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diff --git a/349-h/349-h.htm b/349-h/349-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..35388b3 --- /dev/null +++ b/349-h/349-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,19519 @@ +<!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" xml:lang="en" lang="en"> +<head> +<meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=utf-8" /> +<meta http-equiv="Content-Style-Type" content="text/css" /> +<title>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Harvester, by Gene Stratton-Porter</title> + +<style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; 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> + +<div style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Harvester, by Gene Stratton-Porter</div> +<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and +most other parts of the world 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 <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you +are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the +country where you are located before using this eBook. +</div> +<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: The Harvester</div> +<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Gene Stratton-Porter</div> +<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: October, 1995 [eBook #349]<br /> +[Most recently updated: March 17, 2023]</div> +<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</div> +<div style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Produced by: Charles Keller and David Widger</div> +<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE HARVESTER ***</div> + + <h1> + THE HARVESTER + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Gene Stratton-Porter + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h4> + Author Of A Girl Of The Limberlost, Freckles, Etc. + </h4> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h4> + THIS PORTION<br /> OF THE LIFE OF A MAN OF TO-DAY<br /> IS OFFERED IN THE + HOPE THAT IN CLEANLINESS,<br /> POETIC TEMPERMENT, AND MENTAL FORCE,<br /> A + LIKENESS WILL BE SEEN<br /> TO<br /><br /> HENRY DAVID THOREAU + </h4> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> <b>THE HARVESTER</b> </a><br /> <br /> + <br /> <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER I. </a> BELSHAZZAR'S + DECISION <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER II. </a> THE + EFFECT OF A DREAM <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER III. </a> HARVESTING + THE FOREST <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER IV. </a> A + COMMISSION FOR THE SOUTH WIND <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0006"> + CHAPTER V. </a> WHEN THE HARVESTER MADE GOOD <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VI. </a> TO LABOUR AND TO WAIT + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VII. </a> THE + QUEST OF THE DREAM GIRL <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER + VIII. </a> BELSHAZZAR'S RECORD POINT <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER IX. </a> THE HARVESTER GOES + COURTING <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER X. </a> THE + CHIME OF THE BLUE BELLS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XI. + </a> DEMONSTRATED COURTSHIP <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0013"> + CHAPTER XII. </a> "THE WAY OF A MAN WITH A MAID” <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIII. </a> WHEN THE DREAM + CAME TRUE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XIV. </a> SNOWY + WINGS <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XV. </a> THE + HARVESTER INTERPRETS LIFE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER + XVI. </a> GRANNY MORELAND'S VISIT <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVII. </a> LOVE INVADES SCIENCE + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XVIII. </a> THE + BETTER MAN <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XIX. </a> A + VERTICAL SPINE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XX. </a> THE + MAN IN THE BACKGROUND <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXI. + </a> THE COMING OF THE BLUEBIRD <br /><br /> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h3> + CHARACTERS + </h3> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + DAVID LANGSTON, A Harvester of the Woods. + RUTH JAMESON, A Girl of the City. + GRANNY MORELAND, An Interested Neighbour. + DR. CAREY, Chief Surgeon of the Onabasha Hospital. + MRS. CAREY, Wife of the Doctor. + DR. HARMON, Who Concludes to Leave the City. + MOLLY BARNET, A Hospital Nurse with a Heart. + HENRY JAMESON, A Trader Without a Heart. + ALEXANDER HERRON, Who Made a Concession. + MRS. HERRON, A Gentle Woman. + THE KENNEDYS, Philadelphia Lawyers. + </pre> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + THE HARVESTER + </h1> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I. BELSHAZZAR'S DECISION + </h2> + <p> + “Bel, come here!” The Harvester sat in the hollow worn in the hewed log + stoop by the feet of his father and mother and his own sturdier tread, and + rested his head against the casing of the cabin door when he gave the + command. The tip of the dog's nose touched the gravel between his paws as + he crouched flat on earth, with beautiful eyes steadily watching the + master, but he did not move a muscle. + </p> + <p> + “Bel, come here!” + </p> + <p> + Twinkles flashed in the eyes of the man when he repeated the order, while + his voice grew more imperative as he stretched a lean, wiry hand toward + the dog. The animal's eyes gleamed and his sensitive nose quivered, yet he + lay quietly. + </p> + <p> + “Belshazzar, kommen Sie hier!” + </p> + <p> + The body of the dog arose on straightened legs and his muzzle dropped in + the outstretched palm. A wind slightly perfumed with the odour of melting + snow and unsheathing buds swept the lake beside them, and lifted a waving + tangle of light hair on the brow of the man, while a level ray of the + setting sun flashed across the water and illumined the graven, sensitive + face, now alive with keen interest in the game being played. + </p> + <p> + “Bel, dost remember the day?” inquired the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + The eager attitude and anxious eyes of the dog betrayed that he did not, + but was waiting with every sense alert for a familiar word that would tell + him what was expected. + </p> + <p> + “Surely you heard the killdeers crying in the night,” prompted the man. “I + called your attention when the ecstasy of the first bluebird waked the + dawn. All day you have seen the gold-yellow and blood-red osiers, the + sap-wet maples and spring tracing announcements of her arrival on the + sunny side of the levee.” + </p> + <p> + The dog found no clew, but he recognized tones he loved in the suave, easy + voice, and his tail beat his sides in vigorous approval. The man nodded + gravely. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, so! Then you realize this day to be the most important of all the + coming year to me; this hour a solemn one that influences my whole after + life. It is time for your annual decision on my fate for a twelve-month. + Are you sure you are fully alive to the gravity of the situation, Bel?” + </p> + <p> + The dog felt himself safe in answering a rising inflection ending in his + name uttered in that tone, and wagged eager assent. + </p> + <p> + “Well then,” said the man, “which shall it be? Do I leave home for the + noise and grime of the city, open an office and enter the money-making + scramble?” + </p> + <p> + Every word was strange to the dog, almost breathlessly waiting for a + familiar syllable. The man gazed steadily into the animal's eyes. After a + long pause he continued: + </p> + <p> + “Or do I remain at home to harvest the golden seal, mullein, and ginseng, + not to mention an occasional hour with the black bass or tramps for + partridge and cotton-tails?” + </p> + <p> + The dog recognized each word of that. Before the voice ceased, his sleek + sides were quivering, his nostrils twitching, his tail lashing, and at the + pause he leaped up and thrust his nose against the face of the man. The + Harvester leaned back laughing in deep, full-chested tones; then he patted + the dog's head with one hand and renewed his grip with the other. + </p> + <p> + “Good old Bel!” he cried exultantly. “Six years you have decided for me, + and right——every time! We are of the woods, Bel, born and + reared here as our fathers before us. What would we of the camp fire, the + long trail, the earthy search, we harvesters of herbs the famous chemists + require, what would we do in a city? And when the sap is rising, the bass + splashing, and the wild geese honking in the night! We never could endure + it, Bel. + </p> + <p> + “When we delivered that hemlock at the hospital to-day, did you hear that + young doctor talking about his 'lid'? Well up there is ours, old fellow! + Just sky and clouds overhead for us, forest wind in our faces, wild + perfume in our nostrils, muck on our feet, that's the life for us. Our + blood was tainted to begin with, and we've lived here so long it is now a + passion in our hearts. If ever you sentence us to life in the city, you'll + finish both of us, that's what you'll do! But you won't, will you? You + realize what God made us for and what He made for us, don't you, Bel?” + </p> + <p> + As he lovingly patted the dog's head the man talked and the animal + trembled with delight. Then the voice of the Harvester changed and dropped + to tones of gravest import. + </p> + <p> + “Now how about that other matter, Bel? You always decide that too. The + time has come again. Steady now! This is far more important than the + other. Just to be wiped out, Bel, pouf! That isn't anything and it + concerns no one save ourselves. But to bring misery into our lives and + live with it daily, that would be a condition to rend the soul. So + careful, Bel! Cautious now!” + </p> + <p> + The voice of the man dropped to a whisper as he asked the question. + </p> + <p> + “What about the girl business?” + </p> + <p> + Trembling with eagerness to do the thing that would bring more caressing, + bewildered by unfamiliar words and tones, the dog hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “Do I go on as I have ever since mother left me, rustling for grub, living + in untrammelled freedom? Do I go on as before, Bel?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester paused and waited the answer, with anxiety in his eyes as he + searched the beast face. He had talked to that dog, as most men commune + with their souls, for so long and played the game in such intense earnest + that he felt the results final with him. The animal was immovable now, + lost again, his anxious eyes watching the face of the master, his eager + ears waiting for words he recognized. After a long time the man continued + slowly and hesitantly, as if fearing the outcome. He did not realize that + there was sufficient anxiety in his voice to change its tones. + </p> + <p> + “Or do I go courting this year? Do I rig up in uncomfortable + store-clothes, and parade before the country and city girls and try to + persuade the one I can get, probably——not the one I would want——to + marry me, and come here and spoil all our good times? Do we want a woman + around scolding if we are away from home, whining because she is lonesome, + fretting for luxuries we cannot afford to give her? Are you going to let + us in for a scrape like that, Bel?” + </p> + <p> + The bewildered dog could bear the unusual scene no longer. Taking the + rising inflection, that sounded more familiar, for a cue, and his name for + a certainty, he sprang forward, his tail waving as his nose touched the + face of the Harvester. Then he shot across the driveway and lay in the + spice thicket, half the ribs of one side aching, as he howled from the + lowest depths of dog misery. + </p> + <p> + “You ungrateful cur!” cried the Harvester. “What has come over you? Six + years I have trusted you, and the answer has been right, every time! + Confound your picture! Sentence me to tackle the girl proposition! I see + myself! Do you know what it would mean? For the first thing you'd be + chained, while I pranced over the country like a half-broken colt, trying + to attract some girl. I'd have to waste time I need for my work and spend + money that draws good interest while we sleep, to tempt her with presents. + I'd have to rebuild the cabin and there's not a chance in ten she would + not fret the life out of me whining to go to the city to live, arrange for + her here the best I could. Of all the fool, unreliable dogs that ever trod + a man's tracks, you are the limit! And you never before failed me! You + blame, degenerate pup, you!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester paused for breath and the dog subsided to a pitiful whimper. + He was eager to return to the man who had struck him the first blow his + pampered body ever had received; but he could not understand a kick and + harsh words for him, so he lay quivering with anxiety and fear. + </p> + <p> + “You howling, whimpering idiot!” exclaimed the Harvester. “Choose a day + like this to spoil! Air to intoxicate a mummy! Roots swelling! Buds + bursting! Harvest close and you'd call me off and put me at work like + that, would you? If I ever had supposed lost all your senses, I never + would have asked you. Six years you have decided my fate, when the first + bluebird came, and you've been true blue every time. If I ever trust you + again! But the mischief is done now. + </p> + <p> + “Have you forgotten that your name means 'to protect?' Don't you remember + it is because of that, it is your name? Protect! I'd have trusted you with + my life, Bell! You gave it to me the time you pointed that rattler within + six inches of my fingers in the blood-root bed. You saw the falling limb + in time to warn me. You always know where the quicksands lie. But you are + protecting me now, like sin, ain't you? Bring a girl here to spoil both + our lives! Not if I know myself! Protect!” + </p> + <p> + The man arose and going inside the cabin closed the door. After that the + dog lay in abject misery so deep that two big tears squeezed from his eyes + and rolled down his face. To be shut out was worse than the blow. He did + not take the trouble to arise from the wet leaves covering the cold earth, + but closing his eyes went to sleep. + </p> + <p> + The man leaned against the door and ran his fingers through his hair as he + anathematized the dog. Slowly his eyes travelled around the room. He saw + his tumbled bed by the open window facing the lake, the small table with + his writing material, the crude rack on the wall loaded with medical + works, botanies, drug encyclopaedias, the books of the few authors who + interested him, and the bare, muck-tracked floor. He went to the kitchen, + where he built a fire in the cook stove, and to the smoke-house, from + which he returned with a slice of ham and some eggs. He set some potatoes + boiling and took bread, butter and milk from the pantry. Then he laid a + small note-book on the table before him and studied the transactions of + the day. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 10 lbs. wild cherry bark 6 cents $.60 + 5 “ wahoo root bark 25 “ 1.25 + 20 “ witch hazel bark 5 “ 1.00 + 5 “ blue flag root 12 “ .60 + 10 “ snake root 18 “ 1.80 + 10 “ blood root 12 “ 1.20 + 15 “ hoarhound 10 “ 1.50 + ——- + $7.95 +</pre> + <p> + “Not so bad,” he muttered, bending over the figures. “I wonder if any of + my neighbours who harvest the fields average as well at this season. I'll + wager they don't. That's pretty fair! Some days I don't make it, and then + when a consignment of seeds go or ginseng is wanted the cash comes in + right properly. I could waste half of it on a girl and yet save money. But + where is the woman who would be content with half? She'd want all and fret + because there wasn't more. Blame that dog!” + </p> + <p> + He put the book in his pocket, prepared and ate his supper, heaped a plate + generously, placed it on the floor beneath the table, and set away the + food that remained. + </p> + <p> + “Not that you deserve it,” he said to space. “You get this in honour of + your distinguished name and the faithfulness with which you formerly have + lived up to its import. If you hadn't been a dog with more sense than some + men, I wouldn't take your going back on me now so hard. One would think an + animal of your intelligence might realize that you would get as much of a + dose as I. Would she permit you to eat from a plate on the kitchen floor? + Not on your life, Belshazzar! Frozen scraps around the door for you! Would + she allow you to sleep across the foot of the bed? Ho, ho, ho! Would she + have you tracking on her floor? It would be the barn, and growling you + didn't do at that. If I'd serve you right, I'd give you a dose and allow + you to see how you like it. But it's cutting off my nose to spite my face, + as the old adage goes, for whatever she did to a dog, she'd probably do + worse to a man. I think not!” + </p> + <p> + He entered the front room and stood before a long shelf on which were + arranged an array of partially completed candlesticks carved from wood. + There were black and white walnut, red, white, and golden oak, cherry and + curly maple, all in original designs. Some of them were oddities, others + were failures, but most of them were unusually successful. He selected one + of black walnut, carved until the outline of his pattern was barely + distinguishable. He was imitating the trunk of a tree with the bark on, + the spreading, fern-covered roots widening for the base, from which a vine + sprang. Near the top was the crude outline of a big night moth climbing + toward the light. He stood turning this stick with loving hands and + holding it from him for inspection. + </p> + <p> + “I am going to master you!” he exulted. “Your lines are right. The design + balances and it's graceful. If I have any trouble it will be with the + moth, and I think I can manage. I've got to decide whether to use cecropia + or polyphemus before long. Really, on a walnut, and in the woods, it + should be a luna, according to the eternal fitness of things——but + I'm afraid of the trailers. They turn over and half curl and I believe I + had better not tackle them for a start. I'll use the easiest to begin on, + and if I succeed I'll duplicate the pattern and try a luna then. The + beauties!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester selected a knife from the box and began carving the stick + slowly and carefully. His brain was busy, for presently he glanced at the + floor. + </p> + <p> + “She'd object to that!” he said emphatically. “A man could no more sit and + work where he pleased than he could fly. At least I know mother never + would have it, and she was no nagger, either. What a mother she was! If + one only could stop the lonely feeling that will creep in, and the aching + hunger born with the body, for a mate; if a fellow only could stop it with + a woman like mother! How she revelled in sunshine and beauty! How she + loved earth and air! How she went straight to the marrow of the finest + line in the best book I could bring from the library! How clean and true + she was and how unyielding! I can hear her now, holding me with her last + breath to my promise. If I could marry a girl like mother——great + Caesar! You'd see me buying an automobile to make the run to the county + clerk. Wouldn't that be great! Think of coming in from a long, difficult + day, to find a hot supper, and a girl such as she must have been, waiting + for me! Bel, if I thought there was a woman similar to her in all the + world, and I had even the ghost of a chance to win her, I'd call you in + and forgive you. But I know the girls of to-day. I pass them on the roads, + on the streets, see them in the cafe's, stores, and at the library. Why + even the nurses at the hospital, for all the gravity of their positions, + are a giggling, silly lot; and they never know that the only time they + look and act presentably to me is when they stop their chatter, put on + their uniforms, and go to work. Some of them are pretty, then. There's a + little blue-eyed one, but all she needs is feathers to make her a 'ha! ha! + bird.' Drat that dog!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester took the candlestick and the box of knives, opened the door, + and returned to the stoop. Belshazzar arose, pleading in his eyes, and + cautiously advanced a few steps. The man bent over his work and paid not + the slightest heed, so the discouraged dog sank to earth and fixedly + watched the unresponsive master. The carving of the candlestick went on + steadily. Occasionally the Harvester lifted his head and repeatedly sucked + his lungs full of air. Sometimes for an instant he scanned the surface of + the lake for signs of breaking fish or splash of migrant water bird. Again + his gaze wandered up the steep hill, crowned with giant trees, whose + swelling buds he could see and smell. Straight before him lay a low marsh, + through which the little creek that gurgled and tumbled down hill curved, + crossed the drive some distance below, and entered the lake of Lost Loons. + </p> + <p> + While the trees were bare, and when the air was clear as now, he could see + the spires of Onabasha, five miles away, intervening cultivated fields, + stretches of wood, the long black line of the railway, and the swampy + bottom lands gradually rising to the culmination of the tree-crowned + summit above him. His cocks were crowing warlike challenges to rivals on + neighbouring farms. His hens were carolling their spring egg-song. In the + barn yard ganders were screaming stridently. Over the lake and the cabin, + with clapping snowy wings, his white doves circled in a last joy-flight + before seeking their cotes in the stable loft. As the light grew fainter, + the Harvester worked slower. Often he leaned against the casing, and + closed his eyes to rest them. Sometimes he whistled snatches of old songs + to which his mother had cradled him, and again bits of opera and popular + music he had heard on the streets of Onabasha. As he worked, the sun went + down and a half moon appeared above the wood across the lake. Once it + seemed as if it were a silver bowl set on the branch of a giant oak; + higher, it rested a tilted crescent on the rim of a cloud. + </p> + <p> + The dog waited until he could endure it no longer, and straightening from + his crouching position, he took a few velvet steps forward, making faint, + whining sounds in his throat. When the man neither turned his head nor + gave him a glance, Belshazzar sank to earth again, satisfied for the + moment with being a little closer. Across Loon Lake came the wavering + voice of a night love song. The Harvester remembered that as a boy he had + shrunk from those notes until his mother explained that they were made by + a little brown owl asking for a mate to come and live in his hollow tree. + Now he rather liked the sound. It was eloquent of earnest pleading. With + the lonely bird on one side, and the reproachful dog eyes on the other, + the man grinned rather foolishly. + </p> + <p> + Between two fires, he thought. If that dog ever catches my eye he will + come tearing as a cyclone, and I would not kick him again for a hundred + dollars. First time I ever struck him, and didn't intend to then. So blame + mad and disappointed my foot just shot out before I knew it. There he lies + half dead to make up, but I'm blest if I forgive him in a hurry. And there + is that insane little owl screeching for a mate. If I'd start out making + sounds like that, all the girls would line up and compete for possession + of my happy home. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester laughed and at the sound Belshazzar took courage and + advanced five steps before he sank belly to earth again. The owl continued + its song. The Harvester imitated the cry and at once it responded. He + called again and leaned back waiting. The notes came closer. The Harvester + cried once more and peered across the lake, watching for the shadow of + silent wings. The moon was high above the trees now, the knife dropped in + the box, the long fingers closed around the stick, the head rested against + the casing, and the man intoned the cry with all his skill, and then + watched and waited. He had been straining his eyes over the carving until + they were tired, and when he watched for the bird the moonlight tried + them; for it touched the lightly rippling waves of the lake in a line of + yellow light that stretched straight across the water from the opposite + bank, directly to the gravel bed below, where lay the bathing pool. It + made a path of gold that wavered and shimmered as the water moved gently, + but it appeared sufficiently material to resemble a bridge spanning the + lake. + </p> + <p> + “Seems as if I could walk it,” muttered the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + The owl cried again and the man intently watched the opposite bank. He + could not see the bird, but in the deep wood where he thought it might be + he began to discern a misty, moving shimmer of white. Marvelling, he + watched closer. So slowly he could not detect motion it advanced, rising + in height and taking shape. + </p> + <p> + “Do I end this day by seeing a ghost?” he queried. + </p> + <p> + He gazed intently and saw that a white figure really moved in the woods of + the opposite bank. + </p> + <p> + “Must be some boys playing fool pranks!” exclaimed the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + He watched fixedly with interested face, and then amazement wiped out all + other expression and he sat motionless, breathless, looking, intently + looking. For the white object came straight toward the water and at the + very edge unhesitatingly stepped upon the bridge of gold and lightly, + easily advanced in his direction. The man waited. On came the figure and + as it drew closer he could see that it was a very tall, extremely slender + woman, wrapped in soft robes of white. She stepped along the slender line + of the gold bridge with grace unequalled. + </p> + <p> + From the water arose a shining mist, and behind the advancing figure a + wall of light outlined and rimmed her in a setting of gold. As she neared + the shore the Harvester's blood began to race in his veins and his lips + parted in wonder. First she was like a slender birch trunk, then she + resembled a wild lily, and soon she was close enough to prove that she was + young and very lovely. Heavy braids of dark hair rested on her head as a + coronet. Her forehead was low and white. Her eyes were wide-open wells of + darkness, her rounded cheeks faintly pink, and her red lips smiling + invitation. Her throat was long, very white, and the hands that caught up + the fleecy robe around her were rose-coloured and slender. In a panic the + Harvester saw that the trailing robe swept the undulant gold water, but + was not wet; the feet that alternately showed as she advanced were not + purple with cold, but warm with a pink glow. + </p> + <p> + She was coming straight toward him, wonderful, alluring, lovely beyond any + woman the Harvester ever had seen. Straightway the fountains of twenty-six + years' repression overflowed in the breast of the man and all his being + ran toward her in a wave of desire. On she came, and now her tender feet + were on the white gravel. When he could see clearly she was even more + beautiful than she had appeared at a distance. He opened his lips, but no + sound came. He struggled to rise, but his legs would not bear his weight. + Helpless, he sank against the casing. The girl walked to his feet, bent, + placed a hand on each of his shoulders, and smiled into his eyes. He could + scent the flower-like odour of her body and wrapping, even her hair. He + struggled frantically to speak to her as she leaned closer, yet closer, + and softly but firmly laid lips of pulsing sweetness on his in a + deliberate kiss. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester was on his feet now. Belshazzar shrank into the shadows. + </p> + <p> + “Come back!” cried the man. “Come back! For the love of mercy, where are + you?” + </p> + <p> + He ran stumblingly toward the lake. The bridge of gold was there, the + little owl cried lonesomely; and did he see or did he only dream he saw a + mist of white vanishing in the opposite wood? + </p> + <p> + His breath came between dry lips, and he circled the cabin searching + eagerly, but he could find nothing, hear nothing, save the dog at his + heels. He hurried to the stoop and stood gazing at the molten path of + moonlight. One minute he was half frozen, the next a rosy glow enfolded + him. Slowly he lifted a hand and touched his lips. Then he raised his eyes + from the water and swept the sky in a penetrant gaze. + </p> + <p> + “My gracious Heavenly Father,” said the Harvester reverently. “Would it be + like that?” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II. THE EFFECT OF A DREAM + </h2> + <p> + Fully convinced at last that he had been dreaming, the Harvester picked up + his knives and candlestick and entered the cabin. He placed them on a + shelf and turned away, but after a second's hesitation he closed the box + and arranged the sticks neatly. Then he set the room in order and + carefully swept the floor. As he replaced the broom he thought for an + instant, then opened the door and whistled softly. Belshazzar came at a + rush. The Harvester pushed the plate of food toward the hungry dog and he + ate greedily. The man returned to the front room and closed the door. + </p> + <p> + He stood a long time before his shelf of books, at last selected a volume + of “Medicinal Plants” and settled to study. His supper finished, + Belshazzar came scratching and whining at the door. Several times the man + lifted his head and glanced in that direction, but he only returned to his + book and read again. Tired and sleepy, at last, he placed the volume on + the shelf, went to a closet for a pair of bath towels, and hung them + across a chair. Then he undressed, opened the door, and ran for the lake. + He plunged with a splash and swam vigorously for a few minutes, his white + body growing pink under the sting of the chilled water. Over and over he + scanned the golden bridge to the moon, and stood an instant dripping on + the gravel of the landing to make sure that no dream woman was crossing + the wavering floor! He rubbed to a glow and turned back the covers of his + bed. The door and window stood wide. Before he lay down, the Harvester + paused in arrested motion a second, then stepped to the kitchen door and + lifted the latch. + </p> + <p> + As the man drew the covers over him, the dog's nose began making an + opening, and a little later he quietly walked into the room. The Harvester + rested, facing the lake. The dog sniffed at his shoulder, but the man was + rigid. Then the click of nails could be heard on the floor as Belshazzar + went to the opposite side. At his accustomed place he paused and set one + foot on the bed. There was not a sound, so he lifted the other. Then one + at a time he drew up his hind feet and crouched as he had on the gravel. + The man lay watching the bright bridge. The moonlight entered the window + and flooded the room. The strong lines on the weather-beaten face of the + Harvester were mellowed in the light, and he appeared young and good to + see. His lithe figure stretched the length of the bed, his hair appeared + almost white, and his face, touched by the glorifying light of the moon, + was a study. + </p> + <p> + One instant his countenance was swept with ultimate scorn; then gradually + that would fade and the lines soften, until his lips curved in child-like + appeal and his eyes were filled with pleading. Several times he lifted a + hand and gently touched his lips, as if a kiss were a material thing and + would leave tangible evidence of having been given. After a long time his + eyes closed and he scarcely was unconscious before Belshazzar's cold nose + touched the outstretched hand and the Harvester lifted and laid it on the + dog's head. + </p> + <p> + “Forgive me, Bel,” he muttered. “I never did that. I wouldn't have hurt + you for anything. It happened before I had time to think.” + </p> + <p> + They both fell asleep. The clear-cut lines of manly strength on the face + of the Harvester were touched to tender beauty. He lay smiling softly. Far + in the night he realized the frost-chill and divided the coverlet with the + happy Belshazzar. + </p> + <p> + The golden dream never came again. There was no need. It had done its + perfect work. The Harvester awoke the next morning a different man. His + face was youthful and alive with alert anticipation. He began his work + with eager impetuosity, whistling and singing the while, and he found time + to play with and talk to Belshazzar, until that glad beast almost wagged + off his tail in delight. They breakfasted together and arranged the rooms + with unusual care. + </p> + <p> + “You see,” explained the Harvester to the dog, “we must walk neatly after + this. Maybe there is such a thing as fate. Possibly your answer was right. + There might be a girl in the world for me. I don't expect it, but there is + a possibility that she may find us before we locate her. Anyway, we should + work and be ready. All the old stock in the store-house goes out as soon + as we can cart it. A new cabin shall rise as fast as we can build it. + There must be a basement and furnace, too. Dream women don't have cold + feet, but if there is a girl living like that, and she is coming to us or + waiting for us to come to her, we must have a comfortable home to offer. + There should be a bathroom, too. She couldn't dip in the lake as we do. + And until we build the new house we must keep the old one clean, just on + the chance of her happening on us. She might be visiting some of the + neighbours or come from town with some one or I might see her on the + street or at the library or hospital or in some of the stores. For the + love of mercy, help me watch for her, Bel! The half of my kingdom if you + will point her for me!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester worked as he talked. He set the rooms in order, put away the + remains of breakfast, and started to the stable. He turned back and stood + for a long time, scanning the face in the kitchen mirror. Once he went to + the door, then he hesitated, and finally took out his shaving set and used + it carefully and washed vigorously. He pulled his shirt together at the + throat, and hunting among his clothing, found an old red tie that he + knotted around his neck. This so changed his every-day appearance that he + felt wonderfully dressed and whistled gaily on his way to the barn. There + he confided in the old gray mare as he curried and harnessed her to the + spring wagon. + </p> + <p> + “Hardly know me, do you, Betsy?” he inquired. “Well, I'll explain. Our + friend Bel, here, has doomed me to go courting this year. Wouldn't that + durnfound you? I was mad as hornets at first, but since I've slept on the + idea, I rather like it. Maybe we are too lonely and dull. Perhaps the + right woman would make life a very different matter. Last night I saw her, + Betsy, and between us, I can't tell even you. She was the loveliest, + sweetest girl on earth, and that is all I can say. We are going to watch + for her to-day, and every trip we make, until we find her, if it requires + a hundred years. Then some glad time we are going to locate her, and when + we do, well, you just keep your eye on us, Betsy, and you'll see how + courting straight from the heart is done, even if we lack experience.” + </p> + <p> + Intoxicated with new and delightful sensations his tongue worked faster + than his hands. + </p> + <p> + “I don't mind telling you, old faithful, that I am in love this morning,” + he said. “In love heels over, Betsy, for the first time in all my life. If + any man ever was a bigger fool than I am to-day, it would comfort me to + know about it. I am acting like an idiot, Betsy. I know that, but I wish + you could understand how I feel. Power! I am the head-waters of Niagara! I + could pluck down the stars and set them in different places! I could twist + the tail from the comet! I could twirl the globe on my palm and topple + mountains and wipe lakes from the surface! I am a live man, Betsy. + Existence is over. So don't you go at any tricks or I might pull off your + head. Betsy, if you see the tallest girl you ever saw, and she wears a + dark diadem, and has big black eyes and a face so lovely it blinds you, + why you have seen Her, and you balk, right on the spot, and stand like the + rock of Gibraltar, until you make me see her, too. As if I wouldn't know + she was coming a mile away! There's more I could tell you, but that is my + secret, and it's too precious to talk about, even to my best friends. Bel, + bring Betsy to the store-room.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester tossed the hitching strap to the dog and walked down the + driveway to a low structure built on the embankment beside the lake. One + end of it was a dry-house of his own construction. Here, by an arrangement + of hot water pipes, he evaporated many of the barks, roots, seeds, and + leaves he grew to supply large concerns engaged in the manufacture of + drugs. By his process crude stock was thoroughly cured, yet did not lose + in weight and colour as when dried in the sun or outdoor shade. + </p> + <p> + So the Harvester was enabled to send his customers big packages of + brightly coloured raw material, and the few cents per pound he asked in + advance of the catalogued prices were paid eagerly. He lived alone, and + never talked of his work; so none of the harvesters of the fields + adjoining dreamed of the extent of his reaping. The idea had been his own. + He had been born in the cabin in which he now lived. His father and + grandfather were old-time hunters of skins and game. They had added to + their earnings by gathering in spring and fall the few medicinal seeds, + leaves, and barks they knew. His mother had been of different type. She + had loved and married the picturesque young hunter, and gone to live with + him on the section of land taken by his father. She found life, real life, + vastly different from her girlhood dreams, but she was one of those + changeless, unyielding women who suffer silently, but never rue a bargain, + no matter how badly they are cheated. Her only joy in life had been her + son. For him she had worked and saved unceasingly, and when he was old + enough she sent him to the city to school and kept pace with him in the + lessons he brought home at night. + </p> + <p> + Using what she knew of her husband's work as a guide, and profiting by + pamphlets published by the government, every hour of the time outside + school and in summer vacations she worked in the woods with the boy, + gathering herbs and roots to pay for his education and clothing. So the + son passed the full high-school course, and then, selecting such branches + as interested him, continued his studies alone. + </p> + <p> + From books and drug pamphlets he had learned every medicinal plant, shrub, + and tree of his vicinity, and for years roamed far afield and through the + woods collecting. After his father's death expenses grew heavier and the + boy saw that he must earn more money. His mother frantically opposed his + going to the city, so he thought out the plan of transplanting the stuff + he gathered, to the land they owned and cultivating it there. This work + was well developed when he was twenty, but that year he lost his mother. + </p> + <p> + From that time he went on steadily enlarging his species, transplanting + trees, shrubs, vines, and medicinal herbs from such locations as he found + them to similar conditions on his land. Six years he had worked + cultivating these beds, and hunting through the woods on the river banks, + government land, the great Limberlost Swamp, and neglected corners of + earth for barks and roots. He occasionally made long trips across the + country for rapidly diminishing plants he found in the woodland of men who + did not care to bother with a few specimens, and many big beds of + profitable herbs, extinct for miles around, now flourished on the banks of + Loon Lake, in the marsh, and through the forest rising above. To what + extent and value his venture had grown, no one save the Harvester knew. + When his neighbours twitted him with being too lazy to plow and sow, of + “mooning” over books, and derisively sneered when they spoke of him as the + Harvester of the Woods or the Medicine Man, David Langston smiled and went + his way. + </p> + <p> + How lonely he had been since the death of his mother he never realized + until that morning when a new idea really had taken possession of him. + From the store-house he heaped packages of seeds, dried leaves, barks, and + roots into the wagon. But he kept a generous supply of each, for he prided + himself on being able to fill all orders that reached him. Yet the load he + took to the city was much larger than usual. As he drove down the hill and + passed the cabin he studied the location. + </p> + <p> + “The drainage is perfect,” he said to Belshazzar beside him on the seat. + “So is the situation. We get the cool breezes from the lake in summer and + the hillside warmth in winter. View down the valley can't be surpassed. We + will grub out that thicket in front, move over the driveway, and build a + couple of two-story rooms, with basement for cellar and furnace, and a + bathroom in front of the cabin and use it with some fixing over for a + dining-room and kitchen. Then we will deepen and widen Singing Water, + stick a bushel of bulbs and roots and sow a peck of flower seeds in the + marsh, plant a hedge along the drive, and straighten the lake shore a + little. I can make a beautiful wild-flower garden and arrange so that with + one season's work this will appear very well. We will express this stuff + and then select and fell some trees to-night. Soon as the frost is out of + the ground we will dig our basement and lay the foundations. The + neighbours will help me raise the logs; after that I can finish the inside + work. I've got some dried maple, cherry, and walnut logs that would work + into beautiful furniture. I haven't forgotten the prices McLean offered + me. I can use it as well as he. Plain way the best things are built now, I + believe I could make tables and couches myself. I can see plans in the + magazines at the library. I'll take a look when I get this off. I feel + strong enough to do all of it in a few days and I am crazy to commence. + But I scarcely know where to begin. There are about fifty things I'd like + to do. But to fell and dry the trees and get the walls up come first, I + believe. What do you think, old unreliable?” + </p> + <p> + Belshazzar thought the world was a place of beauty that morning. He + sniffed the icy, odorous air and with tilted head watched the birds. A + wearied band of ducks had settled on Loon Lake to feed and rest, for there + was nothing to disturb them. Signs were numerous everywhere prohibiting + hunters from firing over the Harvester's land. Beside the lake, down the + valley, crossing the railroad, and in the farther lowlands, the dog was a + nervous quiver, as he constantly scented game or saw birds he wanted to + point. But when they neared the city, he sat silently watching everything + with alert eyes. As they reached the outer fringe of residences the + Harvester spoke to him. + </p> + <p> + “Now remember, Bel,” he said. “Point me the tallest girl you ever saw, + with a big braid of dark hair, shining black eyes, and red velvet lips, + sweeter than wild crab apple blossoms. Make a dead set! Don't allow her to + pass us. Heaven is going to begin in Medicine Woods when we find her and + prove to her that there lies her happy home. + </p> + <p> + “When we find her,” repeated the Harvester softly and exultantly. “When we + find her!” + </p> + <p> + He said it again and again, pronouncing the words with tender modulations. + Because he was chanting it in his soul, in his heart, in his brain, with + his lips, he had a hasty glance for every woman he passed. Light hair, + blue eyes, and short figures got only casual inspection: but any tall girl + with dark hair and eyes endured rather close scrutiny that morning. He + drove to the express office and delivered his packages and then to the + hospital. In the hall the blue-eyed nurse met him and cried gaily, “Good + morning, Medicine Man!” + </p> + <p> + “Ugh! I scalp pale-faces!” threatened the Harvester, but the girl was not + afraid and stood before him laughing. She might have gone her way quite as + well. She could not have differed more from the girl of the newly begun + quest. The man merely touched his wide-brimmed hat as he walked around her + and entered the office of the chief surgeon. + </p> + <p> + A slender, gray-eyed man with white hair turned from his desk, smiled + warmly, pushed a chair, and reached a welcoming hand. + </p> + <p> + “Ah good-morning, David,” he cried. “You bring the very breath of spring + with you. Are you at the maples yet?” + </p> + <p> + “Begin to-morrow,” was the answer. “I want to get all my old stock off + hands. Sugar water comes next, and then the giddy sassafras and spring + roots rush me, and after that, harvest begins full force, and all my land + is teeming. This is going to be a big year. Everything is sufficiently + advanced to be worth while. I have decided to enlarge the buildings.” + </p> + <p> + “Store-room too small?” + </p> + <p> + “Everything!” said the Harvester comprehensively. “I am crowded + everywhere.” + </p> + <p> + The keen gray eyes bent on him searchingly. + </p> + <p> + “Ho, ho!” laughed the doctor. “'Crowded everywhere.' I had not heard of + cramped living quarters before. When did you meet her?” + </p> + <p> + “Last night,” replied the Harvester. “Her home is already in construction. + I chose seven trees as I drove here that are going to fall before night.” + </p> + <p> + So casual was the tone the doctor was disarmed. + </p> + <p> + “I am trying your nerve remedy,” he said. + </p> + <p> + Instantly the Harvester tingled with interest. + </p> + <p> + “How does it work?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “Finely! Had a case that presented just the symptoms you mentioned. + High-school girl broken down from trying to lead her classes, lead her + fraternity, lead her parents, lead society——the Lord only + knows what else. Gone all to pieces! Pretty a case of nervous prostration + as you ever saw in a person of fifty. I began on fractional doses with it, + and at last got her where she can rest. It did precisely what you claimed + it would, David.” + </p> + <p> + “Good!” cried the Harvester. “Good! I hoped it would be effective. Thank + you for the test. It will give me confidence when I go before the chemists + with it. I've got a couple more compounds I wish you would try when you + have safe cases where you can do no harm.” + </p> + <p> + “You are cautious for a young man, son!” + </p> + <p> + “The woods do that. You not only discover miracles and marvels in them, + you not only trace evolution and the origin of species, but you get the + greatest lessons taught in all the world ground into you early and alone——courage, + caution, and patience.” + </p> + <p> + “Those are the rocks on which men are stranded as a rule. You think you + can breast them, David?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester laughed. + </p> + <p> + “Aside from breaking a certain promise mother rooted in the blood and + bones of me, if I am afraid of anything, I don't know it. You don't often + see me going head-long, do you? As to patience! Ten years ago I began + removing every tree, bush, vine, and plant of medicinal value from the + woods around to my land; I set and sowed acres in ginseng, knowing I must + nurse, tend, and cultivate seven years. If my neighbours had understood + what I was attempting, what do you think they would have said? Cranky and + lazy would have become adjectives too mild. Lunatic would have expressed + it better. That's close the general opinion, anyway. Because I will not + fell my trees, and the woods hide the work I do, it is generally conceded + that I spend my time in the sun reading a book. I do, as often as I have + an opportunity. But the point is that this fall, when I harvest that + ginseng bed, I will clear more money than my stiffest detractor ever saw + at one time. I'll wager my bank account won't compare so unfavourably with + the best of them now. I did well this morning. Yes, I'll admit this much: + I am reasonably cautious, I'm a pattern for patience, and my courage never + has failed me yet, anyway. But I must rap on wood; for that boast is a + sign that I probably will meet my Jonah soon.” + </p> + <p> + “David, you are a man after my own heart,” said the doctor. “I love you + more than any other friend I have I wouldn't see a hair of your head + changed for the world. Now I've got to hurry to my operation. Remain as + long as you please if there is anything that interests you; but don't let + the giggling little nurse that always haunts the hall when you come make + any impression. She is not up to your standard.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't!” said the Harvester. “I've learned one of the big lessons of life + since last I saw you, Doc. I have no standard. There is just one woman in + all the world for me, and when I find her I will know her, and I will be + happy for even a glance; as for that talk of standards, I will be only too + glad to take her as she is.” + </p> + <p> + “David! I supposed what you said about enlarged buildings was nonsense or + applied to store-rooms.” + </p> + <p> + “Go to your operation!” + </p> + <p> + “David, if you send me in suspense, I may operate on the wrong man. What + has happened?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing!” said the Harvester. “Nothing!” + </p> + <p> + “David, it is not like you to evade. What happened?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing! On my word! I merely saw a vision and dreamed a dream.” + </p> + <p> + “You! A rank materialist! Saw a vision and dreamed a dream! And you call + it nothing. Worst thing that could happen! Whenever a man of common-sense + goes to seeing things that don't exist, and dreaming dreams, why look out! + What did you see? What did you dream?” + </p> + <p> + “You woman!” laughed the Harvester. “Talk about curiosity! I'd have to be + a poet to describe my vision, and the dream was strictly private. I + couldn't tell it, not for any price you could mention. Go to your + operation.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor paused on the threshold. + </p> + <p> + “You can't fool me,” he said. “I can diagnose you all right. You are poet + enough, but the vision was sacred; and when a man won't tell, it's always + and forever a woman. I know all now I ever will, because I know you, + David. A man with a loose mouth and a low mind drags the women of his + acquaintance through whatever mire he sinks in; but you couldn't tell, + David, not even about a dream woman. Come again soon! You are my elixir of + life, lad! I revel in the atmosphere you bring. Wish me success now, I am + going to a difficult, delicate operation.” + </p> + <p> + “I do!” cried the Harvester heartily. “I do! But you can't fail. You never + have and that proves you cannot! Good-bye!” + </p> + <p> + Down the street went the Harvester, passing over city pave with his free, + swinging stride, his head high, his face flushed with vivid outdoor tints, + going somewhere to do something worth while, the impression always left + behind him. Men envied his robust appearance and women looked twice, + always twice, and sometimes oftener if there was any opportunity; but + twice at least was the rule. He left a little roll of bills at the bank + and started toward the library. When he entered the reading room an + attendant with an eager smile hastily came toward him. + </p> + <p> + “What will you have this morning, Mr. Langston?” she asked in the voice of + one who would render willing service. + </p> + <p> + “Not the big books to-day,” laughed the Harvester. “I've only a short + time. I'll glance through the magazines.” + </p> + <p> + He selected several from a table and going to a corner settled with them + and for two hours was deeply engrossed. He took an envelope from his + pocket, traced lines, and read intently. He studied the placing of rooms, + the construction of furniture, and all attractive ideas were noted. When + at last he arose the attendant went to replace the magazines on the table. + They had been opened widely, and as she turned the leaves they naturally + fell apart at the plans for houses or articles of furniture. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester slowly went down the street. Before every furniture store he + paused and studied the designs displayed in the windows. Then he untied + Betsy and drove to a lumber mill on the outskirts of the city and made + arrangements to have some freshly felled logs of black walnut and curly + maple sawed into different sizes and put through a course in drying. + </p> + <p> + He drove back to Medicine Woods whistling, singing, and talking to + Belshazzar beside him. He ate a hasty lunch and at three o'clock was in + the forest, blazing and felling slender, straight-trunked oak and ash of + the desired proportions. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III. HARVESTING THE FOREST + </h2> + <p> + The forest is never so wonderful as when spring wrestles with winter for + supremacy. While the earth is yet ice bound, while snows occasionally fly, + spring breathes her warmer breath of approach, and all nature responds. + Sunny knolls, embankments, and cleared spaces become bare, while shadow + spots and sheltered nooks remain white. This perfumes the icy air with a + warmer breath of melting snow. The sap rises in the trees and bushes, sets + buds swelling, and they distil a faint, intangible odour. Deep layers of + dead leaves cover the frozen earth, and the sun shining on them raises a + steamy vapour unlike anything else in nature. A different scent rises from + earth where the sun strikes it. Lichen faces take on the brightest colours + they ever wear, and rough, coarse mosses emerge in rank growth from their + cover of snow and add another perfume to mellowing air. This combination + has breathed a strange intoxication into the breast of mankind in all + ages, and bird and animal life prove by their actions that it makes the + same appeal to them. + </p> + <p> + Crows caw supremacy from tall trees; flickers, drunk on the wine of + nature, flash their yellow-lined wings and red crowns among trees in a + search for suitable building places; nut-hatches run head foremost down + rough trunks, spying out larvae and early emerging insects; titmice + chatter; the bold, clear whistle of the cardinal sounds never so gaily; + and song sparrows pipe from every wayside shrub and fence post. Coons and + opossums stir in their dens, musk-rat and ground-hog inspect the weather, + while squirrels race along branches and bound from tree to tree like + winged folk. + </p> + <p> + All of them could have outlined the holdings of the Harvester almost as + well as any surveyor. They understood where the bang of guns and the snap + of traps menaced life. Best of all, they knew where cracked nuts, handfuls + of wheat, oats, and crumbs were scattered on the ground, and where suet + bones dangled from bushes. Here, too, the last sheaf from the small wheat + field at the foot of the hill was stoutly fixed on a high pole, so that + the grain was free to all feathered visitors. + </p> + <p> + When the Harvester hitched Betsy, loaded his spiles and sap buckets into + the wagon, and started to the woods to gather the offering the wet maples + were pouring down their swelling sides, almost his entire family came to + see him. They knew who fed and passed every day among them, and so were + unafraid. + </p> + <p> + After the familiarity of a long, cold winter, when it had been easier to + pick up scattered food than to search for it, they became so friendly with + the man, the dog, and the gray horse that they hastily snatched the food + offered at the barn and then followed through the woods. The Harvester + always was particular to wear large pockets, for it was good company to + have living creatures flocking after him, trusting to his bounty. Ajax, a + shimmering wonder of gorgeous feathers, sunned on the ridge pole of the + old log stable, preened, spread his train, and uttered the peacock cry of + defiance, to exercise his voice or to express his emotions at all times. + But at feeding hour he descended to the park and snatched bites from the + biggest turkey cocks and ganders and reigned in power absolute over ducks, + guineas, and chickens. Then he followed to the barn and tried to frighten + crows and jays, and the gentle white doves under the eaves. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester walked through deep leaves and snow covering the road that + only a forester could have distinguished. Over his shoulder he carried a + mattock, and in the wagon were his clippers and an ax. Behind him came + Betsy drawing the sap buckets and big evaporating kettles. Through the + wood ranged Belshazzar, the craziest dog in all creation. He always went + wild at sap time. Here was none of the monotony of trapping for skins + around the lake. This marked the first full day in the woods for the + season. He ranged as he pleased and came for a pat or a look of confidence + when he grew lonely, while the Harvester worked. + </p> + <p> + At camp the man unhitched Betsy and tied her to the wagon and for several + hours distributed buckets. Then he hung the kettles and gathered wood for + the fire. At noon he returned to the cabin for lunch and brought back a + load of empty syrup cans, and barrels in which to collect the sap. While + the buckets filled at the dripping trees, he dug roots in the sassafras + thicket to fill orders and supply the demand of Onabasha for tea. Several + times he stopped to cut an especially fine tree. + </p> + <p> + “You know I hate to kill you,” he apologized to the first one he felled. + “But it certainly must be legitimate for a man to take enough of his trees + to build a home. And no other house is possible for a creature of the + woods but a cabin, is there? The birds use of the material they find here; + surely I have the right to do the same. Seems as if nothing else would + serve, at least for me. I was born and reared here, I've always loved you; + of course, I can't use anything else for my home.” + </p> + <p> + He swung the ax and the chips flew as he worked on a straight half-grown + oak. After a time he paused an instant and rested, and as he did so he + looked speculatively at his work. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder where she is to-day,” he said. “I wonder what she is going to + think of a log cabin in the woods. Maybe she has been reared in the city + and is afraid of a forest. She may not like houses made of logs. Possibly + she won't want to marry a Medicine Man. She may dislike the man, not to + mention his occupation. She may think it coarse and common to work out of + doors with your hands, although I'd have to argue there is a little brain + in the combination. I must figure out all these things. But there is one + on the lady: She should have settled these points before she became quite + so familiar. I have that for a foundation anyway, so I'll go on cutting + wood, and the remainder will be up to her when I find her. When I find + her,” repeated the Harvester slowly. “But I am not going to locate her + very soon monkeying around in these woods. I should be out where people + are, looking for her right now.” + </p> + <p> + He chopped steadily until the tree crashed over, and then, noticing a + rapidly filling bucket, he struck the ax in the wood and began gathering + sap. When he had made the round, he drove to the camp, filled the kettles, + and lighted the fire. While it started he cut and scraped sassafras roots, + and made clippings of tag alder, spice brush and white willow into big + bundles that were ready to have the bark removed during the night watch, + and then cured in the dry-house. + </p> + <p> + He went home at evening to feed the poultry and replenish the ever-burning + fire of the engine and to keep the cabin warm enough that food would not + freeze. With an oilcloth and blankets he returned to camp and throughout + the night tended the buckets and boiling sap, and worked or dozed by the + fire between times. Toward the end of boiling, when the sap was becoming + thick, it had to be watched with especial care so it would not scorch. But + when the kettles were freshly filled the Harvester sat beside them and + carefully split tender twigs of willow and slipped off the bark ready to + be spread on the trays. + </p> + <p> + “You are a good tonic,” he mused as he worked, “and you go into some of + the medicine for rheumatism. If she ever has it we will give her some of + you, and then she will be all right again. Strange that I should be + preparing medicinal bark by the sugar camp fire, but I have to make this + hay, not while the sun shines, but when the bark is loose, while the sap + is rising. Wonder who will use this. Depends largely on where I sell it. + Anyway, I hope it will take the pain out of some poor body. Prices so low + now, not worth gathering unless I can kill time on it while waiting for + something else. Never got over seven cents a pound for the best I ever + sold, and it takes a heap of these little quills to make a pound when they + are dry. That's all of you——about twenty-five cents' worth. + But even that is better than doing nothing while I wait, and some one has + to keep the doctors supplied with salicin and tannin, so, if I do, other + folks needn't bother.” + </p> + <p> + He arose and poured more sap into the kettles as it boiled away and + replenished the fire. He nibbled a twig when he began on the spice brush. + As he sat on the piled wood, and bent over his work he was an attractive + figure. His face shone with health and was bright with anticipation. While + he split the tender bark and slipped out the wood he spoke his thoughts + slowly: + </p> + <p> + “The five cents a pound I'll get for you is even less, but I love the + fragrance and taste. You don't peel so easy as the willow, but I like to + prepare you better, because you will make some miserable little sick child + well or you may cool some one's fevered blood. If ever she has a fever, I + hope she will take medicine made from my bark, because it will be strong + and pure. I've half a notion to set some one else gathering the stuff and + tending the plants and spend my time in the little laboratory compounding + different combinations. I don't see what bigger thing a man can do than to + combine pure, clean, unadulterated roots and barks into medicines that + will cool fevers, stop chills, and purify bad blood. The doctors may be + all right, but what are they going to do if we men behind the prescription + cases don't supply them with unadulterated drugs. Answer me that, Mr. + Sapsucker. Doc says I've done mighty well so far as I have gone. I can't + think of a thing on earth I'd rather do, and there's money no end in it. I + could get too rich for comfort in short order. I wouldn't be too wealthy + to live just the way I do for any consideration. I don't know about her, + though. She is lovely, and handsome women usually want beautiful clothing, + and a quantity of things that cost no end of money. I may need all I can + get, for her. One never can tell.” + </p> + <p> + He arose to stir the sap and pour more from the barrels to the kettles + before he began on the tag alder he had gathered. + </p> + <p> + “If it is all the same to you, I'll just keep on chewing spice brush while + I work,” he muttered. “You are entirely too much of an astringent to suit + my taste and you bring a cent less a pound. But you are thicker and dry + heavier, and you grow in any quantity around the lake and on the marshy + places, so I'll make the size of the bundle atone for the price. If I peel + you while I wait on the sap I'm that much ahead. I can spread you on + drying trays in a few seconds and there you are. Howl your head off, Bel, + I don't care what you have found. I wouldn't shoot anything to-day, unless + the cupboard was bare and I was starvation hungry. In that case I think a + man comes first, and I'd kill a squirrel or quail in season, but blest if + I'd butcher a lot or do it often. Vegetables and bread are better anyway. + You peel easier even than the willow. What jolly whistles father used to + make! + </p> + <p> + “There was about twenty cents' worth of spice, and I'll easy raise it to a + dollar on this. I'll get a hundred gallons of syrup in the coming two + weeks and it will bring one fifty if I boil and strain it carefully and + can guarantee it contains no hickory bark and brown sugar. And it won't! + Straight for me or not at all. Pure is the word at Medicine Woods; syrup + or drugs it's the same thing. Between times I can fell every tree I'll + need for the new cabin, and average a dollar a day besides on spice, + alder, and willow, and twice that for sassafras for the Onabasha markets; + not to mention the quantities I can dry this year. Aside from spring tea, + they seem to use it for everything. I never yet have had enough. It goes + into half the tonics, anodyne, and stimulants; also soap and candy. I see + where I grow rich in spite of myself, and also where my harvest is going + to spoil before I can garner it, if I don't step lively and double even + more than I am now. Where the cabin is to come in——well it + must come if everything else goes. + </p> + <p> + “The roots can wait and I'll dig them next year and get more and larger + pieces. I won't really lose anything, and if she should come before I am + ready to start to find her, why then I'll have her home prepared. How long + before you begin your house, old fire-fly?” he inquired of a flaming + cardinal tilting on a twig. + </p> + <p> + He arose to make the round of the sap buckets again, then resumed his work + peeling bark, and so the time passed. In the following ten days he + collected and boiled enough sap to make more syrup than he had expected. + His earliest spring store of medicinal twigs, that were peeled to dry in + quills, were all collected and on the trays; he had digged several wagon + loads of sassafras and felled all the logs of stout, slender oak he would + require for his walls. Choice timber he had been curing for candlestick + material he hauled to the saw-mills to have cut properly, for the thought + of trying his hand at tables and chairs had taken possession of him. He + was sure he could make furniture that would appear quite as well as the + mission pieces he admired on display in the store windows of the city. To + him, chairs and tables made from trees that grew on land that had belonged + for three generations to his ancestors, trees among which he had grown, + played, and worked, trees that were so much his friends that he carefully + explained the situation to them before using an ax or saw, trees that he + had cut, cured, and fashioned into designs of his own, would make vastly + more valuable furnishings in his home than anything that could be + purchased in the city. + </p> + <p> + As he drove back and forth he watched constantly for her. He was working + so desperately, planning far ahead, doubling and trebling tasks, trying to + do everything his profession demanded in season, and to prepare timber and + make plans for the new cabin, as well as to start a pair of candlesticks + of marvellous design for her, that night was one long, unbroken sleep of + the thoroughly tired man, but day had become a delightful dream. + </p> + <p> + He fed the chickens to produce eggs for her. He gathered barks and sluiced + roots on the raft in the lake, for her. He grubbed the spice thicket + before the door and moved it into the woods to make space for a lawn, for + her. His eyes were wide open for every woven case and dangling cocoon of + the big night moths that propagated around him, for her. Every night when + he left the woods from one to a dozen cocoons, that he had detected with + remarkable ease while the trees were bare, were stuck in his hat band. As + he arranged them in a cool, dry place he talked to them. + </p> + <p> + “Of course I know you are valuable and there are collectors who would pay + well for you, but I think not. You are the prettiest thing God made that I + ever saw, and those of you that home with me have no price on your wings. + You are much safer here than among the crows and jays of the woods. I am + gathering you to protect you, and to show to her. If I don't find her by + June, you may go scot free. All I want is the best pattern I can get from + some of you for candlestick designs. Of everything in the whole world a + candlestick should be made of wood. It should be carved by hand, and of + all ornamentations on earth the moth that flies to the night light is the + most appropriate. Owls are not so bad. They are of the night, and they fly + to light, too, but they are so old. Nobody I ever have known used a moth. + They missed the best when they neglected them. I'll make her sticks over + an original pattern; I'll twine nightshade vines, with flowers and berries + around them, and put a trailed luna on one, and what is the next prettiest + for the other? I'll think well before if decide. Maybe she'll come by the + time I get to carving and tell me what she likes. That would beat my taste + or guessing a mile.” + </p> + <p> + He carefully arranged the twigs bearing cocoons in a big, wire-covered box + to protect them from the depredations of nibbling mice and the bolder + attacks of the saucy ground squirrels that stored nuts in his loft and + took possession of the attic until their scampering sometimes awoke him in + the night. + </p> + <p> + Every trip he made to the city he stopped at the library to examine plans + of buildings and furniture and to make notes. The oak he had hauled was + being hewed into shape by a neighbour who knew how, and every wagon that + carried a log to the city to be dressed at the mill brought back timber + for side walls, joists, and rafters. Night after night he sat late poring + over his plans for the new rooms, above all for her chamber. With poised + pencil he wavered over where to put the closet and entrance to her bath. + He figured on how wide to make her bed and where it should stand. He + remembered her dressing table in placing windows and a space for a chest + of drawers. In fact there was nothing the active mind of the Harvester did + not busy itself with in those days that might make a woman a comfortable + home. Every thought emanated from impulses evolved in his life in the + woods, and each was executed with mighty tenderness. + </p> + <p> + A killdeer sweeping the lake close two o'clock one morning awakened him. + He had planned to close the sugar camp for the season that day, but when + he heard the notes of the loved bird he wondered if that would not be a + good time to stake out the foundations and begin digging. There was yet + ice in the ground, but the hillside was rapidly thawing, and although the + work would be easier later, so eager was the Harvester to have walls up + and a roof over that he decided to commence. + </p> + <p> + But when morning came and he and Belshazzar breakfasted and fed Betsy and + the stock, he concluded to return to his first plan and close the camp. + All the sap collected that day went into the vinegar barrel. He loaded the + kettles, buckets, and spiles and stopped at the spice thicket to cut a + bale of twigs as he passed. He carried one load to the wagon and returned + for another. Down wind on swift wing came a bird and entered the bushes. + Motionless the Harvester peered at it. A mourning dove had returned to him + through snow, skifting over cold earth. It settled on a limb and began + dressing its plumage. At that instant a wavering, “Coo coo a'gh coo,” + broke in sobbing notes from the deep wood. Without paying the slightest + heed, the dove finished a wing, ruffled and settled her feathers, and + opened her bill in a human-like yawn. The Harvester smiled. The notes + swelled closer in renewed pleading. The cry was beyond doubt a courting + male and this an indifferent female. Her beady eyes snapped, her head + turned coquettishly, a picture of self-possession, she hid among the dense + twigs of the spice thicket. Around the outside circled the pleading male. + </p> + <p> + With shining eyes the Harvester watched. These were of the things that + made life in the woods most worth while. More insistent grew the wavering + notes of the lover. More indifferent became the beloved. She was superb in + her poise as she amused herself in hiding. A perfect burst of confused, + sobbing notes broke on the air. Then away in the deep wood a + softly-wavering, half-questioning “Coo-ah!” answered them. Amazement + flashed into the eyes of the Harvester, but his face was not nearly so + expressive as that of the bird. She lifted a bewildered head and grew + rigid in an attitude of tense listening. There was a pause. In quicker + measure and crowding notes the male called again. Instantly the soft + “Coo!” wavered in answer. The surprised little hen bird of the thicket + hopped straight up and settled on her perch again, her dark eyes indignant + as she uttered a short “Coo!” The muscles of the Harvester's chest were + beginning to twitch and quiver. More intense grew the notes of the + pleading male. Softly seductive came the reply. The clapping of his wings + could be heard as he flew in search of the charmer. “A'gh coo!” cried the + deserted female as she tilted off the branch and tore through the thicket + in pursuit, with wings hastened by fright at the ringing laugh of the + Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Not so indifferent after all, Bel,” he said to the dog standing in stiff + point beside him. “That was all 'pretend!' But she waited just a trifle + too long. Now she will have to fight it out with a rival. Good thing if + some of the flirtatious women could have seen that. Help them to learn + their own minds sooner.” + </p> + <p> + He laughed as he heaped the twigs on top of the wagon and started down the + hill chuckling. Belshazzar followed, leading Betsy straight in the middle + of the road by the hitching strap. A few yards ahead the man stopped + suddenly with lifted hand. The dog and horse stood motionless. A dove + flashed across the road and settled in sight on a limb. Almost + simultaneously another perched beside it, and they locked bills in a long + caress, utterly heedless of a plaintive “Coo” in the deep wood. + </p> + <p> + “Settled!” said the Harvester. “Jupiter! I wish my troubles were that + nearly finished! Wish I knew where she is and how to find my way to her + lips! Wonder if she will come when I call her. What if I should find her, + and she would have everything on earth, other lovers, and indifference + worse than Madam Dove's for me. Talk about bitterness! Well I'd have the + dream left anyway. And there are always two sides. There is just a + possibility that she may be poor and overworked, sick and tired, and + wondering why I don't come. Possibly she had a dream, too, and she wishes + I would hurry. Dear Lord!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester began to perspire as he strode down the hill. He scarcely + waited to hang the harness properly. He did not stop to unload the wagon + until night, but went after an ax and a board that he split into pegs. + Then he took a ball of twine, a measuring line, and began laying out his + foundation, when the hard earth would scarcely hold the stakes he drove + into it. When he found he only would waste time in digging he put away the + neatly washed kettles, peeled the spice brush, spread it to dry, and + prepared his dinner. After that he began hauling stone and cement for his + basement floor and foundation walls. Occasionally he helped at hewing logs + when the old man paused to rest. That afternoon the first robin of the + season hailed him in passing. + </p> + <p> + “Hello!” cried the Harvester. “You don't mean to tell me that you have + beaten the larks! You really have! Well since I see it, I must believe, + but you are early. Come around to the back door if crumbs or wheat will do + or if you can make out on suet and meat bones! We are good and ready for + you. Where is your mate? For any sake, don't tell me you don't know. One + case of that kind at Medicine Woods is enough. Say you came ahead to see + if it is too cold or to select a home and get ready for her. Say anything + on earth except that you love her, and want her until your body is one + quivering ache, and you don't know where she is.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV. A COMMISSION FOR THE SOUTH WIND + </h2> + <p> + The next morning the larks trailed ecstasy all over the valley, the + following day cuckoos were calling in the thickets, a warm wind swept from + the south and set swollen buds bursting, while the sun shone, causing the + Harvester to rejoice. Betsy's white coat was splashed with the mud of the + valley road; the feet of Belshazzar left tracks over lumber piles; and the + Harvester removed his muck-covered shoes at the door and wore slippers + inside. The skunk cabbage appeared around the edge of the forest, rank + mullein and thistles lay over the fields in big circles of green, and even + plants of delicate growth were thrusting their heads through mellowing + earth and dead leaves, to reach light and air. + </p> + <p> + Then the Harvester took his mattock and began to dig. His level best fell + so far short of what he felt capable of doing and desired to accomplish + that the following day he put two more men on the job. Then the earth did + fly, and so soon as the required space was excavated the walls were lined + with stone and a smooth basement floor was made of cement. The night the + new home stood, a skeleton of joists and rafters, gleaming whitely on the + banks of Loon Lake, the Harvester went to the bridge crossing Singing + Water and slowly came up the driveway to see how the work appeared. He + caught his breath as he advanced. He had intended to stake out generous + rooms, but this, compared with the cabin, seemed like a big hotel. + </p> + <p> + “I hope I haven't made it so large it will be a burden,” he soliloquized. + “It's huge! But while I am at it I want to build big enough, and I think I + have.” + </p> + <p> + He stood on the driveway, his arms folded, and looked at the structure as + he occasionally voiced his thoughts. + </p> + <p> + “The next thing is to lay up the side walls and get the roof over. Got to + have plenty of help, for those logs are hewed to fourteen inches square + and some of them are forty feet long. That's timber! Grew with me, too. + Personally acquainted with almost every tree of it. We will bed them in + cement, use care with the roof, and if that doesn't make a cool house in + the summer, and a warm one in winter, I'll be disappointed. It sets among + the trees, and on the hillside just right. We must have a wide porch, + plenty of flowers, vines, ferns, and mosses, and when I get everything + finished and she sees it——perhaps it will please her.” + </p> + <p> + A great horned owl swept down the hill, crossed the lake, and hooted from + the forest of the opposite bank. The Harvester thought of his dream and + turned. + </p> + <p> + “Any women walking the water to-night? Come if you like,” he bantered, “I + don't mind in the least. In fact, I'd rather enjoy it. I'd be so happy if + you would come now and tell me how this appears to you, for it's all + yours. I'd have enlarged the store-room, dry-houses and laboratory for + myself, but this cabin, never! The old one suited me as it was; but for + you——I should have a better home.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester glanced from the shining skeleton to the bridge of gold and + back again. + </p> + <p> + “Where are you to-night?” he questioned. “What are you doing? Can't you + give me a hint of where to search for you when this is ready? I don't know + but I am beginning wrong. My little brothers of the wood do differently. + They announce their intentions the first thing, flaunt their attractions, + and display their strength. They say aloud, for all the listening world to + hear, what is in their hearts. They chip, chirp, and sing, warble, + whistle, thrill, scream, and hoot it. They are strong on self-expression, + and appreciative of their appearance. They meet, court, mate, and THEN + build their home together after a mutual plan. It's a good way, too! Lots + surer of getting things satisfactory.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester sat on a lumber pile and gazed questioningly at the + framework. + </p> + <p> + “I wish I knew if I am going at things right,” he said. “There are two + sides to consider. If she is in a good home, and lovingly cared for, it + would be proper to court her and get her promise, if I could——no + I'm blest if I'll be so modest——get her promise, as I said, + and let her wait while I build the cabin. But if she should be poor, + tired, and neglected, then I ought to have this ready when I find her, so + I could pick her up and bring her to it, with no more ceremony than the + birds.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester's clear skin flushed crimson. + </p> + <p> + “Of course, I don't mean no wedding ceremony,” he amended. “I was thinking + of a long time wasted in preliminaries when in my soul I know I am going + to marry my Dream Girl before I ever have seen her in reality. What would + be the use in spending much time in courting? She is my wife now, by every + law of God. Let me get a glimpse of her, and I'll prove it. But I've got + to make tracks, for if she were here, where would I put her? I must + hurry!” + </p> + <p> + He went to the work room and began polishing a table top. He had bought a + chest of tools and was spending every spare minute on tables, chair seats, + and legs. He had decided to make these first and carve candlesticks later + when he had more time. Two hours he worked at the furniture, and then went + to bed. The following morning he put eggs under several hens that wanted + to set, trimmed his grape-vines, examined the precious ginseng beds, + attended his stock, got breakfast for Belshazzar and himself, and was + ready for work when the first carpenter arrived. Laying hewed logs went + speedily, and before the Harvester believed it possible the big shingles + he had ordered were being nailed on the roof. Then came the plumber and + arranged for the bathroom, and the furnace man placed the heating pipes. + The Harvester had intended the cabin to be mostly the work of his own + hands, but when he saw how rapidly skilled carpenters worked, he changed + his mind and had them finish the living-room, his room, and the upstairs, + and make over the dining-room and kitchen. + </p> + <p> + Her room he worked on alone, with a little help if he did not know how to + join the different parts. Every thing was plain and simple, after plans of + his own, but the Harvester laid floors and made window casings, seats, and + doors of wood that the big factories of Grand Rapids used in veneering + their finest furniture. When one of his carpenters pointed out this to + him, and suggested that he sell his lumber to McLean and use pine flooring + from the mills the Harvester laughed at him. + </p> + <p> + “I don't say that I could afford to buy burl maple, walnut, and cherry for + wood-work,” said the Harvester. “I could not, but since I have it, you can + stake your life I won't sell it and build my home of cheap, rapidly + decaying wood. The best I have goes into this cabin and what remains will + do to sell. I have an idea that when this is done it is going to appear + first rate. Anyway, it will be solid enough to last a thousand years, and + with every day of use natural wood grows more beautiful. When we get some + tables, couches, and chairs made from the same timber as the casings and + the floors, I think it will be fine. I want money, but I don't want it bad + enough to part with the BEST of anything I have for it. Go carefully and + neatly there; it will have to be changed if you don't.” + </p> + <p> + So the work progressed rapidly. When the carpenters had finished the last + stroke on the big veranda they remained a day more and made flower boxes, + and a swinging couch, and then the greedy Harvester kept the best man with + him a week longer to help on the furniture. + </p> + <p> + “Ain't you going to say a word about her, Langston?” asked this man as + they put a mirror-like surface on a curly maple dressing table top. + </p> + <p> + “Her!” ejaculated the Harvester. “What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “I haven't seen you bathe anywhere except in the lake since I have been + here,” said the carpenter. “Do you want me to think that a porcelain tub, + this big closet, and chest of drawers are for you?” + </p> + <p> + A wave of crimson swept over the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “No, they are not for me,” he said simply. “I don't want to be any more + different from other men than I can help, although I know that life in the + woods, the rigid training of my mother, and the reading of only the books + that would aid in my work have made me individual in many of my thoughts + and ways. I suppose most men, just now, would tell you anything you want + to know. There is only one thing I can say: The best of my soul and brain, + the best of my woods and store-house, the best I can buy with money is not + good enough for her. That's all. For myself, I am getting ready to marry, + of course. I think all normal men do and that it is a matter of plain + common-sense that they should. Life with the right woman must be + infinitely broader and better than alone. Are you married?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. Got a wife and four children.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you sorry?” + </p> + <p> + “Sorry!” the carpenter shrilled the word. “Sorry! Well that's the best I + ever heard! Am I sorry I married Nell and got the kids? Do I look sorry?” + </p> + <p> + “I am not expecting to be, either,” said the Harvester calmly. “I think I + have done fairly well to stick to my work and live alone until I am + twenty-six. I have thought the thing all over and made up my mind. As soon + as I get this house far enough along that I feel I can proceed alone I am + going to rush the marrying business just as fast as I can, and let her + finish the remainder to her liking.” + </p> + <p> + “Well this ought to please her.” + </p> + <p> + “That's because you find your own work good,” laughed the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Not altogether!” The carpenter polished the board and stood it on end to + examine the surface as he talked. “Not altogether! Nothing but good work + would suit you. I was thinking of the little creek splashing down the hill + to the lake; and that old log hewer said that in a few more days things + here would be a blaze of colour until fall.” + </p> + <p> + “Almost all the drug plants and bushes leaf beautifully and flower + brilliantly,” explained the Harvester. “I studied the location suitable to + each variety before I set the beds and planned how to grow plants for + continuity of bloom, and as much harmony of colour as possible. Of course + a landscape gardener would tear up some of it, but seen as a whole it + isn't so bad. Did you ever notice that in the open, with God's blue + overhead and His green for a background, He can place purple and yellow, + pink, magenta, red, and blue in masses or any combination you can mention + and the brighter the colour the more you like it? You don't seem to see or + feel that any grouping clashes; you revel in each wonderful growth, and + luxuriate in the brilliancy of the whole. Anyway, this suits me.” + </p> + <p> + “I guess it will please her, too,” said the carpenter. “After all the + pains you've taken, she is a good one if it doesn't.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll always have the consolation of having done my best,” replied the + Harvester. “One can't do more! Whether she likes it or not depends greatly + on the way she has been reared.” + </p> + <p> + “You talk as if you didn't know,” commented the carpenter. + </p> + <p> + “You go on with this now,” said the Harvester hastily. “I've got to + uncover some beds and dig my year's supply of skunk cabbage, else folk + with asthma and dropsy who depend on me will be short on relief. I ought + to take my sweet flag, too, but I'm so hurried now I think I'll leave it + until fall; I do when I can, because the bloom is so pretty around the + lake and the bees simply go wild over the pollen. Sometimes I almost think + I can detect it in their honey. Do you know I've wondered often if the + honey my bees make has medicinal properties and should be kept separate in + different seasons. In early spring when the plants and bushes that furnish + the roots and barks of most of the tonics are in bloom, and the bees + gather the pollen, that honey should partake in a degree of the same + properties and be good medicine. In the summer it should aid digestion, + and in the fall cure rheumatism and blood disorders.” + </p> + <p> + “Say you try it!” urged the carpenter. “I want a lot of the fall kind. I'm + always full of rheumatism by October. Exposure, no doubt.” + </p> + <p> + “Over eating of too much rich food, you mean,” laughed the Harvester. “I'd + like to see any man expose his body to more differing extremes of weather + than I do, and I'm never sick. It's because I am my own cook and so I live + mostly on fruits, vegetables, bread, milk, and eggs, a few fish from the + lake, a little game once in a great while or a chicken, and no hot drinks; + plenty of fresh water, air, and continuous work out of doors. That's the + prescription! I'd be ashamed to have rheumatism at your age. There's food + in the cupboard if you grow hungry. I am going past one of the neighbours + on my way to see about some work I want her to do.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester stopped for lunch, carried food to Belshazzar, and started + straight across country, his mattock, with a bag rolled around the handle, + on his shoulder. His feet sank in the damp earth at the foot of the hill, + and he laughed as he leaped across Singing Water. + </p> + <p> + “You noisy chatterbox!” cried the man. “The impetus of coming down the + curves of the hill keeps you talking all the way across this muck bed to + the lake. With small work I can make you a thing of beauty. A few bushes + grubbed, a little deepening where you spread too much, and some more + mallows along the banks will do the trick. I must attend to you soon.” + </p> + <p> + “Now what does the boy want?” laughed a white-haired old woman, as the + Harvester entered the door. “Mebby you think I don't know what you're up + to! I even can hear the hammering and the voices of the men when the wind + is in the south. I've been wondering how soon you'd need me. Out with it!” + </p> + <p> + “I want you to get a woman and come over and spend a day with me. I'll + come after you and bring you back. I want you to go over mother's bedding + and have what needs it washed. All I want you to do is to superintend, and + tell me now what I will want from town for your work.” + </p> + <p> + “I put away all your mother's bedding that you were not using, clean as a + ribbon.” + </p> + <p> + “But it has been packed in moth preventives ever since and out only four + times a year to air, as you told me. It must smell musty and be yellow. I + want it fresh and clean.” + </p> + <p> + “So what I been hearing is true, David?” + </p> + <p> + “Quite true!” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Whose girl is she, and when are you going to jine hands?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester lifted his clear eyes and hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “Doc Carey laid you in my arms when you was born, David. I tended you + 'fore ever your ma did. All your life you've been my boy, and I love you + same as my own blood; it won't go no farther if you say so. I'll never + tell a living soul. But I'm old and 'til better weather comes, house + bound; and I get mighty lonely. I'd like to think about you and her, and + plan for you, and love her as I always did you folks. Who is she, David? + Do I know the family?” + </p> + <p> + “No. She is a stranger to these parts,” said the unhappy Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “David, is she a nice girl 'at your ma would have liked?” + </p> + <p> + “She's the only girl in the world that I'd marry,” said the Harvester + promptly, glad of a question he could answer heartily. “Yes. She is + gentle, very tender and——and affectionate,” he went on so + rapidly that Granny Moreland could not say a word, “and as soon as I bring + her home you shall come to spend a day and get acquainted. I know you will + love her! I'll come in the morning, then. I must hurry now. I am working + double this spring and I'm off for the skunk cabbage bed to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “You are working fit to kill, the neighbours say. Slavin' like a horse all + day, and half the night I see your lights burning.” + </p> + <p> + “Do I appear killed?” laughingly inquired the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “You look peart as a struttin' turkey gobbler,” said the old woman. “Go on + with your work! Work don't hurt a-body. Eat a-plenty, sleep all you ort, + and you CAN'T work enough to hurt you.” + </p> + <p> + “So the neighbours say I'm working now? New story, isn't it? Usually I'm + too lazy to make a living, if I remember.” + </p> + <p> + “Only to those who don't sense your purceedings, David. I always knowed + how you grubbed and slaved an' set over them fearful books o' yours.” + </p> + <p> + “More interesting than the wildest fiction,” said the man. “I'm making + some medicine for your rheumatism, Granny. It is not fully tested yet, but + you get ready for it by cutting out all the salt you can. I haven't time + to explain this morning, but you remember what I say, leave out the salt, + and when Doc thinks it's safe I'll bring you something that will make a + new woman of you.” + </p> + <p> + He went swinging down the road, and Granny Moreland looked after him. + </p> + <p> + “While he was talkin',” she muttered, “I felt full of information as a + flock o' almanacs, but now since he's gone, 'pears to me I don't know a + thing more 'an I did to start on.” + </p> + <p> + “Close call,” the Harvester was thinking. “Why the nation did I admit + anything to her? People may talk as they please, so long as I don't + sanction it, but I have two or three times. That's a fool trick. Suppose I + can't find her? Maybe she won't look at me if I can. Then I'd have started + something I couldn't finish. And if anybody thinks I'll end this by taking + any girl I can get, if I can't find Her, why they think wrongly. Just the + girl of my golden dream or no woman at all for me. I've lived alone long + enough to know how to do it in comfort. If I can't find and win her I have + no intention of starting a boarding house.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester began to laugh. “'I'd rather keep bachelor's hall in Hell + than go to board in Heaven!'” he quoted gaily. “That's my sentiment too. + If you can't have what you want, don't have anything. But there is no use + to become discouraged before I start. I haven't begun to hunt her yet. + Until I do, I might as well believe that she will walk across the bridge + and take possession just as soon as I get the last chair leg polished. She + might! She came in the dream, and to come actually couldn't be any more + real. I'll make a stiff hunt of it before I give up, if I ever do. I never + yet have made a complete failure of anything. But just now I am hunting + skunk cabbage. It's precisely the time to take it.” + </p> + <p> + Across the lake, in the swampy woods, close where the screech owl sang and + the girl of the golden dream walked in the moonlight the Harvester began + operations. He unrolled the sack, went to one end of the bed and + systematically started a swath across it, lifting every other plant by the + roots. Flowering time was almost past, but the bees knew where pollen + ripened, and hummed incessantly over and inside the queer cone-shaped + growths with their hooked beaks. It almost appeared as if the sound made + inside might be to give outsiders warning not to poach on occupied + territory, for the Harvester noticed that no bee entered a pre-empted + plant. + </p> + <p> + With skilful hand each stroke brought up a root and he tossed it to one + side. The plants were vastly peculiar things. First they seemed to be a + curled leaf with no flower. In colour they shaded from yellow to almost + black mahogany, and appeared as if they were a flower with no leaf. Closer + examination proved there was a stout leaf with a heavy outside mid-rib, + the tip of which curled over in a beak effect, that wrapped around a + peculiar flower of very disagreeable odour. The handling of these plants + by the hundred so intensified this smell the Harvester shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “I presume you are mostly mine,” he said to the busy little workers around + him. “If there is anything in my theory of honey having varying medicinal + properties at different seasons, right now mine should be good for + Granny's rheumatism and for nervous and dropsical people. I shouldn't + think honey flavoured with skunk cabbage would be fit to eat. But, of + course, it isn't all this. There is catkin pollen on the wind, hazel and + sassafras are both in bloom now, and so are several of the earliest little + flowers of the woods. You can gather enough of them combined to temper the + disagreeable odour into a racy sweetness, and all the shrub blooms are + good tonics, too, and some of the earthy ones. I'm going to try giving + some of you empty cases next spring and analyzing the honey to learn if it + isn't good medicine.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester straightened and leaned on the mattock to fill his lungs + with fresh air and as he delightedly sniffed it he commented, “Nothing + else has much of a chance since I've stirred up the cabbage bed. I can + scent the catkins plainly, being so close, and as I came here I could + detect the hazel and sassafras all right.” + </p> + <p> + Above him a peculiar, raucous chattering for an instant hushed other wood + voices. The Harvester looked up, laughing gaily. + </p> + <p> + “So you've decided to announce it to your tribe at last, have you?” he + inquired. “You are waking the sleepers in their dens to-day? Well, there's + nothing like waiting until you have a sure thing. The bluebirds broke the + trail for the feathered folk the twenty-fourth of February. The sap oozed + from the maples about the same time for the trees. The very first skunk + cabbage was up quite a month ago to signal other plants to come on, and + now you are rousing the furred folk. I'll write this down in my records——'When + the earliest bluebird sings, when the sap wets the maples, when the skunk + cabbage flowers, and the first striped squirrel barks, why then, it is + spring!'” + </p> + <p> + He bent to his task and as he worked closer the water he noticed + sweet-flag leaves waving two inches tall beneath the surface. + </p> + <p> + “Great day!” he cried. “There you are making signs, too! And right! Of + course! Nature is always right. Just two inches high and it's harvest for + you. I can use a rake, and dried in the evaporator you bring me ten cents + a pound; to the folks needing a tonic you are worth a small fortune. No + doubt you cost that by the time you reach them; but I fear I can't gather + you just now. My head is a little preoccupied these days. What with the + cabbage, and now you, and many of the bushes and trees making signs, with + a new cabin to build and furnish, with a girl to find and win, I'm what + you might call busy. I've covered my book shelf. I positively don't dare + look Emerson or Maeterlinck in the face. One consolation! I've got the + best of Thoreau in my head, and if I read Stickeen a few times more I'll + be able to recite that. There's a man for you, not to mention the dog! + Bel, where are you? Would you stick to me like that? I think you would. + But you are a big, strong fellow. Stickeen was only such a mite of a dog. + But what a man he followed! I feel as if I should put on high-heeled + slippers and carry a fan and a lace handkerchief when I think of him. And + yet, most men wouldn't consider my job so easy!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester rapidly pitched the evil-smelling plants into big heaps and + as he worked he imitated the sounds around him as closely as he could. The + song sparrow laughed at him and flew away in disgust when he tried its + notes. The jay took time to consider, but was not fooled. The nut-hatch + ran head first down trees, larvae hunting, and was never a mite deceived. + But the killdeer on invisible legs, circling the lake shore, replied + instantly; so did the lark soaring above, and the dove of the elm thicket + close beside. The glittering black birds flashing over every tree top + answered the “T'check, t'chee!” of the Harvester quite as readily as their + mates. + </p> + <p> + The last time he paused to rest he had studied scents. When he + straightened again he was occupied with every voice of earth and air + around and above him, and the notes of singing hens, exultant cocks, the + scream of geese, the quack of ducks, the rasping crescendo of guineas + running wild in the woods, the imperial note of Ajax sunning on the ridge + pole and echoes from all of them on adjoining and distant farms. + </p> + <p> + “'Now I see the full meaning and beauty of that word sound!'” quoted the + Harvester. “'I thank God for sound. It always mounts and makes me mount!'” + </p> + <p> + He breathed deeply and stood listening, a superb figure of a man, his lean + face glowing with emotion. + </p> + <p> + “If she could see and hear this, she would come,” he said softly. “She + would come and she would love it as I do. Any one who understands, and + knows how to translate, cares for this above all else earth has to offer. + They who do not, fail to read as they run!” + </p> + <p> + He shifted feet mired in swamp muck, and stood as if loath to bend again + to his task. He lifted a weighted mattock and scraped the earth from it, + sniffing it delightedly the while. A soft south wind freighted with + aromatic odours swept his warm face. The Harvester removed his hat and + shook his head that the breeze might thread his thick hair. + </p> + <p> + “I've a commission for you, South Wind,” he said whimsically. “Go find my + Dream Girl. Go carry her this message from me. Freight your breath with + spicy pollen, sun warmth, and flower nectar. Fill all her senses with + delight, and then, close to her ear, whisper it softly, 'Your lover is + coming!' Tell her that, O South Wind! Carry Araby to her nostrils, Heaven + to her ears, and then whisper and whisper it over and over until you + arouse the passion of earth in her blood. Tell her what is rioting in my + heart, and brain, and soul this morning. Repeat it until she must awake to + its meaning, 'Your lover is coming.'” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V. WHEN THE HARVESTER MADE GOOD + </h2> + <p> + The sassafras and skunk cabbage were harvested. The last workman was gone. + There was not a sound at Medicine Woods save the babel of bird and animal + notes and the never-ending accompaniment of Singing Water. The geese had + gone over, some flocks pausing to rest and feed on Loon Lake, and ducks + that homed there were busy among the reeds and rushes. In the deep woods + the struggle to maintain and reproduce life was at its height, and the + courting songs of gaily coloured birds were drowned by hawk screams and + crow calls of defiance. + </p> + <p> + Every night before he plunged into the lake and went to sleep the + Harvester made out a list of the most pressing work that he would + undertake on the coming day. By systematizing and planning ahead he was + able to accomplish an unbelievable amount. The earliest rush of spring + drug gathering was over. He could be more deliberate in collecting the + barks he wanted. Flowers that were to be gathered at bloom time and leaves + were not yet ready. The heavy leaf coverings he had helped the winds to + heap on his beds of lily of the valley, bloodroot, and sarsaparilla were + removed carefully. + </p> + <p> + Inside the cabin the Harvester cleaned the glass, swept the floors with a + soft cloth pinned over the broom, and hung pale yellow blinds at the + windows. Every spare minute he worked on making furniture, and with each + piece he grew in experience and ventured on more difficult undertakings. + He had progressed so far that he now allowed himself an hour each day on + the candlesticks for her. Every evening he opened her door and with soft + cloths polished the furniture he had made. When her room was completed and + the dining-room partially finished, the Harvester took time to stain the + cabin and porch roofs the shade of the willow leaves, and on the logs and + pillars he used oil that served to intensify the light yellow of the + natural wood. With that much accomplished he felt better. If she came now, + in a few hours he would be able to offer a comfortable room, enough + conveniences to live until more could be provided, and of food there was + always plenty. + </p> + <p> + His daily programme was to feed and water his animals and poultry, prepare + breakfast for himself and Belshazzar, and go to the woods, dry-house or + store-room to do the work most needful in his harvesting. In the afternoon + he laboured over furniture and put finishing touches on the new cabin, and + after supper he carved and found time to read again, as before his dream. + </p> + <p> + He was so happy he whistled and sang at his work much of the time at + first, but later there came days when doubts crept in and all his will + power was required to proceed steadily. As the cabin grew in better shape + for occupancy each day, more pressing became the thought of how he was + going to find and meet the girl of his dream. Sometimes it seemed to him + that the proper way was to remain at home and go on with his work, + trusting her to come to him. At such times he was happy and gaily whistled + and sang: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Stay in your chimney corner, + Don't roam the world about, + Stay in your chimney corner, + And your own true love will find you out.” + </pre> + <p> + But there were other days while grubbing in the forest, battling with + roots in the muck and mire of the lake bank, staggering under a load for + two men, scarcely taking time to eat and sleep enough to keep his + condition perfect, when that plan seemed too hopeless and senseless to + contemplate. Then he would think of locking the cabin, leaving the drugs + to grow undisturbed by collecting, hiring a neighbour to care for his + living creatures, and starting a search over the world to find her. There + came times when the impulse to go was so strong that only the desire to + take a day more to decide where, kept him. Every time his mind was made up + to start the following day came the counter thought, what if I should go + and she should come in my absence? In the dream she came. That alone held + him, even in the face of the fact that if he left home some one might know + of and rifle the precious ginseng bed, carefully tended these seven years + for the culmination the coming fall would bring. That ginseng was worth + many thousands and he had laboured over it, fighting worms and parasites, + covering and uncovering it with the changing seasons, a siege of loving + labour. + </p> + <p> + Sometimes a few hours of misgiving tortured him, but as a rule he was + cheerful and happy in his preparations. Without intending to do it he was + gradually furnishing the cabin. Every few days saw a new piece finished in + the workshop. Each trip to Onabasha ended in the purchase of some article + he could see would harmonize with his colour plans for one of the rooms. + He had filled the flower boxes for the veranda with delicate plants that + were growing luxuriantly. + </p> + <p> + Then he designed and began setting a wild-flower garden outside her door + and started climbing vines over the logs and porches, but whatever he + planted he found in the woods or took from beds he cultivated. Many of the + medicinal vines had leaves, flowers, twining tendrils, and berries or + fruits of wonderful beauty. Every trip to the forest he brought back a + half dozen vines, plants, or bushes to set for her. All of them either + bore lovely flowers, berries, quaint seed pods, or nuts, and beside the + drive and before the cabin he used especial care to plant a hedge of + bittersweet vines, burning bush, and trees of mountain ash, so that the + glory of their colour would enliven the winter when days might be gloomy. + </p> + <p> + He planted wild yam under her windows that its queer rattles might amuse + her, and hop trees where their castanets would play gay music with every + passing wind of fall. He started a thicket along the opposite bank of + Singing Water where it bubbled past her window, and in it he placed in + graduated rows every shrub and small tree bearing bright flower, berry, or + fruit. Those remaining he used as a border for the driveway from the lake, + so that from earliest spring her eyes would fall on a procession of colour + beginning with catkins and papaw lilies, and running through alders, haws, + wild crabs, dogwood, plums, and cherry intermingled with forest saplings + and vines bearing scarlet berries in fall and winter. In the damp soil of + the same character from which they were removed, in the shade and under + the skilful hand of the Harvester, few of these knew they had been + transplanted, and when May brought the catbirds and orioles much of this + growth was flowering quite as luxuriantly as the same species in the + woods. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester was in the store-house packing boxes for shipment. His room + was so small and orders so numerous that he could not keep large + quantities on hand. All crude stuff that he sent straight from the + drying-house was fresh and brightly coloured. His stock always was marked + prime A-No. 1. There was a step behind him and the Harvester turned. A boy + held out a telegram. The man opened it to find an order for some stuff to + be shipped that day to a large laboratory in Toledo. + </p> + <p> + His hands deftly tied packages and he hastily packed bottles and nailed + boxes. Then he ran to harness Betsy and load. As he drove down the hill to + the bridge he looked at his watch and shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “What are you good for at a pinch, Betsy?” he asked as he flecked the + surprised mare's flank with a switch. Belshazzar cocked his ears and gazed + at the Harvester in astonishment. + </p> + <p> + “That wasn't enough to hurt her,” explained the man. “She must speed up. + This is important business. The amount involved is not so much, but I do + love to make good. It's a part of my religion, Bel. And my religion has so + precious few parts that if I fail in the observance of any of them it + makes a big hole in my performances. Now we don't want to end a life full + of holes, so we must get there with this stuff, not because it's worth the + exertion in dollars and cents, but because these men patronize us steadily + and expect us to fill orders, even by telegraph. Hustle, Betsy!” + </p> + <p> + The whip fell again and Belshazzar entered indignant protest. + </p> + <p> + “It isn't going to hurt her,” said the Harvester impatiently. “She may + walk all the way back. She can rest while I get these boxes billed and + loaded if she can be persuaded to get them to the express office on time. + The trouble with Betsy is that she wants to meander along the road with a + loaded wagon as her mother and grandmother before her wandered through the + woods wearing a bell to attract the deer. Father used to say that her + mother was the smartest bell mare that ever entered the forest. She'd not + only find the deer, but she'd make friends with them and lead them + straight as a bee-line to where he was hiding. Betsy, you must travel!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester drew the lines taut, and the whip fell smartly. The + astonished Betsy snorted and pranced down the valley as fast as she could, + but every step indicated that she felt outraged and abused. This was the + loveliest day of the season. The sun was shining, the air was heavy with + the perfume of flowering shrubs and trees, the orchards of the valley were + white with bloom. Farmers were hurrying back and forth across fields, + leaving up turned lines of black, swampy mould behind them, and one + progressive individual rode a wheeled plow, drove three horses and enjoyed + the shelter of a canopy. + </p> + <p> + “Saints preserve us, Belshazzar!” cried the Harvester. “Do you see that? + He is one of the men who makes a business of calling me shiftless. Now he + thinks he is working. Working! For a full-grown man, did you ever see the + equal? If I were going that far I'd wear a tucked shirt, panama hat, have + a pianola attachment, and an automatic fan.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester laughed as he again touched Betsy and hurried to Onabasha. + He scarcely saw the delights offered on either hand, and where his eyes + customarily took in every sight, and his ears were tuned for the faintest + note of earth or tree top, to day he saw only Betsy and listened for a + whistle he dreaded to hear at the water tank. He climbed the embankment of + the railway at a slower pace, but made up time going down hill to the + city. + </p> + <p> + “I am not getting a blame thing out of this,” he complained to Belshazzar. + “There are riches to stagger any scientist wasting to-day, and all I've + got to show is one oriole. I did hear his first note and see his flash, + and so unless we can take time to make up for this on the home road we + will have to christen it oriole day. It's a perfumed golden day, too; I + can get that in passing, but how I loathe hurrying. I don't mind planning + things and working steadily, but it's not consistent with the dignity of a + sane man to go rushing across country with as much appreciation of the + delights offered right now as a chicken with its head off would have. We + will loaf going back to pay for this! And won't we invite our souls? We + will stop and gather a big bouquet of crab apple blossoms to fill the + green pitcher for her. Maybe some of their wonderful perfume will linger + in her room. When the petals fall we will scatter them in the drawers of + her dresser, and they may distil a faint flower odour there. We could do + that to all her furniture, but perhaps she doesn't like perfume. She'll be + compelled to after she reaches Medicine Woods. Betsy, you must travel + faster!” + </p> + <p> + The whip fell again and the Harvester stopped at the depot with a few + minutes to spare. He threw the hitching strap to Belshazzar, and ran into + the express office with an arm load of boxes. + </p> + <p> + “Bill them!” he cried. “It's a rush order. I want it to go on the next + express. Almost due I think. I'll help you and we can book them + afterward.” + </p> + <p> + The expressman ran for a truck and they hastily weighed and piled on + boxes. When the last one was loaded from the wagon, a heap more lying in + the office were added, pitched on indiscriminately as the train pulled + under the sheds of the Union Station. + </p> + <p> + “I'll push,” cried the Harvester, “and help you get them on.” + </p> + <p> + Hurrying as fast as he could the expressman drew the heavy truck through + the iron gates and started toward the train slowing to a stop, and the + Harvester pushed. As they came down the platform they passed the dining + and sleeping cars of the long train and were several times delayed by + descending passengers. Just opposite the day coach the expressman narrowly + missed running into several women leading small children and stopped + abruptly. A toppling box threatened the head of the Harvester. He peered + around the truck and saw they must wait a few seconds. He put in the time + watching the people. A gray-haired old man, travelling in a silk hat, + wavered on the top step and went his way. A fat woman loaded with bundles + puffed as she clung trembling a second in fear she would miss the step she + could not see. A tall, slender girl with a face coldly white came next, + and from the broken shoe she advanced, the bewildered fright of big, dark + eyes glancing helplessly, the Harvester saw that she was poor, alone, ill, + and in trouble. Pityingly he turned to watch her, and as he gauged her + height, saw her figure, and a dark coronet of hair came into view, a + ghastly pallor swept his face. + </p> + <p> + “Merciful God!” he breathed, “that's my Dream Girl!” + </p> + <p> + The truck started with a jerk. The toppling box fell, struck a passing + boy, and knocked him down. The mother screamed and the Harvester sprang to + pick up the child and see that he was not dangerously hurt. Then he ran + after the truck, pitched on the box, and whirling, sped beside the train + toward the gates of exit. There was the usual crush, but he could see the + tall figure passing up the steps to the depot. He tried to force his way + and was called a brute by a crowded woman. He ran down the platform to the + gates he had entered with the truck. They were automatic and had locked. + Then he became a primal creature being cheated of a lawful mate and + climbed the high iron fence and ran for the waiting room. + </p> + <p> + He swept it at a glance, not forgetting the women's apartment and the side + entrance. Then he hurried to the front exit. Up the street leading from + the city there were few people and he could see no sign of the slight, + white-faced girl. He crossed the sidewalk and ran down the gutter for a + block and breathlessly waited the passing crowd on the corner. She was not + among it. He tried one more square. Still he could not see her. Then he + ran back to the depot. He thought surely he must have missed her. He again + searched the woman's and general waiting room and then he thought of the + conductor. From him it could be learned where she entered the car. He ran + for the station, bolted the gate while the official called to him, and + reached the track in time to see the train pull out within a few yards of + him. + </p> + <p> + “You blooming idiot!” cried the angry expressman as the Harvester ran + against him, “where did you go? Why didn't you help me? You are white as a + sheet! Have you lost your senses?” + </p> + <p> + “Worse!” groaned the Harvester. “Worse! I've lost what I prize most on + earth. How could I reach the conductor of that train?” + </p> + <p> + “Telegraph him at the next station. You can have an answer in a half + hour.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester ran to the office, and with shaking hand wrote this message: + </p> + <p> + “Where did a tall girl with big black eyes and wearing a gray dress take + your train? Important.” + </p> + <p> + Then he went out and minutely searched the depot and streets. He hired an + automobile to drive him over the business part of Onabasha for three + quarters of an hour. Up one street and down another he went slowly where + there were crowds, faster as he could, but never a sight of her. Then he + returned to the depot and found his message. It read, “Transferred to me + at Fort Wayne from Chicago.” + </p> + <p> + “Chicago baggage!” he cried, and hurried to the check room. He had lost + almost an hour. When he reached the room he found the officials busy and + unwilling to be interrupted. Finally he learned there had been a half + dozen trunks from Chicago. All were taken save two, and one glance at them + told the Harvester that they did not belong to the girl in gray. The + others had been claimed by men having checks for them. If she had been + there, the officials had not noticed a tall girl having a white face and + dark eyes. When he could think of no further effort to make he drove to + the hospital. + </p> + <p> + Doctor Carey was not in his office, and the Harvester sat in the revolving + chair before the desk and gripped his head between his hands as he tried + to think. He could not remember anything more he could have done, but + since what he had done only ended in failure, he was reproaching himself + wildly that he had taken his eyes from the Girl an instant after + recognizing her. Yet it was in his blood to be decent and he could not + have run away and left a frightened woman and a hurt child. Trusting to + his fleet feet and strength he had taken time to replace the box also, and + then had met the crowd and delay. Just for the instant it appeared to him + as if he had done all a man could, and he had not found her. If he allowed + her to return to Chicago, probably he never would. He leaned his head on + his hands and groaned in discouragement. + </p> + <p> + Doctor Carey whirled the chair so that it faced him before the Harvester + realized that he was not alone. + </p> + <p> + “What's the trouble, David?” he asked tersely. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester lifted a strained face. + </p> + <p> + “I came for help,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Well you will get it! All you have to do is to state what you want.” + </p> + <p> + That seemed simplicity itself to the doctor. But when it came to putting + his case into words, it was not easy for the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Go on!” said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “You'll think me a fool.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor laughed heartily. + </p> + <p> + “No doubt!” he said soothingly. “No doubt, David! Probably you are; so why + shouldn't I think so. But remember this, when we make the biggest fools of + ourselves that is precisely the time when we need friends, and when they + stick to us the tightest, if they are worth while. I've been waiting since + latter February for you to tell me. We can fix it, of course; there's + always a way. Go on!” + </p> + <p> + “Well I wasn't fooling about the dream and the vision I told you of then, + Doc. I did have a dream—and it was a dream of love. I did see a + vision—and it was a beautiful woman.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope you are not nursing that experience as something exclusive and + peculiar to you,” said the doctor. “There is not a normal, sane man living + who has not dreamed of love and the most exquisite woman who came from the + clouds or anywhere and was gracious to him. That's a part of a man's + experience in this world, and it happens to most of us, not once, but + repeatedly. It's a case where the wish fathers the dream.” + </p> + <p> + “Well it hasn't happened to me 'on repeated occasions,' but it did one + night, and by dawn I was converted. How CAN a dream be so real, Doc? How + could I see as clearly as I ever saw in the daytime in my most alert + moment, hear every step and garment rustle, scent the perfume of hair, and + feel warm breath strike my face? I don't understand it!” + </p> + <p> + “Neither does any one else! All you need say is that your dream was real + as life. Go on!” + </p> + <p> + “I built a new cabin and pretty well overturned the place and I've been + making furniture I thought a woman would like, and carrying things from + town ever since.” + </p> + <p> + “Gee! It was reality to you, lad!” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing ever more so,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “And of course, you have been looking for her?” + </p> + <p> + “And this morning I saw her!” + </p> + <p> + “David!” + </p> + <p> + “Not the ghost of a chance for a mistake. Her height, her eyes, her hair, + her walk, her face; only something terrible has happened since she came to + me. It was the same girl, but she is ill and in trouble now.” + </p> + <p> + “Where is she?” + </p> + <p> + “Do you suppose I'd be here if I knew?” + </p> + <p> + “David, are you dreaming in daytime?” + </p> + <p> + “She got off the Chicago train this morning while I was helping Daniels + load a big truck of express matter. Some of it was mine, and it was + important. Just at the wrong instant a box fell and knocked down a child + and I got in a jam——” + </p> + <p> + “And as it was you, of course you stopped to pick up the child and do + everything decent for other folks, before you thought of yourself, and so + you lost her. You needn't tell me anything more. David, if I find her, and + prove to you that she has been married ten years and has an interesting + family, will you thank me?” + </p> + <p> + “Can't be done!” said the Harvester calmly. “She has been married only + since she gave herself to me in February, and she is not a mother. You + needn't bank on that.” + </p> + <p> + “You are mighty sure!” + </p> + <p> + “Why not? I told you the dream was real, and now that I have seen her, and + she is in this very town, why shouldn't I be sure?” + </p> + <p> + “What have you done?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester told him. + </p> + <p> + “What are you going to do next?” + </p> + <p> + “Talk it over with you and decide.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor laughed. + </p> + <p> + “Well here are a few things that occur to me without time for thought. + Talk to the ticket agents, and leave her description with them. Make it + worth their while to be on the lookout, and if she goes anywhere to find + out all they can. They could make an excuse of putting her address on her + ticket envelope, and get it that way. See the baggagemen. Post the day + police on Main Street. There is no chance for her to escape you. A + full-grown woman doesn't vanish. How did she act when she got off the car? + Did she appear familiar?” + </p> + <p> + “No. She was a stranger. For an instant she looked around as if she + expected some one, then she followed the crowd. There must have been an + automobile waiting or she took a street car. Something whirled her out of + sight in a few seconds.” + </p> + <p> + “Well we will get her in range again. Now for the most minute description + you can give.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester hesitated. He did not care to describe the Dream Girl to any + one, much less the living, suffering face and poorly clad form of the + reality. + </p> + <p> + “Cut out your scruples,” laughed the doctor. “You have asked me to help + you; how can I if I don't know what kind of a woman to look for?” + </p> + <p> + “Very tall and slender,” said the Harvester. “Almost as tall as I am.” + </p> + <p> + “Unusually tall you think?” + </p> + <p> + “I know!” + </p> + <p> + “That's a good point for identification. How about her complexion, hair, + and eyes?” + </p> + <p> + “Very large, dark eyes, and a great mass of black hair.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor roared. + </p> + <p> + “The eyes may help,” he said. “All women have masses of hair these days. I + hope——” + </p> + <p> + “Her hair is fast to her head,” said the Harvester indignantly. “I saw it + at close range, and I know. It went around like a crown.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor choked down a laugh. He wanted to say that every woman's hair + was like a crown at present, but there were things no man ventured with + David Langston; those who knew him best, least of any. So he suggested, + “And her colouring?” + </p> + <p> + “She was white and rosy, a lovely thing in the dream,” said the Harvester, + “but something dreadful has happened. That's all wiped out now. She was + very pale when she left the car.” + </p> + <p> + “Car sick, maybe.” + </p> + <p> + “Soul sick!” was the grim reply. + </p> + <p> + Then Doctor Carey appeared so disturbed the Harvester noticed it. + </p> + <p> + “You needn't think I'd be here prating about her if I wasn't FORCED. If + she had been rosy and well as she was in the dream, I'd have made my hunt + alone and found her, too. But when I saw she was sick and in trouble, it + took all the courage out of me, and I broke for help. She must be found at + once, and when she is you are probably the first man I'll want. I am going + to put up a pretty stiff search myself, and if I find her I'll send or get + her to you if I can. Put her in the best ward you have and anything money + will do——” + </p> + <p> + The face of the doctor was growing troubled. + </p> + <p> + “Day coach or Pullman?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Day.” + </p> + <p> + “How was she dressed?” + </p> + <p> + “Small black hat, very plain. Gray jacket and skirt, neat as a flower.” + </p> + <p> + “What you'd call expensively dressed?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “What I'd call carefully dressed, but——but poverty poor, if + you will have it, Doc.” + </p> + <p> + Doctor Carey's lips closed and then opened in sudden resolution. + </p> + <p> + “David, I don't like it,” he said tersely. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester met his eye and purposely misunderstood him. + </p> + <p> + “Neither do I!” he exclaimed. “I hate it! There is something wrong with + the whole world when a woman having a face full of purity, intellect, and + refinement of extreme type glances around her like a hunted thing; when + her appearance seems to indicate that she has starved her body to clothe + it. I know what is in your mind, Doc, but if I were you I wouldn't put it + into words, and I wouldn't even THINK it. Has it been your experience in + this world that women not fit to know skimp their bodies to cover them? + Does a girl of light character and little brain have the hardihood to + advance a foot covered with a broken shoe? If I could tell you that she + rode in a Pullman, and wore exquisite clothing, you would be doing + something. The other side of the picture shuts you up like a clam, and + makes you appear shocked. Let me tell you this: No other woman I ever saw + anywhere on God's footstool had a face of more delicate refinement, eyes + of purer intelligence. I am of the woods, and while they don't teach me + how to shine in society, they do instil always and forever the fineness of + nature and her ways. I have her lessons so well learned they help me more + than anything else to discern the qualities of human nature. If you are my + friend, and have any faith at all in my common sense, get up and do + something!” + </p> + <p> + The doctor arose promptly. + </p> + <p> + “David, I'm an ass,” he said. “Unusually lop-eared, and blind in the + bargain. But before I ask you to forgive me, I want you to remember two + things: First, she did not visit me in my dreams; and, second, I did not + see her in reality. I had nothing to judge from except what you said: you + seemed reluctant to tell me, and what you did say was——was——disturbing + to a friend of yours. I have not the slightest doubt if I had seen her I + would agree with you. We seldom disagree, David. Now, will you forgive + me?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester suddenly faced a window. When at last he turned, “The + offence lies with me,” he said, “I was hasty. Are you going to help me?” + </p> + <p> + “With all my heart! Go home and work until your head clears, then come + back in the morning. She did not come from Chicago for a day. You've done + all I know to do at present.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + He went to Betsy and Belshazzar, and slowly drove up and down the streets + until Betsy protested and calmly turned homeward. The Harvester smiled + ruefully as he allowed her to proceed. + </p> + <p> + “Go slow and take it easy,” he said as they reached the country. “I want + to think.” + </p> + <p> + Betsy stopped at the barn, the white doves took wing, and Ajax screamed + shrilly before the Harvester aroused in the slightest to anything around + him. Then he looked at Belshazzar and said emphatically: “Now, partner, + don't ever again interfere when I am complying with the observances of my + religion. Just look what I'd have missed if I hadn't made good with that + order!” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI. TO LABOUR AND TO WAIT + </h2> + <p> + “We have reached the 'beginning of the end,' Ajax!” said the Harvester, as + the peacock ceased screaming and came to seek food from his hand. “We have + seen the Girl. Now we must locate her and convince her that Medicine Woods + is her happy home. I feel quite equal to the latter proposition, Ajax, but + how the nation to find her sticks me. I can't make a search so open that + she will know and resent it. She must have all the consideration ever paid + the most refined woman, but she also has got to be found, and that + speedily. When I remember that look on her face, as if horrors were + snatching at her skirts, it takes all the grit out of me. I feel weak as a + sapling. And she needs all my strength. I've simply got to brace up. I'll + work a while and then perhaps I can think.” + </p> + <p> + So the Harvester began the evening routine. He thought he did not want + anything to eat, but when he opened the cupboard and smelled the food he + learned that he was a hungry man and he cooked and ate a good supper. He + put away everything carefully, for even the kitchen was dainty and fresh + and he wanted to keep it so for her. When he finished he went into the + living-room, stood before the fireplace, and studied the collection of + half-finished candlesticks grouped upon it. He picked up several and + examined them closely, but realized that he could not bind himself to the + exactions of carving that evening. He took a key from his pocket and + unlocked her door. Every day he had been going there to improve upon his + work for her, and he loved the room, the outlook from its windows; he was + very proud of the furniture he had made. There was no paper-thin covering + on her chairs, bed, and dressing table. The tops, seats, and posts were + solid wood, worth hundreds of dollars for veneer. + </p> + <p> + To-night he folded his arms and stood on the sill hesitating. While she + was a dream, he had loved to linger in her room. Now that she was reality, + he paused. In one golden May day the place had become sacred. Since he had + seen the Girl that room was so hers that he was hesitating about entering + because of this fact. It was as if the tall, slender form stood before the + chest of drawers or sat at the dressing table and he did not dare enter + unless he were welcome. Softly he closed the door and went away. He + wandered to the dry-house and turned the bark and roots on the trays, but + the air stifled him and he hurried out. He tried to work in the packing + room, but walls smothered him and again he sought the open. + </p> + <p> + He espied a bundle of osier-bound, moss-covered ferns that he had found in + the woods, and brought the shovel to transplant them; but the work worried + him, and he hurried through with it. Then he looked for something else to + do and saw an ax. He caught it up and with lusty strokes began swinging + it. When he had chopped wood until he was very tired he went to bed. Sleep + came to the strong, young frame and he awoke in the morning refreshed and + hopeful. + </p> + <p> + He wondered why he had bothered Doctor Carey. The Harvester felt able that + morning to find his Dream Girl without assistance before the day was over. + It was merely a matter of going to the city and locating a woman. + Yesterday, it had been a question of whether she really existed. To-day, + he knew. Yesterday, it had meant a search possibly as wide as earth to + find her. To-day, it was narrowed to only one location so small, compared + with Chicago, that the Harvester felt he could sift its population with + his fingers, and pick her from others at his first attempt. If she were + visiting there probably she would rest during the night, and be on the + streets to-day. + </p> + <p> + When he remembered her face he doubted it. He decided to spend part of the + time on the business streets and the remainder in the residence portions + of the city. Because it was uncertain when he would return, everything was + fed a double portion, and Betsy was left at a livery stable with + instructions to care for her until he came. He did not know where the + search would lead him. For several hours he slowly walked the business + district and then ranged farther, but not a sight of her. He never had + known that Onabasha was so large. On its crowded streets he did not feel + that he could sift the population through his fingers, nor could he open + doors and search houses without an excuse. + </p> + <p> + Some small boys passed him eating bananas, and the Harvester looked at his + watch and was amazed to find that the day had advanced until two o'clock + in the afternoon. He was tired and hungry. He went into a restaurant and + ordered lunch; as he waited a girl serving tables smiled at him. Any other + time the Harvester would have returned at least a pleasant look, and gone + his way. To-day he scowled at her, and ate in hurried discomfort. On the + streets again, he had no idea where to go and so he went to the hospital. + </p> + <p> + “I expected you early this morning,” was the greeting of Doctor Carey. + “Where have you been and what have you done?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing,” said the Harvester. “I was so sure she would be on the streets + I just watched, but I didn't see her.” + </p> + <p> + “We will go to the depot,” said the doctor. “The first thing is to keep + her from leaving town.” + </p> + <p> + They arranged with the ticket agents, expressmen, telegraphers, and, as + they left, the Harvester stopped and tipped the train caller, offering + further reward worth while if he would find the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Now we will go to the police station,” said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “I'll see the chief and have him issue a general order to his men to watch + for her, but if I were you I'd select a half dozen in the down town + district, and give them a little tip with a big promise!” + </p> + <p> + “Good Lord! How I hate this,” groaned the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Want to find her by yourself?” questioned his friend. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the Harvester, “I do! And I would, if it hadn't been for her + ghastly face. That drives me to resort to any measures. The probabilities + are that she is lying sick somewhere, and if her comfort depends on the + purse that dressed her, she will suffer. Doc, do you know how awful this + is?” + </p> + <p> + “I know that you've got a great imagination. If the woods make all men as + sensitive as you are, those who have business to transact should stay out + of them. Take a common-sense view. Look at this as I do. If she was strong + enough to travel in a day coach from Chicago; she can't be so very ill + to-day. Leaving life by the inch isn't that easy. She will be alive this + time next year, whether you find her or not. The chances are that her + stress was mental anyway, and trouble almost never overcomes any one.” + </p> + <p> + “You, a doctor and say that!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I mean instantaneously——in a day! Of course if it grinds + away for years! But youth doesn't allow it to do that. It throws it off, + and grows hopeful and happy again. She won't die; put that out of your + mind. If I were you I would go home now and go straight on with my work, + trusting to the machinery you have set in motion. I know most of the men + with whom we have talked. They will locate her in a week or less. It's + their business. It isn't yours. It's your job to be ready for her, and + have enough ahead to support her when they find her. Try to realize that + there are now a dozen men on hunt for her, and trust them. Go back to your + work, and I will come full speed in the motor when the first man sights + her. That ought to satisfy you. I've told all of them to call me at the + hospital, and I will tell my assistant what to do in case a call comes + while I am away. Straighten your face! Go back to Medicine Woods and + harvest your crops, and before you know it she will be located. Then you + can put on your Sunday clothes and show yourself, and see if you can make + her take notice.” + </p> + <p> + “Idiot!” exclaimed the Harvester, but he started home. When he arrived he + attended to his work and then sat down to think. + </p> + <p> + “Doc is right,” was his ultimate conclusion. “She can't leave the city, + she can't move around in it, she can't go anywhere, without being seen. + There's one more point: I must tell Carey to post all the doctors to + report if they have such a call. That's all I can think of. I'll go + to-night, and then I'll look over the ginseng for parasites, and to-morrow + I'll dive into the late spring growth and work until I haven't time to + think. I've let cranesbill get a week past me now, and it can't be + dispensed with.” + </p> + <p> + So the following morning, when the Harvester had completed his work at the + cabin and barn and breakfasted, he took a mattock and a big hempen bag, + and followed the path to the top of the hill. As it ran along the lake + bank he descended on the other side to several acres of cleared land, + where he raised corn for his stock, potatoes, and coarser garden truck, + for which there was not space in the smaller enclosure close the cabin. + Around the edges of these fields, and where one of them sloped toward the + lake, he began grubbing a variety of grass having tall stems already over + a foot in height at half growth. From each stem waved four or five leaves + of six or eight inches length and the top showed forming clusters of tiny + spikelets. + </p> + <p> + “I am none too early for you,” he muttered to himself as he ran the + mattock through the rich earth, lifting the long, tough, jointed root + stalks of pale yellow, from every section of which broke sprays of fine + rootlets. “None too early for you, and as you are worth only seven cents a + pound, you couldn't be considered a 'get-rich-quick' expedient, so I'll + only stop long enough with you to gather what I think my customers will + order, and amass a fortune a little later picking mullein flowers at + seventy-five cents a pound. What a crop I've got coming!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester glanced ahead, where in the cleared soil of the bank grew + large plants with leaves like yellow-green felt and tall bloom stems + rising. Close them flourished other species requiring dry sandy soil, that + gradually changed as it approached the water until it became covered with + rank abundance of short, wiry grass, half the blades of which appeared + red. Numerous everywhere he could see the grayish-white leaves of + Parnassus grass. As the season advanced it would lift heart-shaped velvet + higher, and before fall the stretch of emerald would be starred with + white-faced, green-striped flowers. + </p> + <p> + “Not a prettier sight on earth,” commented the Harvester, “than just swale + wire grass in September making a fine, thick background to set off those + delicate starry flowers on their slender stems. I must remember to bring + her to see that.” + </p> + <p> + His eyes followed the growth to the water. As the grass drew closer + moisture it changed to the rank, sweet, swamp variety, then came + bulrushes, cat-tails, water smartweed, docks, and in the water blue flag + lifted folded buds; at its feet arose yellow lily leaves and farther out + spread the white. As the light struck the surface the Harvester imagined + he could see the little green buds several inches below. Above all arose + wild rice he had planted for the birds. The red wings swayed on the + willows and tilted on every stem that would bear their weight, singing + their melodious half-chanted notes, “O-ka-lee!” + </p> + <p> + Beneath them the ducks gobbled, splashed, and chattered; grebe and coot + voices could be distinguished; king rails at times flashed into sight and + out again; marsh wrens scolded and chattered; occasionally a kingfisher + darted around the lake shore, rolling his rattling cry and flashing his + azure coat and gleaming white collar. On a hollow tree in the woods a + yellow hammer proved why he was named, because he carpentered + industriously to enlarge the entrance to the home he was excavating in a + dead tree; and sailing over the lake and above the woods in grace scarcely + surpassed by any, a lonesome turkey buzzard awaited his mate's decision as + to which hollow log was most suitable for their home. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester stuffed the grass roots in the bag until it would hold no + more and stood erect to wipe his face, for the sun was growing warm. As he + drew his handkerchief across his brow, the south wind struck him with + enough intensity to attract attention. Instantly the Harvester removed his + hat, rolled it up, and put it into his pocket. He stood an instant + delighting in the wind and then spoke. + </p> + <p> + “Allow me to express my most fervent thanks for your kindness,” he said. + “I thought probably you would take that message, since it couldn't mean + much to you, and it meant all the world to me. I thought you would carry + it, but, I confess, I scarcely expected the answer so soon. The only thing + that could make me more grateful to you would be to know exactly where she + is: but you must understand that it's like a peep into Heaven to have her + existence narrowed to one place. I'm bound to be able to say inside a few + days, she lives at number——I don't know yet, on street——I'll + find out soon, in the closest city, Onabasha. And I know why you brought + her, South Wind. If ever a girl's cheeks need fanning with your breezes, + and painting with sun kisses, I wouldn't mind, since this is strictly + private, adding a few of mine; if ever any one needed flowers, birds, + fresh air, water, and rest! Good Lord, South Wind, did you ever reach her + before you carried that message? I think not! But Onabasha isn't so large. + You and the sun should get your innings there. I do hope she is not trying + to work! I can attend to that; and so there will be more time when she is + found, I'd better hustle now.” + </p> + <p> + He picked up the bag and returned to the dry-house, where he carefully + washed the roots and spread them on the trays. Then he took the same bag + and mattock and going through the woods in the opposite direction he came + to a heavy growth in a cleared space of high ground. The bloom heads were + forming and the plant was half matured. The Harvester dug a cylindrical, + tapering root, wrinkling lengthwise, wiped it clean, broke and tasted it. + He made a wry face. He stood examining the white wood with its brown-red + bark and, deciding that it was in prime condition, he began digging the + plants. It was common wayside “Bouncing Bet,” but the Harvester called it + “soapwort.” He took every other plant in his way across the bed, and when + he digged a heavy load he carried it home, stripped the leaves, and spread + them on trays, while the roots he topped, washed, and put to dry also. + Then he whistled for Belshazzar and went to lunch. + </p> + <p> + As he passed down the road to the cabin his face was a study of + conflicting emotions, and his eyes had a far away appearance of deep + thought. Every tree of his stretch of forest was rustling fresh leaves to + shelter him; dogwood, wild crab, and hawthorn offered their flowers; earth + held up her tribute in painted trillium faces, spring beauties, and + violets, blue, white, and yellow. Mosses, ferns, and lichen decorated the + path; all the birds greeted him in friendship, and sang their purest + melodies. The sky was blue, the sun bright, the air perfumed for him; + Belshazzar, always true to his name, protected every footstep; Ajax, the + shimmering green and gold wonder, came up the hill to meet him; the white + doves circled above his head. Stumbling half blindly, the Harvester passed + unheeding among them, and went into the cabin. When he came out he stood a + long time in deep study, but at last he returned to the woods. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps they will have found her before night,” he said. “I'll harvest + the cranesbill yet, because it's growing late for it, and then I'll see + how they are coming on. Maybe they'd know her if they met her, and maybe + they wouldn't. She may wear different clothing, and freshen up after her + trip. She might have been car sick, as Doc suggested, and appear very + different when she feels better.” + </p> + <p> + He skirted the woods around the northeast end and stopped at a big bed of + exquisite growth. Tall, wiry stems sprang upward almost two feet in + height; leaves six inches across were cut in ragged lobes almost to the + base, and here and there, enough to colour the entire bed a delicate rose + or sometimes a violet purple, the first flowers were unfolding. The + Harvester lifted a root and tasted it. + </p> + <p> + “No doubt about you being astringent,” he muttered. “You have enough + tannin in you to pucker a mushroom. By the way, those big, corn-cobby + fellows should spring up with the next warm rain, and the hotels and + restaurants always pay high prices. I must gather a few bushels.” + </p> + <p> + He looked over the bed of beautiful wild alum and hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “I vow I hate to touch you,” he said. “You are a picture right now, and in + a week you will be a miracle. It seems a shame to tear up a plant for its + roots, just at flowering time, and I can't avoid breaking down half I + don't take, getting the ones I do. I wish you were not so pretty! You are + one of the colours I love most. You remind me of red-bud, blazing star, + and all those exquisite magenta shades that poets, painters, and the + Almighty who made them love so much they hesitate about using them + lavishly. You are so delicate and graceful and so modest. I wish she could + see you! I got to stop this or I won't be able to lift a root. I never + would if the ten cents a pound I'll get out of it were the only + consideration.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester gripped the mattock and advanced to the bed. “What I must be + thinking is that you are indispensable to the sick folks. The steady + demand for you proves your value, and of course, humanity comes first, + after all. If I remain in the woods alone much longer I'll get to the + place where I'm not so sure that it does. Seems as if animals, birds, + flowers, trees, and insects as well, have their right to life also. But + it's for me to remember the sick folks! If I thought the Girl would get + some of it now, I could overturn the bed with a stout heart. If any one + ever needed a tonic, I think she does. Maybe some of this will reach her. + If it does, I hope it will make her cheeks just the lovely pink of the + bloom. Oh Lord! If only she hadn't appeared so sick and frightened! What + is there in all this world of sunshine to make a girl glance around her + like that? I wish I knew! Maybe they will have found her by night.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester began work on the bed, but he knelt and among the damp + leaves from the spongy black earth he lifted the roots with his fingers + and carefully straightened and pressed down the plants he did not take. + This required more time than usual, but his heart was so sore he could not + be rough with anything, most of all a flower. So he harvested the wild + alum by hand, and heaped large stacks of roots around the edges of the + bed. Often he paused as he worked and on his knees stared through the + forest as if he hoped perhaps she would realize his longing for her, and + come to him in the wood as she had across the water. Over and over he + repeated, “Perhaps they will find her by night!” and that so intensified + the meaning that once he said it aloud. His face clouded and grew dark. + </p> + <p> + “Dealish nice business!” he said. “I am here in the woods digging flower + roots, and a gang of men in the city are searching for the girl I love. If + ever a job seemed peculiarly a man's own, it appears this would be. What + business has any other man spying after my woman? Why am I not down there + doing my own work, as I always have done it? Who's more likely to find her + than I am? It seems as if there would be an instinct that would lead me + straight to her, if I'd go. And you can wager I'll go fast enough.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester appeared as if he would start that instant, but with lips + closely shut he finally forced himself to go on with his work. When he had + rifled the bed, and uprooted all he cared to take during one season, he + carried the roots to the lake shore below the curing house, and spread + them on a platform he had built. He stepped into his boat and began + dashing pails of water over them and using a brush. As he worked he washed + away the woody scars of last year's growth, and the tiny buds appearing + for the coming season. + </p> + <p> + Belshazzar sat on the opposite bank and watched the operation; and Ajax + came down and, flying to a dead stump, erected and slowly waved his train + to attract the sober-faced man who paid no heed. He left the roots to + drain while he prepared supper, then placed them on the trays, now filled + to overflowing, and was glad he had finished. He could not cure anything + else at present if he wanted to. He was as far advanced as he had been at + the same time the previous year. Then he dressed neatly and locking the + Girl's room, and leaving Belshazzar to protect it, he went to Onabasha. + </p> + <p> + “Bravo!” cried Doctor Carey as the Harvester entered his office. “You are + heroic to wait all day for news. How much stuff have you gathered?” + </p> + <p> + “Three crops. How many missing women have you located?” + </p> + <p> + The doctor laughed. There was no sign of a smile on the face of the + Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “You didn't really expect her to come to light the first day? That would + be too easy! We can't find her in a minute.” + </p> + <p> + “It will be no surprise to me if you can't find her at all. I am not + expecting another man to do what I don't myself.” + </p> + <p> + “You are not hunting her. You are harvesting the woods. The men you employ + are to find her.” + </p> + <p> + “Maybe I am, and maybe I am not,” said the Harvester slowly. “To me it + appears to be a poor stick of a man who coolly proceeds with money making, + and trusts to men who haven't even seen her to search for the girl he + loves. I think a few hours of this is about all my patience will endure.” + </p> + <p> + “What are you going to do?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know,” said the Harvester. “But you can bank on one thing sure——I'm + going to do something! I've had my fill of this. Thank you for all you've + done, and all you are going to do. My head is not clear enough yet to + decide anything with any sense, but maybe I'll hit on something soon. I'm + for the streets for a while.” + </p> + <p> + “Better go home and go to bed. You seem very tired.” + </p> + <p> + “I am,” said the Harvester. “The only way to endure this is to work myself + down. I'm all right, and I'll be careful, but I rather think I'll find her + myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Better go on with your work as we planned.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll think about it,” said the Harvester as he went out. + </p> + <p> + Until he was too tired to walk farther he slowly paced the streets of the + city, and then followed the home road through the valley and up the hill + to Medicine Woods. When he came to Singing Water, Belshazzar heard his + steps on the bridge, and came bounding to meet him. The Harvester + stretched himself on a seat and turned his face to the sky. It was a deep, + dark-blue bowl, closely set with stars, and a bright moon shed a soft May + radiance on the young earth. The lake was flooded with light, and the big + trees of the forest crowning the hill were silver coroneted. The unfolding + leaves had hidden the new cabin from the bridge, but the driveway shone + white, and already the upspringing bushes hedged it in. Insects were + humming lazily in the perfumed night air, and across the lake a courting + whip-poor-will was explaining to his sweetheart just how much and why he + loved her. A few bats were wavering in air hunting insects, and + occasionally an owl or a nighthawk crossed the lake. Killdeer were + glorying in the moonlight and night flight, and cried in pure, clear notes + as they sailed over the water. The Harvester was tired and filled with + unrest as he stretched on the bridge, but the longer he lay the more the + enfolding voices comforted him. All of them were waiting and working out + their lives to the legitimate end; there was nothing else for him to do. + He need not follow instinct or profit by chance. He was a man; he could + plan and reason. + </p> + <p> + The air grew balmy and some big, soft clouds swept across the moon. The + Harvester felt the dampness of rising dew, and went to the cabin. He + looked at it long in the moonlight and told himself that he could see how + much the plants, vines, and ferns had grown since the previous night. + Without making a light, he threw himself on the bed in the outdoor room, + and lay looking through the screening at the lake and sky. He was working + his brain to think of some manner in which to start a search for the Dream + Girl that would have some probability of success to recommend it, but he + could settle on no feasible plan. At last he fell asleep, and in the night + soft rain wet his face. He pulled an oilcloth sheet over the bed, and lay + breathing deeply of the damp, perfumed air as he again slept. In the + morning brilliant sunshine awoke him and he arose to find the earth + steaming. + </p> + <p> + “If ever there was a perfect mushroom day!” he said to Belshazzar. “We + must hurry and feed the stock and ourselves and gather some. They mean + real money.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII. THE QUEST OF THE DREAM GIRL + </h2> + <p> + The Harvester breakfasted, fed the stock, hitched Betsy to the spring + wagon, and went into the dripping, steamy woods. If anyone had asked him + that morning concerning his idea of Heaven, he never would have dreamed of + describing a place of gold-paved streets, crystal pillars, jewelled gates, + and thrones of ivory. These things were beyond the man's comprehension and + he would not have admired or felt at home in such magnificence if it had + been materialized for him. He would have told you that a floor of last + year's brown leaves, studded with myriad flower faces, big, bark-encased + pillars of a thousand years, jewels on every bush, shrub, and tree, and + tilting thrones on which gaudy birds almost burst themselves to voice the + joy of life, while their bright-eyed little mates peered questioningly at + him over nest rims——he would have told you that Medicine Woods + on a damp, sunny May morning was Heaven. And he would have added that only + one angel, tall and slender, with the pink of health on her cheeks and the + dew of happiness in her dark eyes, was necessary to enter and establish + glory. Everything spoke to him that morning, but the Harvester was silent. + It had been his habit to talk constantly to Belshazzar, Ajax, his work, + even the winds and perfumes; it had been his method of dissipating + solitude, but to-day he had no words, even for these dear friends. He only + opened his soul to beauty, and steadily climbed the hill to the crest, and + then down the other side to the rich, half-shaded, half-open spaces, where + big, rough mushrooms sprang in a night similar to the one just passed. + </p> + <p> + He could see them awaiting him from afar. He began work with rapid + fingers, being careful to break off the heads, but not to pull up the + roots. When four heaping baskets were filled he cut heavily leaved + branches to spread over them, and started to Onabasha. As usual, + Belshazzar rode beside him and questioned the Harvester when he politely + suggested to Betsy that she make a little haste. + </p> + <p> + “Have you forgotten that mushrooms are perishable?” he asked. “If we don't + get these to the city all woodsy and fresh we can't sell them. Wonder + where we can do the best? The hotels pay well. Really, the biggest prices + could be had by——” + </p> + <p> + Then the Harvester threw back his head and began to laugh, and he laughed, + and he laughed. A crow on the fence Joined him, and a kingfisher, heading + for Loon Lake, and then Belshazzar caught the infection. + </p> + <p> + “Begorry! The very idea!” cried the Harvester. “'Heaven helps them that + help themselves.' Now you just watch us manoeuvre for assistance, + Belshazzar, old boy! Here we go!” + </p> + <p> + Then the laugh began again. It continued all the way to Onabasha and even + into the city. The Harvester drove through the most prosperous street + until he reached the residence district. At the first home he stopped, + gave the lines to Belshazzar, and, taking a basket of mushrooms, went up + the walk and rang the bell. + </p> + <p> + “All groceries should be delivered at the back door,” snapped a pert maid, + before he had time to say a word. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester lifted his hat. + </p> + <p> + “Will you kindly tell the lady of the house that I wish to speak with + her?” + </p> + <p> + “What name, please?” + </p> + <p> + “I want to show her some fine mushrooms, freshly gathered,” he answered. + </p> + <p> + How she did it the Harvester never knew. The first thing he realized was + that the door had closed before his face, and the basket had been picked + deftly from his fingers and was on the other side. After a short time the + maid returned. + </p> + <p> + “What do you want for them, please?” + </p> + <p> + The last thing on earth the Harvester wanted to do was to part with those + mushrooms, so he took one long, speculative look down the hall and named a + price he thought would be prohibitive. + </p> + <p> + “One dollar a dozen.” + </p> + <p> + “How many are there?” + </p> + <p> + “I count them as I sell them. I do not know.” + </p> + <p> + The door closed again. Presently it opened and the maid knelt on the floor + before him and counted the mushrooms one by one into a dish pan and in a + few minutes brought back seven dollars and fifty cents. The chagrined + Harvester, feeling like a thief, put the money in his pocket, and turned + away. + </p> + <p> + “I was to tell you,” said she, “that you are to bring all you have to sell + here, and the next time please go to the kitchen door.” + </p> + <p> + “Must be fond of mushrooms,” said the disgruntled Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “They are a great delicacy, and there are visitors.” The Harvester ached + to set the girl to one side and walk through the house, but he did not + dare; so he returned to the street, whistled to Betsy to come, and went to + the next gate. Here he hesitated. Should he risk further snubbing at the + front door or go back at once. If he did, he only would see a maid. As he + stood an instant debating, the door of the house he just had left opened + and the girl ran after him. “If you have more, we will take them,” she + called. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester gasped for breath. + </p> + <p> + “They have to be used at once,” he suggested. + </p> + <p> + “She knows that. She wants to treat her friends.” + </p> + <p> + “Well she has got enough for a banquet,” he said. “I—I don't usually + sell more than a dozen or two in one place.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't see why you can't let her have them if you have more.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps I have orders to fill for regular customers,” suggested the + Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “And perhaps you haven't,” said the maid. “You ought to be ashamed not to + let people who are willing to pay your outrageous prices have them. It's + regular highway robbery.” + </p> + <p> + “Possibly that's the reason I decline to hold up one party twice,” said + the Harvester as he entered the gate and went up the walk to the front + door. + </p> + <p> + “You should be taught your place,” called the maid after him. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester again rang the bell. Another maid opened the door, and once + more he asked to speak with the lady of the house. As the girl turned, a + handsome old woman in cap and morning gown came down the stairs. + </p> + <p> + “What have you there?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester lifted the leaves and exposed the musky, crimpled, big + mushrooms. + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” she cried in delight. “Indeed, yes! We are very fond of them. I will + take the basket, and divide with my sons. You are sure you have no + poisonous ones among them?” + </p> + <p> + “Quite sure,” said the Harvester faintly. + </p> + <p> + “How much do you want for the basket?” + </p> + <p> + “They are a dollar a dozen; I haven't counted them.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear me! Isn't that rather expensive?” + </p> + <p> + “It is. Very!” said the Harvester. “So expensive that most people don't + think of taking over a dozen. They are large and very rich, so they go a + long way.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose you have to spend a great deal of time hunting them? It does + seem expensive, but they are fresh, and the boys are so fond of them. I'm + not often extravagant, I'll just take the lot. Sarah, bring a pan.” + </p> + <p> + Again the Harvester stood and watched an entire basket counted over and + carried away, and he felt the robber he had been called as he took the + money. + </p> + <p> + At the next house he had learned a lesson. He carpeted a basket with + leaves and counted out a dozen and a half into it, leaving the remainder + in the wagon. Three blocks on one side of the street exhausted his store + and he was showered with orders. He had not seen any one that even + resembled a dark-eyed girl. As he came from the last house a big, red + motor shot past and then suddenly slowed and backed beside his wagon. + </p> + <p> + “What in the name of sense are you doing?” demanded Doctor Carey. + </p> + <p> + “Invading the residence district of Onabasha,” said the Harvester. “Madam, + would you like some nice, fresh, country mushrooms? I guarantee that there + are no poisonous ones among them, and they were gathered this morning. + Considering their rarity and the difficult work of collecting, they are + exceedingly low at my price. I am offering these for five dollars a dozen, + madam, and for mercy sake don't take them or I'll have no excuse to go to + the next house.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor stared, then understood, and began to laugh. When at last he + could speak he said, “David, I'll bet you started with three bushels and + began at the head of this street, and they are all gone.” + </p> + <p> + “Put up a good one!” said the Harvester. “You win. The first house I tried + they ordered me to the back door, took a market basket full away from me + by force, tried to buy the load, and I didn't see any one save a maid.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor lay on the steering gear and faintly groaned. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester regarded him sympathetically. “Isn't it a crime?” he + questioned. “Mushrooms are no go. I can see that!——or rather + they are entirely too much of a go. I never saw anything in such demand. I + must seek a less popular article for my purpose. To-morrow look out for + me. I shall begin where I left off to-day, but I will have changed my + product.” + </p> + <p> + “David, for pity sake,” peeped the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “What do I care how I do it, so I locate her?” superbly inquired the + Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “But you won't find her!” gasped the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “I've come as close it as you so far, anyway,” said the Harvester. “Your + mushrooms are on the desk in your office.” + </p> + <p> + He drove slowly up and down the streets until Betsy wabbled on her legs. + Then he left her to rest and walked until he wabbled; and by that time it + was dark, so he went home. + </p> + <p> + At the first hint of dawn he was at work the following morning. With + loaded baskets closely covered, he started to Onabasha, and began where he + had quit the day before. This time he carried a small, crudely fashioned + bark basket, leaf-covered, and he rang at the front door with confidence. + </p> + <p> + Every one seemed to have a maid in that part of the city, for a freshly + capped and aproned girl opened the door. + </p> + <p> + “Are there any young women living here?” blandly inquired the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “What's that of your business?” demanded the maid. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester flushed, but continued, “I am offering something especially + intended for young women. If there are none, I will not trouble you.” + </p> + <p> + “There are several.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you please ask them if they would care for bouquets of violets, + fresh from the woods?” + </p> + <p> + “How much are they, and how large are the bunches?” + </p> + <p> + “Prices differ, and they are the right size to appear well. They had + better see for themselves.” + </p> + <p> + The maid reached for the basket, but the Harvester drew back. + </p> + <p> + “I keep them in my possession,” he said. “You may take a sample.” + </p> + <p> + He lifted the leaves and drew forth a medium-sized bunch of long-stemmed + blue violets with their leaves. The flowers were fresh, crisp, and strong + odours of the woods arose from them. + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” cried the maid. “Oh, how lovely!” + </p> + <p> + She hurried away with them and returned carrying a purse. + </p> + <p> + “I want two more bunches,” she said. “How much are they?” + </p> + <p> + “Are the girls who want them dark or fair?” + </p> + <p> + “What difference does that make?” + </p> + <p> + “I have blue violets for blondes, yellow for brunettes, and white for the + others.” + </p> + <p> + “Well I never! One is fair, and two have brown hair and blue eyes.” + </p> + <p> + “One blue and two whites,” said the Harvester calmly, as if matching + women's hair and eyes with flowers were an inherited vocation. “They are + twenty cents a bunch.” + </p> + <p> + “Aha!” he chortled to himself as he whistled to Betsy. “At last we have + it. There are no dark-eyed girls here. Now we are making headway.” + </p> + <p> + Down the street he went, with varying fortune, but with patience and + persistence at every house he at last managed to learn whether there was a + dark-eyed girl. There did not seem to be many. Long before his store of + yellow violets was gone the last blue and white had disappeared. But he + calmly went on asking for dark-eyed girls, and explaining that all the + blue and white were taken, because fair women were most numerous. + </p> + <p> + At one house the owner, who reminded the Harvester of his mother, came to + the door. He uncovered and in his suavest tones inquired if a brunette + young woman lived there and if she would like a nosegay of yellow violets. + </p> + <p> + “Well bless my soul!” cried she. “What is this world coming to? Do you + mean to tell me that there are now able-bodied men offering at our doors, + flowers to match our girls' complexions?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes madam?” said the Harvester gravely, “and also selling them as fast as + he can show them, at prices that make a profit very well worth while. I + had an equal number of blue and white, but I see the dark girls are very + much in the minority. The others were gone long ago, and I now have + flowers to offer brunettes only.” + </p> + <p> + “Well forever more! And you don't call that fiddlin' business for a big, + healthy, young man?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester's gay laugh was infectious. + </p> + <p> + “I do not,” he said. “I have to start as soon as I can see, tramp long + distances in wet woods and gather the violets on my knees, make them into + bunches, and bring them here in water to keep them fresh. I have another + occupation. I only kill time on these, but I would be ashamed to tell you + what I have gotten for them this morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Humph! I'm glad to hear it!” said the woman. “Shame in some form is a + sign of grace. I have no use for a human being without a generous supply + of it. There is a very beautiful dark-eyed girl in the house, and I will + take two bunches for her. How much are they?” + </p> + <p> + “I have only three remaining,” said the Harvester. “Would you like to + allow her to make her own selection?” + </p> + <p> + “When I'm giving things I usually take my choice. I want that, and that + one.” + </p> + <p> + “As my stock is so nearly out, I'll make the two for twenty,” said the + Harvester. “Won't you accept the last one from me, because you remind me + just a little of my mother?” + </p> + <p> + “I will indeed,” said she. “Thank you very much! I shall love to have them + as dearly as any of the girls. I used to gather them when I was a child, + but I almost never see the blue ones any more, and I don't know as I ever + expected to see a yellow violet again as long as I live. Where did you get + them?” + </p> + <p> + “In my woods,” said the Harvester. “You see I grow several members of the + viola pedata family, bird's foot, snake, and wood violet, and three of the + odorata, English, marsh, and sweet, for our big drug houses. They use the + flowers in making delicate tests for acids and alkalies. The entire plant, + flower, seed, leaf, and root, goes into different remedies. The beds seed + themselves and spread, so I have more than I need for the chemists, and I + sell a few. I don't use the white and yellow in my business; I just grow + them for their beauty. I also sell my surplus lilies of the valley. Would + you like to order some of them for your house or more violets for + to-morrow?” + </p> + <p> + “Well bless my soul! Do you mean to tell me that lilies of the valley are + medicine?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester laughed. + </p> + <p> + “I grow immense beds of them in the woods on the banks of Loon Lake,” he + said. “They are the convallaris majallis of the drug houses and I scarcely + know what the weak-hearted people would do without them. I use large + quantities in trade, and this season I am selling a few because people so + love them.” + </p> + <p> + “Lilies in medicine; well dear me! Are roses good for our innards too?” + </p> + <p> + Then the Harvester did laugh. + </p> + <p> + “I imagine the roses you know go into perfumes mostly,” he answered. “They + do make medicine of Canadian rock rose and rose bay, laurel, and willow. I + grow the bushes, but they are not what you would consider roses.” + </p> + <p> + “I wonder now,” said the woman studying the Harvester closely, “if you are + not that queer genius I've heard of, who spends his time hunting and + growing stuff in the woods and people call him the Medicine Man.” + </p> + <p> + “I strongly suspect madam, I am that man,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Well bless me!” cried she. “I've always wanted to see you and here when I + do, you look just like anybody else. I thought you'd have long hair, and + be wild-eyed and ferocious. And your talk sounds like out of a book. Well + that beats me!” + </p> + <p> + “Me too!” said the Harvester, lifting his hat. “You don't want any lilies + to-morrow, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes I do. Medicine or no medicine, I've always liked 'em, and I'm going + to keep on liking them. If you can bring me a good-sized bunch after the + weak-kneed——” + </p> + <p> + “Weak-hearted,” corrected the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Well 'weak-hearted,' then; it's all the same thing. If you've got any + left, as I was saying, you can fetch them to me for the smell.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester laughed all the way down town. There he went to Doctor + Carey's office, examined a directory, and got the names of all the numbers + where he had sold yellow violets. A few questions when the doctor came in + settled all of them, but the flower scheme was better. Because the yellow + were not so plentiful as the white and blue, next day he added buttercups + and cowslips to his store for the dark girls. When he had rifled his beds + for the last time, after three weeks of almost daily trips to town, and + had paid high prices to small boys he set searching the adjoining woods + until no more flowers could be found, he drove from the outskirts of the + city one day toward the hospital, and as he stopped, down the street came + Doctor Carey frantically waving to him. As the big car slackened, “Come on + David, quick! I've seen her!” cried the doctor. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester jumped from the wagon, threw the lines to Belshazzar, and + landed in the panting car. + </p> + <p> + “For Heaven's sake where? Are you sure?” + </p> + <p> + The car went speeding down the street. A policeman beckoned and cried + after it. + </p> + <p> + “It won't do any good to get arrested, Doc,” cautioned the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Now right along here,” panted Doctor Carey. “Watch both sides sharply. If + I stop you jump out, and tell the blame policemen to get at their job. The + party they are hired to find is right under their noses.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester began to perspire. “Doc, don't you think you should tell me? + Maybe she is in some store. Maybe I could do better on foot.” + </p> + <p> + “Shut up!” growled the doctor. “I am doing the best I know.” + </p> + <p> + He hurried up the street for blocks and back again, and at last stopped + before a large store and went in. When he returned he drove to the + hospital and together they entered the office. There he turned to the + Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “It isn't so hard to understand you now, my boy,” he said. “Shades of + Diana, but she'll be a beauty when she gets a little more flesh and + colour. She came out of Whitlaw's and walked right to the crossing. I + almost could have touched her, but I didn't notice. Two girls passed + before me, and in hurrying, a tall, dark one knocked off one of your + bunches of yellow violets. She glanced at it and laughed, but let it lay. + Then your girl hesitated stooped and picked it up. The crazy policeman + yelled at me to clear the crossing and it didn't hit me for a half block + how tall and white she was and how dark her eyes were. I was just thinking + about her picking up the flowers, and that it was queer for her to do it, + when like a brick it hit me, THAT'S DAVID'S GIRL! I tried to turn around, + but you know what Main Street is in the middle of the day. And those + idiots of policemen! They ordered me on, and I couldn't turn for a street + car coming, so I called to one of them that the girl we wanted was down + the street, and he looked at me like an addle-pate and said, 'What girl? + Move on or you'll get in a jam here.' You can use me for a football if I + don't go back and smash him. Paid him five dollars myself less than two + weeks ago to keep his eyes open. 'TO KEEP HIS EYES OPEN!'” panted the + doctor, shaking his fist at David. “Yes sir! 'To keep his eyes open!' And + he motioned for things to come along, and so I lost her too.” + </p> + <p> + “I think we had better go back to the street,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I'd been back and forth along that street for nearly an hour before I + gave up and came here to see if I could find you, and we've hunted it an + hour more! What's the use? She's gone for this time, but by gum, I saw + her! And she was worth seeing!” + </p> + <p> + “Did she appear ill to you?” + </p> + <p> + The doctor dropped on a chair and threw out his hands hopelessly. + </p> + <p> + “This was awful sudden, David,” he said. “I was going along as I told you, + and I noticed her stop and thought she had a good head to wait a second + instead of running in before me, and there came those two girls right + under the car from the other side. I only had a glimpse of her as she + stooped for the flowers. I saw a big braid of hair, but I was half a block + away before I got it all connected, and then came the crush in the street, + and I was blocked.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor broke down and wiped his face and expressed his feelings + unrestrainedly. + </p> + <p> + “Don't!” said the Harvester patiently. “It's no use to feel so badly, Doc. + I know what you would give to have found her for me. I know you did all + you could. I let her escape me. We will find her yet. It's glorious news + that she's in the city. It gives me heart to hear that. Can't you just + remember if she seemed ill?” + </p> + <p> + The doctor meditated. + </p> + <p> + “She wasn't the tallest girl I ever saw,” he said slowly, “but she was the + tallest girl to be pretty. She had on a white waist and a gray skirt and + black hat. Her eyes and hair were like you said, and she was plain, white + faced, with a hue that might possibly be natural, and it might be + confinement in bad light and air and poor food. She didn't seem sick, but + she isn't well. There is something the matter with her, but it's not + immediate or dangerous. She appeared like a flower that had got a little + moisture and sprouted in a cellar.” + </p> + <p> + “You saw her all right!” said the Harvester, “and I think your diagnosis + is correct too. That's the way she seemed to me. I've thought she needed + sun and air. I told the South Wind so the other day.” + </p> + <p> + “Why you blame fool!” cried the doctor. “Is this thing going to your head? + Say, I forgot! There is something else. I traced her in the store. She was + at the embroidery counter and she bought some silk. If she ever comes + again the clerk is going to hold her and telephone me or get her address + if she has to steal it. Oh, we are getting there! We will have her pretty + soon now. You ought to feel better just to know that she is in town and + that I've seen her.” + </p> + <p> + “I do!” said the Harvester. “Indeed I do!” + </p> + <p> + “It can't be much longer,” said the doctor. “She's got to be located soon. + But those policemen! I wouldn't give a nickel for the lot! I'll bet she's + walked over them for two weeks. If I were you I'd discharge the bunch. + They'd be peacefully asleep if she passed them. If they'd let me alone, + I'd have had her. I could have turned around easily. I've been in dozens + of closer places.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't worry! This can't last much longer. She's of and in the city or she + wouldn't have picked up the flowers. Doc, are you sure they were mine?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. Half the girls have been tricked out in yours the past two weeks. I + can spot them as far as I can see.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear Lord, that's getting close!” said the Harvester intensely. “Seems as + if the violets would tell her.” + </p> + <p> + “Now cut out flowers talking and the South Wind!” ordered the doctor. + “This is business. The violets prove something all right, though. If she + was in the country, she could gather plenty herself. She is working at + sewing in some room in town, either over a store or in a house. If she + hadn't been starved for flowers she never would have stopped for them on + the street. I could see just a flash of hesitation, but she wanted them + too much. David, one bouquet will go in water and be cared for a week. + Man, it's getting close! This does seem like a link.” + </p> + <p> + “Since you say it, possibly I dare agree with you,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “How near are you through with that canvass of yours?” + </p> + <p> + “About three fourths.” + </p> + <p> + “Well I'd go on with it. After all we have got to find her ourselves. + Those senile policemen!” + </p> + <p> + “I am going on with it; you needn't worry about that. But I've got to + change to other flowers. I've stripped the violet beds. There's quite a + crop of berries coming, but they are not ripe yet, and a tragedy to pick. + The pond lilies are just beginning to open by the thousand. The lake + border is blue with sweet-flag that is lovely and the marsh pale gold with + cowslips. The ferns are prime and the woods solid sheets of every colour + of bloom. I believe I'll go ahead with the wild flowers.” + </p> + <p> + “I would too! David, you do feel better, don't you?” + </p> + <p> + “I certainly do, Doctor. Surely it won't be long now!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester was so hopeful that he whistled and sang on the return to + Medicine Woods, and that night for the first time in many days he sat long + over a candlestick, and took a farewell peep into her room before he went + to bed. + </p> + <p> + The next day he worked with all his might harvesting the last remnants of + early spring herbs, in the dry-room and store-house, and on furniture and + candlesticks. + </p> + <p> + Then he went back to flower gathering and every day offered bunches of + exquisite wood and field flowers and white and gold water lilies from door + to door. + </p> + <p> + Three weeks later the Harvester, perceptibly thin, pale, and worried + entered the office. He sank into a chair and groaned wearily. + </p> + <p> + “Isn't this the bitterest luck!” he cried. “I've finished the town. I've + almost walked off my legs. I've sold flowers by the million, but I've not + had a sight of her.” + </p> + <p> + “It's been almost a tragedy with me,” said the doctor gloomily. “I've + killed two dogs and grazed a baby, because I was watching the sidewalks + instead of the street. What are you going to do now?” + </p> + <p> + “I am going home and bring up the work to the July mark. I am going to + take it easy and rest a few days so I can think more clearly. I don't know + what I'll try next. I've punched up the depot and the policemen again. + When I get something new thought out I'll let you know.” + </p> + <p> + Then he began emptying his pockets of money and heaping it on the table, + small coins, bills, big and little. + </p> + <p> + “What on earth is that?” + </p> + <p> + “That,” said the Harvester, giving the heap a shove of contempt, “that is + the price of my pride and humiliation. That is what it cost people who + allowed me to cheek my way into their homes and rob them, as one maid + said, for my own purposes. Doc, where on earth does all the money come + from? In almost every house I entered, women had it to waste, in many + cases to throw away. I never saw so much paid for nothing in all my life. + That whole heap is from mushrooms and flowers.” + </p> + <p> + “What are you piling it there for?” + </p> + <p> + “For your free ward. I don't want a penny of it. I wouldn't keep it, not + if I was starving.” + </p> + <p> + “Why David! You couldn't compel any one to buy. You offered something they + wanted, and they paid you what you asked.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and to keep them from buying, and to make the stuff go farther, I + named prices to shame a shark. When I think of that mushroom deal I can + feel my face burn. I've made the search I wanted to, and I am satisfied + that I can't find her that way. I have kept up my work at home between + times. I am not out anything but my time, and it isn't fair to plunder the + city to pay that. Take that cussed money and put it where I'll never see + or hear of it. Do anything you please, except to ask me ever to profit by + a cent. When I wash my hands after touching it for the last time maybe + I'll feel better.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a fanatic!” + </p> + <p> + “If getting rid of that is being a fanatic, I am proud of the title. You + can't imagine what I've been through!” + </p> + <p> + “Can't I though?” laughed the doctor. “In work of that kind you get into + every variety of place; and some of it is new to you. Never mind! No one + can contaminate you. It is the law that only a man can degrade himself. + Knowing things will not harm you. Doing them is a different matter. What + you know will be a protection. What you do ruins——if it is + wrong. You are not harmed, you are only disgusted. Think it over, and in a + few days come back and get your money. It is strictly honest. You earned + every cent of it.” + </p> + <p> + “If you ever speak of it again or force it on me I'll take it home and + throw it into the lake.” + </p> + <p> + He went after Betsy and slowly drove to Medicine Woods. Belshazzar, on the + seat beside him, recognized a silent, disappointed master and whimpered as + he rubbed the Harvester's shoulder to attract his attention. + </p> + <p> + “This is tough luck, old boy,” said the Harvester. “I had such hopes and I + worked so hard. I suffered in the flesh for every hour of it, and I + failed. Oh but I hate the word! If I knew where she is right now, Bel, I'd + give anything I've got. But there's no use to wail and get sorry for + myself. That's against the law of common decency. I'll take a swim, sleep + it off, straighten up the herbs a little, and go at it again, old fellow; + that's a man's way. She's somewhere, and she's got to be found, no matter + what it costs.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII. BELSHAZZAR'S RECORD POINT + </h2> + <p> + The Harvester set the neglected cabin in order; then he carefully and + deftly packed all his dried herbs, barks, and roots. Next came carrying + the couch grass, wild alum, and soapwort into the store-room. Then + followed July herbs. He first went to his beds of foxglove, because the + tender leaves of the second year should be stripped from them at flowering + time, and that usually began two weeks earlier; but his bed lay in a + shaded, damp location and the tall bloom stalks were only in half flower, + their pale lavender making an exquisite picture. It paid to collect those + leaves, so the Harvester hastily stripped the amount he wanted. + </p> + <p> + Yarrow was beginning to bloom and he gathered as much as he required, + taking the whole plant. That only brought a few cents a pound, but it was + used entire, so the weight made it worth while. + </p> + <p> + Catnip tops and leaves were also ready. As it grew in the open in dry soil + and the beds had been weeded that spring, he could gather great arm loads + of it with a sickle, but he had to watch the swarming bees. He left the + male fern and mullein until the last for different reasons. + </p> + <p> + On the damp, cool, rocky hillside, beneath deep shade of big forest trees, + grew the ferns, their long, graceful fronds waving softly. Tree toads sang + on the cool rocks beneath them, chewinks nested under gnarled roots among + them, rose-breasted grosbeaks sang in grape-vines clambering over the + thickets, and Singing Water ran close beside. So the Harvester left + digging these roots until nearly the last, because he so disliked to + disturb the bed. He could not have done it if he had not been forced. All + of the demand for his fern never could be supplied. Of his products none + was more important to the Harvester because this formed the basis of one + of the oldest and most reliable remedies for little children. The fern had + to be gathered with especial care, deteriorated quickly, and no staple was + more subject to adulteration. + </p> + <p> + So he kept his bed intact, lifted the roots at the proper time, carefully + cleaned without washing, rapidly dried in currents of hot air, and shipped + them in bottles to the trade. He charged and received fifteen cents a + pound, where careless and indifferent workers got ten. + </p> + <p> + On the banks of Singing Water, at the head of the fern bed, the Harvester + stood under a gray beech tree and looked down the swaying length of + delicate green. He was lean and rapidly bronzing, for he seldom remembered + a head covering because he loved the sweep of the wind in his hair. + </p> + <p> + “I hate to touch you,” he said. “How I wish she could see you before I + begin. If she did, probably she would say it was a sin, and then I never + could muster courage to do it at all. I'd give a small farm to know if + those violets revived for her. I was crazy to ask Doc if they were wilted, + but I hated to. If they were from the ones I gathered that morning they + should have been all right.” + </p> + <p> + A tree toad dared him to come on; a chipmunk grew saucy as the Harvester + bent to an unloved task. If he stripped the bed as closely as he dared and + not injure it, he could not fill half his orders; so, deftly and with + swift, skilful fingers and an earnest face, he worked. Belshazzar came + down the hill on a rush, nose to earth and began hunting among the plants. + He never could understand why his loved master was so careless as to go to + work before he had pronounced it safe. When the fern bed was finished, the + Harvester took time to make a trip to town, but there was no word waiting + him; so he went to the mullein. It lay on a sunny hillside beyond the + couch grass and joined a few small fields, the only cleared land of the + six hundred acres of Medicine Woods. Over rocks and little hills and + hollows spread the pale, grayish-yellow of the green leaves, and from five + to seven feet arose the flower stems, while the entire earth between was + covered with rosettes of young plants. Belshazzar went before to give + warning if any big rattlers curled in the sun on the hillside, and after + him followed the Harvester cutting leaves in heaps. That was warm work and + he covered his head with a floppy old straw hat, with wet grass in the + crown, and stopped occasionally to rest. + </p> + <p> + He loved that yellow-faced hillside. Because so much of his reaping lay in + the shade and commonly his feet sank in dead leaves and damp earth, the + change was a rest. He cheerfully stubbed his toes on rocks, and endured + the heat without complaint. It appeared to him as if a member of every + species of butterfly he knew wavered down the hillside. There were + golden-brown danais, with their black-striped wings, jetty troilus with an + attempt at trailers, big asterias, velvety black with longer trails and + wide bands of yellow dots. Coenia were most numerous of all and to the + Harvester wonderfully attractive in rich, subdued colours with a wealth of + markings and eye spots. Many small moths, with transparent wings and noses + red as blood, flashed past him hunting pollen. Goldfinches, intent on + thistle bloom, wavered through the air trailing mellow, happy notes behind + them, and often a humming-bird visited the mullein. On the lake wild life + splashed and chattered incessantly, and sometimes the Harvester paused and + stood with arms heaped with leaves, to interpret some unusually appealing + note of pain or anger or some very attractive melody. The red-wings were + swarming, the killdeers busy, and he thought of the Dream Girl and smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder if she would like this,” he mused. + </p> + <p> + When the mullein leaves were deep on the trays of the dry-house he began + on the bloom and that was a task he loved. Just to lay off the beds in + swaths and follow them, deftly picking the stamens and yellow petals from + the blooms. These he would dry speedily in hot air, bottle, and send at + once to big laboratories. The listed price was seventy-five cents a pound, + but the beautiful golden bottles of the Harvester always brought more. The + work was worth while, and he liked the location and gathering of this + particular crop: for these reasons he always left it until the last, and + then revelled in the gold of sunshine, bird, butterfly, and flower. + Several days were required to harvest the mullein and during the time the + man worked with nimble fingers, while his brain was intensely occupied + with the question of what to do next in his search for the Girl. + </p> + <p> + When the work was finished, he went to the deep wood to take a peep at + acres of thrifty ginseng, and he was satisfied as he surveyed the big bed. + Long years he had laboured diligently; soon came the reward. He had not + realized it before, but as he studied the situation he saw that he either + must begin this harvest at once or employ help. If he waited until + September he could not gather one third of the crop alone. + </p> + <p> + “But the roots will weigh less if I take them now,” he argued, “and I can + work at nothing in comfort until I have located her. I will go on with my + search and allow the ginseng to grow that much heavier. What a picture! It + is folly to disturb this now, for I will lose the seed of every plant I + dig, and that is worth almost as much as the root. It is a question + whether I want to furnish the market with seed, and so raise competition + for my bed. I think, be jabbers, that I'll wait for this harvest until the + seed is ripe, and then bury part of a head where I dig a root, as the + Indians did. That's the idea! The more I grow, the more money; and I may + need considerable for her. One thing I'd like to know: Are these plants + cultivated? All the books quote the wild at highest rates and all I've + ever sold was wild. The start grew here naturally. What I added from the + surrounding country was wild, but through and among it I've sown seed I + bought, and I've tended it with every care. But this is deep wood and wild + conditions. I think I have a perfect right to so label it. I'll ask Doc. + And another thing I'll go through the woods west of Onabasha where I used + to find ginseng, and see if I can get a little and then take the same + amount of plants grown here, and make a test. That way I can discover any + difference before I go to market. This is my gold mine, and that point is + mighty important to me, so I'll go this very day. I used to find it in the + woods northeast of town and on the land Jameson bought, west. Wonder if he + lives there yet. He should have died of pure meanness long ago. I'll drive + to the river and hunt along the bank.” + </p> + <p> + Early the following morning the Harvester went to Onabasha and stopped at + the hospital for news. Finding none, he went through town and several + miles into the country on the other side, to a piece of lowland lying + along the river bank, where he once had found and carried home to reset a + big bed of ginseng. If he could get only a half pound of roots from there + now, they would serve his purpose. He went down the bank, Belshazzar at + his heels, and at last found the place. Many trees had been cut, but there + remained enough for shade; the fields bore the ragged, unattractive + appearance of old. The Harvester smiled grimly as he remembered that the + man who lived there once had charged him for damage he might do to trees + in driving across his woods, and boasted to his neighbours that a young + fool was paying for the privilege of doing his grubbing. If Jameson had + known what the roots he was so anxious to dispose of brought a pound on + the market at that time, he would have been insane with anger. So the + Harvester's eyes were dancing with fun and a wry grin twisted his lips as + he clambered over the banks of the recently dredged river, and looked at + its pitiful condition and straight, muddy flow. + </p> + <p> + “Appears to match the remainder of the Jameson property,” he said. “I + don't know who he is or where he came from, but he's no farmer. Perhaps he + uses this land to corral the stock he buys until he can sell it again.” + </p> + <p> + He went down the embankment and began to search for the location where he + formerly had found the ginseng. When he came to the place he stood amazed, + for from seed, roots, and plants he had missed, the growth had sprung up + and spread, so that at a rapid estimate the Harvester thought it contained + at least five pounds, allowing for what it would shrink on account of + being gathered early. He hesitated an instant, and thought of coming + later; but the drive was long and the loss would not amount to enough to + pay for a second trip. About taking it, he never thought at all. He once + had permission from the owner to dig all the shrubs, bushes, and weeds he + desired from that stretch of woods, and had paid for possible damages that + might occur. As he bent to the task there did come a fleeting thought that + the patch was weedless and in unusual shape for wild stuff. Then, with + swift strokes of his light mattock, he lifted the roots, crammed them into + his sack, whistled to Belshazzar, and going back to the wagon, drove away. + Reaching home he washed the ginseng, and spread it on a tray to dry. The + first time he wanted the mattock he realized that he had left it lying + where he had worked. It was an implement that he had directed a blacksmith + to fashion to meet his requirements. No store contained anything half so + useful to him. He had worked with it for years and it just suited him, so + there was nothing to do but go back. Betsy was too tired to return that + day, so he planned to dig his ginseng with something else, finish his work + the following morning, and get the mattock in the afternoon. + </p> + <p> + “It's like a knife you've carried for years, or a gun,” muttered the + Harvester. “I actually don't know how to get along without it. What made + me so careless I can't imagine. I never before in my life did a trick like + that. I wonder if I hurried a little. I certainly was free to take it. He + always wanted the stuff dug up. Of all the stupid tricks, Belshazzar, that + was the worst. Now Betsy and a half day of wasted time must pay for my + carelessness. Since I have to go, I'll look a little farther. Maybe there + is more. Those woods used to be full of it.” + </p> + <p> + According to this programme, the next afternoon the Harvester again walked + down the embankment of the mourning river and through the ragged woods to + the place where the ginseng had been. He went forward, stepping lightly, + as men of his race had walked the forest for ages, swerving to avoid + boughs, and looking straight ahead. Contrary to his usual custom of coming + to heel in a strange wood, Belshazzar suddenly darted around the man and + took the path they had followed the previous day. The animal was + performing his office in life; he had heard or scented something unusual. + The Harvester knew what that meant. He looked inquiringly at the dog, + glanced around, and then at the earth. Belshazzar proceeded noiselessly at + a rapid pace over the leaves: Suddenly the master saw the dog stop in a + stiff point. Lifting his feet lightly and straining his eyes before him, + the Harvester passed a spice thicket and came in line. + </p> + <p> + For one second he stood as rigid as Belshazzar. The next his right arm + shot upward full length, and began describing circles, his open palm + heavenward, and into his face leapt a glorified expression of exultation. + Face down in the rifled ginseng bed lay a sobbing girl. Her frame was long + and slender, a thick coil of dark hair; bound her head. A second more and + the Harvester bent and softly patted Belshazzar's head. The beast broke + point and looked up. The man caught the dog's chin in a caressing grip, + again touched his head, moved soundless lips, and waved toward the + prostrate figure. The dog hesitated. The Harvester made the same motions. + Belshazzar softly stepped over the leaves, passed around the feet of the + girl, and paused beside her, nose to earth, softly sniffing. + </p> + <p> + In one moment she came swiftly to a sitting posture. + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” she cried in a spasm of fright. + </p> + <p> + Belshazzar reached an investigating nose and wagged an eager tail. + </p> + <p> + “Why you are a nice friendly dog!” said the trembling voice. + </p> + <p> + He immediately verified the assertion by offering his nose for a kiss. The + girl timidly laid a hand on his head. + </p> + <p> + “Heaven knows I'm lonely enough to kiss a dog,” she said, “but suppose you + belong to the man who stole my ginseng, and then ran away so fast he + forgot his——his piece he digged with.” + </p> + <p> + Belshazzar pressed closer. + </p> + <p> + “I am just killed, and I don't care whose dog you are,” sobbed the girl. + </p> + <p> + She threw her arms around Belshazzar's neck and laid her white face + against his satiny shoulder. The Harvester could endure no more. He took a + step forward, his face convulsed with pain. + </p> + <p> + “Please don't!” he begged. “I took your ginseng. I'll bring it back + to-morrow. There wasn't more than twenty-five or thirty dollars' worth. It + doesn't amount to one tear.” + </p> + <p> + The girl arose so quickly, the Harvester could not see how she did it. + With a startled fright on her face, and the dark eyes swimming, she turned + to him in one long look. Words rolled from the lips of the man in a + jumble. Behind the tears there was a dull, expressionless blue in the + girl's eyes and her face was so white that it appeared blank. He began + talking before she could speak, in an effort to secure forgiveness without + condemnation. + </p> + <p> + “You see, I grow it for a living on land I own, and I've always gathered + all there was in the country and no one cared. There never was enough in + one place to pay, and no other man wanted to spend the time, and so I've + always felt free to take it. Every one knew I did, and no one ever + objected before. Once I paid Henry Jameson for the privilege of cleaning + it from these woods. That was six or seven years ago, and it didn't occur + to me that I wasn't at liberty to dig what has grown since. I'll bring it + back at once, and pay you for the shrinkage from gathering it too early. + There won't be much over six pounds when it's dry. Please, please don't + feel badly. Won't you trust me to return it, and make good the damage I've + done?” + </p> + <p> + The face of the Harvester was eager and his tones appealing, as he leaned + forward trying to make her understand. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly!” said the Girl as she bent to pat the dog, while she dried her + eyes under cover of the movement. “Certainly! It can make no difference!” + </p> + <p> + But as the Harvester drew a deep breath of relief, she suddenly + straightened to full height and looked straight at him. + </p> + <p> + “Oh what is the use to tell a pitiful lie!” she cried. “It does make a + difference! It makes all the difference in the world! I need that money! I + need it unspeakably. I owe a debt I must pay. What——what did I + understand you to say ginseng is worth?” + </p> + <p> + “If you will take a few steps,” said the Harvester, “and make yourself + comfortable on this log in the shade, I will tell you all I know about + it.” + </p> + <p> + The girl walked swiftly to the log indicated, seated herself, and waited. + The Harvester followed to a respectful distance. + </p> + <p> + “I can't tell to an ounce what wet roots would weigh,” he said as easily + as he could command his voice to speak with the heart in him beating + wildly, “and of course they lose greatly in drying; but I've handled + enough that I know the weight I carried home will come to six pounds at + the very least. Then you must figure on some loss, because I dug this + before it really was ready. It does not reach full growth until September, + and if it is taken too soon there is a decrease in weight. I will make + that up to you when I return it.” + </p> + <p> + The troubled eyes were gazing on his face intently, and the Harvester + studied them as he talked. + </p> + <p> + “You would think, then, there would be all of six pounds? + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the Harvester, “closer eight. When I replace the shrinkage + there is bound to be over seven.” + </p> + <p> + “And how much did I understand you to say it brought a pound?” + </p> + <p> + “That all depends,” answered he. “If you cure it yourself, and dry it too + much, you lose in weight. If you carry it in a small lot to the druggists + of Onabasha, probably you will not get over five dollars for it.” + </p> + <p> + “Five?” + </p> + <p> + It was a startled cry. + </p> + <p> + “How much did you expect?” asked the Harvester gently. + </p> + <p> + “Uncle Henry said he thought he could get fifty cents a pound for all I + could find.” + </p> + <p> + “If your Uncle Henry has learned at last that ginseng is a salable article + he should know something about the price also. Will you tell me what he + said, and how you came to think of gathering roots for the market?” + </p> + <p> + “There were men talking beneath the trees one Sunday afternoon about old + times and hunting deer, and they spoke of people who made money long ago + gathering roots and barks, and they mentioned one man who lived by it + yet.” + </p> + <p> + “Was his name Langston?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I remember because I liked the name. I was so eager to earn + something, and I can't leave here just now because Aunt Molly is very ill, + so the thought came that possibly I could gather stuff worth money, after + my work was finished. I went out and asked questions. They said nothing + brought enough to make it pay any one, except this ginseng plant, and the + Langston man almost had stripped the country. Then uncle said he used to + get stuff here, and he might have got some of that. I asked what it was + like, so they told me and I hunted until I found that, and it seemed a + quantity to me. Of course I didn't know it had to be dried. Uncle took a + root I dug to a store, and they told him that it wasn't much used any + more, but they would give him fifty cents a pound for it. What MAKES you + think you can get five dollars?” + </p> + <p> + “With your permission,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + He seated himself on the log, drew from his pocket an old pamphlet, and + spreading it before her, ran a pencil along the line of a list of schedule + prices for common drug roots and herbs. Because he understood, his eyes + were very bright, and his voice a trifle crisp. A latent anger springing + in his breast was a good curb for his emotions. He was closely acquainted + with all of the druggists of Onabasha, and he knew that not one of them + had offered less than standard prices for ginseng. + </p> + <p> + “The reason I think so,” he said gently, “is because growing it is the + largest part of my occupation, and it was a staple with my father before + me. I am David Langston, of whom you heard those men speak. Since I was a + very small boy I have lived by collecting herbs and roots, and I get more + for ginseng than anything else. Very early I tired of hunting other + people's woods for herbs, so I began transplanting them to my own. I moved + that bed out there seven years ago. What you found has grown since from + roots I overlooked and seeds that fell at that time. Now do you think I am + enough of an authority to trust my word on the subject?” + </p> + <p> + There was not a change of expression on her white face. + </p> + <p> + “You surely should know,” she said wearily, “and you could have no + possible object in deceiving me. Please go on.” + </p> + <p> + “Any country boy or girl can find ginseng, gather, wash, and dry it, and + get five dollars a pound. I can return yours to-morrow and you can cure + and take it to a druggist I will name you, and sell for that. But if you + will allow me to make a suggestion, you can get more. Your roots are now + on the trays of an evaporating house. They will dry to the proper degree + desired by the trade, so that they will not lose an extra ounce in weight, + and if I send them with my stuff to big wholesale houses I deal with, they + will be graded with the finest wild ginseng. It is worth more than the + cultivated and you will get closer eight dollars a pound for it than five. + There is some speculation in it, and the market fluctuates: but, as a + rule, I sell for the highest price the drug brings, and, at times when the + season is very dry, I set my own prices. Shall I return yours or may I + cure and sell it, and bring you the money?” + </p> + <p> + “How much trouble would that make you?” + </p> + <p> + “None. The work of digging and washing is already finished. All that + remains is to weigh it and make a memorandum of the amount when I sell. I + should very much like to do it. It would be a comfort to see the money go + into your hands. If you are afraid to trust me, I will give you the names + of several people you can ask concerning me the next time you go to the + city.” + </p> + <p> + She looked at him steadily. + </p> + <p> + “Never mind that,” she said. “But why do you offer to do it for a + stranger? It must be some trouble, no matter how small you represent it to + be.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps I am going to pay you eight and sell for ten.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't think you can. Five sounds fabulous to me. I can't believe that. + If you wanted to make money you needn't have told me you took it. I never + would have known. That isn't your reason!” + </p> + <p> + “Possibly I would like to atone for those tears I caused,” said the + Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Don't think of that! They are of no consequence to any one. You needn't + do anything for me on that account.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't search for a reason,” said the Harvester, in his gentlest tones. + “Forget that feature of the case. Say I'm peculiar, and allow me to do it + because it would be a pleasure. In close two weeks I will bring you the + money. Is it a bargain?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, if you care to make it.” + </p> + <p> + “I care very much. We will call that settled.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish I could tell you what it will mean to me,” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “If you only would,” plead the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “I must not burden a stranger with my troubles.” + </p> + <p> + “But if it would make the stranger so happy!” + </p> + <p> + “That isn't possible. I must face life and bear what it brings me alone.” + </p> + <p> + “Not unless you choose,” said the Harvester. “That is, if you will pardon + me, a narrow view of life. It cuts other people out of the joy of service. + If you can't tell me, would you trust a very lovely and gentle woman I + could bring to you?” + </p> + <p> + “No more than you. It is my affair; I must work it out myself.” + </p> + <p> + “I am mighty sorry,” said the Harvester. “I believe you err in that + decision. Think it over a day or so, and see if two heads are not better + than one. You will realize when this ginseng matter is settled that you + profited by trusting me. The same will hold good along other lines, if you + only can bring yourself to think so. At any rate, try. Telling a trouble + makes it lighter. Sympathy should help, if nothing can be done. And as for + money, I can show you how to earn sums at least worth your time, if you + have nothing else you want to do.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl bent toward him. + </p> + <p> + “Oh please do tell me!” she cried eagerly. “I've tried and tried to find + some way ever since I have been here, but every one else I have met says I + can't, and nothing seems to be worth anything. If you only would tell me + something I could do!” + </p> + <p> + “If you will excuse my saying so,” said the Harvester, “it appeals to me + that ease, not work, is the thing you require. You appear extremely worn. + Won't you let me help you find a way to a long rest first?” + </p> + <p> + “Impossible!” cried the Girl. “I know I am white and appear ill, but truly + I never have been sick in all my life. I have been having trouble and + working too much, but I'll be better soon. Believe me, there is no rest + for me now. I must earn the money I owe first.” + </p> + <p> + “There is a way, if you care to take it,” said the Harvester. “In my work + I have become very well acquainted with the chief surgeon of the city + hospital. Through him I happen to know that he has a free bed in a + beautiful room, where you could rest until you are perfectly strong again, + and that room is empty just now. When you are well, I will tell you about + the work.” + </p> + <p> + As she arose the Harvester stood, and tall and straight she faced him. + </p> + <p> + “Impossible!” she said. “It would be brutal to leave my aunt. I cannot pay + to rest in a hospital ward, and I will not accept charity. If you can put + me in the way of earning, even a few cents a day, at anything I could do + outside the work necessary to earn my board here, it would bring me closer + to happiness than anything else on earth.” + </p> + <p> + “What I suggest is not impossible,” said the Harvester softly. “If you + will go, inside an hour a sweet and gentle lady will come for you and take + you to ease and perfect rest until you are strong again. I will see that + your aunt is cared for scrupulously. I can't help urging you. It is a + crime to talk of work to a woman so manifestly worn as you are.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we will not speak of it,” said the Girl wearily. “It is time for me + to go, anyway. I see you mean to be very kind, and while I don't in the + least understand it, I do hope you feel I am grateful. If half you say + about the ginseng comes true, I can make a payment worth while before I + had hoped to. I have no words to tell you what that will mean to me.” + </p> + <p> + “If this debt you speak of were paid, could you rest then?” + </p> + <p> + “I could lie down and give up in peace, and I think I would.” + </p> + <p> + “I think you wouldn't,” said the Harvester, “because you wouldn't be + allowed. There are people in these days who make a business of securing + rest for the tired and over weary, and they would come and prevent that if + you tried it. Please let me make another suggestion. If you owe money to + some one you feel needs it and the debt is preying on you, let's pay it.” + </p> + <p> + He drew a small check-book from his pocket and slipped a pen from a band. + </p> + <p> + “If you will name the amount and give me the address, you shall be free to + go to the rest I ask for you inside an hour.” + </p> + <p> + Then slowly from head to foot she looked at him. + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because your face and attitude clearly indicate that you are over tired. + Believe me, you do yourself wrong if you refuse.” + </p> + <p> + “In what way would changing creditors rest me?” + </p> + <p> + “I thought perhaps you were owing some one who needed the money. I am not + a rich man, but I have no one save myself to provide for and I have funds + lying idle that I would be glad to use for you. If you make a point of it, + when you are rested, you can repay me.” + </p> + <p> + “My creditor needs the money, but I should prefer owing him rather than a + perfect stranger. What you suggest would help me not at all. I must go + now.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” said the Harvester. “If you will tell me whom to ask for and + where you live, I will come to see you to-morrow and bring you some + pamphlets. With these and with a little help you soon can earn any amount + a girl is likely to owe. It will require but a little while. Where can I + find you?” + </p> + <p> + The Girl hesitated and for the first time a hint of colour flushed her + cheek. But courage appeared to be her strong point. + </p> + <p> + “Do you live in this part of the country?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “I live ten miles from here, east of Onabasha,” he answered. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know Henry Jameson?” + </p> + <p> + “By sight and by reputation.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you ever know anything kind or humane of him?” + </p> + <p> + “I never did.” + </p> + <p> + “My name is Ruth Jameson. At present I am indebted to him for the only + shelter I have. His wife is ill through overwork and worry, and I am + paying for my bed and what I don't eat, principally, by attempting her + work. It scarcely would be fair to Uncle Henry to say that I do it. I + stagger around as long as I can stand, then I sit through his abuse. He is + a pleasant man. Please don't think I am telling you this to harrow your + sympathy further. The reason I explain is because I am driven. If I do + not, you will misjudge me when I say that I only can see you here. I + understood what you meant when you said Uncle Henry should have known the + price of ginseng if he knew it was for sale. He did. He knew what he could + get for it, and what he meant to pay me. That is one of his original + methods with a woman. If he thought I could earn anything worth while, he + would allow me, if I killed myself doing it; and then he would take the + money by force if necessary. So I can meet you here only. I can earn just + what I may in secret. He buys cattle and horses and is away from home much + of the day, and when Aunt Molly is comfortable I can have a few hours.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand,” said the Harvester. “But this is an added hardship. Why do + you remain? Why subject yourself to force and work too heavy for you?” + </p> + <p> + “Because his is the only roof on earth where I feel I can pay for all I + get. I don't care to discuss it, I only want you to say you understand, if + I ask you to bring the pamphlets here and tell me how I can earn money.” + </p> + <p> + “I do,” said the Harvester earnestly, although his heart was hot in + protest. “You may be very sure that I will not misjudge you. Shall I come + at two o'clock to-morrow, Miss Jameson?” + </p> + <p> + “If you will be so kind.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester stepped aside and she passed him and crossing the rifled + ginseng patch went toward a low brown farmhouse lying in an unkept garden, + beside a ragged highway. The man sat on the log she had vacated, held his + head between his hands and tried to think, but he could not for big waves + of joy that swept over him when he realized that at last he had found her, + had spoken with her, and had arranged a meeting for the morrow. + </p> + <p> + “Belshazzar,” he said softly, “I wish I could leave you to protect her. + Every day you prove to me that I need you, but Heaven knows her necessity + is greater. Bel, she makes my heart ache until it feels like jelly. There + seems to be just one thing to do. Get that fool debt paid like lightning, + and lift her out of here quicker than that. Now, we will go and see Doc, + and call off the watch-dogs of the law. Ahead of them, aren't we, + Belshazzar? There is a better day coming; we feel it in our bones, don't + we, old partner?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester started through the woods on a rush, and as the exercise + warmed his heart, he grew wonderfully glad. At last he had found her. + Uncertainty was over. If ever a girl needed a home and care he thought she + did. He was so jubilant that he felt like crying aloud, shouting for joy, + but by and by the years of sober repression made their weight felt, so he + climbed into the wagon and politely requested Betsy to make her best time + to Onabasha. Betsy had been asked to make haste so frequently of late that + she at first almost doubted the sanity of her master, the law of whose + life, until recently, had been to take his time. Now he appeared to be in + haste every day. She had become so accustomed to being urged to hurry that + she almost had developed a gait; so at the Harvester's suggestion she did + her level best to Onabasha and the hospital, where she loved to nose + Belshazzar and rest near the watering tap under a big tree. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester went down the hall and into the office on the run, and his + face appeared like a materialized embodiment of living joy. Doctor Carey + turned at his approach and then bounded half way across the room, his + hands outstretched. + </p> + <p> + “You've found her, David!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester grabbed the hand of his friend and stood pumping it up and + down while he gulped at the lump in his throat, and big tears squeezed + from his eyes, but he could only nod his proud head. + </p> + <p> + “Found her!” exulted Doctor Carey. “Really found her! Well that's great! + Sit down and tell me, boy! Is she sick, as we feared? Did you only see her + or did you get to talk with her?” + </p> + <p> + “Well sir,” said the Harvester, choking back his emotions, “you remember + that ginseng I told you about getting on the old Jameson place last night. + To-day, I learned I'd lost that hand-made mattock I use most, and I went + back for it, and there she was.” + </p> + <p> + “In the country?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes sir!” + </p> + <p> + “Well why didn't we think of it before?” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose first we would have had to satisfy ourselves that she wasn't in + town, anyway.” + </p> + <p> + “Sure! That would be the logical way to go at it! And so you found her?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes sir, I found her! Just Belshazzar and I! I was going along on my way + to the place, and he ran past me and made a stiff point, and when I came + up, there she was!” + </p> + <p> + “There she was?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes sir; there she was!” + </p> + <p> + They shook hands again. + </p> + <p> + “Then of course you spoke to her.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes I spoke to her.” + </p> + <p> + “Were you pleased?” + </p> + <p> + “With her speech and manner?——yes. But, Doc, if ever a woman + needed everything on earth!” + </p> + <p> + “Well did you get any kind of a start made?” + </p> + <p> + “I couldn't do so very much. I had to go a little slow for fear of + frightening her, but I tried to get her to come here and she won't until a + debt she owes is paid, and she's in no condition to work.” + </p> + <p> + “Got any idea how much it is?” + </p> + <p> + “No, but it can't be any large sum. I tried to offer to pay it, but she + had no hesitation in telling me she preferred owing a man she knew to a + stranger.” + </p> + <p> + “Well if she is so particular, how did she come to tell you first thing + that she was in debt?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester explained. + </p> + <p> + “Oh I see!” said the doctor. “Well you'll have to baby her along with the + idea that she is earning money and pay her double until you get that off + her mind, and while you are at it, put in your best licks, my boy; perk + right up and court her like a house afire. Women like it. All of them do. + They glory in feeling that a man is crazy about them.” + </p> + <p> + “Well I'm insane enough over her,” said the Harvester, “but I'd hate like + the nation for her to know it. Seems as if a woman couldn't respect such + an addle-pate as I am lately.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you worry about that,” advised the doctor. “Just you make love to + her. Go at it in the good old-fashioned way.” + </p> + <p> + “But maybe the 'good old-fashioned way' isn't my way.” + </p> + <p> + “What's the difference whose way it is, if it wins?” + </p> + <p> + “But Kipling says: 'Each man makes love his own way!'” + </p> + <p> + “I seem to have heard you mention that name be fore,” said the doctor. “Do + you regard him as an authority?” + </p> + <p> + “I do!” said the Harvester. “Especially when he advises me after my own + heart and reason. Miss Jameson is not a silly girl. She's a woman, and + twenty-four at least. I don't want her to care for a trick or a pretence. + I do want her to love me. Not that I am worth her attention, but because + she needs some strong man fearfully, and I am ready and more 'willing' + than the original Barkis. But, like him, I have to let her know it in my + way, and court her according to the promptings of my heart.” + </p> + <p> + “You deceive yourself!” said the doctor flatly. “That's all bosh! Your + tongue says it for the satisfaction of your ears, and it does sound well. + You will court her according to your ideas of the conventions, as you + understand them, and strictly in accordance with what you consider the + respect due her. If you had followed the thing you call the 'promptings of + your heart,' you would have picked her up by main force and brought her to + my best ward, instead of merely suggesting it and giving up when she said + no. If you had followed your heart, you would have choked the name and + amount out of her and paid that devilish debt. You walk away in a case + like that, and then have the nerve to come here and prate to me about + following your heart. I'll wager my last dollar your heart is sore because + you were not allowed to help her; but on the proposition that you followed + its promptings I wouldn't stake a penny. That's all tommy-rot!” + </p> + <p> + “It is,” agreed the Harvester. “Utter! But what can a man do?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know what you can do! I'd have paid that debt and brought her to + the hospital.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll go and ask Mrs. Carey about your courtship. I want her help on this, + anyway. I can pick up Miss Jameson and bring her here if any man can, but + she is nursing a sick woman who depends solely on her for care. She is + above average size, and she has a very decided mind of her own. I don't + think you would use force and do what you think best for her, if you were + in my place. You would wait until you understood the situation better, and + knew that what you did was for the best, ultimately.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know whether I would or not. One thing is sure: I'm mighty glad + you have found her. May I tell my wife?” + </p> + <p> + “Please do! And ask her if I may depend on her if I need a woman's help. + Now I'll call off the valiant police and go home and take a good, sound + sleep. Haven't had many since I first saw her.” + </p> + <p> + So Betsy trotted down the valley, up the embankment, crossed the railroad, + over the levee across Singing Water, and up the hill to the cabin. As they + passed it, the Harvester jumped from the wagon, tossed the hitching strap + to Belshazzar, and entered. He walked straight to her door, unlocked it, + and uncovering, went inside. Softly he passed from piece to piece of the + furniture he had made for her, and then surveyed the walls and floor. + </p> + <p> + “It isn't half good enough,” he said, “but it will have to answer until I + can do better. Surely she will know I tried and care for that, anyway. I + wonder how long it will take me to get her here. Oh, if I only could know + she was comfortable and happy! Happy! She doesn't appear as if she ever + had heard that word. Well this will be a good place to teach her. I've + always enjoyed myself here. I'm going to have faith that I can win her and + make her happy also. When I go to the stable to do my work for the night + if I could know she was in this cabin and glad of it, and if I could hear + her down here singing like a happy care-free girl, I'd scarcely be able to + endure the joy of it.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX. THE HARVESTER GOES COURTING + </h2> + <p> + “She is on Henry Jameson's farm, four miles west of Onabasha,” said the + Harvester, as he opened his eyes next morning, and laid a caressing hand + on Belshazzar's head. “At two o'clock we are going to see her, and we are + going to prolong the visit to the ultimate limit, so we should make things + count here before we start.” + </p> + <p> + He worked in a manner that accomplished much. There seemed no end to his + energy that morning. Despatching the usual routine, he gathered the herbs + that were ready, spread them on the shelves of the dry-house, found time + to do several things in the cabin, and polish a piece of furniture before + he ate his lunch and hitched Betsy to the wagon. He also had recovered his + voice, and talked almost incessantly as he worked. When it neared time to + start he dressed carefully. He stood before his bookcase and selected + several pamphlets published by the Department of Agriculture. He went to + his beds and gathered a large arm load of plants. Then he was ready to + make his first trip to see the Dream Girl, but it never occurred to him + that he was going courting. + </p> + <p> + He had decided fully that there would be no use to try to make love to a + girl manifestly so ill and in trouble. The first thing, it appeared to + him, was to dispel the depression, improve the health, and then do the + love making. So, in the most business-like manner possible and without a + shade of embarrassment, the Harvester took his herbs and books and started + for the Jameson woods. At times as he drove along he espied something that + he used growing beside the road and stopped to secure a specimen. + </p> + <p> + He came down the river bank and reached the ginseng bed at half-past one. + He was purposely early. He laid down his books and plants, and rolled the + log on which she sat the day before to a more shaded location, where a big + tree would serve for a back rest. He pulled away brush and windfalls, + heaped dry brown leaves, and tramped them down for her feet. Then he laid + the books on the log, the arm load of plants beside them, and went to the + river to wash his soiled hands. + </p> + <p> + Belshazzar's short bark told him the Girl was coming, and between the + trees he saw the dog race to meet her and she bent to stroke his head. She + wore the same dress and appeared even paler and thinner. The Harvester + hurried up the bank, wiping his hands on his handkerchief. + </p> + <p> + “Glad to see you!” he greeted her casually. “I've fixed you a seat with a + back rest to-day. Don't be frightened at the stack of herbs. You needn't + gather all of those. They are only suggestions. They are just common + roadside plants that have some medicinal value and are worth collecting. + Please try my davenport.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you!” she said as she dropped on the log and leaned her head + against the tree. It appeared as if her eyes closed a few seconds in spite + of her, and while they were shut the Harvester looked steadily and + intently on a face of exquisite beauty, but so marred by pallor and lines + of care that search was required to recognize just how handsome she was, + and if he had not seen her in perfection in the dream the Harvester might + have missed glorious possibilities. To bring back that vision would be a + task worth while was his thought. With the first faint quiver of an + eyelash the Harvester took a few steps and bent over a plant, and as he + did so the Girl's eyes followed him. + </p> + <p> + He appeared so tall and strong, so bronzed by summer sun and wind, his + face so keen and intense, that swift fear caught her heart. Why was he + there? Why should he take so much trouble for her? With difficulty she + restrained herself from springing up and running away. Turning with the + plant in his hand the Harvester saw the panic in her eyes, and it troubled + his heart. For an instant he was bewildered, then he understood. + </p> + <p> + “I don't want you to work when you are not able,” he said in his most + matter-of-fact voice, “but if you still think that you are, I'll be very + glad. I need help just now, more than I can tell you, and there seem to be + so few people who can be trusted. Gathering stuff for drugs is really very + serious business. You see, I've a reputation to sustain with some of the + biggest laboratories in the country, not to mention the fact that I + sometimes try compounding a new remedy for some common complaint myself. I + rather take pride in the fact that my stuff goes in so fresh and clean + that I always get anywhere from three to ten cents a pound above the + listed prices for it. I want that money, but I want an unbroken record for + doing a job right and being square and careful, much more.” + </p> + <p> + He thought the appearance of fright was fading, and a tinge of interest + taking its place. She was looking straight at him, and as he talked he + could see her summoning her tired forces to understand and follow him, so + he continued: + </p> + <p> + “One would think that as medicines are required in cases of life and + death, collectors would use extreme caution, but some of them are + criminally careless. It's a common thing to gather almost any fern for + male fern; to throw in anything that will increase weight, to wash + imperfectly, and commit many other sins that lie with the collector; + beyond that I don't like to think. I suppose there are men who + deliberately adulterate pure stuff to make it go farther, but when it + comes to drugs, I scarcely can speak of it calmly. I like to do a thing + right. I raise most of my plants, bushes, and herbs. I gather exactly in + season, wash carefully if water dare be used, clean them otherwise if not, + and dry them by a hot air system in an evaporator I built purposely. Each + package I put up is pure stuff, clean, properly dried, and fresh. If I + caught any man in the act of adulterating any of it I'm afraid he would + get hurt badly—and usually I am a peaceable man. I am explaining + this to show how very careful you must be to keep things separate and + collect the right plants if you are going to sell stuff to me. I am + extremely particular.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl was leaning toward him, watching his face, and hers was slowly + changing. She was deeply interested, much impressed, and more at ease. + When the Harvester saw he had talked her into confidence he crossed the + leaves, and sitting on the log beside her, picked up the books and opened + one. + </p> + <p> + “Oh I will be careful,” said the Girl. “If you will trust me to collect + for you, I will undertake only what I am sure I know, and I'll do exactly + as you tell me.” + </p> + <p> + “There are a dozen things that bring a price ranging from three to fifteen + cents a pound, that are in season just now. I suppose you would like to + begin on some common, easy things, that will bring the most money.” + </p> + <p> + Without a breath of hesitation she answered, “I will commence on whatever + you are short of and need most to have.” + </p> + <p> + The heart of the Harvester gave a leap that almost choked him, for he was + vividly conscious of a broken shoe she was hiding beneath her skirts. He + wanted to say “thank you,” but he was afraid to, so he turned the leaves + of the book. + </p> + <p> + “I am working just now on mullein,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Oh I know mullein,” she cried, with almost a hint of animation in her + voice. “The tall, yellow flower stem rising from a circle of green felt + leaves!” + </p> + <p> + “Good!” said the Harvester. “What a pretty way to describe it! Do you know + any more plants?” + </p> + <p> + “Only a few! I had a high-school course in botany, but it was all about + flower and leaf formation, nothing at all of what anything was good for. I + also learned a few, drawing them for leather and embroidery designs.” + </p> + <p> + “Look here!” cried the Harvester. “I came with an arm load of herbs and + expected to tell you all about foxglove, mullein, yarrow, jimson, purple + thorn apple, blessed thistle, hemlock, hoarhound, lobelia, and everything + in season now; but if you already have a profession, why do you attempt a + new one? Why don't you go on drawing? I never saw anything so stupid as + most of the designs from nature for book covers and decorations, leather + work and pottery. They are the same old subjects worked over and over. If + you can draw enough to make original copies, I can furnish you with + flowers, vines, birds, and insects, new, unused, and of exquisite beauty, + for every month in the year. I've looked into the matter a little, because + I am rather handy with a knife, and I carve candlesticks from suitable + pieces of wood. I always have trouble getting my designs copied; securing + something new and unusual, never! If you can draw just well enough to + reproduce what you see, gathering drugs is too slow and tiresome. What you + want to do is to reproduce the subjects I will bring, and I'll buy what I + want in my work, and sell the remainder at the arts and crafts stores for + you. Or I can find out what they pay for such designs at potteries and + ceramic factories. You have no time to spend on herbs, when you are in the + woods, if you can draw.” + </p> + <p> + “I am surely in the woods,” said the Girl, “and I know I can copy + correctly. I often made designs for embroidery and leather for the shop + mother and I worked for in Chicago.” + </p> + <p> + “Won't they buy them of you now?” + </p> + <p> + “Undoubtedly.” + </p> + <p> + “Do they pay anything worth while?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know how their prices compare with others. One place was all I + worked for. I think they pay what is fair.” + </p> + <p> + “We will find out,” said the Harvester promptly. + </p> + <p> + “I——I don't think you need waste the time,” faltered the Girl. + “I had better gather the plants for a while at least.” + </p> + <p> + “Collecting crude drug material is not easy,” said the Harvester. “Drawing + may not be either, but at least you could sit while you work, and it + should bring you more money. Besides, I very much want a moth copied for a + candlestick I am carving. Won't you draw that for me? I have some pupae + cases and the moths will be out any day now. If I'd bring you one, + wouldn't you just make a copy?” + </p> + <p> + The Girl gripped her hands together and stared straight ahead of her for a + second, then she turned to him. + </p> + <p> + “I'd like to,” she said, “but I have nothing to work with. In Chicago they + furnished my material at the shop and I drew the design and was paid for + the pattern. I didn't know there would be a chance for anything like that + here. I haven't even proper pencils.” + </p> + <p> + “Then the way for you to do this is to strip the first mullein plants you + see of the petals. I will pay you seventy-five cents a pound for them. By + the time you get a few pounds I can have material you need for drawing + here and you can go to work on whatever flowers, vines, and things you can + find in the woods, with no thanks to any one.” + </p> + <p> + “I can't see that,” said the Girl. “It would appear to me that I would be + under more obligations than I could repay, and to a stranger.” + </p> + <p> + “I figure it this way,” said the Harvester, watching from the corner of + his eye. “I can sell at good prices all the mullein flowers I can secure. + You collect for me, I buy them. You can use drawing tools; I get them for + you, and you pay me with the mullein or out of the ginseng money I owe + you. You already have that coming, and it's just as much yours as it will + be ten days from now. You needn't hesitate a second about drawing on it, + because I am in a hurry for the moth pattern. I find time to carve only at + night, you see. As for being under obligations to a stranger, in the first + place all the debt would be on my side. I'd get the drugs and the pattern + I want; and, in the second place, I positively and emphatically refuse to + be a stranger. It would be so much better to be mutual helpers and friends + of the kind worth having; and the sooner we begin, the sooner we can work + together to good advantage. Get that stranger idea out of your head right + now, and replace it with thoughts of a new friend, who is willing”—the + Harvester detected panic in her eyes and ended casually—“to enter a + partnership that will be of benefit to both of us. Partners can't be + strangers, you know,” he finished. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know what to think,” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Never bother your head with thinking,” advised the Harvester with an air + of large wisdom. “It is unprofitable and very tiring. Any one can see that + you are too weary now. Don't dream of such a foolish thing as thinking. + Don't worry over motives and obligations. Say to yourself, 'I'll enter + this partnership and if it brings me anything good, I'm that much ahead. + If it fails, I have lost nothing.' That's the way to look at it.” + </p> + <p> + Then before she could answer he continued: “Now I want all the mullein + bloom I can get. You'll see the yellow heads everywhere. Strip the petals + and bring them here, and I'll come for them every day. They must go on the + trays as fresh as possible. On your part, we will make out the order now.” + </p> + <p> + He took a pencil and notebook from his pocket. + </p> + <p> + “You want drawing pencils and brushes; how many, what make and size?” + </p> + <p> + The Girl hesitated for a moment as if struggling to decide what to do; + then she named the articles. + </p> + <p> + “And paper?” + </p> + <p> + He wrote that down, and asked if there was more. + </p> + <p> + “I think,” he said, “that I can get this order filled in Onabasha. The art + stores should keep these things. And shouldn't you have water-colour paper + and some paint?” + </p> + <p> + Then there was a flash across the white face. + </p> + <p> + “Oh if I only could!” she cried. “All my life I have been crazy for a box + of colour, but I never could afford it, and of course, I can't now. But if + this splendid plan works, and I can earn what I owe, then maybe I can.” + </p> + <p> + “Well this 'splendid plan' is going to 'work,' don't you bother about + that,” said the Harvester. “It has begun working right now. Don't worry a + minute. After things have gone wrong for a certain length of time, they + always veer and go right a while as compensation. Don't think of anything + save that you are at the turning. Since it is all settled that we are to + be partners, would you name me the figures of the debt that is worrying + you? Don't, if you mind. I just thought perhaps we could get along better + if I knew. Is it——say five hundred dollars?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh dear no!” cried the Girl in a panic. “I never could face that! It is + not quite one hundred, and that seems big as a mountain to me.” + </p> + <p> + “Forget it!” he cried. “The ginseng will pay more than half; that I know. + I can bring you the cash in a little over a week.” + </p> + <p> + She started to speak, hesitated, and at last turned to him. + </p> + <p> + “Would you mind,” she said, “if I asked you to keep it until I can find a + way to go to town? It's too far to walk and I don't know how to send it. + Would I dare put it in a letter?” + </p> + <p> + “Never!” said the Harvester. “You want a draft. That money will be too + precious to run any risks. I'll bring it to you and you can write a note + and explain to whom you want it paid, and I'll take it to the bank for you + and get your draft. Then you can write a letter, and half your worry will + be over safely.” + </p> + <p> + “It must be done in a sure way,” said the Girl. “If I knew I had the money + to pay that much on what I owe, and then lost it, I simply could not + endure it. I would lie down and give up as Aunt Molly has.” + </p> + <p> + “Forget that too!” said the Harvester. “Wipe out all the past that has + pain in it. The future is going to be beautifully bright. That little bird + on the bush there just told me so, and you are always safe when you trust + the feathered folk. If you are going to live in the country any length of + time, you must know them, and they will become a great comfort. Are you + planning to be here long?” + </p> + <p> + “I have no plans. After what I saw Chicago do to my mother I would rather + finish life in the open than return to the city. It is horrible here, but + at least I'm not hungry, and not afraid——all the time.” + </p> + <p> + “Gracious Heaven!” cried the Harvester. “Do you mean to say that you are + afraid any part of the time? Would you kindly tell me of whom, and why?” + </p> + <p> + “You should know without being told that when a woman born and reared in a + city, and all her life confined there, steps into the woods for the first + time, she's bound to be afraid. The last few weeks constitute my entire + experience with the country, and I'm in mortal fear that snakes will drop + from trees and bushes or spring from the ground. Some places I think I'm + sinking, and whenever a bush catches my skirts it seems as if something + dreadful is reaching up for me; there is a possibility of horror lurking + behind every tree and——” + </p> + <p> + “Stop!” cried the Harvester. “I can't endure it! Do you mean to tell me + that you are afraid here and now?” + </p> + <p> + She met his eyes squarely. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she said. “It almost makes me ill to sit on this log without taking + a stick and poking all around it first. Every minute I think something is + going to strike me in the back or drop on my head.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester grew very white beneath the tan, and that developed a nice, + sickly green complexion for him. + </p> + <p> + “Am I part of your tortures?” he asked tersely. + </p> + <p> + “Why shouldn't you be?” she answered. “What do I know of you or your + motives or why you are here?” + </p> + <p> + “I have had no experience with the atmosphere that breeds such an attitude + in a girl.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a thing for which to thank Heaven. Undoubtedly it is gracious to + you. My life has been different.” + </p> + <p> + “Yet in mortal terror of the woods, and probably equal fear of me, you are + here and asking for work that will keep you here.” + </p> + <p> + “I would go through fire and flood for the money I owe. After that debt is + paid——” + </p> + <p> + She threw out her hands in a hopeless gesture. The Harvester drew forth a + roll of bills and tossed them into her lap. + </p> + <p> + “For the love of mercy take what you need and pay it,” he said. “Then get + a floor under your feet, and try, I beg of you, try to force yourself to + have confidence in me, until I do something that gives you the least + reason for distrusting me.” + </p> + <p> + She picked up the money and gave it a contemptuous whirl that landed it at + his feet. + </p> + <p> + “What greater cause of distrust could I have by any possibility than just + that?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester arose hastily, and taking several steps, he stood with + folded arms, his back turned. The Girl sat watching him with wide eyes, + the dull blue plain in their dusky depths. When he did not speak, she grew + restless. At last she slowly arose and circling him looked into his face. + It was convulsed with a struggle in which love and patience fought for + supremacy over honest anger. As he saw her so close, his lips drew apart, + and his breath came deeply, but he did not speak. He merely stood and + looked at her, and looked; and she gazed at him as if fascinated, but + uncomprehending. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth!” + </p> + <p> + The call came roaring up the hill. The Girl shivered and became paler. + </p> + <p> + “Is that your uncle?” asked the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + She nodded. + </p> + <p> + “Will you come to-morrow for your drawing materials?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you try to believe that there is absolutely nothing, either + underfoot or overhead, that will harm you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you try to think that I am not a menace to public safety, and that I + would do much to help you, merely because I would be glad to be of + service?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you try to cultivate the idea that there is nothing in all this + world that would hurt you purposely?” + </p> + <p> + “Ruth!” came a splitting scream in gruff man-tones, keyed in deep anger. + </p> + <p> + “That SOUNDS like it!” said the Girl, and catching up her skirts she ran + through the woods, taking a different route toward the house. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester sat on the log and tried to think; but there are times when + the numbed brain refuses to work, so he really sat and suffered. + Belshazzar whimpered and licked his hands, and at last the man arose and + went with the dog to the wagon. As they came through Onabasha, Betsy + turned at the hospital corner, but the Harvester pulled her around and + drove toward the country. Not until they crossed the railroad did he lift + his head and then he drew a deep breath as if starved for pure air and + spoke. “Not to-day Betsy! I can't face my friends just now. Someway I am + making an awful fist of things. Everything I do is wrong. She no more + trusts me than you would a rattlesnake, Belshazzar; and from all + appearance she takes me to be almost as deadly. What must have been her + experiences in life to ingrain fear and distrust in her soul at that rate? + I always knew I was not handsome, but I never before regarded my + appearance as alarming. And I 'fixed up,' too!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester grinned a queer little twist of a grin that pulled and + distorted his strained face. “Might as well have gone with a week's beard, + a soiled shirt, and a leer! And I've always been as decent as I knew! + What's the reward for clean living anyway, if the girl you love strikes + you like that?” + </p> + <p> + Belshazzar reached across and kissed him. The Harvester put his arm around + the dog. In the man's disappointment and heart hunger he leaned his head + against the beast and said, “I've always got you to love and protect me, + anyway, Belshazzar. Maybe the man who said a dog was a man's best friend + was right. You always trusted me, didn't you Bel? And you never regretted + it but once, and that wasn't my fault. I never did it! If I did, I'm + getting good and well paid for it. I'd rather be kicked until all the ribs + of one side are broken, Bel, than to swallow the dose she just handed me. + I tell you it was bitter, lad! What am I going to do? Can't you help me, + Bel?” + </p> + <p> + Belshazzar quivered in anxiety to offer the comfort he could not speak. + </p> + <p> + “Of course you are right! You always are, Bel!” said the Harvester. “I + know what you are trying to tell me. Sure enough, she didn't have any + dream. I am afraid she had the bitterest reality. She hasn't been loving a + vision of me, working and searching for me, and I don't mean to her what + she does to me. Of course I see that I must be patient and bide my time. + If there is anything in 'like begetting like' she is bound to care for me + some day, for I love her past all expression, and for all she feels I + might as well save my breath. But she has got to awake some day, Bel. She + can make up her mind to that. She can't see 'why.' Over and over! I wonder + what she would think if I'd up and tell her 'why' with no frills. She will + drive me to it some day, then probably the shock will finish her. I wonder + if Doc was only fooling or if he really would do what he said. It might + wake her up, anyway, but I'm dubious as to the result. How Uncle Henry can + roar! He sounded like a fog horn. I'd love to try my muscle on a man like + that. No wonder she is afraid of him, if she is of me. Afraid! Well of all + things I ever did expect, Belshazzar, that is the limit.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X. THE CHIME OF THE BLUE BELLS + </h2> + <p> + The Harvester finished his evening work and went to examine the cocoons. + Many of the moths had emerged and flown, but the luna cases remained in + the bottom of the box. As he stood looking at them one moved and he + smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I'd give something if you would come out and be ready to work on by + to-morrow afternoon,” he said. “Possibly you would so interest her that + she would forget her fear of me. I'd like mighty well to take you along, + because she might care for you, and I do need the pattern for my + candlestick. Believe I'll lay you in a warmer place.” + </p> + <p> + The first thing the next morning the Harvester looked and found the open + cocoon and the wet moth clinging by its feet to a twig he had placed for + it. + </p> + <p> + “Luck is with me!” he exulted. “I'll carry you to her and be mighty + careful what I say, and maybe she will forget about the fear.” + </p> + <p> + All the forenoon he cut and spread boneset, saffron, and hemlock on the + trays to dry. At noon he put on a fresh outfit, ate a hasty lunch, and + drove to Onabasha. He carried the moth in a box, and as he started he + picked up a rake. He went to an art store and bought the pencils and paper + she had ordered. He wanted to purchase everything he saw for her, but he + was fast learning a lesson of deep caution. If he took more than she + ordered, she would worry over paying, and if he refused to accept money, + she would put that everlasting “why” at him again. The water-colour paper + and paint he could not forego. He could make a desire to have the moth + coloured explain those, he thought. + </p> + <p> + Then he went to a furniture store and bought several articles, and + forgetting his law against haste, he drove Betsy full speed to the river. + He was rather heavily ladened as he went up the bank, and it was only one + o'clock. There was an hour. He rolled away the log, raked together and + removed the leaves to the ground. He tramped the earth level and spread a + large cheap porch rug. On this he opened and placed a little folding table + and chair. On the table he spread the pencils, paper, colour box and + brushes, and went to the river to fill the water cup. Then he sat on the + log he had rolled to one side and waited. After two hours he arose and + crept as close the house as he could through the woods, but he could not + secure a glimpse of the Girl. He went back and waited an hour more, and + then undid his work and removed it. When he came to the moth his face was + very grim as he lifted the twig and helped the beautiful creature to climb + on a limb. “You'll be ready to fly in a few hours,” he said. “If I keep + you in a box you will ruin your wings and be no suitable subject, and put + you in a cyanide jar I will not. I am hurt too badly myself. I wonder if + what Doc said was the right way! It's certainly a temptation.” + </p> + <p> + Then he went home; and again Betsy veered at the hospital, and once more + the Harvester explained to her that he did not want to see the doctor. + That evening and the following forenoon were difficult, but the Harvester + lived through them, and in the afternoon went back to the woods, spread + his rug, and set up the table. Only one streak of luck brightened the + gloom in his heart. A yellow emperor had emerged in the night, and now + occupied the place of yesterday's luna. She never need know it was not the + one he wanted, and it would make an excuse for the colour box. + </p> + <p> + He was watching intently and saw her coming a long way off. He noticed + that she looked neither right nor left, but came straight as if walking a + bridge. As she reached the place she glanced hastily around and then at + him. The Harvester forgave her everything as he saw the look of relief + with which she stepped upon the carpet. Then she turned to him. + </p> + <p> + “I won't have to ask 'why' this time,” she said. “I know that you did it + because I was baby enough to tell what a coward I am. I'm sure you can't + afford it, and I know you shouldn't have done it, but oh, what a comfort! + If you will promise never to do any such expensive, foolish, kind thing + again, I'll say thank you this time. I couldn't come yesterday, because + Aunt Molly was worse and Uncle Henry was at home all day.” + </p> + <p> + “I supposed it was something like that,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + She advanced and handed him the roll of bills. + </p> + <p> + “I had a feeling you would be reckless,” she said. “I saw it in your face, + so I came back as soon as I could steal away, and sure enough, there lay + your money and the books and everything. I hid them in the thicket, so + they will be all right. I've almost prayed it wouldn't rain. I didn't dare + carry them to the house. Please take the money. I haven't time to argue + about it or strength, but of course I can't possibly use it unless I earn + it. I'm so anxious to see the pencils and paper.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester thrust the money into his pocket. The Girl went to the + table, opened and spread the paper, and took out the pencils. + </p> + <p> + “Is my subject in here?” she touched the colour box. + </p> + <p> + “No, the other.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it alive? May I open it?” + </p> + <p> + “We will be very careful at first,” said the Harvester. “It only left its + case in the night and may fly. When the weather is so warm the wings + develop rapidly. Perhaps if I remove the lid——” + </p> + <p> + He took off the cover, exposing a big moth, its lovely, pale yellow wings, + flecked with heliotrope, outspread as it clung to a twig in the box. The + Girl leaned forward. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “One of the big night moths that emerge and fly a few hours in June.” + </p> + <p> + “Is this what you want for your candlestick?” + </p> + <p> + “If I can't do better. There is one other I prefer, but it may not come at + a time that you can get it right.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean by 'right'?” + </p> + <p> + “So that you can copy it before it wants to fly.” + </p> + <p> + “Why don't you chloroform and pin it until I am ready?” + </p> + <p> + “I am not in the business of killing and impaling exquisite creatures like + that.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean that if I can't draw it when it is just right you will let it + go?” + </p> + <p> + “I do.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “I told you why.” + </p> + <p> + “I know you said you were not in the business, but why wouldn't you take + only one you really wanted to use?” + </p> + <p> + “I would be afraid,” replied the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Afraid? You!” + </p> + <p> + “I must have a mighty good reason before I kill,” said the man. “I cannot + give life; I have no right to take it away. I will let my statement stand. + I am afraid.” + </p> + <p> + “Of what please?” + </p> + <p> + “An indefinable something that follows me and makes me suffer if I am + wantonly cruel.” + </p> + <p> + “Is there any particular pose in which you want this bird placed?” + </p> + <p> + “Allow me to present you to the yellow emperor, known in the books as + eagles imperialis,” he said. “I want him as he clings naturally and life + size.” + </p> + <p> + She took up a pencil. + </p> + <p> + “If you don't mind,” said the Harvester, “would you draw on this other + paper? I very much want the colour, also, and you can use it on this. I + brought a box along, and I'll get you water. I had it all ready + yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you have this same moth?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I had another.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you have the one you wanted most?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes——but it's no difference.” + </p> + <p> + “And you let it go because I was not here?” + </p> + <p> + “No. It went on account of exquisite beauty. If kept in confinement it + would struggle and break its wings. You see, that one was a delicate + green, where this is yellow, plain pale blue green, with a lavender rib + here, and long curled trailers edged with pale yellow, and eye spots + rimmed with red and black.” + </p> + <p> + As the Harvester talked he indicated the points of difference with a + pencil he had picked up; now he laid it down and retreated beyond the + limits of the rug. + </p> + <p> + “I see,” said the Girl. “And this is colour?” + </p> + <p> + She touched the box. + </p> + <p> + “A few colours, rather,” said the Harvester. “I selected enough to fill + the box, with the help of the clerk who sold them to me. If they are not + right, I have permission to return and exchange them for anything you + want.” + </p> + <p> + With eager fingers she opened the box, and bent over it a face filled with + interest. + </p> + <p> + “Oh how I've always wanted this! I scarcely can wait to try it. I do hope + I can have it for my very own. Was it quite expensive?” + </p> + <p> + “No. Very cheap!” said the Harvester. “The paper isn't worth mentioning. + The little, empty tin box was only a few cents, and the paints differ + according to colour. Some appear to be more than others. I was surprised + that the outfit was so inexpensive.” + </p> + <p> + A skeptical little smile wavered on the Girl's face as she drew her + slender fingers across the trays of bright colour. + </p> + <p> + “If one dared accept your word, you really would be a comfort,” she said, + as she resolutely closed the box, pushed it away, and picked up a pencil. + </p> + <p> + “If you will take the trouble to inquire at the banks, post office, + express office, hospital or of any druggist in Onabasha, you will find + that my word is exactly as good as my money, and taken quite as readily.” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't say I doubted you. I have no right to do that until I feel you + deceive me. What I said was 'dared accept,' which means I must not, + because I have no right. But you make one wonder what you would do if you + were coaxed and asked for things and led by insinuations.” + </p> + <p> + “I can tell you that,” said the Harvester. “It would depend altogether on + who wanted anything of me and what they asked. If you would undertake to + coax and insinuate, you never would get it done, because I'd see what you + needed and have it at hand before you had time.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl looked at him wonderingly. + </p> + <p> + “Now don't spring your recurrent 'why' on me,” said the Harvester. “I'll + tell you 'why' some of these days. Just now answer me this question: Do + you want me to remain here or leave until you finish? Which way would you + be least afraid?” + </p> + <p> + “I am not at all afraid on the rug and with my work,” she said. “If you + want to hunt ginseng go by all means.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't want to hunt anything,” said the Harvester. “But if you are more + comfortable with me away, I'll be glad to go. I'll leave the dog with + you.” + </p> + <p> + He gave a short whistle and Belshazzar came bounding to him. The Harvester + stepped to the Girl's side, and dropping on one knee, he drew his hand + across the rug close to her skirts. + </p> + <p> + “Right here, Belshazzar,” he said. “Watch! You are on guard, Bel.” + </p> + <p> + “Well of all names for a dog!” exclaimed the Girl. “Why did you select + that?” + </p> + <p> + “My mother named my first dog Belshazzar, and taught me why; so each of + the three I've owned since have been christened the same. It means 'to + protect' and that is the office all of them perform; this one especially + has filled it admirably. Once I failed him, but he never has gone back on + me. You see he is not a particle afraid of me. Every step I take, he is at + my heels.” + </p> + <p> + “So was Bill Sikes' dog, if I remember.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester laughed. + </p> + <p> + “Bel,” he said, “if you could speak you'd say that was an ugly one, + wouldn't you?” + </p> + <p> + The dog sprang up and kissed the face of the man and rubbed a loving head + against his breast. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you!” said the Harvester. “Now lie down and protect this woman as + carefully as you ever watched in your life. And incidentally, Bel, tell + her that she can't exterminate me more than once a day, and the + performance is accomplished for the present. I refuse to be a willing + sacrifice. 'So was Bill Sikes' dog!' What do you think of that, Bel?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester arose and turned to go. + </p> + <p> + “What if this thing attempts to fly?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Your pardon,” said the Harvester. “If the emperor moves, slide the lid + over the box a few seconds, until he settles and clings quietly again, and + then slowly draw it away. If you are careful not to jar the table heavily + he will not go for hours yet.” + </p> + <p> + Again he turned. + </p> + <p> + “If there is no danger, why do you leave the dog?” + </p> + <p> + “For company,” said the Harvester. “I thought you would prefer an animal + you are not afraid of to a man you are. But let me tell you there is no + necessity for either. I know a woman who goes alone and unafraid through + every foot of woods in this part of the country. She has climbed, crept, + and waded, and she tells me she never saw but two venomous snakes this + side of Michigan. Nothing ever dropped on her or sprang at her. She feels + as secure in the woods as she does at home.” + </p> + <p> + “Isn't she afraid of snakes?” + </p> + <p> + “She dislikes snakes, but she is not afraid or she would not risk + encountering them daily.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you ever find any?” + </p> + <p> + “Harmless little ones, often. That is, Bel does. He is always nosing for + them, because he understands that I work in the earth. I think I have + encountered three dangerous ones in my life. I will guarantee you will not + find one in these woods. They are too open and too much cleared.” + </p> + <p> + “Then why leave the dog?” + </p> + <p> + “I thought,” said the Harvester patiently, “that your uncle might have + turned in some of his cattle, or if pigs came here the dog could chase + them away.” + </p> + <p> + She looked at him with utter panic in her face. + </p> + <p> + “I am far more afraid of a cow than a snake!” she cried. “It is so much + bigger!” + </p> + <p> + “How did you ever come into these woods alone far enough to find the + ginseng?” asked the Harvester. “Answer me that!” + </p> + <p> + “I wore Uncle Henry's top boots and carried a rake, and I suffered + tortures,” she replied. + </p> + <p> + “But you hunted until you found what you wanted, and came again to keep + watch on it?” + </p> + <p> + “I was driven—simply forced. There's no use to discuss it!” + </p> + <p> + “Well thank the Lord for one thing,” said the Harvester. “You didn't + appear half so terrified at the sight of me as you did at the mere mention + of a cow. I have risen inestimably in my own self-respect. Belshazzar, you + may pursue the elusive chipmunk. I am going to guard this woman myself, + and please, kind fates, send a ferocious cow this way, in order that I may + prove my valour.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl's face flushed slightly, and she could not restrain a laugh. That + was all the Harvester hoped for and more. He went beyond the edge of the + rug and sat on the leaves under a tree. She bent over her work and only + bird and insect notes and occasionally Belshazzar's excited bark broke the + silence. The Harvester stretched on the ground, his eyes feasting on the + Girl. Intensely he watched every movement. If a squirrel barked she gave a + nervous start, so precipitate it seemed as if it must hurt. If a windfall + came rattling down she appeared ready to fly in headlong terror in any + direction. At last she dropped her pencil and looked at him helplessly. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “The silence and these awful crashes when one doesn't know what is + coming,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Will it bother you if I talk? Perhaps the sound of my voice will help?” + </p> + <p> + “I am accustomed to working when people talk, and it will be a comfort. I + may be able to follow you, and that will prevent me from thinking. There + are dreadful things in my mind when they are not driven out. Please talk! + Tell me about the herbs you gathered this morning.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester gave the Girl one long look as she bent over her work. He + was vividly conscious of the graceful curves of her little figure, the + coil of dark, silky hair, softly waving around her temples and neck, and + when her eyes turned in his direction he knew that it was only the white, + drawn face that restrained him. He was almost forced to tell her how he + loved and longed for her; about the home he had prepared; of a thousand + personal interests. Instead, he took a firm grip and said casually, + “Foxglove harvest is over. This plant has to be taken when the leaves are + in second year growth and at bloom time. I have stripped my mullein beds + of both leaves and flowers. I finished a week ago. Beyond lies a stretch + of Parnassus grass that made me think of you, it was so white and + delicate. I want you to see it. It will be lovely in a few weeks more.” + </p> + <p> + “You never had seen me a week ago.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh hadn't I?” said the Harvester. “Well maybe I dreamed about you then. I + am a great dreamer. Once I had a dream that may interest you some day, + after you've overcome your fear of me. Now this bed of which I was + speaking is a picture in September. You must arrange to drive home with me + and see it then.” + </p> + <p> + “For what do you sell foxglove and mullein?” + </p> + <p> + “Foxglove for heart trouble, and mullein for catarrh. I get ten cents a + pound for foxglove leaves and five for mullein and from seventy-five to a + dollar for flowers of the latter, depending on how well I preserve the + colour in drying them. They must be sealed in bottles and handled with + extreme care.” + </p> + <p> + “Then if I wasn't too childish to be out picking them, I could be earning + seventy-five cents a pound for mullein blooms?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the Harvester, “but until you learned the trick of stripping + them rapidly you scarcely could gather what would weigh two pounds a day, + when dried. Not to mention the fact that you would have to stand and work + mostly in hot sunshine, because mullein likes open roads and fields and + sunny hills. Now you can sit securely in the shade, and in two hours you + can make me a pattern of that moth, for which I would pay a designer of + the arts and crafts shop five dollars, so of course you shall have the + same.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh no!” she cried in swift panic. “You were charged too much! It isn't + worth a dollar, even!” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary the candlestick on which I shall use it will be + invaluable when I finish it, and five is very little for the cream of my + design. I paid just right. You can earn the same for all you can do. If + you can embroider linen, they pay good prices for that, too and wood + carving, metal work, or leather things. May I see how you are coming on?” + </p> + <p> + “Please do,” she said. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester sprang up and looked over the Girl's shoulder. He could not + suppress an exclamation of delight. + </p> + <p> + “Perfect!” he cried. “You can surpass their best drafting at the shop! + Your fortune is made. Any time you want to go to Onabasha you can make + enough to pay your board, dress you well, and save something every week. + You must leave here as soon as you can manage it. When can you go?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know,” she said wearily. “I'd hate to tell you how full of aches + I am. I could not work much just now, if I had the best opportunities in + the world. I must grow stronger.” + </p> + <p> + “You should not work at anything until you are well,” he said. “It is a + crime against nature to drive yourself. Why will you not allow——” + </p> + <p> + “Do you really think, with a little practice, I can draw designs that will + sell?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester picked up the sheet. The work was delicate and exact. He + could see no way to improve it. + </p> + <p> + “You know it will sell,” he said gently, “because you already have sold + such work.” + </p> + <p> + “But not for the prices you offer.” + </p> + <p> + “The prices I name are going to be for NEW, ORIGINAL DESIGNS. I've got a + thousand in my head, that old Mother Nature shows me in the woods and on + the water every day.” + </p> + <p> + “But those are yours; I can't take them.” + </p> + <p> + “You must,” said the Harvester. “I only see and recognize studies; I can't + materialize them, and until they are drawn, no one can profit by them. In + this partnership we revolutionize decorative art. There are actually birds + besides fat robins and nondescript swallows. The crane and heron do not + monopolize the water. Wild rose and golden-rod are not the only flowers. + The other day I was gathering lobelia. The seeds are used in tonic + preparations. It has an upright stem with flowers scattered along it. In + itself it is not much, but close beside it always grows its cousin, tall + bell-flower. As the name indicates, the flowers are bell shape and I can't + begin to describe their grace, beauty, and delicate blue colour. They ring + my strongest call to worship. My work keeps me in the woods so much I + remain there for my religion also. Whenever I find these flowers I always + pause for a little service of my own that begins by reciting these lines: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “'Neath cloistered boughs, each floral bell that swingeth + And tolls its perfume on the passing air, + Makes Sabbath in the fields, and ever ringeth + A call to prayer.” + </pre> + <p> + “Beautiful!” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “It's mighty convenient,” explained the Harvester. “By my method, you see, + you don't have to wait for your day and hour of worship. Anywhere the blue + bell rings its call it is Sunday in the woods and in your heart. After I + recite that, I pray my prayer.” + </p> + <p> + “Go on!” said the Girl. “This is no place to stop.” + </p> + <p> + “It is always one and the same prayer, and there are only two lines of + it,” said the Harvester. “It runs this way—— Let me take your + pencil and I will write it for you.” + </p> + <p> + He bent over her shoulder, and traced these lines on a scrap of the + wrapping paper: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Almighty Evolver of the Universe: + Help me to keep my soul and body clean, + And at all times to do unto others as I would be done by. + Amen.” + </pre> + <p> + The Girl took the slip and sat studying it; then she raised her eyes to + his face curiously, but with a tinge of awe in them. + </p> + <p> + “I can see you standing over a blue, bell-shaped flower reciting those + exquisite lines and praying this wonderful prayer,” she said. “Yesterday + you allowed the moth you were willing to pay five dollars for a drawing + of, to go, because you wouldn't risk breaking its wings. Why you are more + like a woman!” + </p> + <p> + A red stream crimsoned the Harvester's face. + </p> + <p> + “Well heretofore I have been considered strictly masculine,” he said. “To + appreciate beauty or to try to be just commonly decent is not exclusively + feminine. You must remember there are painters, poets, musicians, workers + in art along almost any line you could mention, and no one calls them + feminine, but there is one good thing if I am. You need no longer fear me. + If you should see me, muck covered, grubbing in the earth or on a raft + washing roots in the lake, you would not consider me like a woman.” + </p> + <p> + “Would it be any discredit if I did? I think not. I merely meant that most + men would not see or hear the blue bell at all——and as for the + poem and prayer! If the woods make a man with such fibre in his soul, I + must learn them if they half kill me.” + </p> + <p> + “You harp on death. Try to forget the word.” + </p> + <p> + “I have faced it for months, and seen it do its grinding worst very + recently to the only thing on earth I loved or that loved me. I have no + desire to forget! Tell me more about the plants.” + </p> + <p> + “Forgive me,” said the Harvester gently. “Just now I am collecting catnip + for the infant and nervous people, hoarhound for colds and dyspepsia, + boneset heads and flowers for the same purpose. There is a heavy head of + white bloom with wonderful lacy leaves, called yarrow. I take the entire + plant for a tonic and blessed thistle leaves and flowers for the same + purpose.” + </p> + <p> + “That must be what I need,” interrupted the Girl. “Half the time I believe + I have a little fever, but I couldn't have dyspepsia, because I never want + anything to eat; perhaps the tonic would make me hungry.” + </p> + <p> + “Promise me you will tell that to the doctor who comes to see your aunt, + and take what he gives you.” + </p> + <p> + “No doctor comes to see my aunt. She is merely playing lazy to get out of + work. There is nothing the matter with her.” + </p> + <p> + “Then why——” + </p> + <p> + “My uncle says that. Really, she could not stand and walk across a room + alone. She is simply worn out.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall report the case,” said the Harvester instantly. + </p> + <p> + “You better not!” said the Girl. “There must be a mistake about you + knowing my uncle. Tell me more of the flowers.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester drew a deep breath and continued: + </p> + <p> + “These I just have named I take at bloom time; next month come purple + thorn apple, jimson weed, and hemlock.” + </p> + <p> + “Isn't that poison?” + </p> + <p> + “Half the stuff I handle is.” + </p> + <p> + “Aren't you afraid?” + </p> + <p> + “Terribly,” said the Harvester in laughing voice. “But I want the money, + the sick folk need the medicine, and I drink water.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl laughed also. + </p> + <p> + “Look here!” said the Harvester. “Why not tell me just as closely as you + can about your aunt, and let me fix something for her; or if you are + afraid to trust me, let me have my friend of whom I spoke yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps I am not so much afraid as I was,” said the Girl. “I wish I + could! How could I explain where I got it and I wonder if she would take + it.” + </p> + <p> + “Give it to her without any explanation,” said the Harvester. “Tell her it + will make her stronger and she must use it. Tell me exactly how she is, + and I will fix up some harmless remedies that may help, and can do no + harm.” + </p> + <p> + “She simply has been neglected, overworked, and abused until she has lain + down, turned her face to the wall, and given up hope. I think it is too + late. I think the end will come soon. But I wish you would try. I'll + gladly pay——” + </p> + <p> + “Don't!” said the Harvester. “Not for things that grow in the woods and + that I prepare. Don't think of money every minute.” + </p> + <p> + “I must,” she said with forced restraint. “It is the price of life. + Without it one suffers——horribly——as I know. What + other plants do you gather?” + </p> + <p> + “Saffron,” answered the Harvester. “A beautiful thing! You must see it. + Tall, round stems, lacy, delicate leaves, big heads of bright yellow + bloom, touched with colour so dark it appears black—one of the + loveliest plants that grows. You should see my big bed of it in a week or + two more. It makes a picture.” + </p> + <p> + The words recalled him to the Girl. He turned to study her. He forgot his + commission and chafed at conventions that prevented his doing what he saw + was required so urgently. Fearing she would notice, he gazed away through + the forest and tried to think, to plan. + </p> + <p> + “You are not making noise enough,” she said. + </p> + <p> + So absorbed was the Harvester he scarcely heard her. In an attempt to obey + he began to whistle softly. A tiny goldfinch in a nest of thistle down and + plant fibre in the branching of a bush ten feet above him stuck her head + over the brim and inquired, “P'tseet?” “Pt'see!” answer the Harvester. + That began the duet. Before the question had been asked and answered a + half dozen times a catbird intruded its voice and hearing a reply came + through the bushes to investigate. A wren followed and became very saucy. + From——one could not see where, came a vireo, and almost at the + same time a chewink had something to say. + </p> + <p> + Instantly the Harvester answered. Then a blue jay came chattering to + ascertain what all the fuss was about, and the Harvester carried on a + conversation that called up the remainder of the feathered tribe. A + brilliant cardinal came tearing through the thicket, his beady black eyes + snapping, and demanded to know if any one were harming his mate, brooding + under a wild grape leaf in a scrub elm on the river embankment. A brown + thrush silently slipped like a snake between shrubs and trees, and + catching the universal excitement, began to flirt his tail and utter a + weird, whistling cry. + </p> + <p> + With one eye on the bird, and the other on the Girl sitting in amazed + silence, the Harvester began working for effect. He lay quietly, but in + turn he answered a dozen birds so accurately they thought their mates were + calling, and closer and closer they came. An oriole in orange and black + heard his challenge, and flew up the river bank, answering at steady + intervals for quite a time before it was visible, and in resorting to the + last notes he could think of a quail whistled “Bob White” and a shitepoke, + skulking along the river bank, stopped and cried, “Cowk, cowk!” + </p> + <p> + At his limit of calls the Harvester changed his notes and whistled and + cried bits of bird talk in tone with every mellow accent and inflection he + could manage. Gradually the excitement subsided, the birds flew and tilted + closer, turned their sleek heads, peered with bright eyes, and ventured on + and on until the very bravest, the wren and the jay, were almost in touch. + Then, tired of hunting, Belshazzar came racing and the little feathered + people scattered in precipitate flight. + </p> + <p> + “How do you like that kind of a noise?” inquired the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + The Girl drew a deep breath. + </p> + <p> + “Of course you know that was the most exquisite sight I ever saw,” she + said. “I never shall forget it. I did not think there were that many + different birds in the whole world. Of all the gaudy colours! And they + came so close you could have reached out and touched them.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the Harvester calmly. “Birds are never afraid of me. At + Medicine Woods, when I call them like that, many, most of them, in fact, + eat from my hand. If you ever have looked at me enough to notice bulgy + pockets, they are full of wheat. These birds are strangers, but I'll wager + you that in a week I can make them take food from me. Of course, my own + birds know me, because they are around every day. It is much easier to + tame them in winter, when the snow has fallen and food is scarce, but it + only takes a little while to win a bird's confidence at any season.” + </p> + <p> + “Birds don't know what there is to be afraid of,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Your pardon,” said the Harvester, “but I am familiar with them, and that + is not correct. They have more to fear than human beings. No one is going + to kill you merely to see if he can shoot straight enough to hit. Your + life is not in danger because you have magnificent hair that some woman + would like for an ornament. You will not be stricken out in a flash + because there are a few bits of meat on your frame some one wants to eat. + No one will set a seductive trap for you, and, if you are tempted to enter + it, shut you from freedom and natural diet, in a cage so small you can't + turn around without touching bars. You are in a secure and free position + compared with the birds. I also have observed that they know guns, many + forms of traps, and all of them decide by the mere manner of a man's + passing through the woods whether he is a friend or an enemy. Birds know + more than many people realize. They do not always correctly estimate gun + range, they are foolishly venturesome at times when they want food, but + they know many more things than most people give them credit for + understanding. The greatest trouble with the birds is they are too willing + to trust us and be friendly, so they are often deceived.” + </p> + <p> + “That sounds as if you were right,” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “I am of the woods, so I know I am,” answered the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Will you look at this now?” + </p> + <p> + He examined the drawing closely. + </p> + <p> + “Where did you learn?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “My mother. She was educated to her finger tips. She drew, painted, played + beautifully, sang well, and she had read almost all the best books. + Besides what I learned at high school she taught me all I know. Her + embroidery always brought higher prices than mine, try as I might. I never + saw any one else make such a dainty, accurate little stitch as she could.” + </p> + <p> + “If this is not perfect, I don't know how to criticise it. I can and will + use it in my work. But I have one luna cocoon remaining and I would give + ten dollars for such a drawing of the moth before it flies. It may open + to-night or not for several days. If your aunt should be worse and you + cannot come to-morrow and the moth emerges, is there any way in which I + could send it to you?” + </p> + <p> + “What could I do with it?” + </p> + <p> + “I thought perhaps you could take a piece of paper and the pencils with + you, and secure an outline in your room. It need not be worked up with all + the detail in this. Merely a skeleton sketch would do. Could I leave it at + the house or send it with some one?” + </p> + <p> + “No! Oh no!” she cried. “Leave it here. Put it in a box in the bushes + where I hid the books. What are you going to do with these things?” + </p> + <p> + “Hide them in the thicket and scatter leaves over them.” + </p> + <p> + “What if it rains?” + </p> + <p> + “I have thought of that. I brought a few yards of oilcloth to-day and they + will be safe and dry if it pours.” + </p> + <p> + “Good!” she said. “Then if the moth comes out you bring it, and if I am + not here, put it under the cloth and I will run up some time in the + afternoon. But if I were you, I would not spread the rug until you know if + I can remain. I have to steal every minute I am away, and any day uncle + takes a notion to stay at home I dare not come.” + </p> + <p> + “Try to come to-morrow. I am going to bring some medicine for your aunt.” + </p> + <p> + “Put it under the cloth if I am not here; but I will come if I can. I must + go now; I have been away far too long.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester picked up one of the drug pamphlets, laid the drawing inside + it, and placed it with his other books. Then he drew out his pocket book + and laid a five-dollar bill on the table and began folding up the chair + and putting away the things. The Girl looked at the money with eager eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Is that honestly what you would pay at the arts and crafts place?” + </p> + <p> + “It is the customary price for my patterns.” + </p> + <p> + “And are you sure this is as good?” + </p> + <p> + “I can bring you some I have paid that for, and let you see for yourself + that it is better.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish you would!” she cried eagerly. “I need that money, and I would + like to have it dearly, if I really have earned it, but I can't touch it + if I have not.” + </p> + <p> + “Won't you accept my word?” + </p> + <p> + “No. I will see the other drawings first, and if I think mine are as good, + I will be glad to take the money to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “What if you can't come?” + </p> + <p> + “Put them under the oilcloth. I watch all the time and I think Uncle Henry + has trained even the boys so they don't play in the river on his land. I + never see a soul here; the woods, house, and everything is desolate until + he comes home and then it is like——” she paused. + </p> + <p> + “I'll say it for you,” said the Harvester promptly. “Then it is like + hell.” + </p> + <p> + “At its worst,” supplemented the Girl. Taking pencils and a sheet of paper + she went swiftly through the woods. Before she left the shelter of the + trees, the Harvester saw her busy her hands with the front of her dress, + and he knew that she was concealing the drawing material. The colour box + was left, and he said things as he put it with the chair and table, + covered them with the rug and oilcloth, and heaped on a layer of leaves. + </p> + <p> + Then he drove to the city and Betsy turned at the hospital corner with no + interference. He could face his friend that day. Despite all + discouragements he felt reassured. He was progressing. Means of + communication had been established. If she did not come, he could leave a + note and tell her if the moth had not emerged and how sorry he was to have + missed seeing her. + </p> + <p> + “Hello, lover!” cried Doctor Carey as the Harvester entered the office. + “Are you married yet?” + </p> + <p> + “No. But I'm going to be,” said the Harvester with confidence. + </p> + <p> + “Have you asked her?” + </p> + <p> + “No. We are getting acquainted. She is too close to trouble, too ill, and + too worried over a sick relative for me to intrude myself; it would be + brutal, but it's a temptation. Doc, is there any way to compel a man to + provide medical care for his wife?” + </p> + <p> + “Can he afford it?” + </p> + <p> + “Amply. Anything! Worth thousands in land and nobody knows what in money. + It's Henry Jameson.” + </p> + <p> + “The meanest man I ever knew. If he has a wife it's a marvel she has + survived this long. Won't he provide for her?” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose he thinks he has when she has a bed to lie on and a roof to + cover her. He won't supply food she can eat and medicine. He says she is + lazy.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you think?” + </p> + <p> + “I quote Miss Jameson. She says her aunt is slowly dying from overwork and + neglect.” + </p> + <p> + “David, doesn't it seem pretty good, when you say 'Miss Jameson'?” + </p> + <p> + “Loveliest sound on earth, except the remainder of it.” + </p> + <p> + “What's that?” + </p> + <p> + “Ruth!” + </p> + <p> + “Jove! That is a beautiful name. Ruth Langston. It will go well, won't + it?” + </p> + <p> + “Music that the birds, insects, Singing Water, the trees, and the breeze + can't ever equal. I'm holding on with all my might, but it's tough, Doc. + She's in such a dreadful place and position, and she needs so much. She is + sick. Can't you give me a prescription for each of them?” + </p> + <p> + “You just bet I can,” said the doctor, “if you can engineer their taking + them.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose you'd hold their noses and pour stuff down them.” + </p> + <p> + “I would if necessary.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it is.” + </p> + <p> + “All right——I'll fix something, and you see that they use it.” + </p> + <p> + “I can try,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Try! Pah! You aren't half a man!” + </p> + <p> + “That's a half more than being a woman, anyway.” + </p> + <p> + “She called you feminine, did she?” cried the doctor, dancing and + laughing. “She ought to see you harvesting skunk cabbage and blue flag or + when you are angry enough.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor left the room and it was a half hour before he returned. + </p> + <p> + “Try that on them according to directions,” he said, handing over a couple + of bottles. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you!” said the Harvester, “I will!” + </p> + <p> + “That sounds manly enough.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh pother! It's not that I'm not a man, or a laggard in love; but I'd + like to know what you'd do to a girl dumb with grief over the recent loss + of her mother, who was her only relative worth counting, sick from God + knows what exposure and privation, and now a dying relative on her hands. + What could you do?” + </p> + <p> + “I'd marry her and pick her out of it!” + </p> + <p> + “I wouldn't have her, if she'd leave a sick woman for me!” + </p> + <p> + “I wouldn't either. She's got to stick it out until her aunt grows better, + and then I'll go out there and show you how to court a girl.” + </p> + <p> + “I guess not! You keep the girl you did court, courted, and you'll have + your hands full. How does that appear to you?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester opened the pamphlet he carried and held up the drawing of + the moth. + </p> + <p> + The doctor turned to the light. + </p> + <p> + “Good work!” he cried. “Did she do that?” + </p> + <p> + “She did. In a little over an hour.” + </p> + <p> + “Fine! She should have a chance.” + </p> + <p> + “She is going to. She is going to have all the opportunity that is coming + to her.” + </p> + <p> + “Good for you, David! Any time I can help!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester replaced the sketch and went to the wagon; but he left + Belshazzar in charge, and visited the largest dry goods store in Onabasha, + where he held a conference with the floor walker. When he came out he + carried a heaping load of boxes of every size and shape, with a label on + each. He drove to Medicine Woods singing and whistling. + </p> + <p> + “She didn't want me to go, Belshazzar!” he chuckled to the dog. “She was + more afraid of a cow than she was of me. I made some headway to-day, old + boy. She doesn't seem to have a ray of an idea what I am there for, but + she is going to trust me soon now; that is written in the books. Oh I hope + she will be there to-morrow, and the luna will be out. Got half a notion + to take the case and lay it in the warmest place I can find. But if it + comes out and she isn't there, I'll be sorry. Better trust to luck.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester stabled Betsy, fed the stock, and visited with the birds. + After supper he took his purchases and entered her room. He opened the + drawers of the chest he had made, and selecting the labelled boxes he laid + them in. But not a package did he open. Then he arose and radiated conceit + of himself. + </p> + <p> + “I'll wager she will like those,” he commented proudly, “because Kane + promised me fairly that he would have the right things put up for a girl + the size of the clerk I selected for him, and exactly what Ruth should + have. That girl was slenderer and not quite so tall, but he said + everything was made long on purpose. Now what else should I get?” + </p> + <p> + He turned to the dressing table and taking a notebook from his pocket made + this list: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Rugs for bed and bath room. + Mattresses, pillows and bedding, + Dresses for all occasions. + All kinds of shoes and overshoes. +</pre> + <p> + “There are gloves, too!” exclaimed the Harvester. “She has to have some, + but how am I going to know what is right? Oh, but she needs shoes! High, + low, slippers, everything! I wonder what that clerk wears. I don't believe + shoes would be comfortable without being fitted, or at least the proper + size. I wonder what kind of dresses she likes. I hope she's fond of white. + A woman always appears loveliest in that. Maybe I'd better buy what I'm + sure of and let her select the dresses. But I'd love to have this room + crammed with girl-fixings when she comes. Doesn't seem as if she ever has + had any little luxuries. I can't miss it on anything a woman uses. Let me + think!” + </p> + <p> + Slowly he wrote again: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Parasols. + Fans. + Veils. + Hats. +</pre> + <p> + “I never can get them! I think that will keep me busy for a few days,” + said the Harvester as he closed the door softly, and went to look at the + pupae cases. Then he carved on the vine of the candlestick for her + dressing table; with one arm around Belshazzar, re-read the story of John + Muir's dog, went into the lake, and to bed. Just as he was becoming + unconscious the beast lifted an inquiring head and gazed at the man. + </p> + <p> + “More 'fraid of cow,” the Harvester was muttering in a sleepy chuckle. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI. DEMONSTRATED COURTSHIP + </h2> + <p> + When the Harvester saw the Girl coming toward the woods, he spread the + rug, opened and placed the table and chair, laid out the colour box, and + another containing the last luna. + </p> + <p> + “Did the green one come out?” she asked, touching the box lightly. + </p> + <p> + “It did!” said the Harvester proudly, as if he were responsible for the + performance. “It is an omen! It means that I am to have my long-coveted + pattern for my best candlestick. It also clearly indicates that the gods + of luck are with me for the day, and I get my way about everything. There + won't be the least use in your asking 'why' or interposing objections. + This is my clean sweep. I shall be fearfully dictatorial and you must + submit, because the fates have pointed out that they favour me to-day, and + if you go contrary to their decrees you will have a bad time.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl's smile was a little wan. She sank on a chair and picked up a + pencil. + </p> + <p> + “Lay that down!” cried the Harvester. “You haven't had permission from the + Dictator to begin drawing. You are to sit and rest a long time.” + </p> + <p> + “Please may I speak?” asked the Girl. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester grew foolishly happy. Was she really going to play the game? + Of course he had hoped, but it was a hope without any foundation. + </p> + <p> + “You may,” he said soberly. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid that if you don't allow me to draw the moth at once, I'll + never get it done. I dislike to mention it on your good day, but Aunt + Molly is very restless. I got a neighbour's little girl to watch her and + call me if I'm wanted. It's quite certain that I must go soon, so if you + would like the moth——” + </p> + <p> + “When luck is coming your way, never hurry it! You always upset the bowl + if you grow greedy and crowd. If it is a gamble whether I get this moth, + I'll take the chance; but I won't change my foreordained programme for + this afternoon. First, you are to sit still ten minutes, shut your eyes, + and rest. I can't sing, but I can whistle, and I'm going to entertain you + so you won't feel alone. Ready now!” + </p> + <p> + The Girl leaned her elbows on the table, closed her eyes, and pressed her + slender white hands over them. + </p> + <p> + “Please don't call the birds,” she said. “I can't rest if you do. It was + so exciting trying to see all of them and guess what they were saying.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said the Harvester gently. “This ten minutes is for relaxation, you + know. You ease every muscle, sink limply on your chair, lean on the table, + let go all over, and don't think. Just listen to me. I assure you it's + going to be perfectly lovely.” + </p> + <p> + Watching intently he saw the strained muscles relaxing at his suggestion + and caught the smile over the last words as he slid into a soft whistle. + It was an easy, slow, old-fashioned tune, carrying along gently, with + neither heights nor depths, just monotonous, sleepy, soothing notes, that + went on and on with a little ripple of change at times, only to return to + the theme, until at last the Girl lifted her head. + </p> + <p> + “It's away past ten minutes,” she said, “but that was a real rest. Truly, + I am better prepared for work.” + </p> + <p> + “Broke the rule, too!” said the Harvester. “It was, for me to say when + time was up. Can't you allow me to have my way for ten minutes?” + </p> + <p> + “I am so anxious to see and draw this moth,” she answered. “And first of + all you promised to bring the drawings you have been using.” + </p> + <p> + “Now where does my programme come in?” inquired the Harvester. “You are + spoiling everything, and I refuse to have my lucky day interfered with; + therefore we will ignore the suggestion until we arrive at the place where + it is proper. Next thing is refreshments.” + </p> + <p> + He arose and coming over cleared the table. Then he spread on it a paper + tray cloth with a gay border, and going into the thicket brought out a box + and a big bucket containing a jug packed in ice. The Girl's eyes widened. + She reached down, caught up a piece, and holding it to drip a second + started to put it in her mouth. + </p> + <p> + “Drop that!” commanded the Harvester. “That's a very unhealthful + proceeding. Wait a minute.” + </p> + <p> + From one end of the box he produced a tin of wafers and from the other a + plate. Then he dug into the ice and lifted several different varieties of + chilled fruit. From the jug he poured a combination that he made of the + juices of oranges, pineapples, and lemons. He set the glass, rapidly + frosting in the heat, and the fruit before the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Now!” he said. + </p> + <p> + For one instant she stared at the table. Then she looked at him and in the + depths of her dark eyes was an appeal he never forgot. + </p> + <p> + “I made that drink myself, so it's all right,” he assured her. “There's a + pretty stiff touch of pineapple in it, and it cuts the cobwebs on a hot + day. Please try it!” + </p> + <p> + “I can't!” cried the Girl with a half-sob. “Think of Aunt Molly!” + </p> + <p> + “Are you fond of her?” + </p> + <p> + “No. I never saw her until a few weeks ago. Since then I've seen nothing + save her poor, tired back. She lies in a heap facing the wall. But if she + could have things like these, she needn't suffer. And if my mother could + have had them she would be living to-day. Oh Man, I can't touch this.” + </p> + <p> + “I see,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + He reached over, picked up the glass, and poured its contents into the + jug. He repacked the fruit and closed the wafer box. Then he made a trip + to the thicket and came out putting something into his pocket. + </p> + <p> + “Come on!” he said. “We are going to the house.” + </p> + <p> + She stared at him. + </p> + <p> + “I simply don't dare.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I will go alone,” said the Harvester, picking up the bucket and + starting. + </p> + <p> + The Girl followed him. + </p> + <p> + “Uncle Henry may come any minute,” she urged. + </p> + <p> + “Well if he comes and acts unpleasantly, he will get what he richly + deserves.” + </p> + <p> + “And he will make me pay for it afterward.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh no he won't!” said the Harvester, “because I'll look out for that. + This is my lucky day. He isn't going to come.” + </p> + <p> + When he reached the back door he opened it and stepped inside. Of all the + barren places of crude, disheartening ugliness the Harvester ever had + seen, that was the worst. + </p> + <p> + “I want a glass and a spoon,” he said. + </p> + <p> + The Girl brought them. + </p> + <p> + “Where is she?” + </p> + <p> + “In the next room.” + </p> + <p> + At the sound of their voices a small girl came to the kitchen door. + </p> + <p> + “How do you do?” inquired the Harvester. “Is Mrs. Jameson asleep?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know,” answered the child. “She just lies there.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester gave her the glass. “Please fill that with water,” he said. + Then he picked up the bucket and went into the front room. When the child + came with the water he took a bottle from his pocket, filled the spoon, + and handed it to her. + </p> + <p> + “Hold that steadily,” he said. + </p> + <p> + Then he slid his strong hands under the light frame and turned the face of + the faded little creature toward him. + </p> + <p> + “I am a Medicine Man, Mrs. Jameson,” he said casually. “I heard you were + sick and I came to see if a little of this stuff wouldn't brace you up. + Open your lips.” + </p> + <p> + He held out the spoon and the amazed woman swallowed the contents before + she realized what she was doing. Then the Harvester ran a hand under her + shoulders and lifting her gently he tossed her pillow with the other hand. + </p> + <p> + “You are a light little body, just like my mother,” he commented. “Now I + have something else sick people sometimes enjoy.” + </p> + <p> + He held the fruit juice to her lips as he slightly raised her on the + pillow. Her trembling fingers lifted and closed around the sparkling + glass. + </p> + <p> + “Oh it's cool!” she gasped. + </p> + <p> + “It is,” said the Harvester, “and sour! I think you can taste it. Try!” + </p> + <p> + She drank so greedily he drew away the glass and urged caution, but the + shaking fingers clung to him and the wavering voice begged for more. + </p> + <p> + “In a minute,” said the Harvester gently. But the fevered woman would not + wait. She drank the cooling liquid until she could take no more. Then she + watched him fill a small pitcher and pack it in a part of the ice and lay + some fruit around it. + </p> + <p> + “Who, Ruth?” she panted. + </p> + <p> + “A Medicine Man who heard about you.” + </p> + <p> + “What will Henry say?” + </p> + <p> + “He won't know,” explained the Girl, smoothing the hot forehead. “I'll put + it in the cupboard, and slip it to you while he is out of the room. It + will make you strong and well.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't want to be strong and well and suffer it all over again. I want + to rest. Give me more of the cool drink. Give me all I want, then I'll go + to sleep.” + </p> + <p> + “It's wonderful,” said the Girl. “That's more than I've heard her talk + since I came. She is much stronger. Please let her have it.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester assented. He gave the child some of the fruit, and told her + to sit beside the bed and hold the drink when it was asked for. She agreed + to be very careful and watchful. Then he picked up the bucket, and + followed by the Girl, returned to the woods. + </p> + <p> + “Now we have to begin all over again,” he said, as she seated herself at + the table. “Because of the walk in the heat, this time the programme is a + little different.” + </p> + <p> + He replaced the wafer box and opened it, filled the glass, and heaped the + cold fruit. + </p> + <p> + “Your aunt is going to have a refreshing sleep now,” he said, “and your + mind can be free about her for an hour or two. I am very sure your mother + would not want you deprived of anything because she missed it, so you are + to enjoy this, if you care for it. At least try a sample.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl lifted the glass to her lips with a trembling hand. + </p> + <p> + “I'm like Aunt Molly,” she said; “I wish I could drink all I could + swallow, and then lie down and go to sleep forever. I suppose this is what + they have in Heaven.” + </p> + <p> + “No, it's what they drink all over earth at present, but I have a conceit + of my own brand. Some of it is too strong of one fruit or of the other, + and all too sweet for health. This is compounded scientifically and it's + just right. If you are not accustomed to cold drinks, go slowly.” + </p> + <p> + “You can't scare me,” said the Girl; “I'm going to drink all I want.” + </p> + <p> + There was a note of excitement in the Harvester's laugh. + </p> + <p> + “You must have some, too!” + </p> + <p> + “After a while,” he said. “I was thirsty when I made it, so I don't care + for any more now. Try the fruit and those wafers. Of course they are not + home made—they are the best I could do at a bakery. Take time enough + to eat slowly. I'm going to tell you a tale while you lunch, and it's + about a Medicine Man named David Langston. It's a very peculiar story, but + it's quite true. This man lives in the woods east of Onabasha, accompanied + by his dog, horse, cow, and chickens, and a forest full of birds, flowers, + and matchless trees. He has lived there in this manner for six long years, + and every spring he and his dog have a seance and agree whether he shall + go on gathering medicinal herbs and trying his hand at making medicine or + go to the city and live as other men. Always the dog chooses to remain in + the woods. + </p> + <p> + “Then every spring, on the day the first bluebird comes, the dog also + decides whether the man shall go on alone or find a mate and bring her + home for company. Each year the dog regularly has decided that they live + as always. This spring, for some unforeseen reason, he changed his mind, + and compelled the man, according to his vow in the beginning, to go + courting. The man was so very angry at the idea of having a woman in his + home, interfering with his work, disturbing his arrangements, and perhaps + wanting to spend more money than he could afford, that he struck the dog + for making that decision; struck him for the very first time in his life——I + believe you'd like those apricots. Please try one.” + </p> + <p> + “Go on with the story,” said the Girl, sipping delicately but constantly + at the frosty glass. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester arose and refilled it. Then he dropped pieces of ice over + the fruit. + </p> + <p> + “Where was I?” he inquired casually. + </p> + <p> + “Where you struck Belshazzar, and it's no wonder,” answered the Girl. + </p> + <p> + Without taking time to ponder that, the Harvester continued: + </p> + <p> + “But that night the man had a wonderful, golden dream. A beautiful girl + came to him, and she was so gracious and lovely that he was sufficiently + punished for striking his dog, because he fell unalterably in love with + her.” + </p> + <p> + “Meaning you?” interrupted the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the Harvester, “meaning me. I——if you like——fell + in love with the girl. She came so alluringly, and I was so close to her + that I saw her better than I ever did any other girl, and I knew her for + all time. When she went, my heart was gone.” + </p> + <p> + “And you have lived without that important organ ever since?” + </p> + <p> + “Without even the ghost of it! She took it with her. Well, that dream was + so real, that the next day I began building over my house, making + furniture, and planting flowers for her; and every day, wherever I went, I + watched for her.” + </p> + <p> + “What nonsense!” + </p> + <p> + “I can't see it.” + </p> + <p> + “You won't find a girl you dreamed about in a thousand years.” + </p> + <p> + “Wrong!” cried the Harvester triumphantly. “Saw her in little less than + three months, but she vanished and it took some time and difficult work + before I located her again; but I've got her all solid now, and she + doesn't escape.” + </p> + <p> + “Is she a 'lovely and gracious lady'?” + </p> + <p> + “She is!” said the Harvester, with all his heart. + </p> + <p> + “Young and beautiful, of course!” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed yes!” + </p> + <p> + “Please fill this glass. I told you what I was going to do.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester refilled the glass and the Girl drained it. + </p> + <p> + “Now won't you set aside these things and allow me to go to work?” she + asked. “My call may come any minute, and I'll never forgive myself if I + waste time, and don't draw your moth pattern for you.” + </p> + <p> + “It's against my principles to hurry, and besides, my story isn't + finished.” + </p> + <p> + “It is,” said the Girl. “She is young and lovely, gentle and a lady, you + have her 'all solid,' and she can't 'escape'; that's the end, of course. + But if I were you, I wouldn't have her until I gave her a chance to get + away, and saw whether she would if she could.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh I am not a jailer,” said the Harvester. “She shall be free if I cannot + make her love me; but I can, and I will; I swear it.” + </p> + <p> + “You are not truly in earnest?” + </p> + <p> + “I am in deadly earnest.” + </p> + <p> + “Honestly, you dreamed about a girl, and found the very one?” + </p> + <p> + “Most certainly, I did.” + </p> + <p> + “It sounds like the wildest romancing.” + </p> + <p> + “It is the veriest reality.” + </p> + <p> + “Well I hope you win her, and that she will be everything you desire.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you,” said the Harvester. “It's written in the book of fate that I + succeed. The very elements are with me. The South Wind carried a message + to her for me. I am going to marry her, but you could make it much easier + for me if you would.” + </p> + <p> + “I! What could I do?” cried the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “You could cease being afraid of me. You could learn to trust me. You + could try to like me, if you see anything likeable about me. That would + encourage me so that I could tell you of my Dream Girl, and then you could + show me how to win her. A woman always knows about those things better + than a man. You could be the greatest help in all the world to me, if only + you would.” + </p> + <p> + “I couldn't possibly! I can't leave here. I have no proper clothing to + appear before another girl. She would be shocked at my white face. That I + could help you is the most improbable dream you have had.” + </p> + <p> + “You must pardon me if I differ from you, and persist in thinking that you + can be of invaluable assistance to me, if you will. But you can't + influence my Dream Girl, if you fear and distrust me yourself. Promise me + that you will help me that much, anyway.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll do all I can. I only want to make you see that I am in no position + to grant any favours, no matter how much I owe you or how I'd like to. Is + the candlestick you are carving for her?” + </p> + <p> + “It is,” said the Harvester. “I am making a pair of maple to stand on a + dressing table I built for her. It is unusually beautiful wood, I think, + and I hope she will be pleased with it.” + </p> + <p> + “Please take these things away and let me begin. This is the only thing I + can see that I can do for you, and the moth will want to fly before I have + finished.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester cleared the table and placed the box, while the Girl spread + the paper and began work eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder if I knew there were such exquisite things in all the world,” + she said. “I scarcely think I did. I am beginning to understand why you + couldn't kill one. You could make a chair or a table, and so you feel free + to destroy them; but it takes ages and Almighty wisdom to evolve a + creature like this, so you don't dare. I think no one else would if they + really knew. Please talk while I work.” + </p> + <p> + “Is there a particular subject you want discussed?” + </p> + <p> + “Anything but her. If I think too strongly of her, I can't work so well.” + </p> + <p> + “Your ginseng is almost dry,” said the Harvester. “I think I can bring you + the money in a few days.” + </p> + <p> + “So soon!” she cried. + </p> + <p> + “It dries day and night in an even temperature, and faster than you would + believe. There's going to be between seven and eight pounds of it, when I + make up what it has shrunk. It will go under the head of the finest wild + roots. I can get eight for it sure.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh what good news!” cried the Girl. “This is my lucky day, too. And the + little girl isn't coming, so Aunt Molly must be asleep. Everything goes + right! If only Uncle Henry wouldn't come home!” + </p> + <p> + “Let me fill your glass,” proffered the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Just half way, and set it where I can see it,” said the Girl. She worked + with swift strokes and there was a hint of colour in her face, as she + looked at him. “I hope you won't think I'm greedy,” she said, “but truly, + that's the first thing I've had that I could taste in——I can't + remember when.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll bring a barrel to-morrow,” offered the Harvester, “and a big piece + of ice wrapped in coffee sacking.” + </p> + <p> + “You mustn't think of such a thing! Ice is expensive and so are fruits.” + </p> + <p> + “Ice costs me the time required to saw and pack it at my home. I almost + live on the fruit I raise. I confess to a fondness for this drink. I have + no other personal expenses, unless you count in books, and a very few + clothes, such as I'm wearing; so I surely can afford all the fruit juice I + want.” + </p> + <p> + “For yourself, yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Also for a couple of women or I am a mighty poor attempt at a man,” said + the Harvester. “This is my day, so you are not to talk, because it won't + do any good. Things go my way.” + </p> + <p> + “Please see what you think of this,” she said. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester arose and bent over her. + </p> + <p> + “That will do finely,” he answered. “You can stop. I don't require all + those little details for carving, I just want a good outline. It is + finished. See here!” + </p> + <p> + He drew some folded papers from his pocket and laid them before her. + </p> + <p> + “Those are what I have been working from,” he said. + </p> + <p> + The Girl took them and studied each carefully. + </p> + <p> + “If those are worth five dollars to you,” she said gently, “why then I + needn't hesitate to take as much for mine. They are superior.” + </p> + <p> + “I should say so,” laughed the Harvester as he took up the drawing and + laid down the money. + </p> + <p> + “If you would make it half that much I'd feel better about it,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “How could I?” asked the Harvester. “Your fingers are well trained and + extremely skilful. Because some one has not been paying you enough for + your work is no reason why I should keep it up. From now on you must have + what others get. As soon as you can arrange for work, I want to tell you + about some designs I have studied out from different things, show you the + plants and insects, and have you make some samples. I'll send them to + proper places, and see what experts say about the ideas and drawing. Work + in the woods is healthful, with proper precautions; it's easy compared + with the exactions of being bound to sewing or embroidering in the + confinement of a room; it's vividly interesting in the search for new + subjects, changes of material, and differing harmonious combinations; it's + truly artistic; and it brings the prices high grade stuff always does.” + </p> + <p> + “Almost you give me hope,” said the Girl. “Almost, Man——almost! + Since mother died, I haven't thought or planned beyond paying for the + medicine she took and the shelter she lies in. Oh I didn't mean to say + that——!” + </p> + <p> + She buried her face in her hands. The Harvester suffered until he scarcely + knew how to bear it. + </p> + <p> + “Please finish,” he begged. “You hadn't planned beyond the debt, you were + saying——” + </p> + <p> + The Girl lifted her tired, strained face. + </p> + <p> + “Give me a little more of that delicious drink,” she said. “I am ravenous + for it. It puts new life in me. This and what you say bring a far away, + misty vision of a clean, bright, peaceful room somewhere, and work one + could love and live on in comfort; enough to give a desire to finish life + to its natural end. Oh Man, you make me hope in spite of myself!” + </p> + <p> + “'Praise God from whom all blessings flow;'” quoted the Harvester + reverently. “Now try one of these peaches. It's juicy and cold. Get that + room right in focus in your brain, and nurture the idea. Its walls shall + be bright as sunshine, its floor creamy white, and it shall open into a + little garden, where only yellow flowers grow, and the birds shall sing. + The first ray of sun that peeps over the hills of morning shall fall + through its windows across your bed, and you shall work only as you + please, after you've had months of play and rest; and it's coming true the + instant you can leave here. Dream of it, make up your mind to it, because + it's coming. I have a little streak of second sight, and I see it on the + way.” + </p> + <p> + “You are talking wildly,” said the Girl, “else you are a good genie trying + to conjure a room for me.” + </p> + <p> + “This room I am talking of is ready whenever you want to take possession,” + said the Harvester. “Accept it as a reality, because I tell you I know + where it is, that it is waiting, and you can earn your way into it with no + obligation to any one.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl stretched out her right hand and slowly turned and opened and + closed it. Then she glanced at the Harvester with a weary smile. + </p> + <p> + “From somewhere I feel a glimmering of the spirit, but Oh, dear Lord, the + flesh is weak!” she said. + </p> + <p> + “That's where nourishing foods, appetizing drinks, plenty of pure, fresh + air, and good water come in. Now we have talked enough for one day, and + worked too much. The fruit and drink go with you. I will carry it to the + house, and you can hide it in your room. I am going to put a bottle of + tonic on top that the best surgeon in the state gave me for you. Try to + eat something strengthening and then take a spoonful of this, and use all + the fruit you want. I'll bring more to-morrow and put it here, with plenty + of ice. Now suppose you let the moth go free,” he suggested to avoid + objections. “You must take my word for it, that it is perfectly harmless, + lacking either sting or bite, and hold your hand before it, so that it + will climb on your fingers. Then stand where a ray of sunshine falls and + in a few minutes it will go out to live its life.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl hesitated a second as she studied the clean-cut, interested face + of the man; then she held out her hand, and he urged the moth to climb on + her fingers. She stepped where a ray of strong light fell on the forest + floor and held the moth in it. The brightness also touched her transparent + hand and white face and the gleaming black hair. The Harvester choked down + a rising surge of desire for her, and took a new grip on himself. + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” she cried breathlessly, as the clinging feet suddenly loosened and + the luna slowly flew away among the trees. She turned on the Harvester. + “You teach me wonders!” she cried. “You give life different meanings. You + are not as other men.” + </p> + <p> + “If that be true, it is because I am of the woods. The Almighty does not + evolve all his wonders in animal, bird, and flower form; He keeps some to + work out in the heart, if humanity only will go to His school, and allow + Him to have dominion. Come now, you must go. I will come back and put away + all the things and tomorrow I will bring your ginseng money. Any time you + cannot come, if you want to tell me why, or if there is anything I can do + for you, put a line under the oilcloth. I will carry the bucket.” + </p> + <p> + “I am so afraid,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “I will only go to the edge of the woods. You can see if there is any one + at the house first. If not, you can send the child away, and then I will + carry the bucket to the door for you, and it will furnish comfort for one + night, at least.” + </p> + <p> + They went to the cleared land and the Girl passed on alone. Soon she + reappeared and the Harvester saw the child going down the road. He took up + the bucket and set it inside the door. + </p> + <p> + “Is there anything I can do for you?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing but go, before you make trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you hide that stuff and walk back as far as the woods with me? There + is something more I want to say to you.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl staggered under the heavy load, and the man turned his head and + tried to pretend he did not see. Presently she came out to him, and they + returned to the line of the woods. Just as they entered the shade there + was a flash before them, and on a twig a few rods away a little gray bird + alighted, while in precipitate pursuit came a flaming wonder of red, and + in a burst of excited trills, broken whistles, and imploring gestures, + perched beside her. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester hastily drew the Girl behind some bushes. + </p> + <p> + “Watch!” he whispered. “You are going to see a sight so lovely and so rare + it is vouchsafed to few mortals ever to behold.” + </p> + <p> + “What are they fighting about?” she whispered. + </p> + <p> + “You are witnessing a cardinal bird declare his love,” breathed the + Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Do cardinals love different birds?” + </p> + <p> + “No. The female is gray, because if she is coloured the same as the trees + and branches and her nest, she will have more chance to bring off her + young in safety. He is blood red, because he is the bravest, gayest, most + ardent lover of the whole woods,” explained the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + The Girl leaned forward breathlessly watching and a slow surge of colour + crept into her cheeks. The red bird twisted, whistled, rocked, tilted, and + trilled, and the gray sat demurely watching him, as if only half convinced + he really meant it. The gay lover began at the beginning and said it all + over again with more impassioned gestures than before, and then he edged + in touch and softly stroked her wing with his beak. She appeared startled, + but did not fly. So again the fountain of half-whistled, half-trilled + notes bubbled with the acme of pleading intonation and that time he leaned + and softly kissed her as she reached her bill for the caress. Then she + fled in headlong flight, while the streak of flame darted after her. The + Girl caught her breath in a swift spasm of surprise and wonder. She turned + to the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “What was it you wanted to say to me?” she asked hurriedly. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester was not the man to miss the goods the gods provided. Truly + this was his lucky day. Unhesitatingly he took the plunge. + </p> + <p> + “Precisely what he said to her. And if you observed closely, you noticed + that she didn't ask him 'why.'” + </p> + <p> + Before she could open her lips, he was gone, his swift strides carrying + him through the woods. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII. “THE WAY OF A MAN WITH A MAID” + </h2> + <p> + The next day the Harvester lifted the oilcloth, and picking up a folded + note he read—— + </p> + <p> + “Aunt Molly found rest in the night. She was more comfortable than she had + been since I have known her. Close the end she whispered to me to thank + you if I ever saw you again. She will be buried to-morrow. Past that, I + dare not think.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester sat on the log and studied the lines. She would not come + that day or the next. After a long time he put the note in his pocket, + wrote an answer telling her he had been there, and would come on the + following day on the chance of her wanting anything he could do, and the + next he would bring the ginseng money, so she must be sure to meet him. + </p> + <p> + Then he went back to the wagon, turned Betsy, and drove around the Jameson + land watching closely. There were several vehicles in the barn lot, and a + couple of men sitting under the trees of the door yard. Faded bedding hung + on the line and women moved through the rooms, but he could not see the + Girl. Slowly he drove on until he came to the first house, and there he + stopped and went in. He saw the child of the previous day, and as she came + forward her mother appeared in the doorway. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester explained who he was and that he was examining the woods in + search of some almost extinct herbs he needed in his business. Then he + told of having been at the adjoining farm the day before and mentioned the + sick woman. He added that later she had died. He casually mentioned that a + young woman there seemed pale and ill and wondered if the neighbours would + see her through. He suggested that the place appeared as if the owner did + not take much interest, and when the woman finished with Henry Jameson, he + said how very important it seemed to him that some good, kind-hearted soul + should go and mother the poor girl, and the woman thought she was the very + person. Without knowing exactly how he did it, the Harvester left with her + promise to remain with the Girl the coming two nights. The woman had her + hands full of strange and delicious fruit without understanding why it had + been given her, or why she had made those promises. She thought the + Harvester a remarkably fine young man to take such interest in strangers + and she told him he was welcome to anything he could find on her place + that would help with his medicines. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester just happened to be coming from the woods as the woman + freshly dressed left the house, so he took her in the wagon and drove back + to the Jameson place, because he was going that way. Then he returned to + Medicine Woods and worked with all his might. + </p> + <p> + First he polished floors, cleaned windows, and arranged the rooms as best + he could inside the cabin; then he gave a finishing touch to everything + outside. He could not have told why he did it, but he thought it was + because there was hope that now the Girl would come to Onabasha. If he + found opportunity to bring her to the city, he hoped that possibly he + might drive home with her and show Medicine Woods, so everything must be + in order. Then he worked with flying fingers in the dry-house, putting up + her ginseng for market, and never was weight so liberal. + </p> + <p> + The next morning he drove early to Onabasha and came home with a loaded + wagon, the contents of which he scattered through the cabin where it + seemed most suitable, but the greater part of it was for her. He glanced + at the bare floors and walls of the other rooms, and thought of trying to + improve them, but he was afraid of not getting the right things. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know much about what is needed here,” he said, “but I am + perfectly safe in buying anything a girl ever used.” + </p> + <p> + Then he returned to the city, explained the situation to the doctor, and + selected the room he wanted in case the Girl could be persuaded to come to + the hospital. After that he went to see the doctor's wife, and made + arrangements for her to be ready for a guest, because there was a + possibility he might want to call for help. He had another jug of fruit + juice and all the delicacies he could think of, also a big cake of ice, + when he reached the woods. There were only a few words for him. + </p> + <p> + “I will come to-morrow at two, if at all possible; if not, keep the money + until I can.” + </p> + <p> + There was nothing to do except to place his offering under the oilcloth + and wait, but he simply was compelled to add a line to say he would be + there, and to express the hope that she was comfortable as possible and + thinking of the sunshine room. Then he returned to Medicine Woods to wait, + and found that possible only by working to exhaustion. There were many + things he could do, and one after another he finished them, until + completely worn out; and then he slept the deep sleep of weariness. + </p> + <p> + At noon the next day he bathed, shaved, and dressed in fresh, clean + clothing. He stopped in Onabasha for more fruit, and drove to the Jameson + woods. He was waiting and watching the usual path the Girl followed, when + her step sounded on the other side. The Harvester arose and turned. Her + pallor was alarming. She stepped on the rug he had spread, and sank almost + breathless to the chair. + </p> + <p> + “Why do you come a new way that fills you with fear?” asked the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “It seems as if Uncle Henry is watching me every minute, and I didn't dare + come where he could see. I must not remain a second. You must take these + things away and go at once. He is dreadful.” + </p> + <p> + “So am I,” said the Harvester, “when affairs go too everlastingly wrong. I + am not afraid of any man living. What are you planning to do?” + </p> + <p> + “I want to ask you, are you sure about the prices of my drawing and the + ginseng?” + </p> + <p> + “Absolutely,” said the Harvester. “As for the ginseng it went in fresh and + early, best wild roots, and it brought eight a pound. There were eight + pounds when I made up weight and here is your money.” + </p> + <p> + He handed her a long envelope addressed to her. + </p> + <p> + “What is the amount?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Sixty-four dollars.” + </p> + <p> + “I can't believe it.” + </p> + <p> + “You have it in your fingers.” + </p> + <p> + “You know that I would like to thank you properly, if I had words to + express myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind that,” said the Harvester. “Tell me what you are planning. Say + that you will come to the hospital for the long, perfect rest now.” + </p> + <p> + “It is absolutely impossible. Don't weary me by mentioning it. I cannot.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you tell me what you intend doing?” + </p> + <p> + “I must,” she said, “for it depends entirely on your word. I am going to + get Uncle Henry's supper, and then go and remain the night with the + neighbour who has been helping me. In the morning, when he leaves, she is + coming with her wagon for my trunk, and she is going to drive with me to + Onabasha and find me a cheap room and loan me a few things, until I can + buy what I need. I am going to use fourteen dollars of this and my drawing + money for what I am forced to buy, and pay fifty on my debt. Then I will + send you my address and be ready for work.” + </p> + <p> + She clutched the envelope and for the first time looked at him. + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” said the Harvester. “I could take you to the wife of my best + friend, the chief surgeon of the city hospital, and everything would be + ease and rest until you are strong; she would love to have you.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl dropped her hands wearily. + </p> + <p> + “Don't tire me with it!” she cried. “I am almost falling despite the + stimulus of food and drink I can touch. I never can thank you properly for + that. I won't be able to work hard enough to show you how much I + appreciate what you have done for me. But you don't understand. A woman, + even a poverty-poor woman, if she be delicately born and reared, cannot go + to another woman on a man's whim, and when she lacks even the barest + necessities. I don't refuse to meet your friends. I shall love to, when I + can be so dressed that I will not shame you. Until that times comes, if + you are the gentleman you appear to be, you will wait without urging me + further.” + </p> + <p> + “I must be a man, in order to be a gentleman,” said the Harvester. “And it + is because the man in me is in hot rebellion against more loneliness, + pain, and suffering for you, that the conventions become chains I do not + care how soon or how roughly I break. If only you could be induced to say + the word, I tell you I could bring one of God's gentlest women to you.” + </p> + <p> + “And probably she would come in a dainty gown, in her carriage or motor, + and be disgusted, astonished, and secretly sorry for you. As for me, I do + not require her pity. I will be glad to know the beautiful, refined, and + gentle woman you are so certain of, but not until I am better dressed and + more attractive in appearance than now. If you will give me your address, + I will write you when I am ready for work.” + </p> + <p> + Silently the Harvester wrote it. “Will you give me permission to take + these things to your neighbour for you?” he asked. “They would serve until + you can do better, and I have no earthly use for them.” + </p> + <p> + She hesitated. Then she laughed shortly. + </p> + <p> + “What a travesty my efforts at pride are with you!” she cried. “I begin by + trying to preserve some proper dignity, and end by confessing abject + poverty. I yet have the ten you paid me the other day, but twenty-four + dollars are not much to set up housekeeping on, and I would be more glad + than I can say for these very things.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you,” said the Harvester. “I will take them when I go. Is there + anything else?” + </p> + <p> + “I think not.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you have a drink?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, if you have more with you. I believe it is really cooling my blood.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you taking the medicine?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she said, “and I am stronger. Truly I am. I know I appear ghastly + to you, but it's loss of sleep, and trying to lay away poor Aunt Molly + decently, and——” + </p> + <p> + “And fear of Uncle Henry,” added the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the Girl. “That most of all! He thinks I am going to stay here + and take her place. I can't tell him I am not, and how I am to hide from + him when I am gone, I don't know. I am afraid of him.” + </p> + <p> + “Has he any claim on you?” + </p> + <p> + “Shelter for the past three months.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you of age?” + </p> + <p> + “I am almost twenty-four,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Then suppose you leave Uncle Henry to me,” suggested the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Careful now! The red bird told you why!” said the man. “I will not urge + it upon you now, but keep it steadily in the back of your head that there + is a sunshine room all ready and waiting for you, and I am going to take + you to it very soon. As things are, I think you might allow me to tell you——” + </p> + <p> + She was on her feet in instant panic. “I must go,” she said. “Uncle Henry + is dogging me to promise to remain, and I will not, and he is watching me. + I must go——” + </p> + <p> + “Can you give me your word of honour that you will go to the neighbour + woman to-night; that you feel perfectly safe?” + </p> + <p> + She hesitated. “Yes, I——I think so. Yes, if he doesn't find + out and grow angry. Yes, I will be safe.” + </p> + <p> + “How soon will you write me?” + </p> + <p> + “Just as soon as I am settled and rest a little.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean several days?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, several days.” + </p> + <p> + “An eternity!” cried the Harvester with white lips. “I cannot let you go. + Suppose you fall ill and fail to write me, and I do not know where you + are, and there is no one to care for you.” + </p> + <p> + “But can't you see that I don't know where I will be? If it will satisfy + you, I will write you a line to-morrow night and tell you where I am, and + you can come later.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that a promise?” asked the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “It is,” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Then I will take these things to your neighbour and wait until to-morrow + night. You won't fail me?” + </p> + <p> + “I never in all my life saw a man so wild over designs,” said the Girl, as + she started toward the house. + </p> + <p> + “Don't forget that the design I'm craziest about is the same as the red + bird's,” the Harvester flung after her, but she hurried on and made no + reply. + </p> + <p> + He folded the table and chair, rolled the rug, and shouldering them picked + up the bucket and started down the river bank. + </p> + <p> + “David!” + </p> + <p> + Such a faint little call he never would have been sure he heard anything + if Belshazzar had not stopped suddenly. The hair on the back of his neck + arose and he turned with a growl in his throat. The Harvester dropped his + load with a crash and ran in leaping bounds, but the dog was before him. + Half way to the house, Ruth Jameson swayed in the grip of her uncle. One + hand clutched his coat front in a spasmodic grasp, and with the other she + covered her face. + </p> + <p> + The roar the Harvester sent up stayed the big, lifted fist, and the dog + leaped for a throat hold, and compelled the man to defend himself. The + Harvester never knew how he covered the space until he stood between them, + and saw the Girl draw back and snatch together the front of her dress. + </p> + <p> + “He took it from me!” she panted. “Make him, oh make him give back my + money!” + </p> + <p> + Then for a few seconds things happened too rapidly to record. Once the + Harvester tossed a torn envelope exposing money to the Girl, and again a + revolver, and then both men panting and dishevelled were on their feet. + </p> + <p> + “Count your money, Ruth?” said the Harvester in a voice of deadly quiet. + </p> + <p> + “It is all here,” said she. + </p> + <p> + “Her money?” cried Henry Jameson. “My money! She has been stealing the + price of my cattle from my pockets. I thought I was short several times + lately.” + </p> + <p> + “You are lying,” said the Harvester deliberately. “It is her money. I just + paid it to her. You were trying to take it from her, not the other way.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, she is in your pay?” leered the man. + </p> + <p> + “If you say an insulting word I think very probably I will finish you,” + said the Harvester. “I can, with my naked hands, and all your neighbours + will say it is a a good job. You have felt my grip! I warn you!” + </p> + <p> + “How does my niece come to be taking money from you!” + </p> + <p> + “You have forfeited all right to know. Ruth, you cannot remain here. You + must come with me. I will take you to Onabasha and find you a room.” + </p> + <p> + A horrible laugh broke from the man. + </p> + <p> + “So that is the end of my saintly niece!” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Remember!” cried the Harvester advancing a step. “Ruth, will you go to + the rest I suggested for you?” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you go to Doctor Carey's wife?” + </p> + <p> + “Impossible!” + </p> + <p> + “Will you marry me and go to the shelter of my home with me?” + </p> + <p> + Wild-eyed she stared at him. + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I love you, and want life made easier for you, above anything + else on earth.” + </p> + <p> + “But your Dream Girl!” + </p> + <p> + “YOU ARE THE DREAM GIRL! I thought the red bird told you for me! I didn't + know it would be a shock. I believed I had made you understand.” + </p> + <p> + By that time she was shaking with a nervous chill, and the sight unmanned + the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Come with me!” he urged. “We will decide what you want to do on the way. + Only come, I beg you.” + </p> + <p> + “First it was marry, now it's decide later,” broke in Henry Jameson, + crazed with anger. “Move a step and I'll strike you down. I'd better than + see you disgraced——” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester advanced and Jameson stepped back. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth,” said the Harvester, “I know how impossible this seems. It is + giving you no chance at all. I had intended, when I found you, to court + you tenderly as girl ever was wooed before. Come with me, and I'll do it + yet. The new home was built for you. The sunshine room is ready and + waiting for you. There is pure air, fresh water, nothing but rest and + comfort. I'll nurse you back to health and strength, and you shall be + courted until you come to me of your own accord.” + </p> + <p> + “Impossible!” cried the girl. + </p> + <p> + “Only if you make it so. If you will come now, we can be married in a few + hours, and you can be safe in your own home. I realize now that this is + unexpected and shocking to you, but if you will come with me and allow me + to restore you to health and strength, and if, say, in a year, you are + convinced that you do not love me, I will set you free. If you will come, + I swear to you that you shall be my wife first, and my honoured guest + afterward, until such time as you either tell me you love me or that you + never can. Will you come on those terms, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot!” + </p> + <p> + “It will end fear, uncertainty, and work, until you are strong and well. + It will give you home, rest, and love, that you will find is worth your + consideration. I will keep my word; of that you may be sure.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” she cried. “No! But take back this money! Keep it until I tell you + to whom to pay it.” + </p> + <p> + She started toward him holding out the envelope. + </p> + <p> + Henry Jameson, with a dreadful oath, sprang for it, his contorted face a + drawn snarl. The Harvester caught him in air and sent him reeling. He + snatched the revolver from the Girl and put the money in his pocket. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, I can't leave you here,” he said. “Oh my Dream Girl! Are you afraid + of me yet? Won't you trust me? Won't you come?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right about that, my lady; you will come back to the house, + that's what you'll do,” said Henry Jameson, starting toward her. + </p> + <p> + “No!” cried the Girl retreating. “Oh Heaven help me! What am I to do?” + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, you must come with me,” said the Harvester. “I don't dare leave you + here.” + </p> + <p> + She stood between them and gave Henry Jameson one long, searching look. + Then she turned to the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “I am far less afraid of you. I will accept your offer,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you!” said the Harvester. “I will keep my word and you shall have + no regrets. Is there anything here you wish to take with you?” + </p> + <p> + “I want a little trunk of my mother's. It contains some things of hers.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you show me where it is?” + </p> + <p> + She started toward the house; he followed, and Henry Jameson fell in line. + The Harvester turned on him. “You remain where you are,” he said. “I will + take nothing but the trunk. I know what you are thinking, but you will not + get your gun just now. I will return this revolver to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “And the first thing I do with it will be to use it on you,” said Henry + Jameson. + </p> + <p> + “I'll report that threat to the police, so that they can see you properly + hanged if you do,” retorted the Harvester, as he followed the girl. + </p> + <p> + “Where is his gun?” he asked as he overtook her. When he reached the house + he told her to watch the door. He went inside, broke the lock from the gun + in the corner, found the trunk, and swinging it to his shoulder, passed + Henry Jameson and went back through the woods. The Harvester set the trunk + in the wagon, helped the Girl in, and returned for the load he had dropped + at her call. Then he took the lines and started for Onabasha. + </p> + <p> + The Girl beside him was almost fainting. He stopped to give her a drink + and tried to encourage her. + </p> + <p> + “Brace up the best you can, Ruth,” he said. “You must go with me for a + license; that is the law. Afterward, I'll make it just as easy for you as + possible. I will do everything, and in a few hours you will be comfortable + in your room. You brave girl! This must come out right! You have suffered + more than your share. I will have peace for you the remainder of the way.” + </p> + <p> + She lifted shaking hands and tried to arrange her hair and dress. As they + neared the city she spoke. + </p> + <p> + “What will they ask me?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know. But I am sure the law requires you to appear in person now. + I can take you somewhere and find out first.” + </p> + <p> + “That will take time. I want to reach my room. What would you think?” + </p> + <p> + “If you are of age, where you were born, if you are a native of this + country, what your father and mother died of, how old they were, and such + questions as that. I'll help you all I can. You know those things. don't + you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. But I must tell you——” + </p> + <p> + “I don't want to be told anything,” said the Harvester. “Save your + strength. All I want to know is any way in which I can make this easier + for you. Nothing else matters. I will tell you what I think; if you have + any objections, make them. I will drive to the bank and get a draft for + what you owe, and have that off your mind. Then we will get the license. + After that I'll take you to the side door, slip you in the elevator and to + the fitting room of a store where I know the manager, and you shall have + some pretty clothing while I arrange for a minister, and I'll come for you + with a carriage. That isn't the kind of wedding you or any other girl + should have, but there are times when a man only can do his best. You will + help me as much as you can, won't you?” + </p> + <p> + “Anything you choose. It doesn't matter——only be quick as + possible.” + </p> + <p> + “There are a few details to which I must attend,” said the Harvester, “and + the time will go faster trying on dresses than waiting alone. When you are + properly clothed you will feel better. What did you say the amount you owe + is?” + </p> + <p> + “You may get a draft for fifty dollars. I will pay the remainder when I + earn it.” + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, won't you give me the pleasure of taking you home free from the + worry of that debt?” + </p> + <p> + “I am not going to 'worry.' I am going to work and pay it.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” said the Harvester. “This is the bank. We will stop here.” + </p> + <p> + They went in and he handed her a slip of paper. + </p> + <p> + “Write the name and address on that?” he said. + </p> + <p> + As the slip was returned to him, without a glance he folded it and slid it + under a wicket. “Write a draft for fifty dollars payable to that party, + and send to that address, from Miss Ruth Jameson,” he said. + </p> + <p> + Then he turned to her. + </p> + <p> + “That is over. See how easy it is! Now we will go to the court house. It + is very close. Try not to think. Just move and speak.” + </p> + <p> + “Hello, Langston!” said the clerk. “What can we do for you here?” + </p> + <p> + “Show this girl every consideration,” whispered the Harvester, as he + advanced. “I want a marriage license in your best time. I will answer + first.” + </p> + <p> + With the document in his possession, they went to the store he designated, + where he found the Girl a chair in the fitting room, while he went to see + the manager. + </p> + <p> + “I want one of your most sensible and accommodating clerks,” said the + Harvester, “and I would like a few words with her.” + </p> + <p> + When she was presented he scrutinized her carefully and decided she would + do. + </p> + <p> + “I have many thanks and something more substantial for a woman who will + help me to carry through a slightly unusual project with sympathy and + ability,” he said, “and the manager has selected you. Are you willing?” + </p> + <p> + “If I can,” said the clerk. + </p> + <p> + “She has put up your other orders,” interposed the manager; “were they + satisfactory?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know,” said the Harvester. “They have not yet reached the one for + whom they were intended. What I want you to do,” he said to the clerk, “is + to go to the fitting room and dress the girl you find there for her + wedding. She had other plans, but death disarranged them, and she has only + an hour in which to meet the event most girls love to linger over for + months. She has been ill, and is worn with watching; but some time she may + look back to her wedding day with joy, and if only you would help me to + make the best of it for her, I would be, as I said, under more obligations + than I can express.” + </p> + <p> + “I will do anything,” said the clerk. + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” said the Harvester. “She has come from the country entirely + unprepared. She is delicate and refined. Save her all the embarrassment + you can. Dress her beautifully in white. Keep a memorandum slip of what + you spend for my account.” + </p> + <p> + “What is the limit?” asked the clerk. + </p> + <p> + “There is none,” said the Harvester. “Put the prettiest things on her you + have in the right sizes, and if you are a woman with a heart, be gentle!” + </p> + <p> + “Is she ready?” inquired the manager at the door an hour later. + </p> + <p> + “I am,” said the Girl stepping through. + </p> + <p> + The astounded Harvester stood and stared, utterly oblivious of the curious + people. + </p> + <p> + “Here, here, here!” suddenly he whistled it, in the red bird's most + entreating tones. + </p> + <p> + The Girl laughed and the colour in her face deepened. + </p> + <p> + “Let us go,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “But what about you?” asked the manager of the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Thunder!” cried the man aghast. “I was so busy getting everything else + ready, I forgot all about myself. I can't stand before a minister beside + her, can I?” + </p> + <p> + “Well I should say not,” said the manager. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed yes,” said the Girl. “I never saw you in any other clothing. You + would be a stranger of whom I'd be afraid.” + </p> + <p> + “That settles it!” said the Harvester calmly. “Thank all of you more than + words can express. I will come in the first of the week and tell you how + we get along.” + </p> + <p> + Then they went to the carriage and started for the residence of a + minister. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, you are my Dream Girl to the tips of your eyelashes,” said the + Harvester. “I almost wish you were not. It wouldn't keep me thinking so + much of the remainder of that dream. You are the loveliest sight I ever + saw.” + </p> + <p> + “Do I really appear well?” asked the Girl, hungry for appreciation. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed you do!” said the Harvester. “I never could have guessed that such + a miracle could be wrought. And you don't seem so tired. Were they good to + you?” + </p> + <p> + “Wonderfully! I did not know there was kindness like that in all the world + for a stranger. I did not feel lost or embarrassed, except the first few + seconds when I didn't know what to do. Oh I thank you for this! You were + right. Whatever comes in life I always shall love to remember that I was + daintily dressed and appeared as well as I could when I was married. But I + must tell you I am not real. They did everything on earth to me, three of + them working at a time. I feel an increase in self-respect in some way. + David, I do appear better?” + </p> + <p> + When she said “David,” the Harvester looked out of the window and gulped + down his delight. He leaned toward her. + </p> + <p> + “Shut your eyes and imagine you see the red bird,” he said. “In my soul, I + am saying to you again and again just what he sang. You are wonderfully + beautiful, Ruth, and more than wonderfully sweet. Will you answer me a + question?” + </p> + <p> + “If I can.” + </p> + <p> + “I love you with all my heart. Will you marry me?” + </p> + <p> + “I said I would.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we are engaged, aren't we?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Please remove the glove from your left hand. I want to put on your ring. + This will have to be a very short engagement, but no one save ourselves + need know.” + </p> + <p> + “David, that isn't necessary.” + </p> + <p> + “I have it here, and believe me, Ruth, it will help in a few minutes; and + all your life you will be glad. It is a precious symbol that has a + meaning. This wedding won't be hurt by putting all the sacredness into it + we can. Please, Ruth!” + </p> + <p> + “On one condition.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” + </p> + <p> + “That you will accept and wear my mother's wedding ring in exchange,” she + said. “It is all I have.” + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, do you really wish that?” + </p> + <p> + “I do.” + </p> + <p> + “I am more pleased than I can tell you. May I have it now?” + </p> + <p> + She took off her glove and the Harvester held her hand closely a second, + then lifted it to his lips, passionately kissed it and slipped on a ring, + the setting a big, lustrous pearl. + </p> + <p> + “I looked at some others,” he said, “but nothing got a second glance save + this. They knew you were coming down the ages, and so they got the pearls + ready. How beautiful it is on your hand! Put on the glove and wear that + ring as if you had owned it for the long, happy year of betrothal every + girl should have. You can start yours to-day, and if by this time next + year I have not won you to my heart and arms, I'm no man and not worthy of + you. Ruth, you will try just a little to love me, won't you?” + </p> + <p> + “I will try with all my heart,” she said instantly. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you! I am perfectly happy with that. I never expected to marry you + before a year, anyway. All the difference will be the blessed fact that + instead of coming to see you somewhere else, I now can have you in my + care, and court you every minute. You might as well make up your mind to + capitulate soon. It's on the books that you do.” + </p> + <p> + “If an instant ever comes when I realize that I love you, I will come + straight and tell you; believe me, I will.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you!” said the Harvester. “This is going to be quite a proper + wedding after all. Here is the place. It will be over soon and you on the + home way. Lord, Ruth——!” + </p> + <p> + The Girl smiled at him as he opened the carriage door, helped her up the + steps and rang the bell. + </p> + <p> + “Be brave now!” he whispered. “Don't lose your lovely colour. These people + will be as kind as they were at the store.” + </p> + <p> + The minister was gentle and wasted no time. His wife and daughter, who + appeared for witnesses, kissed Ruth, and congratulated her. She and the + Harvester stood, took the vows, exchanged rings, and returned to the + carriage, a man and his wife by the laws of man. + </p> + <p> + “Drive to Seaton's cafe',” the Harvester said. + </p> + <p> + “Oh David, let us go home!” + </p> + <p> + “This is so good I hate to stop it for something you may not like so well. + I ordered lunch and if we don't eat it I will have to pay for it anyway. + You wouldn't want me to be extravagant, would you?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said the Girl, “and besides, since you mention it, I believe I am + hungry.” + </p> + <p> + “Good!” cried the Harvester. “I hoped so! Ruth, you wouldn't allow me to + hold your hand just until we reach the cafe'? It might save me from + bursting with joy.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she said. “But I must take off my lovely gloves first. I want to + keep them forever.” + </p> + <p> + “I'd hate the glove being removed dreadfully,” said the Harvester, his + eyes dancing and snapping. + </p> + <p> + “I'm sorry I am so thin and shaky,” said the Girl. “I will be steady and + plump soon, won't I?” + </p> + <p> + “On your life you will,” said the Harvester, taking the hand gently. + </p> + <p> + Now there are a number of things a man deeply in love can think of to do + with a woman's white hand. He can stroke it, press it tenderly, and lay it + against his lips and his heart. The Harvester lacked experience in these + arts, and yet by some wonderful instinct all of these things occurred to + him. There was real colour in the Girl's cheeks by the time he helped her + into the cafe'. They were guided to a small room, cool and restful, close + a window, beside which grew a tree covered with talking leaves. A waiting + attendant, who seemed perfectly adept, brought in steaming bouillon, + fragrant tea, broiled chicken, properly cooked vegetables, a wonderful + salad, and then delicious ices and cold fruit. The happy Harvester leaned + back and watched the Girl daintily manage almost as much food as he wanted + to see her eat. + </p> + <p> + When they had finished, “Now we are going home,” he said. “Will you try to + like it, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed I will,” she promised. “As soon as I grow accustomed to the + dreadful stillness, and learn what things will not bite me, I'll be + better.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll have to ask you to wait a minute,” he said. “One thing I forgot. I + must hire a man to take Betsy home.” + </p> + <p> + “Aren't you going to drive her yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “No ma'am! We are going in a carriage or a motor,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed we are not!” contradicted the Girl. “You have had this all your + way so far. I am going home behind Betsy, with Belshazzar at my knee.” + </p> + <p> + “But your dress! People will think I am crazy to put a lovely woman like + you in a spring wagon.” + </p> + <p> + “Let them!” said the Girl placidly. “Why should we bother about other + people? I am going with Betsy and Belshazzar.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester had been thinking that he adored her, that it was impossible + to love her more, but every minute was proving to him that he was capable + of feeling so profound it startled him. To carry the Girl, his bride, + through the valley and up the hill in the little spring wagon drawn by + Betsy—that would have been his ideal way. But he had supposed that + she would be afraid of soiling her dress, and embarrassed to ride in such + a conveyance. Instead it was her choice. Yes, he could love her more. + Hourly she was proving that. + </p> + <p> + “Come this way a few steps,” he said. “Betsy is here.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl laid her face against the nose of the faithful old animal, and + stroked her head and neck. Then she held her skirts and the Harvester + helped her into the wagon. She took the seat, and the dog went wild with + joy. + </p> + <p> + “Come on, Bel,” she softly commanded. + </p> + <p> + The dog hesitated, and looked at the Harvester for permission. + </p> + <p> + “You may come here and put your head on my knee,” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Belshazzar, you lucky dog, you are privileged to sit there and lay your + head on the lady's lap,” said the Harvester, and the dog quivered with + joy. + </p> + <p> + Then the man picked up the lines, gave a backward glance to the bed of the + wagon, high piled with large bundles, and turned Betsy toward Medicine + Woods. Through the crowded streets and toward the country they drove, when + a big red car passed, a man called to them, then reversed and slowly began + backing beside the wagon. The Harvester stopped. + </p> + <p> + “That is my best friend, Doctor Carey, of the hospital, Ruth,” he said + hastily. “May I tell him, and will you shake hands with him?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly!” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Is it really you, David?” the doctor peered with gleaming eyes from under + the car top. + </p> + <p> + “Really!” cried the Harvester, as man greets man with a full heart when he + is sure of sympathy. “Come, give us your best send-off, Doc! We were + married an hour ago. We are headed for Medicine Woods. Doctor Carey, this + is Mrs. Langston.” + </p> + <p> + “Mighty glad to know you!” cried the doctor, reaching a happy hand. + </p> + <p> + The Girl met it cordially, while she smiled on him. + </p> + <p> + “How did this happen?” demanded the doctor. “Why didn't you let us know? + This is hardly fair of you, David. You might have let me and the Missus + share with you.” + </p> + <p> + “That is to be explained,” said the Harvester. “It was decided on very + suddenly, and rather sadly, on account of the death of Mrs. Jameson. I + forced Ruth to marry me and come with me. I grow rather frightened when I + think of it, but it was the only way I knew. She absolutely refused my + other plans. You see before you a wild man carrying away a woman to his + cave.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't believe him, Doctor!” laughed the Girl. “If you know him, you will + understand that to offer all he had was like him, when he saw my + necessity. You will come to see us soon?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll come right now,” said the doctor. “I'll bring my wife and arrive by + the time you do.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh no you won't!” said the Harvester. “Do you observe the bed of this + wagon? This happened all 'unbeknownst' to us. We have to set up + housekeeping after we reach home. We will notify you when we are ready for + visitors. Just you subside and wait until you are sent for.” + </p> + <p> + “Why David!” cried the astonished Girl. + </p> + <p> + “That's the law!” said the Harvester tersely. “Good-bye, Doc; we'll be + ready for you in a day or two.” + </p> + <p> + He leaned down and held out his hand. The grip that caught it said all any + words could convey; and then Betsy started up the hill. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII. WHEN THE DREAM CAME TRUE + </h2> + <p> + At first the road lay between fertile farms dotted with shocked wheat, + covered with undulant seas of ripening oats, and forests of growing corn. + The larks were trailing melody above the shorn and growing fields, the + quail were ingathering beside the fences, and from the forests on graceful + wings slipped the nighthawks and sailed and soared, dropping so low that + the half moons formed by white spots on their spread wings showed plainly. + </p> + <p> + “Why is this country so different from the other side of the city?” asked + the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “It is older,” replied the Harvester, “and it lies higher. This was + settled and well cultivated when that was a swamp. But as a farming + proposition, the money is in the lowland like your uncle's. The crops + raised there are enormous compared with the yield of these fields.” + </p> + <p> + “I see,” said she. “But this is much better to look at and the air is + different. It lacks a soggy, depressing quality.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't allow any air to surpass that of Medicine Woods,” said the + Harvester, “by especial arrangement with the powers that be.” + </p> + <p> + Then they dipped into a little depression and arose to cross the railroad + and then followed a longer valley that was ragged and unkempt compared + with the road between cultivated fields. The Harvester was busy trying to + plan what to do first, and how to do it most effectively, and working his + brain to think if he had everything the Girl would require for her + comfort; so he drove silently through the deepening shadows. She shuddered + and awoke him suddenly. He glanced at her from the corner of his eye. + </p> + <p> + Her thoughts had gone on a journey, also, and the way had been rough, for + her face wore a strained appearance. The hands lying bare in her lap were + tightly gripped, so that the nails and knuckles appeared blue. The + Harvester hastily cast around seeking for the cause of the transformation. + A few minutes ago she had seemed at ease and comfortable, now she was + close open panic. Nothing had been said that would disturb her. With brain + alert he searched for the reason. Then it began to come to him. The + unaccustomed silence and depression of the country might have been the + beginning. Coming from the city and crowds of people to the gloomy valley + with a man almost a stranger, going she knew not where, to conditions she + knew not what, with the experiences of the day vivid before her. The black + valley road was not prepossessing, with its border of green pools, through + which grew swamp bushes and straggling vines. The Harvester looked + carefully at the road, and ceased to marvel at the Girl. But he disliked + to let her know he understood, so he gave one last glance at those gripped + hands and casually held out the lines. + </p> + <p> + “Will you take these just a second?” he asked. “Don't let them touch your + dress. We must not lose of our load, because it's mostly things that will + make you more comfortable.” + </p> + <p> + He arose, and turning, pretended to see that everything was all right. + Then he resumed his seat and drove on. + </p> + <p> + “I am a little ashamed of this stretch through here,” he said + apologetically. “I could have managed to have it cleared and in better + shape long ago, but in a way it yields a snug profit, and so far I've + preferred the money. The land is not mine, but I could grub out this + growth entirely, instead of taking only what I need.” + </p> + <p> + “Is there stuff here you use?” the Girl aroused herself to ask, and the + Harvester saw the look of relief that crossed her face at the sound of his + voice. + </p> + <p> + “Well I should say yes,” he laughed. “Those bushes, numerous everywhere, + with the hanging yellow-green balls, those, in bark and root, go into + fever medicines. They are not so much used now, but sometimes I have a + call, and when I do, I pass the beds on my——on our land, and + come down here and get what is needed. That bush,” he indicated with the + whip, “blooms exquisitely in the spring. It is a relative of flowering + dogwood, and the one of its many names I like best is silky cornel. Isn't + that pretty?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she said, “it is beautiful.” + </p> + <p> + “I've planted some for you in a hedge along the driveway so next spring + you can gather all you want. I think you'll like the odour. The bark + brings more than true dogwood. If I get a call from some house that uses + it, I save mine and come down here. Around the edge are hop trees, and I + realize something from them, and also the false and true bitter-sweet that + run riot here. Both of them have pretty leaves, while the berries of the + true hang all winter and the colour is gorgeous. I've set your hedge + closely with them. When it has grown a few months it's going to furnish + flowers in the spring, a million different, wonderful leaves and berries + in the summer, many fruits the birds love in the fall, and bright berries, + queer seed pods, and nuts all winter.” + </p> + <p> + “You planted it for me?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. I think it will be beautiful in a season or two; it isn't so bad + now. I hope it will call myriads of birds to keep you company. When you + cross this stretch of road hereafter, don't see fetid water and straggling + bushes and vines; just say to yourself, this helps to fill orders!” + </p> + <p> + “I am perfectly tolerant of it now,” she said. “You make everything + different. I will come with you and help collect the roots and barks you + want. Which bush did you say relieved the poor souls scorching with + fever?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester drew on the lines, Betsy swerved to the edge of the road, + and he leaned and broke a branch. + </p> + <p> + “This one,” he answered. “Buttonbush, because those balls resemble round + buttons. Aren't they peculiar? See how waxy and gracefully cut and set the + leaves are. Go on, Betsy, get us home before night. We appear our best + early in the morning, when the sun tops Medicine Woods and begins to light + us up, and in the evening, just when she drops behind Onabasha back there, + and strikes us with a few level rays. Will you take the lines until I open + this gate?” + </p> + <p> + She laid the twig in her lap on the white gloves and took the lines. As + the gate swung wide, Betsy walked through and stopped at the usual place. + </p> + <p> + “Now my girl,” said the Harvester, “cross yourself, lean back, and take + your ease. This side that gate you are at home. From here on belongs to + us.” + </p> + <p> + “To you, you mean,” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “To us, I mean,” declared the Harvester. “Don't you know that the 'worldly + goods bestowal' clause in a marriage ceremony is a partial reality. It + doesn't give you 'all my worldly goods,' but it gives you one third. Which + will you take, the hill, lake, marsh, or a part of all of them.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, is there water?” + </p> + <p> + “Did I forget to mention that I was formerly sole owner and proprietor of + the lake of Lost Loons, also a brook of Singing Water, and many cold + springs. The lake covers about one third of our land, and my neighbours + would allow me ditch outlet to the river, but they say I'm too lazy to + take it.” + </p> + <p> + “Lazy! Do they mean drain your lake into the river?” + </p> + <p> + “They do,” said the Harvester, “and make the bed into a cornfield.” + </p> + <p> + “But you wouldn't?” + </p> + <p> + She turned to him with confidence. + </p> + <p> + “I haven't so far, but of course, when you see it, if you would prefer it + in a corn——Let's play a game! Turn your head in this + direction,” he indicated with the whip, “close your eyes, and open them + when I say ready.” + </p> + <p> + “All right!” + </p> + <p> + “Now!” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Oh,” cried the Girl. “Stop! Please stop!” + </p> + <p> + They were at the foot of a small levee that ran to the bridge crossing + Singing Water. On the left lay the valley through which the stream swept + from its hurried rush down the hill, a marshy thicket of vines, shrubs, + and bushes, the banks impassable with water growth. Everywhere flamed + foxfire and cardinal flower, thousands of wild tiger lilies lifted + gorgeous orange-red trumpets, beside pearl-white turtle head and moon + daisies, while all the creek bank was a coral line with the first opening + bloom of big pink mallows. Rank jewel flower poured gold from dainty + cornucopias and lavender beard-tongue offered honey to a million bumbling + bees; water smart-weed spread a glowing pink background, and twining amber + dodder topped the marsh in lacy mist with its delicate white bloom. + Straight before them a white-sanded road climbed to the bridge and up a + gentle hill between the young hedge of small trees and bushes, where again + flowers and bright colours rioted and led to the cabin yet invisible. On + the right, the hill, crowned with gigantic forest trees, sloped to the + lake; midway the building stood, and from it, among scattering trees all + the way to the water's edge, were immense beds of vivid colour. Like a + scarf of gold flung across the face of earth waved the misty saffron, and + beside the road running down the hill, in a sunny, open space arose + tree-like specimens of thrifty magenta pokeberry. Down the hill crept the + masses of colour, changing from dry soil to water growth. + </p> + <p> + High around the blue-green surface of the lake waved lacy heads of wild + rice, lower cat-tails, bulrushes, and marsh grasses; arrowhead lilies + lifted spines of pearly bloom, while yellow water lilies and blue water + hyacinths intermingled; here and there grew a pink stretch of water + smartweed and the dangling gold of jewel flower. Over the water, bordering + the edge, starry faces of white pond lilies floated. Blue flags waved + graceful leaves, willows grew in clumps, and vines clambered everywhere. + </p> + <p> + Among the growth of the lake shore, duck, coot, and grebe voices + commingled in the last chattering hastened splash of securing supper + before bedtime; crying killdeers crossed the water, and overhead the + nighthawks massed in circling companies. Betsy climbed the hill and at + every step the Girl cried, “Slower! please go slower!” With wide eyes she + stared around her. + </p> + <p> + “WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME IT WOULD BE LIKE THIS?” she demanded in awed + tones. + </p> + <p> + “Have I had opportunity to describe much of anything?” asked the + Harvester. “Besides, I was born and reared here, and while it has been a + garden of bloom for the past six years only, it always has been a picture; + but one forgets to say much about a sight seen every day and that requires + the work this does.” + </p> + <p> + “That white mist down there, what is it?” she marvelled. + </p> + <p> + “Pearls grown by the Almighty,” answered the Harvester. “Flowers that I + hope you will love. They are like you. Tall and slender, graceful, pearl + white and pearl pure——those are the arrowhead Lilies.” + </p> + <p> + “And the wonderful purplish-red there on the bank? Oh, I could kneel and + pray before colour like that!' + </p> + <p> + “Pokeberry!” said the Harvester. “Roots bring five cents a pound. Good + blood purifier.” + </p> + <p> + “Man!” cried the Girl. “How can you? I'm not going to ask what another + colour is. I'll just worship what I like in silence.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you forgive me if I tell you what a woman whose judgment I respect + says about that colour?” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps!” + </p> + <p> + “She says, 'God proves that He loves it best of all the tints in His + workshop by using it first and most sparingly.' Now are you going to + punish me by keeping silent?” + </p> + <p> + “I couldn't if I tried.” Just then they came upon the bridge crossing + Singing Water, and there was a long view of its border, rippling bed, and + marshy banks; while on the other hand the lake resembled a richly + incrusted sapphire. + </p> + <p> + “Is the house close?” + </p> + <p> + “Just a few rods, at the turn of the drive.” + </p> + <p> + “Please help me down. I want to remain here a while. I don't care what + else there is to see. Nothing can equal this. I wish I could bring down a + bed and sleep here. I'd like to have a table, and draw and paint. I + understand now what you mean about the designs you mentioned. Why, there + must be thousands! I can't go on. I never saw anything so appealing in all + my life.” + </p> + <p> + Now the Harvester's mother had designed that bridge and he had built it + with much care. From bark-covered railings to solid oak floor and + comfortable benches running along the sides it was intended to be a part + of the landscape. + </p> + <p> + “I'll send Belshazzar to the cabin with the wagon,” he said, “so you can + see better.” + </p> + <p> + “But you must not!” she cried. “I can't walk. I wouldn't soil these + beautiful shoes for anything.” + </p> + <p> + “Why don't you change them?” inquired the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid I forgot everything I had,” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “There are shoes somewhere in this load. I thought of them in getting + other things for you, but I had no idea as to size, and so I told that + clerk to-day when she got your measure to put in every kind you'd need.” + </p> + <p> + “You are horribly extravagant,” she said. “But if you have them here, + perhaps I could use one pair.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester mounted the wagon and hunted until he found a large box, and + opening it on the bench he disclosed almost every variety of shoe, walking + shoe and slipper, a girl ever owned, as well as sandals and high + overshoes. + </p> + <p> + “For pity sake!” cried the Girl. “Cover that box! You frighten me. You'll + never get them paid for. You must take them straight back.” + </p> + <p> + “Never take anything back,” said the Harvester. “'Be sure you are right, + then go ahead,' is my motto. Now I know these are your correct size and + that for differing occasions you will want just such shoes as other girls + have, and here they are. Simple as life! I think these will serve because + they are for street wear, yet they are white inside.” + </p> + <p> + He produced a pair of canvas walking shoes and kneeling before her held + out his hand. + </p> + <p> + When he had finished, he loaded the box on the wagon, gave the hitching + strap to Belshazzar, and told him to lead Betsy to the cabin and hold her + until he came. Then he turned to the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” he said, “look as long as you choose. But remember that the law + gives you part of this and your lover, which same am I, gives you the + remainder, so you are privileged to come here at any hour as often as you + please. If you miss anything this evening, you have all time to come in + which to re-examine it.” + </p> + <p> + “I'd like to live right here on this bridge,” she said. “I wish it had a + roof.” + </p> + <p> + “Roof it to-morrow,” offered the Harvester. “Simple matter of a few + pillars already cut, joists joined, and some slab shingles left from the + cabin. Anything else your ladyship can suggest?” + </p> + <p> + “That you be sensible.” + </p> + <p> + “I was born that way,” explained the Harvester, “and I've cultivated the + faculty until I've developed real genius. Talking of sense, there never + was a proper marriage in which the man didn't give the woman a present. + You seem likely to be more appreciative of this bridge than anything else + I have, so right here and now would be the appropriate place to offer you + my wedding gift. I didn't have much time, but I couldn't have found + anything more suitable if I'd taken a year.” + </p> + <p> + He held out a small, white velvet case. + </p> + <p> + “Doesn't that look as if it were made for a bride?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “It does,” answered the Girl. “But I can't take it. You are not doing + right. Marrying as we did, you never can believe that I love you; maybe it + won't ever happen that I do. I have no right to accept gifts and expensive + clothing from you. In the first place, if the love you ask never comes, + there is no possible way in which I can repay you. In the second, these + things you are offering are not suitable for life and work in the woods. + In the third, I think you are being extravagant, and I couldn't forgive + myself if I allowed that.” + </p> + <p> + “You divide your statements like a preacher, don't you?” asked the + Harvester ingenuously. “Now sit thee here and gaze on the placid lake and + quiet your troubled spirit, while I demolish your 'perfectly good' + arguments. In the first place, you are now my wife, and you have a right + to take anything I offer, if you care for it or can use it in any manner. + In the second, you must recognize a difference in our positions. What + seems nothing to you means all the world to me, and you are less than + human if you deprive me of the joy of expressing feelings I am in honour + bound to keep in my heart, by these little material offerings. In the + third place, I inherited over six hundred acres of land and water, please + observe the water——it is now in evidence on your left. All my + life I have been taught to be frugal, economical, and to work. All I've + earned either has gone back into land, into the bank, or into books, very + plain food, and such clothing as you now see me wearing. Just the value of + this place as it stands, with its big trees, its drug crops yielding all + the year round, would be difficult to estimate; and I don't mind telling + you that on the top of that hill there is a gold mine, and it's mine——ours + since four o'clock.” + </p> + <p> + “A gold mine!” + </p> + <p> + “Acres and acres of wild ginseng, seven years of age and ready to harvest. + Do you remember what your few pounds brought?” + </p> + <p> + “Why it's worth thousands!” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly! For your peace of mind I might add that all I have done or got + is paid for, except what I bought to-day, and I will write a check for + that as soon as the bill is made out. My bank account never will feel it + Truly, Ruth, I am not doing or going to do anything extravagant. I can't + afford to give you diamond necklaces, yachts, and trips to Europe; but you + can have the contents of this box and a motor boat on the lake, a horse + and carriage, and a trip——say to New York perfectly well. + Please take it.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish you wouldn't ask me. I would be happier not to.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but I do ask you,” persisted the Harvester. “You are not the only + one to be considered. I have some rights also, and I'm not so + self-effacing that I won't insist upon them. From your standpoint I am + almost a stranger. You have spent no time considering me in near + relations; I realize that. You feel as if you were driven here for a + refuge, and that is true. I said to Belshazzar one day that I must + remember that you had no dream, and had spent no time loving me, and I do + I know how this wedding seems to you, but it's going to mean something + different and better soon, please God. I can see your side; now suppose + you take a look at mine. I did have a dream, it was my dream, and beyond + the sum of any delight I ever conceived. On the strength of it I rebuilt + my home and remodelled these premises. Then I saw you, and from that day I + worked early and late. I lost you and I never stopped until I found you; + and I would have courted and won you, but the fates intervened and here + you are! So it's my delight to court and win you now. If you knew the + difference between having a dream that stirred the least fibre of your + being and facing the world in a demand for realization of it, and then + finding what you coveted in the palm of your hand, as it were, you would + know what is in my heart, and why expression of some kind is necessary to + me just now, and why I'll explode if it is denied. It will lower the + tension, if you will accept this as a matter of fact; as if you rather + expected and liked it, if you can.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester set his finger on the spring. + </p> + <p> + “Don't!” she said. “I'll never have the courage if you do. Give it to me + in the case, and let me open it. Despite your unanswerable arguments, I am + quite sure that is the only way in which I can take it.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester gave her the box. + </p> + <p> + “My wedding gift!” she exclaimed, more to herself than to him. “Why should + I be the buffet of all the unkind fates kept in store for a girl my whole + life, and then suddenly be offered home, beautiful gifts, and wonderful + loving kindness by a stranger?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester ran his fingers through his crisp hair, pulled it into a + peak, stepped to the seat and sitting on the railing, he lifted his + elbows, tilted his head, and began a motley outpouring of half-spoken, + half-whistled trills and imploring cries. There was enough similarity that + the Girl instantly recognized the red bird. Out of breath the Harvester + dropped to the seat beside her. + </p> + <p> + “And don't you keep forgetting it!” he cried. “Now open that box and put + on the trinket; because I want to take you to the cabin when the sun falls + level on the drive.” + </p> + <p> + She opened the case, exposing a thread of gold that appeared too slender + for the weight of an exquisite pendant, set with shimmering pearls. + </p> + <p> + “If you will look down there,” the Harvester pointed over the railing to + the arrowhead lilies touched with the fading light, “you will see that + they are similar.” + </p> + <p> + “They are!” cried the Girl. “How lovely! Which is more beautiful I do not + know. And you won't like it if I say I must not.” + </p> + <p> + She held the open case toward the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “'Possession is nine points in the law,'” he quoted. “You have taken it + already and it is in your hands; now make the gift perfect for me by + putting it on and saying nothing more.” + </p> + <p> + “My wedding gift!” repeated the Girl. Slowly she lifted the beautiful + ornament and held it in the light. “I'm so glad you just force me to take + it,” she said. “Any half-normal girl would be delighted. I do accept it. + And what's more, I am going to keep and wear it and my ring at suitable + times all my life, in memory of what you have done to be kind to me on + this awful day.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you!” said the Harvester. “That is a flash of the proper spirit. + Allow me to put it on you.” + </p> + <p> + “No!” said the Girl. “Not yet! After a while! I want to hold it in my + hands, where I can see it!” + </p> + <p> + “Now there is one other thing,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “If I had known for any length of time that this day was coming and + bringing you, as most men know when a girl is to be given into their care, + I could have made it different. As it is, I've done the best I knew. All + your after life I hope you will believe this: Just that if you missed + anything to-day that would have made it easier for you or more pleasant, + the reason was because of my ignorance of women and the conventions, and + lack of time. I want you to know and to feel that in my heart those vows I + took were real. This is undoubtedly all the marrying I will ever want to + do. I am old-fashioned in my ways, and deeply imbued with the spirit of + the woods, and that means unending evolution along the same lines. + </p> + <p> + “To me you are my revered and beloved wife, my mate now; and I am sure + nothing will make me feel any different. This is the day of my marriage to + the only woman I ever have thought of wedding, and to me it is joy + unspeakable. With other men such a day ends differently from the close of + this with me. Because I have done and will continue to do the level best I + know for you, this oration is the prologue to asking you for one gift to + me from you, a wedding gift. I don't want it unless you can bestow it + ungrudgingly, and truly want me to have it. If you can, I will have all + from this day I hope for at the hands of fate. May I have the gift I ask + of you, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + She lifted startled eyes to his face. + </p> + <p> + “Tell me what it is?” she breathed. + </p> + <p> + “It may seem much to you,” said the Harvester; “to me it appears only a + gracious act, from a wonderful woman, if you will give me freely, one real + kiss. I've never had one, save from a Dream Girl, Ruth, and you will have + to make yours pretty good if it is anything like hers. You are woman + enough to know that most men crush their brides in their arms and take a + thousand. I'll put my hands behind me and never move a muscle, and I won't + ask for more, if you will crown my wedding day with only one touch of your + lips. Will you kiss me just once, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + The Girl lifted a piteous face down which big tears suddenly rolled. + </p> + <p> + “Oh Man, you shame me!” she cried. “What kind of a heart have I that it + fails to respond to such a plea? Have I been overworked and starved so + long there is no feeling in me? I don't understand why I don't take you in + my arms and kiss you a hundred times, but you see I don't. It doesn't seem + as if I ever could.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind,” said the Harvester gently. “It was only a fancy of mine, + bred from my dream and unreasonable, perhaps. I am sorry I mentioned it. + The sun is on the stoop now; I want you to enter your home in its light. + Come!” + </p> + <p> + He half lifted her from the bench. “I am going to help you up the drive as + I used to assist mother,” he said, fighting to keep his voice natural. + “Clasp your hands before you and draw your elbows to your sides. Now let + me take one in each palm, and you will scoot up this drive as if you were + on wheels.” + </p> + <p> + “But I don't want to 'scoot',” she said unsteadily. “I must go slowly and + not miss anything.” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary, you don't want to do any such thing——you + should leave most of it for to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “I had forgotten there would be any to-morrow. It seems as if the day + would end it and set me adrift again.” + </p> + <p> + “You are going to awake in the gold room with the sun shining on your face + in the morning, and it's going to keep on all your life. Now if you've got + a smile in your anatomy, bring it to the surface, for just beyond this + tree lies happiness for you.” + </p> + <p> + His voice was clear and steady now, his confidence something contagious. + There was a lovely smile on her face as she looked at him, and stepped + into the line of light crossing the driveway; and then she stopped and + cried, “Oh lovely! Lovely! Lovely!” over and over. Then maybe the + Harvester was not glad he had planned, worked unceasingly, and builded as + well as he knew. + </p> + <p> + The cabin of large, peeled, golden oak logs, oiled to preserve them, + nestled like a big mushroom on the side of the hill. Above and behind the + building the trees arose in a green setting. The roof was stained to their + shades. The wide veranda was enclosed in screening, over which wonderful + vines climbed in places, and round it grew ferns and deep-wood plants. + Inside hung big baskets of wild growth; there was a wide swinging seat, + with a back rest, supported by heavy chains. There were chairs and a table + of bent saplings and hickory withes. Two full stories the building arose, + and the western sun warmed it almost to orange-yellow, while the graceful + vines crept toward the roof. + </p> + <p> + The Girl looked at the rapidly rising hedge on each side of her, at the + white floor of the drive, and long and long at the cabin. + </p> + <p> + “You did all this since February?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Even to transforming the landscape,” answered the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Oh I wish it was not coming night!” she cried. “I don't want the dark to + come, until you have told me the name of every tree and shrub of that + wonderful hedge, and every plant and vine of the veranda; and oh I want to + follow up the driveway and see that beautiful little creek—listen to + it chuckle and laugh! Is it always glad like that? See the ferns and + things that grow on the other side of it! Why there are big beds of them. + And lilies of the valley by the acre! What is that yellow around the + corner?” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind that now,” said the Harvester, guiding her up the steps, along + the gravelled walk to the screen that he opened, and over a flood of gold + light she crossed the veranda, and entered the door. + </p> + <p> + “Now here it appears bare,” said the Harvester, “because I didn't know + what should go on the walls or what rugs to get or about the windows. The + table, chairs, and couch I made myself with some help from a carpenter. + They are solid black walnut and will age finely.” + </p> + <p> + “They are beautiful,” said the Girl, softly touching the shining table top + with her fingers. “Please put the necklace on me now, I have to use my + eyes and hands for other things.” + </p> + <p> + She held out the box and the Harvester lifted the pendant and clasped the + chain around her neck. She glanced at the lustrous pearls and then the + fingers of one hand softly closed over them. She went through the long, + wide living-room, examining the chairs and mantel, stopping to touch and + exclaim over its array of half-finished candlesticks. At the door of his + room she paused. “And this?” she questioned. + </p> + <p> + “Mine,” said the Harvester, turning the knob. “I'll give you one peep to + satisfy your curiosity, and show you the location of the bridge over which + you came to me in my dream. All the remainder is yours. I reserve only + this.” + </p> + <p> + “Will the 'goblins git me' if I come here?” + </p> + <p> + “Not goblins, but a man alive; so heed your warning. After you have seen + it, keep away.” + </p> + <p> + The floor was cement, three of the walls heavy screening with mosquito + wire inside, the roof slab shingled. On the inner wall was a bookcase, + below it a desk, at one side a gun cabinet, at the other a bath in a small + alcove beside a closet. The room contained two chairs like those of the + veranda, and the bed was a low oak couch covered with a thick mattress of + hemlock twigs, topped with sweet fern, on which the sun shone all day. On + a chair at the foot were spread some white sheets, a blanket, and an + oilcloth. The sun beat in, the wind drifted through, and one lying on the + couch could see down the bright hill, and sweep the lake to the opposite + bank without lifting the head. The Harvester drew the Girl to the bedside. + </p> + <p> + “Now straight in a line from here,” he said, “across the lake to that big, + scraggy oak, every clear night the moon builds a bridge of molten gold, + and once you walked it, my girl, and came straight to me, alone and + unafraid; and you were gracious and lovely beyond anything a man ever + dreamed of before. I'll have that to think of to-night. Now come see the + dining-room, kitchen, and hand-made sunshine.” + </p> + <p> + He led her into what had been the front room of the old cabin, now a + large, long dining-room having on each side wide windows with deep seats. + The fireplace backwall was against that of the living-room, but here the + mantel was bare. All the wood-work, chairs, the dining table, cupboards, + and carving table were golden oak. Only a few rugs and furnishings and a + woman's touch were required to make it an unusual and beautiful room. The + kitchen was shining with a white hard-wood floor, white wood-work, and + pale green walls. It was a light, airy, sanitary place, supplied with a + pump, sink, hot and cold water faucets, refrigerator, and every modern + convenience possible to the country. + </p> + <p> + Then the Harvester almost carried the Girl up the stairs and showed her + three large sleeping rooms, empty and bare save for some packing cases. + </p> + <p> + “I didn't know about these, so I didn't do anything. When you find time to + plan, tell me what you want, and I'll make—or buy it. They are + good-sized, cool rooms. They all have closets and pipes from the furnace, + so they will be comfortable in winter. Now there is your place remaining. + I'll leave you while I stable Betsy and feed the stock.” + </p> + <p> + He guided her to the door opening from the living-room to the east. + </p> + <p> + “This is the sunshine spot,” he said. “It is bathed in morning light, and + sheltered by afternoon shade. Singing Water is across the drive there to + talk to you always. It comes pelting down so fast it never freezes, so it + makes music all winter, and the birds are so numerous you'll have to go to + bed early for they'll wake you by dawn. I noticed this room was going to + be full of sunshine when I built it, and I craved only brightness for you, + so I coaxed all of it to stay that I could. Every stroke is the work of my + hands, and all of the furniture. I hope you will like it. This is the room + of which I've been telling you, Ruth. Go in and take possession, and I'll + entreat God and all His ministering angels to send you sunshine and joy.” + </p> + <p> + He opened the door, guided her inside, closed it, and went swiftly to his + work. + </p> + <p> + The Girl stood and looked around her with amazed eyes. The floor was pale + yellow wood, polished until it shone like a table top. The casings, table, + chairs, dressing table, chest of drawers, and bed were solid curly maple. + The doors were big polished slabs of it, each containing enough material + to veneer all the furniture in the room. The walls were of plaster, tinted + yellow, and the windows with yellow shades were curtained in dainty white. + She could hear the Harvester carrying the load from the wagon to the front + porch, the clamour of the barn yard; and as she went to the north window + to see the view, a shining peacock strutted down the walk and went to the + Harvester's hand for grain, while scores of snow-white doves circled over + his head. She stepped on deep rugs of yellow goat skins, and, glancing at + the windows on either side, she opened the door. + </p> + <p> + Outside it lay a porch with a railing, but no roof. On each post stood a + box filled with yellow wood-flowers and trailing vines of pale green. A + big tree rising through one corner of the floor supplied the cover. A gate + opened to a walk leading to the driveway, and on either side lay a patch + of sod, outlined by a deep hedge of bright gold. In it saffron, + cone-flowers, black-eyed Susans, golden-rod, wild sunflowers, and jewel + flower grew, and some of it, enough to form a yellow line, was already in + bloom. Around the porch and down the walk were beds of yellow violets, + pixie moss, and every tiny gold flower of the woods. The Girl leaned + against the tree and looked around her and then staggered inside and + dropped on the couch. + </p> + <p> + “What planning! What work!” she sobbed. “What taste! Why he's a poet! What + wonderful beauty! He's an artist with earth for his canvas, and growing + things for colours.” + </p> + <p> + She lay there staring at the walls, the beautiful wood-work and furniture, + the dressing table with its array of toilet articles, a low chair before + it, and the thick rug for her feet. Over and over she looked at + everything, and then closed her eyes and lay quietly, too weary and + overwhelmed to think. By and by came tapping at the door, and she sprang + up and crossing to the dressing table straightened her hair and composed + her face. + </p> + <p> + “Ajax demands to see you,” cried a gay voice. + </p> + <p> + The Girl stepped outside. + </p> + <p> + “Don't be frightened if he screams at you,” warned the Harvester as she + passed him. “He detests a stranger, and he always cries and sulks.” + </p> + <p> + It was a question what was in the head of the bird as he saw the strange + looking creature invading his domain, and he did scream, a wild, high, + strident wail that delighted the Harvester inexpressibly, because it sent + the Girl headlong into his arms. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, good gracious!” she cried. “Has such a beautiful bird got a noise in + it like that? Why I've fed them in parks and I never heard one explode + before.” + </p> + <p> + Then how the Harvester laughed. + </p> + <p> + “But you see you are in the woods now, and this is not a park bird. It + will be the test of your power to see how soon you can coax him to your + hand.” + </p> + <p> + “How do I work to win him?” + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid I can't tell you that,” said the Harvester. “I had to invent + a plan for myself. It required a long time and much petting, and my + methods might not avail for you. It will interest you to study that out. + But the member of the family it is positively essential that you win to a + life and death allegiance is Belshazzar. If you can make him love you, he + will protect you at every turn. He will go before you into the forest and + all the crawling, creeping things will get out of his way. He will nose + around the flowers you want to gather, and if he growls and the hair on + the back of his neck rises, never forget that you must heed that warning. + A few times I have not stopped for it, and I always have been sorry. So + far as anything animate or uncertain footing is concerned, you are always + perfectly safe if you obey him. About touching plants and flowers, you + must confine yourself to those you are certain you know, until I can teach + you. There are gorgeous and wonderfully attractive things here, but some + of them are rank poison. You won't handle plants you don't know, until you + learn, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “I will not,” she promised instantly. + </p> + <p> + She went to the seat under the porch tree and leaning against the trunk + she studied the hill, and the rippling course of Singing Water where it + turned and curved before the cabin, and started across the vivid little + marsh toward the lake. Then she looked at the Harvester. He seated himself + on the low railing and smiled at her. + </p> + <p> + “You are very tired?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “No,” she said. “You are right about the air being better up here. It is + stimulating instead of depressing.” + </p> + <p> + “So far as pure air, location, and water are concerned,” said the + Harvester, “I consider this place ideal. The lake is large enough to cool + the air and raise sufficient moisture to dampen it, and too small to make + it really cold and disagreeable. The slope of the hill gives perfect + drainage. The heaviest rains do not wet the earth for more than three + hours. North, south, and west breezes sweep the cool air from the water to + the cabin in summer. The same suns warm us here on the winter hillside. My + violets, spring beauties, anemones, and dutchman's breeches here are + always two weeks ahead of those in the woods. I am not afraid of your not + liking the location or the air. As for the cabin, if you don't care for + that, it's very simple. I'll transform it into a laboratory and dry-house, + and build you whatever you want, within my means, over there on the hill + just across Singing Water and facing the valley toward Onabasha. That's a + perfect location. The thing that worries me is what you are going to do + for company, especially while I am away.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't trouble yourself about anything,” she said. “Just say in your + heart, 'she is going to be stronger than she ever has been in her life in + this lovely place, and she has more right now than she ever had or hoped + to have.' For one thing, I am going to study your books. I never have had + time before. While we sewed or embroidered, mother talked by the hour of + the great writers of the world, told me what they wrote, and how they + expressed themselves, but I got to read very little for myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Books are my company,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Do your friends come often?” + </p> + <p> + “Almost never! Doc and his wife come most, and if you look out some day + and see a white-haired, bent old woman, with a face as sweet as dawn, + coming up the bank of Singing Water, that will be my mother's friend, + Granny Moreland, who joins us on the north over there. She is frank and + brusque, so she says what she thinks with unmistakable distinctness, but + her heart is big and tender and her philosophy keeps her sweet and kindly + despite the ache of rheumatism and the weight of seventy years.” + </p> + <p> + “I'd love to have her come,” said the Girl. “Is that all?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Your favourite word,” laughed the Harvester. “The reason lies with me, or + rather with my mother. Some day I will tell you the whole story, and the + cause. I think now I can encompass it in this. The place is an experiment. + When medicinal herbs, roots, and barks became so scarce that some of the + most important were almost extinct, it occurred to me that it would be a + good idea to stop travelling miles and poaching on the woods of other + people, and turn our land into an herb garden. For four years before + mother went, and six since, I've worked with all my might, and results are + beginning to take shape. While I've been at it, of course, my neighbours + had an inkling of what was going on, and I've been called a fool, lazy, + and a fanatic, because I did not fell the trees and plow for corn. You + readily can see I'm a little short of corn ground out there,” he waved + toward the marsh and lake, “and up there,” he indicated the steep hill and + wood. “But somewhere on this land I've been able to find muck for mallows, + water for flags and willows, shade for ferns, lilies, and ginseng, rocky, + sunny spaces for mullein, and open, fertile beds for Bouncing Bet——just + for examples. God never evolved a place better suited for an herb farm; + from woods to water and all that goes between, it is perfect.” + </p> + <p> + “And indescribably lovely,” added the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I think it is,” said the Harvester. “But in the days when I didn't + know how it was coming out, I was sensitive about it; so I kept quiet and + worked, and allowed the other fellow to do the talking. After a while the + ginseng bed grew a treasure worth guarding, and I didn't care for any one + to know how much I had or where it was, as a matter of precaution. Ginseng + and money are synonymous, and I was forced to be away some of the time.” + </p> + <p> + “Would any one take it?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly!” said the Harvester. “If they knew it was there, and what it + is worth. Then, as I've told you, much of the stuff here must not be + handled except by experts, and I didn't want people coming in my absence + and taking risks. The remainder of my reason for living so alone is + cowardice, pure and simple.” + </p> + <p> + “Cowardice? You! Oh no!” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you!” said the Harvester. “But it is! Some day I'll tell you of a + very solemn oath I've had to keep. It hasn't been easy. You wouldn't + understand, at least not now. If the day ever comes when I think you will, + I'll tell you. Just now I can express it by that one word. I didn't dare + fail or I felt I would be lost as my father was before me. So I remained + away from the city and its temptations and men of my age, and worked in + the woods until I was tired enough to drop, read books that helped, + tinkered with the carving, and sometimes I had an idea, and I went into + that little building behind the dry-house, took out my different herbs, + and tried my hand at compounding a new cure for some of the pains of + humanity. It isn't bad work, Ruth. It keeps a fellow at a fairly decent + level, and some good may come of it. Carey is trying several formulae for + me, and if they work I'll carry them higher. If you want money, Girl, I + know how to get it for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you want it?” + </p> + <p> + “Not one cent more than I've got,” said the Harvester emphatically. “When + any man accumulates more than he can earn with his own hands, he begins to + enrich himself at the expense of the youth, the sweat, the blood, the joy + of his fellow men. I can go to the city, take a look, and see what money + does, as a rule, and it's another thing I'm afraid of. You will find me a + dreadful coward on those two points. I don't want to know society and its + ways. I see what it does to other men; it would be presumption to reckon + myself stronger. So I live alone. As for money, I've watched the cross + cuts and the quick and easy ways to accumulate it; but I've had something + in me that held me to the slow, sure, clean work of my own hands, and it's + yielded me enough for one, for two even, in a reasonable degree. So I've + worked, read, compounded, and carved. If I couldn't wear myself down + enough to sleep by any other method, I went into the lake, and swam across + and back; and that is guaranteed to put any man to rest, clean and + unashamed.” + </p> + <p> + “Six years,” said the Girl softly, as she studied him. “I think it has set + a mark on you. I believe I can trace it. Your forehead, brow, and eyes + bear the lines and the appearance of all experience, all comprehension, + but your lips are those of a very young lad. I shouldn't be surprised if I + had that kiss ready for you, and I really believe I can make it worth + while.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh good Lord!” cried the Harvester, turning a backward somersault over + the railing and starting in big bounds up the drive toward the stable. He + passed around it and into the woods at a rush and a few seconds later from + somewhere on the top of the hill his strong, deep voice swept down, + “Glory, glory hallelujah!” + </p> + <p> + He sang it through at the top of his lungs, that majestic old hymn, but + there was no music at all, it was simply a roar. By and by he came soberly + to the barn and paused to stroke Betsy's nose. + </p> + <p> + “Stop chewing grass and listen to me,” he said. “She's here, Betsy! She's + in our cabin. She's going to remain, you can stake your oats on that. + She's going to be the loveliest and sweetest girl in all the world, and + because you're a beast, I'll tell you something a man never could know. + Down with your ear, you critter! She's going to kiss me, Betsy! This very + night, before I lay me, her lips meet mine, and maybe you think that won't + be glorious. I supposed it would be a year, anyway, but it's now! Ain't + you glad you are an animal, Betsy, and can keep secrets for a fool man + that can't?” + </p> + <p> + He walked down the driveway, and before the Girl had a chance to speak, he + said, “I wonder if I had not better carry those things into your room, and + arrange your bed for you.” + </p> + <p> + “I can,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Oh no!” exclaimed the Harvester. “You can't lift the mattress and heavy + covers. Hold the door and tell me how.” + </p> + <p> + He laid a big bundle on the floor, opened it, and took out the shoes. + </p> + <p> + “Your shoe box is in the closet there.” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't know what that door was, so I didn't open it.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a part of my arrangements for you,” said the Harvester. “Here is + a closet with shelves for your covers and other things. They are bare + because I didn't know just what should be put on them. This is the shoe + box here in the corner; I'll put these in it now.” + </p> + <p> + He knelt and in a row set the shoes in the curly maple box and closed it. + </p> + <p> + “There you are for all kinds of places and varieties of weather. This + adjoining is your bathroom. I put in towels, soaps; brushes, and + everything I could think of, and there is hot water ready for you——rain + water, too.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl followed and looked into a shining little bathroom, with its + white porcelain tub and wash bowl, enamelled wood-work, dainty green + walls, and white curtains and towels. She could see no accessory she knew + of that was missing, and there were many things to which she never had + been accustomed. The Harvester had gone back to the sunshine room, and was + kneeling on the floor beside the bundle. He began opening boxes and + handing her dresses. + </p> + <p> + “There are skirt, coat, and waist hangers on the hooks,” he said. “I only + got a few things to start on, because I didn't know what you would like. + Instead of being so careful with that dress, why don't you take it off, + and put on a common one? Then we will have something to eat, and go to the + top of the hill and watch the moon bridge the lake.” + </p> + <p> + While she hung the dresses and selected the one to wear, he placed the + mattress, spread the padding and sheets, and encased the pillow. Then he + bent and pressed the springs with his hands. + </p> + <p> + “I think you will find that soft and easy enough for health,” he said. + “All the personal belongings I had that clerk put up for you are in that + chest of drawers there. I put the little boxes in the top and went down. + You can empty and arrange them to-morrow. Just hunt out what you will need + now. There should be everything a girl uses there somewhere. I told them + to be very careful about that. If the things are not right or not to your + taste, you can take them back as soon as you are rested, and they will + exchange them for you. If there is anything I have missed that you can + think of that you need to-night, tell me and I'll go and get it.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl turned toward him. + </p> + <p> + “You couldn't be making sport of me,” she said, “but Man! Can't you see + that I don't know what to do with half you have here? I never saw such + things closely before. I don't know what they are for. I don't know how to + use them. My mother would have known, but I do not. You overwhelm me! + Fifty times I've tried to tell you that a room of my very own, such a room + as this will be when to-morrow's sun comes in, and these, and these, and + these,” she turned from the chest of boxes to the dressing table, bed, + closet, and bath, “all these for me, and you know absolutely nothing about + me——I get a big lump in my throat, and the words that do come + all seem so meaningless, I am perfectly ashamed to say them. Oh Man, why + do you do it?” + </p> + <p> + “I thought it was about time to spring another 'why' on me,” said the + Harvester. “Thank God, I am now in a position where I can tell you 'why'! + I do it because you are the girl of my dream, my mate by every law of + Heaven and earth. All men build as well as they know when the one woman of + the universe lays her spell on them. I did all this for myself just as a + kind of expression of what it would be in my heart to do if I could do + what I'd like. Put on the easiest dress you can find and I will go and set + out something to eat.” + </p> + <p> + She stood with arms high piled with the prettiest dresses that could be + selected hurriedly, the tears running down her white cheeks and smiled + through them at him. + </p> + <p> + “There wouldn't be any of that liquid amber would there?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Quarts!” cried the Harvester. “I'll bring some. ... Does it really hit + the spot, Ruth?” he questioned as he handed her the glass. + </p> + <p> + She heaped the dresses on the bed and took it. + </p> + <p> + “It really does. I am afraid I am using too much.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't think it possibly can hurt you. To-morrow we will ask Doc. How + soon will you be ready for lunch?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't want a bite.” + </p> + <p> + “You will when you see and smell it,” said the Harvester. “I am an expert + cook. It's my chiefest accomplishment. You should taste the dishes I + improvise. But there won't be much to-night, because I want you to see the + moon rise over the lake.” + </p> + <p> + He went away and the Girl removed her dress and spread it on the couch. + Then she bathed her face and hands. When she saw the discoloured cloth, it + proved that she had been painted, and made her very indignant. Yet she + could not be altogether angry, for that flush of colour had saved the + Harvester from being pitied by his friend. She stood a long time before + the mirror, staring at her gaunt, colourless face; then she went to the + dressing table and committed a crime. She found a box of cream and rubbed + it on for a foundation. Then she opened some pink powder, and carefully + dusted her cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “I am utterly ashamed,” she said to the image in the mirror, “but he has + done so much for me, he is so, so——I don't know a word big + enough——that I can't bear him to see how ghastly I am, how + little worth it. Perhaps the food, better air, and outdoor exercise will + give me strength and colour soon. Until it does I'm afraid I'm going to + help out all I can with this. It is wonderful how it changes one. I really + appear like a girl instead of a bony old woman.” + </p> + <p> + Then she looked over the dresses, selected a pretty white princesse, + slipped it on, and went to the kitchen. But the Harvester would not have + her there. He seated her at the dining table, beside the window + overlooking the lake, lighted a pair of his home-made candles in his + finest sticks, and placed before her bread, butter, cold meat, milk, and + fruit, and together they ate their first meal in their home. + </p> + <p> + “If I had known,” said the Harvester, “Granny Moreland is a famous cook. + She is a Southern woman, and she can fry chicken and make some especial + dishes to surpass any one I ever knew. She would have been so pleased to + come over and get us an all-right supper.” + </p> + <p> + “I'd much rather have this, and be by ourselves,” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Well, you can bank on it, I would,” agreed the Harvester. “For instance, + if any one were here, I might feel restrained about telling you that you + are exactly the beautiful, flushed Dream Girl I have adored for months, + and your dress most becoming. You are a picture to blind the eyes of a + lonely bachelor, Ruth.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh why did you say that?” wailed the Girl. “Now I've got to feel like a + sneak or tell you——and I didn't want you to know.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you ever tell me or any one else anything you don't want to,” said + the Harvester roundly. “It's nobody's business!” + </p> + <p> + “But I must! I can't begin with deception. I was fool enough to think you + wouldn't notice. Man, they painted me! I didn't know they were doing it, + but when it all washed off, I looked so ghastly I almost frightened + myself. I hunted through the boxes they put up for you and found some pink + powder——” + </p> + <p> + “But don't all the daintiest women powder these days, and consider it + indispensable? The clerk said so, and I've noticed it mentioned in the + papers. I bought it for you to use.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, just powder, but Man, I put on a lot of cold cream first to stick + the powder good and thick. Oh I wish I hadn't!” + </p> + <p> + “Well since you've told it, is your conscience perfectly at ease? No you + don't! You sit where you are! You are lovely, and if you don't use enough + powder to cover the paleness, until your colour returns, I'll hold you and + put it on. I know you feel better when you appear so that every one must + admire you.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but I'm a fraud!” + </p> + <p> + “You are no such thing!” cried the Harvester hotly. “There hasn't a woman + in ten thousand got any such rope of hair. I have been seeing the papers + on the hair question, too. No one will believe it's real. If they think + your hair is false, when it is natural, they won't be any more fooled when + they think your colour is real, and it isn't. Very soon it will be and no + one need ever know the difference. You go on and fix up your level best. + To see yourself appearing well will make you ambitious to become so as + soon as possible.” + </p> + <p> + “Harvester-man,” said the Girl, gazing at him with wet luminous eyes, “for + the sake of other women, I could wish that all men had an oath to keep, + and had been reared in the woods.” + </p> + <p> + “Here is the place we adjourn to the moon,” cried the Harvester. “I don't + know of anything that can cure a sudden accession of swell head like + gazing at the heavens. One finds his place among the atoms naturally and + instantaneously with the eyes on the night sky. Should you have a wrap? + You should! The mists from the lake are cool. I don't believe there is one + among my orders. I forgot that. But upstairs with mother's clothing there + are several shawls and shoulder capes. All of them were washed and + carefully packed. Would you use one, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “Why not give it to me. Wouldn't she like me to wear her things better + than to have them lying in moth balls?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester looked at her and shook his head, marvelling. + </p> + <p> + “I can't tell how pleased she would be,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Where are her belongings?” asked the Girl. “I could use them to help + furnish the house, and it wouldn't appear so strange to you.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester liked that. + </p> + <p> + “All the washed things are in those boxes upstairs; also some fine skins + I've saved on the chance of wanting them. Her dishes are in the bottom of + the china closet there; she was mighty proud of them. The furniture and + carpets were so old and abused I burned them. I'll go bring a wrap.” + </p> + <p> + He took the candle and climbed the stairs, soon returning with a little + white wool shawl and a big pink coverlet. + </p> + <p> + “Got this for her Christmas one time,” he said. “She'd never had a white + one and she thought it was pretty.” + </p> + <p> + He folded it around the Girl's shoulders and picked up the coverlet. + </p> + <p> + “You're never going to take that to the woods!” she cried. + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + She took it in her hands to find a corner. + </p> + <p> + “Just as I thought! It's a genuine Peter Hartman! It's one of the things + that money can't buy, or, rather, one that takes a mint of money to own. + They are heirlooms. They are not manufactured any more. At the art store + where I worked they'd give you fifty dollars for that. It is not faded or + worn a particle. It would be lovely in my room; you mustn't take a + treasure like that out of doors.” + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, are you in earnest?” demanded the Harvester. “I believe there are + six of them upstairs.” + </p> + <p> + “Plutocrat!” cried the Girl. “What colours?” + </p> + <p> + “More of this pinkish red, blue, and pale green.” + </p> + <p> + “Famous! May I have them to help furnish with to-morrow?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly! Anything you can find, any way on earth you want it, only in + my room. That is taboo, as I told you. What am I going to take to-night?” + </p> + <p> + “Isn't the rug you had in the woods in the wagon yet? Use that!” + </p> + <p> + “Of course! The very thing! Bel, proceed!” + </p> + <p> + “Are you going to leave the house like this?” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + “Suppose some one breaks in!” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing worth carrying away, except what you have on. No one to get in. + There is a big swamp back of our woods, marsh in front, we're up here + where we can see the drive and bridge. There is nothing possible from any + direction. Never locked the cabin in my life, except your room, and that + was because it was sacred, not that there was any danger. Clear the way, + Bel!” + </p> + <p> + “Clear it of what?” + </p> + <p> + “Katydids, hoptoads, and other carnivorous animals.” + </p> + <p> + “Now you are making fun of me! Clear it of what?” + </p> + <p> + “A coon that might go shuffling across, an opossum, or a snake going to + the lake. Now are you frightened so that you will not go?” + </p> + <p> + “No. The path is broad and white and surely you and Bel can take care of + me.” + </p> + <p> + “If you will trust us we can.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am trusting you.” + </p> + <p> + “You are indeed,” said the Harvester. “Now see if you think this is + pretty.” + </p> + <p> + He indicated the hill sloping toward the lake. The path wound among + massive trees, between whose branches patches of moonlight filtered. + Around the lake shore and climbing the hill were thickets of bushes. The + water lay shining in the light, a gentle wind ruffled the surface in + undulant waves, and on the opposite bank arose the line of big trees. + Under a giant oak widely branching, on the top of the hill, the Harvester + spread the rug and held one end of it against the tree trunk to protect + the Girl's dress. Then he sat a little distance away and began to talk. He + mingled some sense with a quantity of nonsense, and appreciated every hint + of a laugh he heard. The day had been no amusing matter for a girl + absolutely alone among strange people and scenes. Anything more foreign to + her previous environment or expectations he could not imagine. So he + talked to prevent her from thinking, and worked for a laugh as he laboured + for bread. + </p> + <p> + “Now we must go,” he said at last. “If there is the malaria I strongly + suspect in your system, this night air is none too good for you. I only + wanted you to see the lake the first night in your new home, and if it + won't shock you, I brought you here because this is my holy of holies. Can + you guess why I wanted you to come, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “If I wasn't so stupid with alternate burning and chills, and so deadened + to every proper sensibility, I suppose I could,” she answered, “but I'm + not brilliant. I don't know, unless it is because you knew it would be the + loveliest place I ever saw. Surely there is no other spot in the world + quite so beautiful.” + </p> + <p> + “Then would it seem strange to you,” asked the Harvester going to the Girl + and gently putting his arms around her, “would it seem strange to you, + that a woman who once homed here and thought it the prettiest place on + earth, chose to remain for her eternal sleep, rather than to rest in a + distant city of stranger dead?” + </p> + <p> + He felt the Girl tremble against him. + </p> + <p> + “Where is she?” + </p> + <p> + “Very close,” said the Harvester. “Under this oak. She used to say that + she had a speaking acquaintance with every tree on our land, and of them + all she loved this big one the best. She liked to come here in winter, and + feel the sting of the wind sweeping across the lake, and in summer this + was her place to read and to think. So when she slept the unwaking sleep, + Ruth, I came here and made her bed with my own hands, and then carried her + to it, covered her, and she sleeps well. I never have regretted her going. + Life did not bring her joy. She was very tired. She used to say that after + her soul had fled, if I would lay her here, perhaps the big roots would + reach down and find her, and from her frail frame gather slight + nourishment and then her body would live again in talking leaves that + would shelter me in summer and whisper her love in winter. Of all Medicine + Woods this is the dearest spot to me. Can you love it too, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh I can!” cried the Girl; “I do now! Just to see the place and hear that + is enough. I wish, oh to my soul I wish——” + </p> + <p> + “You wish what?” whispered the Harvester gently. + </p> + <p> + “I dare not! I was wild to think of it. I would be ungrateful to ask it.” + </p> + <p> + “You would be ungracious if you didn't ask anything that would give me the + joy of pleasing you. How long is it going to require for you to learn, + Ruth, that to make up for some of the difficulties life has brought you + would give me more happiness than anything else could? Tell me now.” + </p> + <p> + “No!” + </p> + <p> + He gathered her closer. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, there is no reason why you should be actively unkind to me. What is + it you wish?” + </p> + <p> + She struggled from his arms and stood alone in white moonlight, staring + across the lake, along the shore, deep into the perfumed forest, and then + at the mound she now could distinguish under the giant tree. Suddenly she + went to him and with both shaking hands gripped his arm. + </p> + <p> + “My mother!” she panted. “Oh she was a beautiful woman, delicately reared, + and her heart was crushed and broken. By the inch she went to a dreadful + end I could not avert or allay, and in poverty and grime I fought for a + way to save her body from further horror, and it's all so dreadful I + thought all feeling in me was dried and still, but I am not quite + calloused yet. I suffer it over with every breath. It is never entirely + out of my mind. Oh Man, if only you would lift her from the horrible place + she lies, where briers run riot and cattle trample and the unmerciful sun + beats! Oh if only you'd lift her from it, and bring her here! I believe it + would take away some of the horror, the shame, and the heartache. I + believe I could go to sleep without hearing the voice of her suffering, if + I knew she was lying on this hill, under your beautiful tree, close the + dear mother you love. Oh Man, would you——?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester crushed the Girl in his arms and shuddering sobs shook his + big frame, and choked his voice. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, for God's sake, be quiet!” he cried. “Why I'd be glad to! I'll go + anywhere you tell me, and bring her, and she shall rest where the lake + murmurs, the trees shelter, the winds sing, and earth knows the sun only + in long rays of gold light.” + </p> + <p> + She stared at him with strained face. + </p> + <p> + “You——you wouldn't!” she breathed. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, child,” said the Harvester, “I tell you I'd be happy. Look at my + side of this! I'm in search of bands to bind you to me and to this place. + Could you tell me a stronger than to have the mother you idolized lie here + for her long sleep? Why Girl, you can't know the deep and abiding joy it + would give me to bring her. I'd feel I had you almost secure. Where is she + Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “In that old unkept cemetery south of Onabasha, where it costs no money to + lay away your loved ones.” + </p> + <p> + “Close here! Why I'll go to-morrow! I supposed she was in the city.” + </p> + <p> + She straightened and drew away from him. + </p> + <p> + “How could I? I had nothing. I could not have paid even her fare and + brought her here in the cheapest box the decency of man would allow him to + make if her doctor had not given me the money I owe. Now do you understand + why I must earn and pay it myself? Save for him, it was charity or her + delicate body to horrors. Money never can repay him.” + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, the day you came to Onabasha was she with you?” + </p> + <p> + “In the express car,” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Where did you go when you left the train shed?” + </p> + <p> + “Straight to the baggage room, where Uncle Henry was waiting. Men brought + and put her in his wagon, and he drove with me to the place and other men + lowered her, and that was all.” + </p> + <p> + “You poor Girl!” cried the Harvester. “This time to-morrow night she shall + sleep in luxury under this oak, so help me God! Ruth, can you spare me? + May I go at once? I can't rest, myself.” + </p> + <p> + “You will?” cried the Girl. “You will?” + </p> + <p> + She was laughing in the moonlight. “Oh Man, I can't ever, ever tell you!” + </p> + <p> + “Don't try,” said the Harvester. “Call it settled. I will start early in + the morning. I know that little cemetery. The man whose land it is on can + point me the spot. She is probably the last one laid there. Come now, + Ruth. Go to the room I made for you, and sleep deeply and in peace. Will + you try to rest?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh David!” she exulted. “Only think! Here where it's clean and cool; + beside the lake, where leaves fall gently and I can come and sit close to + her and bring flowers; and she never will be alone, for your dear mother + is here. Oh David!” + </p> + <p> + “It is better. I can't thank you enough for thinking of it. Come now, let + me help you.” + </p> + <p> + He half carried her down the hill. Then he made the cabin a glamour of + light by putting candles in the sticks he had carved and placing them + everywhere. + </p> + <p> + “There is a lighting plant in the basement,” he said, “but I had not + expected to use it until winter, and I have no acetylene. Candles were our + grandmothers' lights and they are the best anyway. Go bathe your face, + Ruth, and wash away all trace of tears. Put on the pink powder, and in a + few weeks you will have colour to outdo the wildest rose. You must be as + gay as you can the remainder of this night.” + </p> + <p> + “I will!” cried the Girl. “I will! Oh I didn't know a thing on earth could + make me happy! I didn't know I really could be glad. Oh if the ice in my + heart would melt, and the wall break down, and the girlhood I've never + known would come yet! Oh David, if it would!” + </p> + <p> + “Before the Lord it shall!” vowed the Harvester. “It shall come with the + fulness of joy right here in Medicine Woods. Think it! Believe it! Keep it + before you! Work for it! Happiness is worth while! All of us have a right + to it! It shall be yours and soon.” + </p> + <p> + “I will try! I will!” promised the Girl. “I'll go right now and I'll put + on the blessed pink powder so thickly you'll never know what is under it, + and soon it won't be needed at all.” + </p> + <p> + She was laughing as she left the room. The Harvester restlessly walked the + floor a few minutes and then sat with a notebook and began entering stems. + </p> + <p> + When the Girl returned, he brought the pillow from her bed, folded the + coverlet, and she lay on them in the big swing. He covered her with the + white shawl, and while Singing Water sang its loudest, katydids exulted + over the delightful act of their ancestor, and a million gauze-winged + creatures of night hummed against the screen, in a voice soft and low he + told her in a steady stream, as he swayed her back and forth, what each + sound of the night was, and how and why it was made all the way from the + rumbling buzz of the June bug to the screech of the owl and the splash of + the bass in the lake. All of it, as it appealed to him, was the story of + steady evolution, the natural processes of reproduction, the joy of life + and its battles, and the conquest of the strong in nature. At his hands + every sound was stripped of terror. The leaping bass was exulting in life, + the screeching owl was telling its mate it had found a fat mouse for the + children, the nighthawk was courting, the big bull frogs booming around + the lake were serenading the moon. There was not a thing to fear or a + voice left with an unsympathetic note in it. She was half asleep when at + last he helped her to her room, set a pitcher of frosty, clinking drink on + her table, locked her door and window screens inside, spread Belshazzar's + blanket on her porch, and set his door wide open, that he might hear if + she called, and then said good night and went back to his memorandum book. + </p> + <p> + “No bad beginning,” he muttered softly, “no bad beginning, but I'd almost + give my right hand if she hadn't forgotten——” + </p> + <p> + In her room the exhausted Girl slipped the pins from her hair and sank on + the low chair before the dressing-table. She picked up the shining, silver + backed brush and stared at the monogram, R. F. L, entwined on it. + </p> + <p> + “My soul!” she exclaimed. “WAS HE SO SURE AS THAT? Was there ever any + other man like him?” + </p> + <p> + She dropped the brush and with tired hands pushed back the heavy braids. + Then she arose and going to the chest of drawers began lifting lids to + find a night robe. As she searched the boxes she found every dainty, + pretty undergarment a girl ever used and at last the robes. She shook out + a long white one, slipped into it, and walked to the bed. That stood as he + had arranged it, white, clean, and dainty. + </p> + <p> + “Everything for me!” she said softly. “Everything for me! Shall there be + nothing for him? Oh he makes it easy, easy!” + </p> + <p> + She stepped to the closet, picked down a lavender silk kimona and drawing + it over her gown she gathered it around her and opening the bathroom door, + she stepped into a little hall leading to the dining-room. As she entered + the living-room the Harvester bent over his book. Her step was very close + when he heard it and turned his head. In an instant she touched his + shoulders. The Harvester dropped the pencil, and palm downward laid his + hands on the table, his promise strong in his heart. The Girl slid a + shaking palm under his chin, leaned his head against her breast, and + dropped a sweet, tear-wet face on his. With all the strength of her frail + arms she gripped him a second, and then gave the kiss, into which she + tried to put all she could find no words to express. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV. SNOWY WINGS + </h2> + <p> + The Harvester sat at the table in deep thoughts until the lights in the + Girl's room were darkened and everything was quiet. Then he locked the + screens inside and went into the night. The moon flooded all the hillside, + until coarse print could have been read with keen eyes in its light. A + restlessness, born of exultation he could not allay or control, was on + him. She had not forgotten! After this, the dream would be effaced by + reality. It was the beginning. He scarcely had dared hope for so much. + Surely it presaged the love with which she some day would come to him and + crown his life. He walked softly up and down the drive, passing her + windows, unable to think of sleep. Over and over he dwelt on the incidents + of the day, so inevitably he came to his promise. + </p> + <p> + “Merciful Heaven!” he muttered. “How can such things happen? The poor, + overworked, tired, suffering girl. It will give her some comfort. She will + feel better. It has to be done. I believe I will do the worst part of it + while she sleeps.” + </p> + <p> + He went to the cabin, crept very close to one of her windows and listened + intently. Surely no mortal awake could lie motionless so long. She must be + sleeping. He patted Belshazzar, whispered, “Watch, boy, watch for your + life!” and then crossed to the dry-house. Beside it he found a big roll of + coffee sacks that he used in collecting roots, and going to the barn, he + took a spade and mattock. Then he climbed the hill to the oak; in the + white moonlight laid off his measurements and began work. His heart was + very tender as he lifted the earth, and threw it into the tops of the big + bags he had propped open. + </p> + <p> + “I'll line it with a couple of sheets and finish the edge with pond lilies + and ferns,” he planned, “and I'll drag this earth from sight, and cover it + with brush until I need it.” + </p> + <p> + Sometimes he paused in his work to rest a few minutes and then he stood + and glanced around him. Several times he went down the hill and slipped + close to a window, but he could not hear a sound. When his work was + finished, he stood before the oak, scraping clinging earth from the + mattock with which he had cut roots he had been compelled to remove. He + was tired now and he thought he would go to his room and sleep until + daybreak. As he turned the implement he remembered how through it he had + found her, and now he was using it in her service. He smiled as he worked, + and half listened to the steady roll of sound encompassing him. A cool + breath swept from the lake and he wondered if it found her wet, hot cheek. + A wild duck in the rushes below gave an alarm signal, and it ran in + subdued voice, note by note, along the shore. The Harvester gripped the + mattock and stood motionless. Wild things had taught him so many lessons + he heeded their warnings instinctively. Perhaps it was a mink or muskrat + approaching the rushes. Listening intently, he heard a stealthy step + coming up the path behind him. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester waited. He soundlessly moved around the trunk of the big + tree. An instant more the night prowler stopped squarely at the head of + the open grave, and jumped back with an oath. He stood tense a second, + then advanced, scratched a match and dropped it into the depths of the + opening. That instant the Harvester recognized Henry Jameson, and with a + spring landed between the man's shoulders and sent him, face down, + headlong into the grave. He snatched one of the sacks of earth, and + tipping it, gripped the bottom and emptied the contents on the head and + shoulders of the prostrate man. Then he dropped on him and feeling across + his back took an ugly, big revolver from a pocket. He swung to the surface + and waited until Henry Jameson crawled from under the weight of earth and + began to rise; then, at each attempt, he knocked him down. At last he + caught the exhausted man by the collar and dragged him to the path, where + he dropped him and stood gloating. + </p> + <p> + “So!” he said; “It's you! Coming to execute your threat, are you? What's + the matter with my finishing you, loading your carcass with a few stones + into this sack, and dropping you in the deepest part of the lake.” + </p> + <p> + There was no reply. + </p> + <p> + “Ain't you a little hasty?” asked the Harvester. “Isn't it rather cold + blooded to come sneaking when you thought I'd be asleep? Don't you think + it would be low down to kill a man on his wedding day?” + </p> + <p> + Henry Jameson arose cautiously and faced the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Who have you killed?” he panted. + </p> + <p> + “No one,” answered the Harvester. “This is for the victim of a member of + your family, but I never dreamed I'd have the joy of planting any of you + in it first, even temporarily. Did you rest well? What I should have done + was to fill in, tread down, and leave you at the bottom.” + </p> + <p> + Jameson retreated a few steps. The Harvester laughed and advanced the same + distance. + </p> + <p> + “Now then,” he said, “explain what you are doing on my premises, a few + hours after your threat, and armed with another revolver before I could + return the one I took from you this afternoon. You must grow them on + bushes at your place, they seem so numerous. Speak up! What are you doing + here?” + </p> + <p> + There was no answer. + </p> + <p> + “There are three things it might be,” mused the Harvester. “You might + think to harm me, but you're watched on that score and I don't believe + you'd enjoy the result sure to follow. You might contemplate trying to + steal Ruth's money again, but we'll pass that up. You might want to go + through my woods to inform yourself as to what I have of value there. But, + in all prob-ability, you are after me. Well, here I am. Go ahead! Do what + you came to!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester stepped toward the lake bank and Jameson, turning to watch + him, exposed a face ghastly through its grime. + </p> + <p> + “Look here!” cried the Harvester, sickening. “We will end this right now. + I was rather busy this afternoon, but I wasn't too hurried to take that + little weapon of yours to the chief of police and tell him where and how I + got it and what occurred. He was to return it to you to-morrow with his + ultimatum. When I have added the history of to-night, reinforced by + another gun, he will understand your intentions and know where you belong. + You should be confined, but because your name is the same as the Girl's, + and there is of your blood in her veins, I'll give you one more chance. + I'll let you go this time, but I'll report you, and deliver this implement + to be added to your collection at headquarters. And I tell you, and I'll + tell them, that if ever I find you on my premises again, I'll finish you + on sight. Is that clear?” + </p> + <p> + Jameson nodded. + </p> + <p> + “What I should do is to plump you squarely into confinement, as I could + easily enough, but that's not my way. I am going to let you off, but you + go knowing the law. One thing more: Don't leave with any distorted ideas + in your head. I saw Ruth the day she stepped from the cars in Onabasha and + I loved her. I wanted to court and marry her, as any man would the girl he + loves, but you spoiled that with your woman killing brutality. So I + married her in Onabasha this afternoon. You can see the records at the + county clerk's office and interview the minister who performed the + ceremony, if you doubt me. Ruth is in her room, comfortable as I can make + her, asleep and unafraid, thank God! This grave is for her mother. The + Girl wants her lifted from the horrible place you put her, and laid where + it is sheltered and pleasant. Now, I'll see you off my land. Hurry + yourself!” + </p> + <p> + With the Harvester following, Henry Jameson went back over the path he had + come, until he reached and mounted the horse he had ridden. As the + Harvester watched him, Jameson turned in the saddle and spoke for the + second time. + </p> + <p> + “What will you give me in cold cash to tell you who she is, and where her + mother's people are?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester leaped for the bridle and missed. Jameson bent over the + horse and lashed it to a run. Half way to the oak the Harvester remembered + the revolver, but being unaccustomed to weapons, he had forgotten it when + he needed it most. He replaced the earth in the sack and dragged it away, + then plunged into the lake, and afterward went to bed, where he slept + soundly until dawn. First, he slipped into the living-room and wrote a + note to the Girl. Then he fed Belshazzar and ate a hearty breakfast. He + stationed the dog at her door, gave him the note, and went to the oak. + There he arranged everything neatly and as he desired, and then hitching + Betsy he quietly guided her down the drive and over the road to Onabasha. + He went to an undertaking establishment, made all his arrangements, and + then called up and talked with the minister who had performed the marriage + ceremony the previous day. + </p> + <p> + The sun shining in her face awoke Ruth and she lay revelling in the light. + “Maybe it will colour me faster than the powder,” she thought. “How + peculiar for him to say what he did! I always thought men detested it. But + he is not like any one else.” She lay looking around the beautiful room + and wondering where the Harvester was. She could not hear him. Then, + slowly and painfully, she dragged her aching limbs from the bed and went + to the door. The dog was gone from the porch and she could not see the man + at the stable. She selected a frock and putting it on opened the door. + Belshazzar arose and offered this letter: + </p> + <p> + DEAR RUTH: + </p> + <p> + I have gone to keep my promise. You are locked in with Bel. Please obey me + and do not step outside the door until four o'clock. Then put on a pretty + white dress, and with the dog, come to the bridge to meet me. I hope you + will not suffer and fret. Put away your clothing, arrange the rooms to + keep busy, or better yet, lie in the swing and rest. There is food in the + ice chest, pantry, and cellar. Forgive me for leaving you to-day, but I + thought you would feel easier to have this over. I am so glad to bring + your mother here. I hope it will make you happy enough to meet us with a + smile. Do not forget the pink box until the reality comes. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> +With love, + +DAVID. +</pre> + <p> + The Girl went to the kitchen and found food. She offered to share with + Belshazzar, but she could see from his indifference he was not hungry. + Then she returned to the room flooded with light, and filled with + treasures, and tried to decide how she would arrange her clothing. She + spent hours opening boxes and putting dainty, pretty garments in the + drawers, hanging the dresses, and placing the toilet articles. Often she + wearily dropped to the chairs and couches, or gazed from door and windows + at the pictures they framed. “I wonder why he doesn't want me to go + outside,” she thought. “I wouldn't be afraid in the least, with Bel. I'd + just love to go across to that wonderful little river of Singing Water and + sit in the shade; but I won't open the door until four o'clock, just as he + wrote.” + </p> + <p> + When she thought of where he had gone, and why, the swift tears filled her + eyes, but she forced them back and resolutely went to investigate the + dining-room. Then for two hours she was a home builder, with a touch of + that homing instinct found in the heart of every good woman. First, she + looked where the Harvester had said the dishes were, and suddenly sat on + the floor exulting. There was a quantity of old chipped and cracked white + ware and some gorgeous baking powder prizes; but there were also big blue, + green, and pink bowls, several large lustre plates, and a complete tea set + without chip or blemish, two beautiful pitchers, and a number of willow + pieces. She set the green bowl on the dining table, the blue on the + living-room, and took the pink herself, while a beautiful yellow one she + placed in the dining-room window seat. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, if I only dared fill them with those lovely flowers!” She stood in + the window and gazed longingly toward the lake. “I know what colour I'd + like to put in each of them,” she said, “but I promised not to touch + anything, and the ones I want most I never saw before, and I'm not to go + out anyway. I can't see the sense in that, when I'm not at all afraid, but + if he does this wonderful thing for me I must do what he asks. Oh mother, + mother! Are you really coming to this beautiful place and to rest at + last?” + </p> + <p> + She sank to the window seat and lay trembling, but she bravely restrained + the tears. After a time she remembered the upstairs and went to see the + coverlets. She found a half dozen beautiful ones, and smiled as she + examined the stiffly conventionalized birds facing each other in the + border designs, and in one corner of each blanket she read, woven in the + cloth—— + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Peter and John + Hartman + Wooster + Ohio + 1837 +</pre> + <p> + She took a blue and a green one, several fine skins from the fur box the + Harvester had told her about, and went downstairs. It required all her + strength to push the heavy tables before the fireplaces. She spread papers + on them to stand on, and tacked a skin above each mantel. She set all of + the candlesticks, except those she wanted to use, in the lower part of an + empty bookcase. A pair of black walnut she placed on the living-room + mantel, together with a big blue plate, a yellow one, and an old brass + candlestick. She admired the effect very much. She spread the blue + coverlet on the couch, and arranged the blue bowl and some books on the + table. Here and there she hung a skin across a chair back, or spread it in + a wide window seat. Having exhausted all her resources, she returned to + the dining-room, spread a skin before the hearth and in each window seat, + set a pink and green lustre plate on the mantel, and a pair of oak + candlesticks, and arranged the lustre tea set on the side table. The pink + coverlet she took for herself, and after resting a time she was surprised + on going back to the rooms to see how homelike they appeared. + </p> + <p> + At three o'clock she dressed and at almost four unlocked the screen, + called Belshazzar to her side, and slowly went down the drive to the + bridge. She had used the pink powder, put on a beautiful white dress, + carefully arranged her hair, and she wore the pearl ornament. Once her + fingers strayed to the pendant and she said softly, “I think both he and + mother would like me to wear it.” + </p> + <p> + At the foot of the hill she stopped at a bench and sat in the shade + waiting. Belshazzar stretched beside her, and gazed at her with + questioning, friendly dog eyes. The Girl looked from Singing Water to the + lake, and up the hill to make sure it was real. She tried to quiet her + quivering muscles and nerves. He had asked her to meet him with a smile. + How could she? He could not have understood what it meant when he made the + request. There never would be any way to make him realize; indeed, why + should he? The smile must be ready. He had loved his mother deeply, and + yet he had said he did not grieve to lay her to rest. Earth had not been + kind. Then why should she sorrow for her mother? Again life had been not + only unkind, but bitterly cruel. + </p> + <p> + Belshazzar arose and watched down the drive. The Girl looked also. Through + the gate and up the levee came a strange procession. First walked the + Harvester alone, with bared head, and he carried an arm load of white + lilies. A carriage containing a man and several women followed. Then came + a white hearse with snowy plumes, and behind that another carriage filled + with people, and Betsy followed drawing men in the spring wagon. The Girl + arose and as she stepped to the drive she swayed uncertainly an instant. + </p> + <p> + “Gracious Heaven!” she gasped. “He is bringing her in white, and with + flowers and song!” + </p> + <p> + Then she lifted her head, and with a smile on her lips she went to meet + him. As she reached his side, he tenderly put an arm around her, and came + on steadily. + </p> + <p> + “Courage Girl!” he whispered. “Be as brave as she was!” + </p> + <p> + Around the driveway and up the hill he half carried her, to a seat he had + placed under the oak. Before her lay the white-lined grave, and the + Harvester arranged his lilies around it. The teams stopped at the barn and + men came up the hill bearing a white burden. Behind them followed the + minister who yesterday had performed their marriage ceremony, and after + him a choir of trained singers softly chanting: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord, + For they shall cease from their labours.” + </pre> + <p> + “But David,” panted the Girl, “It was mean and poor. That is not she!” + </p> + <p> + “Sush!” said the Harvester. “It is your mother. The location was high and + dry, and it has been only a short time. We wrapped her in white silk, laid + her on a soft cushion and pillow, and housed her securely. She can sleep + well now, Ruth. Listen!” + </p> + <p> + Covered with white lilies, slowly the casket sank into earth. At its head + stood the minister and as it began to disappear, the white doves, + frightened by the strange conveyances at the stable, came circling above. + The minister looked up. He lifted a clear tenor, and softly and purely he + sang, while at a wave of his hand the choir joined him: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “Oh, come angel band! Oh, come, and around me stand! + Oh, bear me away on your snowy wings to my immortal home!” + </pre> + <p> + He uttered a low benediction, and singing, the people turned and went + downhill. The Harvester gathered the Girl in his arms and carried her to + the lake. He laid her in his boat and taking the oars sent it along the + bank in the shade, and through cool, green places. + </p> + <p> + “Now cry all you choose!” he said. + </p> + <p> + The overstrained Girl covered her face and sobbed wildly. After a time he + began to talk to her gently, and before she realized it, she was + listening. + </p> + <p> + “Death has been kinder to her than life, Ruth,” he said. “She is lying as + you saw her last, I think. We lifted her very tenderly, wrapped her + carefully, and brought her gently as we could. Now they shall rest + together, those little mothers of ours, to whom men were not kind; and in + the long sleep we must forget, as they have forgotten, and forgive, as no + doubt they have forgiven. Don't you want to take some lilies to them + before we go to the cabin? Right there on your left are unusually large + ones.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl sat up, dried her eyes and gathered the white flowers. When the + last vehicle crossed the bridge, the Harvester tied the boat and helped + her up the hill. The old oak stretched its wide arms above two little + mounds, both moss covered and scattered with flowers. The Girl added her + store and then went to the Harvester, and sank at his feet. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, you shall not!” cried the man. “I simply will not have that. Come + now, I will bring you back this evening.” + </p> + <p> + He helped her to the veranda and laid her in the swing. He sat beside her + while she rested, and then they went into the cabin for supper. Soon he + had her telling what she had found, and he was making notes of what was + yet required to transform the cabin into a home. The Harvester left it to + her to decide whether he should roof the bridge the next day or make a + trip for furnishings. She said he had better buy what they needed and then + she could make the cabin homelike while he worked on the bridge. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV. THE HARVESTER INTERPRETS LIFE + </h2> + <p> + They went through the rooms together, and the Girl suggested the + furnishings she thought necessary, while the Harvester wrote the list. The + following morning he was eager to have her company, but she was very tired + and begged to be allowed to wait in the swing, so again he drove away and + left her with Belshazzar on guard. When he had gone, she went through the + cabin arranging the furniture the best she could, then dressed and went to + the swinging couch. It was so wide and heavy a light wind rocked it + gently, and from it she faced the fern and lily carpeted hillside, the + majesty of big trees of a thousand years, and heard the music of Singing + Water as it sparkled diamond-like where the sun rays struck its flow. + Across the drive and down the valley to the brilliant bit of marsh it + hurried on its way to Loon Lake. + </p> + <p> + There were squirrels barking and racing in the big trees and over the + ground. They crossed the sodded space of lawn and came to the top step for + nuts, eating them from cunning paws. They were living life according to + the laws of their nature. She knew that their sharp, startling bark was + not to frighten her, but to warn straying intruders of other species of + their kindred from a nest, because the Harvester had told her so. He had + said their racing here and there in wild scramble was a game of tag and + she found it most interesting to observe. + </p> + <p> + Birds of brilliant colour flashed everywhere, singing in wild joy, and + tilted on the rising hedge before her, hunting berries and seeds. Their + bubbling, spontaneous song was an instinctive outpouring of their joy over + mating time, nests, young, much food, and running water. Their social, + inquiring, short cry was to locate a mate, and call her to good feeding. + The sharp wild scream of a note was when a hawk passed over, a weasel + lurked in the thicket, or a black snake sunned on the bushes. She + remembered these things, and lay listening intently, trying to interpret + every sound as the Harvester did. + </p> + <p> + Birds of wide wing hung as if nailed to the sky, or wheeled and sailed in + grandeur. They were searching the landscape below to locate a hare or + snake in the waving grass or carrion in the fields. The wonderful + exhibitions of wing power were their expression of exultation in life, + just as the song sparrow threatened to rupture his throat as he swung on + the hedge, and the red bird somewhere in the thicket whistled so + forcefully it sounded as if the notes might hurt him. + </p> + <p> + On the lake bass splashed in a game with each other. Grebes chattered, + because they were very social. Ducks dived and gobbled for roots and worms + of the lake shore, and congratulated each other when they were lucky. + </p> + <p> + Killdeer cried for slaughter, in plaintive tones, as their white breasts + gleamed silver-like across the sky. They insisted on the death of their + ancient enemies, because the deer had trampled nests around the shore, + roiled the water, spoiled the food hunting, and had been wholly unmindful + of the laws of feathered folk from the beginning. + </p> + <p> + Behind the barn imperial cocks crowed challenges of defiance to each other + and all the world, because they once had worn royal turbans on their + heads, and ruled the forests, even the elephants and lions. Happy hens + cackled when they deposited an egg, and wandered through their park + singing the spring egg song unceasingly. + </p> + <p> + Upon the barn Ajax spread and exulted in glittering plumage, and screamed + viciously. He was sending a wireless plea to the forests of Ceylon for a + gray mate to come and share the ridge pole with him, and help him wage red + war on the sickening love making of the white doves he hated. + </p> + <p> + Everything was beautiful, some of it was amusing, all instructive, and + intensely interesting. The Girl wanted to know about the brown, yellow, + and black butterflies sailing from flower to flower. She watched big black + and gold bees come from the forest for pollen and listened to their + monotonous bumbling. Her first humming bird poised in air, and sipped + nectar before her astonished eyes. It was marvellous, but more wonderful + to the Girl than anything she saw or heard was the fact that because of + the Harvester's teachings she now could trace through all of it the + ordained processes of the evolution of life. Everything was right in its + way, all necessary to human welfare, and so there was nothing to fear, but + marvels to learn and pictures to appreciate. She would have taken + Belshazzar and gone out, but the Harvester had exacted a promise that she + would not. The fact was, he could see that she was coming gradually to a + sane and natural view of life and living things, and he did not want some + sound or creature to frighten her, and spoil what he had accomplished. So + she swayed in the swing and watched, and tried to interpret sights and + sounds as he did. + </p> + <p> + Before an hour she realized that she was coming speedily into sympathy + with the wild life around her; for, instead of shivering and shrinking at + unaccustomed sounds, she was listening especially for them, and trying to + arrive at a sane version. Instead of the senseless roar of commerce, + manufacture, and life of a city, she was beginning to appreciate sounds + that varied and carried the Song of Life in unceasing measure and + absorbing meaning, while she was more than thankful for the fresh, pure + air, and the blessed, God-given light. It seemed to the Girl that there + was enough sunshine at Medicine Woods to furnish rays of gold for the + whole world. + </p> + <p> + “Bel,” she said to the dog standing beside her, “it's a shame to separate + you from the Medicine Man and pen you here with me. It's a wonder you + don't bite off my head and run away to find him. He's gone to bring more + things to make life beautiful. I wanted to go with him, but oh Bel, + there's something dreadfully wrong with me. I was afraid I'd fall on the + streets and frighten and shame him. I'm so weak, I scarcely can walk + straight across one of these big, cool rooms that he has built for me. He + can make everything beautiful, Bel, a home, rooms, clothing, grounds, and + life——above everything else he can make life beautiful. He's + so splendid and wonderful, with his wide understanding and sane + interpretation and God-like sympathy and patience. Why Belshazzar, he can + do the greatest thing in all the world! He can make you forget that the + grave annihilates your dear ones by hideous processes, and set you to + thinking instead that they come back to you in whispering leaves and + flower perfumes. If I didn't owe him so much that I ought to pay, if this + wasn't so alluringly beautiful, I'd like to go to the oak and lie beside + those dear women resting there, and give my tired body to furnish sap for + strength and leaves for music. He can take its bitterest sting——from + death, Bel——and that's the most wonderful thing——in + life, Bel——” + </p> + <p> + Her voice became silent, her eyes closed; the dog stretched himself beside + her on guard, and it was so the Harvester found them when he drove home + from the city. He heaped his load in the dining-room, stabled Betsy, + carried the things he had brought where he thought they belonged, and + prepared food. When she awakened she came to him. + </p> + <p> + “How is it going, Girl?” asked the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “I can't tell you how lovely it has been!” + </p> + <p> + “Do you really mean that your heart is warming a little to things here?” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed I do! I can't tell you what a morning I've had. There have been + such myriad things to see and hear. Oh, Harvester, can you ever teach me + what all of it means?” + </p> + <p> + “I can right now,” said the Harvester promptly. “It means two things, so + simple any little child can understand——the love of God and + the evolution of life. I am not precisely clear as to what I mean when I + say God. I don't know whether it is spirit, matter, or force; it is that + big thing that brings forth worlds, establishes their orbits, and gives us + heat, light, food, and water. To me, that is God and His love. Just that + we are given birth, sheltered, provisioned, and endowed for our work. + Evolution is the natural consequence of this. It is the plan steadily + unfolding. If I were you, I wouldn't bother my head over these questions, + they never have been scientifically explained to the beginning; I doubt if + they ever will be, because they start with the origin of matter and that + is too far beyond man for him to penetrate. Just enjoy to the depths of + your soul——that's worship. Be thankful for everything——that's + praising God as the birds praise him. And 'do unto others' that's all + there is of love and religion combined in one fell swoop.” + </p> + <p> + “You should go before the world and tell every one that!” + </p> + <p> + “No! It isn't my vocation,” said the Harvester. “My work is to provide + pain-killer. I don't believe, Ruth, that there is any one on the footstool + who is doing a better job along that line. I am boastfully proud of it——just + of sending in the packages that kill fever, refresh poor blood, and + strengthen weak hearts; unadulterated, honest weight, fresh, and + scrupulously clean. My neighbours have a different name for it; I call it + a man's work.” + </p> + <p> + “Every one who understands must,” said the Girl. “I wish I could help at + that. I feel as if it would do more to wipe out the pain I've suffered and + seen her endure than anything else. Man, when I grow strong enough I want + to help you. I believe that I am going to love it here.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't ever suppress your feelings, Ruth!” hastily cried the Harvester. + “It will be very bad for you. You will become wrought up, and 'het up,' as + Granny Moreland says, and it will make you very ill. When we drive the + fever from your blood, the ache from your bones, the poison of wrong + conditions from your soul, and good, healthy, red corpuscles begin pumping + through your little heart like a windmill, you can stake your life you're + going to love it here. And the location and work are not all you're going + to care for either, honey. Now just wait! That was not 'nominated in the + bond.' I'm allowed to talk. I never agreed not to SAY things. What I + promised was not to DO them. So as I said, honey, sit at this table, and + eat the food I've cooked; and by that time the furniture van will be here, + and the men will unload, and you shall reign on a throne and tell me where + and how.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh if I were only stronger, David!” + </p> + <p> + “You are!” said the Harvester. “You are much better than you were + yesterday. You can talk, and that's all that's necessary. The rooms are + ready for furniture. The men will carry it where you want it. A decorator + is coming to hang the curtains. By night we will be settled; you can lie + in the swing while I read to you a story so wonderful that the wildest + fairy tale you ever heard never touched it.” + </p> + <p> + “What will it be, David?” + </p> + <p> + “Eat all the red raspberries and cream, bread and butter, and drink all + the milk you can. There's blood, beefsteak, and bones in it. As I was + saying, you have come here a stranger to a strange land. The first thing + is for you to understand and love the woods. Before you can do that you + should master the history of one tree; just the same as you must learn to + know and love me before your childlike trust in all mankind returns again. + Understand? Well, the fates knew you were on the way, coming trembling + down the brink, Ruth, so they put it into the heart of a great man to + write largely of a wonderful tree, especially for your benefit. After it + had fallen he took it apart, split it in sections, and year by year spread + out history for all the world to read. It made a classic story filled with + unsurpassed wonders. It was a pine of a thousand years, close the age of + our mother tree, Ruth, and when we have learned from Enos Mills how to + wrest secrets from the hearts of centuries, we will climb the hill and + measure our oak, and then I will estimate, and you will write, and we will + make a record for our tree.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I'd like that!” + </p> + <p> + “So would I,” said the Harvester. “And a million other things I can think + of that we can learn together. It won't require long for me to teach you + all I know, and by that time your hand will be clasped in mine, and our + 'hearts will beat as one,' and you will give me a kiss every night and + morning, and a few during the day for interest, and we will go on in life + together and learn songs, miracles, and wonders until the old oak calls + us. Then we will ascend the hill gladly and lie down and offer up our + bodies, and our children will lay flowers over our hearts, and gather the + herbs and paint the pictures? Amen. I hear a van on the bridge. Just you + go to your room and lie down until I get things unloaded and where they + belong. Then you and the decorator can make us home-like, and to-morrow we + will begin to live. Won't that be great, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “With you, yes, I think it will.” + </p> + <p> + “That will do for this time,” said the Harvester, as he opened the door to + her room. “Lie and rest until I say ready.” + </p> + <p> + As he went to meet the men, she could hear him singing lustily, “Praise + God from whom all blessings flow.” + </p> + <p> + “What a child he is!” she said. “And what a man!” + </p> + <p> + For an hour heavy feet sounded through the cabin carrying furniture to + different rooms. Then with a floor brush in one hand, and a polishing + cloth in the other, the Harvester tapped at her door and helped the Girl + upstairs. He had divided the space into three large, square sleeping + chambers. In each he had set up a white iron bed, a dressing table, and + wash stand, and placed two straight-backed and one rocking chair, all + white. The walls were tinted lightly with green added to the plaster. + There was a mattress and a stack of bedding on each bed, and a large rug + and several small ones on the floors. He led her to the rocking chair in + the middle room, where she could see through the open doors of the other + two. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” said the Harvester, “I didn't know whether the room with two + windows toward the lake and one on the marsh, or two facing the woods and + one front, was the guest chamber. It seemed about an even throw whether a + visitor would prefer woods or water, so I made them both guest chambers, + and got things alike for them. Now if we are entertaining two, one can't + feel more highly honoured than the other. Was that a scheme?” + </p> + <p> + “Fine!” said the Girl. “I don't see how it could be surpassed.” + </p> + <p> + “'Be sure you are right, then go ahead,'” quoted the Harvester. “Now I'll + make the beds and Mr. Rogers can hang the curtains. Is white correct for + sleeping rooms? Won't that wash best and always be fresh?” + </p> + <p> + “It will,” said the Girl. “White wash curtains are much the nicest.” + </p> + <p> + “Make them short Mr. Rogers; keep them off the floor,” advised the + Harvester. “And simple——don't arrange any thing elaborate that + will tire a woman to keep in order. Whack them off the right length and + pin them to the poles.” + </p> + <p> + “How about that, Mrs. Langston?” asked the decorator. + </p> + <p> + “I am quite sure that is the very best thing to do,” said the Girl; and + the curtains were hung while the mattress was placed. + </p> + <p> + “Now about this?” inquired the Harvester. “Do I put on sheets and fix + these beds ready to use?” + </p> + <p> + “I would not,” said the Girl. “I would spread the pad and the counterpane + and lay the sheets and pillows in the closet until they are wanted. They + can be sunned and the bed made delightfully fresh.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + When he had finished, he spread a cover on the dressing table and laid out + white toilet articles and grouped a white wash set with green decorations + on the stand. Then he brushed the floor, spread a big green rug in the + middle and small ones before the bed, stand, and table, and coming out + closed the door. + </p> + <p> + “Guest chamber with lake view is now ready for company,” announced the + Harvester. “Repeat the operation on the woods room, finished also. Why do + some people make work of things and string them out eternally and fuss so + much? Isn't this simple and easy, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, if you can afford it,” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Forbear!” cried the Harvester. “We have the goods, the dealer has my + check. Excuse me ten minutes, until I furnish another room.” + </p> + <p> + The laughing Girl could catch glimpses of him busy over beds and dresser, + floor and rugs; then he came where she sat. + </p> + <p> + “Woods guest chamber ready,” he said. “Now we come to the interior + apartment, that from its view might be called the marsh room. Aside from + being two windows short, it is exactly similar to the others. It occurred + to me that, in order to make up for the loss of those windows, and also + because I may be compelled to ask some obliging woman to occupy it in case + your health is precarious at any time, and in view of the further fact + that if any such woman could be found, and would kindly and willingly care + for us, my gratitude would be inexpressible; on account of all these + things, I got a shade the BEST furnishings for this room.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl stared at him with blank face. + </p> + <p> + “You see,” said the Harvester, “this is a question of ethics. Now what is + a guest? A thing of a day! A person who disturbs your routine and + interferes with important concerns. Why should any one be grateful for + company? Why should time and money be lavished on visitors? They come. You + overwork yourself. They go. You are glad of it. You return the visit, + because it's the only way to have back at them; but why pamper them + unnecessarily? Now a good housekeeper, that means more than words can + express. Comfort, kindness, sanitary living, care in illness! Here's to + the prospective housekeeper of Medicine Woods! Rogers, hang those ruffled + embroidered curtains. Observe that whereas mere guest beds are plain + white, this has a touch of brass. Where guest rugs are floor coverings, + this is a work of art. Where guest brushes are celluloid, these are + enamelled, and the dresser cover is hand embroidered. Let me also call + your attention to the chairs touched with gold, cushioned for ease, and a + decorated pitcher and bowl. Watch the bounce of these springs and the + thickness of this mattress and pad, and notice that where guests, however + welcome, get a down cover of sateen, the lady of the house has silkaline. + Won't she prepare us a breakfast after a night in this room?” + </p> + <p> + “David, are you in earnest?” gasped the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Don't these things prove it?” asked the Harvester. “No woman can enter my + home, when my necessities are so great I have to hire her to come, and + take the WORST in the house. After my wife, she gets the best, every time. + Whenever I need help, the woman who will come and serve me is what I'd + call the real guest of the house. Friend? Where are your friends when + trouble comes? It always brings a crowd on account of the excitement, and + there is noise and racing; but if your soul is saved alive, it is by a + steady, trained hand you pay to help you. Friends come and go, but a good + housekeeper remains and is a business proposition—one that if + conducted rightly for both parties and on a strictly common-sense basis, + gives you living comfort. Now that we have disposed of the guests that go + and the one that remains, we will proceed downward and arrange for + ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + “David, did you ever know any one who treated a housekeeper as you say you + would?” + </p> + <p> + “No. And I never knew any one who raised medicinal stuff for a living, but + I'm making a gilt-edged success of it, and I would of a housekeeper, too.” + </p> + <p> + “It doesn't seem——” + </p> + <p> + “That's the bedrock of all the trouble on the earth,” interrupted the + Harvester. “We are a nation and a part of a world that spends our time on + 'seeming.' Our whole outer crust is 'seeming.' When we get beneath the + surface and strike the BEING, then we live as we are privileged by the + Almighty. I don't think I give a tinker how anything SEEMS. What concerns + me is how it IS. It doesn't 'seem' possible to you to hire a woman to come + into your home and take charge of its cleanliness and the food you eat—the + very foundation of life—and treat her as an honoured guest, and give + her the best comfort you have to offer. The cold room, the old covers, the + bare floor, and the cast off furniture are for her. No wonder, as a rule, + she gives what she gets. She dignifies her labour in the same ratio that + you do. Wait until we need a housekeeper, and then gaze with awe on the + one I will raise to your hand.” + </p> + <p> + “I wonder——” + </p> + <p> + “Don't! It's wearing! Come tell me how to make our living-room less bare + than it appears at present.” + </p> + <p> + They went downstairs together, followed by the decorator, and began work + on the room. The Girl was placed on a couch and made comfortable and then + the Harvester looked around. + </p> + <p> + “That bundle there, Rogers, is the curtains we bought for this room. If + you and my wife think they are not right, we will not hang them.” + </p> + <p> + The decorator opened the package and took out curtains of tan-coloured + goods with a border of blue and brown. + </p> + <p> + “Those are not expensive,” said the Harvester, “but to me a window appears + bare with only a shade, so I thought we'd try these, and when they become + soiled we'll burn them and buy some fresh ones.” + </p> + <p> + “Good idea!” laughed the Girl. “As a house decorator you surpass yourself + as a Medicine Man.” + </p> + <p> + “Fix these as you did those upstairs,” ordered the Harvester. “We don't + want any fol-de-rols. Put the bottom even with the sill and shear them off + at the top.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I am going to arrange these,” said the decorator, “you go on with + your part.” + </p> + <p> + “All right!” agreed the Harvester. “First, I'll lay the big rug.” + </p> + <p> + He cleared the floor, spread a large rug with a rich brown centre and a + wide blue border. Smaller ones of similar design and colour were placed + before each of the doors leading from the room. + </p> + <p> + “Now for the hearth,” said the Harvester, “I got this tan goat skin. + Doesn't that look fairly well?” + </p> + <p> + It certainly did; and the Girl and the decorator hastened to say so. The + Harvester replaced the table and chairs, and then sat on the couch at the + Girl's feet. + </p> + <p> + “I call this almost finished,” he remarked. “All we need now is a bouquet + and something on the walls, and that is serious business. What goes on + them usually remains for a long time, and so it should be selected with + care. Ruth, have you a picture of your mother?” + </p> + <p> + “None since she was my mother. I have some lovely girl photographs.” + </p> + <p> + “Good!” cried the Harvester. “Exactly the thing! I have a picture of my + mother when she was a pretty girl. We will select the best of yours and + have them enlarged in those beautiful brown prints they make in these + days, and we'll frame one for each side of the mantel. After that you can + decorate the other walls as you see things you want. Fifteen minutes gone; + we are ready to take up the line of march to the dining-room. Oh I forgot + my pillows! Here are a half dozen tan, brown, and blue for this room. + Ruth, you arrange them.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl heaped four on the couch, stood one beside the hearth, and laid + another in a big chair. + </p> + <p> + “Now I don't know what you will think of this,” said the Harvester. “I + found it in a magazine at the library. I copied this whole room. The plan + was to have the floor, furniture, and casings of golden oak and the walls + pale green. Then it said get yellow curtains bordered with green and a + green rug with yellow figures, so I got them. I had green leather cushions + made for the window seats, and these pillows go on them. Hang the saffron + curtains, Rogers, and we will finish in good shape for dinner by six. By + the way, Ruth, when will you select your dishes? It will take a big set to + fill all these shelves and you shall have exactly what you want.” + </p> + <p> + “I can use those you have very well.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh no you can't!” cried the Harvester. “I may live and work in the woods, + but I am not so benighted that I don't own and read the best books and + magazines, and subscribe for a few papers. I patronize the library and see + what is in the stores. My money will buy just as much as any man's, if I + do wear khaki trousers. Kindly notice the word. Save in deference to your + ladyship I probably would have said pants. You see how ELITE I can be if I + try. And it not only extends to my wardrobe, to a 'yaller' and green + dining-room, but it takes in the 'chany' as well. I have looked up that, + too. You want china, cut glass, silver cutlery, and linen. Ye! Ye! You + needn't think I don't know anything but how to dig in the dirt. I have + been studying this especially, and I know exactly what to get.” + </p> + <p> + “Come here,” said the Girl, making a place for him beside her. “Now let me + tell you what I think. We are going to live in the woods, and our home is + a log cabin——” + </p> + <p> + “With acetylene lights, a furnace, baths, and hot and cold water——” + interpolated the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + The Girl and the decorator laughed. + </p> + <p> + “Anyway,” said she, “if you are going to let me have what I would like, + I'd prefer a set of tulip yellow dishes with the Dutch little figures on + them. I don't know what they cost, but certainly they are not so expensive + as cut glass and china.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that earnest or is it because you think I am spending too much money?” + </p> + <p> + “It is what I want. Everything else is different; why should we have + dishes like city folk? I'd dearly love to have the Dutch ones, and a white + cloth with a yellow border, glass where it is necessary, and silver + knives, forks, and spoons.” + </p> + <p> + “That would be great, all right!” endorsed the decorator. “And you have + got a priceless old lustre tea set there, and your willow ware is as fine + as I ever saw. If I were you, I wouldn't buy a dish with what you have, + except the yellow set.” + </p> + <p> + “Great day!” ejaculated the Harvester. “Will you tell me why my great + grandmother's old pink and green teapot is priceless?” + </p> + <p> + The Girl explained pink lustre. “That set in the shop I knew in Chicago + would sell for from three to five hundred dollars. Truly it would! I've + seen one little pink and green pitcher like yours bring nine dollars + there. And you've not only got the full tea set, but water and dip + pitchers, two bowls, and two bread plates. They are priceless, because the + secret of making them is lost; they take on beauty with age, and they were + your great-grandmother's.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester reached over and energetically shook hands. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, I'm so glad you've got them!” he bubbled. “Now elucidate on my + willow ware. What is it? Where is it? Why have I willow ware and am not + informed. Who is responsible for this? Did my ancestors buy better than + they knew, or worse? Is willow ware a crime for which I must hide my head, + or is it further riches thrust upon me? I thought I had investigated the + subject of proper dishes quite thoroughly; but I am very certain I saw no + mention of lustre or willow. I thought, in my ignorance, that lustre was a + dress, and willow a tree. Have I been deceived? Why is a blue plate or + pitcher willow ware?” + </p> + <p> + “Bring that platter from the mantel,” ordered the Girl, “and I will show + you.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester obeyed and followed the finger that traced the design. + </p> + <p> + “That's a healthy willow tree!” he commented. “If Loon Lake couldn't go + ahead of that it should be drained. And will you please tell me why this + precious platter from which I have eaten much stewed chicken, fried ham, + and in youthful days sopped the gravy——will you tell me why + this relic of my ancestors is called a willow plate, when there are a + majority of orange trees so extremely fruitful they have neglected to grow + a leaf? Why is it not an orange plate? Look at that boat! And in plain + sight of it, two pagodas, a summer house, a water-sweep, and a pair of + corpulent swallows; you would have me believe that a couple are eloping in + broad daylight.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps it's night! And those birds are doves.” + </p> + <p> + “Never!” cried the Harvester. “There is a total absence of shadows. There + is no moon. Each orange tree is conveniently split in halves, so you can + see to count the fruit accurately; the birds are in flight. Only a swallow + or a stork can fly in decorations, either by day or by night. And for any + sake look at that elopement! He goes ahead carrying a cane, she comes + behind lugging the baggage, another man with a cane brings up the rear. + They are not running away. They have been married ten years at least. In a + proper elopement, they forget there are such things as jewels and they + always carry each other. I've often looked up the statistics and it's the + only authorized version. As I regard this treasure, I grow faint when I + remember with what unnecessary force my father bore down when he carved + the ham. I'll bet a cooky he split those orange trees. Now me——I'll + never dare touch knife to it again. I'll always carve the meat on the + broiler, and gently lift it to this platter with a fork. Or am I not to be + allowed to dine from my ancestral treasure again?” + </p> + <p> + “Not in a green and yellow room,” laughed the Girl. “I'll tell you what I + think. If I had a tea table to match the living-room furniture, and it sat + beside the hearth, and on it a chafing dish to cook in, and the willow + ware to eat from, we could have little tea parties in there, when we + aren't very hungry or to treat a visitor. It would help make that room + 'homey,' and it's wonderful how they harmonize with the other things.” + </p> + <p> + “How much willow ware have I got to 'bestow' on you?” inquired the + Harvester. “Suppose you show me all of it. A guilty feeling arises in my + breast, and I fear me I have committed high crimes!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh Man! You didn't break or lose any of those dishes, did you?” + </p> + <p> + “Show me!” insisted the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + The Girl arose and going to the cupboard he had designed for her china she + opened it, and set before him a teapot, cream pitcher, two plates, a bowl, + a pitcher, the meat platter, and a sugar bowl. “If there were all of the + cups, saucers, and plates, I know where they would bring five hundred + dollars,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, are you getting even with me for poking fun at them, or are you in + earnest?” asked the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “I mean every word of it.” + </p> + <p> + “You really want a small, black walnut table made especially for those old + dishes?” + </p> + <p> + “Not if you are too busy. I could use it with beautiful effect and much + pleasure, and I can't tell you how proud I'd be of them.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester's face flushed. “Excuse me,” he said rising. “I have now + finished furnishing a house; I will go and take a peep at the engine.” He + went into the kitchen and hearing the rattle of dishes the Girl followed. + She stepped in just in time to see him hastily slide something into his + pocket. He picked up a half dozen old white plates and saucers and several + cups and started toward the evaporator. He heard her coming. + </p> + <p> + “Look here, honey,” he said turning, “you don't want to see the dry-house + just now. I have terrific heat to do some rapid work. I won't be gone but + a few minutes. You better boss the decorator. + </p> + <p> + “I'm afraid that wasn't very diplomatic,” he muttered. “It savoured a + little of being sent back. But if what she says is right, and she should + know if they handle such stuff at that art store, she will feel + considerably better not to see this.” + </p> + <p> + He set his load at the door, drew an old blue saucer from his pocket and + made a careful examination. He pulled some leaves from a bush and pushed a + greasy cloth out of the saucer, wiped it the best he could, and held it to + light. + </p> + <p> + “That is a crime!” he commented. “Saucer from your maternal ancestors' tea + set used for a grease dish. I am afraid I'd better sink it in the lake. + She'd feel worse to see it than never to know. Wish I could clean off the + grease! I could do better if it was hot. I can set it on the engine.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester placed the saucer on the engine, entered the dry-house, and + closed the door. In the stifling air he began pouring seed from beautiful, + big willow plates to the old white ones. + </p> + <p> + “About the time I have ruined you,” he said to a white plate, “some one + will pop up and discover that the art of making you is lost and you are + priceless, and I'll have been guilty of another blunder. Now there are the + dishes mother got with baking powder. She thought they were grand. I know + plenty well she prized them more than these blue ones or she wouldn't have + saved them and used these for every day. There they set, all so carefully + taken care of, and the Girl doesn't even look at them. Thank Heaven, there + are the four remaining plates all right, anyway! Now I've got seed in some + of the saucers; one is there; where on earth is the last one? And where, + oh unkind fates! are the cups?” + </p> + <p> + He found more saucers and set them with the plates. As he passed the + engine he noticed the saucer on it was bubbling grease, literally exuding + it from the particles of clay. + </p> + <p> + “Hooray!” cried the Harvester. He took it up, but it was so hot he dropped + it. With a deft sweep he caught it in air, and shoved it on a tray. Then + he danced and blew on his burned hand. Snatching out his handkerchief he + rubbed off all the grease, and imagined the saucer was brighter. + </p> + <p> + “If 'a little is good, more is better,'” quoted the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + Wadding the handkerchief he returned the saucer to the engine. Then he + slipped out, dripping perspiration, glanced toward the cabin, and ran into + the work room. The first object he saw was a willow cup half full of red + paint, stuck and dried as if to remain forever. He took his knife and + tried to whittle it off, but noticing that he was scratching the cup he + filled it with turpentine, set it under a work bench, turned a tin pan + over it, and covered it with shavings. A few steps farther brought one in + sight, filled with carpet tacks. He searched everywhere, but could find no + more, so he went to the laboratory. Beside his wash bowl at the door stood + the last willow saucer. He had used it for years as a soap dish. He + scraped the contents on the bench and filled the dish with water. Four + cups held medicinal seeds and were in good condition. He lacked one, + although he could not remember of ever having broken it. Gathering his + collection, he returned to the dry-house to see how the saucer was coming + on. Again it was bubbling, and he polished off the grease and set back the + dish. It certainly was growing better. He carried his treasures into the + work room, and went to the barn to feed. As he was leaving the stable he + uttered a joyous exclamation and snatched from a window sill a willow cup, + gummed and smeared with harness oil. + </p> + <p> + “The full set, by hokey!” marvelled the Harvester. “Say, Betsy, the only + name for this is luck! Now if I only can clean them, I'll be ready to make + her tea table, whatever that is. My I hope she will stay away until I get + these in better shape!” + </p> + <p> + He filled the last cup with turpentine, set it with the other under the + work bench, stacked the remaining pieces, polished the saucer he was + baking, and went to bring a dish pan and towel. He drew some water from + the pipes of the evaporator, put in the soap, and carried it to the work + room. There he carefully washed and wiped all the pieces, save two cups + and one saucer. He did not know how long it would require to bake the + grease from that, but he was sure it was improving. He thought he could + clean the paint cup, but he imagined the harness oil one would require + baking also. + </p> + <p> + As he stood busily working over the dishes, with light step the Girl came + to the door. She took one long look and understood. She turned and swiftly + went back to the cabin, but her shoulders were shaking. Presently the + Harvester came in and explained that after finishing in the dry-house he + had gone to do the feeding. Then he suggested that before it grew dark + they should go through the rooms and see how they appeared, and gather the + flowers the Girl wanted. So together they decided everything was clean, + comfortable, and harmonized. + </p> + <p> + Then they went to the hillside sloping to the lake. For the dining-room, + the Girl wanted yellow water lilies, so the Harvester brought his old boat + and gathered enough to fill the green bowl. For the living-room, she used + wild ragged robins in the blue bowl, and on one end of the mantel set a + pitcher of saffron and on the other arrowhead lilies. For her room, she + selected big, blushy mallows that grew all along Singing Water and around + the lake. + </p> + <p> + “Isn't that slightly peculiar?” questioned the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Take a peep,” said the Girl, opening her door. + </p> + <p> + She had spread the pink coverlet on her couch, and when she set the big + pink bowl filled with mallows on the table the effect was exquisite. + </p> + <p> + “I think perhaps that's a little Frenchy,” she said, “and you may have to + be educated to it; but salmon pink and buttercup yellow are colours I love + in combination.” + </p> + <p> + She closed the door and went to find something to eat, and then to the + swing, where she liked to rest, look, and listen. The Harvester suggested + reading to her, but she shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “Wait until winter,” she said, “when the days are longer and cold, and the + snow buries everything, and then read. Now tell me about my hedge and the + things you have planted in it.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester went out and collected a bunch of twigs. He handed her a + big, evenly proportioned leaf of ovate shape, and explained: “This is + burning bush, so called because it has pink berries that hang from long, + graceful stems all winter, and when fully open they expose a flame-red + seed pod. It was for this colour on gray and white days that I planted it. + In the woods I grow it in thickets. The root bark brings twenty cents a + pound, at the very least. It is good fever medicine.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it poison?” + </p> + <p> + “No. I didn't set anything acutely poisonous in your hedge. I wanted it to + be a mass of bloom you were free to cut for the cabin all spring, an + attraction to birds in summer, and bright with colour in winter. To draw + the feathered tribe, I planted alder, wild cherry, and grape-vines. This + is cherry. The bark is almost as beautiful as birch. I raise it for tonics + and the birds love the cherries. This fern-like leaf is from mountain ash, + and when it attains a few years' growth it will flame with colour all + winter in big clusters of scarlet berries. That I grow in the woods is a + picture in snow time, and the bark is one of my standard articles.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl raised on her elbow and looked at the hedge. + </p> + <p> + “I see it,” she said. “The berries are green now. I suppose they change + colour as they ripen.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the Harvester. “And you must not confuse them with sumac. The + leaves are somewhat similar, but the heads differ in colour and shape. The + sumac and buckeye you must not touch, until we learn what they will do to + you. To some they are slightly poisonous, to others not. I couldn't help + putting in a few buckeyes on account of the big buds in early spring. You + will like the colour if you are fond of pink and yellow in combination, + and the red-brown nuts in grayish-yellow, prickly hulls, and the leaf + clusters are beautiful, but you must use care. I put in witch hazel for + variety, and I like its appearance; it's mighty good medicine, too; so is + spice brush, and it has leaves that colour brightly, and red berries. + These selections were all made for a purpose. Now here is wafer ash; it is + for music as well as medicine. I have invoked all good fairies to come and + dwell in this hedge, and so I had to provide an orchestra for their + dances. This tree grows a hundred tiny castanets in a bunch, and when they + ripen and become dry the wind shakes fine music from them. Yes, they are + medicine; that is, the bark of the roots is. Almost without exception + everything here has medicinal properties. The tulip poplar will bear you + the loveliest flowers of all, and its root bark, taken in winter, makes a + good fever remedy.” + </p> + <p> + “How would it do to eat some of the leaves and see if they wouldn't take + the feverishness from me?” + </p> + <p> + “It wouldn't do at all,” said the Harvester. “We are well enough fixed to + allow Doc to come now, and he is the one to allay the fever.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh no!” she cried. “No! I don't want to see a doctor. I will be all right + very soon. You said I was better.” + </p> + <p> + “You are,” said the Harvester. “Much better! We will have you strong and + well soon. You should have come in time for a dose of sassafras. Your + hedge is filled with that, because of its peculiar leaves and odour. I put + in dogwood for the white display around the little green bloom, lots of + alder for bloom and berries, haws for blossoms and fruit for the + squirrels, wild crab apples for the exquisite bloom and perfume, button + bush for the buttons, a few pokeberry plants for the colour, and I tried + some mallows, but I doubt if it's wet enough for them. I set pecks of vine + roots, that are coming nicely, and ferns along the front edge. Give it two + years and that hedge will make a picture that will do your eyes good.” + </p> + <p> + “Can you think of anything at all you forgot?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes indeed!” said the Harvester. “The woods are full of trees I have not + used; some because I overlooked them, some I didn't want. A hedge like + this, in perfection, is the work of years. Some species must be cut back, + some encouraged, but soon it will be lovely, and its colour and fruit + attract every bird of the heavens and butterflies and insects of all + varieties. I set several common cherry trees for the robins and some + blackberry and raspberry vines for the orioles. The bloom is pretty and + the birds you'll have will be a treat to see and hear, if we keep away + cats, don't fire guns, scatter food, and move quietly among them. With our + water attractions added, there is nothing impossible in the way of making + friends with feathered folk.” + </p> + <p> + “There is one thing I don't understand,” said the Girl. “You wouldn't risk + breaking the wing of a moth by keeping it when you wanted a drawing very + much; you don't seem to kill birds and animals that other people do. You + almost worship a tree; now how can you take a knife and peel the bark to + sell or dig up beautiful bushes by the root.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps I've talked too much about the woods,” said the Harvester gently. + “I've longed inexpressibly for sympathetic company here, because I feel + rooted for life, so I am more than anxious that you should care for it. I + may have made you feel that my greatest interest is in the woods, and that + I am not consistent when I call on my trees and plants to yield of their + store for my purposes. Above everything else, the human proposition comes + first, Ruth. I do love my trees, bushes, and flowers, because they keep me + at the fountain of life, and teach me lessons no book ever hints at; but + above everything come my fellow men. All I do is for them. My heart is + filled with feeling for the things you see around you here, but it would + be joy to me to uproot the most beautiful plant I have if by so doing I + could save you pain. Other men have wives they love as well, little + children they have fathered, big bodies useful to the world, that are + sometimes crippled with disease. There is nothing I would not give to + allay the pain of humanity. It is not inconsistent to offer any growing + thing you soon can replace, to cure suffering. Get that idea out of your + head! You said you could worship at the shrine of the pokeberry bed, you + feel holier before the arrowhead lilies, your face takes on an appearance + of reverence when you see pink mallow blooms. Which of them would you have + hesitated a second in uprooting if you could have offered it to subdue + fever or pain in the body of the little mother you loved?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh I see!” cried the Girl. “Like everything else you make this different. + You worship all this beauty and grace, wrought by your hands, but you + carry your treasure to the market place for the good of suffering + humanity. Oh Man! I love the work you do!” + </p> + <p> + “Good!” cried the Harvester. “Good! And Ruth-girl, while you are about it, + see if you can't combine the man and his occupation a little.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI. GRANNY MORELAND'S VISIT + </h2> + <p> + The following morning the Girl was awakened by wheels on the gravel + outside her window, and lifted her head to see Betsy passing with a load + of lumber. Shortly afterward the sound of hammer and saw came to her, and + she knew that Singing Water bridge was being roofed to provide shade for + her. She dressed and went to the kitchen to find a dainty breakfast + waiting, so she ate what she could, and then washed the dishes and swept. + By that time she was so tired she dropped on a dining-room window seat, + and lay looking toward the bridge. She could catch glimpses of the + Harvester as he worked. She watched his deft ease in handling heavy + timbers, and the assurance with which he builded. Sometimes he stood and + with tilted head studied his work a minute, then swiftly proceeded. He + placed three tree trunks on each side for pillars, laid joists across, + formed his angle, and nailed boards as a foundation for shingling. + Occasionally he glanced toward the cabin, and finally came swinging up the + drive. He entered the kitchen softly, but when he saw the Girl in the + window he sat at her feet. + </p> + <p> + “Oh but this is a morning, Ruth!” he said. + </p> + <p> + She looked at him closely. He radiated health and good cheer. His tanned + cheeks were flushed red with exercise, and the hair on his temples was + damp. + </p> + <p> + “You have been breaking the rules,” he said. “It is the law that I am to + do the work until you are well and strong again. Why did you tire + yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “I am so perfectly useless! I see so many things that I would enjoy doing. + Oh you can do everything else, make me well! Make me strong!” + </p> + <p> + “How can I, when you won't do as I tell you?” + </p> + <p> + “I will! Indeed I will!” + </p> + <p> + “Then no more attempts to stand over dishes and clean big floors. You + mustn't overwork yourself at anything. The instant you feel in the least + tired you must lie down and rest.” + </p> + <p> + “But Man! I'm tired every minute, with a dead, dull ache, and I don't feel + as if I ever would be rested again in all the world.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester took one of her hands, felt its fevered palm, fluttering + wrist pulse, and noticed that the brilliant red of her lips had extended + to spots on her cheeks. He formed his resolution. + </p> + <p> + “Can't work on that bridge any more until I drive in for some big nails,” + he said. “Do you mind being left alone for an hour?” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all, if Bel will stay with me. I'll lie in the swing.” + </p> + <p> + “All right!” answered the Harvester. “I'll help you out and to get + settled. Is there anything you want from town?” + </p> + <p> + “No, not a thing!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh but you are modest!” cried the Harvester. “I can sit here and name + fifty things I want for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh but you are extravagant!” imitated the Girl. “Please, please, Man, + don't! Can't you see I have so much now I don't know what to do with it? + Sometimes I almost forget the ache, just lying and looking at all the + wonderful riches that have come to me so suddenly. I can't believe they + won't vanish as they came. By the hour in the night I look at my lovely + room, and I just fight my eyes to keep them from closing for fear they'll + open in that stifling garret to the heat of day and work I have not + strength to do. I know yet all this will prove to be a dream and a wilder + one than yours.” + </p> + <p> + The face of the Harvester was very anxious. + </p> + <p> + “Please to remember my dream came true,” he said, “and much sooner than I + had the least hope that it would. I'm wide awake or I couldn't be building + bridges; and you are real, if I know flesh and blood when I touch it.” + </p> + <p> + “If I were well, strong, and attractive, I could understand,” she said. + “Then I could work in the house, at the drawings, help with the herbs, and + I'd feel as if I had some right to be here.” + </p> + <p> + “All that is coming,” said the Harvester. “Take a little more time. You + can't expect to sin steadily against the laws of health for years, and + recover in a day. You will be all right much sooner than you think + possible.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh I hope so!” said the Girl. “But sometimes I doubt it. How I could come + here and put such a burden on a stranger, I can't see. I scarcely can + remember what awful stress drove me. I had no courage. I should have + finished in my garret as my mother did. I must have some of my father's + coward blood in me. She never would have come. I never should!” + </p> + <p> + “If it didn't make any real difference to you, and meant all the world to + me, I don't see why you shouldn't humour me. I can't begin to tell you how + happy I am to have you here. I could shout and sing all day.” + </p> + <p> + “It requires very little to make some people happy.” + </p> + <p> + “You are not much, but you are going to be more soon,” laughed the + Harvester, as he gently picked up the Girl and carried her to the swing, + where he covered her, kissed her hot hand, and whistled for Belshazzar. He + pulled the table close and set a pitcher of iced fruit juice on it. Then + he left her and she could hear the rattle of wheels as he crossed the + bridge and drove away. + </p> + <p> + “Betsy, this is mighty serious business,” said the Harvester. “The Girl is + scorching or I don't know fever. I wonder——well, one thing is + sure——she is bound to be better off in pure, cool air and with + everything I can do to be kind, than in Henry Jameson's attic with + everything he could do to be mean. Pleasant men those Jamesons! Wonder if + the Girl's father was much like her Uncle Henry? I think not or her + refined and lovely mother never would have married him. Come to think of + it, that's no law, Betsy. I've seen beautiful and delicate women fall + under some mysterious spell, and yoke their lives with rank degenerates. + Whatever he was, they have paid the price. Maybe the wife deserved it, and + bore it in silence because she knew she did, but it's bitter hard on Ruth. + Girls should be taught to think at least one generation ahead when they + marry. I wonder what Doc will say, Betsy? He will have to come and see for + himself. I don't know how she will feel about that. I had hoped I could + pull her through with care, food, and tonics, but I don't dare go any + farther alone. Betsy, that's a thin, hot, little hand to hold a man's only + chance for happiness.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, bridegroom! I've been counting the days!” said Doctor Carey. “The + Missus and I made it up this morning that we had waited as long as we + would. We are coming to-night. David.” + </p> + <p> + “It's all right, Doc,” said the Harvester. “Don't you dare think anything + is wrong or that I am not the proudest, happiest man in this world, + because I appear anxious. I am not trying to conceal it from you. You know + we both agreed at first that Ruth should be in the hospital, Doc. Well, + she should! She is what would be a lovely woman if she were not full of + the poison of wrong food and air, overwork, and social conditions that + have warped her. She is all I dreamed of and more, but I've come for you. + She is too sick for me. I hoped she would begin to gain strength at once + on changed conditions. As yet I can't see any difference. She needs a + doctor, but I hate for her to know it. Could you come out this afternoon, + and pretend as if it were a visit? Bring Mrs. Carey and watch the Girl. If + you need an examination, I think she will obey me. If you can avoid it, + fix what she should have and send it back to me by a messenger. I don't + like to leave her when she is so ill.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll come at once, David.” + </p> + <p> + “Then she will know that I came for you, and that will frighten her. You + can do more good to wait until afternoon, and pretend you are making a + social call. I must go now. I'd have brought her in, but I have no proper + conveyance yet. I'm promised something soon, perhaps it is ready now. + Good-bye! Be sure to come!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester drove to a livery barn and examined a little horse, a + shining black creature that seemed gentle and spirited. He thought + favourably of it. A few days before he had selected a smart carriage, and + with this outfit tied behind the wagon he returned to Medicine Woods. He + left the horse at the bridge, stabled Betsy, and then returned for the new + conveyance, driving it to the hitching post. At the sound of unexpected + wheels the Girl lifted her head and stared at the turnout. + </p> + <p> + “Come on!” cried the Harvester opening the screen. “We are going to the + woods to initiate your carriage.” + </p> + <p> + She went with little cries of surprised wonder. + </p> + <p> + “This is how you travel to Onabasha to do your shopping, to call on Mrs. + Carey and the friends you will make, and visit the library. When I've + tried out Mr. Horse enough to prove him reliable as guaranteed, he is + yours, for your purposes only, and when you grow wonderfully well and + strong, we'll sell him and buy you a real live horse and a stanhope, such + as city ladies have; and there must be a saddle so that you can ride.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh I'd love that!” cried the Girl. “I always wanted to ride! Where are we + going?” + </p> + <p> + “To show you Medicine Woods,” said the Harvester. “I've been waiting for + this. You see there are several hundred acres of trees, thickets, shrubs, + and herb beds up there, and if the wagon road that winds between them were + stretched straight it would be many miles in length, so we have a cool, + shaded, perfumed driveway all our own. Let me get you a drink before you + start and the little shawl. It's chilly there compared with here. Now are + you comfortable and ready?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the Girl. “Hurry! I've just longed to go, but I didn't like to + ask.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry,” said the Harvester. “Living here for years alone and never + having had a sister, how am I going to know what a girl would like if you + don't tell me? I knew it would be too tiresome for you to walk, and I was + waiting to find a reliable horse and a suitable carriage.” + </p> + <p> + “You won't scratch or spoil it up there?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll lower the top. It is not as wide as the wagon, so nothing will touch + it.” + </p> + <p> + “This is just so lovely, and such a wonderful treat, do you observe that + I'm not saying a word about extravagance?” asked the Girl, as she leaned + back in the carriage and inhaled the invigorating wood air. + </p> + <p> + The horse climbed the hill, and the Harvester guided him down long, dim + roads through deep forest, while he explained what large thickets of + bushes were, why he grew them, how he collected the roots or bark, for + what each was used and its value. On and on they went, the way ahead + always appearing as if it were too narrow to pass, yet proving amply wide + when reached. Excited redbirds darted among the bushes, and the Harvester + answered their cry. Blackbirds protested against the unusual intrusion of + strange objects, and a brown thrush slipped from a late nest close the + road wailing in anxiety. + </p> + <p> + One after another the Harvester introduced the Girl to the best trees, + speculated on their age, previous history, and pointed out which brought + large prices for lumber and which had medicinal bark and roots. On and on + they slowly drove through the woods, past the big beds of cranesbill, + violets, and lilies. He showed her where the mushrooms were most numerous, + and for the first time told the story of how he had sold them and the + violets from door to door in Onabasha in his search for her, and the + amazed Girl sat staring at him. He told of Doctor Carey having seen her + once, and inquired as they passed the bed if the yellow violets had + revived. He stopped to search and found a few late ones, deep among the + leaves. + </p> + <p> + “Oh if I only had known that!” cried the Girl, “I would have kept them + forever.” + </p> + <p> + “No need,” said the Harvester. “Here and now I present you with the sole + ownership of the entire white and yellow violet beds. Next spring you + shall fill your room. Won't that be a treat?” + </p> + <p> + “One money never could buy!” cried the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Seems to be my strong point,” commented the Harvester. “The most I have + to offer worth while is something you can't buy. There is a fine fairy + platform. They can spare you one. I'll get it.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester broke from a tree a large fan-shaped fungus, the surface + satin fine, the base mossy, and explained to the Girl that these were the + ballrooms of the woods, the floors on which the little people dance in the + moonlight at their great celebrations. Then he added a piece of woolly dog + moss, and showed her how each separate spine was like a perfect little + evergreen tree. + </p> + <p> + “That is where the fairies get their Christmas pines,” he explained. + </p> + <p> + “Do you honestly believe in fairies?” + </p> + <p> + “Surely!” exclaimed the Harvester. “Who would tell me when the maples are + dripping sap, and the mushrooms springing up, if the fairies didn't + whisper in the night? Who paints the flower faces, colours the leaves, + enamels the ripening fruit with bloom, and frosts the window pane to let + me know that it is time to prepare for winter? Of course! They are my + friends and everyday helpers. And the winds are good to me. They carry + down news when tree bloom is out, when the pollen sifts gold from the + bushes, and it's time to collect spring roots. The first bluebird always + brings me a message. Sometimes he comes by the middle of February, again + not until late March. Always on his day, Belshazzar decides my fate for a + year. Six years we've played that game; now it is ended in blessed + reality. In the woods and at my work I remain until I die, with a few + outside tries at medicine making. I am putting up some compounds in which + I really have faith. Of course they have got to await their time to be + tested, but I believe in them. I have grown stuff so carefully, gathered + it according to rules, washed it decently, and dried and mixed it with + such scrupulous care. Night after night I've sat over the books until + midnight and later, studying combinations; and day after day I've stood in + the laboratory testing and trying, and two or three will prove effective, + or I've a disappointment coming.” + </p> + <p> + “You haven't wasted time! I'd much rather take medicines you make than any + at the pharmacies. Several times I've thought I'd ask you if you wouldn't + give me some of yours. The prescription Doctor Carey sent does no good. + I've almost drunk it, and I am constantly tired, just the same. You make + me something from these tonics and stimulants you've been telling me + about. Surely you can help me!” + </p> + <p> + “I've got one combination that's going to save life, in my expectations. + But Ruth, it never has been tried, and I couldn't experiment on the very + light of my eyes with it. If I should give you something and you'd grow + worse as a result—I am a strong man, my girl, but I couldn't endure + that. I'd never dare. But dear, I am expecting Carey and his wife out any + time; probably they will come to-day, it's so beautiful; and when they do, + for my sake, won't you talk with him, tell him exactly what made you ill, + and take what he gives you? He's a great man. He was recently President of + the National Association of Surgeons. Long ago he abandoned general + practice, but he will prescribe for you; all his art is at your command. + It's quite an honour, Ruth. He performs all kinds of miracles, and saves + life every day. He had not seen you, and what he gave me was only by + guess. He may not think it is the right thing at all after he meets you.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I am really ill?” + </p> + <p> + “No. You only have the germs of illness in your blood, and if you will + help me that much we can eliminate them; and then it is you for + housekeeper, with first assistant in me, the drawing tools, paint box, and + all the woods for subjects. So, as I was going to tell you, Belshazzar and + I have played our game for the last time. That decision was ultimate. Here + I will work, live, and die. Here, please God, strong and happy, you shall + live with me. Ruth, you have got to recover quickly. You will consult the + doctor?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and I wish he would hurry,” said the Girl. “He can't make me new too + soon to suit me. If I had a strong body, oh Man, I just feel as if you + could find a soul somewhere in it that would respond to all these wonders + you have brought me among. Oh! make me well, and I'll try as woman never + did before to bring you happiness to pay for it.” + </p> + <p> + “Careful now,” warned the Harvester. “There is to be no talk of + obligations between you and me. Your presence here and your growing trust + in me are all I ask at the hands of fate at present. Long ago I learned to + 'labour and to wait.' By the way——here's my most difficult + labour and my longest wait. This is the precious gingseng bed.” + </p> + <p> + “How pretty!” exclaimed the Girl. + </p> + <p> + Covering acres of wood floor, among the big trees, stretched the lacy + green carpet. On slender, upright stalks waved three large leaves, each + made up of five stemmed, ovate little leaves, round at the base, sharply + pointed at the tip. A cluster of from ten to twenty small green berries, + that would turn red later, arose above. The Harvester lifted a plant to + show the Girl that the Chinese name, Jin-chen, meaning man-like, + originated because the divided root resembled legs. Away through the woods + stretched the big bed, the growth waving lightly in the wind, the peculiar + odour filling the air. + </p> + <p> + “I am going to wait to gather the crop until the seeds are ripe,” said the + Harvester, “then bury some as I dig a root. My father said that was the + way of the Indians. It's a mighty good plan. The seeds are delicate, and + difficult to gather and preserve properly. Instead of collecting and + selling all of them to start rivals in the business, I shall replant my + beds. I must find a half dozen assistants to harvest this crop in that + way, and it will be difficult, because it will come when my neighbours are + busy with corn.” + </p> + <p> + “Maybe I can help you.” + </p> + <p> + “Not with ginseng digging,” laughed the Harvester. “That is not woman's + work. You may sit in an especially attractive place and boss the job.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh dear!” cried the Girl. “Oh dear! I want to get out and walk.” + </p> + <p> + Gradually they had climbed the summit of the hill, descended on the other + side, and followed the road through the woods until they reached the brier + patches, fruit trees; and the garden of vegetables, with big beds of sage, + rue, wormwood, hoarhound, and boneset. From there to the lake sloped the + sunny fields of mullein and catnip, and the earth was molten gold with + dandelion creeping everywhere. + </p> + <p> + “Too hot to-day,” cautioned the Harvester. “Too rough walking. Wait until + fall, and I have a treat there for you. Another flower I want you to love + because I do.” + </p> + <p> + “I will,” said the Girl promptly. “I feel it in my heart.” + </p> + <p> + “Well I am glad you feel something besides the ache of fever,” said the + Harvester. Then noticing her tired face he added: “Now this little horse + had quite a trip from town, and the wheels cut deeply into this woods soil + and make difficult pulling, so I wonder if I had not better put him in the + stable and let him become acquainted with Betsy. I don't know what she + will think. She has had sole possession for years. Maybe she will be + jealous, perhaps she will be as delighted for company as her master. Ruth, + if you could have heard what I said to Belshazzar when he decided I was to + go courting this year, and seen what I did to him, and then take a look at + me now——merciful powers, I hope the dog doesn't remember! If + he does, no wonder he forms a new allegiance so easily. Have you observed + that lately when I whistle, he starts, and then turns back to see if you + want him? He thinks as much of you as he does of me right now.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh no!” cried the Girl. “That couldn't be possible. You told me I must + make friends with him, so I have given him food, and tried to win him.” + </p> + <p> + “You sit in the carriage until I put away the horse, and then I'll help + you to the cabin, and save you being alone while I work. Would you like + that?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + She leaned her head against the carriage top the Harvester had raised to + screen her, and watched him stable the horse. Evidently he was very fond + of animals for he talked as if it were a child he was undressing and kept + giving it extra strokes and pats as he led it away. Ajax disliked the + newcomer instantly, noticed the carriage and the woman's dress, and + screamed his ugliest. The Girl smiled. As the Harvester appeared she + inquired, “Is Ajax now sending a wireless to Ceylon asking for a mate?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester looked at her quizzically and saw a gleam of mischief in the + usually dull dark eyes that delighted him. + </p> + <p> + “That is the customary supposition when he finds voice,” he said. “But + since this has become your home, you are bound to learn some of my + secrets. One of them I try to guard is the fact that Ajax has a temper. No + my dear, he is not always sending a wireless, I am sorry to say. I wish he + was! As a matter of fact he is venting his displeasure at any difference + in our conditions. He hates change. He learned that from me. I will enjoy + seeing him come for favour a year from now, as I learned to come for it, + even when I didn't get much, and the road lay west of Onabasha. Ajax, stop + that! There's no use to object. You know you think that horse is nice + company for you, and that two can feed you more than one. Don't be a + hypocrite! Cease crying things you don't mean, and learn to love the + people I do. Come on, old boy!” + </p> + <p> + The peacock came, but with feathers closely pressed and stepping daintily. + As the bird advanced, the Harvester retreated, until he stood beside the + Girl, and then he slipped some grain to her hand and she offered it. But + Ajax would not be coaxed. He was too fat and well fed. He haughtily turned + and marched away, screaming at intervals. + </p> + <p> + “Nasty temper!” commented the Harvester. “Never mind! He soon will become + accustomed to you, and then he will love you as Belshazzar does. Feed the + doves instead. They are friendly enough in all conscience. Do you notice + that there is not a coloured feather among them? The squab that is hatched + with one you may have for breakfast. Now let's go find something to eat, + and I will finish the bridge so you can rest there to-night and watch the + sun set on Singing Water.” + </p> + <p> + So they went into the cabin and prepared food, and then the Harvester told + the Girl to make herself so pretty that she would be a picture and come + and talk to him while he finished the roof. She went to her room, found a + pale lavender linen dress and put it on, dusted the pink powder thickly, + and went where a wide bench made an inviting place in the shade. There she + sat and watched her lightly expressed whim take shape. + </p> + <p> + “Soon as this is finished,” said the Harvester, “I am going to begin on + that tea table. I can make it in a little while, if you want it to match + the other furniture.” + </p> + <p> + “I do,” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Wonder if you could draw a plan showing how it should appear. I am a + little shy on tea tables.” + </p> + <p> + “I think I can.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester brought paper, pencil, and a shingle for a drawing pad. + </p> + <p> + “Now remember one thing,” he said. “If you are in earnest about using + those old blue dishes, this has got to be a big, healthy table. A little + one will appear top heavy with them. It would be a good idea to set out + what you want to use, arranged as you would like them, and let me take the + top measurement that way.” + </p> + <p> + “All right! I'll only indicate how its legs should be and we will find the + size later. I could almost weep because that wonderful set is broken. If I + had all of it I'd be so proud!” + </p> + <p> + The Girl bent over the drawing. The Harvester worked with his attention + divided between her, the bridge, and the road. At last he saw the big red + car creeping up the valley. + </p> + <p> + “Seems to be some one coming, Ruth! Guess it must be Doc. I'll go open the + gate?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the Girl. “I'm so glad. You won't forget to ask him to help me + if he can?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester wheeled hastily. “I won't forget!” he said, as he hurried to + the gate. The car ran slowly, and the Girl could see him swing to the step + and stand talking as they advanced. When they reached her they stopped and + all of them came forward. She went to meet them. She shook hands with Mrs. + Carey and then with the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “I am so glad you have come,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “I hope you are not lonesome already,” laughed the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “I don't think any one with brains to appreciate half of this ever could + become lonely here,” answered the Girl. “No, it isn't that.” + </p> + <p> + “A-ha!” cried the doctor, turning to his wife. “You see that the beautiful + young lady remembers me, and has been wishing I would come. I always said + you didn't half appreciate me. What a place you are making, David! I'll + run the car to the shade and join you.” + </p> + <p> + For a long time they talked under the trees, then they went to see the new + home and all its furnishings. + </p> + <p> + “Now this is what I call comfort,” said the doctor. “David, build us a + house exactly similar to this over there on the hill, and let us live out + here also. I'd love it. Would you, Clara?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know. I never lived in the country. One thing is sure: If I tried + it, I'd prefer this to any other place I ever saw. David, won't you take + me far enough up the hill that I can look from the top to the lake?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” said the Harvester. “Excuse us a little while, Ruth!” + </p> + <p> + As soon as they were gone the Girl turned to the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “Doctor Carey, David says you are great. Won't you exercise your art on + me. I am not at all well, and oh! I'd so love to be strong and sound.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you tell me,” asked the doctor, “just enough to show me what caused + the trouble?” + </p> + <p> + “Bad air and water, poor light and food at irregular times, overwork and + deep sorrow; every wrong condition of life you could imagine, with not a + ray of hope in the distance, until now. For the sake of the Harvester, I + would be well again. Please, please try to cure me!” + </p> + <p> + So they talked until the doctor thought he knew all he desired, and then + they went to see the gold flower garden. + </p> + <p> + “I call this simply superb,” said he, taking a seat beneath the tree roof + of her porch. “Young woman, I don't know what I'll do to you if you don't + speedily grow strong here. This is the prettiest place I ever saw, and + listen to the music of that bubbling, gurgling little creek!” + </p> + <p> + “Isn't he wonderful?” asked the Girl, looking up the hill, where the tall + form of the Harvester could be seen moving around. “Just to see him, you + would think him the essence of manly strength and force. And he is! So + strong! Into the lake at all hours, at the dry-house, on the hill, + grubbing roots, lifting big pillars to support a bridge roof, and with it + all a fancy as delicate as any dreaming girl. Doctor, the fairies paint + the flowers, colour the fruit, and frost the windows for him; and the + winds carry pollen to tell him when his growing things are ready for the + dry-house. I don't suppose I can tell you anything new about him; but + isn't he a perpetual surprise? Never like any one else! And no matter how + he startles me in the beginning, he always ends by convincing me, at + least, that he is right.” + </p> + <p> + “I never loved any other man as I do him,” said the doctor. “I ushered him + into the world when I was a young man just beginning to practise, and I've + known him ever since. I know few men so scrupulously clean. Try to get + well and make him happy, Mrs. Langston. He so deserves it.” + </p> + <p> + “You may be sure I will,” answered the Girl. + </p> + <p> + After the visitors had gone, the Harvester told her to place the old blue + dishes as she would like to arrange them on her table, so he could get a + correct idea of the size, and he left to put a few finishing strokes on + the bridge cover. She went into the dining-room and opened the china + closet. She knew from her peep in the work-room that there would be more + pieces than she had seen before; but she did not think or hope that a full + half dozen tea set and plates, bowl, platter, and pitcher would be waiting + for her. + </p> + <p> + “Why Ruth, what made you tire yourself to come down? I intended to return + in a few minutes.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh Man!” cried the laughing Girl, as she clung pantingly to a bridge + pillar for support, “I just had to come to tell you. There are fairies! + Really truly ones! They have found the remainder of the willow dishes for + me, and now there are so many it isn't going to be a table at all. It must + be a little cupboard especially for them, in that space between the mantel + and the bookcase. There should be a shining brass tea canister, and a + wafer box like the arts people make, and I'll pour tea and tend the + chafing dish and you can toast the bread with a long fork over the coals, + and we will have suppers on the living-room table, and it will be such + fun.” + </p> + <p> + “Be seated!” cried the Harvester. “Ruth, that's the longest speech I ever + heard you make, and it sounded, praise the Lord, like a girl. Did Doc say + he would fix something for you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, such a lot of things! I am going to shut my eyes and open my mouth + and swallow all of them. I'm going to be born again and forget all I ever + knew before I came here, and soon I will be tagging you everywhere, + begging you to suggest designs for my pencil, and I'll simply force life + to come right for you.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Sounds good!” he said. “But, Ruth, I'm a little dubious about force work. + Life won't come right for me unless you learn to love me, and love is a + stubborn, contrary bulldog element of our nature that won't be driven an + inch. It wanders as the wind, and strikes us as it will. You'll arrive at + what I hope for much sooner if you forget it and amuse yourself and be as + happy as you can. Then, perhaps all unknown to you, a little spark of + tenderness for me will light in your breast; and if it ever does we will + buy a fanning mill and put it in operation, and we'll raise a flame or + know why.” + </p> + <p> + “And there won't be any force in that?” + </p> + <p> + “What you can't compel is the start. It's all right to push any growth + after you have something to work on.” + </p> + <p> + “That reminds me,” said the Girl, “there is a question I want to ask you.” + </p> + <p> + “Go ahead!” said the Harvester, glancing at her as he hewed a joist. + </p> + <p> + She turned away her face and sat looking across the lake for a long time. + </p> + <p> + “Is it a difficult question, Ruth?” inquired the Harvester to help her. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the Girl. “I don't know how to make you see.” + </p> + <p> + “Take any kind of a plunge. I'm not usually dense.” + </p> + <p> + “It is really quite simple after all. It's about a girl——a + girl I knew very well in Chicago. She had a problem——and it + worried her dreadfully, and I just wondered what you would think of it.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester shifted his position so that he could watch the side of the + averted face. + </p> + <p> + “You'll have to tell me, before I can tell you,” he suggested. + </p> + <p> + “She was a girl who never had anything from life but work and worry. Of + course, that's the only kind I'd know! One day when the work was most + difficult, and worry cut deepest, and she really thought she was losing + her mind, a man came by and helped her. He lifted her out, and rescued all + that was possible for a man to save to her in honour, and went his way. + There wasn't anything more. Probably there never would be. His heart was + great, and he stooped and pitied her gently and passed on. After a time + another man came by, a good and noble man, and he offered her love so + wonderful she hadn't brains to comprehend how or why it was.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl's voice trailed off as if she were too weary to speak further, + while she leaned her head against a pillar and gazed with dull eyes across + the lake. + </p> + <p> + “And your question,” suggested the Harvester at last. + </p> + <p> + She roused herself. “Oh, the question! Why this——if in time, + and after she had tried and tried, love to equal his simply would not come + would——would——she be wrong to PRETEND she cared, + and do the very best she could, and hope for real love some day? Oh David, + would she?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester's face was whiter than the Girl's. He pounded the chisel + into the joist savagely. + </p> + <p> + “Would she, David?” + </p> + <p> + “Let me understand you clearly,” said the man in a dry, breathless voice. + “Did she love this first man to whom she came under obligations?” + </p> + <p> + The Girl sat gazing across the lake and the tortured Harvester stared at + her. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know,” she said at last. “I don't know whether she knew what love + was or ever could. She never before had known a man; her heart was as + undeveloped and starved as her body. I don't think she realized love, but + there was a SOMETHING. Every time she would feel most grateful and long + for the love that was offered her, that 'something' would awake and hurt + her almost beyond endurance. Yet she knew he never would come. She knew he + did not care for her. I don't know that she felt she wanted him, but she + was under such obligations to him that it seemed as if she must wait to + see if he might not possibly come, and if he did she should be free.” + </p> + <p> + “If he came, she preferred him?” + </p> + <p> + “There was a debt she had to pay——if he asked it. I don't know + whether she preferred him. I do know she had no idea that he would come, + but the POSSIBILITY was always before her. If he didn't come in time, + would she be wrong in giving all she had to the man who loved her?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester's laugh was short and sharp. + </p> + <p> + “She had nothing to give, Ruth! Talk about worm-wood, colocynth apples, + and hemlock! What sort of husks would that be to offer a man who gave + honest love? Lie to him! Pretend feeling she didn't experience. Endure him + for the sake of what he offered her? Well I don't know how calmly any + other man would take that proceeding, Ruth, but tell your friend for me, + that if I offered a woman the deep, lasting, and only loving passion of my + heart, and she gave back a lie and indifferent lips, I'd drop her into the + deepest hole of my lake and take my punishment cheerfully.” + </p> + <p> + “But if it would make him happy? He deserves every happiness, and he need + never know!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester's laugh raised to an angry roar. + </p> + <p> + “You simpleton!” he cried roughly. “Do you know so little of human passion + in the heart that you think love can be a successful assumption? Good + Lord, Ruth! Do you think a man is made of wood or stone, that a woman's + lips in her first kiss wouldn't tell him the truth? Why Girl, you might as + well try to spread your tired arms and fly across the lake as to attempt + to pretend a love you do not feel. You never could!” + </p> + <p> + “I said a girl I knew!” + </p> + <p> + “'A Girl you knew,' then! Any woman! The idea is monstrous. Tell her so + and forget it. You almost scared the life out of me for a minute, Ruth. I + thought it was going to be you. But I remember your debt is to be paid + with the first money you earn, and you can not have the slightest idea + what love is, if you honestly ask if it can be simulated. No ma'am! It + can't! Not possibly! Not ever! And when the day comes that its fires light + your heart, you will come to me, and tell of a flood of delight that is + tingling from the soles of your feet through every nerve and fibre of your + body, and you will laugh with me at the time when you asked if it could be + imitated successfully. No, ma'am! Now let me help you to the cabin, serve + a good supper, and see you eat like a farmer.” + </p> + <p> + All evening the Harvester was so gay he kept the Girl laughing and at last + she asked him the cause. + </p> + <p> + “Relief, honey! Relief!” cried the man. “You had me paralyzed for a + minute, Ruth. I thought you were trying to tell me that there was some one + so possessing your heart that it failed every time you tried to think + about caring for me. If you hadn't convinced me before you finished that + love never has touched you, I'd be the saddest man in the world to-night, + Ruth.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl stared at him with wide eyes and silently turned away. + </p> + <p> + Then for a week they worked out life together in the woods. The Harvester + was the housekeeper and the cook. He added to his store many delicious + broths and stimulants he brought from the city. They drove every day + through the cool woods, often rowed on the lake in the evenings, walked up + the hill to the oak and scattered fresh flowers on the two mounds there, + and sat beside them talking for a time. The Harvester kept up his work + with the herbs, and the little closet for the blue dishes was finished. + They celebrated installing them by having supper on the living-room table, + with the teapot on one end, and the pitcher full of bellflowers on the + other. + </p> + <p> + The Girl took everything prescribed for her, bathed, slept all she could, + and worked for health with all the force of her frail being, and as the + days went by it seemed to the Harvester her weight grew lighter, her hands + hotter, and she drove herself to a gayety almost delirious. He thought he + would have preferred a dull, stupid sleep of malaria. There was colour in + plenty on her cheeks now, and sometimes he found her wrapped in the white + shawl at noon on the warmest days Medicine Woods knew in early August; and + on cool nights she wore the thinnest clothing and begged to be taken on + the lake. The Careys came out every other evening and the doctor watched + and worked, but he did not get the results he desired. His medicines were + not effective. + </p> + <p> + “David,” he said one evening, “I don't like the looks of this. Your wife + has fever I can't break. It is eating the little store of vitality she has + right out of her, and some of these days she is coming down with a crash. + She should yield to the remedies I am giving her. She acts to me like a + woman driven wild by trouble she is concealing. Do you know anything that + worries her?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said the Harvester, “but I'll try to find out if it will help you in + your work.” + </p> + <p> + After they were gone he left the Girl lying in the swing guarded by the + dog, and went across the marsh on the excuse that he was going to a bed of + thorn apple at the foot of the hill. There he sat on a log and tried to + think. With the mists of night rising around him, ghosts arose he fain + would have escaped. “What will you give me in cold cash to tell you who + she is, and who her people are?” Times untold in the past two weeks he had + smothered, swallowed, and choked it down. That question she had wanted to + ask——was it for a girl she had known, or was it for herself? + Days of thought had deepened the first slight impression he so bravely had + put aside, not into certainty, but a great fear that she had meant + herself. If she did, what was he to do? Who was the man? There was a debt + she had to pay if he asked it? What debt could a woman pay a man that did + not involve money? Crouched on a log he suffered and twisted in agonizing + thought. At last he arose and returned to the cabin. He carried a few + frosty, blue-green leaves of velvet softness and unusual cutting, prickly + thorn apples full of seeds, and some of the smoother, more yellowish-green + leaves of the jimson weed, to give excuse for his absence. + </p> + <p> + “Don't touch them,” he warned as he came to her. “They are poison and have + disagreeable odour. But we are importing them for medicinal purposes. On + the far side of the marsh, where the ground rises, there is a waste place + just suited to them, and so long as they will seed and flourish with no + care at all, I might as well have the price as the foreign people who + raise them. They don't bring enough to make them worth cultivating, but + when they grow alone and with no care, I can make money on the time + required to clip the leaves and dry the seeds. I must go wash before I + come close to you.” + </p> + <p> + The next day he had business in the city, and again she lay in the swing + and talked to the dog while the Harvester was gone. She was startled as + Belshazzar arose with a gruff bark. She looked down the driveway, but no + one was coming. Then she followed the dog's eyes and saw a queer, little + old woman coming up the bank of Singing Water from the north. She + remembered what the Harvester had said, and rising she opened the screen + and went down the path. As the Girl advanced she noticed the scrupulous + cleanliness of the calico dress and gingham apron, and the snowy hair + framing a bronzed face with dancing dark eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Are you David's new wife?” asked Granny Moreland with laughing + inflection. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the Girl. “Come in. He told me to expect you. I am so sorry he + is away, but we can get acquainted without him. Let me help you.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know but that ought to be the other way about. You don't look + very strong, child.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not well,” said the Girl, “but it's lovely here, and the air is so + fine I am going to be better soon. Take this chair until you rest a + little, and then you shall see our pretty home, and all the furniture and + my dresses.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I want to see things. My, but David has tried himself! I heard he + was just tearin' up Jack over here, and I could get the sound of the + hammerin', and one day he asked me to come and see about his beddin'. He + had that Lizy Crofter to wash for him, but if I hadn't jest stood over her + his blankets would have been ruined. She's no more respect for fine goods + than a pig would have for cream pie. I hate to see woollens abused, as if + they were human. My, but things is fancy here since what David planted is + growin'! Did you ever live in the country before?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “Where do you hail from?” + </p> + <p> + “Well not from the direction of hail,” laughed the Girl. “I lived in + Chicago, but we were——were not rich, and so I didn't know the + luxury of the city; just the lonely, difficult part.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you call Chicago lonely?” + </p> + <p> + “A thousand times more so than Medicine Woods. Here I know the trees will + whisper to me, and the water laughs and sings all day, and the birds + almost split their throats making music for me; but I can imagine no + loneliness on earth that will begin to compare with being among the crowds + and crowds of a large city and no one has a word or look for you. I miss + the sea of faces and the roar of life; at first I was almost wild with the + silence, but now I don't find it still any more; the Harvester is teaching + me what each sound means and they seem to be countless.” + </p> + <p> + “You think, then, you'll like it here?” + </p> + <p> + “I do, indeed! Any one would. Even more than the beautiful location, I + love the interesting part of the Harvester's occupation. I really think + that gathering material to make medicines that will allay pain is the very + greatest of all the great work a man can do.” + </p> + <p> + “Good!” cried Granny Moreland, her dark eyes snapping. “I've always said + it! I've tried to encourage David in it. And he's just capital at puttin' + some of his stuff in shape, and combinin' it in as good medicine as you + ever took. This spring I was all crippled up with the rheumatiz until I + wanted to holler every time I had to move, and sometimes it got so + aggravatin' I'm not right sure but I done it. 'Long comes David and says, + 'I can fix you somethin',' and bless you, if the boy didn't take the tucks + out of me, until here I am, and tickled to pieces that I can get here. + This time last year I didn't care if I lived or not. Now seems as if I'm + caperish as a three weeks' lamb. I don't see how a man could do a bigger + thing than to stir up life in you like that.” + </p> + <p> + “I think this place makes an especial appeal to me, because, shortly + before I came, I had to give up my mother. She was very ill and suffered + horribly. Every time I see David going to his little laboratory on the + hill to work a while I slip away and ask God to help him to fix something + that will ease the pain of humanity as I should like to have seen her + relieved.” + </p> + <p> + “Why you poor child! No wonder you are lookin' so thin and peaked!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh I'll soon be over that,” said the Girl. “I am much better than when I + came. I'll be coming over to trade pie with you before long. David says + you are my nearest neighbour, so we must be close friends.” + </p> + <p> + “Well bless your big heart! Now who ever heard of a pretty young thing + like you wantin' to be friends with a plain old country woman?” + </p> + <p> + “Why I think you are lovely!” cried the Girl. “And all of us are on the + way to age, so we must remember that we will want kindness then more than + at any other time. David says you knew his mother. Sometime won't you tell + me all about her? You must very soon. The Harvester adored her, and Doctor + Carey says she was the noblest woman he ever knew. It's a big contract to + take her place. Maybe if you would tell me all you can remember I could + profit by much of it.” + </p> + <p> + Granny Moreland watched the Girl keenly. + </p> + <p> + “She wa'ant no ordinary woman, that's sure,” she commented. “And she + didn't make no common man out of her son, either. I've always contended + she took the job too serious, and wore herself out at it, but she + certainly done the work up prime. If she's above cloud leanin' over the + ramparts lookin' down——though it gets me as to what foundation + they use or where they get the stuff to build the ramparts——but + if they is ramparts, and she's peekin' over them, she must take a lot of + solid satisfaction in seeing that David is not only the man she fought and + died to make him, but he's give her quite a margin to spread herself on. + She 'lowed to make him a big man, but you got to know him close and plenty + 'fore it strikes you jest what his size is. I've watched him pretty sharp, + and tried to help what I could since Marthy went, and I'm frank to say I + druther see David happy than to be happy myself. I've had my fling. The + rest of the way I'm willin' to take what comes, with the best grace I can + muster, and wear a smilin' face to betoken the joy I have had; but it cuts + me sore to see the young sufferin'.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think David is unhappy?” asked the Girl eagerly. + </p> + <p> + “I don't see how he could be!” cried the old lady. “Of course he ain't! + 'Pears as if he's got everythin' to make him the proudest, best satisfied + of men. I'll own I was mighty anxious to see you. I know the kind o' woman + it would take to make David miserable, and it seems sometimes as if men——that + is good men——are plumb, stone blind when it comes to pickin' a + woman. They jest hitch up with everlastin' misery easy as dew rolling off + a cabbage leaf. It's sech a blessed sight to see you, and hear your voice + and know you're the woman anybody can see you be. Why I'm so happy when I + set here and con-tem'-plate you, I want to cackle like a pullet announcin' + her first egg. Ain't this porch the purtiest place?” + </p> + <p> + “Come see everything,” invited the Girl, rising. + </p> + <p> + Granny Moreland followed with alacrity. + </p> + <p> + “Bare floors!” she cried. “Wouldn't that best you? I saw they was finished + capital when I was over, but I 'lowed they'd be covered afore you come. + Don't you like nice, flowery Brissels carpets, honey?” + </p> + <p> + “No I don't,” said the Girl. “You see, when rugs are dusty they can be + rolled, carried outside, and cleaned. The walls can be wiped, the floors + polished and that way a house is always fresh. I can keep this shining, + germ proof, and truly clean with half the work and none of the danger of + heavy carpets and curtains.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't doubt but them is true words,” said Granny Moreland earnestly. + “Work must be easier and sooner done than it was in my day, or people jest + couldn't have houses the size of this or the time to gad that women have + now. From the looks of the streets of Onabasha, you wouldn't think a woman + 'ud had a baby to tend, a dinner pot a-bilin', or a bakin' of bread sence + the flood. And the country is jest as bad as the city. We're a apin' them + to beat the monkeys at a show. I hardly got a neighbour that ain't got + figgered Brissels carpet, a furnace, a windmill, a pianny, and her own + horse and buggy. Several's got autermobiles, and the young folks are + visitin' around a-ridin' the trolleys, goin' to college, and copyin' city + ways. Amos Peters, next to us; goes bareheaded in the hay field, and wears + gloves to pitch and plow in. I tell him he reminds me of these city women + that only wears the lower half of a waist and no sleeves, and a yard of + fine goods moppin' the floors. Well if that don't 'beat the nation! Ain't + them Marthy's old blue dishes?” + </p> + <p> + “Let me show you!” The Girl opened the little cupboard and exhibited the + willow ware. The eyes of the old woman began to sparkle. + </p> + <p> + “Foundation or no foundation, I do hope them ramparts is a go!” she cried. + “If Marthy Langston is squintin' over them and she sees her old chany put + in a fine cupboard, and her little shawl round as purty a girl as ever + stepped, and knows her boy is gittin' what he deserves, good Lord, she'll + be like to oust the Almighty, and set on the throne herself! 'Bout + everythin' in life was a disappointment to her, 'cept David. Now if she + could see this! Won't I rub it into the neighbours? And my boys' wives!” + </p> + <p> + “I don't understand,” said the bewildered Girl. + </p> + <p> + “'Course you don't, honey,” explained the visitor. “It's like this: I + don't know anybody, man or woman, in these parts, that ain't rampagin' for + CHANGE. They ain't one of them that would live in a log cabin, though + they's not a house in twenty miles of here that fits its surroundin's and + looks so homelike as this. They run up big, fancy brick and frame things, + all turns and gables and gay as frosted picnic pie, and work and slave to + git these very carpets you say ain't healthy, and the chairs you say you + wouldn't give house room, an' they use their grandmother's chany for + bakin', scraps, and grease dishes, and hide it if they's visitors. All of + them strainin' after something they can't afford, and that ain't healthy + when they git it, because somebody else is doin' the same thing. Mary + Peters says she is afeared of her life in their new steam wagon, and she + says Andy gits so narvous runnin' it, he jest keeps on a-jerkin' and + drivin' all night, and she thinks he'll soon go to smash himself, if the + machine doesn't beat him. But they are keepin' it up, because Graceston's + is, and so it goes all over the country. Now I call it a slap right in the + face to have a Chicagy woman come to the country to live and enjoy a log + cabin, bare floors, and her man's grandmother's dishes. If there ain't + Marthy's old blue coverlid also carefully spread on a splinter new sofy. + Landy, I can't wait to get to my son John's! He's got a woman that would + take two coppers off the collection plate while she was purtendin' to put + on one, if she could, and then spend them for a brass pin or a string of + glass beads. Won't her eyes bung when I tell her about this? She wanted my + Peter Hartman kiver for her ironin' board. Show me the rest!” + </p> + <p> + “This is the dining-room,” said the Girl, leading the way. + </p> + <p> + Granny Moreland stepped in and sent her keen eyes ranging over the floor, + walls, and furnishings. She sank on a chair and said with a chuckle, “Now + you go on and tell me all about it, honey. Jest what things are and why + you fixed them, and how they are used.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl did her best, and the old woman nodded in delighted approval. + </p> + <p> + “It's the purtiest thing I ever saw,” she announced. “A minute ago, I'd + 'a' said them blue walls back there, jest like October skies in Indian + summer, and the brown rugs, like leaves in the woods, couldn't be beat; + but this green and yaller is purtier yet. That blue room will keep the + best lookin' part of fall on all winter, and with a roarin' wood fire, + it'll be capital, and no mistake; but this here is spring, jest spring + eternal, an' that's best of all. Looks like it was about time the leaves + was bustin' and things pushin' up. It wouldn't surprise me a mite to see a + flock of swallers come sailin' right through these winders. And here's a + place big enough to lay down and rest a spell right handy to the kitchen, + where a-body gits tiredest, without runnin' a half mile to find a bed, and + in the mornin' you can look down to the 'still waters'; and in the + afternoon, when the sun gits around here, you can pull that blind and + 'lift your eyes to the hills,' like David of the Bible says. My, didn't he + say the purtiest things! I never read nothin' could touch him!” + </p> + <p> + “Have you seen the Psalms arranged in verse as we would write it now?” + </p> + <p> + “You don't mean to tell me David's been put into real poetry?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. Some Bibles have all the poetical books in our forms of verse.” + </p> + <p> + “Well! Sometimes I git kind o' knocked out! As a rule I hold to old ways. + I think they're the healthiest and the most faver'ble to the soul. But + they's some changes come along, that's got sech hard common-sense to + riccomend them, that I wonder the past generations didn't see sooner. Now + take this! An hour ago I'd told you I'd read my father's Bible to the end + of my days. But if they's a new one that's got David, Solomon, and Job in + nateral form, I'll have one, and I'll git a joy I never expected out of + life. I ain't got so much poetry in me, but it always riled me to read, + '7. The law of the Lord is perfect, covertin' the soul. 8. The statutes of + the Lord are right. 9. The fear of the Lord is clean.' And so it goes on, + 'bout as much figgers as they is poetry. Always did worry me. So if they + make Bibles 'cordin' to common sense, I'll have one to-morrow if I have to + walk to Onabasha to get it. Lawsy me! if you ain't gathered up Marthy's + old pink tea set, and give it a show, too! Did you do that to please + David, or do you honestly think them is nice dishes?” + </p> + <p> + “I think they are beautiful,” laughed the Girl, sinking to a chair. “I + don't know that it did please him. He had been studying the subject, but + something saved him from buying anything until I came. I'd have felt + dreadfully if he had gotten what he wanted.” + </p> + <p> + “What did he want, honey?” asked the old lady in an awestruck whisper. + </p> + <p> + “Egg-shell china and cut glass.” + </p> + <p> + “And you wouldn't let him! Woman! What do you want?” + </p> + <p> + “A set of tulip-yellow dishes, with Dutch little figures on them. They are + so quaint and they would harmonize perfectly with this room.” + </p> + <p> + The old lady laughed gleefully. + </p> + <p> + “My! I wouldn't 'a' missed this for a dollar,” she cried. “It jest does my + soul good. More'n that, if you really like Marthy's dishes and are going + to take care of them and use them right, I'll give you mine, too. I ain't + never had a girl. I've always hoped she'd 'a' had some jedgment of her + own, and not been eternally apin', if I had, but the Lord may 'a' saved me + many a disappointment by sendin' all mine boys. Not that I'm layin' the + babies on to the Lord at all——I jest got into the habit of + sayin' that, 'cos everybody else does, but all mine, I had a purty good + idy how I got them. If a girl of mine wouldn't 'a' had more sense, raised + right with me, I'd' a' been purty bad cut up over it. Of course, I can't + be held responsible for the girls my boys married, but t'other day + Emmeline——that's John's wife——John is the + youngest, and I sort o' cling to him——Emmeline she says to me, + 'Mother, can't I have this old pink and green teapot?' My heart warmed + right up to the child, and I says, 'What do you want it for, Emmeline?' + And she says, 'To draw the tea in.' Cracky Dinah! That fool woman meant to + set my grandmother's weddin' present from her pa and ma, dishes same as + Marthy Washington used, on the stove to bile the tea in. I jest snorted! + 'No, says I, 'you can't! 'Fore I die,' says I, 'I'll meet up with some + woman that 'll love dishes and know how to treat them.' I think jest about + as much of David as I do my own boys, and I don't make no bones of the + fact that he's a heap more of a man. I'd jest as soon my dishes went to + his children as to John's. I'll give you every piece I got, if you'll take + keer of them.” + </p> + <p> + “Would it be right?” wavered the girl. + </p> + <p> + “Right! Why, I'm jest tellin' you the fool wimmen would bile tea in them, + make grease sassers of them, and use them to dish up the bakin' on! + Wouldn't you a heap rather see them go into a cupboard like David's ma's + is in, where they'd be taken keer of, if they was yours? I guess you + would!” + </p> + <p> + “Well if you feel that way, and really want us to have them, I know David + will build another little cupboard on the other side of the fireplace to + put yours in, and I can't tell you how I'd love and care for them.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll jest do it!” said Granny Moreland. “I got about as many blue ones as + Marthy had an' mine are purtier than hers. And my lustre is brighter, for + I didn't use it so much. Is this the kitchen? Well if I ever saw sech a + cool, white place to cook in before! Ain't David the beatenest hand to + think up things? He got the start of that takin' keer of his ma all his + life. He sort of learned what a woman uses, and how it's handiest. Not + that other men don't know; it's jest that they are too mortal selfish and + keerless to fix things. Well this is great! Now when you bile cabbage and + the wash, always open your winders wide and let the steam out, so it won't + spile your walls.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll be very careful,” promised the Girl. “Now come see my bathroom, + closet and bedroom.” + </p> + <p> + “Well as I live! Ain't this fine. I'll bet a purty that if I'd 'a' had a + room and a trough like this to soak in when I was wore to a frazzle, I + wouldn't 'a' got all twisted up with rheumatiz like I am. It jest looks + restful to see. I never washed in a place like this in all my days. Must + feel grand to be wet all over at once! Now everybody ought to have sech a + room and use it at all hours, like David does the lake. Did you ever see + his beat to go swimmin'? He's always in splashin'! Been at it all his + life. I used to be skeered when he was a little tyke. He soaked so much + 'peared like he'd wash all the substance out of him, but it only made him + strong.” + </p> + <p> + “Has he ever been ill?” + </p> + <p> + “Not that I know of, and I reckon I'd knowed it if he had. Well what a + clothespress! I never saw so many dresses at once. Ain't they purty? Oh I + wish I was young, and could have one like that yaller. And I'd like to + have one like your lavender right now. My! You are lucky to have so many + nice clothes. It's a good thing most girls haven't got them, or they'd + stand primpin' all day tryin' to decide which one to put on. I don't see + how you tell yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “I wear the one that best hides how pale I am,” answered the Girl. “I use + the colours now. When I grow plump and rosy, I'll wear the white.” + </p> + <p> + Granny Moreland dropped on the couch and assured herself that it was + Martha's pink Peter Hartman. Then she examined the sunshine room. + </p> + <p> + “Well I got to go back to the start,” she said at last. “This beats the + dinin'-room. This is the purtiest thing I ever saw. Oh I do hope they + ain't so run to white in Heaven as some folks seem to think! Used to be + scandalized if a-body took anythin' but a white flower to a funeral. Now + they tell me that when Jedge Stilton's youngest girl come from New York to + her pa's buryin' she fetched about a wash tub of blood-red roses. Put them + all over him, too! Said he loved red roses livin' and so he was goin' to + have them when he passed over. Now if they are lettin' up a little on + white on earth, mebby some of the stylish ones will carry the fashion over + yander. If Heaven is like this, I won't spend none of my time frettin' + about the foundations. I'll jest forget there is any, even if we do always + have to be so perticler to get them solid on earth. Talk of gold harps! + Can't you almost hear them? And listen to the birds and that water! Say, + you won't get lonesome here, will you?” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed no!” answered the Girl. “Wouldn't you like to lie on my beautiful + couch that the Harvester made with his own hands, and I'll spread Mother + Langston's coverlet over you and let you look at all my pretty things + while I slip away a few minutes to something I'd like to do?” + </p> + <p> + “I'd love to!” said the old woman. “I never had a chance at such fine + things. David told me he was makin' your room all himself, and that he was + goin' to fill it chuck full of everythin' a girl ever used, and I see he + done it right an' proper. Away last March he told me he was buildin' for + you, an' I hankered so to have a woman here again, even though I never + s'posed she'd be sochiable like you, that I egged him on jest all I could. + I never would 'a' s'posed the boy could marry like this——all + by himself.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl went to the ice chest to bring some of the fruit juice, chilled + berries, and to the pantry for bread and wafers to make a dainty little + lunch that she placed on the veranda table; and then she and Granny + Moreland talked, until the visitor said that she must go. The Girl went + with her to the little bridge crossing Singing Water on the north. There + the old lady took her hand. + </p> + <p> + “Honey,” she said, “I'm goin' to tell you somethin'. I am so happy I can + purt near fly. Last night I was comin' down the pike over there chasin' + home a contrary old gander of mine, and I looked over on your land and I + see David settin' on a log with his head between his hands a lookin' like + grim death, if I ever see it. My heart plum stopped. Says I, 'she's a + failure! She's a bustin' the boy's heart! I'll go straight over and tell + her so.' I didn't dare bespeak him, but I was on nettles all night. I jest + laid a-studyin' and a-studyin', and I says, 'Come mornin' I'll go straight + and give her a curry-combin' that'll do her good.' And I started a-feelin' + pretty grim, and here you came to meet me, and wiped it all out of my + heart in a flash. It did look like the boy was grievin'; but I know now he + was jest thinkin' up what to put together to take the ache out of some + poor old carcass like mine. It never could have been about you. Like a + half blind old fool I thought the boy was sufferin', and here he was only + studyin'! Like as not he was thinkin' what to do next to show you how he + loves you. What an old silly I was! I'll sleep like a log to-night to pay + up for it. Good-bye, honey! You better go back and lay down a spell. You + do look mortal tired.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl said good-bye and staggering a few steps sank on a log and sat + staring at the sky. + </p> + <p> + “Oh he was suffering, and about me!” she gasped. A chill began to shake + her and feverish blood to race through her veins. “He does and gives + everything; I do and give nothing! Oh why didn't I stay at Uncle Henry's + until it ended? It wouldn't have been so bad as this. What will I do? Oh + what will I do? Oh mother, mother! if I'd only had the courage you did.” + </p> + <p> + She arose and staggered up the hill, passed the cabin and went to the oak. + There she sank shivering to earth, and laid her face among the mosses. The + frightened Harvester found her at almost dusk when he came from the city + with the Dutch dishes, and helped a man launch a gay little motor boat for + her on the lake. + </p> + <p> + “Why Ruth! Ruth-girl!” he exclaimed, kneeling beside her. + </p> + <p> + She lifted a strained, distorted face. + </p> + <p> + “Don't touch me! Don't come near me!” she cried. “It is not true that I am + better. I am not! I am worse! I never will be better. And before I go I've + got to tell you of the debt I owe; then you will hate me, and then I will + be glad! Glad, I tell you! Glad! When you despise me? then I can go, and + know that some day you will love a girl worthy of you. Oh I want you to + hate me I am fit for nothing else.” + </p> + <p> + She fell forward sobbing wildly and the Harvester tried in vain to quiet + her. At last he said, “Well then tell me, Ruth. Remember I don't want to + hear what you have to say. I will believe nothing against you, not even + from your own lips, when you are feverish and excited as now, but if it + will quiet you, tell me and have it over. See, I will sit here and listen, + and when you have finished I'll pick you up and carry you to your room, + and I am not sure but I will kiss you over and over. What is it you want + to tell me, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + She sat up panting and pushed back the heavy coils of hair. + </p> + <p> + “I've got to begin away at the beginning to make you see,” she said. “The + first thing I can remember is a small, such a small room, and mother + sewing and sometimes a man I called father. He was like Henry Jameson made + over tall and smooth, and more, oh, much more heartless! He was gone long + at a time, and always we had most to eat, and went oftener to the parks, + and were happiest with him away. When I was big enough to understand, + mother told me that she had met him and cared for him when she was an + inexperienced girl. She must have been very, very young, for she was only + a girl as I first remember her, and oh! so lovely, but with the saddest + face I ever saw. She said she had a good home and every luxury, and her + parents adored her; but they knew life and men, and they would not allow + him in their home, and so she left it with him, and he married her and + tried to force them to accept him, and they would not. At first she bore + it. Later she found him out, and appealed to them, but they were away or + would not forgive, and she was a proud thing, and would not beg more after + she had said she was wrong, and would they take her back. + </p> + <p> + “I grew up and we were girls together. We embroidered, and I drew, and + sometimes we had little treats and good times, and my father did not come + often, and we got along the best we could. Always it was worse on her, + because she was not so strong as I, and her heart was secretly breaking + for her mother, and she was afraid he would come back any hour. She was + tortured that she could not educate me more than to put me through the + high school. She wore herself out doing that, but she was wild for me to + be reared and trained right. So every day she crouched over delicate laces + and embroidery, and before and after school I carried it and got more, and + in vacation we worked together. But living grew higher, and she became + ill, and could not work, and I hadn't her skill, and the drawings didn't + bring much, and I'd no tools——” + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, for mercy sake let me take you in my arms. If you've got to tell + this to find peace, let me hold you while you do it.” + </p> + <p> + “Never again,” said the Girl. “You won't want to in a minute. You must + hear this, because I can't bear it any longer, and it isn't fair to let + you grieve and think me worth loving. Anyway, I couldn't earn what she + did, and I was afraid, for a great city is heartless to the poor. One + morning she fainted and couldn't get up. I can see the awful look in her + eyes now. She knew what was coming. I didn't. I tried to be brave and to + work. Oh it's no use to go on with that! It was just worse and worse. She + was lovely and delicate, she was my mother, and I adored her. Oh Man! You + won't judge harshly?” + </p> + <p> + “No!” cried the Harvester, “I won't judge at all, Ruth. I see now. Get it + over if you must tell me.” + </p> + <p> + “One day she had been dreadfully ill for a long time and there was no food + or work or money, and the last scrap was pawned, and she simply would not + let me notify the charities or tell me who or where her people were. She + said she had sinned against them and broken their hearts, and probably + they were dead, and I was desperate. I walked all day from house to house + where I had delivered work, but it was no use; no one wanted anything I + could do, and I went back frantic, and found her gnawing her fingers and + gibbering in delirium. She did not know me, and for the first time she + implored me for food. + </p> + <p> + “Then I locked the door and went on the street and I asked a woman. She + laughed and said she'd report me and I'd be locked up for begging. Then I + saw a man I passed sometimes. I thought he lived close. I went straight to + him, and told him my mother was very ill, and asked him to help her. He + told me to go to the proper authorities. I told him I didn't know who they + were or where, and I had no money and she was a woman of refinement, and + never would forgive me. I offered, if he would come to see her, get her + some beef tea, and take care of her while she lived, that afterward——” + </p> + <p> + The Girl's frail form shook in a storm of sobs. At last she lifted her + eyes to the Harvester's. “There must be a God, and somewhere at the last + extremity He must come in. The man went with me, and he was a young doctor + who had an office a few blocks away, and he knew what to do. He hadn't + much himself, but for several weeks he divided and she was more + comfortable and not hungry when she went. When it was over I dressed her + the best I could in my graduation dress, and folded her hands, and kissed + her good-bye, and told him I was ready to fulfill my offer; and oh Man!——He + said he had forgotten!” + </p> + <p> + “God!” panted the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “We couldn't bury her there. But I remembered my father had said he had a + brother in the country, and once he had been to see us when I was very + little, and the doctor telegraphed him, and he answered that his wife was + sick, and if I was able to work I could come, and he would bury her, and + give me a home. The doctor borrowed the money and bought the coffin you + found her in. He couldn't do better or he would, for he learned to love + her. He paid our fares and took us to the train. Before I started I went + on my knees to him and worshipped him as the Almighty, and I am sure I + told him that I always would be indebted to him, and any time he required + I would pay. The rest you know.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you heard from him, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “It WAS yourself the other day on the bridge?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Did he love you?” + </p> + <p> + “Not that I know of. No! Nobody but you would love a girl who appeared as + I did then.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester strove to keep a set face, but his lips drew back from his + teeth. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, do you love him?” + </p> + <p> + “Love!” cried the Girl. “A pale, expressionless word! Adore would come + closer! I tell you she was delirious with hunger, and he fed her. She was + suffering horrors and he eased the pain. She was lifeless, and he kept her + poor tired body from the dissecting table. I would have fulfilled my + offer, and gone straight into the lake, but he spared me, Man! He spared + me! Worship is a good word. I think I worship him. I tried to tell you. + Before you got that license, I wanted you to know.” + </p> + <p> + “I remember,” said the Harvester. “But no man could have guessed that a + girl with your face had agony like that in her heart, not even when he + read deep trouble there.” + </p> + <p> + “I should have told you then! I should have forced you to hear! I was wild + with fear of Uncle Henry, and I had nowhere to go. Now you know! Go away, + and the end will come soon.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester arose and walked a few steps toward the lake, where he + paused stricken, but fighting for control. For him the light had gone out. + There was nothing beyond. The one passion of his life must live on, + satisfied with a touch from lips that loved another man. Broken sobbing + came to him. He did not even have time to suffer. Stumblingly he turned + and going to the Girl he picked her up, and sat on the bench holding her + closely. + </p> + <p> + “Stop it, Ruth!” he said unsteadily. “Stop this! Why should you suffer so? + I simply will not have it. I will save you against yourself and the world. + You shall have all happiness yet; I swear it, my girl! You are all right. + He was a noble man, and he spared you because he loved you, of course. I + will make you well and rosy again, and then I will go and find him, and + arrange everything for you. I have spared you, too, and if he doesn't want + you to remain here with me, Mrs. Carey would be glad to have you until I + can free you. Judges are human. It will be a simple matter. Hush, Ruth, + listen to me! You shall be free! At once, if you say so! You shall have + him! I will go and bring him here, and I will go away. Ruth, darling, stop + crying and hear me. You will grow better, now that you have told me. It is + this secret that has made you feverish and kept you ill. Ruth, you shall + have happiness yet, if I have got to circle the globe and scale the walls + of Heaven to find it for you.” + </p> + <p> + She struggled from his arms and ran toward the lake. When the Harvester + caught her, she screamed wildly, and struck him with her thin white hands. + He lifted and carried her to the laboratory, where he gave her a few drops + from a bottle and soon she became quiet. Then he took her to the sunshine + room, laid her on the bed, locked the screens and her door, called + Belshazzar to watch, and ran to the stable. A few minutes later with + distended nostrils and indignant heart Betsy, under the flail of an + unsparing lash, pounded down the hill toward Onabasha. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII. LOVE INVADES SCIENCE + </h2> + <p> + The Harvester placed the key in the door and turned to Doctor Carey and + the nurse. + </p> + <p> + “I drugged her into unconsciousness before I left, but she may have + returned, at least partially. Miss Barnet, will you kindly see if she is + ready for the doctor? You needn't be in the least afraid. She has no + strength, even in delirium.” + </p> + <p> + He opened the door, his head averted, and the nurse hurried into the room. + The Girl on the bed was beginning to toss, moan, and mutter. Skilful hands + straightened her, arranged the covers, and the doctor was called. In the + living-room the Harvester paced in misery too deep for consecutive + thought. As consciousness returned, the Girl grew wilder, and the nurse + could not follow the doctor's directions and care for her. Then Doctor + Carey called the Harvester. He went in and sitting beside the bed took the + feverish, wildly beating hands in his strong, cool ones, and began + stroking them and talking. + </p> + <p> + “Easy, honey,” he murmured softly. “Lie quietly while I tell you. You + mustn't tire yourself. You are wasting strength you need to fight the + fever. I'll hold your hands tight, I'll stroke your head for you. Lie + quietly, dear, and Doctor Carey and his head nurse are going to make you + well in a little while. That's right! Let me do the moving; you lie and + rest. Only rest and rest, until all the pain is gone, and the strong days + come, and they are going to bring great joy, love, and peace, to my dear, + dear girl. Even the moans take strength. Try just to lie quietly and rest. + You can't hear Singing Water if you don't listen, Ruth.” + </p> + <p> + “She doesn't realize that it is you or know what you say, David,” said + Doctor Carey gently. + </p> + <p> + “I understand,” said the Harvester. “But if you will observe, you will see + that she is quiet when I stroke her head and hands, and if you notice + closely you will grant that she gets a word occasionally. If it is the + right one, it helps. She knows my voice and touch, and she is less nervous + and afraid with me. Watch a minute!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester took both of the Girl's fluttering hands in one of his and + with long, light strokes gently brushed them, and then her head, and face, + and then her hands again, and in a low, monotonous, half sing-song voice + he crooned, “Rest, Ruth, rest! It is night now. The moon is bridging Loon + Lake, and the whip-poor-will is crying. Listen, dear, don't you hear him + crying? Still, Girl, still! Just as quiet! Lie so quietly. The + whip-poor-will is going to tell his mate he loves her, loves her so + dearly. He is going to tell her, when you listen. That's a dear girl. Now + he is beginning. He says, 'Come over the lake and listen to the song I'm + singing to you, my mate, my mate, my dear, dear mate,' and the big night + moths are flying; and the katydids are crying, positive and sure they are + crying, a thing that's past denying. Hear them crying? And the ducks are + cheeping, soft little murmurs while they're sleeping, sleeping. Resting, + softly resting! Gently, Girl, gently! Down the hill comes Singing Water, + laughing, laughing! Don't you hear it laughing? Listen to the big owl + courting; it sees the coon out hunting, it hears the mink softly slipping, + slipping, where the dews of night are dripping. And the little birds are + sleeping, so still they are sleeping. Girls should be a-sleeping, like the + birds a-sleeping, for to-morrow joy comes creeping, joy and life and love + come creeping, creeping to my Girl. Gently, gently, that's a dear girl, + gently! Tired hands rest easy, tired head lies still! That's the way to + rest——” + </p> + <p> + On and on the even voice kept up the story. All over and around the lake, + the length of Singing Water, the marsh folk found voices to tell of their + lives, where it was a story of joy, rest, and love. Up the hill ranged the + Harvester, through the forest where the squirrels slept, the owl hunted, + the fire-flies flickered, the fairies squeezed flower leaves to make + colour to paint the autumn foliage, and danced on toadstool platforms. + Just so long as his voice murmured and his touch continued, so long the + Girl lay quietly, and the medicines could act. But no other touch would + serve, and no other voice would answer. If the harvester left the room + five minutes to show the nurse how to light the fire, and where to find + things, he returned to tossing, restless delirium. + </p> + <p> + “It's magic David,” said Doctor Carey. “Magic!” + </p> + <p> + “It is love,” said the Harvester. “Even crazed with fever, she recognizes + its voice and touch. You've got your work cut out, Doc. Roll your sleeves + and collect your wits. Set your heart on winning. There is one thing shall + not happen. Get that straight in your mind, right now. And you too, Miss + Barnet! There is nothing like fighting for a certainty. You may think the + Girl is desperately ill, and she is, but make up your minds that you are + here to fight for her life, and to save it. Save, do you understand? If + she is to go, I don't need either of you. I can let her do that myself. + You are here on a mission of life. Keep it before you! Life and health for + this Girl is the prize you are going to win. Dig into it, and I'll pay the + bills, and extra besides. If money is any incentive, I'll give you all + I've got for life and health for the Girl. Are you doing all you know?” + </p> + <p> + “I certainly am, David.” + </p> + <p> + “But when day comes you'll have to go back to the hospital and we may not + know how to meet crises that will arise. What then? We should have a + competent physician in the house until this fever breaks.” + </p> + <p> + “I had thought of that, David. I will arrange to send one of the men from + the hospital who will be able to watch symptoms and come for me when + needed.” + </p> + <p> + “Won't do!” said the Harvester calmly. “She has no strength for waiting. + You are to come when you can, and remain as long as possible. The case is + yours; your decisions go, but I will select your assistant. I know the man + I want.” + </p> + <p> + “Who is he, David?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll tell you when I learn whether I can get him. Now I want you to give + the Girl the strongest sedative you dare, take off your coat, roll your + sleeves, and see how well you can imitate my voice, and how much you have + profited by listening to my song. In other words, before day calls, I want + you to take my place so successfully that you deceive her, and give me + time to make a trip to town. There are a few things that must be done, and + I think I can work faster in the night. Will you?” + </p> + <p> + Doctor Carey bent over the bed. Gently he slipped a practised hand under + the Harvester's and made the next stroke down the white arm. Gradually he + took possession of the thin hands and his touch fell on the masses of dark + hair. As the Harvester arose the doctor took the seat. + </p> + <p> + “You go on!” he ordered gruffly. “I'll do better alone.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester stepped back. The doctor's touch was easy and the Girl lay + quietly for an instant, then she moved restlessly. + </p> + <p> + “You must be still now,” he said gently. “The moon is up, the lake is all + white, and the birds are flying all around. Lie still or you'll make + yourself worse. Stiller than that! If you don't you can't hear things + courting. The ducks are quacking, the bull frogs are croaking, and + everything. Lie still, still, I tell you!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh good Lord, Doc!” groaned the Harvester in desperation. + </p> + <p> + The Girl wrenched her hands free and her head rolled on the pillow. + </p> + <p> + “Harvester! Harvester!” she cried. + </p> + <p> + The doctor started to arise. + </p> + <p> + “Sit still!” commanded the Harvester. “Take her hands and go to work, + idiot! Give her more sedative, and tell her I'm coming. That's the word, + if she realizes enough to call for me.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor possessed himself of the flying hands, and gently held and + stroked them. + </p> + <p> + “The Harvester is coming,” he said. “Wait just a minute, he's on the way. + He is coming. I think I hear him. He will be here soon, very soon now. + That's a good girl! Lie still for David. He won't like it if you toss and + moan. Just as still, lie still so I can listen. I can't tell whether he is + coming until you are quiet.” + </p> + <p> + Then he said to the Harvester, “You see, I've got it now. I can manage + her, but for pity sake, hurry man! Take the car! Jim is asleep on the back + seat——Yes, yes, Girl! I'm listening for him. I think I hear + him! I think he's coming!” + </p> + <p> + Here and there a word penetrated, and she lay more quietly, but not in the + rest to which the Harvester had lulled her. + </p> + <p> + “Hurry man!” groaned the doctor in a whispered aside, and the Harvester + ran to the car, awakened the driver and told him he had a clear road to + Onabasha, to speed up. + </p> + <p> + “Where to?” asked the driver. + </p> + <p> + “Dickson, of the First National.” + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes the car stopped before the residence and the Harvester + made an attack on the front door. Presently the man came. + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me for routing you out at this time of night,” said the Harvester, + “but it's a case of necessity. I have an automobile here. I want you to go + to the bank with me, and get me an address from your draft records. I know + the rules, but I want the name of my wife's Chicago physician. She is + delirious, and I must telephone him.” + </p> + <p> + The cashier stepped out and closed the door. + </p> + <p> + “Nine chances out of ten it will be in the vault,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “That leaves one that it won't,” answered the Harvester. “Sometimes I've + looked in when passing in the night, and I've noticed that the books are + not always put away. I could see some on the rack to-night. I think it is + there.” + </p> + <p> + It was there, and the Harvester ordered the driver to hurry him to the + telephone exchange, then take the cashier home and return and wait. He + called the Chicago Information office. + </p> + <p> + “I want Dr. Frank Harmon, whose office address is 1509 Columbia Street. I + don't know the 'phone number.” + </p> + <p> + Then came a long wait, and after twenty minutes the blessed buzzing + whisper, “Here's your party.” + </p> + <p> + “Doctor Harmon?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “You remember Ruth Jameson, the daughter of a recent patient of yours?” + </p> + <p> + “I do.” + </p> + <p> + “Well my name is Langston. The Girl is in my home and care. She is very + ill with fever, and she has much confidence in you. This is Onabasha, on + the Grand Rapids and Indiana. You take the Pennsylvania at seven o'clock, + telegraph ahead that you are coming so that they will make connection for + you, change at twelve-twenty at Fort Wayne, and I will meet you here. You + will find your ticket and a check waiting you at the Chicago depot. + Arrange to remain a week at least. You will be paid all expenses and + regular prices for your time. Will you come?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “All right. Make no failure. Good-bye.” + </p> + <p> + Then the Harvester left an order with the telephone company to run a wire + to Medicine Woods the first thing in the morning, and drove to the depot + to arrange for the ticket and check. In less than an hour he was holding + the Girl's hands and crooning over her. + </p> + <p> + “Jerusalem!” said Doctor Carey, rising stiffly. “I'd rather undertake to + cut off your head and put it back on than to tackle another job like that. + She's quite delirious, but she has flashes, and at such times she knows + whom she wants; the rest of the time it's a jumble and some of it is + rather gruesome. She's seen dreadful illness, hunger, and there's a debt + she's wild about. I told you something was back of this. You've got to + find out and set her mind at ease.” + </p> + <p> + “I know all about it,” said the Harvester patiently between crooning + sentences to the Girl. “But the crash came before I could convince her + that it was all right and I could fix everything for her easily. If she + only could understand me!” + </p> + <p> + “Did you find your man?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. He will be here this afternoon.” + </p> + <p> + “Quick work!” + </p> + <p> + “This takes quick work.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know anything about him?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. He is a young fellow, just starting out. He is a fine, straight, + manly man. I don't know how much he knows, but it will be enough to + recognize your ability and standing, and to do what you tell him. I have + perfect confidence in him. I want you to come back at one, and take my + place until I go to meet him.” + </p> + <p> + “I can bring him out.” + </p> + <p> + “I have to see him myself. There are a few words to be said before he sees + the Girl.” + </p> + <p> + “David, what are you up to?” + </p> + <p> + “Being as honourable as I can. No man gets any too decent, but there is no + law against doing as you would be done by, and being as straight as you + know how. When I've talked to him, I'll know where I am and I'll have + something to say to you.” + </p> + <p> + “David, I'm afraid——” + </p> + <p> + “Then what do you suppose I am?” said the Harvester. “It's no use, Doc. Be + still and take what comes! The manner in which you meet a crisis proves + you a whining cur or a man. I have got lots of respect for a dog, as a + dog; but I've none for a man as a dog. If you've gathered from the Girl's + delirium that I've made a mistake, I hope you have confidence enough in me + to believe I'll right it, and take my punishment without whining. Go away, + you make her worse. Easy, Girl, the world is all right and every one is + sleeping now, so you should be at rest. With the day the doctor will come, + the good doctor you know and like, Ruth. You haven't forgotten your + doctor, Ruth? The kind doctor who cared for you. He will make you well, + Ruth; well and oh, so happy! Harmon, Harmon, Doctor Harmon is coming to + you, Girl, and then you will be so happy!” + </p> + <p> + “Why you blame idiot!” cried Doctor Carey in a harsh whisper. “Have you + lost all the sense you ever had? Stop that gibber! She wants to hear about + the birds and Singing Water. Go on with that woods line of talk; she likes + that away the best. This stuff is making her restless. See!” + </p> + <p> + “You mean you are,” said the Harvester wearily. “Please leave us alone. I + know the words that will bring comfort. You don't.” + </p> + <p> + He began the story all over again, but now there ran through it a + continual refrain. “Your doctor is coming, the good doctor you know. He + will make you well and strong, and he will make life so lovely for you.” + </p> + <p> + He was talking without pause or rest when Doctor Carey returned in the + afternoon to take his place. He brought Mrs. Carey with him, and she tried + a woman's powers of soothing another woman, and almost drove the Girl to + fighting frenzy. So the doctor made another attempt, and the Harvester + raced down the hill to the city. He went to the car shed as the train + pulled in, and stood at one side while the people hurried through the + gate. He was watching for a young man with a travelling bag and perhaps a + physician's satchel, who would be looking for some one. + </p> + <p> + “I think I'll know him,” muttered the Harvester grimly. “I think the + masculine element in me will pop up strongly and instinctively at the + sight of this man who will take my Dream Girl from me. Oh good God! Are + You sure You ARE good?” + </p> + <p> + In his brown khaki trousers and shirt, his head bare, his bronze face + limned with agony he made no attempt to conceal, the Harvester, with feet + planted firmly, and tightly folded arms, his head tipped slightly to one + side, braced himself as he sent his keen gray eyes searching the crowd. + Far away he selected his man. He was young, strong, criminally handsome, + clean and alert; there was discernible anxiety on his face, and it touched + the Harvester's soul that he was coming just as swiftly as he could force + his way. As he passed the gates the Harvester reached his side. + </p> + <p> + “Doctor Harmon, I think,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “This way! If you have luggage, I will send for it later.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester hurried to the car. + </p> + <p> + “Take the shortest cut and cover space,” he said to the driver. The car + kept to the speed limit until toward the suburbs. + </p> + <p> + Doctor Harmon removed his hat, ran his fingers through dark waving hair + and yielded his body to the swing of the car. Neither man attempted to + talk. Once the Harvester leaned forward and told the driver to stop on the + bridge, and then sat silently. As the car slowed down, they alighted. + </p> + <p> + “Drive on and tell Doc we are here, and will be up soon,” said the + Harvester. Then he turned to the stranger. “Doctor Harmon, there's little + time for words. This is my place, and here I grow herbs for medicinal + houses.” + </p> + <p> + “I have heard of you, and heard your stuff recommended,” said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “Good!” exclaimed the Harvester. “That saves time. I stopped here to make + a required explanation to you. The day you sent Ruth Jameson to Onabasha, + I saw her leave the train and recognized in her my ideal woman. I lost her + in the crowd and it took some time to locate her. I found her about a + month ago. She was miserable. If you saw what her father did to her and + her mother in Chicago, you should have seen what his brother was doing + here. The end came one day in my presence, when I paid her for ginseng she + had found to settle her debt to you. He robbed her by force. I took the + money from him, and he threatened her. She was ill then from heat, + overwork, wrong food——every misery you can imagine heaped upon + the dreadful conditions in which she came. It had been my intention to + court and marry her if I possibly could. That day she had nowhere to go; + she was wild with fear; the fever that is scorching her now was in her + veins then. I did an insane thing. I begged her to marry me at once and + come here for rest and protection. I swore that if she would, she should + not be my wife, but my honoured guest, until she learned to love me and + released me from my vow. She tried to tell me something; I had no idea it + was anything that would make any real difference, and I wouldn't listen. + Last night, when the fever was beginning to do its worst, she told me of + your entrance into her life and what it meant to her. Then I saw that I + had made a mistake. You were her choice, the man she could love, not me, + so I took the liberty of sending for you. I want you to cure her, court + her, marry her, and make her happy. God knows she has had her share of + suffering. You recognize her as a girl of refinement?” + </p> + <p> + “I do.” + </p> + <p> + “You grant that in health she would be lovelier than most women, do you + not?” + </p> + <p> + “She was more beautiful than most in sickness and distress.” + </p> + <p> + “Good!” cried the Harvester. “She has been here two weeks. I give you my + word, my promise to her has been kept faithfully. As soon as I can leave + her to attend to it, she shall have her freedom. That will be easy. Will + you marry her?” + </p> + <p> + The doctor hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” asked the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Well to be frank,” said Doctor Harmon, “it is money! I'm only getting a + start. I borrowed funds for my schooling and what I used for her. She is + in every way attractive enough to be desired by any man, but how am I to + provide a home and support her and pay these debts? I'll try it, but I am + afraid it will be taking her back to wrong conditions again.” + </p> + <p> + “If you knew that she owned a comfortable cottage in the suburbs, where it + is cool and clean, and had, say a hundred a month of her own for the + coming three years, could you see your way?” + </p> + <p> + “That would make all the difference in the world. I thought seriously of + writing her. I wanted to, but I concluded I'd better work as hard as I + could for some practice first, and see if I could make a living for two, + before I tried to start anything. I had no idea she would not be + comfortably cared for at her uncle's.” + </p> + <p> + “I see,” said the Harvester. “If I had kept out, life would have come + right for her.” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary,” said the doctor, “it appears very probable that she + would not be living.” + </p> + <p> + “It is understood between us, then, that you will court and marry her so + soon as she is strong enough?” + </p> + <p> + “It is understood,” agreed the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “Will you honour me by taking my hand?” asked the Harvester. “I scarcely + had hoped to find so much of a man. Now come to your room and get ready + for the stiffest piece of work you ever attempted.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester led the way to the guest chamber over looking the lake, and + installed its first occupant. Then he hurried to the Girl. The doctor was + holding her head and one hand, his wife the other, and the nurse her feet. + It took the Harvester ten strenuous minutes to make his touch and presence + known and to work quiet. All over he began crooning his story of rest, + joy, and love. He broke off with a few words to introduce Doctor Harmon to + the Careys and the nurse, and then calmly continued while the other men + stood and watched him. + </p> + <p> + “Seems rather cut out for it,” commented Doctor Harmon. + </p> + <p> + “I never yet have seen him attempt anything that he didn't appear cut out + for,” answered Doctor Carey. + </p> + <p> + “Will she know me?” inquired the young man, approaching the bed. + </p> + <p> + When the Girl's eyes fell on him she grew rigid and lay staring at him. + Suddenly with a wild cry she struggled to rise. + </p> + <p> + “You have come!” she cried. “Oh I knew you would come! I felt you would + come! I cannot pay you now! Oh why didn't you come sooner?” + </p> + <p> + The young doctor leaned over and took one of the white hands from the + Harvester, stroking it gently. + </p> + <p> + “Why you did pay, Ruth! How did you come to forget? Don't you remember the + draft you sent me? I didn't come for money; I came to visit you, to nurse + you, to do all I can to make you well. I am going to take care of you now + so finely you'll be out on the lake and among the flowers soon. I've got + some medicine that makes every one well. It's going to make you strong, + and there's something else that's going to make you happy; and me, I'm + going to be the proudest man alive.” + </p> + <p> + He reached over and took possession of the other hand, stroking them + softly, and the Girl lay tensely staring at him and gradually yielding to + his touch and voice. The Harvester arose, and passing around the bed, he + placed a chair for Doctor Harmon and motioning for Doctor Carey left the + room. He went to the shore to his swimming pool, wearily dropped on the + bench, and stared across the water. + </p> + <p> + “Well thank God it worked, anyway!” he muttered. + </p> + <p> + “What's that popinjay doing here?” thundered Doctor Carey. “Got some + medicine that cures everybody. Going to make her well, is he? Make the + cows, and the ducks, and the chickens, and the shitepokes well, and happy——no + name for it! After this we are all going to be well and happy! You look it + right now, David! What under Heaven have you done?” + </p> + <p> + “Left my wife with the man she loves, and to whom I release her, my dear + friend,” said the Harvester. “And it's so easy for me that you needn't + give making it a little harder, any thought.” + </p> + <p> + “David, forgive me!” cried Doctor Carey. “I don't understand this. I'm + almost insane. Will you tell me what it means?” + </p> + <p> + “Means that I took advantage of the Girl's illness, utter loneliness, and + fear, and forced her into marrying me for shelter and care, when she loved + and wanted another man, who was preparing to come to her. He is her + Chicago doctor, and fine in every fibre, as you can see. There is only one + thing on earth for me to do, and that is to get out of their way, and I'll + do it as soon as she is well; but I vow I won't leave her poor, tired body + until she is, not even for him. I thought sure I could teach her to love + me! Oh but this is bitter, Doc!” + </p> + <p> + “You are a consummate fool to bring him here!” cried Doctor Carey. “If she + is too sick to realize the situation now, she will be different when she + is normal again. Any sane girl that wouldn't love you, David, ain't fit + for anything!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I'm a whale of a lover!” said the Harvester grimly. “Nice mess I've + made of it. But there is no real harm done. Thank God, Harmon was not the + only white man.” + </p> + <p> + “David, what do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “Is it between us, Doc?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “For all time?” + </p> + <p> + “It is.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester told him. He ended, “Give the fellow his dues, Doc. He had + her at his mercy, utterly alone and unprotected, in a big city. There was + not a living soul to hold him to account. He added to his burdens, + borrowed more money, and sent her here. He thought she was coming to the + country where she would be safe and well cared for until he could support + her. I did the remainder. Now I must undo it, that's all! But you have got + to go in there and practise with him. You've got to show him every + courtesy of the profession. You must go a little over the rules, and teach + him all you can. You will have to stifle your feelings, and be as much of + a man as it is in you to be, at your level best.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm no good at stifling my feelings!” + </p> + <p> + “Then you'll have to learn,” said the Harvester. “If you'd lived through + my years of repression in the woods you'd do the fellow credit. As I see + it, his side of this is nearly as fine as you make it. I tell you she was + utterly stricken, alone, and beautiful. She sought his assistance. When + the end came he thought only of her. Won't you give a young fellow in a + place like Chicago some credit for that? Can't you get through you what it + means?” + </p> + <p> + Doctor Carey stood frowning in deep thought, but the lines of his face + gradually changed. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose I've got to stomach him,” he said. + </p> + <p> + The nurse came down the gravel path. + </p> + <p> + “Mr. Langston, Doctor Harmon asked me to call you,” she said. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester arose and went to the sunshine room. + </p> + <p> + “What does he want, Molly?” asked the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “Wants to turn over his job,” chuckled the nurse. “He held it about seven + minutes in peace, and then she began to fret and call for the Harvester. + He just sweat blood to pacify her, but he couldn't make it. He tried to + hold her, to make love to her, and goodness knows what, but she struggled + and cried, 'David,' until he had to give it up and send me.” + </p> + <p> + “Molly,” said Doctor Carey, “we've known the Harvester a long time, and he + is our friend, isn't he?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course!” said the nurse. + </p> + <p> + “We know this is the first woman he ever loved, probably ever will, as he + is made. Now we don't like this stranger butting in here; we resent it, + Molly. We are on the side of our friend, and we want him to win. I'll + grant that this fellow is fine, and that he has done well, but what's the + use in tearing up arrangements already made? And so suitable! Now Molly, + you are my best nurse, and a good reliable aid in times like this. I gave + you instructions an hour ago. I'll add this to them. YOU ARE ON THE + HARVESTER'S SIDE. Do you understand? In this, and the days to come, you'll + have a thousand chances to put in a lick with a sick woman. Put them in as + I tell you.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Doctor Carey.” + </p> + <p> + “And Molly! You are something besides my best nurse. You're a smashing + pretty girl, and your occupation should make you especially attractive to + a young doctor. I'm sure this fellow is all right, so while you are doing + your best with your patient for the Harvester, why not have a try for + yourself with the doctor? It couldn't do any harm, and it might straighten + out matters. Anyway, you think it over.” + </p> + <p> + The nurse studied his face silently for a time, and then she began to + laugh softly. + </p> + <p> + “He is up there doing his best with her,” she said. + </p> + <p> + The doctor threw out his hands in a gesture of disdain, and the nurse + laughed again; but her cheeks were pink and her eyes flashing as she + returned to duty. + </p> + <p> + “Random shot, but it might hit something, you never can tell,” commented + the doctor. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester entered the Girl's room and stood still. She was fretting + and raising her temperature rapidly. Before he reached the door his heart + gave one great leap at the sound of her voice calling his name. He knew + what to do, but he hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “She seems to have become accustomed to you, and at times does not + remember me,” said Doctor Harmon. “I think you had better take her again + until she grows quiet.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester stepped to the bed and looked the doctor in the eye. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid I left out one important feature in our little talk on the + bridge,” he said. “I neglected to tell you that in your fight for this + woman's life and love you have a rival. I am he. She is my wife, and with + the last fibre of my being I adore her. If you win, and she wants you to + take her away, I will help you; but my heart goes with her forever. If by + any chance it should occur that I have been mistaken or misinterpreted her + delirium or that she has been deceived and finds she prefers me and + Medicine Woods, to you and Chicago, when she has had opportunity to + measure us man against man, you must understand that I claim her. So I say + to you frankly, take her if you can, but don't imagine that I am passive. + I'll help you if I know she wants you, but I fight you every inch of the + way. Only it has got to be square and open. Do you understand?” + </p> + <p> + “You are certainly sufficiently clear.” + </p> + <p> + “No man who is half a man sees the last chance of happiness go out of his + life without putting up the stiffest battle he knows,” said the Harvester + grimly. “Ruth-girl, you are raising the fever again. You must be quiet.” + </p> + <p> + With infinite tenderness he possessed himself of her hands and began + stroking her hair, and in a low and soothing voice the story of the birds, + flowers, lake, and woods went on. To keep it from growing monotonous the + Harvester branched out and put in everything he knew. In the days that + followed he held a position none could take from him. While the doctors + fought the fever, he worked for rest and quiet, and soothed the tortured + body as best he could, that the medicines might act. + </p> + <p> + But the fever was stubborn, and the remedies were slow; and long before + the dreaded coming day the doctors and nurse were quietly saying to each + other that when the crisis came the heart would fail. There was no + vitality to sustain life. But they did not dare tell the Harvester. Day + and night he sat beside the maple bed or stretched sleeping a few minutes + on the couch while the Girl slept; and with faith never faltering and + courage unequalled, he warned them to have their remedies and appliances + ready. + </p> + <p> + “I don't say it's going to be easy,” he said. “I just merely state that it + must be done. And I'll also mention that, when the hour comes, the man who + discovers that he could do something if he had digitalis, or a remedy he + should have had ready and has forgotten, that man had better keep out of + my sight. Make your preparations now. Talk the case over. Fill your + hypodermics. Clean your air pumps. Get your hot-water bottles ready. Have + system. Label your stuff large and set it conveniently. You see what is + coming, be prepared!” + </p> + <p> + One day, while the Girl lay in a half-drugged, feverish sleep, the + Harvester went for a swim. He dressed a little sooner than was expected + and in crossing the living-room he heard Doctor Harmon say to Doctor Carey + on the veranda, “What are we going to do with him when the end comes?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester stepped to the door. “That won't be the question,” he said + grimly. “It will be what will HE do with us?” + </p> + <p> + Then, with an almost imperceptible movement, he caught Doctor Harmon at + the waist line, and lifted and dangled him as a baby, and then stood him + on the floor. “Didn't hardly expect that much muscle, did you?” he + inquired lightly. “And I'm not in what you could call condition, either. + Instead of wasting any time on fool questions like that, you two go over + your stuff and ask each other, have we got every last appliance known to + physics and surgery? Have we got duplicates on hand in case we break + delicate instruments like hypodermic syringes and that sort of thing? + Engage yourselves with questions pertaining to life; that is your + business. Instead of planning what you'll do in failure, bolster your + souls against it. Granny Moreland beats you two put together in grip and + courage.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester returned to his task, and the fight went on. At last the + hour came when the temperature fell lower and lower. The feeble pulses + flickered and grew indiscernible; a gray pallor hovered over the Girl, and + a cold sweat stood on her temples. + </p> + <p> + “Now!” said the Harvester. “Exercise your calling! Fight like men or + devils, but win you must.” + </p> + <p> + They did work. They administered stimulants; applied heat to the chilled + body; fans swept the room with vitalized air; hypodermics were used; and + every last resort known to science was given a full test, and the weak + heart throbbed slower and slower, and life ran out with each breath. The + Harvester stood waiting with set jaws. He could detect no change for the + better. At last he picked up a chilled hand and could discover no pulse, + and the gray nails and the dark tips told a story of arrested circulation. + He laid down the hand and faced the men. + </p> + <p> + “This is what you'd call the crisis, Doc?” he asked gently. + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you stemming it? Are you stemming it? Are you sure she is holding her + own?” + </p> + <p> + Doctor Carey looked at him silently. + </p> + <p> + “Have you done all you can do?” asked the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “You believe her going out?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester turned to Doctor Harmon. “Do you concur in that?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + Then to the nurse, “And you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” said the Harvester, “all of you are useless. Get out of here. I + don't want your atmosphere. If you can believe only in death, leave us! + She is my wife, and if this is the end she belongs to me, and I will do as + I choose with her. All of you go!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester stepped to the bathroom door and called Granny Moreland. + “Granny,” he said, “science has turned tail, and left me in extremity. + Fill your hot-water bottles and come in here with your heart big with hope + and help me save my Dream Girl. She is breathing Granny; we've got to make + her keep it up, that's all——just keep her breathing.” + </p> + <p> + He returned to the sunshine room, placed a small table beside the bed, and + on it a glass of water, spoon, and a hypodermic syringe. When Granny + Moreland came he said: “Now you begin on her feet and rub with long, + sweeping, upward strokes to drive the blood to her heart.” + </p> + <p> + Around the Girl he piled hot-water bottles and breathlessly hung over her, + rubbing her hands. He wiped the perspiration from her forehead, and then + dropped by her bed and for a second laid his face on her cold palm. + </p> + <p> + “If I am wrong, Heaven forgive me,” he prayed. “And you, oh, my darling + Dream Girl, forgive me, but I am forced to try——God helping + me! Amen.” + </p> + <p> + He arose, took a small bottle from his pocket, filled the spoon with + water, and measured into it three drops of liquid as yellow as gold. Then + he held the spoon to the blue lips, and with his fingers worked apart the + set teeth, and poured the medicine down her throat. Then they rubbed and + muttered snatches of prayer for fifteen minutes when the Harvester + administered another three drops. It might have been fancy, but it seemed + to him her jaws were not so stiff. Faster flew his hands and he sent + Granny Moreland to refill the hot bottles. When he gave the Girl the third + dose he injected some of the liquid over her heart and of the glycerine + the doctors had left, in the extremities. He released more air and began + rubbing again. + </p> + <p> + The second hour started in the same way, and ended with slowly relaxing + muscles and faint tinges of colour in the white cheeks. The feet were not + so cold, and when the Harvester held the spoon he knew that the Girl made + an effort to swallow, and he could see her eyelids tremble. Thereupon he + pointed these signs to Granny, and implored her to rub and pray, and pray + and rub, while he worked until the perspiration rolled down his gray face. + At the end of the second hour he began decreasing the doses and shortening + the time, and again he commenced in a low rumble his song of life and + health, to encourage the Girl as consciousness returned. + </p> + <p> + Occasionally Doctor Carey opened the door slightly and peeped in to see if + he were wanted, but he received no invitation to enter. The last time he + left with the impression that the Harvester was raving, while he worked + over a lifeless body. He had the Girl warmly covered and bent over her + face and hands. At her feet crouched Granny Moreland, rubbing, still + rubbing, beneath the covers, while in a steady stream the Harvester was + pouring out his song. If he had listened an instant longer he would have + recognized that the tone and the words had changed. Now it was, “Gently, + breathe gently, Girl! Slowly, steadily, easily! Deeper, a little deeper, + Ruth! Brave Girl, never another so wonderful! That's my Dream Girl coming + from the shadows, coming to life's sunshine, coming to hope, coming to + love! Deeper, just a little deeper! Smoothly and evenly! You are making + it, Girl! You are making it! By all that is holy and glorious! Stick to + it, Ruth, hold tight to me! I'll help you, dear! You are coming, coming + back to life and love. Don't worry yourself trying too hard, if only you + can send every breath as deeply as the last one, you can make it. You + brave girl! You wonderful Dream Girl! Ah, Ruth, the name of this is + victory!” + </p> + <p> + An hour before Doctor Carey had said to Doctor Harmon and the nurse, as he + softly closed the door: “It is over and the Harvester is raving. We'll + give him a little more time and see if he won't realize it himself. That + will be easier for him than for us to try to tell him.” + </p> + <p> + Now he opened the door, stared a second, and coming to the opposite side + of the bed, he leaned over the Girl. Then he felt her feet. They were warm + and slightly damp. A surprised look crept over his face. He gently reached + for a hand that the Harvester yielded to him. It was warm, the blue tips + becoming rosy, the wrist pulse discernible. Then he bent closer, touched + her face, and saw the tremulous eyelids. He turned back the cover, and + held his ear over her heart. When he straightened, “As God lives, she's + got a chance, David!” he exulted in an awed whisper. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester lifted a graven face, down which the sweat of agony rolled, + and his lips parted in a twitching smile. “Then this is where love beats + the doctors, Carey!” he said. + </p> + <p> + “It is where love has ventured what science dares not. Love didn't do all + of this. In the name of the Almighty, what did you give her, David?” + </p> + <p> + “Life!” cried the Harvester. “Life! Come on, Ruth, come on! Out of the + valley come to me! You are well now, Girl! It's all over! The last trace + of fever is gone, the last of the dull ache. Can you swallow just two more + drops of bottled sunshine, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + The flickering lids slowly opened, and the big black eyes looked straight + into the Harvester's. He met them steadily, smiling encouragement. + </p> + <p> + “Hang on to each breath, dear heart!” he urged. “The fever is gone. The + pain is over! Long life and the love you crave are for you. You've only to + keep breathing a few more hours and the battle is yours. Glorious Girl! + Noble! You are doing finely! Ruth, do you know me?” + </p> + <p> + Her lips moved. + </p> + <p> + “Don't try to speak,” said the Harvester. “Don't waste breath on a word. + Save the good oxygen to strengthen your tired body. But if you do know me, + maybe you could smile, Ruth!” + </p> + <p> + She could just smile, and that was all. Feeble, flickering, transient, but + as it crossed the living face the Harvester lifted her hands and kissed + them over and over, back, palm, and finger tips. + </p> + <p> + “Now just one more drop, honey, and then a long rest. Will you try it + again for me?” + </p> + <p> + She assented, and the Harvester took the bottle from his pocket, poured + the drop, and held the spoon to willing lips. The big eyes were on him + with a question. Then they fell to the spoon. The Harvester understood. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it's mine! It's got sixty years of wonderful life in it, every one + of them full of love and happiness for my dear Dream Girl. Can you take + it, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + Her lips parted, the wine of life passed between. She smiled faintly, and + her eyelids dropped shut, but presently they opened again. + </p> + <p> + “David!” + </p> + <p> + “My Dream Girl!” + </p> + <p> + “Harvester?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” + </p> + <p> + “Medicine Man?” + </p> + <p> + “Don't, Ruth! Save every breath to help your heart.” + </p> + <p> + “Life?” + </p> + <p> + “Life it is, Girl!” exulted the Harvester. “Long life! Love! Home! The man + you love! Every happiness that ever came to a girl! Nothing shall be + denied you! Nothing shall be lacking! It's all in your hands now, Ruth. + We've all done everything we can; you must do the remainder. It's your + work to send every breath as deeply as you can. Doc, release another tank + of air. Are her feet warm, Granny? Let the nurse take your place now. And, + honey, go to sleep! I'll keep watch for you. I'll measure each breath you + draw. If they shorten or weaken, I'll wake you for more medicine. You can + trust me! Always you can trust me, Ruth.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl smiled and fell into a light, even slumber. Granny Moreland + stumbled to the couch and rolled on it sobbing with nervous exhaustion. + Doctor Carey called the nurse to take her place. Then he came to the + Harvester's side and whispered, “Let me, David!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester looked up with his queer grin, but he made no motion to + arise. + </p> + <p> + “Won't you trust me, David? I'll watch as if it were my own wife.” + </p> + <p> + “I wouldn't trust any man on earth, for the coming three hours,” replied + the Harvester. “If I keep this up that long, she is safe. Go and rest + until I call you.” + </p> + <p> + He again bent over the Girl, one hand on her left wrist, the other over + her heart, his eyes on her lips, watching the depth and strength of her + every breath. Regularly he administered the medicine he was giving her. + Sometimes she took it half asleep; again she gave him a smile that to the + Harvester was the supreme thing of earth or Heaven. Toward the end of the + long vigil, in exhaustion he slipped to the floor, and laid his head on + the side of the bed, and for a second his hand relaxed and he fell asleep. + The Girl awakened as his touch loosened and looking down she saw his + huddled body. A second later the Harvester awoke with a guilty start to + find her fingers twisted in the shock of hair on the top of his head. + </p> + <p> + “Poor stranded Girl,” he muttered. “She's clinging to me for life, and you + can stake all you are worth she's going to get it!” + </p> + <p> + Then he gently relaxed her grip, gave her the last dose he felt necessary, + yielded his place to Doctor Carey and staggered up the hill. As the sun + peeped over Medicine Woods he stretched himself between the two mounds + under the oak, and for a few minutes his body was rent with the awful, + torn sobbing of a strong man. Belshazzar nosed the twisting figure and + whined pitifully. A chattering little marsh wren tilted on a bush and + scolded. A blue jay perched above and tried to decide whether there was + cause for an alarm signal. A snake coming from the water to hunt birds ran + close to him, and changing its course, went weaving away among the mosses. + Gradually the pent forces spent themselves, and for hours the Harvester + lay in the deep sleep of exhaustion, and stretched beside him, Belshazzar + guarded with anxious dog eyes. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII. THE BETTER MAN + </h2> + <p> + In the middle of the afternoon the Harvester arose and went into the lake, + ate a hearty dinner, and then took up his watch again. For two days and + nights he kept his place, until he had the Girl out of danger, and where + careful nursing was all that was required to insure life and health. As he + sat beside her the last day, his physical endurance strained to the + breaking point, she laid her hand over his, and looked long and steadily + into his eyes. + </p> + <p> + “There are so many things I want to know,” she said. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester's firm fingers closed over hers. “Ruth, have you ever been + sorry that you trusted me?” + </p> + <p> + “Never!” said the Girl instantly. + </p> + <p> + “Then suppose you keep it up,” said he. “Whatever it is that you want to + know, don't use an iota of strength to talk or to think about it now. Just + say to yourself, he loves me well enough to do what is right, and I know + that he will. All you have to do is to be patient until you grow stronger + than you ever have been in your life, and then you shall have exactly what + you want, Ruth. Sleep like a baby for a week or two. Then, slowly and + gradually, we will build up such a constitution for you that you shall + ride, drive, row, swim, dance, play, and have all that your girlhood has + missed in fun and frolic, and all that your womanhood craves in love and + companionship. Happiness has come at last, Ruth. Take it from me. + Everything you crave is yours. The love you want, the home, and the life. + As soon as you are strong enough, you shall know all about it. Your + business is to drink stimulants and sleep now, dear.” + </p> + <p> + “So tired of this bed!” + </p> + <p> + “It won't be long until you can lie on the couch and the veranda swing + again.” + </p> + <p> + “Glory!” said the Girl. “David, I must have been full of fever for a long + time. I can't remember everything.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't try, I tell you. Life is coming out right for you; that's all you + need know now.” + </p> + <p> + “And for you, David?” + </p> + <p> + “Whenever things are right for you, they are for me, Ruth.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't you ever think of yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “Not when I am close you.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! Then I shall have to grow strong very soon and think of you.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester's smile was pathetic. He was unspeakably tired again. + </p> + <p> + “Never mind me!” he said. “Only get well.” + </p> + <p> + “David, was there a little horse?” + </p> + <p> + “There certainly was and is,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “You had not named him yet, but in a few days I can lead him to the + window.” + </p> + <p> + “Was there something said about a boat?” + </p> + <p> + “Two of them.” + </p> + <p> + “Two?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. A row boat for you, and a launch that will take you all over the + lake with only the exertion of steering on your part.” + </p> + <p> + “David, I want my pendant and ring. I am so tired of lying here, I want to + play with them.” + </p> + <p> + “Where do you keep them, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “In the willow teapot. I thought no one would look there.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester laughed and brought the little boxes. He had to open them, + but the Girl put on the ring and asked him if he would not help her with + the pendant. He slipped the thread around her neck and clasped it. With a + sigh of satisfaction she took the ornament in one hand and closed her + eyes. He thought she was falling asleep, but presently she looked at him. + </p> + <p> + “You won't allow them to take it from me?” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed no! There is no reason on earth why you should not have that + thread around your neck if you want it.” + </p> + <p> + “I am going to sleep now. I want two things. May I have them?” + </p> + <p> + “You may,” said the Harvester promptly, “provided they are not to eat.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said the Girl. “I've suffered and made others trouble. I won't + bother you by asking for anything more than is brought me. This is + different. You are completely worn out. Your face frightens me, David, and + white hairs that were not there a few days ago have come along your + temples. I can see them.” + </p> + <p> + “You gave me a mighty serious scare, Ruth.” + </p> + <p> + “I know,” said the Girl. “Forgive me. I didn't mean to. I want you to + leave me to Doctor Harmon and the nurse and go sleep a week. Then I will + be ready for the swing, and to hear some more about the trees and birds.” + </p> + <p> + “I can keep it up if you really need me, but if you don't I am sleepy. So, + if you feel safe, I think I will go.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh I am safe enough,” said the Girl. “It isn't that. I'm so lonely. I've + made up my mind not to grieve for mother, but I miss her so now. I feel so + friendless.” + </p> + <p> + “But, honey,” said the Harvester, “you mustn't do that! Don't you see how + all of us love you? Here is Granny shutting up her house and living here, + just to be with you. The nurse will do anything you say. Here is the man + you know best, and think so much of, staying in the cabin, and so happy to + give you all his time, and anything else you will have, dear. And the + Careys come every day, and will do their best to comfort you, and always I + am here for you to fall back on.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I'm falling right now,” said the Girl. “I almost wish I had the + fever again. No one has touched me for days. I feel as if every one was + afraid of me.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester was puzzled. + </p> + <p> + “Well, Ruth, I'm doing the best I know,” he said. “What is it you want?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing!” answered the Girl with slightly dejected inflection. “Say + good-bye to me, and go sleep your week. I'll be very good, and then you + shall take me a drive up the hill when you awaken. Won't that be fine?” + </p> + <p> + “Say good-bye to me!” She felt a “little lonely!” They all acted as if + they were “afraid” of her. The Harvester indulged in a flashing mental + review and arrived at a decision. He knelt beside the bed, took both + slender, cool hands and covered them with kisses. Then he slid a hand + under the pillow and raised the tired head. + </p> + <p> + “If I am to say good-bye, I have to do it in my own way, Ruth,” he said. + </p> + <p> + Thereupon he began at the tumbled mass of hair and kissed from her + forehead to her lips, kisses warm and tender. + </p> + <p> + “Now you go to sleep, and grow strong enough by the time I come back to + tell me whom you love,” he said, and went from the room without waiting + for any reply. + </p> + <p> + With short intervals for food and dips in the lake the Harvester very + nearly slept the week. When he finally felt himself again, he bathed, + shaved, dressed freshly, and went to see the Girl. He had to touch her to + be sure she was real. She was extremely weak and tremulous, but her face + and hands were fuller, her colour was good, she was ravenously hungry. + Doctor Harmon said she was a little tryant, and the nurse that she was + plain cross. The first thing the Harvester noticed was that the dull blue + look in the depth of the dark eyes was gone. They were clear, dusky wells, + with shining lights at the bottom. + </p> + <p> + “Well I never would have believed it!” he cried. “Doctor Harmon, you are a + great physician! You have made her all over new, and in a few more days + she will be on the veranda. This is great!” + </p> + <p> + “Do I appear so much better to you, Harvester?” asked the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Has no one thought to show you,” cried the Harvester. “Here, let me!” + </p> + <p> + He stepped to her dressing table, picked up a mirror, and held it before + her so that she could see herself. + </p> + <p> + “Seems to me I am dreadfully white and thin yet!” + </p> + <p> + “If you had seen what I saw ten days ago, my Girl, you would think you + appear like a pink, rosy angel now, or a wonderful dream.” + </p> + <p> + “Truly, do I in the least resemble a dream, David?” + </p> + <p> + “You are a dream. The loveliest one a man ever had. With three months of + right care and exercise you'll be the beautiful woman nature intended. I'm + so proud of you. You are being so brave! Just lie there in patience a few + more days, and out you come again to life; and life that will thrill your + being with joy.” + </p> + <p> + “All right,” said the Girl, “I will. David are you attending to your + herbs?” + </p> + <p> + “Not for a few weeks.” + </p> + <p> + “You are very much behind?” + </p> + <p> + “No. Nothing important. I don't make enough to count on what is ready now. + I can soon gather jimson leaves and seed to fill orders, the hemlock is + about right to take the fruit, the mustard is yet in pod, and the saffron + and wormseed can be attended later. I can catch up in two days.” + </p> + <p> + “What about——about the big bed on the hill?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester experienced an inward thrill of delight. She was so + impressed with the value of the ginseng she would not mention it, even + before the man she loved——no more than that——“adored”—— + “worshipped!” He smiled at her in understanding. + </p> + <p> + “I'll have to take a peep at that and report,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Are you rested now?” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed yes!” + </p> + <p> + “You are dreadfully thin.” + </p> + <p> + “I always am. I'll pick up a little when I get back to work.” + </p> + <p> + “David, I want you to go to work now.” + </p> + <p> + “Can you spare me?” + </p> + <p> + “Haven't we done well these last few days?” + </p> + <p> + “I can't tell you how well.” + </p> + <p> + “Then please go gather everything you need to fill orders except the big + bed, and by that time maybe you could take another week off, and I could + go to the hill top and on the lake. I'm so anxious to put my feet on the + earth. They feel so dead.” + </p> + <p> + “Are your feet well rubbed to draw down the circulation?” + </p> + <p> + “They are rubbed shiny and almost skinned, David. No one ever had better + care, of that I am sure. Go gather what you should have.” + </p> + <p> + “All right,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + He arose and as he started to leave the room he took one last look at the + Girl to see if he could detect anything he could suggest for her comfort, + and read a message in her eyes. Instantly there was an answering flash in + his. + </p> + <p> + “I'll be back in a minute,” he said. “I just noticed discorea villosa has + the finest rattle boxes formed. I've been waiting to show you. And the hop + tree has its castanets all green and gold. In a few more weeks it will + begin to play for you. I'll bring you some.” + </p> + <p> + Soon he returned with the queer seed formations, and as he bent above her, + with his back to Doctor Harmon, he whispered, “What is it?” + </p> + <p> + Her lips barely formed the one word, “Hurry!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester straightened. + </p> + <p> + “All comfortable, Ruth?” he asked casually. + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “You understand, of course, that there is not the slightest necessity for + my going to work if you really want me for anything, even if it's nothing + more than to have me within calling distance, in case you SHOULD want + something. The whole lot I can gather now won't amount to twenty dollars. + It's merely a matter of pride with me to have what is called for. I'd much + rather remain, if you can use me in any way at all.” + </p> + <p> + “Twenty dollars is considerable, when expenses are as heavy as now. And + it's worth more than any money to you not to fail when orders come. I have + learned that, and David, I don't want you to either. You must fill all + demands as usual. I wouldn't forgive myself this winter if you should be + forced to send orders only partly filled because I fell ill and hindered + you. Please go and gather all you possibly will need of everything you + take at this season, only remember!” + </p> + <p> + “There is no danger of my forgetting. If you are going to send me away to + work, you will allow me to kiss your hand before I go, fair lady?” + </p> + <p> + He did it fervently. + </p> + <p> + “One word with you, Harmon,” he said as he left the room. + </p> + <p> + Doctor Harmon arose and followed him to the gold garden, and together they + stood beside the molten hedge of sunflowers, coneflowers, elecampane, and + jewel flower. + </p> + <p> + “I merely want to mention that this is your inning,” said the Harvester. + “Find out if you are essential to the Girl's happiness as soon as you can, + and the day she tells me so, I will file her petition and take a trip to + the city to study some little chemical quirks that bother me. That's all.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester went to the dry-house for bags and clipping shears, and the + doctor returned to the sunshine room. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth,” he said, “do you know that the Harvester is the squarest man I + ever met?” + </p> + <p> + “Is he?” asked the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “He is! He certainly is!” + </p> + <p> + “You must remember that I have little acquaintance with men,” said she. + “You are the first one I ever knew, and the only one except him.” + </p> + <p> + “Well I try to be square,” said Doctor Harmon, “but that is where Langston + has me beaten a mile. I have to try. He doesn't. He was born that way.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl began to laugh. + </p> + <p> + “His environment is so different,” she said. “Perhaps if he were in a big + city, he would have to try also.” + </p> + <p> + “Won't do!” said the doctor. “He chose his location. So did I. He is a + stronger physical man than I ever was or ever will be. The struggle that + bound him to the woods and to research, that made him the master of forces + that give back life, when a man like Carey says it is the end, proves him + a master. The tumult in his soul must have been like a cyclone in his + forest, when he turned his back on the world and stuck to the woods. Carey + told me about it. Some day you must hear. It's a story a woman ought to + know in order to arrive at proper values. You never will understand the + man until you know that he is clean where most of us are blackened with + ugly sins we have no right on God's footstool to commit and not so much + reason as he. Every man should be as he is, but very few are. Carey says + Langston's mother was a wonderful element in the formation of his + character; but all mothers are anxious, and none of them can build with no + foundation and no soul timber. She had material for a man to her hand, or + she couldn't have made one.” + </p> + <p> + “I see what you mean.” + </p> + <p> + “So far as any inexperienced girl ever sees,” said the doctor. “Some day + if you live to fifty you will know, but you can't comprehend it now.” + </p> + <p> + “If you think I lived all my life in Chicago's poverty spots and don't + know unbridled human nature!” + </p> + <p> + “I found you and your mother unusually innocent women. You may understand + some things. I hope you do. It will help you to decide who is the real man + among the men who come into your life. There are some men, Ruth, who are + fit to mate with a woman, and to perpetuate themselves and their mental + and moral forces in children, who will be like them, and there are others + who are not. It is these 'others' who are responsible for the sin of the + world, the sickness and suffering. Any time you are sure you have a chance + at a moral man, square and honest, in control of his brain and body, if + you are a wise woman, Ruth, stick to him as the limpet to the rock.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean stick to the Harvester?” + </p> + <p> + “If you are a wise woman!” + </p> + <p> + “When was a woman ever wise?” + </p> + <p> + “A few have been. They are the only care-free, really happy ones of the + world, the only wives without a big, poison, blue-bottle fly in their + ointment.” + </p> + <p> + “I detest flies!” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “So do I,” said the doctor. “For this reason I say to you choose the + ointment that never had one in it. Take the man who is 'master of his + fate, captain of his soul.' Stick to the Harvester! He is infinitely the + better man!” + </p> + <p> + “Well have you seen anything to indicate that I wasn't sticking?” asked + the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “No. And for your sake I hope I never will.” + </p> + <p> + She laughed softly. + </p> + <p> + “You do love him, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “As I did my mother, yes. There is not a trace in my heart of the thing he + calls love.” + </p> + <p> + “You have been stunted, warped, and the fountains of life never have + opened. It will come with right conditions of living.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think so?” + </p> + <p> + “I know so. At least there is no one else you love, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “No one except you.” + </p> + <p> + “And do you feel about me just as you do him?” + </p> + <p> + “No! It is different. What I owe him is for myself. What I owe you is for + my mother. You saw! You know! You understand what you did for her, and + what it meant to me. The Harvester must be the finest man on earth, but + when I try to think of either God or Heaven, your face intervenes.” + </p> + <p> + “That's all right, Ruth, I'm so glad you told me,” said Doctor Harmon. “I + can make it all perfectly clear to you. You just go on and worship me all + you please. It's bound to make a cleaner, better man of me. What you feel + for me will hold me to a higher moral level all my life than I ever have + known before; but never forget that you are not going to live in Heaven. + You will be here at least sixty years yet, so when you come to think of + selecting a partner for the relations of the world, you stick to the + finest man on earth; see?” + </p> + <p> + “I do!” said the Girl. “I saw you kiss Molly a week ago. She is lovely, + and I hope you will be perfectly happy. It won't interfere with my + worshipping you; not the least in the world. Go ahead and be joyful!” + </p> + <p> + The doctor sprang to his feet in crimson confusion. The Girl lay and + laughed at him. + </p> + <p> + “Don't!” she cried. “It's all right! It takes a weight off my soul as + heavy as a mountain. I do adore you, as I said. But every hour since I + left Chicago a big, black cloud has hung over me. I didn't feel free. I + didn't feel absolved. I felt that my obligations to you were so heavy that + when I had settled the last of the money debt I was in honour bound——” + </p> + <p> + “Don't, Ruth! Forget those dreadful times, as I told you then! Think only + of a happy future!” + </p> + <p> + “Let me finish,” said the Girl. “Let me get this out of my system with the + other poison. From the day I came here, I've whispered in my heart, 'I am + not free!' But if you love another woman! If you are going to take her to + your heart and to your lips, why that is my release. Oh Man, speak the + words! Tell me I am free indeed!” + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, be quiet, for mercy sake! You'll raise a temperature, and the + Harvester will pitch me into the lake. You are free, child, of course! You + always have been. I understood the awful pressure that was on you with the + very first glimpse I had of your mother. Who was she, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “She never would tell me.” + </p> + <p> + “She thought you would appeal to her people?” + </p> + <p> + “She knew I would! I couldn't have helped it.” + </p> + <p> + “Would you like to know?” + </p> + <p> + “I never want to. It is too late. I infinitely prefer to remain in + ignorance. Talk of something else.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me read a wonderful book I found on the Harvester's shelves.” + </p> + <p> + “Anything there will contain wonders, because he only buys what appeals to + him, and it takes a great book to do that. I am going to learn. He will + teach me, and when I come within comprehending distance of him, then we + are going on together.” + </p> + <p> + “What an attractive place this is!” + </p> + <p> + “Isn't it? I only have seen enough to understand the plan. I scarcely can + wait to set my feet on earth and go into detail. Granny Moreland says that + when spring comes over the hill, and brings up the flowers in the big + woods, she'd rather walk through them than to read Revelation. She says it + gives her an idea of Heaven she can come closer realizing and it seems + more stable. You know she worries about the foundations. She can't + understand what supports Heaven. But up there in Medicine Woods the old + dear gets so close her God that some day she is going to realize that her + idea of Heaven there is quite as near right as marble streets and gold + pillars and vastly more probable. The day I reach that hill top again, + Heaven begins for me. Do you know the wonderful thing the Harvester did up + there?” + </p> + <p> + “Under the oak?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Carey told me. It was marvellous.” + </p> + <p> + “Not such a marvel as another the doctor couldn't have known. The + Harvester made passing out so natural, so easy, so a part of elemental + forces, that I almost have forgotten her tortured body. When I think of + her now, it is to wonder if next summer I can distinguish her whisper + among the leaves. Before you go, I'll take you up there and tell you what + he says, and show you what he means, and you will feel it also.” + </p> + <p> + “What if I shouldn't go?” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “Doctor Carey has offered me a splendid position in his hospital. There + would be work all day, instead of waiting all day in the hope of working + an hour. There would be a living in it for two from the word go. There + would be better air, longer life, more to be got out of it, and if I can + make good, Carey's work to take up as he grows old.” + </p> + <p> + “Take it! Take it quickly!” cried the Girl. “Don't wait a minute! You + might wear out your heart in Chicago for twenty years or forever, and not + have an opportunity to do one half so much good. Take it at once!” + </p> + <p> + “I was waiting to learn what you and Langston would say.” + </p> + <p> + “He will say take it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I will be too happy for words. Ruth, you have not only paid the + debt, but you have brought me the greatest joy a man ever had. And there + is no need to wait the ages I thought I must. He can tell in a year if I + can do the work, and I know I can now; so it's all settled, if Langston + agrees.” + </p> + <p> + “He will,” said the Girl. “Let me tell him!” + </p> + <p> + “I wish you would,” said the doctor. “I don't know just how to go at it.” + </p> + <p> + Then for two days the Harvester and Belshazzar gathered herbs and spread + them on the drying trays. On the afternoon of the third, close three, the + doctor came to the door. + </p> + <p> + “Langston,” he said, “we have a call for you. We can't keep Ruth quiet + much longer. She is tired. We want to change her bed completely. She won't + allow either of us to lift her. She says we hurt her. Will you come and + try it?” + </p> + <p> + “You'll have to give me time to dip and rub off and get into clean + clothing,” he said. “I've been keeping away, because I was working on + time, and I smell to strangulation of stramonium and saffron.” + </p> + <p> + “Can't give you ten seconds,” said the doctor. “Our temper is getting + brittle. We are cross as the proverbial fever patient. If you don't come + at once we will imagine you don't want to, and refuse to be moved at all.” + </p> + <p> + “Coming!” cried the Harvester, as he plunged his hands in the wash bowl + and soused his face. A second later he appeared on the porch. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth,” he said, “I am steeped in the odours of the dry-house. Can't you + wait until I bathe and dress?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I can't,” said a fretful voice. “I can't endure this bed another + minute.” + </p> + <p> + “Then let Doctor Harmon lift you. He is so fresh and clean.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester glanced enviously at the shaven face and white trousers and + shirt of the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “I just hate fresh, clean men. I want to smell herbs. I want to put my + feet in the dirt and my hands in the water.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester came at a rush. He brought a big easy chair from the + living-room, straightened the cover, and bent above the Girl. He picked + her up lightly, gently, and easing her to his body settled in the chair. + She laid her face on his shoulder, and heaved a deep sigh of content. + </p> + <p> + “Be careful with my back, Man,” she said. “I think my spine is almost worn + through.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor girl,” said the Harvester. “That bed should be softer.” + </p> + <p> + “It should not!” contradicted the Girl. “It should be much harder. I'm + tired of soft beds. I want to lie on the earth, with my head on a root; + and I wish it would rain dirt on me. I am bathed threadbare. I want to be + all streaky.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand,” said the Harvester. “Harmon, bring me a pad and pencil a + minute, I must write an order for some things I want. Will you call up + town and have them sent out immediately?” + </p> + <p> + On the pad he wrote: “Telephone Carey to get the highest grade curled-hair + mattress, a new pad, and pillow, and bring them flying in the car. Call + Granny and the girl and empty the room. Clean, air, and fumigate it + thoroughly. Arrange the furniture differently, and help me into the + living-room with Ruth.” He handed the pad to the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “Please attend to that,” he said, and to the Girl: “Now we go on a + journey. Doc, you and Molly take the corners of the rug we are on and + slide us into the other room until you get this aired and freshened.” + </p> + <p> + In the living-room the Girl took one long look at the surroundings and + suddenly relaxed. She cuddled against the Harvester and lifting a + tremulous white hand, drew it across his unshaven cheek. + </p> + <p> + “Feels so good,” she said. “I'm sick and tired of immaculate men.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester laughed, tucked her feet in the cover and held her tenderly. + The Girl lay with her cheek against the rough khaki, palpitant with the + excitement of being moved. + </p> + <p> + “Isn't it great?” she panted. + </p> + <p> + He caught the hand that had touched his cheek in a tender grip, and + laughed a deep rumble of exultation that came from the depths of his + heart. + </p> + <p> + “There's no name for it, honey,” he said. “But don't try to talk until you + have a long rest. Changing positions after you have lain so long may be + making unusual work for your heart. Am I hurting your back?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said the Girl. “This is the first time I have been comfortable in + ages. Am I tiring you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” laughed the Harvester. “You are almost as heavy as a large sack of + leaves, but not quite equal to a bridge pillar or a log. Be sure to think + of that, and worry considerably. You are in danger of straining my muscles + to the last degree, my heart included.” + </p> + <p> + “Where is your heart?” whispered the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Right under your cheek,” answered the Harvester. “But for Heaven's sake, + don't intimate that you are taking any interest in it, or it will go to + pounding until your head will bounce. It's one member of my body that I + can't control where you are concerned.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought you didn't like me any more.” + </p> + <p> + “Careful!” warned the Harvester. “You are yet too close Heaven to fib like + that, Ruth. What have I done to indicate that I don't love you more than + ever?” + </p> + <p> + “Stayed away nearly every minute for three awful days, and wouldn't come + without being dragged; and now you're wishing they would hurry and fix + that bed, so you can put me down and go back to your rank old herbs + again.” + </p> + <p> + “Well of all the black prevarications! I went when you sent me, and came + when you called. I'd willingly give up my hope of what Granny calls + 'salvation' to hold you as I am for an hour, and you know it.” + </p> + <p> + “It's going to be much longer than that,” said the Girl nestling to him. + “I asked for you because you never hurt me, and they always do. I knew you + were so strong that my weight now wouldn't be a load for one of your + hands, and I am not going back to that bed until I am so tired that I will + be glad to lie down.” + </p> + <p> + For a long time she was so silent the Harvester thought her going to + sleep; and having learned that for him joy was probably transient, he + deliberately got all he could. He closely held the hand she had not + withdrawn, and often lifted it to his lips. Sometimes he stroked the heavy + braid, gently ran his hands across the tired shoulders, or eased her into + a different position. There was not a doubt in his mind of one thing. He + was having a royal, good time, and he was thankful for the work he had set + his assistants that kept them out of the room. They seemed in no hurry, + and from scuffling, laughing, and a steady stream of talk, they were + entertained at least. At last the Girl roused. + </p> + <p> + “There is something I want to ask you,” she said. “I promised Doctor + Harmon I would.” + </p> + <p> + Instantly the heart of the Harvester gave a leap that jarred the head + resting on it. + </p> + <p> + “You don't like him?” questioned the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “I do!” declared the Harvester. “I like him immensely. There is not a + fine, manly good-looking feature about him that I have missed. I don't + fail to do him justice on every point.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm so glad! Then you will want him to remain.” + </p> + <p> + “Here?” asked the Harvester with a light, hot breath. + </p> + <p> + “In Onabasha! Doctor Carey has offered him the place of chief assistant at + the hospital. There is a good salary and the chance of taking up the + doctor's work as he grows older. It means plenty to do at once, healthful + atmosphere, congenial society——everything to a young man. He + only had a call once in a while in Chicago, often among people who + received more than they paid, like me, and he was very lonely. I think it + would be great for him.” + </p> + <p> + “And for you, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “It doesn't make the least difference to me; but for his sake, because I + think so much of him, I would like to see him have the place.” + </p> + <p> + “You still think so much of him, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “More, if possible,” said the Girl. “Added to all I owed him before, he + has come here and worked for days to save me, and it wasn't his fault that + it took a bigger man. Nothing alters the fact that he did all he could, + most graciously and gladly.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean, Ruth?” stammered the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Oh they have worn themselves out!” cried the Girl impatiently. “First, + Granny Moreland told me every least little detail of how I went out, and + you resurrected me. I knew what she said was true, because she worked with + you. Then Doctor Carey told me, and Mrs. Carey, and Doctor Harmon, and + Molly, and even Granny's little assistant has left the kitchen to tell me + that I owe my life to you, and all of them might as well have saved + breath. I knew all the time that if ever I came out of this, and had a + chance to be like other women, it would be your work, and I'm glad it is. + I'd hate to be under obligations to some people I know; but I feel + honoured to be indebted to you.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm mighty sorry they worried you. I had no idea——” + </p> + <p> + “They didn't 'worry,' me! I am just telling you that I knew it all the + time; that's all!” + </p> + <p> + “Forget that!” said the Harvester. “Come back to our subject. What was it + you wanted, dear?” + </p> + <p> + “To know if you have any objections to Doctor Harmon remaining in + Onabasha?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not! It will be a fine thing for him.” + </p> + <p> + “Will it make any difference to you in any way?” + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, that's probing too deep,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “I don't see why!” + </p> + <p> + “I'm glad of it!” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “I'd least rather show my littleness to you than to any one else on + earth.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you have some feeling about it?” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps a trifle. I'll get over it. Give me a little time to adjust + myself. Doctor Harmon shall have the place, of course. Don't worry about + that!” + </p> + <p> + “He will be so happy!” + </p> + <p> + “And you, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “I'll be happy too!” + </p> + <p> + “Then it's all right,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + He laid down her hand, drew the cover over it, and slightly shifted her + position to rest her. The door opened, and Doctor Harmon announced that + the room was ready. It was shining and fresh. The bed was now turned with + its head to the north, so that from it one could see the big trees in + Medicine Woods, the sweep of the hillside, the sparkle of mallow-bordered + Singing Water, the driveway and the gold flower garden. Everything was so + changed that the room had quite a different appearance. The instant he + laid her on it the Girl said, “This bed is not mine.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes it is,” said the Harvester. “You see, we were a little excited + sometimes, and we spilled a few quarts of perfectly good medicine on your + mattress. It was hopelessly smelly and ruined; so I am going to cremate it + and this is your splinter new one and a fresh pad and pillow. Now you try + them and see if they are not much harder and more comfortable.” + </p> + <p> + “This is just perfect!” she sighed, as she sank into the bed. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester bent over her to straighten the cover, when suddenly she + reached both arms around his neck, and gripped him with all her strength. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you!” she said. + </p> + <p> + “May I hold you to-morrow?” whispered the Harvester, emboldened by this. + </p> + <p> + “Please do,” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester, with dog to heel, went to the oak to think. + </p> + <p> + “Belshazzar, kommen Sie!” said the man, dropping on the seat and holding + out his hand. The dog laid his muzzle in the firm grip. + </p> + <p> + “Bel,” said the Harvester, “I am all at sea. One day I think maybe I have + a little chance, the next——none at all. I had an hour of solid + comfort to-day, now I'm in the sweat box again. It's a little selfish + streak in me, Bel, that hates to see Harmon go into the hospital and take + my place with the Careys. They are my best and only friends. He is young, + social, handsome, and will be ever present. In three months he will become + so popular that I might as well be off the earth. I wish I didn't think + it, but I'm so small that I do. And then there is my Dream Girl, Bel. The + girl you found for me, old fellow. There never was another like her, and + she has my heart for all time. And he has hers. That hospital plan is the + best thing in the world for her. It will keep her where Carey can have an + eye on her, where the air is better, where she can have company without + the city crush, where she is close the country, and a good living is + assured. Bel, it's the nicest arrangement you ever saw for every one we + know, except us.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester laughed shortly. “Bel,” he said, “tell me! If a man lived a + hundred years, could he have the heartache all the way? Seems like I've + had it almost that long now. In fact, I've had it such ages I'd be + lonesome without it. This is some more of my very own medicine, so I + shouldn't make a wry face over taking it. I knew what would happen when I + sent for him, and I didn't hesitate. I must not now. + </p> + <p> + “Only I got to stop one thing, Bel. I told him I would play square, and I + have. But here it ends. After this, I must step back and be big brother. + Lots of fun in this brother business, Bel. But maybe I am cut out for it. + Anyway it's written! But if it is, how did she come to allow me such + privileges as I took to-day? That wasn't professional by any means. It was + just the stiffest love-making I knew how to do, Bel, and she didn't object + by the quiver of an eyelash. God knows I was watching closely enough for + any sign that I was distasteful. And I might have been well enough. Rough, + herb-stained old clothes, unshaven, everything to offend a dainty girl. + She said I might hold her again to-morrow. And, Bel, what the nation did + she hug me like that for, if she's going to marry him? Boy, I see my way + clear to an hour more. While I'm at it, just to surprise myself, I believe + I'll take it like other men. I think I'll go on a little bender, and make + what probably will be the last day a plumb good one. Something worth + remembering is better than nothing at all, Bel! He hasn't told me that he + has won. She didn't SAY she was going to marry him, and she did say he + hurt her, and she wanted me. Bel, how about the grimness of it, if she + should marry him and then discover that he hurts her, and she wants me. + Lord God Almighty, if you have any mercy at all, never put me up against + that,” prayed the Harvester, “for my heart is water where she is + concerned.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester arose, and going to the lake, he cut an arm load of big, + pink mallows, covered each mound with fresh flowers, whistled to the dog, + and went to his work. Many things had accumulated, and he cleaned the + barn, carried herbs from the dry-house to the store-room, and put + everything into shape. Close noon the next day he went to Onabasha, and + was gone three hours. He came back barbered in the latest style, and + carrying a big bundle. When the hour for arranging the bed came, he was + yet in his room, but he sent word he would be there in a second. + </p> + <p> + As he crossed the living-room he pulled a chair to the veranda and placed + a footstool before it. Then he stepped into the sunshine room. A quizzical + expression crossed the face of Doctor Harmon as he closed the book he was + reading aloud to the Girl and arose. Wholly unembarrassed the Harvester + smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Have I got this rigging anywhere near right?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “David, what have you done?” gasped the amazed Girl. + </p> + <p> + “I didn't feel anywhere near up to the 'mark of my high calling' + yesterday,” quoted the Harvester. “I don't know how I appear, but I'm + clean as shaving, soap and hot water will make me, and my clothing will + not smell offensively. Now come out of that bed for a happy hour. Where is + that big coverlet? You are going on the veranda to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “You look just like every one else,” complained Doctor Harmon. + </p> + <p> + “You look perfectly lovely,” declared the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “The swale sends you this invitation to come and see star-shine at the + foot of mullein hill,” said the Harvester, offering a bouquet. It was a + loose bunch of long-stemmed, delicate flowers, each an inch across, and + having five pearl-white petals lightly striped with pale green. Five long + gold anthers arose, and at their base gold stamens and a green pistil. The + leaves were heart-shaped and frosty, whitish-green, resembling felt. The + Harvester bent to offer them. + </p> + <p> + “Have some Grass of Parnassus, my dear,” he said. + </p> + <p> + The Girl waved them away. “Go stand over there by the door and slowly turn + around. I want to see you.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester obeyed. He was freshly and carefully shaven. His hair was + closely cropped at the base of the head, long, heavy, and slightly waving + on top. He wore a white silk shirt, with a rolling collar and tie, white + trousers, belt, hose, and shoes, and his hands were manicured with care. + </p> + <p> + “Have I made a mess of it, or do I appear anything like other men?” he + asked, eagerly. + </p> + <p> + The Girl lifted her eyes to Doctor Harmon and smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Do you observe anything messy?” she inquired. + </p> + <p> + “You needn't fish for compliments quite so obviously,” he answered. “I'll + pay them without being asked. I do not. He is quite correct, and + infinitely better looking than the average. Distinguished is a proper word + for the gentleman in my opinion. But why, in Heaven's name, have we never + had the pleasure of seeing you thus before?” + </p> + <p> + “Look here, Doc,” said the Harvester, “do you mean that you enjoy looking + at me merely because I am dressed this way?” + </p> + <p> + “I do indeed,” said the doctor. “It is good to see you with the garb of + work laid aside, and the stamp of cleanliness and ease upon you.” + </p> + <p> + “By gum, that is rubbing it in a little too rough!” cried the Harvester. + “I bathe oftener than you do. My clothing is always clean when I start + out. Of course, in my work I come hourly in contact with muck, water, and + herb juices.” + </p> + <p> + “It's understood that is unavoidable,” said Doctor Harmon. + </p> + <p> + “And if cleanliness is made an issue, I'd rather roll in any of it than + put my finger tips into the daily work of a surgeon,” added the Harvester, + and the Girl giggled. + </p> + <p> + “That's enough Medicine Man!” she said. “You did not make a 'mess' of it, + or anything else you ever attempted. As for appearing like other men, + thank Heaven, you do not. You look just a whole world bigger and better + and finer. Come, carry me out quickly. I am wild to go. Please put my + lovely flowers in water, Molly, only give me a few to hold.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester arranged the pink coverlet, picked up the Girl, and carried + her to the living-room. + </p> + <p> + “We will rest here a little,” he said, “and then, if you feel equal to it, + we will try the veranda. Are you easy now?” + </p> + <p> + She nestled her face against the soft shirt and smiled at him. She lifted + her hand, laid it on his smooth cheek and then the crisp hair. + </p> + <p> + “Oh Man!” she cried. “Thank God you didn't give me up, too! I want life! I + want LIFE!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester tightened his grip just a trifle. “Then I thank God, too,” + he said. “Can you tell me how you are, dear? Is there any difference?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she answered. “I grow tired lying so long, but there isn't the + ghost of an ache in my bones. I can just feel pure, delicious blood + running in my veins. My hands and feet are always warm, and my head cool.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester's face drew very close. “How about your heart, honey?” he + whispered. “Anything new there?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I am all over new inside and out. I want to shout, run, sing, and + swim. Oh I'd give anything to have you carry me down and dip me in the + lake right now.” + </p> + <p> + “Soon, Girl! That will come soon,” prophesied the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “I scarcely can wait. And you did say a saddle, didn't you? Won't it be + great to come galloping up the levee, when the leaves are red and the + frost is in the air. Oh am I going fast enough?” + </p> + <p> + “Much faster than I expected,” said the Harvester. “You are surprising all + of us, me most of any. Ruth, you almost make me hope that you regard this + as home. Honey, you are thinking a little of me these days?” + </p> + <p> + The hand that had fallen from his hair lay on his shoulder. Now it slid + around his neck, and gripped him with all its strength. + </p> + <p> + “Heaps and heaps!” she said. “All I get a chance to, for being bothered + and fussed over, and everlastingly read mushy stuff that's intended for + some one else. Please take me to the veranda now; I want to tell you + something.” + </p> + <p> + His head swam, but the Harvester set his feet firmly, arose, and carried + his Dream Girl back to outdoor life. When he reached the chair, she begged + him to go a few steps farther to the bench on the lake shore. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid,” said the man. + </p> + <p> + “It's so warm. There can't be any difference in the air. Just a minute.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester pushed open the screen, went to the bench, and seating + himself, drew the cover closely around her. + </p> + <p> + “Don't speak a word for a long time,” he said. “Just rest. If I tire you + too much and spoil everything, I will be desperate.” + </p> + <p> + He clasped her to him, laid his cheek against her hair, and his lips on + her forehead. He held her hand and kissed it over and over, and again he + watched and could find no resentment. The cool, pungent breeze swept from + the lake, and the voices of wild life chattered at their feet. Sometimes + the water folks splashed, while a big black and gold butterfly mistook the + Girl's dark hair for a perching place and settled on it, slowly opening + its wonderful wings. + </p> + <p> + “Lie quietly, Girl,” whispered the Harvester. “You are wearing a living + jewel, an ornament above price, on your hair. Maybe you can see it when it + goes. There!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh I did!” she cried. “How I love it here! Before long may I lie in the + dining-room window a while so I can see the water. I like the hill, but I + love the lake more.” + </p> + <p> + “Now if you just would love me,” said the Harvester, “you would have all + Medicine Woods in your heart.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't hurry me so!” said the Girl. “You gave me a year; and it's only a + few weeks, and I've not been myself, and I'm not now. I mustn't make any + mistake, and all I know for sure is that I want you most, and I can rest + best with you, and I miss you every minute you are gone. I think that + should satisfy you.” + </p> + <p> + “That would be enough for any reasonable man,” said the Harvester angrily. + “Forgive me, Ruth, I have been cruel. I forgot how frail and weak you are. + It is having Harmon here that makes me unnatural. It almost drives me to + frenzy to know that he may take you from me.” + </p> + <p> + “Then send him away!” + </p> + <p> + “SEND HIM AWAY?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, send him away! I am tired to death of his poetry, and seeing him + spoon around. Send both of them away quickly!” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester gulped, blinked, and surreptitiously felt for her pulse. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I've not developed fever again,” she said. “I'm all right. But it + must be a fearful expense to have both of them here by the week, and I'm + so tired of them, Granny says she can take care of me just as well, and + the girl who helps her can cook. No one but you shall lift me, if I don't + get my nose Out until I can walk alone Both of them are perfectly useless, + and I'd much rather you'd send them away.” + </p> + <p> + “There, there! Of course!” said the Harvester soothingly. “I'll do it as + soon as I possibly dare. You don't understand, honey. You are yet delicate + beyond measure, internally. The fever burned so long. Every morsel you eat + is measured and cooked in sterilized vessels, and I'd be scared of my life + to have the girl undertake it.” + </p> + <p> + “Why she is doing it straight along now! She and Granny! Molly isn't out + of Doctor Harmon's sight long enough to cook anything. Granny says there + is 'a lot of buncombe about what they do, and she is going to tell them so + right to their teeth some of these days, if they badger her much more,' + and I wish she would, and you, too.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester gathered the Girl to him in one crushing bear hug. + </p> + <p> + “For the love of Heaven, Ruth, you drive me crazy! Answer me just one + question. When you told me that you 'adored and worshipped' Doctor Harmon, + did you mean it, or was that the delirium of fever?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know WHAT I told you! If I said I 'adored' him, it was the truth. + I did! I do! I always will! So do I adore the Almighty, but that's no sign + I want him to read poetry to me, and be around all the time when I am wild + for a minute with you. I can worship Doctor Harmon in Chicago or Onabasha + quite as well. Fire him! If you don't, I will!” + </p> + <p> + “Good Lord!” cried the Harvester, helpless until the Girl had to cling to + him to prevent rolling from his nerveless arms. “Ruth, Ruth, will you feel + my pulse?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I won't! But you are going to drop me. Take me straight back to my + beautiful new bed, and send them away.” + </p> + <p> + “A minute! Give me a minute!” gasped the Harvester. “I couldn't lift a + baby just now. Ruth, dear, I thought you LOVED the man.” + </p> + <p> + “What made you think so?” + </p> + <p> + “You did!” + </p> + <p> + “I didn't either! I never said I loved him. I said I was under obligations + to him; but they are as well repaid as they ever can be. I said I adored + him, and I tell you I do! Give him what we owe him, both of us, in money, + and send them away. If you'd seen as much of them as I have, you'd be + tired of them, too. Please, please, David!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the Harvester, arising in a sudden tide of effulgent joy. + “Yes, Girl, just as quickly as I can with decency. I——I'll + send them on the lake, and I'll take care of you.” + </p> + <p> + “You won't read poetry to me?” + </p> + <p> + “I will not.” + </p> + <p> + “You won't moon at me?” + </p> + <p> + “No!” + </p> + <p> + “Then hurry! But have them take your boat. I am going to have the first + ride in mine.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed you are, and soon, too!” said the Harvester, marching up the hill + as if he were leading hosts to battle. + </p> + <p> + He laid the Girl on the bed and covered her, and called Granny Moreland to + sit beside her a few minutes. He went into the gold garden and proposed + that the doctor and the nurse go rowing until supper time, and they went + with alacrity. When they started he returned to the Girl and, sitting + beside her, he told Granny to take a nap. Then he began to talk softly all + about wild music, and how it was made, and what the different odours + sweeping down the hill were, and when the red leaves would come, and the + nuts rattle down, and the frost fairies enamel the windows, and soon she + was sound asleep. Granny came back, and the Harvester walked around the + lake shore to be alone a while and think quietly, for he was almost too + dazed and bewildered for full realization. + </p> + <p> + As he softly followed the foot path he heard voices, and looking down, he + saw the boat lying in the shade and beneath a big tree on the bank sat the + doctor and the nurse. His arm was around her, and her head was on his + shoulder; and she said very distinctly, “How long will it be until we can + go without offending him?” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX. A VERTICAL SPINE + </h2> + <p> + By middle September the last trace of illness had been removed from the + premises, and it was rapidly disappearing from the face and form of the + Girl. She was showing a beautiful roundness, there was lovely colour on + her cheeks and lips, and in her dark eyes sparkled a touch of mischief. + Rigidly she followed the rules laid down for diet and exercise, and as + strength flowed through her body, and no trace of pain tormented her, she + began revelling in new and delightful sensations. She loved to pull her + boat as she willed, drive over the wood road, study the books, cook the + new dishes, rearrange furniture, and go with the Harvester everywhere. + </p> + <p> + But that was greatly the management of the man. He was so afraid that + something might happen to undo all the wonders accomplished in the Girl, + and again whiten her face with pain, that he scarcely allowed her out of + his sight. He remained in the cabin, helping when she worked, and then + drove with her and a big blanket to the woods, arranged her chair and + table, found some attractive subject, and while the wind ravelled her hair + and flushed her cheeks, her fingers drew designs. At noon they went to the + cabin to lunch, and the Girl took a nap, while the Harvester spread his + morning's reaping on the shelves to dry. They returned to the woods until + five o'clock; then home again and the Girl dressed and prepared supper, + while the Harvester spread his stores and fed the stock. Then he put on + white clothing for the evening. The Girl rested while he washed the + dishes, and they explored the lake in the little motor boat, or drove to + the city for supplies, or to see their friends. + </p> + <p> + “Are you even with your usual work at this time of the year?” she asked as + they sat at breakfast. + </p> + <p> + “I am,” said the Harvester. “The only things that have been crowded out + are the candlesticks. They will have to remain on the shelf until the + herbs and roots are all in, and the long winter evenings come. Then I'll + use the luna pattern and finish yours first of all.” + </p> + <p> + “What are you going to do to-day?” + </p> + <p> + “Start on a regular fall campaign. Some of it for the sake of having it, + and some because there is good money in it. Will you come?” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed yes. May I help, or shall I take my drawing along?” + </p> + <p> + “Bring your drawing. Next fall you may help, but as yet you are too close + suffering for me to see you do anything that might be even a slight risk. + I can't endure it.” + </p> + <p> + “Baby!” she jeered. + </p> + <p> + “Christen me anything you please,” laughed the Harvester. “I'm short on + names anyway.” + </p> + <p> + He went to harness Betsy, and the Girl washed the dishes, straightened the + rooms, and collected her drawing material. Then she walked up the hill, + wearing a shirt and short skirt of khaki, stout shoes, and a straw hat + that shaded her face. She climbed into the wagon, laid the drawing box on + the seat, and caught the lines as the Harvester flung them to her. He went + swinging ahead, Belshazzar to heel, the Girl driving after. The white + pigeons circled above, and every day Ajax allowed his curiosity to + overcome his temper, and followed a little farther. + </p> + <p> + “Whoa, Betsy!” The Girl tugged at the lines; but Betsy took the bit + between her teeth, and plodded after the Harvester. She pulled with all + her might, but her strength was not nearly sufficient to stop the stubborn + animal. + </p> + <p> + “Whoa, David!” cried the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” the Harvester turned. + </p> + <p> + “Won't you please wait until I can take off my hat? I love to ride + bareheaded through the woods, and Betsy won't stop until you do, no matter + how hard I pull.” + </p> + <p> + “Betsy, you're no lady!” said the Harvester. “Why don't you stop when + you're told?” + </p> + <p> + “I shan't waste any more strength on her,” said the Girl. “Hereafter I + shall say, 'Gee, David,' 'Haw, David,' 'Whoa, David,' and then she will do + exactly as you.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester stopped half way up the hill, and beside a large, shaded bed + spread the rug, and set up the little table and chair for the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Want a plant to draw?” he asked. “This is very important to us. It has a + string of names as long as a princess, but I call it goldenseal, because + the roots are yellow. The chemists ask for hydrastis. That sounds + formidable, but it's a cousin of buttercups. The woods of Ohio and Indiana + produce the finest that ever grew, but it is so nearly extinct now that + the trade can be supplied by cultivation only. I suspect I'm responsible + for its disappearance around here. I used to get a dollar fifty a pound, + and most of my clothes and books when a boy I owe to it. Now I get two for + my finest grade; that accounts for the size of these beds.” + </p> + <p> + “It's pretty!” said the Girl, studying a plant averaging a foot in height. + On a slender, round, purplish stem arose one big, rough leaf, heavily + veined, and having from five to nine lobes. Opposite was a similar leaf, + but very small, and a head of scarlet berries resembling a big raspberry + in shape. The Harvester shook the black woods soil from the yellow roots, + and held up the plant. + </p> + <p> + “You won't enjoy the odour,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Well I like the leaves. I know I can use them some way. They are so + unusual. What wonderful colour in the roots!” + </p> + <p> + “One of its names is Indian paint,” explained the Harvester. “Probably it + furnished the squaws of these woods with colouring matter. Now let's see + what we can get out of it. You draw the plant and I'll dig the roots.” + </p> + <p> + For a time the Girl bent over her work and the Harvester was busy. + Belshazzar ranged the woods chasing chipmunks. The birds came asking + questions. When the drawing was completed, other subjects were found at + every turn, and the Girl talked almost constantly, her face alive with + interest. The May-apple beds lay close, and she drew from them. She + learned the uses and prices of the plant, and also made drawings of + cohosh, moonseed and bloodroot. That was so wonderful in its root colour, + the Harvester filled the little cup with water and she began to paint. + Intensely absorbed she bent above the big, notched, silvery leaves and the + blood-red roots, testing and trying to match them exactly. Every few + minutes the Harvester leaned over her shoulder to see how she was + progressing and to offer suggestions. When she finished she picked up a + trailing vine of moonseed. + </p> + <p> + “You have this on the porch,” she said. “I think it is lovely. There is no + end to the beautiful combinations of leaves, and these are such pretty + little grape-like clusters; but if you touch them the slightest you soil + the wonderful surface.” + </p> + <p> + “And that makes the fairies very sad,” said the Harvester. “They love that + vine best of any, because they paint its fruit with the most care. 'Bloom' + the scientists call it. You see it on cultivated plums, grapes, and + apples, but never in any such perfection as on moonseed and black haws in + the woods. You should be able to design a number of pretty things from the + cohosh leaves and berries, too. You scarcely can get a start this fall, + but early in the spring you can begin, and follow the season. If your work + comes out well this winter, I'll send some of it to the big publishing + houses, and you can make book and magazine covers and decorations, if you + would like.” + </p> + <p> + “'If I would like!' How modest! You know perfectly well that if I could + make a design that would be accepted, and used on a book or magazine, I + would almost fly. Oh do you suppose I could?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't 'suppose' anything about it, I know,” said the Harvester. “It is + not possible that the public can be any more tired of wild roses, + golden-rod, and swallows than the poor art editors who accept them because + they can't help themselves. Dangle something fresh and new under their + noses and see them snap. The next time I go to Onabasha I'll get you some + popular magazines, and you can compare what is being used with what you + see here, and judge for yourself how glad they would be for a change. And + potteries, arts and crafts shops, and wall paper factories, they'd be + crazy for the designs I could furnish them. As for money, there's more in + it than the herbs, if I only could draw.” + </p> + <p> + “I can do that,” said the Girl. “Trail the vine and give me an idea how to + scale it. I'll just make studies now, and this winter I'll conventionalize + them and work them into patterns. Won't that be fun?” + </p> + <p> + “That's more than fun, Ruth,” said the Harvester solemnly. “That is + creation. That touches the provinces of the Almighty. That is taking His + unknown wonders and making them into pleasure and benefit for thousands, + not to mention filling your face with awe divine, and lighting your eyes + with interest and ambition. That is life, Ruth. You are beginning to live + right now.” + </p> + <p> + “I see,” said the Girl. “I understand! I am!” + </p> + <p> + “You get your subjects now. When the harvest is over I'll show you what I + have in my head, and before Christmas the fun will begin.” + </p> + <p> + “What next?” + </p> + <p> + “Sketch a sarsaparilla plant and this yam vine. It grows on your veranda + too——the rattle box, you remember. The leaves and seeding + arrangements are wonderful. You can do any number of things with them, and + all will be new.” + </p> + <p> + He called her attention to and brought her samples of ginger leaves, + Indian hemp, queen-of-the-meadow, cone-flower, burdock, baneberry, and + Indian turnip, as he harvested them in turn. When they came to the large + beds of orange pleurisy root the Girl cried out with pleasure. + </p> + <p> + “We will take its prosaic features first,” said the Harvester. “It is good + medicine and worth handling. Forget that! The Bird Woman calls it + butterfly flower. That's better. Now try to analyze a single bloom of this + gaudy mass, and you will see why there's poetry coming.” + </p> + <p> + He knelt beside the Girl, separating the blooms and pointing out their + marvellous colour and construction. She leaned against his shoulder, and + watched with breathless interest. As his bare head brought its mop of damp + wind-rumpled hair close, she ran her fingers through it, and with her + handkerchief wiped his forehead. + </p> + <p> + “Sometimes I almost wish you'd get sick,” she said irrelevantly. + </p> + <p> + “In the name of common sense, why?” demanded the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Oh it must be born in the heart of a woman to want to mother something,” + answered the Girl. “I feel sometimes as if I would like to take care of + you, as if you were a little fellow. David, I know why your mother fought + to make you the man she desired. You must have been charming when small. I + can shut my eyes and just see the boy you were, and I should have loved + you as she did.” + </p> + <p> + “How about the man I am?” inquired the Harvester promptly. “Any leanings + toward him yet, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “It's getting worser and worser every day and hour,” said the Girl. “I + don't understand it at all. I wouldn't try to live without you. I don't + want you to leave my sight. Everything you do is the way I would have it. + Nothing you ever say shocks or offends me. I'd love to render you any + personal service. I want to take you in my arms and hug you tight half a + dozen times a day as a reward for the kind and lovely things you do for + me.” + </p> + <p> + A dull red flamed up the neck and over the face of the Harvester. One arm + lifted to the chair back, the other dropped across the table so that the + Girl was almost encircled. + </p> + <p> + “For the love of mercy, Ruth, why haven't I had a hint of this before?” he + cried. + </p> + <p> + “You said you'd hate me. You said you'd drop me into the deepest part of + the lake if I deceived you; and if I have to tell the truth, why, that is + all of it. I think it is nonsense about some wonderful feeling that is + going to take possession of your heart when you love any one. I love you + so much I'd gladly suffer to save you pain or sorrow. But there are no + thrills; it's just steady, sober, common sense that I should love you, and + I do. Why can't you be satisfied with what I can give, David?” + </p> + <p> + “Because it's husks and ashes,” said the Harvester grimly. “You drive me + to desperation, Ruth. I am almost wild for your love, but what you offer + me is plain, straight affection, nothing more. There isn't a trace of the + feeling that should exist between man and wife in it. Some men might be + satisfied to be your husband, and be regarded as a father or brother. I am + not. The red bird didn't want a sister, Ruth, he was asking for a mate. So + am I. That's as plain as I know how to put it. There is some way to awaken + you into a living, loving woman, and, please God, I'll find it yet, but + I'm slow about it; there's no question of that. Never you mind! Don't + worry! Some of these days I have faith to believe it will sweep you as a + tide sweeps the shore, and then I hope God will be good enough to let me + be where you will land in my arms.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl sat looking at him between narrowed lids. Suddenly she took his + head between her hands, drew his face to hers and deliberately kissed him. + Then she drew away and searched his eyes. + </p> + <p> + “There!” she challenged. “What is the matter with that?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester's colour slowly faded to a sickly white. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, you try me almost beyond human endurance,” he said. “'What's the + matter with that?'” He arose, stepped back, folded his arms, and stared at + her. “'What's the matter with that?'” he repeated. “Never was I so sorely + tempted in all my life as I am now to lie to you, and say there is + nothing, and take you in my arms and try to awaken you to what I mean by + love. But suppose I do——and fail! Then comes the agony of slow + endurance for me, and the possibility that any day you may meet the man + who can arouse in you the feelings I cannot. That would mean my oath + broken, and my heart as well; while soon you would dislike me beyond + tolerance, even. I dare not risk it! The matter is, that was the loving + caress of a ten-year-old girl to a big brother she admired. That's all! + Not much, but a mighty big defect when it is offered a strong man as fuel + on which to feed consuming passion.” + </p> + <p> + “Consuming passion,” repeated the Girl. “David you never lie, and you + never exaggerate. Do you honestly mean that there is something——oh, + there is! I can see it! You are really suffering, and if I come to you, + and try my best to comfort you, you'll only call it baby affection that + you don't want. David, what am I going to do?” + </p> + <p> + “You are going to the cabin,” said the Harvester, “and cook us a big + supper. I am dreadfully hungry. I'll be along presently. Don't worry, + Ruth, you are all right! That kiss was lovely. Tell me that you are not + angry with me.” + </p> + <p> + Her eyes were wet as she smiled at him. + </p> + <p> + “If there is a bigger brute than a man anywhere on the footstool, I should + like to meet it,” said the Harvester, “and see what it appears like. Go + along, honey; I'll be there as soon as I load.” + </p> + <p> + He drove to the dry-house, washed and spread his reaping on the big trays, + fed the stock, dressed in the white clothing and entered the kitchen. That + the Girl had been crying was obvious, but he overlooked it, helped with + the work, and then they took a boat ride. When they returned he proposed + that she should select her favourite likeness of her mother, and the next + time he went to the city he would take it with his, and order the + enlargements he had planned. To save carrying a lighted lamp into the + closet he brought her little trunk to the living-room, where she opened it + and hunted the pictures. There were several, and all of them were of a + young, elegantly dressed woman of great beauty. The Harvester studied them + long. + </p> + <p> + “Who was she, Ruth?” he asked at last. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know, and I have no desire to learn.” + </p> + <p> + “Can you explain how the girl here represented came to marry a brother of + Henry Jameson?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. I was past twelve when my father came the last time, and I remember + him distinctly. If Uncle Henry were properly clothed, he is not a bad man + in appearance, unless he is very angry. He can use proper language, if he + chooses. My father was the best in him, refined and intensified. He was + much taller, very good looking, and he dressed and spoke well. They were + born and grew to manhood in the East, and came out here at the same time. + Where Uncle Henry is a trickster and a trader in stock, my father went a + step higher, and tricked and traded in men——and women! Mother + told me this much once. He saw her somewhere and admired her. He learned + who she was, went to her father's law office and pretended he was + representing some great business in the West, until he was welcomed as a + promising client. He hung around and when she came in one day her father + was forced to introduce them. The remainder is the same world-old story——a + good looking, glib-tongued man, plying every art known to an expert, on an + innocent girl.” + </p> + <p> + “Is he dead, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “We thought so. We hoped so.” + </p> + <p> + “Your mother did not feel that her people might be suffering for her as + she was for them?” + </p> + <p> + “Not after she appealed to them twice and received no reply.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps they tried to find her. Maybe she has a father or mother who is + longing for word from her now. Are you very sure you are right in not + wanting to know?” + </p> + <p> + “She never gave me a hint from which I could tell who or where they were. + In so gentle a woman as my mother that only could mean she did not want + them to know of her. Neither do I. This is the photograph I prefer; please + use it.” + </p> + <p> + “I'll put back the trunk in the morning, when I can see better,” said the + Harvester. + </p> + <p> + The Girl closed it, and soon went to bed. But there was no sleep for the + man. He went into the night, and for hours he paced the driveway in + racking thought. Then he sat on the step and looked at Belshazzar before + him. + </p> + <p> + “Life's growing easier every minute, Bel,” said the Harvester. “Here's my + Dream Girl, lovely as the most golden instant of that wonderful dream, + offering me——offering me, Bel——in my present pass, + the lips and the love of my little sister who never was born. And I've + hurt Ruth's feelings, and sent her to bed with a heartache, trying to make + her see that it won't do. It won't, Bel! If I can't have genuine love, I + don't want anything. I told her so as plainly as I could find words, and + set her crying, and made her unhappy to end a wonderful day. But in some + way she has got to learn that propinquity, tolerance, approval, affection, + even——is not love. I can't take the risk, after all these + years of waiting for the real thing. If I did, and love never came, I + would end——well, I know how I would end——and that + would spoil her life. I simply have got to brace up, Bel, and keep on + trying. She thinks it is nonsense about thrills, and some wonderful + feeling that takes possession of you. Lord, Bel! There isn't much nonsense + about the thing that rages in my brain, heart, soul, and body. It strikes + me as the gravest reality that ever overtook a man. + </p> + <p> + “She is growing wonderfully attached to me. 'Couldn't live without me,' + Bel, that is what she said. Maybe it would be a scheme to bring Granny + here to stay with her, and take a few months in some city this winter on + those chemical points that trouble me. There is an old saying about + 'absence making the heart grow fonder.' Maybe separation is the thing to + work the trick. I've tried about everything else I know. + </p> + <p> + “But I'm in too much of a hurry! What a fool a man is! A few weeks ago, + Bel, I said to myself that if Harmon were away and had no part in her life + I'd be the happiest man alive. Happiest man alive! Bel, take a look at me + now! Happy! Well, why shouldn't I be happy? She is here. She is growing in + strength and beauty every hour. She cares more for me day by day. From an + outside viewpoint it seems as if I had almost all a man could ask in + reason. But when was a strong man in the grip of love ever reasonable? I + think the Almighty took a pretty grave responsibility when He made men as + He did. If I had been He, and understood the forces I was handling, I + would have been too big a coward to do it. There is nothing for me, Bel, + but to move on doing my level best; and if she doesn't awaken soon, I will + try the absent treatment. As sure as you are the most faithful dog a man + ever owned, Bel, I'll try the absent treatment.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester arose and entered the cabin, stepping softly, for it was + dark in the Girl's room, and he could not hear a sound there. He turned up + the lights in the living-room. As he did so the first thing he saw was the + little trunk. He looked at it intently, then picked up a book. Every page + he turned he glanced again at the trunk. At last he laid down the book and + sat staring, his brain working rapidly. He ended by carrying the trunk to + his room. He darkened the living-room, lighted his own, drew the rain + screens, and piece by piece carefully examined the contents. There were + the pictures, but the name of the photographer had been removed. There was + not a word that would help in identification. He emptied it to the bottom, + and as he picked up the last piece his fingers struck in a peculiar way + that did not give the impression of touching a solid surface. He felt over + it carefully, and when he examined with a candle he plainly could see + where the cloth lining had been cut and lifted. + </p> + <p> + For a long time he knelt staring at it, then he deliberately inserted his + knife blade and raised it. The cloth had been glued to a heavy sheet of + pasteboard the exact size of the trunk bottom. Beneath it lay half a dozen + yellow letters, and face down two tissue-wrapped photographs. The + Harvester examined them first. They were of a man close forty, having a + strong, aggressive face, on which pride and dominant will power were + prominently indicated. The other was a reproduction of a dainty and + delicate woman, with exquisitely tender and gentle features. Long the + Harvester studied them. The names of the photographer and the city were + missing. There was nothing except the faces. He could detect traces of the + man in the poise of the Girl and the carriage of her head, and suggestions + of the woman in the refined sweetness of her expression. Each picture + represented wealth in dress and taste in pose. Finally he laid them + together on the table, picked up one of the letters, and read it. Then he + read all of them. + </p> + <p> + Before he finished, tears were running down his cheeks, and his resolution + was formed. These were the appeals of an adoring mother, crazed with fear + for the safety of an only child, who unfortunately had fallen under the + influence of a man the mother dreaded and feared, because of her knowledge + of life and men of his character. They were one long, impassioned plea for + the daughter not to trust a stranger, not to believe that vows of passion + could be true when all else in life was false, not to trust her untried + judgment of men and the world against the experience of her parents. But + whether the tears that stained those sheets had fallen from the eyes of + the suffering mother or the starved and deserted daughter, there was no + way for the Harvester to know. One thing was clear: It was not possible + for him to rest until he knew if that woman yet lived and bore such + suffering. But every trace of address had been torn away, and there was + nothing to indicate where or in what circumstances these letters had been + written. + </p> + <p> + A long time the Harvester sat in deep thought. Then he returned all the + letters save one. This with the pictures he made into a packet that he + locked in his desk. The trunk he replaced and then went to bed. Early the + next morning he drove to Onabasha and posted the parcel. The address it + bore was that of the largest detective agency in the country. Then he + bought an interesting book, a box of fruit, and hurried back to the Girl. + He found her on the veranda, Belshazzar stretched close with one eye shut + and the other on his charge, whose cheeks were flushed with lovely colour + as she bent over her drawing material. The Harvester went to her with a + rush, and slipping his fingers under her chin, tilted back her head + against him. + </p> + <p> + “Got a kiss for me, honey?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “No sir,” answered the Girl emphatically. “I gave you a perfectly lovely + one yesterday, and you said it was not right. I am going to try just once + more, and if you say again that it won't do, I'm going back to Chicago or + to my dear Uncle Henry, I haven't decided which.” + </p> + <p> + Her lips were smiling, but her eyes were full of tears. + </p> + <p> + “Why thank you, Ruth! I think that is wonderful,” said the Harvester. + “I'll risk the next one. In the meantime, excuse me if I give you a + demonstration of the real thing, just to furnish you an idea of how it + should be.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester delivered the sample, and went striding to the marsh. The + dazed Girl sat staring at her work, trying to realize what had happened; + for that was the first time the Harvester had kissed her on the lips, and + it was the material expression a strong man gives the woman he loves when + his heart is surging at high tide. The Girl sat motionless, gazing at her + study. + </p> + <p> + In the marsh she knew the Harvester was reaping queen-of-the-meadow, and + around the high borders, elecampane and burdock. She could hear his voice + in snatches of song or cheery whistle; notes that she divined were + intended to keep her from worrying. Intermingled with them came the dog's + bark of defiance as he digged for an escaping chipmunk, his note of + pleading when he wanted a root cut with the mattock, his cry of discovery + when he thought he had found something the Harvester would like, or his + yelp of warning when he scented danger. The Girl looked down the drive to + the lake and across at the hedge. Everywhere she saw glowing colour, with + intermittent blue sky and green leaves, all of it a complete picture, from + which nothing could be spared. She turned slowly and looked toward the + marsh, trying to hear the words of the song above the ripple of Singing + Water, and to see the form of the man. Slowly she lifted her handkerchief + and pressed it against her lips, as she whispered in an awed voice, + </p> + <p> + “My gracious Heaven, is THAT the kind of a kiss he is expecting me to give + HIM? Why, I couldn't——not to save my life.” + </p> + <p> + She placed her brushes in water, set the colour box on the paper, and went + to the kitchen to prepare the noon lunch. As she worked the soft colour + deepened in her cheeks, a new light glowed in her eyes, and she hummed + over the tune that floated across the marsh. She was very busy when the + Harvester came, but he spoke casually of his morning's work, ate heartily, + and ordered her to take a nap while he washed roots and filled the trays, + and then they went to the woods together for the afternoon. + </p> + <p> + In the evening they came home to the cabin and finished the day's work. As + the night was chilly, the Harvester heaped some bark in the living-room + fireplace, and lay on the rug before it, while the Girl sat in an easy + chair and watched him as he talked. He was telling her about some + wonderful combinations he was going to compound for different ailments and + he laughingly asked her if she wanted to be a millionaire's wife and live + in a palace. + </p> + <p> + “Of course I could if I wanted to!” she suggested. + </p> + <p> + “You could!” cried the Harvester. “All that is necessary is to combine a + few proper drugs in one great remedy and float it. That is easy! The + people will do the remainder.” + </p> + <p> + “You talk as if you believe that,” marvelled the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Want it proven?” challenged the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “No!” she cried in swift alarm. “What do we want with more than we have? + What is there necessary to happiness that is not ours now? Maybe it is + true that the 'love of money is the root of all evil.' Don't you ever get + a lot just to find out. You said the night I came here that you didn't + want more than you had and now I don't. I won't have it! It might bring + restlessness and discontent. I've seen it make other people unhappy and + separate them. I don't want money, I want work. You make your remedies and + offer them to suffering humanity for just a living profit, and I'll keep + house and draw designs. I am perfectly happy, free, and unspeakably + content. I never dreamed that it was possible for me to be so glad, and so + filled with the joy of life. There is only one thing on earth I want. If I + only could——” + </p> + <p> + “Could what, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “Could get that kiss right——” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester laughed. + </p> + <p> + “Forget it, I tell you!” he commanded. “Just so long as you worry and + fret, so long I've got to wait. If you quit thinking about it, all + 'unbeknownst' to yourself you'll awake some morning with it on your lips. + I can see traces of it growing stronger every day. Very soon now it's + going to materialize, and then get out of my way, for I'll be a whirling, + irresponsible lunatic, with the wild joy of it. Oh I've got faith in that + kiss of yours, Ruth! It's on the way. The fates have booked it. There + isn't a reason on earth why I should be served so scurvy a trick as to + miss it, and I never will believe that I shall——” + </p> + <p> + “David,” interrupted the Girl, “go on talking and don't move a muscle, + just reach over presently and fix the fire or something, and then turn + naturally and look at the window beside your door.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall miss it,” said the Harvester steadily. “That would be too + unmerciful. What do you see, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “A face. If I am not greatly mistaken, it is my Uncle Henry and he appears + like a perfect fiend. Oh David, I am afraid!” + </p> + <p> + “Be quiet and don't look,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + He turned and tossed a piece of bark on the fire. Then he reached for the + poker, pushed it down and stirred the coals. He arose as he worked. + </p> + <p> + “Rise slowly and quietly and go to your room. Stay there until I call + you.” + </p> + <p> + With the Girl out of the way, the Harvester pottered over the fire, and + when the flame leaped he lifted a stick of wood, hesitated as if it were + too small, and laying it down, started to bring a larger one. In the + dining-room he caught a small stick from the wood box, softly stepped from + the door, and ran around the house. But he awakened Belshazzar on the + kitchen floor, and the dog barked and ran after him. By the time the + Harvester reached the corner of his room the man leaped upon a horse and + went racing down the drive. The Harvester flung the stick of wood, but + missed the man and hit the horse. The dog sprang past the Harvester and + vanished. There was the sound and flash of a revolver, and the rattle of + the bridge as the horse crossed it. The dog came back unharmed. The + Harvester ran to the telephone, called the Onabasha police, and asked them + to send a mounted man to meet the intruder before he could reach a cross + road; but they were too slow and missed him. However, the Girl was certain + she had recognized her uncle, and was extremely nervous; but the Harvester + only laughed and told her it was a trip made out of curiosity. Her uncle + wanted to see if he could learn if she were well and happy, and he finally + convinced her that this was the case, although he was not very sanguine + himself. + </p> + <p> + For the next three days the Harvester worked in the woods and he kept the + Girl with him every minute. By the end of that time he really had + persuaded himself that it was merely curiosity. So through the cooling + fall days they worked together. They were very happy. Before her wondering + eyes the Harvester hung queer branches, burs, nuts, berries, and trailing + vines with curious seed pods. There were masses of brilliant flowers, most + of them strange to the Girl, many to the great average of humanity. While + she sat bending over them, beside her the Harvester delved in the black + earth of the woods, or the clay and sand of the open hillside, or the muck + of the lake shore, and lifted large bagfuls of roots that he later + drenched on the floating raft on the lake, and when they had drained he + dried them. Some of them he did not wet, but scraped and wiped clean and + dry. Often after she was sleeping, and long before she awoke in the + morning, he was at work carry-ing heaped trays from the evaporator to the + store-room, and tying the roots, leaves, bark, and seeds into packages. + </p> + <p> + While he gathered trillium roots the Girl made drawings of the plant and + learned its commercial value. She drew lady's slipper and Solomon's seal, + and learned their uses and prices; and carefully traced wild ginger leaves + while nibbling the aromatic root. It was difficult to keep from protesting + when the work carried them around the lake shore and to the pokeberry + beds, for the colour of these she loved. It required careful explanation + as to the value of the roots and seeds as blood purifier, and the argument + that in a few more days the frost would level the bed, to induce her to + consent to its harvesting. But when the case was properly presented, she + put aside her drawing and stained her slender fingers gathering the seeds, + and loved the work. + </p> + <p> + The sun was golden on the lake, the birds of the upland were clustering + over reeds and rushes, for the sake of plentiful seed and convenient + water. Many of them sang fitfully, the notes of almost all of them were + melodious, and the day was a long, happy dream. There was but little left + to gather until ginseng time. For that the Harvester had engaged several + boys to help him, for the task of digging the roots, washing and drying + them, burying part of the seeds and preparing the remainder for market + seemed endless for one man to attempt. After a full day the Harvester lay + before the fire, and his head was so close the Girl's knee that her + fingers were in reach of his hair. Every time he mended the fire he moved + a little, until he could feel the touch of her garments against him. Then + he began to plan for the winter; how they would store food for the long, + cold days, how much fuel would be required, when they would go to the city + for their winter clothing, what they would read, and how they would work + together at the drawings. + </p> + <p> + “I am almost too anxious to wait longer to get back to my carving,” he + said. “Whoever would have thought this spring that fall would come and + find the birds talking of going, the caterpillars spinning winter + quarters, the animals holing up, me getting ready for the cold, and your + candlesticks not finished. Winter is when you really need them. Then there + is solid cheer in numbers of candles and a roaring wood fire. The furnace + is going to be a good thing to keep the floors and the bathroom warm, but + an open fire of dry, crackling wood is the only rational source of heat in + a home. You must watch for the fairy dances on the backwall, Ruth, and + learn to trace goblin faces in the coals. Sometimes there is a panorama of + temples and trees, and you will find exquisite colour in the smoke. Dry + maple makes a lovely lavender, soft and fine as a floating veil, and damp + elm makes a blue, and hickory red and yellow. I almost can tell which wood + is burning after the bark is gone, by the smoke and flame colour. When the + little red fire fairies come out and dance on the backwall it is fun to + figure what they are celebrating. By the way, Ruth, I have been a lamb for + days. I hope you have observed! But I would sleep a little sounder + to-night if you only could give me a hint whether that kiss is coming on + at all.” + </p> + <p> + He tipped back his head to see her face, and it was glorious in the red + firelight; the big eyes never appeared so deep and dark. The tilted head + struck her hand, and her fingers ran through his hair. + </p> + <p> + “You said to forget it,” she reminded him, “and then it would come + sooner.” + </p> + <p> + “Which same translated means that it is not here yet. Well, I didn't + expect it, so I am not disappointed; but begorry, I do wish it would + materialize by Christmas. I think I will work for that. Wouldn't it make a + day worth while, though? By the way, what do you want for Christmas, + Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “A doll,” she answered. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester laughed. He tipped his head again to see her face and + suddenly grew quiet, for it was very serious. + </p> + <p> + “I am quite in earnest,” she said. “I think the big dolls in the stores + are beautiful, and I never owned only a teeny little one. All my life I've + wanted a big doll as badly as I ever longed for anything that was not + absolutely necessary to keep me alive. In fact, a doll is essential to a + happy childhood. The mother instinct is so ingrained in a girl that if she + doesn't have dolls to love, even as a baby, she is deprived of a part of + her natural rights. It's a pitiful thing to have been the little girl in + the picture who stands outside the window and gazes with longing soul at + the doll she is anxious to own and can't ever have. Harvester, I was + always that little girl. I am quite in earnest. I want a big, beautiful + doll more than anything else.” + </p> + <p> + As she talked the Girl's fingers were idly threading the Harvester's hair. + His head lightly touched her knee, and she shifted her position to afford + him a comfortable resting place. With a thrill of delight that shook him, + the man laid his head in her lap and looked into the fire, his face + glowing as a happy boy's. + </p> + <p> + “You shall have the loveliest doll that money can buy, Ruth,” he promised. + “What else do you want?” + </p> + <p> + “A roasted goose, plum pudding, and all those horrid indigestible things + that Christmas stories always tell about; and popcorn balls, and candy, + and everything I've always wanted and never had, and a long beautiful day + with you. That's all!” + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, I'm so happy I almost wish I could go to Heaven right now before + anything occurs to spoil this,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + The wheels of a car rattled across the bridge. He whirled to his knees, + and put his arms around the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth,” he said huskily. “I'll wager a thousand dollars I know what is + coming. Hug me tight, quick! and give me the best kiss you can——any + old kind of a one, so you touch my lips with yours before I've got to open + that door and let in trouble.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl threw her arms around his neck and with the imprint of her lips + warm on his the Harvester crossed the room, and his heart dropped from the + heights with a thud. He stepped out, closing the door behind him, and + crossing the veranda, passed down the walk. He recognized the car as + belonging to a garage in Onabasha, and in it sat two men, one of whom + spoke. + </p> + <p> + “Are you David Langston?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Did you send a couple of photographs to a New York detective agency a few + days ago with inquiries concerning some parties you wanted located?” + </p> + <p> + “I did,” said the Harvester. “But I was not expecting any such immediate + returns.” + </p> + <p> + “Your questions touched on a case that long has been in the hands of the + agency, and they telegraphed the parties. The following day the people had + a letter, giving them the information they required, from another source.” + </p> + <p> + “That is where Uncle Henry showed his fine Spencerian hand,” commented the + Harvester. “It always will be a great satisfaction that I got my fist in + first.” + </p> + <p> + “Is Miss Jameson here?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said the Harvester. “My wife is at home. Her surname was Ruth + Jameson, but we have been married since June. Did you wish to speak with + Mrs. Langston?” + </p> + <p> + “I came for that purpose. My name is Kennedy. I am the law partner and the + closest friend of the young lady's grandfather. News of her location has + prostrated her grandmother so that he could not leave her, and I was sent + to bring the young woman.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” said the Harvester. “Well you will have to interview her about that. + One word first. She does not know that I sent those pictures and made that + inquiry. One other word. She is just recovering from a case of fever, + induced by wrong conditions of life before I met her. She is not so strong + as she appears. Understand you are not to be abrupt. Go very gently! Her + feelings and health must be guarded with extreme care.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester opened the door, and as she saw the stranger, the Girl's + eyes widened, and she arose and stood waiting. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth,” said the Harvester, “this is a man who has been making quite a + search for you, and at last he has you located.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester went to the Girl's side, and put a reinforcing arm around + her. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps he brings you some news that will make life most interesting and + very lovely for you. Will you shake hands with Mr. Kennedy?” + </p> + <p> + The Girl suddenly straightened to unusual height. + </p> + <p> + “I will hear why he has been making 'quite a search for me,' and on whose + authority he has me 'located,' first,” she said. + </p> + <p> + A diabolical grin crossed the face of the Harvester, and he took heart. + </p> + <p> + “Then please be seated, Mr. Kennedy,” he said, “and we will talk over the + matter. As I understand, you are a representative of my wife's people.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl stared at the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Take your chair, Ruth, and meet this as a matter of course,” he advised + casually. “You always have known that some day it must come. You couldn't + look in the face of those photographs of your mother in her youth and not + realize that somewhere hearts were aching and breaking, and brains were + busy in a search for her.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl stood rigid. + </p> + <p> + “I want it distinctly understood,” she said, “that I have no use on earth + for my mother's people. They come too late. I absolutely refuse to see or + to hold any communication with them.” + </p> + <p> + “But young lady, that is very arbitrary!” cried Mr. Kennedy. “You don't + understand! They are a couple of old people, and they are slowly dying of + broken hearts!” + </p> + <p> + “Not so badly broken or they wouldn't die slowly,” commented the Girl + grimly. “The heart that was really broken was my mother's. The torture of + a starved, overworked body and hopeless brain was hers. There was nothing + slow about her death, for she went out with only half a life spent, and + much of that in acute agony, because of their negligence. David, you often + have said that this is my home. I choose to take you at your word. Will + you kindly tell this man that he is not welcome in this house, and I wish + him to leave it at once?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester stepped back, and his face grew very white. + </p> + <p> + “I can't, Ruth,” he said gently. + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I brought him here.” + </p> + <p> + “You brought him here! You! David, are you crazy? You!” + </p> + <p> + “It is through me that he came.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl caught the mantel for support. + </p> + <p> + “Then I stand alone again,” she said. “Harvester, I had thought you were + on my side.” + </p> + <p> + “I am at your feet,” said the man in a broken voice. “Ruth dear, will you + let me explain?” + </p> + <p> + “There is only one explanation, and with what you have done for me fresh + in my mind, I can't put it into words.” + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, hear me!” + </p> + <p> + “I must! You force me! But before you speak understand this: Not now, or + through all eternity, do I forgive the inexcusable neglect that drove my + mother to what I witnessed and was helpless to avert.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear! My dear!” said the Harvester, “I had hoped the woods had done a + more perfect work in your heart. Your mother is lying in state now, Girl, + safe from further suffering of any kind; and if I read aright, her tired + face and shrivelled frame were eloquent of forgiveness. Ruth dear, if she + so loved them that her heart was broken and she died for them, think what + they are suffering! Have some mercy on them.” + </p> + <p> + “Get this very clear, David,” said the Girl. “She died of hunger for food. + Her heart was not so broken that she couldn't have lived a lifetime, and + got much comfort out of it, if her body had not lacked sustenance. Oh I + was so happy a minute ago. David, why did you do this thing?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester picked up the Girl, placed her in a chair, and knelt beside + her with his arms around her. + </p> + <p> + “Because of the PAIN IN THE WORLD, Ruth,” he said simply. “Your mother is + sleeping sweetly in the long sleep that knows neither anger nor + resentment; and so I was forced to think of a gentle-faced, little old + mother whose heart is daily one long ache, whose eyes are dim with tears, + and a proud, broken old man who spends his time trying to comfort her, + when his life is as desolate as hers.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you know so wonderfully much about their aches and broken hearts?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I have seen their faces when they were happy, Ruth, and so I know + what suffering would do to them. There were pictures of them and letters + in the bottom of that old trunk. I searched it the other night and found + them; and by what life has done to your mother and to you, I can judge + what it is now bringing them. Never can you be truly happy, Ruth, until + you have forgiven them, and done what you can to comfort the remainder of + their lives. I did it because of the pain in the world, my girl.” + </p> + <p> + “What about my pain?” + </p> + <p> + “The only way on earth to cure it is through forgiveness. That, and that + only, will ease it all away, and leave you happy and free for life and + love. So long as you let this rancour eat in your heart, Ruth, you are + not, and never can be, normal. You must forgive them, dear, hear what they + have to say, and give them the comfort of seeing what they can discover of + her in you. Then your heart will be at rest at last, your soul free, you + can take your rightful place in life, and the love you crave will awaken + in your heart. Ruth, dear you are the acme of gentleness and justice. Be + just and gentle now! Give them their chance! My heart aches, and always + will ache for the pain you have known, but nursing and brooding over it + will not cure it. It is going to take a heroic operation to cut it out, + and I chose to be the surgeon. You have said that I once saved your body + from pain Ruth, trust me now to free your soul.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you want?” + </p> + <p> + “I want you to speak kindly to this man, who through my act has come here, + and allow him to tell you why he came. Then I want you to do the kind and + womanly thing your duty suggests that you should.” + </p> + <p> + “David, I don t understand you!” + </p> + <p> + “That is no difference,” said the Harvester. “The point is, do you TRUST + me?” + </p> + <p> + The Girl hesitated. “Of course I do,” she said at last. + </p> + <p> + “Then hear what your grandfather's friend has come to say for him, and + forget yourself in doing to others as you would have them——really, + Ruth, that is all of religion or of life worth while. Go on, Mr. Kennedy.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester drew up a chair, seated himself beside the Girl, and taking + one of her hands, he held it closely and waited. + </p> + <p> + “I was sent here by my law partner and my closest friend, Mr. Alexander + Herron, of Philadelphia,” said the stranger. “Both he and Mrs. Herron were + bitterly opposed to your mother's marriage, because they knew life and + human nature, and there never is but one end to men such as she married.” + </p> + <p> + “You may omit that,” said the Girl coldly. “Simply state why you are + here.” + </p> + <p> + “In response to an inquiry from your husband concerning the originals of + some photographs he sent to a detective agency in New York. They have had + the case for years, and recognizing the pictures as a clue, they + telegraphed Mr. Herron. The prospect of news after years of fruitless + searching so prostrated Mrs. Herron that he dared not leave her, and he + sent me.” + </p> + <p> + “Kindly tell me this,” said the Girl. “Where were my mother's father and + mother for the four years immediately following her marriage?” + </p> + <p> + “They went to Europe to avoid the humiliation of meeting their friends. + There, in Italy, Mrs. Herron developed a fever, and it was several years + before she could be brought home. She retired from society, and has been + confined to her room ever since. When they could return, a search was + instituted at once for their daughter, but they never have been able to + find a trace. They have hunted through every eastern city they thought + might contain her.” + </p> + <p> + “And overlooked a little insignificant place like Chicago, of course.” + </p> + <p> + “I myself conducted a personal search there, and visited the home of every + Jameson in the directory or who had mail at the office or of whom I could + get a clue of any sort.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't suppose two women in a little garret room would be in the + directory, and there never was any mail.” + </p> + <p> + “Did your mother ever appeal to her parents?” + </p> + <p> + “She did,” said the Girl. “She admitted that she had been wrong, asked + their forgiveness, and begged to go home. That was in the second year of + her marriage, and she was in Cleveland. Afterward she went to Chicago, + from there she wrote again.” + </p> + <p> + “Her father and mother were in Italy fighting for the mother's life, two + years after that. It is very easy to become lost in a large city. + Criminals do it every day and are never found, even with the best + detectives on their trail. I am very sorry about this. My friends will be + broken-hearted. At any time they would have been more than delighted to + have had their daughter return. A letter on the day following the message + from the agency brought news that she was dead, and now their only hope + for any small happiness at the close of years of suffering lies with you. + I was sent to plead with you to return with me at once and make them a + visit. Of course, their home is yours. You are their only heir, and they + would be very happy if you were free, and would remain permanently with + them.” + </p> + <p> + “How do they know I will not be like the father they so detested?” + </p> + <p> + “They had sufficient cause to dislike him. They have every reason to love + and welcome you. They are consumed with anxiety. Will you come?” + </p> + <p> + “No. This is for me to decide. I do not care for them or their property. + Always they have failed me when my distress was unspeakable. Now there is + only one thing I ask of life, more than my husband has given me, and if + that lay in his power I would have it. You may go back and tell them that + I am perfectly happy. I have everything I need. They can give me nothing I + want, not even their love. Perhaps, sometime, I will go to see them for a + few days, if David will go with me.” + </p> + <p> + “Young woman, do you realize that you are issuing a death sentence?” asked + the lawyer gently. + </p> + <p> + “It is a just one.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not believe your husband agrees with you. I know I do not. Mrs. + Herron is a tiny old lady, with a feeble spark of vitality left; and with + all her strength she is clinging to life, and pleading with it to give her + word of her only child before she goes out unsatisfied. She knows that her + daughter is gone, and now her hopes are fastened on you. If for only a few + days, you certainly must go with me.” + </p> + <p> + “I will not!” + </p> + <p> + The lawyer turned to the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “She will be ready to start with you to-morrow morning, on the first train + north,” said the Harvester. “We will meet you at the station at eight.” + </p> + <p> + “I——I am afraid I forgot to tell my driver to wait.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean your instructions were not to let the Girl out of your sight,” + said the Harvester. “Very well! We have comfortable rooms. I will show you + to one. Please come this way.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester led the guest to the lake room and arranged for the night. + Then he went to the telephone and sent a message to an address he had been + furnished, asking for an immediate reply. It went to Philadelphia and + contained a description of the lawyer, and asked if he had been sent by + Mr. Herron to escort his grand-daughter to his home. When the Harvester + returned to the living-room the Girl, white and defiant, waited before the + fire. He knelt beside her and put his arms around her, but she repulsed + him; so he sat on the rug and looked at her. + </p> + <p> + “No wonder you felt sure you knew what that was!” she cried bitterly. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, if you will allow me to lift the bottom of that old trunk, and if + you will read any one of the half dozen letters I read, you will forgive + me, and begin making preparations to go.” + </p> + <p> + “It's a wonder you don't hold them before me and force me to read them,” + she said. + </p> + <p> + “Don't say anything you will be sorry for after you are gone, dear.” + </p> + <p> + “I'm not going!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh yes you are!” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because it is right that you should, and right is inexorable. Also, + because I very much wish you to; you will do it for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Why do you want me to go?” + </p> + <p> + “I have three strong reasons: First, as I told you, it is the only thing + that will cleanse your heart of bitterness and leave it free for the + tenanting of a great and holy love. Next, I think they honestly made every + effort to find your mother, and are now growing old in despair you can + lighten, and you owe it to them and yourself to do it. Lastly, for my + sake. I've tried everything I know, Ruth, and I can't make you love me, or + bring you to a realizing sense of it if you do. So before I saw that chest + I had planned to harvest my big crop, and try with all my heart while I + did it, and if love hadn't come then, I meant to get some one to stay with + you, and I was going away to give you a free perspective for a time. I + meant to plead that I needed a few weeks with a famous chemist I know to + prepare me better for my work. My real motive was to leave you, and let + you see if absence could do anything for me in your heart. You've been + very nearly the creature of my hands for months, my girl; whatever any one + else may do, you're bound to miss me mightily, and I figured that with me + away, perhaps you could solve the problem alone I seem to fail in helping + you with. This is only a slight change of plans. You are going in my + stead. I will harvest the ginseng and cure it, and then, if you are not at + home, and the loneliness grows unbearable, I will take the chemistry + course, until you decide when you will come, if ever.” + </p> + <p> + “'If ever?'” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the Harvester. “I am growing accustomed to facing big + propositions——I will not dodge this. The faces of the three of + your people I have seen prove refinement. Their clothing indicates wealth. + These long, lonely years mean that they will shower you with every + outpouring of loving, hungry hearts. They will keep you if they can, my + dear. I do not blame them. The life I propose for you is one of work, + mostly for others, and the reward, in great part, consists of the joy in + the soul of the creator of things that help in the world. I realize that + you will find wealth, luxury, and lavish love. I know that I may lose you + forever, and if it is right and best for you, I hope I will. I know + exactly what I am risking, but I yet say, go.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't see how you can, and love me as you prove you do.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a little streak of the inevitableness of nature that the forest + has ground into my soul. I'd rather cut off my right hand than take yours + with it, in the parting that will come in the morning; but you are going, + and I am sending you. So long as I am shaped like a human being, it is in + me to dignify the possession of a vertical spine by acting as nearly like + a man as I know how. I insist that you are my wife, because it crucifies + me to think otherwise. I tell you to-night, Ruth, you are not and never + have been. You are free as air. You married me without any love for me in + your heart, and you pretended none. It was all my doing. If I find that I + was wrong, I will free you without a thought of results to me. I am a + secondary proposition. I thought then that you were alone and helpless, + and before the Almighty, I did the best I could. But I know now that you + are entitled to the love of relatives, wealth, and high social position, + no doubt. If I allowed the passion in my heart to triumph over the reason + of my brain, and worked on your feelings and tied you to the woods, + without knowing but that you might greatly prefer that other life you do + not know, but to which you are entitled, I would go out and sink myself in + Loon Lake.” + </p> + <p> + “David, I love you. I do not want to go. Please, please let me remain with + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Not if you could say that realizing what it means, and give me the kiss + right now I would stake my soul to win! Not by any bribe you can think of + or any allurement you can offer. It is right that you go to those + suffering old people. It is right you know what you are refusing for me, + before you renounce it. It is right you take the position to which you are + entitled, until you understand thoroughly whether this suits you better. + When you know that life as well as this, the people you will meet as + intimately as me, then you can decide for all time, and I can look you in + the face with honest, unwavering eye; and if by any chance your heart is + in the woods, and you prefer me and the cabin to what they have to offer——to + all eternity your place here is vacant, Ruth. My love is waiting for you; + and if you come under those conditions, I never can have any regret. A + clear conscience is worth restraining passion a few months to gain, and + besides, I always have got the fact to face that when you say 'I love,' + and when I say 'I love,' it means two entirely different things. When you + realize that the love of man for woman, and woman for man, is a thing that + floods the heart, brain, soul, and body with a wonderful and all-pervading + ecstasy, and if I happen to be the man who makes you realize it, then come + tell me, and we will show God and His holy angels what earth means by the + Heaven inspired word, 'radiance.'” + </p> + <p> + “David, there never will be any other man like you.” + </p> + <p> + “The exigencies of life must develop many a finer and better.” + </p> + <p> + “You still refuse me? You yet believe I do not love you?” + </p> + <p> + “Not with the love I ask, my girl. But if I did not believe it was + germinating in your heart, and that it would come pouring over me in a + torrent some glad day, I doubt if I could allow you to go, Ruth! I am like + any other man in selfishness and in the passions of the body.” + </p> + <p> + “Selfishness! You haven't an idea what it means,” said the Girl. “And what + you call love——there I haven't. But I know how to appreciate + you, and you may be positively sure that it will be only a few days until + I will come back to you.” + </p> + <p> + “But I don't want you until you can bring the love I crave. I am sending + you to remain until that time, Ruth.” + </p> + <p> + “But it may be months, Man!” + </p> + <p> + “Then stay months.” + </p> + <p> + “But it may be——” + </p> + <p> + “It may be never! Then remain forever. That will be proof positive that + your happiness does not lie in my hands.” + </p> + <p> + “Why should I not consider you as you do me?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I love you, and you do not love me.” + </p> + <p> + “You are cruel to yourself and to me. You talk about the pain in the + world. What about the pain in my heart right now? And if I know you in the + least, one degree more would make you cry aloud for mercy. Oh David, are + we of no consideration at all?” + </p> + <p> + The muscles of the Harvester's face twisted an instant. + </p> + <p> + “This is where we lop off the small branches to grow perfect fruit later. + This is where we do evil that good may result. This is where we suffer + to-night in order we may appreciate fully the joy of love's dawning. If I + am causing you pain, forgive me, dear heart. I would give my life to + prevent it, but I am powerless. It is right! We cannot avoid doing it, if + we ever would be happy.” + </p> + <p> + He picked up the Girl, and held her crushed in his arms a long time. Then + he set her inside her door and said, “Lay out what you want to take and I + will help you pack, so that you can get some sleep. We must be ready early + in the morning.” + </p> + <p> + When the clothing to be worn was selected, the new trunk packed, and all + arrangements made, the Girl sat in his arms before the fire as he had held + her when she was ill, and then he sent her to bed and went to the lake + shore to fight it out alone. Only God and the stars and the faithful + Belshazzar saw the agony of a strong man in his extremity. + </p> + <p> + Near dawn he heard the tinkle of the bell and went to receive his message + and order a car for morning. Then he returned to the merciful darkness of + night, and paced the driveway until light came peeping over the tree tops. + He prepared breakfast and an hour later put the Girl on the train, and + stood watching it until the last rift of smoke curled above the spires of + the city. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX. THE MAN IN THE BACKGROUND + </h2> + <p> + Then the Harvester returned to Medicine Woods to fight his battle alone. + At first the pain seemed unendurable, but work always had been his + panacea, it was his salvation now. He went through the cabin, folding + bedding and storing it in closets, rolling rugs sprinkled with powdered + alum, packing cushions, and taking window seats from the light. + </p> + <p> + “Our sleeping room and the kitchen will serve for us, Bel,” he said. “We + will put all these other things away carefully, so they will be as good as + new when the Girl comes home.” + </p> + <p> + The evening of the second day he was called to the telephone. + </p> + <p> + “There is a telegram for you,” said a voice. “A message from Philadelphia. + It reads: 'Arrived safely. Thank you for making me come. Dear old people. + Will write soon. With love, Ruth.' + </p> + <p> + “Have you got it?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” lied the Harvester, grinning rapturously. “Repeat it again slowly, + and give me time after each sentence to write it. Now! Go on!” + </p> + <p> + He carried the message to the back steps and sat reading it again and + again. + </p> + <p> + “I supposed I'd have to wait at least four days,” he said to Ajax as the + bird circled before him. “This is from the Girl, old man, and she is not + forgetting us to begin with, anyway. She is there all safe, she sees that + they need her, they are lovable old people, she is going to write us all + about it soon, and she loves us all she knows how to love any one. That + should be enough to keep us sane and sensible until her letter comes. + There is no use to borrow trouble, so we will say everything in the world + is right with us, and be as happy as we can on that until we find + something we cannot avoid worrying over. In the meantime, we will have + faith to believe that we have suffered our share, and the end will be + happy for all of us. I am mighty glad the Girl has a home, and the right + kind of people to care for her. Now, when she comes back to me, I needn't + feel that she was forced, whether she wanted to or not, because she had + nowhere to go. This will let me out with a clean conscience, and that is + the only thing on earth that allows a man to live in peace with himself. + Now I'll go finish everything else, and then I'll begin the ginseng + harvest.” + </p> + <p> + So the Harvester hitched Betsy and with Belshazzar at his feet he drove + through the woods to the sarsaparilla beds. He noticed the beautiful lobed + leaves, at which the rabbits had been nibbling, and the heads of lustrous + purple-black berries as he began digging the roots that he sold for + stimulants. + </p> + <p> + “I might have needed a dose of you now myself,” the Harvester addressed a + heap of uprooted plants, “if the electric wires hadn't brought me a + better. Great invention that! Never before realized it fully! I thought + to-day would be black as night, but that message changes the complexion of + affairs mightily. So I'll dig you for people who really are in need of + something to brace them up.” + </p> + <p> + After the sarsaparilla was on the trays, he attacked the beds of Indian + hemp, with its long graceful pods, and took his usual supply. Then he + worked diligently on the warm hillside over the dandelion. When these were + finished he brought half a dozen young men from the city and drilled them + on handling ginseng. He was warm, dirty, and tired when he came from the + beds the evening of the fourth day. He finished his work at the barn, + prepared and ate his supper, slipped into clean clothing, and walked to + the country road where it crossed the lane. There he opened his mail box. + The letter he expected with the Philadelphia postmark was inside. He + carried it to the bridge, and sitting in her favourite place, with the + lake breeze threading his hair, opened his first letter from the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “My dear Friend, Lover, Husband,” it began. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester turned the sheets face down across his knee, laid his hand + on them, and stared meditatively at the lake. “'Friend,'” he commented. + “Well, that's all right! I am her friend, as well as I know how to be. + 'Lover.' I come in there, full force. I did my level best on that score, + though I can't boast myself a howling success; a man can't do more than he + knows, and if I had been familiar with all the wiles of expert, + professional love-makers, they wouldn't have availed me in the Girl's + condition. I had a mighty peculiar case to handle in her, and not a + particle of training. But if she says 'Lover,' I must have made some kind + of a showing on the job. 'Husband.'” A slow flush crept up the brawny neck + and tinged the bronzed face. “That's a good word,” said the Harvester, + “and it must mean a wonderful thing——to some men. 'Who bides + his time.' Well, I'm 'biding,' and if my time ever comes to be my Dream + Girl's husband, I'll wager all I'm worth on one thing. I'll study the job + from every point of the compass, and I'll see what showing I can make on + being the kind of a husband that a woman clings to and loves at eighty.” + </p> + <p> + Taking a deep breath the Harvester lifted the letter, and laying one hand + on Belshazzar's head, he proceeded——“I might as well admit in + the beginning that I cried most of the way here. Some of it was because I + was nervous and dreaded the people I would meet, and more on account of + what I felt toward them, but most of it was because I did not want to + leave you. I have been spoiled dreadfully! You have taught me so to depend + on you——and for once I feel that I really can claim to have + been an apt pupil——that it was like having the heart torn out + of me to come. I want you to know this, because it will teach you that I + have a little bit of appreciation of how good you are to me, and to all + the world as well. I am glad that I almost cried myself sick over leaving + you. I wish now I just had stood up in the car, and roared like a burned + baby. + </p> + <p> + “But all the tears I shed in fear of grandfather and grandmother were + wasted. They are a couple of dear old people, and it would have been a + crime to allow them to suffer more than they must of necessity. It all + seems so different when they talk; and when I see the home, luxuries, and + friends my mother had, it appears utterly incomprehensible that she dared + leave them for a stranger. Probably the reason she did was because she was + grandfather's daughter. He is gentle and tender some of the time, but when + anything irritates him, and something does every few minutes, he breaks + loose, and such another explosion you never heard. It does not mean a + thing, and it seems to lower his tension enough to keep him from bursting + with palpitation of the heart or something, but it is a strain for others. + At first it frightened me dreadfully. Grandmother is so tiny and frail, so + white in her big bed, and when he is the very worst, and she only smiles + at him, why I know he does not mean it at all. But, David, I hope you + never will get an idea that this would be a pleasant way for you to act, + because it would not, and I never would have the courage to offer you the + love I have come to find if you slammed a cane and yelled, 'demnation,' at + me. Grandmother says she does not mind at all, but I wonder if she did not + acquire the habit of lying in bed because it is easier to endure in a + prostrate position. + </p> + <p> + “The house is so big I get lost, and I do not know yet which are servants + and which friends; and there is a steady stream of seamstresses and + milliners making things for me. Grandmother and father both think I will + be quite passable in appearance when I am what they call 'modishly + dressed.' I think grandmother will forget herself some day and leave her + bed before she knows it, in her eagerness to see how something appears. I + could not begin to tell you about all the lovely things to wear, for every + occasion under the sun, and they say these are only temporary, until some + can be made especially for me. + </p> + <p> + “They divide the time in sections, and there is an hour to drive, I am to + have a horse and ride later, and a time to shop, so long to visit + grandmother, and set hours to sleep, dress, to be fitted, taken to see + things, music lessons, and a dancing teacher. I think a longer day will + have to be provided. + </p> + <p> + “I do not care anything about dancing. I know what would make me dance + nicely enough for anything, but I am going to try the music, and see if I + can learn just a few little songs and some old melodies for evening, when + the work is done, the fire burns low, and you are resting on the rug. + There is enough room for a piano between your door and the south wall and + that corner seems vacant anyway. You would like it, David, I know, if I + could play and sing just enough to put you to sleep nicely. It is in the + back of my head that I will try to do every single thing, just as they + want me to, and that will make them happy, but never forget that the + instant I feel in my soul that your kiss is right on my lips, I am coming + to you by lightning express; and I told them so the first thing, and that + I only came because you made me. + </p> + <p> + “They did not raise an objection, but I am not so dull that I cannot see + they are trying to bind me to them from the very first with chains too + strong to break. We had just one little clash. Grandfather was mightily + pleased over what you told Mr. Kennedy about my never having been your + wife, and that I was really free. There seems to be a man, the son of his + partner, whom grandfather dearly loves, and he wants me to be friends with + his friend. One can see at once what he is planning, because he said he + was going to introduce me as Miss Jameson. I told him that would be + creating a false impression, because I was a married woman; but he only + laughed at me and went straight to doing it. + </p> + <p> + “Of course, I know why, but he is so terribly set I cannot stop him, so I + shall have to tell people myself that I am a staid, old married lady. + After all, I suppose I might as well let him go, if it pleases him. I + shall know how to protect myself and any one else, from any mistakes + concerning me; and in my heart I know what I know, and what I cannot make + you believe, but I will some day. + </p> + <p> + “I suspect you're harvesting the ginseng now. The roar and rush of the + city seem strange, as if I never had heard it before, and I feel so + crowded. I scarcely can sleep at night for the clamour of the cars, cabs, + and throbbing life. Grandfather will not hear a word, and he just sputters + and says 'demnation' when I try to tell him about you; but grandmother + will listen, and I talk to her of you and Medicine Woods by the hour. She + says she thinks you must be a wonderfully nice person. I haven't dared + tell her yet the thing that will win her. She is so little and frail, and + she has heart trouble so badly; but some day I shall tell her all about + Chicago that I can, and then of Uncle Henry, and then about you and the + oak, and that will make her love you as I do. There are so many things to + do; they have sent for me three times. I shall tell them they must put you + on the schedule, and give me so much time to write or I will upset the + whole programme. + </p> + <p> + “I think you will like to know that Mr. Kennedy told grandfather all you + said to him about my illness, for almost as soon as I came he brought a + very wonderful man to my room, and he asked many questions and I told him + all about it, and what I had been doing. He made out a list of things to + eat and exercises. I am being taken care of just as you did, so I will go + on growing well and strong. The trouble is they are too good to me. I + would just love to shuffle my feet in dead leaves, and lie on the grass + this morning. I never got my swim in the lake. I will have to save that + until next summer. He also told grandfather what you said about Uncle + Henry, and I think he was pleased that you tried to find him as soon as + you knew. He let me see the letter Uncle Henry wrote, and it was a vile + thing——just such as he would write. It asked how much he would + be willing to pay for information concerning his heir. I told grandfather + all about it, and I saw the answer he wrote. I told him some things to + say, and one of them was that the honesty of a man without a price + prevented the necessity of anything being paid to find me. The other was + that you located my people yourself, and at once sent me to them against + my wishes. I was determined he should know that. So Uncle Henry missed his + revenge on you. He evidently thought he not only would hurt you by + breaking up your home and separating us, but also he would get a reward + for his work. He wrote some untrue things about you, and I wish he hadn't, + for grandfather can think of enough himself. But I will soon change that. + Please, please take good care of all my things, my flowers and vines, and + most of all tell Belshazzar to protect you with his life. And you be very + good to my dear, dear lover. I will write again soon, Ruth.” + </p> + <p> + When the Harvester had studied the letter until he could repeat it + backward, he went to the cabin and answered it. Then he sent subscriptions + for two of Philadelphia's big dailies, and harvested ginseng from dawn + until black darkness. Never was such a crop grown in America. The beds had + been made in the original home of the plant, so that it throve under + perfectly natural conditions in the forest, but here and there branches + had been thinned above, and nature helped by science below. This resulted + in thick, pulpy roots of astonishing size and weight. As the Harvester + lifted them he bent the tops and buried part of the seed for another crop. + For weeks he worked over the bed. Then the last load went down the hill to + the dry-house and the helpers were paid. Next the fall work was finished. + Fuel and food were stored for winter, while the cold crept from the lake, + swept down the hill and surrounded the cabin. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester finished long days in the dry-house and store-room, and + after supper he sat by the fire reading over the Girl's letters, carving + on her candlesticks, or in the work room, bending above the boards he was + shaving and polishing for a gift he had planned for her Christmas. The + Careys had him in their home for Thanksgiving. He told them all about + sending the Girl away himself, read them some of her letters, and they + talked with perfect confidence of how soon she would come home. The + Harvester tried to think confidently, but as the days went by the letters + became fewer, always with the excuse that there was no time to write, but + with loving assurance that she was thinking of him and would do better + soon. + </p> + <p> + However they came often enough that he had something new to tell his + friends so that they did not suspect that waiting was a trial to him. A + few days after Thanksgiving the gift that he had planned was finished. It + was a big, burl-maple box, designed after the hope chests that he saw + advertised in magazines. The wood was rare, cut in heavy slabs, polished + inside and out, dove-tailed corners with ornate brass bindings, hinges and + lock, and hand-carved feet. On the inside of the lid cut on a brass plate + was the inscription, “Ruth Langston, Christmas of Nineteen Hundred and + Ten. David.” + </p> + <p> + Then he began packing the chest. He put in the finished candlesticks and a + box of candleberry dips he had made of delightfully spiced wax, coloured + pale green. He ordered the doll weeks before from the largest store in + Onabasha, and the dealer brought on several that he might make a + selection. He chose a large baby doll almost life size, and sent it to the + dress-making department to be completely and exquisitely clothed. Long + before the day he was picking kernels to glaze from nuts, drying corn to + pop, and planning candies to be made of maple sugar. When he figured it + was time to start the box, he worked carefully, filling spaces with + chestnut and hazel burs, and finishing the tops of boxes with gaudy red + and yellow leaves he had kept in their original brightness by packing them + in sand. He put in scarlet berries of mountain ash and long twining sprays + of yellow and red bitter-sweet berries, for her room. Then he carefully + covered the chest with cloth, packed it in an outside box, and sent it to + the Girl by express. As he came from the train shed, where he had helped + with loading, he met Henry Jameson. Instantly the long arm of the + Harvester shot out, and in a grip that could not be broken he caught the + man by the back of the neck and proceeded to dangle him. As he did so he + roared with laughter. + </p> + <p> + “Dear Uncle Henry!” he cried. “How did you feel when you got your letter + from Philadelphia? Wasn't it a crime that an honest man, which same refers + to me, beat you? Didn't you gnash your teeth when you learned that instead + of separating me from my wife I had found her people and sent her to them + myself? Didn't it rend your soul to miss your little revenge and fail to + get the good, fat reward you confidently expected? Ho! Ho! Thus are lofty + souls downcast. I pity you, Henry Jameson, but not so much that I won't + break your back if you meddle in my affairs again, and I am taking this + opportunity to tell you so. Here you go out of my life, for if you appear + in it once more I will finish you like a copperhead. Understand?” + </p> + <p> + With a last shake the Harvester dropped him, and went into the express + office, where several men had watched the proceedings. + </p> + <p> + “Been dipping in your affairs, has he?” asked the expressman. + </p> + <p> + “Trying it,” laughed the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Well he is just moving to Idaho, and you probably won't be bothered with + him any more.” + </p> + <p> + “Good news!” said the Harvester. He felt much relieved as he went back to + Betsy and drove to Medicine Woods. + </p> + <p> + The Careys had invited him, but he chose to spend Christmas alone. He had + finished breakfast when the telephone bell rang, and the expressman told + him there was a package for him from Philadelphia. The Harvester mounted + Betsy and rode to the city at once. The package was so very small he + slipped it into his pocket, and went to the doctor's to say Merry + Christmas! To Mrs. Carey he gave a pretty lavender silk dress, and to the + doctor a new watch chain. Then he went to the hospital, where he left with + Molly a set of china dishes from the Girl, and a fur-lined great coat, his + gift to Doctor Harmon. He rode home and stabled Betsy, giving her an extra + quart of oats, and going into the house he sat by the kitchen fire and + opened the package. + </p> + <p> + In a nest of cotton lay a tissue-wrapped velvet box, and inside that, in a + leather pocket case, an ivory miniature of the Girl by an artist who knew + how to reproduce life. It was an exquisite picture, and a face of + wonderful beauty. He looked at it for a long time, and then called + Belshazzar and carried it out to show Ajax. Then he put it into his breast + pocket squarely over his heart, but he wore the case shiny the first day + taking it out. Before noon he went to the mail box and found a long letter + from the Girl, full of life, health, happiness, and with steady assurances + of love for him, but there was no mention made of coming home. + </p> + <p> + She seemed engrossed in the music lessons, riding, dancing, pretty + clothing, splendid balls, receptions, and parties of all kinds. The + Harvester answered it with his heart full of love for her, and then + waited. It was a long week before the reply came, and then it was short on + account of so many things that must be done, but she insisted that she was + well, happy, and having a fine time. After that the letters became less + frequent and shorter. At times there would be stretches of almost two + weeks with not a line, and then only short notes to explain that she was + too busy to write. + </p> + <p> + Through the dreary, cold days of January and February the Harvester + invented work in the store-room, in the workshop, at the candlesticks, sat + long over great books, and spent hours in the little laboratory preparing + and compounding drugs. In the evenings he carved and read. First of all he + scanned the society columns of the papers he was taking, and almost every + day he found the name of Miss Ruth Jameson, often a paragraph describing + her dress and her beauty of face and charm of manner; and constantly the + name of Mr. Herbert Kennedy appeared as her escort. At first the Harvester + ignored this, and said to himself that he was glad she could have + enjoyable times and congenial friends, and he was. But as the letters + became fewer, paper paragraphs more frequent, and approaching spring + worked its old insanity in the blood, gradually an ache crept into his + heart again, and there were days when he could not work it out. + </p> + <p> + Every letter she wrote he answered just as warmly as he felt that he + dared, but when they were so long coming and his heart was overflowing, he + picked up a pen one night and wrote what he felt. He told her all about + the ice-bound lake, the lonely crows in the big woods, the sap suckers' + cry, and the gay cardinals' whistle. He told her about the cocoons + dangling on bushes or rocking on twigs that he was cutting for her. He + warned her that spring was coming, and soon she would begin to miss + wonders for her pencil. Then he told her about the silent cabin, the empty + rooms, and a lonely man. He begged her not to forget the kiss she had gone + to find for him. He poured out his heart unrestrainedly, and then folded + the letter, sealed and addressed it to her, in care of the fire fairies, + and pitched it into the ashes of the living-room fire place. But + expression made him feel better. + </p> + <p> + There was another longer wait for the next letter, but he had written her + so many in the meantime that a little heap of them had accumulated as he + passed through the living-room on his way to bed. He had supposed she + would be gone until after Christmas when she left, but he never had + thought of harvesting sassafras and opening the sugar camp alone. In those + days his face appeared weary, and white hairs came again on his temples. + Carey met him on the street and told him that he was going to the National + Convention of Surgeons at New York in March, and wanted him to go along + and present his new medicine for consideration. + </p> + <p> + “All right,” said the Harvester instantly, “I will go.” + </p> + <p> + He went and interviewed Mrs. Carey, and then visited the doctor's tailor, + and a shoe store, and bought everything required to put him in condition + for travelling in good style, and for the banquet he would be asked to + attend. Then he got Mrs. Carey to coach him on spoons and forks, and + declared he was ready. When the doctor saw that the Harvester really would + go, he sat down and wrote the president of the association, telling him in + brief outline of Medicine Woods and the man who had achieved a wonderful + work there, and of the compounding of the new remedy. + </p> + <p> + As he expected, return mail brought an invitation for the Harvester to + address the association and describe his work and methods and present his + medicine. The doctor went out in the car over sloppy roads with that + letter, and located the Harvester in the sugar camp. He explained the + situation and to his surprise found his man intensely interested. He asked + many questions as to the length of time, and amount of detail required in + a proper paper, and the doctor told him. + </p> + <p> + “But if you want to make a clean sweep, David,” he said, “write your paper + simply, and practise until it comes easy before you speak.” + </p> + <p> + That night the Harvester left work long enough to get a notebook, and by + the light of the camp fire, and in company with the owls and coons, he + wrote his outline. One division described his geographical location, + another traced his ancestry and education in wood lore. One was a tribute + to the mother who moulded his character and ground into him stability for + his work. The remainder described his methods in growing drugs, drying and + packing them, and the end was a presentation for their examination of the + remedy that had given life where a great surgeon had conceded death. Then + he began amplification. + </p> + <p> + When the sugar making was over the Harvester commenced his regular spring + work, but his mind was so busy over his paper that he did not have much + time to realize just how badly his heart was beginning to ache. Neither + did he consign so many letters to the fire fairies, for now he was writing + of the best way to dry hydrastis and preserve ginseng seed. The day before + time to start he drove to Onabasha to try on his clothing and have Mrs. + Carey see if he had been right in his selections. + </p> + <p> + While he was gone, Granny Moreland, wearing a clean calico dress and + carrying a juicy apple pie, came to the stretch of flooded marsh land, and + finding the path under water, followed the road and crossing a field + reached the levee and came to the bridge of Singing Water where it entered + the lake. She rested a few minutes there, and then went to the cabin + shining between bare branches. She opened the front door, entered, and + stood staring around her. + </p> + <p> + “Why things is all tore up here,” she said. “Now ain't that sensible of + David to put everything away and save it nice and careful until his woman + gets back. Seems as if she's good and plenty long coming; seems as if her + folks needs her mighty bad, or she's having a better time than the boy is + or something.” + </p> + <p> + She set the pie on the table, went through the cabin and up the hill a + little distance, calling the Harvester. When she passed the barn she + missed Betsy and the wagon, and then she knew he was in town. She returned + to the living-room and sat looking at the pie as she rested. + </p> + <p> + “I'd best put you on the kitchen table,” she mused. “Likely he will see + you there first and eat you while you are fresh. I'd hate mortal bad for + him to overlook you, and let you get stale, after all the care I've took + with your crust, and all the sugar, cinnamon, and butter that's under your + lid. You're a mighty nice pie, and you ort to be et hot. Now why under the + sun is all them clean letters pitched in the fireplace?” + </p> + <p> + Granny knelt and selecting one, she blew off the ashes, wiped it with her + apron and read: “To Ruth, in care of the fire fairies.” + </p> + <p> + “What the Sam Hill is the idiot writin' his woman like that for?” cried + Granny, bristling instantly. “And why is he puttin' pages and pages of + good reading like this must have in it in care of the fire fairies? Too + much alone, I guess! He's going wrong in his head. Nobody at themselves + would do sech a fool trick as this. I believe I had better do something. + Of course I had! These is writ to Ruth; she ort to have them. Wish't I + knowed how she gets her mail, I'd send her some. Mebby three! I'd send a + fat and a lean, and a middlin' so's that she'd have a sample of all the + kinds they is. It's no way to write letters and pitch them in the ashes. + It means the poor boy is honin' to say things he dassent and so he's + writin' them out and never sendin' them at all. What's the little huzzy + gone so long for, anyway? I'll fix her!” + </p> + <p> + Granny selected three letters, blew away the ashes, and tucked the + envelopes inside her dress. + </p> + <p> + “If I only knowed how to get at her,” she muttered. She stared at the pie. + “I guess you got to go back,” she said, “and be et by me. Like as not I'll + stall myself, for I got one a-ready. But if David has got these fool + things counted and misses any, and then finds that pie here, he'll + s'picion me. Yes, I got to take you back, and hurry my stumps at that.” + </p> + <p> + Granny arose with the pie, cast a lingering and covetous glance at the + fireplace, stooped and took another letter, and then started down the + drive. Just as she reached the bridge she looked ahead and saw the + Harvester coming up the levee. Instantly she shot the pie over the railing + and with a groan watched it strike the water and disappear. + </p> + <p> + “Lord of love!” she gasped, sinking to the seat, “that was one of + grandmother's willer plates that I promised Ruth. 'Tain't likely I'll ever + see hide ner hair of it again. But they wa'ant no place to put it, and I + dassent let him know I'd been up to the cabin. Mebby I can fetch a boy + some day and hire him to dive for it. How long can a plate be in water and + not get spiled anyway? Now what'll I do? My head's all in a whirl! I'll + bet my bosom is a sticking out with his letters 'til he'll notice and take + them from me.” + </p> + <p> + She gripped her hands across her chest and sat staring at the Harvester as + he stopped on the bridge, and seeing her attitude and distressed face, he + sprang from the wagon. + </p> + <p> + “Why Granny, are you sick?” he cried anxiously. + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” gasped Granny Moreland. “Yes, David, I am! I'm a miserable woman. I + never was in sech a shape in all my days.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me help you to the cabin, and I'll see what I can do for you,” + offered the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “No. This is jest out of your reach,” said the old lady. “I want——I + want to see Doctor Carey bad.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you strong enough to ride in or shall I bring him?” + </p> + <p> + “I can go! I can go as well as not, David, if you'll take me.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me run Betsy to the barn and get the Girl's phaeton. The wagon is too + rough for you. Are the pains in your chest dreadful?” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know how to describe them,” said Granny with perfect truth. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester leaped into the wagon and caught up the lines. As he + disappeared around the curve of the driveway Granny snatched the letters + from her dress front and thrust them deep into one of her stockings. + </p> + <p> + “Now, drat you!” she cried. “Stick out all you please. Nobody will see you + there.” + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes the Harvester helped her into the carriage and drove + rapidly toward the city. + </p> + <p> + “You needn't strain your critter,” said Granny. “It's not so bad as that, + David.” + </p> + <p> + “Is your chest any better?” + </p> + <p> + “A sight better,” said Granny. “Shakin' up a little 'pears to do me good.” + </p> + <p> + “You never should have tried to walk. Suppose I hadn't been here. And you + came the long way, too! I'll have a telephone run to your house so you can + call me after this.” + </p> + <p> + Granny sat very straight suddenly. + </p> + <p> + “My! wouldn't that get away with some of my foxy neighbours,” she said. + “Me to have a 'phone like they do, an' be conversin' at all hours of the + day with my son's folks and everybody. I'd be tickled to pieces, David.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I'll never dare do it,” said the Harvester, “because I can't keep + house without you.” + </p> + <p> + “Where's your own woman?” promptly inquired Granny. + </p> + <p> + “She can't leave her people. Her grandmother is sick.” + </p> + <p> + “Grandmother your foot!” cried the old woman. “I've been hearing that song + and dance from the neighbours, but you got to fool younger people than me + on it, David. When did any grandmother ever part a pair of youngsters jest + married, for months at a clip? I'd like to cast my eyes on that + grandmother. She's a new breed! I was as good a mother as 'twas in my skin + to be, and I'd like to see a child of mine do it for me; and as for my + grandchildren, it hustles some of them to re-cog-nize me passing on the + big road, 'specially if it's Peter's girl with a town beau.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester laughed. The old lady leaned toward him with a mist in her + eyes and a quaver in her voice, and asked softly, “Got ary friend that + could help you, David?” + </p> + <p> + The man looked straight ahead in silence. + </p> + <p> + “Bamfoozle all the rest of them as much as you please, lad, but I stand to + you in the place of your ma, and so I ast you plainly——got ary + friend that could help?” + </p> + <p> + “I can think of no way in which any one possibly could help me, dear,” + said the Harvester gently. “It is a matter I can't explain, but I know of + nothing that any one could do.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean you're tight-mouthed! You COULD tell me just like you would your + ma, if she was up and comin'; but you can't quite put me in her place, and + spit it out plain. Now mebby I can help you! Is it her fault or yourn?” + </p> + <p> + “Mine! Mine entirely!” + </p> + <p> + “Hum! What a fool question! I might a knowed it! I never saw a lovinger, + sweeter girl in these parts. I jest worship the ground she treads on; and + you, lad you hain't had a heart in your body sence first you saw her face. + If I had the stren'th, I'd haul you out of this keeridge and I'd hammer + you meller, David Langston. What in the name of sense have you gone and + done to the purty, lovin' child?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester's face flushed, but a line around his mouth whitened. + </p> + <p> + “Loosen up!” commanded Granny. “I got some rights in this case that mebby + you don't remember. You asked me to help you get ready for her, and I done + what you wanted. You invited me to visit her, and I jest loved her sweet, + purty ways. You wanted me to shet up my house and come over for weeks to + help take keer of her, and I done it gladly, for her pain and your + sufferin' cut me as if 'twas my livin' flesh and blood; so you can't shet + me out now. I'm in with you and her to the end. What a blame fool thing + have you gone and done to drive away for months a girl that fair + worshipped you?” + </p> + <p> + “That's exactly the trouble, Granny,” said the Harvester. “She didn't! She + merely respected and was grateful to me, and she loved me as a friend; but + I never was any nearer her husband than I am yours.” + </p> + <p> + “I've always knowed they was a screw loose somewhere,” commented Granny. + “And so you've sent her off to her worldly folks in a big, wicked city to + get weaned away from you complete?” + </p> + <p> + “I sent her to let her see if absence would teach her anything. I had + months with her here, and I lay awake at nights thinking up new plans to + win her. I worked for her love as I never worked for bread, but I couldn't + make it. So I let her go to see if separation would teach her anything.” + </p> + <p> + “Mercy me! Why you crazy critter! The child did love you! She loved you + 'nough an' plenty! She loved you faithful and true! You was jest the light + of her eyes. I don't see how a girl could think more of a man. What in the + name of sense are you expecting months of separation to teach her, but to + forget you, and mebby turn her to some one else?” + </p> + <p> + “I hoped it would teach her what I call love, means,” explained the + Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Why you dratted popinjay! If ever in all my born days I wanted to take a + man and jest lit'rally mop up the airth with him, it's right here and now. + 'Absence teach her what you call love.' Idiot! That's your job!” + </p> + <p> + “But, Granny, I couldn't!” + </p> + <p> + “Wouldn't, you mean, no doubt! I hain't no manner of a notion in my head + but that child, depending on you, and grateful as she was, and tender and + loving, and all sech as that I hain't a doubt but she come to you plain + and told you she loved you with all her heart. What more could you ast?” + </p> + <p> + “That she understand what love means before I can accept what she offers.” + </p> + <p> + “You puddin' head! You blunderbuss!” cried Granny. “Understand what you + mean by love. If you're going to bar a woman from being a wife 'til she + knows what you mean by love, you'll stop about nine tenths of the weddings + in the world, and t'other tenth will be women that no decent-minded man + would jine with.” + </p> + <p> + “Granny, are you sure?” + </p> + <p> + “Well livin' through it, and up'ard of seventy years with other women, ort + to teach me something. The Girl offered you all any man needs to ast or + git. Her foundations was laid in faith and trust. Her affections was + caught by every loving, tender, thoughtful thing you did for her; and + everybody knows you did a-plenty, David. I never see sech a master hand at + courtin' as you be. You had her lovin' you all any good woman knows how to + love a man. All you needed to a-done was to take her in your arms, and + make her your wife, and she'd 'a' waked up to what you meant by love.” + </p> + <p> + “But suppose she never awakened?” + </p> + <p> + “Aw, bosh! S'pose water won't wet! S'pose fire won't burn! S'pose the sun + won't shine! That's the law of nature, man! If you think I hain't got no + sense at all I jest dare you to ask Doctor Carey. 'Twouldn't take him long + to comb the kinks out of you.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't think you have left any, Granny,” said the Harvester. “I see what + you mean, and in all probability you are right, but I can't send for the + Girl.” + </p> + <p> + “Name o' goodness why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I sent her away against her will, and now she is remaining so + long that there is every probability she prefers the life she is living + and the friends she has made there, to Medicine Woods and to me. The only + thing I can do now is to await her decision.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, good Lord!” groaned Granny. “You make me sick enough to kill. Touch + up your nag and hustle me to Doc. You can't get me there quick enough to + suit me.” + </p> + <p> + At the hospital she faced Doctor Carey. “I think likely some of my innards + has got to be cut out and mended,” she said. “I'll jest take a few minutes + of your time to examination me, and see what you can do.” + </p> + <p> + In the private office she held the letters toward the doctor. “They hain't + no manner of sickness ailin' me, Doc. The boy out there is in deep water, + and I knowed how much you thought of him, and I hoped you'd give me a + lift. I went over to his place this mornin' to take him a pie, and I found + his settin' room fireplace heapin' with letters he'd writ to Ruth about + things his heart was jest so bustin' full of it eased him to write them + down, and then he hadn't the horse sense and trust in her jedgment to send + them on to her. I picked two fats, a lean, and a middlin' for samples, and + I thought I'd send them some way, and I struck for home with them an' he + ketched me plumb on the bridge. I had to throw my pie overboard, willer + plate and all, and as God is my witness, I was so flustered the boy had + good reason to think I was sick a-plenty; and soon as he noticed it, I + thought of you spang off, and I knowed you'd know her whereabouts, and I + made him fetch me to you. On the way I jest dragged it from him that he'd + sent her away his fool self, because she didn't sense what he meant by + love, and she wa'ant beholden to him same degree and manner he was to her. + Great day, Doc! Did you ever hear a piece of foolishness to come up with + that? I told him to ast you! I told him you'd tell him that no clean, + sweet-minded girl ever had known nor ever would know what love means to a + man 'til he marries her and teaches her. Ain't it so, Doc?” + </p> + <p> + “It certainly is.” + </p> + <p> + “Then will you grind it into him, clean to the marrer, and will you send + these letters on to Ruthie?” + </p> + <p> + “Most certainly I will,” said the doctor emphatically. Granny opened the + door and walked out. + </p> + <p> + “I'm so relieved, David,” she said. “He thinks they won't be no manner o' + need to knife me. Likely he can fix up a few pills and send them out by + mail so's that I'll be as good as new again. Now we must get right out of + here and not take valuable time. What do I owe you, Doc?” + </p> + <p> + “Not a cent,” said Doctor Carey. “Thank you very much for coming to me. + You'll soon be all right again.” + </p> + <p> + “I was some worried. Much obliged I am sure. Come on!” + </p> + <p> + “One minute,” said the doctor. “David, I am making up a list of friends to + whom I am going to send programmes of the medical meeting, and I thought + your wife might like to see you among the speakers, and your subject. What + is her address?” + </p> + <p> + A slow red flushed the Harvester's cheeks. He opened his lips and + hesitated. At last he said, “I think perhaps her people prefer that she + receive mail under her maiden name while with them. Miss Ruth Jameson, + care of Alexander Herron, 5770 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, will reach + her.” + </p> + <p> + The doctor wrote the address, as if it were the most usual thing in the + world, and asked the Harvester if he was ready to make the trip east. + </p> + <p> + “I think we had best start to-night,” he said. “We want a day to grow + accustomed to our clothes and new surroundings before we run up squarely + against serious business.” + </p> + <p> + “I will be ready,” promised the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + He took Granny home, set his house in order, installed the man he was + leaving in charge, touched a match to the heap in the fireplace, and + donning the new travelling suit, he went to Doctor Carey's. + </p> + <p> + Mrs. Carey added a few touches, warned him to remember about the forks and + spoons, and not to forget to shave often, and saw them off. At the station + Carey said to him, “You know, David, we can change at Wayne and go through + Buffalo, or we can take the Pittsburg and go and come through + Philadelphia.” + </p> + <p> + “I am contemplating a trip to Philadelphia,” said the Harvester, “but I + believe I will not be ready for, say a month yet. I have a theory and it + dies hard. If it does not work out the coming month, I will go, perhaps, + but not now. Let us see how many kinds of a fool I make of myself in New + York before I attempt the Quakers.” + </p> + <p> + Almost to the city, the doctor smiled at the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “David, where did you get your infernal assurance?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “In the woods,” answered the Harvester placidly. “In doing clean work. + With my fingers in the muck, and life literally teeming and boiling in + sound and action, around, above, and beneath me, a right estimate of my + place and province in life comes naturally in daily handling stores on + which humanity depends, I go even deeper than you surgeons and physicians. + You are powerless unless I reinforce your work with drugs on which you can + rely. I do clean, honest work. I know its proper place and value to the + world. That is why I called what I have to say, 'The Man in the + Background.' There is no reason why I should shiver and shrink at meeting + and explaining my work to my fellows. Every man has his vocation, and some + of you in the limelight would cut a sorry figure if the man in the + background should fail you at the critical moment. Don't worry about me, + Doc. I am all serene. You won't find I possess either nerves or fear. 'Be + sure you are right, and then go ahead,' is my law.” + </p> + <p> + “Well I'll be confounded!” said the doctor. + </p> + <p> + In a large hall, peopled with thousands of medical men, the name of the + Harvester was called the following day and his subject was announced. He + arose in his place and began to talk. + </p> + <p> + “Take the platform,” came in a roar from a hundred throats. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester hesitated. + </p> + <p> + “You must, David,” whispered Carey. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester made his way forward and was guided through a side door, and + a second later calmly walked down the big stage to the front, and stood at + ease looking over his audience, as if to gauge its size and the pitch to + which he should raise his voice. His lean frame loomed every inch of his + six feet, his broad shoulders were square, his clean shaven face alert and + afire. He wore a spring suit of light gray of good quality and cut, and he + was perfect as to details. + </p> + <p> + “This scarcely seems compatible with my subject,” he remarked casually. “I + certainly appear very much in the foreground just at present, but perhaps + that is quite as well. It may be time that I assert myself. I doubt if + there is a man among you who has not handled my products more or less; you + may enjoy learning where and how they are prepared, and understanding the + manner in which my work merges with yours. I think perhaps the first thing + is to paint you as good a word picture as I can of my geographical + location.” + </p> + <p> + Then the Harvester named latitude and longitude and degrees of + temperature. He described the lake, the marsh, the wooded hill, the swale, + and open sunny fields. He spoke of water, soil, shade, and geographical + conditions. “Here I was born,” he said, “on land owned by my father and + grandfather before me, and previous to them, by the Indians. My male + ancestors, so far as I can trace them, were men of the woods, hunters, + trappers, herb gatherers. My mother was from the country, educated for a + teacher. She had the most inexorable will power of any woman I ever have + known. From my father I inherited my love for muck on my boots, resin in + my nostrils, the long trail, the camp fire, forest sounds and silences in + my soul. From my mother I learned to read good books, to study subjects + that puzzled me, to tell the truth, to keep my soul and body clean, and to + pursue with courage the thing to which I set my hand. + </p> + <p> + “There was not money enough to educate me as she would; together we + learned to find it in the forest. In early days we sold ferns and wild + flowers to city people, harvested the sap of the maples in spring, and the + nut crop of the fall. Later, as we wanted more, we trapped for skins, and + collected herbs for the drug stores. This opened to me a field I was + peculiarly fitted to enter. I knew woodcraft instinctively, I had the + location of every herb, root, bark, and seed that will endure my climate; + I had the determination to stick to my job, the right books to assist me, + and my mother's invincible will power to uphold me where I wavered. + </p> + <p> + “As I look into your faces, men, I am struck with the astounding thought + that some woman bore the cold sweat and pain of labour to give life to + each of you. I hope few of you prolonged that agony as I did. It was in + the heart of my mother to make me physically clean, and to that end she + sent me daily into the lake, so long as it was not ice covered, and put me + at exercises intended to bring full strength to every sinew and fibre of + my body. It was in her heart to make me morally clean, so she took me to + nature and drilled me in its forces and its methods of reproducing life + according to the law. Her work was good to a point that all men will + recognize. From there on, for a few years, she held me, not because I was + man enough to stand, but because she was woman enough to support me. + Without her no doubt I would have broken the oath I took; with her I won + the victory and reached years of manhood and self-control as she would + have had me. The struggle wore her out at half a lifetime, but as a + tribute to her memory I cannot face a body of men having your + opportunities without telling you that what was possible to her and to me + is possible to all mothers and men. If she is above and hears me perhaps + it will recompense some of her shortened years if she knows I am pleading + with you, as men having the greatest influence of any living, to tell and + to teach the young that a clean life is possible to them. The next time + any of you are called upon to address a body of men tell them to learn for + themselves and to teach their sons, and to hold them at the critical hour, + even by sweat and blood, to a clean life; for in this way only can + feeble-minded homes, almshouses, and the scarlet woman be abolished. In + this way only can men arise to full physical and mental force, and become + the fathers of a race to whom the struggle for clean manhood will not be + the battle it is with us. + </p> + <p> + “By the distorted faces, by the misshapen bodies, by marks of degeneracy, + recognizable to your practised eyes everywhere on the streets, by the + agony of the mother who bore you, and later wept over you, I conjure you + men to live up to your high and holy privilege, and tell all men that they + can be clean, if they will. This in memory of the mother who shortened her + days to make me a moral man. And if any among you is the craven to plead + immorality as a safeguard to health, I ask, what about the health of the + women you sacrifice to shield your precious bodies, and I offer my own as + the best possible refutation of that cowardly lie. I never have been ill a + moment in all my life, and strength never has failed me for work to which + I set my hand. + </p> + <p> + “The rapidly decreasing supply of drugs and the adulterated importations + early taught me that the day was coming when it would be an absolute + necessity to raise our home supplies. So, while yet in my teens, I began + collecting from the fields and woods for miles around such medicinal stuff + as grew in my father's fields, marsh, and woods, and planting more + wherever I found anything growing naturally in its prime. I merely + enlarged nature's beds and preserved their natural condition. As the + plants spread and the harvest increased, I built a dry-house on scientific + principles, a large store-room, and later a laboratory in which I have + been learning to prepare some of my crude material for the market, + combining ideas of my own in remedies, and at last producing one your + president just has indicated that I come to submit to you as a final + resort in certain conditions. + </p> + <p> + “My operations now have spread to close six hundred acres of almost solid + medicinal growth, including a little lake, around the shores of which + flourish a quadruple setting of water-loving herbs.” + </p> + <p> + Occasionally he shifted his position or easily walked across the platform + and faced his audience from a different direction. His voice was strong, + deep, and rang clearly and earnestly. His audience sat on the front edge + of their chairs, and listened to something new, with mouths half agape. A + few times Carey turned from the speaker to face the audience. He agonized + in his heart that it was a closed session, and that his wife was not there + to hear, and that the Girl was missing it. + </p> + <p> + By the bent backs and flying fingers of the reporters at their table in + front he could see that to-morrow the world would read the Harvester's + speech; and if it were true that the little mother had shortened her days + to produce him, she had done earth a service for which many generations + would call her blessed. For the doctor could look ahead, and he knew that + this man would not escape. The call for him and his unimpeachable truth + would come from everywhere, and his utterances would carry as far as + newspapers and magazines were circulated. The good he would do would be + past estimation. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester continued. He was describing the most delicate and difficult + of herbs to secure. He was telling how they could be raised, prepared, + kept, and compounded. He was discussing diseases that did not readily + yield to treatment, pointing out what drugs were customarily employed and + offering, if any of them had such cases, and would send to him, to forward + samples of unadulterated stuff sufficient for a test comparison with what + they were using. He was walking serenely and surely into the heart of + every man before him. + </p> + <p> + Just at the point where it was the psychological time to close, he stopped + and stood a long instant facing them, and then he asked softly, “Did any + man among you ever see the woman to whom he had given a strong man's first + passion of love, slowly dying before him?” + </p> + <p> + One breathless instant he waited and then continued, “Gentlemen, I + recently saw this in my own case. For days it was coming, so at night I + shut myself in my laboratory, and from the very essence of the purest of + my self-compounded drugs I distilled a stimulant into which I put a touch + of heart remedy, a brace for weakening nerves, a vitalization of sluggish + blood. As I worked, I thought in that thought which embodied the essence + of prayer, and when my day and my hour came, and a man who has been the + president of your honourable body, and is known to all of you, said it was + death, I took this combination that I now present to you, and with the + help of the Almighty and a woman above the price of rubies, I kept breath + in the girl I love, and to-day she is at full tide of womanhood. As a + thank offering, the formula is yours. Test it as you will. Use it if you + find it good. Gentlemen, I thank you!” + </p> + <p> + Carey sank in his chair and watched the Harvester cross the stage. As he + disappeared the tumult began, and it lasted until the president arose and + brought him back to make another bow, and then they rioted until they wore + themselves out. In an immaculate dress suit the Harvester sat that night + on the right of the gray-haired president and responded to the toast, “The + Harvester of the Woods.” Then the reporters carried him away to be + photographed, and to show him the gay sights of New York. + </p> + <p> + In the train the next day, steadily speeding west, he said to Doctor + Carey: “I feel as the old woman of Mother Goose who said, 'Lawk-a-mercy on + us, can this be really I?'” + </p> + <p> + “You just bet it is!” cried the doctor. “And you have cut out work for + yourself in good shape.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “I mean that this is a beginning. You will be called upon to speak again + and again.” + </p> + <p> + “The point is, do you honestly think I helped any?” + </p> + <p> + “You did inestimable good. It only can help men to hear plain truth that + is personal experience. As for that dope of yours, it will come closer + raising the dead than anything I ever saw. Next case I see slipping, after + I've done my best, I'm going to try it out for myself.” + </p> + <p> + “All right! 'Phone me and I'll bring some fresh and help you.” + </p> + <p> + At Buffalo the doctor left the car and bought a paper. As he had expected + the portrait and speech of the Harvester were featured. The reporters had + been gracious. They had done all that was just to a great event, and + allowed themselves some latitude. He immediately mailed the paper to the + Girl, and at Cleveland bought another for himself. When he showed it to + the Harvester, as he glanced at it he observed, “Do I appear like that?” + Then he went on talking with a man he had met who interested him. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI. THE COMING OF THE BLUEBIRD + </h2> + <p> + The Harvester stopped at the mail box on his way home and among the mass + of matter it contained was something from the Girl. It was a scrap as long + as his least finger and three times as wide, and by the postmark it had + lain four days in the box. On opening it, he found only her card with a + line written across it, but the man went up the hill and into the cabin as + if a cyclone were driving him, for he read, “Has your bluebird come?” + </p> + <p> + He threw his travelling bag on the floor, ran to the telephone, and called + the station. “Take this message,” he said. “Mrs. David Langston, care of + Alexander Herron, 5770 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia. Found note after + four days' absence. Bluebird long past due. The fairies have told it that + my fate hereafter lies in your hands. + </p> + <p> + “As always. David.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester turned from the instrument and bent to embrace Belshazzar, + leaping in ecstasy beside him. + </p> + <p> + “Understand that, Bel?” he asked. “I don't know but it means something. + Maybe it doesn't——not a thing! And again, there is a chance——only + the merest possibility——that it does. We'll risk it, Bel, and + to begin on I have nailed it as hard as I knew how. Next, we will clean + the house——until it shines, and then we will fill the + cupboard, and if anything does happen we won't be caught napping. Yes, + boy, we will take the chance! We can't be any worse disappointed than we + have been before and survived it. Come along!” + </p> + <p> + He picked up the bag and arranged its contents, carefully brushed and + folded on his shelves and in his closet. Then he removed the travelling + suit, donned the old brown clothes and went to the barn to see that his + creatures had been cared for properly. Early the next morning he awoke and + after feeding and breakfasting instead of going to harvest spice brush and + alder he stretched a line and hung the bedding from room after room to air + and sun. He swept, dusted, and washed windows, made beds, and lastly + polished the floors throughout the cabin. He set everything in order, and + as a finishing touch, filled vases, pitchers, and bowls with the bloom of + red bud and silky willow catkins. He searched the south bank, but there + was not a violet, even in the most exposed places. By night he was tired + and a little of the keen edge of his ardour was dulled. The next day he + worked scrubbing the porches, straightening the lawn and hedges, even + sweeping the driveway to the bridge clear of wind-whirled leaves and + straw. He scouted around the dry-house and laboratory, and spent several + extra hours on the barn so that when evening came everything was in + perfect order. Then he dressed, ate his supper and drove to the city. + </p> + <p> + He stopped at the mail box, but there was nothing from the Girl. The + Harvester did not know whether he was sorry or glad. A letter might have + said the same thing. Nothing meant a delightful possibility, and between + the two he preferred the latter. He whistled and sang as he drove to + Onabasha, and Belshazzar looked at him with mystified eyes, for this was + not the master he had known of late. He did not recognize the dress or the + manner, but his dog heart was sympathetic to the man's every mood, and he + remembered times when a drive down the levee always had been like this, + for to-night the Harvester's tongue was loosened and he talked in the old + way. + </p> + <p> + “Just four words, Bel,” he said. “And, as I remarked before, they may mean + the most wonderful thing on earth, and possibly nothing at all. But it is + in the heart of man to hope, Bel, and so we are going to live royally for + a week or two, just on hope, old boy. If anything should happen, we are + ready, rooms shining, beds fresh, fireplaces filled and waiting a match, + ice chest cool, and when we get back it will be stored. Also a secret, + Bel; we are going to a florist and a fruit store. While we are at it, we + will do the thing right; but we will stay away from Doc, until we are sure + of something. He means well, but we don't like to be pitied, do we, Bel? + Our friends don't manage their eyes and voices very well these days. Never + mind! Our time will come yet. The bluebird will not fail us, but never + before has it been so late.” + </p> + <p> + On his return he filled the pantry shelves with packages, stored the ice + chest, and set a basket of delicious fruit on the dining table. Two boxes + remained. He opened the larger one and took from it an arm load of white + lilies that he carried up the hill and divided between the mounds under + the oak. Then he uncovered his head, and standing at the foot of them he + looked among the boughs of the big tree and listened intently. After a + time a soft, warm wind, catkin-scented, crept from the lake, and began a + murmur among the clusters of brown leaves clinging to the branches. + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” said the Harvester, “were you with me? Did I do it right? Did I + tell them what you would have had me say for the boys? Are you glad now + you held me to the narrow way? Do you want me to go before men if I am + asked, as Doc says I will be, and tell them that the only way to abolish + pain is for them to begin at the foundation by living clean lives? I don't + know if I did any good, but they listened to me. Anyway, I did the best I + knew. But that isn't strange; you ground it into me to do that every day, + until it is almost an instinct. Mother, dear, can you tell me about the + bluebird? Is that softest little rustle of all your voice? and does it say + 'hope'? I think so, and I thank you for the word.” + </p> + <p> + The man's eyes dropped to earth. + </p> + <p> + “And you other mother,” he said, “have you any message for me? Up where + you are can you sweep the world with understanding eyes and tell me why my + bluebird does not come? Does it know that this year your child and not + chance must settle my fate? Can you look across space and see if she is + even thinking of me? But I know that! She had to be thinking of me when + she wrote that line. Rather can you tell me——will she come? Do + you think I am man enough to be trusted with her future, if she does? One + thing I promise you: if such joy ever comes to me, I will know how to meet + it gently, thankfully, tenderly, please God. Good night, little women. I + hope you are sleeping well——” + </p> + <p> + He turned and went down the hill, entered the cabin and took from the + other box a mass of Parma violets. He put these in the pink bowl and + placed it on the table beside the Girl's bed. He stood for a time, and + then began pulling single flowers from the bowl and dropping them over the + pillow and snowy spread. + </p> + <p> + “God, how I love her!” he whispered softly. + </p> + <p> + At last he went out and closed the door. He was tired and soon fell asleep + with the night breeze stirring his hair, and the glamour of moonlight + flooding the lake touched his face. Clearly it etched the strong, manly + features, the fine brow and chin, and painted in unusual tenderness the + soft lines around the mouth. The little owl wavered its love story, a few + frogs were piping, and the Harvester lay breathing the perfumed spring air + deeply and evenly. Near midnight Belshazzar awakened him by arising from + the bedside and walking to the door. + </p> + <p> + “What is it, Bel?” inquired the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + The dog whined softly. The man turned his head toward the lake. A ray of + red light touched the opposite embankment and came wavering across the + surface. The Harvester sat up. Two big, flaming eyes were creeping up the + levee. + </p> + <p> + “That,” said the Harvester, “might be Doc coming for me to help him try + out my bottled sunshine, or it might be my bluebird.” + </p> + <p> + He tossed back the cover, swung his feet to the floor, setting each in a + slipper beside the bed, and arose, dressing as he started for the door. As + he opened the screen and stepped on the veranda a passenger car from the + city stopped, and the Harvester went down the walk to meet it. His heart + turned over when he saw a woman's hand on the door. + </p> + <p> + “Permit me,” he said, taking the handle and bringing it back with a sweep. + A tall form arose, bent forward, and descended to the step. The full flare + of moonlight fell on the glowing face of the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Harvester, is it you?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” gasped the man. + </p> + <p> + Two hands came fluttering out, and he just had presence of mind to step in + range so that they rested on his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “Has the bluebird come?” + </p> + <p> + “Not yet!” + </p> + <p> + “Then I am not too late?” + </p> + <p> + “Never too late to come to me, Ruth.” + </p> + <p> + “I am welcome?” + </p> + <p> + “I have no words to tell you how welcome.” + </p> + <p> + She swayed forward and the Harvester tried to reach her lips, but they + brushed his cheek and touched his ear. + </p> + <p> + “I have brought one more kiss I want to try,” she whispered. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester crushed her in his arms until he frightened himself for fear + he had hurt her, and murmured an ecstasy of indistinct love words to her. + Presently her feet touched the ground and she drew away from him. + </p> + <p> + “Harvester,” she whispered, “I couldn't wait any longer; indeed I could + not: and I couldn't leave grandfather and grandmother, and I didn't know + what in the world to do, so I just brought them along. Are they welcome?” + </p> + <p> + “Aside from you, I would rather have them than any people on earth,” said + the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + There were two sounds in the car; one was an approving murmur, and the + other an undeniable snort. The Harvester felt the reassuring pressure of + the Girl's hand. + </p> + <p> + “Please, Ruth,” he said, “go turn on the light so that I can see to help + grandmother.” + </p> + <p> + A foot stamped before the front seat. “Madam Herron, if you please!” cried + an acrid voice. + </p> + <p> + “'Madam Herron,'” said the Harvester gently, as he set a foot on the step, + reached in and bodily picked up a little old lady and started up the walk + with her in his arms. + </p> + <p> + “Careful there, sir!” roared a voice after him. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester could feel the quake of the laughing woman and he smiled + broadly as he entered the cabin, and placed her in a large chair before + the fire. Then he wheeled and ran back to the car, reaching it as the man + was making an effort to descend. It could be seen that he had been tall, + before time and sorrow had bent him, and keen eyes gleamed below shaggy + white brows from under his hat brim. He had a white moustache, and his + hair was snowy. + </p> + <p> + “Allow me,” said the Harvester reaching a hand. + </p> + <p> + “If you touch me I will cane you,” said Mr. Alexander Herron. + </p> + <p> + There was nothing to do but step back. The cane, wheel, and a long coat + skirt interfering, the old man fell headlong, and only quick hands saved + him a severe jolt and bruises. He stood glaring in the moonlight while his + hat was restored. + </p> + <p> + “If you run your car to the curve you can back toward the south and turn + easily,” said the Harvester to the driver. As the automobile passed them + he offered his arm. “May I show you to the fire? These spring nights are + chilly.” + </p> + <p> + “'Chilly!' Demnition cold is what they are! I'm frozen to the bone! This + will be the end of us both! Dragging people of our age around at this hour + of night. Of all the accursed stubbornness!” + </p> + <p> + “There are three low steps,” said the Harvester, “now a straight stretch + of walk, now two steps; there you are on the level. Here is an easy chair. + It would be better to leave on your coat, until I light the fire.” + </p> + <p> + He knelt and scratched a match, and almost instantly a flame sprang from + the heap of dry kindling, and began to wrap around the big logs. + </p> + <p> + “How pretty!” exclaimed a soft voice. + </p> + <p> + “Kind of a hunting lodge in the wilds, is it?” growled a rough one. + “Marcella, you will take your death here!” + </p> + <p> + “I'm sure I feel no exposure. Really, Alexander, if I had passed away + every time you have prophesied that I would in the past twenty years you'd + have the largest private cemetery in existence. If you would not be so + pessimistic I could quite enjoy the trip. It's so long since I've ridden + in the cars.” + </p> + <p> + “Of all the abandoned places! And for you to be here, after your years in + bed!” + </p> + <p> + “But I'm not nearly so tired as I am at home, Alexander, truly.” + </p> + <p> + “Let me help you, grandfather,” offered the Girl. + </p> + <p> + She went to him and took his hat and stick. + </p> + <p> + “Leave me my cane,” he cried. “Any instant that beast may attack some of + us.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl laughed merrily. + </p> + <p> + “Why grandfather!” she chided, “Bel is the finest dog you ever knew, he is + my best friend here. By the hour he has protected me, and he is gentle as + a kitten. He's crazy over my coming home.” + </p> + <p> + She knelt on the floor, put her arms around the dog's neck, and the + delighted brute quivered with the joy of her caress and the sound of her + loved voice. + </p> + <p> + “Ruthie!” cautioned the gentle lady. + </p> + <p> + “Put that cur out of doors, where animals belong,” roared the old man, + lifting his stick. + </p> + <p> + “Careful!” warned the grave voice of the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “I thought you said he was gentle as a kitten!” + </p> + <p> + “Grandfather, I said that,” cried the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “Well wasn't it the truth?” + </p> + <p> + “You can see how he loves me. Didn't I ever tell you that Bel made the + first friendly overture I ever received in this part of the country? He's + watched me by the day, even while I slept.” + </p> + <p> + “Then what's all this infernal fuss about?” + </p> + <p> + “Try striking him if you want to find out,” explained the Harvester + gently. “You see, Belshazzar and I are accustomed to living here alone and + very quietly. He is excited over the Girl's return, because she is his + friend, and he has not forgotten her. Then this is the first time in his + life he ever heard an irritable voice from a visitor or saw a cane, and it + angers him. He is perfectly safe to guard a baby, if he is gently treated, + but he is a sure throat hold to a stranger who bespeaks him roughly or + attempts to strike. He would be of no use as a guard to valuable property + while I sleep if he were otherwise. Bel, come here! Lie still.” + </p> + <p> + The dog sank to the floor beside the Harvester, but his sharp eyes + followed the Girl, and the hair arose on his neck at every rasping note of + the old man's voice. + </p> + <p> + “I wouldn't give such a creature house room for a minute,” insisted the + guest. + </p> + <p> + “Wait until you see him work and become acquainted with him, and you will + change that verdict,” prophesied the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “I never was known to change an opinion. Never, sir! Never!” cried the + testy voice. + </p> + <p> + “How unfortunate!” remarked the Harvester suavely. + </p> + <p> + “Explain yourself! Explain yourself, sir!” + </p> + <p> + “There never has been, there never will be, a man on this earth,” said the + Harvester, “wholly free from mistakes. Are you warm now?” He turned to the + little lady, cutting off a reply with his question. + </p> + <p> + “Nice and warm and quite sleepy,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “What may I bring you for a light lunch before you go to bed?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, could I have a bite of something?” + </p> + <p> + “If only I am fortunate enough to have anything you will care for. What + about a bowl of hot milk and a slice of toast?” + </p> + <p> + “Why I think that would be just the thing!” + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me,” said the Harvester rising. + </p> + <p> + He went to the kitchen and they could hear him moving around. + </p> + <p> + “I wish the big brute would take his beast along,” growled Mr. Alexander + Herron. + </p> + <p> + “Come, Bel,” ordered the Girl. “Let's go to the kitchen.” + </p> + <p> + The dog instantly arose and followed her. + </p> + <p> + “What can I do to help?” she asked as they reached the door. + </p> + <p> + “Remain where you won't dazzle my eyes,” said the Harvester, “until I help + the gentle lady and the gentle man to bed.” + </p> + <p> + Presently he came with a white cloth, two spoons, and a plate of bread. He + spread the cloth on the table, laid the spoons on it, and opening the + little cupboard, took out a long toasting fork, and sticking it into a + slice of bread, he held it over the coals. When it grew golden brown he + lifted the table beside the chair, and brought a bowl of scalded milk. + </p> + <p> + “Marcella, that stuff will be too smoky for you! Your stomach will rebel + at it.” + </p> + <p> + “Grandfather, there will not be a suspicion of odour,” said the Girl. “I + have had it that way often.” + </p> + <p> + “Then no wonder you came from this place looking like a picked crane, if + that is a sample of what you were fed on!” + </p> + <p> + The face of the Harvester grew redder than the heat of the fire + necessitated, but at the ringing laugh of the Girl he set his teeth and + went on toasting bread. Grandmother crumbled some in the milk and picking + up the spoon tested the combination. She was very hungry, and it was good. + She began eating with relish. + </p> + <p> + “Alexander, you will be the loser if you don't have some of this,” she + said. “It's just delicious!” + </p> + <p> + “Maybe smoked spoon victuals are proper for invalid women,” he retorted, + “but they are mighty thin diet for a hardy man.” + </p> + <p> + “What about a couple of eggs and some beef extract?” suggested the cook. + </p> + <p> + “Sounds more sensible by a long shot.” + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, you make this toast,” said the Harvester and disappeared. + </p> + <p> + Presently he placed before his guest a couple of eggs poached in milk, a + steaming bowl of beef juice, and a plate of toast. For one instant the + Harvester thought this was going into the fire, the next a slice was + picked up and smelled testily. The Girl sat on her grandfather's chair + arm, and breaking a morsel of toast dipped it into the broth and tasted + it. + </p> + <p> + “Oh but that is good!” she cried. “Why haven't I some also? Am I supposed + to have no 'tummy'?” + </p> + <p> + “Your turn next,” said the Harvester, as he again gave her the fork and + went to the kitchen. + </p> + <p> + When he returned and served the Girl he found her grandfather eating + heartily. + </p> + <p> + “Why I think this is fun,” said the gentle lady. “I haven't had such a + fine time in ages. I love the heat of the flame on my body and things + taste so good. I could go to sleep without any narcotic, right now.” + </p> + <p> + Close her knee the Harvester knelt on the hearth with his toasting fork. + She leaned forward and ran her fingers through his hair. + </p> + <p> + “You're a braw laddie,” she said. “Now I see why Ruthie WOULD come.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester took the frail hand and kissed it. “Thank you!” he returned. + </p> + <p> + “Mush!” exploded the grizzled man in the rear. + </p> + <p> + When no one wanted more food the Harvester stacked and carried away the + dishes, swept the hearth, and replaced the toaster. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth and I often lunched this way last fall,” he said. “We liked it for a + change.” + </p> + <p> + “Alexander, have you noticed?” asked the little woman as she lifted wet + eyes to a beautiful portrait of her daughter beside the chimney. + </p> + <p> + “D'ye think I'm blind? Saw it as I entered the door. Poor taste! Very! + Brown may match the rug and wood-work, but it's a wretched colour for a + young girl in her gay time. Should be pink and white with a gold frame.” + </p> + <p> + “That would be beautiful,” agreed the Harvester. “We must have one that + way. This is not an expensive picture. It is only an enlargement from an + old photograph.” + </p> + <p> + “We have a number of very handsome likenesses. Which one can you spare + Ruth, Marcella?” + </p> + <p> + “The one she likes best,” said the lady promptly. + </p> + <p> + “And the other is your mother, no doubt. What a girlish, beautiful face!” + </p> + <p> + “Wonderfully fine!” growled a gruff old voice tinctured with tears, and + the Harvester began to see light. + </p> + <p> + The old man arose. “Ruthie, help your grandmother to bed,” he said. “And + you, sir, have the goodness to walk a few steps with me.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester sprang up and brought Mr. Herron his coat and hat and held + the door. The Girl brushed past him. + </p> + <p> + “To the oak,” she whispered. + </p> + <p> + They went into the night, and without a word the Harvester took his + guest's arm and guided him up the hill. When they reached the two mounds + the moon shining between the branches touched the lily faces with with + holy whiteness. + </p> + <p> + “She sleeps there,” said the Harvester, indicating the place. + </p> + <p> + Then he turned and went down the path a little distance and waited until + he feared the night air would chill the broken old man. + </p> + <p> + “You can see better to-morrow,” he said as he touched the shaking figure + and assisted it to arise. + </p> + <p> + “Your work?” Mr. Alexander Herron touched the lilies with his walking + stick. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester assented. + </p> + <p> + “Do you mind if I carry one to Marcella?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester trembled as he stooped to select the largest and whitest, + and with sudden illumination, he fully understood. He helped the tottering + old man to the cabin, where he sat silently before the fireplace softly + touching the lily face with his lips. + </p> + <p> + “I have put grandmother in my bed, tucked her in warmly, and she says it + is soft and fine,” laughed the Girl, coming to them. “Now you go before + she falls asleep, and I hope you will rest well.” + </p> + <p> + She bent and kissed him. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester held the door. + </p> + <p> + “Can I be of any service?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “No, I'm no helpless child.” + </p> + <p> + “Then to my best wishes for sound sleep the remainder of the night, I will + add this,” said the Harvester——“You may rest in peace + concerning your dear girl. I sympathize with your anxiety. Good night!” + </p> + <p> + Alexander Herron threw out his hands in protest. + </p> + <p> + “I wouldn't mind admitting that you are a gentleman in a month or two,” he + said, “but it's a demnation humiliation to have it literally wrung from me + to-night!” + </p> + <p> + He banged the door in the face of the amazed Harvester, who turned to the + Girl as she leaned against the mantel. He stood absorbing the glowing + picture of beauty and health that she made. She had removed her travelling + dress and shoes, and was draped in a fleecy white wool kimono and wearing + night slippers. Her hair hung in two big braids as it had during her + illness. She was his sick girl again in costume, but radiant health glowed + on her lovely face. The Harvester touched a match to a few candles and + turned out the acetylene lights. Then he stood before her. + </p> + <p> + “Now, bluebird,” he said gently. “Ruth, you always know where to find me, + if you will look at your feet. I thought I loved you all in my power when + you went, but absence has taught its lessons. One is that I can grow to + love you more every day I live, and the other that I probably trifled with + the highest gift you had to offer, when I sent you away. I may have been + right; Granny and Doc think I was wrong. You know the answer. You said + there was another kiss for me. Ruth, is it the same or a different one?” + </p> + <p> + “It is different. Quite, quite different!” + </p> + <p> + “And when?” The Harvester stretched out longing arms. The Girl stepped + back. + </p> + <p> + “I don't know,” she said. “I had it when I started, but I lost it on the + way.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester staggered under the disappointment. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, this has gone far enough that you wouldn't play with me, merely for + the sake of seeing me suffer, would you?” + </p> + <p> + “No!” cried the Girl. “No! I mean it! I knew just what I wanted to say + when I started; but we had to take grandmother out of bed. She wouldn't + allow me to leave her, and I wouldn't stay away from you any longer. She + fainted when we put her on the car and grandfather went wild. He almost + killed the porters, and he raved at me. He said my mother had ruined their + lives, and now I would be their death. I got so frightened I had a nervous + chill and I'm so afraid she will grow worse——” + </p> + <p> + “You poor child!” shuddered the Harvester. “I see! I understand! What you + need is quiet and a good rest.” + </p> + <p> + He placed her in a big easy chair and sitting on the hearth rug he leaned + against her knee and said, “Now tell me, unless you are so tired that you + should go to bed.” + </p> + <p> + “I couldn't possibly sleep until I have told you,” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “If you're merciful, cut it short!” implored the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “I think it begins,” she said slowly, “when I went because you sent me and + I didn't want to go. Of course, as soon as I saw grandfather and + grandmother, heard them talk, and understood what their lives had been, + and what might have been, why there was only one thing to do, as I could + see it, and that was to compensate their agony the best I could. I think I + have, David. I really think I have made them almost happy. But I told them + all any one could tell about you in the start, and from the first + grandmother would have been on your side; but you see how grandfather is, + and he was absolutely determined that I should live with them, in their + home, all their lives. He thought the best way to accomplish that would be + to separate me from you and marry me to the son of his partner. + </p> + <p> + “There are rooms packed with the lovely things they bought me, David, and + everything was as I wrote you. Some of the people who came were wonderful, + so gracious and beautiful, I loved almost all of them. They took me places + where there were pictures, plays, and lovely parties, and I studied hard + to learn some music, to dance, ride and all the things they wanted me to + do, and to read good books, and to learn to meet people with graciousness + to equal theirs, and all of it. Every day I grew stronger and met more + people, and there were different places to go, and always, when anything + was to be done, up popped Mr. Herbert Kennedy and said and did exactly the + right thing, and he could be extremely nice, David.” + </p> + <p> + “I haven't a doubt!” said the Harvester, laying hold of her kimono. + </p> + <p> + “And he popped up so much that at last I saw he was either pretending or + else he really was growing very fond of me, so one day when we were alone + I told him all about you, to make him see that he must not. He laughed at + me, and said exactly what you did, that I didn't love you at all, that it + was gratitude, that it was the affection of a child. He talked for hours + about how grandfather and grandmother had suffered, how it was my duty to + live with them and give you up, even if I cared greatly for you; but he + said what I felt was not love at all. Then he tried to tell me what he + thought love was, and I could see very clearly that if it was like that, I + didn't love you, but I came a whole world closer it than loving him, and I + told him so. He laughed again and said I was mistaken, and that he was + going to teach me what real love was, and then I could not be driven back + to you. After that, everybody and everything just pushed me toward him + with both hands, except one person. She was a young married woman and I + met her at the very first. She was the only real friend I ever had, and at + last, the latter part of February, when things were the very worst, I told + her. I told her every single thing. She was on your side. She said you + were twice the man Herbert Kennedy was, and as soon as I found I could + talk to her about you, I began going there and staying as long as I could, + just to talk and to play with her baby. + </p> + <p> + “Her husband was a splendid young fellow, and I grew very fond of him. I + knew she had told him, because he suddenly began talking to me in the + kindest way, and everything he said seemed to be what I most wanted to + hear. I got along fairly well until hints of spring began to come, and + then I would wonder about my hedge, and my gold garden, and if the ice was + off the lake, and about my boat and horse, and I wanted my room, and oh, + David, most of all I wanted you! Just you! Not because you could give me + anything to compare in richness with what they could, not because this + home was the best I'd ever known except theirs, not for any reason at all + only just that I wanted to see your face, hear your voice, and have you + pick me up and take me in your arms when I was tired. That was when I + almost quit writing. I couldn't say what I wanted to, and I wouldn't write + trivial things, so I went on day after day just groping.” + </p> + <p> + “And you killed me alive,” said the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “I was afraid of that, but I couldn't write. I just couldn't! It was ten + days ago that I thought of the bluebird's coming this year and what it + would mean to you, and THAT killed me, Man! It just hurt my heart until it + ached, to know that you were out here alone; and that night I couldn't + sleep, because I was thinking of you, and it came to me that if I had your + lips then I could give you a much, much better kiss than the last, and + when it was light I wrote that line. + </p> + <p> + “Nearly a week later I got your answer early in the morning, and it almost + drove me wild. I took it and went for the day with May, and I told her. + She took me upstairs, and we talked it over, and before I left she made me + promise that I would write you and explain how I felt, and ask you what + you thought. She wanted you to come there and see if you couldn't make + them at least respect you. I know I was crying, and she was bathing the + baby. She went to bring something she had forgotten, and she gave him to + me to hold, just his little naked body. He stood on my lap and mauled my + face, and pulled my hair, and hugged me with his stout little arms and + kissed me big, soft, wet kisses, and something sprang to life in my heart + that never before had been there. I just cried all over him and held him + fast, and I couldn't give him up when she came back. I saw why I'd wanted + a big doll all my life, right then; and oh, dear! the doll you sent was + beautiful, but, David, did you ever hold a little, living child in your + arms like that?” + </p> + <p> + “I never did,” said the Harvester huskily. + </p> + <p> + He looked at her face and saw the tears rolling, but he could say no more, + so he leaned his head against her knee, and finding one of her hands he + drew it to his lips. + </p> + <p> + “It is wonderful,” said the Girl softly. “It awakens something in your + heart that makes it all soft and tender, and you feel an awful + responsibility, too. Grandmother had them telephone at last, and May + helped me bathe my face and fix my hat. When we went to the carriage Mr. + Kennedy was there to take me home. We went past grandmother's florist to + get her some violets——David, she is sleeping under yours, with + just a few touching her lips. Oh it was lovely of you to get them; your + fairies must have told you! She has them every day, and one of the + objections she made to coming here was that she couldn't do without them + in winter, and she found some on her pillow the very first thing. David, + you are wonderful! And grandfather with his lily! I know where he found + that! I knew instantly. Ah, there are fairies who tell you, because you + deserve to know.” + </p> + <p> + The Girl bent and slipping her arm around his neck hugged him tight an + instant, and then she continued unsteadily: “While he was in the shop——Harvester, + this is like your wildest dream, but it's truest truth——a boy + came down the walk crying papers, and as I live, he called your name. I + knew it had to be you because he said, 'First drug farm in America! + Wonderful medicine contributed to the cause of science! David Langston + honoured by National Medical Association!' I just stood in the carriage + and screamed, 'Boy! Boy!' until the coachman thought I had lost my senses. + He whistled and got me the paper. I was shaking so I asked him how to find + anything you wanted quickly, and he pointed the column where events are + listed; and when I found the third page there was your face so splendidly + reproduced, and you seemed so fine and noble to me I forgot about the + dress suit and the badge in your buttonhole, or to wonder when or how or + why it could have happened. I just sat there shouting in my soul, 'David! + David! Medicine Man! Harvester Man!' again and again.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't know what I said to Mr. Kennedy or how I got to my room. I + scanned it by the column, at last I got to paragraphs, and finally I read + all the sentences. David, I kissed that newspaper face a hundred times, + and if you could have had those, Man, I think you would have said they + were right. David, there is nothing to cry over!” + </p> + <p> + “I'm not!” said the Harvester, wiping the splashes from her hand. “But, + Ruth, forget what I said about being brief. I didn't realize what was + coming. I should have said, if you've any mercy at all, go slowly! This is + the greatest thing that ever happened or ever will happen to me. See that + you don't leave out one word of it.” + </p> + <p> + “I told you I had to tell you first,” said the Girl. + </p> + <p> + “I understand now,” said the Harvester, his head against her knee while he + pressed her hand to his lips. “I see! Your coming couldn't be perfect + without knowing this first. Go on, dear heart, and slowly! You owe me + every word.” + </p> + <p> + “When I had it all absorbed, I carried the paper to the library and said, + 'Grandfather, such a wonderful thing has happened. A man has had a new + idea, and he has done a unique work that the whole world is going to + recognize. He has stood before men and made a speech that few, oh so few, + could make honestly, and he has advocated right living, oh so nobly, and + he has given a wonderful gift to science without price, because through it + he first saved the life he loved best. Isn't that marvellous, + grandfather?' And he said, 'Very marvellous, Ruth. Won't you sit down and + read to me about it?' And I said, 'I can't, dear grandfather, because I + have been away from grandmother all day, and she is fretting for me, and + to-night is a great ball, and she has spent millions on my dress, I think, + and there is an especial reason why I must go, and so I have to see her + now; but I want to show you the man's face, and then you can read the + story.' + </p> + <p> + “You see, I knew if I started to read it he would stop me; but if I left + him alone with it he would be so curious he would finish. So I turned your + name under and held the paper and said, 'What do you think of that face, + grandfather? Study it carefully,' and, Man, only guess what he said! He + said, 'I think it is the face of one of nature's noblemen.' I just kissed + him time and again and then I said, 'So it is grandfather, so it is; for + it is the face of the man who twice saved my life, and lifted my mother + from almost a pauper grave and laid her to rest in state, and the man who + found you, and sent me to you when I was determined not to come.' And I + just stood and kissed that paper before him and cried, again and again, + 'He is one of nature's noblemen, and he is my husband, my dear, dear + husband and to-morrow I am going home to him.' Then I laid the paper on + his lap and ran away. I went to grandmother and did everything she wanted, + then I dressed for the ball. I went to say good-bye to her and show my + dress and grandfather was there, and he followed me out and said, 'Ruth, + you didn't mean it?' I said, 'Did you read the paper, grandfather?' and he + said 'Yes'; and I said, 'Then I should think you would know I mean it, and + glory in my wonderful luck. Think of a man like that, grandfather!' + </p> + <p> + “I went to the ball, and I danced and had a lovely time with every one, + because I knew it was going to be the very last, and to-morrow I must + start to you. + </p> + <p> + “On the way home I told Mr. Kennedy what paper to get and to read it. I + said good-bye to him, and I really think he cared, but I was too happy to + be very sorry. When I reached my room there was a packet for me and, Man, + like David of old, you are a wonderful poet! Oh Harvester! why didn't you + send them to me instead of the cold, hard things you wrote?” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + “Those letters! Those wonderful outpourings of love and passion and poetry + and song and broken-heartedness. Oh Man, how could you write such things + and throw them in the fire? Granny Moreland found them when she came to + bring you a pie, and she carried them to Doctor Carey, and he sent them to + me, and, David, they finished me. Everything came in a heap. I would have + come without them, but never, never with quite the understanding, for as I + read them the deeps opened up, and the flood broke, and there did a warm + tide go through all my being, like you said it would; and now, David, I + know what you mean by love. I called the maids and they packed my trunk + and grandmother's, and I had grandfather's valet pack his, and go and + secure berths and tickets, and learn about trains, and I got everything + ready, even to the ambulance and doctor; but I waited until morning to + tell them. I knew they would not let me come alone, so I brought them + along. David, what in the world are we going to do with them?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester drew a deep breath and looked at the flushed face of the + Girl. + </p> + <p> + “With no time to mature a plan, I would say that we are going to love + them, care for them, gradually teach them our work, and interest them in + our plans here; and so soon as they become reconciled we will build them + such a house as they want on the hill facing us, just across Singing + Water, and there they may have every luxury they can provide for + themselves, or we can offer, and the pleasure of your presence, and both + of them can grow strong and happy. I'll have grandmother on her feet in + ten days, and the edge off grandfather's tongue in three. That bluster of + his is to drown tears, Ruth; I saw it to-night. And when they pass over we + will carry them up and lay them beside her under the oak, and we can take + the house we build for them, if you like it better, and use this for a + store-room.” + </p> + <p> + “Never!” said the Girl. “Never! My sunshine room and gold garden so long + as I live. Never again will I leave them. If this cabin grows too small, + we will build all over the hillside; but my room and garden and this and + the dining-room and your den there must remain as they are now.” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester arose and drew the davenport before the fireplace, and + heaped pillows. “You are so tired you are trembling, and your voice is + quivering,” he said. He lifted the Girl, laid her down and arranged the + coverlet. + </p> + <p> + “Go to sleep!” he ordered gently. “You have made me so wildly happy that I + could run and shout like a madman. Try to rest, and maybe the fairies who + aid me will put my kiss back on your lips. I am going to the hill top to + tell mother and my God.” + </p> + <p> + He knelt and gathered her in his arms a second, then called Belshazzar to + guard, and went into the sweet spring night, to jubilate with that wild + surge of passion that sweeps the heart of a strong man when he is most + nearly primal. He climbed the hill at a rush, and standing beneath the oak + on the summit, he faced the lake, and stretching his arms widely, he waved + them, merely to satisfy the demand for action. When urgency for expression + came upon him, he laughed a deep rumble of exultation. + </p> + <p> + The night wind swept the lake and lifted his hair, the odour of spring was + intoxicating in his nostrils, small creatures of earth stirred around him, + here and there a bird, restless in the delirium of mating fever, lifted + its head and piped a few notes on the moon-whitened air. The frogs sang + uninterruptedly at the water's edge. The Harvester stood rejoicing. + Beating on his brain came a rush of love words uttered in the Girl's dear + voice. “I wanted you! Just you! He is my husband! My dear, dear husband! + To-morrow I am going home! Now, David, I know what you mean by love!” The + Harvester laughed again and sounds around him ceased for a second, then + swelled in fuller volume than before. He added his voice. “Thank God! Oh, + thank God!” he cried. “And may the Author of the Universe, the spirits of + the little mothers who loved us, and all the good fairies who guide us, + unite to bring unbounded joy to my Dream Girl and to guard her safely.” + </p> + <p> + The cocks of Medicine Woods began their second salute to dawn. At this + sound and with the mention of her name, the Harvester turned down the + hill, and striding forcefully approached the cabin. As he passed the + Girl's room he stepped softly, smiling as he wondered if its unexpected + occupants were resting. He followed Singing Water, and stood looking at + the hillside, studying the exact location most suitable for a home for the + old people he was so delighted to welcome. That they would remain he never + doubted. His faith in the call of the wild had been verified in the Girl; + it would reach them also. The hill top would bind them. Their love for the + Girl would compel them. They would be company for her and a new interest + in life. + </p> + <p> + “Couldn't be better, not possibly!” commented the delighted Harvester. + </p> + <p> + He followed the path down Singing Water until he reached the bridge where + it turned into the marsh. There he paused, looking straight ahead. + </p> + <p> + “Wonder if I would frighten her?” he mused. “I believe I'll risk it.” + </p> + <p> + He walked on rapidly, vaulted the fence enclosing his land, crossed the + road, and unlatched the gate. As he did so, the door opened, and Granny + Moreland stood on the sill, waiting with keen eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Well I don't need neither specs nor noonday sun to see that you're + steppin' like the blue ribbon colt at the County Fair, and lookin' like + you owned Kingdom Come,” she said. “What's up, David?” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, dear,” said the Harvester. “I have entered my kingdom. The + Girl has come and crowned me with her love. She had decided to return, but + the letters you sent made her happier about it. I wanted you to know.” + </p> + <p> + Granny leaned against the casing, and began to sob unrestrainedly. + </p> + <p> + The Harvester supported her tenderly. + </p> + <p> + “Why don't do that, dear. Don't cry,” he begged. “The Girl is home for + always, Granny, and I'm so happy I am out to-night trying to keep from + losing my mind with joy. She will come to you to-morrow, I know.” + </p> + <p> + Granny tremulously dried her eyes. + </p> + <p> + “What an old sap-head I am!” she commented. “I stole your letters from + your fireplace, pitched a willer plate into the lake——you got + to fish that out, come day, David——fooled you into that trip + to Doc Carey to get him to mail them to Ruth, and never turned a hair. But + after I got home I commenced thinkin' 'twas a pretty ticklish job to stick + your nose into other people's business, an' every hour it got worse, until + I ain't had a fairly decent sleep since. If you hadn't come soon, boy, I'd + 'a' been sick a-bed. Oh, David! Are you sure she's over there, and loves + you to suit you now?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes dear, I am absolutely certain,” said the Harvester. “She was so + determined to come that she brought the invalid grandmother she couldn't + leave and her grandfather. They arrived at midnight. We are all going to + live together now.” + </p> + <p> + “Well bless my stars! Fetched you a family! David, I do hope to all that's + peaceful I hain't put my foot in it. The moon is the deceivingest thing on + earth I know, but does her family 'pear to be an a-gre'-able family, by + its light?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester's laugh boomed a half mile down the road. + </p> + <p> + “Finest people on earth, next to you, dear. I'm mighty glad to have them. + I'm going to build them a house on my best location, and we are all going + to be happy from now on. Go to bed! This night air may chill you. I can't + sleep. I wanted you to know first——so I came over. In mother's + stead, will you kiss me, and wish me happiness, dear friend?” + </p> + <p> + Granny Moreland laid an eager, withered hand on each shoulder, and bent to + the radiant young face. + </p> + <p> + “God bless you, lad, and grant you as great happiness as life ort to fetch + every clean, honest man,” she prayed fervently, with closed eyes and her + lined old face turned skyward. “And, O God, bless Ruth, and help her as + You never helped mortal woman before to know her own mind without + 'variableness, neither shadow of turnin'.'” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester was on Singing Water bridge before he gave way. There he + laughed as never before in his life. Finally he controlled himself and + started toward the cabin; but he was chuckling as he passed the driveway, + and walked down the broad cement floor leading to his bathing pool, where + the moonlight bridged the lake, and fell as a benediction all around him. + </p> + <p> + He stood a long time, when he recognized the familiar crash of a breaking + backlog falling together, and heard the customary leap of the frightened + dog. He walked to his door and listened intently, but there was no sound; + so he decided the Girl had not been awakened. In the midst of a whitening + sheet of gold the Harvester dropped to his stoop and leaned his head + against the broad casing. He broke a twig from a hawthorn bush beside him, + and sat twisting it in his fingers as he stared down the line of the gold + bridge. Never had it seemed so material, so like a path that might be + trodden by mortal feet and lead them straight to Heaven. As on the hill + top, night again surrounded him and the Harvester's soul drank deep wild + draughts of a new joy. Sleep was out of the question. He was too intensely + alive to know that he ever again could be weary. He sat there in the + moonlight, and with unbridled heart gloried in the joy that had come to + him. + </p> + <p> + He turned his face from the bridge as he heard the click of Belshazzar's + nails on the floor of the bathing pool. Then his heart and breath stopped + an instant. Beside the dog walked the Girl, one hand on his head the other + holding the flowing white robe around her and grasping one of the + Harvester's lilies. His first thought was sheer amazement that she was not + afraid, for it was evident now that the backlog had awakened her, and she + had taken the dog and gone to her mother. Then she had followed the path + leading down the hill, around the cabin, and into the sheet of moonlight + gilding the shore. She stood there gazing over the lake, oblivious to all + things save the entrancing allurement of a perfect spring night beside + undulant water. Screened from her with bushes and trees the Harvester + scarcely breathed lest he startle her. Then his head swam, and his still + heart leaped wildly. She was coming toward him. On her left lay the path + to the hill top. A few steps farther she could turn to the right and + follow the driveway to the front of the cabin. He leaned forward watching + in an agony of suspense. Her beautiful face was transfigured with joy, + aflame with love, radiant with smiles, and her tall figure fleecy white, + rimmed in gold. Up the shining path of light she steadily advanced toward + his door. Then the Harvester understood, and from his exultant heart burst + the wordless petition: + </p> + <p> + “LORD GOD ALMIGHTY, HELP ME TO BE A MAN!” + </p> + <p> + With outstretched arms he arose to meet her. + </p> + <p> + “My Dream Girl!” he cried hoarsely. “My Dream Girl!” + </p> + <p> + “Coming, Harvester!” she answered in tones of joy, as she dropped the + white flower and lifted her hands to draw his face toward her. + </p> + <p> + “Is that the kiss you wanted?” she questioned. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Ruth,” breathed the Harvester. + </p> + <p> + “Then I am ready to be your wife,” she said. “May I share all the + remainder of life's joys and sorrows with you?” + </p> + <p> + The Harvester gathered her in his arms and carried her to the bench on the + lake shore. He wrapped the white robe around her and clasped her tenderly + as behooved a lover, yet with arms that she knew could have crushed her + had they willed. The minutes slipped away, and still he held her to his + heart, the reality far surpassing his dream; for he knew that he was + awake, and he realized this as the supreme hour that comes to the + strongman who knows his love requited. + </p> + <p> + When the first banner of red light arose above Medicine Woods and Singing + Water the cocks on the hillside announced the dawn. As the gold faded to + gray, a burst of bubbling notes swelled from a branch almost over their + heads where stood a bark-enclosed little house. + </p> + <p> + “Ruth, do you hear that?” asked the Harvester softly. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she answered, “and I see it. A wonderful bird, with Heaven's + deepest blue on its back and a breast like a russet autumn leaf, came + straight up the lake from the south, and before it touched the limb that + song seemed to gush from its throat.” + </p> + <p> + “And for that reason, the greatest nature lover who ever lived says that + it 'deserves preeminence.' It always settles from its long voyage through + the air in an ecstasy of melody. Do you know what it is, Ruth?” + </p> + <p> + The Girl laid a hand on his cheek and turned his eyes from the bird to her + face as she answered, “Yes, Harvester-man, I know. It is your first + bluebird——but it is far too late, and Belshazzar has lost high + office. I have usurped both their positions. You remain in the woods and + reap their harvest, you enter the laboratory and make wonderful, + life-giving medicines, you face the world and tell men of the high and + holy life they may live if they will, and then——always and + forever, you come back to Medicine Woods and to me, Harvester.” + </p> + +<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE HARVESTER ***</div> +<div style='text-align:left'> + +<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> +Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will +be renamed. +</div> + +<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> +Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright +law 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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