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diff --git a/23012-h/23012-h.htm b/23012-h/23012-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..47bea1a --- /dev/null +++ b/23012-h/23012-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,2827 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=UTF-8" /> + <title> + Elder Conklin, by Frank Harris + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Elder Conklin, by Frank Harris + +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: Elder Conklin + +Author: Frank Harris + +Release Date: October 12, 2007 [EBook #23012] +Last Updated: March 8, 2018 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ELDER CONKLIN *** + + + + +Produced by David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + ELDER CONKLIN + </h1> + <h2> + By Frank Harris + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <br /> + </p> + <p> + As soon as the Elder left the supper-table his daughter and the new + schoolmaster went out on the stoop or verandah which ran round the + frame-house. The day had been warm, but the chilliness of the evening air + betokened the near approach of the Indian summer. The house stood upon the + crest of what had been a roll in the prairie, and as the two leant + together on the railing of the stoop, they looked out over a small orchard + of peach-trees to where, a couple of hundred yards away, at the foot of + the bluff, Cottonwood Creek ran, fringed on either bank by the trees which + had suggested its name. On the horizon to their right, away beyond the + spears of yellow maize, the sun was sinking, a ball of orange fire against + the rose mist of the sky. When the girl turned towards him, perhaps to + avoid the level rays, Bancroft expressed the hope that she would go with + him to the house-warming. A little stiffly Miss Conklin replied that she'd + be pleased, but— + </p> + <p> + “What have I done, Miss Loo, to offend you?” the young man spoke + deprecatingly. + </p> + <p> + “Nothin', I guess,” she answered, with assumed indifference. + </p> + <p> + “When I first came you were so kind and helped me in everything. Now for + the last two or three days you seem cold and sarcastic, as if you were + angry with me. I'd be sorry if that were so—very sorry.” + </p> + <p> + “Why did you ask Jessie Stevens to go with you to the house-warmin'?” was + the girl's retort. + </p> + <p> + “I certainly didn't ask her,” he replied hotly. “You must know I didn't.” + </p> + <p> + “Then Seth lied!” exclaimed Miss Conklin. “But I guess he'll not try that + again with me—Seth Stevens I mean. He wanted me to go with him + to-night, and I didn't give him the mitten, as I should if I'd thought you + were goin' to ask me.” + </p> + <p> + “What does 'giving the mitten' mean?” he questioned, with a puzzled air. + </p> + <p> + “Why, jest the plainest kind of refusal, I guess; but I only told him I + was afraid I'd have to go with you, seein' you were a stranger. 'Afraid,'” + she repeated, as if the word stung her. “But he'll lose nothin' by + waitin', nothin'. You hear me talk.” And her eyes flashed. + </p> + <p> + As she drew herself up in indignation, Bancroft thought he had never seen + any one so lovely. “A perfect Hebe,” he said to himself, and started as if + he had said the words aloud. The comparison was apt. Though Miss Loo + Conklin was only seventeen, her figure had all the ripeness of womanhood, + and her height—a couple of inches above the average—helped to + make her look older than she was. Her face was more than pretty; it was, + in fact, as beautiful as youth, good features, and healthy colouring could + make it. A knotted mass of chestnut hair set off the shapely head: the + large blue eyes were deepened by dark lashes. The underlip, however, was a + little full, and the oval of the face through short curve of jaw a trifle + too round. Her companion tried in vain to control the admiration of his + gaze. Unelated by what she felt to be merely her due, Miss Conklin was + silent for a time. At length she observed: + </p> + <p> + “I guess I'll have to go and fix up.” + </p> + <p> + Just then the Elder appeared on the stoop. “Ef you're goin',” he said in + the air, as his daughter swept past him into the house, “you'd better + hitch Jack up to the light buggy.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you,” said the schoolmaster; and for the sake of saying something, + he added, “What a fine view.” The Elder paused but did not answer; he saw + nothing remarkable in the landscape except the Indian corn and the fruit, + and the words “fine view” conveyed no definite meaning to him; he went on + towards the stables. + </p> + <p> + The taciturnity of the Elder annoyed Bancroft excessively. He had now + passed a couple of weeks as a boarder with the Conklins, and the Elder's + unconscious rudeness was only one of many peculiarities that had brought + him to regard these Western folk as belonging almost to a distinct + species. George Bancroft was an ordinary middle-class Bostonian. + </p> + <p> + He had gone through the University course with rather more than average + success, and had the cant of unbounded intellectual sympathies. His + self-esteem, however, was not based chiefly on his intelligence, but on + the ease with which he reached a conventional standard of conduct. Not a + little of his character showed itself in his appearance. In figure he was + about the middle height, and strongly though sparely built. The head was + well-proportioned; the face a lean oval; the complexion sallow; the hair + and small moustache very dark; the brown eyes inexpressive and close-set, + revealing a tendency to suspiciousness—Bancroft prided himself on + his prudence. A certain smartness of dress and a conscious carriage + discovered a vanity which, in an older man, would have been fatuous. A + large or a sensitive nature would in youth, at least, have sought + unconsciously to bring itself into sympathy with strange surroundings, but + Bancroft looked upon those who differed from him in manners or conduct as + inferior, and this presumption in regard to the Conklins was strengthened + by his superiority in book-learning, the importance of which he had been + trained to over-estimate. + </p> + <p> + During their drive Miss Conklin made her companion talk of Eastern life; + she wanted to know what Chicago was like, and what people did in New York. + Stirred by her eager curiosity, Bancroft sketched both cities in hasty + outline, and proceeded to tell what he had read and heard of Paris, and + Rome, and London. But evidently the girl was not interested by his praise + of the art-life of European capitals or their historical associations; she + cut short his disquisition: + </p> + <p> + “See here! When I first seed you an' knew you was raised in Boston, an' + had lived in New York, I jest thought you no account for comin' to this + jumpin'-off place. Why did you come to Kansas, anyway, and what did you + reckon upon doin'? I guess you ain't goin' to teach school always.” + </p> + <p> + The young man flushed under the frankness of the girl's gaze and question, + and what appeared like contempt in her opinion of him. Again he became + painfully conscious that there was a wide social difference between Miss + Conklin and himself. He had been accustomed to more reticence, and such + direct questioning seemed impertinent. But he was so completely under the + spell of her beauty, that he answered with scarcely visible hesitation: + </p> + <p> + “I came out here because I wanted to study law, and wasn't rich enough to + do it in the East. This school was the first position offered to me. I had + to take it, but I intend, after a term or two, to find a place in a + lawyer's office in some town, and get admitted to practice. If I'd had + fifteen hundred dollars I could have done that in Boston or New York, but + I suppose it will all come right in time.” + </p> + <p> + “If I'd been you I'd have stayed in New York,” and then, clasping her + hands on her knee, and looking intently before her, she added, “When I get + to New York—an' that won't be long—I'll stay there, you bet! I + guess New York's good enough for me. There's style there,” and she nodded + her head decisively as she spoke. + </p> + <p> + Miss Loo and Bancroft were among the latest arrivals at the Morrises'. She + stood beside him while he hitched Jack to a post of the fence amidst a + crowd of other horses, and they entered the house together. In due form + she presented the schoolmaster to Mr. and Mrs. Morris, and smilingly + produced three linen tablecloths as her contribution to the warming. After + accepting the present with profuse thanks and unmeasured praise of it and + of the giver, Mrs. Morris conducted the newcomers across the passage into + the best sitting-room, which the young folk had already appropriated, + leaving the second-best room to their elders. + </p> + <p> + In the small square apartment were some twenty boys and girls, ranging + between sixteen and twenty-two years of age. The boys stood about at one + end of the room, while the girls sat at the other end chattering and + enjoying themselves. Bancroft did not go among those of his own sex, none + of whom he knew, and whom he set down as mere uncouth lads. He found it + more amusing to stand near the girls and talk with them. By so doing he + unconsciously offended the young men. + </p> + <p> + Presently a tall youth came towards them: “I guess we'd better play + somethin'?” “Forfeits! Mr. Stevens,” was a girl's quick reply, and it was + arranged to play forfeits in a queer educational fashion. First of all Mr. + Stevens left the room, presumably to think. When he came in again he went + over to Miss Conklin and asked her to spell “forgive.” After a moment's + pause she spelt it correctly. He retired slowly, and on his return stopped + again in front of Miss Conklin with the word “reconciliation.” She + withstood the test triumphantly. Annoyed apparently with the pains she + took, Mr. Stevens, on his next entrance, turned to a pretty, quiet girl + named Miss Black, and gave her “stranger,” with a glance at Bancroft, + which spread a laugh among the boys. Miss Black began with “strai,” and + was not allowed to go on, for Mr. Stevens at once offered his arm, and led + her into the passage. + </p> + <p> + “What takes place outside?” asked Bancroft confidentially of the girl + sitting nearest to him, who happened to be Miss Jessie Stevens. She + replied with surprise: + </p> + <p> + “I guess they kiss each other!” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!—Now I understand,” he said to himself, and from that moment + followed the proceedings with more interest. He soon found that successive + pairs called each other out in turn, and he had begun to tire of the game, + when Miss Jessie Stevens stopped before him and pertly gave the word + “friendship.” Of course he spelt it wrongly, and accompanied her outside + the door. As he kissed her cheek, she drew away her head quickly: + </p> + <p> + “I only called you out to give you a chance of kissin' Loo Conklin.” + </p> + <p> + He thought it wiser not to reply to this, and contented himself with + thanking her as they entered the room. He paused before Miss Conklin, and + gave her “bumpkin,” adding, by way of explanation, “a rude country + fellow.” She spelt it cheerfully, without the “p.” When the mistake was + made plain to her, which took some little time, she accepted his arm, and + went with him into the passage. He kissed her more than once, murmuring, + “At last, Miss Loo!” She replied seriously: + </p> + <p> + “See here! You're goin' to get into a fuss with Seth Stevens if you call + me out often. And he's the strongest of them all. You ain't afraid? O.K. + then. I guess we'll pay him out for lyin'.” + </p> + <p> + On returning to the room, Bancroft became conscious of a thinly veiled + antagonism on the part of the young men. But he had hardly time to notice + it, when Miss Loo came in and said to him demurely, “Loo.” He spelt “You.” + Much laughter from the girls greeted the simple pleasantry. + </p> + <p> + So the game, punctuated by kisses, went on, until Miss Loo came in for the + fourth time, and stopped again before Bancroft, whereupon Seth Stevens + pushed through the crowd of young men, and said: + </p> + <p> + “Miss Loo Conklin! You know the rule is to change after three times.” + </p> + <p> + At once she moved in front of the stout youth, Richards, who had come + forward to support his friend, and said “liar!” flashing at the same time + an angry glance at Stevens. “Lire,” spelt Richards painfully, and the pair + withdrew. + </p> + <p> + Bancroft went over to the men's corner; the critical moment had come; he + measured his rival with a glance. Stevens was tall, fully six feet in + height, and though rather lank, had the bow legs and round shoulders which + often go with strength. + </p> + <p> + As he took up his new position, Stevens remarked to a companion, in a + contemptuous drawl: + </p> + <p> + “Schoolmasters kin talk an' teach, but kin they fight?” + </p> + <p> + Bancroft took it upon himself to answer, “Sometimes.” + </p> + <p> + “Kin you?” asked Stevens sharply, turning to him. + </p> + <p> + “Well enough.” + </p> + <p> + “We kin try that to-morrow. I'll he in the lot behind Richards' mill at + four o'clock.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll be there,” replied the schoolmaster, making his way again towards + the group of girls. + </p> + <p> + Nothing further happened until the old folk came in, and the party broke + up. Driving homewards with Miss Conklin, Bancroft began: + </p> + <p> + “How can I thank you enough for being so kind to me? You called me out + often, almost as often as I called you.” + </p> + <p> + “I did that to rile Seth Stevens.” + </p> + <p> + “And not at all to please me?” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps a little,” she said, and silence fell upon them. + </p> + <p> + His caution led him to restrain himself. He was disturbed by vague doubts, + and felt the importance of a decisive word. Presently Miss Conklin spoke, + in a lower voice than usual, but with an accent of coquettish triumph in + the question: + </p> + <p> + “So you like me after all? Like me really?” + </p> + <p> + “Do you doubt it?” His accent was reproachful. “But why do you say 'after + all'?” + </p> + <p> + “You never kissed me comin' back from church last Sunday, and I showed you + the school and everythin'!” + </p> + <p> + “Might I have kissed you then? I was afraid of offending you.” + </p> + <p> + “Offendin' me? Well, I guess not! Every girl expects to be kissed when she + goes out with a man.” + </p> + <p> + “Let's make up for it now, Loo. May I call you Loo?” While speaking he + slipped his arm round her waist, and kissed her again and again. + </p> + <p> + “That's my name. But there! I guess you've made up enough already.” And + Miss Conklin disengaged herself. On reaching the house, however, she + offered her lips before getting out of the buggy. When alone in his + bedroom, Bancroft sat and thought. The events of the evening had been + annoying. Miss Loo's conduct had displeased him; he did not like + familiarity. He would not acknowledge to himself that he was jealous. The + persistent way Stevens had tried to puzzle her had disgusted him—that + was all. It was sufficiently plain that in the past she had encouraged + Stevens. Her freedom and boldness grated upon his nerves. He condemned her + with a sense of outraged delicacy. Girls ought not to make advances; she + had no business to ask him whether he liked her; she should have waited + for him to speak plainly. He only required what was right. Yet the + consciousness that she loved him flattered his vanity and made him more + tolerant; he resolved to follow her lead or to improve upon it. Why + shouldn't he? She had said “every girl expects to be kissed.” And if she + wanted to be kissed, it was the least he could do to humour her. + </p> + <p> + All the while, at the bottom of his heart there was bitterness. He would + have given much to believe that an exquisite soul animated that lovely + face. Perhaps she was better than she seemed. He tried to smother his + distrust of her, till it was rendered more acute by another reflection—she + had got him into the quarrel with Seth Stevens. He did not trouble much + about it. He was confident enough of his strength and the advantages of + his boyish training in the gymnasium to regard the trial with equanimity. + Still, the girls he had known in the East would never have set two men to + fight, never—it was not womanly. Good girls were by nature + peacemakers. There must be something in Loo, he argued, almost—vulgar, + and he shrank from the word. To lessen the sting of his disappointment, he + pictured her to himself and strove to forget her faults. + </p> + <p> + On the following morning he went to his school very early. The girls were + not as obtrusive as they had been. Miss Jessie Stevens did not bother him + by coming up every five minutes to see what he thought of her dictation, + as she had been wont to do. He was rather glad of this; it saved him + importunate glances and words, and the propinquity of girlish forms, which + had been more trying still. But what was the cause of the change? It was + evident that the girls regarded him as belonging to Miss Conklin. He + disliked the assumption; his caution took alarm; he would be more careful + in future. The forenoon melted into afternoon quietly, though there were + traces on Jake Conklin's bench of unusual agitation and excitement. To + these signs the schoolmaster paid small heed at the moment. He was + absorbed in thinking of the evening before, and in trying to appraise each + of Loo's words and looks. At last the time came for breaking up. When he + went outside to get into the buggy—he had brought Jack with him—he + noticed, without paying much attention to it, that Jake Conklin was not + there to unhitch the strap and in various other ways to give proof of a + desire to ride with him. He set off for Richards' mill, whither, needless + to say, Jake and half-a-dozen other urchins had preceded him as fast as + their legs could carry them. + </p> + <p> + As soon as he was by himself the schoolmaster recognized that the affair + was known to his scholars, and the knowledge nettled him. His anger + fastened upon Loo. It was all her fault; her determination to “pay Stevens + out” had occasioned the quarrel. + </p> + <p> + Well, he would fight and win, and then have done with the girl whose lips + had doubtless been given to Stevens as often and as readily as to himself. + The thought put him in a rage, while the idea of meeting Stevens on an + equality humiliated him—strife with such a boor was in itself a + degradation. And Loo had brought it about. He could never forgive her. The + whole affair was disgraceful, and her words, “Every girl expects to be + kissed when she goes out with a man,” were vulgar and coarse! With which + conclusion in his mind he turned to the right round the section-line, and + saw the mill before him. + </p> + <p> + After the return from the house-warming, and the understanding, as she + considered it, with Bancroft, Miss Loo gave herself up to her new-born + happiness. As she lay in bed her first thought was of her lover: he was + “splendid,” whereby she meant pleasant and attractive. She wondered + remorsefully how she had taken him to be quite “homely-looking” when she + first saw him. Why, he was altogether above any one she knew—not + perhaps jest in looks, but in knowledge and in manners—he didn't + stand in the corner of the room like the rest and stare till all the girls + became uncomfortable. What did looks matter after all? Besides, he wasn't + homely, he was handsome; so he was. His eyes were lovely—she had + always liked dark eyes best—and his moustache was dark, too, and she + liked that. To be sure it wasn't very long yet, or thick, but it would + grow; and here she sighed with content. Most girls in her place would be + sorry he wasn't taller, but she didn't care for very tall men; they sorter + looked down on you. Anyway, he was strong—a pang of fear shot + suddenly through her—he might be hurt by that brute. Seth Stevens on + the morrow. Oh, no. That was impossible. He was brave, she felt sure, very + brave. Still she wished they weren't going to fight; it made her uneasy to + think that she had provoked the conflict But it couldn't be helped now; + she couldn't interfere. Besides, men were always fightin' about somethin' + or other. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Crew, the Minister, had said right off that he'd make his mark in the + world; all the girls thought so too, and that was real good. She'd have + hated a stupid, ordinary man. Fancy being married to Seth Stevens, and she + shuddered; yet he was a sight better than any of the others; he had even + seemed handsome to her once. Ugh! Then Bancroft's face came before her + again, and remembering his kisses she flushed and grew hot from head to + foot. They would be married soon—right off. As George hadn't the + money, her father must give what he could and they'd go East. Her father + wouldn't refuse, though he'd feel bad p'r'aps; he never refused her + anythin'. If fifteen hundred dollars would be enough for George alone, + three thousand would do for both of them. Once admitted as a lawyer, he + would get a large practice: he was so clever and hard-working. She was + real glad that she'd be the means of giving him the opportunity he wanted + to win riches and position. But he must begin in New York. She would help + him on, and she'd see New York and all the shops and elegant folk, and + have silk dresses. They'd live in a hotel and get richer and richer, and + she'd drive about with—here she grew hot again. The vision, however, + was too entrancing to be shut out; she saw herself distinctly driving in + an open carriage, with a negro nurse holding the baby all in laces in + front, “jest too cute for anythin',” and George beside her, and every one + in Fifth Avenue starin'. + </p> + <p> + Sleep soon brought confusion into her picture of a happy future; but when + she awoke, the glad confidence of the previous night had given place to + self-reproach and fear. During the breakfast she scarcely spoke or lifted + her eyes. Her silent preoccupation was misunderstood by Bancroft; he took + it to mean that she didn't care what happened to him; she was selfish, he + decided. All the morning she went about the house in a state of nervous + restlessness, and at dinner-time her father noticed her unusual pallor and + low spirits. To the Elder, the meal-times were generally a source of + intense pleasure. He was never tired of feasting his eyes upon his + daughter when he could do so without attracting attention, and he listened + to her fluent obvious opinions on men and things with a fulness of pride + and joy which was difficult to divine since his keenest feelings never + stirred the impassibility of his features. He had small power of + expressing his thoughts, and even in youth he had felt it impossible to + render in words any deep emotion. For more than forty years the fires of + his nature had been “banked up.” Reticent and self-contained, he appeared + to be hard and cold; yet his personality was singularly impressive. About + five feet ten in height, he was lean and sinewy, with square shoulders and + muscles of whipcord. His face recalled the Indian type; the same prominent + slightly beaked nose, high cheek bones and large knot of jaw. But there + the resemblance ended. The eyes were steel-blue; the upper lip long; the + mouth firm; short, bristly, silver hair stood up all over his head, in + defiant contrast to the tanned, unwrinkled skin. He was clean-shaven, and + looked less than his age, which was fifty-eight. + </p> + <p> + All through the dinner he wondered anxiously what could so affect his + daughter, and how he could find out without intruding himself upon her + confidence. His great love for his child had developed in the Elder subtle + delicacies of feeling which are as the fragrance of love's humility. In + the afternoon Loo, dressed for walking, met him, and, of her own accord, + began the conversation: + </p> + <p> + “Father, I want to talk to you.” + </p> + <p> + The Elder put down the water-bucket he had been carrying, and drew the + shirt-sleeves over his nervous brown arms, whether out of unconscious + modesty or simple sense of fitness it would be impossible to say. She went + on hesitatingly, “I want to know—Do you think Mr. Bancroft's strong, + stronger than—Seth Stevens?” + </p> + <p> + The Elder gave his whole thought to the problem. “P'r'aps,” he said, after + a pause, in which he had vainly tried to discover how his daughter wished + him to answer, “p'r'aps; he's older and more sot. There ain't much + difference, though. In five or six years Seth'll be a heap stronger than + the schoolmaster; but now,” he added quickly, reading his daughter's face, + “he ain't man enough. He must fill out first.” + </p> + <p> + She looked up with bright satisfaction, and twining her hands round his + arm began coaxingly: + </p> + <p> + “I'm goin' to ask you for somethin', father. You know you told me that on + my birthday you'd give me most anythin' I wanted. Wall, I want somethin' + this month, not next, as soon as I can get it—a pianner. I guess the + settin'-room would look smarter-like, an' I'd learn to play. All the girls + do East,” she added, pouting. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” the Elder agreed thoughtfully, doubting whether he should follow + her lead eastwards, “I reckon that's so. I'll see about it right off, Loo. + I oughter hev thought of it before. But now, right off,” and as he spoke + he laid his large hand with studied carelessness on her shoulder—he + was afraid that an intentional caress might be inopportune. + </p> + <p> + “I'm cert'in Mr. Bancroft's sisters play, an' I—” she looked down + nervously for a moment, and then, still blushing deeply, changed the + attack: “He's smart, ain't he, father? He'd make a good lawyer, wouldn't + he?” + </p> + <p> + “I reckon he would,” replied the Elder. + </p> + <p> + “I'm so glad,” the girl went on hurriedly, as if afraid to give herself + time to think of what she was about to say, “for, father, he wants to + study in an office East and he hain't got the money, and—oh, + father!” she threw her arms round his neck and hid her face on his + shoulder, “I want to go with him.” + </p> + <p> + The Elder's heart seemed to stop beating, but he could not hold his loved + one in his arms and at the same time realize his own pain. He stroked the + bowed head gently, and after a pause: + </p> + <p> + “He could study with Lawyer Barkman in Wichita, couldn't he? and then + you'd be to hum still. No. Wall! Thar!” and again came a pause of silence. + “I reckon, anyhow, you knew I'd help you. Didn't you now?” + </p> + <p> + His daughter drew herself out of his embrace. Recalled thus to the matter + in hand he asked: “Did he say how much money 'twould take?” + </p> + <p> + “Two or three thousand dollars”—and she scanned his face anxiously—“for + studyin' and gettin' an office and everythin' in New York. Things are + dearer there.” + </p> + <p> + “Wall, I guess we kin about cover that with a squeeze. It'll be full all I + kin manage to onc't—that and the pianner. I've no one to think of + but you, Loo, only you. That's what I've bin workin' for, to give you a + fair start, and I'm glad I kin jess about do it. I'd sorter take it better + if he'd done the studyin' by himself before. No! wall, it don't make much + difference p'r'aps. Anyway he works, and Mr. Crew thinks him enough + eddicated even for the Ministry. He does, and that's a smart lot. I guess + he'll get along all right.” Delighted with the expression of intent + happiness in his daughter's eyes, he continued: “He's young yet, and + couldn't be expected to hev done the studyin' and law and every-thin'. You + kin be sartin that the old man'll do all he knows to help start you fair. + All I kin. If you're sot upon it! That's enough fer me, I guess, ef you're + rale sot on it, and you don't think 'twould be better like to wait a + little. He could study with Barkman fer a year anyway without losin' time. + No! wall, wall. I'm right thar when you want me. I'll go to work to do + what I kin.... + </p> + <p> + “P'r'aps we might sell off and go East, too. The farm's worth money now + it's all settled up round hyar. The mother and me and Jake could get + along, I reckon, East or West. I know more'n I did when I came out in '59. + </p> + <p> + “I'm glad you've told me. I think a heap more of him now. There must be a + pile of good in any one you like, Loo. Anyhow he's lucky.” And he stroked + her crumpled dress awkwardly, but with an infinite tenderness. + </p> + <p> + “I've got to go now, father,” she exclaimed, suddenly remembering the + time. “But there!”—and again she threw her arms round his neck and + kissed him. “You've made me very happy. I've got to go right off, and + you've all the chores to do, so I mustn't keep you any longer.” + </p> + <p> + She hurried to the road along which Jake would have to come with the news + of the fight. When she reached the top of the bluff whence the road fell + rapidly to the creek, no one was in sight. She sat down and gave herself + up to joyous anticipations. + </p> + <p> + “What would George say to her news? Where should they be married?”—a + myriad questions agitated her. But a glance down the slope from time to + time checked her pleasure. At last she saw her brother running towards + her. He had taken off his boots and stockings; they were slung round his + neck, and his bare feet pattered along in the thick, white dust of the + prairie track. His haste made his sister's heart beat in gasps of fear. + Down the hill she sped, and met him on the bridge. + </p> + <p> + “Wall?” she asked quietly, but the colour had left her cheeks, and Jake + was not to be deceived so easily. + </p> + <p> + “Wall what?” he answered defiantly, trying to get breath. “I hain't said + nothin.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you mean boy!” she cried indignantly. “I'll never help you again when + father wants to whip you—never! Tell me this minute what happened. + Is <i>he</i> hurt?” + </p> + <p> + “Is who hurt?” asked her brother, glorying in superiority of knowledge, + and the power to tease with impunity. + </p> + <p> + “Tell me right off,” she said, taking him by the collar in her + exasperation, “or—” + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell you nothin' till you leave go of me,” was the sullen reply. But + then the overmastering impulse ran away with him, and he broke out: + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Loo! I jest seed everythin'. 'Twar a high old fight! They wuz all + there, Seth Stevens, Richards, Monkey Bill—all of 'em, when + schoolmaster rode up. He was still—looked like he wanted to hear a + class recite. He hitched up Jack and come to 'em, liftin' his hat. Oh, + 'twas O.K., you bet! Then they took off their clo's. Seth Stevens jerked + hisn loose on the ground, but schoolmaster stood by himself, and folded + hisn up like ma makes me fold mine at night. Then they comed together and + Seth Stevens he jest drew off and tried to land him one, but schoolmaster + sorter moved aside and took him on the nose, an' Seth he sot down, with + the blood runnin' all over him. An'—an'—that's all. Every time + Seth Stevens hauled off to hit, schoolmaster was thar first. It war bully!—That's + all. An' I seed everythin'. You kin bet your life on that! An' then + Richards and the rest come to him an' said as how Seth Stevens was + faintin', an' schoolmaster he ran to the crick an' brought water and put + over him. An' then I runned to tell you—schoolmaster's strong, I + guess, stronger nor pappa. I seed him put on his vest, an' Seth Stevens he + was settin' up, all blood and water on his face, streaky like; he did look + bad. But, Loo—say, Loo! Why didn't schoolmaster when he got him down + the first time, jest stomp on his face with his heels?—he had his + boots on—an' that's how Seth Stevens broke Tom Cooper's jaw when <i>they</i> + fit.” + </p> + <p> + The girl was white, and trembling from head to foot as the boy ended his + narrative, and looked inquiringly into her face. She could not answer. + Indeed, she had hardly heard the question. The thought of what might have + happened to her lover appalled her, and terror and remorse held her heart + as in a vice. But oh!—and the hot tears came into her eyes—she'd + tell him when they met how sorry she was for it all, and how bad she had + been, and how she hated herself. She had acted foolish, very; but she + hadn't meant it She'd be more careful in future, much more careful. How + brave he was and kind! How like him it was to get the water! Oh! if he'd + only come. + </p> + <p> + All this while Jake looked at her curiously; at length he said, “Say, Loo, + s'pose he'd had his eye plugged out.” + </p> + <p> + “Go away—do!” she exclaimed angrily. “I believe you boys jest love + fightin' like dogs.” + </p> + <p> + Jake disappeared to tell and retell the tale to any one who cared to + listen. + </p> + <p> + Half an hour later Loo, who had climbed the bluff to command the view, + heard the sound of Jack's feet on the wooden bridge. A moment or two more + and the buggy drew up beside her; the schoolmaster bent forward and spoke, + without a trace of emotion in his voice: + </p> + <p> + “Won't you get in and let me drive you home, Miss Loo?” His victory had + put him in a good humour, without, however, altering his critical estimate + of the girl. The quiet, controlled tone of his voice chilled and pained + her, but her emotions were too recent and too acute to be restrained. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, George!” she said, leaning forward against the buggy, and scanning + his face intently. “How can you speak so? You ain't hurt, are you?” + </p> + <p> + “No!” he answered lightly. “You didn't expect I should be, did you?” The + tone was cold, a little sarcastic even. + </p> + <p> + Again she felt hurt; she scarcely knew why; the sneer was too far-fetched + for her to understand it. + </p> + <p> + “Go and put the horse up, and then come back. I'll wait right here for + you.” + </p> + <p> + He did as he was told, and in ten minutes was by her side again. After a + long pause, she began, with quivering lips: + </p> + <p> + “George, I'm sorry—so sorry. 'Twas all my fault! But I didn't know “—and + she choked down a sob—“I didn't think. + </p> + <p> + “I want you to tell me how your sisters act and—an' what they wear + and do. I'll try to act like them. Then I'd be good, shouldn't I? + </p> + <p> + “They play the pianner, don't they?” He was forced to confess that one of + them did. + </p> + <p> + “An' they talk like you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “An' they're good always? Oh, George, I'm jest too sorry for anythin', an' + now—now I'm too glad!” and she burst into tears. He kissed and + consoled her as in duty bound. He understood this mood as little as he had + understood her challenge to love. He was not in sympathy with her; she had + no ideal of conduct, no notion of dignity. Some suspicion of this + estrangement must have dawned upon the girl, or else she was irritated by + his acquiescence in her various phases of self-humiliation. All at once + she dashed the tears from her eyes, and winding herself out of his arms, + exclaimed: + </p> + <p> + “See here, George Bancroft! I'll jest learn all they know—pianner + and all. I ken, and I will. I'll begin right now. You'll see!” And her + blue eyes flashed with the glitter of steel, while her chin was thrown up + in defiant vanity and self-assertion. + </p> + <p> + He watched her with indifferent curiosity; the abrupt changes of mood + repelled him. His depreciatory thoughts of her, his resolution not to be + led away again by her beauty influencing him, he noticed the keen hardness + of the look, and felt, perhaps out of a spirit of antagonism, that he + disliked it. + </p> + <p> + After a few quieting phrases, which, though they sprang rather from the + head than the heart, seemed to achieve their aim, he changed the subject, + by pointing across the creek and asking: + </p> + <p> + “Whose corn is that?” + </p> + <p> + “Father's, I guess!” + </p> + <p> + “I thought that was the Indian territory?” + </p> + <p> + “It is!” + </p> + <p> + “Is one allowed to sow corn there and to fence off the ground? Don't the + Indians object?” + </p> + <p> + “'Tain't healthy for Indians about here,” she answered carelessly, “I + hain't ever seen one. I guess it's allowed; anyhow, the corn's there an' + father'll have it cut right soon.” + </p> + <p> + It seemed to Bancroft that they had not a thought in common. Wrong done by + her own folk did not even interest her. At once he moved towards the + house, and the girl followed him, feeling acutely disappointed and + humiliated, which state of mind quickly became one of rebellious + self-esteem. She guessed that other men thought big shucks of her anyway. + And with this reflection she tried to comfort herself. + </p> + <p> + A week or ten days later, Bancroft came downstairs one morning early and + found the ground covered with hoar-frost, though the sun had already + warmed the air. Elder Conklin, in his shirt-sleeves, was cleaning his + boots by the wood pile. When he had finished with the brush, but not a + moment sooner, he put it down near his boarder. His greeting, a mere nod, + had not prepared the schoolmaster for the question: + </p> + <p> + “Kin you drive kyows?” + </p> + <p> + “I think so; I've done it as a boy.” + </p> + <p> + “Wall, to-day's Saturday. There ain't no school, and I've some cattle to + drive to the scales in Eureka. They're in the brush yonder, ef you'd help. + That is, supposin' you've nothin' to do.” + </p> + <p> + “No. I've nothing else to do, and shall be glad to help you if I can.” + </p> + <p> + Miss Loo pouted when she heard that her lover would be away the greater + part of the day, but it pleased her to think that her father had asked him + for his help, and she resigned herself, stipulating only that he should + come right back from Eureka. + </p> + <p> + After breakfast the two started. Their way lay along the roll of ground + which looked down upon the creek. They rode together in silence, until the + Elder asked: + </p> + <p> + “You ain't a Member, air you?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “That's bad. I kinder misdoubted it las' Sunday; but I wasn't sartin. Ef + your callin' and election ain't sure, I guess Mr. Crew oughter talk to + you.” + </p> + <p> + These phrases were jerked out with long pauses separating them, and then + the Elder was ominously silent. + </p> + <p> + In various ways Bancroft attempted to draw him into conversation—in + vain. The Elder answered in monosyllables, or not at all. Presently he + entered the woods on the left, and soon halted before the shoot-entrance + to a roughly-built corral. + </p> + <p> + “The kyows is yonder,” he remarked; “ef you'll drive them hyar, I'll count + them as they come in.” + </p> + <p> + The schoolmaster turned his horse's head in the direction pointed out. He + rode for some minutes through the wood without seeing a single animal. + Under ordinary circumstances this would have surprised him; but now he was + absorbed in thinking of Conklin and his peculiarities, wondering at his + habit of silence and its cause: + </p> + <p> + “Has he nothing to say? Or does he think a great deal without being able + to find words to express his thoughts?” + </p> + <p> + A prolonged moan, a lowing of cattle in pain, came to his ears. He made + directly for the sound, and soon saw the herd huddled together by the + snake-fence which zigzagged along the bank of the creek. He went on till + he came to the boundary fence which ran at right angles to the water, and + then turning tried to drive the animals towards the corral. He met, + however, with unexpected difficulties. He had brought a stock-whip with + him, and used it with some skill, though without result. The bullocks and + cows swerved from the lash, but before they had gone ten yards they + wheeled and bolted back. At first this manouvre amused him. The Elder, he + thought, has brought me to do what he couldn't do himself; I'll show him I + can drive. But no! in spite of all his efforts, the cattle would not be + driven. He grew warm, and set himself to the work. In a quarter of an hour + his horse was in a lather, and his whip had flayed one or two of the + bullocks, but there they stood again with necks outstretched towards the + creek, lowing piteously. He could not understand it. Reluctantly he made + up his mind to acquaint the Elder with the inexplicable fact. He had gone + some two hundred yards when his tired horse stumbled. Holding him up, + Bancroft saw he had tripped over a mound of white dust. A thought struck + him. He threw himself off the horse, and tasted the stuff; he was right; + it was salt! No wonder he could not drive the cattle; no wonder they lowed + as if in pain—the ground had been salted. + </p> + <p> + He remounted and hastened to the corral. He found the Elder sitting on his + horse by the shoot, the bars of which were down. + </p> + <p> + “I can't move those cattle!” + </p> + <p> + “You said you knew how to drive.” + </p> + <p> + “I do, but they are mad with thirst; no one can do anything with them. + Besides, in this sun they might die on the road.” + </p> + <p> + “Hum.” + </p> + <p> + “Let them drink; they'll go on afterwards.” + </p> + <p> + “Hum.” And the Elder remained for some moments silent. Then he said, as if + thinking aloud: + </p> + <p> + “It's eight miles to Eureka; they'll be thirsty again before they get to + the town.” + </p> + <p> + Bancroft, too, had had his wits at work, and now answered the other's + thought. “I guess so; if they're allowed just a mouthful or two they can + be driven, and long before they reach Eureka they'll be as thirsty as + ever.” + </p> + <p> + Without a word in reply the Elder turned his horse and started off at a + lope. In ten minutes the two men had taken down the snake fence for a + distance of some fifty yards, and the cattle had rushed through the gap + and were drinking greedily. + </p> + <p> + After they had had a deep draught or two, Bancroft urged his horse into + the stream and began to drive them up the bank. They went easily enough + now, and ahead of them rode the Elder, his long whitey-brown holland coat + fluttering behind him. In half an hour Bancroft had got the herd into the + corral. The Elder counted the three hundred and sixty-two beasts with + painstaking carefulness as they filed by. + </p> + <p> + The prairie-track to Eureka led along the creek, and in places ran close + to it without any intervening fence. In an hour under that hot October sun + the cattle had again become thirsty, and it needed all Bancroft's energy + and courage to keep them from dashing into the water. Once or twice indeed + it was a toss-up whether or not they would rush over him. + </p> + <p> + He was nearly exhausted when some four hours after the start they came in + sight of the little town. Here he let the herd into the creek. Glad of the + rest, he sat on his panting horse and wiped the perspiration from his + face. After the cattle had drunk their fill, he moved them quietly along + the road, while the water dripped from their mouths and bodies. At the + scales the Elder met the would-be purchaser, who as soon as he caught + sight of the stock burst into a laugh. + </p> + <p> + “Say, Conklin,” he cried out, “I guess you've given them cattle enough to + drink, but I don't buy water for meat. No, sir; you bet, I don't.” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't allow you would,” replied the Elder gravely; “but the track was + long and hot; so they drank in the crik.” + </p> + <p> + “Wall,” resumed the dealer, half disarmed by this confession, which served + the Elder's purpose better than any denial could have done, “I guess + you'll take off fifty pound a head for that water.” + </p> + <p> + “I guess not,” was the answer. “Twenty pound of water's reckoned to be + about as much as a kyow kin drink.” + </p> + <p> + The trading began and continued to Bancroft's annoyance for more than half + an hour. At last it was settled that thirty pounds' weight should be + allowed on each beast for the water it had drunk. When this conclusion had + been arrived at, it took but a few minutes to weigh the animals and pay + the price agreed upon. + </p> + <p> + The Elder now declared himself ready to go “to hum” and get somethin' to + eat. In sullen silence Bancroft remounted, and side by side they rode + slowly towards the farm. The schoolmaster's feelings may easily be + imagined. He had been disgusted by the cunning and hypocrisy of the trick, + and the complacent expression of the Elder's countenance irritated him + intensely. As he passed place after place where the cattle had given him + most trouble in the morning, anger took possession of him, and at length + forced itself to speech. + </p> + <p> + “See here, Elder Conklin!” he began abruptly, “I suppose you call yourself + a Christian. You look down on me because I'm not a Member. Yet, first of + all, you salt cattle for days till they're half mad with thirst, then + after torturing them by driving them for hours along this road side by + side with water, you act lies with the man you've sold them to, and end up + by cheating him. You know as well as I do that each of those steers had + drunk sixty-five pounds' weight of water at least; so you got” (he + couldn't use the word “stole” even in his anger, while the Elder was + looking at him) “more than a dollar a head too much. That's the kind of + Christianity you practise. I don't like such Christians, and I'll leave + your house as soon as I can. I am ashamed that I didn't tell the dealer + you were deceiving him. I feel as if I had been a party to the cheat.” + </p> + <p> + While the young man was speaking the Elder looked at him intently. At + certain parts of the accusation Conklin's face became rigid, but he said + nothing. A few minutes later, having skirted the orchard, they dismounted + at the stable-door. + </p> + <p> + After he had unsaddled his horse and thrown it some Indian corn, Bancroft + hastened to the house; he wanted to be alone. On the stoop he met Loo and + said to her hastily: + </p> + <p> + “I can't talk now, Loo; I'm tired out and half crazy. I must go to my room + and rest After supper I'll tell you everything. Please don't keep me now.” + </p> + <p> + Supper that evening was a silent meal. The Elder did not speak once; the + two young people were absorbed in their own reflections, and Mrs. + Conklin's efforts to make talk were effectual only when she turned to + Jake. Mrs. Conklin, indeed, was seldom successful in anything she + attempted. She was a woman of fifty, or thereabouts, and her face still + showed traces of former good looks, but the light had long left her round, + dark eyes, and the colour her cheeks, and with years her figure had grown + painfully thin. She was one of the numerous class who delight in taking + strangers into their confidence. Unappreciated, as a rule, by those who + know them, they seek sympathy from polite indifference or curiosity. + Before he had been a day in the house Bancroft had heard from Mrs. Conklin + all about her early life. Her father had been a large farmer in Amherst + County, Massachusetts; her childhood had been comfortable and happy: “We + always kept one hired man right through the winter, and in summer often + had eight and ten; and, though you mightn't think it now, I was the belle + of all the parties.” Dave (her husband) had come to work for her father, + and she had taken a likin' to him, though he was such a “hard case.” She + told of Dave's gradual conversion and of the Revivalist Minister, who was + an Abolitionist as well, and had proclaimed the duty of emigrating to + Kansas to prevent it from becoming a slave state. Dave, it appeared, had + taken up the idea zealously, and had persuaded her to go with him. Her + story became pathetic in spite of her self-pity as she related the + hardships of that settlement in the wilds, and described her loneliness, + her shivering terror when her husband was away hauling logs for their + first home, and news came that the slave-traders from Missouri had made + another raid upon the scattered Abolitionist farmers. The woman had + evidently been unfit for such rude transplanting. She dwelt upon the fact + that her husband had never understood her feelings. If he had, she + wouldn't have minded so much. Marriage was not what girls thought; she had + not been happy since she left her father's house, and so forth. The lament + was based on an unworthy and futile egoism, but her whining timidity + appeared to Bancroft inexplicable. He did not see that just as a shrub + pales and dies away under the branches of a great tree, so a weak nature + is apt to be further enfeebled by association with a strong and + self-contained character. In those early days of loneliness and danger the + Elder's steadfastness and reticence had prevented him from affording to + his wife the sympathy which might have enabled her to overcome her fears. + “He never talked anythin' over with me,” was the burden of her complaint. + Solitude had killed every power in her save vanity, and the form her + vanity took was peculiarly irritating to her husband, and in a lesser + degree to her daughter, for neither the Elder nor Loo would have founded + self-esteem on adventitious advantages of upbringing. Accordingly, Mrs. + Conklin was never more than an uncomfortable shadow in her own house, and + this evening her repeated attempts to bring about a semblance of + conversation only made the silence and preoccupation of the others + painfully evident. + </p> + <p> + As soon as the supper things were cleared away, Loo signalled to Bancroft + to accompany her to the stoop, where she asked him what had happened. + </p> + <p> + “I insulted the Elder,” he said, “and I told him I should leave his house + as soon as I could.” + </p> + <p> + “You don't mean that!” she exclaimed. “You must take that back, George. + I'll speak to pappa; he'll mind me.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” he replied firmly; “speaking won't do any good. I've made up my + mind. It's impossible for me to stay here.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you don't care for me. But that's not so. Say it's not so, George. + Say you'll stay—and I'll come down this evening after the old folks + have gone to bed, and sit with you. There!” + </p> + <p> + Of course the man yielded to a certain extent, the pleading face upturned + to his was too seductive to be denied, but he would not promise more than + that he would tell her what had taken place, and consult with her. + </p> + <p> + Shortly after nine o'clock, as usual, Mr. and Mrs. Conklin retired. Half + an hour later Bancroft and Loo were seated together in the corner of the + back stoop. They sat like lovers, his arm about her waist, while he told + his story. She expressed relief; she had feared it would be much worse; he + had only to say he didn't mean anythin', and she'd persuade her father to + forget and forgive. But the schoolmaster would not consent to that. He had + meant and did mean every word, and could take back nothing. And when she + appealed to his affection, he could only repeat that he'd think it over. + “You know I like you, Loo, but I can't do impossibilities. It's + unfortunate, perhaps, but it's done and can't be undone.” And then, + annoyed at being pressed further, he thought they had better go in: it was + very cold; she'd catch a chill if she stayed longer, and there was no + sense in that. The girl, seeing that her pleading was of no avail, grew + angry; his love was good enough to talk about, but it could not be worth + much if he denied her so little a thing; it didn't matter, though, she'd + get along somehow, she guessed—here they were startled by the sound + of a door opening. Loo glided quickly round the corner of the stoop, and + entered the house. Bancroft following her heard the back door shut, and + some one go down the steps. He could not help looking to see who was on + foot at such an untimely hour, and to his surprise perceived the Elder in + a night-shirt, walking with bare feet towards the stables through the long + grass already stiff with frost Before the white figure had disappeared + Bancroft assured himself that Loo had gone up to bed the front way. + Curiosity conquering his first impulse, which had been to follow her + example, he went after the Elder, without, however, intending to play the + spy. When he had passed through the stables and got to the top of the + slope overlooking the creek, he caught sight of the Elder twenty yards + away at the water's edge. In mute surprise he watched the old man tie his + night-shirt up under his armpits, wade into the ice-cold water, kneel + down, and begin what was evidently meant to be a prayer. His first words + were conventional, but gradually his earnestness and excitement overcame + his sense of the becoming, and he talked of what lay near his heart in + disjointed phrases. + </p> + <p> + “That young man to-day jes' jumped on me! He told me I'd plagued them + cattle half to death, and I'd acted lies and cheated Ramsdell out of three + hundred dollars. 'Twas all true. I s'pose I did plague the cattle, though + I've often been as thirsty as they were—after eatin' salt pork and + workin' all day in the sun. I didn't think of hurtin' them when I salted + the floor. But I did act to deceive Ramsdell, and I reckon I made nigh on + three hundred dollars out of the deal. 'Twas wrong. But, O God!”—and + unconsciously the old man's voice rose—“You know all my life. You + know everythin'. You know I never lied or cheated any one fer myself. I've + worked hard and honest fer more'n forty years, and always been poor. I + never troubled about it, and I don't now, but fer Loo. + </p> + <p> + “She's so pretty and young. Jes' like a flower wants sunshine, she wants + pleasure, and when she don't git it, she feels bad. She's so young and + soft. Now she wants a pile of money and a pianner, and I couldn't git it + fer her no other way. I had to cheat. + </p> + <p> + “O Lord, ef I could kneel down hyar and say I repented with godly + repentance fer sin and determination never to sin agen, I'd do it, and ask + you to pardon me for Jesus' sake, but I kain't repent—I jes' kain't! + You see my heart, O God! and you know I'll go on cheatin' ef that'll get + Loo what she wants. An' so I've come down hyar to say that Loo ain't with + me in the cheatin'; it's all my sin. I know you punish sin. The + stiff-necked sinner ought to be punished. Wall; I'll take the punishment. + Put it right on to me—that's justice. But, O Lord! leave Loo out; + she don't know nothin' about it. That's why I've come down hyar into the + water to show I'm willin' to bear what you send. Amen, O Lord God! In + Jesus' name, Amen.” + </p> + <p> + And he rose quietly, came out of the creek, wiped his dripping limbs with + his hand as well as he could, let down his night-shirt, and prepared to + climb the bank. Needless to say, Bancroft had slipped through the stables + and reached the house before the Elder could get within sight of him. + </p> + <p> + When alone in his room the schoolmaster grew a little ashamed of himself. + There could be no doubt of the Elder's sincerity, and he had insulted him. + The Elder had sacrificed his principles; had done violence to the habits + of his life, and shame to his faith and practice—all in order that + his daughter might have her “pianner.” The grotesque pronunciation of the + word appeared pathetic to Bancroft now; it brought moisture into his eyes. + What a fine old fellow Conklin was! Of course he wished to bear the whole + burden of his sin and its punishment. It would be easy to go to him on the + morrow and beg his pardon. Wrong done as the Elder did it, he felt, was + more than right. What a Christian at heart! And what a man! + </p> + <p> + But the girl who asked for such a sacrifice—what was she? All the + jealousy, all the humiliation he had suffered on her account, came back to + him; she would have her father steal provided she got her piano. How vain + she was and self-willed; without any fine moral feeling or proper + principle! He would be worse than a fool to give his life to such a woman. + If she could drive her father—and such a father—to theft, in + what wrongdoing might she not involve her husband? He was warned in time; + he would not be guilty of such irreparable folly. He would match her + selfishness with prudence. Who could blame him? That was what the hard + glitter in her eyes betokened—cold selfishness; and he had thought + of her as Hebe—a Hebe who would give poisoned wine to those who + loved her. He was well saved from that. + </p> + <p> + The old Greek word called her up before him, and the spell of her physical + charm stole over his astonished senses like perfumed summer air. Sitting + beside her that evening, his arm round her waist, he had felt the soft, + full curves of her form, and thinking of it his pulses throbbed. How fair + her face was! That appealing air made her irresistible; and even when she + was angry, how splendidly handsome! What a pity she should be hard and + vulgar! He felt estranged from her, yet still cherished the bitterness of + disappointment She was detestably vain, common and selfish; he would be on + his guard. + </p> + <p> + Next day at breakfast Mr. Morris came in. He was an ordinary young Western + farmer, rough but kindly, ill-educated but sensible. When his appetite was + satisfied he wanted to know whether they had heard the news. + </p> + <p> + “No,” Mrs. Conklin replied eagerly, “we've heard nothing unless p'r'aps + the Elder in Eureka “—but her husband shook his head, and Morris + went on: + </p> + <p> + “Folks say the Government in Washington has sent General Custer out with + troops to pertect the Indian Territory. Away East they think the settlers + have been stealing the Reserve, an' the soldiers are coming with surveyors + to draw the line again.” + </p> + <p> + After a pause, “That seems right,” said the Elder; “thar' ain't nothin' + agen that.” + </p> + <p> + “But you've ploughed and raised crops on the Indian land across the crik,” + objected Morris; “we all hev. Air we to give it up?” + </p> + <p> + There was no answer. + </p> + <p> + “Anyway,” Morris continued, “Custer's at Wichita now. He'll be here in a + day or two, an' we've called a meetin' in the school-house for this + evenin' an' we hope you'll be on hand. 'Tain't likely we're goin' to stand + by an' see our crops destroyed. We must hold together, and all'll come + right.” + </p> + <p> + “That's true,” said the Elder, thinking aloud, “and good. Ef we all held + together there'd not be much wrong done.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I kin tell the boys,” resumed Morris, rising, “that you'll be with + us, Elder. All us young uns hold by you, an' what you say, we'll do, every + time.” + </p> + <p> + “Wall,” replied the Elder slowly, “I don't know. I kain't see my way to + goin'. I've always done fer myself by myself, and I mean to—right + through; but the meetin' seems a good idee. I'm not contradictin' that. It + seems strong. I don't go much though on meetin's; they hain't ever helped + me. But a meetin' seems strong—for them that likes it.” + </p> + <p> + With this assurance Morris was fain to be satisfied and go his way. + </p> + <p> + Bancroft had listened to the colloquy with new feelings. Prepared to + regard with admiration all that the Elder said or did, it was not + difficult for him now to catch the deeper meaning of the uncouth words. He + was drawn to the Elder by moral sympathy, and his early training tended to + strengthen this attraction. It was right, he felt, that the Elder should + take his own course, fearing nothing that man could do. + </p> + <p> + In the evening he met Loo. She supposed with a careless air that he was + goin' to pack them leather trunks of his. + </p> + <p> + “No, I've reconsidered it,” he answered. “I'm going to beg your father's + pardon, and take back all I said to him.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! then you do care for me, George,” cried the girl enthusiastically, + “an' we ken be happy again. I've been real miserable since last night; I + cried myself to sleep, so I did. Now I know you love me I'll do anythin' + you wish, anythin'. I'll learn to play the pianner; you see if I don't.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps,” he replied harshly, the old anger growing bitter in him at the + mention of the “pianner”—“perhaps it would be better if you gave up + the idea of the piano; that <i>costs</i> too much,” he added + significantly, “far too much. If you'd read good books and try to live in + the thought of the time, it would be better. Wisdom is to be won cheaply + and by all, but success in an art depends upon innate qualities.” + </p> + <p> + “I see,” she exclaimed, flaming up, “you think I can't learn to play like + your sister, and I'm very ignorant, and had better read and get to know + all other people have said, and you call that wisdom. I don't. Memory + ain't sense, I guess; and to talk like you ain't everythin'.” + </p> + <p> + The attack pricked his vanity. He controlled himself, however, and took up + the argument: “Memory is not sense, perhaps; but still one ought to know + the best that has been said and done in the world. It is easier to climb + the ladder when others have shown us the rungs. And surely to talk + correctly is better than to talk incorrectly.” + </p> + <p> + “It don't matter much, I reckon, so long as one gets your meanin', and as + for the ladder, a monkey could do that.” + </p> + <p> + The irrelevant retort puzzled him, and her tone increased his annoyance. + But why, he asked himself, should he trouble to lift her to a higher level + of thought? He relapsed into silence. + </p> + <p> + With wounded heart the girl waited; she was hurt, afraid he did not care + for her, could not even guess how she had offended him; but, as he would + not speak, her pride came to her aid, and she remarked: + </p> + <p> + “I'm asked out this evenin', so I'll have to get ready and go. Good night, + George Bancroft.” + </p> + <p> + “Good night, Miss Loo,” he replied calmly, though the pain he suffered + proved that jealousy may outlive love. “I think I shall go to this meeting + at the school-house.” + </p> + <p> + They parted. Loo went upstairs to her room to cry over her misery and + George's coldness; to wish she had been better taught, and had learned her + lessons in school carefully, for then he might have been kinder. She + wondered how she should get books to read. It was difficult. Besides, + couldn't he see that she was quick and would learn every-thin' afterwards + if he'd be good to her. Why did he act so? Why! + </p> + <p> + Bancroft went to the meeting, and found the house crowded. A young farmer + from the next county was present, who told how a United States officer + with twelve men and a surveyor had come and drawn the boundary line, torn + up his fences, and trampled down the corn which he had planted in the + Indian Reserve. The meeting at once adopted the following resolution: + </p> + <p> + “In view of the fact that the land cultivated by American citizens in or + upon the Indian Reserve has never been used or cultivated by the Indians, + who keep to the woods, and that it is God's will that land should bring + forth fruit for the sustenance of man, we are resolved to stand upon our + rights as citizens and to defend the same against all aggressors.” + </p> + <p> + Every one signed this document, copies of which were to be sent to General + Custer, and also to the President, to the Senate, and to Congress. It was + arranged further to write to their own representatives at Washington + giving an account of the situation. + </p> + <p> + After this the meeting broke up, but not before all present had agreed to + stand by any of their number who should resist the troops. + </p> + <p> + When Bancroft returned home Mr. and Mrs. Conklin were still up, and he + related to them all that had taken place. The Elder rose and stretched + himself without having made a remark. In a whisper Bancroft asked Mrs. + Conklin to let him have a word with her husband. As soon as they were + alone, he began: + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Conklin, I insulted you yesterday. I am sorry for it. I hope you'll + forgive me.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” replied the Elder meditatively, overlooking the proffered hand, + “yes, that's Christian, I reckon. But the truth's the truth.” Turning + abruptly to leave the room, he added: “The corn's ripe, waitin' to be cut; + ef the United States troops don't eat it all up we'll have a good year.” + There was a light in his steady eyes which startled the schoolmaster into + all sorts of conjectures. + </p> + <p> + A day or two later, the Conklins and Bancroft were seated at dinner when a + knock came at the door. “Come in!” said Mrs. Conklin, and a young officer + appeared in the uniform of the United States cavalry. He paused on the + threshold, lifted his cap, and apologized for his intrusion: + </p> + <p> + “Elder Conklin, I believe?” The Elder nodded his head, but continued + eating. “My business isn't pleasant, I fear, but it needn't take long. I'm + sent by General Custer to draw the boundary line between the State of + Kansas and the Indian Reserve, to break down all fences erected by + citizens of the United States in the Territory, and to destroy such crops + as they may have planted there. I regret to say our surveyor tells me the + boundary line here is Cottonwood Creek, and I must notify you that + tomorrow about noon I shall be here to carry out my orders, and to destroy + the crops and fences found on the further side of the creek.” + </p> + <p> + Before withdrawing he begged pardon again, this time for the short notice + he was compelled to give—a concession apparently to Miss Conklin's + appearance and encouraging smiles. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, pappa!” cried Loo, as he disappeared, “why didn't you ask him to have + some dinner? He jest looked splendid, and that uniform's too lovely.” + </p> + <p> + The Elder made no answer. Neither the courteous menace of the lieutenant + nor his daughter's reproach seemed to have had any effect upon him. He + went on with his dinner. + </p> + <p> + Loo's outspoken admiration of the officer did not move Bancroft as she had + anticipated. It simply confirmed his worst suspicions. His nature was + neither deep nor passionate; he had always lived in the conventions which + the girl constantly outraged, and they now exercised their influence. + Moreover, he had self-possession enough to see that she meant to annoy + him. He was exceedingly anxious to know what the Elder intended to do, and + what Loo might think or feel did not interest him greatly. + </p> + <p> + A few hours later a clue was given to him: Jake came and told him as a + piece of news that “Pa's shot-gun ain't in his room.” Bancroft could not + rid himself of the thought that the fact was significant. But the evening + passed away quietly; Loo busied herself with some work, and the Elder + seemed content to watch her. + </p> + <p> + At breakfast next morning nothing of moment happened. Bancroft took + occasion to say that he was coming home early to dinner. On his return + from school, some three hours after, he saw a troop of horsemen riding up + the valley a mile or so away. With quickened pulses he sprang up the steps + and met the Elder in the doorway. + </p> + <p> + “There they come!” he said involuntarily, pointing to the little cloud of + dust. + </p> + <p> + “Hum,” grunted the Elder, and left the stoop, going towards the outhouses. + </p> + <p> + Bancroft turned into the parlour, where he found Mrs. Conklin. She seemed + to be irritated, and not at all anxious, as he had expected: + </p> + <p> + “Did you see the Elder?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” he replied. “He went to the barn. I thought of accompanying him, + but was afraid he wouldn't like it.” + </p> + <p> + “I guess he's worrying about that corn,” Mrs. Conklin explained. “When he + broke that land I told him 'twould bring trouble, but he never minds what + any one says to him. He should listen to his wife, though, sometimes, + shouldn't he? But bein' a man p'r'aps you'll take his part. Anyway, it has + all happened as I knew it would. And what'll he do now? that's what I'd + like to know. All that corn lost and the fences—he jest worked + himself to death on those logs—all lost now. We shall be bare poor + again. It's too bad. I've never had any money since I left home.” And here + Mrs. Conklin's face puckered itself up as if she were about to cry, but + the impulse of vanity being stronger, she burst out angrily: “I think it's + real wicked of the Elder. I told him so. If he'd ask that young man to let + him cut the corn, I'm sure he wouldn't refuse. But he'll never take my + advice, or even answer me. It's too aggravatin' when I know I'm right.” + </p> + <p> + He looked at her in astonishment She had evidently no inkling of what + might occur, no vivid understanding of her husband's character. Preferring + to leave her in ignorance, he said lightly, “I hope it'll be all right,” + and, in order to change the subject, added, “I've not seen Miss Loo, and + Jake wasn't in school this morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, Mr. Bancroft, if anythin' has happened to Jake!” and Mrs. Conklin + sank weakly into the nearest chair; “but thar ain't no swimmin' nor + skatin' now. When he comes in I'll frighten him; I'll threaten to tell the + Elder. He mustn't miss his schooling for he's real bright, ain't he?—Loo? + Her father sent her to the Morrises, about some-thin'—I don't know + what.” + </p> + <p> + When Bancroft came downstairs, taking with him a small revolver, his only + weapon, he could not find the Elder either in the outbuildings or in the + stable. Remembering, however, that the soldiers could only get to the + threatened cornfield by crossing the bridge, which lay a few hundred yards + higher up the creek, he made his way thither with all speed. When he + reached the descent, he saw the Elder in the inevitable, long, + whitey-brown holland coat, walking over the bridge. In a minute or two he + had overtaken him. As the Elder did not speak, he began: + </p> + <p> + “I thought I'd come with you, Elder. I don't know that I'm much good, but + I sympathize with you, and I'd like to help you if I could.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” replied the Elder, acknowledging thereby the proffered aid. “But I + guess you kain't I guess not,” he repeated by way of emphasis. + </p> + <p> + In silence the pair went on to the broad field of maize. At the corner of + the fence, the Elder stopped and said, as if speaking to himself: + </p> + <p> + “It runs, I reckon, seventy-five bushel to the acre, and there are two + hundred acres.” After a lengthened pause he continued: “That makes nigh on + three thousand dollars. I must hev spent two hundred dollars this year in + hired labour on that ground, and the half ain't cut yet. Thar's a pile of + money and work on that quarter-section.” + </p> + <p> + A few minutes more passed in silence. Bancroft did not know what to say, + for the calm seriousness of the Elder repelled sympathy. As he looked + about him there showed on the rise across the creek a knot of United + States cavalry, the young lieutenant riding in front with a civilian, + probably the surveyor, by his side. Bancroft turned and found that the + Elder had disappeared in the corn. He followed quickly, but as he swung + himself on to the fence the Elder came from behind a stook with a + burnished shot-gun in his right hand, and said decisively: + </p> + <p> + “Don't come in hyar. 'Tain't your corn and you've no cause to mix yourself + in this fuss.” + </p> + <p> + Bancroft obeyed involuntarily. The next moment he began to resent the + authority conveyed in the prohibition; he ought to have protested, to have + insisted—'but now it was too late. As the soldiers rode up the + lieutenant dismounted and threw his reins to a trooper. He stepped towards + the fence, and touching his cap carelessly, remarked: + </p> + <p> + “Well, Mr. Conklin, here we are.” The earnestness of the Elder appeared to + have its effect, too, upon him, for he went on more respectfully: “I + regret that I've orders to pull down your fences and destroy the crop. But + there's nothing else to be done.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the Elder gravely, “I guess you know your orders. But you + mustn't pull down my fence,” and as he spoke he drew his shot-gun in front + of him, and rested his hands upon the muzzle, “nor destroy this crop.” And + the long upper lip came down over the lower, giving an expression of + obstinate resolve to the hard, tanned face. + </p> + <p> + “You don't seem to understand,” replied the lieutenant a little + impatiently; “this land belongs to the Indians; it has been secured to + them by the United States Government, and you've no business either to + fence it in or plant it.” + </p> + <p> + “That's all right,” answered Conklin, in the same steady, quiet, + reasonable tone. “That may all be jes' so, but them Indians warn't usin' + the land; they did no good with it. I broke this prairie ten years ago, + and it took eight hosses to do it, and I've sowed it ever sence till the + crops hev grown good, and now you come and tell me you're goin' to tromple + down the corn and pull up the fences. No sir, you ain't—that ain't + right.” + </p> + <p> + “Right or wrong,” the officer retorted, “I have to carry out my orders, + not reason about them. Here, sergeant, let three man hold the horses and + get to work on this fence.” + </p> + <p> + As the sergeant advanced and put his hand on the top layer of the heavy + snake-fence, the Elder levelled his shot-gun and said: + </p> + <p> + “Ef you pull down that bar I'll shoot.” + </p> + <p> + The sergeant took his hand from the bar quickly, and turned to his + commander as if awaiting further instructions. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Conklin,” exclaimed the lieutenant, moving forward, “this is pure + foolishness; we're twelve to one, and we're only soldiers and have to obey + orders. I'm sorry, but I must do my duty.” + </p> + <p> + “That's so,” said the Elder, lowering his gun deliberately. “That's so, I + guess. You hev your duty—p'r'aps I hev mine. 'Tain't my business to + teach you yours.” + </p> + <p> + For a moment the lieutenant seemed to be undecided; then he spoke: + </p> + <p> + “Half-a-dozen of you advance and cover him with your rifles. Now, Mr. + Conklin, if you resist you must take the consequences. Rebellion against + the United States Government don't generally turn out well—for the + rebel. Sergeant, down with the bar.” + </p> + <p> + The Elder stood as if he had not heard what had been said to him, but when + the sergeant laid hold of the bar, the shot-gun went up again to the old + man's shoulder, and he said: + </p> + <p> + “Ef you throw down that bar I'll shoot <i>you</i>.” Again the sergeant + paused, and looked at his officer. + </p> + <p> + At this juncture Bancroft could not help interfering. The Elder's attitude + had excited in him more than mere admiration; wonder, reverence thrilled + him, and his blood boiled at the thought that the old man might possibly + be shot down. He stepped forward and said: + </p> + <p> + “Sir, you must not order your men to fire. You will raise the whole + country against you if you do. This is surely a law case, and not to be + decided by violence. Such a decision is not to be taken without reflection + and distinct instructions.” + </p> + <p> + “Those instructions I have,” replied the lieutenant, “and I've got to + follow them out—more's the pity,” he added between his teeth, while + turning to his troopers to give the decisive command. At this moment down + from the bluff and over the wooden bridge came clattering a crowd of armed + farmers, the younger ones whirling their rifles or revolvers as they rode. + Foremost among them were Morris and Seth Stevens, and between these two + young Jake Conklin on Jack. As they reached the corner of the fence the + crowd pulled up and Morris cried out: + </p> + <p> + “Elder, we're on time, I reckon.” Addressing the lieutenant he added + violently: “We don't pay United States soldiers to pull down our fences + and destroy our crops. That's got to stop right here, and right now!” + </p> + <p> + “My orders are imperative,” the officer declared, “and if you resist you + must take the consequences.” But while he spoke the hopelessness of his + position became clear to him, for reinforcements of farmers were still + pouring over the bridge, and already the soldiers were outnumbered two to + one. Just as Seth Stevens began with “Damn the consequences,” the Elder + interrupted him: + </p> + <p> + “Young man,” he said to the lieutenant, “you'd better go back to Wichita. + I guess General Custer didn't send you to fight the hull township.” + Turning to Stevens, he added, “Thar ain't no need fer any cussin'.” Amid + complete silence he uncocked his shot-gun, climbed over the fence, and + went on in the same voice: + </p> + <p> + “Jake, take that horse to the stable an' wipe him dry. Tell your mother + I'm coming right up to eat.” + </p> + <p> + Without another word he moved off homewards. His intervention had put an + end to the difficulty. Even the lieutenant understood that there was + nothing more to be done for the moment. Five minutes later the troopers + recrossed the bridge. Morris and a few of the older men held a brief + consultation. It was agreed that they should be on the same spot at six + o'clock on the morrow, and some of the younger spirits volunteered to act + as scouts in the direction of Wichita and keep the others informed of what + took place in that quarter. + </p> + <p> + When Bancroft reached the house with Morris—neither Stevens nor any + of the others felt inclined to trespass on the Elder's hospitality without + an express invitation—he found dinner waiting. Loo had not returned; + had, indeed, arranged, as Morris informed them, to spend the day with his + wife; but Jake was present and irrepressible; he wanted to tell all he had + done to secure the victory. But he had scarcely commenced when his father + shut him up by bidding him eat, for he'd have to go right back to school. + </p> + <p> + There was no feeling of triumph in the Elder. He scarcely spoke, and when + Morris described the protective measures that had been adopted, he merely + nodded. In fact, one would have inferred from his manner that he had had + nothing whatever to do with the contest, and took no interest in it. The + only thing that appeared to trouble him was Loo's absence and the fear + lest she should have been “fussed;” but when Morris declared that neither + his wife nor Loo knew what was going on, and Bancroft announced his + intention of driving over to fetch her, he seemed to be satisfied. + </p> + <p> + “Jack, I reckon, has had enough,” he said to his boarder. “You'd better + take the white mare; she's quiet.” + </p> + <p> + On their way home in the buggy, Bancroft told Loo how her father had + defied the United States troops, and with what unconcern he had taken his + victory: + </p> + <p> + “I think he's a great man, a hero. And if he had lived in another time, or + in another country, poets would have sung his courage.” + </p> + <p> + “Really,” she observed. Her tone was anything but enthusiastic, though + hope stirred in her at his unusual warmth. “Perhaps he cares for me after + all,” she thought. + </p> + <p> + “What are you thinking about, Loo?” he asked, surprised at her silence. + </p> + <p> + “I was just wonderin',” she answered, casting off her fit of momentary + abstraction, “how father made you like him. It appears as if I couldn't, + George,” and she turned towards him while she spoke her wistful eyes + seeking to read his face. + </p> + <p> + There was a suggestion of tears in her voice, and her manner showed a + submission and humility which touched Bancroft deeply. All his good + impulses had been called into active life by his admiration of the Elder. + He put his disengaged arm round her and drew her to him as he replied: + </p> + <p> + “Kiss me, Loo dear, and let us try to get on better together in future. + There's no reason why we shouldn't,” he added, trying to convince himself. + The girl's vain and facile temperament required but little encouragement + to abandon itself in utter confidence. In her heart of hearts she was sure + that every man must admire her, and as her companion's manner and words + gave her hope, she chattered away in the highest spirits till the + homestead was reached. Her good-humour and self-satisfaction made the + evening pass merrily. Everything she said or did delighted the Elder, + Bancroft saw that clearly now. Whether she laughed or talked, teased Jake, + or mimicked the matronly airs of Mrs. Morris, her father's eyes followed + her with manifest pleasure and admiration. On rising to go to bed the + Elder said simply: + </p> + <p> + “It has been a good day—a good day,” he repeated impressively, while + he held his daughter in his arms and kissed her. + </p> + <p> + The next morning Bancroft was early afoot. Shortly after sunrise he went + down to the famous cornfield and found a couple of youths on watch. They + had been there for more than an hour, they said, and Seth Stevens and + Richards had gone scouting towards Wichita. “Conklin's corner's all + right,” was the phrase which sent the schoolmaster to breakfast with a + light heart. When the meal was over he returned to the centre of + excitement. The Elder had gone about his work; Mrs. Conklin seemed as + helplessly indifferent as usual; Loo was complacently careless; but + Bancroft, having had time for reflection, felt sure that all this was + Western-presumption; General Custer could not accept defeat so easily. At + the “corner” he found a couple of hundred youths and men assembled. They + were all armed, but the general opinion was that Custer would do nothing. + One old farmer summed up the situation in the phrase, “Thar ain't nothin' + for him to do, but set still.” + </p> + <p> + About eight o'clock, however, Richards raced up, with his horse in a + lather, and announced that Custer, with three hundred men, had started + from Wichita before six. + </p> + <p> + “He'll be hyar in half an hour,” he concluded. + </p> + <p> + Hurried counsel was taken; fifty men sought cover behind the stooks of + corn, the rest lined the skirting woods. When all was in order, Bancroft + was deputed to go and fetch the Elder, whom he eventually discovered at + the wood pile, sawing and splitting logs for firewood. + </p> + <p> + “Make haste, Elder,” he cried, “Morris has sent me for you, and there's no + time to be lost. Custer, with three hundred men, left Wichita at six + o'clock this morning, and they'll be here very soon.” + </p> + <p> + The Elder paused unwillingly, and resting on his axe asked: “Is Morris + alone?” + </p> + <p> + “No!” replied Bancroft, amazed to think the Elder could have forgotten the + arrangements he had heard described the evening before. “There are two + hundred men down there in the corner and in the woods,” and he rapidly + sketched the position. + </p> + <p> + “It's all right then, I guess,” the Elder decided. “They'll get along + without me. Tell Morris I'm at my chores.” Beginning his work again, he + added, “I've something to <i>do</i> hyar.” + </p> + <p> + From the old man's manner Bancroft was convinced that solicitation would + be a waste of time. He returned to the corner, where he found Morris + standing inside the fence. + </p> + <p> + “I guessed so,” was Morris's comment upon the Elder's attitude; “we'll hev + to do without him, I reckon. You and me'll stay hyar in the open; we don't + want to shoot ef we kin avoid it; there ain't no reason to as I kin see.” + </p> + <p> + Ten minutes afterwards the cavalry crossed the bridge two deep, and wound + snake-like towards the corner. With the first files came General Custer, + accompanied by half-a-dozen officers, among whom Bancroft recognized the + young lieutenant. Singling Morris out, the General rode up to the fence + and addressed him with formal politeness: + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Conklin?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” replied Morris, “but I'm hyar fer him, I guess—an' about two + hundred more ef I'm not enough,” he added drily, waving his hand towards + the woods. + </p> + <p> + With a half-turn in his saddle and a glance at the line of trees on his + flank, General Custer took in the situation. Clearly there was nothing to + do but to retreat, with some show of dignity. + </p> + <p> + “Where shall I find Mr. Conklin? I wish to speak to him.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll guide you,” was Morris's answer, “ef you'll come alone; he mightn't + fancy so many visitors to onc't.” + </p> + <p> + As Morris and Bancroft climbed over the fence and led the way towards the + homestead, some of the armed farmers strolled from behind the stooks into + the open, and others showed themselves carelessly among the trees on the + bank of the creek. When the Elder was informed that General Custer was at + the front door, he laid down his axe, and in his shirtsleeves went to meet + him. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Conklin, I believe?” + </p> + <p> + “That's my name, General.” + </p> + <p> + “You've resisted United States troops with arms, and now, it seems, you've + got up a rebellion.” + </p> + <p> + “I guess not, General; I guess not I was Union all through the war; I came + hyar as an Abolitionist I only want to keep my fences up as long as + they'll stand, an' cut my corn in peace.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” General Custer resumed, after a pause, “I must send to Washington + for instructions and state the facts as I know them, but if the Federal + authorities tell me to carry out the law, as I've no doubt they will, I + shall be compelled to do so, and resistance on your part can only cause + useless bloodshed.” + </p> + <p> + “That's so,” was the quiet reply; but what the phrase meant was not very + clear save to Bancroft, who understood that the Elder was unable or + unwilling to discuss a mere hypothesis. + </p> + <p> + With a curt motion of his hand to his cap General Custer cantered off to + rejoin his men, who shortly afterwards filed again across the bridge on + their way back to camp. + </p> + <p> + When the coast was clear of soldiers some of the older settlers went up to + Conklin's to take counsel together. It was agreed to collect from all the + farmers interested two dollars a head for law expenses, and to send at + once for Lawyer Barkman of Wichita, in order to have his opinion on the + case. Morris offered to bring Barkman next day about noon to Conklin's, + and this proposal was accepted. If any other place had been fixed upon, it + would have been manifestly impossible to secure the Elder's presence, for + his refusal again to leave the wood pile had converted his back-stoop into + the council-chamber. Without more ado the insurgents dispersed, every man + to his house. + </p> + <p> + On returning home to dinner next day Bancroft noticed a fine buggy drawn + up outside the stable, and a negro busily engaged in grooming two strange + horses. When he entered the parlour he was not surprised to find that + Morris had already arrived with the lawyer. Barkman was about forty years + of age; above the medium height and very stout, but active. His face was + heavy; its outlines obscured by fat; the nose, however, was thin and + cocked inquisitively, and the eyes, though small, were restless and + intelligent. He was over-dressed; his black frock-coat was brand new; the + diamond stud which shone in the centre of a vast expanse of shirt-front, + was nearly the size of a five-cent piece—his appearance filled + Bancroft with contempt. Nevertheless he seemed to know his business. As + soon as he had heard the story he told them that an action against the + Elder would lie in the Federal Courts, and that the damages would + certainly be heavy. Still, something might be done; the act of rebellion, + he thought, would be difficult to prove; in fine, they must wait on + events. + </p> + <p> + At this moment Mrs. Conklin accompanied by Loo came in to announce that + dinner was ready. It was manifest that the girl's beauty made a deep + impression on Barkman. Before seeing her he had professed to regard the + position as hopeless, or nearly so; now he was ready to reconsider his + first opinion, or rather to modify it. His quick intelligence appeared to + have grown keener as he suddenly changed his line of argument, and began + to set forth the importance of getting the case fully and fairly discussed + in Washington. + </p> + <p> + “I must get clear affidavits from all the settlers,” he said, “and then, I + guess, we'll show the authorities in Washington that this isn't a question + in which they should interfere. But if I save you,” he went on, with a + laugh intended to simulate frank good-nature, “I s'pose I may reckon on + your votes when I run for Congress.” + </p> + <p> + It was understood at once that he had pitched upon the best possible + method of defence. Morris seemed to speak for all when he said: + </p> + <p> + “Ef you'll take the trouble now, I guess we'll ensure your election.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind the election, that was only a jest,” replied the lawyer + good-humouredly; “and the trouble's not worth talkin' about. If Miss + Conklin,” and here he turned respectfully towards her, “would take a seat + in my buggy and show me the chief settlers' houses, I reckon I could fix + up the case in three or four days.” + </p> + <p> + The eyes of all were directed upon Loo. Was it Bancroft's jealousy that + made him smile contemptuously as he, too, glanced at her? If so, the + disdain was ill-timed. Flushing slightly, she answered, “I guess I'll be + pleased to do what I can,” and she met the schoolmaster's eyes defiantly + as she spoke. + </p> + <p> + With the advent of Barkman upon the scene a succession of new experiences + began for Bancroft. He was still determined not to be seduced into making + Loo his wife. But now the jealousy that is born of desire and vanity + tormented him, and the mere thought that Barkman might marry and live with + her irritated him intensely. She was worthy of better things than marriage + with such a man. She was vain, no doubt, and lacking in the finer + sensibilities, the tremulous moral instincts which are the crown and glory + of womanhood; but it was not her fault that her education had been faulty, + her associates coarse—and after all she was very beautiful. + </p> + <p> + On returning home one afternoon he saw Barkman walking with her in the + peach orchard. As they turned round the girl called to him, and came at + once to meet him; but his jealousy would not be appeased. Her flower-like + face, framed, so to speak, by the autumn foliage, only increased his + anger. He could not bear to <i>see</i> her flirting. Were she out of his + sight, he felt for the first time, he would not care what she did. + </p> + <p> + “You were goin' in without speakin',” she said reproachfully. + </p> + <p> + “You have a man with you whose trade is talk. I'm not needed,” was his + curt reply. + </p> + <p> + Half-incensed, half-gratified by his passionate exclamation, she drew + back, while Barkman, advancing, said: + </p> + <p> + “Good day, Mr. Bancroft, good day. I was just tryin' to persuade Miss + Conklin to come for another drive this evenin' in order to get this + business of ours settled as soon as possible.” + </p> + <p> + “Another drive.” Bancroft repeated the words to himself, and then + steadying his voice answered coolly: “You'll have no difficulty, lawyer. I + was just telling Miss Conklin that you talked splendidly—the result + of constant practice, I presume.” + </p> + <p> + “That's it, sir,” replied the lawyer seriously; “it's chiefly a matter of + practice added to gift—natural gift,” but here Barkman's conceit + died out as he caught an uneasy, impatient movement of Miss Conklin, and + he went on quietly with the knowledge of life and the adaptability gained + by long experience: “But anyway, I'm glad you agree with me, for Miss + Conklin may take your advice after rejectin' mine.” + </p> + <p> + Bancroft saw the trap, but could not restrain himself. With a contemptuous + smile he said: + </p> + <p> + “I'm sure no advice of mine is needed; Miss Conklin has already made up + her mind to gratify you. She likes to show the country to strangers,” he + added bitterly. + </p> + <p> + The girl flushed at the sarcasm, but her spirit was not subdued. + </p> + <p> + “Wall, Mr. Barkman,” she retorted, with a smiling glance at the lawyer, “I + guess I must give in; if Mr. Bancroft thinks I ought ter, there's no more + to be said. I'm willin'.” + </p> + <p> + An evening or two later, Barkman having gone into Wichita, Bancroft asked + Loo to go out with him upon the stoop. For several minutes he stood in + silence admiring the moonlit landscape; then he spoke as if to himself: + </p> + <p> + “Not a cloud in the purple depths, no breath of air, no sound nor stir of + life—peace absolute that mocks at man's cares and restlessness. + Look, Loo, how the ivory light bathes the prairie and shimmers on the sea + of corn, and makes of the little creek a ribband of silver.... + </p> + <p> + “Yet you seem to prefer a great diamond gleaming in a white shirt-front, + and a coarse, common face, and vulgar talk. + </p> + <p> + “You,” and he turned to her, “whose beauty is like the beauty of nature + itself, perfect and ineffable. When I think of you and that coarse brute + together, I shall always remember this moonlight and the hateful + zig-zagging snake-fence there that disfigures and defiles its beauty.” + </p> + <p> + The girl looked up at him, only half understanding his rhapsody, but + glowing with the hope called to life by his extravagant praise of her. + “Why, George,” she said shyly, because wholly won, “I don't think no more + of Lawyer Barkman than the moon thinks of the fence—an' I guess + that's not much,” she added, with a little laugh of complete content. + </p> + <p> + The common phrases of uneducated speech and the vulgar accent of what he + thought her attempt at smart rejoinder offended him. Misunderstanding her + literalness of mind, he moved away, and shortly afterwards re-entered the + house. + </p> + <p> + Of course Loo was dissatisfied with such incidents as these. When she saw + Bancroft trying to draw Barkman out and throw contempt upon him, she never + dreamed of objecting. But when he attacked her, she flew to her weapons. + What had she done, what was she doing, to deserve his sneers? She only + wished him to love her, and she felt indignantly that every time she + teased him by going with Barkman, he was merciless, and whenever she + abandoned herself to him, he drew back. She couldn't bear that; it was + cruel of him. She loved him, yes; no one, she knew, would ever make him so + good a wife as she would. No one ever could. Why, there was nothin' she + wouldn't do for him willingly. She'd see after his comforts an' + everythin'. She'd tidy all his papers an' fix up his things. And if he + ever got ill, she'd jest wait on him day and night—so she would. + She'd be the best wife to him that ever was. + </p> + <p> + Oh, why couldn't he be good to her always? That was all she wanted, to + feel he loved her; then she'd show him how she loved him. He'd be happy, + as happy as the day was long. How foolish men were! they saw nothin' that + was under their noses. + </p> + <p> + “P'r'aps he does love me,” she said to herself; “he talked the other + evenin' beautiful; I guess he don't talk like that to every one, and yet + he won't give in to me an' jest be content—once for all. It's their + pride makes 'em like that; their silly, stupid pride. Nothin' else. Men + air foolish things. I've no pride at all when I think of him, except I + know that no one else could make him as happy as I could. Oh my!” and she + sighed with a sense of the mysterious unnecessary suffering in life. + </p> + <p> + “An' he goes on bein' mad with Lawyer Bark-man. Fancy, that fat old man. + He warn't jealous of Seth Stevens or the officer, no; but of him. Why, + it's silly. Barkman don't count anyway. He talks well, yes, an' he's + always pleasant, always; but he's jest not in it Men air foolish anyway.” + She was beginning to acknowledge that all her efforts to gain her end + might prove unsuccessful. + </p> + <p> + Barkman, with his varied experience and the cooler blood of forty, saw + more of the game than either Bancroft or Loo. He had learnt that + compliments and attention count for much with women, and having studied + Miss Conklin he was sure that persistent flattery would go a long way + towards winning her. “I've gained harder cases by studying the jury,” he + thought, “and I'll get her because I know her. That schoolmaster irritates + her; I won't. He says unpleasant things to her; I'll say pleasant things + and she'll turn to me. She likes to be admired; I guess that means dresses + and diamonds. Well, she shall have them, have all she wants.... The mother + ain't a factor, that's plain, and the father's sittin' on the fence; he'll + just do anythin' for the girl, and if he ain't well off—what does + that matter? I don't want money;” and his chest expanded with a proud + sense of disinterestedness. + </p> + <p> + “Why does the schoolmaster run after her? what would he do with such a + woman? He couldn't even keep her properly if he got her. It's a duty to + save the girl from throwin' herself away on a young, untried man like + that.” He felt again that his virtue ought to help him to succeed. + </p> + <p> + “What a handsome figure she has! Her arms are perfect, firm as marble; and + her neck—round, too, and not a line on it, and how she walks! She's + the woman I want—so lovely I'll always be proud of her. What a wife + she'll make! My first wife was pretty, but not to be compared to her. + Who'd ever have dreamt of finding such a beauty in this place? How lucky I + am after all. Yes, lucky because I know just what I want, and go for it + right from the start That's all. That's what luck means. + </p> + <p> + “Women are won little by little,” he concluded. “Whoever knows them and + humours them right along, flattering their weak points, is sure to succeed + some time or other. And I can wait.” + </p> + <p> + He got his opportunity by waiting. As Loo took her seat in the buggy one + afternoon he saw that she was nervous and irritable. “The schoolmaster's + been goin' for her—the derned fool,” he said to himself, and at once + began to soothe her. The task was not an easy one. She was cold to him at + first and even spiteful; she laughed at what he said and promised, and + made fun of his pretensions. His kindly temper stood him in good stead. He + was quietly persistent; with the emollient of good-nature he wooed her in + his own fashion, and before they reached the first settler's house he had + half won her to kindliness. Here he made his victory complete. At every + question he appealed to her deferentially for counsel and decision; he + reckoned Miss Conklin would know, he relied on her for the facts, and when + she spoke he guessed that just settled the matter; her opinion was good + enough for him, and so forth. + </p> + <p> + Wounded to the soul by Bancroft's persistent, undeserved contempt, the + girl felt that now at last she had met some one who appreciated her, and + she gave herself up to the charm of dexterous flattery. + </p> + <p> + From her expression and manner while they drove homewards, Barkman + believed that the game was his own. He went on talking to her with the + reverence which he had already found to be so effective. There was no one + like her. What a lawyer she'd have made! How she got round the wife and + induced the husband to sign the petition—'twas wonderful! He had + never imagined a woman could be so tactful and winning. He had never met a + man who was her equal in persuading people. + </p> + <p> + The girl drank in the praise as a dry land drinks the rain. He meant it + all; that was clear. He had shown it in his words and acts—there, + before the Croftons. She had always believed she could do such things; she + didn't care much about books, and couldn't talk fine about moonlight, but + the men an' women she knew, she understood. She was sure of that. But + still, 'twas pleasant to hear it. He must love her or he never could + appreciate her as he did. She reckoned he was very clever; the best lawyer + in the State. Every one knew that. And he had said no man was equal to + her. Oh, if only the other, if only George had told her so; but he was too + much wrapped up in himself, and after all what was he anyway? Yet, if he + had— + </p> + <p> + At this point of her musings the lawyer, seeing the flushed cheeks and + softened glance, believed his moment had come, and resolved to use it. His + passion made him forget that it was possible to go too fast. + </p> + <p> + “Miss Conklin,” he began seriously, “if you'd join with me there's nothin' + we two couldn't do, nothin'! They call me the first lawyer in the State, + and I guess I'll get to Washington soon; but with you to help me I'd be + there before this year's out. As the wife of a Member of Congress, you + would show them all the way. I'm rich already; that is, I can do whatever + you want, and it's a shame for such genius as yours, and such talent, to + be hidden here among people who don't know how to value you properly. In + New York or in Washington you'd shine; become a social power,” and as the + words “New York” caused the girl to look at him with eager attention, he + added, overcome by the foretaste of approaching triumph: “Miss Loo, I love + you; you've seen that, for you notice everythin'. I know I'm not young, + but I can be kinder and more faithful than any young man, and,” here he + slipped his arm round her waist, “I guess all women want to be loved, + don't they? Will you let me love you, Loo, as my wife?” + </p> + <p> + The girl shrank away from him nervously. Perhaps the fact of being in a + buggy recalled her rides with George; or the caress brought home to her + the difference between the two men. However that may be, when she + answered, it was with full self-possession: + </p> + <p> + “I guess what you say's about right, and I like you. But I don't want to + marry—anyway not yet. Of course I'd like to help you, and I'd like + to live in New York; but—I can't make up my mind all at once. You + must wait. If you really care for me, that can't be hard.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it's hard,” Barkman replied, “very hard to feel uncertain of winning + the only woman I can ever love. But I don't want to press you,” he added, + after a pause, “I rely on you; you know best, and I'll do just what you + wish.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then,” she resumed, mollified by his humility, “you'll go back to + Wichita this evenin', as you said you would, and when you return, the day + after to-morrow, I'll tell you Yes or No. Will that do?” and she smiled up + in his face. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that's more than I had a right to expect,” he acknowledged. “Hope + from you is better than certainty from any other woman.” In this mood they + reached the homestead. Loo alighted at the gate; she wouldn't allow + Barkman even to get down; he was to go right off at once, but when he + returned she'd meet him. With a grave respectful bow he lifted his hat, + and drove away. On the whole, he had reason to be proud of his diplomacy; + reason, too, for saying to himself that at last he had got on “the inside + track.” Still, all the factors in the problem were not seen even by his + keen eyes. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, Loo began to reflect upon what she should do. It did not + occur to her that she had somewhat compromised herself with the lawyer by + giving him leave, and, in fact, encouragement to expect a favourable + answer. She was so used to looking at all affairs from the point of view + of her own self-interest and satisfaction, that such an idea did not even + enter her head. She simply wanted to decide on what was best for herself. + She considered the matter as it seemed to her, from all sides, without + arriving at any decision. Barkman was kind, and good to her; but she + didn't care for him, and she loved George still. Oh, why wasn't he like + the other, always sympathetic and admiring? She sat and thought. In the + depths of her nature she felt that she couldn't give George up, couldn't + make up her mind to lose him; and why should she, since they loved each + other? What could she do? + </p> + <p> + Of a sudden she paused. She remembered how, more than a year before, she + had been invited to Eureka for a ball. She had stayed with her friend Miss + Jennie Blood; by whose advice and with whose help she had worn for the + first time a low-necked dress. She had been uncomfortable in it at first, + very uncomfortable, but the men liked it, all of them. She had seen their + admiration in their eyes; as Jennie had said, it fetched them. If only + George could see her in a low-necked dress—she flushed as she + thought of it—perhaps he'd admire her, and then she'd be quite + happy. But there were never any balls or parties in this dead-and-alive + township! How could she manage it? + </p> + <p> + The solution came to her with a shock of half-frightened excitement. It + was warm still, very warm, in the middle of the day; why shouldn't she + dress as for a dance, somethin' like it anyway, and go into George's room + to put it straight just before he came home from school? Her heart beat + quickly as she reflected. After all, what harm was there in it? She + recollected hearing that in the South all the girls wore low dresses in + summer, and she loved George, and she was sure he loved her. Any one would + do it, and no one would know. She resolved to try on the dress, just to + see how it suited her. There was no harm in that. She took off her thin + cotton gown quickly, and put on the ball-dress. But when she had dragged + the chest of drawers before the window and had propped up the little glass + on it to have a good look at herself, she grew hot. She couldn't wear + that, not in daylight; it looked, oh, it looked—and she blushed + crimson. Besides, the tulle was all frayed and faded. No, she couldn't + wear it! Oh!—and her eyes filled with tears of envy and vexation. If + only she were rich, like lots of other girls, she could have all sorts of + dresses. 'Twas unfair, so it was. She became desperate with + disappointment, and set her wits to work again. She had plenty of time + still. George wouldn't be back before twelve. She must choose a dress he + had never seen; then he wouldn't know but what she often wore it so. + Nervously, hurriedly, she selected a cotton frock, and before the tiny + glass pinned and arranged it over her shoulders and bust, higher than the + ball-dress, but still, lower than she had ever worn in the daytime. She + fashioned the garment with an instinctive sense of form that a Parisian <i>couturière</i> + might have envied, and went to work. Her nimble fingers soon cut and sewed + it to the style she had intended, and then she tried it on. As she looked + at herself in the mirror the vision of her loveliness surprised and + charmed her. She had drawn a blue ribband that she happened to possess, + round the arms of the dress and round the bodice of it, and when she saw + how this little thread of colour set off the full outlines of her bust and + the white roundness of her arms, she could have kissed her image in the + glass. She was lovely, prettier than any girl in the section. George would + see that; he loved beautiful things. Hadn't he talked of the scenery for + half an hour? He'd be pleased. + </p> + <p> + She thought again seriously whether her looks could not be improved. After + rummaging a little while in vain, she went downstairs and borrowed a light + woollen shawl from her mother on the pretext that she liked the feel of + it. Hastening up to her own room, she put it over her shoulders, and + practised a long time before the dim glass just to see how best she could + throw it back or draw it round her at will. + </p> + <p> + At last, with a sigh of content, she felt herself fully equipped for the + struggle; she was looking her best. If George didn't care for her so—and + she viewed herself again approvingly from all sides—why, she + couldn't help it. She had done all she could, but if he did, and he must—why, + then, he'd tell her, and they'd be happy. At the bottom of her heart she + felt afraid. George was strange; not a bit like other men. He might be + cold, and at the thought she felt inclined to cry out. Pride, however, + came to her aid. If he didn't like her, it would be his fault. She had + just done her best, and that she reckoned, with a flush of pardonable + conceit, was good enough for any <i>man</i>. + </p> + <p> + An hour later Bancroft went up to his room. As he opened the door Loo + turned towards him from the centre-table with a low cry of surprise, + drawing at the same time the ends of the fleecy woollen wrap tight across + her breast. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, George, how you scared me! I was jest fixin' up your things.” And the + girl crimsoned, while her eyes sought to read his face. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you,” he rejoined carelessly, and then, held by something of + expectation in her manner, he looked at her intently, and added: “Why, + Loo, how well you look! I like that dress; it suits you.” And he stepped + towards her. + </p> + <p> + She held out both hands as if to meet his, but by the gesture the woollen + scarf was thrown back, and her form unveiled. Once again her mere beauty + stung the young man to desire, but something of a conscious look in her + face gave him thought, and, scrutinizing her coldly, he said: + </p> + <p> + “I suppose that dress was put on for Mr. Barkman's benefit.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, George!” she cried, in utter dismay, “he hain't been here to-day.” + And then, as the hard expression did not leave his face, she added + hurriedly: “I put it on for you, George. Do believe me.” + </p> + <p> + Still his face did not alter. Suddenly she understood that she had + betrayed her secret. She burst into bitter tears. + </p> + <p> + He took her in his arms and spoke perfunctory words of consolation; her + body yielded to his touch, and in a few moments he was soothing her in + earnest. Her grief was uncontrollable. “I've jest done everythin', + everythin', and it's all no use,” she sobbed aloud. When he found that he + could not check the tears, he grew irritated; he divined her little + stratagem, and his lip curled. How unmaidenly! + </p> + <p> + In a flash, she stood before him, her shallow, childish vanity unmasked. + The pity of it did not strike him; he was too young for that; he felt only + contempt for her, and at once drew his arms away. With a long, choking sob + she moved to the door and disappeared. She went blindly along the passage + to her room, and, flinging herself on the bed, cried as if her heart would + break. Then followed a period of utter abject misery. She had lost + everything George didn't care for her; she'd have to live all her life + without him, and again slow, scalding tears fell. + </p> + <p> + The thought of going downstairs to supper and meeting him was intolerable. + The sense of what she had confessed to him swept over her in a hot flood + of shame. No, she couldn't go down; she couldn't face his eyes again. + She'd sit right there, and her mother'd come up, and she'd tell her she + had a headache. To meet him was impossible; she just hated him. He was + hard and cruel; she'd never see him again; he had degraded her. The whole + place became unbearable as she relived the past; she must get away from + him, from it all, at any cost, as soon as she could. They'd be sorry when + she was gone. And she cried again a little, but these tears relieved her, + did her good. + </p> + <p> + She tried to look at the whole position steadily. Barkman would take her + away to New York. Marry him?—she didn't want to, but she wouldn't + make up her mind now; she'd go away with him if he'd be a real friend to + her. Only he mustn't put his arm round her again; she didn't like him to + do that. If he wished to be a friend to her, she'd let him; if not, she'd + go by herself. He must understand that. Once in New York, she'd meet kind + people, live as she wanted to live, and never think of this horrid time. + </p> + <p> + She was all alone; no one in the world to talk to about her trouble—no + one. No one cared for her. Her mother loved Jake best; and besides, if she + told her anythin', she'd only set down an' cry. She'd write and say she + was comfortable; and her father?—he'd get over it. He was kind + always, but he never felt much anyway—leastwise, he never showed + anythin'. When they got her letter 'twould be all right. That was what + she'd do—and so, with her little hands clenched and feverish face, + she sat and thought, letting her imagination work. + </p> + <p> + A few mornings later Bancroft came down early. He had slept badly, had + been nervous and disturbed by jealous forebodings, and had not won easily + to self-control. He had only been in the sitting-room a minute or two when + the Elder entered, and stopping in front of him asked sharply: + </p> + <p> + “Hev you seen Loo yet?” + </p> + <p> + “No. Is she down?” + </p> + <p> + “I reckoned you'd know ef she had made out anythin' partikler to do + to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” he repeated seriously, the Elder's manner impressing him. “No! she + told me nothing, but perhaps she hasn't got up yet.” + </p> + <p> + “She ain't in her room.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “You didn't hear buggy-wheels last night—along towards two o'clock?” + </p> + <p> + “No, but—you don't mean to say? Lawyer Barkman!” And Bancroft + started up with horror in his look. + </p> + <p> + The Elder stared at him, with rigid face and wild eyes, but as he + gradually took in the sincerity of the young man's excitement, he turned, + and left the room. + </p> + <p> + To his bedroom he went, and there, after closing the door, fell on his + knees. For a long time no word came; with clasped hands and bowed head the + old man knelt in silence. Sobs shook his frame, but no tears fell. At + length broken sentences dropped heavily from his half-conscious lips: + </p> + <p> + “Lord, Lord! 'Tain't right to punish her. She knowed nothin'. She's so + young. I did wrong, but I kain't bear her to be punished. + </p> + <p> + “P'r'aps You've laid this on me jes' to show I'm foolish and weak. That's + so, O Lord! I'm in the hollow of Your hand. But You'll save her, O Lord! + for Jesus' sake. + </p> + <p> + “I'm all broke up. I kain't pray. I'm skeered. Lord Christ, help her; + stan' by her; be with her. O Lord, forgive!” + </p> + <p> + June and July, 1891. + </p> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Elder Conklin, by Frank Harris + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK ELDER CONKLIN *** + +***** This file should be named 23012-h.htm or 23012-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/2/3/0/1/23012/ + +Produced by David Widger + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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