his + parent's shoes, yet he should never be forced to do so, but be allowed to + select that for which he has an ability and toward which he is drawn. + Parents make such sad mistakes as these, and often do not awake to the + fact until it is too late to undo the mischief that has been done. Let + them give the subject their most thoughtful attention and good is sure to + follow." + </p> + <p> + It was these words, following on the talk he had had with Maggie a short + time before that set Mr. Hunter to thinking more deeply than he had ever + done over the problem in which his son was so intimately concerned. After + his children had retired and he was left alone, he turned over the paper + and read the article again. It stuck to him and he could not drive it + away. Laying the journal aside, he lit his pipe and leaned back in his + chair. + </p> + <p> + "It is not pleasant," he mused, "to give up the idea of Tim becoming my + successor, for he is the only one I have ever thought of as such. But + there is force in what 'Mit' says about driving a boy into a calling or + profession that he hates; he will make a failure of it, whereas he might + become very successful if left to follow his own preferences. I wonder who + 'Mit' is; his articles are the best I have ever read in the <i>Intelligencer</i>; + I must ask the editor, so I can have him out here and talk over this + question which is the biggest bother I ever had." + </p> + <p> + Before Maggie and Tim separated to go to their rooms, and while at the top + of the stairs they whispered together for a few minutes. The parent had + got thus far in his musings, when he heard the voice of Maggie calling + from above: + </p> + <p> + "Father, do you think 'Mit' is a smart fellow?" + </p> + <p> + "Of course, even though I may not agree with all his views," replied the + parent, wondering why his child was so interested. + </p> + <p> + "Would you like to know who he is?" + </p> + <p> + "Of course, but you told me you didn't know." + </p> + <p> + "I didn't at that time, but I have learned since. If you will spell the + name backwards and put it before your surname, you will have that of the + youth who wrote the articles you admire so much." + </p> + <p> + The parent did as suggested, and behold! the name thus spelled out was + that of his only son, whose writings he had praised before the young man's + face. + </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 IV. + </h2> + <p> + When the chuckling Tim told his sister the secret as he paused to kiss her + good-night at the head of the stairs, he did not dream that she would + reveal it to their father; but, before he could exact a promise, she + emitted the truth, despite his attempts to place his hand over her mouth. + Then she darted off, and, humiliated and chagrined, he went to his own + room. + </p> + <p> + But the parent was given more to think about. He was pleasant to both the + next morning at breakfast and made no reference to the matter that was in + the minds of all. Just as the meal was finished, he remarked: + </p> + <p> + "Tim, the load of stone is ready and we will take it over to Montvale + to-day; wouldn't you like to go with us?" + </p> + <p> + "Thank you, father; I shall be glad to go." + </p> + <p> + "All right; as soon as you and Maggie are through with your nonsense, come + out to the wharf and join us." + </p> + <p> + The method of transporting stone from the Brereton quarries to Montvale, + on the other side of the river, was simple. The canal ran directly in + front of the quarries, and there the boat was loaded with the heavy + freight. It was then drawn by horse through the canal Denville, several + miles to the north, where the waterway touched the level of the Castaran + river. Passing through a lock, the boat was pulled across the stream by + means of a rope, and wheel arrangement (a heavy dam furnishing + comparatively deep and smooth water), when another lock admitted it to the + canal on the opposite side. + </p> + <p> + The boat, which lay against the bank of the canal near the quarries, was + loaded so heavily that it was brought as low in the water as was safe. + Then a horse was hitched fast, and with Tim driving, and with Warren and + his father and two men on board, the craft began slowly moving against the + sluggish current. + </p> + <p> + The start was made in the morning, and before the forenoon was half gone + they were at the lower end of Denville, where preparations were quickly + made for crossing the river. The horse was taken on board, the boat + securely fastened by a strong rope at the bow and stern, so as to hold her + broadside against the current, and then the contrivance began dragging her + slowly toward the opposite shore. + </p> + <p> + During the spring months and the period of high water, a great many rafts + of lumber descend the Castaran, though the number is not so great of late + years as formerly. They are sold at various points along the river, and + occasionally two or three rafts float down stream during the summer + months. A long sweeping paddle (sometimes a couple) at either end of the + raft enable the men to clear the abutments of the bridges and to shoot the + rapids at different points. + </p> + <p> + The canal boat, with its cargo of stone had no more than fairly left the + eastern side, when a large raft was observed emerging from between two + abutments of the bridge above. The men at the oars began toiling with them + with a view of working the structure toward the rapids, through which the + only safe passage can be secured. + </p> + <p> + Those on the boat having nothing to do had seated themselves here and + there, and were watching their surroundings, as they moved at right angles + to the current. The raft was heading toward a point just ahead of the + boat, and was so near that Tim, who was sitting beside his father on the + cabin, started to his feet and said: + </p> + <p> + "I believe they are going to strike us." + </p> + <p> + "Sit down; there is no danger; these people know their business; we shall + be well out of their way before they can reach us." + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless a collision seemed so imminent a moment later, that Mr. + Hunter rose to his feet and motioned to those working the rope to give the + boat greater speed. At the same time he shouted to the raftsmen: + </p> + <p> + "Keep off; don't you see we are in danger?" + </p> + <p> + "Get out of the way, then!" was the reply; "we must go through there." + </p> + <p> + Such manifestly was their right, and the gentleman again waved his hands + to those on both shores. But they saw the danger, and applying all the + power at their command, the boat began moving so much faster that Mr. + Hunter resumed his seat. + </p> + <p> + "It's all right now," he remarked; "but it looked mighty squally a minute + ago." + </p> + <p> + The canal boat was now crossing the rapid current, where a passage-way had + been left on purpose for rafts. It had not quite reached the middle, + toward which the structure was aiming, but its speed was sufficient to + take it well out of the way, provided no accident occurred. + </p> + <p> + And this is just what did occur. The unusual strain on the gearing caused + something to give way, and the forward motion of the craft ceased at the + very moment it reached the middle of the strong current. Those on the bank + who were managing the apparatus saw the trouble at once, and strove + desperately to extricate the boat from its perilous situation, but they + were powerless. + </p> + <p> + "For Heaven's sake, keep off!" shouted Mr. Hunter to the raftsmen; "if you + don't we shall be ruined!" + </p> + <p> + As he spoke he caught up a long pole, and pressing one end against the bed + of the river exerted himself with might and main to impel the boat + forward. He called to the two men to do the same, and under their united + propulsion the boat advanced, but at a snail's pace. + </p> + <p> + The lumbermen, seeing the alarming state of affairs, put forth all their + strength to swing the raft over so that it would pass between the boat and + the eastern shore. There was scant room for this, but they were hardly + less anxious than the imperilled boatmen, to whom the consequences were + certain to be more serious than to themselves. + </p> + <p> + Had the distance been greater they might have succeeded, but under the + circumstances it was impossible. Dipping the broad blades of the long + oars, balanced at the ends of the raft, the men almost lay on their faces + as they held their breath and pushed with every ounce of strength at their + command. Then, when they reached the edge of the raft, they bore down so + as to lift the blade from the water, ran back to the other side, dipped + the oar again and shoved as before. + </p> + <p> + Meanwhile Mr. Hunter and his assistants were panting and red in the face, + as they desperately strove to force the boat from the path of the + approaching raft, which came plunging down upon them with increasing + speed. + </p> + <p> + "No use!" he suddenly exclaimed, flinging the wet pole in the center of + the boat on top of the stone; "we shall be shivered to atoms! Be ready to + jump on the raft as it crushes through us! Leave the horse to take care of + himself! Tim, you know how to swim, but jump on the raft with us—Heavens! + what have you done, my son?" + </p> + <p> + A few seconds before the boy had caught up the sharp hatchet lying near + the cabin, and intended for use of splitting fuel for the stove. With two + quick blows he severed the rope which held the stern. The latter yielded + to the strong current dashing against it, and began swinging around, so + that it quickly lay parallel with the river, with the bow pointing up + stream, and held securely by the rope fastened at that end. + </p> + <p> + This was no more than fairly done when the enormous raft swept past, so + close that the nearest log was heard scraping the entire length of the + boat. The impact drove it clear, and before any one beside the boy + realized how it was done the entire structure had gone by, no damage was + done and all were safe. + </p> + <p> + "Jim," said Mr. Hunter, a minute after, when the flurry was over, "what a + set of fools we were that we didn't think of that." + </p> + <p> + "I don't agree with you," replied the other, "because no one would have + thought of it except <i>that</i> youngster." + </p> + <p> + "Tim," added the father, placing his hand affectionately on his head, "I + am proud of you." + </p> + <p> + And the little fellow blushed and replied: + </p> + <p> + "I'm glad I happened to think of it in time, but it <i>was</i> rather + close, wasn't it?" + </p> + <p> + "It couldn't have been more so, and but for you boat and cargo would have + been a dead loss, and more than likely some of us would have lost our + lives." + </p> + <p> + That night at the supper table, Mr. Hunter remarked with a meaning smile: + </p> + <p> + "Maggie, the Hunter family contains a fool and a genius, I'm not the + genius and 'Mit' isn't the fool." + </p> + <p> + "Father, you are not just to yourself," the boy hastened to say; "I have + done wrong in not appreciating your kindness or indulgence, and I have + resolved to do my best to please you. I think I have some talent for + composition and invention, but I can use it just as well, without + neglecting the quarries and stone works, and if you will permit, I shall + give you all the help I can in the business with the hope that some day, + which I pray may be far distant, I shall become your successor." + </p> + <p> + Tears filled the eyes of all, as the parent, rising from his chair, placed + his hand on the head of Tim and said, in a tremulous voice: + </p> + <p> + "God bless you, my son!" + </p> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + +***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE JUNGLE FUGITIVES*** + + +******* This file should be named 16805-h.htm or 16805-h.zip ******* + + +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: +https://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/1/6/8/0/16805 + + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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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: The Jungle Fugitives + A Tale of Life and Adventure in India Including also Many Stories of American Adventure, Enterprise and Daring: The Jungle Fugitives; Lost in the Woods; In the Nick of Time; Lost in the South Sea; An Unpleasant Companion; A Stirring Incident; Cyclones and Tornadoes; Lost in a Blizzard; Throwing the Riata; A Waterspout; An Heroic Woman; The Writing Found in a Bottle; That Hornet's Nest; A Young Hero; Overreached; A Battle in the Air; Who Shall Explain It?; A Fool of a Genius + + +Author: Edward S. Ellis + + + +Release Date: October 6, 2005 [eBook #16805] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-646-US (US-ASCII) + + +***START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE JUNGLE FUGITIVES*** + + +E-text prepared by Al Haines + + + +THE JUNGLE FUGITIVES + +A Tale of Life and Adventure in India +Including also +Many Stories of American Adventure, Enterprise and Daring + +by + +EDWARD S. ELLIS, A.M. + +New York +Hurst and Company +Publishers + +1903 + + + + + + + +CONTENTS + + + THE JUNGLE FUGITIVES + LOST IN THE WOODS + IN THE NICK OF TIME + LOST IN THE SOUTH SEA + AN UNPLEASANT COMPANION + A STIRRING INCIDENT + CYCLONES AND TORNADOES + LOST IN A BLIZZARD + THROWING THE RIATA + A WATERSPOUT + AN HEROIC WOMAN + THE WRITING FOUND IN A BOTTLE + THAT HORNET'S NEST + A YOUNG HERO + OVERREACHED + A BATTLE IN THE AIR + WHO SHALL EXPLAIN IT? + A FOOL OF A GENIUS + + + + +THE JUNGLE FUGITIVES. + + +CHAPTER I. + +IN THE SPRING OF 1857. + +All through India, with its fanatical population five times as great as +that of England, the rumblings of the coming uprising had been heard +for months. The disaffection had been spreading and taking root. The +emissaries of the arch-plotters had passed back and forth almost from +end to end of the vast empire, with their messages of hatred and +appeal. The people were assured that the "Inglese loge" were +perfecting their insidious schemes for overthrowing their religion, and +the faithful everywhere were called upon to crush the infidels in the +dust. The evil seed fell upon the rankest of soil, and grew with a +vigor and exuberance that threatened to strangle every other growth. + +The plot, as agreed upon, was that a general uprising was to take place +throughout India on the last day of May, 1857, but, as is often the +case in such far-reaching schemes, the impatience of the mutineers +precipitated the tremendous tragedy. + +The first serious outbreak took place at Meerut on Sunday, May 10th, +just three weeks previous to the time set for the general uprising. +That town, with its population of about 40,000 at that time, lies +thirty-two miles northeast from Delhi, which was to be the capital of +the resurrected Mogul Empire. It was the precipitancy of this first +revolt that prevented its fullest success. The intention was to kill +every white man, woman and child in the place. Two regiments were +clamorous for beginning the massacre, but the Eleventh Native Infantry +held back so persistently that the others became enraged and fired a +volley among them, killing a number. Thereupon the Eleventh announced +themselves ready to take their part in the slaughter that was to free +India from the execrated "Inglese loge." + +Seeing now for the first time the real peril, the colonel of the +Eleventh made an impassioned appeal to the regiment to stand by its +colors and to take no part in the useless revolt. While he was +speaking, a volley riddled his body, and he tumbled lifeless from his +saddle. The Eleventh, however, covered the flight of the other +officers, but helped to release a thousand prisoners, suffering +punishment for various offenses, and then the hell fire burst forth. + +The bungalows of the officers, the mess houses of the troops, and all +the buildings between the native lines and Meerut were fired, and the +whole became a roaring conflagration, whose glare at night was visible +for miles. + +When an appeal was made to the Emperor of Delhi by the troopers, he +inquired their errand. The lacklustre eyes flashed with a light that +had not been seen in them for years, the bowed form acquired new +energy, and he gave orders to admit the troopers. + +Their message was enough to fan into life the slumbering fires of +ambition in the breast of a dying person. + +He yielded to the dazzling dream. A throne of silver, laid away for +years, was brought into the "hall of special audience," and the +tottering form was helped to the seat, into which he sank and looked +around upon his frenzied followers. Mohammed Suraj-oo-deen Shah Gezee +was now the Great Mogul of India. A royal salute of twenty-one guns +was fired by two troops of artillery from Meerut in front of the +palace, and the wild multitudes again strained their throats. To the +thunder of artillery, the strains of martial music and the shouting of +the people, the gates of the palace were flung open, and Prince Mirza +Mogul, with his brother, Prince Abu Beker, at the head of the royal +bodyguard, rode forth, the king following in an open chariot, +surrounded by his bodyguard. + +With impressive slowness this strange procession made its way through +the principal street, the populace becoming as frantic as so many ghost +dancers. Finally a halt was made at the Juma Musjeed, the largest +mosque in India, where the banner of the Prophet was unfurled and the +Mogul Empire proclaimed. + + + + +CHAPTER II. + +ON AN AFTERNOON. + +Almost due east from Delhi Dr. Hugh Marlowe, a venerable American +physician, had lived for more than twenty years. Since the death of +his wife, six years previous to the Mutiny, he had dwelt alone with his +only daughter, Mary, and their single servant, Mustad, a devout +Mussulman. A portion of the time mentioned had been passed without the +society of his beloved child, who spent several years in New England +(where the physician himself was born and had received his education) +at one of the fashionable schools. + +Shortly after her graduation, Miss Marlowe met Jack Everson, fresh from +Yale, and the acquaintance ripened into mutual love, though the filial +affection of the young woman was too profound to permit her to form an +engagement with the young man until the consent of her father was +obtained, and he would not give that consent until he had met and +conversed with the young gentleman face to face and taken his measure, +as may be said. + +"If he doesn't esteem you enough to make a little journey like the one +from America to this country he isn't worth thinking about." + +"But he _will_ make the journey," said the blushing daughter, patting +the bronzed cheek of the parent whom she idolized as much as he +idolized her. + +"Don't be to sure of that, my young lady; romantic young girls like you +have altogether too much faith in the other sex." + +"But he _has_ started," she added with a sly smile. + +"He has, eh? He will change his mind before he reaches here. How far +has he got?" + +"He was due in England many weeks ago." + +"Well, well! How soon will he arrive _here_?" + +"I think he is due now." + +"Very probably, but his fancy will give out before he reaches this +out-of-the-way place." + +"I think not, papa." + +"Of course not, of course not; I just told you that that is the way +with all foolish girls like you." + +The old gentleman had assumed a stern earnestness, and he added: "I +tell you he will never show himself here! I know what I'm talking +about." + +"But he _is_ here, papa; let me introduce you to Jack Everson, a +physician like yourself." + +All this time the smiling young man was standing directly behind the +old doctor, who was lazily reclining in a hammock on the shaded lawn, +smoking a cheroot, while his daughter sat on a camp stool, with one +hand resting on the edge of the hammock, so as to permit her gently to +sway it back and forth. As she spoke the tall, muscular American +walked forward and extended his hand. + +"Doctor, I am glad to make your acquaintance," he said, in his cheery +way. The astonished physician came to an upright position like the +clicking of the blade of a jackknife, and meeting the salutation, +exclaimed: + +"Well, I'll be hanged! I never knew a girl so full of nonsense and +tricks as Mary. You are welcome, doctor, to my house; let me have a +look at you!" + +Jack Everson laughingly stepped hack a couple of paces and posed for +inspection. The elder deliberately drew his spectacle case from his +pocket, adjusted the glasses and coolly scrutinized the young man from +head to foot. + +"You'll do," he quietly remarked, removing his glasses and returning +them to the morocco case; "now, if you'll be good enough to seat +yourself, we'll talk over matters until dinner time. When did you +arrive?" + +Jack seated himself on the remaining camp stool, a few paces from the +happy young lady, accepted a cheroot from his host, and the +conversation became general. Like most Americans, when at home or +travelling, Jack Everson kept his eyes and ears open. He heard at +Calcutta, his starting point, at Benares, Allahabad, Cawnpore and other +places, the whisperings of the uprising that was soon to come, and his +alarm increased as he penetrated the country. + +"Worse than all," he said gravely, speaking of his trip, "one of my +bearers spoke English well, and quite an intimacy sprang up between us. +Since his companions could not utter a word in our language, we +conversed freely without being understood. He was reticent at first +concerning the impending danger and professed to know nothing of it, +but this forenoon be gave me to understand, in words that could not be +mistaken, that the whole country would soon be aflame with +insurrection." + +"Did he offer any advice?" asked Dr. Marlowe, less impressed with the +news than was his visitor or his daughter. + +"He did; he said that the escape of myself and of your family could be +secured only by leaving this place at the earliest moment possible." + +"But whither can we go? We are hundreds of miles from the seacoast and +should have to journey for weeks through a country swarming with +enemies." + +"I asked him that question, and his answer was that we should make for +Nepaul." + +"That is the province to the east of us. It is a mountainous country, +a long way off, and hard to reach. Why should he advise us to go +thither?" + +"I questioned him, but he seemed to fear that his companions would grow +suspicious over our conversation and he said nothing more. I thought +he would add something definite when we came to separate, and, to +loosen his tongue, I gave him an extra fee, but he added never a word, +and, unless I am mistaken, regretted what he had already said." + +"It seems to me," observed the daughter, "that the man knew it is +impossible for us to get to the seacoast, and believed that by going +further into the interior we should reach the people who are not +affected by the insurrection. Wide as it may be, there must be many +points that will not feel it." + +"That is the true reason," said her parent, "but, confound it! I have +lived in this spot for twenty years; the little town of Akwar lies +near, and there is hardly a person in it who has not been my patient. +I am known even in Meerut and Delhi, and I can hardly believe the +mutineers, for such they seem to be, will harm me or my friends." + +"You once told me," replied Mary, "that when an appeal was made to the +religion of this people they knew no such thing as fear or mercy." + +"And I told you the truth," said her father gravely. "But since we +have weapons and plenty of ammunition, and know how to handle the +firearms we shall not be led like lambs to the slaughter." + +"That is true enough," said Jack, "but it will be of little avail, when +our enemies are numbered by the hundred and perhaps the thousand." + +"I take it, then, that you favor an abandonment of our home?" + +"I do, and with the least possible delay." + +"And you, my daughter, are you of the same mind?" + +"I am," was the emphatic response. + +"Then my decision is that we shall start for the interior and stay +there until it is safe to show ourselves again among these people, +provided it ever shall be safe." + +"When shall you start?" + +The parent looked at the sky. + +"It is two or three hours to nightfall. We will set out early +to-morrow morning before the sun is high in the sky." + +"But will we not be more liable to discovery?" asked Jack. + +"Not if we use care. I am familiar with the country for miles in every +direction. We shall have to travel for the first two or three days +through a thick jungle, and it is too dangerous work to undertake in +the night-time. This, you know, is the land of the cobra and the +tiger, not to mention a few other animals and reptiles equally +unpleasant in their nature. Last night," continued the doctor, "I saw +a glare in the sky off to the westward on the opposite side of the +river in the direction of Meerut. I wonder what it meant?" + +"By Jove!" exclaimed Jack, "that explains something that the palanquin +bearer said to me about there being so many Inglese where there are +none to-day. I could not catch his meaning, though he mentioned +Meerut. But he gave me to understand that it was not quite time yet +for the uprising, which would come in a few weeks." + +"Those things are apt to be precipitated. I have no doubt that the +mutineers burned the city last night. If so, the main body will hurry +to Delhi, which, being the ancient capital of the Mogul Empire, will +become the new one. Some of the rebels may take it into their heads to +come in this direction. What is the matter, Dr. Everson?" + + + + +CHAPTER III. + +YANKEE MARKSMANSHIP. + +As Jack Everson was seated he faced the broad, sluggish Ganges, with +the low, green banks beyond. He was looking over the water, in the +rays of the declining sun, when he saw something that caused him to +rise hastily from his seat and peer earnestly across the river toward +the opposite shore. Observing his action, the doctor asked his +question. Both he and his daughter, rising to their feet, gazed in the +same direction. It was easy to see what had attracted the attention of +their guest. A party of horsemen, fully twenty, if not more, in +number, had approached the river and were now halted on the other side, +looking across in the direction of Dr. Marlowe's home, as if debating +the question of making it a visit. + +"Let me get my glass," said Mary, starting toward the house, hardly a +hundred feet distant. + +"Allow me to bring it," interrupted Jack. "It is on one of the chairs +on the veranda, and I want my rifle." + +Taking the glass from him on his return, the young woman levelled it at +the group of horsemen on the other side. + +"I cannot make out who they are," she said, passing the glass to her +father. + +It took the parent but a few seconds to answer the question. One +sweeping glance told him. + +"They are Ghoojurs," he remarked, with as much calmness as he could +assume. + +"And who are Ghoojurs?" asked Jack Everson, less excited than his +friends. + +"They belong to the nomadic tribes which originally occupied India, and +are among the worst wretches in the world. They are brigands and +robbers, who are to be dreaded at all times. Now, if the revolt has +broken out, they will be as merciless as tigers." + +"It looks as if they intended to make us a visit, doctor?" + +"Alas! there can be no earthly doubt of it." + +"Let us hurry into the jungle," said Mary, her face paling with fear. +"We have not a minute to waste." + +"The advice is good, but before acting on it I should like to make an +experiment." + +During this brief interval Jack Everson had carefully examined his +rifle to assure himself that it was in good condition. + +"Heavens, man!" exclaimed Dr. Marlowe, "you are not going to try a shot +at them?" + +"That is my intention." + +"They are a mile distant!" + +"One of my medals was won for hitting a target at exactly that +distance," replied Jack, continuing his preparations. + +"It is impossible that you should succeed." + +"But not impossible that I should try, so please don't bother the man +at the wheel." + +"They have ridden into the water," added the young woman, still nervous +and excited. + +"Which will serve to shorten the distance somewhat." + +"Why not wait until they are halfway across; or, better still, not wait +at all?" inquired the doctor. + +Jack Everson made no reply, but, lying down on his back, he slightly +separated his raised knees, and, by crossing his ankles, made a rest +for the barrel of his rifle. The left arm was crooked under his head, +so as to serve as a pillow or support, leaving the hand to steady the +stock of his gun, while the right inclosed the trigger guard. + +The horsemen, instead of riding side by side, were strung along in a +line, with the leader several paces in advance and mounted on a rather +large horse of a coal-black color. Directly behind him came one upon a +bay, while a little further back rode another on a white steed. There +could be no question that they were on their way to kill without mercy. + +The situation was intensely trying to father and daughter. The whole +party of Ghoojurs had entered the Ganges and were steadily approaching. +The water was so shallow that it could be seen as it splashed about the +bodies of the riders, who were talking and laughing, as if in +anticipation of the enjoyment awaiting them. They preserved their +single file, like so many American Indians in crossing a stream, and +their last thought must have been of any possible danger that could +threaten them from the three on the further bank. + +The situation was becoming unbearable when the rifle cracked with a +noise no louder than a Chinese cracker, and a faint puff of smoke +curled upward from the muzzle of the weapon. At the same moment the +Ghoojur at the front, on his black horse, flung up his arms and tumbled +sideways into the water, which splashed over his animal's head. +Frightened, the horse reared, pawed the air, and, whirling about, +galloped back to the bank, sending the water flying in showers from his +hoofs. + +"Score me a bull's-eye!" called Jack Everson, who in his pleasure over +his success, could not wait for the result. + +"But see!" cried Mary, "you have only infuriated them. Oh! father, how +can we save ourselves?" + + + + +CHAPTER IV. + +FLIGHT. + +The success of the first shot gave Jack Everson self-confidence and he +took less time in aiming the second, which was as unerring as the +first. Another Ghoojur plunged off his horse and gave but a single +struggle when he sank from sight in the shallow water. + +"Another bull's-eye!" called Jack, proceeding to reload his piece. "I +hope, doctor, you are keeping a correct score; I must have credit for +all I do." + +"Now for my distinguished friend on the milk-white steed," said Jack, +proceeding to adjust his telescopic sight to that individual. "If they +will send over the three horses it will give us one apiece." + +But the Ghoojurs had had enough of this fearful business. They saw +that some unaccountable fatality was at work and it was madness for +them to remain. With never a suspicion of the truth they wheeled their +animals about and sent them galloping for the bank which they had left +a short time before full of hope and anticipation. + +"I'm sorry for that," reflected Jack Everson, "for it mixes things and +I can't pick out my man, but here goes." + +In one sense, his opportunity was better than before; for, while he +could not select his particular target, he had but to aim at the bunch +to make sure of hitting somebody, which is precisely what he did. + +The Ghoojur whom he punctured did not fall, for the reason that two of +his friends reached out and prevented him. It was a piece of +supererogation on their part, for when the party emerged from the +Ganges upon dry land that fellow was of no further account. + +Jack now showed more haste than before in reloading his weapon, fearing +that the party would get beyond his reach before he could fire for the +fourth time. Much to his regret, they did so, for though he made the +shot, it was necessarily so hurried that it inflicted no injury, and +the whole party galloped out of sight over the slight swell without +showing any further concern for their companions left behind. Jack now +rose to his feet with the question: + +"What is my record, doctor?" + +"Three bull's-eyes; your score is perfect." + +"Hardly, for the last was a miss; however, three out of a possible four +is pretty fair when the circumstances are considered. I suspect that +that particular party is not likely to give us further trouble." + +"No, they will not forget the lesson." + +"If we can induce our enemies to make their approach by the same ford +and when the sun is shining this will become truly amusing." + +"But the Ghoojurs will not repeat that mistake. This affair has served +another purpose," added the physician, "we must not delay our +departure." + +"Do you advise our going while it is night?" + +"I advised the contrary a little while ago, but I confess I am afraid +to stay in the house, even for a few hours. However, we will take our +dinner there, gather a few belongings and then hurry off. We shall +find some spot where it will be safe to pass the night, and where we +are not likely to be molested, because no one will know where to find +us." + +All glanced in the direction of the other shore, and seeing nothing to +cause misgiving moved to the house, a low, roomy structure, though of +moderate proportions, with a broad veranda extending along two sides. +It was time for the evening meal, and there was some surprise felt that +Mustad, the servant, had not summoned them before. + +This surprise turned to astonishment and alarm when it was discovered +that Mustad was not in the house. No preparation had been made for +dinner, and though his name was called several times in a loud voice, +there was no response. + +"He has left us," said the doctor. + +"What does it mean?" asked Mary. + +"It can have but one meaning: by some legerdemain, such as our own +Indians show in telegraphing news from one mountain top to another, +word has reached Mustad of what has taken place, and he has been called +upon to join the faithful, and has been only too glad to do it." + +"I should think he would have attempted to do us harm before going." + +"He is too great a coward." + +"But his fanaticism will make him reckless." + +"When he gets among his friends then he will be among the worst." + +"But, father, he was always meek and gentle and respectful." + +"Those are the kind who become directly the opposite." + +"Do you think he would harm us?" + +"I have no doubt of it," was the reply of the doctor. "I know the +breed; I have twice been the means of saving his life through my +medicines, and Mary nursed him for three weeks when he was suffering +from a fever." + +"Yon may be doing him an injustice," ventured Jack Everson, to whom the +judgment of his friend seemed bitter. + +"I wish I could think so, but, Mary, if you can provide us with +something in the way of food, Mr. Everson and I will get the things +together that we are to take with us." + +Dr. Marlowe wisely decided not to burden themselves with unnecessary +luggage. Jack took from his trunk a few needed articles and stowed +them into a travelling bag whose supporting strap could be flung over +one shoulder. Though a physician himself, admitted to practice, he had +brought none of his instruments with him, for the good reason that he +saw no sense in doing so. Into the somewhat larger bag of the elder +doctor were placed his most delicate instruments and several medical +preparations, mostly the results of his experiments. They were too +precious to be lost if there was any way of preserving them. Mary +packed her articles in a small travelling bag, the strap of which she, +too, flung over her shoulder, though Jack asked to be allowed to +relieve her. + +It was after the hurried meal had been eaten by lamplight that the +three completed their preparations for departure. That to which they +paid the most attention was their means of defense. Jack Everson had +brought a plentiful supply of cartridges for his superb breechloader; +and the belt was already secured around his body. Dr. Marlowe never +allowed his supply of ammunition to run low, so that the two were well +supplied in that respect. + +Jack was pleased to find that the revolver belonging to Mary Marlowe +was of the same calibre as his own, so that the cartridges could be +used indiscriminately. + +"I remember," he said to her, when the parent was just beyond hearing, +"that you were quite skillful with your weapon." + +"Not specially so, but what skill I gained is due to your tuition." + +"Not so much to that as to the aptness of the pupil." + +"Your remark is more gallant than true, but I hope I shall not be +called upon to use this weapon as you used yours awhile ago." + +"Such is my prayer, but if the necessity arises do not hesitate." + +"Be assured I shall not," she replied, with a flash of her fine eyes +and a compression of her lips. + + + + +CHAPTER V. + +COMPANIONS IN FLIGHT. + +Everything needed having been gathered, the lamps were extinguished, +and with the physician in the lead, the three passed out of the front +door to the veranda. The doctor decided to leave the door unfastened, +since it was useless to secure it. + +Suddenly, when the doctor was about to give the word to move, he saw a +shadowy figure in the direction of the river. + +"Sh!" he whispered; "it looks as if we had waited too long; some one is +approaching. Be ready to use your gun or to retreat into the house if +necessary to fight it out there." + +"It is a white man," said the daughter in an undertone; "he may be a +patient." + +It was clear by this time that the stranger was not a native, for he +was dressed in civilized costume and his gait was that of a European. +He did not perceive the silent figures until within a few paces of the +veranda, when he paused abruptly, as if startled. + +"Good evening," he said in English. "Is this Dr. Marlowe?" + +"It is; who are you?" + +"My name is Anderson; I was looking for you." + +"In what way can I serve you?" + +"You have heard the news, I suppose," said the man, keeping his +position, and looking up to the three, who were now all on the edge of +the veranda; "the native soldiers at Meerut mutinied yesterday, killed +most of their officers, plundered the city, slaying every white person +they could find, after which most of them hurried to Delhi." + +"You bring dreadful tidings; I had heard nothing definite, but +suspected all that you have told me. Are you alone and why do you come +to me?" + +"I fled with my wife and two other families, Turner and Wharton, from +the outskirts of Meerut as soon as there seemed a chance for us. We +made our way to the river, found a boat and paddled to this place, for +we had no sail and there was scarcely any wind." + +"Where are your friends?" + +"I left them by the edge of the river in the boat, promising to rejoin +them in a few minutes." + +"Have you no companions, but those you named?" + +"None; my wife and I buried two children last Summer; Mr. Turner has +none, and Mr. Wharton and his young wife were but recently married." + +"You have not told me why you come to me?" + +"Chiefly to warn you of your peril and to beseech you to fly before it +is too late." + +"I thank you very much for your solicitude; it was kind on the part of +you and your friends, but it strikes me that one place is about as safe +as another." + +"We are so far from the large cities and the coast that it is useless +to attempt to reach any of them. Our first aim was to get as far from +Meerut as possible; then as we found ourselves approaching your home, +it seemed to us there was a chance for our lives by pushing to the +northward, into the wilder and less settled country, where the flames +of the insurrection may not reach." + +"Your sentiments are our own; you have been wonderfully fortunate in +getting this far; my friends and I have seen enough to warn us to lose +no time, and we were on the point of starting when I saw you." + +"May I ask what course you intend to take?" + +"I have lived here for twenty years, so that I am acquainted with the +section. My intention was to follow a slightly travelled road, which, +in fact, is little more than a bridle path, until several miles beyond +Akwar, when we should come back to the main highway and keep to that +for fifty or perhaps a hundred miles. By that time, we should be safe, +if such a thing as safety is possible." + +"Your plan is a good one, but is not mine better?" + +"What is that?" + +"I, too, am familiar with this part of the country; a stream empties +into the Ganges just eastward of your house, hardly a half mile +distant; it must have its source somewhere among the foothills of the +Himalayas. At any rate, it is navigable for all of a hundred miles. +It seems to me that when paddling up that stream at night, between the +wooded banks, there will be less chance of being discovered by enemies +than when travelling overland, as you contemplate." + +"I am favorably impressed with your plan; do I understand you to invite +us to join your party?" + +"You are more than welcome; our boat will accommodate us all without +crowding, but I regret to say we have but a single gun among us. That +is mine, which I left with my friends against my return." + +"We are well supplied in that respect; we accept your invitation with +many thanks." + +As the doctor spoke he stepped down from the veranda, followed by the +others, and Mr. Anderson led the way across the lawn to the river, +where his friends were awaiting his coming with many misgivings. A +general introduction followed. A common danger makes friends of +strangers, and in a few minutes all were as well acquainted as if they +had known one another for days and weeks. Anderson and Turner were men +in middle life, while Wharton was of about the same age as Jack +Everson. They had lived for several years on the outskirts of Meerut, +but it was young Wharton who discovered the impending peril, and it was +due to him that the three families escaped the fate of hundreds of +others on that woful night. The young wife and Mary Marlowe became +intimate friends at once, while, as has been said, there was a hearty, +genuine comradeship immediately established among all. + +The boat was larger than Dr. Marlowe and his companions suspected. It +was more than twenty feet in length, with a cabin at the stern, a place +for a mast, though there was neither mast nor sail on board. Anderson +had spoken of paddling to this point, when, had he spoken correctly, he +would have said that no paddles were used, but that the craft was +propelled by means of poles. + + + + +CHAPTER VI. + +ON THE GANGES. + +While all the members of the party were cheered by hope, none forgot +that a dreadful peril impended. Enough time had passed since the +revolt at Meerut for the news to spread even beyond the little town of +Akwar, which was within a fourth of a mile of the home of Dr. Marlowe. +He was aware that some of the most fanatical Mussulmans in all India +lived there. The action of the servant Mustad, who owed his life to +the father and child, was proof of what might be expected from these +miscreants when swept off their feet by the delirium that was spreading +with the frightful swiftness of a prairie fire. + +Accordingly no time was lost. There was a hurried scrambling on board, +the water fortunately being deep enough near shore to allow all to step +upon the boat dry shod. The faint moon revealed the smooth surface of +the Ganges for nearly a hundred yards from land, but the further shore +was veiled in darkness. It was at this juncture that Miss Marlowe made +an annoying discovery. + +"Oh, papa, I have forgotten my pistol!" + +"Wait and I'll soon get it," she added, starting to leap the short +distance from the gunwale to land, but Jack Everson caught her arm. + +"You must not think of it; tell me where you left the weapon and I'll +bring it." + +"I laid it on the table in the dining-room and in the hurry forgot it +when we left." + +Jack turned to his friends. + +"Don't wait here," he said, aware of the nervousness of the whole +party. "Push down stream, and I'll quickly overtake you." + +Without waiting for further explanation, he leaped the slight space and +started up the lawn on a loping trot. For convenience he left his +rifle behind, but made sure that his revolver was in his hip pocket. +He did not apprehend that he would need the weapon in the short time he +expected to be absent, but if anything went awry it would be more +useful than the rifle. + +In that moment of profound stillness following the disappearance of the +young man among the trees grouped about the lawn, the motionless people +on the boat felt a thrill of terror at the unmistakable sound of oars +from some point on the river not distant. + +"Let us land and take refuge in your house," suggested young Wharton; +"we cannot make a decent fight in this boat." + +"We shall have a better chance than in the house," was the reply of the +physician; "the bank of the river is shaded by trees a little further +down; we must lose no time in getting there, and avoid the least noise." + +There were two long poles belonging to the boat, one of which was +grasped by Wharton, while Anderson swayed the other, the remainder +watching their movements, which could not have been more skillful. +Pressing the end against the bank, and afterwards against the clayey +bottom, the craft speedily swung several rods from shore. + +While the two men were thus employed, the others peered off in the +gloom and listened for a repetition of the sounds that had frightened +them a few minutes before. They were not heard again, nor could the +straining vision detect anything of the dreaded object, which could not +be far away. Not a person on board doubted that a number of their +enemies were near and searching for them. Dr. Marlowe would have taken +comfort from this fact had the circumstances been different; for the +men who were hunting for him would go to his house, since it was there +they must gain their first knowledge of his flight; but, as he viewed +it, it was impossible that they should be wholly ignorant of the boat +and its occupants, which must have made most of the distance before +night closed in. + +It followed, therefore, that if they were looking for the doctor and +his family they were also looking for the boat and the fugitives it +contained. The low-lying shore, with no trees fringing the bank, was +the worst place for him and his friends, and he was in a fever of +eagerness to reach the protecting shadows along shore. The nerves of +all were keyed to the tensest point, when they caught the dim outlines +of the overhanging growth, with the leafage as exuberant as it always +is in a subtropical region at that season of the year. The men toiled +with vigor and care, while the others glanced from the gloom of the +river to the deeper gloom of the bank, which seemed to recede as they +labored toward it. With a relief that cannot be imagined the bulky +craft glided into the bank of deeper gloom, which so wrapped it about +that it was invisible from any point more than a dozen yards distant. + +It is inconceivable how a narrower escape could have come about, for +the two men had hardly ceased poling, allowing the boat to move forward +with the momentum already gained, when their enemies were discovered. +Mary Marlowe's arm was interlocked with that of her father, when she +nervously clutched it and whispered: + +"Yonder is their boat!" + +All saw the terrifying sight at the same moment. Almost opposite, and +barely fifty yards out on the river, could be traced a moving shadow, +the outlines of which showed a craft similarly shaped to their own, +except that it was somewhat smaller and sat lower in the water. The +men were too dimly seen for their number to be counted or their motions +observed, but, as in the former instance, the sounds indicated that +they were using paddles. + +Since it was certain that the natives were searching for the fugitives +in the boat under the shadows of the bank every one of the latter +wondered that the pursuers remained out in the stream, when there was +need of unimpeded vision. They half expected their enemies to turn to +the left and come directly for them. But nothing of the kind took +place. The craft headed down the river, the sound of the paddles so +slight that only the closely listening ear could hear them, until it +melted in the gloom and vanished from sight. + +It was a vast relief for the moment, but little comfort could our +friends take from the fact. Their enemies were not likely to go far, +when they would suspect that something of the nature described had +occurred, and they would return and grope along shore for their +victims. So certain was Dr. Marlowe of this turn that he believed the +wisest course was for the entire party to abandon the boat, and, as may +be said, "take to the woods." They had the whole night before them, +and, with his intimate knowledge of the roads, paths and trails of the +country and jungles, he was confident of guiding them beyond danger and +to some place where, when morning dawned, there would be little to fear +in the way of discovery. + +This course would have been taken except for the absence of Jack +Everson. There was no way of apprising him of the change of plan, and, +with his ignorance of the topography of their surroundings, he would be +certain to go astray, and for any one in his situation, to go astray +meant death. + + + + +CHAPTER VII. + +AN UNEXPECTED MEETING. + +Meanwhile, Mr. Jack Everson found matters exceedingly interesting. + +When he informed his friends that he would rejoin them in the course of +a few minutes the possibility of anything interfering with his promise +did not occur to him. That danger threatened every member of the +little company may be set down as self-evident, but what could happen +to disturb him in the brief interval spent in running up the slope, +dashing into the house and back again to the river's side? + +Such were his thoughts as he entered the shadows and hurriedly +approached the front veranda. Although he had reached this spot within +the preceding twenty-four hours the evening meal and the preparations +for flight had given him sufficient knowledge of the interior to remove +all difficulty in going straight to the table in the dining-room and +taking the forgotten revolver therefrom. + +The first tingle of misgiving came to the young man when he was close +to the porch and about to step upon it. He remembered that it was +himself who had extinguished the lamp on the table as the three were +about to pass into the hall and out of doors, but lo! a light was +shining from that very room. What could it mean? + +"That's deuced queer," he thought, coming to an abrupt halt; "I screwed +down that lamp and blew into the chimney in the orthodox fashion, so it +couldn't have been that I unconsciously left the wick burning." + +At this juncture he made another significant discovery. The front door +which he had seen Dr. Marlowe close was partly open. The inference was +inevitable: some one was in the house. In the brief time that had +passed one or more persons had entered and were busy at that moment in +the interior. Perhaps they had been watching among the shadows on the +outside for the occupants to leave the way open for them to pass within. + +Prudence dictated that Jack Everson should not linger another moment. +Indeed, he ought to have counted himself fortunate that he had made his +discovery in time to save himself from running into a trap. He should +return to his friends with the alarming news and help them in getting +away with the utmost haste possible. But Jack did nothing of the sort. + +The chief cause of his lingering was his desire to obtain the revolver +belonging to Miss Marlowe. Recalling the paucity of firearms among the +people on the boat he felt that a single weapon could be ill spared. +But above and beyond this cold truth was a vague, shuddering suspicion, +amounting to a belief, that the young woman would soon need that very +weapon; that, without it she would become another of the unspeakable +victims of the fiends who made the Sepoy Mutiny one of the most hideous +blots that darken the pages of history. He compressed his lips and +swore that the revolver should be recovered, if the thing were +possible, failing in which he would compel her to take his own. + +The first thing was to learn whether there was more than one person in +the house and what business had brought them there. His own return was +not expected, so that that advantage was in his favor. He stepped +lightly upon the veranda and, like a burglar in his stocking feet, +passed across the porch and pushed back the door far enough to admit +him. This required but a few inches, and the hinges gave out not the +slightest creak. The entrance to the dining-room was closed, so that +all was darkness, but he plainly saw the yellow thread along the edges +of the door, caused by the lamp in the room beyond. + +Once within the hall he listened intently, but could not detect the +slightest sound within the building. He had already drawn his +revolver, and held it ready for instant use. Knowing the value of +seconds, he began moving along the hall toward the door, which was only +a few paces distant, and had passed half the space when a muttered +execration escaped him, for his foot struck some object that was kicked +the remaining length of the hall with a clatter that he verily believed +must have been heard by his friends on the boat. + +No use now for precaution. Determined to have the other weapon, but +not unmindful of the peril involved, he strode the few remaining steps +and hastily shoved open the door of the dining-room. If a foe was +there with the revolver he was quite likely to hold it levelled at the +intruder, because of which Jack, when he burst into the room, held his +own weapon pointed, so as to prevent any enemy from "getting the drop" +on him. + +For one moment the young man believed it was all a mistake and that, +despite the precaution taken upon leaving the house, he had not +extinguished the lamp, whose wick had recovered its vigor, but the +suspicion was hardly formed when he knew there was no foundation for +it. In the first place no lamp ever acts that way, and, the front door +having been closed, could not open of itself. More convincing than all +was the fact that Mary Marlowe's revolver, which had brought him back, +was missing. + +Diagonally across the dining-room from where Jack Everson stood was the +door leading to the rear of the house. This was open for three or four +inches, and while searching the apartment with all the keenness of his +powerful vision, he distinctly saw it move. The distance was no more +than an inch, but he was not mistaken, and knew it had been drawn that +much nearer shut. Since no air was stirring the conclusion was +inevitable that some one was on the other side who was aware of the +entrance of the American. + +The position of the lamp on the table threw the crevice caused by the +slight opening of the door in shadow, and all was blank darkness +beyond. But, looking in that direction, Jack caught the gleam of a +pair of eyes, peering from the gloom like the orbs of a jungle tiger +gathering himself for a spring. Nothing could be seen but the glow of +the eyes, that seemed to have something of the phosphorescence of the +cat species, but he could not mistake the meaning of what he saw. + +Jack had partly lowered his revolver, after the first glance around the +room, but it now came to a level again with the suddenness of lightning +and was pointed straight at the gleaming eyes, as he spoke in a low, +deadly tone: + +"Come forth or I'll send a bullet through your infernal brain!" + +Never was man more fairly caught. In the language of the West, Jack +Everson had the drop on him, and none could be more alive to the fact +than the fellow who was thus taken at disadvantage. It was merited +punishment for his foolhardiness in inviting his own discomfiture. At +first the chances of the two were equal, but the white man was more +alive to the situation. + +The Asiatic showed his appreciation of the situation by stepping +forward into the lamplight. + +Incredible as it may seem, he not only held a pistol in his right hand, +but it was half raised and pointed at Jack Everson. + + + + +CHAPTER VIII. + +MUSTAD. + +The East Indian who stood before Jack Everson, thoroughly cowed and +submissive, was unusually tall, dark, and thin to emaciation. He wore +a turban, a light linen jacket which encompassed his chest to below the +waist, with a sash or girdle, loose flapping trousers and sandals. In +the girdle at his waist was a long, formidable knife or yataghan, which +he would have been glad to bury in the heart of the man who had thus +brought him to his knees. + +When Jack Everson demanded to know his identity the fellow replied in a +low voice that was not lacking in a certain musical quality: + +"Mustad!" + +The young man half expected the answer. + +"What business brings you here?" + +"He is my master; I work for him. I have been to see my aged mother, +who is very ill. I have just returned to serve my master." + +"That is not true! You went away to bring some of your people to kill +the doctor and his family." + +"Sahib does Mustad great wrong," replied that individual in a grieved +voice. "I love my master and my mistress. I am not ungrateful. I +would give my life sooner than harm a hair of their heads. Where have +they gone?" + +It was the last question that removed all lingering doubt of the +native's treachery. He had returned to bring about their overthrow, +but knew not where to look for them. When he could ascertain whither +they had fled he and his brother miscreants would be at their heels. + +"Suppose I should tell you that they had gone to Meerut or Delhi?" + +"Allah be praised!" exclaimed the other devoutly; "for then they will +be safe." + +"Is there no trouble in Meerut or Delhi?" + +"What trouble can there be!" asked Mustad, with well-feigned +simplicity. "It is in those cities that the missionaries and many of +the Inglese live. They have lived there many years. What harm could +befall them?" + +By this time Jack Everson had lost all doubt of the perfidy of the man. +He could not fail to know what had taken place within the preceding +twenty-four hours in the cities named, and he lacked his usual cunning +when he tried to deceive his questioner. + +The young man saw that it was a waste of time to question Mustad. No +reliance could be placed on anything he said. + +"You will wait here, then, until Dr. Marlowe comes back?" + +Mustad vigorously nodded his head and replied: + +"I shall wait, and my eyes will be filled with tears until I see the +good man and his child again. When will they come to their home?" + +"Well, the best thing you can do is to wait here until you see them +again." + +As Jack made this remark he took a quick step forward and picked up the +revolver. He did not pause to examine it, but was sure that none of +the chambers had been discharged. Slipping the weapon into his coat +pocket, and still grasping his own, he said: + +"I think I shall go out on the veranda and await the return of the +doctor." + +As he made this remark he committed a mistake for which there was no +excuse. Instead of backing out of the room he turned about and started +through the open door into the hall. The walking cane against which he +had once struck his foot still lay where he had kicked it, and he +tripped over it a second time. The mishap, slight as it was, saved his +life. As he stumbled in the gloom something whizzed like the rush of a +cobra's head past his temple, nipping his hat and striking the opposite +wall with force enough to kill two or three men. It was the yataghan +of Mustad, who had drawn and hurled it with inconceivable quickness and +with an aim so unerring that it would have brained the unsuspecting +American but for his fortunate stumble. + +The furious Jack whirled around with the purpose of sending a bullet +through the brain of the wretch, but something like a shadow flitted +through the lamplight while Jack was in the act of turning and, before +he could secure any aim, the scoundrel had vanished. Determined not to +be balked the young man let fly, and then, bounding across the room, +snapped back the door, meaning to repeat the shot at the first glimpse +of Mustad. But the latter was familiar with all the turnings of the +house, while Jack knew nothing of that portion of the building. He +could neither see nor hear anything, and did not deem it prudent to use +the lamp to help in the search, though it was hard to retire from the +field and leave the miscreant unpunished. + +To do so, however, was the wiser course, and again he moved into the +hall. This time he backed thither, though, since Mustad had no weapon, +it was impossible that the attempt upon the young man's life should be +repeated. The outer door was opened, and once more he stood on the +veranda. + +Before venturing across the lawn in the direction of the river he spent +a minute or two in peering into the surrounding gloom and listening. +He may have been mistaken, but he fancied he heard more than one person +moving stealthily about in the house. Once he was sure he caught the +sound of whispered words, so that the astounding fact was established +that during the few minutes occupied in talking with Mustad he had a +friend within instant call. + +"All of which goes to prove that these people are cowards at heart," +was the sage conclusion of Jack Everson. "They will throw away their +lives for the sake of Islamism, and they will fight like wildcats if a +man turns his back upon them; but when he stands face to face they are +whipped curs." + +Since there was no doubt that Mustad and his companions would be on the +alert to note the course taken by Everson, so as to learn what had +become of his friends, the young man saw the need of misleading them. +He took care not to return to the river over his own trail. Instead of +doing so he moved to the right, as if on his way to the nearby town of +Akwar. When satisfied he was beyond range of the keen vision of those +in the house of Dr. Marlowe he made an abrupt change, which led him +toward the Ganges, forgetting, when he did so, that there might be +natives in the vicinity who were not in the building at all. + + + + +CHAPTER IX. + +SCOUTING. + +Had Mr. Jack Everson spent a few years in Hindoostan he would not have +made the blunders that we are obliged to record concerning his +movements after parting from his friends on the boat. He had acquitted +himself pluckily while in the house of the physician, but his escape +from death at the hands of Mustad and his companion was providential +and, under similar circumstances, was not likely to be repeated once in +a thousand times. + +Moreover, with his knowledge, already gained, of Asiatic cunning, he +ought to have reflected that if two of their dusky enemies were within +the house there were likely to be others in the immediate neighborhood. +It looked as if Mustad had entered the dwelling expecting to find the +physician there. He was prepared with an excuse for his abrupt +departure and an explanation that would satisfy his indulgent master +and mistress. Keeping his companion in the background the wretch could +then complete his plans for turning the party over to the fury of their +brother murderers, who probably were calmly waiting on the outside for +the signal. + +Nothing of all this, we repeat, entered the head of Jack until he had +made the change in the course he was following and had passed down the +slope to the river bank. His effort to mislead his enemies necessarily +took him some distance above the point where he had left the boat, and +he now set out to find his way to it. It was while he was engaged in +doing so that he became aware that he was followed. + +"Well, I'll be hanged!" he muttered, coming to an abrupt stop; "it +seems to me that these infernal imps are everywhere." + +He had not seen any one, but a rustling, grating noise in the shadow of +the nearest tree told him where the immediate danger lay. Believing +that an unexpected course was best he wheeled and ran at full speed +toward the tree, which contained a large number of dense, +wide-spreading branches. + +The result was surprising. Instead of one native, two leaped out from +cover and ran away at full speed. They had been stealing after him, on +the watch for a chance to bring him down by a blow in the back, when +the tables were turned in this unexpected manner. Jack, therefore, had +no hesitation in firing at the one on his right, and immediately after +at his companion, whose superior speed had placed him considerably in +advance. As a consequence, he missed the latter, while the first +emitted a screech, leaped high in air and sprawled forward on his face +as dead as Julius Caesar. + +The fact that his pursuers were two in number led the young man to +believe they were Mustad and his companion, whom he had heard in the +house. A few minutes later he made another halt. He was able, despite +the gloom, to identify the spot where he had left the boat, but it was +not in sight. + +"I told them not to wait for me, and they acted on my suggestion. They +can't be far off, and I hope have run into no trouble." + +The occurrences of the last quarter of an hour gave Jack a vivid idea +of the increasing peril. The natives from the nearby town were hunting +for the physician, his daughter and himself, all of whom had not left +the house a minute too soon and now, while he paused on the shore of +the river and listened, he too caught the sound that had filled his +friends with dread. There were no noises from the jungles to the +eastward, though at times the outcries are terrifying, and the shouts +and shrieks of the mutineers and their victims at Meerut and Delhi were +too far away to reach his ears, but he heard now and then the faint +sound of paddles out on the stream. + +"Anderson spoke of using paddles," reflected Jack, "but it was a +misnomer, for they have none, and they would not have pushed so far out +from shore when they knew I expected to return so soon. All that +proves that a party of devils have also a boat and are hunting for the +one in which our new friends are groping for safety." + +This threatened to make a new complication, but the plain course for +Jack was to keep along the shore of the river and press his search for +the craft, which he was certain was not far off. + +His experience had taught him the need of unceasing vigilance, and as +he advanced, he scrutinized the ground in front and on every hand, like +a scout stealing into a hostile camp. Within less time than he counted +upon he saw the boat lying close to shore, where his friends were +awaiting him. As soon as he recognized the craft he announced himself +in a guarded undertone, to guard against any mistake, and the next +moment clambered aboard, where, it need not be said, he was warmly +welcomed. + +After they had exchanged greetings the doctor asked: + +"Did I not hear the report of your pistol a little while ago?" + +"Inasmuch as I discharged it very probably you did." + +Thereupon Jack told of what he had seen and done since leaving the boat +to recover the pistol of Miss Marlowe. It was a story of deep interest +to all, and his account of his meeting with the faithless Mustad deeply +stirred his master. + +"Despite my denunciation of the fellow I confess I had a lingering +suspicion that I might have been mistaken; but all doubt now is +removed. There is no native in all India to be more dreaded than he." + +"I have a faint hope that it was he with whom I made my fourth +bull's-eye," remarked Jack. + +"Hardly likely. Probably there were two others skulking on the outside +and waiting for a chance at us." + +"But they had all the chance they could have asked at _me_." + +"It may have been the doctor and his daughter whom they were the most +eager to secure," suggested Mr. Turner. + +"That is my belief," added Anderson. + +"And mine, too," joined the doctor himself. "It seems to be a trait of +our perverse human nature to hate with the deepest intensity those who +have done us the greatest kindness." + +This remark meant more to Jack Everson than to any one else, for he +believed that it was the daughter who was the special object of the +natives. That reminded him of the weapon he had secured. + +"Here," he said, "take it before I forget to return it." + +"You risked a good deal for my sake," she said gratefully, accepting +the weapon, "and I cannot thank you sufficiently---- Well, I declare!" + +She was in the act of placing the pistol in the pocket of her dress +when she made the discovery that her weapon was already there. Jack +Everson had taken Mustad's own property from him. + + + + +CHAPTER X. + +ALONG SHORE. + +The curious incident served to lift for a brief time the oppression +that rested upon all. The remarkable part of it was how Miss Marlowe +could believe she had left her revolver in her home when it was in the +pocket of her dress, where, it would seem, she ought to have felt it +while walking across the lawn to the boat, even if she had forgotten to +examine that most natural receptacle for it when she first missed the +weapon. + +"It is the most stupid thing I ever did," she declared. "I meant to +keep it in my hand while coming from the house, and, awaking to the +fact that it was not there, did not stop to examine my pocket. It is +too bad." + +"We have gained an additional means of defense," observed Mr. Turner, +"and that may be decisive before we are through with this business." + +Now that all were together again each was impatient to be on the move. +Wharton and Turner began using the poles with the skill shown some time +before, and once more the unwieldy craft swung slowly down the Ganges, +with all on board alert for the first sign of their enemies. The women +were advised to remain in the small cabin, where they would be safe +against stealthy shots. + +As the boat crept under the shadows along shore the spirits of all +improved, for it seemed that with every rod placed behind, them the +danger was diminished, and by and by would vanish altogether. + +"That, however, cannot be," said the doctor to Jack Everson, as they +sat a little apart from the rest, near the bow of the craft. "In +truth, I see but one possible escape for this party." + +"What is that?" + +"I have already referred to it. It will take us weeks to reach +Calcutta on the east or Bombay on the west, and between us and each of +these points the hell fire will rage for months to come. To go south +is equally suicidal, since it would take us into the heart of the +insurrection. I repeat that there is but one thing to be done: that is +to push northward, as I said, until we reach a people too far removed +to be affected by this deviltry." + +"To find a simple people where our knowledge of medicine will cause us +to be looked upon as superior beings. I have discovered a remedy for +the bite of a cobra which will stand one in good stead, should a native +be bitten. They believe, you know, as does the rest of the world, that +the bite of this serpent is certain death. But I have discovered a +remedy, the necessary drugs of which I carry in this case," touching +the leather case strapped to his back. + +"Beyond all doubt. You have tested this remedy of yours?" + +"I have, twice." + +"Upon man or brute?" + +"Upon both." + + + + +CHAPTER XI. + +A COLLISION. + +Although the two physicians were deeply interested in the question of +toxicology they could not forget their situation and its perils. The +craft had nearly completed its half mile to the mouth of the tributary +which it was intended to ascend, when the polemen, pausing for a +moment's rest, whispered that they heard the sound of paddles again. + +"_There they are_!" + +It was Jack Everson who uttered the exclamation, loud enough for all to +hear. He pointed down stream as he spoke, and every one perceived the +dreaded boat returning. + +Although nearer at hand than before, it seemed to be following the +course of the river, and there was hope that it would again pass +without discovering the shrinking ones so near land. + +When first observed the other boat was fifty yards out and not quite so +far down stream. Moving against the current its progress was slower +than before, but its advance was plainly perceptible. The craft of the +white people had lost the momentum imparted by the poling, and was now +controlled only by the current, which was so sluggish close to the land +that the motion was hardly noticeable. + +The hopes of our friends steadily rose until the other boat was almost +directly abreast. It would seem that if the occupants intended +attacking they would have veered inward before this, but there could be +no assurance so long as they remained visible. + +Every one started when the gaunt, sloping figure suddenly became +upright at the prow of the boat and stood motionless. He had ceased +using the pole that he had been plying with so much vigor. At the same +moment the noise of the paddles ceased, proving that the men +controlling them had also stopped work. What could it mean? + +No one of the white people stirred or whispered. Could they have done +so they would have checked the beating of their hearts through fear of +being betrayed. Surely something had awakened the suspicion of the +natives. + +Suddenly some one spoke on board the craft. The voice was audible, but +the doctor, who was a master of Hindoostanee, could not catch what was +said. At the same instant a splash was heard, and the lank form bent +over, as he pressed the long pole against the bottom of the river and +resumed his slow walking toward the stern. The noise of paddles, too, +was heard again. The craft had resumed its progress, and for an +instant every one believed it was about to pass by. Then Jack Everson +said: + +"By heaven! they're coming for us!" + +All saw that the boat was swinging around so as to head toward them. + +"Into the cabin, quick!" commanded the doctor, and the women quickly +scrambled out of sight, while the men lay down, so as to screen their +bodies as much as possible. + +"It won't do to let them come too near," added the physician. "Try to +make every shot tell." + +As he spoke he took the best aim he could and fired. Jack Everson was +but a moment behind him, and Anderson discharged his gun almost +simultaneously. + + + + +CHAPTER XII. + +A WHITE MAN'S VICTORY. + +It was clear that the reception was a stunning surprise to the Asiatics +in the other boat. In times of confusion and terror strong men often +sit dazed and meekly submit to massacre when sturdy resistance would +leave a far different tale to tell. Such was the case at Meerut, at +Delhi, at Cawnpore, at Lucknow and scores of places where the human +fiends revelled in massacre and crime. + +But here, where evidently the same submissiveness was expected, the +miscreants were fired upon before they had discharged a single shot +themselves. Not only that, but the Caucasians kept the thing up. This +was contrary to all rule and precedent. + +If, however, the white men did not wait to be slain, neither did the +dusky barbarians sit still and allow themselves to be shot down. They +ceased paddling and appealed to their guns, whose bullets began +whistling about the heads of the defenders in the other boat. + +Who of our friends did it will never be known, but one of them +perforated the gaunt scoundrel who, with his form bent over, was +pushing the pole while he stalked the length of the boat, returning +again to the prow to repeat the performance. The fellow emitted a +screech like a wounded tiger and leaped several feet in air, coming +down on the gunwale, over which he toppled into the water and was seen +no more. It was the spirited defiance of the white men that told. +Screening themselves as best they could they continued firing, Jack +Everson occasionally adding a shot from his revolver by way of variety. +The conformation of the other boat and its crowded condition prevented +the natives from sheltering themselves as did those who were using them +as targets. In short, the wretches were getting the worst of the +business, and it did not take them long to learn the fact. Left +without control, their boat began drifting with the current, which +being stronger than along shore gradually carried it down stream and +out of sight. So long, however, as it was visible its occupants +continued firing, while the white people did still better, for they +sent several shots after their enemies when they could see nothing and +fired wholly by guess. + +There could be no question that the promptness of Dr. Marlowe and the +vigor of the resistance threw their foes into a sort of panic from +which they did not recover until beyond range. They had been taught a +lesson that they were sure to remember for a long time; though, when +our friends came to think the matter over, after finding no one of them +had been hurt, they could not escape the belief that the consequences +were certain to be of the most serious nature to themselves, and in +this conclusion, sad to say, they were not mistaken. + + + + +CHAPTER XIII. + +UNDER THE BANK. + +A few minutes later an open space appeared in front of the boat. It +was the month of the tributary flowing into the Ganges from the left or +north, and was more than a hundred yards across. Since it was +necessary to stem the current in order to take advantage of this +refuge, the doctor contemplated it with misgiving, for the work of +poling it up stream promised to be laborious. He had not forgotten his +original plan of abandoning the boat and striking across the country on +foot, taking advantage of the less-frequented roads and paths that were +well known to him. He was relieved, however, to find the flow so +languid that it was easy to make headway against it. + +"I have never followed this stream far," he remarked, "and, therefore, +have less knowledge of it than the rest of the country, but my +impression is that it cannot serve us long." + +"It will be time enough to leave the boat and take to the woods when we +can go no further," said Jack Everson; "but we cannot get away from the +main stream too soon." + +This was self-evident. It was not likely that the natives after their +decisive repulse would abandon their purpose of massacring the party, +but they would be more guarded in what they did and probably secure +reinforcements, an easy thing to do when the sanguinary wretches +everywhere were thirsting for victims. + +Jack had seized one of the poles, and he and young Wharton plied them +with so much sturdiness that the heavy craft made better progress than +at any time since it was used as a vehicle of safety. The course of +the tributary was winding, and our friends had not gone far when they +were shut out from the sight of any persons passing up and down the +main river, even if close to the northern bank. + +Would the natives suspect the course taken by the whites? That was the +all-important question that must soon be answered. After searching up +and down the Ganges without success, it was likely they would penetrate +the stratagem and follow them, in which event the fugitives would be in +a critical situation, since the straightness of the stream and the +wooded shores would place them at much greater disadvantage than if +they remained upon the Ganges. + +When the boat had ascended the tributary for perhaps an eighth of a +mile it was deemed safe to lessen the work of poling. Careful +listening failed to detect any sound of pursuit, and there was ground +for hoping that their enemies neither knew nor suspected what had been +done. + +Several facts had become apparent. The densely wooded shores offered +excellent concealment. By running the boat beneath the dense branches +and among the heavy vegetation the keenest-eyed Asiatics might pass up +or down stream almost within arm's length without suspecting its +presence. But the tributary had perceptibly narrowed and its current +was swifter than at the mouth. All this pointed to the truth of what +Dr. Marlowe suspected--the stream could not serve them much further. + +The night was now so far advanced that the women took the advice of +their friends and withdrew to the cabin for slumber. Their quarters +were cramped, but they made themselves fairly comfortable. The night +was cooler than the day, but only sufficiently so to be pleasant. It +was not deemed probable that anything would be seen of their enemies +before the morrow, and perhaps not even then. + +Dr. Marlowe insisted upon taking his turn in poling, but since there +were four vigorous men without him, they would not consent. When two +had toiled for an hour or more, they gave way to the other couple, and +the progress thus continued without interruption, while the time slowly +dragged along. The resting spells gave each the opportunity for sleep, +thus husbanding their vigor for the morrow. Finding that there was +nothing to which he could turn his hand, the physician reclined at the +bow and soon joined the others in dreamland. + +It was probably one o'clock when Jack Everson, who had been sleeping +for nearly an hour, was awakened by a gentle shaking of his shoulder. +Opening his eyes and looking up he saw Wharton bending over him. + +"All right," remarked the American; "I'm ready for my turn," and he +rose, yawning, to his feet. + +"I think we had better rest until morning." + +"Why?" + +"The current has become so rapid that it is hard to make progress; this +stream can't be of much further use to us." + +It needed but a glance around in the gloom to see that it was as his +friend had declared. The boat was so close to the left-hand shore that +it was held motionless by Anderson at the bow, who gripped an +overhanging branch, with one hand. The water rippled around the front +of the craft, and when Jack dipped the end of one of the poles into the +current it swept downward at a rate that astonished him. + +"I esteem your advice good," he said, "but it will not do to leave the +boat in sight." + +With the help of the limbs and the use of the poles it was easy to +force the craft under the bank, where it was screened from observation. +Then it was secured in place against drifting and all work for the time +was over. + +Wharton and Jack Everson were the only persons awake. The women had +been sleeping for several hours, while Anderson and Turner had long +since joined the venerable doctor in the realms of unconsciousness. +The two young men sat down where they could speak in low tones without +being overheard. + +"It won't do for all of us to sleep at the same time," remarked Jack; +"the scoundrels may be creeping up stream after us." + +"That is hardly possible; I am sure that for the present we are as safe +as if in the heart of London." + +"I cannot believe as you do; since I have just enjoyed an hour's sleep +I will act as sentinel until daybreak. I can easily keep awake for the +few hours that remain." + +"As you think best, though I am sure it is an unnecessary precaution." + +"We must not forget that there are perils from the jungle as well as +from the river. There is no saying what wild beast may pay us a visit." + +Inasmuch as Jack could not be dissuaded from his purpose, and Wharton +began to suspect his friend was half right, the question was decided. +Wharton stretched out on the deck, falling asleep almost immediately, +and Jack thus found himself the only one with his senses at command and +with the safety of the others dependent upon him. + +He took his place near the cabin, where the women were slumbering, with +his breechloader in hand. He was never more wide awake and was sure he +would remain so for hours to come. Wharton had offered to divide the +duty with him in acting as sentinel, but our hero preferred to keep the +matter in his own hands. He was sure his friend did not realize the +full peril of their situation. + +The stillness was broken only by the peculiar cries in the jungle, +which it may be said were never wholly silent. First on the right, +then on the left, then from the front, and again from different points +on both sides of the stream he heard the sounds, some faint and far +away, with others alarmingly close. The hoarse snarl of the tiger, the +finer cry of the leopard, the squawking of night birds, with other +noises that he could not identify, were continually in the air. Had +they been heard for the first time he would have been in a tremor of +fear and nervousness; but man soon becomes accustomed to danger, and +the nearest must come still nearer to cause his pulse an additional +throb. + +Jack Everson was sensible that through this medley of strange noises +there was one sound that was continuous and never changing. So faint +that at first he and Wharton failed to notice it, it now impressed +itself too distinctly upon his consciousness for him to be mistaken. +It was a low, steady hum or moaning, such as the traveller hears when +miles inland from the ocean. He could not identify it, though he made +several guesses, and was still speculating unsatisfactorily, when he +received a startling reminder that there was a new peril at his very +feet. + +The first notice was a faint purring sound, as if made by a gigantic +cat, accompanied by a rustling of the vegetation scarcely a dozen feet +away. He instantly grasped his rifle with both hands and was alert. +It was impossible to distinguish ordinary objects in the gloom, but +suddenly two small circles glittered with a greenish light and the +purring was succeeded by a low, cavernous growl. Then it all became +clear to him: a royal Bengal tiger was stealing upon the boat and was +probably gathering himself for a leap at that very moment. + +Had all the occupants been asleep the frightful terror would have +played sad havoc with them before they could defend themselves. As it +was, it looked as if more than one fatality must follow his attack. + +But for that phosphorescent gleam of the brute's eyes Jack Everson +would not have been able to locate him, but the glow of the two objects +defined the outlines and locality of the horrible thing as unmistakably +as if the sun were overhead. The occasion was one in which everything +depended upon promptness. The tiger was likely to shift his position +and turn his head so that the eyes would fail to show. + +Jack reflected that there probably were a number of spots in the +anatomy of the jungle terror that were more vulnerable than others; +that a well-aimed bullet might be instantly fatal in one, while able to +inflict only a partial wound in another. Be that as it may, he was +sure that a conical bullet driven between the eyes and through bone, +muscle and brain by a rifle that could kill a man at the distance of a +mile must do effective work when that brain was not a dozen feet +distant from the muzzle of the weapon. At any rate, there was no time +for inquiry and he did not hesitate. + +Aiming for a point midway between the gleaming orbs he pressed the +trigger. It takes a well-aimed weapon to kill a royal Bengal tiger, +even at a short distance, but Jack's rifle was well aimed. The tiny +sphere of lead darted through the brain and along the spinal marrow as +if fired with the vicious energy of a charge of dynamite. + +It so happened that the tiger was in the act of making his graceful but +fearful leap that was to land him upon the breast of the young man, who +had risen to his feet just before firing. The check at that instant +produced a queer result, the like of which is not often seen. The +shock of the bullet crashing into the head of the muscular beast at the +instant he was calling into play his prodigious strength intensified +that strength to a sudden and astonishing degree. The consequence was +that the tiger, instead of making the leap he intended, made one twice +as great and overshot the mark. From out the gloom the beautiful +sinewy body, of which only a glimpse could be caught, emerged as if +fired from the throat of a Columbiad and, curving over the shoulders of +the man and the boat, dropped into the stream with a splash that sent +the water flying in every direction. + +Beyond the line of shadow, where the faint moonlight fell upon him, the +tiger was seen to be a beast of extraordinary size. He emitted one +rasping snarl while sailing through the air, but was already dead when +he fell into the water, where it could not be seen he had made a +struggle. The sinewy body dipped out of sight, bobbed up again and the +next minute was swept beyond view by the rapid current. + +Rather strangely, not one of the women was awakened by the report of +the rifle so near them, and of the men Dr. Marlowe and Anderson were +the only ones who rose to a sitting posture and anxiously inquired the +cause of the firing. + +"I discovered an animal prowling near the boat," replied Jack, who +thought it well not to disturb them with the whole truth, "and I winged +him." + +"You are sure you killed him?" asked the doctor; "most likely it was a +tiger." + +"I am quite sure of that, and am just as sure that, considered strictly +as a tiger, he is of no further account. I made another bull's-eye in +his case." + +"How many is that?" asked the physician, entering into the spirit of +the jest. + +"My fifth, counting only those that I am sure of." + +"You are doing well; keep it up; let the good work go on," replied the +elder, again adjusting himself for slumber, quite content to leave the +valiant young American in charge of the boat and its occupants. Jack +had it in mind to question him about that distant murmuring sound that +puzzled him, but when ready to do so he discovered that the doctor was +again asleep and he did not disturb him. + +The fact that one denizen of the jungle had paid the boat a visit was +ground for looking for a call from another. Jack remained, therefore, +on the alert, and though under ordinary circumstances he would have +fallen asleep he kept wide awake until the growing light in the sky +told of the coming day. Before the sun was fairly above the horizon +all were astir. They bathed faces and hands in the roiled water and +greeted one another with thankfulness that the night had passed without +harm to any member of the little company. + +When the three men and their wives fled from Meerut they took with them +enough food to last for several days. There is little excuse for +people dying of starvation in any part of India, though sad to say it +is only recently that thousands were swept away by famine. Fruit is +abundant and little meat is necessary in hot countries. Before the +morning meal was partaken of Jack Everson asked Dr. Marlowe to explain +the cause of the low moaning noise that had been in his ears for moat +of the night. The elder listened for a minute and replied: + +"What I expected! We are very near the head of navigation; that sound +comes from falls or rapids, above which we cannot go with this boat." + +This announcement precipitated a discussion as to what was the best +course to follow. The physician left no doubt of his sentiments. + +"The devils will be prowling up this stream within a few hours; I +should not be surprised if they are near us this moment; the boat is of +no further use to us." + +The three, Anderson, Turner and Wharton, did not agree with him. The +craft had served them so well that they were unwilling to abandon it. +They seemed to believe that it offered a much safer means of defense +than they could find anywhere on land. + +"But you cannot stay forever on it," protested the doctor impatiently. + +"We do not expect to," replied Anderson; "we may decide to descend to +the Ganges again, and continue down the river." + +"Whither?" + +"To Cawnpore or some point nearer." + +The doctor was aghast. + +"You mean to leap straight into the hornet's nest; those are the +places, of all others, that must be avoided." + +"It may be as you say, but I am hopeful that the English garrisons have +been able to hold out against the mutineers." + +"It is a woeful mistake, my friend; if you persist in it we must part +company." + + + + +CHAPTER XIV. + +THE SOUND OF FIRING. + +Jack Everson was hardly less impatient than the doctor over the +obstinacy of their lately made friends. He reminded them that the +physician had spent a score of years in that part of the world, with +which he was so familiar that his judgment ought to outweigh theirs, +but the argument was useless. They had decided to stick to the boat +that had served them so well and could not be dissuaded. Their plan, +as they had intimated, now that they found they could go little further +up stream, was to descend to the Ganges, with a view of working their +way down to some of the cities, where they hoped to find the English +had succeeded in holding out against the mutineers. + +Could this be done, and could such a haven be reached, all would be +well, but the doctor assured them they were leaning upon a broken reed. +When it became evident that all persuasions were useless the parties +separated. A common peril had brought them near to one another and it +was impossible that that they should part except as friends. All felt +the solemnity of the hour. Each wife kissed and embraced Mary Marlowe, +and like her shed tears at what they felt was probably the final +parting, so far as this world was concerned. The men warmly shook +hands and there was more than one tremulous voice when the three passed +over the side of the boat and said farewell. + +The latter walked some distance through the jungle, which was so dense +that they were obliged to follow one of the numerous paths made by the +animals in going to and coming from the water. The doctor, by virtue +of his superior knowledge, took the lead, with his daughter close +behind, and Jack Everson bringing up the rear. They were silent and +thoughtful, for their spirits were oppressed by a deep gloom and the +feeling that something dreadful impended. + +Not far off the path which they were following expanded into a natural +clearing two or three rods in extent. When they reached the spot the +doctor halted and faced his companions. + +"I now know where we are," he said in an undertone; "we have to follow +this path a little way back, when we enter a hilly and rough country, +where the jungle is more open. It is cut up by numerous trails like +this, most of which have been made by the feet of wild animals, but one +of them leads northward and finally enters a highway, which if followed +far enough will land us in the Nepaul country." + +"I assume from what you have said that it will not be safe to stick to +this road?" said Jack. + +"No; for two or three days while travelling over it we shall be in +constant danger; our task will be to make our way over it without +attracting the notice of any of our enemies who are scouring the +country for us." + +"Is the thing possible?" + +"I should not undertake it did I not think so; the danger will threaten +for probably a hundred miles, though growing steadily less as we +proceed." + +"Will it not be safer to do our travelling by night?" asked the +daughter. + +"That is what I mean to do after reaching the more plainly marked path, +which connects with the highway. I see no risk in pushing through the +jungle by day, since the only foes we are likely to encounter are +four-footed ones. If we meet any such we must refrain from firing, +since the reports of our guns will be sure to draw attention to us. I +mean, of course," explained the doctor, "that our weapons are not to be +appealed to unless there is no escape otherwise, as was the case with +the tiger." + +While he was speaking, Mary gave a faint gasp and caught his arm. She +and Jack were facing the point toward which his back was turned. +Seeing that it was something behind him that had startled both, the +doctor turned his head. As if to emphasize the words just spoken, he +saw an immense spotted leopard, motionless in the trail not more than +fifty feet away. Evidently he was trotting to the stream, when he +caught sight of the three persons, stopped short, raised his head and +stared wonderingly at them. + +The leopard shares the reputation of the tiger for deadly ferocity and +daring. When more than 20,000 persons are killed in India every year +by wild animals and serpents, it will be found that the leopard is one +of the most active among these factors of death, and holds his own well +up with the tiger. + +Like the venomous serpent, the leopard had a terrible beauty all his +own. As he stood with head raised, eyes glaring, mouth slightly parted +and his long tail lashing his sides with a force that made the thumping +against his glossy ribs plainly audible, his pose was perfect. What a +picture he made! + +The question that was to be quickly answered was whether the fearful +brute would allow himself to be turned aside from the path and withdraw +again into the jungle with his thirst unslaked. If he did he would not +be molested; if he presumed to advance upon the party, whom he +evidently held in slight fear, let him be prepared for the consequences! + +Jack Everson fumbled his rifle and looked with sparkling eyes at the +beast. + +"What a chance for another bull's-eye!" he said, in a low voice. "I +would take him right between and above his forelegs, where I should be +sure of reaching his heart." + +"Don't fire unless he advances to attack us," warned the elder. + +It would be hard to say what induced the leopard to retreat, for, as +has been said, he is one of the most dangerous denizens of the jungle; +but, while our friends were expecting a charge from him, he wheeled +about and trotted off. + +"It looks as if he had learned something of your skill," remarked the +doctor with a smile. + +Again, while the words were in the mouth of the speaker, he was +interrupted, this time in a more terrifying manner than before. + +From the direction of the stream which they had left but a short time +previous, and undoubtedly from the boat itself, came the reports of +firearms. There were no shouts or outcries, but the firing was rapid +and apparently made by gun and pistol. + +"They have been attacked!" exclaimed Mary; "we must go to their help!" + +She impulsively started along the path, but her father seized her arm +and said sternly: + +"Remain here! It is no place for you; Jack and I will do what we can." + +Perhaps in the excitement of the moment the parent did not fully +comprehend the danger of leaving his daughter alone in the jungle, even +at so slight a distance and for so brief a time as he anticipated, with +nothing but a revolver as a means of defence; but he and Jack Everson +were eager to rush to the aid of their friends, and they hurried over +the trail without even looking back at her. + +The young man was slightly behind his companion and both broke into a +loping trot. Each held his rifle in hand, on the alert to use it the +instant the opportunity presented itself. + +It will be borne in mind that the distance from the slight natural +opening to the boat was short, and a few minutes sufficed for the two +men to cover it; but a strange thing happened. The reports of firearms +which had broken out with such suddenness ceased with the same +abruptness, and the silence because of the contrast was tenfold more +oppressive than before. + +"What can that mean?" asked Jack, as his companion slackened his pace. + +"_It means that they are through_!" replied the doctor, whose face was +of deathly paleness. "My God! what have we escaped!" + +"We shall soon know," replied Jack, catching the awful significance of +the words; and then he added to himself: + +"We may have escaped it, but for how long?" + +A few rods further and they were at the side of the stream, and the +boat loomed to view through the thick undergrowth and vegetation. + + + + +CHAPTER XV. + +GONE! + +Neither Jack Everson nor Dr. Marlowe forgot his own personal danger in +hurrying to the help of their imperilled friends. If the two were too +late to be of any assistance they were imminently likely to precipitate +themselves into the same whirlpool of woe and death. They had slowed +their gait to a walk as they neared the spot, and when they caught the +dim outlines of the boat the two stood still. + +So far as they could see there was no change in its surroundings. It +was still moored against the bank, so close that any one could step +aboard, but no sign of living person was visible on or about it. There +was something so uncanny in it all that but for their mutual knowledge +they would have doubted the evidence of their senses. + +"I don't understand it," whispered Jack. "Suppose you stay here while +I steal nigh enough to learn something that will help clear up the +horrible mystery." + +"You are running frightful risk," said the doctor; "I cannot advise you +to try it." + +"All the same, I shall do it." + +Thus, it will be observed that the three persons composing the little +party became separated from one another for greater or less distances. +The daughter was waiting, two or three hundred yards away, for the +return of her father and lover, while they had just parted company, +though they expected to remain in sight of each other. + +Dr. Marlowe stood in the path, partly sheltering himself behind a +couple of tree trunks, but with his eyes fixed upon his young friend, +who walked cautiously but unhesitatingly forward. Jack held his rifle +in a trailing position at his side, his shoulders bent slightly +forward, while he stepped lightly, his senses alert, like those of a +scout entering the camp of an enemy. That he was running into great +danger was self-evident, but he was determined not to turn back until +he learned something of the strange occurrences. + +Watching his young friend, the doctor saw him stop when at the side of +the motionless boat. His profile showed first on one side and then, on +the other, while he listened for the slightest sound that could give an +atom of knowledge. Apparently the effort was useless, for the next +moment he placed his left hand on the gunwale and vaulted lightly upon +deck. He stood a few moments as if transfixed, then turning abruptly +about leaped to the ground, and, breaking into a run, hurried back to +his friend, who noticed that his face was more ghastly than before, +while his eyes stared as if they still looked upon unutterable things. + +"What is it?" asked the elder in a ghostly whisper. + +"My God! don't ask me to tell!" + +"You forget that we are both physicians." + +"But not that we are human beings; thank Heaven forever that you did +not look upon the sight my eyes saw a moment ago. Let it suffice, +doctor, to say that of the three men and women to whom we bade good-bye +within the past twenty minutes not one is alive! The fiends have been +there." + +Not the least singular fact connected with this hideous incident was +that the devils who committed the unspeakable crime had vanished, so +far as could be seen, as utterly as if the ground had opened beneath +their feet and swallowed them. Two men had come back upon the scene +within a few minutes after all this was done, and yet the doers were +nowhere in sight. What was the meaning of their hasty departure? + +It was unreasonable to think they had gone far. They must be in the +vicinity. They must have noticed the absence of the doctor and his +companions; doubtless they were looking for them along shore; possibly +they had started over some of the trails and ere long would strike the +one along which the three had fled. + +"A wonderful Providence has preserved us thus far," said Jack Everson; +"but it is too much to expect we shall emerge unscathed from this hell +hole." + +"I hope nothing will happen to Mary before we rejoin her." + +"We shall be with her in a minute." + +Nevertheless, a vague fear disturbed both. The parent was again +leading, and he unconsciously hastened his footsteps. Only a slight +distance beyond they came to the small opening where they had left her +standing but a brief while before. Since the men had passed over the +intervening distance to the river it was unlikely that anything had +occurred to alarm the young woman, but there was no saying what might +happen in those times and in that part of the world. + +The real shock came to the parent when he turned in the trail and saw +the open space but failed to observe his daughter. He hurried on +without speaking, but Jack, directly behind him, had made the +discovery, for a moment he was so breathless and dizzy that he barely +saved himself from falling. His heart became lead, and the awful +conviction got hold of him that the most woeful affliction of all had +come upon them, and that his betrothed was lost irrecoverably. + +But the sight of the anguish of the parent when he turned about and +faintly gasped, "Where is my child?" brought the self-command of the +young man back. + +It was the despairing question wrung from the heart of the parent, with +a grief that was no keener than that of Jack Everson himself. Here was +another instance of the appalling suddenness with which tragedies began +and were completed in this infernal country. A band of half a dozen +was cut off within the space of a few minutes, and now, in still less +time, a young woman vanished as if she had never been. + +Jack did not dare trust his voice in the effort to speak, but when his +eyes met those of the parent he shook his head, saying by the gesture: + +"God have mercy, I cannot answer." + +But strong men do not remain dazed and helpless in the presence of a +shuddering calamity. If any one thing could be set down as certain it +was that Miss Marlowe had left the place by fleeing deeper into the +jungle. She could not have approached them without being observed: +therefore they must seek her by taking the same direction. + +The energy of the man more than threescore under the spur of his +anguish was like that of the athlete of one-third of his years. He +still led the way, and, after the brief halt under the fearful blow, he +rallied and compelled Jack Everson to keep upon a trot to save himself +from falling behind. + +A hundred paces from the opening they reached a point where the trails +forked. They stopped, the parent being the first to do so. + +"Jack," said he, using the less formal name, for under the awful shadow +they had drawn nearer to each other, "we can't afford to make any +mistake." + +"There shall be none if you tell me how to prevent it." + +"She must have followed one of these paths, but who shall say which?" + +He stooped over and peered at the ground. Within the dim hush of the +jungle he was unable to discern the slightest disturbance of the earth. + +"No use of that," said the doctor, reading his intention; "therefore we +will separate; one of us will overtake them." + +"Have you any idea of the identity of these devils?" + +"I think they are Ghoojurs, but it makes no difference; Mussulmans and +Hindoos are the same; each of us has a rifle and revolver; if you get +sight of them don't wait to notify me; shoot to kill; you know how to +do it." + +"I shall shrink from nothing, but the case may be hopeless." + +"If it is will you promise me one thing?" asked, the parent of the +young man looking him in the eye. + +"I do; what is the pledge?" + +"That you point your gun at her?" + + + + +CHAPTER XVI. + +A SHADOWY PURSUIT. + +It was a fearful pledge to exact, but Jack Everson gave it without +hesitation. + +"You understand me; enough; let us lose no more time; I will turn to +the right; good-bye; we are all in the hands of God." + +There was not a tear in the eye of the parent. His heart might be torn +by grief, but he was now the Roman from whose lips no murmuring was +heard. + +It seemed to Jack Everson that the strangeness of the incidents of the +past hour had lifted him into a state of exaltation. He never felt +calmer nor more self-possessed than when hurrying over the path, rifle +in hand, revolver at his hip with the belief that there was not one +chance in a thousand that he would ever again look upon the one who had +won his heart when the two were on the other side of the world and for +whose sake he was ready to go to the uttermost lengths of the earth. + +His feeling was: "They have stolen her from us, but by the Eternal she +shall cost them dear!" + +There was no thought of what all this implied to himself. He did not +care what the consequences were, so far as he was concerned. It came +to be a legend among the men desperately defending their families and +themselves during the horrors of the Sepoy mutiny, that in fighting the +unspeakable fiends, the European should save a bullet apiece for his +dear ones and one for himself. + +Such was the resolve of the young American who was now making all haste +to find his beloved and her captors, and settling down into that +resolution he acted with the coolness of a veteran. + +The first truth that impressed itself upon him was that the path which +he was following steadily ascended, being quite steep in many places. +This showed as a matter of course that he was attaining higher ground. +He was not familiar enough with the country to know that he was +approaching a steep ridge of hills, for the doctor had told him nothing +of the fact, and the elevated section had been passed in the boat at +night. He observed, too, that his course trended to the right, proving +that he was penetrating deeper into the country. + +"If the line that the doctor is following holds straight on we must +approach each other, but his may turn more than mine--confound it!" + +He had reached a point where the paths forked again. Supposing he had +been fortunate enough to take the right course at the beginning, how +could he maintain it? + +Swallowing his exasperation, he reflected coolly. The trail to the +left was less travelled than the one which kept directly forward. He +believed the Ghoojurs had kept to it possibly because there was less +danger of pursuit. One fact was self-evident: nothing was to be gained +by standing still, while there was a chance of accomplishing something +by going on. With scarcely a minute's hesitation he advanced at a +rapid stride over the more faintly marked course, peering in advance +for a glimpse of his enemies. + +Since the latter had not gained much start it would seem that he ought +to be close upon them, always provided he was traveling in their actual +footsteps. The ground continued rough and broken, but it had no effect +on his progress. Something like a shadow whisked across the path in +front at the moment of his passing round a turn. Some animal had +caught sight of him, and, scared by the vision, had leaped into the +jungle at the side. Whether it was a tiger, leopard, cheetah, wild +boar or another brute he did not know or care. If it dared to dispute +his way he would shoot. + +He was pressing forward in this reckless, desperate fashion, when he +dropped as if he had collided with a stone wall, and his heart almost +ceased its beating. He had caught the faint report of a firearm. It +came from a point on his right and sounded as if caused by a revolver, +rather than a larger weapon. The thought that came to him was that it +was the pistol of Mary Marlowe! + +"She is at bay; she may have fired it at herself, and yet I do not +think she would do that until some of the bullets had reached the +wretches who have captured her. I am following the wrong path, for +this one leads me away from her." + +Without an instant's hesitation he turned and began his return on a +loping trot. He was incensed with himself because of his mistake, and +yet there was no reasonable cause for such feeling, but grief is as +thoughtless as love, and he was stirred to the very depth of his soul +by both. Reaching the last forking, he did not pause, but set out over +the main trail. + +In front of him towered a mass of rocks higher than any he had yet +seen. The path wound about these, but instead of following it, he +climbed to the highest part. + +"I may gain sight of something from up there," was his thought as he +pushed on, "that will be of some help." + +And he did see something from the crest which fairly took away his +breath. + + + + +CHAPTER XVII. + +ALMOS. + +Mary Marlowe was an obedient daughter, and when her father checked her +move to go to the aid of the imperilled ones on the boat, and +peremptorily ordered her to wait where she was, she obeyed without +protest. She would have been glad to bear them company, but knew she +would be more of a hindrance than a help. + +It was less than five minutes after the disappearance of her father and +betrothed when she was frightened by hearing a slight sound directly +behind her in the path. Her thought naturally was that some wild +animal was stealing upon her, but the first glance told a more dreadful +story. Five men, who, from their ragged, scant attire, their dark +complexion and wild expression of features, she knew to belong to the +terrible bandits called Ghoojurs, had come upon her unnoticed, and +pausing within a half dozen paces, were looking fixedly at her. + +The sight was so startling that the young woman gasped and recoiled. +She would have fled after her friends had not the leader made a +gesture, accompanied by the command: + +"Stay where you are or you shall be killed! I know you as the daughter +of the doctor, and we seek you and him." + +Each of the Ghoojurs carried a long, muzzle-loading gun, and every one +had a yataghan thrust into a girdle around his waist, the weapon being +a foot or more in length, and with a point of needle-like fineness. +The leader spoke in Hindustani, which was as familiar to the young +woman as her own tongue. + +The young woman possessed quick wit. She could not doubt that the +five, including Almos and Mustad, were now her deadly enemies. Whether +they had taken part in the massacre of those left on the boat could not +be conjectured, but the probabilities were the other way, since it +would have been well-nigh impossible for them to reach their present +position from the river without colliding with Dr. Marlowe and Jack +Everson. + +Mary showed her shrewdness by acting as if the two men were the friends +they had always shown themselves when their former meetings took place. + +"Why, Almos," she said, forcing a smile in which there was no pleasure, +"we have not met before since you came to my home and my father gave +you medicine that cured your illness. How do you do?" + +And she had the courage to advance a step and offer her dainty hand, +but the brute refused it. With a shake of his head he retreated a step +and said: + +"My caste will not allow me." + +"But it allowed you to take drink and food from my hand and medicine +from that of my father," she said, stung by the repulse. + +"I did evil, for which Allah has pardoned me; the faithful have been +summoned to drive the infidels from India; the followers of Islam have +heard the call, and they are flocking to the banner of the Prophet from +all parts of Hindostan; not one infidel shall be left in all the land." + +During these few moments Mustad stood directly behind the leader, with +a fixed grin in which there was a certain shamefacedness, for with all +his fierce fanaticism he could not forget the gentle, sweet nature of +the one who had become a prisoner nor the unvarying kindness he had +received at her hands. True, the devil in his nature was roused, and +there could be little question that he was acting as guide to these +murderers while they hunted for the doctor and his family. + +"And do you mean to help kill those who have been your friends, +Mustad?" she asked, with her penetrating eyes fixed upon him. + +Had the two been alone, it is possible the edge would have been taken +off the response, but with four Ghoojurs at his elbow, and one of them +the furious Almos, he dared not be behind them in savagery. + +"This is a war for our deen; when we fight for that we know none but +the followers of the Prophet! The Inglese loge stole our homes and our +land from us! They have put lard on the cartridges of the Sepoys that +the faithful may become unclean and be shut out of paradise! I hate +them all! I have no friends among them! I shall never sheath my knife +nor stay my hand while one remains alive in India." + +"Let it be as you say," she calmly replied, seeing that it was useless +to hold converse with the wretch. + +Her wish was to keep the party where they were until Jack and her +father could have time to return. Here would be an opportunity for the +young man to make a few more bull's-eyes, but Almos was too wise to run +the risk. He was not afraid to fight two men, even though not so well +armed as they, but his wish was first to place the young woman beyond +their reach--for when the fight came it would be to the death. + +"No harm shall come to you," said the leader in a gentler tone. "Walk +forward over the path and we will guard you against harm." + +"Whither do you intend to take me?" she asked, debating whether to obey +or to make a fight then and there and force matters to an issue. + +"To Akwar." + +"Why there?" + +"To place you among friends that your enemies may not reach you." + +"Why not take me to my home?" + +"It has been burned and the men are hiding among the trees that they +may slay you when you and your father return." + +After a moment's hesitation she obeyed, taking the path along which her +parent soon after pressed in the desperate effort to recover her from +her captors. + + + + +CHAPTER XVIII. + +DOCTOR AND PATIENT. + +The bright wits of Miss Marlowe were active. Mustad took the lead +along the path, she following next, while Almos, the leader of the +Ghoojurs, and his three companions, brought up the rear. Like most of +the trails through the Asiatic jungles, this was inclosed on each side +by a growth of trees, undergrowth and matted vegetation of such density +that it was next to impossible for any one to pick his way forward or +backward except by keeping within the path itself. To step aside into +the jungle would immediately involve one in so inextricable a tangle +that he could move only with the greatest difficulty. + +An attempt to escape, therefore, by darting to one side was not to be +thought of, and she knew that her only hope lay with her absent +friends. She was confident that they would speedily return, and, +finding her gone, start in immediate pursuit. A collision between them +and the Ghoojurs was imminent. + +The latter acted as if their only interest lay in their prisoner. So +far as she could judge no attention was paid to the rear, whence the +danger of attack threatened. The place of Mustad, at the head, +confirmed her suspicion that he had been playing the part of guide for +the rest from the first. + +She did not doubt that her home and its contents had been burned by the +wretches, but under the circumstances the matter gave her little +concern. She was inclined to believe that her captors meant to conduct +her into the town of Akwar, nearby, and with her knowledge of the +fanatical hatred of the population against all Christians she still +hoped to find some friends there who would protect her from harm. And +thus it was that she was not in the state of collapse or despair that +might be supposed. + +Suddenly a pistol was fired from some point at the rear beyond her +captors, and out of sight. All the men instantly stopped, grasped +their arms and looked back, the young woman doing the same. Her +thought was: "That was father or Jack, but he did not hit any one; +therefore, it wasn't Jack." + +While the six were looking expectantly to the rear Dr. Marlowe, his +face flushed, and his whole appearance, showing his intense excitement, +came into sight. He was panting from his severe exertion, and raised +his hand as a signal for the Ghoojurs to wait for him. It is probable +that he would have received a shot, but for an interruption that was as +unexpected as it was remarkable. Almos, the leader of the Ghoojurs, +emitted a yell that could have been heard a half-mile away, and leaped +several feet in the air, while his companions with exclamations of +terror hastily recoiled from him. + +"Great Allah! He has been bitten!" exclaimed the horrified Mustad, +almost knocking the young woman off her feet in his rush towards his +master; but one of the others had perceived the monstrous cobra, and, +clubbing his gun, he beat the life out of it with one blow, before it +could glide away into the jungle. It looked as if this part of the +country was specially pestered by the dreadful reptiles. + +Almos knew he was doomed. All hope had vanished, and, dropping to the +ground, he bared his bronzed ankle, looked at the tiny points where the +horrible poison had been injected into his system, and then, like the +fatalist be was, he calmly folded his arms and waited for the last +moment that was rushing upon him. He was a faithful follower of the +Prophet and knew how to meet the inevitable that awaits us all. His +companions, awed and silent, stood around, unable to say or do anything +that could give him comfort. Miss Marlowe, after walking part way to +the group, paused and looked at them and at her father, who was +hurrying to the spot. She wondered that Almos had permitted the +killing of the cobra, since the snake is looked upon as sacred in +India, and few natives can be induced to injure one. The Ghoojurs +probably slew it in the flurry of the moment. + +Dr. Marlowe had heard the cry and noted the excitement, but did not +suspect the cause until he drew near the spot. Then Mustad, familiar +with the skill of the medical man, beckoned to him and said: + +"Make haste, great sahib, Almos has been bitten by a snake; no one can +save him but you." + +The stricken chief, from his seat on the ground, looked up in the face +of the white man, of whose wonderful skill he had received proof in his +own self. The countenance of the Ghoojur was of ashen hue, and the +yearning expression of his eyes told of the hope that had been kindled +within his breast. + +Now that the physician had dropped into what may be called his +professional character, he was himself again. He set down the caba +containing his instruments, and medicaments, adjusted his glasses, and +stooping over, intently studied the wound made by the cobra. Then he +drew out his watch, as if he were timing the pulse beats of a patient. + +"It is one minute and a half since you were bitten," he said, still +holding the timepiece in his hand, but looking into the face of Almos; +"in three more minutes and a half no power but Allah can save you." + +Catching the full meaning of these words, the Ghoojur leader quivered +with suddenly renewed hope. + +"Can you save me?" he asked in Hindustani. + +"I have in there," replied the physician, tapping his caba with his +long forefinger, "that which will render the bite of the snake as +harmless as the peck of a bird that flies in the air, but barely three +minutes remain in which to apply it." + +"Then I beseech you, do not wait," said the eager Almos, shoving his +foot towards the doctor; "great is the English doctor; be quick; why do +you tarry?" + +"Before I heal you," replied Dr. Marlowe, with maddening deliberation, +"I must be paid my fee; I have attended you before and refused to +accept what you offered, but now I demand payment before applying the +remedy." + +"You shall have it; name it, I beg you; all that I have shall be yours +if you will save me, but haste, O great physician, haste!" + +"It is strong, and will do its work well, if it be given the chance." + +He next drew out a lancet, with its edge like a razor's. Almos +breathlessly watched him, but when he expected the doctor to begin +work, he leaned back and said: + +"Why should I bring you back from death, when you are seeking the lives +of my daughter and myself? The best thing I can do is to let you die, +as you will do in two minutes and a half more," he added, looking again +at his watch; "the venom of the cobra works fast and it will soon +strike your heart." + +"You promised to save me if I would pay you in advance. + +"So I will." + +"Name your fee; be quick with it!" + +"It is that you and the rest of the Ghoojurs shall leave me and mine +alone; that you shall depart at once; that you shall not attempt to +follow, nor harm us in any way. Without that pledge on your part, I +shall let you die like the dog that you are. What is your answer?" + +"I promise; I promise!" exclaimed Almos, almost beside himself with +excitement and renewed hope. "I will guide you through the jungle to a +safe point, and will watch over you till all danger is gone." + +"You have given me your promise, but you may break it; swear by the +mantle of the Prophet, or I shall let you die." + +"I swear by the mantle of the Prophet!" the Ghoojur chieftain fairly +shrieked, "that I will do as I have promised! Quick, quick, or it will +be too late!" + +"You have made the most sacred vow that a Mussulman can make; I will +test it by saving your life." + + + + +CHAPTER XIX. + +ASIATIC HONOR. + +One quick movement with the lancet made an incision across the red +specks left by the fangs of the cobra, and into the opening he poured a +teaspoonful of the yellowish fluid, which was so much like liquid fire +and pepper that even the dusky scoundrel gasped with agony. Then he +was made to open his mouth and swallow something from a large bottle, +which, as regards strength and flavor, was a twin of that which was +consuming his flesh. + +All at once the countenance of the physician expanded with a beaming +smile as he looked at his patient and said gently as if speaking to his +own child: + +"All danger is past, Almos." + +From the abundance of rags which fluttered about his person, the doctor +tore a piece and bandaged the wound. Then he said in a business-like +tone: + +"I am through; now you and the rest of you may go." + +Almos hesitated. + +"You have saved my life: is there nothing I can do for you?" + +"I have just told you what to do--_leave_?" + +Probably there would have been less promptness in complying with the +command had there been less in uttering it. As it was, Almos, without +a word, motioned to the rest of his band, and led the way down the path +in the direction of the stream, the four tramping after him like so +many ragged phantoms. + +Dr. Marlowe was more eager to leave the place than he would permit his +child to know. He had no faith in Almos's promise, knowing that the +Ghoojur chieftain would break his oath, which he and his brother +fanatics did not consider binding when made to infidels, and the only +hope, therefore, was for the fugitives to conceal themselves from the +miscreants--a thing which the physician's intimate knowledge of the +country would enable him to do. + +Footfalls sounded along the path over which the two had just come, and +a minute later Almos, Mustad and their three companions emerged into +the opening and approached the couple, one of whom suspected nothing +until her father spoke. + +"Well, Almos, what do you want?" demanded Dr. Marlowe, calmly looking +up at the Ghoojur chieftain, as he paused in front of him and made a +salaam. + +"We have come for the infidel and his daughter; our deen commands us to +put them to death." + +"What does the oath you gave me a little while ago command you to do?" + +"That was made to an infidel; it is not binding upon a true son of the +Prophet." + +"A true son of the devil!" exclaimed the physician, unable to repress +his rage. + +Turning to his daughter, he said: + +"My child, you have a pistol; when they make a move, shoot; leave Almos +to me and save your last bullet for yourself." + +"The infidels shall be destroyed everywhere," said Almos; "none of the +Inglese loge shall be left in India. The faithful have risen and they +will crush them all, for so commands the Prophet----" + +Dr. Marlowe had placed his hand on the butt of his revolver at his hip, +meaning to whip out the weapon and fire before the miscreant had +finished his high-sounding tomfoolery. His daughter had also grasped +hers, intending to obey to the letter the command of her parent, when +the Ghoojur chieftain abruptly paused in his speech, staggered for a +moment, and then sank to the ground like a bundle of rags, with the +breath of life gone from his body. + +The incident would have been as inexplicable to parent and child as to +the Ghoojurs, had they not caught the faint, far-away report of a +rifle, which, if heard by the bandits, was not associated by them with +the startling thing that had taken place before their eyes. But the +doctor and Mary knew the connection. + +And about half-a-mile away, on the top of that huge rock, hot enough +under the flaming sun to roast eggs, Jack Everson had assumed the same +position that he held the afternoon before on the bank of the Ganges, +when he checked the advance of the Ghoojur horsemen across the river. +With the aid of the glasses, he had descried the forms of his beloved +and her father when the bright eyes failed to detect his own. Then, +when about to start to join them, he observed their visitors, and the +glass again helped to identify them, after which he "proceeded to +business." + +The instant he made his aim sure he pulled the trigger, came to a +sitting position, readjusted a cartridge, and placing the glasses to +his eyes that he might see the more plainly, watched the result of his +shot. + +"By Jove; another bull's-eye!" he gleefully exclaimed, as he saw his +man stagger and fall almost at the feet of Dr. Marlowe. "I don't know +the gentleman's name, but a first-class obituary notice is in order. +That makes six, and now for the seventh. I really hope the doctor is +keeping score for me." + +The professional eye of the physician saw where the pellet of lead had +passed through the chest of Almos, but it was not observed by Mustad or +the other Ghoojurs, who probably attributed it in some way to the bite +of the cobra, in spite of the miraculous cure that seemed to have been +wrought before their eyes. The three remained in the background, but +the fall of the leader appeared to add flames to the hatred of Mustad, +who, assuming the mantle of the fallen chieftain, stepped to the front. + +"You shall not escape us!" he hissed; "all the Inglese loge shall die!" + +"But before any more of them perish, you shall go to the infernal +regions to keep company with the imp that has just gone thither." + +The doctor had learned from the exhibition of the preceding afternoon +the time required by Jack Everson to repeat his marvelous shots. He +knew, therefore, about the moment when a second was due, and he decided +to make its arrival as dramatic as possible. + +"You stand almost on the same spot where stood Almos; he dropped dead +before me, and," raising his hand impressively, "I command you to do +the same." + +Mustad obeyed. + +Again the faint report swept across the extent of jungle, travelling +with almost the same speed as the bullet, which, like its predecessor, +bored through the dusky chest of the victim and lost itself in the +vegetation beyond. Mustad gasped, convulsively clasped one hand to his +breast, flung out both arms, groped blindly for an instant, and then +slumped down as dead as one of the mummies of the Pyramids. + +And the young American, still reclining on that gray, blistering rock, +again rose to a sitting posture and clapped the glasses to his eyes to +observe more clearly the result of his last trial at markmanship. + +"That makes seven bull's-eyes!" was his delighted exclamation, "but I +have done as well when the distance was twice as great. I must keep +the number in mind, for it will be like the doctor to insist that I +made but six out of a possible eight. I notice that three gentlemen +are left and require attention." + +With the same care as before, he lay back and drew bead on the group, +but the next moment uttered an impatient exclamation and straightened +up again. + +"They have fled; only Mary and her father are left, and there's no call +to send any bullets in their direction." + +The fall of Mustad at the command of the wrathful physician was more +than the other Ghoojurs could stand. Suspecting no connection between +the almost inaudible reports and the terrifying incidents, they +believed their only hope was in headlong flight. Without a word they +dashed down the trail, quickly passing from sight, and were seen no +more. + +Meanwhile Jack Everson, finding no demand for long shooting, sprang +from the rock and made all haste to the spot where he had recognized +his friends, and where they awaited his coming with an anxiety that +could not have been more intense. That others of their enemies were in +the neighborhood was certain, and their vengeance could not be +restrained or turned aside as had been that of the Ghoojurs. A +collision between them and the fugitives must be fatal to the latter. + +Great, therefore, was the delight of father and daughter when the brave +fellow bounded into sight, his whole concern, as it seemed, being to +learn whether the score kept by the doctor agreed with his own. When +assured that it did, he announced that he was at the disposal of the +venerable physician and his daughter. + +The three pushed steadily toward Nepaul, cheered by the knowledge that +with every mile passed their danger lessened. They were in great peril +more than once. Twice they exchanged shots with marauding bands, and +once their destruction seemed inevitable; but good fortune attended +them, and at the end of a week they entered the wild, mountainous and +sparsely-settled region, where at last all danger was at an end. + +So it came about that when the young people took their final departure +down the Ganges for Calcutta, thence to return to the United States, +Dr. Marlowe went with them. He and his son-in-law formed a partnership +in the practice of their profession, and it is only a few years since +that the aged physician was laid to rest. He was full of years and +honors, and willing to go, for he knew that the happiness of his +daughter could be in no safer hands than those of Jack Everson. + + + + +LOST IN THE WOODS. + + +CHAPTER I. + +THE CABIN IN THE WOOD. + +Harvey Bradley had been superintendent of the Rollo Mills not quite a +year when, to his annoyance, the first strike in their history took +place. + +Young Bradley was a college graduate, a trained athlete, and a bright +and ambitious man, whose father was president of the company in New +York which owned the extensive mills. It was deemed best to have a +direct representative of the corporation on the ground, and Harvey +qualified himself for the responsible situation by a six-months' +apprenticeship, during all of which he wrought as hard as any laborer +in the establishment. + +He made his home in the remote village of Bardstown, where the Rollo +Mills had been built. He lived with his Aunt Maria, (who went all the +way from New York with her favorite nephew that she might look after +him), and his sister Dollie, only six years old. The plan was that she +should stay until Christmas, when her father was to come and take her +home. Aunt Maria, with the help of honest Maggie Murray, kept house +for Harvey, who found his hands and brains fully occupied in looking +after the interests of the Rollo Mills, which gave employment to two +hundred men, women and children. + +All went well with the young superintendent for some months after the +assumption of his duties. He was alert, and surprised every one by his +practical knowledge. He was stern and strict, and, after warning +several negligent employes, discharged them. This did not help his +popularity, but, so long as the directors were satisfied, Harvey cared +for the opinion of no one else. + +When dull times came, Superintendent Bradley scaled down the wages of +all, including his own. The promise to restore them, as soon as +business warranted the step, averted the threatened strike. Within a +month the restoration took place, but every employe was required to +work a half hour over time without additional pay. + +A strike was averted for the time, but the friendly feeling and mutual +confidence that ought to exist between the employer and the employed +was destroyed. The latter kept at work, and the former felt that he +had not sacrificed his dignity nor his discipline. + +But the discontent increased. One day Hugh O'Hara, the chief foreman, +and Thomas Hansell, one of the most influential of the workmen, called +upon Mr. Bradley, and speaking for the employes, protested against the +new arrangement. They said every man, woman and child was willing to +work the extra half hour, but inasmuch as the need for such extra time +indicated an improvement in business, they asked for the additional pay +to which they were clearly entitled. + +Harvey was looking for such protest and he was prepared. He said it +was an error to think there was an improvement in business. While in +one sense it might be true, yet the price of the manufactured goods had +fallen so low that the mills really made less money than before. The +wages that had been paid were better than were warranted by the state +of trade. Now, when the employes were asked to help in a slight degree +their employers who had done so much for them, they would not do so. +O'Hara and Hansell, showing a wish to discuss the matter, the +superintendent cut them short by saying that it was idle to talk +further. He would not make any reduction in their time, nor would he +pay any extra compensation. + +That night 200 employes of the Rollo Mills quit work, with the +intention of staying out until justice was done them. Harvey asserted +that he would never yield; he would spend a few days in overhauling the +machinery and in making a few needed repairs; then, if the employes +chose, they could come back. All who did not do so would not be taken +back afterwards. New hands would be engaged and in a short time the +mills would be running the same as before. + +O'Hara and Hansell warned the superintendent that serious trouble would +follow any such course. While making no threat themselves, they told +him that blood was likely to be shed. Harvey pooh-poohed and reminded +them that a few men and children would make sorry show in fighting the +whole state, for, in the event of interference by the strikers, he +meant to appeal to the authorities. + +The repairs needed at the mills were soon made. Steam was gotten up +and the whistle called the hands to work. Only O'Hara and Hansell came +forward. They explained that all would be glad to take their places if +the superintendent would allow them a slight increase of pay for +overwork. They had held a meeting and talked over the matter, and now +abated a part of their first demand; they were willing to accept +one-half rate for overtime. + +The superintendent would not yield a jot. The most that he would +consent to do was to wait until noon for them to go to work. The two +men went away muttering threats; not one of the hands answered the +second call to work. + +Quite sure that such would be the result, Harvey had telegraphed to +Carville, fifty miles away, for sixty men, to take the place of those +who had quit work. He asked only for men, since it would have been +unwise to bring women and children to become involved in difficulties. + +By some means this step became known, and, as is always the case, it +added fuel to the flames. Warning notices were sent to the +superintendent that if the new hands went to work they would be +attacked; Bradley himself was told to keep out of sight unless ready to +come to the terms of the strikers. Even in his own home, he could not +be guaranteed safety. His house as well as the mills would be burnt. + +Harvey felt no special alarm because of these threats; he did not +believe that those who made them dare carry them out. But that night +the mills escaped destruction only by the vigilance of the extra +watchmen. The same evening Aunt Maria was stopped on the village +street and told that it was best she should lose no time in moving away +with her little niece Dollie, since it was more than likely the +innocent would suffer with the guilty. For the first time, Harvey +understood the earnestness of the men; but he clung to his resolution +all the same. + +You can see how easily the trouble could have been ended. The employes +had abated their first demand and were willing to compromise. Had +Harvey spoken his honest thoughts, he would have said the men were +right, or at any rate he ought to have agreed to their proposal to +submit the dispute to arbitration; but he was too proud to yield. + +"They will take it for weakness on my part," was his thought; "it will +make an end of all system and open the way for demands that in the end +will destroy the business." + +The sixty new hands reached Bardstown and were about as numerous as the +men who wrought in the mills before the strike. They looked like a +determined band, who would be able to take care of themselves in the +troubles that impended. + +The arrivals were received with scowls by the old employes, who hooted +and jeered them as they marched grimly to the mills. No blows were +struck, though more than once an outbreak was imminent. It was too +late in the day to begin work, but the new hands were shown through the +establishment, with a view of familiarizing them to some extent with +their new duties. Most of them had had some experience in the same +kind of work, but there was enough ignorance to insure much vexation +and loss. + +The night that followed was so quiet that Harvey believed the strikers +had been awed by his threat to appeal to the law and by the determined +front of the new men. + +"It's a dear lesson," he said to himself, "but they need it, and it is +high time it was taught to them." + +The next morning the whistle sent out its ear-splitting screech, whose +echoes swung back and forth, like so many pendulums between the hills, +but to the amazement of Harvey Bradley, not a person was seen coming +toward the mills. The whistle called them again, and Hugh O'Hara and +Tom Hansell strolled leisurely up the street to the office, where Mr. +Bradley wonderingly awaited them. + +"You'll have to blow that whistle a little louder," said O'Hara, with a +tantalizing grin. + +"What do you mean, sir?" + +"Those chaps all left town last night; they must be about forty miles +away; you see we explained matters to them; I don't think, if I was +you, I would feel bad about it; they believe they can get along better +at Carville than at Bardstown." + +For the first time since the trouble began, Harvey Bradley lost his +temper. To be defied and taunted in this manner was more than he could +bear. He vowed over again that not one of the strikers should do +another day's work for him, even if he begged for it on his knees and +he was starving. He at once telegraphed to Vining, fully one hundred +miles away, where he knew there were many people idle, for one hundred +men who would not only come, but stay. He preferred those who knew +something about the business, but the first need was that the men would +remain at their posts, and if necessary fight for their positions. He +guaranteed larger wages than he had ever paid experienced hands, but he +wanted no man who would not help hold the fort against all comers. The +superintendent was on his mettle; he meant to win. + +Having sent off this message, for which it cannot be denied, Harvey had +every legal and moral warrant, he set out on a long tramp through the +woods at the rear of Bardstown. It was a crisp autumn day, and the +long brisk walk did him much good. The glow came to his cheeks, his +blood was warmed, and his brain cleared by the invigorating exercise. +So much indeed did he enjoy it that he kept it up until, to his +surprise, he saw that it was growing dark, and he was several miles +from home. + +It was snowing, though not heavily. He walked fast, but, when night +had fully come, paused with the uncomfortable discovery that he was +hopelessly lost in the woods. + +"Well, this is pleasant!" he exclaimed, looking around in vain for some +landmark in the gloom. "I believe I shall have to spend the night out +doors, though I seem to be following some sort of path." + +He struck a match, shading it with his hand from the chilly wind, and +stooped down. Yes; there was an unmistakable trail, and with renewed +hope he hurried on, taking care not to stray to either side. Within +the next ten minutes, to his delight, he caught the twinkle of a +star-like point of light among the trees, a short distance ahead. + +While making his way hopefully forward, Harvey became aware of a +singular fact. The air around him was tainted with a peculiar odor, +such as he had never met before. It was of a rank nature, and, while +not agreeable, could not be said to be really unpleasant. It might +have interested him more, but for his anxiety to reach the shelter +which was now so near at hand. + +Arriving at the cabin, he found the latch-string hanging out. A sharp +pull, the door was swung inward and Harvey stepped into a small room, +lit up by a crackling wood-fire on the hearth. + +As he entered, two men who were smoking their pipes, looked up. The +visitor could not hide his expression of surprise, for they were Hugh +O'Hara and Thomas Hansell, the last persons in the world he wished to +see. + + + + +CHAPTER II. + +A POINTED DISCUSSION. + +Hugh O'Hara was in middle life. He was of Scotch descent, and, in his +younger days, had received a fair education. Even now he spent much +time over his books. He talked well, and was not without a certain +grace of manner founded, no doubt, on his knowledge of human nature, +which gave him great influence with others. It was this, as much as +his skill, that made him the leading foreman at a time when a score of +others had the right by seniority of service to the place. + +But Hugh had dipped into the springs of learning just enough to have +his ideas of right and wrong turned awry and to form a distaste for his +lot that made his leadership dangerous. Besides, he had met with +sorrows that deepened the shadows that lay across his pathway. In that +little cabin he had seen a young wife close her eyes in death, and his +only child, a sweet girl of five years, not long afterward was laid +beside her mother. Many said that Hugh buried his heart with Jennie +and had not been the same man since. He was reserved, except to one or +two intimate friends. Shaggy, beetle-browed and unshaven, his looks +were anything but pleasing to those who did not fully know him. + +Tom Hansell was much the same kind of man, except that he lacked the +book education of his companion and leader. He had strong impulses, +and was ready to go to an extreme length in whatever direction he +started, but he always needed a guiding spirit, and that he found in +Hugh O'Hara. + +The latter, after burying his child, moved into the village, saying +that he never wanted to look again upon the cabin that had brought so +much sorrow to him. Most people believed he could not be led to go +near it, and yet on this blustery night he and Tom Hansell were seated +in the structure without any companions except the well known hound +Nero, and were smoking their pipes and plotting mischief. + +Hugh and Tom were in their working clothes--coarse trousers, shirts, +and heavy shoes, without vest or coat. Their flabby caps lay on the +floor behind them, and their tousled hair hung over their foreheads +almost to their eyes. Tom had no side whiskers, but a heavy mustache +and chin whiskers, while the face of Hugh was covered with a spiky +black beard that stood out from his face as if each hair was charged +with electricity. + +Nero, the hound, raised his nose from between his paws and looked up at +the visitor. Then, as if satisfied, he lowered his head and resumed +his nap. + +Bradley, as I have said, was angry with himself for walking into such a +trap. It was not fear, but a deep dislike of the man who was the head +and front of the trouble at the mills. He was the spokesman and leader +of the strikers, and he was the real cause of the stoppage of the +works. Harvey looked upon him as insolent and brutal, and he was sure +that no circumstances could arise that would permit him to do a stroke +of work in the Rollo Mills again. + +"Good evening," said Harvey stiffly, "I did not expect to find you +here." + +Hansell nodded in reply to the salutation, but Hugh simply motioned +with the hand that held the pipe toward a low stool standing near the +middle of the apartment. + +"Help yourself to a seat, Mr. Bradley; the presence of Tom and myself +here is no odder than is your own." + +"I suppose not," replied Harvey with a half-laugh, as he seated +himself; "I started out for a walk to-day and went too far--that is, so +far that I lost my way. I had about made up my mind that I would have +to sleep in the woods, when I caught the light from your window and +made for it." + +The glance that passed between Hugh and Tom--sly as it was--did not +elude the eye of Harvey Bradley. He saw that his explanation was not +believed, but he did not care; there was no love between him and them, +and, had it not looked as if he held them in fear, he would have turned +and walked away after stepping across the threshold. As it was, he +meant to withdraw as soon as he could do it without seeming to be +afraid. + +"Is this the first time you have taken a walk up this way?" asked Hugh. + +"The fact that I lost my way ought to answer that question; how far is +it, please, to Bardstown?" + +"An even mile by the path you came." + +"But I didn't come by any path, except for a short distance in front of +this place." + +"Then how did you get here?" + +"Is there no way of traveling through the woods except by the road that +leads to your door?" + +The conversation was between Harvey and Hugh alone. Tom was abashed in +the presence of two such persons, and nothing could have led him to +open his mouth unless appealed to by one or the other. Neither made +any allusion to the strike. After the superintendent's rebuff, Hugh +scorned to do so, while Harvey would have stultified himself had he +invited any discussion. The repugnance between the two men was too +strong for them calmly to debate any question. Besides Hugh and Tom +were suspicious; they did not believe that the presence of the +superintendent was accidental; there was a sinister meaning in it which +boded ill for Hugh and his friends, and the former, therefore, was in a +vicious mood. + +With the conditions named, a wrangle may be set down as one of the +certainties. But Harvey Bradley had defied the fury of half a hundred +men, and he meant to teach this marplot his proper place. There was a +threatening gleam in his eye, but he puffed a few seconds at his pipe, +and then, glaring through the rank smoke that curled upward from his +face said: + +"There are a good many ways by which Hugh O'Hara's cabin can be found, +but those who come on honest errands stick to the path." + +"Which explains why the path is so little worn," was the reply of +Harvey. + +"Aye, and your feet have done mighty little to help the wearing of the +same." + +"If those who live in the cabin were honest themselves, they would not +tremble every time the latch-string is pulled, nor would they be scared +if they saw a visitor stop to snuff the air in this neighborhood." + +This was an ill-timed remark, and Harvey regretted the words the moment +they passed his lips. He saw Hugh and Tom glance at each other; but +the words, having been spoken, could not be recalled, nor did the +superintendent make any attempt to modify them. Before the others +could answer, he added: + +"I have heard it said that Hugh O'Hara held this place in such strong +disfavor that nothing could lead him to spend a night here, yet he +smokes his pipe and plots mischief as if the cabin is the one place in +the world with which he is content." + +These words were not soothing in their effect, nor did the speaker mean +that they should be. Hugh was insolent, and the superintendent +resented it. + +The only proof of the rising anger in the breast of O'Hara was the +vigorous puffing of his pipe. Tom, as I have said, was too awed to say +anything at all. + +"I am of age and free born," growled Hugh, looking into the glowing +embers and speaking as if to himself; "where I go and what I do +concerns no one but myself." + +"Not so long as you go to the proper place and do only what is right," +said Harvey, who, sitting back a few feet from the fire, looked calmly +at the fellow whose rough profile was outlined against the fiery +background behind him. + +"Men interpret right according to their own ideas, and they seldom +agree, but most people will pronounce that person the worst sort of +knave who robs poor men of what they earn and looks upon them as he +looks upon the beasts of the field--worth only the amount of money they +bring to him." + + + + +CHAPTER III. + +MISSING. + +The conversation was taking a dangerous shape. Harvey saw that it +would not do for him to stay. Both these men were fierce enough to fly +at his throat. That little cabin in the woods was liable to become the +scene of a tragedy unless he bridled his tongue or went away. + +Disdaining to say so much as "good-night," he rose to his feet, opened +the door, shut it behind him, and walked out in the blustery darkness. + +"I would rather spend the night fighting tigers than to keep the +company of such miscreants. But the new hands will be here in a few +days, and the fellows will be taught a lesson which they will remember +all their lives. I suppose I ought to pity their dupes, but they +should have enough sense to see that these men are their worst enemies. +It will be a bright day for the Rollo Mills and for Bardstown when they +are well rid of them." + +The superintendent did not pause to think where he was going when he +stepped into the open air. The cold wind struck his face and a few +fine particles touched his cheek. The sky had partly cleared, so that +he could see the fine coating of snow around him, but after all, very +little had fallen. + +"If I can keep the path," he thought, "I will reach the village, but +that is no easy matter--ah! there it is again." + +The peculiar odor that had mystified him before was in the air. He +recalled that Hugh and Tom had made an allusion to it that he did not +understand. + +"It may come from their chimney and be caused by something burning; but +I looked closely at the wood on the hearth and saw nothing else." + +A natural impulse led him, after walking a few rods, to look behind +him. He had heard nothing, but knowing the surly mood of the couple, +he thought it probable they might follow him. + +The door of the cabin, was drawn wide open and the form of a man stood +out to view, as if stamped with ink on the flaming background made by +the fire beyond. His lengthened shadow was thrown down the path almost +to the feet of Harvey. The fellow no doubt was peering into the gloom +and listening. + +"I wonder whether they mean to dog me," said Harvey; "it will be an +easy matter to do so, for they know every part of the wood, while I am +a stranger. They are none too good to put me out of the way; it is +such men who have no fear of the law, but they shall not take me +unawares." + +While still looking toward the cabin, all became dark again. The door +was closed, but he could not be sure whether the man stood outside or +within. + +"If he means to do me harm he will soon be at my heels." + +But the straining eyes could not catch the outlines of any one, and the +only sound was the moaning wind among the bare branches. + +"He has gone back into the house, but may come out again." + +And so, while picking his way through the dim forests, you may be sure +that Harvey Bradley looked behind him many times. It makes one shiver +with dread to suspect that a foe is softly following him. Harvey had +buttoned his pea jacket to his chin and he now turned up the collar, so +that it touched his ears. His hands were shoved deep into the side +pockets and the right one rested upon his revolver that he had +withdrawn from its usual place at his hip. He was on the alert for +whatever might come. + +He was pleased with one fact: the path to which so many references were +made, was so clearly marked that he found it easy to avoid going wrong. + +"If I had had sense enough to take the right course when I first struck +it, I would have been home by this time." + +After turning around several times without seeing or hearing anything +suspicious, he came to believe that however glad O'Hara and Hansell +might be to do him harm, they lacked the courage, unless almost sure +against detection. + +"Hugh will stir up others to go forward, but he will take good care to +protect himself." + +The dull roar that he once fancied he heard when tramping aimlessly +during the day, was now so distinct that he knew he must be near a +stream. The path crossed it at no great distance. + +Sure enough, he had only turned a bend and gone down a little slope +when he reached the margin of a deep creek, fully twenty feet wide. It +flowed smooth and dark at his feet, but the turmoil to the left showed +that it tumbled over the rocks, not far away. + +Harvey was anything but pleased, when he saw the bridge by which the +stream had to be passed. It was merely the trunk of a tree, that lay +with the base on the side where he stood, while the top rested on the +other bank. Whoever had felled the tree had trimmed the trunk of its +branches from base to top--the result being more ornamental than +useful, for the protuberances would have served to help the footing of +a passenger. The trunk in the middle was no more than six inches in +diameter, and being a little worn by the shoes that had trod its +length, the footing was anything but secure. With the sprinkling of +snow it was more treacherous than ever. + +"Must I cross _that_?" Harvey said aloud, with a feeling akin to dismay. + +"You can do so or swim, whichever you choose." + +These words were spoken by a man standing on the other side, and who +was about to step on the support, when he paused on seeing another on +the point of doing the same from the opposite bank. In the dim light, +Harvey saw him only indistinctly, but judged that he himself was +recognized by the other. + +"I suppose it's safe enough for those accustomed to it," said Harvey in +reply, "but I prefer some other means; do you intend to use it?" + +"That I do; I want no better; if you are afraid, get out of the way, +for I am late." + +Harvey moved to the right, and watched the other, who stepped upon the +support and walked over with as much certainty as if treading a +pavement on the street. + +Harvey looked closely, and as the fellow came toward him, he recognized +him as one of his former employes. He was Jack Hansell--a brother of +Tom, and like him a close associate of Hugh O'Hara, the leader. + +"You are out late, Jack," remarked the superintendent, as the other +left the log. To his surprise, Jack did not answer, but quickly +disappeared up the path by which the superintendent had reached the +spot. + +"He is surly and ill-mannered, like all of them; no doubt he is on his +way to the cabin to plot mischief with the others." + +Since nothing was to be gained by waiting, Harvey now stepped on the +trunk and began gingerly making his way across. It was a hard task, +and just beyond the middle, he lost his balance. He was so far along, +however, that a vigorous jump landed him on the other bank. + +A little beyond he caught the twinkling lights of the village, and he +hastened his steps, now that, as it may be said, home was in sight. He +felt as if he was famishing, and the thought of the luscious supper +awaiting his return, gave him such speed that he was soon at his own +door. + +Though it was late, he saw his aunt was astir, for the lights were +burning brightly. Before he could utter the greeting on his tongue, he +was terrified by the scared face of his relative. + +"Why, aunt, what is the matter? Are you ill?" + +"Oh, Harvey!" she wailed; "haven't you brought Dollie with you?" + +"Dollie!" repeated the other; "I haven't seen her since I left home." + +"Then you will never see her again," and, overcome by her terrible +grief, the good woman sank into the nearest chair, covered her face +with her apron and wept. + +Harvey Bradley stood petrified. Bright-eyed Dollie, whom he had left a +few hours before, rosy, happy, overflowing with bounding spirits, was +gone, and the sobbing Aunt Maria declared she would never be seen again. + +Stepping into the room, Harvey laid his hand on his aunt's shoulder and +in a trembling voice said: + +"Why, aunt, what does this mean? Are you in earnest? What has become +of Dollie? Tell me, I beseech you." + +"She is lost; she is lost! Oh, why did we ever bring her to this +dreadful country? I wish none of us had ever seen it." + +"But what about Dollie? Where is she? How long has she been gone? +Compose yourself and tell." + +It was not until he spoke sharply that the hysterical woman was able to +make known that the child had been absent for hours, no one knew where. +When she learned that noon that her big brother would not be back till +night, Dollie had pouted because he had gone off without telling her. +She was not sure she could ever forgive him. However, she ate her +dinner, and soon after went out to play. Some hours later her aunt +went to the door to call her, but she was not within sight or hearing. +Maggie was sent to look for her, but soon came back with word that she +could not be found. + +The child had been seen a couple of hours before, running in the +direction of the path that led into the mountains, as if she was +fleeing from some one, Maggie had gone as far as she dared in quest of +her, but her loudest shouts brought no reply and she returned. + +The word brought by the servant, as may well be believed, filled the +aunt with the wildest grief. Beyond all doubt, Dollie had formed a +sudden resolve to hunt up her brother Harvey, who had gone away and +left her at home. She had strayed so far into the mountains that she +was lost. Fortunately, she was warmly dressed at the time, but exposed +as she must be to the wintry winds and cold, she could not hold out +until morning unless rescued very soon. + +Harvey was stricken with an anguish such as he had never known before, +but he knew that not a minute was to be lost. Dollie must be found at +once or it would be too late. It added a poignancy to his woe to know +that in coming down the mountain path, he must have passed close to +her, who was in sore need of the help he was eager to give. + +"Have you made no search for her?" he asked. + +"I could not believe she would not come back until it began to grow +dark. I thought she could not be far away; Maggie and I hunted through +the village, inquiring of every one whom we saw; many of the people +were kind, and two or three have gone to hunt for her; I started to do +so, but did not go far, when I was sure she had come back while I was +away, and I hurried home only to find she was not here." + +"Are you sure any one is looking for her?" + +"There are several." + +"Well," said Harvey, impatient with the vacillation shown by his aunt, +"I shall not come back until she is found." + +His hand was on the knob of the door when his distressed relative +sprang to her feet. + +"Harvey;" she said in a wild, scared manner, "shall I tell you what I +believe?" + +"Of course." + +"Dollie did not lose herself: some of those awful men did it." + +"Do you mean the strikers?" + +"Yes; they have taken her away to spite you." + +"Impossible!" exclaimed the young man, passing out the door and +striding up the single street that ran through the village. + +But though unwilling to confess it to himself, the same shocking +suspicion had come to him at the moment he learned that Dollie was +lost. Could it be that some of the men, grown desperate in their +resentment, had taken this means of mortally injuring him? Was there +any person in the wide world who would harm an innocent child for the +sake of hurting a strong man? Alas, such things had been done, and why +should they not be done again? The words that he overheard between +Hugh O'Hara and Tom Hansell proved them capable of dark deeds. Could +it be that some of the hints thrown out by them during that brief +interview in the cabin bore any relation to the disappearance of Dollie. + +At the moment Harvey turned away from his own house it was his +intention to rouse the village and to ask all to join in the hunt for +the child, but a feeling of bitter resentment led him to change his +purpose. No; they would rejoice over his sorrow; they would give him +no aid, and, if they had had a hand in her taking off, they would do +what they could to baffle him in his search. Slight as was his hope, +he would push on alone. + +"O'Hara and Hansell know all about it; I will search the neighborhood +of the path all the way to their cabin and then compel them to tell +what they know; if they refuse----" + +He shut his lips tight and walked faster than ever. He strove to fight +back the tempestuous emotions that set his blood boiling. He was moved +by a resolve that would stop at nothing; he would not believe that +there was no hope; he knew he could force the miscreants to give up +their secret, and had a hair of his little sister's head been harmed +the punishment should be swift and terrible. + +"When Dollie is found," he muttered, determined to believe she must be +restored to him, "I will send her and Aunt Maria away, and then have it +out with these fellows; I'll make them rue the day they began the +fight." + +These were dreadful thoughts, but there was excuse for them, his grief +made him half frantic. + +The path over which he believed Dollie had either strayed or been led +or carried, entered the woods about a hundred yards from the village +and gradually sloped and wound upward for a mile, when it passed the +door of Hugh O'Hara's cabin and lost itself in the solitude beyond. + +The sky had cleared still more during the interval since he came down +the mountain side, and he could not only see the course clearly, but +could distinguish objects several rods away, when the shadow of the +overhanging trees did not shut out the light. But the season was so +far along that few leaves were left on the limbs and it was easy, +therefore, for him to keep the right course. + +He had not gone far when he stopped and shouted the name of Dollie. +The sound reached a long way, and he repeated the call several times, +but only the dismal wind among the limbs gave answer. + +Striding forward, he stood a few minutes later on the margin of the +creek that was spanned by the fallen tree. + +"She would not have dared to walk over," was his thought: "she must +have been on this side, if she wandered off alone." + +A moment later he added: + +"No; for the very reason that it is dangerous, Dollie would run across; +it would be no trouble for her to do so, and there is just enough peril +to tempt her. Could she have fallen in?" + +He looked at the dark water as it swept forward and shivered. + +"Rivers and lakes and seas and streams are always thirsting for human +life, and this may have seized her." + +Tramping through the undergrowth that lined the bank he fought his way +onward until he stood beside the rocks where the waters made a foaming +cascade, as they dashed downward toward the mills far away. + +"If she did fall in, she must be somewhere near this spot----" + +His heart seemed to stop beating. Surely that dark object, half +submerged and lying against the edge of the bank, where the water made +an eddy, must be her body. He ran thither and stooped down. + +"Thank God," was his exclamation, after touching it with his hands, and +finding it a piece of dark wood that had been carried there from the +regions above. + +Back he came to where the fallen tree spanned the creek, and hurried +across. No snow was falling, but the earth was white with the thin +coating that had filtered down hours before. + +"Had it come earlier in the day," he thought, "it would help us to +trace her, but now it will hide her footprints." + +Hardly a score of steps from the creek his foot struck something soft, +and he stooped down. Straightening up, he held a small hood in his +hand, such as children wear in cold weather. Faint as was the light, +he recognized it as Dollie's; he had seen her wear it many times. + +"What can it mean?" he asked himself; "I must have stepped over or on +that on my way down, but did not notice it. Yes, Dollie is on this +side the stream, but where?" + +Aye, that was the question. Once more he raised his voice and shouted +with might and main, but as before no answer came back. + +Harvey was now master of himself. He had recovered from the shock that +at first almost took away his senses and he was able to think and act +with his usual coolness. But with this, the belief that Hugh and Tom +had something to do with the disappearance of Dollie grew until at +times he was without any doubt at all. Occasionally, however, he +wavered in his belief. + +Thus it was that two theories offered themselves. The first was that +Dollie had set out to find him and had wandered up the mountain path to +some point above the bridge and then had strayed from it and become +lost. Worn out, she had laid down and was at that moment asleep. + +The corollary of this theory was that she had perished with cold, or +would thus perish before daylight. True, she was well clad when she +went out that afternoon to play, but her hood was gone and she could +not escape the biting wind that pierced the heavy clothing of Harvey +himself. Then, too, there was the danger from the wild beasts, of +which he had had too late an experience to forget. + +Should it prove that Dollie went off in the manner named, then Harvey +made a great error in setting out alone to search for her. He ought to +have roused the village, and, with the hundreds scouring the mountains, +helped by torches and dogs, discovery could not be delayed long. + +The other and darker theory was that she had been seen by some of his +enemies as she went into the woods and had been coaxed to some +out-of-the-way place, where her abductors meant to hold and use her as +a means of bringing the superintendent to terms. All must have known +that no method could be so effective as that. + +It was hard to believe that the evil-minded men would go any further. +Yet it was easy for them to do so; they could make way with a little +child like her and have it seem that her death was caused by falling +over the rocks or by some other accident that might easily come to her. + +"O'Hara and Hansell must have known all about it when I was in their +cabin. They were afraid to assail me in the cabin, for I was prepared, +and the fear of the law kept them from following me after I left their +place." + +Harvey was thinking hard when he caught the well-known light, among the +trees in the cabin. + +"He, Tom and Jack, precious scamps all of them, are exulting over the +sorrow they have caused, but they shall pay for it." + +The latch-string had not yet been withdrawn. Harvey gave it a jerk, +followed by a spiteful push that threw the door wide open. +Disappointment awaited him. Neither Hugh nor Tom was there, but Jack, +looking like a twin brother of Tom, was in the act of lighting the pipe +that his relative had probably left for his use. He was alone, not +even the hound being present. + +Jack had partly risen to his feet to reach the pouch of tobacco on the +short mantel above the fireplace. He paused and looked over his +shoulder with a startled expression at the visitor who made such an +emphatic entrance. + +"Why--why, Mr. Bradley," he stammered, "I didn't know it was you; will +you take a seat?" + +"Where are Hugh and Tom?" + +"They went out some time ago." + +"Where did they go?" demanded Harvey in an angry voice. + +"Down to--the--that is, I don't know." + +"Yes, you do know. I want no trifling; I will not stand it." + +The fellow, though flustered at first, quickly regained his +self-possession. He had evidently checked himself just in time to keep +back some important knowledge. + +"Where have they gone?" repeated the superintendent, bursting with +impatience. + +But Jack Hansell was himself again--sullen and insolent as ever. He +had an intense dislike of his employer--a dislike that had deepened +within the past few days. He slowly sat down and smoked a full minute +before making reply to Harvey, who felt like throttling him. + +"I told you I didn't know," he finally said, looking into the embers +and speaking as if to the glowing coals. + +"But you do know." + +"So I do, but I know another thing as well, and that is that there +ain't any reason why I should tell you if I don't choose to." + +It took a great effort of the will for Harvey to hold himself from +doing violence to the man who said he was not bound to tell what he +preferred to keep to himself: but the superintendent saw that nothing +could be gained by violence. The man who can keep cool during a +dispute has ten-fold the advantage over one who does not restrain +himself. + +After all, Jack Hansell was of small account. It was O'Hara, his +master, and mayhap his companion, whom Harvey Bradley must see. If Tom +chose to tell the truth he could do so, but if he would not, no one +could force him to say the words. + +All this was clear to the young man, who, checking his anger, added in +a lower tone: + +"You are not bound to answer any question I ask you, even when you have +no reason for your refusal, but you cannot decline to say when they are +likely to be back." + +"Yes, I can, for I don't know." + +"I wish to see O'Hara on a matter of the first importance." + +"But he may not want to see you, and I ain't the man to make things +unpleasant for a friend." + +"You certainly expect them back to-night, do you not?" + +Jack smoked his pipe a few seconds before giving heed to this simple +question. Then, turning slowly toward Harvey, who was still standing +in the middle of the room, he said: + +"You had better sit down, for you won't find Hugh and Tom any sooner by +keeping your feet. What do you want to see 'em for?" + +"That I can explain only to them, though it is Hugh whom I particularly +want to meet." + +The superintendent took the seat to which he was invited. It was the +stool on which he sat when in the cabin before. It cost him a greater +effort than can be explained to defer to this defiant fellow, who a few +weeks or even days before would have cringed at his feet like a dog. + +"That being the case," added Jack, between the puffs at his pipe, "why +you'll have to wait till they come back. That may be inside of five +minutes, and not for an hour; maybe," added Jack in the game +exasperating manner, "that nothing will be seen of 'em till daylight. +You see that since they have been cheated out of their work they have +plenty of time to loaf through the country." + +"Any man who is too lazy to work can find time to turn his hand to +dishonest tricks," said the superintendent, meaning that the words +should not be misunderstood. + +"Sometimes the tricks that you call dishonest pay better than working +for a superintendent who wants all the wages himself," was the impudent +reply of Jack Hansell. + +"That is the excuse of the man who is bad at heart and who prefers +wrong to right. Our state prisons are full of that sort of people." + +"Yes--and there are a good many people that ought to be in prison that +ain't there." + +"I am sure no one is better qualified than you to speak on that matter." + +"Except yourself." + +It struck Harvey just then that he was doing an unworthy thing in +holding such a conversation with any man. If he had anything of the +kind to say, he ought to speak it openly. He now did so. + +"There is not a particle of doubt, Jack Hansell, that you and your +brother and Hugh O'Hara are engaged in business that ought to place you +all behind the bars." + +"If you think it safe to talk that way before Tom and Hugh you will now +have the chance." + +"I will be glad to tell them to their faces what I have told you." + +"All right; there they come." + +Footsteps and voices in such low tones were heard outside that it was +clear the men brought important news with them. And such indeed proved +to be the case. + + + + +CHAPTER IV. + +THE SEARCH BY HUGH AND TOM. + +Never did one person do another a greater injustice than did Harvey +Bradley when he believed that either Hugh O'Hara or any one else had +aught to do with the absence of his little sister Dollie. No men had a +hand in the sad business, nor could any one have been led to harm a +hair of her head. Had Harvey asked for help, no one in the village +would have held back from doing all that could be done to restore the +child to her friends. + +The first news that came to Hugh O'Hara's cabin of the loss of the +child was brought by Jack Hansell, who went thither on a far different +errand. After a long talk on business, he gave the tidings, adding: + +"I met him at the creek, but thought I wouldn't tell him, for it would +do no good. I kept my eyes open for the gal, but seen nothing of her." + +Hugh jerked the pipe from his mouth. + +"What's that you are saying? The little girl lost?" + +"That's it; she's been missing since noon; they think she come up the +path and got lost in the mountains." + +"Good gracious!" gasped Hugh, starting to his feet, "that is bad; do +you know," he added, turning to Tom and speaking with a slight tremor, +"that that little girl Dollie is about the age my Jennie was when she +died?" + +"I hadn't thought of that," replied Tom. + +"And," continued Hugh, swallowing a lump in his throat, "she looks so +much like Jennie that I've often felt as if I would give all I +have--which ain't much--to hold the little one on my knee as I used to +hold my baby. She is a sweet child and likes me; we've had many a talk +together that no one beside us knows about. She's so gentle, so +innocent, so good that it seems to me I see my own darling before me +when she looks up in my face. Come, boys," he added, decisively, as he +walked to the farther end of the room, picked up a lantern and lit the +candle inside. + +"Come where?" asked Tom, in amazement. + +Hugh turned half angrily toward him. + +"Do you think that I could rest while that child is lost in the +mountains? Mr. Bradley hasn't acted right toward us and I bear him no +good will, but this isn't _he_--it's a little child--she looks and acts +like my Jennie, that's dead and gone." + +"But, Hugh, you forget--what about the place?" + +"Let it go to the dogs for all I care! What does it amount to against +the life of the little one? But we'll let Jack stay; if any of the +boys come, send them out to help in the hunt; it'll do them more good +than to break the law." + +"Suppose some that are strangers come?" said Jack with a grin. + +Hugh O'Hara gave a hollow laugh. + +"Send them out, too, to help in the search; we'll be sure to find her +when the whole country gets to work. If I was down in the village I +would have every man, woman and child in the woods, and wouldn't let +them eat or drink or sleep till she's found. Tom, there's no one that +knows the woods better than we and Nero. Let's be off!" + +The door was drawn inward, and Jack Hansell was left alone. He lit his +pipe, smoked it out, refilled it and was in the act of refilling it, +when Harvey Bradley came in--as has been made known in another place. +While the man sat smoking and alone in the cabin, he fell to brooding +over the troubles at the mills. Thus it came to pass that his feelings +were so bitter at the time the superintendent entered that he kept back +every hint that the absent men were engaged in the most "honest" +business in the world--that is, they were looking for the missing child. + +Meanwhile Hugh and Tom went at the task not only with zeal, but with a +sagacity that gave promise of good results. As Hugh had said, they +knew every foot of the mountains for miles, they were free from the +flurry that at first ran away with the judgment of the superintendent, +and they were used to prowling through the woods. Still further Nero +had been trained to follow the faintest footprints. + +"Now, Tom," said the leader, when they had walked a short ways, "we +can't do anything till we get on the trail of the little one." + +"What do you think has become of her?" + +"She's somewhere in the woods asleep or dead, with the chances about +even for either." + +"Jack says she was seen coming up the mountain path early this +afternoon." + +"Well, she has kept to it till she has either slipped out of the path +without knowing it or she has done it on purpose. She has strolled +along until it became dark or she was tired. Then she has lain down on +the leaves and gone to sleep. Nero, find the trail of the little girl." + +"But," said Tom, "the night is so cold." + +"So it is, but if the girl went out to play she was well clad, and, if +she knew enough, she has crept under the lee of a rock or into the +bushes, where the wind can't reach her. If she did the same, she +hasn't frozen to death." + +"But there are wild animals in these parts." + +"I know that, and she would make a meal that any of them would be glad +to get; we can only hope they didn't find her." + +Just then Nero, who had been nosing the path in front, uttered a whine +and turned aside. Hugh held up the lantern and saw that he had gone to +the right. He was following a trail of some kind; whether it was that +of the one whom they were seeking was to be learned. It would take a +fine scent to trace the tiny footsteps under the carpet of snow, but +such an exploit is not one-tenth as wonderful as that of the trained +dogs in Georgia, which will stick to the track of a convict when it has +been trampled upon by hundreds of others wearing similar dress and +shoes, and will keep to it for miles by running parallel to the trail +and at a distance of a hundred feet. + +But in the latter case the canines have an advantage at the start; they +are put upon the track or directed to hunt for it where it is known to +exist; they are given a clew in some form. + +The hound Nero was skilful in taking a scent, but his ability was not +to be compared to that of the dogs to which I have referred, nor indeed +was it necessary that it should be. But he had great intelligence, and +acted as if he understood every word said to him by his master. He had +saved Hugh and his friends many a time by giving warning from afar of +the approach of strange parties. It may seem incredible that he should +know what was wanted of him, but there is the best reason for saying he +understood it all. Having no part of the little one's clothing to +help, he was without the clew which would appear to be indispensable. +His master, however, was satisfied the dog had struck the right trail. + +"Stick to it, Nero," said Hugh, encouragingly, "not too fast, but be +sure you're right." + +Without pause, the two followed the dog, Hugh in front with lantern in +hand. The woods were so cluttered with undergrowth that they could not +go fast, seeing which Nero suited his pace to theirs. Now and then he +ran ahead, as if impatient with the slow progress of the couple, and +then he calmly awaited their approach. + +"Hark!" + +The single word "_Dollie_!" rang through the arches of the woods. They +recognized the voice as that of the superintendent, who was hurrying +over the path they had left, and who was not far away. In fact, Hugh +held the lantern in front of him so as to hide its rays. + +"I am sorry for him," he said, "but we don't want him with us." + +"It cannot be," remarked Tom, after they had struggled further, "that +she has gone as far as this; Nero must be off the track." + +At this moment the dog emitted a low, baying whine that would have +startled any one had he not known its meaning. It was the signal which +the remarkable animal always gave when close to the end of a trail. + +"We shall soon know the worst," said Hugh, crashing through the wood +with such haste that Tom had to hurry almost into a trot to save +himself from dropping behind. + +The singular call of the dog was heard again. He wanted his friends to +move faster. It came from a point slightly to the left. + +"Here he is!" exclaimed Hugh, making a sharp turn and showing more +excitement than at any time during the evening. + +"I see him! There he stands!" added Tom, stumbling forward. + +With his right hand Hugh raised the lantern above his head, so that its +glare was taken from their eyes. The hound was close to a rock that +rose some six or eight feet above the ground, and his nose was pointed +toward the base of the black mass. At the same moment the men saw +something dark and light mixed together, like a bundle of clothing. +One bound and Hugh was on his knees, the lamp held even with his +forehead while he peered downward and softly drew the clothing aside. +Tom was also stooping low and leaning forward with bated breath. + +There lay little Dollie Bradley, sleeping as sweetly as if nestling +beside her big brother in the warm bed at home. She must have wandered +through the woods until, worn out, she reached this spot. Then she had +thrown herself on the earth beside the rock and had fallen asleep. +Having lost her hood, her head was without any covering, except her own +native hair, which was abundant. Besides, rugged people do not need to +cover their heads while asleep, even in cold weather. + +It was fortunate for Dollie that she was so warmly wrapped. One arm +was doubled under her head, and the cheek that rested on it was pushed +just enough out of shape to add to her picturesqueness. Her heavy coat +having been buttoned around her body, kept its form and could not have +been better arranged. The chubby legs were covered by thick stockings, +and the feet were protected by heavy shoes. True, she ran much risk in +lying upon the cold earth, with nothing between her and the ground, but +there was hope that no serious harm would follow. + +The rock not only kept off the wind, but screened her from the snow. +It was almost certain that the little one had been asleep several hours. + +Hugh gently examined the limbs and body to see whether there was any +hurt. Her peaceful sleep ought to have satisfied him, but he was not +content. Not a scratch, however, was found, though her clothing had +suffered a good deal. + +"Take the lantern," said he in a husky voice to his companion. Then, +softly pushing his brawny arms under the dimpled form, he lifted it as +tenderly as its mother could have done. Tom smoothed the clothing so +as to cover the body as fully as possible. Hugh doffed his coarse cap +and covered the mass of silken tresses that streamed over his shoulder. + +Dollie muttered as a child will do when disturbed in its slumber, but, +fitting her head to the changed position, she slept on as sweetly as +ever. + +"Now lead the way," added Hugh, "and be careful where you step." + +Tom was only too glad to do his part. Nero, as happy as the others, +walked in advance, in his dignified manner, now and then wagging his +tail and whining with delight. None knew better than he the noble work +he had done. + +Tom used great care. When the bushes could not be avoided, Hugh shoved +them aside with one hand, that they might not brush against the face +resting so close to his own. Perhaps he held the velvety cheek nearer +his shaggy beard than was needed, but who can chide him when his heart +glowed with the sorrowful pleasure that came from the fancy that his +own Jennie, whom he had so often pressed to his breast, was resting +there again? + +A tear dropped on the cheek of the little one. In that hour new +resolves entered the heart of O'Hara. He had been sullen, +discontented, and had long led a life that grieved his conscience. + +By and by when they came back to the path they found the walking easier +than before. + +"Hugh," said Tom, stopping short and facing about, "ain't you tired of +carryin' the kid? 'cause if you are, I'm ready to give you a lift." + +"No; I wish I could carry her forever!" + +All too soon the glimmer from the cabin window fell upon them, and they +paused at the door to make sure the clothing of the child was arranged. +They acted as if they were getting ready to go into the presence of +company. + +"I don't know as I've done right in not carrying her home," said Hugh, +"but she has been out too long already in the night air; we'll take her +in and keep her while you run down to the village and let the folks +know she is safe." + +"Is she still asleep?" + +"Yes, hark! some of the boys seem to be inside," added Hugh, as the +sound of voices came to them from within. + +The door was pushed open and the two men and dog entered. + +Harvey Bradley had risen to his feet, and for one second he stared +angrily at the newcomers. You will recall that hot words had just +passed between him and Jack Hansell, and both were in an ugly mood. +Then Harvey quickly recognized the form in the arms of Hugh and rushed +forward. + +"Is she alive?" + +"Aye, alive and without a scratch," replied Hugh, deftly taking the hat +from the head of the little sleeper and placing her in the outstretched +arms. + +"How thankful I am," exclaimed Harvey, kissing the cold red cheeks over +and over again, and pressing her to his heart; "yes--she is well--she +was lost and is found--she was dead and is alive again." + +"What are you laughing at?" demanded Hugh, wiping his eyes and glaring +savagely at Jack Hansell, who, with open mouth, was looking on in a +bewildered way; "haven't you manners enough to know when gentlemen are +present?" + +Jack seemed to think that the only way to behave was by keeping his +mouth closed. He shut his jaws with a click like that of a steel trap +and never said a word. + +Harvey Bradley sat down on the stool from which he had arisen, first +drawing it closer to the fire, and unfastened the outer clothing of the +little one. He saw that all was well with her. Then he looked up with +moistened eyes and said in a tremulous voice: + +"Hugh, tell me all about it." + +The short story was soon told. The hardy fellow made light of what he +had done, but the superintendent, who kept his eyes fixed on his face, +saw the sparkle of tears that the speaker could not keep back. It was +hard for any one of the three to believe that only a brief while before +they were ready to fly at each other's throats. Harvey was melted not +only by the rescue of his sister, but by the remembrance of the +dreadful injustice done Hugh O'Hara and his friends, when he allowed +himself to think they had taken part in the disappearance of Dollie, +who, through all the talk, continued sleeping. + +"I can never thank you for what you have done," said the +superintendent, hardly able to master his emotion, "but I shall show +you that the charge of ingratitude can never be laid at my door." + +"That's all right," replied Hugh, in his off-hand fashion; "Tom and I +are glad to do a turn like that; nobody could want to see any harm come +to such a child, no matter how they might feel toward others related to +her. Do you mean to take her home to-night?" + +"Yes; her aunt is frantic with grief." + +"But Tom can run down there quicker than you can with the little one." + +"No doubt, but we shall feel better to have her with us. She seems to +be well, and we can bundle her up warmly. There may, after all, be +serious results from this exposure, and it is best that we should have +her where we can give her every care." + +And drawing the hood from his pocket he fixed it upon Dollie's head. +She opened her eyes for a moment and mumbled something, but sank into +sleep again. Harvey explained how it was he came to have the headgear +with him. + +"I have a favor to ask of you, Mr. Bradley," said O'Hara, shifting from +one foot to another and as confused as a school-boy. + +"Anything that you ask shall be granted, if it be in my power to grant +it," replied Harvey with a fervor that could leave no doubt of his +sincerity. + +"It's a long distance to the village, and I will be glad if you will +let me carry her." + +He made as if he simply wished to assist the superintendent. The +latter knew better, but he did not say so. + +"I shall be glad to have your aid; you have had a rest for several +days, and a little exercise like this won't hurt you." + +Hugh brought forth his best coat and gathered it around Dollie, as if +he was tucking her up in her trundle bed. Then Harvey placed her with +much care in his arms and made sure they were fully prepared to go out +doors. + +The Hansell brothers quietly looked on during these proceedings. They +felt that there was no special use for them, and therefore they kept in +the background. The hound Nero showed much interest. He walked around +Hugh and Harvey, whining and wagging his tail as if he thought his +views ought to have some weight in the questions the couple were called +upon to consider. + +"Come, Nero," said his master, as he drew the door inward. The dog +shot through like a flash and the tramp to the village was begun. + +Hardly a word was spoken on the way, but when the house was reached +Hugh handed his burden over to Harvey and, refusing to go in, started +to move off. The superintendent put out his free hand. + +"Hugh, I want you to come and see me to-morrow afternoon; will you do +so?" + +"I will. Good-night." + +"Good-night." + +Hugh O'Hara had walked but a short distance up the mountain path when +he was caught in a driving snow-storm. He cared little for it, +however, and reached the cabin in due time, there to perform a strange +duty. + + + + +CHAPTER V. + +A LITTLE CHILD SHALL LEAD THEM. + +When Hugh O'Hara came to the door of Harvey Bradley, he was in his best +dress--the same that he wore to church on Sundays. Aunt Maria met him +on the threshold, and, in tremulous tones, thanked him. Then she led +the way to the back parlor, where the young superintendent awaited him. +The moment he entered, there came a flash of sunshine and a merry +exclamation, and with one bound, little Dollie (none the worse, +apparently, for her adventure the night before) landed in the iron-like +arms and kissed the shaggy-bearded fellow, who laughingly took a chair +and held her a willing captive on his knee. + +Harvey sat smiling and silent until the earthquake was over. Then, as +his chief foreman looked toward him, he said: + +"As I said last night, Hugh, the service you have done is beyond +payment. You know what a storm set in just after Dollie was brought +home, she never could have lived through that." + +"It would have gone hard with her, I'm afraid," replied the embarrassed +visitor; "does the little one feel no harm?" + +"We observe nothing except a slight cold, which the doctor says is of +no account. I have made up my mind to give to you, Hugh----" + +The latter raised his hand in protest. He could accept money for any +service except that of befriending the blue-eyed darling on his knee. + +"Never refer to that again." + +Harvey laughed. + +"I looked for something of the kind; I have a few words to add. I +found out this morning that there was a mortgage of $600 against your +little home in the village. I don't believe in mortgages, and that +particular one has now no existence. If you see any way to help undo +what I have done go ahead, but I beg you not to refuse another small +present that I have prepared for you." + +And Harvey turned as if about to take something from his desk, but +stopped when he saw Hugh shake his head almost angrily. + +"I would do a good deal to oblige you, Mr. Bradley, but you must not +ask that. I would have been better pleased had you let the mortgage +alone; my wife and little one are under the sod, and it matters nought +to me whether I have a place to lay my head. But," he added with a +faint smile, "what's done can't be undone, and, since you have asked +me, I will drop the matter, but nothing more, I pray you, on the other +subject." + +"Hugh," said the superintendent, like one who braces himself for a duty +that has its disagreeable as well as its pleasant features, "you know +that I had sent to Vining for men to take the places of those who are +on strike?" + +"I heard something of the kind, sir." + +"They were to start for Bardstown to-night and are due to-morrow." + +"Yes, sir." + +"I countermanded the order by telegraph this morning; not a man will +come." + +"Yes, sir." + +"The whistle will blow to-morrow as usual, ten minutes before 7 +o'clock, and I shall expect every one of you to be in place; I have +agreed to your terms." + +Hugh looked at the superintendent a moment and then asked a singular +question: + +"Is it because I found Dollie that you agree to our terms?" + +"Why do you ask that?" + +"Because, if that is the reason, I will not accept the terms, for you +would be doing out of gratitude an act which your judgment condemned." + +Harvey Bradley felt his respect for this man increase tenfold. Such +manliness was worthy of all admiration. He hastened to add: + +"There's where, I am glad to say, you are in error. Now you know as +well as I do that in order to keep discipline the employer must insist +upon his rights. If he were to give all that is asked his business +would be destroyed. But, on the other hand, labor has rights as well +as capital, and the two can never get along together until this truth +is respected by both. In all disputes, there should be an interchange +of views, a full statement of grievances by those who are dissatisfied, +and a fair consideration of them by the party against whom they exist." + +O'Hara was not afraid to look his employer in the face and say: + +"That has been my opinion all along, Mr. Bradley, and had it been yours +this lock-out would never have come." + +"I admit it. You came to me from the employes and asked for a +discussion of the differences between us. I thought you insolent, and +refused to listen to you. Therein I did you all an injustice, for +which I apologize." + +"It gives me joy to hear you speak thus, Mr. Bradley." + +"Seeing now my mistake, there is but the one course before me. I am +convinced that in all cases of trouble like ours the court of first +resort should be arbitration. The wish to be just is natural to every +one, or at least to the majority of mankind. If the parties concerned +cannot agree, they should appeal to those in whom both have confidence +to bring about an agreement between them; that is according to the +golden rule. Employer and employed, labor and capital, should be +friends, and arbitration is the agent that shall bring about that happy +state of things." + +"But I do not see that there has been any arbitration in this dispute." + +"But there has been all the same." + +"Where is the arbitrator?" + +"She sits on your knee wondering what all this talk means. I tell you, +Hugh, there is a good deal more in those little heads than most people +think. Yesterday morning, when Dollie sat in her high chair at the +breakfast-table, she heard her aunt and me talking about the strike. +Though she could not understand it all, she knew there was trouble +between me and my employes. I was out of patience and used some sharp +words. She listened for a few minutes while busy with her bread and +milk, and then what do you think she said?" + +"I am sure I have no idea," replied O'Hara, patting the head of the +laughing child, "but whatever it was, it was something nice." + +"She says, 'Brother Harvey, when I do anything wrong, you take me on +your knee and talk to me and that makes me feel so bad that I never do +that kind of wrong again. Why don't you take those bad men on your +knee and talk to them, so they won't do so again?' I showed her that +such an arrangement was hardly practicable, and then she fired her +solid shot that pierced my ship between wind and water: 'Brother +Harvey, maybe it's _you_ that has done wrong; why don't you sit down on +their knees _and let them give you a talking to_? Then you won't be +bad any more." + +Hugh and Harvey broke into laughter, during which Dollie, who had +become tired of sitting still full two minutes, slid off O'Hara's knee +and ran out of the room. + +"We smile at the odd conceits of the little ones," continued Harvey, +"but you know that the truest wisdom has come from the mouths of babes. +I hushed her, but what she said set me thinking--'_Why don't you let +them give you a good talking to_?' _That_ was the very thing you had +asked and I had refused. I set out to take a long walk, and was absent +most of the day. Her question kept coming up to me, and I tried to +drive it away. The effort made me angry and ended in a decision to be +sterner than ever. I would not yield a point; I would import a body of +men at large expense and keep them at work, just because I was too +proud to undo what I knew was wrong. + +"Still my conscience troubled me, but for all that I don't think I +would have yielded. Pride, the greatest of all stumbling-blocks, was +in my way. Reaching home, I learned that Dollie was lost; then, of +course, every other thought went from my head. Nothing else could be +done until she was found." + +Harvey was about to tell his guest his suspicion that he had had a hand +in the abduction of the child, but he was ashamed, and really there was +no call for such a confession. + +"Well, it was you who found her. I repeat that my debt to you can +never be paid. And yet I do not believe that that obligation would +have led me to yield, where I felt that a principle was at stake. It +was the words of Dollie, spoken yesterday, that stuck to me. They kept +me awake most of the night and played a part in the dreams that I had +about her being lost in the woods and eaten up by panthers and all +sorts of creatures. When I awoke this morning, the mists had cleared +away. I saw my error, and fully made up my mind to do all I could to +correct it. I went to the telegraph office before breakfast and sent a +message to Vining countermanding the order for the men. Then I came +back and had just finished my meal when a message was brought to my +house. Odd, wasn't it?" + +"I see nothing odd in a telegram for you." + +"I mean in the telegram itself." + +"I could not answer that unless I saw it." + +"Of course," said Harvey with a laugh, wheeling about in his chair and +picking up one of the yellow slips of paper which the Western Union +furnishes its patrons gratis. + +"There, read _that_," he added, passing it to Hugh O'Hara, who looked +at it with no little curiosity. + +It was dated in the city of New York and signed by Johnson W. Bradley, +father of Harvey, and President of the Rollo Mills Company. This was +the body of the telegram: + +"Don't lose sight of the interests of your men. Before hiring other +hands _try arbitration_." + +"That _is_ rather odd," said Hugh; leaning forward, so as to hand the +telegram back to his employer, "but it is sound wisdom all the same." + +"Undoubtedly; but are you convinced that I agree to your terms not +because of gratitude, but because I believe them right?" + +"I am satisfied," said Hugh; "have you sent the notice to the hands?" + +"Yes. I wonder that you did not hear of it on the way here." + +Hugh smiled. + +"Of course I heard of it. I knew it long ago, but I did not know _why_ +you had decided to restore our time to what it was and to pay the same +wages; _that_ I have learned from yourself. And now that you have done +your part so well," added Hugh, rising to leave, "I assure you that we +shall do ours; we shall give you the best service we can. No one shall +misinterpret your action or try to take advantage of it." + +The superintendent was wise enough to avoid a mistake to which persons, +placed as was he, are liable--that is, he did not overdo his part. He +was so happy over the return of his little sister that he was willing +not only to give the old wages and time asked for by his employes, but +he felt like adding to them. He meant to make the pay of O'Hara +greater than before, but changed his purpose at the last moment. + +Had he added to the pay of his chief foreman it would have changed the +ratio between that and the wages of the others, unless theirs, too, was +increased. In that event, a reproof was likely to come from the +directors, and he would find it hard to retrace his steps. + +Justice called for him to do just what he had done; it would be weak to +do more. "Hugh," said he, also rising to his feet, "I am not quite +through with you; I am now going to ask you to do _me_ a favor." + +"I guess it's safe to promise in advance that I will do it--that is, of +course, if it be in my power to do it." + +"It is in your power. Last night, when I was in the woods near your +cabin, I noticed a strange odor in the air; I could not imagine its +cause, but I know now what it was." + +"What was it?" asked O'Hara, turning crimson. + +"You and some of your friends have been illicitly making whiskey. You +have a distillery somewhere in the mountains, and, while working in the +mills during the day, you have taken turns in running the still at +night. I will not ask you to tell me how long you have been doing +this, but you know as well as I that it is a crime." + +The two men were silent a moment and then Hugh, without any appearance +of agitation, said: + +"You have spoken the truth; the still was not more than a hundred feet +from the cabin, and caused the smell you noticed." + +"How could you three attend to it when you were in the cabin?" + +"Some one was generally close by. The pipe that carried off the fumes +ran into the chimney of our cabin and mixed with the smoke. We took +turns in looking after it. Tom and I had been there earlier in the +evening, and Jack was to look in now and then against our coming back. +But," added Hugh, "you said you had a favor to ask of me." + +"So I have; I ask you to destroy that still, root and branch, and never +take a hand in anything of the kind again." + +"I cannot do that." + +"Why not? You are engaged in breaking the laws of your country, for +which there is a severe penalty. Now that you will have steady work, +you cannot make the plea that would have been yours if the strike +continued. Why can't you do as I ask you to do?" + +"Because it has already been done. After I got back to the cabin last +night, Tom and Jack and I went out and wound up the business. The worm +has been thrown down the rocks, where it can never be found, the mash +has been scattered to the four winds, and everything smashed to general +flinders. It took us nearly to daylight to finish it, but we stuck to +it till the job was done." + +"I am delighted to hear that, what was the cause of all this?" + +"I guess it must have been the little arbitrator," said O'Hara, with a +smile; "they say that when a man does a bad act he feels like doing +others. That may or may not be true, but I know that when a man does a +good deed, the impulse to do more is awakened, and whatever good there +is in him is strengthened. I have been a bad man; I grew desperate +after the death of Jennie; but when I held your Dollie in my arms it +seemed that some of her goodness found its way into my heart. I +resolved with the help of heaven to be a better man. The first step +toward becoming so was to stop the unlawful work in which I had been +engaged only a short time. + +"I thought that Tom and Jack would make trouble, but I didn't care, for +I could manage them. To my surprise, however, they seemed to feel just +as I did. So they fell to work with a will, and the job couldn't have +been done more thoroughly. Now, if you will allow me to kiss Dollie, +who has come back, I will bid you both good day." + +Harvey Bradley shook hands with his visitor, during which he handed him +a liberal sum of money for Tom Hansell, who had taken part in the +search for Dollie. He sent naught to Jack, for he deserved none. Then +he went with Hugh to the outer door, giving him a number of encouraging +words on the way. + +The whistle of the Rollo Mills never screeched more cheerily than it +did the next morning, and there was never a happier band of employes +than the 300, young and old, who took their places again in the works. + +A short time afterward Harvey Bradley opened and furnished a room where +the best of reading was given free to all who chose to accept the +privilege. Still later in the season a night school was started, and +the skilled teacher who took charge was liberally paid by the board of +directors, who never made a better investment of money. + +The interest shown by the superintendent in the welfare of his employes +proved to be seed sowed in good ground. All wrought faithfully and +well, and when on the 1st of January the balance sheet was made up, lo! +the net profits of the Rollo Mills were greater than ever before. + + + + +IN THE NICK OF TIME. + +It may sound like slander for me to say that the elephant, which is +admittedly one of the most intelligent members of the animal creation, +is also one of the most vicious and treacherous. But it is a fact all +the same. I have seen one of those beasts, that had been fed and +treated with the greatest kindness for years by his keeper, turn upon +him like a tiger, and, seizing him with that wonderful trunk of his, +dash him to death before he could do more than utter a cry of protest +and terror. + +I have seen another, after waiting weeks for the opportunity, suddenly +grasp an innocent person, and, kneeling upon him with his beam-like +legs, knead him out of all semblance of humanity. + +Columbus, who was the main attraction of Barnum's establishment some +forty years ago, killed several keepers, and was likely to start on one +of his terrible rampages at any moment. The giving away of a bridge in +New England so injured him that he died, long before any of my young +readers were born. + +An elephant, fully as bad as Columbus, was Vladdok, who was brought to +this country when quite young. A glimpse at his enormous ears told his +African nativity at once, those from Asia and Ceylon having much +smaller ears. He belonged to the old traveling circus of Blarcom & +Burton, and made several journeys through our country in the days when +those establishments found no use for the railways, but patiently +plodded from town to town, delighting the hearts and eyes of our +grandfathers and grandmothers when they were children just as we are +now. + +Vladdok had killed two keepers, besides badly wounding a couple of +spectators in Memphis, when he yielded to one of his vicious moods. He +had been fired upon and wounded more times than any one could remember, +and Mr. Blarcom, who always traveled with his show, had been on the +point more than once of ordering his destruction; but he was of such +large size and possessed such extraordinary intelligence, that he +constituted the main attraction of the exhibition and he hesitated, +well aware that sooner or later, the wicked fellow would die "with his +boots on." + +It was after an afternoon performance in one of the Western States that +Vladdok indulged in his last rampage. His sagacious keeper had come to +understand the animal so well, that he knew the outbreak was coming. +While Vladdok was unusually tractable and obedient, there was a +dangerous glitter in his small eyes, and an occasional nervous movement +of his head, which proved that he was only biding his time and waiting +for the grand chance to present itself. + +Fortunately, he did not rebel until after the exhibition was over, and +the crowds had departed. Then, with a fierce trumpeting and one vast +shiver of his enormous bulk, he made a dash which snapped his chains +like so much whip-cord and went through the side of the tent as though +it were cardboard. + +On his wild charge, which set all the rest of the animals in a panic, +he reached for his keeper, who with prodding spear and shouts, +interposed himself in his path and tried to check him. But the man's +inimitable dexterity and good fortune enabled him to dodge the beast +and escape by a hair's breadth. The next minute, the elephant reached +the public highway, down which he swung awkwardly but swiftly, on an +excursion that was destined to be the most tragic in his whole career. + +The first object on which he vented his wrath was a team of horses, +driven by a farmer, whose wife was sitting beside him on the front +seat. Neither they nor the team knew their danger until the avalanche +of fury was upon them. The animals screamed in an agony of fright, and +were rearing and plunging, when Vladdok grasped one with his trunk, +lifted him in the air and dashed him to death. The other broke loose +and plunged off at such headlong speed, that the elephant followed him +only a few paces, when he turned to attack the man and woman. + +But they were nowhere in sight, and, with a trumpet of disgust, he +wheeled about, and turning from the highway, took to the woods. + +The couple were saved by a singular occurrence. The violent rearing +and backing of the horses overturned the wagon body, and the farmer and +his better half were caught beneath it, before they could escape. They +had sense enough to remain quiet, until the brute left, when they crept +out, none the worse for their mishap. + +"Consarn his pictur!" exclaimed the husband; "if that don't beat all +creation! I allers said that circuses and shows was a burnin' shame, +and now I _know_ it; I'll make the owner of that elephant pay ten +thousand dollars for the damage he done us, for he scart you and me so +bad Betsy, that we'll never grow another inch." + +Meanwhile, the runaway kept things moving. He knew his keeper and +attendants were hot on his trail, and his sudden change of course was +undoubtedly with a view of misleading them. It is hardly to be +supposed that he expected to find any "game" in the woods, but +nevertheless he did. + +It so happened that Jack Norton and Billy Wiggins, a couple of boys not +more than fourteen years of age, were engaged on a little hunt that +same afternoon. The teachers had sent such bad reports home about them +that their parents inflicted the most awful kind of punishment; they +did not permit them to attend the circus, to which they had been +looking forward for weeks. The father of Billy was specially stern, +and forbade his hopeful to take his gun, when he joined Jack on a +little hunting ramble in the woods. Mr. Norton felt some slight +compunctions, when he noted how patiently his boy accepted his fate, +and relented to that degree that he permitted him to take his rifle, +though he knew there was little chance of his securing any game. + +The boys had walked about a mile, and, coming to a fallen tree, sat +down to rest awhile, for the day was warm and the gun which they had +taken turns in carrying, was heavy. + +"I guess this hunt ain't agoin' to amount to much," sighed Jack, as he +leaned the rifle against the prostrate trunk, on which they were seated. + +"Why not?" asked Billy. + +"'Cause there ain't nothin' to hunt; I heerd Budge Jones say that when +he was a boy, these woods used to be full of bears and deers and tigers +and lions and giraffes and that sort of thing." + +"Yes, and the folks were so mean they killed 'em all, but I've the +idea, Jack, that maybe some of the lions or tigers has hid somewhere in +the woods and we might find 'em." + +"Golly! I don't know whether I'd want to find 'em or not," replied +Jack, looking about him, with a scared expression. + +"Why not? Hain't you got a gun?" + +"Yes, but while I was killin' one the others might chaw me all to +pieces; but if there was only one, I wouldn't care, if he was an +elephant as big as a barn----" + +"My gracious! there he comes!" + +A terrific crashing of the undergrowth caused both lads to glance +affrightedly behind them, and there, sure enough, was Vladdok, the +fearful elephant, almost upon them. They started to run, their courses +so diverging that the beast was forced to select one and let the other +alone for the moment. He fixed upon Billy Wiggins, who had taken +barely twenty steps, when the trunk of the beast inclosed his waist and +he was lifted, as if he was a feather from the ground, and the next +instant he felt himself whizzing through space. + +A marvelous providence saved him. Instead of dashing him against a +tree, or upon the ground, the elephant, in one of his mad freaks, flung +him from him as though he was a ball. He spun through the air, the +leaves and limbs whizzing against his face and body, and instinctively +clutching with both hands, succeeded in grasping enough branches to +support the weight of his body and check his descent. + +Then, when he collected his senses and stared around, he found that he +was a dozen yards above the ground, with the elephant beneath, looking +up, and apparently waiting for him to fall within his reach, that he +might finish him. + +"Not much," muttered Billy; "I'm going to stay here and I don't believe +you know how to climb a tree. Helloa! how do you like _that_?" + +Jack Norton had dashed only a few yards, when the terrified look he +cast over his shoulder told him the elephant was giving his whole +attention to Billy, and seemed to have forgotten all about him. +Instantly he was filled with alarm for his young friend, and started +back to the log to get his rifle, that neither had thought of in the +panic. + +As he knelt behind the fallen tree, to make his aim sure, he descried a +queer object going through the limbs of a large oak, and did not +identify it, until it lodged fast, as his friend Billy Wiggins. + +Jack had no more idea of the fatal point at which to aim his weapon +than you have, but knowing that he must do something, and, with a dread +that the elephant after all, might succeed in climbing the oak and +getting at his friend, he let fly. + +Gordon Cumming himself could not have done better. The tiny bullet +bored its way into the vast bulk, just back of the fore leg and went +directly through the heart. The huge brute, as if conscious that he +was mortally hurt, swung part way round, so as to face the point whence +the shot had come. Catching sight of the kneeling youngster, with the +muzzle of his rifle still smoking, he plunged toward him. He took a +couple of steps, swayed to one side, moved uncertainly forward again, +then stopped, tried to steady himself, and finally went over sideways, +like a mountain, crashing the saplings and undergrowth near him, and +snapping one of his magnificent tusks into splinters. He was dead. + +When the boys fully comprehended what had taken place, they were not a +little alarmed and puzzled, and started home, wondering whether their +game was a descendant of the creatures that used to inhabit that +section, or whether he was a visitor to these parts. They had not gone +far, however, when they met the attaches of the menagerie and circus to +whom they related what had occurred. + +The proprietors were relieved on learning the whole truth, for there +could be little doubt that the sudden ending of the career of Vladdok +was the means of saving more than one person from death. + +As for Jack Norton and Billy Wiggins, it was generally conceded that +they spoke the truth, when they declared: + +"Our fathers wouldn't let us go to the circus that afternoon, but I +guess we had a bigger circus than any of you all to ourselves." + + + + +LOST IN THE SOUTH SEA. + +Captain William Gooding was commander of the _Tewksbury Sweet_, of +Portland, Maine, and was lost in the South Pacific in the spring of +1889. This fine American bark sailed from New Castle, New South Wales, +on the 17th of March, bound for Hong Kong. Everything went well until +the 9th of the following month, when she encountered a severe gale. +Despite all that skillful seamanship could do, and in the face of the +most strenuous exertions, she struck the dangerous Susanne Reef, near +Poseat Island, one of the Caroline group of the South Sea. + +The wreck was a total one. The vessel broke up rapidly, and seeing +that nothing could be done, the captain and crew, numbering ten men in +all, took to one of the boats, carrying with them only a single +chronometer belonging to the ship. Even after entering the small boat +they were still in great danger, and only succeeded after the utmost +difficulty in reaching a small islet some miles to the southward. The +storm was still raging so violently that the shelter was a most welcome +one, though as there were no animals or vegetation, or even water upon +the island, their stay of necessity could be only temporary. They had +saved nothing to eat or drink, and to remain where they were meant a +lingering death. + +After several hours waiting, the tempest abated somewhat, and launching +their boat once more, they rowed toward the main island. + +"The end is likely to be the same in either case," remarked the captain +to the second mate, George W. Harrison, as they approached the land. + +"And why?" inquired the latter: "we shall find food and water there." + +"True enough; but there are no fiercer savages on the South Sea than +those of this island, and I have never heard that they were +particularly friendly toward the crews of shipwrecked vessels." + +"They may not discover us until we can signal some passing ship." + +"There is no possibility of any such good fortune as that." + +"Stranger things have happened, and--" + +"Does that look like it?" interrupted the captain in some excitement, +pointing toward the island. + +The sight that met the gaze of every one was startling. Fully thirty +canoes, each filled with eight or ten natives, were putting off from +shore and heading toward them. Several of the crew favored turning +about, and putting to sea; but that would have been not only hopeless, +but would have invited attack. Nothing is so encouraging to an enemy +as flight on the part of his opponent. It impels him to greater +exertions and gives him a bravery which otherwise he may not feel. + +The savages, in their light, graceful craft, and with their great skill +in manipulating them, would have overhauled the white men "hand over +hand." There was a faint hope that by presenting a bold front, and +acting as though they believed in the friendship of the savages that +they might spare the unfortunates. At any rate, it was clear there was +no choice but to go ahead, and the white men did so, rowing leisurely +and calmly, though the chances in doing so were hastening their own +doom. + +There could be no mistaking the ardor of the ferocious natives. They +paddled with might and main, and fully a dozen, in their eagerness, +leaped into the sea and swam ahead of their canoes. They were +magnificent swimmers, speeding through the water like so many dolphins. +The Americans, even in their frightful peril, could not repress their +admiration. + +"Did you ever see anything like it?" asked first mate Watchman; "they +are like so many sharks." + +"They are indeed," was the significant response of Captain Gooding, +"and I would like it better if they were real sharks." + +"Here they are!" + +Sure enough; they surrounded the boat in a twinkling, and shouting and +screeching like so many demons, clambered over the gunwales until there +was danger of swamping the craft. + +Had our friends possessed firearms, they would have made a desperate +resistance, and possibly might have beaten off their assailants; but, +as it was, they acted the part of wisdom in offering no opposition to +the presence or actions of their unwelcome visitors. + +The latter proved that they meant business from the first, for hardly +were they in the boat when they began stripping the officers and +sailors of their property. When they ceased the men had nothing left +but their undershirts, their despoilers flinging the garments into the +canoes that now crowded around. + +No more plunder being obtainable, the fleet headed for land, with their +captives in anything but a cheerful frame of mind. The shore was lined +with women and children, who answered the shouts of their friends in +the boats by running back and forth, screeching and yelling and +dancing, as if unable to restrain themselves until the arrival of their +victims. + +The sailors believed they would be speedily killed and eaten, the +latter horror might have been escaped had they known, what they +afterward learned, that the savages of those islands are not cannibals. + +The poor fellows stepped from their boat upon the shore, where they +were immediately environed by the fierce men, women and children, half +naked, wild, boisterous, and seemingly impatient to rend them to +pieces. The prisoners could do nothing but meekly await the next step +in the tragedy. + +It was during these trying moments that the sailors were astounded to +hear, amid the babel of voices, several words spoken in English. +Staring about them to learn the meaning of such a strange thing, they +saw a man attired as were the others, that is with only a piece of +cloth about his hips, whose complexion and features showed that he +belonged to the same race with themselves. + +He advanced in a cheery, hearty way, and shaking hands with the new +arrivals, said: + +"I think you did not expect to find me here." + +"Indeed we did not," was the reply; "you appear to be an Englishman." + +"So I am, and I am anxious to give you all the help I can, for your +situation is anything but a desirable one." + +"There can be no doubt of that. But how is it that you are here? Were +you shipwrecked like ourselves?" + +"No; I may say I was deserted. My name is Charles Irons, and I was +left at Poseat by a trading vessel four years ago." + +"How came that?" + +"I was to act as the agent of a company of traders on the Cocoanut +Islands. Well, the vessel left me, as I first told you, and that was +the last of it. They forgot all about me, or more likely, did not care +to keep their promise, for I have never seen anything of the vessel +since." + +"What an outrage!" + +"It was, and there couldn't have been a more wretched person than I was +for several months. I looked longingly out to sea for the ship that +never came, and chafed like a man who is bound hand and foot. But," +added the Englishman with a smile, "there is nothing like making the +best of things. You can accustom yourself almost to anything if you +will only make up your mind to do so. I was among these people and +there was no help for it, so I decided to adopt their ways and become +one of them." + +"You decided when in Rome to do as the Romans do," suggested the +captain, who, like his companions, was greatly cheered, not only by the +presence and friendship of the Englishman, but by the fact that the +savages, who watched the interview with interest, showed no disposition +to interfere. + +"That's it. There are a great many worse people in this world than +these. They are not cannibals, as are many of their neighbors, and +they have never harmed me." + +"But what about us?" was the anxious inquiry. + +The Englishman looked grave. + +"I cannot say what their intentions are, but I am afraid they are bad. +They have been used ill by some of the vessels that have stopped here, +and are naturally suspicious of all white people. Then, too, they are +revengeful, and like all barbarians are satisfied, if aggrieved against +our race, to get their satisfaction out of any member of it, whether he +is the one who injured them, or is entirely innocent." + +"You seem to be regarded with high favor here." + +"I am. I stand next to the chief in authority, so you see I have +reason to believe I may be of some service to you. You may be sure +that I shall leave no stone unturned to help you." + +The captain and his companions gave expression to their deep gratitude, +and Irons continued in his bluff, pleasant manner: + +"I guess I am about as much a savage as any of them. If I hadn't been +I never would have obtained any control over them. I have seven native +wives, and find I am forgetting a great many details of civilization, +while my desire to return home is growing less every day. After all, +what difference does it make where you are? A man has only a few years +to live, and as long as he is contented, he is a fool to rebel." + +There may have been good philosophy in all this, and the captain did +not attempt to gainsay it, but, all the same, it was hard for him to +understand how any one could be so placed as to lose his yearning for +his home and his native land. + +It was several days afterward, when the captives had become somewhat +accustomed to their surroundings, that Captain Gooding found he and his +men were mixed in their reckoning. + +"It is a question among us whether this is Thursday or Friday," said +he, addressing Irons; "can you settle it for us?" + +The Englishman looked at the captain in an odd way and replied: + +"I haven't the remotest idea of what day in the week it is, nor what is +the month. It seems four years ago that I was left here, but I am not +sure of it. Will you please give me the year and month?" + +"This is April, 1889." + +The Englishman bent his head for a few minutes in deep thought. He was +recalling the past, with its singular incidents of his career. When he +looked up he said: + +"Yes; it is four years and more since I was abandoned, and if you stay +that long you will be content to remain all your lives." + +The captain shook his head, and his eyes were dimmed as he replied: + +"I never could forget the loved ones at home, Irons; I would prefer +death at once to a lingering imprisonment here." + +"Well, I am going to help you all to leave just as soon as it can be +done. I understand how you feel, and sympathize with you." + +The Englishman proved himself the most valuable kind of a friend. The +authority which he possessed over these savage South Sea Islanders was +stretched to the utmost, but he never hesitated to employ it. But for +his presence the Americans would have been put to death within a few +hours at most of their arrival on the mainland, and without his aid it +would have been impossible for them ever to have gotten away. + +When everything was in shape, Irons hired a canoe of the natives for +the use of his friends. The craft was not large enough to contain all +the party, and since all real peril had passed, there was no fear in +following the course that had been agreed upon. + +Captain Gooding, second mate Harrison; and one of the sailors left +Poseat in the canoe, first mate Watchman and his six companions +remaining on the island. This was ten days after the loss of the +_Tewksbury Sweet_. + +Captain Gooding and all the sailors were in the best of spirits, for +they were confident that their wearisome captivity was substantially +over. The three made their way from island to island, stopping at +eight different points, sometimes for days, and even weeks. Finally +they arrived at Ruk, where they found a missionary station, and +received the most hospitable treatment. + +The good men owned a boat abundantly large enough to carry twenty +persons, and the captain asked its use with which to bring the rest of +his crew from Poseat. This was asking more than would be supposed, for +the missionaries told them that they were surrounded by hostile +natives, who were liable to an outbreak at any hour, in which event the +only means of escape the white men possessed was the boat. + +The missionaries, however, gave their consent, and Captain Gooding, +hoisting sail in the staunch centre-boarder, set sail for Poseat, where +he safely arrived, without unnecessary delay. He found the first mate +and his sailors well and in high spirits, though they were beginning to +wonder whether their captain, like the friends of Irons, had not +forgotten, and concluded to leave them to themselves. + +No objection was offered to their departure, and bidding an +affectionate good-by to the Englishman, who had proven the best kind of +a friend, they returned to the missionary island. Two months later the +missionary vessel, the _Morning Star_, arrived, and carried them all to +Honolulu, which was reached in November. Thence Captain Gooding and a +part of the crew were brought by the steamer _Australia_ to San +Francisco, from which point the captain made his way to his home in +Yarmouth, where his family and friends welcomed him back as one risen +from the dead, for they had long given up hope of ever seeing him again. + + + + +AN UNPLEASANT COMPANION. + +"Say, Jack, the shellbarks are droppin' thick down in Big Woods. What +a chance for a fellow to lay up a bushel or two before the crowd gets +down there in the morning." + +"Wouldn't it, though, Ned!" I replied wistfully, for if there was +anything I had a fondness for, it was shellbarks. + +We were trudging home to our dinner, for Ned and I lived close to the +schoolhouse, much to the envy of some less fortunate pupils who brought +their noonday meal with them in tin pails. It was a late September +Friday, and a soft golden haze lay on hillside and woodland, and the +quail were whistling in the furrows; and, as Ned spoke, I could see in +my mind's eye just how Big Woods would look that afternoon with the +soft sunlight slanting through the trees, and glimmering on the quiet +waters of the creek. + +"Well, Jack, will you go?" said Ned abruptly. + +"You mean will I play truant?" I asked, a little startled. + +"Yes; there's no danger, Jack; we'll tell the teacher we had to stay +home to cut corn." + +At first, I resisted Ned's appeal. I had played truant once before, a +long time ago, and the memory of the punishment that I received in the +woodshed at home was still strongly impressed on my memory. + +But this, I thought, was an exceptional case, I badly wanted a bushel +or two of shellbarks, and I knew full well that, unless they were +gathered that afternoon, they wouldn't be gathered at all; for bright +and early the next morning all the boys in the neighborhood would be +down in Big Woods, armed with clubs and baskets and sacks, and even the +squirrels would stand a poor show after that invasion. + +In our selfishness, we never thought that other people might have a +fondness for shellbarks as well as ourselves. So, after a little more +pleading on Ned's part, I gave in, and we agreed to meet down at the +foot of our orchard, as soon as dinner was over, for Ned lived right +across, on the next farm. In a corner of the barn, I found my old +chestnut club, a hickory stave, well coiled with lead at the top. +Shoving this under my jacket, so no prying eyes could see it, I joined +Ned at the meeting-place, and off we went in high spirits for the +Yellow-breeches. + +It was a good mile to Big Woods, for we had to circle away down to +Hake's Mill to get across the creek, but we felt well repaid for our +trouble when we arrived there. The fallen nuts lay thick amid the dead +leaves, and up on the half-naked trees the splitting hulls hung in +clusters, willing to drop their burden at the least rustle of the +breeze. + +We heaped the shellbarks in great piles, ready to stow away in Ned's +big wheat bag; and, when the ground was cleaned up pretty well, and the +leaves had been thoroughly raked, we turned our attention to a close +cluster of trees that stood close by the creek. These nuts were +unusually large, and thin-shelled. The hulls were cracked apart, but +very few nuts lay on the ground, so I hauled out my club, and drove it +fairly into the heart of the tree. A shower of nuts came down, with a +merry clatter that gladdened our hearts; but the club, striking the +trunk of the tree, bounded sideways and lodged in the crotch of a limb +overhanging the creek, some twenty or thirty feet above the water. + +Here was a dilemma. I didn't want to lose that club, for it had done +good service in past autumns, and had gone through a great many +hairbreadth escapes. + +If we tried to dislodge it by hurling sticks or stones, it would fall +into the water, and just at that point the creek was very deep, and +moreover, as popular tradition held, a treacherous undertow existed +which would render the recovery of the club impossible. + +"Climb the tree, Jack," said Ned; "that's your only chance." + +I was always considered a pretty good climber, so, after a little +hesitation (for this was an unusually difficult tree), I started up the +slippery trunk, and, with Ned's friendly aid, pulled myself among the +lower limbs. + +It was an easy matter to reach the particular bough that I wanted, but +then came the tug. I was half-inclined to give up the whole thing and +go down to the ground, but Ned kept egging me on so confidently that I +determined to go through with it. + +Straddling the limb, I took a firm hold with both hands in front of me, +for no other boughs were close enough to be grasped, and thus inch by +inch I moved cautiously forward. + +The branch creaked and groaned, and at last began to bend in such an +alarming fashion that I stopped short. + +There was the club, not four feet away now, and far below I could see +the quiet waters of the creek, wrinkling the reflected foliage as a +dropping nut or stray leaf rippled the surface. + +"You're nearly there, now," cried Ned, with hearty encouragement; "just +a little more, Jack, and you'll have it. + +"But the limb will break," I called down. + +"No, it won't," he insisted, "don't be afraid." + +That settled it. I wasn't afraid, and Ned should know it. + +I took a firmer grip on the bough, and slid forward half a foot. + +Crack, crack,--the big branch slowly began to split, and as I made a +frantic effort to crawl back, a strange noise from the bushy part of +the tree overhead turned my gaze upward. + +It's a wonder my hair didn't turn white that very instant, for what I +saw was a big, tawny wild-cat, with blazing eyes and quivering claws, +crouched on a narrow limb. I knew the animal was going to spring, and +I tried to shout as loudly as I could, but my tongue stuck to the roof +of my mouth, and the only sound I made was an odd cry that caused Ned +to laugh, for he couldn't see what was the matter from where he stood. + +Then like a streak the brute plumped down on my back, and with a +tremendous splash, limb, wildcat, and myself went into the creek. + +I heard Ned shout, as the water closed over me, and then everything +became dark. + +I rose to the surface terribly frightened, for, sad to relate, I had +never learned to swim, and Ned could do very little in that direction. +Instead of clutching at the empty air, as most drowning persons do, I +caught hold of something substantial; and when the water was out of my +eyes and out of my stomach, for I had swallowed about a pint, I saw +that I was hanging to the bushy end of the broken limb. That was all +very well, but the next thing I observed was not so pleasant, for six +feet distant, on the thick part of the branch, sat the wild-cat, +apparently none the worse for his fall. His sharp claws were driven +into the bark, and he was calmly licking his dripping fur. Meanwhile +the current was sweeping us down stream, and Ned was running along the +bank in a sad state of fright and excitement. My back began to hurt +pretty badly, and I discovered that my face was torn and bleeding in +one or two places, though whether this was caused by the fall or by the +wild-cat I did not know. + +"Swim, Jack, let go and swim," shouted Ned, and then, remembering +perhaps that I was unable to follow his instructions, he suddenly +turned and ran back through the woods at the top of his speed, instead +of making any effort to help me. + +I was badly scared before, and now, when I saw, as I supposed, my last +hope vanish, I began to shout for help as loudly as I could. + +But at the very first cry the wild-cat lifted his head, and emitted a +vicious snarl. As I howled louder than ever, he advanced a foot or two +along the limb, ripping off the bark, and fixing his big glaring eyes +savagely on my face. + +I was terrified into silence, and, as soon as I ceased shouting, the +brute stopped and coolly proceeded to lick his fur again. + +Apparently, he did not object to my presence so long as I remained +quiet. The worst of it was that my end of the branch was pretty far +down in the water, and threatened every moment to carry me entirely +under the surface. + +In this precarious situation, I drifted down the creek, until the bend +drew near that sweeps round to Hake's Mill. Here the country was a +little more open, and a farmhouse came into sight over the brow of a +hill. + +There was a chance of rescue, and in spite of my previous experience, I +decided to try it, for my limbs were becoming chilled, and I knew I +could not hold on much longer. + +"Help! Help!" I cried with might and main. No answer came back, but +before I could shout a third time the wild-cat uttered a snarl, and +began creeping toward me, inch by inch, and lashing the water fiercely +with his tail. Lower and lower sank the branch, until my shoulders +were submerged, and still the beast kept advancing. + +I continued to shout, but no welcome voice responded, only empty echoes +floating back from the hills. + +Then I must have given up all hope, for I remember wondering vaguely +what had become of Ned, and what they were doing in school, and whether +my absence was noticed or not. + +The cold water was rippling about my neck now, and the wild-cat was so +close that I could note the horrible colors of the glaring eyes, and +feel the hot breath in my face. I wondered how it would feel when +those two rows of needle-like teeth met in my flesh; and then, before I +could think any more, a deafening report filled my ears, and, through +the cloud of smoke that rolled over the creek, the wild-cat bounded +high in air, and fell into the water with a loud splash. That was all +I remembered then. The next thing I knew, I was lying in a grassy +hollow, alongside the creek, while Ned and an old farmer bent over me, +and threw water in my face. Ned's desertion was explained. He had cut +off the bend in the creek by running over the hill, and, accompanied by +the farmer, who happened to be down in the woods hunting rabbits, they +had arrived just in time to shoot the wild-cat and drag me out of the +water. That was the last time I played truant. I didn't lose my share +of the shellbarks, for Ned went down early the next morning and got +them, but I did lose the chestnut club, and what was worse, in spite of +my sore back, I spent a very unpleasant quarter of an hour out in the +woodshed, just two days later, and Ned, I am happy to say, passed +through the same edifying experience. + + + + +A STIRRING INCIDENT. + +India is the home of the deadliest serpents and fiercest wild beasts on +the globe. When it is stated that more than twenty thousand persons +are killed annually by the snakes and animals of that country, some +idea may be formed of its attractions in the way of a residence. To +this should be added the fact that, during certain seasons, the climate +is like that of Sahara itself. For days and nights the thermometer +stands above one hundred degrees in the shade and in the city of +Madras, unacclimated persons have died at midnight in their beds from +apoplexy caused by the appalling temperature. + +Among the venomous serpents of India, the _cobra di capello_ holds +foremost rank, though it is claimed that a still more deadly reptile +has been found in the interior, and I believe the British Museum has +one of these terrible creatures, whose bite brings death with the +suddenness of the lightning stroke. However, the cobra has been known +to strike two persons in instant succession, proving fatal to both +within ten minutes of each other. It is hard to conceive of any +serpent more venomously destructive than this. + +On one of the flaming Sunday mornings, when there was not a cloud in +the brazen skies, a well known missionary came home from early service +and seated himself at the breakfast-table with his family. The door of +the dining-room was open and the Teluga school-teacher was outside, +when he became interested in a novel sight. A frog was hopping along +the front veranda, with an immense cobra chasing it. The serpent +struck at it repeatedly, but the fugitive, in its desperation, eluded +each blow, giving utterance to pitiful cries, as a frog will do when +pursued by a snake. + +The end of the veranda reached, the frog leaped off, and the cobra +dropped to the ground in hot pursuit, but a box, standing near, offered +shelter. The creature scrambled beneath, just in time to avoid another +swift blow of the reptile, which was unable to follow it. The cobra +glided around the box, seeking some avenue by which to reach his +victim, but, finding none, moved off in the grass and disappeared. + +The teacher hurried into the dining-room, with the announcement of what +he had seen. The missionary listened gravely and then inquired: + +"Where is the cobra now?" + +"I cannot tell, sir; he moved off among the flower-pots, but I do not +know whither he went." + +"It is not my practice to go shooting on Sunday," remarked the +minister, "but it won't do to have that serpent where it is liable to +bite one of us. He must have a hole somewhere near the flower-pots; +please keep watch while I get my pistol." + +The missionary always kept a loaded revolver for use when traveling +through the jungle at night, and he speedily stepped out on the +veranda, with the weapon in hand, and started to find the cobra. + +Two large native flower-pots stood within a couple of yards of the +veranda. Each contained a fragrant rose, of which the good man's wife +was very fond. Every day she spent some time sprinkling them with +water or removing the dead leaves, never suspecting what proved to be +the fact that while thus employed, she continually moved about a spot +where an immense cobra lay coiled. + +An opening was discovered directly between the flower pots, partly +concealed by the grass. It was about as thick as a man's wrist, and +descended perpendicularly, expanding into a small chamber. + +The minister called for a hand-mirror, and with little trouble threw +the bright reflection of the sun into the hole, a little more than a +foot deep, fully lighting up the interior. + +The cobra was there! It lay motionless in a glistening coil, as if +resting from its fruitless pursuit of the frog and brooding over its +disappointment. It was an alarming sight, but the good man kept cool, +and meant business from the start. + +Taking a piece of broken wagon tire, he thrust it slantingly into the +hole, to hold the serpent a prisoner, and shoving the muzzle of his +revolver forward, he let fly. + +Not the slightest motion followed. He had missed. He now gently +turned the tire edgewise and fired again. A furious writhing followed, +proving that the snake had been hit hard. The tire was instantly +turned over flat to prevent its coming out. It struck fiercely at the +iron, which in a minute was shifted on its edge again, and the +missionary emptied the remaining chambers of his revolver down the +hole. Then he turned up the tire once more, and allowed the hideous +head to dart forth. + +The minister had brought with him a pair of large hedge shears, with +which he seized the protruding neck, drew out the snake and gave it a +flirt toward the compound. He was so absorbed with his task that he +had not noticed the crowd of men, women and children that had gathered +to watch the results of his hunt. When they saw a huge cobra flying +through the air toward them, there was a scampering and screaming, +which might have been less had they known that the grip of the shears +had dislocated the serpent's neck. + +The good man did not forget that whenever you find one deadly serpent, +another is quite certain to be close at hand. He had passed the wagon +tire to the teacher, when he began pulling out the wounded cobra, and +asked him to insert it again without an instant's delay. This was +done, and returning with the hand-glass, the missionary once more +conveyed the rays into the underground chamber. + +Sure enough a second cobra was there, wriggling and squirming in a way +to show that he had received some of the bullets intended for his +companion. The revolver was reloaded and a fusillade opened, standing +off a few paces, the marksman waited for the head to come forth that he +might seize and draw it out as he had done with the other. + +The wounded reptile continued its furious squirming and striking, but +its head did not appear, until shot after shot had been fired. At last +it showed itself, and was immediately gripped with the shears. +Dropping the pistol, the missionary employed both hands in the effort, +and running backward a few steps, the whole frightful length of the +serpent was drawn out upon the ground. + +Remembering their former experience, the crowd moved away, but the +missionary spared them a second fright. + +Both cobras being helpless, an examination was made of them. The +second one showed the marks of fourteen pistol balls through his body, +any three of which would have proved fatal, but he was still full of +fight, and died while trying to strike the persons near him. + +The serpents were now stretched out on the veranda and measured one of +them five feet eleven inches long, and the other six feet two inches. +The last is an extraordinary size, rarely seen even in the favorite +haunts of the reptile. An investigation of their home left no doubt +that they had been living for months right among the flower pots that +were attended to daily, and within six feet of the veranda and twelve +feet of the door of the missionary's study. + +As for the frog that crawled under the box just in time to save +himself, he was well and flourishing at the last accounts. + + + + +CYCLONES AND TORNADOES. + +Science as yet has not been able to grasp the laws that govern +cyclones. They seem to be the result of some intensely electric +condition of the elements, which finds an expression in that form. +Cyclones, until within a few years, meant those circular tempests +encountered in the Pacific and Indian oceans. They are the most +destructive of all storms, being far more deadly than monsoons and +tornadoes. + +All navigators, when caught in a cyclone know how to get out of it. +They have only to sail at right angles to the wind, when they will +either pass beyond the outer rim of the circular sweep, or reach the +center, where the ocean is calm. + +The diameters of the ocean cyclones range from fifty to five hundred or +a thousand miles. Professor Douglas, of Ann Arbor University, +entertains his friends now and then by manufacturing miniature +cyclones. He first suspends a large copper plate by silken cords. The +plate is heavily charged with electricity, which hangs below in a +bag-like mass. He uses arsenious acid gas, which gives the electricity +a greenish tint. That mass of electricity becomes a perfect little +cyclone. It is funnel-shaped and spins around like a top. When he +moves the plate over a table, his cyclone catches up pennies, pens, +pith balls and other small articles, and scatters them in every +direction. + +Cyclones never touch the equator, though the ocean ones are rare +outside the torrid one. They are caused by the meeting of contrary +currents of winds, and are known under the names of hurricanes, +typhoons, whirlwinds or tornadoes. Those terrifying outbursts which +now and then cause so much destruction in our own country seem to be +the concentration of the prodigious force of an immense ocean cyclone +within a small space, which renders them resistless. + +A writer in the _N. Y. Herald_ gives some interesting facts regarding +these scourges of the air. While the cyclone, as we have shown, may +have a diameter of hundreds of miles, the track of a tornado is often +limited to a few hundred feet, and rarely has the width of half a mile. + +The cyclone carries with it a velocity of as much as 100 to 140 miles +an hour. It sends a certain amount of warning ahead of its track, and +the acceleration of the wind's speed at any given point, is gradual. + +The tornado falls almost without notice, or rather the indications are +often so similar to those of an ordinary thunderstorm that only a +skilled and careful observer can detect the difference. + +The phenomena and effects of cyclones in the West Indies have long been +subjects of study and observation. As the center approaches a ship she +is assaulted by wind of a terrible force and a sea that is almost +indescribable. The water no longer runs in waves of regular onward +motion, but leaps up in pyramids and peaks. The wind swirls and +strikes until wherever there is a chance for vibration or flutter, even +in tightly furled sails, the fabric soon gives way. I once saw a brig +go drifting past us in a West Indies cyclone with everything furled and +closely lashed with sea gaskets. We were in company nearly at the +height of the storm, when the center was only a few miles away. There +was a spot in the bunt of the foretopsail where the sail was not +tightly stowed, and for several hours it had doubtless been fluttering +under tremendous pressure. As I watched her a little white puff went +out of the bunt of the topsail, and then the destruction of the sail +was rapid. Long ribbons of canvas went slithering off as if a huge +file had rasped the yard arm, and in a short time there was nothing +left on the yard except the bolt ropes and the reef tackles. We could +do nothing to help the crew, for it was doubtful whether we could keep +off the reefs ourselves, and the brig passed out of sight to her +certain doom. + +The local tornado that so frequently plays havoc with property and life +in the West is, like the cyclone, a revolving force, but it carries +with it a variety of phenomena wholly distinct from those that +accompany the larger storm. Many of the effects of one tornado are +wholly absent in others, and the indications that in one case have been +followed by a terrible disaster are not infrequently found at other +times to presage merely a heavy thunder shower. + +The freaks of a tornado are wholly unaccountable. In some cases not an +object in its track will fail to feel its power for long distances; in +other instances it will seem to act like a cannon-ball that plows up +the earth on striking, then rises and strikes again, leaving the space +between untouched. Sometimes it will go through a forest leveling the +trees as though a gang of axemen had plied their tools on lines laid +out by surveyors, nothing outside the track being touched; but again in +similar windfalls there will be found occasional pockets scored in the +forest growth jutting off the right line, like small lagoons opening +into a flowing stream. These seem to have been caused by a sort of +attendant whirlwind--a baby offspring from the main monster, which, +having sprung away from the chief disturbance, scoops a hole in the +woods and then expires or rejoins the original movement. + +I have seen one of the most violent and, so to speak, compressed of +these storms, cut a road through thick woods so that at a distance the +edges stood out clear and sharp against the sky as would those of a +railway cutting through earth. Trees standing at the edge of the track +had their branches clean swept one side while on the other there was no +perceptible disturbance of the foliage. + +Sometimes the tornado acts like an enormous scoop, catching up every +movable thing and sweeping it miles away: and again it becomes a +depositor, as if, tired of carrying so much dead weight, it dumped it +upon the earth preparatory to grabbing up a new cargo. These effects +are particularly noticeable in the tornado that goes by jumps. When it +strikes and absorbs a mass of debris it seems to spring up again like a +projectile that grazes the surface. For a space there will be a very +high wind and some damage, but no such disaster as the tornado has +previously wrought. Out of the clouds will come occasional heavy +missiles and deluges of water. Then down goes the tornado again +crashing and scattering by its own force and adding to its destructive +power by a battery of timbers and other objects brought along from the +previous impact. Relieved of these masses, it again gathers up +miscellaneous movables and repeats its previous operation. + +The force with which these objects strike is best seen when they fall +outside of the tornado's path, since the work done by the missile is +not then disturbed by the general destructive force of the storm. +Thus, near Racine, Wis., I have known an ordinary fence rail, slightly +sharpened on one end, to be driven against a young tree like a spear +and pierce it several feet. The velocity of the rail must have been +something enormous, or otherwise the rail would have glanced from such +a round and elastic object. + +Many of the settlers in the tornado districts of Southern Minnesota, +Iowa, Kansas, and Nebraska excavate a deep cellar beneath their houses +and cover it with heavy timbers as a place of refuge for their families +when a tornado threatens to strike them. While these dugouts are +usually effective, they are not always so. There have been instances +where families having only time to descend and not time enough to close +the trap door have been exposed to the storm's full fury by the tornado +getting into the opening and lifting off the whole roof after having +first swept away the house above. Another pathetic case resulted in +the death of a whole family by an extraordinary freak of the tornado. +The storm first struck a large pond and swept up all the water in it. +Its next plunge deposited this water on one of these dugouts, and the +family were drowned like chipmunks in a hole. + +Some of the western tornadoes are accompanied by electrical +manifestations to an extent that has originated a belief in electricity +as their cause. These disturbances are very marked in some cases, +while in others they have not been noticed. In one tornado in Central +Illinois electricity played very peculiar antics not only in the +tornado's track, but also at some distance from it. In the ruined +houses all the iron work was found to have been strongly magnetized, so +that pokers, flatirons and other metal objects were found adhering to +each other. Just off the tornado's track the same effects were +noticed, and several persons experienced sharp electric shocks during +the passage of the storm. Afterward it was found that the magnetic +influence was so strong that clocks and watches were stopped and +rendered wholly useless. + +The scooping action of the tornado sometimes makes considerable changes +in the topography of the country, as when it gathers up the water of a +large pond or water course and makes a new pond or opens a new channel. +At Wallingford the water in a pond of very large size was taken bodily +from its bed, carried up a hill and dropped nearly in one mass, so that +gullies and ravines were cut in every direction. + +There is a divide in Northeastern Illinois between streams flowing into +Lake Michigan and those running to the Mississippi. So level is a +portion of the land on the summit, and so slight the elevation above +the lake, that in wet seasons the surface-water seems almost as willing +to go one way as the other; and on one occasion the upper streams of +the Desplaines River were nearly permanently diverted toward the lake +by a tornado that gathered up the water and scored the surface in its +track toward the east. + +Many are the stories told of the way in which objects are carried away +by the wind and left in strange places. In one Illinois tornado two +children and an infant were caught up. The dead bodies of the children +were found only a few hundred feet distant, but the infant was picked +up alive more than a mile away from the spot where the tornado swept +the children up. An accordion that must have come a long distance--for +it was never claimed--was found so entangled in the branches of a tree +that it was alternately pulled apart and pressed together by the wind, +thus creating such weird and uncanny music during a whole night that an +already sufficiently scared settlement of negroes were kept in a state +of frantic dismay until daylight revealed the cause. + +In another case a farmer who followed the tornado's track in search of +missing cattle was astonished to discover one of his cows lodged about +twenty feet above the ground in the branches of a half-stripped maple. + +"I allers knew that was an active heifer," he remarked, as he came in +sight of her hanging over the slanting limb, "but I never allowed she +could climb a tree." + + + + +LOST IN A BLIZZARD. + +If I were given my choice between a visit from a cyclone or a blizzard, +I would unhesitatingly choose the former. True, there is no resisting +its terrific power, and a man caught in its embrace is as helpless as a +child when seized by a Bengal tiger; but there is a chance of escape, +and the whole thing is over in a few minutes. You may be lifted into +the air and dropped with only a few broken bones, or, by plunging into +a "cyclone pit," the fury of the sky may glide harmlessly over your +head; but in the case of a blizzard, however, let me tell you the one +woeful experience of my life. + +The snow fell steadily for two days and nights, and looking out from my +home in western Kansas I saw that it lay fully three feet on a level. +By a strange providence my wife, who had been my brave and faithful +helper for several years, was away on a visit to her friends in Topeka, +and my only companion was my servant Jack, a middle-aged African, who +in his youth was a slave in Kentucky. + +Things had not gone well with us of late. The grasshoppers and drought +played the mischief with out crops, and it was a question with me for +months whether the wisest course to take was not to throw up my hands, +let everything go to the bow-wows and, in the dry-goods firm, that I +knew was returning to St. Louis, resume my situation still open for me. +A man hates to confess himself beaten, and I decided to remain where I +was one more year. Then, if there was no improvement, I would turn my +back on Kansas forever. + +"Master Thomas," said Jack, as the dismal December afternoon drew to a +close, "thar isn't a pound ob flour in de house. Shall I go to de +village and get some?" + +"No; I will go myself." + +It was the sudden realization of the unutterable loneliness I would +feel without any companion that led me to this rash declaration. The +town was only a mile distant, but it would require hours to make the +journey there and back, and I could not bear the thought of being +without the society of any one for that time. I had read everything in +the house; the single horse and cow I owned had been looked after, and +there was absolutely nothing to do but to sit down before the scant +fire, listen to the sifting of the snow against the window panes, and +give way to gloomy reverie. + +Anything was preferable to this, and it was with a feeling akin to +relief that I added: + +"I might do so had I not noticed this afternoon that he had gone lame." + +"Better let de flour go, den, for de snow am too deep and de storm to +heavy for you to tramp all de way to town and back again." + +"No; while I haven't much fear of our starving, yet, if the snow-fall +continues, we shall be in a bad way. I can carry twenty-five pounds +without trouble, and will be back in a few hours; then the storm may +rage as hard as it pleases, for all we care." + +The preparations were quickly made, and, to shorten my story, I may say +that, after a laborious tramp, I reached the village without mishap, +bought my quarter of a hundred of flour, slung it over my shoulder, and +started on my return. + +By this time I had made several disquieting discoveries. The snow was +falling faster than ever, the cold was increasing, a gale was blowing, +and, under the circumstances, of course there was not a glimmer of +light in the sky. My course was directly across the prairie, and in +the event of my tracks being obliterated by the snow--as was almost +certain to be the case--it was almost impossible for me to prevent +myself from going astray. + +My hope lay in Jack's promise that he would keep a bright light burning +in the upper story to guide me on my course. On a clear night this +light was visible from the village, but somehow or other I failed to +take into account the state of the weather. The air was full of +eddying flakes, which would render the headlight of a locomotive +invisible a hundred yards distant. Strange that this important fact +never occurred to me until I was fully a fourth of a mile from the +village. Then, after looking in vain for the beacon light, the danger +of my situation struck me, and I halted. + +"I am certain to go wrong," I said to myself. + +"It is out of my power to follow a direct course without something to +serve as a compass. I will go back to the village and wait till +morning." + +Wheeling about in my tracks, I resumed my wearisome tramp through the +heavy snow, and kept it up until I was certain I had travelled fully a +fourth of a mile. Then when I paused a moment and gazed ahead and +around, I was confronted by blank darkness on every hand. What a proof +of a man's tendency to go wrong, that in aiming at a village of fifty +dwellings, and only a fourth of a mile away, I had missed it altogether! + +This discovery gave me my first thrill of real alarm. I shouted, but +my voice fell dead in the snowy air. The gale was blowing more +furiously than ever, and the cold was so intense that it penetrated my +thick clothing and caused my teeth to rattle together! + +"You can be of no use to me," I exclaimed, flinging away the small bag +of flour. "The village can't be far off, and I will find it." + +Determined to retain my self-possession, I made a careful calculation +of the proper course to follow, and plunged into my work with more +vigor than ever. I continually glanced up in quest of the flickering +lights, and listened, in the hope of hearing some sound that could +guide me, but nothing of the kind was seen or heard, and it was not +long before the terrible truth burst upon me that I was lost. + +Aye, and lost in a blizzard! The wind had risen almost to a hurricane; +the cold cut through the thickest clothing, and the snow struck my +face like the prick of millions of needles. I shouted again, but, +convinced that it was a useless waste of strength, I soon ceased. + +It was certain death to remain motionless, and almost equally fatal to +push on; but there _was_ a possibility that I might strike the right +direction, and anything was preferable to remaining idle. And so, with +a desperation akin to despair, I threw all the vigor at my command into +my benumbed limbs, and bent every possible energy to the life and death +task before me. + +The sleet drove against my cheeks with such spiteful and penetrating +fierceness that I could make no use of my eyes, I could only bend my +head to the blast and labor through the snow, praying that Providence +would guide my footsteps in the right direction. + +I was plodding forward in this heavy, aimless fashion when I noticed +that the violence of the gale was drifting the snow. Sometimes I would +strike a space of several yards where it did not reach to my ankles. +Then I would suddenly lurch into a wall that reached to my shoulders. +After wallowing through this, I might strike a shallow portion again, +where, while walking quite briskly, a windrow of snow would be hurled +against my breast and face with such fury as to force me backward and +off my feet. + +Bracing myself, I waited until there was a sufficient lull in the +blizzard for me to make some use of my eyes. I blinked and peered +toward the different points of the compass, but without catching the +first twinkle of light. + +"I am lost--lost--" I moaned; "there is no help for me!" + +An extraordinary collapse must have come over me, for my senses seemed +to forsake me on the instant. I went down in the eddying, blinding +snow, and knew no more. + +At the moment of giving way I was less than a hundred yards from the +easternmost house of the village. My despairing cry was heard, and +hospitable hands carried me into the dwelling within a quarter of an +hour after losing my consciousness. Intelligent and prompt treatment +prevented any serious consequences, but the remembrance of that brief +time exposed to the fury of the blizzard will remain with me to my +dying day. + + + + +THROWING THE RIATA. + +The skill shown by cattlemen in throwing the riata or lasso often +approaches the marvelous. What is more wonderful than the duel +described in the _San Francisco Examiner_, between Mexican vaqueros, in +which the only weapons used were their riatas? The victor overcame the +other by throwing his noose, so that his enemy's noose passed right +through it, and the conqueror lassoed the other man's arms against his +side and jerked him from his steed. + +The despatch then went on to tell of the skill of the victorious riata +man, and mentioned among other wonderful feats, his lassoing an +antelope running at high speed 100 feet away. To make the test more +extraordinary, the correspondent wrote that he would pick out one of +the animal's feet and get the noose around that alone. + +An _Examiner_ reporter called on Louis Ohnimus, Superintendent of +Woodward's Gardens, who wielded a riata for many years, and probably +knows as much about throwing the lasso as any man on the coast, and +asked him if the feats referred to were possible. + +"The Mexican may have won the duel by lassoing his adversary, riata and +all," was the answer. "It is not an uncommon thing for them to settle +their differences by such a fight, and I have heard of the trick of +ringing the other man's rope, but if that man can catch an antelope one +hundred feet away, by the foot or any other way, he is a better riata +man than I ever encountered. In the first place mighty few men are +strong enough to throw a rope such a distance. Then an ordinary riata +is only fourteen or sixteen yards long--twenty yards is a very long +one. So, you see, a forty-foot throw is a pretty good one." + +He was asked to explain how to throw a lasso, and consented to do so. + +"The first thing about this business," said Mr. Ohnimus, "is to have a +perfect riata. If you have one perfectly stretched, oiled, and in a +thoroughly good condition, you can throw well; if your rope is kinky or +uneven, you will find it impossible to do accurate work." + +"What do you consider a good riata?" + +"Well, I can only tell you how a good one is made. First, the rawhide +is cut in thin strips, as long as possible, and half tanned with the +hair on. Then these strips are soaked and stretched over a block. +Then they are braided into a rope, care being taken, of course, to pull +the strands as tight as possible. When the riata is made it should be +buried for a week, ten days, or even a fortnight, in the sand. It +takes up moisture from the ground, without getting hard. Soaking it in +water won't do, nor will anything else that I know of except, as I say, +burying it. When the riata is resurrected it should again be left for +a time stretched over a block, with a weight to hold it taut. Then the +hair should be sandpapered off the outside, and when the riata is +greased with mutton tallow and properly noosed it is ready for use. +Every vaquero that pretends to take care of his apparatus will bury his +riata and stretch it every six or eight months. + +"A hair rope does not make a good riata. It is useful to stretch +around camp at night to keep snakes away. For some reason snakes will +not cross a hair rope. + +"Now, as to throwing it: + +"The riata, say, is hanging from the horn of the saddle--not tied, but +ready for use. No vaquero who understands his trade ties his rope to +his saddle. He knows that his life may depend on his ability to let go +of his rope in an instant, and he isn't going to chance killing himself +or his horse. You see, the vaquero might be on a side hill, and a bull +or steer he wishes to catch be on a trail below him, and the ground +between them to be too steep to admit of his riding down to it. Now, +suppose the noose, instead of catching around the horns of the steer, +should circle his neck and draw down to his shoulders? Accidents are, +of course, as likely to happen in catching cattle as in anything else, +and give a bull such a hold and he could pull a house, let alone a +mustang. That would be one case where it would be very handy to let go +quickly. Then a man is likely to get his hand caught, and if he can't +let his rope go free he is likely to lose a finger or two. + +"Our vaquero is trotting along with his rope hanging at his saddle bow +or fastened behind him. He sees a deer or whatever else he wants to +catch, and grabs his rope with the left hand if he is a right-handed +man, though a man to really excel in this business should be +ambi-dextrous. A right-handed man can, under ordinary circumstances, +rope a steer; but he has frequently to turn his horse to gain a good +position. Now it sometimes happens that your horse is in a position +where you can't turn; then it would be awkward, unless you could throw +with either hand. I usually throw with my left hand, though I can use +either. + +"I take up the rope from the saddle bow, so." + +He lifted his riata in his right hand. His little finger held the +standing end of the rope, the third and middle finders supported the +coil, and the noose dangled from his first finger, while his thumb +steadied the whole rope and held it from slipping. The coils were not +more than a foot or a foot and a half in diameter. The noose was the +same size. + +"That's a smaller noose than you would use on the range, is it not?" + +"No," answered Mr. Ohnimus, "the vaquero never carries his noose long. +If he did, it would be constantly getting tangled up in the horse's +legs. He makes it larger when he swings it. But to get back to the +process of lassoing. As our cowboy gets close to his quarry, he takes +the noose in his lasso hand. I will use my left, as it is a trifle +handier for me. He grips the rope, not too firmly, holding the +standing part and the side of the noose about half the length of the +loop away from the knot. That is to enable him to swing the noose so +that it will fall open. If he holds it at the knot he will throw a +long, narrow noose that is very likely to cross and kink. + +"Meanwhile I, representing our cowboy, hold the remaining coils in my +other hand, only changing the position of my forefinger so as to secure +better control of the coils. Then comes the third maneuver--enlarging +the noose. Of course, you have to have a larger noose than one a foot +in diameter to drop over a steer's horns forty feet away. The noose is +enlarged by swinging the noose in your lasso hand until the centrifugal +force pulls it out the size you wish (this is the reason you do not +grasp it too firmly), letting go with the other hand, of course, as +many coils as are necessary to make the noose the right size. Now you +have the noose in the air you do not cease making it circle around your +head until you let it go. When the noose has been let out to the right +size the next trouble is to keep it open and to avoid entangling it in +the brush or other surrounding obstructions. You keep it open, as I +said, by holding the noose from quarter to half its length from the +knot, and by a peculiar twist of the wrist that is only attainable by +practice. To keep it clear of the brush is often a more difficult job, +for the cowboy is not always in a clear place when he wants to throw +his rope. Then it is that his judgment comes into play and determines +whether his cast is a lost one or not. I have seen vaqueros swing a +lasso swiftly almost in the midst of a thicket, and keep it clear +without losing speed, and then let it drive straight as an arrow +between two close trees and rope an object that could not pass where +the noose had gone. Such skill, to be sure, comes only after long +practice. + +"Well, now we have got the noose circling about the vaquero's head, and +the next thing is to let it fly. There is not much to describe about +this part of throwing a riata, important though it may be. It is only +incessant practice that will enable a man to make a certain cast. The +main thing is to swing the rope just long enough--neither so long as to +give it a side-wise motion when you throw it, nor short enough to +prevent its getting all the force you require. Then the riata man must +throw at a particular limb or projection. This thing of tossing +blindly at an object and trusting to luck that the animal will get into +the rope somehow will not do. You must pick out your mark as carefully +as if you were shooting at it, and then time it. A steer jumping along +changes his position constantly as regards you. If you throw at his +head high up the chances are that it will be away down when your rope +reaches him, and you will overthrow. Now, if you pick out a foot you +must reckon so that that foot will be off the ground when your rope +reaches him. The noose does not travel like a bullet, and this element +of time is most important. + +"Of even more importance is it that the distances are gauged correctly. +You remember I spoke about holding the coils lightly in two or three +fingers. Well, that is done in order that as many coils as may be +considered necessary may be let go. If you are wielding a riata you +know that each of your coils is almost two feet or two and one half +feet long. So if you want to lasso something twenty feet away you let +go ten coils. + +"As to letting go, you simply open your hand at the correct time and +the rope slips off. + +"But even after you have roped your steer your work is not over. +Almost any animal can pull you from your horse, and to prevent this you +must get your rope around the horn of your saddle. There is where you +have to be quick. There are two ways of making this hitch that are +used ordinarily. The one I prefer is simply to take two turns around +the horn, taking care that the second turn comes lower and overlaps the +other. No pull in the world could make that rope slip, while I can, +simply by throwing off one turn, let it all slide off. This other +fashion, which is really taking a 'half-inch' around the horn, holds +just as fast, but you have to push the rope through to loosen it. You +see, in making this sudden twist, a finger is very likely to get +caught, and I have known many fingers being taken off before such a +hitch could be unfastened. + +"It is often advisable to take an extra twist around anything you have +lassoed, and this is done by simply throwing a coil. Practice again is +the only thing that can teach this. + +"Now you have the whole theory of throwing a rope. + +"There are four sorts of throws, but they are all made alike, only the +position of the arm being different. They are the overthrow, the +underthrow, the sidethrow, and the backthrow." + +"Backthrow?" + +"Yes, backthrow--catching an object behind you--something that you need +not even see. That sounds difficult, does it? Well, you stand behind +me and you can see it done." + +The reporter took his station twenty feet behind Mr. Ohnimus, quite out +of sight, of course. He swung the loop around his head, and, without +turning, let it fly backward. It circled the newspaper man exactly, +and by pulling it quickly Ohnimus had his arms pinioned to his side. + +"Are there any more trick throws?" asked the reporter. + +"Lots of them. I never put myself up as a crack riata man, and I am +out of practice now, but I can lay the noose on the ground at my feet +and kick it around your neck, or pick it off the ground from my horse +and land it around you while the horse is going at full speed, and do +lots of things like that, but none of them is any good. That backthrow +has been used by the Mexican highwaymen to considerable advantage. You +see, in that country the traveler always looks out for danger from the +rear and is prepared for it, but when a pleasant horseman rides past +him, playing with his riata, and wishing him 'Good-day' as he passes, +he is likely to consider the danger as gone by, as well as the man. +That has caused the death of a good many. The bandit gets the right +distance ahead and then lassoes him as I did you. A touch of his spur +jerks his victim from the saddle and that ends it." + +"How is the lasso as a weapon of defence?" + +"Good. A quick riata man can beat a fellow with a pistol at fairly +close quarters." + +"How?" + +"Well, here is a pistol. Put it in your pocket and draw it on me as I +come toward you." + +The reporter did as he was directed. He had not raised the weapon when +the noose was around his hand and the pistol was jerked a dozen feet. + +"Try again, and tighter," said Ohnimus. + +The reporter did so. The pistol was not jerked from his hand this +time, but before he could snap it Ohnimus had thrown a coil around his +neck and pulled his pistol hand up over his shoulder. In another +instant a second coil was around the reporter's body, and both arms +were fastened firmly to his sides. He could not move that pistol an +inch. No clearer demonstration of the use of the lasso as a weapon of +defence was possible. + +"What is the most difficult animal, in your opinion, to catch with the +lasso?" was asked. + +"A sea lion," answered the rope thrower. "I have caught them off the +southern coast. They go right through a noose. The only way to get +them is to throw the rope around his neck and back of one flipper. A +hog is hard to catch, too. He pulls his legs out of a noose without +half trying, and you can't hold him by the neck or body. The only way +is to get him like the sea lion--back of one foreleg." + + + + +A WATERSPOUT. + +Doubtless many of my readers have heard of the dreadful encounters of +vessels with waterspouts, when the ship escaped destruction by firing a +cannon-ball into the waterspout, thus causing it to break apart. + +Now these things are by no means such terrible objects as many believe. +No doubt the vessels of the present day are larger and stronger than +formerly, and perhaps waterspouts have become smaller. Be as it may, +the people who go down to the sea in ships need give themselves no +uneasiness about them, for really they amount to little. + +The _Slavonia_, of the Hamburg line left Brunshausen, on the Elbe, on +February 26 last, under the command of Capt. H. Schmidt. She had only +two passengers. The weather was squally and the air full of mist when +she reached the outer Banks, 900 miles from New York, shortly after +sunrise on Sunday, March 16. The big vessel was heading west by north, +when, at 7 o'clock, Second Mate Erichsen, who was on the bridge, saw +emerge through the mist on the starboard side of the ship, at the +distance of about a thousand feet, a towering column which united sea +and sky. The column was in front of the ship to starboard, and was +moving in a southeasterly direction, apparently at the rate of eight +knots an hour. + +Although the Slavonia was running 9 1/2 knots, the column seemed likely +to pass in front of the steamship when their paths crossed. +Accordingly Erichsen did not try to alter the course of the Slavonia; +indeed, he would not have altered it had he known ship and spout were +sure to meet, for he had encountered waterspouts before and wasn't +afraid of them. All he did--in fact, all he had time to do--was to +call Third Mate Lorentzen, also an expert in waterspouts. + +On rushed the _Slavonia_, heading west by north: nearer came the +waterspout, heading south by east. It soon became evident that the +spout could not get by before the _Slavonia_ reached it, and it was now +too late to slow up--indeed, a collision was manifestly unavoidable +from the start. Lorentzen had scarcely reached the bridge when the +watery Philistine was upon the Samson. It just hit the steamer's bows +on the starboard side, as depicted in the second cut. A rushing noise +accompanied the column, and the water foamed in its wake. Immediately +above was a great black cloud from which clouds less dark descended to +form a funnel, or inverted cone. The middle of the column was white, +apparently because it contained snow. + +The column's narrowest diameter was about twelve feet, while it was +three times as broad as its base, which reproduced in water and +inverted the cloud-formed funnel above. The whole column rotated with +a spiral motion. + +The waterspout, when it approached, took all the wind out of the +fore-staysail of the steamship, which went blind, but the schooner-sail +still kept full, and presently the fore-staysail filled again. + +The Slavonia shook under the shock caused by contact with the column of +water, but kept on her course none the worse for the collision. A few +flakes of snow on her bow were the only evidence of the collision after +the pillar of water had passed off to port. + +While the vessel was uninjured, the waterspout soon showed signs that +it had received its death-blow. As it sailed off to the southeast it +parted in the middle, and the cone of water which formed its base and +the cone of cloud which formed its top began to grow smaller by +degrees. The waterspout was slowly but surely ceasing to be a +waterspout when it disappeared from view in the misty distance some +fifteen minutes or more from the time it was sighted. + +The _Slavonia's_ encounter with the waterspout took place in latitude +42 degrees 22 minutes north and longitude 52 degrees 35 minutes west. +This is rather far north for waterspouts so early in the year. The +waterspout crop is generally more plentiful when thunder and lightning +are on top, which is in warmer weather. The temperature of the air at +the time of the encounter was 37 degrees; water 54 degrees. It had +been cold during the night, but grew warmer in the morning. The clouds +which overspread the firmament were of the cumulus pattern. + +Erichsen and Lorentzen have not only seen other waterspouts, but the +first, when on a sailing vessel in the tropics, ran into the very +middle of one with no worse result than to deluge the deck of the ship +with water as a heavy shower would have done. He thinks an unusually +large waterspout might possibly sink a very small vessel, say a pilot +boat, but with a ship of ordinary size he considers bombarding a +waterspout with cannon a waste of powder. + + + + +AN HEROIC WOMAN. + +Every boy and girl should learn to swim. When one recalls how easily +the art is acquired, and the many occasions that are liable to arise, +we cannot but wonder that the accomplishment is so universally +neglected by the other sex. It is pleasant to note, however, that +swimming is growing to be popular among women, and the day is not far +distant, when the majority of young ladies will become the rivals of +their brothers in their ability to keep their heads above water. + +Torres Strait separates Australia from Papua or New Guinea; and +connects the Arafura Sea on the west, with the Coral Sea on the east. +Its current is swift and the waters from time immemorial have been +dangerous to navigation. It has been the scene of many shipwrecks, and +it is only a few months since that the steamer _Quetta_ was lost in +those waters. One hundred and sixteen persons perished on that +terrible night in the South Pacific, but among the survivors was Miss +Lacy, whose experience was not only among the most interesting and +thrilling ever recorded, but emphasizes the statement we have made at +the opening of our sketch. + +Miss Lacy says she was sitting in the saloon, engaged in writing a +letter, the other ladies practicing for a concert which it was intended +to give on shipboard. Everything was going along, merrily, and all +were in high spirits, when, without the least warning, they were +startled by a harsh, grating noise, the steamer rocked violently, and +nearly every one was thrown into the wildest panic. + +The confusion and shouts above showed that some fearful disaster had +occurred. Instantly Miss Lacy made a rush for the deck to learn what +it meant. Quick as were her movements, she found the ship was already +sinking. Going aft was like climbing a steep hill, but she saw that +one portion was high above water, and she struggled bravely to reach +it. But, so rapidly did the _Quetta_ go down that she had hardly gone +forward, when the steamer was swallowed up in the furious waters. + +That which followed is beyond description. In an instant, two hundred +human beings were struggling frantically, shrieking in their terror for +the help which was nowhere to be found, clutching each other, praying +and drowning by the score. + +Miss Lacy was caught in this fearful swirl, and was in imminent danger +of being dragged down by those around her, who were crazed by the one +wild, despairing hope of saving themselves, no matter at what cost. +But she was a powerful swimmer, and retaining her self-command, she +shook herself free of several who attempted to cling to her. The +whirlpool caused by the sinking of the steamer pulled her beneath the +water, but, with the same wonderful presence of mind she had shown from +the first, she fought her way to the surface, and swam from the +dangerous spot. + +Finding herself her own mistress, and fully aware that her life now +depended on her ability to swim, she removed all her superfluous +clothing and moved hither and thither in the darkness, in the hope of +coming upon some of the survivors. + +It was about midnight, that she heard some one shout. The gloom was +too powerful for her to distinguish anything, but she swam toward the +point, whence the call issued, and came upon a raft, that had been +hastily thrown together by the chief officer of the _Quetta_. Several +persons were clinging to it, and she accepted the invitation to avail +herself of the temporary refuge and give her weary limbs a rest. + +The dismal hours wore slowly away, and at last the growing light in the +eastern sky told that the longed-for day was breaking. As soon as the +rays of the sun illumined the wild waste of waters, every eye scanned +the ocean in quest of some sail; but on every side was the vast heavy +sea, with no sign of life except on the little raft. It was water, +water everywhere, with not a drop to drink nor a morsel of food to eat, +and with no prospect of escaping a lingering death of the most +distressing nature. + +The discouraging feature of the situation to Miss Lacy was that their +rude support was making no progress at all. They had no means of +propelling it, and, had they possessed such means, no one knew what +course to follow. It looked as if days and nights must be passed on +the raft, until one by one the survivors succumbed or ended their +sufferings by plunging into the sea which they had striven so hard to +escape. + +Far away, however, on the verge of the horizon, an object rose dimly to +view, which, after carefully studying for some time, the shipwrecked +people agreed was a small island, but, as we have stated, they were +powerless to propel their craft thither, and could only gaze and sigh +for the refuge that was as much beyond their reach, as though it were a +thousand leagues distant. + +"I am going to swim to it!" exclaimed Miss Lacy. + +"Are you mad?" demanded the astonished chief-officer; "it is utterly +impossible." + +"I prefer to risk it rather than remain here." + +"But it is much further off than it seems to be; these waters are full +of sharks and you will never live to swim half the distance. Dismiss +the idea at once." + +"Good-by!" + +And the brave woman took a header into the sea, and with a long +graceful stroke, that compelled the admiration of every one of the +amazed survivors, began swimming toward the supposed refuge. + +But the chief-officer knew more about the difficulties in her way than +she did. She grievously miscalculated the distance, and, though she +was a swimmer of amazing skill and endurance, she began to believe she +had undertaken a task beyond her power of accomplishment. + +She swam directly toward the island, husbanding her strength like a +wise person, but making steady progress, until before the afternoon was +half gone, she knew she had placed many a long mile behind her. When +she looked back she could see nothing of the raft and her friends, but +as she rose on the crest of an immense swell, she plainly discerned the +island. It still was in the verge of the horizon, and it was hard for +her to see that she was apparently no nearer to it than when she +started. + +Besides this alarming fact, she was threatened by a still greater +peril. As the chief-officer had warned her, the waters abounded with +sharks, of the man-eating species, who were liable to dart forward and +seize her at any moment; but, in recalling her extraordinary +experience, Miss Lacy says that at no time did she feel any fear of +them. She knew they were liable to discover her at any moment, but +they did not, and fortunately indeed she escaped their ferocious jaws. + +Her greatest suffering was from the blazing sun, whose rays shot +downward upon her head with pitiless power. When she found her brain +growing dizzy, she averted the danger of sunstroke by dropping or +swimming for some distance below the surface. This always cooled or +refreshed her, though she felt her face and neck blistering under the +fierce rays. + +In striving to recall her experience, Miss Lacy is unable to remember a +large portion of the time she spent in the water. She believes she +slept for several hours. What an extraordinary situation! Alone in +the midst of the vast strait in the southern Pacific, surrounded by +sharks, with no friendly sail in sight, and yet slumbering and +unconscious. + +Of course she was not swimming all this time. When she found herself +growing weary, she floated on her back for long periods, then propelled +herself first upon one side and then upon the other, and all the time +the dim misty object in the distance remained as far away as ever. +Finally, when she raised her head and looked for it, she was dismayed +at being unable to detect it at all. It had vanished. + +Then she knew that it had been an optical delusion from the first. +There was no island or land in sight. She was alone on the vast deep. + +But the heroic woman did not despair. After she had been in the water +twenty hours altogether, and was in the last stage of exhaustion, she +was picked up by a boat belonging to the search steamer _Albatross_. +For several hours succeeding her rescue she was delirious, but it was +not long before she was entirely herself, having given a signal proof +of the value of swimming as a lady's accomplishment. + + + + +THE WRITING FOUND IN A BOTTLE. + +Let me assure the readers, at the beginning of this sketch, that it is +strictly true in every particular. I have no ambition to shine as a +writer of fiction, and, at the request of a number of friends +acquainted with the remarkable circumstances, have sat down to relate, +in a straightforward manner as is at my command; the part that I took +in the history of the famous _Buried Treasure_. + +Not the least singular part of this strange business was that, of the +three individuals concerned two were boys, one being my son Frank +(named for his father) and a playmate, Arthur Newman. The latter was +thirteen years old, while Frank was only a few months his senior. + +They were inseparable playmates from early childhood; and as we lived +near a broad, deep inlet, which put in from the Atlantic, they learned +to swim at the age of ten, and soon learned to manage a yacht as well +as veterans. I was sometimes anxious because of their venturesome +disposition, but although they frequently ventured outside, sometimes +in very nasty weather, no accident ever befell them, and the parents of +both boys gradually learned to dismiss all fear concerning them, under +the belief that, as they grew older, they became better fitted to take +care of themselves. + +One day in March Frank told me that a suspicious brig had been standing +off shore for the better part of a week, and he and Arthur had come to +the conclusion that it was a pirate. I laughed heartily at their +fancy, and assured them that the days of buccaneers and sea rovers were +long since past, and they must dismiss all such absurd ideas from their +minds. + +The following week the Atlantic sea-board was devastated by one of the +fiercest storms that had been known for years. Reports of wrecks and +disasters to shipping reached us for several days after, and Frank +remarked one evening at supper that he believed his suspected pirate +was one of the unfortunate vessels that had gone down with all on +board. I smiled at his words, but when I learned that the beach was +strewn with wreckage, and that a great deal of it had washed into the +inlet, I thought it probable that he was right, so far as the fate of +the strange ship was concerned. + +It was near the close of the month that my boy brought home a tightly +corked bottle, which he and Arthur had found while cruising in the +inlet. When he said that there was a piece of rolled paper inside, I +felt enough curiosity to withdraw the stopper with the aid of a strong +corkscrew, and to make an examination. + +Sure enough there was a small roll of thick, vellum-like paper, on +which, in a cramped hand, evidently written years before, was the +following: + +"_Three feet under the Beacon Tree_." + +For a minute or two I was puzzled, and then, as if by inspiration, the +whole truth burst upon me. + +The Beacon Tree was the name of an immense poplar that stood near the +mouth of the inlet. The fish-hawks had builded their nests in the +forked tops for a half century. I remember hearing my father say it +was struck by lightning long before and although its upper branches +were shattered, and it had been as dead as a fence-post ever since, yet +its immense size, great height, and peculiar, silver-like appearance +caused it to become a prominent landmark to the vessels when +approaching the coast, and long before I was born it gained the name of +the Beacon Tree, by which title it was known to unnumbered hundreds of +sailors and sea-faring men. + +"There is a treasure buried under that tree," I said to Frank, +suppressing my excitement so far as I could. "More than likely it was +placed there by some freebooter a long time ago, and these people were +awaiting a chance to dig it up." + +"Maybe Captain Kidd buried it," suggested the boy. + +"Possibly he did, for there is reason to believe that he hid a great +deal of treasure along the Atlantic coast. Now, since Arthur was with +you when you found this bottle, he has the same claim to the treasure +that you have. We will not say anything to his father, and you must +take particular care not to give a hint to a living soul. Go over and +tell Arthur to come here this evening. I will furnish the shovels and +lantern, and when we are sure that no one will see us, we will slip +over to the Beacon Tree and dig." + +I recall that I was never so absolutely sure of anything in my life as +I was that valuable treasure lay buried under the old poplar. My wife, +to whom I showed the little roll of paper, expressed a doubt, and +smilingly hinted that perhaps I was too much impressed by that +brilliant sketch of Edgar A. Poe called "The Gold Bug." + +"Of course," I answered, "disappointment may await us, and I know these +bottles picked up at sea are frequently frauds; but the age of the +writing and the peculiar circumstances convince me that this is +genuine. I am sure _something_ will be found under the Beacon Tree." + +Meantime Frank had hurried off to acquaint Arthur with the amazing +discovery, and to warn him against dropping a hint to any one. My son +soon returned with the word that his friend was "b'iling" with +excitement, but alas! his parents were going to spend that evening with +a neighbor, and since they would not be back until late, there was no +possible way of his joining us. + +The boys were not more disappointed than I, and the impulse was strong +upon me to make the venture without the help of Arthur, meaning, of +course that such a proceeding should not affect his share in the find; +but it did not strike me that that would be exactly right, and Arthur +was informed that we three would attend to the business the following +evening. + +I could not avoid strolling out to the Beacon Tree the next day. I did +so in the most off-hand manner and with the most unconcerned expression +I could assume; but had any one scrutinized my countenance, I am sure +he would easily have detected the deep agitation under which I was +laboring. + +I was considerably disturbed, upon examining the immediate surroundings +of the tree, to discover signs which looked as if some one had been +digging there quite recently. + +"The secret has become known and the treasure has been carried off," I +gasped, with a rapidly throbbing heart. + +Reflection, however, reassured me. No one had seen the writing in the +bottle beside myself (though evidently it must have been known to +others), and it was certain that if any person had succeeded in +unearthing the hidden wealth, he would not have taken the trouble to +hide all signs with such extreme care. Closer examination, too, +convinced me there had been no digging about the tree at all. And yet +I was mistaken. + +We three reached the old poplar the next evening between ten and eleven +o'clock. Arthur had escaped inquiry by slipping out of his bedroom +window after bidding his parents good-night; and, inasmuch as the +lantern which I carried was not lit until we arrived at the tree, we +were confident of escaping attention. Still I watched sharply, and was +greatly relieved to discover no persons abroad at that hour beside +ourselves. + +Since the treasure was located but three feet below the surface, in +sandy soil, I brought only one shovel, while the boys watched me, one +holding the lantern, and both casting furtive glances around to guard +against eavesdroppers. It would be useless to deny my excitement. My +heart at times throbbed painfully, and more than once I was on the +point of ceasing until I could regain mastery of myself. + +"Pop, you must be nearly deep enough," said Frank, in a guarded +undertone. + +"I'm pretty near to the place," I replied stopping a minute to draw my +handkerchief across my perspiring forehead. + +"I'm afraid there's somebody watching us," added Arthur. + +"Where?" I asked in affright, staring around in the gloom. + +"I thought I saw a man moving out yonder." + +"Well, it's too late for him to interfere now," I said, compressing my +lips and renewing my digging more determinedly than ever; "I carry a +revolver with me, and I don't mean to be robbed." + +The next moment my heart gave a great throb, for the shovel struck +something hard. + +"Hold the lantern down here, Frank, quick!" I commanded in a hoarse +voice. + +He obeyed, but to my disappointment the object proved to be a large +stone. + +"I guess it's under that," I whispered, stopping work for a moment. + +"Pop, there's another piece of paper," said Frank. + +I stooped over and picked it up. I saw that there was writing on it, +and holding it up beside the lantern read: + +"Dig three feet under the Beacon Tree and you will be an April fool." + +Once again the truth flashed across me. The whole thing was a +practical joke. + +"Boys," said I, "what day of the month is this?" + +They reflected a moment and answered: + +"Why, it's the first of April." + +"Let's go home," I added, stepping out of the excavation, "and here's a +half a dollar apiece if you don't tell anybody about it." + +As we moved mournfully away I was sure I heard a chuckling laugh +somewhere near in the darkness, but the author of it was prudent enough +to keep beyond reach. + +It was not until three months afterward that I learned all the facts +connected with the writing found in a bottle. My neighbor, the father +of Arthur Newman, on whom I had played several jokes, adopted this +means of retaliating on me. He took my son and his own into his +confidence, and I am grieved to say that the young rascals were just as +eager as he. When I proposed to make the search on the last day of +March, my friend resorted to the subterfuge I have mentioned, so as to +insure that it should not take place until the following evening, which +was unquestionably appropriate for my first and last essay in digging +for buried treasure. + + + + +THAT HORNET'S NEST. + +There was an indignation meeting of the boys at Bushville school, one +sultry day in August. From stress of circumstances it was held at the +noon recess, in the piece of woods back of the old stone building, and +on the banks of the crystal stream in which the youngsters swam and +revelled at morning, noon and night, during the long, delicious days of +summer. + +All the lads, not quite a score, belonging to the Bushville school, +were present at the impromptu convention, but the proceedings were +chiefly in charge of the lads, Tom Britt, Dick Culver and Fred +Armstrong. There were but a few months' difference in their ages, none +of which was more than fourteen years, but all were so much larger and +older than the rest that they were looked up to as leaders in +everything except study. + +It cannot be denied that the three were indolent by nature, inclined to +rebel at authority, and their enforced attendance at school was the +affliction of their lives. They had given their teachers no end of +trouble, and more than once had combined in open rebellion against +their instructors. Tom's father was a trustee, and like the parents of +many ill-trained youths, including those of Dick and Fred, he could see +nothing wrong in the conduct of his son. As a consequence, discipline +at times was set at naught in the Bushville institutions, and one of +the best teachers ever employed by the district threw up his situation +in disgust, and went off without waiting to collect his month's salary. + +The successor of this gentleman was Mr. Lathrop, a young man barely +turned twenty, with a beardless face, a mild blue eye, a gentle voice, +and such a soft winning manner that the three leaders gave an +involuntary sniff of contempt when they first saw him and agreed that +he would not last more than a week at the most. + +"We'll let up on him, for a few days," Tom explained to some of his +friends, "so as to give him time to get acquainted. I b'lieve in +letting every fellow have a show, but he's got to walk mighty straight +between now and the end of this week," added the youth impressively; "I +ain't in favor of standing any nonsense." + +A nodding of heads by Dick and Fred showed that Tom had voiced their +sentiments. + +But, somehow or other, Mr. Lathrop was different from the teachers that +had preceded him. He never spoke angrily or shouted, and his first act +on entering the schoolroom was to break up the long tough hickory "gad" +lying on his desk and to fling it out of the window. The next thing he +did, after calling the school to order, was to tell the gaping, +open-eyed children the most entertaining story to which they had ever +listened. The anecdote had its moral too, for woven in and out and +through its charming meshes was the woof of a life of heroic suffering, +of trial and reward. + +At its conclusion, the teacher said to the pupils that if they were +studious and transgressed no rules, he would be glad to tell them +another story the next day, if they would remain a few minutes after +the hour of dismissal. The treat was such a rare one that all the +girls and most of the boys resolved to earn the right to enjoy it. + +"I'm going to hear the yarn, too," muttered Tom Britt, "for he knows +how to tell 'em, but as for behaving myself that depends." + +On the following afternoon, when five o'clock arrived (in those days +most of the country schools opened at eight and closed at five, with an +hour at noon, and not more than two weeks vacation in summer. I have +attended school on more than one Saturday, Fourth of July and +Christmas), the school was all expectation. When Mr. Lathrop saw the +bright eyes turned eagerly toward him, a thrill of pleasure stirred his +heart, for he felt that his was the hand to sow good seed, or this was +the soil where it could be made to spring up and bear fruit a hundred +fold. + +"I am glad," said he, in his winning voice, "to know that you have done +well and earned the right to hear the best story that I can tell. You +have been studious, obedient and careful to break no rules, and I am +sure that as we become better acquainted, we shall like each other and +get on well together. + +"I wish I could say you had _all_ done well, but it grieves me to tell +you, what you know, that one boy has neglected his lessons, been tardy +or so indifferent to my wishes that it would not be right that he +should be allowed to sit with the rest of you and listen to the +incident I am about to relate. I refer to Thomas Britt. Thomas, you +will please take your books and hat and go home." + +The words came like a thunderclap. No one expected it, least of all +the youth himself. Every eye was turned toward him and his face +flushed scarlet. He quickly rallied from the daze into which he was +thrown at first, and with his old swagger, looked at the teacher and +replied with an insolence that was defiance itself: + +"My father is trustee, and I've as much right here as you or any one +else, and I'm going to stay till I'm ready to go home and you +can't----" but, before he had completed his defiant sentence, the +slightly built teacher was at his side and had grasped the nape of his +coat. It seemed to the lad, that an iron vise had caught his garment +and a span of horses were pulling at him. He clutched desperately at +everything within reach and spread his legs apart and curled up his +toes in the effort to hook into something that would stay proceedings, +but it was in vain. Out he came from the seat, and to the awed +children who were looking on it seemed that his body was elongated to +double its length during the process,--and he was run through the open +door, and his hat tossed after him. Then the teacher walked quietly +back to his seat behind the desk on the platform, and without the +slightest sign of flurry or mental disturbance, he told one of the +sweetest and most delightful incidents to which his pupils had ever +listened. He closed with the promise to give them another at the end +of the week, if they continued in the good course on which they were so +fairly started. + +"He catched me foul," explained the indignant Tom Britt the following +day in discussing his hurried exit from the schoolroom; "if he had only +let me know he was coming, it would be him that dove out the door +instead of me." + +The sullen youth did not receive much sympathy at first, for Mr. +Lathrop was steadily winning the affections of the pupils; but Dick and +Fred rebelled at such quiet submission to authority, and acted so +sullenly that they, too, were shut out from the privilege of listening +to the next story related by the teacher to the rest of the school. It +had been agreed among the three boys that they should refuse to depart +when ordered to do so by the instructor, and that when he made a move +toward them, they would assail him simultaneously and rout him "horse, +foot and dragoons." + +But the business was conducted with such a cyclone rush that the plan +of campaign was entirely overturned. Before the rebels could combine, +all three were out doors, so shaken up that they agreed that a new +system of resistance would have to be adopted. + +And thus it came about that at the noon recess, one day of the +following week, the boys of Bushville school gathered in the cool shade +of the woods to listen to the plan of the three malcontents for +destroying the authority of the school. It was mainly curiosity on the +part of the younger portion, who had little sympathy with the motives +of the leaders and were quite sure they would meet with failure. + +"I've made up my mind that I won't stand it," announced Tom, after the +situation had been freely discussed; "no boy with any spirit will allow +a teacher to run him out of school in the style he served me." + +"What then made you let him do it?" asked little freckled-face Will +Horton, from where he lay on the ground. + +"Didn't I tell you he catched me foul?" demanded Tom, glaring at the +urchin; "if I'd knowed what was coming things would have been +different." + +"Dick and Fred knowed he was coming for _them_," added Will, "for he +walked clear across the schoolroom." + +"You've got too much to say," retorted Dick Culver, angrily; "when we +want your advice we'll ask for it." + +"Well, boys, you had better make up your minds to behave yourselves and +then there won't be any trouble," was the sensible advice of Jimmy +Thompson, who had perched himself on a log, and was swinging his bare +feet back and forth; "Mr. Lathrop is the best teacher we ever had and +he suits the rest of us first rate." + +"Of course he suits all boys that ha'n't any spirit," was the crushing +response of the leader, "but I've a plan that'll teach him that me and +Dick and Fred ain't that kind of chaps." + +"How are you going to help yourself?" + +After several mysterious hints and nods of the head, Tom revealed his +stupendous scheme for bringing the teacher to terms. + +"You know the big hornet's nest over in Bear Hollow?" + +Inasmuch as there wasn't a boy in the crowd who hadn't shied stones at +the object named (always without hitting it), no further information +was necessary. + +"Well, I'm going to put that nest in the teacher's desk, and when he +comes in, takes his seat and raises the lid, won't there be music?" + +The scheme was so prodigious that for a full half minute all stared +open mouthed at their leader without speaking. + +"The teacher never locks his desk at noon, so it will be easy enough to +slip it in before he gets back." + +"But when he opens the desk and the hornets sail out, what will become +of _us_?" was the pertinent inquiry of Will Horton. + +"Why the minute the things begin to swarm out I'll yell, and we'll all +rush out doors." + +"Won't the teacher do the same thing?" + +"But he'll be the last and he'll catch it the worst. He'll be right +among the critters, and they'll just go for him, so his head will swell +up like a bushel basket and we'll have a week's vacation. By that time +he'll learn how to treat us fellers." + +"_I_ am," was the proud reply; "come on and I'll show you." + +As he spoke, Tom sprang to his feet and started on a trot toward Bear +Hollow, with the others streaming after him. + +It cannot be denied that the youth displayed considerable pluck and +coolness when he came to the test. There hung the hornet's nest from +the lower limb of an oak, so near the ground that it could be easily +reached by one of the larger boys. It was gray in color and of +enormous size. It resembled in shape an overgrown football or +watermelon, pendant by one end. In some portions faint ridges were +visible, like the prints left by tiny wavelets on the sand. Near the +base was a circular opening about as large as an old-fashioned penny. +This was the door of the hornets' residence, through which all the +occupants came and went. + +The boys halted at a safe distance, and even Tom paused a few minutes +to make a reconnoissance before going nearer. + +"You fellows stay here, and don't any of you throw stones or yell!" he +said, in a guarded undertone; "for if them hornets find out what is up, +they'll come swarming out by the million and sting us all to death." + +The promise was readily made, and Tom went forward like a hero, the +eyes of all of his playmates fixed upon him. It was noticed be carried +a large silken handkerchief in his hand--one that he had secured at +home for this special purpose. + +He advanced stealthily until within some ten feet, when he halted +again. With his gaze centered on the gray, oblong object, he saw one +of the dark insects suddenly crawl to view through the opening. + +"I wonder if he suspects anything," thought Tom, half disposed to turn +about and run; "no--he's all right," he added, as the hornet spread his +wings, and shot off like a bullet through the air. + +Still intently watching the orifice, the boy moved softly forward until +directly under the nest. Then, with the deliberation of a veteran, he +deftly enfolded it with the large silk handkerchief, easily wrenched it +loose from its support, tied the covering over the top so securely that +not an inhabitant of the nest could possibly escape, and rejoined in +triumph his companions. + +"Now you'll see fun!" he exclaimed, as he led the whole party trooping +in the direction of the schoolhouse; "keep mum, and don't tell any of +the girls what's up." + +It was a grand scheme and it looked as if there could be no hitch in +it. What compunctions the other boys might have felt against the +attempt to cause pain to their teacher were forgotten in the excitement +of the coming sport. + +The residents of the oblong home must have been surprised, to put it +mildly, when they found the house swinging along, in the grasp of some +great giant, themselves enveloped in gloom, and the only avenue of +escape sealed up. They hummed, and buzzed and raised a tempest within, +but it was in vain: they were prisoners and must remain such until the +ogre chose to release them. + +Everything seemed to join to help the young rebel. The girls were +playing so far from the school building, that they gave no heed to the +procession which passed into the structure. One glance told Tom that +it was without an occupant, and he strode hastily to the desk, the +others pausing near the door, ready to dash out in the event of +disaster. + +The desk was unlocked and Tom raised the lid. The nest was laid on its +side, in the middle, but it was so big that he had to displace several +books to make room for it. Then the knots were untied, the +handkerchief flirted free, the lid lowered, and the deed was done. + +Tom joined his companions with a radiant face. "Not a word," he +cautioned, "be extra good this afternoon; even I'll try to behave +myself for once, but we won't have to wait long." + +"S'posin' them hornets lift the lid of the desk and come out before the +teacher gets here?" suggested Will Horton. + +"What are you talking about?" was the scornful question of Dick Culver; +"how can a hornet raise the lid of a desk?" + +"I don't mean that _one_ will do it, but, if they all join together and +put their shoulders to it, they'll lift more than you think." + +But this contingency was too vague to be feared. A quarter of an hour +later, Mr. Lathrop entered the building with his brisk step, bidding +such children as he met a pleasant good afternoon, and hanging his hat +on the peg in the wall behind his desk, rang the bell for the children +to assemble, and took his seat in his chair on the platform. + +The observant instructor quickly saw that something unusual was in the +wind. There was a score of signs that he detected in the course of a +few minutes, but he could have no idea what it all meant. He was on +the alert, however, and did not remain long in suspense. + +The first hint was the sound of loud and angry buzzing within his desk. +While wondering what it meant, and in doubt whether to investigate, he +observed a hornet emerging through the key-hole. Before it could shake +itself free, he shoved him back with his key, which was inserted and +turned about, so effectually blocking the opening, that the insects +were held secure. + +The teacher read the whole story, and it needed only a brief study of +Tom Britt's actions to make sure that he was the guilty one. + +Much to the disappointment of the boys, Mr. Lathrop seemed to find no +occasion for opening his desk. It remained closed through the whole +afternoon and, when the moment for dismissal arrived, the only one to +remain was Tom Britt, who, while conducting himself fairly well, had +made a bad failure with every recitation. His mind seemed to be too +pre-occupied with some other matter to absorb book knowledge. + +The boys loitered around the playground, waiting to see the end of it +all. Tom sat with his hands supporting his head, and his elbow on the +desk, morose, sullen and disappointed. + +"I wonder if he suspects anything," he muttered; "I don't see how he +can, for nobody told him. It's queer he has never opened his desk all +the afternoon. I never knew him to do anything like that +before--Gracious alive!" + +Just then Tom felt as if some one had jabbed a burning needle into his +neck. Almost at the same instant came a similar dagger thrust on the +top of his head, where he always wore his hair short. Uttering a gasp +of affright, he leaped from his seat, with a score of fierce hornets +buzzing about his ears. The terrified glance around the room showed +that the teacher had slipped noiselessly out of the door, but, before +doing so, he had raised the lid of his desk to its fullest extent. + +The next moment Tom bounded through the door, striking at the insects +that were doing painful execution about the exposed parts of his body. +It was not until after a long run that he was entirely freed of them +and was able to take an inventory of his wounds. + +It was a lesson the lad never forgot. In the final contest between him +and his teacher, he was conquered and he admitted it. Mr. Lathrop made +a study of his character, and having proven himself physically his +master, set out to acquire the moral conquest that was needed to +complete the work. It need hardly be added that he succeeded, for he +was a thoughtful, conscientious instructor of youth, who loved his +work, and who toiled as one who knows that he must render an account of +his stewardship to Him who is not only loving and merciful, but just. + + + + +A YOUNG HERO. + +Reuben Johnson leaned on his hoe, and, looking up at the sun, wondered +whether, as in the Biblical story, it had not been stationary for +several hours. He was sure it was never so long in descending to the +horizon. + +"Wake up, Rube," sharply called his Uncle Peter, smartly hoeing another +row a few paces behind him, "doan be idlin' your time; de sun am foah +hours high yit." + +The nephew started and raised his implement, but stopped. He was +staring at the corner of the fence just ahead, where sat the jug of +cold water, with the Revolutionary musket leaning against the rails. +The crows were so annoying that the double-loaded weapon was kept ready +to be used against the pests when they ventured too near. + +"See dar, uncle!" said Rube in a scared voice. The old man also ceased +work, adjusted his iron-rimmed spectacles, and looked toward the fence. + +Within a few feet of where the flint lock musket inclined against the +rails, a yellow dog was trying to push his way through. Watching his +efforts for a few minutes, the elder said: + +"Rube, I wish we had de gun; dat dog ain't peaceable." + +"He am mad; dis ain't de place fur us." + +"Slip down to de fence and got de gun; dat's a good boy!" + +"Gracious!" gasped the youth; "it am right dar by de dog." + +"He won't notice you; run behind him and be quick 'bout it, or he'll +chaw us bofe to def." + +"He'll chaw _me_ suah if I goes near him," was the reply of Rube, who +felt little ardor for the task his relative urged upon him. + +"Ain't it better dat _one_ ob us should go dead, dan bofe should be +obstinguished?" asked the uncle reproachfully. + +"Dat 'pends which am de one to go dead; if it am _me_, it am better for +_you_, but I don't see whar _I'm_ to come in; 'spose you see wheder you +can got de gun--" + +"Dar he comes!" whispered Uncle Pete. + +Sure enough the cur, having twisted his body between the rails, began +trotting toward the couple that were watching him with such interest. + +There was good reason for fear, since the canine was afflicted with the +rabies in the worst form. He showed no froth at the jaws, for animals +thus affected do not, but his eyes were fiery, his mouth dry, the +consuming fever burning up all moisture. He moaned as if in pain, his +torture causing him to snap at everything in reach. He had bitten +shrubbery, branches, wood and other objects, and now made for the +persons with the purpose of using his teeth on them. + +"Rube," said his uncle, "stand right whar you am! No use ob runnin', +for he'll cotch you; when he gets nigh 'nough bang him wid your hoe; if +dat don't fotch him, I'll gib him anoder whack and dat'll finish him +suah." + +Fate seemed to have ordered that the younger person should hold the van +in the peril, though he was tempted to take his place by his relative, +so that the attack of the dog should be met by both at the same +instant. This promised to be effective, but the time was too brief to +permit any plan of campaign. + +The brute was already within a hundred yards of Rube, who, with his hoe +drawn back, as though it were a club, tried to calm his nerves for the +struggle. He would have fled, had he not known that that would draw +pursuit to himself. He was inclined to urge his uncle to join him in a +break for freedom, the two taking diverging routes. Since the canine +could not chase both at the same time, such a course was certain to +save one, but, inasmuch as the youth was at the front, he knew he must +be the victim, and the prospect of a mad dog nipping at his heels, with +fangs surcharged with one of the most fearful venoms known, was too +terrifying to be borne. He, therefore, braced himself, and, with a +certain dignity and courage, held his ground. + +A dog suffering from the rabies often shows odd impulses. This one was +within fifty feet of Rube, when he turned at right angles and trotted +toward the other side of the cornfield. + +"_Now's_ your time, chile!" called Uncle Pete; "got de gun quick, and +if he comes back we'll be ready for him." + +It was the first suggestion that struck the nephew favorably, and he +acted upon it at once. The dog might change his mind again and return +to the attack, in which event no weapon could equal a loaded gun. + +As Rube ran with his broad-brimmed hat flapping in his eyes, he kept +glancing over his shoulder, to make sure the brute was not following +him, while his uncle held his position, with his hoe grasped and his +eye fixed on the animal, trotting between the hills of corn. He +managed also to note the action of his nephew, who was making good +time, and whose progress caused the hearts of the two to heat high with +hope. + +Had the fence ahead of the dog been open, doubtless he would have soon +passed out of sight; but, as if recalling his trouble in entering the +field, and possibly seeing his error in leaving two victims, he stopped +only an instant in front of the rails, when he turned and came at a +swifter gait than before, straight for Uncle Pete. + +The latter stared a second or two and then shouted: + +"Quick, Rube! he means _me_ dis time!" And he dashed off, not to join +his nephew, but to reach the side of the field opposite the nose of the +animal. + +By this time the youth had his hands on the smoothbore musket and his +courage came back. He saw his uncle crashing over the hills, the +picture of dismay, while the dog rapidly gained on him. + +"Hey dar! hey dar!" shouted Rube, breaking into a run and trying to +draw attention to himself. But the brute only sped the faster. He was +near the middle of the procession, but gaining on the fugitive, who had +thrown aside his hoe, flung his hat to the ground, and was making +better progress than when he used to run races with the boys in his +younger days. + +The fence was near and he strained every nerve. It looked as if man +and dog would reach it at the same moment, but the former put forth an +extra spurt and arrived a pace or two ahead, with the cur at his heels. + +Rube, however, was not far to the rear. Seeing the crisis had come, he +stopped short, brought the musket to his shoulder, and, taking the best +aim he could, let fly with the whole load that clogged several inches +of the barrel. + +He did not observe at the moment of pressing the trigger that his uncle +and the dog were in line, but it could have made no difference, since +the shot had to be made at that instant or not at all. + +Just as the weapon was fired, Uncle Pete with a great bound cleared the +fence, landing on his hands and knees; and, rolling over on his back, +kicked the air with such vigor that his shoes flew off, one after the +other, as if keeping time with his frenzied outcries. + +The yellow cur was scared, as a shark is sometimes driven off by the +loud splashing of a swimmer, and, though he leaped the fence, he +wheeled again, and, without harming the man, ran down the highway +toward the Woodvale school. + +For a moment after firing, Rube Johnson believed he was killed. The +flint shot a spark among the powder grains, there was a flash, a hiss, +and then, as the fire worked its way to the charge inside, the +explosion came and he toppled over, half stunned, with the gun flying a +dozen feet away. + +But his fear for his relative brought him to his feet, and he hurried +to the old gentleman, who was climbing uncertainly to an upright +posture. + +"What's de matter?" asked Rube; "you ain't bit." + +"I know dat; I warn't yellin' on _dat_ 'count." + +"What fur den?" + +"You black rascal, you shot me instid ob de yaller dog." + +"Lemme see," said Rube, turning his uncle round and scanning him from +head to foot. + +"I done pepper you purty well, uncle, but dare ain't any ob de slugs +dat hit yer--only de fine bird shot." + +"How many ob dem?" was the rueful question. + +"I don't tink dar's more dan five or six hundred; Aunt Jemimer can gib +her spar time de next six weeks pickin' 'em out; she'll enj'y it, but +dat shot ob mine scared off de mad dog, and yer oughter be tankful to +me, uncle, all yer life." + +It was recess at the Woodvale school, and the forty-odd boys and girls +were having a merry time on the playgrounds, which included the broad +highway. Within the building, Mr. Hobbs, the young teacher was busy +"setting copies," his only companion just then being Tod Clymer, a +pale-faced cripple, who, unable to take part in the sports of the other +boys, preferred to stay within doors and con his lessons, in which he +was always far in advance of the rest. + +A strange confusion outside caused him to raise his head and look +through the window near him. + +"Oh, Mr. Hobbs," he said, "there's a mad dog!" + +The teacher started up, and saw the yellow cur running about the +grounds, snapping at the children, while a couple of boys had already +raised the fearful cry, and there was a scattering in all directions. +Although without any weapon, the instructor was on the point of +hurrying out to the help of the children, when he observed the canine +coming toward the outer door. He tried to close it in his face, but +the brute was too quick and was inside before he could be stopped. He +made for the second door, leading into the session-room, but, in this +instance, the teacher slammed it shut just in time. + +Instead of going out the dog slunk into the entry and crawled under a +bench, so nearly behind the outer door that he was invisible to any one +beyond. + +"Mr. Hobbs," said Tod Clymer a moment later, "will you please help me +out of the window?" + +"I think you are safer here," replied the teacher, "for he cannot reach +you, but you will not be able to get away from him outside." + +"I want to leave, please, very much." + +It was a strange request, and the teacher waited some minutes before +complying, but the heart of the lame boy was so set upon it, that he +finally assisted him to the window furthest from where the dog was +crouching, gently lifted him down to the ground, and then passed his +crutches to him. + +"Now, Tod," said he kindly, "don't tarry a moment, for there's no +saying how soon he will be outside again. The other children are away, +but you cannot run like them." + +"Thank you," replied Tod, who never forgot to be courteous, as he +carefully adjusted the collars of his crutches under his shoulders. + +Mr. Hobbs motioned from the window for several of the boys to keep off. +With a natural curiosity, they were stealing closer to the building, in +the hope of finding out what the rabid dog was doing. + +The teacher, seeing his gestures were understood, turned back, when to +his surprise, he noticed the top of Tom Clymer's straw hat, as it +slowly rose and sank, moving along the front of the building toward the +front door. + +Instead of hurrying off, as he should have done, the lad was making his +way toward the very spot where the dreadful animal was crouching. + +"Why, Tod, what are you doing?" called Mr. Hobbs through the open +window; "you will surely be bitten." + +Instead of replying or heeding the words, the lad turned his pale face +toward his friend and shook his head, as a warning for him to make no +noise. Then he resumed his advance to the open outer door, doing so +with great care and stealth, as if afraid of being heard by the brute. + +The entrance to the old Woodvale school building was reached by two +steps, consisting of the same number of broad high stones worn smooth +by the feet of the hundreds of children that had trod them times +without number. To make his way into the entry where the pupils hung +their hats and bonnets on the double rows of pegs, Tod had to move +slowly and carefully use his crutches. Being tipped with iron he could +not set them down on the smooth stones without causing noise. + +But he acted without hesitation. The teacher read his purpose and knew +it was useless to try to check him. He leaned his head out of the +window and held his breath, while he watched him. + +Tod never faltered, though none could have understood the danger he ran +better than he. He had a brother and sister among the children that +had scattered in such haste before the snapping cur, and who were +gathering again around the building despite the warning gesture of the +teacher. + +He could not know whether they had all escaped or not, but he was sure +that if the dog came forth again, more than one of them must suffer, +and in those days there was no Pasteur with his wonderful cure to whom +the afflicted ones could be taken. + +Tod did not tremble, though it seemed to him the brute must hear the +tumultuous throbbing of his heart and rush forth. Puny as was his +strength, he meant that, if he did so, he would steady himself on his +one support, and grasping the other with both hands, strike the dog +with might and main. It is doubtful whether the blow would have +stunned the dog, for the little fellow's confidence in himself was +greater than his bodily powers warranted. + +At the moment he rested the end of the crutch on the smooth surface of +the second stone, it slipped, and only by a strong wrench did he save +himself from falling. The noise was heard by the animal, who was not +six feet distant, and he emitted another moan, which can never be +forgotten by those that have heard it. + +Certain that the cur was about to rush forth, Tod steadied himself on +the single crutch, and, reversing the other, held it firmly in his weak +hands. He knew the shuffling sound was caused by the animal moving: +uneasily about the entry, and it was strange he did not burst through +the open door. But he did not do so, and, like a flash, the cripple +shifted his weapon in place under his shoulder. Then, with the same +coolness he had shown from the first, he reached his hand forward and +grasped the latch. + +The smart pull he gave, however, did not stir it. It resisted the +effort, as though it was fastened in position. If such were the fact, +his scheme was futile. + +Setting down both crutches, Tod now leaned against the jamb to prevent +himself from falling, seized the handle with both hands, and drew back +suddenly and with all his might. This time the door yielded and was +closed. + +As it did so, the rabid animal flung himself against it with a violence +that threatened to carry it off its hinges, but it remained firm and he +was a prisoner. + +"You are a hero!" called the teacher in a voice tremulous with +suppressed emotion. + +"I guess we've got him fast, but look out, Mr. Hobbs, that he doesn't +reach you." + +"I think there is little danger of that," said the other, looking +anxiously at the inner door, "but we must get help to dispose of him +before he can do further injury." + +By this time, so many of the children had come back to the playgrounds +that several of those living near were sent home for assistance. It +quickly arrived; for Reuben Johnson and his uncle lost no time in +spreading the news, and three young men, each with a loaded gun, +appeared on the scene, eager to dispose of the dangerous animal. The +latter was at such disadvantage that this was done without trouble or +risk. + +Providentially none of the children had been bitten, though more than +one underwent a narrow escape. Such animals as had felt the fangs of +the rabid cur were slain, and thus no harm resulted from the brief run +of the brute. + + + + +OVERREACHED. + +Bushrod, or "Bush" Wyckoff was only twelve years old when he went to +work for Zeph Ashton, who was not only a crusty farmer, but one of the +meanest men in the country, and his wife was well fitted to be the life +partner of such a parsimonious person. + +They had no children of their own, and had felt the need for years of a +willing, nimble-footed youngster to do the odd chores about the house, +such as milking cows, cutting and bringing in wood, running of errands, +and the scores of odd little jobs which are easy enough for boys, but +sorely try the stiff and rheumatic limbs of a man in the decline of +life. + +Bush was a healthy little fellow--not very strong for his years, but +quick of movement, bright-witted, willing, and naturally a general +favorite. The misfortunes which suddenly overtook his home roused the +keenest sympathy of his neighbors. His father was a merchant in New +York, who went to and from the metropolis each week day morning and +evening, to his pleasant little home in New Jersey. One day his +lifeless body was brought thither, and woe and desolation came to the +happy home. He was killed in a railway accident. + +The blow was a terrible one, and for weeks it seemed as if his stricken +widow would follow him across the dark river; but her Christian +fortitude and her great love for their only child sustained her in her +awful grief, and she was even able to thank her Heavenly Father that +her dear boy was spared to her. + +But how true it is that misfortunes rarely come singly. Her husband +had amassed a competency sufficient to provide comfortably for those +left behind; but his confidence in his fellow-men was wofully betrayed. +He was one of the bondsmen of a public official who made a hasty +departure to Canada, one evening, leaving his business in such a shape +that his securities were compelled to pay fifty thousand dollars. Two +others were associated with Mr. Wyckoff, and with the aid of their +tricky lawyers they managed matters so that four-fifths of the loss +fell upon the estate of the deceased merchant. + +The result swept it away as utterly as were the dwellings in the +Johnstown Valley by the great flood. The widow and her boy left their +home and moved into a little cottage, with barely enough left to keep +the wolf of starvation from the door. + +It was then that Bush showed the stuff of which he was made. He +returned one afternoon and told his mother, in his off-hand way, that +he had engaged to work through the summer months for Mr. Ashton, who +not only agreed to pay him six dollars a month, but would allow him to +remain at home over night, provided, of course, that he was there early +each morning and stayed late enough each day to attend to all the +chores. + +The tears filled the eyes of the mother as she pressed her little boy +to her heart, and comprehended his self-sacrificing nature. + +"You are too young, my dear child, to do this; we have enough left to +keep us awhile, and I would prefer that you wait until you are older +and stronger." + +"Why, mother, I am old enough and strong enough now to do all that Mr. +Ashton wants me to do. He explained everything to me, and it won't be +work at all, but just fun." + +"Well, I hope you will find it so, but if he does not treat you kindly, +you must not stay one day." + +Bush never complained to his mother, but he did find precious little +fun and plenty of the hardest kind of work. The miserly farmer bore +down heavily on his young shoulders. He and his wife seemed to be +continually finding extra labor for the lad. The little fellow was on +hand each morning, in stormy as well as in clear weather, at daybreak, +ready and willing to perform to the best of his ability whatever he was +directed to do. Several times he became so weak and faint from the +severe labor, that the frugal breakfast he had eaten at home proved +insufficient, and he was compelled to ask for a few mouthfuls of food +before the regular dinner hour arrived. Although he always remained +late, he was never invited to stay to supper, Mr. Ashton's +understanding being that the mid-day meal was the only one to which the +lad was entitled. + +But for his love for his mother, Bush would have given up more than +once. His tasks were so severe and continuous that many a time he was +hardly able to drag himself homeward. Every bone in his body seemed to +ache, and neither his employer nor his wife ever uttered a pleasant or +encouraging word. + +But no word of murmuring fell from his lips. He resolutely held back +all complaints, and crept away early to his couch under the plea that +it was necessary in order to be up betimes. The mother's heart was +distressed beyond expression, but she comforted herself with the fact +that his term of service was drawing to a close, and he would soon have +all the rest and play he wanted. + +Bush allowed his wages to stand until the first of September, when his +three months expired. He had counted on the pride and happiness that +would be his when he walked into the house and tossed the whole +eighteen dollars in his mother's lap. How her eyes would sparkle, and +how proud he would be! + +"Lemme see," said the skinflint, when settling day arrived; "I was to +give you four dollars a month, warn't I?" + +"It was six," replied Bush, respectfully. + +"That warn't my understanding, but we'll let it go at that; I've allers +been too gin'rous, and my heart's too big for my pocket. Lemme see." + +He uttered the last words thoughtfully, as he took his small +account-book from his pocket, and began figuring with the stub of a +pencil. "Three months at six dollars will be eighteen dollars." + +"Yes, sir; that's right." + +"Don't interrupt me, young man," sternly remarked the farmer, frowning +at him over his spectacles. "The full amount is eighteen +dollars--Kerrect--L--em--m--e see; you have et seven breakfasts here; +at fifty cents apiece that is three dollars and a half. Then, +l--em--m--e see; you was late eleven times, and I've docked you +twenty-five cents for each time; that makes two dollars and +seventy-five cents." + +Inasmuch as Bush's wages amounted hardly to twenty-five cents a day, it +must be admitted that this was drawing it rather strong. + +"L--em--m--e see," continued Mr. Ashton, wetting the pencil stub +between his lips, and resuming his figuring; "your board amounts to +three dollars and a half; your loss of time to two seventy-five; that +makes six and a quarter, which bein' took from eighteen dollars, leaves +'leven seventy-five. There you are!" + +As he spoke, he extended his hand, picked up a small canvas bag from +the top of his old-fashioned writing-desk, and tossed it to the +dumfounded boy. The latter heard the coins inside jingle, as it fell +in his lap, and, as soon as he could command his voice, he swallowed +the lump in his throat, and faintly asked: + +"Is that--is that right, Mr. Ashton?" + +"Count it and see for yourself," was the curt response. + +This was not exactly what Bush meant, but he mechanically unfastened +the cord around the throat of the little bag, tumbled the coins out in +his hat and slowly counted them. They footed up exactly eleven dollars +and seventy-five cents, proving that Mr. Ashton's figuring was +altogether unnecessary, and that he had arranged the business +beforehand. + +While Bush was examining the coins, his heart gave a sudden quick +throb. He repressed all signs of the excitement he felt, however. + +"How do you find it?" asked the man, who had never removed his eyes +from him, "Them coins have been in the house more'n fifty year--that +is, some of 'em have, but they're as good as if they's just from the +mint, and bein' all coin, you can never lose anything by the bank +bustin'." + +"It is correct," said Bush. + +"Ar' you satisfied?" + +"Yes, sir." + +"Then sign this receipt, and we're square." + +The lad sat down at the desk and attached his name in a neat round hand +to the declaration that he had received payment in full for his +services from Mr. Zephaniah Ashton, up to the first of September of the +current year. + +"This is all mine, Mr. Ashton?" + +"Of course--what do you mean by axin' that?" + +"Nothing; good-day." + +"Good-day," grunted the miser, turning his back, as a hint for him to +leave--a hint which Bush did not need, for he was in a tumult of +excitement. + +"That is the queerest thing that ever happened," he said to himself +when he reached the public highway, and began hurrying along the road +in the direction of Newark. "If he had paid me my full wages I would +have told him, but all these are mine, and I shall sell them; won't +Professor Hartranft be delighted, but not half as much as mother and I +will be." + + +That evening Mr. Ashton and his wife had just finished their supper +when Professor Hartranft, a pleasant, refined-looking gentleman, +knocked at their door. + +"I wish to inquire," said he, after courteously saluting the couple, +"whether you have any old coins in the house." + +"No," was the surly response of the farmer, "we don't keep 'em." + +"But you _had_ quite a collection." + +"I had 'leven dollars and seventy-five cents' worth, but I paid 'em out +this mornin'." + +"To a boy named Bushrod Wyckoff?" + +"Yas." + +"They were given to him unreservedly?--that is, you renounce all claim +upon them?" + +"What the blazes ar' you drivin' at?" demanded the angry farmer. "I +owed him 'leven dollars and seventy-five cents for wages, and I paid +him purcisely that amount, and have his receipt in full. I'd like to +know what business it is of yours anyway." + +Now came the professor's triumph. + +"Young Wyckoff called at my office this afternoon, and I bought a +number of the coins from him." + +"What!" exclaimed the amazed farmer, "you didn't pay him nothin' extra +for that rusty old money, did you? You must be crazy." + +"I did, and shall make a handsome thing of it. For instance, among the +coins which you gave him was a copper penny, with a liberty cap, of +1793; I paid Bush three dollars for that; I gave him twenty-five +dollars for a half dime coined in 1802; twenty dollars for a quarter +dollar of 1827; the same sum for a half dollar, fillet head, of 1796; +and, what caps all, five hundred dollars for a silver dollar of 1804. +There are only five or six of the latter in existence, and I shall sell +this specimen for at least eight hundred dollars. Mr. Ashton, +sometimes a mean man overreaches himself, and it looks as though you +had made a mistake. I bid you good-day, sir." + +The numismatist spoke the truth; and when the miserly old farmer +realized how completely he had turned the tables on himself, it is +enough to say that his feelings may be "better imagined than described." + + + + +A BATTLE IN THE AIR. + +One of the most interesting towns I ever visited is New Braunfels, +Texas. It was founded by a colony of Germans, and experienced the most +distressing trials during its early days; but it is now a picture of +thrift and industry. The cowboy who attempts to ride through New +Braunfels, with his revolvers displayed, is promptly pulled off his +mustang and compelled to pay a round fine for violating a city +ordinance. If he undertakes to "kick," it won't help him a bit, and +probably will increase the penalty imposed. Our German cousins propose +to run that town to suit themselves, and they succeed quite well. + +The rivers of Texas are subjected to violent rises, often as great as +twenty feet in an hour or less. Such sudden floods play havoc with the +bridges along the bank, but I noticed in riding into New Braunfels an +ingenious arrangement of the wooden structure by which, no matter how +high the stream may rise, the bridge accommodates itself, and floats on +the surface, while securely held from being carried away by the current. + +But I set out to tell you a true incident of what happened a few years +since, to a bright, lively youngster, sixteen years old, who lives in +New Braunfels, and is brimful of pluck. His name is Lee Hemingway; he +is an orphan, and if his life is spared, he is certain to be heard from +when he reaches man's estate. + +Prof. McInery, the well-known naturalist, spent several weeks last +spring in the neighborhood of New Braunfels, hunting ornithological +specimens for his collection, and he offered fifty dollars to any one +who would bring him an eagle's nest, with living eaglets or with eggs +in it. + +When Lee Hemingway learned of the offer, he determined to earn it. It +was rather early in the season for our emblematical birds to hatch +their young, but, by carefully watching a pair, he succeeded in finding +where their nest was made. It was on the summit of an almost +insurmountable bowlder, rising nearly a hundred and twenty-five feet in +the valley of the Guadaloupe. + +The bravest man might well shrink from attempting to scale the +perpendicular sides of this mass of rock, but as young Hemingway gazed +longingly up the side to the nest, he noticed that the stone had become +coated, in the course of time, with earth, which was covered with +tangled vines and stunted vegetation. + +"I believe I can climb that," thought the sturdy lad, after +scrutinizing the herculean task, and watching one of the eagles soaring +far above the summit. "I think there is enough foothold, and I can use +the vines to help pull me up; but, if the eagles should catch me at it, +they would make music." + +It was the birds that caused him more dread than the forty odd yards of +rock. We knew their fierce nature, and, if they discovered his designs +against their home, as they were almost certain to do, they would +assail him with a fury that must be resistless in his cramped position. + +The professor advised him not to make the attempt, but the daring youth +had to earn his own living, and the prize of fifty dollars was too +tempting to be resisted. + +"_I'll do it_!" he exclaimed, after considering the question, "if you +will keep watch with your gun for the eagles." + +"Of course I'll do _that_," replied the professor, delighted with the +prospect of securing that which he had sought so long in vain. + +The preparations for the work were simple. With a basket, furnished +with a lid, slung to his back, in which to secure the eggs or eaglets, +young Hemingway began his laborious and dangerous ascent, while the +professor, gun in hand, watched him from the ground below. + +The boy quickly proved the possession of unusual skill as a climber. +With the help of the vines he went steadily upward, hunting secure +places for his feet and testing every support before trusting his +weight to it. Once or twice, the professor thought the lad had made a +mistake and was on the point of paying the penalty, but he never +faltered nor slipped. Higher and higher he ascended until at last the +feat was accomplished, and the very summit reached. + +His heart throbbed with pleasure when he discovered two young eagles in +the nest. They were no more than a couple of days old, and he had no +trouble in placing them and a portion of the nest in the basket, which +was again strapped to his back, and, after a brief rest, he started to +descend. + +Nothing was seen of the parent eagles, and he was congratulating +himself on his good fortune, when bang went the professor's gun. At +the same moment a shadow flitted over his head, and looking up he saw +that instead of one, both of the eagles had arrived. + +The lad had not descended half-way and the professor's shot did not +harm either of them. They landed on the summit of the rocks, and, if a +bird can feel astonishment, they must have felt it when they looked +around and discovered nothing of their home. + +But the great American bird is not the one to submit tamely to such an +outrage. They began an immediate investigation, and, when they caught +sight of a boy scrambling down the side of the rocks with a basket +strapped to his back, from which came a number of familiar squeak-like +chirpings, they had no trouble in understanding matters. + +The style in which they went for that same boy was a sight to behold. +There was no hesitation or maneuvering; but, with outstretched wings +and hoarse screeches, they dashed toward him like a couple of cyclones. +The youth saw that he was caught in a desperate fix, for he had no +weapons, and had to cling to the vines with one hand to save himself +from being dashed to the ground below. + +He ducked his head to ward off their beaks and talons from his eyes, +and tried hard to beat them back with his free hand. + +This was impossible. Their beaks struck him repeatedly in the head, +bringing blood, which flowed over his face and almost blinded him, +while they savagely buffeted him with their great wings, until he was +in danger of being knocked from his position. + +Meanwhile, the alarmed professor could do nothing for his young friend. +The eagles kept so close to him, that, if he tried, he was as likely to +hit one as the other. He walked back and forth, on the alert for such +a chance, and fortunately had not long to wait. One of the furious +birds, circled off a few feet, as if to gather impetus for a decisive +charge, when, taking a quick aim, the gentleman fired. + +The shot was unerring and killed the female. She fluttered into a +large sapling that sprouted from a large crevice in the rocks, about +eight feet above the boy's head, and lay motionless. Although nearly +blinded by blood, young Hemingway now attempted a feat which he was +convinced offered the only means of saving his life. + +He drew himself up to the foot of the tree, and once there, braced +himself firmly with his feet, and tied his handkerchief around his +forehead, to keep the blood out of his eyes. Seizing the dead bird by +the feet, he swung it around with might and main and struck the male, +which had continued beating him incessantly. + +It was a strange weapon--a dead eagle against a live one, and the boy's +constrained position prevented his using it with much effect. So +lacking, indeed, were the blows in force, that the male flew directly +at his face. The sorely beset lad dropped the dead bird and fastened +both hands around the throat of his assailant. The latter fought +desperately, but the young hero never released his grip, until it +ceased its struggles. Then he flung it from him, and it tumbled +downward to the professor's feet. + +This gentleman had done his best to help his young friend, but was +unable to do so. The lad, after resting awhile, picked his way down to +the ground, where his feet had hardly touched when he fainted in the +professor's arms. He soon rallied, however, though his wounds were so +severe that he was obliged to keep his bed for several weeks. + +The two eaglets were found uninjured, and were safely carried to the +professor's home, as were the bodies of the dead birds. They were +mounted by Professor McInery, who, in consideration of the danger +undergone by the boy, and the two extra birds, presented Lee with $100, +and no one will deny that the money was well earned. + + + + +WHO SHALL EXPLAIN IT? + +Let me begin by saying that I was never a believer in signs, omens, or +the general superstitions which, it must be admitted, influence most +people to a greater or less degree. I have been the thirteenth guest +at more than one table, without my appetite being affected; I have +tipped over my salt-cellar without a twinge of fear; I have never +turned aside to avoid passing under a leaning ladder, and I do not care +a jot whether the first glimpse of the new moon is over my right or +left shoulder. + +I had a little boy Bob, who was fourteen years old on the last +anniversary of American independence. Being our only son, his mother +and myself held him close to our hearts. In fact, I am sure no little +fellow was ever regarded with more affectionate love than our Bob. The +painful story which, with much hesitation, I have set out to tell is +one, therefore, that no member of our little family can ever forget. + +We always tried to act the part of sensible parents toward our little +boy. He never stepped inside of a school-house until he was seven +years old, and, when he did so, it was to stay only a brief while. It +was six months before he became acquainted with every letter of the +alphabet, and no youngster of his years ever ruined more clothing than +he. The destruction of shoes, hats, and trousers was enough to +bankrupt many a father, and it often provoked a protest from his +mother. I have seen him, within a half hour after having his face +scrubbed until it shone like an apple, present himself in such ragged +attire and with so soiled a countenance, that it took a second glance +to identify him. + +And yet, as I sit here writing by the evening lamp, I am glad to recall +that I never scolded Bob. I would have been sadly neglectful of my +duty had I failed to reprove and advise him, and I am sure he honestly +strove to obey my wishes; but the sum and substance of it all was, he +couldn't do it. He was a vigorous little fellow, overrunning with +animal spirits, high health, and mischief; and it was a pleasure to me +to see him laying the firm foundation of a lusty constitution, which, +in later years, could laugh at disease. + +And then when he did take a start in his studies, he advanced with a +speed that astonished his teacher. At the age of twelve there was not +a girl or boy in school (and some of them were several years older than +he) who could hold his own with him. I took some credit to myself for +all this, for I believed it was largely due to the common-sense I used +in his early youth. The foundation was strong and secure, and the +building erected upon it was upon solid rock. + +During the last two or three years I suffered from a great fear. +Between the school-house and our home was a mill-pond, which in many +places was fully a dozen feet deep. I knew what a temptation this was +to the boys during the long, sultry summer weather, and there was not a +day when a dozen youngsters, more or less, were not frolicking and +splashing in it. + +One afternoon, when I sauntered thither, I found fully a score of them +in the height of enjoyment, and the wildest and most reckless fellow +was my Bob. When he observed me standing on the shore he was so +anxious to astonish me that he ventured into the water up to his chin, +I shouted to him to come to shore, for he was in fearful peril, and it +needed only a few inches further advance for him to drown before help +could reach him. + +"Bob," said I, in a voice and manner that could not be mistaken, "if +you ever do that again I'll whip you within an inch of your life." + +"I won't, pop," he replied, in such meek tones that, parent-like, my +heart reproached me at once. + +"Now," I added more gently, "every boy ought to learn to swim, and +until he is able to do so, he should keep out of deep water. If you +will promise me that you will never venture into a depth above your +waist until a good swimmer, you may bathe here; otherwise you shall +never come near it." + +He gave me his promise, and, telling him that he had been in the water +long enough for that afternoon, I asked him to dress himself and come +home with me. + +I felt that I had been weak. I ought to have forbidden him ever to +enter the mill-pond unless in my company, and thus that which followed +never could have occurred. I did not tell his mother what had taken +place, for I knew she would insist on a strict prohibition of his +aimless swimming efforts. + +To tell the truth, there were two reasons why I did not forbid Bob to +enter the mill-pond. I knew it would be the most cruel kind of +punishment, and, I may as well confess it, I didn't believe the boy +would obey me if he gave the pledge. The temptation was too strong to +be resisted. Alas! how often our affection closes our eyes to the +plainest duty! + +And now I have reached a point which prompts me to ask the question at +the head of this sketch, "Who Shall Explain It?" I have my own theory, +which I shall submit, with no little diffidence, later on. + +It was on Saturday afternoon, the ninth of last August, that I became a +victim to a greater depression of spirits than I had known for years. +I felt nothing of it during the forenoon, but it began shortly after +the midday meal and became more oppressive with each passing minute. I +sat down at my desk and wrote for a short time. I continually sighed +and drew deep inspirations, which gave me no relief. It was as if a +great and increasing weight were resting on my chest. Had I been +superstitious, I would have declared that I was on the eve of some +dreadful calamity. + +Writing became so difficult and distasteful that I threw down my pen, +sprang from my chair, and began rapidly pacing up and down the room. +My wife had gone to the city that morning to visit her relatives, and +was not to return until the following day; so I was alone, with only +two servants in the house. + +I couldn't keep the thoughts of Bob out of my mind. Saturday being a +holiday, I had allowed him to go off to spend the afternoon as he +chose; and, as it was unusually warm, there was little doubt where and +how he was spending it. He would strike a bee-line for that shady +mill-pond, and they would spend hours plashing in its cool and +delicious depths. + +I looked at the clock; it was a few minutes past five, and Bob ought to +have been home long ago. What made him so late? + +My fear was growing more intense every minute. The boy was in my mind +continually to the exclusion of everything else. Despite all my +philosophy and rigid common-sense, the conviction was fastening on me +that something dreadful had befallen him. + +And what was that something? He had been drowned in the mill-pond. I +glanced out of the window, half expecting to see a party bearing the +lifeless body homeward. Thank Heaven, I was spared that woful sight, +but I discerned something else that sent a misgiving pang through me. + +It was Mrs. Clarkson, our nearest neighbor, rapidly approaching, as if +the bearer of momentous tidings. + +"She has come to tell me that Bob is drowned," I gasped, as my heart +almost ceased its beating. + +I met her on the threshold, with a calmness of manner which belied the +tumult within. Greeting her courteously, I invited her inside, stating +that my wife was absent. + +"I thank you," she said, "but it is not worth while. I thought I ought +to come over and tell you." + +"Tell me what?" I inquired, swallowing the lump in my throat. + +"Why, about the awful dream I had last night." + +I was able to smile faintly, and was partly prepared for what was +coming. + +"I am ready to hear it, Mrs. Clarkson." + +"Why, you know it was Friday night, and I never had a dream on a Friday +night that didn't come true--never! Where's Bob?" she abruptly asked, +peering around me, as if to learn whether he was in the hall. + +"He's off somewhere at play." + +"Oh, Mr. Havens, you'll never see him alive again!" + +Although startled in spite of myself, I was indignant. + +"Have you any positive knowledge, Mrs. Clarkson, on the matter?" + +"Certainly I have; didn't I just tell you about my dream?" + +"A fudge for your dream!" I exclaimed, impatiently; "I don't believe in +any such nonsense." + +"I pity you," she said, though why I should be pitied on that account +is hard to understand. + +"But what was your dream?" + +"I saw your Bob brought home drowned. Oh, I can see him now," she +added, speaking rapidly, and making a movement as if to wring her +hands; "his white face--his dripping hair and clothes--his half-closed +eyes--it was dreadful; it will break his mother's heart--" + +"Mrs. Clarkson, did you come here to tell me _that_?" + +"Why, of course I did; I felt it was my duty to prepare you--" + +"Good day," I answered, sharply, closing the door and hastily entering +my study. + +She had given me a terrible shock. My feelings were in a tumult +difficult to describe. My philosophy, my self-command, my hard sense +and scepticism were scattered to the winds, I had fought against the +awful fear, and was still fighting when my neighbor called; but her +visit had knocked every prop from beneath me. + +She had hardly disappeared when I was hurrying through the woods by the +shortest route to the mill-pond. I knew Bob had been there, and all +that I expected to find was his white, ghastly body in the cold, cruel +depths. + +"Oh, my boy!" I wailed, "I am to blame for your death! I never should +have permitted you to run into such danger. I should have gone with +you and taught you to swim--I can never forgive myself for this--never, +never, never. It will break your mother's heart--mine is already +broken--" + +"_Pop, just watch me_!" + +Surely that was the voice of my boy! I turned my head like a flash, +and there he was, with his hands together over his head, and in the act +of diving into the mill-pond. Down he went with a splash, his head +quickly reappearing, as he flirted the hair and water out of his eyes, +and struck out for the middle of the pond. + +"What are you doing, Bob?" + +"You just wait and see, pop." + +And what did that young rascal do but swim straight across that pond +and then turn about and swim back again, without pausing for breath? +Not only that, but, when in the very deepest portion, he dove, floated +on his back, trod water, and kicked up his heels like a frisky colt. + +"How's that, pop? You didn't know I could swim, did you?" he asked, as +he came smilingly up the bank. + +"I had no idea of such a thing," I replied, my whole being fluttering +with gratitude and delight; "I think I'll have to reward you for that." + +And when he had donned his clothes, and we started homeward, I slipped +a twisted bank-bill into his hands. I am really ashamed to tell its +denomination, and Bob and I never hinted anything about it to his +mother. + +And now as to the question, Who shall explain it? I think I can. I +have a weakness for boiled beef and cabbage. The meat is healthful +enough, but, as every one knows, or ought to know, cabbage, although +one of the most digestible kinds of food when raw, is just the opposite +in a boiled state. I knew the consequences of eating it, but in the +absence of my good wife that day I disposed of so much that I deserved +the oppressive indigestion that followed. + +That fact, I am convinced, fully explains the dreadful "presentiment" +which made me so miserable all the afternoon. + +On our way home we passed the house of Mrs. Clarkson. I could not +forbear stopping and ringing her bell. She answered it in person. + +"Mrs. Clarkson, Bob is on his way home from swimming, and I thought I +would let him hear about that wonderful dream--" + +But the door was slammed in my face. + +I said at the opening of this sketch that I "had" a boy named Bob. God +be thanked, I have him yet, and no lustier, brighter, or more manly +youth ever lived, and my prayer is that he may be spared to soothe the +declining years of his father and mother, whose love for him is beyond +the power of words to tell. + + + + +A FOOL OR A GENIUS. + +CHAPTER I. + +Josiah Hunter sat on his porch one summer afternoon, smoking his pipe, +feeling dissatisfied, morose and sour on account of his only son Tim, +who, he was obliged to confess to himself, gave every indication of +proving a disappointment to him. + +Mr. Hunter was owner of the famous Brereton Quarry & Stone Works, +located about a mile above the thriving village of Brereton, on the +eastern bank of the Castaran river, and at a somewhat greater distance +below the town of Denville. The quarry was a valuable one and the +owner was in comfortable circumstances, with the prospect of acquiring +considerable more of a fortune out of the yield of excellent building +stone. The quarry had been worked for something like ten years, and +the discovery that he had such a fine deposit on his small farm was in +the minds of his neighbors equivalent to the finding of a gold mine, +for as the excavation proceeded, the quality of the material improved +and Mr. Hunter refused an offer from a company which, but for the +stone, would have been a very liberal price for the whole farm. + +Mr. Hunter had been a widower ever since his boy was three years old, +and the youth was now fourteen. His sister Maggie was two years his +senior, and they were deeply attached to each other. Maggie was a +daughter after her father's own heart,--one of those rare, sensible +girls who cannot be spoiled by indulgence, who was equally fond of her +parent and who stood unflinchingly by her brother in the little +differences between father and son, which, sad to say, were becoming +more frequent and serious with the passing weeks and months. It is +probable that the affection of the parent for the daughter prevented +him from ever thinking of marrying again, for she was a model +housekeeper, and he could not bear the thought of seeing anyone come +into the family and usurp, even in a small degree, her functions and +place. + +Mr. Hunter was getting on in years, and nothing was more natural than +that he should wish and plan that Tim should become his successor in +the development of the valuable quarry that was not likely to give out +for many a year to come. But the boy showed no liking for the +business. He was among the best scholars in the village school, fond +of play and so well advanced in his studies that his parent determined +to begin his practical business training in earnest. He looked upon a +college education as a waste of so many years, taken from the most +precious part of a young man's life, and it must be said that Tim +himself showed no wish to attend any higher educational institution. + +Tim had assisted about the quarry, more or less for several years. Of +course he was too young to do much in the way of manual labor, but +there were many errands that he ran, beside helping to keep his +father's accounts. He wrote an excellent hand, was quick in figures +and had such a command of language that all his parent had to do was to +tell him the substance of the letter he wished written, to have the boy +put it in courteous but pointed and clear form. The elder had never +detected an error in the computations of the younger, who had no +trouble at all when the operations included difficult fractions. + +All this was good in its way, but it could not be denied that Tim had +no liking for the business itself. His father had told him repeatedly +that he must prepare himself for the active management of the stone +works, and that to do so required something more than quickness in +figures and skill in letter writing. But it was in vain. Tim was +never at the works unless by direct command of his parent, and seized +the first opportunity to get away. + +"No person can succeed in a business which he dislikes," remarked Mr. +Hunter to Maggie who on this summer afternoon sat on the front porch, +plying her deft needle, while the waning twilight lasted, with Bridget +inside preparing the evening meal. + +"I think that is true, father," was her gentle reply. + +"And that boy hates the stone business and I can't understand why he +should." + +"Isn't it also true, father, that one cannot control his likes and +dislikes? Tim has told me he can't bear the thought of spending his +life in getting out great blocks of stone and trimming them into shape +for building. He said he wished he could feel as you do, but there's +no use of his trying." + +"Fudge!" was the impatient exclamation; "what business has a boy of his +years to talk or think about what sort of business he prefers? It is +my place to select his future avocation and his to accept it without a +growl." + +"He will do that, father." + +"Of course he will," replied the parent with a compression of his thin +lips and a flash of his eyes; "when I yield to a boy fourteen years +old, it will be time to shift me off to the lunatic asylum." + +"Why, then, are you displeased, since he will do what you wish and do +it without complaint? + +"I am displeased because he is dissatisfied and has no heart in his +work. He shows no interest in anything relating to the quarries and it +is becoming worse every day with him." + +"Didn't he help this forenoon?" + +"Yes, because I told him he must be on hand as soon as he was through +breakfast and not leave until he went to dinner." + +"Did you say nothing about his working this afternoon?" + +"No; I left that out on purpose to test him." + +"What was the result?" + +"I haven't seen hide or hair of him since; I suppose he is off in the +woods or up in his room, reading or figuring on some invention. Do you +know where he is?" + +"He has been in his room almost all the afternoon and is there now." + +"Doing what?" + +"I guess you have answered that question," replied Maggie laying aside +her sewing because of the increasing shadows, and looking across at her +father with a smile. + +"That's what makes me lose all patience. What earthly good is it for +him to sit in his room drawing figures of machines he dreams of making, +or scribbling over sheets of paper? If this keeps up much longer, he +will take to writing poetry, and the next thing will be smoking +cigarettes and then his ruin will be complete." + +Maggie's clear laughter rang out on the summer air. She was always +overflowing with spirits and the picture drawn by her parent and the +look of profound disgust on his face as he uttered his scornful words +stirred her mirth beyond repression. + +"What are you laughing at?" he demanded, turning toward her, though +without any anger in his tones, for he could never feel any emotion of +that nature toward such a daughter. + +"It was the idea of Tim writing poetry or rhyme and smoking cigarettes. +I'll guarantee that he will never do either." + +"Nor anything else, you may as well add." + +"I'll guarantee that if he lives he will do a good many things that +will be better than getting out and trimming stone." + +This was not the first time that Maggie had intimated the same faith, +without going into particulars or giving any idea upon what she based +that faith. The parent looked sharply at her and asked: + +"What do you mean? Explain yourself." + +But the daughter was not yet ready to do so. She had her thoughts or +dreams or whatever they might be, but was not prepared as yet to share +them with her parent. He was not in the mood, and for her to tell all +that was in her mind would be to provoke an outburst that would be +painful to the last degree. She chose for the present to parry. + +"How can I know, father, what ambition Tim has? He is still young +enough to change that ambition, whatever it may be." + +"And he's _got_ to change it, as sure as he lives! I am tired of his +fooling; he is fourteen years old, big, strong, and healthy; if he +would take hold of the work and show some interest in it, he would be +able in a couple of years to take charge of the whole business and give +me a rest, but he is frittering away valuable time until I've made up +my mind to permit it no longer." + +The parent knocked the bowl of his pipe against the column of the porch +and shook his head in a way that showed he meant every word he said. +Maggie was troubled, for she had feared an outbreak between him and +Tim, and it seemed to be impending. She dreaded it more than death, +for any violence by her beloved parent toward her equally beloved +brother would break her heart. That parent, naturally placid and +good-natured, had a frightful temper when it was aroused. She could +never forget that day when in a quarrel with one of his employes, he +came within a hair of killing the man and for the time was a raging +tiger. + +There was one appeal that Maggie knew had never failed her, though she +feared the day would come when even that would lose its power. She +reserved it as the last recourse. When she saw her father rise to his +feet, and in the gathering gloom noted the grim resolute expression on +his face, she knew the crisis had come. + +"Tell him to come down-stairs; we may as well have this matter settled +here and now." + +"Father," she said in a low voice of the sweetest tenderness, "you will +not forget what he did two years ago?" + +The parent stood motionless, silent for a minute, and then gently +resumed his seat, adding a moment later, + +"No; I can never forget that; never mind calling him just now." + +And what it was that Tim Hunter did "two years ago" I must now tell you. + + + + +CHAPTER II. + +Bear in mind that Tim Hunter was twelve years old at the time, being +the junior by two years of his sister Maggie. + +On the day which I have in mind, he had spent the forenoon fishing, and +brought home a mess of trout for which he had whipped one of the +mountain brooks, and which furnished the family with the choicest sort +of a meal. The father complimented him on his skill, for that was +before the parent's patience had been so sorely tried by the +indifference of the lad toward the vocation to which the elder meant he +should devote his life. He left the lad at liberty to spend the rest +of the day as he chose, and, early in the afternoon, he proposed to his +sister that they should engage in that old game of "jackstones" with +which I am sure you are familiar. + +Years ago the country lads and lassies generally used little bits of +stones, instead of scraggly, jagged pieces of iron, with which they +amuse themselves in these days. Tim had seen some of the improved +jackstones; and, borrowing one from a playmate, he made a clay mould +from it, into which he poured melted lead, repeating the operation +until he had five as pretty and symmetrically formed specimens as one +could wish. It was with these in his hands, that he led the way to the +barn for a game between himself and sister. + +The big, spacious structure was a favorite place for spending their +leisure hours. The hard, seedy floor, with the arching rafters +overhead could not be improved for their purpose. The shingles were so +far aloft that the shade within was cool on sultry summer days, and it +was the pleasantest kind of music to hear the rain drops patter on the +roof and the wind whistle around the eaves and corners. The mow where +the hay was stored was to the left, as you entered the door, and under +that were the stalls where the horses munched their dinner and looked +solemnly through the opening over the mangers at the two children +engaged at play. Between where they sat and the rafters, the space was +open. + +Maggie took her seat in the middle of the floor, and her brother placed +himself opposite. Before doing so, he stepped to the nearest stall and +picked up a block of wood six inches in diameter and two feet in +length. This he laid on the floor and seated himself upon it, tossing +the jackstones to his sister to begin the game. + +She was his superior, for her pretty taper fingers were more nimble +than his sturdy ones, and, unless she handicapped herself by certain +conditions, she invariably won in the contest of skill. She tossed +them one after the other, then two or three or more at a time, +snatching up the others from the floor and going through the varied +performance with an easy perfection that was the wonder of Tim. Once +or twice, she purposely missed some feat, but the alert lad was sure to +detect it, and declared he would not play unless she did her best, and, +under his watchful eye, she could not escape doing so. As I have said, +the only way to equalize matters was for her to handicap herself, and +even then I am compelled to say she was more often winner than loser. + +Sitting on the block of wood tipped up on one end, Tim kept his eyes on +the bits of metal, popping up in the air and softly dropping into the +extended palm, and wondered again why it was so hard for him to do that +which was so easy for her. Finally she made a slip, which looked +honest, and resigned the stones to him. + +Now, you know that in playing this game, you ought to sit on the floor +or ground; for if your perch is higher, you are compelled to stoop +further to snatch up the pieces and your position is so awkward that it +seriously interferes with your success. + +The very first scramble Tim made at the stones on the floor was not +only a failure, but resulted in a splinter catching under the nail of +one of his fingers. Maggie laughed. + +"Why do you sit way up there?" she asked; "you can't do half as well as +when you are lower down like me." + +"I guess you're right," he replied, as he pushed the block away and +imitated her. "I 'spose I'll catch the splinters just the same." + +"There's no need of it; you mustn't claw the stones, but move your hand +gently, just as I do. Now, watch me." + +"It's a pity that no one else in the world is half as smart as you," +replied the brother with fine irony, but without ill nature. "Ah, +wasn't that splendid?" + +Which remark was caused by the plainest kind of fluke on the part of +Maggie, who in her effort to instruct her brother, forgot one or two +nice points, which oversight was fatal. + +"Well," said she, "I didn't fill my fingers with splinters." + +"Nor with jackstones either; if I can't do any better than you I'm sure +I can't do any worse." + +"Well, Smarty, what are you waiting for?" + +"For you to pay attention." + +"I'm doing that." + +With cool, careful steadiness, Tim set to work, and lo! he finished the +game without a break, performing the more difficult exploits with a +skill that compelled the admiration of his sister. + +"I'm glad to see that you're not such a big dunce as you look; I've +been discouraged in trying to teach you, but you seem to be learning at +last." + +"Wouldn't you like me to give you a few lessons?" + +"No; for, if you did, I should never win another game," was the pert +reply; "I wonder whether you will ever be able to beat me again." + +"Didn't you know that I have been fooling with you all the time, just +as I fool a trout till I get him to take the hook?" + +Maggie stared at him with open mouth for a moment and then asked in an +awed whisper: + +"No; I didn't know that: did _you_?" + +"Never mind; the best thing you can do is to tend to bus'ness, for I'm +not going to show you a bit of mercy." + +During this friendly chaffing, both noticed that the wind was rising. +It moaned around the barn, and enough of it entered the window far +above their heads for them to feel it fan their cheeks. An eddy even +lifted one of the curls from the temple of the girl. This, however, +was of no special concern to them, and they continued their playing. + +Each went through the next series without a break. Tim was certainly +doing himself honor, and his sister was at a loss to understand it. +But you know that on some days the player of any game does much better +than on others. This was one of Tim's best days and one of Maggie's +worst, for he again surpassed her, though there could be no doubt that +she did her very best, and she could not repress her chagrin. But she +was too fond of her bright brother to feel anything in the nature of +resentment for his success. + +"There's one thing certain," she said, shaking her curly head with +determination; "you can't beat me again." + +"I wouldn't be so rash, sister; remember that I mean bus'ness to-day." + +"Just as if you haven't always done your best; it's you that are +bragging, not I." + +Tim had taken the stones in his right hand with the purpose of giving +them the necessary toss in the air, when a blast of wind struck the +barn with a force that made it tremble. They distinctly felt the +tremor of the floor beneath them. He paused and looked into the +startled face of his sister with the question: + +"Hadn't we better run to the house?" + +"No," she replied, her heart so set on beating him that she felt less +fear than she would have felt had it been otherwise; "it's as safe here +as in the house; one is as strong as the other; if you want to get out +of finishing the game, why, I'll let you off." + +"You know it isn't that, Maggie; but the barn isn't as strong as the +house." + +"It has stood a good many harder blows than this; don't you see it has +stopped? Go on." + +"All right; just as you say," and up went the pronged pieces and were +caught with the same skill as before. Then he essayed a more difficult +feat and failed. Maggie clapped her hands with delight, and leaned +forward to catch up the bits and try her hand. + +At that instant something like a tornado or incipient cyclone struck +the barn. They felt the structure swaying, heard the ripping of +shingles, and casting his eyes aloft, Tim saw the shingles and +framework coming down upon their heads. + +It was an appalling moment. If they remained where they were, both +would be crushed to death. The door was too far away for both to reach +it; though it was barely possible that by a quick leap and dash he +might get to the open air in the nick of time, but he would die a +hundred times over before abandoning his sister. The open window was +too high to be reached from the floor without climbing, and there was +no time for that. + +The action of a cyclone is always peculiar. Resistless as is its +power, it is often confined to a very narrow space. The one to which I +am now referring whipped off a corner of the roof, so loosening the +supports that the whole mass of shingles and rafters covering the +larger portion came down as if flung from the air above, while the +remainder of the building was left unharmed, the terrified horses not +receiving so much as a scratch. + +There was one awful second when brother and sister believed that the +next would be their last. Then Tim threw his arm around the neck of +Maggie and in a flash drew her forward so that she lay flat on her face +and he alongside of her; but the twinkling of an eye before that he had +seized the block of wood, rejected some time before as a chair, and +stood it on end beside his shoulder, keeping his right arm curved round +it so as to hold it upright in position, while the other arm prevented +Maggie from rising. + +"Don't move?" he shouted amid the crashing of timbers and the roaring +of the gale; "lie still and you won't be hurt." + +She could not have disobeyed him had she tried, for the words were in +his mouth when the fearful mass of timber descended upon them. + + + + +CHAPTER III. + +Do you understand what Tim Hunter did? Had the mass of timber +descending upon him and his sister been unchecked, they would not have +lived an instant. Had it been shattered into small fragments by the +cyclone, the ingenious precaution which a wonderful presence of mind +enabled hint to make, would have been of no avail. + +Take a block of seasoned oak, six inches through, and two feet in +height, and interpose it squarely against an approaching body and it is +almost as powerful in the way of resistance as so much metal. It would +take an ironclad to crush it to pulp, by acting longitudinally or along +its line of length. This block stood upright, and received a portion +of the rafters, covered by the shingles and held them aloft as easily +as you can hold your hat with your outstretched arm. From this point +of highest support, the debris sloped away until it rested on the +floor, but the open space, in which the brother and sister lay, was as +safe as was their situation, before the gale loosened the structure. + +Tim called to his sister and found that not so much as a hair of her +head had been harmed, and it was the same with himself. All was +darkness in their confined quarters, but the wrenched framework gave +them plenty of air to breathe. + +Who can picture the feelings of the father, when he saw the collapse of +the roof of the barn and knew that his two children were beneath? He +rushed thither like a madman, only to be cheered to the highest +thankfulness the next moment at hearing their muffled assurances that +both were all right. A brief vigorous application of his axe and the +two were helped out into the open air, neither the worse for their +dreadful experience. + +The parent could hardly believe what had been done by his boy, when +Maggie told him, until an examination for himself showed that it was +true. He declared that neither he nor anyone would have thought of the +means and applied it with such lightning quickness. It certainly was +an extraordinary exhibition of presence of mind and deserved all the +praise given to it. The Brereton _Intelligencer_ devoted half a column +to a description of the exploit and prophesied that that "young man" +would be heard from again. For weeks and months there was nothing at +the disposal of Mr. Hunter which was too good for his boy and it is +probable that the indulgence of that period had something to do with +making Tim dissatisfied with the prospect of spending all his life as a +"hewer of stone." + +Gradually as the effects of the remarkable rescue wore off, the +impatience of the parent grew until we have seen him on the point of +calling to account the boy who had really been the means of saving two +lives, for his own was as much imperilled as the sister's. Once more +she appealed to that last recourse, and once more it did not fail her. +When he recalled that dreadful scene, he could not help feeling an +admiring gratitude for his boy. Although silent and reserved some time +later, when the three gathered round the table for their evening meal, +nothing unpleasant was said by the parent, though the sharp-witted Tim +felt a strong suspicion of the cause of his father's reserve. + +Later in the evening, the latter sat down by the table in the sitting +room and took up his copy of the Brereton _Intelligencer_, which had +arrived that afternoon. He always spent his Thursday evenings in this +manner, unless something unusual interfered, the local news and +selected miscellany affording enough intellectual food to last him +until retiring time. + +While he was thus occupied, Tim and Maggie played checkers, there being +little difference in their respective skill. They were quiet, and when +necessary to speak, did so in low tones, so as not to disturb the +parent. + +An hour had passed, when he suddenly turned, with his spectacles on his +nose, and looked at the children. The slight resentment he still felt +toward Tim caused him to address himself directly to his sister: + +"Maggie, do you know who has been writing these articles in the paper +for the last few weeks?" + +She held a king suspended as she was on the point of jumping a couple +of Tim's and asked in turn: + +"What articles?" + +"They are signed 'Mit' and each paper for the last two or three months +has had one of them." + +"No, sir; I do not know who wrote them." + +"Well, whoever he is he's a mighty smart fellow." + +"Maybe it's a 'she,'" suggested Maggie, as she proceeded to sweep off +the board the two kings of Tim that had got in the path of her single +one. + +"Fudge! no woman can write such good sense as that. Besides, some of +them have been on the tariff, the duties of voters, the Monroe Doctrine +and politics: what does any woman know about such themes as those?" + +"Don't some women write about them?" + +"I haven't denied that, but that doesn't prove that they know anything +of the subjects themselves." + +The miss could make no suitable response to this brilliant remark and +did not attempt to do so, while Tim said nothing at all, as if the +subject had no attraction to him. + +By and by the parent uttered a contemptuous sniff. He was reading +"Mit's" contribution, and for the first time came upon something with +which he did not agree. + +"He's 'way off there," remarked the elder, as if speaking to himself. + +"What is it, father?" asked Maggie, ceasing her playing for the moment, +for her affection always led her to show an interest in whatever +interested him. + +"The article is the best I have read until I get toward the end. +Listen: 'No greater mistake can be made than for a parent to force a +child into some calling or profession for which he has no liking. The +boy will be sure to fail.' Now, what do you think of _that_?" + +"The latter part sounds very much like what you said to me this +afternoon." + +"It isn't that, which is true enough, but the idea that a boy knows +better than his father what is the right profession for him to follow. +That doctrine is too much like Young America who thinks he knows it +all." + +"Read on, father; let me hear the rest." + +The father was silent a minute or two, while he skimmed through the +article. + +"It isn't worth reading," he remarked impatiently, thereby proving that +he had been hit by the arguments which he found difficult to refute. +Maggie made no comment, but smiled significantly at Tim across the +board, as they resumed their game. + +In truth, Mr. Hunter had come upon some sentiments that set him to +thinking, such, for instance, as these: "It may be said with truth in +many cases, that the father is the best judge of what the future of his +son should be. In fact no one can question this, but the father does +not always use that superior knowledge as he should. Perhaps he has +yielded to the dearest wish of the mother that their son should become +a minister. The mother's love does not allow her to see that her boy +has no gifts as a speaker and no love for a clergyman's life. He longs +to be a lawyer or doctor. Will any one deny that to drive the young +man into the pulpit is the greatest mistake that can be made? + +"Sometimes a father, with an only son, perhaps, intends that he shall +be trained to follow in his footsteps. The boy has a dislike for that +calling or profession,--a dislike that was born with him and which +nothing can remove. His taste runs in a wholly different channel; +whatever talent he has lies there. While it may be convenient for him +to step into his parent's shoes, yet he should never be forced to do +so, but be allowed to select that for which he has an ability and +toward which he is drawn. Parents make such sad mistakes as these, and +often do not awake to the fact until it is too late to undo the +mischief that has been done. Let them give the subject their most +thoughtful attention and good is sure to follow." + +It was these words, following on the talk he had had with Maggie a +short time before that set Mr. Hunter to thinking more deeply than he +had ever done over the problem in which his son was so intimately +concerned. After his children had retired and he was left alone, he +turned over the paper and read the article again. It stuck to him and +he could not drive it away. Laying the journal aside, he lit his pipe +and leaned back in his chair. + +"It is not pleasant," he mused, "to give up the idea of Tim becoming my +successor, for he is the only one I have ever thought of as such. But +there is force in what 'Mit' says about driving a boy into a calling or +profession that he hates; he will make a failure of it, whereas he +might become very successful if left to follow his own preferences. I +wonder who 'Mit' is; his articles are the best I have ever read in the +_Intelligencer_; I must ask the editor, so I can have him out here and +talk over this question which is the biggest bother I ever had." + +Before Maggie and Tim separated to go to their rooms, and while at the +top of the stairs they whispered together for a few minutes. The +parent had got thus far in his musings, when he heard the voice of +Maggie calling from above: + +"Father, do you think 'Mit' is a smart fellow?" + +"Of course, even though I may not agree with all his views," replied +the parent, wondering why his child was so interested. + +"Would you like to know who he is?" + +"Of course, but you told me you didn't know." + +"I didn't at that time, but I have learned since. If you will spell +the name backwards and put it before your surname, you will have that +of the youth who wrote the articles you admire so much." + +The parent did as suggested, and behold! the name thus spelled out was +that of his only son, whose writings he had praised before the young +man's face. + + + + +CHAPTER IV. + +When the chuckling Tim told his sister the secret as he paused to kiss +her good-night at the head of the stairs, he did not dream that she +would reveal it to their father; but, before he could exact a promise, +she emitted the truth, despite his attempts to place his hand over her +mouth. Then she darted off, and, humiliated and chagrined, he went to +his own room. + +But the parent was given more to think about. He was pleasant to both +the next morning at breakfast and made no reference to the matter that +was in the minds of all. Just as the meal was finished, he remarked: + +"Tim, the load of stone is ready and we will take it over to Montvale +to-day; wouldn't you like to go with us?" + +"Thank you, father; I shall be glad to go." + +"All right; as soon as you and Maggie are through with your nonsense, +come out to the wharf and join us." + +The method of transporting stone from the Brereton quarries to +Montvale, on the other side of the river, was simple. The canal ran +directly in front of the quarries, and there the boat was loaded with +the heavy freight. It was then drawn by horse through the canal +Denville, several miles to the north, where the waterway touched the +level of the Castaran river. Passing through a lock, the boat was +pulled across the stream by means of a rope, and wheel arrangement (a +heavy dam furnishing comparatively deep and smooth water), when another +lock admitted it to the canal on the opposite side. + +The boat, which lay against the bank of the canal near the quarries, +was loaded so heavily that it was brought as low in the water as was +safe. Then a horse was hitched fast, and with Tim driving, and with +Warren and his father and two men on board, the craft began slowly +moving against the sluggish current. + +The start was made in the morning, and before the forenoon was half +gone they were at the lower end of Denville, where preparations were +quickly made for crossing the river. The horse was taken on board, the +boat securely fastened by a strong rope at the bow and stern, so as to +hold her broadside against the current, and then the contrivance began +dragging her slowly toward the opposite shore. + +During the spring months and the period of high water, a great many +rafts of lumber descend the Castaran, though the number is not so great +of late years as formerly. They are sold at various points along the +river, and occasionally two or three rafts float down stream during the +summer months. A long sweeping paddle (sometimes a couple) at either +end of the raft enable the men to clear the abutments of the bridges +and to shoot the rapids at different points. + +The canal boat, with its cargo of stone had no more than fairly left +the eastern side, when a large raft was observed emerging from between +two abutments of the bridge above. The men at the oars began toiling +with them with a view of working the structure toward the rapids, +through which the only safe passage can be secured. + +Those on the boat having nothing to do had seated themselves here and +there, and were watching their surroundings, as they moved at right +angles to the current. The raft was heading toward a point just ahead +of the boat, and was so near that Tim, who was sitting beside his +father on the cabin, started to his feet and said: + +"I believe they are going to strike us." + +"Sit down; there is no danger; these people know their business; we +shall be well out of their way before they can reach us." + +Nevertheless a collision seemed so imminent a moment later, that Mr. +Hunter rose to his feet and motioned to those working the rope to give +the boat greater speed. At the same time he shouted to the raftsmen: + +"Keep off; don't you see we are in danger?" + +"Get out of the way, then!" was the reply; "we must go through there." + +Such manifestly was their right, and the gentleman again waved his +hands to those on both shores. But they saw the danger, and applying +all the power at their command, the boat began moving so much faster +that Mr. Hunter resumed his seat. + +"It's all right now," he remarked; "but it looked mighty squally a +minute ago." + +The canal boat was now crossing the rapid current, where a passage-way +had been left on purpose for rafts. It had not quite reached the +middle, toward which the structure was aiming, but its speed was +sufficient to take it well out of the way, provided no accident +occurred. + +And this is just what did occur. The unusual strain on the gearing +caused something to give way, and the forward motion of the craft +ceased at the very moment it reached the middle of the strong current. +Those on the bank who were managing the apparatus saw the trouble at +once, and strove desperately to extricate the boat from its perilous +situation, but they were powerless. + +"For Heaven's sake, keep off!" shouted Mr. Hunter to the raftsmen; "if +you don't we shall be ruined!" + +As he spoke he caught up a long pole, and pressing one end against the +bed of the river exerted himself with might and main to impel the boat +forward. He called to the two men to do the same, and under their +united propulsion the boat advanced, but at a snail's pace. + +The lumbermen, seeing the alarming state of affairs, put forth all +their strength to swing the raft over so that it would pass between the +boat and the eastern shore. There was scant room for this, but they +were hardly less anxious than the imperilled boatmen, to whom the +consequences were certain to be more serious than to themselves. + +Had the distance been greater they might have succeeded, but under the +circumstances it was impossible. Dipping the broad blades of the long +oars, balanced at the ends of the raft, the men almost lay on their +faces as they held their breath and pushed with every ounce of strength +at their command. Then, when they reached the edge of the raft, they +bore down so as to lift the blade from the water, ran back to the other +side, dipped the oar again and shoved as before. + +Meanwhile Mr. Hunter and his assistants were panting and red in the +face, as they desperately strove to force the boat from the path of the +approaching raft, which came plunging down upon them with increasing +speed. + +"No use!" he suddenly exclaimed, flinging the wet pole in the center of +the boat on top of the stone; "we shall be shivered to atoms! Be ready +to jump on the raft as it crushes through us! Leave the horse to take +care of himself! Tim, you know how to swim, but jump on the raft with +us--Heavens! what have you done, my son?" + +A few seconds before the boy had caught up the sharp hatchet lying near +the cabin, and intended for use of splitting fuel for the stove. With +two quick blows he severed the rope which held the stern. The latter +yielded to the strong current dashing against it, and began swinging +around, so that it quickly lay parallel with the river, with the bow +pointing up stream, and held securely by the rope fastened at that end. + +This was no more than fairly done when the enormous raft swept past, so +close that the nearest log was heard scraping the entire length of the +boat. The impact drove it clear, and before any one beside the boy +realized how it was done the entire structure had gone by, no damage +was done and all were safe. + +"Jim," said Mr. Hunter, a minute after, when the flurry was over, "what +a set of fools we were that we didn't think of that." + +"I don't agree with you," replied the other, "because no one would have +thought of it except _that_ youngster." + +"Tim," added the father, placing his hand affectionately on his head, +"I am proud of you." + +And the little fellow blushed and replied: + +"I'm glad I happened to think of it in time, but it _was_ rather close, +wasn't it?" + +"It couldn't have been more so, and but for you boat and cargo would +have been a dead loss, and more than likely some of us would have lost +our lives." + +That night at the supper table, Mr. Hunter remarked with a meaning +smile: + +"Maggie, the Hunter family contains a fool and a genius, I'm not the +genius and 'Mit' isn't the fool." + +"Father, you are not just to yourself," the boy hastened to say; "I +have done wrong in not appreciating your kindness or indulgence, and I +have resolved to do my best to please you. I think I have some talent +for composition and invention, but I can use it just as well, without +neglecting the quarries and stone works, and if you will permit, I +shall give you all the help I can in the business with the hope that +some day, which I pray may be far distant, I shall become your +successor." + +Tears filled the eyes of all, as the parent, rising from his chair, +placed his hand on the head of Tim and said, in a tremulous voice: + +"God bless you, my son!" + + + +***END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE JUNGLE FUGITIVES*** + + +******* This file should be named 16805.txt or 16805.zip ******* + + +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: +https://www.gutenberg.org/dirs/1/6/8/0/16805 + + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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