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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Kentucky Ranger, by Edward T. Curnick
+
+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 Kentucky Ranger
+
+Author: Edward T. Curnick
+
+Release Date: February 19, 2007 [EBook #20622]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE KENTUCKY RANGER ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Garcia and the Online Distributed
+Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was
+produced from images generously made available by The
+Kentuckiana Digital Library)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+THE KENTUCKY RANGER
+
+
+
+By
+
+EDWARD T. CURNICK, A.M.
+
+Author of A Catechism on Christian Perfection.
+
+
+
+The Christian Witness Co.
+Chicago, Ill.
+
+
+
+
+AUTHOR'S NOTE
+
+
+The story, "The Kentucky Ranger," to a large extent is built around the
+life and character of one of the most famous early pioneer preachers of
+the West.
+
+Many of the incidents in his career are recorded, but have been treated
+as to time, place and authorship according to the demands of the work
+with the freedom belonging to the writer of fiction.
+
+A number of years ago some of the chapters in the narrative were
+printed in "The Epworth Era," of Nashville, Tennessee. Thanks are
+hereby extended to the paper for releasing the copyright.
+
+
+
+Copyright 1922
+THE CHRISTIAN WITNESS CO.
+
+
+
+
+Transcriber's Note: The Table of Contents was not contained in the
+text. It has been generated for the convenience of the reader.
+
+
+
+CONTENTS
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+    The Ranger.
+
+CHAPTER II.
+    An Old Time Camp Meeting.
+
+CHAPTER III.
+    Swapping Stories.
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+    The Trail of the Serpent.
+
+CHAPTER V.
+    Rowdies in Camp.
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+    Under the Pine Trees.
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+    The Horse Race.
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+    Prayer In a Dance Hall.
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+    Wanted, a Mission School.
+
+CHAPTER X.
+    The Mission School Established.
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+    A Kentucky Feud.
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+    The Shameful Plot.
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+    Into a Pit (or Pitch).
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+    Returning Thanks.
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+    Cupid's Chariot.
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+    Horse Thieves.
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+    Lynch Law or the Gospel.
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+    Apple Blossoms.
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+    A Proposal Without Words.
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+    Kidnapped.
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+    The Search.
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+    The Rescue.
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+    A Battle With Moonshiners.
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+    "I Thee Wed."
+
+
+
+
+THE KENTUCKY RANGER
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+The Ranger.
+
+
+"Glory to God! another sinner's down! Glory! Hallelujah! Amen; Pray on,
+brother; you'll soon be through. Glory! Glory!"
+
+These words were shouted by two young men and a young woman who were
+returning through the Kentucky woods from a camp meeting. They were
+riding in a smart spring wagon drawn by two good horses. The young man
+who was not driving would fall into the wagon, crying for mercy, and
+the driver shouted: "Glory to God! another sinner's down!" and the
+young lady added: "Keep on praying, brother; you'll soon be saved.
+Glory! Glory to God!" Then the young men would change places, and the
+other would shout: "You'll soon get through, brother; pray on. Glory!"
+
+These persons acted thus to tantalize a camp meeting preacher who was
+riding on horseback ahead of them. He detected their mockery and tried
+to outride them; but his horse being somewhat lame he could not escape
+them.
+
+The preacher remembered that at a little distance beyond the road ran
+through a swamp but that a bridle path wound around it. Putting spurs
+to his horse he made for this path but the driver, keeping on the road,
+whipped up his horses. Driving into the swamp in his haste and
+excitement he did not notice a stump at the side of the road. Crash!
+went the fore wheel against the stump, and mounting to its top over
+went the wagon into the mud and water. The two young men took a flying
+leap into the swamp, and the young lady was thrown out. She was almost
+smothered before she was rescued by the young men. While they were in
+this predicament the preacher rode up to the edge of the morass.
+Raising himself in his stirrups he shouted at the top of his voice:
+"Glory to God! Glory to God! another sinner's down! Hallelujah! Glory!
+Glory!" Then he added: "Now you poor, miserable sinners, take this as a
+judgment from God upon you for your meanness, and repent of your wicked
+ways before it is too late." With this he left them, covered with mud
+and shame, to their reflections.
+
+Jasper Very (for this was the preacher's name) continued on his way,
+now laughing at the sorry plight of his mockers, again singing a hymn
+with such power that the leaves of the trees seemed to tremble with the
+melody, and anon lifting his heart in prayer to his Maker. The object
+of his ride through the woods was to visit a settler who a short time
+before had been caught by a falling tree and suffered the fracture of
+his leg. The man of God brought the consolations of religion to the
+injured man and his family. After partaking of their plain but
+hospitable fare, he went to the barn for his faithful horse. While he
+is preparing to mount him we shall attempt to describe this backwoods
+preacher's appearance.
+
+We see at once that he is a splendid type of Kentucky manhood. He
+stands six feet two inches in his heavy rawhide boots, but his frame is
+so well proportioned that he does not seem so tall. His head is massive
+and his hair as thick and disheveled as a lion's mane; it cannot be
+kept in order. His eyes are dark blue, and can twinkle with merriment
+or blaze with indignation. His mouth is of medium size, mobile, yet
+strong; when closed the drooping corners give the face a set
+expression. Great firmness and decision are shown by the broad but
+rounded chin, which forms a base for a smooth-shaven countenance. His
+frame is large and powerful and is overlaid with muscles hard as iron
+and elastic as steel. His hands are large and have a Samsonlike grip in
+them. A long coat of homespun cloth is well fitted to his body, with
+waistcoat and trousers of the same material. A black stock loosely tied
+about his neck sets off a white shirt of coarse linen. His whole
+make-up gives one the impression of fearlessness, determination and
+energy, mixed with gentleness, kindness and charity. Humor shines in
+his face like heat lightning in a summer cloud.
+
+Jasper Very's parents were pioneers from the State of Virginia. Hearing
+of the fertility and beauty of Kentucky they, like many others, decided
+to emigrate to that land of promise. In 1785 they, with their infant
+son Jasper, started out to brave the perils of the wilderness. Perils
+there were in plenty. Kentucky at that time was the scene of repeated
+Indian raids, ambuscades, burning of homes, scalpings, and other
+atrocities. The Red Man was determined that his choicest Hunting Ground
+should not be possessed by the White Man. The Indians were met by such
+hardy and invincible scouts and frontiersmen as Daniel Boone, Simon
+Kenton and George Rogers Clark. For years the conflict was carried on
+until finally the savages were driven out of the state and its
+marvelous valleys and hills were left to the white man there to fulfil
+his destiny as the aborigines had theirs before him. The Very family
+escaped the horrors of battle, massacre and captivity. They settled on
+a site of great natural beauty in Lincoln County, near the Tennessee
+line.
+
+While the physical surroundings of the Verys were fairly entrancing, we
+are sorry to confess that the moral environment was anything but
+elevating and desirable. In fact the neighborhood was considered one of
+the worst in all the newly settled country. It received the name of
+Rogues' Harbor and well deserved the title. Many of the settlers had
+committed crimes in the Eastern States and had fled to the wilderness
+to escape punishment. They composed a majority of the people of the
+district, and when arrested for breaking the law swore one another
+clear in the courts of justice. At last the respectable people combined
+for their own protection in an organization called the Regulators.
+Several bloody encounters took place between the Regulators and the
+outlaws before order was established in the community.
+
+Jasper Very was a lively youngster from the start, and surely Rogues'
+Harbor was not the best place in which to bring up a vigorous and
+vivacious boy. He early showed elements of power and leadership, having
+a remarkably strong and well developed body, being a stranger to fear,
+a wit and a wag, and loving the rude sports and pastimes of the period.
+Apart from the home there were few opportunities for mental or
+religious training. Schools were few and scarcely worthy of the name.
+No newspapers were published in that section. Sunday was a day set
+apart for hunting, fishing, horse-racing, card-playing, dancing and
+other amusements.
+
+It is little wonder that Jasper became a wild and wicked boy. He was a
+leader among his fellows in the rough sports of the time. His father
+gave him a race-horse and he became renowned among his companions for
+fearless riding. At card-playing he was skillful and lucky. But Jasper
+had one blessed, restraining influence which doubtless kept him from
+going the full course of sin and folly--a devout, humble, praying,
+Christian mother.
+
+Happy the boy who in the slippery paths of youth can lean upon the
+loving arm of a godly mother.
+
+When sixteen years of age Jasper experienced a great change of heart
+and conduct. It was the turning point of his life. With his father and
+brother he attended a wedding in the neighborhood. With others he took
+part in the uproarious merriment of the occasion. Returning home he
+began to think of his wicked ways, and at once felt condemned. His mind
+became so agitated that his body was affected. His heart palpitated in
+a very violent manner, his sight left him, and he thought death was at
+hand. Very sure was he that he was not prepared to die. Falling on his
+knees he cried to God to have mercy on his soul. Though it was late at
+night his mother heard his cries, sprang from her bed, and was soon at
+his side praying for her son, and exhorting him to look to Christ for
+mercy. They prayed together a long time, and little sleep came to them
+that night. Jasper resolved from that time to be a Christian. He asked
+his father to sell the racehorse, and gave his pack of cards to his
+mother, who threw them into the fire.
+
+However, it was many days before Jasper really felt that he was
+converted. Finally he found peace of mind at a camp meeting. We quote
+from a record of his experience: "On the Saturday evening of said
+meeting I went with weeping multitudes, bowed before the sand, and
+earnestly prayed for mercy. In the midst of a solemn struggle of soul
+an impression was made on my mind as though a voice said to me: 'Thy
+sins are all forgiven thee.' Divine light flashed all around me,
+unspeakable joy sprang up in my soul. I rose to my feet, opened my
+eyes, and it really seemed as if I were in heaven; the trees, the
+leaves on them, and every thing seemed to be, and I really thought
+were, praising God. My mother raised a shout, my Christian friends
+crowded around me and joined me in praising God--I have never doubted
+that the Lord did then and there forgive my sins and gave me religion."
+He went on his way rejoicing, and before he reached his majority became
+a backwoods preacher. He had been ranging over the hills and valleys of
+Kentucky for four years, preaching the gospel in many places, when he
+is introduced to our readers.
+
+Jasper Very was known early in his ministry as a great camp meeting
+preacher. He was always partial to such gatherings, partly because at
+one of them he had found religion. These meetings in the woods, "God's
+first temples," are of enough importance to merit description in
+another chapter.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+An Old Time Camp Meeting.
+
+
+To Kentucky belongs the honor of originating the modern camp meeting.
+This is no small distinction, when we consider how these institutions
+have spread over the land and the great good they have done. Camp
+meetings grew out of the needs of the times. When they providentially
+sprang up in Kentucky, the frontier was sparsely settled, most people
+living miles away from any church. Such churches as were built were
+small and could accommodate only a few persons, and preaching services
+were often weeks apart.
+
+The revivals of genuine religion which usually attended these
+gatherings were much needed in the backwoods. Most of the settlers were
+honest, law-abiding persons, who had sought to improve their means by
+emigrating to this western country; but many of the vicious
+off-scouring of the older settlements also went west to hide their
+crimes or to commit new ones. Rogues' Harbor was only an extreme type
+of many law-defying places. Murderers, thieves, gamblers, defaulters
+and their kind put life in peril, and threatened the moral and social
+order of the state. These camp meetings strengthened and encouraged
+good people, reformed many bad men and women, and thus became a saving
+leaven of righteousness.
+
+And what a place for a camp meeting was the Kentucky forest. What
+nature poet can do justice to such sylvan loveliness as we find in the
+"Blue Grass Region?" The pen must be dipped in the juices of that
+Edenic vegetation and tinted with the blue of that arching sky to
+record such beauty. What stately trees! They seemed like pillars in
+God's own temple. The rich, warm limestone soil gave birth to trees in
+form and variety scarce equaled in the world. Here grew in friendly
+fellowship and rivalry the elm, ash, hickory, walnut, wild cherry,
+white, black and read oak, black and honey locust, and many others.
+Their lofty branches interlocking formed a verdant roof which did not
+entirely shut out the sun's rays but caused a light subdued and
+impressive as the light in a Saint Paul's Cathedral.
+
+In such a forest was pitched the camp to which Jasper Very returned.
+Let me describe this old-fashioned camp ground. A large, rough shed was
+erected, capable of protecting five thousand persons from wind and
+rain. It was covered with clapboards and furnished with puncheon seats.
+At one end a large stand was built, from which sermons were preached. A
+few feet in front of this stand a plain altar rail was set, extending
+the full length of the preachers' stand. This altar was called the
+"mourners' bench." All around the altar a liberal supply of fresh straw
+was placed upon which the worshippers knelt. On three sides of the
+large shed camps or cabins of logs were built for the use of the
+attendants. In the rear of the preachers' stand was a large room which
+accommodated all the ministers who labored in the meeting. The effect
+at the camp at night was very striking. At intervals of several rods
+log fires were kept burning and the bright light they threw was
+contrasted with the deep darkness beyond.
+
+It is astonishing to read how great an attraction these camps became to
+the hardy pioneers of the Kentucky wilderness. People gathered from all
+quarters in all kinds of vehicles, some traveling thirty or forty
+miles. Many came in covered wagons in which they slept at night.
+History records, that at Cane Ridge, Kentucky, a camp meeting was held
+attended by twenty thousand people.
+
+It is ten o'clock Sunday morning at Oak Grove Camp Meeting, where our
+hero Jasper Very is laboring. Thousands are in the great wooden
+structure, filling every seat and standing many deep beyond the edges
+of the building. The preachers' stand contains twenty-five or thirty
+ministers gathered from many parts of the State. The crowd has even
+overflowed this stand, and all available room is occupied.
+
+The Christians present have been prepared for this service by the cabin
+meetings held at six o'clock in the morning and a prayer and testimony
+meeting in the tabernacle at eight. And now the service begins. A
+stalwart son of the prophets arises and announces the hymn:
+
+    "Come, sinners, to the gospel feast,
+    Let every soul be Jesus' guest:
+    There need not one be left behind,
+    For God hath bidden all mankind."
+
+He starts the first note, and thousands take up the inspiring strain,
+and the glorious music rolls through the forest like the sound of many
+waters. A passage of Scripture is read and a fervent prayer offered. A
+second hymn is sung: "There is a fountain filled with blood," and far
+away the cadence is heard rising and falling, thrilling waves of sound.
+
+The song is ended. A rustling noise is heard as the people settle
+themselves in their places, and then a deep quiet ensues as they look
+expectantly toward the preachers' stand. One whispers to another: "Who
+is to be the preacher this morning?" They are not left long in doubt.
+Slowly the minister arises. It is Jasper Very, the star preacher of the
+camp meeting. He comes before his audience with a humble
+self-possession which is reflected in the composure of his face. How
+did he obtain this self-possession? Reader, we must lift the veil
+somewhat and let you see.
+
+In the morning he had gone into the deep woods to study and pray, as
+was the wont of the forest preachers. Here he had prayerfully and
+carefully completed the outline of his sermon. Then a great burden of
+unfitness and helplessness came upon him. Like his Master he threw
+himself prone upon the ground and poured out his soul to the Father. "O
+God," he cried, "who am I, that I should be thy ambassador to beseech
+sinners to be reconciled to thee? Who am I that I should stand between
+the living and the dead and offer life and immortality to men? Thou, O
+God, only art my sufficiency, my hope, my expectation. Stand by my side
+and help me in this hour, for my need is great. This I ask in the name
+of thy Son Jesus Christ. Amen."
+
+Coming thus from the hidings of divine power, with the Spirit of God
+like dew resting upon him, he announces his text: "Seek ye the Lord
+while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: let the
+wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let
+him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our
+God, for he will abundantly pardon."
+
+He began by describing the way of the wicked. He unmasked sin, showing
+its hideous deformity, how it pollutes the soul, and makes man unfit
+for fellowship with a holy God. Then he passed on to show the guilt of
+sin, the awful misery coming to a man when he is face to face with his
+iniquities. With great skill he pointed out condemnation arising from
+particular transgressions,--the defaulter fleeing from his country, the
+murderer with his victim's bloody form ever before his mind's eye, the
+lustful man tortured and consumed with the rewards of his own folly.
+Continuing, he proceeded to tell the final punishment of these sinners.
+In those days ministers at camp meetings preached a literal hell; and
+as the speaker uncovered the pit of destruction and compelled his
+hearers to look into it many felt that they were "hair hung and breeze
+shaken" over the mouth of perdition.
+
+Now his manner changed. His voice, instead of being loud and startling
+like thunder, producing awe and terror, became sweet, tender, and
+appealing, like a shepherd calling his sheep to the fold.
+
+Having opened the wounds of sin, he poured into them the cordial of
+gospel grace. He dwelt upon the words, "abundantly pardon," showing how
+God had planned to put away sin by the gift of his Son and had promised
+forgiveness to all guilty mortals who with hearty repentance and true
+faith looked to Christ for salvation.
+
+As he exalted the world's Redeemer from one plane to another his soul
+was lifted up with indescribable joy and exultation. His voice and form
+were in attune with his soul. We have read that this man's voice could
+be heard a mile, and on this occasion it surely reached to the utmost
+bounds of that great assembly. Extending his arms, as though he would
+enfold the multitude and present them to the Savior, he besought
+sinners to flee from impending wrath, to come to the altar and be saved
+from sin so that they might "read their titles clear to mansions in the
+skies."
+
+The effect was tremendous. At once a rush was made for the mourners'
+bench and it was soon filled. Many were stricken where they sat in the
+congregation and fell on their knees imploring mercy. Around the
+mourners gathered the saints of God, counseling, advising, quoting
+suitable passages of Scripture, praying with the penitents. When the
+meeting finally closed long after the dinner hour, scores professed
+conversion, and a great victory for morality and religion in Kentucky
+had been won.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+Swapping Stories.
+
+
+The ministers were in the preachers' room on the afternoon of this camp
+meeting day. They were scattered about in delightful abandon. Some had
+thrown themselves on rough cots; others were lounging on rude benches
+which served as seats; the few plain chairs which the place boasted
+were also occupied. Most of the men were regaling themselves with the
+fragrant Kentucky tobacco, and the blue smoke ascended in widening
+spirals to the rafters above. They felt they must unbend after the
+severe mental tension of the morning.
+
+What a fine spirit of comradeship is found among a group of preachers
+of one heart and mind. Can anything on earth surpass it? Here we find
+the hearty handshake, the contagious laugh, faces bright with smiles, a
+free flow of talk. We see hilarity without vulgarity, wit that
+sparkles, but does not burn, as when a bright sally directed at some
+brother's foibles is met with a quick repartee. We listen to anecdotes
+which cheer and enliven the senses without hurting the conscience or
+debasing the mind.
+
+"Brother Larkin, give us a bit of wit or philosophy from 'Poor Richard'
+or tell us one of your good anecdotes."
+
+The man addressed was John Larkin. He was about thirty-five years old
+and was known as the "square man" both as to body and mind. His head
+seemed more square than round, and was set upon a strong neck which
+rested upon square shoulders. From shoulders to the ground he was in
+the form of a parallelogram. His hands were wide and short, the fingers
+being of nearly equal length, giving the hands a blunt, square
+appearance. His gray eyes were wide apart, having a sly and merry cast
+in them, while crow lines in their corners gave them a laughing
+expression. His firm mouth and square chin showed that he could mingle
+seriousness with mirth. He was considerably under the average height,
+but thickset and strong.
+
+John Larkin was of New England descent. When a small boy he had moved
+with his parents from "'way down East" to far-famed Kentucky. There he
+helped his father clear the wilderness and make a comfortable home. At
+twenty-three years of age he was powerfully converted, and soon after
+became a traveling preacher.
+
+John had stored his mind with the homely proverbs of Benjamin Franklin
+and many bright sayings of other writers. He saw the ludicrous side of
+things and was fond of telling anecdotes. Hence the request which a
+brother minister made of him.
+
+"About two months ago," said Larkin, "I had an appointment to preach in
+a private house. The boys of the family had a pet sheep which they had
+taught to butt. Going near him, they would make motions with their
+heads, and the sheep would back out and dart forward at the boys; but
+they would jump aside and so escape. A drunken man came into the
+congregation and sat on the end of a bench near the door. He had
+caroused the whole night before and presently began to nod. As he
+nodded and bent forward, the sheep came along by the door and seeing
+the man moving his head up and down, took it as a banter and backed and
+then sprang forward, and gave the sleeper a severe jolt right on the
+head, and over he tilted him. The whole congregation laughed outright
+and I joined in with them."
+
+The preachers laughed at the story as heartily as those who saw the
+occurrence. One stout parson remarked: "The tipsy man surely was the
+butt of that joke." A clergyman from down Cumberland River way said: "I
+hope the sheep knocked drunkenness out of him and common sense and
+decency into him."
+
+Larkin, his face wreathed in smiles, turned to a great strapping
+Kentuckian, and said: "Now Brother Harvey, let us hear from you."
+
+The man addressed was well known by the company. Naturally strong he
+grew up on a farm, where his out-of-doors life added to temperate
+habits gave him a finely developed body. He lived with his wife and
+five grown up children on a splendid quarter section of land bordering
+on the Cumberland River. He was a lay preacher, cultivating his farm
+week days and preaching on Sunday.
+
+"Well, brethren," began David Harvey, "I could tell you stories of wild
+Indians, panthers and wild cats that I saw in my youth, and some
+tolerably trying experiences I have been through since becoming a
+preacher, but today I am going to repeat a tale I heard not long ago
+concerning Jasper Very. He seems comfortable there sitting on one bench
+with his feet on another, and if my story lacks anything he can supply
+the missing links.
+
+"Brother Very was attending a camp meeting in the edge of Tennessee
+when an incident of thrilling interest occurred. Two young men,
+distantly related, sons of respectable and wealthy parents, lived in
+the settlement. They were both paying attention to a very wealthy young
+lady. Soon a rivalship for her hand sprang up between them, which
+created a bitter jealousy in the heart of each. After quarreling and
+fighting they both armed themselves, and each bound himself by a solemn
+oath to kill the other. Armed with pistols and dirks they attended the
+camp meeting. Brother Very was acquainted with the young men, and had
+been told of the unfortunate affair. On Sunday he was preaching to a
+large congregation on the terrors of the law. Many fell under the
+preaching of the word. He called for mourners to come to the altar and
+the two young men, deeply convicted of sin, came and knelt before God.
+One entered on the right and the other on the left, each being ignorant
+of the act of the other. The preacher went deliberately to each of
+them, took their deadly weapons from their bosoms, and carried them
+into the preachers' room. Returning he labored faithfully with them and
+others nearly all the afternoon and night. These young men cried hard
+for mercy, and while he was kneeling by the side of one of them, just
+before the break of day, the Lord spake peace to his soul. He arose,
+and gave some thrilling shouts. Jasper then hurried to the other young
+man, at the other side of the altar, and he was saved in less than
+fifteen minutes and, standing upright, shouted victory. As these young
+men faced about they saw each other, and starting simultaneously, met
+about midway of the altar, and instantly clasped each other in their
+arms. What a shout went up to heaven that night from these young men,
+and from almost all the number present."
+
+This narrative strongly affected the group of ministers, and some more
+emotional than others shouted: "Praise the Lord! Hallelujah!"
+
+"Brother Very, did I tell the story right?" said Harvey.
+
+"You told it about as it was," responded Very, "only there is this
+sequel to add: one of these young men made an able and successful
+preacher. After traveling a few years his health failed, and he died
+triumphantly."
+
+A sallow-faced parson from the river-bottoms remarked: "Jasper Very has
+been through many trying experiences, and I am going to ask him to tell
+us how he conquered that cantankerous woman by tact and muscles."
+
+Thus appealed to, Very told the following anecdote: "Some time ago I
+crossed the Ohio River into the State of Illinois where I had some
+preaching engagements. On one of my tours I met a local preacher who
+was a small, good natured, pious and withal a useful preacher. He had a
+wife who was a noted virago. She was high tempered, overbearing and
+quarrelsome. She opposed her husband's preaching, and was unwilling he
+should ask a blessing at the table or conduct family prayers. If he
+persisted in his effort to pray she would run noisily about the rooms
+and overturn the chairs. If unable to stop him any other way she would
+catch a cat and throw it in his face while he was kneeling and trying
+to pray. The little man had invited several preachers to his home to
+talk with the woman and bring her to a better frame of mind, but she
+cursed them to their face and raged like one possessed. Several times
+he invited me to go home with him, but I was afraid to trust myself. I
+pitied the poor little man so much that finally I yielded, and went
+home with him one evening. When we arrived I saw she was mad, and the
+devil was in her as big as an alligator. So I determined on my course.
+After supper her husband said very kindly: 'Come, wife, stop your
+little affairs, and let us have prayers.' To this she replied: 'I will
+have none of your praying about me.' Speaking mildly, I expostulated
+with her, but to no use; for the longer I spoke the more wrathful she
+became, and she cursed me most bitterly. Then I spoke sternly and said:
+'Madam, if you were a wife of mine, I would break you of your bad ways,
+or I would break your neck.'
+
+"'The devil you would!' she said. With this she poured upon me such a
+torrent of curses as was almost beyond endurance.
+
+"'Be still,' said I, 'we must and will have prayer.' Again she declared
+we should not.
+
+"'Now,' I remarked to her, 'if you do not be still, and behave
+yourself, I'll put you out of doors.' At this she clenched her fist,
+swore at me, and told me I could not put her out. I caught her by the
+arm, and swinging her round in a circle brought her up to the cabin
+door, and shoved her out. She jumped up, tore her hair, foamed, all the
+time swearing in a terrible way. The door was made very strong to keep
+out hostile Indians. I shut it tightly, barred it, and went to prayer.
+Under such conditions praying was difficult, I assure you, but I was
+determined to conquer or die.
+
+"While she was raging, foaming and roaring on the outside I was singing
+with a loud voice spiritual hymns on the inside to drown her words as
+much as possible. At last she became perfectly exhausted and panted for
+breath. Then she became calm and still, and knocking at the door said:
+'Mr. Very, please let me in.'
+
+"'Will you behave yourself, if I let you in?' said I.
+
+"'O yes,' replied she, 'I will.' With this I opened the door, took her
+by the hand, led her in, and seated her by the fire-place. She was in a
+high perspiration, and looked pale as death. After she was seated she
+said: 'What a fool I am.' 'Yes,' said I, 'about one of the biggest
+fools I ever saw in my life. Now, you have to repent of all this or
+your soul will be lost.' She sat silent, and I said 'Brother C., let us
+pray again.' We kneeled down and both prayed. His wife was as quiet as
+a lamb. And what is better, in less than six months this woman was
+soundly converted, and became as bold in the cause of God as she had
+been in the cause of the wicked one.'"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+The Trail of the Serpent.
+
+
+While these ministers of grace were engaged in pleasant conversation a
+different kind of a crowd had met not far away. They were moonshiners.
+Their rendezvous was a cave near the top of a hill about one mile back
+from the Cumberland River. A motley company of about a dozen men they
+were, dressed in cheap trousers supported by "galluses," coarse shirts,
+and wide-brim straw hats.
+
+Sam Wiles was leader of this band. As these pages are often to be
+burdened with his name, we shall now take his measure. He belonged to
+that part of the population called "poor whites." His parents had come
+to the settlement when Sam was a little boy. They were poor, shiftless,
+improvident, ignorant, and, worse than all, apparently contented with
+their lot. They dwelt in a log cabin in the hills, and in a haphazard
+way cultivated a few acres of half-barren land, raising a little corn,
+tobacco, hay, fruit, and a few vegetables. There were six children in
+the family, of whom Sam was the oldest. Five dogs guarded the house and
+helped to make the inmates poor. "Tige," the coon dog, was the favorite
+of this quintette.
+
+Sam Wiles was the brightest of the children, his mind being naturally
+active; but he had little disposition for study and very meager
+opportunities, for "school kept" only a few weeks in a year. At the
+time of this story he had just passed his majority, was somewhat above
+medium height, solidly built, with broad, square shoulders. His brown
+hair hung several inches below a coonskin cap he wore, and was
+supplemented by a large mustache of which he was very proud.
+
+Behold this leader of the moonshiners as he stirs the fire of logs
+under the still and speaks to his pals:
+
+"That war a mighty fine trick I played on Dick Granger, the revenue
+deputy t'other night. He was after me with his dorgs, and saw me as I
+was crossin' the road near Franklin Schoolhouse. 'Halt, there!' he
+hollored; but I was not in the haltin' bizness, and I made tracks fur
+Pigeon Crick close by. As I run he fired off his gun; but the light was
+dim and I was mighty peart, and dodged in time. He called to his
+bloodhounds and said, 'Sic 'im, Rex; ketch 'im Bull,' but by that time
+I was wadin' in the crick. I run 'long till I cum to that big white oak
+which grows by the crick where it makes a turn north, and I jumped and
+caught a big branch an' pulled myself up into the tree. Then I walked
+on the thick branches till I got to the furder side, and there war
+standin' by the oak a mighty fine sugar maple with branches which
+touched the oak. I walked out on an oak branch as fur as I could go,
+and then swung from my hands back and for'ard with all my might. At
+last my feet touched a branch and letting go my hands, I swung down
+like a ham of meat in a smokehouse. Soon I pulled myself up and made
+fifty feet crossing that tree, and then I dun the same turn to a big
+walnut tree; and so on till I knew the dorgs could not track me, when I
+clim down to the ground and got safe back to the cave."
+
+"That war a monkey trick, shore nuff," said Tom Walker, a gaunt fellow
+over six feet tall, who was stretched on the ground by the fire, and
+who, because of his height, was usually called "Long Tom." In his
+cavernous mouth he held an immense chew of tobacco, and ever and anon
+he squirted tobacco juice into the fire with a precision and force
+which showed long practice.
+
+"I wish the devil would kill the whole crew of revenue officers," said
+Wiles. "Why should we be hunted like wild beasts for makin' a few
+gallons of whisky? Do we not raise the corn, and have we not a right to
+turn it into drink? You fellers know how hard it is to make a living on
+these hills; and if we make more money by changing corn into whisky,
+why should we be hindered and our lives put into danger? We have a
+right to make whisky and to drink it and to sell it, and I'm goin' to
+do it in spite of all the officers in Kentucky," and he brought his big
+fist down with a thwack on his knee to give emphasis to his words.[1]
+
+        [1] It was impossible for this lawbreaker to foresee that in
+        about one hundred years the whole whisky business in its
+        beverage aspects would be prohibited by law in the United
+        States, and that the sophistry he used would be employed by
+        multitudes in denying the eighteenth amendment to the national
+        constitution.
+
+"Now yer speaking the truth, pardner," drawled Long Tom as he ejected
+from his mouth a generous quantity of tobacco juice. "My father fit in
+the Revolutionary War for liberty 'way down in ole Virginy, and I'll
+never submit to have my right to make home-distilled whisky taken
+away."
+
+"Always stick to that and you'uns will be a man, even if you'uns die
+with yer boots on."
+
+The speaker was Zibe Turner, a creature who would pass for a Calaban. A
+monster he was except his legs, which were short and slim, giving him a
+dwarfish appearance. So he was a monster dwarf, if such a term is
+allowable. His head was immense in size, covered with long unkempt
+hair. His shoulders, arms and trunk would become a giant. A look at his
+face showed a low forehead, black, restless eyes, wide apart, flat
+nose, and large mouth.
+
+Like Calaban he could be called "hag-seed," or the son of a witch and a
+devil.
+
+His moral nature was as misshapen as his body. His mind was degraded,
+yet keen in plotting mischief and violence. His affections were
+debased. Prospero's description of Calaban applied to him:
+
+    "Abhorred slave which any print of goodness will not take
+    Being capable of all ill."
+
+The words of Saint Paul to the sorcerer fitted him: "O full of all
+subtlety and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all
+righteousness." He was a type of those whom the apostle described as
+"filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness,
+covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, deceit,
+malignity--implicable, unmerciful."
+
+Strangely enough, one of the moonshiners had read Shakespeare's
+"Tempest," and gave Caliban's title of "monster" to Zibe Turner. From
+that day he was generally nicknamed "Monster Turner."
+
+"Always stick to dat," repeated Turner in his deep, gutteral voice.
+"Let's drink to de health of all moonshiners and to de defeat an' death
+of all revenue spies. Dat's my holt (hold)." Suiting the action to the
+words, he raised a stone jug nearly full of spirits to his lips and
+taking a long draught, handed it to the next, and so it went the
+rounds. The liquor, which would have made an ordinary drinker
+intoxicated in a few minutes, had no perceptible effect upon these men,
+who scarcely ever tasted water, so commonly did they drink the product
+of their stills; but it perhaps raised their feelings a trifle and
+loosened their tongues to speak other words and strengthened their
+purposes to perform unlawful acts.
+
+Sam Wiles then spoke: "Next to these officer dorgs who hunt us on the
+hills and mountains, I hate them shoutin' hypercrits who air holdin'
+that camp meetin' near Poplar Crick. They're tryin' to make the whul
+county pious, and you fellers know how their head men have jined with
+others around here to appint a vigilance committee to drive all such as
+we'uns air out'n the State. Because we believe in pursonal liberty,
+because we think it right to make our own whisky and to race our
+hosses, because we sometimes try our luck at cards and win money from
+the young fools in the valley, they want to put the law on our tracks.
+Now the more camp meetin's we have around here, the less pursonal
+liberty we shall have; and I propose to you'ns that we jine with the
+boys on Honey Crick and bust up the camp meetin'."
+
+This proposition was hailed with delight by all the company except Long
+Tom. When he had cleared his mouth of juice, he drawled out: "Byes,
+none of ye would like to see that meetin' capsized better nor I would.
+But we must be sure of our ground. I have hearn that the star preacher
+there--what's his name? Jasper Hurry? No. Very? That's it, Jasper Very.
+I have hearn that he is almighty strong and brave, and we had better be
+keerful how we tackle 'im."
+
+"Shucks," said Wiles, "they air all cowards, and their magistrates will
+run at the first attack; and I say it is to our interest to break up
+that meetin', and do it right away. What do you say, byes?"
+
+They all consented to the attack, and took another swig around from the
+big jug to seal the agreement.
+
+"Now," said their leader, "it's time you'ns went to yer homes. Zibe
+Turner will stay, and we'uns will tend de fire. Long Tom, tomorrow you
+go to Bert Danks, the captain of the Honey Crick crowd, and ask him and
+his pals to meet us here in de evenin'."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+Rowdies in Camp.
+
+
+Sam Wiles and Zibe Turner attended to the still while the day began to
+wane, and shadows cast by the tall hills were lengthening over the
+plain.
+
+When darkness finally came Wiles continued to replenish the fire and
+supply the necessary water from a running stream. His boon companion
+threw himself down on some cedar boughs within the cave's mouth and was
+soon asleep. His watch would come later on.
+
+While this precious pair of "wildcatters" are thus employed, a good
+opportunity is given us to describe their retreat.
+
+Their rendezvous was called Wind Cave, and was discovered a few years
+before by a young brother of Sam Wiles. The boy, Ephraim Wiles, one day
+was hunting stray cattle on some hills skirting the Cumberlands River,
+when he came to the top of a hill which was nearly bare of timber and
+whose southern side was a sheer perpendicular of rock for several feet
+down. The boy stood looking over this precipice, lost his footing, and
+fell down the cliff. He was unhurt, for about fifteen feet below was a
+level place a few feet across covered with leaves and moss and upon
+this he landed. When he had recovered from his surprise, he looked
+about him and saw that the hillside below him was very steep, with
+trees and bushes growing thickly in the soil. Then he turned his eyes
+toward the rock, and beheld an aperture of considerable size partly
+covered by bushes and decayed vegetation. With a boy's curiosity and
+daring he crawled into the opening, and found himself in a cave of
+moderate dimensions. Finding in it nothing but broken rocks and white
+walls and a small stream of water flowing along, he soon crept out, and
+knowing no way of escape save down the hill side, slipped over the
+edge, and by holding on to bushes and shrubs and checking himself
+against trunks of trees he finally reached the bottom, and, returning
+home, told of his discovery to the family.
+
+From this time the cave became the resort of Sam Wiles and his
+moonshiners, and here they carried on their illicit distilling with
+little fear of detection. They explored its interior thoroughly, and
+discovered that the cave went north for a considerable distance, when
+it turned to the east, its dimensions becoming narrower as they
+proceeded. At last they came to a second entrance which opened upon the
+hill's side about midway between top and bottom. This aperture was
+partially close by fallen logs and decayed leaves and mold. The two
+openings made the cave a sort of tunnel, and because there was always a
+current of air passing through the passages they named it "Wind Cave."
+The narrow entrance was used for receiving sacks of corn, barrels, and
+other necessaries of their unlawful work, and also for removing the
+whisky after it had been made. The men kept this hole well secured by
+covering it with brush. As the other part of the cave was much larger,
+it was there that the still was set up, and there the outlaws usually
+remained.
+
+Behold them this Saturday evening brewing mischief as well as
+distilling whisky. They were a reckless, religion-hating crowd. They
+were mostly young men, though some had passed middle life. Nearly all
+were shabbily dressed, and of large and bony frame. The faces of most
+were heavy and dull showing marks of dissipation. Others, especially
+the very young men, were really fine specimens of Kentucky physical
+manhood. They had rosy cheeks, bright eyes, and a ready smile and
+laugh. Surely they were worthy of a better cause.
+
+In a way they were as jolly and hearty, as full of fun and jokes, as
+the ministers themselves. Their conversation was coarse and marred the
+King's English; it was boisterous and narrow, but it fitted their
+characters.
+
+They were seated on logs or on the moss-covered ground in or near the
+cave's mouth. Each one was smoking a corncob pipe or rolling a quid of
+tobacco under his tongues.
+
+These men had no compunctions of conscience either as to the
+lawlessness of their business, or to their desire and will to disturb
+the peace of the camp meeting. Sam Wiles speaks: "Fellers, tomorrer is
+Sunday, and we'uns must spile their meetin' on de camp ground. You'ns
+must arm yo'selves with any weapons you'ns can git--dirks, knives,
+clubs, and horsewhips. You'ns, Long Tom and Bert Banks, will walk right
+into de crowd while de preacher is spoutin' and start to break up de
+meetin'. De rest of you'ns must be ready to help."
+
+"Right you air," said Bert Danks, captain of the Honey Crick band.
+"Long Tom and I will go, and I 'low all we'uns can make a rip-roarin'
+time, for we'll frighten de people, and be too much for de preachers
+and magistrates. I'll bring a passel of my bully byes with me, and
+they'll make things lively at de camp."
+
+Long Tom remained silent, but a close observer might have seen a look
+on his face telling that his part of the program was not exactly
+agreeable, but he was not a man to shirk a hard task.
+
+"Won't I laugh to hear de women scream and to see 'em run over benches
+like scart sheep," said Monster Turner. "You'ns will have to be right
+smart to keep up with me on de camp ground, for I'm goin' to have my
+fightin' clothes on from hat to boots. Confound 'em, dose pesky
+preachers won't fight, and we'll be too many for de officers. Dat's my
+holt."
+
+These words wrought the men up to a higher pitch of excitement, and
+Wiles their leader, wishing still further to work on their feelings,
+said to Lem Curtis, a blue eyed youth of eighteen:
+
+"Lem, you air de best singer in de bunch, and I want you to lead us in
+our favorite song. No revenues air near tonight, and we'uns air safe
+from danger if we'uns do not sing too loud."
+
+Thus appealed to, Lem Curtis started a well known refrain, the rest
+joining in heartily.
+
+After all had paid their respects to the brown jug Sam Wiles dismissed
+the meeting with these words: "We'uns shall meet near de edge of de
+camp on de east at seven o'clock tomorrer mornin', an' all you fellers
+be shore to be in time."
+
+Sunday morning dawned beautiful and bright. The numbers on the camp
+ground were constantly being increased by persons coming on horseback,
+in buggies, wagons, and every known vehicles. Jasper Very was the
+preacher at ten o'clock. Everything proceeded in a becoming manner
+until he was half through his discourse, when up stalked near to the
+stand Bert Danks and Long Tom with hats on and loaded whips in their
+hands. They remained standing, and began talking in an audible voice
+with some women of their acquaintance. Naturally many eyes were turned
+to this scene, and the attention given to the speaker was lost.
+
+Jasper Very stopped in his sermon and, turning to the rowdies, said:
+"Young men, this is a religious meeting, held by Christian people, and
+protected by the laws of Kentucky. You will therefore get down off
+those benches, cease from talking, and be quiet and orderly."
+
+Instead of complying with this request, both of the rowdies cursed the
+preacher, and said: "You'ns mind yer own bizness. We'uns will not get
+down from dese seats."
+
+Jasper knew that trouble was present, and being sure that it was vain
+to continue preaching, he cried out: "I call for the magistrates on
+this ground to come forward and take these men into custody." There
+were several officers at hand; but they, being afraid, declared they
+could not arrest them.
+
+Jasper spoke to them: "Command me to take them, and I will do it at the
+risk of my life." Saying this, he advanced toward them. "Stand off,"
+shouted both of the rowdies; but the preacher walked forward, when Bert
+Danks struck at him with his loaded whip, but that moment Jasper seized
+him and jerked him off the bench. A regular scuffle ensued, and the
+congregation was in great commotion. The magistrates, having found
+their courage, commanded all friends of order to aid in suppressing the
+riot. By this time Jasper Very had thrown Bert Danks down and, despite
+his utmost efforts to arise, held him fast. About the same instant two
+lusty farmers who were standing by the preacher took hold of Long Tom
+and bore him to the ground.
+
+Then the mob headed by Sam Wiles and Monster Turner with loud outcries
+rushed to the rescue of the prisoners. They knocked down seven
+magistrates and several preachers and many others. At this point Jasper
+Very gave his prisoner to others, and threw himself in front of the
+order-loving people. At once Sam Wiles confronted him. His eyes were
+blazing with bitter hate. His rage was so great that it weakened his
+judgment, and he struck out again and again at Very to fell him. The
+last time he struck at him the momentum threw the side of his face
+toward the preacher. It was too great a temptation to resist and Jasper
+hit him a sudden and powerful blow in the ear which dropped him to the
+earth.
+
+Meantime the fight was waxing fierce in another direction. Zibe Turner
+led a part of the mob to the right of the fighting, and attempted a
+flank movement. He seemed like a personification of Satan. His black
+eyes glared with a terrible fury, and with his long arms outstretched
+he rushed on the fray. His voice of command seemed a mixture of beast
+and human. Women shrieked and fled before him, and he had the
+satisfaction of seeing them indeed fall over the rough benches. With
+oaths and shouts his men followed, and many camp meeting folks were
+knocked down and bruised.
+
+If it had not been for John Larkin, "the square man," the mob might
+have won. In the midst of all the excitement and noise he remained calm
+and wise. He had helped in resisting the attack in front, when,
+glancing to the right, he saw the monster dwarf approaching, knocking
+the people about with his long and powerful arms. Larkin put himself in
+his way, and as he got nearer said:
+
+"Are you monkey, man, or devil, or the three combined? Whoever you are,
+you must reckon with me."
+
+"I'm de man who can whip ary sneakin' braggin' preacher on dis ground.
+Dat's my holt," replied Turner.
+
+With this he threw himself upon Larkin, and they were clasped in a
+close embrace. The monster dwarf gripped the preacher's body in his
+terrible arms with a strength like that of a grizzly bear, and it
+seemed to Larkin as though his ribs would crack and his breath leave
+him. But while the dwarf's arms were abnormally strong, his legs were
+weak, whereas Larkin's limbs were as sturdy as an oak tree. Besides, in
+his school days he had learned several wrestling tricks, and now he
+used one to throw Turner to the ground. There they continued to
+struggle for some time, the friends of each trying to help him. But by
+this time the mob in the other quarter had been subdued; and Jasper
+Very coming to the rescue of his colleague, the monster dwarf was
+conquered and several of his aids subdued and captured.
+
+All the prisoners were sent to the county seat, and placed in jail,
+there to await their trial before the criminal court over which Judge
+LeMonde presided.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+Under the Pine Trees.
+
+
+Judge William LeMonde lived about three miles from the camp ground we
+have described. He was the richest man in his township, his farm
+consisting of one thousand acres stretching from the Cumberland River
+back to some high hills about one mile distant. That part lying on the
+river was like a garden of the Lord for richness of soil. In this land
+Indian corn, tobacco, cabbage, and potatoes grew to perfection. Midway
+between the river and the high hills was a narrow ridge which ran
+parallel with the river. This natural backbone of land reached its
+greatest height on Mr. LeMonde's farm. But the highest point of all had
+been increased in size by artificial means. In prehistoric times a race
+of people living in this region had added earth to this hill until they
+had made an almost circular mound, which became a conspicuous object in
+the valley. Mr. LeMonde's father, who bought the farm many years
+before, called the hill "Mount Pisgah." He was a descendant of the
+French Huguenots. When he came from Louisiana he built a log house on
+this elevation. A few years before our narrative opens Mr. William
+LeMonde had removed this log house and built a spacious mansion of
+brick. It was the only brick building for miles around.
+
+The mansion Judge LeMonde erected was an ornament to this beautiful
+site. It was two stories high, crowned with a French mansard roof. It
+faced the river and a country road which ran along the river bank. The
+visitor stepped upon a broad piazza, and then entered through a wide
+and ornamented doorway a large hall from which ascended a broad flight
+of stairs. On the left was a spacious drawing-room, carpeted with an
+imported Brussels and adorned with several oil paintings. It contained
+a piano, an instrument seldom seen in those days. Back of this room was
+the owner's study or private apartment. On the right was a room half
+the size of the drawing-room, all finished in white, containing on the
+river side a fine bay-window. This room was fitted up with much taste
+as a family living-room. At the rear of this was a large dining-room,
+and beyond this a kitchen in which the colored cook, Aunt Dinah, ruled
+supreme. On the second floor were several large bedchambers furnished
+in a neat and becoming manner. One hundred yards west of the house, on
+the ridge, was a cluster of negro cabins, and beyond these an immense
+barn, the largest in the county.
+
+Viola LeMonde was an only daughter of Judge LeMonde. She had one
+brother, George, two years younger than herself. Her father and mother
+almost idolized her, and gave her advantages far beyond those living
+around her. A fine female boarding school then existed at Cincinnati,
+Ohio, to which she was sent, and there she remained three years,
+gaining that knowledge deemed best for young ladies in those days: the
+common branches of education and the higher accomplishments of music
+and drawing. At the time of which we write she was in her nineteenth
+year, and was known far and near for her beauty of mind and person. She
+was a perfect blonde. A bright light sparkled in her blue eyes; her
+golden hair was simply arranged over temples and brows beautifully
+formed. The color of her face was like a delicate peach, white with a
+blending of red. Her nose was of Grecian type, mouth firmly chiseled
+and of medium size, while the cherry red lips when parted showed two
+rows of pearl-like teeth. Her chin was pear-shaped, and revealed
+decision of character. Her whole appearance gave one the impression of
+intelligence, purity, and benevolence. She was of medium height, and
+her figure would have served as a model for the skill of a Phidias. Her
+greatest accomplishment was music. Her voice was a high soprano, and
+its naturally pure tone was improved by cultivation under the best
+teachers.
+
+Jasper Very's preaching appointments included the home of Judge
+LeMonde, and he was given a hearty welcome from the first to his house.
+Naturally he had seen the daughter Viola and had conversed with her
+several times at the mansion and at church. He soon found that she was
+superior to all the young ladies in the neighborhood both in strength
+of mind and education. To this she added a bright and deep religious
+experience. We must confess that the ranger's frequent visits to "Mt.
+Pisgah" were not wholly on church business.
+
+On a bright afternoon appeared a select company of preachers, including
+Jasper Very and John Larkin, sitting under the lovely pine trees
+fronting Judge LeMonde's mansion.
+
+The judge had invited them to his house to rest a day or two after the
+labors of the camp meeting.
+
+The host and his beautiful daughter had joined the group of ministers.
+
+They were a happy and merry lot as they looked over the tall, green
+fields of corn, and beyond to the glorious trees lining the river bank,
+and the sparkling stream seen between the trunks of the trees.
+
+John Larkin was in his best mood, and the different subjects of
+conversation reminded him of many stories. They were talking of a
+sallow-cheeked preacher who was leaving his church located on Salt
+River.
+
+"That makes me think of the illiterate preacher I heard of, who lived
+in the northern part of the State," said Larkin. "He was about to give
+up his church, and so delivered a farewell address thus: 'My dear
+bretherin-ah and sisterin-ah, I am about to leave you-ah, and I feel
+solemncholy-ah, I can tell you-ah. This mornin' as I was ridin' to this
+appintment-ah I looked up to the leaves of the trees-ah, and they
+seemed to be sayin', 'Good-by, Brother Crawford-ah.' And then I see the
+little birds singin' in the woods, and I fancied they said, 'Good-by,
+good-by, Brother Crawford-ah.' Then I gazed at the purty squirrels
+runnin' along the ground and climbin' up the trees, and they 'peared to
+be barkin', 'Good-bye, O good-bye, Brother Crawford-ah!' After awhile I
+come to a lot of pigs awallerin' in mud by the roadside. When my
+hoss-ah got just opposite, they got up and gave some loud grunts--whoo!
+whoo! whoo!--and that scart my hoss-ah, and he threw me in the dirt and
+ran away-ah. I ris my eyes to look at my hoss-ah, and there he was
+a-gallopin' down the road with his mane and tail a-flyin', and he
+looked back at me and seemed to be sayin', 'Good-by, Brother
+Crawford-ah; good-by, Brother Crawford-ah.'"
+
+"It is a great pity," remarked Judge LeMonde, "that religion sometimes
+must run through such rough channels to water the soil of morality and
+piety when it deserves the best training of mind and voice."
+
+"God can use very ignorant Hardshell preachers in building up his
+kingdom if their own hearts are right before him," said Jasper Very;
+"but if they are imposters, they are a disgrace and injury to the
+sacred calling.
+
+"I met a fellow once across the Ohio River whose name was Sargent. He
+assumed the name of Halycon Church, and proclaimed himself the
+millennial messenger. He professed to see visions, fall into trances,
+and to converse with angels. We had a camp meeting near Marietta, and
+this fellow came to it. He wanted to preach, and upon being refused
+pretended to swoon away. One night he lit a cigar and got some powder,
+and walked away about one hundred yards where stood a large stump. He
+put the powder on the stump and touched it with his cigar. The flash
+was seen by many in the camp, and they came up to find Sargent lying on
+the ground. After a long time he came to, and told the people he had a
+message from God for them. Seeing so many there, I lit a lantern and
+went down to investigate. Stepping up to the stump, I smelled the
+sulphur and saw the mark of the burnt powder, and near the stump lay
+the cigar. As he was talking to the people, I stepped up to him and
+asked him if an angel had appeared to him in a flash of light. He said,
+'Yes.' 'Sargent,' said I, 'did not that angel smell of brimstone?'
+'Why,' said he 'do you ask such a foolish question?' 'Because,' said I,
+'if an angel has spoken to you, he was from the lake which burneth with
+fire and brimstone;' and, raising my voice, I said, 'I smell sulphur
+now.' I walked to the stump and showed the people his wicked trick.
+They were very indignant and called him a vile imposter, and soon he
+left, and we were no more troubled with him and his brimstone angels."
+
+"What a shame that men will take the livery of heaven in which to serve
+the evil one," said Viola LeMonde. "Hypocrisy is like a counterfeit
+coin: it is not only worthless in itself, but it also makes men suspect
+the genuine money."
+
+"Poor Richard says, 'Honesty is the best policy,' and that holds good
+in preaching as in other things," remarked Larkin.
+
+Jasper Very added: "Men who are dishonest cheat themselves. They narrow
+their souls. They grasp after a substance and find a shadow. A sure
+Nemesis follows the present gain. The great poet says: 'Who steals my
+purse steals trash.'"
+
+"Sam Wiles is a case in point," said Judge LeMonde. "He surely is
+cheating himself. But what gave him the disposition he possesses?
+Heredity and environment; and not one man in a thousand will rise out
+of these. The fellow has some good in him; but it is strangled by his
+bent and surroundings, like good seed choked by thorns. What say you,
+Mr. Larkin?"
+
+"There is only one hope for him, that is religion, which he seems to
+despise and reject. His superior gifts, making him a leader of the
+moonshine gang, constitute him a greater menace to law-abiding people.
+The Bengal tiger kills more prey than the common wild-cat which
+sometimes roams these surrounding woods. I am told that Wiles is the
+ring leader in many reckless acts, and will stop at nothing to gain his
+ends. Zibe Turner, called the monster dwarf, is his right-hand man, who
+will pick his chestnuts from the fire, though he burn his impish
+fingers in so doing."
+
+"You remember, papa," said Viola, "when we and a few friends had that
+picnic two weeks ago on 'Silver Knob' we passed by the cabin where Sam
+Wiles lives? I felt sad to see his poor mother in her faded and torn
+calico dress in the little front yard. She was stirring some food in an
+iron kettle which was over a fire of logs. Her eyes had such a dull,
+discouraged look in them. The children were dirty and half dressed, and
+how the dogs barked as we came near! The lot of the 'poor whites' in
+Kentucky is indeed unfortunate. Even the slaves look down upon them.
+
+"When I saw the Wiles family and other families like them in their low
+condition I said in my heart: 'Cannot something be done for the comfort
+and uplift of these people?' Gentlemen, I put the question to you this
+afternoon."
+
+After a silence of some duration Jasper Very spoke:
+
+"I am sure something ought to be done and can be done to brighten the
+lives of these poor folks. They live in the hills remote from church
+and Sunday School, which they never attend, and exist as heathen in a
+Christian country. Their forefathers in England were among the best
+yeomen of the land, and I believe many of these have the making of
+good, honest, upright citizens."
+
+"I think it is possible to organize a community school--a combination
+of Sunday School and day school--for these dwellers in the hills,"
+added John Larkin. "As I was riding down 'Sinex Knob' the other day I
+passed a settler's cabin, larger and better built than most dwellings
+in that section. The owner's name is Mart Spink. He has a wife and
+several bright-looking children. Perhaps he would grant the use of his
+living-room for school purposes. The Wiles family and a number of other
+families live near enough to attend."
+
+"My thought coincides with the suggestion of Mr. Larkin," said Viola
+LeMonde. "We ought to have such a school. In it we should teach the
+truths of religion and also the common branches of learning. Moreover,
+we should help the whole community--the farmers to better cultivate
+their lands and their minds; the farmers' wives to improve their
+housekeeping, to get out of the ruts, and to take a wider interest in
+developing their own intellects and those of their children; the sons
+to have noble ambitions in life and to prepare to achieve them; the
+daughters, besides the moral and intellectual training they receive, to
+learn sewing, knitting, cooking, and other forms of domestic science.
+Yes, and I would have a primitive dispensary, that the neighbors might
+have at least first aid in case of sickness or accident. Tomorrow I
+will have my servant Mose Williams to drive me in the phaeton to David
+Hester's house. There I will talk with his daughter Henrietta, and I am
+sure I can induce her to join me in the project. Together we will
+explore the ground and make a beginning.
+
+"I shall ask you gentlemen to aid us in every way in your power by
+sympathy, advice, prayer, and work."
+
+"Most gladly will I do so on one condition," Very responded with a
+laugh, "that is, that we now adjourn to the parlor, and you will favor
+us with music both instrumental and vocal."
+
+"Would you have me to be so selfish as to be the whole show?" rejoined
+Viola. "I will do nothing of the kind, sir; but I will play and sing if
+the company will unite with me in singing the hymns."
+
+This demand was heartily accepted, and the group at once left the shade
+of the pine trees for the parlor.
+
+Christianity is said to be the only religion that can be sung. It began
+with the angels' song, and its music will continue on earth till it is
+transferred to the song of redemption in heaven.
+
+The hymns of Christendom are among its most cherished and valuable
+possessions. They sound the depths of the human heart. They express the
+varied emotions of the soul.
+
+It is no wonder that Jasper Very requested Viola LeMonde to play and
+sing.
+
+We behold this queen of song seated at the piano, while around her
+stood her father and her mother (the mother having just come in) and
+the preachers.
+
+First Viola favored them with several instrumental selections from the
+great masters. It was interesting to watch her hands. They were perfect
+in size, shape and color. The slender fingers were tipped with nails
+curved like almonds. They struck the keys with a precision, force and
+grace, leaving nothing to be desired. The quick interplay of mind and
+muscle interpreted the music to her hearers in a way almost to produce
+tears.
+
+After a rest during which some bright, witty remarks, like sparks,
+passed from one to another, they prepared to sing some of the great
+hymns of the church. They were well equipped for their task. Viola's
+voice was pure, sweet, soulful, and high. She might have been a sister
+of Jenny Lind. Her mother sang also in a rich and expressive manner.
+Jasper Very possessed a fine deep bass voice. John Larkin sang an
+acceptable tenor. All the rest were able to use their voices in song.
+
+As by common understanding they began with songs of adoration and
+praise. Each one entered into the spirit of that inspiring hymn of
+Charles Wesley:
+
+    "O for a thousand tongues to sing
+    My great Redeemer's praise,
+    The glories of my God and King,
+    The triumphs of his grace."
+
+The persons here were advanced agents in bringing civilization to
+Kentucky. They had the heroic spirit. These preachers had endured
+hardness as good soldiers of Jesus Christ. They had climbed mountains,
+crossed valleys, forded streams, slept in the open, encountered wild
+beasts and base and desperate men. Songs to cheer, encourage, and
+strengthen their faith and zeal were needed and provided. Naturally
+they desired to sing on this occasion. So the company sang with zest
+Luther's great battle hymn:
+
+    "A mighty fortress is our God,
+    A bulwark never failing:
+    Our helper he, amid the flood
+    Of mortal ills prevailing."
+
+Then was sung that hymn of triumphant trust, beginning:
+
+    "Though troubles assail, and dangers affright,
+    Though friends should all fail, and foes all unite,
+    Yet one thing secures us, whatever betide,
+    The promise assures us, The Lord will provide."
+
+The pioneers of that day had an exultant experience of the religion
+they professed and taught. Viola next turned to hymns expressing this
+state. She and those gathered around her sang them with joyous, even
+ecstatic, acclamation:
+
+      "O happy day, that fixed my choice
+      On thee, my Savior and my God!
+      Well may this glowing heart rejoice,
+    And tell its rapture all abroad."
+
+And:
+
+    "Love divine, all love excelling,
+    Joy of heaven, to earth come down;
+    Fix in us thy humble dwelling,
+    All thy faithful mercies crown."
+
+After they had sung a number of other hymns, Jasper Very said to Viola
+LeMonde: "I have heard, Miss LeMonde, that you have composed the music
+to a new paraphrase of the Ninety-First Psalm. I am sure we should all
+be delighted to hear you sing your music to the words. Will you kindly
+favor us by so doing?"
+
+Viola LeMonde replied: "I am not an adept at composing music, but the
+words of this poem impressed me, and I joined them to an air which came
+to me almost spontaneously. I shall take pleasure in singing this
+melody, if you will be charitable in criticism." Thus speaking she sang
+the following words simply but with much feeling:
+
+    The Saint's Refuge.
+
+    Dwelling in God's secret place,
+    Safe doth his beloved lie,
+    Shaded by his sovereign grace
+    From the tempests fierce and high.
+    Love Divine will hear his prayer,
+    Be his refuge and defense;
+    Save him from the fowler's snare,
+    And the noisome pestilence.
+    Sheltered 'neath the Father's wings,
+    Covered with his pinions wide,
+    Truth the ransomed homeward brings,
+    Shielding him on every side.
+
+    Fear recedes from terror's night,
+    Harmless flies the dart by day;
+    In the darkness or the light
+    Wasting death shall flee away.
+    Sees he, falling in their pride,
+    Twice five thousand wicked men;
+    But destruction's wrathful tide
+    Shall not touch his garments then.
+    Angels, ministrant, shall fly
+    From their dazzling upper zones,
+    Charged by heaven's Majesty
+    Him to keep from crushing stones.
+    On the lion, bold and dread,
+    Seeking ever to devour,
+    And the hissing serpent's head,
+    He shall tread with victor's pow'r.
+    God will wipe away his tears;
+    Grant him honor and release;
+    Crown his life with length of years;
+    Save, and keep in perfect peace.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+The Horse Race.
+
+
+We left Sam Wiles, Zibe Turner and other disturbers of the peace in the
+county jail. In due time they were brought before Judge LeMonde for
+trial. They were found guilty and sentenced to prison for one month.
+
+A few days after their liberation the following conversation took place:
+
+    _Turner_: "Most all de folks on de hills and in de valleys air
+    goin' to de races tomorrer, and I look for a gay o' time."
+
+    _Wiles_: "Yes, and all de niggers that can get off'n work will be
+    there too."
+
+    _Turner_: "Dat feller from Lexington has a right smart of a hoss.
+    You know he wants me to ride him in de last race, and I'm bound to
+    beat George LeMonde, if beat is in de critter. His hoss stands
+    seventeen hands high, is rangy in de legs, has a deep chest, and
+    has a will to go. He can easily bear my weight, and you know dat
+    dey count me de best jockey in de whul county. If I can't win by
+    far (fair) means, I will by foul."
+
+    _Wiles_: "I hearn dat Jack Ketcham's sorrel goes like de wind, and
+    Jack's hoss is goin' to be in de big race."
+
+    _Turner_: "George LeMonde has been speeding his bay over de track
+    for days, and he will get every bit of go out of him. His mother
+    and sister are dead set agin hoss-racin' and dey are begging him
+    not to ride; but George likes de sport too well to please dem."
+
+    _Wiles_: "Mr. Rawlins, of Lexington, swears by his black, and will
+    put up a great deal of money. George will try to match it, and ol'
+    farmer Ketcham won't be slow with his cash."
+
+    _Turner_: "It will be an excitin' time, and I low, as many will see
+    de races as went to de big camp meetin'."
+
+    _Wiles_: "Well, Zibe, you must stick to your hoss like a monkey,
+    and do your best to win de money and down that upstart, George
+    LeMonde."
+
+With this remark the two men separated.
+
+George LeMonde was a youth about seventeen years of age, well-built,
+good-looking, full of life and vigor, and at this time engaged in that
+serious occupation, common to many young men, sowing his wild oats. He
+was boisterous and rather reckless, but not vicious. His moral nature
+was touched by evil, but not yet corrupted. However, he had begun to
+walk in the broad way of youthful folly, and was in great danger of
+going its full length. He was restrained from drinking the full cup of
+unlawful indulgence more by the prayers, example, and love of his
+mother and sister than by the correct moral life of his father.
+
+The greatest danger to that priceless thing, character, which
+confronted him was his association with the hillside young men. They
+never felt that he was one in desire and purpose with them; but
+sometimes he would meet them on the big road by Franklin Schoolhouse or
+occasionally go to their cabins on the hills. Then he would sip lightly
+their moonshine whiskey, join in their coarse talk, and share in their
+few pastimes.
+
+George LeMonde probably inherited his love for horses. His father,
+Judge LeMonde, for many years had raised his own colts from the best
+stock he could procure. On his broad acres they had every chance to
+develop their physical powers. His fields produced an abundance of the
+best corn and hay. Skirting the hill which bounded his farm on the
+north were extensive meadows rich with grass. Here his blooded stock
+browsed, ran and grew. It was under similar conditions that many
+Kentucky horses were raised early in the nineteenth century, becoming
+sires of the greatest racing stock in the world.
+
+At the time of which we write Judge LeMonde owned a bay, of his own
+raising, which was his pride and joy. The horse, Velox by name, was far
+and away better than any other he had ever possessed. He was known
+throughout the entire county as a splendid specimen of horseflesh, and
+for beauty and utility had won the blue ribbon at a number of
+surrounding fairs.
+
+When George LeMonde reached his sixteenth birthday his father gave him
+this fine animal. The son was delighted with the gift, and took the
+best care of Velox, often feeding him with his own hand. George rode
+his horse so much that he learned all the traits and peculiarities of
+his steed; for horses, like men, have their own individual make-up and
+notions. On the other hand, Velox got to know, trust, love and obey his
+master. He would come at his call, and could be guided when on a
+journey nearly as well by the motions of his owner's body as by the
+rein.
+
+George LeMonde decided to enter Velox for the race which was soon to
+take place, and many times did he ride his willing steed over the race
+course to prepare for the great event.
+
+Horse racing then, as now, was one of the most popular diversions of
+multitudes in Kentucky, but the preparations then were quite primitive.
+The track was laid in a level piece of ground some miles from Judge
+LeMonde's farm. It was in the form of a circle, and was one mile in
+circumference. The inclosure was protected by a rough fence, hewn out
+of logs. Within the course, near the starting place, and on the inside
+of the track, was a stand upon which the judges of the races sat. Some
+rough seats were provided for a part of the spectators, but most of the
+people stood during the races.
+
+Saturday dawned clear and beautiful. It was a perfect day to bring out
+the speed of the racers. The time selected was near the last of August,
+and a crispness in the air gave a faint indication of coming autumn.
+People from far and wide had come to enjoy the sport. They made the
+occasion a holiday. Many came on horseback and by team, and families
+brought well-filled baskets of fried chicken, corn pone, blackberry
+pie, and other good things to refresh the inner man.
+
+A number of minor races were run by horses in harness and under the
+saddle, which only increased the people's appetite for the grand event
+of the day. At four in the afternoon the three horses were called for
+the two-mile race. Their riders soon brought them from their stalls to
+a position in front of the grand stand and judges. The steeds were all
+in perfect condition, their glossy coats shining with bright luster in
+the afternoon sun. The horses seemed to feel the meaning of the
+occasion. They champed their bits and moved about restlessly as though
+impatient to be off. Their riders, however, had them under good
+control, and now the judges tossed the coin for choice of position on
+the track. Zibe Turner secured the inside place, George LeMonde came
+next, and Hiram Ketcham, Farmer Ketcham's son of eighteen, was on the
+outer rim of the circle, next to the fence.
+
+The grand stand, composed of rough boards, was filled with the best
+dressed citizens of the county: while far down the track, and separated
+from it by a frail line of fence, stood a great company of tall
+Kentucky pioneers with their wives and children. Many negroes were also
+in the crowd, interested spectators, and the small boy was much in
+evidence.
+
+A silence fell upon the waiting throng as the three horses, bearing
+their riders, proceeded up the track a few rods to make a dash for the
+line. The signal was given, and they came like three thunderbolts to
+the starting place; but reaching this they were not abreast, and
+another start must be made. They tried four times before they got away
+in line, when some one shouted: "Now they are off!" For a few paces
+they were neck and neck; but then Hiram Ketcham's sorrel, though on the
+outer circle forged ahead. When the half-mile point was reached, the
+sorrel was several lengths in the lead, and Zibe Turner's black was
+leading George LeMonde's bay by a dozen feet. They came in this
+position down the home stretch, and as they crossed the line a great
+cheering rose from the crowd. Turner's friends from the hills were
+there in large numbers, and were the loudest in their shouts. "Go it,
+Zibe; you'll beat, old boy!" "Hurrah for de black! push him along!"
+"I'll bet my money on de Lexington hoss!" were some of the words that
+were shouted at Turner as he dashed past the starting point for the
+second mile. Hiram Ketcham did not lack for admirers, who encouraged
+him with cheers and waving of hats and handkerchiefs. Many of the
+farmers living in the rich river bottom seemed to be partial to the
+sorrel horse. George LeMonde's friends were plentiful in the grand
+stand and, in fact, throughout the crowd. They were somewhat
+disappointed to behold him the last in the race; but they saw that
+Velox was going well, and they had hopes for his winning during the
+next mile.
+
+As for young LeMonde, he saw nothing and gave heed to nothing except
+the business in hand. Only once did he raise his eyes from looking
+straight ahead between the ears of his noble horse, and that was when
+he was passing the grandstand. Then he gave a swift look in that
+direction, and was repaid by seeing a young girl of some sixteen years
+of age, Stella Nebeker by name, dressed in a pure white muslin gown
+with short sleeves, waving a delicate handkerchief toward him. For an
+instant their eyes met, then he looked along the race course as before.
+
+LeMonde had a method in his racing which he was now working. He knew
+the reserved powers which were in his horse, and he purposely held him
+back from putting forth his greatest speed at the beginning. Turner,
+the monster dwarf, was also using all his skill in horse racing. His
+monkeyish face was lighted up with a look of more intelligence than
+usual, which made his ugly features more forbidding and repulsive. His
+eyes shone with excitement, determination, and reckless courage. His
+teeth were clenched, and the muscles of his lips drawn over them gave
+him an expression half laughing, half demoniac. On the first round his
+cap had fallen off, and the shaggy hair of his head and face streamed
+in the wind, adding greatly to the fierceness of his looks. He had
+perfect control of himself and horse, and rode like a centaur, ready to
+take any advantage which circumstances or guile threw in his way. He
+also had held in his horse with bit and bridle, reserving his best
+efforts for the closing part of the race.
+
+During the first half of the second mile Turner knew that it was
+necessary for him to lessen the distance between himself and Hiram
+Ketcham, and LeMonde realized that he must soon close the gap
+separating Turner and himself. Almost at the same time they gave their
+horses more rein, and they sprang to their work with increased speed.
+Ketcham had taken advantage of his lead by crossing the track and
+taking the narrow arc of the circle. The three horses were trotting in
+a line, all hugging the inside track. Very soon the distance between
+the sorrel and the black was diminished, and before the half mile point
+was reached the monster dwarf turned his horse toward the center of the
+track to pass Ketcham. Just beyond the half-mile point Turner's black
+passed Ketcham's sorrel, and LeMonde's bay was neck and neck with the
+black. A few rods more, and it was plain to be seen that the bay was
+forging ahead of the black.
+
+The monster dwarf saw at once the advantage of his rival, and hissing
+through his teeth in a low voice the words: "Dat's my holt," brought
+his short cowhide whip down with force upon the withers of Velox. It
+was the act of a jockey utterly without principle, an act execrated by
+every true Kentucky sportsman.
+
+The splendid animal never before had felt the lash of a whip. The blow
+had the effect desired by the dwarf. It broke the gait of the bay
+horse. The stroke was so unexpected and painful that the horse gave a
+bound forward and upward that almost unseated the rider. Then he
+plunged along the track with irregular strides, sometimes rushing to
+the sides and then to the center.
+
+Though taken by surprise George LeMonde acted with decision and
+judgment. He held his mount with a firm hand, and added to the strength
+of his arm the soothing effect of his voice: "Steady, steady, Velox!
+Your master did not strike you. He loves you. Steady, steady, good
+horse! Velox! Velox! Velox!" By these means young LeMonde renewed the
+race, though the other horses were a considerable distance in advance.
+
+In the meantime a large number of the spectators had seen the
+despicable act and roared their disapproval. Some shook their fists at
+the monster dwarf, and cried for speedy punishment for his vile trick.
+This outburst of indignation made him fear again to molest the bay
+horse.
+
+Now George knew that the time had come for Velox to use his utmost
+powers. He knew that the horse had great reserved fountains of strength
+in him, and believed he could still win the race. As for the horse, he
+seemed alive to the situation. Perhaps he felt a proud resentment at
+the insult and injury put upon him. His eyes flashed fire. His nostrils
+were dilated until the red blood showed through his veins. Man and
+horse gave to each other courage and confidence; they appeared no
+longer to be two creatures, but had been merged into a single unit of
+astonishing force and capacity. LeMonde's whole soul was absorbed with
+one thought--to pass the other horses and to cross the line first. He
+leaned farther front in the saddle, lowering his head to reduce the
+resistance of the air. His face almost touched the flying mane of his
+horse.
+
+Again he spoke to his mount: "Steady, my Velox boy; we are nearing the
+end. It will soon be over; but you must pass these horses, and win the
+race." With this remark LeMonde gave free rein to his horse, pressed
+his knees a little tighter against the animal's sides, and gave him a
+light touch with the whip. The noble horse instantly responded to his
+master's urge. He released fold after fold of knotted muscle, his
+stride increased, and when his hoofs descended, they seemed to spurn
+the ground. Now as steady as a Corliss engine this ultimate unit of the
+animal and mechanical world rushed on, and was seen to be gaining on
+the other horses.
+
+At a quarter of a mile from the home stake the sorrel horse was passed,
+but still the result seemed uncertain. Then young LeMonde appeared as a
+Jehu incarnate. He pressed the horse's flanks with his heels and
+shouted into the very ears of his mount: "Velox, we must win, we will
+win, we are going to win." With this remark, for the first time in his
+life he brought the whip down hard upon the glossy hide of his steed.
+The animal increased his speed, and went thundering down the home
+stretch after the black. It is a case of blood against time and space.
+The bay gains! He has closed the distance between them! His head is on
+a line with the other's shoulder! They are only one hundred yards from
+the goal! The grand stand is wild with shouting! Those standing near
+the track, unconscious of what they do, are throwing hats,
+handkerchiefs and umbrellas into the air, and yelling like mad men! The
+judges are sighting the line! They see a horse's brown head and
+shoulders pass the line, then a black head appears, and Velox has won
+by a neck's length.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+Prayer In a Dance Hall.
+
+
+When the three horses crossed the finishing line, covered with sweat
+and foam, LeMonde and Ketcham soon brought their mounts to a stop. Not
+so the monster dwarf. Fearing that the crowd might do him personal
+injury he rode the black horse directly to the stable. He was almost
+beside himself with rage and disappointment. He ground his teeth
+together, and froth showed upon his lips. His face was hideous in
+expression. He shook his fist in the direction of the race course, and
+cursed the victorious horse and rider with terrible oaths.
+
+To Sam Wiles, who had come up, he said: "Anudder chance will come. I'll
+git even wid dat proud aristocrat yit. I'm goin' to git back all de
+money I lost today, and mo' too."
+
+A different scene was taking place near the grand stand. When George
+LeMonde, with flushed face and bright eyes, dismounted from his horse,
+he was at once surrounded by an admiring crowd who showered him with
+congratulations. They praised his skill as a horseman, his coolness
+in a time of danger and emergency, and his good nature under great
+provocation. Many were the admirers of Velox. They patted his
+shoulders, stroked his head and commented on his beauty of color and
+form. The horse took it in good part, and seemed to consider it a
+proper tribute to the steed who won the race.
+
+Among the rest who shook George heartily by the hand was a stout,
+broad-featured man of about forty, who was dressed in a good suit of
+blue jeans and wore what was uncommon in those days, a large diamond
+pin in his shirt front. His name was Costello Nebeker, and he was a
+tavern keeper on a country road not many miles away. The girl with a
+white dress and shapely arm whom George saw as he flashed past the
+grand stand was Stella Nebeker, the sixteen-year-old daughter of this
+tavern keeper. She came forward, and in a happy way congratulated him
+upon his success. They had known each other for some time; for we are
+sorry to say, George on various occasions, having been at the tavern
+with some of his young friend, had indulged in the liquors which
+Nebeker kept for sale. While at this tavern George had become
+acquainted with Stella Nebeker, and she soon found a place in his
+affections. She was comely, vivacious and sensible, fond of society, a
+natural leader among her set, having most of the accomplishments
+furnished by the schools and social gatherings of their neighborhood.
+
+Nebeker said to George in his loud and hearty way: "LeMonde, today you
+have covered yourself and horse with glory, and incidentally have put a
+good many dollars into my jeans pocket. Now you and your friends must
+celebrate this victory by a layout (feast) and dance at my house. Next
+Saturday will be moonlight, and Stella and I will invite our friends
+and you must ask yours to come, and we will have a jolly supper, and
+wash it down with some first-class Kentucky whisky, and wind up the
+meeting with a party dance."
+
+George agreed to this proposal; and after bidding the tavern keeper and
+his lovely daughter a kind adieu, he departed to the stable, whither
+his faithful servant, Mose, had led his horse.
+
+Costello Nebeker lived about ten miles from Mr. LeMonde's plantation in
+rather a rough and hilly country. For a number of years he had kept a
+public house; and as his place was the only one of this kind for many
+miles around, and as it fronted on a much-traveled county road, he had
+many customers at his bar and guests in his tavern. His house was a
+large frame structure, the lower part of which was used for a bar and
+lounging place and the rear for a dance hall. On the second floor were
+several sleeping rooms, some of which were occupied by the keeper and
+his family, and the rest were prepared for travelers.
+
+The sky was clear and the woods beautiful on the following Saturday
+evening. As the sun began to hide his brilliant rays behind the noble
+hills covered with regal forests, and the moon, nearing its full, was
+already throwing a silvery light over the scene, those invited to the
+supper and dance were making their way, some in buggies along the main
+road, but most on horseback, coming down hills and across valleys, all
+moving to a central point, the tavern house.
+
+It is not our design to dwell upon that feast, which consisted of most
+of the good things then in season in Kentucky, but to come at once to
+the dance and to a striking incident which occurred there.
+
+Rather late in the evening, after dancing had been going on for some
+time, Jasper Very rode up to the tavern. He had been on a long
+preaching tour, and was tired and hungry. When he had dismounted, he
+asked the proprietor if he could lodge there for the night. Mr. Nebeker
+politely told him he could stay, but he was afraid he would not enjoy
+himself very well, as a dance was in progress. Jasper then inquired how
+far it was to a suitable house where he could put up for the night, and
+was told seven miles. He felt in his present condition that this was
+too far, and said that if the tavern keeper would treat him civilly and
+feed his horse well by his leave he would stay. This was promised him,
+and Very dismounted and went in. He quietly took a seat in one corner
+of the room, and the dancing continued. While musing upon many things
+and wishing in his heart he could do those people good, and having
+finally made up his mind to ask the privilege of preaching there the
+next day, he was surprised to see a beautiful and ruddy young lady, who
+was no other than Stella Nebeker, walk gracefully up to him, drop a
+handsome courtesy, and pleasantly, with a winning smile, invite him to
+dance with her. Jasper Very in his life had been in many strange
+situations, but this was an experience unlike any he had hitherto
+passed through. He could hardly understand his thoughts or feelings,
+but in a moment he resolved on a desperate experiment. He arose as
+gracefully as he could, with many emotions crowding upon his mind.
+Stella with much grace moved to his right side. Jasper grasped her
+right hand with his left hand, while she leaned her left arm on his
+right arm. In this position they walked on the floor.
+
+The whole company seemed pleased at this act of politeness in a young
+lady shown to a stranger. The colored musician began to put his fiddle
+in the best order. Jasper here asked the fiddler to hold a minute, and,
+addressing the company, said: "Friends, for several years I have not
+undertaken any matter of importance without first asking the blessing
+of God upon it, and I desire now to ask God's blessing upon this
+beautiful young lady, who has shown such an act of politeness to a
+total stranger, and upon the whole company."
+
+Here he grasped the young lady's hand tightly and said: "Let us all
+kneel down and pray." With this he dropped upon his knees, and began
+praying with all the power he possessed. Stella tried to get loose from
+him, but he held her tightly.
+
+This unexpected act threw the whole company into excitement and
+disorder. Stella seized by an emotion which she could not control, fell
+upon her knees. Some of the dancers kneeled, some stood, some sat still
+with curious looks upon their faces, while others fled as in terror.
+The fiddler ran off into the kitchen saying: "Lord a marcy, what de
+matter. What's dat mean? Prayin' in a dance hall! Dis beats anyting dis
+niggar ever saw."
+
+Jasper Very continued to pray with loud voice and great unction. Some
+soon began weeping softly, others cried out aloud in their deep
+feeling, and some asked God for mercy. After a while Jasper arose from
+his knees and commenced an exhortation, after which he sang a hymn.
+
+Stella Nebeker was so affected by the service and by the deep
+convictions of her heart that she remained for a long time prostrate on
+the floor, crying earnestly for pardon. This strange meeting continued
+nearly all night; and when it was ended, fifteen of those dancers had
+obtained pardon for their sins. Stella was one of them, George LeMonde
+was another and the tavern keeper was a third. From this dance room a
+great revival spread throughout that part of the country.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+Wanted, a Mission School.
+
+
+Let us follow Miss Viola LeMonde and Miss Henrietta Harvey in their
+effort to organize a Sunday School among the "Poor Whites."
+
+It was a beautiful day in September when the two young ladies seated in
+the phaeton drawn by Velox and Dolly and driven by faithful Mose made
+their way into the hill country. Their object was to visit as many
+families in a remote section as possible, and try to get their consent
+to join the proposed school.
+
+After riding a number of miles they came to the family of Mart Spink.
+The two-room cabin in which they lived had the distinction of being
+built of hewn logs. It also had a "lean-to," or low ell, attached to
+the larger part.
+
+Fortunately they found the "old man," Mart Spink, at home. He seemed
+surprised to behold such a fine turnout stop at his door, but showed a
+native gallantry as he came to the carriage.
+
+"Howdy, ladies, I'se glad to see you. Won't you 'light, and walk into
+de house?"
+
+"Thank you," replied Viola. "My name is Viola LeMonde, and this is my
+friend, Miss Henrietta Harvey. We have come to consult you on some
+important business, and shall be glad to step into your cottage."
+
+With this remark they both dismounted from the phaeton, and passed into
+the house.
+
+Here they found the whole family, and Mr. Spink introduced them in
+order to the ladies--his wife, Lucinda, his oldest daughter, Susanna,
+then Elmira, Robert and Jonathan.
+
+Mart Spink invited the ladies to be seated, and they sat down on
+splint-bottom chairs.
+
+Viola LeMonde opened the business in hand: "Mr. Spink, some of us
+living in the bottoms, knowing that you dwell so far away from any
+church that you and your neighbors cannot well attend public religious
+services, have decided to start a Sunday School in this locality, if we
+can find a suitable place, and if the people are willing to come to it.
+
+"Not long ago Rev. John Larkin, whom perhaps you have seen, suggested
+your house as the best place in these hills in which to begin a school.
+What do you say to the proposition?"
+
+Mart Spink replied: "Well, I was born in Nashville, Tennessee, and
+lived thar with my parents till I was eight years old. I went to school
+thar and learned how to read and write a little. I also went to church
+and Sunday School some.
+
+"Then they took up land here in de backwoods, and since that time I
+have had mighty little chance to larn out of books and to go to
+meetin'.
+
+"Yes, I would be rale glad to have you start a school in my house, if
+Lucinda is willin'. What do you say, wife?"
+
+Lucinda: "Let us have de school by all means; de sooner de better. I
+want it for your sake, Mart, and mine, but specially for our boys and
+girls."
+
+So the consent was given and the matter settled.
+
+Susanna Spink, the oldest child, sat opposite Viola LeMonde during the
+conversation. She was fourteen years old, and was of such striking
+beauty that both the visitors were impressed by it. Her chief
+attraction was her eyes. Once seen they could never be forgotten. The
+eyebrows were dark and of medium size. The lashes were black and long.
+Her eyes were large, clear, deep blue in color. One could look down
+into their wondrous depths and imagine one could see the very soul of
+the child.
+
+Susanna was all attention during the talk about the school. She spoke
+no word, but the look of her eyes spoke volumes to Viola. She knew that
+the child was intensely interested in the project. That hour by an
+invisible and mysterious power the souls of the woman and child were
+welded together into a union of friendship and devotion which death
+itself could not part. Neither suspected at this time what a test of
+this devotion was to appear in the future.
+
+Highly pleased with the success of their first visit the ladies entered
+the carriage, and Viola directed Mose to drive to the home of the Wiles
+family. Arriving there they were greeted by the furious barking of a
+pack of dogs and by the staring looks of some of the children. Mrs.
+Wiles was in the front yard hanging out some faded and frayed clothing
+on the line.
+
+We must give the names of this interesting family. Those at home were
+Mrs. Deborah Wiles and her children Ephraim, Priscilla, Martha, and
+Ruth. The father, Simon, was absent, and also his precious son, Sam,
+whose acquaintance we have already made. The remaining son, Reuben, was
+visiting a near neighbor about three miles distant. However much of
+original depravity existed in this family the parents were determined
+that they should be fortified with biblical names.
+
+Mrs. Wiles showed small courtesy to the strangers, for she did not call
+off the dogs or speak to the visitors till she had hung out to dry the
+last remaining piece of washing.
+
+Then she turned to the carriage, and inquired of the ladies what they
+wanted. Viola and Henrietta without any invitation stepped down from
+the vehicle, and made known their mission.
+
+Mrs. Wiles expressed herself unfavorable to the idea. She said they
+were gittin' along well enough without any church meetin's, and they
+did not want any of de high-toned people from de bottoms to come up
+there, putting on airs, treating them as ignorant, and no 'count white
+trash, and making fun of their farms and houses.
+
+But different words sprang from the lips of Ephraim and Priscilla.
+
+Ephraim, the boy who a few years before had discovered Wind Cave, now
+grown to a good sized youth, said: "You are wrong, ma. Most of us
+around here are a low down set without books or religion. If these
+ladies are willin' to spend their time to come all this way and teach
+us larnin' and de Bible, I say we ought to thank them, and help them to
+start de school."
+
+Priscilla said she agreed with her brother and thought it was time they
+"were gittin' out of their pore way of livin'," and she would be glad
+"to jine de school" if her mother would let her.
+
+Mrs. Wiles gave a cold consent, and the carriage drove away, the ladies
+thankful that they had secured at least two more advocates of their
+scheme.
+
+Mose spoke to his mettled steeds and soon they were drawing the
+carriage over an unfrequented road through a deep forest to the cabin
+of Harrop Sneath. He and his house were typical of the poorest of the
+"poor whites." His cabin consisted of one room, about fourteen feet
+square, with one door and no windows. It was made of unhewn logs
+plastered with clay. The only daylight which entered the cabin came
+through the door when open and down the chimney. On the inside stood a
+bedstead made of poles stuck between the logs of the angle, the outside
+corner supported by a crotched stick. The table was a huge hewn log,
+standing on four pegs. A log bench or two took the place of chairs. The
+cooking utensils consisted of an iron pot, which hung in the big
+chimney, a kettle and skillet and a few pewter and tin dishes. The loft
+was the sleeping place of most of the children. It was reached by a
+ladder of wooden pins driven into the logs.
+
+Harrop Sneath was too lazy and shiftless to work much. He cultivated in
+a careless way a small piece of cleared ground around his cabin on
+which he raised a little Indian corn. The meat for his family was
+provided by his rifle, for the woods abounded in game--deer, wild
+turkeys, etc.
+
+It was in such a cabin that Abraham Lincoln was born in another part of
+Kentucky about this time.
+
+When Viola and Henrietta entered the clearing Sneath was sitting in the
+sun on a log bench in front of his cabin. He was a man in middle life
+and like most of the hillside settlers was the father of several
+children.
+
+The young ladies addressed him pleasantly, and asked after his family
+and his crops.
+
+He replied, that "de old woman and de kids war right peart; that de
+crops were most a dead failure because of de dry spell." He "'lowed a
+dry spell war mighty bad for crops on hillside farms." In this he was
+quite right.
+
+By this time the "old woman" and some of the kids had come into the
+yard. Among them was Jemima Sneath, the oldest daughter. She was
+apparently about twenty years of age, and was a large, healthy young
+woman.
+
+Henrietta Harvey was the speaker this time, and in a clear and emphatic
+manner made their mission known. She told them about the school, what a
+blessing it would be to the community, the families and each one. It
+would improve their minds, help to remove the evils which all knew
+existed in the hills, help to put the farmers on their feet by showing
+them how to raise better crops.
+
+Trying to awaken a greater interest in the father she said: "Mr.
+Sneath, when you are not working on your place or hunting, how do you
+pass the time?"
+
+He answered with a slow drawl: "Well, most ginerally I sot on de bench
+in shade in summer and in de sun in winter. Sometimes I sot and think,
+and sometimes I jest sot."
+
+Such a man they felt it difficult to arouse, but when Viola added her
+invitations and arguments to those of her friend, poor Sneath awoke
+enough to the situation to hold his head up higher and widen his
+shoulders a trifle.
+
+The one most interested was Jemima, the oldest daughter. She promised
+to attend the first meeting and to become a member of the school.
+
+Viola now directed Mose to drive them still farther through the woods
+to the home of Zibe Turner, the monster dwarf. They would not have
+dared to beard this lion in his den, but knowing he had left the county
+for the time being, they wished, if possible, to interest his mother
+and sister in the school.
+
+As they drew up to the house the dwarf's mother stood in the doorway,
+her daughter looking over her shoulder. The mother might have been a
+twin sister of Sycorax, the dam of Caliban. She was tall and slim,
+dressed in a coarse, hand-woven dress. Her long, scant hair fell down
+over her shoulders. Her face was that of a hag. Her few teeth were
+stained yellow with tobacco.
+
+As soon as Viola spoke of the school, this vixen, raising her right arm
+to its greatest height and clenching her hand, broke out in wild
+vituperation:
+
+"What do de like of ye, comin' into our hills in yer fine carriage to
+see how pore we air and to look down on us? Woud you uns larn us to be
+good in yer school? We uns air as good as you uns even if we don't live
+in big houses and drive fast hosses. Away with you! Me and mine will
+have nuthin' to do with yer mission."
+
+In a similar vein she continued to pour out a volley of loud and
+abusive words, interlarding them with such oaths and curses as would
+have surprised a Billinsgate fishwoman.
+
+Viola tried for a brief time to reason with her, and present their plea
+for the mission school, but, finding it was useless to remain longer,
+told Mose to drive away. When they had reached the shelter of the woods
+the slave said: "Ah neber hurd a deck han' on de ribber cuss and swear
+lak dat po' white woman."
+
+Still these noble ladies, inspired with a high resolve to help the
+lowly, undismayed continued their work. In the course of two or three
+days a sufficient number of persons had agreed to attend the school to
+warrant its being opened with much promise.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+The Mission School Established.
+
+
+The time set for beginning the mission school was the first Sunday in
+October. The place, Mart Spink's sitting-room.
+
+Mr. Spink had added to the seating capacity of his cabin by taking some
+long slabs and with an auger drilling holes in their round sides. Into
+these holes he drove wooden pegs, and thus provided serviceable benches
+without backs. These together with his other benches and his chairs
+gave sufficient seating accommodation for those who came.
+
+It was a motley but interesting crowd that assembled in the
+sitting-room at two o'clock that Sunday afternoon. Of course the Spinks
+were there, and some members of the Wiles and Sneath families were
+present, and others from different homes in that section. Fourteen
+girls, ten boys and a few adults had come to the meeting. Besides these
+there were the preacher, John Larkin, Viola and George LeMonde,
+Henrietta Harvey, and Stella Nebeker in attendance. Jasper Very wished
+much to be present, but a preaching engagement kept him away.
+
+The children were dressed somewhat better than on week days but at that
+their clothing was nothing to boast of. The girls were shy and ill at
+ease, the boys half shy and half bold.
+
+John Larkin called the school to order, and made a few remarks.
+
+"Dear friends, we are met here today to worship God and to study his
+Holy Word. I am sure you want me in your behalf to thank the ladies who
+visited your homes and invited you to help in starting this school, and
+to thank Mr. Spink and family who have so kindly opened their house for
+our meetings. Miss Viola LeMonde has had some hymn books placed on the
+benches, and she will lead us in song."
+
+Viola knew that most of those present were not acquainted with a single
+religious hymn, but she thought the older ones might be able to sing
+some of the old favorites of the church. So she led them in singing:
+
+"Rock of Ages, cleft for me," and "All hail the power of Jesus' name."
+
+Those who had come to help in the school carried the tunes along very
+well, and Viola was surprised and pleased to hear some of the farmers
+and their wives join in singing these sweet songs of Zion.
+
+Then Viola sang as a solo a beautiful and appropriate "Children's
+Hymn," containing these words.
+
+    "Hosanna! be the children's song,
+    To Christ, the children's King;
+    His praise, to whom our souls belong,
+    Let all the children sing.
+    Hosanna! sound from hill to hill,
+    And spread from plain to plain,
+    While louder, sweeter, clearer still,
+    Woods echo to the strain."
+
+Then John Larkin said: "Let us pray." He closed his eyes, and began an
+earnest supplication at the throne of grace. But it might have been
+better for him and the school, if he had kept his eyes open while he
+offered his petition, and thus obeyed the Bible command: "Watch and
+pray." When he closed his eyes the little imps in divers parts of the
+room saw their chance for mischief, and were quick to embrace it.
+
+A Sneath boy put his straw hat on the head of a boy next him, and then
+knocked it off with no gentle blow. This angered the other youngster
+and he hit back with his clenched fist. So they had it back and forth,
+to the amusement of all the chaps around them. Another boy got
+possession of a pin--a rather scarce article in that neighborhood--and
+at one of the most fervent parts of the preacher's prayer stuck it into
+the lad sitting in front of him. The punctured youth gave a yell which
+could not be construed into an Amen on account of the petition. It
+raised the lad off his seat, and made him jump forward with an impetus
+which was both amusing and pathetic. The hurt of the pin seemed to
+swallow up every feeling save that of distress, and he "boo-hooed"
+aloud.
+
+Such proceedings made Brother Larkin bring his prayer to an abrupt
+conclusion, and Viola LeMonde hurried to the sobbing child, and tried
+to comfort him.
+
+After the devotions the school was divided into classes. John Larkin
+took the adults of both sexes; Viola LeMonde, the larger girls;
+Henrietta Harvey, the smaller; George LeMonde, the older boys; and
+Stella Nebeker, the younger.
+
+These teachers that day occupied places of responsibility which taxed
+every particle of their skill, ingenuity, tact, patience and
+forbearance. Many of those sitting around them could not read or write
+a word. So first they had to be taught words and sentences. Their
+knowledge of the Bible was pitifully small. Yet they possessed the
+redeeming feature of wanting to learn, and most of them showed an eager
+desire to improve their minds.
+
+Let us, as unbidden guests, in spirit sit down in Viola LeMonde's class
+and listen to what is said. These girls' minds were bright but
+undeveloped. It was their teacher's object to educate--lead out--her
+pupils' intellects into the broad fields of Scriptural knowledge.
+
+"Girls," said Viola, "we are going to study the book, copies of which
+we are holding in our hands. It is called the Bible. Let me ask some
+questions about it, and you try to answer them."
+
+"Have you seen the Bible before today?"
+
+Susanna Spink replied: "I seed one onct, when I went to a camp meetin'
+near Honey Crick. A man read out of a book he called de Bible, and then
+he talked and talked a long, long time."
+
+"The Bible tells us a lot about many good men and women. Perhaps you
+have heard of some of these. Who was Moses?"
+
+"Was he nigger Mose's dad?" asked one of the girls.
+
+"No, he lived many years ago, and was a great leader of the Hebrew
+people. Did you ever hear of David?"
+
+Profound silence.
+
+"He was a mighty king of the Jews, and also a man who wrote many
+beautiful songs. One of his songs millions of children know. It begins:
+'The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.' Have any of you ever heard
+it?"
+
+One or two raised their hands indicating they had heard it.
+
+"Let us turn to it, the twenty-third psalm, and we shall read it
+together."
+
+This they did, and Viola said: "I want you children to learn this psalm
+by heart and each one say it to me next Sunday. Will you do it?"
+
+Every hand was raised in consent.
+
+"The Bible is divided into two parts. Can any one tell me what they
+are?"
+
+"Yes'm, de front an' de back."
+
+"They are called the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old
+Testament tells of God's dealings with his chosen people the Hebrews
+(or Jews). It also points to the coming of God's Son into the world."
+
+"The New Testament tells how God's Son Jesus Christ came upon earth to
+be the Friend of little children and all people; how he lived a good
+life, always helping those around him; how wicked men at last put him
+to death, and his friends buried him. But the grave could not hold him,
+and on the third day he arose from it, and soon went up to heaven. The
+day of his birth is called Christmas. Have you heard of it?"
+
+"Yes, teacher, we have all heard something about Christmas."
+
+"Well, well learn more about it, for it is a sweet story, and next
+Christmas the mission school will have a fine time, with songs, and
+pieces to speak, and giving of presents. I hope my girls will take part
+in this glad time."
+
+Thus the minutes sped by while in simple words Viola tried to impart
+some Bible truths to her willing scholars.
+
+After closing exercises the school was dismissed.
+
+The teachers remained a while to compare notes. George LeMonde reported
+having had an interesting time with his boys. He said he spoke to them
+about the sin of making moonshine whisky, and tried to set them against
+the practice. He was surprised at the answer that was made to one of
+his questions: "If any one were to ask you to take a drink of moonshine
+whisky, what would you say?"
+
+"Thank you," piped up a small boy.
+
+The first session of the Mission Sunday School was considered a success
+and those responsible for it were encouraged to continue the work.
+
+Some change in the teaching force was necessary, for John Larkin's
+duties as preacher would not permit him to serve as a permanent
+teacher.
+
+It is a pleasure to say that this school increased in numbers and
+influence, and not only in its Sunday meeting, but also in its social
+and educational work in the community, became a strong agent to uplift
+the surrounding hill people in every way.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+A Kentucky Feud.
+
+
+Costello Nebeker after his conversion in his dance hall under the
+ministry of Jasper Very continued to keep his tavern, but discarded the
+sale and use of whisky upon his premises. He became known as the one
+hotel keeper in all that region who did not furnish his customers
+strong liquors. However, this action did not ruin his business; for,
+while some of his patrons left him, others took their places, and he
+was able still to supply all proper needs of the traveling public.
+
+The winter had set in, and a great change was visible in the landscape.
+The splendid forest trees had lost their leaves, and their giant limbs
+were bare in the winter sunshine. A light snow covered the ground, and
+in it could be seen the tracks of rabbit, squirrel, coon, opossum, and
+occasionally a wild cat. In the distance the loud baying of hounds told
+that some creatures of the wild were being pursued by their relentless
+enemies.
+
+Nature was at rest, and also the pioneer. His crops of corn, hay,
+wheat, tobacco, and vegetables were all gathered and safely placed in
+barns and storehouses. Little was to be done during the short winter
+day but to attend to the stock, to do the "chores" about the house, and
+perhaps to haul wood--backlogs and foresticks--to replenish the
+ravenous fire in the great fireplace.
+
+But what was a time of rest to the Kentucky farmer was a season of
+special activity to the pioneer preacher. It was usually in winter that
+"protracted meetings" were held. Next to camp meetings, they were the
+great religious events of the year. The old saints anticipated with
+keen relish the sermons, songs, prayers, exhortations, and altar
+services. The young people were scarcely less interested, but from
+mixed motives--partly religious and partly social. Ever since Adam
+courted Eve under Eden's trees God's woods have been places for lovers
+to woo in, and one of the best things connected with the "protracted
+meeting" was the occasion it made of bringing young people into one
+another's society and starting friendships which ripened into love and
+matrimony.
+
+Through the influence of Costello Nebeker a small church was built some
+distance from his house in the noble forest. It was composed of logs
+cut smooth with axes on two opposite sides. These logs were placed one
+above the other, and the chinks between were closed up with mortar made
+of clay and water. The roof was of heavy beams upon which were nailed
+coarse clapboards. The building could boast of two small windows and a
+single door. The inside arrangements were as simple as the outside. A
+common wooden desk answered as a pulpit, and instead of pews wooden
+benches were placed in front of the stand. A large cast-iron stove,
+placed near the center of the room, gave heat when the weather was
+cold. The building was called the "Bethlehem Church."
+
+The "protracted meeting" was appointed to begin early in January. The
+preachers who were to conduct it were Jasper Very, John Larkin, and
+Ezra Thompson, an old minister, grizzled and toughened by time and
+exposure.
+
+This history has to do with the Sunday evening service which Jasper
+Very was to conduct. It was a beautiful winter evening. The orb of day
+had scarcely descended behind the unbroken line of forest trees in the
+west ere the full moon appeared in the east, rising in majesty through
+the trees. The silvery globe stretched from the base almost to the tops
+of the trees. Slowly and serenely she climbed on her upward way, the
+tree tops now marking the line of her diameter; then in a few minutes
+she was free from their obstruction and hung above the earth a great,
+shining ball, sending upon river, forest, plain, and plantation a light
+so full and soft that one standing in it would become charmed by her
+magical rays.
+
+In the falling darkness it was easy to walk or ride to the evening
+appointment. Because of the distance most of the people rode on
+horseback. When they had all assembled, the sight was one to remember.
+Horses were hitched everywhere to racks which had been placed near the
+church, to branches of trees, and to small saplings.
+
+Before the services began many of the people had gathered inside the
+church, which was illuminated with a half dozen tallow candles that
+tried their best to burn, but seemed discouraged by the attempt.
+Outside men collected in groups and talked in low, earnest tones. Do
+you ask what was the subject of their conversation? It was about the
+sermon to be preached that night by Jasper Very.
+
+A few days before a family feud in this neighborhood had broken out
+afresh. It was the noted feud between the Wiles and Barker families.
+This estrangement had occurred a quarter of a century before. It began
+by some cattle of a former Wiles getting into the field of a settler
+named Barker. Barker told Wiles to keep his live stock out of his land,
+and Wiles replied by demanding that Barker should repair his rail
+fences and mind his gates. Wiles was careless about his cattle and
+Barker about his fences. So one night a lot of Wiles' cattle got into a
+fine field of growing corn belonging to Barker, and ate as long as they
+could chew the juicy food and trampled down the green stalks with
+perfect indifference as to ownership. Early the next morning Barker saw
+the devastation and the causes thereof. He walked over to Wiles'
+plantation, and the two men quarreled, fought, and almost killed each
+other.
+
+This was the beginning of that celebrated Wiles-Barker feud which has
+soiled the annals of that part of Kentucky. Its course was marked by
+murders, assassinations, wounds, burning of buildings, and every injury
+which cunning could devise and hate execute.
+
+For a full year before this winter, by an unspoken agreement, the two
+factions had ceased to quarrel. Violence had exhausted itself, for the
+worst of men cannot give loose rein to their passions all the time.
+But, though the wild beast of hatred and revenge was quiet, he was
+neither dead nor changed into a lamb; he was really nursing and
+strengthening his powers for more savage attacks. The occasion which
+made him crouch, show his teeth, and leap forward with sudden and
+terrible fury was a barn-raising on a settler's farm not far from
+Costello's tavern. The Wiles and Barker families were both well
+represented by young and middle-aged men. According to the custom of
+the time, whisky was freely tendered to the workers and as freely
+received.
+
+All went well until late in the afternoon when the framework of the
+barn had been put in place. The settlers had drunk unusual quantities
+of their favorite beverage, and were ready for frolic or fight. Just
+then Alan Barker, a scion of the noted family, belonging to that branch
+living in Pigeon Creek, began expatiating on the charms, graces and
+virtues of a fair lassie bearing the euphonious and patriotic name of
+America Virginia Stubbins, and closed his eulogy by saying she was "de
+sweetest, prettiest, best and likeliest gal in all Kentuck," and he
+could "whip any man in de crowd who dared to deny it." Young "Buck"
+Wiles took up the dare, partly because he despised the whole Barker
+crew, partly because he had a tender feeling toward the same lass, and
+was therefore jealous of Alan Barker, but mostly because whisky had
+fired his brain. So he discounted Alan Barker's fervid descriptions,
+and averred that the same America Virginia Stubbins possessed a homely
+face and little sense.
+
+This was the spark which exploded the magazine. Alan Barker, stung to
+anger and madness, sprang upon "Buck" Wiles, and the two men clenched
+in a desperate struggle. However, it was not the way of the times to
+confine the settling of disputes to the "manly art" of bare fists.
+There was a quicker method, and sooner than we can write it the men
+having become separated in their wrestling, Alan Barker whipped out a
+pistol and shot Wiles down. Then ensued an encounter horrible to
+relate. The members of each family entered at once into the fight. Many
+shots were exchanged; and after a few minutes, when the fighting was
+over, either from lack of ammunition, or because, Indian fashion, those
+who were not wounded had hidden behind the great trees to fight from
+under cover, the sad results were apparent. Three of the Barker tribe
+and two of the Wiles lay dead upon the ground, while five of the latter
+and four of the former were lying in different positions, some
+slightly, others desperately, wounded.
+
+Thus the old feud was renewed, the old score opened, and the waters of
+malice, revenge and hate which had been accumulating for months broke
+forth afresh with devastating effect. Soon the news was heard in all
+the surrounding hills and valleys. It stirred the dull and untrained
+minds in many a mountain cabin; it was discussed between drinks in
+rough taverns. Somehow the story sounded through the green Kentucky
+woods until its echoes appeared in the daily papers of Cincinnati,
+Philadelphia and New York.
+
+Jasper Very declared he would make this battle between families the
+subject of his sermon on Sunday evening, and it was this announcement
+which threw the neighborhood into such a high state of excitement and
+caused a crowd to attend the meeting which packed the small
+meeting-house to suffocation and, despite the cold weather, caused it
+to overflow into the surrounding yard.
+
+Sam Wiles was there, and his impish shadow, Zibe Turner, and Long Tom,
+and the rest of his cronies. Sam Wiles' family was a part of that large
+Wiles faction which warred with the Barkers, but Sam was not present at
+the barn-raising. He was only fourth cousin to the Wiles men who were
+killed, but felt himself bound with the rest of his kin to avenge their
+death. Hence he was intensely interested to know how the preacher would
+treat his subject. On account of the crowd he sat a little within the
+doorway, while the monster dwarf contented himself with a position just
+outside, where his ghoulish and malignant face was lighted up by candle
+rays and moonbeams combined.
+
+Jasper Very took for his text, "Am I my brother's keeper?" Thus he
+began: "Hearers and friends, it is a sad fact that the first man born
+into the world, Cain, was a murderer, and the second man born of woman
+was murdered. Cain killed his brother Abel. Ever since that day this
+earth has been reddened with human blood. It has defiled every mountain
+and stained every plain, it has polluted the waters of every lake and
+river, and has reddened the very ocean. Murder's bloody hand, nerved by
+all the worst passions of man, has struck down, not only the guilty,
+but also the innocent, the weak and helpless. It is a perversion of the
+Creator's intention regarding mankind. He made men to dwell in peace
+and happiness. He put the solitary in families that each member might
+contribute to the well-being of the whole. Every man is his brother's
+keeper. He is expected to do him good and not harm. If my brother is
+weak, I must try to be his strength. If he is in sorrow, I must comfort
+him; if needy, help him with my substance; if sick, I must minister
+unto him. By so doing I shall receive both the approval of my
+conscience, and the Master's reward: 'Well done, good and faithful
+servant.'
+
+"Back of the act of murder is its motive. It is formed in the mind
+before it is committed by the hand. It invariably springs from the
+baser passions of man--hate, malice, jealousy, revenge. Our Bible
+traces it to its seat. It declares: 'Whosoever hateth his brother is a
+murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in
+him.' It was this bad feeling of hate which made Cain kill his brother
+Abel."
+
+The preacher then passed on to say: "You all know that different parts
+of our beautiful State of Kentucky have been disgraced by family feuds
+which have resulted in many crimes against God and man, including
+murder. In our own neighborhood at this time of the year when we should
+be making fresh resolutions of love to God and our fellows, young men
+have shot one another down in a useless quarrel, a number of families
+are mourning the loss of sons and brothers, and other men are made
+cripples for life by ugly wounds."
+
+Then, raising his voice until it could be heard by the remotest lounger
+at the horserails he thundered: "What was the cause of this recent
+killing, and of the broils, fights, and contentions in our midst?
+Whisky. This is the curse of Kentucky. It is the demon which fires the
+blood and pulls the trigger. In days when the red men roamed these
+forests and hunted abundant game so many battles were fought among
+themselves that this fair land received that dreadful name, 'The Dark
+and Bloody Ground,' and now you are doing all in your power to
+perpetuate this name. You in this audience who make or sell liquor,
+either legally or illegally, 'have made a covenant with death, and with
+hell are at agreement.' How can you escape the wrath of God? The voice
+of these slain men's blood cries unto heaven from the ground. The gray
+hairs of their parents will go down in sorrow to the grave for them."
+
+His mood and voice then changed, and in softer tones he pleaded with
+them to turn from the evil of their ways and live. He assured them that
+no drunkard nor drunkard-maker could inherit the kingdom of God, that a
+sure woe would rest upon him who putteth the bottle to his neighbor's
+lips, and that no good could finally come out of this bad business. He
+told them that they could not turn from their evil ways in their own
+strength; but God had laid strength upon One who was mighty to save and
+strong to deliver from every weakness and temptation, even his only
+begotten Son, Jesus Christ.
+
+His eyes filled with tears and his voice shook with emotion as he gave
+an invitation to all to forsake their sins and return unto God in that
+sweetest welcome to repent that human ears have heard: "Come unto me,
+all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
+
+Almost overcome by his feelings, Jasper Very sat down, but instantly
+John Larkin arose and gave out that comforting invitation hymn:
+
+    "Come, ye sinners, poor and needy,
+    Weak and wounded, sick and sore;
+    Jesus ready stands to save you,
+    Full of pity, love, and power.
+    He is able,
+    He is willing, doubt no more."
+
+He asked all those who wanted to repent of their sins and to seek
+pardon and peace to come forward to the altar while the congregation
+stood and sang that hymn.
+
+The result was astonishing. In spite of the crowded condition of the
+room men and women pushed their way to the wooden benches called an
+"altar," and with tears and groans sought forgiveness. Decisions were
+made that night as lasting as eternity. Many a hardened backwoods
+sinner there forever forsook his evil ways and became an order-loving
+and respectable citizen, helping to form that civilization of which the
+Kentucky of today is so proud. Several moonshiners were convicted of
+the iniquity of their business, and gave up illicit distilling and
+their other bad practices. Among the rest was Long Tom. He sought the
+Lord with the simplicity of a little child. As he made no reservations,
+but at once confessed all his evil deeds, and was both wise and simple
+enough to accept Christ at his own terms of full surrender and
+childlike faith, he soon found pardon and peace. While he bowed at the
+altar the people sang "Jesus Lover of My Soul," and its sentiments
+comforted the sobbing man. The clearest voice which led in this hymn
+was that of Viola LeMonde.
+
+At a testimony meeting a short time after he told of his experience:
+"Friends, I war a mighty ignorant feller when I come for'ard to that
+mourner's bench. I had not said a prayer for twenty years. I did not
+know how to begin. Then I thought of a prayer my mother larned me when
+I war a little chap. So I began saying, 'Our Father, who art in
+heaven,' and before I got through I war saved."
+
+But while some were convicted of the error of their ways at that
+meeting, others were hardened; for such a meeting is either a savior of
+life unto life, or a savior of death unto death. Sam Wiles sat, as we
+have said, near the open door. During the first part of the discourse
+he followed the preacher closely and calmly; but when Jasper Very
+entered upon his philippic against the moonshiners in particular, an
+awful struggle began in Wiles' heart. God's Spirit acted strongly upon
+him, convincing his judgment that all the preacher said was true, that
+the whole business was bad from beginning to end, and that now, after
+he had such proofs among his own kin that death followed in its wake,
+he should forever abandon it. For a while it seemed as though his proud
+heart would yield, but there were tremendous influences on the other
+side. There was the love of his free and easy life which must be put in
+the scale. If he changed about he must endure the scoffs and reproaches
+of his former companions. Added to these was the awful tug of the
+habits and inclinations of his present life, and beyond all this was
+the personal temptation of the evil one whispering in his soul not to
+yield. If he did yield, said the tempter, he would soon fall away, and
+that would be worse than not to start at all.
+
+Thus the crucial battle of his life was fought while Wiles sat in that
+little church. Such a struggle comes into many a life. Angels must look
+upon it with the deepest interest and attention. The crisis may arrive
+at church or at home, on the high sea or on the land, in a storied
+mansion or in a little cottage, at the midnight hour or in the open
+day--the place or time counts for little, but the result is as wide as
+eternity.
+
+This hour was propitious for Sam Wiles. A proper choice would have
+revolutionized his character, would have gladdened the angels in
+heaven, and written his name deep in the "Book of Life." But alas!
+alas! before the sermon was ended he had resisted God's Holy Spirit,
+and, instead of one devil, seven devils had entered into his soul. A
+hard expression spread over his face, his eyes flashed with a dangerous
+fire, and he cast a look of defiance and contempt upon the speaker that
+(so subtle, strong, and swift are the laws of mind) Very, seeing it,
+would have been confused and perhaps overcome in his discourse if the
+shield of Almighty God had not protected him.
+
+As for Zibe Turner, the monster dwarf, the services had no more effect
+for good upon him than a strong fortress would be affected by shooting
+white beans at it. When his favorite business, illicit distilling, was
+denounced by Very, the dwarf's wrath grew so hot that he could not
+refrain from muttering under his breath: "I wish I could drown you uns
+and all yer pious hypercrits in whisky. Dat's my holt."
+
+As the last hymn was being sung Sam Wiles left the church and walked
+out into the moonlight. He was joined by Turner and a few more of the
+clan. For a few minutes they held a whispered conversation, and then
+separated.
+
+When the meeting broke up a half hour later, it was found that the
+girths on the horses belonging to the preachers, the Costello family
+and others had been cut and destroyed. Also the traces of Judge
+LeMonde's harness.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+The Shameful Plot.
+
+
+The moonlight showed a look of blank amazement and concern upon the
+faces of the victims of this dastardly trick, especially the women; but
+John Larkin's unfailing good temper and witty sayings relieved the
+situation. "There is no use crying over spilled milk," said he, "and I
+am sure, as Poor Richard remarks, 'God helps them that help
+themselves.' So we must find some way to remedy this trouble, for we
+cannot stand here gazing into the moon's face all night, and the
+distance to our homes is too great to walk. Let us look about among the
+trees, and perhaps we can find pieces of the girths and harness."
+
+This was done, and presently several pieces were found. With these the
+traces of the carriage were repaired and a number of the saddles made
+fit for service. By some of the men riding double on horseback the
+mischief was tolerably mended and all returned to their lodgings in
+safety.
+
+While one injury was being remedied another more serious was being
+planned. When Sam Wiles and Zibe Turner had cut the saddle girths and
+traces, they and three of their pals quickly mounted their horses and
+rode rapidly to Wiles' house. Arriving there they found the old folks
+and children in bed. Being afraid to talk over their infamous scheme in
+the cabin, they betook themselves to the barn some distance away. In
+this building they lighted a tallow dip and, throwing themselves down
+on some hay to rest and warm their bodies, they at once began talking
+of what was uppermost in their minds.
+
+"Now fellers," said Wiles, "let us go over keerfully what we uns war
+sayin' as we rode along. That cursed preacher made a last break with me
+when he fit our bizness in such an all-fired strong way and throwed
+insults on my family. I say he oughter be punished for his sass in the
+way we spoke of."
+
+"Sure nuff," broke in Turner, the monster dwarf, "tar and feathers and
+ridin' in a rail is too good fer de likes of him. If he got his just
+dues, we oughter lay for him some night and pick him off as he is
+ridin' hossback."
+
+"We must not kill him," said the more cautious leader, "for they would
+'spect us at once, and we would soon be put in de jug (jail), if they
+didn't make us stretch hemp without trial. But a good thick coat of tar
+and feathers will become his style of beauty fust-rate; and if we uns
+ride him on a rail, he will dance a jig with his feet in de air and
+will look more cute than ary Injun you uns ever see daubed with his war
+paint and feathers."
+
+The five men laughed heartily at this remark, and seemed to anticipate
+with delight the fulfillment of their foul plot.
+
+"We owe him a good one fer capturin' Long Tom and makin' him pious and
+an enemy of our bizness," said Bert Danks, captain of the Honey Crick
+band, "and I hope you uns won't be sparin' of de tar ner easy with de
+rail. Get one of them three-cornered hickory rails, and that'll do the
+thing up brown."
+
+"Whar is de best place to s'prise him?" asked Wiles.
+
+"I'll tell yer," spoke Zibe Turner, and his monkeyish face lit up with
+a smile almost diabolical and his piercing black eyes shot a keen and
+excited look into the group, "I hearn that he has an appintment next
+Chewsday night at de top of Bald Knob, and to go there from his home he
+will have to take de Pigeon Crick road, cross de crick at Farley's and
+then branch off inter de big woods before he climbs de knob. Now de
+level place jest by de foot of de knob is a lonely spot, away from de
+big road, de trees air mighty high and large, and few people pass that
+way. I say let's strip and dress him thar."
+
+"Agreed!" shouted the rest in concert.
+
+"Bert," spoke Wiles, "we'll look to you to git de tar, and I'll bring a
+pot from mammy's kitchen to heat it in. I'll also take without her
+knowin' it some feathers from her feather bed. You, Zibe, are to
+furnish de rail, and see that you git a sharp and strong one."
+
+"'Pend on me for dat, and if he don't cry for marcy, it'll not be my
+fault."
+
+As a parting caution Wiles remarked: "All you fellers keep mum on this
+subject, for we don't want to miss de fun ner be cotched in it."
+
+Now it happened that Mose Williams, Judge LeMonde's most faithful negro
+servant, was attending to an affair of his own that Sunday evening not
+strictly demanded by his obligations to his master. In other words, he
+was courting a sprightly and good-looking quadroon girl, by name
+Euphemia Jackson ("Femy" for short). This buxom lass was a house
+servant on a plantation situated about five miles from Judge LeMonde's.
+What were five miles to a lusty young negro fellow who had a good pair
+of legs, a bracing atmosphere and bright moonlight in which to exercise
+them, and a sweetheart at the journey's end?
+
+Mose, arrayed in his best clothes, had gone early and stayed late. He
+left the plantation happy with himself and all the world. For had he
+not that very night popped the all-important question and had not Femy
+given an answer which warmed the very depths of his darkey heart and
+made the face of nature shine with a double light? To shorten the
+distance home, as the hour was late and the bright moon threw some
+light even among the thick trees, he determined to take a footpath
+among the hills. This course led him close to the cabin of Simon Wiles,
+Sam Wiles' father. He was walking in a zigzag path, now watching the
+moonlight as it lilted down through the leafy canopy, making a dim but
+peaceful light around him; now listening to the sounds which exist in
+Kentucky forests in winter, the flight of nocturnal birds and moving of
+animals; seeing the raccoon crossing his track like a shadow in search
+of food; hearing the mournful hooting of owls in various directions.
+
+Suddenly he was startled by seeing a light shining through the chinks
+of a building. At once Mose determined to discover its meaning. He had
+no fine-spun theories as to the wrong of eavesdropping. Besides, there
+might be robbers planning to steal neighbor Wiles' horse or produce. So
+he crept up to the barn, making so little noise that neither the
+watchful dogs nor the plotting men heard him.
+
+He arrived in time to hear the conversation we have recorded. When he
+had learned all, he stealthily retraced his steps to the foot-path and,
+making a wide detour around the house, went on his way. While he walked
+he thus soliloquized: "Ho! Ho! dat's yo' game, is it? Well, dis niggah
+will try to spile yo' purty plan. But, Mose, ef yo' squeal on dem men
+an' dey hears about it, dey'll give yo' wusser t'ings dan tar an'
+fedders. Kain't help dat; mus' run de resk. Mas'r Very am mighty
+pop'lar wid de Jedge, and I believes dat Miss Viola am lookin' on him
+wid more'n common feelin's. Mose, yo's gwine to be a married man one of
+dese days yo'self, an' yo' wants a little cabin of yo' own; and ef yo'
+hoe dis row to de end an' circumwent dese 'spiring men, p'haps Mas'r
+LeMonde gwine give yo' de cabin an' Miss Viola gwine put lots o' nice
+tings in it. Dat's de proposition; an', Mose, yo' got to keep yo' wooly
+head mighty cool an' calc'lating. Chewsday will soon be hyar, an' what
+is done mus' be done in a hurry. It's a pity de Jedge an' Mas'r George
+is gwine to start early to Lexinton tomorrer, so dey can't 'tend to de
+mattah; but I'll jes inform Miss Viola of de situwation."
+
+When the slave had reached this wise and satisfactory conclusion he had
+also reached the end of his journey, and with much self-complacency
+retired to his humble cot to dream of his dusky sweetheart.
+
+Early the next morning Mose called at the mansion to see Miss Viola,
+telling her that he had "sumpin' of special 'portance" to make known.
+For the sake of privacy, she took him into the large drawing-room and,
+seating herself in that beautiful bay window overlooking the stately
+lawn and the broad cornfield now shining white under their coverlet of
+snow and farther on the lovely river, she beckoned him to proceed. With
+much earnestness and an air of importance he related what he had heard
+at the barn the night before.
+
+Mose was so absorbed in his recital that he did not notice the full
+effects of his words on his mistress. As his story continued, a great
+change came over her. Her breathing quickened until it came in short
+and labored gasps. First a deeper color of red suffused her cheeks,
+then a crimson overspread her face and neck, which was soon followed by
+a paleness which marked her face with an ashen hue. How that poor heart
+was troubled! Now its violent beatings force the hot blood to face and
+hands and feet; then with the cruel news it takes into itself the
+torrid currents of blood, leaving the face and extremities cold and
+bloodless and a feeling of suffocation in the lungs. By a supreme
+effort of will, which God has made sovereign over the emotions, she
+calmed her beating heart and considered what was best to be done.
+
+"Mose, you are quite sure you have told me all you heard?"
+
+"Yes, Miss Viola, I is, kase de wo'ds made such a 'pression on mah mind
+dat I 'members dem zackly."
+
+"You are certain they selected Tuesday night for their wicked acts?"
+
+"Dey spoke of Chewsday night, and tuk it bekase Mas'r Very is to go dat
+way dat night."
+
+"You can leave me now for an hour, but at eight o'clock come back and I
+will send by you a message to Mr. Very."
+
+When the negro had left, Viola LeMonde retired to her own room and
+seating herself at her writing desk, wrote the following communication:
+
+    "Mount Pisgah, January 6, 181--.
+
+    The Rev. Jasper Very,
+
+    Dear Mr. Very:
+
+    Our servant, Mose Williams, has just made known to me a plot which
+    some base men have devised to treat you with indignity and to bring
+    the cause of religion into contempt. Mose was returning home late
+    last night from Mr. St. Claire's plantation when, seeing a light
+    in Simon Wiles' barn, he crept near and, looking through a chink
+    in the wall, saw Sam Wiles, Bert Danks, Zibe Turner, and two other
+    men lying on some hay. He overheard them planning to administer
+    to Rev. Jasper Very a coat of tar and feathers and to complete
+    the performance by riding him on a rail. This disgraceful act
+    is to take place next Tuesday night. The spot is that dark and
+    unfrequented place at the foot of Bald Knob through which you must
+    pass on the way to your preaching service.
+
+    "As 'to be forewarned is to be forearmed,' I hasten to notify you
+    of the plot, feeling sure you will adopt measures to thwart it.
+    Father and George would aid you in the matter but they went early
+    this morning to Lexington, and will not return till Wednesday
+    evening.
+
+    "I feel that I am able to do little in such an emergency as this;
+    but if I can be of any help, I will most gladly endeavor to
+    preserve the respect of our community and to assist a friend.
+
+    "No one knows of this plot except the instigators, myself, and
+    Mose. By him I send this note to you.
+
+    Most sincerely yours,
+
+    Viola LeMonde."
+
+At eight o'clock Mose made his appearance, and Viola gave him the
+message, telling him to ride Velox as fast as possible to Mr. Nebeker's
+tavern, where Mr. Very had spent the night, and to give it to the
+preacher.
+
+Mose was doubly willing that the news should get to the parson by means
+of the note; for if trouble came his way, he could swear that he did
+not inform Very of the plot; and, secondly, he thought Viola would be
+pleased to help the preacher.
+
+Jasper Very was still at the home of the tavern keeper, as were also
+several other preachers, including the "square man," John Larkin.
+Jasper was standing on the porch, and was surprised to see the colored
+man riding up fast to the house, his horse wet with sweat and steaming
+in the wintry air.
+
+Mose, dismounting, lifted his cap to those present, and said to Jasper
+Very: "I has a message of 'portance to you, sir." With this he handed
+him the note, and then, on request of Mr. Nebeker, put Velox in the
+barn to cool off and rest.
+
+Jasper Very took the missive to the end of the porch and, breaking the
+seal, read it. When he had finished, his mobile face showed the
+conflicting emotions within. A flush of anger reddened his dark
+features, his lips were pressed close together, his eyes flashed with
+unwonted fire, and his hands involuntarily became clenched until the
+finger nails indented the palms. Soon his look softened, the fire left
+his eyes, and they appeared as gentle as twin lakes in lovely
+Switzerland. The proud lines in his lips gave place to a curve like a
+Cupid's bow and a smile lighted up his face. Looking out over the
+wintry landscape, he said to himself: "It is worth the danger of an
+attack like this to receive such a note from Viola LeMonde. How kind
+and thoughtful of her to warn me of the plot so quickly. I will see how
+best I can circumvent this scheme." With these reflections he retraced
+his steps to his friends.
+
+In the meantime the pity which Viola LeMonde felt for the preacher did
+not tend to weaken that strange sensation, born in Eden, which was
+tugging at her heart.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+Into a Pit (or Pitch).
+
+
+Jasper very addressed Costello Nebeker, the tavern keeper, thus:
+"Brother Nebeker, I have a matter of importance to consider with you
+and a few friends. Can you furnish us with a private room?"
+
+"Certainly, Brother Very," replied his genial host. "You can have the
+sitting-room, just back of our large reception-room." (The dance hall
+had been changed into these two rooms.)
+
+In a few minutes a select company was gathered there. It consisted of
+Jasper Very, John Larkin, Ezra Thompson, the old, grizzled preacher,
+Nathaniel Grimes, a smart minister who formerly had been a lawyer,
+Costello Nebeker, and his wife. Jasper Very read Viola LeMonde's note
+to the group, and striking was the effect it produced. One cried, "The
+despicable villains!" another, "The vile sinners." a third, "Shame on
+Kentucky manhood, to what depths can humanity sink!" For once John
+Larkin could not find a quotation from Poor Richard or any other source
+which met the case. But soon surprise and indignation gave way to a
+cool consideration of the situation and the best means of circumventing
+this well-laid plot and bringing its instigators to punishment.
+
+Very was the first to offer a suggestion. "Friends," he said, "let us
+call Mose into the room and hear in detail his account of what he
+overheard." This was thought good advice, and accordingly Mose was
+invited into the sitting-room.
+
+At first the cautious darkey was loath to commit himself; but when he
+was informed that Miss LeMonde already had told the tale in substance
+and that all present, would keep secret his remarks, he repeated what
+he had seen and heard with more fullness than we have written down.
+
+After Mose had been dismissed, Nathaniel Grimes, the lawyer-preacher,
+spoke in these words: "I believe I have a plan by which this plot can
+be frustrated. It is this: Let Brother Very prepare for his journey
+tomorrow as though nothing unusual was expected; let us notify two or
+more constables to enter the woods from a different direction just
+after dark tomorrow evening, and at a convenient distance from where
+the plotters post themselves behind great trees. Let Friend Nebeker,
+Brother Larkin, and myself steal into the woods as best we can and join
+the constables in season. At the proper time let Brother Very ride
+slowly along, and when he is met by the ruffians and the parley takes
+place, we will suddenly rush upon the scene and capture them in their
+base act."
+
+The plan was discussed for some time and, being found simple and
+practicable, was adopted. Costello Nebeker was to engage the services
+of the constables. Being a layman, he could do so without exciting
+suspicion.
+
+Tuesday evening the sky was partly covered with clouds. About the time
+Jasper Very started from his home the moon rose in beauty. Sometimes
+she threw the full glory of her beams upon the white earth as she rode
+in a clear place in the heavens; at others her light was obscured by
+passing clouds which covered her fair face. We can follow the gospel
+ranger as he left his humble boarding place.
+
+Mounted on trustworthy Bob, Jasper Very started to his appointment. He
+turned his horse's head toward the east and rode for half a mile along
+a farm road when, coming to a gate, he opened it and came into a
+broader county road. Just opposite this gate stood the immense barn on
+Judge LeMonde's estate, in which was stored his hay and grain and in
+which were kept his many horses. Up a gradual ascent a few hundred feet
+beyond stood the Judge's mansion. The man of God gazed upon it as its
+outlines were visible in the moonlight. He thought of the fair daughter
+who lived there and who had taken such an interest in his welfare. Was
+it fact or fancy which showed him a female figure dressed in white
+standing by the west bay window? The distance was too great to see
+clearly; but perhaps that intercommunication of minds which in later
+times we call telepathy was the thing which caused his heart to beat
+with a stronger stroke and fired his spirit with greater courage.
+
+Yes, there was a woman's form standing at that window. Viola was
+watching for Jasper to pass along. Her white face was pressed against
+the window pane, and she strained her eyes to see. Her effort was
+rewarded, for she could well perceive the outline of horse and man as
+they went along the road. Although Jasper had sent a reply to her note
+by Moses, thanking her for her interest in his welfare and telling her
+of the conference at the tavern, with a woman's supersensitiveness she
+was most anxious as to the result; and as she saw him ride away into
+danger, she put her hand to her heart and, raising her eyes to heaven,
+prayed most fervently that he might be protected from harm.
+
+Jasper Very proceeded on his way along the country road. Soon he passed
+the little schoolhouse on his right, then Bethlehem Church on his left.
+Next he crossed the rude bridge spanning the brook, and rode on a half
+mile farther. Leaving the large road, he turned to the left, going
+northwest through the deep woods toward the base of Bald Knob.
+
+As he neared the spot selected for the attack he heard faint whistles
+on both sides of the road which were signals before agreed upon that
+his aids were present. Passing along to the place where he knew the
+outlaws were concealed, he began singing a camp meeting hymn.
+
+Suddenly the ruffians sprang from the roadside, one seizing his horse's
+bridle, who proved to be Bert Danks.
+
+"Good evenin', parson, you uns seem to be in a happy frame of mind, or
+air ye singin' to keep yer courage up?" The speaker was Sam Wiles, who
+was holding his right boot.
+
+"Much courage is not needed when a man is among friends or cowards, and
+you must be one or the other," replied Very.
+
+"We'll show yer what sort of friends we air," spoke up Zibe Turner; "so
+jest obleege we uns by gittin' down off'n that 'er hoss, or we'll help
+yer down."
+
+"I have an engagement up the knob tonight, and I have not time to tarry
+with you now," said the preacher.
+
+"Well, parson, we uns have fixed up a leetle meetin' on our own
+account, and there ain't much singin' nor prayin' in it, nuther. I
+reckon we'll pay yer back for tryin' to spile our bizness and hurt our
+reputations. If you won't come down far (fair), we uns must help yer
+off," growled Turner.
+
+"Men, I seem to be in your power, and surely I would rather dismount of
+my own accord than be pulled off." With these words Very threw his foot
+over Bob's back and lighted on the ground.
+
+Instantly he was surrounded by Wiles, Turner, and two other ruffians.
+Bert Danks still held Bob by the bit.
+
+Very looked about him as best he could, and saw a smouldering fire
+beneath a large pot. In this pot was a large quantity of tar which had
+been somewhat heated to soften it, and close by lay a gunny bag
+containing feathers, while still beyond was a long fence rail which had
+been taken from a zigzag fence not far away.
+
+"Now, if you'll be so kind, please take off yer preacher's coat and
+shirt; and if you find de weather too cold for comfort, we uns will put
+on anudder coat which will keep out de air," remarked Wiles.
+
+"A matter of necessity need not be discussed," said the traveler, and
+with this remark he pulled off his long clerical outer garment.
+
+Very did this for a double purpose: first, to free himself from
+incumbrance when he needed to use his arms; and, secondly, by removing
+suspicion of resistance, to take his enemies off their guard.
+
+No sooner had he slipped his coat off than he gave a loud whistle, and
+shooting out his right fist with all his strength, struck Wiles
+squarely on the jaw and sent him sprawling on the ground several feet
+away. This was the beginning of a strenuous fight. The moment his chief
+was knocked down Zibe Turner, the monster dwarf, sprang upon Very, and
+putting one of his apelike arms around his neck, cried: "Dat's my
+holt." With the other arm he began hitting the parson about the head
+and body. At the same time the other men were trying to throw him off
+his feet. Very, knowing help was near at hand, made almost superhuman
+efforts to stand his ground, though he was half suffocated and stunned
+by the dwarf's hug and blows.
+
+Very's whistle was answered by a shout down the road, and almost
+instantly the forms of five men appeared. The outlaws, though
+surprised, were not panic-stricken, and they met the attack of the
+constables and preachers with reckless bravery. For a quarter of an
+hour things were in a strange mix-up. Wiles, rising from the ground,
+was making for Very, when a burly constable hurrying up caught the
+outlaw and together they fell squirming, rolling, twisting, fighting
+over the ground.
+
+Another officer made a break for Bert Danks. Letting go of Bob's
+bridle, he clenched with his man, and they were fighting like two
+possessed. Nathaniel Grimes, the great red-headed, raw-boned,
+lawyer-preacher, was as good in a fight as in an argument and, striking
+one of the ruffians, gave a good account of himself. John Larkin had to
+try conclusions with another culprit, and they were at it, give and
+take, like the rest. In like manner Nebeker did his part.
+
+The officer of the law who grappled with Sam Wiles was one of the
+strongest men in the county and, despite Wiles' prowess and desperate
+fighting, the constable soon had him mastered and clapped handcuffs on
+him.
+
+In the meantime Jasper Very and the monster dwarf were having an
+interesting combat. Turner would not relax his hold upon his adversary
+in spite of all he could do. His grip on his throat was like a coil of
+the cobra de capello. At first Very was at the mercy of the dwarf; and
+if things had gone on this way a little longer serious consequences
+would have come to the preacher. Though he was half choked by the
+other's arm, Very, summoning all his strength, took hold of his
+antagonists's arm and pulled it from his throat. Then, lifting his
+enemy in his arms, he threw him with violence from him. Very was not
+particular in which direction the ugly man should go nor the spot on
+which he should alight. The fates decreed a bitter punishment, for the
+dwarf came plump into the pot of warm tar which had been prepared for
+the preacher. Turner was wedged in the pot, so that he could not
+extricate himself, and meantime the thick fluid beneath was making a
+warm acquaintance with his trousers and legs. This unlooked-for
+disgrace and undoing of the two leaders brought the pitched battle to a
+close. The unknown rascals, having broken away from their antagonists
+and seeing the discomfiture of their chiefs, fled up the knob road,
+while the three principals, Wiles, Turner, Danks, were taken into
+custody.
+
+The scene closes with John Larkin, a broad smile on his face, looking
+at the disconsolate Turner and saying: "He digged a pit, and is fallen
+into the ditch which he made."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+Returning Thanks.
+
+
+The captors of these outlaws were more merciful than the rowdies, for
+Nathaniel Grimes went to a farmhouse not far away and borrowed some
+clothes to replace those tar-besmeared which Turner had on. When he had
+changed his garments the two constables and Nebeker conducted the
+prisoners on horseback to the county seat where they were locked up in
+jail.
+
+In the meantime Jasper Very, John Larkin, and Nathaniel Grimes mounted
+their horses and made their way up Bald Knob to a little meetinghouse
+on its top where services were to be held. Very's encounter with the
+outlaws had made him late in reaching the church, which caused some
+surprise to those who had assembled, for they knew their pastor to be a
+very punctual man. However, he thought it best not to mention the cause
+of his delay. Simply remarking that he was unavoidably detained, he
+began the services.
+
+Early the next morning our three friends started down the knob, Jasper
+Very to go to Judge LeMonde's house personally to thank Miss Viola for
+her part in helping him to avoid the trap set for him, and Larkin and
+Grimes to ride about fifteen miles down the river road to keep an
+engagement to preach that night at a small hamlet called Bridgewater.
+
+When Jasper Very dismounted at Judge LeMonde's barn gate, he was met by
+Mose Williams, who burst forth with loud and eager words: "Hi! Hi!
+Mas'r Very, ah knows dat yo' circumwented dem villians. Yo' don't ketch
+dis coon nappin'. I war a-layin' low las' night to see de outcome of
+dat amberscade, an' ah seed wid mah own eyes dat yo' won out."
+
+"What did you see, Mose, and how did you see it?" asked the preacher.
+
+"Ah war a-hidin' behin' de upper big post of de barn gate, an' ah hearn
+hosses' hoofs beatin' up de road, an' soon de constables cum along wid
+de prisoners. Wa'n't dem moonshiners mad, do? Jes' as dey war
+'proaching de gate Sam Wiles said: 'Dat cantin' preacher has got me
+'rested twice now, but he won't do it ag'in. Ah'll die 'fore ah'll let
+him beat me 'n'ur time.' An' den dat monkey, Zibe Turner, fell to
+cussin' yo' an' de constables an' de Jedge an' all de ch'ch people
+permiscus. He said, ef he knew de rascal what giv' de plot away, he
+would skin 'im alive an' hang up his skin in his back yard to skeer
+away de ghosts. He swore sich drefful oaths ah was afeered de trees by
+de roadside was gwine to fall on 'em. He mad mah blood run col', an' ah
+war pow'ful glad he didn't 'spect me."
+
+"Well, Mose, you are safe for the present anyway, for these wicked men
+will be tried in court soon, and they will be sent to jail for quite a
+while. Now put my horse in a stall, for I am going to make a call at
+the big house."
+
+Saying this, Jasper Very handed his bridle to Mose, and also gave him
+two bits in silver. He then passed through a second gate and walked
+toward the mansion, which was some two hundred yards distant. When he
+got near the door, Sport, king of all Judge LeMonde's hunting dogs,
+came bounding toward him, loudly barking. This great animal was
+dangerous to strangers but, knowing Very, he came up to him and licked
+his hand with his red tongue. Very spoke to him and admired his noble
+form--his high forehead, intelligent eyes, wide nostrils, deep chest,
+long yellow body, slim but muscular legs--then walked on to the front
+piazza and rang the doorbell.
+
+While he is waiting there let us take a peep inside. Miss Viola
+LeMonde, by a law of mind not yet explained, had a premonition that a
+certain clergyman would visit her that morning. So she had a particular
+care as to her apparel. She called her faithful maidservant Nora to
+bring her a white dress, which had a faint shade of blue mixed with the
+white. This gown, which exactly fitted her shapely figure, she put on,
+and around her neck and wrists she placed soft and delicate ruching.
+Then she went to the flower conservatory and selecting a deep-red
+rosebud, placed it against some dark green leaves and pinned it to her
+dress. Her hair was formed at the back in a large knot of gold, while
+over her beautiful brows it was brushed smooth, giving her a look like
+a Madonna.
+
+When Very rang the bell Viola was in the sitting-room to the right of
+the hall. Nora opened the door and invited him into the drawing-room at
+the left of the hall. With a perversity which no mere man understands,
+and we suppose is unaccountable to woman's mind, Viola would not at
+once greet the minister, but laid that duty upon her mother. In a
+minute or two Madame LeMonde, a stately dame in form and mien, worthy
+of the position she occupied, walked into the room and cordially shook
+hands with Mr. Very. "I am glad to see you this fine morning, Mr.
+Very," she said. "Did you escape the base designs of those wicked men
+last night! Viola told me of the plot they had laid to do you harm. I
+am sorry that my husband and son were away, that they could not help
+you in your need."
+
+"Yes, Mrs. LeMonde, thanks to the timely warning that your good
+daughter sent me, I was able to thwart their evil purposes; and at this
+moment the ringleaders, Sam Wiles, Zibe Turner, and Harve Davis are in
+the county jail. I have called personally to thank your daughter for
+her kindness to me. Is she at home this morning?"
+
+"She is, Mr. Very, and if you will excuse me, I will send her into the
+room."
+
+By this time Viola had brought her perverse little heart into harmony
+with her real wish and, having quieted her nerves by a strong effort of
+will, she was ready to heed her mother's summons to enter the
+drawing-room. As she stepped across the threshold there was a moment of
+embarrassment during which neither spoke; but it was only for a moment,
+Jasper Very being too full of gratitude to remain long silent. "Miss
+Viola," he said, grasping her hand, "I have come this morning to thank
+you for your great kindness in apprising me of Sam Wiles' plot to
+injure me. I am under a thousand obligations to you for what you did."
+
+"Do not speak of that, Mr. Very; it was a thing any friend would have
+done. But tell me whether or not you escaped from their intentions
+without any injury to yourself."
+
+"Yes, thanks to your promptness, I was able to enlist some friends on
+my behalf, and with them and some officers of the law we were able to
+outwit the ruffians and beat them at their own game." He then laid
+before her in detail the events of the past night.
+
+Viola listened with closest attention to the narrative. When Jasper
+spoke of being surrounded by the outlaws and their threats, the color
+left her cheeks; but when he told how their enemies were overcome and
+the ludricrous predicament of Turner as he sat in the pot of tar, a
+sigh of relief escaped her lips, which was followed by a hearty laugh.
+However, her mood soon changed, and with a serious look coming into her
+blue eyes she said: "I am sure those moonshiners are a menace to our
+community. They are becoming more and more hardened and reckless. I
+fear that they will yet do some of us great injury. They doubtless hate
+papa, who has to sentence them to prison, and they are foes of all
+order-loving men and women in this region. As to Sam Wiles, I cannot
+bear to be near him. His very presence repels and frightens me. When he
+looked at me in church last Sunday night, I shuddered. It seemed as
+though a venomous snake had put its folds around my neck. Zibe Turner,
+called the monster dwarf, seems to me to be almost less than human. He
+combines the ferocity of the tiger, the slyness of the fox, and the
+shape of a monkey. I am doubly alarmed when he is near."
+
+"This is the natural recoil of virtue away from vice," said Jasper
+Very. "God has given to woman an intuitive sense which, without any
+long process of reasoning, shows her when a man is bad. It is her
+protection against his greater strength. It is the Almighty's gift to
+her, and is beyond the value of rubies. If she will use it, she need
+never be deceived as to a man's inner character."
+
+"I suppose that is why we women can trust some people from the moment
+we see them and are suspicions of others from the very first."
+
+"Undoubtedly it is; and all women should beware of men whose persons,
+looks, or acts repel that fine discriminating sense within them. Every
+man should ask himself the question: 'Have I sufficient moral integrity
+and nobility to pass muster before the eyes of a pure-minded woman!' If
+he can say 'Yes' to this, he is to be congratulated."
+
+"I am afraid most men are so self-sufficient that they think the other
+sex is blind to their faults, and will tolerate and cling to them
+whether or not."
+
+"They may think so when they reflect only lightly; but when they
+consider deeply, they know that they can receive the respect of good
+women only when they are worthy of it. This should stimulate them to be
+knightly in character--pure, true, gentle, kind, brave, thoroughly
+good."
+
+"I am glad you have such a high ideal, and trust you will live up to
+it. If so, you will be my Sir Knight, to lead me to Uncle Pete's cabin.
+His little girl is down with the measles, and I have promised to act as
+doctor and nurse for the poor child."
+
+"I will be happy to act as your humble servant on this errand of mercy.
+In the meantime I wish to get your consent to go with me in a buggy to
+Mount Zion meeting-house next Friday. An all-day meeting is to be held
+there, and I am to preach in the morning. I desire the help of your
+voice in the singing. We can return in the afternoon. What do you say?"
+
+"If mamma gives permission, I shall gladly go; but let us proceed now
+to the quarters, and you shall comfort the soul of the mother while I
+try to help the girl's body."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+Cupid's Chariot.
+
+
+A one-seated buggy is Cupid's most formidable chariot. It beats an
+automobile farther than we can say. An automobile is an intricate piece
+of machinery and the driver, if he is of the right kind, will exercise
+the greatest care. He must look well to his steering, must diligently
+examine the road as he passes along to avoid obstructions, ruts and
+broken pieces of glass, and especially is it necessary for him to keep
+his car from colliding with other machines. This divides his attention
+and interferes very much with freedom of conversation, and that mutual
+joy which comes from undisturbed companionship.
+
+As to guiding the wheel with one hand and stealing the other around the
+waist of a fair companion, if it were allowed by the moral law, it is
+prohibited by state regulation. The procedure is often dangerous in
+more senses than one.
+
+But riding in a buggy is different. There is just enough attention
+required in driving to relieve awkwardness. If a country bumpkin is
+seated by his best girl, and can speak only in monosyllables, and those
+few and far between, he can at least say to his horse: "Git ep." If his
+hands are so big, red and rough that he is ashamed of them, they can by
+holding reins and whip pass muster. His cowhide boots, shining with
+bear's grease or lard, can be hidden under the buggy robe.
+
+When a young man takes the young lady of his choice for a drive, he
+feels a sort of proprietorship in her. He has her company all to
+himself. With this sensation comes another of responsibility. He must
+protect her from all harm and look well to her comfort. He wraps her up
+carefully in the thick robe, which he bought last week at the county
+seat, paying a half month's wages for it. He shields her from the least
+cold, when perhaps that very morning she has hung out a wash in her
+mother's yard with the temperature about zero.
+
+When Friday morning came round Jasper Very came with it. He drove his
+faithful Bob, hitched to a new buggy, in front of Judge LeMonde's
+imposing mansion.
+
+Presently Viola appeared, her outside wrap being a heavy beaver cloak
+which buttoned under her chin and reached nearly to the ground. Upon
+her head she wore a hat corresponding in color with her cloak. The
+somber hue of the hat was relieved only by a band and knot of blue
+ribbon; for in those days feathers and flowers were not allowed.
+However, she needed no outside ornament to increase her beauty. Her
+cheeks were red as roses as they were touched by the sharp wintry air;
+her eyes shone bright and clear with the look of perfect health.
+
+Jasper Very assisted her into the vehicle and jumping in himself
+adjusted the heavy lap robe about them both. He spoke to Bob and they
+were off. Nora, the servant, with a laugh called after them: "How nice
+yo' look riding togedder. 'Pears like yo' made fo' each odder." Viola
+shook her hand at the girl, but did not seem much displeased. They went
+down a private way to the big gate opening on the county road and, soon
+striking the river road, turned to the left in an opposite direction
+from that which Larkin and Grimes had taken.
+
+For a while they were a bit embarrassed, for this was the first time
+they had ridden in a buggy together. They confined their remarks to the
+weather, the bad roads, the Casey old maids (whose house they passed),
+the swollen Cumberland River, and other small talk. However, this
+constraint soon passed and they began chatting and laughing in a
+natural and pleasant way.
+
+"Mr. Very," said Viola, "I want you to tell me about the adventure you
+had on a ferry boat, to which John Larkin referred the last time I saw
+him."
+
+"That was one of the strangest experiences of my life," replied Jasper.
+"A couple of years ago, before coming to this region, some of my
+friends wanted me to run for the office of representative to the State
+Legislature. I did not much like the idea of ministers being put
+forward for political office; but, thinking if elected I might do some
+good at Frankfort, I consented to be a candidate. One day on my
+electioneering tour I was wanting to cross the river on a ferryboat,
+and was passing through some underbrush and woods near the embarking
+place when I heard some one say: 'That Jasper Very is a great rascal
+and so are all his preacher friends. They will steal horses and do
+other mean things. It is a scandal to the county that such a man as
+Very should be put up to run for office and the first time I see him I
+intend to whip him for his impudence.' This surprised me a little, and
+I tried to find another way of reaching the boat without passing these
+men; but the underbrush was so thick I had to go that way. I summoned
+up all my courage and rode up. There were six men talking together. I
+said: 'Gentlemen, who is the man among you who is going to whip Very
+the first time he sees him?' The man who had made the threat spoke out
+and said: 'I am the lark that's going to thrash him well.' Said I:
+'Very is known to be much of a man, and it will take a man to whip him,
+mind you.' 'O no,' said he, 'I can whip any such preacher the Lord ever
+made!' 'Well, sir,' said I, 'you cannot do it. My name is Very and, as
+I never like to live in dread, if you really intend to whip me, come
+and do it now.' He looked confused, and said: 'Oh, you can't fool me
+that way. You are not Very.' 'Well,' said I, 'that is my name, and now
+is your time. If you must whip me do it now.' He said: 'No, no, you are
+not Very at all; you only want to fool me.' By this time we had got
+into the boat and he began again cursing Very. I said to a gentleman:
+'Please hold my horse,' and stepping up to the cursing disciple said
+sternly to him: 'Now sir, you have to whip me as you threatened or quit
+cursing me, or I will put you in the river and baptize you in the name
+of the devil, for you surely belong to him.' This settled him and,
+strange to say, when election day came he voted for me, and has been my
+friend ever since."
+
+"I am glad he learned such a needed and salutary lesson," said Viola.
+"I have heard my father say that a braggart is generally a coward. My
+mind commends your course, Mr. Very, of walking boldly up to danger and
+daring it to do its worst; but my woman's heart shrinks from the
+presence of peril."
+
+"Merely to think upon danger makes you and most women timid; but when
+the reality comes I believe your sex is as brave as mine. In many
+encounters with rough and wicked men in the wilderness I have found
+that a bold front is the best way to avoid evils which threaten. A
+brave word, backed by a good cause, often disarms an adversary."
+
+Thus with anecdote, comment, and talk of church work they rode along,
+their acquaintanceship increasing, and each, scarcely conscious of the
+act, looking into each other's heart to find there its thoughts and
+feelings.
+
+When they had approached within a half mile of Shiloh meeting house,
+their destination, Jasper said: "Miss Viola, you remember I requested
+you to sing at this coming service. Perhaps you expected to join your
+voice only with that of the congregation, but I want you to favor us
+with a solo before I rise to preach. It will be something new at
+Shiloh, but all the more impressive for that. The other evening I heard
+you sing in your drawing-room that inspiring hymn:
+
+    'Lo! he comes with clouds descending,
+    Once for favored sinners slain.'
+
+"Now I am to preach this morning on 'Christ's Second Coming,' and the
+hymn will be a good introduction to the sermon. Will you agree to sing
+it?"
+
+He looked down into her eyes to see if he could find consent in them.
+She did not answer immediately, but seemed to be in deep thought.
+Finally she looked up into his face, and there was a trace of tears in
+her blue eyes as she said: "Mr. Very, I have never stood alone before
+the public and sung. It would be a great trial for me to do so today;
+but if by singing I can glorify my Master by helping some poor soul to
+a better life, and if I can be of any aid to you, I will do the best I
+can."
+
+"Thank you, Viola (somehow he forgot to use the 'Miss'), and I am sure
+God's Holy Spirit will use your voice to benefit many this day."
+
+Soon they reached Shiloh meeting house, and were welcomed by John
+Larkin and Nathaniel Grimes who had finished their meeting at
+Bridgewater and had come to this all-day gathering. In fact, Larkin was
+in charge of it.
+
+As usual, on such occasions many horses were hitched to trees and
+saplings, a large number of the people having come long distances.
+
+At ten o'clock the great service of the morning began. The church was
+filled with an expectant crowd, for it was generally known that Jasper
+Very was to preach. Jasper and several other ministers were seated on a
+long bench back of the pulpit. The preliminary exercises were over and
+all were looking for the speaker to begin his sermon, when Jasper Very
+arose and quietly said: "Friends, Miss Viola LeMonde has kindly
+consented to sing a solo at this time." Many eyes were at once turned
+to the young lady, who was sitting to the right of the pulpit. Her
+beautiful face flushed a little with their scrutiny; but she at once
+arose and walking in front of the wooden table which answered for a
+pulpit, without any help from organ or piano (the room having no such
+instrument) she began singing that stirring hymn:
+
+    "Lo! he comes with clouds descending."
+
+As she proceeded with the song all timidity left her and she became
+possessed with the sentiment of the piece. When she sang
+
+    "Every eye shall now behold him
+    Clothed in glorious majesty,"
+
+she raised her own eyes toward heaven, as though she saw the Son of man
+seated at the right hand of God's throne. A feeling of awe mingled with
+joy seized the people, and they also looked upward, drawn by the rapt
+gaze of the singer.
+
+Her face looked like that of an angel as, transported with her theme,
+she sang in a pure soprano voice:
+
+    "Yea, amen! let all adore thee,
+    High on thy eternal throne;
+    Savior, take the power and glory,
+    Claim the kingdom for thine own:
+    Jah! Jehovah!
+    Everlasting God, come down."
+
+As she called upon the God of heaven to descend upon that company she
+lifted her hand toward the low and humble roof, and with her eyes still
+gazing up she seemed to see the Son of man coming in his glory on the
+clouds of power. The effect was marvellous. Many people were in tears.
+Some sighed deeply as though for relief while others, raising their
+arms above their heads, shouted the praises of God.
+
+When Viola took her seat Jasper Very arose in his place and stood
+looking over his congregation for some moments in silence. He did not
+wish to destroy the effects of the song--and wanted to give the people
+time to quiet their aroused feelings. He then proceeded with his
+discourse on our Lord's second appearing, but though he preached in his
+usual masterly way and held the attention of his audience throughout
+the tide of feeling did not rise as high as when Viola sang. He was
+willing that she should bear the honors of the occasion. That singing
+was long remembered and passed into tradition among the people.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+Horse Thieves.
+
+
+Springtime in Kentucky. One wants a new language to express its charms.
+Winter's shadows fly away. Clouds that looked dark, heavy, and
+threatening are followed by rosy sunsets and luminous peaks in the sky
+which appear like mountains standing round about the New Jerusalem. A
+warm breath of nature starts from the spicy islands south of the great
+Gulf, crosses it, then sweeps along Mississippi's mighty valley to the
+"happy hunting ground," bearing in its soft embrace birds of many
+wing--robin, bluebird, thrush, and sparrow. This breath melts the icy
+fetters of the streams, and they sing a sweet song of welcome. It
+enfolds the trees, and they put forth millions of little green ears to
+hear what the streams are saying. It fondly caresses the flower bushes,
+and they swell almost to bursting with reviving beauty. Like the green
+bush which Moses saw aflame with holy fire, every branch and twig shows
+the mystic presence of nature's God.
+
+While birds with brightened plumage sing as though their lives would
+escape through their throats; while lambs, calves, and colts gambol in
+the pasture, filled with the happiness of young life; while fish rush
+upstream like flashes of silver light and the very trees clap their
+hands in praise, it is not conceivable that man, God's masterpiece,
+should be insensible to this season of the year. A sudden thrill like
+an electric current passes through his being; a subtle exhilaration, as
+when a man is filled with wine, possesses him, and he is in touch with
+the new life, whether he goes afield with team or plow or hunts the
+forest for the increasing game.
+
+It was a day in early April. All the planters were busy in their
+fields, either laboring with their own hands or superintending the toil
+of their slaves. The negroes--those jocund children of nature--with
+happy faces and plantation melodies on their lips, were preparing the
+ground for its grain and tobacco seed. Judge LeMonde himself was in a
+rich field between his house and the river giving directions to his
+chief overseer. In the front garden, between the house and pine trees,
+could be seen Madam and Viola LeMonde and Mose and Nora all busy
+putting flower beds in order. Mose was digging the ground, Nora was
+using a light rake, and the white women were putting in some flower
+seeds.
+
+While such peaceful work was being done in the river bottom, another
+scene was taking place at Simon Wiles' hillside farm. Though the season
+and weather called to earnest effort, we see Sam Wiles and Zibe Turner,
+the monster dwarf, seated on a big log behind the barn. Let us listen
+to what they are saying:
+
+    _Wiles_: "De ol' Jedge guv us a term in de jug (jail), an' I'm sure
+    goin' to git even wuth him an' dat preacher too."
+
+    _Turner_: "I'll be wuth you in ary scrape you want to git up, but
+    we uns must be keerful not to be ketched ag'in."
+
+    _Wiles_: "Cordin' to my thinkin', each month we'uns war in de jug
+    is wurth de price of a hoss."
+
+    _Turner_: "That's yer game, is it? Well, 'tain't de fust time
+    we'uns hev borrowed a hoss an' fergot to return 'im, but we'uns
+    never struck so high up as de Jedge's stock. What hosses air you
+    thinkin' on?"
+
+    _Wiles_: "What ones do you suppose? De best ones, o' course. We'uns
+    must take Velox for de money he will bring in Paducky, an' I want
+    to bring down de pride o' dat young upstart, George LeMonde. We'uns
+    both owed 'im a grudge sence he beat you in de race an' won what
+    leetle money we'uns had. De nex' best hoss in de barn is Dolly, an'
+    we'll take her 'long to keep de bay compney."
+
+    _Turner_: "Dat suits me all right; but I want to ride Velox, 'cause
+    he went past me in de race. Won't I make 'im trabble, do, down de
+    ribber road! Dat's my holt."
+
+    _Wiles_: "We'uns must wait till we git a good night. De moon is
+    full now, an' de light is too bright. Four nights from now it will
+    rise purty late, an' den we'll proceed to bizness. We'uns want a
+    leetle light to show us how to git in de bawn an' move 'round. I
+    hear dad callin' me to go plowin', so we'uns must be goin'. Dis is
+    Friday. Come to de house tomorrer evenin', an' we'uns'll settle de
+    partic'lars."
+
+The two men parted, Sam Wiles to help his father to prepare to plant
+their small crop of corn, wheat and tobacco, and Zibe Turner, with the
+cunning of a fox and the look of a savage bear, to slink through the
+backwoods to his mother's little cabin some miles distant.
+
+Monday night was a time just suited to their designs. They had to act
+very cautiously for horse stealing at that time in Kentucky was
+considered almost the greatest crime in the catalogue, and woe betide
+any horse thief who was caught and found guilty! There was little
+danger of the "law's delay" in his case, for a rope and a limb of a
+tree prevented all court expenses.
+
+By a small bridge near Franklin Schoolhouse Sam Wiles met by
+appointment Zibe Turner and the two walked along the road, having
+little fear of being seen as it was near midnight. They soon reached
+Judge LeMonde's barn lot and now had to use the utmost caution not to
+arouse the great dog Sport or any of his satellites. By degrees they
+pushed open the heavy gate. Then they went to the barn door through
+which the horses were led to their stalls. It was fastened, but with a
+common lock. Wiles had brought a bunch of keys for just such an
+emergency, and after trying two or three found one which fitted the
+lock. In a moment they were inside the great barn. A long row of stalls
+was just before them. They carefully closed the door and Wiles, taking
+a flint and steel and some tinder from his pocket, struck out a spark
+which ignited the tinder. He then applied a long brimstone match to the
+tinder, and at once the match was ablaze. They soon found in which
+stalls were the horses they wanted, Velox being in the first stall and
+Dolly in the third. Back of the horses were pegs upon which hung
+harnesses. Wiles quickly unbuckled Dolly's halter and put a riding
+bridle on her. He then selected a fine saddle and placed it upon her
+back. Turner did the same for Velox. They then reopened the barn door,
+and Turner led Velox into the yard. Wiles at once followed with Dolly.
+To prevent all suspicion they closed the barn door but left it
+unlocked. It seemed as though they would get away without arousing man
+or dog; but just as they were leading the horses through the barn gate
+Velox, perhaps incensed at being taken from his stall at that unseemly
+hour and leaving his mates, gave a loud neigh.
+
+This sound was heard by Sport who was sleeping in a coach house at the
+rear of the mansion six hundred feet away. At once the faithful animal,
+suspecting something was wrong, set up a great barking, and was
+instantly joined by a group of dogs which were with him. The thieves,
+being afraid that the barking would arouse the plantation, jumped into
+their saddles and rode quietly along the county road till they reached
+the river road a quarter of a mile beyond. Here they stopped to observe
+if anything would happen at the house.
+
+Now the acute ears of the dogs had heard the hoofbeats of the horses in
+the still night, and they continued to emit a chorus of barks. At last
+their noise awoke Judge LeMonde, who was dreaming that twenty lawyers
+were all pleading a case at once. Thinking something unusual was the
+matter, he arose and dressed and called up George, his son. Together
+they went out to the carriage house and tried to quiet the dogs, but
+they continued barking. The men could find nothing out of place. But
+the judge, being somewhat uneasy, said to his son: "Let us go down to
+the barn and see whether or not the horses are all right."
+
+So they started down the road, past the negro cabins (all the slaves
+being sound asleep), and on to the barn. They went into the barn, and
+soon discovered the absence of the horses. The judge was a man of
+decision and courage. He said: "George, thieves have broken into the
+barn and stolen our two best horses. I do not believe they have been
+gone long. Run instantly and arouse Mose and some of the other slaves.
+Tell your mother what has happened, and say that we are going at once
+to follow the thieves. While you are gone I will get out Prince, Clay
+and Bess, and we will go after the villains."
+
+George ran to do his father's bidding, and soon most of the whites and
+slaves on the place were informed of the theft, and were wild with
+excitement as a result.
+
+In the meantime Wiles and Turner saw the lights in the house and were
+sure their deed was discovered. It was too late to return the horses to
+the barn, and they decided to carry out their first intention and ride
+them as rapidly as possible twenty-five miles down the river road, and
+there deliver them to a confederate, who would smuggle them to a horse
+dealer in Paducah. They put spurs to their horses and the noble brutes
+started down the river road at a fast gait. At the beginning the
+thieves had every advantage. They were mounted upon Judge LeMonde's
+fastest horses, and they had several minutes' start of their pursuers.
+So that they were more than a mile down the river road when the chase
+began.
+
+"Ha! Ha!" laughed Zibe Turner, "I 'spects I'm ahead in dis race. De
+time befo' Velox passed me; but now I'm ridin' him, an' I'd like to see
+de debil hisself overtake me."
+
+"We'uns air safe," said Wiles, "but we'uns must hold back our hosses
+sum, for we uns hev a good jaunt to take, an' it won't do to tire 'em
+out at fust."
+
+Both acted at once on this sensible advice, and they brought the ready
+animals down to a moderate trot. It was now a little past midnight, and
+not a soul was to be seen on the road. A light breeze blew softly from
+the south, shaking the tiny forest leaves and blowing across the fields
+to welcome the coming footsteps of another day.
+
+Though these bad men boasted to each other that they had the winning
+hand, there was some uneasiness in their hearts. They knew that this
+was the highest stake they had ever played; they were striking at the
+chief man of the county, and had stolen the best horses on his
+plantation. Should the heavy hand of justice smite them, it would be a
+stunning blow. The voice of conscience was not utterly dead, and it
+aroused fears in their hearts that they were not willing to acknowledge
+even to themselves; but, like many other desperate men, their very
+alarm occasioned a fiercer determination to show a bold front.
+
+About two o'clock that morning honest David Hester, who lived about
+fifteen miles distant from Judge LeMonde, was awakened from his deep
+sleep by a pounding in his barn, which stood not far from his house.
+Honest David knew at once what was the matter,--his horse Jim was
+kicking in his stall. This valuable beast had a habit at irregular
+intervals of kicking and pawing in the barn. Once or twice his restless
+feeling had made him use his legs so vigorously that he was thrown in
+his stall; and if his owner had not come to his help, he might have
+been fatally hurt. This night Jim's knocking was specially violent.
+Farmer Hester at last arose and went to the barn to quiet the restless
+creature. Speaking kindly to him, he turned him into a box stall and
+returned to the house.
+
+Just as he was entering the rear door he heard the sound of horses'
+hoofs some distance up the river road. His curiosity aroused, he
+decided to see who the early travelers were. He walked to the front
+yard and stood under a large lilac bush which was already covered
+thickly with leaves.
+
+The horsemen came on quickly. The moonlight was not sufficiently clear
+for David to see distinctly; but he noticed that the rider nearer him
+was a short man mounted on a dark horse, and that the other was a
+larger man riding a lighter-colored horse having a white spot in its
+forehead. David did not recognize either the men or horses, but the
+suspicion flashed across his mind that the lighter-colored horse was
+Judge LeMonde's Dolly. However, he was not sure, and in a moment the
+men had ridden by.
+
+Honest David returned to his house and bed. It proved, however, to be a
+night of interruptions, for he had hardly gotten between the sheets and
+fallen into a sound slumber before there came a loud knocking at the
+front door. David--and in fact his whole household--was aroused
+thereby, and hastening to the window, he tried to learn what was the
+matter. He saw in the yard below three men standing by three horses and
+heard the quick and eager words of Judge LeMonde: "Hurry, Friend David,
+and come to our help. My barn was broken into about midnight and my
+horses Velox and Dolly stolen from it. We are almost sure the thieves
+headed this way down the river, for where the county road meets the
+river road we examined the hoofprints as best we could, and decided the
+horses turned this way."
+
+"Yes, Judge, I'll help you all I can, and will be down in a hurry."
+Honest Hester left the window and was soon down in the yard, followed
+presently by his sons, wife and daughter Henrietta, all greatly excited
+by the news.
+
+Judge LeMonde continued: "We three have ridden our horses very hard,
+and cannot hope to overtake the thieves without fresh animals. They
+were careful to take my best blooded stock, and had considerable start
+of us. Will you kindly favor us with the loan of some of your horses?
+With them I think we may overtake the rascals."
+
+"That I will, Judge," said Hester, "and my boys and I will go along to
+help capture the rogues. I am sure you are on the right track, for half
+an hour ago I saw two men riding past on horseback, and I suspicioned
+one horse was your Dolly, for it had a white star in its forehead, but
+I was not dead sure."
+
+The men now hurried to the barn, and Jim was taken out to do something
+besides pawing in his stall. Other horses were brought out and soon
+seven men vaulted into saddles,--Judge LeMonde, his son George, his
+servant Mose, David Hester and three of his stalwart sons. One son
+remained behind to care for the three horses, which were covered with
+mud, foam, sweat, and were badly winded.
+
+Though in such haste, Judge LeMonde could not forget his duty to the
+ladies. He apologized for so rudely disturbing their slumbers, and
+thanked them for their interest and sympathy in his undertaking. They
+lifted their hats and were away down the road. Madam Hester and her
+daughter waved them adieu, watching the riders as far as they could in
+the dim light.
+
+As they were passing through the hamlet of Bridgewater Mose saluted his
+master by lifting his hand to his wooly head (in the hurry of starting
+he had not thought of his hat), and said: "Mas'r LeMonde. I 'spect we
+mus' ride like de win' in dis stretch ob de race; fer I had hearn der
+is a byroad ten miles furder on which leads inter a mighty wild place
+wid many windin' paths; an' ef de tiefs gets dar, dey'll sho' give us
+de slip."
+
+David Hester, having traveled this road before, corroborated the
+negro's words.
+
+Judge LeMonde replied: "The advice Mose gives is very good, so we must
+travel with utmost speed, for we must make every effort to capture the
+scoundrels."
+
+With this they all gave rein to their horses and made rapid progress
+down the road. The men were so intent on watching the road and guiding
+their horses that few words were spoken as they went along.
+
+Those who are acquainted with the river road below Bridgewater will
+remember that the knobs come very near to the river and the road runs
+close to the foot of the hills. Hence there is not much chance for a
+horseman to escape from his pursuers except by outriding them.
+
+Sam Wiles and Zibe Turner had come within three miles of the place of
+which Mose had spoken. They were congratulating themselves on their
+good fortune, when the quick ears of Turner heard the sounds of horses'
+hoofs some distance in the rear. "Pard," he said, "hear dat? Da air on
+our track, sure as shootin', an' by de sound I know der is sev'ral on
+'em."
+
+"What can we do?" asked Wiles. "De knobs air too steep to climb, for
+der ain't no roads about here, an' de ribber is near us on de left. Our
+only chance is to reach de forks of de road 'fore dey can overtake us.
+But Dolly is purty well played out. Der ain't much go in her. How is
+Velox standin' it?"
+
+"My hoss shows his blood an' trainin'," said Turner. "He's all in a
+sweat an' lather an' he breathes fast, but I tink he's good for de
+distance. You'uns must gib Dolly mo' whip and spur. Better to kill her
+dan to be tuk."
+
+Wiles thought the monster dwarf's words sensible, and he drove the
+cruel spurs into poor Dolly's sides without mercy and lashed her with
+the whip. The gallant mare responded with increased speed. But it was
+like the flicker of a candle almost consumed.
+
+Just at this time, the morning now beginning to break, the thieves were
+discovered by their pursuers, who, thus encouraged, sent up a shout
+together and urged their horses to greater speed. The animals, still
+comparatively fresh, increased their gait and gained rapidly upon those
+ahead. It was now a desperate race. Horseflesh was not considered by
+either party,--only a wild desire to escape by one and a determination
+to bring the outlaws to justice by the other.
+
+Strange to say, the dwarf became the leader in this terrible emergency,
+perhaps because he felt there was yet considerable reserve power in his
+mount, Velox. "Hang to her a leetle longer, Sam," he cried. "One
+quarter mile mo', an' we can shake 'em off. Speak to Dolly, gib her her
+head, an' spur her in a fresh place."
+
+This Wiles did. "Go it, Dolly! Good girl! Show 'em your heels! A few
+rods mo'."
+
+But it was no use. The limit of her strength was reached. Her breath
+came in gasps, her flanks trembled, she began staggering as she ran,
+and when within a hundred feet of the turn she fell head foremost,
+throwing her rider to the ground and falling heavily on her side.
+
+Even in this predicament the monster dwarf did not lose his nerve; he
+halted Velox a second and said to his chief: "I'll git away on Velox
+an' cum to yer help ef I can. Keep a stiff upper lip. Nevah say die.
+Dat's my holt. Good-by."
+
+With this he again drove the spurs into Velox's side, and was off. It
+was time, for his pursuers were shouting, "Halt! Halt!" and then the
+sharp crack of rifles was heard, and balls went whizzing by Turner's
+head. But he was soon at the turn, and with one wild yell of mingled
+triumph and hate he turned to the right, plunged into the thick woods,
+and was lost to sight. He had escaped.
+
+In the meantime Sam Wiles, half dazed by his fall, was still lying on
+the ground when the Judge and his men rode up. Quickly the Judge said
+to Hester: "You hold Wiles and I will attend to Dolly."
+
+They all dismounted and Hester did as requested. The Judge, George, and
+Mose drew near to faithful Dolly, and the Judge knelt down and took her
+head in his lap and spoke to her in soothing tones. He asked for water
+for her and George ran for some, but it was too late. Her eyes were
+already becoming glazed in death; but she gazed up into her owner's
+face with a look of recognition. Then a shiver went through her frame,
+she closed her eyes, and ceased to breathe.
+
+The Judge and George wept, and were not ashamed to show their tears;
+while Mose, who had always cared for the horse, sobbed aloud in his
+grief, and on a sudden impulse of anger administered a kick to
+prostrate Wiles, the "po' white trash," who had killed Mas'r's hoss.
+
+Judge LeMonde gave directions for Mose to bury Dolly's body in a decent
+manner, and then the rest prepared to return to their homes.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+Lynch Law or the Gospel.
+
+
+Wiles, the captive horse thief, was given Mose's horse to ride and,
+closely guarded by the six men, they all retraced their journey up the
+river road. Wiles was sullen and morose, having little to say. His look
+was that of a guilty and disappointed man, yet he carried a don't care,
+half defiant air which was more assumed than real.
+
+Bad news travels fast. The very atmosphere seems to tear it from house
+to house. Farmers had begun to pass along the road in their wagons;
+they heard and spread the account of the horse-stealing. It flashed
+through the hamlet of Bridgewater with incredible rapidity. As men
+heard the reports they became wildly excited and grimly determined to
+punish the thieves if caught. Some, by nature more excitable than
+others, left their work and rode down the road to aid as best they
+could in the pursuit. These met the party as it was returning, and
+swelled their number. They were not backward in expressing their
+opinions of the culprit as they cast black and angry looks upon him.
+
+These people of the "bottoms" were of a higher class than the "poor
+whites" who abode in the hills. They lived in far better houses, they
+had better school and church privileges, and their sense of moral
+values was keener than the others. While as a rule they were not
+experts in grammar and rhetoric, their language was much superior to
+that heard in the back districts.
+
+"Lynch him," "Fill his carcass with bullets," "String him up high as
+Haman," "He's been in many scrapes like this; now we've caught him,
+let's make short work of him," "Hanging is too good for him; he ought
+to be skinned alive,"--such were some of the expressions which saluted
+Wiles' ears, and they did not serve to make his nerves any more quiet.
+
+When the men reached Bridgewater the morning was well advanced and they
+were met by a considerable company from the village and surrounding
+plantations. There were a few women among the crowd and a few children.
+Any one looking upon that gathering could see that they threatened
+vengeance. Hiram Sanders, the herculean blacksmith, was their leader.
+This was the blacksmith who was a terror to all wrestlers, and who was
+never whipped except once, and then by Jasper Very. When Jasper came
+into those parts Sanders said: "I've licked all the preachers who have
+come around here and I intend to lick this one." The two met on
+horseback, dismounted, and began their bout. The blacksmith had found
+his match and Very with a desperate effort threw the fellow over an
+adjoining fence. Sanders' pride and fighting spirit were both broken,
+and he humbly said: "If you please, Mr. Preacher, will you be so kind
+as to throw my horse over the fence too?" His defeat put Sanders on
+good terms with Very and now they were close friends.
+
+As the men guarding Wiles entered Bridgewater they were met and stopped
+by the crowd which had gathered. The mighty blacksmith walked up to
+Judge LeMonde and, addressing him in a respectful manner said: "Judge,
+we have heard about this bad scrape; but we want to know the straight
+of it, and you will obleege us by telling it from first to last!"
+
+Judge LeMonde stated the facts in a clear and simple manner. As he
+proceeded with his account the feelings of the crowd became more and
+more aroused; and when he closed with a description of Dolly's death a
+general cry of denunciation was raised.
+
+Then up spoke Sanders to the people: "Friends and feller citizens, this
+is a case which needs keerful thought and treatment. It is a case which
+only men should decide, and I ask that all the women and children go
+back home and all the men of this company adjourn to the bridge over
+Honey Crick near by, that we can quietly give this matter all the
+attention it requires."
+
+His request was heeded and soon some thirty or forty men were on the
+bridge, with Wiles seated on a log which had been placed in the middle
+of the structure. The men disposed themselves in any way they saw fit,
+some leaning against the bridge railing, others sitting on the floor
+with their legs hanging over the water, and others bringing logs or
+sticks upon which to sit.
+
+As this was likely to be mob law Sanders, and not Judge LeMonde, was
+elected chairman and the deliberations commenced at once. Sanders said:
+"Men, what have you got to say ag'inst the prisoner! Let any one speak
+that wants to."
+
+William Hester, honest David Hester's oldest son, was the first to
+respond: "We on the river bottom have endured this Wiles crowd a good
+while. We know they are a curse to this section. They steal our hosses
+and whatever they can lay their hands on. They make 'licit whisky in
+the hills and knobs. They are lazy and shiftless, and no count in
+general. They scare our women, and are a nuisance and pest all around.
+I say we oughter make an example of Wiles, the ringleader of the gang,
+and put him out of the way of killing any more hosses by making him
+stretch a rope from this bridge."
+
+"You have listened to what Bill Hester has said. Has any other
+gentleman any remarks to make?" asked their chairman.
+
+Abner Hunt, a fiery little man, whose plantation joined that of David
+Hester, spoke in rapid tones, emphasizing his words with vigorous
+gesticulations: "I fully agree with what Bill has said. Most all the
+people living on these here bottoms are peaceable and law-abiding and
+it is too bad that a few desprit villians should keep the county in a
+state of terror and alarm. If there were some big rattle snakes in our
+midst, we would try to ketch and kill them; and these human rascals are
+worse than rattlers. My vote is to string him up quick."
+
+"We want a free and full discussion of this case, and I wait to hear
+any one else speak," said Sanders.
+
+Then Hans Schmidt, a large, fair-faced German, arose, and said: "Mine
+freunds, dis ist a wery serious matter, und we must consider it with
+much deliberation. Gott's Book tells us to luv our enemies, und we
+should not show hate und refenge to any man. We all know Wiles is vun
+great rogue, und I would give much money to see heem out of the bottom;
+but I would not like to haf a hand in lynching heem. I tink it is
+better for the law to take its course and for us to deliver heem up to
+prison."
+
+These words acted like sparks to gunpowder, and several in the crowd
+cried: "No! No!" "Hang him!" "Don't let him escape!" A few others said
+they agreed with what Schmidt had proposed.
+
+When quiet was restored, one more speaker was heard. His name was Damon
+Craig. He was a hill farmer who made a good living for himself and
+family by industry and economy on the thin soil above the river bottom.
+All highly respected him and his words had much weight: "Thur is al'ys
+danger in takin; a hoss thief to jail. Dey air slick by natur' and der
+bizness makes 'em slicker. You'uns can't trust sich a feller as Wiles
+ur Turner a minit. Ef you'uns put 'im in jail he mought 'scape, and
+aryhow we don't know but sum smart lawyers might cl'ar 'im ur git a
+light sentence for 'im. So I'm in favor uv riddin' de kentry uv 'im
+right now, and I'll be de fust to pull de rope."
+
+This speech was received by nods of assent and cries of "Good!" "Good!"
+"That's the talk!" by many in the crowd.
+
+After Craig had spoken Sanders looked at Judge LeMonde and thus
+addressed him: "Judge, you are the most interested person in this
+company. You have lost two fine hosses and been put to the most
+trouble. It is only right that we should hear from you before we take a
+vote. Would you like to say anything?"
+
+Upon this invitation Judge LeMonde arose from the log upon which he was
+sitting. His clothing was bespattered with mud and his face showed the
+struggle both physical and mental through which he had passed. But even
+with these limitations he appeared the typical judge. A serious but
+composed look was in his eyes. It was with deep feeling that he
+addressed the group of determined men.
+
+"Neighbors and friends," said he, "many of you I have known from my
+youth, and I am glad to call you friends. I wish to thank you for the
+interest you have shown in my welfare by aiding me in every possible
+way to regain my stolen property; and while my good Velox is now far
+away from me, probably never to return, and my noble Dolly is buried by
+the roadside, you have helped to capture the chief criminal in the
+affair. I do not wonder that this dastardly act has stung you to the
+quick and that your honest hearts cry out for justice to be visited
+upon the guilty. But you will pardon me if I differ from most of you as
+to how that justice should be administered. Let us remember that the
+sovereign State of Kentucky has laws upon her statute books meting out
+just punishment for all crimes. She has suitable machinery for the
+execution of those laws--courts, judges, lawyers, police, jails,
+penitentiary--and it is the duty of all citizens to abide by the laws
+they have made. Therefore I cannot agree with your arguments nor
+justify your wish to take the law into your own hands. My voice is, let
+the miserable culprit be taken to the county jail, be tried before the
+court and receive his punishment in a lawful manner."
+
+Judge LeMonde's speech made a visible impression on the men and
+possibly his advice would have been heeded had not Sanders, the
+chairman, spoken. These were his words: "With all respect to the
+Judge's remarks I think his premises are wrong. We have an unwritten
+law in Kentucky that hoss thieves should be put out of the world as
+soon as they are caught and proved guilty. It saves time, danger of
+escape, and expense to the State. This is a clear case for Wiles was
+caught in the very act, and we are quite sure this is not his first
+offense. My opinion is the county should be rid of such trash, and the
+sooner the better. We will now vote on the case. All in favor of
+hanging Sam Wiles at this time for hoss stealing raise your hands."
+Thirty hands were lifted up. "All opposed raise your hands." Five put
+up their hands and a few refused to vote.
+
+In spite of protests made by Judge LeMonde and others, preparations for
+the tragic act were quickly made. A man had cut a clothesline in his
+yard and had brought it to the bridge.
+
+Hiram Sanders spoke quickly and with a tone of authority: "Damon Craig,
+take this rope, tie a small stone to one end, and throw it over that
+big limb of the tall walnut tree standing by the crick."
+
+Damon Craig instantly obeyed, and with one attempt the rope was thrown
+over and both ends were near the ground. It was the work of only a
+minute or two to bring the miserable prisoner under the limb and to
+adjust the rope in the form of a hangman's knot around his neck.
+
+When this was done Sanders said: "Wiles, we don't want to send you out
+of this world without giving you a chance for preparation; so if you
+want to pray or to send any message to your dad or mam, we'll wait for
+you."
+
+Wiles was a man not without physical courage, and in this trying hour
+his grit did not fail him. He cast one hurried glance around, as though
+looking for some allies to aid him, but none were in sight. He gazed
+into the faces of those standing near him to see if there were any
+relenting; but the stern and determined looks of most of these men
+showed him it was useless to expect mercy from them. All hope seemed
+gone. Wiles, apparently wishing more to show a brave front to man than
+a humble and contrite spirit to God, simply said: "I've nuthin' to say
+to de likes uv you'uns; only I defy ye to do yer wu'st."
+
+"Haul away!" cried Sanders, and a dozen men seizing the rope, began
+pulling it, tightening the noose around Wiles' neck; but before they
+had lifted the body free from the ground a loud beating of horses'
+hoofs was heard in the direction of Bridgewater. Instinctively the men
+ceased from their work to look down the road. Perhaps there was a
+tremor of fear and condemnation in their hearts. We believe that every
+man who purposes in his heart to help lynch one of his fellow men, if
+he allows reason and conscience half a chance to be heard, will not
+engage in the attempt.
+
+Presently two men came in sight, riding as though their lives depended
+upon their haste. They were Jasper Very and John Larkin, who had heard
+of the proposed lynching. The riders spurred their horses across the
+bridge and flung themselves from their saddles, but not before Jasper
+Very had shouted in his loudest voice: "Men, I call upon you in the
+name of God to stop this wicked act." Then, rushing up to the condemned
+man, who was already gasping for breath, he pulled the rope from over
+the limb sufficiently to loosen the knot around Wiles' neck. The
+lynchers were too much surprised to resist.
+
+While John Larkin held the weakened prisoner Jasper Very removed the
+rope from his neck, and the two preachers helped Wiles to a seat on the
+bridge. Here Very stood over him as though he were his guardian angel.
+His eyes blazed with a fire never seen in them before. His gigantic
+form seemed to swell to larger proportions. He looked the incarnation
+of power tempered with pity. Very spoke with his heart hot within him:
+"Men of Kentucky, I am ashamed of your actions this day. What you
+purpose doing is a stain upon our State. It is a crime the memory of
+which, if committed, you will not be able to hide from your minds till
+life's last hour. Do you not know that two sins can never make an act
+right? How do you dare to hurry this man into the presence of his Maker
+unprepared? How can you meet such a sin at the judgment day? There are
+the courts. Let Sam Wiles be tried in them. You are well aware that our
+laws are very severe against horse-stealing, and when brought to the
+bar of justice the prisoner will suffer the full penalty of his deeds.
+But there is a higher law than those in our criminal courts. It is
+God's law, given to the children of men amid the thunders of Mount
+Sinai when the whole mountain was black with a thick cloud of smoke,
+which rolled away as from a great furnace into the sky. God descended
+in fire upon the mount. Thunders roared, lightnings flashed, and the
+peaks trembled to their foundations. The trumpets sounded louder and
+louder and the awful voice of almighty God 'shook the earth.' What were
+the commandments there given? One of them was: 'Thou shalt not kill.'
+Do not think that lynch law is not murder. It is murder of a very
+deplorable kind; for the perpetrators of the deed are not one but many,
+so that many are guilty of shedding their brother's blood. In the name
+of Him whose I am and whom I serve as a humble ambassador, I call upon
+you to desist from this proposed crime, conceived in passion and
+carried forward under great excitement. Listen to the voice of reason,
+and your consciences will approve your course."
+
+What the majesty of the law could not do under the words of the honored
+Judge, the power of the gospel accomplished through the agency of the
+backwoods preacher.
+
+Hiram Sanders was the first to yield. "Neighbors," he said, "what the
+preacher spoke is true. I think we will sleep sounder tonight if we
+spare the prisoner, though he is a sneaking, onery critter. But let the
+law take its course. We must see that he is securely guarded and lodged
+in jail without a mishap."
+
+Under a strong guard Wiles was taken up the river road to be placed in
+the county jail. The planters and others returned to their usual work,
+while Judge LeMonde and his company rode home at their leisure.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+Apple Blossoms.
+
+
+May Day had come in Kentucky, and all the air was sweet with the odor
+of blossoms. Jasper Very had made an afternoon call at Judge LeMonde's
+mansion; and the day being so charming he had invited Miss Viola to
+walk with him to the apple orchard which was in full bloom. The two
+walked down the gentle hill on which the house was built and proceeded
+along a private road leading north toward the knob. They passed by
+tilled fields in which green things were peeping through the soil. They
+skirted a pasture where horses and cows were grazing in perfect
+content. Then they went through a wide gateway and at once came into
+the apple orchard.
+
+The apple blossom was Jasper's favorite flower. He thought an apple
+tree in bloom was the nearest approach to Eden's tree of life of any
+sight on earth. And to behold scores of these trees filled him with
+such strange, happy feelings that it was difficult for him to control
+his emotions.
+
+As they walked up the gradual slope which was the beginning of the
+swell of the knob they gazed upon many trees so thick with blossoms
+that they looked like gigantic bouquets. Under one of these trees they
+sat down upon a rustic seat and looked upon the myriads of blossoms
+above and around them. The mystic scene--radiant sunshine, smiling
+landscape, balmy, odorous air, humming of bees, and pyramids of apple
+blossoms--increased the preacher's rapturous love of nature, God's
+revelation of his glory, and by a reasonable transition his heart beat
+with a warm, tender, and holy affection for the beautiful girl at his
+side. Her mind also was open to the beauties of the scene, and a
+thousand voices were calling her to sip the magic waters of love. She
+removed her broad hat and, letting it fall by her side, held it there
+with careless grace by one of its strings. Her golden hair added an
+exquisite touch to the picture.
+
+Jasper was the first to speak: "Miss Viola, what is so beautiful as an
+apple tree in bloom? Our heavenly Father seems to have mixed the
+elements of nature to make this blossom with a skill not seen
+elsewhere. It combines the pure whiteness of the plum or cherry with
+the delicate color of the pink or rose. How beautiful is the shading!
+How the pink tint improves the white and the white the pink! Every
+separate blossom is fit to adorn the head of a fairy; and when you look
+upon this wilderness of bloom, you feel that the floral world can go no
+farther with its gift of beauty. As I sit under this bower of
+loveliness I am inclined to adapt the poet's words:
+
+    'My willing soul would stay
+    In such a place as this,
+    And sit and sing herself away
+    To everlasting bliss.'"
+
+"I am not surprised," said Viola, "that you are enraptured with this
+scene. To my mind the perfection of out-of-doors life is to be among
+the apple blossoms, to feast one's eyes upon their delicate colors, and
+to inhale their sweet odor. The Hesperides of the ancients must have
+had a pleasant task in guarding the golden apples which Terra gave to
+Juno as a wedding gift."
+
+"Yes," remarked Jasper; "and not only has mythology used this fruit to
+embellish the joy and sacredness of the marriage rite, but the Holy
+Bible makes the apple tree a type of the lover and of love; for we
+read: 'As the apple tree among the trees of the wood, so is my beloved
+among the sons.' And, 'Comfort me with apples.' Such pictures as these
+suggest the purest affection. May I not say they promote love?"
+
+Viola was not willing to give a direct answer to his question, so she
+artfully changed the subject, saying: "The sun will soon descend behind
+the forest trees, and we must leave the apple blossoms and their
+lessons and betake ourselves to the house."
+
+She placed her hat upon her head and arose to go. The preacher also
+arose, thinking to himself: "I wish I could change the apple blossoms
+into orange blossoms and see them crowning her golden hair."
+
+They had walked along the farm road, and had nearly reached the garden
+gate when they saw the slave Mose running rapidly toward the house.
+They were just ascending the hill when the black man, getting within
+speaking distance, cried out: "Miss Vi'la, Ah jist cum frum town, an'
+what do yo' 'spose? Sam Wiles hab' 'scaped frum jail. He got out las'
+night. Sumhow he got a file an' cut two ba's out'n his cell winder an'
+crep' through. In sum way he clim' ober de yawd fence an' got cl'ar
+'way. De she'ff an' constables is now chasin' 'im an' callin' on all
+who can to help run 'im down. Ah's gwine to hurry to de house to tell
+Mas'r LeMonde uv de 'scape."
+
+With this remark Mose ran on, his white eyeballs rolling in his
+excitement and his head bobbing from one side to the other.
+
+In a few minutes Viola and Jasper were with Judge LeMonde and the rest
+of the house. The Judge was questioning his faithful servant: "Did the
+officers think he had any help in escaping?"
+
+"Yessar, sum one mus' 'a' sperited dat file inter de jail, an' ob
+cou'se no ossifer would 'a dun it."
+
+"Who do they think was his helper?"
+
+"Zibe Turner. Two er free in de town see 'im sneakin' roun', but befo'
+dey could grab 'im he war gone. He seems to be in league wif de debil,
+an' can become inwisible when he wants ter."
+
+"But how could the monster dwarf get the file to him?"
+
+"It am 'sposed he had a secret talk wif de colored cook, Dinah, an' sum
+way cum it ober her--bewitched her mor'n likely ur gib 'er a big lot ob
+money--an' she passed de file in sum ob Wiles' food, an' he cut his way
+out."
+
+"But his cell was in the second story, and how did he reach the
+ground?"
+
+"He made a rope ob de bedclothes an' clum down dem. Dey thinks he frew
+de same rope ober de wall, an' Turner held de outer end while Wiles
+clum to de top; den he could easy drap to de bottom. Ah 'spects dey bof
+cl'ar out togedder, an' by dis time air way back on de knobs safe an'
+sound."
+
+Judge LeMonde said: "We must do all we can to recapture Wiles and
+arrest Turner, for they are desperate men, and will stop at nothing to
+secure their own ends. However, I am afraid it will be almost
+impossible to take them if they have reached the fastnesses of the
+hills. They can hide in caves, ravines, and forests, and, being so well
+acquainted with the region, they can well-nigh defy pursuit."
+
+The Judge's opinion was sound; for after the officers and citizens had
+hunted them for days with the aid of bloodhounds, and found them not,
+the effort was abandoned.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+A Proposal Without Words.
+
+
+It was on a Tuesday afternoon in the latter part of June when a note
+was presented to Jasper Very by a farmer living near his boarding place
+who had been quite a distance up river.
+
+The note read as follows:
+
+    Silver Springs Camp Ground, June 23, 18--.
+
+    The Rev. Jasper Very,
+
+    Dear Mr. Very:--The Silver Springs Camp Meeting which began a few
+    days ago is having fine success. It is well attended and many are
+    beginning the Christian life.
+
+    I had planned to make Thursday the great day of the feast; but Rev.
+    Enoch Foy, who was to preach that evening, is sick and sends word
+    he cannot come. In my extremity I turn to you and ask you to fill
+    the gap without fail.
+
+    Knowing how willing you always are to help a brother minister in
+    need, I shall look for you without expecting a reply to this note.
+    Please do not disappoint us. I send this message by Mr. John Boley,
+    who returns to your neighborhood today.
+
+    Sincerely yours in the Master's work,
+
+    Ezra Thompson.
+
+Jasper Very prayerfully considered the invitation and, as his
+engagements permitted him to accommodate his good friend Thompson, he
+decided to preach at the camp meeting. He little dreamed that all his
+future life was to be colored by that simple note. So often men's
+destinies turn upon apparently trivial events.
+
+As the journey was long Jasper decided it would be pleasant to have a
+few of his friends accompany him. So he betook himself to Judge
+LeMonde's house and asked the Judge and his wife to make two of the
+party, but they had matters which forbade their going. He then spoke to
+Viola and George and requested them to go.
+
+Early Thursday morning Jasper Very rang the doorbell at "Mount Pisgah."
+Miss Viola herself answered the bell and led the preacher into the
+drawing-room. She gave him this information: "George is to drive six of
+us to the camp meeting in our three-seated carriage. Miss Stella
+Nebeker will sit with George; on the middle seat my cousin, Miss Alice
+LeMonde, and Miss Bertha Nebeker, Stella's sister; and they have
+appointed you and me to occupy the third seat. The carriage will be
+driven up presently and we have a surprise for you; but do not get too
+excited."
+
+The preacher could not imagine what the surprise was, but he had to
+possess his soul in patience. He had not to wait long for he presently
+heard the sound of wheels. He and Viola stepped out on the piazza.
+
+What did he see? Reader, can you guess? No. He saw Velox. The noble
+horse was on the near side of the carriage and Prince on the off side.
+
+Very cried out: "Of all things, if there isn't Velox! George, you
+naughty boy, why didn't you tell me? Where did you find him?"
+
+The preacher ran to the splendid creature, proud, sleek and glossy as
+ever, and put his arm over his neck, and stroked and patted his face.
+"George you must tell me all about the way you succeeded in getting
+your horse back to the plantation."
+
+George said: "Hold your horses, pastor, and when we are speeding in the
+carriage I will the tale relate."
+
+The six were soon seated in the vehicle. George spoke to the willing
+horses and they were off, through the plantation grounds, along the
+county road to the river highway up which they were to travel twenty
+miles. It was a charming day in June and the road now was in fine
+condition. A gentle shower the night before had laid the dust and
+brightened the face of nature. The leaves on the stately forest trees
+were full grown and in perfection. The river to their right sparkled in
+the bright sunlight.
+
+Presently George began his tale for the special benefit of the
+preacher, the rest having heard it in more or less detail:
+
+"A few days ago I went down to Paducah to sell a large part of our
+abundant hay crop. I went to the big warehouse of Youtsey and Fry on
+one of the principal streets and was talking to Mr. Sydney Youtsey on
+the sidewalk, when I saw a splendid carriage drawn by two fine bay
+horses coming along the street. A Sambo, black as the ace of spades,
+was driving with a high sense of his importance; and in fact he handled
+the reins and whip like a professional. In the back seat reclined a
+portly gentleman, dressed in faultless style, and by his side his wife
+of ample proportions, also garbed in the height of fashion.
+
+"While the turnout was some distance away I was sure that the near
+horse was Velox. As luck would have it the man in the carriage had some
+business with Youtsey and Fry and ordered Sambo to drive up to the
+curb. Greatly excited I cried out to Sydney Youtsey: 'That bay on the
+left is my Velox.' I hastened to the side of the carriage, and, lifting
+my hat, said to the man: 'Excuse me, sir, but that horse standing here
+next to the sidewalk is my animal, named Velox. He was stolen from my
+father's barn up country a few weeks ago by two desperate thieves. My
+name is George LeMonde, son of Judge William LeMonde, of 'Mount
+Pisgah.''
+
+"The gentleman addressed expressed great surprise at this announcement,
+saying:
+
+"'This is a very strange statement. For a long time I wanted a mate for
+my bay horse Hamlet and instructed my groom to visit the livery stables
+and other places where horses are kept for sale. He tried for weeks to
+find a suitable match, but without success. At last, going to one of
+the largest and most reputable stables in Paducah, he saw this animal
+you claim, and paying a large price for the same, brought him to my
+plantation just outside of the city.'
+
+"'Probably,' I said, 'the man who brought Velox to the city gave him
+into the hands of a party who may have sold him to an honest and
+upright stable keeper from whom you bought the horse.'
+
+"'But how do I know your story is true, that you own this horse?' the
+planter asked.
+
+"I told him if his servant would drive the carriage into the warehouse
+and unharness the near horse, that I would convince him that he was my
+animal.
+
+"The planter consented, and soon Velox was standing before us entirely
+free from his harness. I moved away from him about ten feet. Stretching
+out my right hand open toward him, I said in a quiet tone of voice:
+'Come Velox, come to your master.' Instantly the horse walked up to me
+and touched my hand with his lips. I put my soft felt hat on my head,
+and spoke to the horse again: 'Come, Velox, and lift my hat off my
+head.' He walked up to me the second time and, seizing my hat between
+his teeth, gently raised it from my head.
+
+"This not only surprised the planter and the rest, but was satisfactory
+proof to him that the bay was my horse.
+
+"Mr. Harcourt, for that was the planter's name, remarked: 'These tricks
+seem to demonstrate that what you claim is true, but I paid a fancy
+price for this animal, $500, and I do not feel like losing such a sum.'
+
+"'Neither shall you lose it, sir,' said I. 'This very day I will write
+you a check for the amount, if you will give my Velox to me.'
+
+"To this Mr. Harcourt agreed. The pair were driven back to his
+plantation, and that afternoon Sambo brought him to me. I handed him
+the check to give to his master. Going to a store near by I bought a
+saddle and bridle and, putting them on Velox, I mounted him and rode
+him back to 'Mount Pisgah.' And here he is, sound as ever," and George
+snapped the whip over the trotting pair so that they increased their
+speed a bit.
+
+The day was bright and balmy, the steeds were willing, and they made
+good progress. But the drive was long and it was late dinner time when
+they arrived on the camp ground. They were welcomed by Ezra Thompson
+and others and, after resting a short time and partaking of a
+substantial meal for which their long ride had prepared them, they were
+ready for the afternoon services. These were of the old camp meeting
+order, and blessed were the results. An earnest preacher handled the
+Word of God skillfully, and it became the sword of the Spirit which cut
+through skepticism, indifference, and sin, and pierced the consciences
+of many. A blessed altar service closed the meeting.
+
+Jasper Very ate only a light supper. Following his usual custom he went
+into the woods to pray, to meditate, and to get his sermon into order
+for the evening. When he came back those who saw him were struck with
+his look. It was something like that of Moses when he came down from
+the mount. His face seemed to shine with the light of God. Jasper's
+natural mein was bold, commanding, and aggressive, so that some thought
+him domineering and severe; but now his manner was full of humility and
+peace. He was like a man who had seen a vision of eternal love; his
+soul was filled with a deep sympathy for sinful men and a great
+yearning to turn them from the error of their ways. Tonight the fighter
+was gone, and the pleader took his place.
+
+Before he preached the congregation sang that appealing hymn:
+
+    "Show pity, Lord; O Lord, forgive."
+
+Viola LeMonde's confidence as a singer had increased with her recent
+attempts, and tonight her sweet, pure soprano voice rose clear and
+strong as she sang with the assembled multitude. Jasper Very heard her
+voice, and it seemed to him sweeter than the note of an angel, and it
+moved him one step higher in his grand preparation to speak his
+Master's word. While the eyes of all were fastened upon him he opened
+the Bible and read the text: "The Spirit and the bride say, Come. And
+let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And
+whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely."
+
+It is impossible for any report to do justice to that sermon. An
+abstract of it has come down to us; but it is little more than a
+skeleton, lacking the flesh and blood and abounding life of the
+original.
+
+Jasper began by describing the apostle John's imprisonment on the Isle
+of Patmos. There he was in the Spirit on the Lord's day when he heard a
+voice saying unto him: "Write." John took the flaming pen of
+inspiration and wrote those wonderful scenes found in the book of
+Revelation. But before writing his final "Amen" he gives one last,
+universal, gracious invitation to all men to come to the water of life
+and be saved. With marvelous unction and power Jasper spoke of the
+invitation coming from God's Spirit and from his Church, the bride, to
+all thirsty souls: "Whosoever will, let him take the water of life
+freely." At this place the preacher reached the climax of his theme.
+With the full power of his noble voice he brushed away all artificial
+distinctions among men, crying out that God is no respecter of persons,
+but that all men are invited to come to him for salvation. In earnest
+tones he besought his hearers to know that they are all included in the
+great invitation; the blacks as well as the whites, the poor farmer on
+the hills as well as the rich planter in the valley, the outcasts from
+society, such as moonshiners, horse thieves and gamblers, equally with
+the moral citizen who yet needed a personal deliverance from sin. All
+that is required is the will to come.
+
+At last his emotions almost overcame him. Like his Master weeping over
+Jerusalem, this strong man wept before the people. Throwing into his
+voice much tenderness, sympathy, love, and persuasion, he called upon
+them to come forward, kneel in the straw, and seek a merciful Savior's
+pardon. His appeal was with many most effective; and when the
+congregation arose and started a gospel hymn, scores crowded to the
+altar seeking forgiveness and peace.
+
+For an hour Jasper, Viola, and the rest who had come from "Mount
+Pisgah" labored with the penitents at the altar. At half past nine
+o'clock, long before the service closed, they started for home. They
+were all lifted to a high plane of spiritual experience, and for some
+time each was busy with his or her own thoughts and few words were
+spoken. The moon had risen and was throwing her mild light through the
+thick trees as best she could. Gradually George LeMonde and the three
+girls got into a more talkative and merry mood. Now and then a happy
+laugh floated through the forest, and was heard by the wakeful owl as
+he sat perched on some high branch, or with rush of wings flew through
+the air seeking his prey. They spoke of the camp meeting and the
+commoner events of every day life, occasionally asking the opinion of
+Jasper and Viola concerning this or that event or notion. But George on
+the front seat was too much occupied with guiding the horses through
+the uncertain light and with the chat of the fair girl at his side to
+pay much attention to those in the rear seats, and the two girls in the
+middle naturally kept their eyes and ears turned forward. This left
+Jasper and Viola in a measure to themselves. They spoke occasionally to
+each other, but their words were fewer than their thoughts.
+
+Jasper's heart in the meeting had been aflame with love to God and his
+fellowman, and what better soil than that can there be for a man's love
+for a pure and beautiful woman to spring and grow? All the wealth of
+his great nature was even then being given to the woman at his side,
+and he felt the hour had come to make that love known. And Viola was
+ready to receive it as a most precious gift and in return to offer a
+yet richer treasure, a woman's unsullied affection.
+
+In that carriage was about to take place the world's most wondrous
+mystery--two lives, which for months had been drawn together more and
+more strongly by a power which no man can understand, at last meeting
+and blending in a union which God in heaven makes and which eternity
+cannot sever.
+
+Jasper did not need words to express his love nor Viola to receive it.
+They were more than half way home when Jasper moved his large, honest,
+chivalrous right hand over to Viola and took her small, beautiful hand
+in his. She did not resist the act, but let her little hand lie in his
+broad palm. That was all. Their betrothal was as silent as the meeting
+of God and a human soul. Words were not needed. They seemed out of
+place. They would have appeared almost a profanation. In fact they
+could not then have been spoken. The light carriage robe covered those
+two hands, and the laughing girls in the next seat did not suspect that
+just behind them an engagement without words was taking place. What
+joys, what sorrows, what tragedies and comedies occur so near us that
+we can almost touch them with our fingers, and yet we are unconscious
+of their existence?
+
+So they rode along by the quiet river. Sometimes the stream was hidden
+by high and mighty trees and willows growing by its bank; at other
+times they saw the placid waters, and the moonbeams shining upon it
+making a pathway of silver light.
+
+At last the horses turned into the great gateway, the carriage wheels
+crunched upon the graveled drive, and soon they were before Viola's
+home. It was very late, after midnight. George took his team to the
+barn, for he would not call up Mose at that time of night. Alice
+LeMonde and her two girl friends at once went upstairs.
+
+Viola opened the drawing-room door, and she and Jasper entered. They
+stood by the piano, leaning against it. She looked up into his face
+with a happy smile in her deep blue eyes and a tender flush in her pink
+cheeks. Jasper, gazing down upon her with inexpressible feelings of
+reverence and love, imprinted a kiss upon her pure brow, thus sealing
+their unspoken troth. They walked together to the broad staircase where
+they parted bidding each other good-night.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+Kidnapped.
+
+
+The hour was late the next morning when Jasper Very awoke from a
+refreshing sleep. At first the incidents of the past night did not
+arrange themselves in proper order before his mind, but soon the
+succession of events and their meaning became clear. He arose, dressed,
+attended to his ablutions and devotions, and sat down to think. This
+was the tenor of his thoughts: "What a fortunate being I am to have
+gained the love of this true and noble woman. I feel myself unworthy of
+such affection and confidence. A new idea of God has come to me. He
+gives himself for those whom he loves. And in a new sense I am willing
+to sacrifice my all for her whom I love. Heretofore I have looked to my
+own interests as to food, clothing, lodging, and other things. Perhaps
+I have been a bit selfish. Now I shall delight also to plan for her
+well-being and happiness. When the marriage rite is said, how gladly
+shall I promise to 'love, comfort, and keep her in sickness and in
+health, to bestow upon her my worldly goods, and to keep her only unto
+myself.' Jasper, a precious treasure has been entrusted to your
+keeping, a treasure the most valuable on earth, and you must be careful
+to keep it from all harm."
+
+At this moment his soliloquy was interrupted by a knock at the door,
+and Nora's announcement: "Please, sur, breakfast is waitin' fer yo' in
+de dinin' room."
+
+"Thank you, Nora, I shall be down presently." And he descended the
+stairs without loss of time.
+
+You ask, reader, what were the thoughts of Miss Viola when she awoke
+from her deep sleep? As the writer is a man he cannot tell. No man can
+sound the depths of a woman's heart. She only can understand her
+motives, her desires, her modes of thinking, her varying moods. She
+holds the key to the inner chambers of her nature, and no masculine
+hand can seize that key and unlock those apartments.
+
+However, we believe we are able to fathom some of the ideas which
+passed through our heroine's mind that bright morning. We can take it
+for granted that she was very happy; that the future looked very
+promising, though she was impressed by the responsibility of becoming a
+minister's wife.
+
+When Jasper Very descended the stairs and entered the dining-room he
+found Viola and her mother awaiting him, the rest having eaten some
+time before. The ladies cordially greeted their guest, and the meal was
+partaken of with a seasoning of pleasant conversation.
+
+After breakfast the twain went into the drawing-room, and there the
+stalwart preacher took his own darling into his arms, and for the first
+time their lips met in a rapturous kiss. They sat side by side on the
+beautifully upholstered sofa, and looked the splendid couple they were.
+
+If the night before, silence was golden, surely this morning speech was
+silver. Jasper said: "Viola, my dear, I am giving a new meaning to that
+Scripture passage: 'This is my commandment, that ye love one another.'"
+"And I," replied Viola, "feel like expressing as my sentiment those
+words in the Song of Songs: 'My beloved is mine, and I am his.'"
+"Well," said the parson, "we must seal that ownership with another
+kiss." It was readily given and received, and we are afraid several
+more followed to keep the first company.
+
+Then they fell to talking about the future: how they hoped some day to
+establish a home of their own; how they would walk hand in hand through
+life bearing its burdens, and meeting the exacting duties of the
+ministry with mutual helpfulness.
+
+Thus they conversed for a long time on the new and opening vistas of
+life. At length Viola said: "Jasper dear, let us take a walk this fine
+morning toward the great knob, and enjoy together the beauties of
+nature. It seems as though nature itself would delight to shower its
+blessing upon us."
+
+Jasper was willing, and they went as before to the apple orchard, but
+instead of stopping there they climbed the ascent to the foot of the
+knob. Then they entered the woods which covered the great elevation
+from near its base to the top. They emerged into a zigzag foot-path,
+difficult to follow, and climbed up and up. Many times the strong arm
+of Jasper had to help the maiden at his side to surmount steep and
+bush-entangled places.
+
+At last after much exertion they reached the top of the knob, where
+they beheld a wide-extended view. Below them lay Judge LeMonde's broad
+plantation and many others on the right hand and on the left. Beyond
+these ran the beautiful river through the landscape like a ribbon of
+silver, and they saw in the far distance valleys and hills and majestic
+knobs, making altogether a picture of surpassing loveliness.
+
+The man and the woman were enchanted with the scene and Jasper, full of
+deep emotions, cried out: "Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is
+within me, bless his holy name. He watereth the hills from his
+chambers; the earth is satisfied with the fruit of thy works. He
+causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of
+man."
+
+Viola exclaimed: "My father's plantation is called 'Mount Pisgah,' and
+this view reminds me of that other scene Moses saw on his 'Mount
+Pisgah.'"
+
+They sat under one of the great forest trees crowning the brow of the
+knob and feasted their eyes on the near and the distant prospect. They
+heard the birds singing in the trees, and saw the saucy squirrels
+running up and down the hickory and other trees. Jasper spoke of his
+present engagements, saying on that afternoon he must visit a family
+down the river, and the next day he had an appointment to begin a two
+days' meeting in a distant township of the county.
+
+Viola told of her plans. She intended tomorrow morning to have Mose
+drive her to a number of the families attending the mission school. She
+wished to become better acquainted with them, to show a friendly
+interest in their welfare, and to teach the boys and girls some further
+rudiments of knowledge, and tell them a number of interesting Bible
+stories.
+
+This knowledge gave Jasper much concern, and he said: "My dear Viola, I
+have now even more than a pastor's regard for your safety and welfare.
+Are you not afraid to travel those lonely hills without any protector
+save Mose? While the mission school gradually is improving the moral
+tone of that region, you know there are some depraved and desperate
+persons living about there who would not hesitate to steal your horses,
+or your purse, or commit other crimes, if it were to their seeming
+advantage to do so?"
+
+"Yes, I know that, dear Jasper, but hitherto the Lord has protected me,
+and I believe I can trust him to hold me safely in the hollow of his
+almighty hand. If I am called to suffer in his cause, I am willing. I
+have no fear of physical violence, and I am sure duty calls me to that
+settlement tomorrow."
+
+"Well, my beloved, may heaven still safeguard you, and may you continue
+to be a blessing to that community which needs reformation, education
+and the gospel so much."
+
+Viola spoke: "It is getting near dinner time, and we must not be late
+for that meal as we were for breakfast." With that they arose, and
+proceeded down the knob and on to the mansion.
+
+After dinner Jasper Very bade them all a cordial good-by, and proceeded
+on his errand of mercy to a family who needed his ministrations.
+
+Early the next morning Viola, seated in her phaeton with faithful Mose
+holding the reins over Prince and Bess, started to the mission school
+settlement. She had taken with her some things which would interest the
+children--candy for the little ones and some bright books for those
+older. The distance was considerable, but at last they arrived at the
+cabin of Mart Spink, where they were cordially received.
+
+Viola stepped down from the carriage and, entering the house, soon had
+the whole family around her. Their minds seemed famished for knowledge.
+She first opened a paper bag and passed several pieces of candy to the
+younger children, Elmira, Robert and Jonathan. She offered the bag to
+the parents and to Susanna, and they helped themselves sparingly. She
+then brought out from her satchel a nicely bound copy of Aesop's
+Fables, and presented the book to Susanna. The girl was both surprised
+and pleased. Opening her wonderful eyes wide, she thanked her teacher
+in few words. Viola also gave the family some of the simpler school
+books used in the public schools and a few volumes of a religious
+nature. After a further half hour spent in pleasant conversation Viola
+left the cabin, and directed Mose to drive to the Sneath home.
+
+She found Harrop Sneath sitting under the shade of a tree about as lazy
+and contented as ever. He was smoking tobacco contained in a corncob
+pipe. But Viola noticed a decided improvement in the cabin. It was
+cleaner than when she first saw it, and had a bit more of furniture in
+it. All the children showed the benefit they had received from
+attending the mission school. Jemima, the oldest daughter, revealed the
+greatest improvement. Her eye was brighter, her dress cleaner and
+better fitting, and her demeanor showed more intelligence and
+self-possession.
+
+Viola distributed sweets and books to this family much as she had done
+to the other, and they were gladly received. She led the talk to things
+which would interest their minds--prospects for good crops, the sewing
+circle recently organized for women and girls, the picnic which the
+mission school expected soon to have.
+
+She told them several thrilling Bible stories about David slaying
+Goliath, Daniel in the lions' den, the three Hebrew children.
+
+It was nearing dinner time and the mother invited Viola to partake of
+their plain fare. She said: "You air u'st to all de good tings money
+can buy. We'uns cayn't gibe you much, but sich as we'uns hab you air
+welcome to."
+
+Viola replied: "I am really greatly obliged to you, Mrs. Sneath, for
+your kind invitation, and will gladly dine with you today. It is not so
+much the amount or kind of food one is given but the spirit in which it
+is given that counts."
+
+"Jist so," said Mrs. Sneath, "so we'uns'll all set down soon to corn
+pone and pork. Please ask your nigger to unhitch his hosses and put 'em
+in de bawn. He'll find sum hay der for 'em. De nigger shall hab sum
+dinner too."
+
+Viola putting aside any punctilious feelings she had, partook of the
+homely meal with what grace and relish she could command, and thanking
+them all for their kindness, bade them good-by.
+
+Viola visited a number of other families in the afternoon, and toward
+the evening of the long summer day instructed her servant to turn the
+horses toward home. They were not far from the cabin of the monster
+dwarf, Zibe Turner. A strange feeling of fear and apprehension sprang
+up within her. Was it caused by her nearness to the home of this wicked
+man, or by a premonition of danger?
+
+They were passing through one of the densest parts of the great forest.
+The sun was yet some distance above the horizon, but his slanting rays
+could throw only a dim light through that mass of wood and foliage.
+
+Suddenly two men sprang from behind high bushes by the roadside. They
+had black cloth masks over their faces. Holes were cut in the masks
+through which the bandits could see. One man was tall and broad. The
+other was short and thickset. The shorter man leaped to the horses'
+heads and, seizing the reins, stopped their progress. The other stepped
+to the side of the phaeton, and said in a voice he tried to disguise:
+"Lady, we'uns do not mean to harm you, but you must cum wid us."
+
+Viola, though dreadfully frightened, straightened herself up in the
+carriage, and replied: "What do you men mean by stopping a carriage on
+the highway, and thus disturbing peaceable citizens? I call upon you
+to go, let go the reins of my horses, and allow my servant to drive me
+home."
+
+"Dat is fur from our wish," said the desperado, "and if you won't walk
+away quietly wif us, we'uns will have to tote you away."
+
+With this the highwayman (who was no other than Sam Wiles) jumped into
+the vehicle, and seizing the young woman around the waist, was dragging
+her forcibly to the ground. Viola could make no successful resistance
+in the grasp of this powerful man, but he met resistance where he
+little expected it. The slave held the buggy whip in his hand, and
+hastily reversing his hold on the whip, brought the butt end of it down
+with much force on the miscreant's head. Wiles was half stunned by the
+blow, but he would not release his hold on Viola, and cursed the black
+with dreadful oaths.
+
+But it was the work only of a second for the terrible dwarf, Zibe
+Turner, to spring to the front of the carriage, and grabbing Mose in
+his sinuous arms, he drew him to the earth, then struck him a terrific
+blow on his head, and threw him to the ground. What the blow might not
+have done (for a negro's skull is very thick) the fall accomplished;
+for when he fell Mose's head struck the protruding root of a great oak
+tree, and the blow was of sufficient violence to stun the black man.
+Zibe Turner let the negro lie by the side of the road, and going to the
+horses led them to a trunk of a tree and, taking the hitch strap, tied
+it to a lower limb. The outlaws' purpose this time was not stealing
+horses.
+
+In the meantime Sam Wiles carried Viola, vainly struggling, about one
+hundred feet up the road and turned to the right, where not far away a
+two-seated wagon stood, with two horses hitched to it. Wiles lifted
+Viola, now exhausted and half dead with fear, into the rear seat and
+sat down beside her. Presently the monster dwarf appeared and, freeing
+the horses, jumped on to the front seat. Turning the horses into the
+road, he drove in an opposite direction to that which Viola had been
+taking.
+
+No words were spoken by any of the party and the horses pursued their
+way through the darkening forest. After a time they were driven by the
+dwarf into the enclosure before his mother's cabin. She was at the
+door, evidently expecting them. The devil which was in her caused her
+to cry out in hideous glee: "An' so you'uns cotched her did you'uns?
+Good. Now we'uns'll see what de Jedge'll do. Will he put gentl'men ob
+de hills in de jug ag'in? De debil blast 'im and all his kind." Looking
+at Viola, who now had braced herself for any approaching ordeal,
+remembering that she was Judge LeMonde's daughter, the hag said: "Now,
+my purty lady, we'uns'll see who'll wear fine clothes, an' eat de best
+tings, an' go round de kentry convartin' de people. We'uns count dat
+you'll get a taste of how we'uns live. Don't hurt yer digestion ner
+spile yet purty looks longin' ter see yer pa an' ma an' dat cussed
+preacher."
+
+The monster dwarf here broke in, speaking in his deep voice: "Ma, dat's
+nuff now. Tell sis to git ready in a hurry, for we'uns have a long
+drive before us."
+
+Sis was soon ready--the tall, raw-boned, homely young woman, a fit
+member of this ogre family, but with a little less of depravity in her
+makeup and looks. She was dressed in a long calico gown, heavy coarse
+shoes, and a much worn hat, whose flowers appeared worse than "the last
+rose of summer," after it had faded.
+
+Viola maintained silence, and awaited developments. The plan soon
+unfolded itself. Sis Turner got up into the rear seat beside Viola.
+Zibe Turner mounted to the front seat, took the reins in his right
+hand, spoke to the horses, and away they went, leaving Sam Wiles
+looking after them. What was the character of his thoughts?
+
+Turner drove his team along a faintly marked country road always toward
+higher ground. On and on they went for miles, the way in many places
+becoming so dark, that the only direction was the avenue made by the
+cutting down of the trees. Sometimes they came to such serious
+obstructions in the road that the driver had to get down to remove
+them. At last the way was so narrow they had to leave the wagon and
+proceed on horseback.
+
+After climbing higher and higher they arrived at a small open place
+near the top of the knob. In its midst was a diminutive log cabin,
+consisting of only one room. Turner stopped his horses in front of the
+cabin, dismounted, and requested the girls to do the same. He unbarred
+the door, and the three entered. By means of flint, steel, tinder, and
+burnt rags Turner made a light. Viola observed that the cabin was of
+about the same order as the Sneath home she had visited that morning. A
+large fireplace was on one side. There was no window, and only one
+door. Two cheap beds were in two corners of the room. In another corner
+there were a number of bundles of provisions. A few cooking utensils
+were on the hearth, and a few dishes were on the table. The door on the
+inside was secured by a heavy bar which fell into a strong socket, the
+bar being fastened by a stout padlock.
+
+Zibe Turner spoke: "Miss LeMonde, dis cabin is to be yer hum for a
+while. My sister is to be comp'ny for ye, an' also yer guard. No harm
+is to cum to ye, if ye do what ye air told. I'm goin' to leave now, an'
+sis'll tend to yer wants. Good-night to bof uv you'uns."
+
+With this he left the cabin, and drove away.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+The Search.
+
+
+As the time for the evening meal was approaching at Judge LeMonde's
+mansion, his wife said to him: "I wonder what is keeping Viola so long
+today. She told me before starting, she would be home by sundown, and
+it surely is time she were back."
+
+The Judge responded: "Do not be alarmed. She may have been kept longer
+than she expected at some of the places she visited. The days are very
+long now, and the twilight lingers. Besides, there will be moonlight
+tonight and if they are delayed they can easily see their way over the
+big road by the light of the moon. Mose is a trustworthy fellow and we
+know he is a careful driver."
+
+At this time Nora knocked at the door, announcing that supper was
+ready. Madam LeMonde was not fully at ease, but went with the rest to
+the dining-room. The repast was rather a quiet one, and when it was
+finished dusk had fully settled over the valley. The Judge and his wife
+went to the piazza and looked down the plantation private way, but
+could see no sign of carriage or horses. They together walked to the
+large gate which opened on the county road, opening the gate, and went
+the short distance to the river road along which the returning carriage
+would come. They stood and strained their eyes looking down the
+highway, but could discern no vehicle of any kind approaching.
+
+For some time they stood looking and listening, and then returned to
+the house. Now they were anxious indeed; and so was their son George
+who had been to the barn on some business with one of the hostlers.
+
+Madam LeMonde exclaimed: "What can be keeping them? Surely some
+accident or harm has befallen them. Viola would never stay away from
+home as late as this unless she had company with her. I am very nervous
+and disturbed. What can we do?"
+
+George spoke up and said: "Do not be distressed, mother. If the
+carriage does not come in a few minutes, I will get Velox and ride
+along the road to meet it and to be of help, if it is needed."
+
+"Do so, my son, for this will help to relieve me of suspense," said his
+mother.
+
+They waited until it was quite dark, for the moon had not yet risen,
+though it would show itself presently. Then George decided to go at
+once. Hurrying to the barn, he saddled and bridled his noble horse and
+instantly went along the road, his horse trotting rapidly.
+
+About five miles down the road George met Mose coming in the phaeton,
+but Viola was missing. Terribly anxious for the safety of his sister,
+the white man asked the slave what had happened.
+
+Mose was still somewhat dizzy from the blow he had received from the
+monster dwarf and his fall on the root of the oak, but he told the
+story as far as he knew, and added some particulars about himself.
+
+He said he lay for a long time unconscious by the side of the country
+road, but at last his senses came back to him. His head pained him very
+much, and a great swelling was over his right eye. In the dim light he
+saw the horses hitched under the tree.
+
+He tried to rise from the ground, but found it impossible at first.
+After making a number of attempts, he managed to get up on his feet and
+went to the phaeton reeling like a drunken man. He untied the horses
+and almost fell into the seat. He managed, however, to keep the horses
+in the road and drove them as best he could till he met "Mas'r George."
+
+George considered whether it were better for him to ride furiously
+after the outlaws, or to return to the plantation with Mose. He chose
+the latter course, and before a great while they came up the private
+way to the mansion.
+
+The Judge and his wife, and indeed the whole household, were anxiously
+awaiting them. When the phaeton drove up and no Viola in it, Madam
+LeMonde became hysterical and almost fainted. She screamed: "Where is
+my daughter? Where is she? What has happened to her? Tell me quickly."
+
+The Judge was compelled to quiet his wife before he could hear the
+story of his daughter's abduction.
+
+The group returned into the house. Entering the sitting-room they
+discussed what was best to be done. The Judge requested his son George
+to ride as fast as possible to the county seat, arouse the sheriff and
+ask him to select a posse as soon as he was able, to search for the
+missing girl. This George proceeded to do. He rushed to the barn and
+mounting a fresh horse set off at all speed on his errand.
+
+Judge LeMonde hastily wrote some notes containing a brief account of
+his daughter's seizure and, entrusting them to his most faithful
+slaves, instructed them to deliver the notes to those addressed. These
+were his most intimate neighbors and friends in the valley. He
+requested them to meet him at "Mount Pisgah" early in the morning.
+
+As the Judge could do no more that night he suggested that they retire
+to their rooms, and seek rest. This they did, but no sleep came to him
+nor to his wife that night. Their thoughts were with the girl:
+
+"Where is she? Have they murdered her? What could be their object in
+carrying her away? Was it revenge? How difficult it will be to find
+her. But Oh! that morning would come, so that the attempt can be made!"
+
+Thus they beat the walls of darkness with unavailing questions, and
+even their prayers were mixed with natural forebodings and fears.
+
+With the first dawn of day Nora, who also had passed a restless night,
+awoke the fat cook (for she in spite of sympathy for the family had
+slept soundly) and asked her to get coffee and toast as quickly as
+possible. This was soon prepared, and the Judge and his wife drank the
+stimulant and ate a little toast.
+
+Presently thereafter the neighbors began to arrive. They were greatly
+affected by the foul deed, and vowed the direst punishment upon the
+outlaws in case they were captured. They offered to the family every
+assistance in their power. They spoke comforting words to the afflicted
+Judge, who showed the marks of his mental anguish and sleepless night
+in his haggard face. They sent their respects to Madam LeMonde, who was
+too prostrated to see them at this time.
+
+When all were arrived it was decided to await the coming of the sheriff
+and posse when all would go to the spot where Viola was taken, and from
+that point scour the wilderness under the sheriff's lead.
+
+The sun was not high in the heavens when the sheriff and a company of
+eight determined-looking men rode up to the mansion. No words were
+wasted. All were eager to depart. The leader ordered the company and
+planters to fall in, and away they went with swift pace toward the
+place they sought. Judge LeMonde and George rode with the sheriff.
+Mose, nearly recovered from his hurt, was in the company as guide.
+
+They came to the place where the carriage was stopped, and Mose took
+time to point to the very spot where his head came in contact with the
+root of the oak. They followed the road along which Sam Wiles went with
+the struggling Viola in his arms. They turned to the right, and saw the
+hoof prints of the horses the marauders had hidden with the wagon in
+the brush.
+
+Examining the road carefully (a road very little traveled) they saw
+wagon tracks which might have been those made by the wagon in which the
+kidnappers sat with their victim.
+
+Suspecting that the men would go first to the cabin of Zibe Turner,
+they went to this house, and found the old mother at home. From her
+they could get no satisfaction. She denied that she had seen Viola
+LeMonde lately. Shaking her bony arm at the Judge and the rest, she
+commanded them to begone from her premises.
+
+The searchers, leaving the enclosure, rode a short distance into the
+woods and there stopped. They decided to follow the flight as before by
+means of the horse hoof and wagon tracks. This they did, but soon the
+way became merely a path, and then the path ended in the unmarked
+woodland.
+
+All trace of the fugitives was thus lost. The sheriff then divided his
+company into parties of two men each, and sent them in different
+directions in such a manner as to cover as much ground as possible.
+Before dismissing them, he told them to search diligently the ground
+traversed, especially the wildest and deepest parts of the hills. They
+were to ride their horses when the way permitted, otherwise to go on
+foot.
+
+Not one of these men needed urging. They were all fired with a grim
+determination to find if possible the place where the beautiful captive
+was imprisoned. They took no account of their own personal affairs, of
+hunger and fatigue, of the difficulties of travel through the uncleared
+forests. The clothing of some became torn with briers and sharp rocks,
+their shoes were damaged with stones, fallen limbs, muck and mire.
+Their hands were pierced by many thorns, as they pushed their way
+through the wilderness.
+
+The first day passed without finding any trace of the missing maiden.
+
+Where was Jasper Very while these thrilling events were taking place?
+As we have intimated, he had gone to a distant part of the county to
+hold a two days' meeting. All unconscious of the terrible evil that had
+fallen upon his betrothed, he was pursuing his Master's work with his
+accustomed zeal and success.
+
+Before leaving home to visit her mission school people Viola had
+informed her mother of the new and intimate relations existing between
+Jasper Very and herself. The mother was much pleased with the
+engagement and, woman like, could not keep the news from her husband.
+She told him the story. He also was pleased with the information. The
+night he sent word to his neighbors of the abduction he wrote a longer
+note to Jasper Very, acquainting him of the villainous occurrence. This
+message he sent to the preacher by a trustful servant, Joshua.
+
+The servant rode through the night, but did not reach the village till
+the middle of the next morning. Horse and man were very much exhausted.
+The eight o'clock meeting was just closing and the preaching service
+was about to begin, when Joshua rode up to the little meeting-house.
+Jasper, looking through the open door, saw Joshua, whom he knew as one
+of Judge LeMonde's slaves.
+
+Thinking something was wrong, Jasper hurried from the church and spoke
+to the messenger. Joshua gave him the note. As he read its contents, a
+heavy groan escaped his lips and he almost fell to the ground. With a
+tremendous effort at self-control, but with tears coursing down his
+manly cheeks, he said to Joshua: "Man, you and your horse are very
+tired. A livery stable is just around the corner. Put up your horse
+there, and the owner will tell you where you can get food and rest."
+
+He then went into the church and said: "Friends, I have just received
+news which is very urgent, requiring my presence in another part of the
+county. I am sorry I cannot preach here this morning, but I must be
+excused, and I will ask the Rev. Irby Trynor kindly to take my place."
+With these words he hurried from the building, and going to the stable
+of his stopping-place, quickly put saddle and bridle on trusty Bob, and
+rode like a Jehu in the direction of "Mount Pisgah."
+
+Darkness was settling on the river bottom when Jasper Very came along
+the road passing by Judge LeMonde's plantation. Riding to the corner he
+turned to the right, went up the county road to the big gate, opened
+it, and passed up to the piazza. The Judge and George had returned from
+their unsuccessful search a half hour before. The planters had gone
+home for the night, promising to renew the hunt next morning. The
+sheriff and his men were accommodated at various houses, some stopping
+at "Mount Pisgah."
+
+As Jasper dismounted the Judge himself met him. For a moment the two
+strong men could find no words to speak. They shook hands together and
+looked the sorrow they felt. Then the Judge invited Jasper into the
+house, ordering a servant to take Bob to the barn. Jasper was most
+anxious to know all the particulars of the case, and the Judge told him
+every detail. Their tired, hungry bodies craved some refreshments which
+were served to them, and soon they went to their rooms to seek that
+rest which the strenuous efforts of the morrow required.
+
+In the quiet of his room Jasper had a great fight with his own heart.
+Fierce temptations assailed him. He would have vengeance. If he found
+those atrocious men he would kill them, if he could. His feelings found
+vent in some of the imprecatory psalms. Such cattle as Wiles and Turner
+were not fit to live; they polluted the earth upon which they stood. If
+arrested, they should suffer the direst penalties of the law.
+
+But after this paroxysm had spent itself, his feeling became calmer.
+Prayer, like a healing balm, came to his aid. He was able to commit
+even this trial to the wisdom and help of almighty God.
+
+Thus he found repose in sleep, and in the morning arose with a clear
+mind, a refreshed body, and a preparation for the heavy duties of the
+day.
+
+That day the search was renewed with the same vigor as yesterday, but
+even with the help of Very, who passed through the wilderness like a
+tornado, the hiding place of the desperadoes was not discovered.
+
+The searchers returned to their abodes well nigh exhausted and
+discouraged. Judge LeMonde requested Jasper Very to pass the night at
+"Mount Pisgah," and this the preacher did.
+
+After supper they were sitting on the piazza going over the incidents
+of the day, and planning what course they would best take on the
+morrow, when one of them, looking in the direction of the big gate, saw
+a light shining apparently on one of its posts. He called the attention
+of the rest to it. They wondered what it could mean. It could not be a
+firefly. It was not the light of a lantern in the hands of some one
+walking; the light was too steady. The Judge said to George: "My son,
+run down the lane, and see what that light means." George needed no
+urging, but at once went with swift pace to the gate. There he beheld a
+lighted candle stuck on the top of the right post of the gate. Below
+the candle was a piece of paper tied with a string, and the string made
+fast to the post.
+
+George brought both candle and paper to the group on the piazza. The
+Judge took the paper into the sitting room. On the paper was some
+writing done with a sprawling hand. He had some difficulty in
+deciphering it, but at last made out its contents. This is how it read:
+
+    "judg lemond yer Dater iz wel and in Gud hans. You must gib 1000
+    dollars in Gold and She wil kum hum put Mony in Holler Tre whar
+    Riber Bens 4 mile belo bridge-water nex Mundy Eve. If de Man Who
+    Kums for de Gold gits shot or tuk yer Dater wil dy.
+
+    "Sind Po Wite."
+
+Judge LeMonde was some time deciphering the note. When he understood
+it, he called the sheriff and the other men into the room, and read
+aloud the writing. At once a council was held. The Judge said:
+"Evidently the bandits have put the time of payment next Monday evening
+to give me opportunity to get the money from the bank. Sheriff, what do
+you advise?"
+
+The officer thought deeply for a while, and then answered: "Those are
+very desperate and determined men. Their reason for abducting your
+daughter is now plain--it was for ransom. Of course, Judge, you do not
+put one thousand dollars in the scale against Miss Viola's life. It is
+outrageous to think of gratifying the wishes of those scoundrels, but I
+am afraid it must be done, if we cannot circumvent them before that
+time. We have still tomorrow and Monday to continue the search. Perhaps
+we can discover their hiding place in these two days."
+
+Jasper Very said: "We must be more diligent, if possible, than before
+in seeking the captive. Tomorrow is the Sabbath, but I feel it my duty
+to give up all my church engagements to help find the missing one."
+
+"Tomorrow," added the sheriff, "we will cover new territory in the
+forest, and let us hope for success."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+The Rescue.
+
+
+While the men at "Mount Pisgah" were planning how to deliver Viola from
+her captors, Mart Spink, father of Susanna, the girl with the wonderful
+eyes, was down with a severe chill in his cabin among the hills. Cold
+shivers ran up and down his back, as though a lizard shod with ice were
+making a playground of it. Then the cold struck his head, and his teeth
+began to chatter worse than if he were climbing "Greenland's icy
+mountains." Soon his whole body was in a frigid state which made him
+cry out for bedclothes, and more bedclothes, and still more blankets
+and quilts. He shook so with his chilly sensations that the bedclothes
+above him were in perpetual motion, and the mattress under him was
+agitated with the motions of his body. Then came on the terrible fever,
+which was worse than the chill, as the pain of fire is harder to bear
+than the cold of ice. Poor Spink seemed to be burning up. A dreadful
+headache seized him, which was only a little relieved when his wife
+applied cloths wrung out of cold water to his forehead. After some
+hours came the great sweat, which saturated his night shirt and a
+portion of his pillow and bedclothes.
+
+This attack was so violent it bordered on a "congestive chill," which
+the settlers knew to be very dangerous. His wife waited upon him all
+night, not wishing to keep the children up, and in the morning he was
+very weak and she much worn.
+
+Susanna rose early and took the pail to milk Brindle. What was her
+surprise to find the barn door open, and when she looked into the
+building she saw that their young horse, Chester, was missing. He had
+pushed the barn door ajar and disappeared. She dropped her pail, ran
+into the house, and told her mother the news. Mrs. Spink thought it
+best to inform her husband of the occurrence, though he was still quite
+ill.
+
+Spink spoke from his bed: "That hoss has prob'ly went back to his old
+hum. You'uns knows I bought him of a feller away back on de knobs. Sum
+one must go find 'im. I can't go, nuther can yer ma. Elmiry an' the
+boys must do the chores. So, Susanna, you must get Maud out'n de barn,
+an' go after de hoss. It's a long trip, an' I'm sorry ye hav ter go.
+Take a snack (food) with yer, fer ye'll git hungry."
+
+Susanna replied: "Don't be troubled, pa. I can ride as good as a man. I
+will gladly go, and try my best to find Chester." Her marvelous eyes
+shone with a brilliant light, and in a few minutes she was gone.
+
+The girl's quest for the horse might have reminded her of Saul's search
+for his father's asses, had she been better acquainted with the Bible.
+As Saul failed to discover the animals, but found a kingdom, so the
+maid did not find the horse, Chester, but discovered a startling
+situation.
+
+Her way led by Zibe Turner's cabin, then to the knob, and along its
+side, ever up toward the former home of the horse. When she had nearly
+reached the top she came to the little open space containing the hut in
+which Viola LeMonde was imprisoned.
+
+There was an old well by the hut, but its sweep had rotted down, and
+the water was stagnant and unfit to drink. Hence, Elmira Turner, the
+guard of Viola, was compelled to go to a spring one-eighth of a mile
+distant to get pure water. Having barred the cabin on the outside, she
+was on such a trip when Susanna rode up.
+
+The rider, with a girl's curiosity, came to the hut to look it over.
+Viola heard the horse's tread and, looking between two logs from which
+the chinks had fallen, saw her young friend. "Susanna, dear," she
+cried, greatly excited, "Sam Wiles and Zibe Turner have taken me by
+force and brought me here. My guard, Elmira Turner, has gone to the
+spring for water. Ride as fast as you can, and tell my father or some
+other friend of my whereabouts."
+
+Susanna was surprised beyond measure at the discovery, and her heavenly
+eyes glowed like two stars.
+
+"O my dear teacher," she exclaimed, "I have heard that you were carried
+away. I wanted to help in the search but was not able. This is awful. I
+will ride back as quick as possible, and try to find some one to come
+to aid you."
+
+With this she turned her horse about, and applied whip and spur to
+Maud. Regardless of obstructions frequently in her path--fallen limbs,
+saplings growing close together, bushes coming to the breast of her
+steed, springy soil and uneven ground--she rode with a swift pace. Her
+dark hair streamed behind her. With firm hands she held the reins, and
+her bright eyes traced the direction to take and also looked for some
+of the searchers.
+
+She was riding through a thick wood, tolerably free from underbrush,
+when she was overjoyed to see Jasper Very riding toward her on his well
+known horse, Bob. The preacher showed the marks of his exertions. His
+face was flushed, his hair never very amenable to brush and comb, was
+rumpled by contact with bushes, twigs and leaves. He was moving along
+swiftly, ever looking for some signs which would lead him to his
+beloved. He had become separated from his companion, John Larkin.
+
+Susanna and Jasper saw each other about the same time, and in a trice
+their horses were face to face. Almost breathless with hard riding and
+excitement the girl told what she had learned.
+
+The preacher was affected as though a current of electricity had passed
+through his body. For a minute he was too bewildered to think, but by
+an effort of will he became somewhat more calm and considered what was
+best to be done.
+
+He said: "Susanna, how can we thank you enough for this information?
+God bless you for bringing it to me. Now ride as rapidly as possible to
+your home and ask your father please to loan us a horse and buggy.
+Bring them along the road as far as you can with ease. If I get Miss
+Viola out of the hut, I will give her a place on Bob's back, and we
+will ride till we meet the buggy. Is it possible for you to direct me
+to the hut?"
+
+"Yes, Mr. Very. When I returned, thinking I might have to act as pilot
+to the cabin I kept the way in my mind, and I think I can tell you
+pretty well how to go." She then indicated the route in considerable
+detail, and Jasper was sure he could find the place.
+
+What deep emotions stirred his breast as he hurried forward! He knew
+that his darling was alive. This was a great satisfaction. But she was
+in dire peril. He must rescue her at once at all hazards. He would dare
+the danger alone, for the searchers being scattered through the
+wilderness, there was no one to whom he could look for help.
+
+He had learned that Elmira Turner, the monster dwarf's sister, was
+guarding Viola, and he rightly supposed that Sam Wiles or the dwarf
+would picket the hut most of the time.
+
+Without any great difficulty Jasper Very followed the route given him
+by Susanna. At last he saw a little before him the opening in the
+forest of which he had been told. He dismounted from Bob, and hid him
+in a thicket. Then he cautiously crept forward and, coming to the edge
+of the clearing, screened himself behind a big walnut tree and
+reconnoitered the surroundings. The coast seemed clear. He walked
+quickly to the door of the hut and said in a loud voice: "Viola, Jasper
+is here, and has come to take you home. I find the door is locked on
+the inside, but not the outside. Can you unfasten the door?"
+
+"O Jasper," said Viola, "the woman with me holds the key to the lock,
+and she will not give it to me."
+
+"No, indeed, I'll not," said Elmira Turner, "an' I defy you to git in.
+My brother'll be here soon, an' if you want to save yer hide, it will
+be healthy for you to make yo'self sca'se right off."
+
+"Woman," shouted Very, "if you will not unlock the door I'll break it
+down."
+
+"Try it," said she.
+
+Jasper did try. He was the strongest man in the county, and it seemed
+that now the strength of ten men was given him.
+
+The door was made of thick oak. The cabin may have been built extra
+strong to shelter some former inmates, if attacked by Indians. But at
+this time the door was weakened by age and exposure to the elements;
+also it was somewhat worm eaten.
+
+Jasper put his right shoulder to the door, and pushed with all his
+might. The door cracked a little, but did not break. He took the broken
+well sweep and, using the larger end (which contained some sound wood)
+as a battering ram, fiercely assaulted the obstruction. This weakened
+the structure, but it did not yield. Then Jasper, summoning all his
+mighty strength, hurled himself against the door, and it fell in with a
+crash.
+
+He at once passed inside the hut. Taking hold of Viola, he was leading
+her to the opening, when Elmira Turner, seized hold of the girl to keep
+her in the room. A struggle ensued. Jasper did not want to strike the
+Turner woman or treat her roughly. So he was compelled to force Viola
+from her grasp by main strength. This he did, and taking his betrothed
+in his arms, stepped out into the sunlight.
+
+Just then the sound of a shot rang out on the stillness of the summer
+air, and Viola became limp and apparently lifeless in her lover's arms.
+
+Zibe Turner, the monster dwarf, had come to the clearing in the nick of
+time. He saw the open door. He beheld the rescuer bearing out the
+captive in his arms. Murder sprang up at once in his heart. He decided
+to kill the preacher then and there. This he had wanted to do for a
+long time. But the excitement of the occasion and his own dreadful hate
+unsteadied his nerves a trifle. When putting his rifle to his shoulder,
+he aimed at Very's heart, crying out: "Dat's my holt!" The bullet
+missed its mark, and entered the right shoulder of the lovely Viola.
+
+When the dwarf saw the unexpected result of his shot, even his
+resolution failed him, and he proceeded no further with his murderous
+work.
+
+Jasper Very looked down on the senseless form of his beloved, and cried
+out in the bitter agony of his soul: "My God, my God, why hast thou
+forsaken me?"
+
+Holding her as he would a little child in his arms, he strode out of
+the clearing. Quickly coming to his horse, Bob, he unhitched his rein,
+and holding the unconscious girl tenderly but firmly in his left arm,
+he swung into the saddle.
+
+With anguish in his soul and unaccustomed tears in his blue eyes, he
+pressed one kiss upon the pale lips of her who was dearer to him than
+life. Holding her in as comfortable position as possible, he started
+down the knob.
+
+Viola gave little if any signs of life. She was wholly unconscious, her
+face was as pale as death, her eyes were closed, there was no
+perceptible pulse.
+
+Jasper rode as carefully as possible, but was a considerable time
+reaching the more open section of the country. At last he came to the
+very primitive road along which he had not ridden far, when he beheld
+approaching the horse and buggy he had requested Susanna to get.
+
+Susanna was the driver, and was amazed at what she saw--her Sunday
+School teacher lying like one dead on the preacher's arm.
+
+Time was too precious for many words of explanation, and it was the
+work of only a minute or two to place Viola in the buggy, and for
+Jasper to get in beside her. Susanna rode Bob.
+
+Jasper Very's plan was to take the wounded maiden to Mart Spink's
+house, and then to hurry for medical help, if she were living.
+
+Driving as rapidly as was consistent with the seriousness of the case,
+they at last reached the home of Susanna. The daughter rushed into the
+house and told her mother the tragic story in brief. The woman was
+greatly shocked, and at once went to the buggy and told Jasper Very
+that Viola could be put into a bedroom adjoining the one in which her
+husband lay. Mart Spink was much better now. Such is the way of chills
+and fever.
+
+Jasper, seeing faint signs of life in Viola, left her to the tender
+ministries of Mrs. Spink and Susanna, while he rode with all haste for
+a doctor who lived several miles away.
+
+The women undressed the patient, and put her into the bed. They bathed
+her wound, and bandaged it as best they could. Fortunately it had not
+bled excessively.
+
+In due time the physician, who was also a surgeon, came. He probed for
+the ball, and succeeded in extracting it. He gave those restoratives
+and remedies which the state of medicine in those days and in that
+region warranted. He ordered that the patient be kept perfectly quiet,
+and that no persons but her mother (who became her nurse) and Mrs.
+Spink should enter the room.
+
+For days and weeks the life of the lovely girl hung in an even balance.
+Great was the interest which this calamity aroused in the whole country
+around. The news of the shooting spread with great rapidity. By night
+all the searchers had heard of it, and as the kidnaped maiden was found
+and restored to friends, their work in that particular was done, and
+most of them returned to their homes.
+
+As the golden autumn days came Viola gained a little strength and was
+able to be moved to "Mount Pisgah." Here Jasper and her intimate
+friends were permitted to see her for short periods. Her face was as
+white as the pillow upon which she lay. Her blue eyes had lost their
+bright, but not their kind and loving, look. Her golden hair was still
+beautiful, and it seemed an aureole around her head.
+
+One bright day she felt able to hold a longer conversation than before
+with her betrothed. Very sat by the bedside, holding the thin white
+hand. The slender finger could scarce retain the beautiful engagement
+ring her lover had given her.
+
+"Jasper, dear," she said, "how happy I am that I received the cruel
+ball instead of you. All the suffering I have gladly borne for your
+sake. Yes, and if it were my lot to be an invalid while life lasts, I
+would willingly bear the burden, knowing that by the cross I suffer my
+beloved is able in the full strength of his manhood to preach the
+gospel and minister to the wants of human souls. So there are
+compensations in all the ills of life."
+
+"My precious one," said the preacher, "your words are those of her who
+lives very near the heart of God. The finest thing in the world is
+sacrifice and suffering for the benefit of others. But you must put far
+away the idea of being a constant invalid. Gradually you are regaining
+your health, and before long we shall see you as lively and jolly as
+ever. By Christmas time I want to behold roses in your cheeks, and see
+you skip about like a roe upon the mountains. Keep up a brave, trustful
+spirit, and I believe all will be well."
+
+He kissed his betrothed tenderly, stroked her beautiful hair, and
+retired from the room.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+A Battle With Moonshiners.
+
+
+Sam Wiles and Zibe Turner, the monster dwarf, were not captured by the
+sheriff and his men. For a number of days after the wounding of Viola
+LeMonde the officers and others kept a sharp watch on the cabins of
+both outlaws, and tried to find them in some of the fastnesses of the
+hills. But the bandits were too cunning for them. They seldom dared to
+enter their homes, but spent most of their time in the open or in the
+shelter of the cave where the illicit whisky was made. Some of their
+confederates were usually near them, ready to give them warning of any
+officer's approach.
+
+At last the climax came. It was a hot evening in mid-August. Judge
+LeMonde was sitting under the pine trees, attempting to catch any
+breeze which might blow from the river when, looking down the road
+leading to the big gate, he saw a woman approaching.
+
+It was Jemima Sneath, and she was evidently laboring under great
+excitement. Her eyes were deep sunken and glowed like coals of fire.
+They showed what was in her heart--jealousy, hate, anger, recklessness,
+courage, determination. Her thick black hair was loosely put together,
+stray locks falling here and there about her face and neck.
+
+"Jedge LeMonde," she said, "I am Jemima Sneath, and I live back in de
+hills. I hev somethin' I wish to tell you. Can I see you by yerself?"
+
+"Certainly, my good woman," replied the Judge, "let me lead you into my
+private office."
+
+When they were seated Jemima began her story: "Jedge, I have cum to you
+for revenge. For more'n two years I have bin Sam Wiles' gal, and a year
+ago he promised to marry me. I have bin true to 'im and bin willin' to
+set de day any time. But lately his love for me has growd cold, and he
+has bin goin' with annoder gal in de hills. Yisterday dis gal and I met
+and had sum words, and she up and tol' me that Sam Wiles had left me
+for her. With dis I sprung upon her like a wild cat and tore her
+clothes, scratched her face, and pulled part of her hair out by de
+roots. Den I left her and marched straight to Sam's cabin, and asked im
+if wat de gal said was true. He said it war, dat he had lost his luv
+for me and put it on Kate Sawyer. Sumthing like a knife seemed to cut
+my heart, and I wanted to die. I left Sam Wiles, sayin': 'Sam, good-by
+forever; you have broke my heart, and I'll break yourn.'"
+
+Here the woman's emotions overcame her, and she would have fallen from
+her chair had not Judge LeMonde caught her. He hastened to a table and,
+filling a glass with water, brought it to her. This revived her, and
+again she sat up straight with the blazing fire in her eyes.
+
+The Judge tried to comfort her, saying: "Be composed, woman, and finish
+your story, and I will help you all I am able."
+
+Jemima replied: "I did not cum here to git help, but revenge. Sam
+Wiles, Zibe Turner, and der crowd have bin busy for a long time makin'
+'licit whisky. I know whar dey make and store it, and I'm willin' to
+tell you'uns how to git to de place."
+
+"To discover where their still is will greatly please the revenue
+officers," said Judge LeMonde, "but won't you get yourself into trouble
+if you tell on your friends?"
+
+"Dey ain't my friens'," she fiercely replied. "I cast off de hull lot;
+and as to trouble nuthin' can't be so hard to bear as de load I carries
+now. I wish in my soul I war dead."
+
+Again her feelings almost overcame her; but the Judge spoke kindly to
+her, and in a few minutes she recovered her composure once more. He
+then requested her to continue her story.
+
+"Dey make der whisky in Wind Cave," she said and proceeded to describe
+its location as recorded in a former chapter. "To capture de 'shiners
+and de whisky de officers must 'sprise both openin's to onct," she
+continued.
+
+The Judge asked: "Would you be willing to tell me how to find the two
+ways into the cave?"
+
+"I would tell anything to git even with Sam Wiles," was the reply.
+
+"I am sure the capture of these lawbreakers will be a blessing to all
+this part of Kentucky," remarked Judge LeMonde, "but I am sorry for the
+reason you have to tell where they may be found."
+
+At this point he got writing material and, asking the woman clearly to
+describe the way to the cave's mouths, he wrote as she dictated. We
+will write the account in her own words: "De big openin' is 'bout
+twenty feet below de top of Bald Knob. You'uns 'member you'uns kin see
+from de knob's foot his bald head, whar is great rocks and not ary
+trees. Well, de cave's mouf is in er straight line below dat twenty
+feet. To fin' de odder openin' you'uns walk from de rocky head of de
+knob 'long his backbone east for 'bout one hundred feet, and you'uns
+cum to a tall poplar tree. Go down de hill to de souf fifteen feet, and
+you'uns'll find a thicket full of brambles, bushes, and leaves. De hole
+is dar, covered with underbrush and leaves."
+
+Having thanked her for the important information given, Judge LeMonde
+courteously led her to the door and bade her good evening.
+
+Early next morning he took steps to profit by what he had heard. He
+sent his son George to tell Jasper Very the news while he himself rode
+to the county seat to notify the sheriff and revenue officers of the
+outlaw's rendezvous. That very day a keen, trusted employee of the
+government was deputed to go over the ground and learn whether the
+woman's story were true or false. In a day or two he reported that he
+had discovered the two openings to the cave. It was known that the
+attempt to capture the moonshiners would be dangerous. They were
+fearless, desperate men, well armed. It would require skill and courage
+to take them.
+
+The sheriff and chief revenue officers, knowing that the moonshiners
+were so formidable in arms, numbers, and location, were anxious to have
+as large an attacking party as possible. Hence they were glad when Long
+Tom, Jasper Very, honest David Hester and his sons, Hans Schmidt, the
+German, John Larkin, George LeMonde, and others were sworn in as
+constables.
+
+Long Tom's case was peculiar. We will let him put it in his own
+drawling tones: "Friens, it am like dis. Though I has bin a Christian
+for months, I could not bring myself to gib away de hidin' places of my
+ol' pals. It looked too much like treachery and betrayal. P'raps I'm
+wrong but, if so, you'uns will pardon me. But now de case am diffrunt.
+Thar hidin' place am knowd, an' it is for de good of de neighborhood
+an' der own good dat dese men should be caught an' der bizness brok up,
+an' I'm willin' to be one to bring dis about. So I jine yer company,
+not to kill dose men, but to try to save der souls."
+
+It was decided to divide the attacking company into two parts, one to
+approach the large opening of the cave and the other the smaller one.
+Larkin, Grimes and the Hester men were with the former crowd, and Long
+Tom, Jasper Very, George LeMonde, and Hans Schmidt with the latter. All
+felt that the best way to begin the attack was to take the moonshiners
+by surprise, and it was thought that early morning was the most
+favorable hour, when the outlaws would probably be asleep.
+
+Soon after midnight of a Wednesday morning the men gathered noiselessly
+at the knob's base, having left their horses far up the road. Just as
+the first streaks of day were appearing the two groups of men about one
+hundred feet apart began climbing the steep elevation. The slope was
+fully forty-five degrees, and in some parts much steeper. The men had
+to brace their feet against trees and saplings, and near the top to
+pull themselves up by holding on to branches of trees and shrubs above
+them.
+
+At last the larger party reached the level, which, extending inward,
+formed the floor of the cave. The revenue officer peered over the top
+and saw a man with a rifle by his side asleep with his back braced
+against a wall. He was near the cave's mouth. Farther he could dimly
+behold the forms of men lying along the sides of the cave. A smoldering
+fire was beneath the still, which stood some fifteen feet from the
+entrance.
+
+The officer gave the signal to advance, and sprang upon the ledge with
+several others. At the same instant the sleeping sentinel awoke, taking
+in the situation at a glance, seized his rifle and attempted to fire
+it; but before he could do so the revenue officer was upon him like a
+tiger upon his prey. Though he could prevent the firing, he could not
+control the voice, and the man gave one mighty shout, which awoke every
+sleeper as though the crack of doom had come. They all sprang up in
+amazement and confusion, and just at this moment the leader called out,
+"Surrender!" The attacking party, close to their commander's heels,
+rushed into the cave, and before the outlaws could offer resistance
+sprang upon them and overpowered most of them.
+
+But Wiles, Turner, and a few others were not to be caught so easily.
+They were sleeping farther in the cave, and, though awakened so
+suddenly, did not lose their wits and nerve. They jumped to their feet,
+and the answer they gave to the summons to surrender was a blaze of
+rifles, with an instant retreat into the darkness of the cave. The
+noise of the rifles' discharge reverberated in the cavern like repeated
+rolls of thunder.
+
+The leader's hat was pierced by a ball, one of his deputies fell shot
+through the lungs, and honest Hester's second son, Edward, shot through
+the brain, sank at his father's feet a corpse.
+
+Before the echoes of these shots died away another volley rang out,
+fired into the darkness at the retreating outlaws. It wounded two or
+three of them, but most escaped, having turned a corner of the cave
+before the bullets struck.
+
+Those unhurt, led by Wiles and Turner, made their way as fast as
+possible through the darkness to the second opening, for they had no
+idea that this too had been made known to their pursuers. It was their
+intention to rush into the forest and then, scattering in several
+directions, to elude pursuit, and thus escape. Their very precipitency
+saved some of them in this way. The second company was in its place
+near the second opening when the men heard the shots of the first
+attack. Rightly surmising that the moonshiners would try to escape
+through the second aperture, the men on guard were ready to fire; but
+they were not prepared to see the renegades rush through the underbrush
+so swiftly, and, not wishing to shoot them down in cold blood, the
+leader called: "Halt! Halt! Surrender!"
+
+The outlaws were startled by the cry; but, being desperate, most of
+them gave no heed to the words. Bending low, they ran with great
+rapidity to the shelter of the great tree trunks which rose everywhere
+around. However, some were too late, and the volley which was fired
+slew several and wounded others.
+
+Wiles, Turner, and three others succeeded in getting behind trees
+without being injured. The monster dwarf was terrible to behold. He had
+the quickness of a cat and the fury of a lion. Though the odds were so
+much against him and the rest, he yelled defiance at the revenue men
+and volunteers, and cursed them with bitter oaths. They resorted to
+Indian tactics. They shot from behind trees at any man in sight, and
+soon had wounded a number. However, the struggle was unequal, for the
+revenue officer sent his men out in the form of a fan, and thus they
+would soon have succeeded in making an enfilading fire upon the
+moonshiners; and the latter could not retreat rapidly, because in
+running from tree to tree they were in danger of being shot. Besides,
+in a short time their ammunition was exhausted, and they were at the
+mercy of their pursuers. When called upon to surrender, all but Wiles
+and Turner complied. These refused.
+
+Then spoke Long Tom with his well known drawl: "Pardners, it would be
+nuthin' but murder to kill defenseless men, an' I move dat we'uns
+surround 'em an' bind 'em an' tote 'em off to jail."
+
+This advice was heeded, and Long Tom was the first to move forward. The
+monster dwarf stood like a wild beast at bay with his clubbed rifle in
+his hand. As Long Tom came near he swung it with terrible force,
+attempting to break his adversary's skull; but Tom was too quick and
+the blow passed by. Instantly Long Tom caught the dwarf around the arms
+to hold those members, for he well knew their power. But in a moment
+Turner, like a snake, twisted his right arm loose, and reaching under
+his short coat, drew out a sharp hunting knife, and hissing the words,
+"Traitor! Dat's my holt," between his clenched teeth, drove it into the
+back of the reformed moonshiner.
+
+One man, however, had been on the alert for some dastardly act of the
+dwarf. This was young George LeMonde. Ever since his horse had been
+stolen, and his sister had been kidnapped, he was on his guard against
+this man for himself and his friends. So now, while the struggle
+between the two men was going on, George was standing with his rifle
+ready for use. He saw the flash of the knife, the descending stroke,
+and knowing the design, made his rifle speak, only a moment too late to
+save Long Tom. The bullet sped on its way and penetrated the brain of
+the dwarf, and the two men fell to the ground locked in each other's
+arms.
+
+In the meantime a crowd had surrounded Sam Wiles, who had backed up
+against a giant oak tree and stood holding his rifle by its barrel,
+determined to sell his life as dearly as possible. Again Jasper Very
+became his good angel. In a firm voice he pleaded with his companions
+not to redden their hands with a fellow creature's blood.
+
+However, some resisted his plea. One planter cried: "You saved his
+worthless life once before and said the law would punish him. How has
+he been punished! By shooting down some of our best neighbors. I say a
+bullet ought to let daylight through his onery carcass, and I'll be the
+one to fire it." With this remark he raised his gun to his shoulder and
+pulled the trigger; but before the weapon went off Jasper knocked the
+barrel up in the air, and the lead went flying among the leaves.
+
+"Man, that was a reckless and cowardly act," expostulated Very. "It is
+true Wiles escaped from prison, but he will not do so again. He will be
+more closely guarded, and if he is found guilty of murder, will be
+properly punished." Then, turning to Wiles, he said: "You see, Wiles,
+resistance is useless, and by showing it you will throw your life away.
+ Surely you are not ready for death, and I beseech you to lay down your
+rifle and submit to be made a prisoner."
+
+Life is sweet, even to ruffians at bay, and Wiles, changing his
+decision, made with Turner not to be taken alive, said: "If you fellers
+will not hurt me, I'll put myself in yer hands." The crowd consenting,
+Jasper Very promised that no harm should be done him, and then Wiles
+threw down his weapon and a constable placed handcuffs upon him.
+
+In the fighting Wiles and Turner had become separated more than a
+hundred feet, so that the crowd which arrested Wiles did not know of
+the tragedy by the other tree. When they came up with their prisoner,
+they saw the two men lying in the shade of an oak. Some one had thrown
+a coat over Turner's body.
+
+When Jasper Very looked upon Long Tom, he knew that death was near. His
+eyes were becoming glassy and his sallow cheeks were of an ashen hue.
+That mysterious shadow thrown by the wings of the approaching death
+angel settled on his face. John Larkin was kneeling over him, trying to
+administer what ease and comfort he could. He was suffering great pain,
+but he bore it with utmost patience. Jasper Very was greatly moved at
+the sight. Kneeling by his side, he took his knotted and powerful hand
+in one of his and rubbed it gently with the other. Tears came to his
+eyes as he saw this rough but reclaimed moonshiner in his last agony.
+
+The sufferer spoke, and his naturally slow speech was slower still;
+"Good-by, cumrades, I'm goin' home. Long Tom has lived a wicked life;
+but God is merciful, an' he has put away all my sins. I ax pardon of
+all I hev hurt, an' forgive ary who has harmed me." Then his mind began
+to wander, and he thought himself in the church where he had found
+peace in his soul. "You'uns is right, Preacher Very, whisky makin',
+sellin' an' drinkin' is wrong; and I'll quit it for good frum dis night
+on. O dat sweet music, how good it makes me feel!
+
+    'Jesus, Lover of my soul,
+    Let me to thy bosom fly.
+    Safe into the haven guide,
+    O receive my soul at last.'
+
+"Hush! Dey air singin' ag'in, an' how her sweet voice leads all de rest:
+
+    'Other--refuge--have--I--none;
+    Hangs--my--helpless--soul--on--thee.'
+
+"Dat--is--my--prayer--my--only--hope. Long--Tom
+will--go--home--home--to--God--on--dat--prayer."
+
+He straightened his tall form on the grassy slope under the kindly
+shadow of the mighty oak. A look of peace and pure content came into
+his face, as though he were glad to have his discharge; he gave one
+look through the leafy top of the tree, as if beholding some form in
+the upper air, then slowly closed his eyes. A shiver ran through his
+frame, a gargle in his throat, a gasp from his lips, and all was over.
+
+In low reverent tones John Larkin said: "Blessed are the dead which die
+in the Lord."
+
+Again the captain of the moonshiners, Sam Wiles, was taken to the
+county jail. This time he did not escape. In process of time he and the
+other prisoners were tried for the illicit distilling of whisky, were
+found guilty, and sentenced to the penitentiary at Frankfort for a term
+of years. The charge of murder was not pressed against them. So they
+pass from this history.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+"I Thee Wed."
+
+
+The golden month of September saw Viola much improved in health. Her
+wound had healed nicely, thanks to her strong constitution and to the
+care she had received from the physician and nurse. Now she was rapidly
+convalescing, and as the fine autumn days went by she was able to ride
+in her carriage, and even visit the mission school, though unable to
+teach her class of girls.
+
+By Christmas time the roses had indeed reappeared in her cheeks, and
+her step was almost as elastic as ever. June found her fully restored
+to health. This month was to be forever memorable to her, for her
+wedding to Jasper Very was set for the eighteenth day.
+
+The whole plantation was in a fever of excitement quite a while before
+the event was to transpire. All was bustle and commotion. Every one
+seemed to have a personal interest in the affair. The slaves talked and
+sang about it as they worked in the fields, and renewed the gossip in
+the evening around their cabin doors.
+
+Aunt Nancy, the cook, attired in a dress spotlessly clean, a bright red
+bandanna tied around her head, was more pompous and dictatorial than
+ever. Her helpers had been increased for the event, and she issued her
+commands with a force which would have done credit to a skipper on a
+quarter-deck. Often she scolded those around her, but her anger was
+more apparent than real, and while she smote right and left with one
+hand, with the other soon after she patted and petted the object of her
+wrath.
+
+To her children: "You, Dick and Jim, git away frum under my feet. If
+yo' little niggers don't cl'ar out frum dis room, ah'll beat yer wooly
+heads togedder. How kin Ah see dat dis cake gits jest de right brown,
+if yo' keep askin' me fer cookies an' things! Take dat--boxing their
+ears--an' march out doors."
+
+The boys ducked a second blow, and rushing into the yard, each turned a
+somersault, and grinned the content he felt. Then they began to sing:
+
+    "O Miss Lu! sugar in 'er shoe,
+    Show me de hole whar de hog jump fru."
+
+For days the preparations for the marriage feast went on. Such baking,
+boiling, and every form of cooking, was never seen in "Mount Pisgah"
+before.
+
+Judge and Madam LeMonde had many things to occupy hand and brain, but
+still they gave much thought to the time when they should be parted
+from their only daughter. She and George were the idols of their
+hearts. To lose one from the home even to gain a preacher-son was an
+experience bringing pain and sorrow. Still their judgment confirmed
+the step; for, if they were to have the sadness of separation, they
+were to have the deep satisfaction of giving their daughter to a
+greater service.
+
+Miss Viola was busy most of the time preparing her trousseau. Many of
+the garments were made to order in Lexington, but much fancy work on
+delicate fabrics was done by the bride-to-be.
+
+The great day dawned at last. A holiday had been given to all the
+slaves on the plantation. The Judge decided to spare no expense in
+making the occasion as pleasant as possible. He had instructed his
+black people to have a barbecue at their quarters. Some of our readers
+are benighted as to the meaning of that great word. How shall we
+enlighten their ignorance? Words are insufficient to set forth the joy
+and glory of this feast. We may try our best, but much must be left
+unrecorded.
+
+Two very long wooden tables were stretched on the ground behind the
+slaves' cabins, under the splendid natural forest trees which Kentucky
+boasted. The day before an ox was killed, and a deep pit dug in the
+ground. Early on the eighteenth, the ox was suspended in this hole and
+a great fire lighted under the carcass. There for hours the body
+roasted in its own fat. Besides the ox, succulent roasting pigs were
+cooked whole, chickens were prepared in various ways. All vegetables
+common to the season were gotten ready in unlimited abundance. Bread
+enough for all and much to spare appeared on the tables. Pies and cakes
+of many kinds lay in beautiful companionship with the other good
+things. Steaming coffee in abundance for all was on hand. And plenty of
+"Adam's ale"--pure spring water.
+
+This barbecue feast was to be eaten after the marriage ceremony was
+performed.
+
+The wedding feast for the white folks was spread on tables which had
+been placed under the pine trees some distance east of the great
+mansion. It was impossible to accommodate all the invited guests in the
+dining-room of the house, and Viola decided to have the dinner served
+in the open air under the trees. As to the quality and quantity of this
+feast it is only necessary to say that Aunt Dinah and her satellites
+had been preparing it for days, and the proud cook was intending to
+stake her reputation as to ability on it for all time to come. The
+result was worthy of the effort she had made.
+
+On the morning of the eighteenth came the great event. Let us try to
+picture the scene. It was to be an open air wedding. Viola had
+requested that all the colored people be permitted to witness the
+ceremony. There were hundreds of them, big and little, old and young.
+They were disposed by Mose and others under the pine trees nearest to
+the river.
+
+Grouped nearer to the mansion were the members of the mission school,
+many planters and their families, some guests from Lexington and other
+places. Just by the pavement in front of the piazza a chair had been
+provided for Madam LeMonde.
+
+The principals in the ceremony were in a bedroom upstairs.
+
+And now the strains of a wedding march floats out over the great
+company, played by a pianist from Paducah.
+
+With slow and measured step the wedding party descend the broad
+stairway. We see Susanna Spink walking before. In her hand is a basket
+of magnificent roses. These with leaves of others she strews in the way
+before the approaching persons.
+
+First come George LeMonde, best man, and Miss Stella Nebeker,
+bridesmaid, with her arm linked in his. Then follow arm in arm Rev.
+Jasper Very, bridegroom, and Rev. John Larkin, the officiating
+minister. In the rear we behold the lovely bride, Miss Viola LeMonde,
+beautifully dressed, leaning upon the arm of her father, Judge LeMonde.
+Under the shadow of the pine trees, near the piazza, the wedding
+company take position, and the ceremony begins.
+
+The minister asks: "Who gives the bride away?" The Judge replies: "I
+give the bride away," and he walks to the rear while the bride steps to
+the side of the bridegroom. The ceremony, brief but most impressive, is
+conducted according to the ritual of the church, and the minister
+solemnly pronounces them husband and wife.
+
+Presently the black people under the leadership of Mose and others go
+to their quarters to enjoy the great barbecue feast. The white people
+are invited to take seats around the loaded tables placed under the
+pines trees. As we glance over the company we behold many kind friends
+whom we have met in the course of this narrative. A large number from
+the mission school were there, including the whole Spink family, and
+some members of the Sneath and Wiles families. They were under the care
+of Miss Henrietta Harvey, who was now their capable and devoted
+superintendent.
+
+Jolly Costello Nebeker and his good lady were present. He seemed to
+thrive in every way by running his tavern on cold water principles. His
+hearty, hilarious laugh was as contagious as the measles. Honest David
+Hester and his folks were given seats near the head of the table. The
+other planters were also well represented: Abner Hunt, the fiery little
+man from down river, and Hans Schmidt, the large, fair-faced German,
+with several others. Hiram Sanders, the herculean blacksmith of
+Bridgewater, had a place at the table.
+
+When the great feast was nearly over and ices were being served, Judge
+LeMonde arose and thus spoke: "Dear friends, I do not wish to interrupt
+the meal, neither do I wish to make a speech, only to say that Madam
+LeMonde and myself count this one of the greatest days of our lives. It
+surely has a tinge of sorrow in it but the joy far surpasses the
+sadness. I am very glad indeed to behold you enjoying the felicities of
+the occasion. There is a bit of the program to take place that nobody
+on the grounds knows anything about except Mrs. LeMonde and myself. I
+request at this time that my son George go to the slaves' gathering and
+bring back with him my servant Mose."
+
+Without a moment's hesitation George started to do the errand his
+father asked. By the time the ices had disappeared the white man and
+the black man came on to the lawn. A look of curiosity and wonder
+passed over the company, and all gazed in the direction of the Judge
+and his servant.
+
+As to Mose he was much taken aback. He appeared confused and
+bewildered. He thought it was not possible that his master would blame
+him for neglecting some duty or doing a bad deed on such a day and
+before such a company.
+
+The Judge, calling his servant to come near, arose and said: "I have
+decided on this memorable occasion to repay in some measure the
+devotion and sacrifice of a very faithful and trustworthy servant. I
+have found Mose honest, obedient, kind, and always willing to do his
+part of the work. More than this he has risked his life to protect his
+young mistress from falling into the hands of desperate outlaws.
+Because of this heroic endeavor I have decided, Mose, to set you free.
+I hold in my hand the paper properly made out, and from this hour you
+are free to go where you will. But we do not want to lose you from the
+plantation. If you stay, I will pay you suitable wages for your work. I
+will also give you three acres of good land near the negroes' quarters
+and will build a nice frame house upon it. I am sure my daughter Viola
+will be glad to furnish the house as a reward for the service you
+rendered her. In due time you can bring the young woman to whom you are
+engaged to the house as your bride.
+
+"What do you say, Mose, will you go or stay?"
+
+The poor black man was almost too overcome with emotion to answer a
+word. Tears streamed down his cheeks, and he could scarcely stand.
+However, he managed to say: "Mas'r LeMonde, how kin Ah thank you fur
+yo' kindness! Leave you an' dis plantation? Not while de sun shines in
+de heavens. As Ah was willin' to die fer Miss Viola, I would any time
+lay dow my life fer you, Judge, or ary one of de fambly."
+
+"Well, you are a good boy, and," after handing him the paper, "now you
+can go to your friends at the quarters."
+
+When the curtain was rung down on this scene, in a metaphorically
+sense, it rose on another of much interest.
+
+The wedding party and guests were still sitting at the tables when
+honest David Hester, arising to his feet, said: "I move that we all
+drink a toast to our newly married friends, and that we drink it in
+pure cold water. Also, that John Larkin speak to the toast in behalf of
+the company." This motion was seconded by more than a dozen voices, the
+glasses were filled from the living spring, and the toast was drunk in
+the best liquid the world has ever seen.
+
+John Larkin arose and said: "It gives me great pleasure to speak a few
+words on this happy and auspicious occasion. First, I wish to thank
+Judge and Madam LeMonde for the sumptuous repast they have provided for
+all who are present. (Loud applause all down the line.) Next, I desire
+to say some true words respecting our honored bridegroom. I have known
+Jasper Very for several years, and have been his colleague most of the
+time. I do not overstep the mark when I declare that he is the
+greatest preacher in Kentucky today. (Cries of "That's so," and
+applause.) He stands foursquare for righteousness seven days in the
+week. He is a terror to evil doers. It is by such men's work and
+sacrifices that we shall stamp out ruffianism, and lift our State to a
+high respect for law and order. (Clapping of hands.) His career is yet
+before him, and I believe his name will be handed down to coming
+generations as an eloquent, zealous, fearless, and successful preacher
+of the gospel. (Loud applause by the whole company.) My only ambition
+is that I may be his traveling companion in the ministry as long as
+possible, for he is to me an inspiration, a help, and, best of all, a
+devoted friend. (Cheers by all.)
+
+"What shall I say concerning the lady who this day becomes his wife? He
+might have searched the State over, and not found so suitable a life
+companion. She was the originator of the mission school, and its
+prosperity is seen by the number of its members who are here today.
+(Much hand clapping by the people from the hills.) Yes, and she would
+not let the fear of highwaymen keep her from the straight path of duty.
+By an outlaw's bullet, she was brought to the verge of death, but God
+in mercy spared her in answer to our prayers. God surely intended her
+to be a preacher's wife. He gave her a voice to sing which melts the
+stony heart, he gave the opportunity for culture so that she can lift
+up the minds as well as the morals of the people. Her graciousness is
+surpassed only by her humility, and her beauty of face and form only by
+the loveliness and perfection of her spirit. To high and low she is the
+finest type of American womanhood." (Long continued applause,
+especially by the hill crowd.)
+
+The after-dinner speeches were ended, and the bride and groom retired
+to their dressing-rooms in the mansion, where the wedding garments were
+taken off and traveling suits substituted. Soon they appeared on the
+front piazza, most of the invited guests still remaining on the lawn.
+
+By a previous arrangement Mose was to be the honored driver of the
+carriage, to take them to the railway station. Never was there a
+prouder or happier negro. He showed the importance of his duty in every
+turn of his body. He was dressed in a new suit of clothes, and a tall
+silk hat ornamented his woolly head. He held his whip and lines like a
+master of horse.
+
+Some fond good-byes, a few tears like April showers with the sun
+shining, a crack of the whip, and Velox and Prince are off on the happy
+journey.
+
+So we leave them as with
+
+    "Two souls with but a single thought,
+    Two hearts to beat as one,"
+
+they set out on their life work.
+
+"We have heard that our hero became a mighty preacher, whose praise was
+in all the churches. His fields of labor widened with the years. His
+reputation went before him, and he was known in many States as an
+original and marvelous genius, but to us he will ever be remembered as
+The Kentucky Ranger.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The Kentucky Ranger, by Edward T. Curnick
+
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