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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Fast as the Wind + A Novel + +Author: Nat Gould + +Release Date: March 20, 2011 [EBook #35618] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FAST AS THE WIND *** + + + + +Produced by Matthew Wheaton, Suzanne Shell and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This +file was produced from images generously made available +by The Internet Archive/American Libraries.) + + + + + + +</pre> + + + <div> + <br /> + + <div class="figcenter"> + <img name="coverpage" id="coverpage" border="0" src="images/cover.jpg" width="40%" alt="Cover" /> + </div> + + <p class="spacer"> </p> + + <h1 id="booktitle">FAST AS THE WIND</h1> + + <p class="h3">A NOVEL</p> + + <p class="h3">By NAT GOULD</p> + + <p class="h4">AUTHOR OF</p> + + <p class="h4">"The Rider in Khaki," Etc.</p> + + <div class="figcenter"><img border="0" src="images/decoration.png" width="10%" alt="Decoration" /></div> + + <p class="h3">A. L. BURT COMPANY</p> + + <p class="h3" style="text-align:left; margin-left : 20%; margin-right : 20%">Publishers<span style="float : right">New York</span></p> + + <p class="h5">Published by arrangement with Frederick A. Stokes Company</p> + + <p class="spacer"> </p> + + <p class="h5" style="margin : 1%"><i>Copyright, 1918, by</i> + <br /> + <span class="sc">Frederick A. Stokes Co.</span> + </p> + + <hr class="thin" /> + + <p class="h5" style="margin : 1%"><i>All rights reserved</i></p> + + <p class="spacer"> </p> + + <div class="trnote"> + <p class="cen">Transcriber's Note:</p> + + <p class="noin">Inconsistent spellings retained. Minor typographical + errors have been corrected and noted. Errors are indicated with a + <a + class="correction" + title="Like this." + href="#TN">mouse-hover</a>. For a complete list, please see the + <a + class="correction" + title="Like this." + href="#TN"> + end of this document</a>. + </p> + </div> + + <p class="spacer"> </p> + + <p class="h3"><span class="pagenum"><a name="pagev" id="pagev"></a>[v]</span>CONTENTS<a name="toc" id="toc"></a></p> + + <div class="centered"> + <table border="0" + cellpadding="2" + cellspacing="0" + width="70%" + summary="Table of Contents"> + <tr> + <td class="tdrfirst" width="10%">CHAPTER</td> + + <td class="tdlsc" width="70%"> </td> + + <td class="tdrfirst" width="20%"> + PAGE</td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">I.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">The Boom of a Gun</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_I">1</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">II.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">Story of an Escape</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_II">10</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">III.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">The Man on the Road</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_III">20</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">IV.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">The Woman at the Table</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_IV">30</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">V.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">Picton's Winning Mount</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_V">40</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">VI.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">In Brack's Cottage</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_VI">50</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">VII.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">A Critical Moment</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_VII">59</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">VIII.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">On Board the "Sea-mew"</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_VIII">69</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">IX.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">Lenise Elroy</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_IX">79</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">X.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">Haverton</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_X">88</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XI.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">Tearaway and Others</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XI">97</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XII.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">"I Think He's Dead"</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XII">106</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XIII.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">A Woman's Fear</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIII">115</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XIV.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">Not Recognised</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIV">124</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XV.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">"The St. Leger's in Your Pocket"</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XV">132</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XVI.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">How Hector Fought the Bloodhound</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XVI">140</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XVII.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">An Introduction at Hurst Park</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XVII">149</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XVIII.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">Conscience Troubles</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XVIII">158</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XIX.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">"What Would You Do?"</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIX">165</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XX.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">Rita Sees a Resemblance</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XX">174</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XXI.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">Brack Turns Traveler</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXI">182</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XXII.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">Doncaster</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXII">191</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XXIII.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">The Crowd in the Ring</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIII">200</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XXIV.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">"By Jove, She's Wonderful"</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIV">208</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XXV.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">Fast as the Wind</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXV">216</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XXVI.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">The Struggle for the Cup</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXVI">224</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XXVII.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">The Reserved Compartment</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXVII">233</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XXVIII.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">How Hector Had His Revenge</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXVIII">241</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XXIX.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">An Astonishing Communication</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIX">250</a></td> + </tr> + + <tr> + <td class="tdr">XXX.</td> + + <td class="tdlsc">Tearaway's Progeny</td> + + <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXX">258</a></td> + </tr> + </table> + </div> + + <p class="spacer"> </p> + + <p class="h1">FAST AS THE WIND</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_I" id="CHAPTER_I"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page1" id="page1"></a>[1]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER I</h2> + + <h3>THE BOOM OF A GUN</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">A small but splendidly built yacht steamed slowly into Torbay, + passed Brixham and Paignton, and came to anchor in the outer + harbor at Torquay. It was a glorious spring morning, early, and + the sun shone on the water with a myriad of dancing reflections; + it bathed in light the beautiful town, the scores of villas + nestling on the heights surrounding it, the palms on the terrace + walk, on the mass of greenery clothing foot to summit, on the + inner harbor, and on the rocky coast stretching out towards + Anstey's Cove and Babbacombe Beach. It was a magnificent sight, + the arts of man and nature mingled together, for once + harmonizing, for Torquay has not been spoilt by builders, at + least as seen from the bay. Behind, Brixham way, the red sails of + the fishing boats flapped lazily in an idle breeze. Four + men-of-war lay still <span class="pagenum"><a name="page2" id= + "page2"></a>[2]</span> in the bay, guardians of the peace, + comforting, reassuring, a hint of what lay behind. How peaceful + these monsters of the deep looked. Slumbering surely were they. + What was that? A puff of white smoke, then a solemn sound, which + sped across the bay, and echoed over the hills. One of the + monsters had spoken, just to show it was wide awake.</p> + + <p>It had a curious effect on the man leaning over the side of + the <i>Sea-mew</i>, the yacht that had just come to anchor. It + startled him from his reverie, from his contemplation of all that + was so beautiful around him.</p> + + <p>For a moment he looked across at the warships, and saw the + smoke drifting away, then he turned and looked over the town and + its heights, and his thoughts went far and landed on + Dartmoor.</p> + + <p>Another gun boomed out. This time it seemed more natural. + Again the echo ran over the hills, and again he turned and looked + towards that vast moor which lay behind.</p> + + <p>"Supposing it were true," he muttered. "Would to God it were, + and that he were safe on board my yacht. All for a woman, and + such a woman!"</p> + + <p>He clenched his fist and struck the rail.</p> + + <p>Picton Woodridge, owner of the <i>Sea-mew</i>, was a man of + about thirty, tall, good looking, genial, popular, but lonely, if + a popular man can be described as lonely, and there are such men. + He was rich, a <span class="pagenum"><a name="page3" id= + "page3"></a>[3]</span> sportsman. His stable at Haverton + contained good horses: a Derby winner in prospect, one of the + best stayers in England, and above all Tearaway, a black filly, + three years old, described by her trainer, Brant Blackett, as "a + beauty, a real gem, and fast as the wind."</p> + + <p>He ought to have been a happy man. To all outward appearances + he was, but behind a smiling face there is sometimes a heavy + heart. It was not exactly so in his case, yet there was something + of it. There was one black shadow cast over his gilded path, and + the echo of the gun from the man-of-war had deepened it.</p> + + <p>"Why the deuce did I come here?" he muttered. "Why did I + promise Dick I'd ride for him at Torquay races?"</p> + + <p>He sighed; he knew why he had promised Dick Langford to ride + for him; he would do a good deal more than this for Dick, for the + sake of his sister Rita. He had no other companion on the yacht + than Ben Bruce, captain of the <i>Sea-mew</i>, who stood towards + him in the light of his best friend.</p> + + <p>Ben Bruce was a character in his way. He had been in the Navy, + on the same ship with Picton's father, and Admiral Woodridge and + the young officer had esteem and affection for each other. + Lieutenant Bruce often came to Haverton in the <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page4" id="page4"></a>[4]</span> Admiral's + time and was always a welcome guest. He had known Picton from a + boy, and shared the Admiral's fondness for the somewhat lonely + child, whose mother died at his birth, and whose elder brother + was generally away from home, training for the Army. Bruce + remembered the elder boy, Hector, but had not seen so much of + him, or become so attached to him as to Picton. Hector was of a + different disposition, hasty, headstrong, willful, and yet the + brothers were much attached, and when at home together, were + seldom apart. There were ten years between them; consequently + Hector regarded himself in the light of a protector to + Picton.</p> + + <p>The Admiral loved them and endeavored to treat them equally in + his affection, but it was not difficult to see the younger had + the stronger hold over him. Hector saw it and smiled. He was not + at all jealous; he felt if it came to choosing, and one of them + had to be relied upon, his father would select him. And such + would probably have been the case had occasion occurred, but it + did not, and everything went on the even tenor of its way until + the fatal day when a terrible thing happened and Hector became, + so Picton was positively certain, the victim of a woman's wiles. + What this happening was we shall learn. Sufficient to say, it + caused the Admiral to retire. He <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page5" id="page5"></a>[5]</span> never got over the shock, + and died soon after he left the Navy. The bulk of his fortune was + left to Picton, who was determined, when the time came, to + surrender to Hector his proper share. Captain Ben Bruce left the + service soon after the Admiral he had loved and served. He was, + so to speak, a poor man, and when he came to Haverton, to his old + chief's funeral, Picton begged him to stay with him for a few + months to relieve his loneliness. This he readily consented to + do. The months extended, and Picton would not let him go; he + relied on the stronger man, who had carved his way upward by his + own exertions. Ben Bruce protested, all to no purpose.</p> + + <p>"I can't do without you," said Picton. "You were my father's + friend, he had every confidence in you; you are one of the + executors, you are the proper man to remain here and run the + show."</p> + + <p>Ben Bruce laughed.</p> + + <p>"Run the show!" he said. "Not much chance of that even if I + wished it. You've a good head on your shoulders, and one quite + capable of managing your affairs. If I stay, mind I say + <i>if</i>, it will not be on that account."</p> + + <p>"It doesn't matter to me on what account you stay so long as + you consent to remain," said Picton. "There's so much to do here; + I am short of a companion—you know I don't take to + everyone. <span class="pagenum"><a name="page6" id= + "page6"></a>[6]</span> There's another thing—although + you're a sailor you are fond of horses, and a good rider, and I + say, Ben, I've a proposition to make."</p> + + <p>Again Ben Bruce laughed.</p> + + <p>"You've got a fresh proposition almost every week, and it's + nearly always something in my favor."</p> + + <p>"This will be to your liking, as well as, if you think so, in + your favor."</p> + + <p>"What is it?"</p> + + <p>"Take charge of the Haverton horses—be my manager."</p> + + <p>"What about Blackett?"</p> + + <p>"He'll not mind; in fact he'll like it. I put it to him; he + seemed rather enamored of the prospect of being closely connected + with Captain Bruce, the friend of his adored Admiral. There + wasn't a man living Blackett loved more than my father; I think + it was the combination of the sea and the stable appealed to him. + Blackett always had an idea, so he told me, until he became + acquainted with the Admiral, that sailors were duffers where + horses were concerned. 'But I soon found out the difference,' he + said; 'the Admiral knew pretty near as much about a horse as I + did. Of course I taught him a thing or two, but he was a good + judge, he knew the points of a horse pretty near as well as he + did the parts of a battleship.' That's Blackett's <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page7" id="page7"></a>[7]</span> opinion, + and he has an idea Captain Bruce has leanings in the same + direction as the Admiral, so you can't raise any objections on + that score."</p> + + <p>It did not take much persuasion to induce Captain Bruce to + consent, and he became manager of Haverton Stables and, as a + natural consequence, remained with Picton Woodridge.</p> + + <p>At the same time Picton said to him, with a serious face: + "There's something else, far more important than anything I have + mentioned. You've to help me to clear Hector; you believe him + innocent, don't you, Ben, you can't do otherwise?"</p> + + <p>Ben Bruce was silent for a moment—Picton watched him + anxiously—then said, "Yes, I am sure he is innocent. He + couldn't have done that, not to secure any woman for himself; but + it's a mystery, Picton, a grave mystery, and it will take a far + cleverer man than myself to unravel it. I'll help you, I'll stick + at nothing to help you and Hector."</p> + + <p>"Thanks, old friend, thanks a thousand times. With your help + there is no telling what may be accomplished. There must be some + way out of it; such a terrible injustice cannot be allowed to go + on for ever," said Picton.</p> + + <p>And so Captain Ben, as he was called, became the constant + friend and companion of Picton Woodridge. When the <i>Sea-mew</i> + was purchased it was <span class="pagenum"><a name="page8" id= + "page8"></a>[8]</span> Captain Ben who clinched the deal, and + was appointed "skipper."</p> + + <p>"So I'm your stud manager and captain of your yacht, that's a + queer combination," said Ben.</p> + + <p>"And you're as good in one capacity as the other," said + Picton.</p> + + <p>"I think I'm safer on deck than on a horse," said Ben.</p> + + <p>It was Captain Ben Bruce who came quietly along the deck of + the <i>Sea-mew</i> and looked at Picton Woodridge as he gazed + over Torquay bay. A kindly look was in his eyes, which were + always bright and merry, for he was a cheerful man, not given to + look on the dark side of things. His affection for Picton was + that of a father for a son, in addition to being a companion and + a friend. He noticed the sad far-away look on Picton's face, and + wondered what it was that caused the shadow on this beautiful + April morning.</p> + + <p>"I'll leave him to his meditations," he thought; "he'll be + down for breakfast, and I'll ask him then."</p> + + <p>He was about to turn away when Picton looked round and said + with a smile: "Something told me you were there."</p> + + <p>"Telepathy," said Ben.</p> + + <p>"Sympathy," said Picton. "Do you know what I was thinking + about?"</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page9" id= + "page9"></a>[9]</span> + + <p>"No; I saw you were pensive. I'd have asked you at breakfast, + you looked so serious."</p> + + <p>"I was serious."</p> + + <p>"What caused the passing cloud on such a glorious morning?" + asked Ben.</p> + + <p>Picton took him by the arm, his grip tightened; with the other + hand he pointed to the battleship.</p> + + <p>"The boom of a gun," he said; and Ben Bruce understood.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_II" id="CHAPTER_II"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page10" id="page10"></a>[10]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER II</h2> + + <h3>STORY OF AN ESCAPE</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">ROW me to the <i>Sea-mew</i>," said Dick Langford, and old + Brackish touched his cap and replied, "Yes, sir; she's a beauty, + she is. Hear the news, sir?"</p> + + <p>"No; anything startling?"</p> + + <p>"Nothin' out o' the common, at least not in these parts, but + it's summat different to most."</p> + + <p>"You're always long-winded, Brackish—Yorkshireman, I + suppose," said Dick impatiently.</p> + + <p>Brackish was a Yorkshire boatman, hailing from Scarborough; he + came to Torquay because his mother, nearly ninety, could not + stand the cold blasts of the North East coast, and the old salt + had a heart. "Brack" had a rough red face, eyebrows lapped over a + pair of blue eyes; his throat and chest were always bared, tanned + the color of leather; black hair covered his chest; his hands + were hard, a deeper brown than his chest, the hands of a son of + toil, and a boatman. Brack had been popular at Scarborough; he + was well known in <span class="pagenum"><a name="page11" id= + "page11"></a>[11]</span> Torbay as a brave hardy seaman, whom + no weather daunted. At first he had joined the Brixham fishing + fleet, but soon tired of it, and when he saved enough money he + bought a couple of boats, and made a decent living in Torquay + harbor.</p> + + <p>Brack was fond of gossip, and on this particular morning he + was eager for a talk; it was his intention to have it out with + Dick before he put foot in the boat, so he stood looking at the + young man, barring his entrance to the craft he was eager to put + his foot in. The old boatman was a sturdy figure in his rough + seaman's clothes as he eyed Dick Langford, and, although + impatient, Dick could not help smiling at him. He liked Brack, + and the sailor returned the feeling.</p> + + <p>"Let me get in and you can tell me about the news as we row to + the yacht," said Dick.</p> + + <p>"All right, sir; no hurry, you're here early. It's Mr. + Woodridge's yacht, ain't it?"</p> + + <p>"Of course it is; you know the <i>Sea-mew</i> as well as I + do."</p> + + <p>"Nice gentleman, Mr. Woodridge," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"If you don't let me get into the boat I'll take another," + said Dick.</p> + + <p>Brack grinned.</p> + + <p>"You'll not be doin' that, I'm thinking, after all I've done + for yer."</p> + + <p>"What have you done?" asked Dick surprised.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page12" id="page12"></a>[12]</span> + + <p>Brack looked indignant.</p> + + <p>"Yer don't recollect? Well I'm blessed! Fancy forgettin' + things like that!"</p> + + <p>"Out with it," said Dick.</p> + + <p>"I give yer the winner of the Leger three year runnin', and + it's forgotten. Lor' bless us, what memories young gents has!" + growled Brack.</p> + + <p>Dick laughed heartily as he said: "So you did, old man. You're + a real good tipster for the Yorkshire race."</p> + + <p>"So I ought'er be. Don't I hail from there? I can always scent + a Leger winner, smell 'em like I can the salt from the sea, comes + natural somehow," said Brack, as he moved away and allowed Dick + to step in. He pulled with long steady strokes and was soon out + of the inner harbor, making for the yacht.</p> + + <p>"By jove, this is a lovely morning!" said Dick, looking at the + glorious hills he knew so well.</p> + + <p>"Nowt like Yorkshire," growled Brack.</p> + + <p>Dick laughed as he said: "You're a lucky man to be at Torquay, + all the same; much warmer, fine climate."</p> + + <p>"Hot as——," said Brack with a grunt.</p> + + <p>"You haven't told me your news," said Dick.</p> + + <p>"It'll keep," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"Bet you a shilling you let it out before you reach the + <i>Sea-mew</i>," said Dick.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page13" id="page13"></a>[13]</span> + + <p>"I don't bet," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"You mean you dare not in this case, or you would lose."</p> + + <p>"Very like I should, because I see yer burstin' to hear it, + and I wouldn't like to disappoint yer," said Brack, as he ceased + rowing and leaned on his oars.</p> + + <p>"Tired?" said Dick.</p> + + <p>"With that bit of a pull," said Brack, disgusted; "I should + think not!"</p> + + <p>"Then what are you resting for?"</p> + + <p>"I baint restin', I'm easin' my oars."</p> + + <p>"Oh, that's it: the oars are tired," said Dick.</p> + + <p>"No more tired than I am, but when I gives 'em a spell for a + few minutes they seems to work better," said Brack. "What's more, + I talks better when I leans on 'em, sort o' gives me composure, + and time to think; I'm a beggar to think."</p> + + <p>Dick was amused; he wanted to reach the <i>Sea-mew</i>, but on + this sunny morning it was good to sit in the boat on the blue + smooth water and listen to old Brack for a few minutes.</p> + + <p>"You must have done a lot of thinking in your time," said + Dick, falling into his humor.</p> + + <p>"I'm thinking now," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"What about?"</p> + + <p>"That poor devil who escaped from Dartmoor five days + ago."</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page14" id= + "page14"></a>[14]</span> + + <p>Dick smiled.</p> + + <p>"Is that your news?"</p> + + <p>"Yes."</p> + + <p>"There have been several escapes lately."</p> + + <p>"But they've all been caught in no time; this chap ain't, and + by gum, lad, if he come'd my way I'd help him out. I don't + believe they'll get him; at least I hopes not."</p> + + <p>"They'll have him right enough," said Dick. "A convict at + large is a danger to all on the moor."</p> + + <p>"This one ain't," said Brack. "'Sides, he may be + innocent."</p> + + <p>"Innocent men don't get into Princetown," said Dick.</p> + + <p>"That's just where yer wrong," said Brack. "I've a brother in + there now, and he's innocent, I'll swear it."</p> + + <p>Dick maintained a diplomatic silence.</p> + + <p>"Of course you'll not believe it, but it'll come out some day. + He was on a man-o-warsman, and they lagged him for knocking a + petty officer overboard; the chap was drowned, but Bill swore he + never had a hand in it, and I believes him. At the trial it came + out Bill had a down on the man; and no wonder—he was a + brute, and a good riddance."</p> + + <p>"Do you know who knocked him over?"</p> + + <p>"No, but it's my firm belief Bill does, and that he's + sufferin' for another, won't give him away."</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page15" id="page15"></a>[15]</span> + + <p>Dick smiled.</p> + + <p>"You don't know Bill; I does," said Brack emphatically.</p> + + <p>"But what about this man who escaped? Why do you think he'll + get away?"</p> + + <p>"'Cause he's a good plucked 'un, a fighter, a brave man," said + Brack.</p> + + <p>"In what way?"</p> + + <p>"They put bloodhounds on his track. One brute got away, they + didn't find him for three days, when they did——," + Brack hesitated; he wished to rouse his listener's attention. He + succeeded.</p> + + <p>"Go on," said Dick eagerly.</p> + + <p>"The trackers found the hound dead, and alongside him was a + suit of convict clothes—nice well marked suits, ain't they; + you can't mistake 'em," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"You don't mean to say the fellow killed the hound, and left + his clothes beside it!" exclaimed Dick.</p> + + <p>"That's just what I have said, mister. Clever, weren't it? + When the other hound found his mate, he found the clothes, and he + lost the scent."</p> + + <p>"How?"</p> + + <p>"'Cause the man must have fled stark naked, and the hound only + had the scent of his clothes; must have been that, 'cause he + couldn't follow him. <span class="pagenum"><a name="page16" id= + "page16"></a>[16]</span> He'll get off right enough—you + see if he don't. I wish Bill could do the same."</p> + + <p>"How did he kill the hound?" asked Dick. "And where did you + hear all this?"</p> + + <p>"Strangled it. He's a good 'un he is; I'd like to have seen + it. As for how I come to know by it, one of the men from the + prison was here. He questioned me," said Brack with a grin. + "Asked me if I'd seen a man like the one he gave a description + of."</p> + + <p>"What did you say?" asked Dick.</p> + + <p>"Kept him talking for half an hour or more, gave 'im heaps of + information. I filled him up, never you fear."</p> + + <p>"But you didn't see the man?" said Dick.</p> + + <p>"Lor' no! Wish I had, and that he was stowed away somewhere. I + told the fellow I'd seen just such a man as he described, with + his hands bound up in bandages, and a cloth round his neck. Said + he'd a suit of old sailor's togs on, and that he went out in a + boat with a lot of rowdy fellers to a 'tramp' in the Bay, and he + didn't come back," chuckled Brack.</p> + + <p>"And what was the result of your false information?" asked + Dick.</p> + + <p>"I'll tell you what the result will be. It will put 'em off + the scent; they'll think he's gone off on <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page17" id="page17"></a>[17]</span> the + 'tramp' to London, and they'll give him a rest on the moor for a + bit," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"You think the man is still on the moor?"</p> + + <p>"'Course; where else should he be?"</p> + + <p>"Then he's sure to be caught."</p> + + <p>"Wait a bit—a man who can tackle a bloodhound and choke + the life out of him is pretty determined," said Brack.</p> + + <p>Dick acknowledged as much and said the circumstances were out + of the common. He was interested in the old sailor's tale. He did + not know whether to admire what Brack had done or to condemn it; + he put himself in his place, wondering how he would have acted + under similar circumstances.</p> + + <p>Brack watched him, a peculiar smile on his face.</p> + + <p>"Goin' to give me away?" he asked.</p> + + <p>Dick laughed as he answered: "I was thinking whether you were + right or wrong."</p> + + <p>"Guessed as much. I was right to give such a man another + chance. He's no coward, not he, and guilty men are all cowards," + said Brack.</p> + + <p>"Who is the man?"</p> + + <p>"Don't know; he wouldn't tell me, but he said he was a lifer. + He didn't seem very keen about his capture."</p> + + <p>"You mean he seemed glad the man had escaped?" said Dick, + surprised.</p> + + <p>"I guessed as much from his face," said Brack, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page18" id="page18"></a>[18]</span> "and I + reckon there's worse judges than me of human nature—that's + what makes me think he's innocent—like Bill."</p> + + <p>"It's all very interesting, but pull to the <i>Sea-mew</i>," + said Dick.</p> + + <p>"About time," said Brack, as he started rowing again. They + were soon alongside the yacht.</p> + + <p>Picton had just come on deck again from the saloon. He hailed + Dick cheerfully.</p> + + <p>"Well, early bird, what's brought you here at this time?" he + said, smiling.</p> + + <p>"Wished to welcome you, most mighty rider of winners," laughed + Dick as he got out of the boat and stood on the steps of the + gangway. "Here you are, Brack, and thanks for your story; it was + thrilling."</p> + + <p>Brack touched his cap as he said: "And it's true, and there's + heaps of things thrilling that ain't true," and he pulled + away.</p> + + <p>"Brack been spinning yarns?" said Picton, who knew the old + man.</p> + + <p>"A real shocker this time."</p> + + <p>"What about?"</p> + + <p>"A fellow escaped from Dartmoor the other day. It's worth + hearing; I'll tell you all about it later on," said Dick.</p> + + <p>Picton Woodridge staggered backwards. At first <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page19" id="page19"></a>[19]</span> Dick + thought he was about to fall. He looked at him in + astonishment.</p> + + <p>"What's the matter, Pic?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"Curious fit of faintness came over me; I'm all right now," + said Picton, but Dick thought he didn't look it.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_III" id="CHAPTER_III"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page20" id="page20"></a>[20]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER III</h2> + <h3>THE MAN ON THE ROAD</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">DICK Langford told Brack's story to Picton Woodridge and + Captain Ben. Both listened attentively: it was immensely + interesting to them. From time to time Ben looked at his friend + to see how he took it. Dick, absorbed in his tale, did not notice + the look of strained attention on their faces. They were silent + when he finished.</p> + + <p>"Not bad for Brack, eh?" said Dick.</p> + + <p>The simple question made them start.</p> + + <p>"You fellows seem all nerves this morning," said Dick. "When I + told Pic on deck, he staggered; I thought he was going to faint. + You're not afraid the fellow will board the yacht, are you?"</p> + + <p>Ben laughed as he said: "No, I don't think we're afraid, not + of one man, even if he be an escaped convict."</p> + + <p>"You'll want all your nerve to-morrow," said Dick to Picton. + "There's three of my horses to ride, and two of 'em are + brutes."</p> + + <p>"Thanks," said Picton, smiling; "a pleasant prospect. Worth + coming all these miles for, isn't it, Ben?"</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page21" id="page21"></a>[21]</span> + + <p>"Depends upon what Langford calls a brute," replied Ben.</p> + + <p>"Pitcher's not so bad; he's what I call a humorous horse, full + of pranks and no vice about him. He's number one. Now we come to + the first brute, Planet, a gelding with a temper; as likely as + not he'll try and pitch you into the crowd."</p> + + <p>"Then he ought to have been named Pitcher," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"We don't all get our right names, I mean names that fit; + we're saddled with 'em by unthinking parents. Sis has a maid, + Evangeline Mamie; now that's what I call a big handicap for the + girl," said Dick.</p> + + <p>They laughed, and Picton asked him to pass on to number two + brute.</p> + + <p>"The Rascal," said Dick; "he's a terror. He's lamed a couple + of my chaps, and Pete's right when you're in the saddle, but it's + a deuce of a job to get there. He rises on his hind legs, and + conducts an imaginary band with his fore legs, but he's got a + rare turn of speed, and he ought to win the West of England + Handicap Steeplechase to-morrow, and the Torbay and South Devon + Steeplechase the next day."</p> + + <p>"Then you expect to bring off the double with him?" said + Picton.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page22" id= + "page22"></a>[22]</span> + + <p>"Yes, and if you do not, Sis says she'll never speak to you + again."</p> + + <p>"Then I'll do it if I die in the attempt," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Don't be heroic, no one wants you to die. You can kill The + Rascal if you like, but promise me to come off unscathed," said + Dick, laughing.</p> + + <p>"I'll try," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Pitcher ought to win the Maiden Hurdle Race, and Planet the + St. Marychurch Hurdle Race. Now you have a nice little program + mapped out for you, and I fancy you'll win the four events. If + you do, it will be a day for rejoicing at Torwood, and the wearer + of the pink jacket will be an honored guest if he cares to desert + the <i>Sea-mew</i> for my humble abode."</p> + + <p>"Dick, you're incorrigible," said Picton, laughing. "You + really expect to win four races?"</p> + + <p>"I do; Gordon won the lot at a meeting not far away on one + occasion."</p> + + <p>"That's quite possible—he's a good rider."</p> + + <p>"So are you."</p> + + <p>"He is," said Ben; "few better."</p> + + <p>"What are you doing to-day?" asked Dick.</p> + + <p>"Nothing in particular; basking in the sunshine in your + glorious bay."</p> + + <p>"Then you like Torquay?" said Dick.</p> + + <p>"Who could help liking it? And what a county <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page23" id="page23"></a>[23]</span> lies + behind it! I envy you the Devonshire lanes, Dick."</p> + + <p>"Then come and live among them. I can pick you an ideal spot, + and it shall be well within your means, Mr. Millionaire."</p> + + <p>Picton laughed.</p> + + <p>"No millions here—a few thousands," he said; "just + sufficient to keep my head above water."</p> + + <p>"And the <i>Sea-mew</i> afloat," said Dick.</p> + + <p>"I'll manage that," said Ben.</p> + + <p>"Will you come ashore and have a look at Pitcher and the two + brutes?" said Dick.</p> + + <p>"What do you say, Ben? Shall we?" asked Picton.</p> + + <p>Ben knew he wished to go—Rita was at Torwood—it + was not the horses so much, although they were an attraction.</p> + + <p>"Yes," said Ben promptly, and the matter was settled.</p> + + <p>They went ashore. Dick Langford's dog-cart was at the Queen's + and thither they adjourned. In a quarter of an hour they were + going at an easy pace to Torwood, which lay about midway between + Torquay and Newton Abbot.</p> + + <p>How fresh everything looked! The trees were just budding, + tingeing the almost bare branches with tips of green. The air was + cool and soft; there were no motors about—only an odd one + or two, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page24" id= + "page24"></a>[24]</span> the tourist season had not + commenced—but there would be plenty of people at the races + on the following days.</p> + + <p>"Wonder what that fellow's up to!" exclaimed Dick, as he saw a + man push through the hedge and disappear down the hill and across + the meadow.</p> + + <p>"Probably belongs to the place," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Then what the deuce did he get through the hedge for? Why + didn't he go to the gate?" said Dick.</p> + + <p>"Short cut, perhaps," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Wonder if he's that chap from Dartmoor?" laughed Dick, and he + felt Picton start.</p> + + <p>"The man's got on your nerves," he said. "I'll say no more + about him."</p> + + <p>Picton was looking at him as he went rapidly across the + meadow; something about the figure appeared familiar, so did the + long stride; he wondered if Ben noticed it, but the Captain was + otherwise occupied. The incident was forgotten, and when they + came in sight of Torwood, Picton + became animated. He saw a figure on the lawn, and knew who it + was. She recognized them and waved her handkerchief. This met + with a quick response.</p> + + <p>Torwood was a typical Devonshire home, not large, but a + commodious, comfortable, well-appointed house, standing on the + hillside; trees at the back, a terrace, then a level stretch of + lawn, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page25" id="page25"></a>[25]</span> then a sweep down to the road; a small lodge and gate + at the drive entrance; a steep incline to the house. On the right + were the stables, half a dozen loose boxes, and a three-stall + building. Dick Langford was far from being a rich man, but he was + happy and contented, with his sister. He was a partner in a firm + of auctioneers at Newton Abbot, and was accounted a ready + salesman; there was always laughter in front when he wielded the + hammer; quick at repartee, there were many people prompt to draw + him out, but he got his prices, and that paid the firm and the + customers.</p> + + <p>Rita Langford was like her brother, of a bright and cheerful + disposition, was popular in the neighborhood, and Torwood was a + favorite house.</p> + + <p>"So glad to see you, Mr. Woodridge, and you too, Captain + Bruce. When did you arrive in the bay?"</p> + + <p>"In the morning, yesterday; it was beautiful. How grand the + country looks, and Torwood even prettier than ever!" said + Picton.</p> + + <p>"I induced him to leave his floating palace, and visit our + humble abode, by asking him to inspect the horses he is to ride," + said Dick with a wink at Ben.</p> + + <p>"That is so, but there was a far greater inducement," said + Picton, looking at Rita.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page26" id="page26"></a>[26]</span> + + <p>"Must I take that to mean me?" she said, laughing.</p> + + <p>"Please," said Picton, thinking how charming she was.</p> + + <p>They had a quiet luncheon, then went to the stables. Dick + engaged no regular trainer, but he had a man named Arnold Brent, + who was a first-rate hand with horses, and at the same time an + expert gardener; the combination was fortunate for the owner of + Torwood. The horses were trained in the neighborhood, where Dick + had the privilege of using some good galloping land, with natural + fences—an up and down country, but excellent for the + purpose. He had two lads who rode most of the work; sometimes he + had a mount, and occasionally Brent. Altogether they did very + well, and the Torwood horses generally secured a win or two at + the local meetings. Dick Langford's favorite battle-grounds were + Torquay and Newton Abbot. At the show at the latter place he + often took prizes for dogs, poultry and garden produce; the money + generally went into Brent's pocket. Brent knew both Picton and + the Captain, and admired the former because he knew he was a + first-class gentleman rider, although he had not seen him in the + saddle. It was Brent who suggested to his master that Mr. + Woodridge should ride at the local meeting for + them.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page27" id= + "page27"></a>[27]</span> + + <p>"Not a big enough thing for him," said Dick doubtfully. "He + rides at some of the swell meetings."</p> + + <p>"You try him, sir," said Brent, adding, as he caught sight of + Rita, "I'll bet he accepts."</p> + + <p>"I hear a terrible account of these horses I am to ride," said + Picton, smiling.</p> + + <p>Brent smiled.</p> + + <p>"I expect Mr. Langford's been pulling your leg, sir," he + said.</p> + + <p>"Isn't The Rascal a brute, isn't <a name="Error020" id= + "Error020"></a><a class="correction" title="Original was "Plant"." href= + "#Error020Ref">Planet</a> another; and Pitcher was described as + harmless, I think?" said Picton.</p> + + <p>"The Rascal's all right if you humor him," said Brent. "He's + bitten a lad, and crushed another against the wall, but he's not + half a bad sort, and he'll win the double easily enough in your + hands, sir."</p> + + <p>"If I can mount him," laughed Picton.</p> + + <p>"I'll see to that; he'll stand steady enough with me at his + head. That's him—the chestnut with the white face."</p> + + <p>Picton looked the horse over.</p> + + <p>"Bring him out," he said, and The Rascal was led out of his + box. As Picton went up to him he laid back his ears, and showed + the whites of his eyes; it was a false alarm, he let him pat his + neck and pass his hand over him.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page28" id="page28"></a>[28]</span> + + <p>"I like him," said Picton; "he looks a good sort."</p> + + <p>"He is, sir," said Brent.</p> + + <p>"Your favorite?" laughed Picton.</p> + + <p>"Yes, sir."</p> + + <p>Planet and Pitcher were both browns, handy sorts, and Picton + thought it highly probable the three would win the races selected + for them. He expressed this opinion, at which Dick and his sister + were delighted.</p> + + <p>"It is very good of you to come and ride for my brother," she + said to him.</p> + + <p>"It is always a pleasure to me to do anything to please you + and Dick," he replied.</p> + + <p>They chatted for some time; then she said: "I had an adventure + not long before you arrived."</p> + + <p>"Your country has always been full of adventures," he said, + smiling.</p> + + <p>"And adventurers, but the man who came here to-day was not an + adventurer, poor fellow," she said.</p> + + <p>He looked at her quickly and she went on.</p> + + <p>"I was at the bottom of the garden, near that thick-set hedge, + when I heard some one groan. It startled me; some tramp, I + thought, and went to the gate. I saw a man sitting by the + roadside. He looked up when he saw me, and I shall never forget + the suffering in his face, the hunted look in it. I <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page29" id="page29"></a>[29]</span> + shivered, but I was quite sure he was harmless. I beckoned him; + he came, turning his head from time to time in a frightened + manner. He said he had tramped many miles, that he was hungry, + footsore, weary to death. I took him to the back of the house, + gave him something to eat, and offered him money. He refused the + money at first, but I insisted and he took it. I gave him one of + Dick's old top coats; when he put it on he seemed a different + man. I hunted out a pair of old boots—he was very grateful + for them. I am sure he was a gentleman; he spoke like one, he + expressed himself as such when he left, there was a natural pride + about him. He walked in the direction of Torquay; I wonder if you + met him on the road."</p> + + <p>Picton Woodridge greatly astonished her by asking her the + following questions:</p> + + <p>"Have you told your brother about this?"</p> + + <p>"No."</p> + + <p>"Did any one see him?"</p> + + <p>"I don't think so. I am almost sure they did not."</p> + + <p>"Will you do me a favor?"</p> + + <p>"Willingly."</p> + + <p>"Then do not mention this to a soul," said Picton + earnestly.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_IV" id="CHAPTER_IV"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page30" id="page30"></a>[30]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER IV</h2> + + <h3>THE WOMAN AT THE TABLE</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">SHE promised readily, not asking questions, for which he was + grateful. She knew there was something she could not penetrate, + some mystery; her curiosity was aroused but she restrained + it.</p> + + <p>"Thank you," he said. "I have good reasons for asking you to + remain silent; some day I will tell you them, whether my + conjectures prove right or wrong."</p> + + <p>"I shall not ask your confidence," she said.</p> + + <p>"I will give it to you. I would give it to you now if I + thought it would be of any use."</p> + + <p>"I am sure you would."</p> + + <p>"Rita——"</p> + + <p>"Hallo, where are you, Picton?" shouted Dick.</p> + + <p>"Here!" he called. "On the seat near the hedge."</p> + + <p>"Oh, down there. Is Rita with you?"</p> + + <p>"Yes."</p> + + <p>"Sorry I shouted; hope I didn't disturb you," sang out + Dick.</p> + + <p>"Not in the least," said Picton; "we were just coming + up."</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page31" id= + "page31"></a>[31]</span> + + <p>"I wonder what he was going to tell me when he said 'Rita,'" + she thought as they walked up the hilly garden path.</p> + + <p>Picton said he would rather return to the yacht for the night; + he loved being on the water, it always had a soothing effect and + he was not a good sleeper.</p> + + <p>"I must be in tip-top condition for to-morrow—so much + depends upon it," he said, smiling.</p> + + <p>Rita thought a good deal about her conversation with him when + he left, tried to puzzle out the mystery, but failed.</p> + + <p>"I'll wait until he tells me," she said. "I wish Dick hadn't + shouted when he said 'Rita'; it interrupted a pleasant sentence. + I wonder how it would have finished?" and she smiled quietly to + herself.</p> + + <p>Dick drove them to Torquay, then returned home. Brack rowed + them out to the <i>Sea-mew</i>. He was loquacious as usual.</p> + + <p>"Nice night, gents," he said.</p> + + <p>"Beautiful, Brack. Isn't it rather dark though?" said Ben.</p> + + <p>Picton seemed moody.</p> + + <p>"Yes, there's no moon to speak of; it's darker than I've known + it at this time o' year."</p> + + <p>The old fellow chatted until they came + alongside.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page32" id= + "page32"></a>[32]</span> + + <p>Picton paid him and said good-night. Brack thanked him and + said: "Goin' to ride any winners to-morrow, sir?"</p> + + <p>This roused him and he told Brack the names of the horses and + the races they were going for.</p> + + <p>"You back The Rascal for the double if you can find any one to + lay it to you," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"We've a bookie among us," said Brack. "He's a young 'un and + as good a sailor as the best of us, but he's artful, very artful, + and he's had many a bob out'er me, and the rest. I'd like to take + him down, and I will. The Rascal for the double, you said?"</p> + + <p>"Yes, and here's half a sovereign to put on him," said + Picton.</p> + + <p>Brack gave an audible chuckle as he said: "Lor' love us, + that'll just about bust him if it comes off."</p> + + <p>They laughed as he rowed away, whistling softly to + himself.</p> + + <p>"I'll turn in early," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"The best thing you can do," said the Captain. "You seem a bit + out of sorts to-day."</p> + + <p>"I am; I can't get the sound of the gun out of my ears."</p> + + <p>Ben looked at him sympathetically.</p> + + <p>"I knew what you meant, felt what you felt, when you spoke + about it," he said.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page33" id= + "page33"></a>[33]</span> + + <p>"Strange some one should have escaped from Dartmoor a day or + two before," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Escapes are often occurring," said Ben.</p> + + <p>"What did you think about that man on the road, who pushed + through the hedge to avoid us?" asked Picton.</p> + + <p>"Didn't give it more than a passing thought," said Ben.</p> + + <p>"What was the passing thought?"</p> + + <p>"I said to myself, 'I wonder if that's the man who + escaped?'"</p> + + <p>"Good-night," said Picton; "I'll turn in."</p> + + <p>"Good-night," said Ben, as he sat on a deck chair.</p> + + <p>"He's in a curious mood to-night," he thought. "I'm sorry for + him. We ought not to have come here, it brings up painful + recollections, the vicinity of Dartmoor; and yet it has its + compensations—there's Miss Langford, lovely girl, and as + nice as she looks. I hope he'll win to-morrow, it will cheer him + up."</p> + + <p>Ben's mind went back to the time when Picton and Hector were + lads together, and the Admiral was alive. His heart was sore for + Hector, although he was half inclined to believe him guilty, but + tried to convince himself to the contrary by expressing his firm + belief in his innocence, in order to be of the same mind as + Picton.</p> + + <p>One thing Captain Ben had long determined <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page34" id="page34"></a>[34]</span> upon: + if ever he got a chance, he would help Hector, no matter at what + risk or cost. He was a man who had run into many dangers, not + useless dangers, necessary perils, with his eyes open, knowing + the consequences of failure, therefore he was a brave man. + Blindfolded, impetuous, blundering rushes against great odds + excite the admiration of the crowd, but it is the Captain Bens + who are to be relied upon in times of emergency.</p> + + <p>The air became cooler. Ben rose from his chair and went to his + cabin; looking into Picton's as he passed, he was glad to see him + asleep.</p> + + <p>The <i>Sea-mew</i> swung round with the tide, quietly, without + a sound; it was very still and calm; she looked like a dull white + bird on the water. So thought a man who crept stealthily along + the wall toward the inner harbor.</p> + + <p>"I wish I were on her and out at sea," he muttered. He could + just discern her outline, the white hull and the lights.</p> + + <p>He heard footsteps, a measured beat, a policeman, he knew by + the tread. He put his hand on the wall to steady himself, + shivered, then groaned. There was no getting out of it, he must + face the man, and it was late. He staggered forward with a + drunken reel, but not too unsteady on his legs. He lurched, just + avoiding the constable, who merely said: "Now, my man, get off + home, and mind you keep quiet."</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page35" id="page35"></a>[35]</span> + + <p>"All right, sir, I'm a'goin'," was the reply.</p> + + <p>The constable moved on, blissfully ignorant that he had + probably missed a chance of promotion. The man walked past the + pier, past the Torbay Hotel, where there were lights in one of + the rooms on the ground floor, evidently a late supper party, at + least so thought the man outside. Do what he would, he could not + resist the temptation to cross the road and see what was going + on. There was a chink in the blind. At first he saw little, his + eyes were curiously dim and heavy from lack of sleep, gradually + the mist in them lifted. He saw four people seated at a table, + brilliantly lighted, a dainty supper spread. It was long since he + had seen such things, but he had been used to them. Naturally, + being hungry, he looked at the well-laden table; then his eyes + went to the people sitting there, two men and two women. He saw + the men first, then one woman, then the other woman, and his eyes + started, his hands clenched, his face went livid, his teeth met + with a snap; for a moment he stood thus, regarding the woman with + a fixed stare of horror. She was a beautiful woman, voluptuous, + with a luring face, and eyes which knew every language in every + tongue of unspoken love. She was smiling into the eyes of the man + at her side as she toyed with a dainty morsel on a silver dessert + fork. She was dressed with excellent taste, expensively, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page36" id="page36"></a>[36]</span> not lavishly. She was a woman who knew overdressing + spells disaster. Her white teeth gleamed as she smiled; the man + at her side was lost in admiration—it was not difficult to + see that.</p> + + <p>The man looking outside raised his clenched fists and said: + "Is there no God, no justice anywhere?"</p> + + <p>As he spoke the woman dropped her fork and started, a shiver + passed over her. The man at her side hastily got up, brought her + a wrap and placed it on her shoulders. The man outside saw the + fork fall, he saw the wrap, and he muttered again: "There is a + God, there is justice; her conscience imprisons her as surely + as——"</p> + + <p>"Move on there! What are you lurking about here for?"</p> + + <p>"All right, goin' 'ome, just met yer brother along there."</p> + + <p>"He's not my brother," said the constable gruffly.</p> + + <p>"Thought yer were all brothers, members of the same cloth, + anyhow yer all good sorts. Good-night."</p> + + <p>"Be off home," said the constable, as he went on his way; and + a second man lost a chance of promotion that night.</p> + + <p>"I must not run any more risks," thought the man, "but I'm + glad I crossed the road and looked in at that window. She + suffers, she could not have <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page37" id="page37"></a>[37]</span> heard my voice, perhaps + an internal justice carried it to her and my words were whispered + in her ears—such things have been known. There she sits, + feasting, surrounded by every comfort, but she's not happy, she + never will be, such women never are. God, to think what I have + gone through for her, what I have suffered! I have lived in hell, + in purgatory, and I ought to be on my way to heavenly peace. God, + give me a chance; I am an innocent man and You know it."</p> + + <p>"Hallo, mate, where goin'? Yer a late bird," said Brack, as he + knocked against the man walking in a curiously wild way in the + middle of the road.</p> + + <p>"Goin' 'ome," said the man.</p> + + <p>"That'll not get over me; yer puttin' it on. I'm fra + Yorkshire, and a bit too cute for that."</p> + + <p>"What d'yer mean?"</p> + + <p>"That I've heard gents speak in my time, and I reckon you're + one."</p> + + <p>The man started; at first he was inclined to bolt; then as the + light of a lamp shone on Brack's face he saw it was honest, + kindly, full of charity, and through it he knew there was a big + heart inside the rough body.</p> + + <p>"You are right," he said. "I was a gentleman, I hope I am one + still, although I have lived such a life that the wonder is I am + not a beast."</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page38" id= + "page38"></a>[38]</span> + + <p>Brack looked hard at him; from his face his gaze wandered over + his body, then he looked at his hands; one was bound up, the + other had marks on it, deep marks, like the marks of teeth. Brack + made up his mind.</p> + + <p>"Don't move," he said, "when I tell you something. I'm a man, + not a fiend, and I've an innocent brother over there," and he + jerked his hand in the direction of the moor far away. "Maybe + you've seen him."</p> + + <p>The man gasped—this old sailor knew! Should he—no, + the face was honest, he would trust him.</p> + + <p>"Perhaps I have," he said.</p> + + <p>"Are you the man that throttled that bloodhound?"</p> + + <p>"Why do you ask?"</p> + + <p>"Because if you are I'd like to clasp yer hand and say I think + yer brave."</p> + + <p>The man held out his bandaged hand; the old sailor took it in + his big, horny palm tenderly, pressing it gently.</p> + + <p>"The other one," he said.</p> + + <p>The man held out his other hand.</p> + + <p>"I'm glad I've held 'em both, the hands that strangled that + cursed hound. Come along with me. I'll see yer safe, never fear. + There's not a man jack of 'em in Torquay or Princetown, or + anywhere, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page39" id= + "page39"></a>[39]</span> would ever suspect old Brack of + harboring a—gentleman."</p> + + <p>Without a word the man went with him. As he walked at the + honest Brack's side he thought: "My prayer has been + answered."</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_V" id="CHAPTER_V"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page40" id="page40"></a>[40]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER V</h2> + + <h3>PICTON'S WINNING MOUNTS</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">IT was Easter Monday, and a holiday crowd gathered on the + slopes of Petitor racecourse at St. Mary Church. More than usual + interest was shown in the meeting owing to the presence of Picton + Woodridge, whose fame as a gentleman rider was well-known. Dick + Langford was popular and the success of the pink jacket eagerly + anticipated.</p> + + <p>Petitor is not an ideal course; it is on the slope of a hill, + and a queer country to get over, but some interesting sport is + seen and the local people take a pride in it; as a golf links it + is admirable.</p> + + <p>Picton had not seen the course before, at least only from the + road, and as he looked at it he smiled.</p> + + <p>"I may lose my way," he said to Rita; "go the wrong + course."</p> + + <p>"You will find it easy enough, and you are not likely to make + mistakes. Look," and she pointed out the track to him, and the + various obstacles.</p> + + <p>There were bookmakers there—where are they not when + races are on, no matter how small the fields, or the + crowd?</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page41" id= + "page41"></a>[41]</span> + + <p>Picton wore the pink jacket, ready to ride Pitcher in the + Maiden Hurdle Race, the opening event. There were only three + runners, and yet the books accepted six to four on Dick's horse; + there was a strong run on Frisco; and Fraud was nibbled at.</p> + + <p>"Come along," said Dick; "time to mount."</p> + + <p>"Good luck!" said Rita with a smile. "You'll find Pitcher easy + to ride. I've been on him several times."</p> + + <p>"He'll find me rather a different burden," said Picton.</p> + + <p>The three runners came out, and Picton received a hearty + welcome, which he acknowledged.</p> + + <p>"Sits his horse well," said one.</p> + + <p>"A good rider, anybody can see that."</p> + + <p>"Here, I'll take seven to four and it's picking up money!" + shouted a bookmaker; and so thought the backers as they hurried + up with their money, and Pitcher quickly became a two to one on + chance.</p> + + <p>The distance was two miles. Picton indulged Frisco with the + lead until half a mile from home, when he sent Pitcher forward, + had a slight tussle with Frisco, then forged ahead and landed the + odds by ten lengths amidst great cheering.</p> + + <p>"Win number one," said Dick triumphantly; "when the meeting is + over they'll bar you from riding here again."</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page42" id="page42"></a>[42]</span> + + <p>Rita was delighted, her face all smiles; she was proud of the + good-looking man who had carried her brother's colors to + victory.</p> + + <p>Picton, as he walked about with Rita, Dick, Captain Ben and a + host of friends, was the cynosure of all eyes; but he was + accustomed to being stared at.</p> + + <p>"Now comes the tug-of-war," said Dick. "There's The Rascal. + See how he's lashing out, scattering the crowd. I believe he's in + a nasty temper, confound him."</p> + + <p>There were five runners in the Steeplechase, and although The + Rascal had Picton up, the favorite was Anstey, who had Hordern in + the saddle. The Tor, Moorland, and Stream, were the other + runners, but wagering was confined to the favorite and The + Rascal.</p> + + <p>Picton walked up to his mount; The Rascal switched round, + despite Brent's efforts, and refused to be mounted. His rider + watched him with an amused smile; Dick and his sister looked + anxious, while a crowd gathered round at a respectful + distance.</p> + + <p>Picton bided his time, then, when The Rascal had his attention + attracted by Brent, slipped up to him, took the reins and swung + into the saddle, and before the astonished horse recovered from + his surprise he had him well under control. The spectators + cheered; it was a clever piece of work, deserving <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page43" id="page43"></a>[43]</span> of + recognition. Once mounted, The Rascal seemed tractable enough; + but Picton knew the horse was not in the best temper, and + required humoring.</p> + + <p>"You've not got a very nice mount," said Hordern as they rode + together.</p> + + <p>"I'm told he's queer-tempered," said Picton; and as he looked + at Anstey he thought: "Your mount will take a bit of + beating."</p> + + <p>They were soon on their journey. At first The Rascal made a + deliberate attempt to bolt; he discovered he had a rider who + refused to put up with his inclinations in this direction. + Finding bolting stopped, he tried to swerve at the first fence; + this object was also frustrated and he received a few stinging + cuts from the whip, wielded by a strong arm. These vagaries + allowed Anstey and the others to forge ahead, and The Rascal was + in the rear.</p> + + <p>Dick looked glum, but Brent said: "There's plenty of time. + He's a rare turn of speed—and a grand rider up."</p> + + <p>At the end of the first mile The Rascal was still last. He + began to improve his position; quickly passed Stream, and + Moorland, then the Tor; but Anstey was a dozen lengths ahead, + fencing well. Two more obstacles then the run home. Picton rode + The Rascal hard to find if he would respond to his call. Whatever + else he was, the horse was <span class="pagenum"><a name="page44" + id="page44"></a>[44]</span> game, he did not flinch, and + Picton was surprised how easily he went ahead. Anstey blundered + at the next fence, Hordern making a fine recovery; this cost the + favorite several lengths. At the last fence The Rascal was only + three or four lengths behind. Anstey cleared it well, The Rascal + struck it, stumbled, threw Picton on his neck, struggled up + again; and Picton was back in the saddle and riding hard before + the crowd realized what had happened. Then a great cheer broke + out, for a splendid bit of jockeyship.</p> + + <p>"Not one man in a hundred could have done that," said Brent + enthusiastically.</p> + + <p>Hordern thought he had the race won. The Rascal on his knees, + with Picton on his neck, was good enough for him. He took a pull + at Anstey; he intended winning the double, and did not wish to + press him too hard. It was a blunder; he found it out when he + heard the cheering and cries of, "Well done, Picton!" "Rascal's + catching him!" The stumble seemed to put new life into The + Rascal, for once again he showed what a rare turn of speed he + possessed.</p> + + <p>Picton rode his best.</p> + + <p>"Rita expects me to win—I will," he thought; and + something told The Rascal it would be bad for him if he failed to + do his best.</p> + + <p>Two hundred yards from the winning post <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page45" id="page45"></a>[45]</span> Anstey + led, but it had taken Hordern a few moments to get him going + again when he realized the situation. It was dangerous to play + these games with Picton. The Rascal came along, moving + splendidly; he gained on Anstey, drew level, held him, then got + his head in front. Hordern rode well, but he had met his match. + The Rascal drew ahead and won by a length amidst tremendous + cheering—Picton Woodridge was the hero of the day. Rita was + proud of him and told him so at Torwood the same night. The + Rascal had been backed to win the double with every man who had a + book on the races, so next day the excitement rose to fever heat + when the Torbay Steeplechase came on for decision.</p> + + <p>The Rascal was in the best of tempers, he actually allowed + Picton to stroke his face, pat his neck, and pay him sundry + attentions; Rita gave him lumps of sugar, and said he was the + dearest and best of Rascals.</p> + + <p>"You will win the double," she said to Picton. "I am sure of + it."</p> + + <p>"And I'll try to win a far richer prize before long," he said, + looking at her in a way that caused the red blood to mount to her + cheeks.</p> + + <p>Anstey ran again, but the main opposition was expected to come + from Sandy, a Newton Abbot horse. Dick's horse had to give him a + stone, which <span class="pagenum"><a name="page46" id= + "page46"></a>[46]</span> was a tall order, but Brent said he + could do it, unless Sandy had improved out of all knowledge.</p> + + <p>"I'd take The Rascal to the front this time," said Brent to + Picton; "he's in a good temper and when that is the case he likes + to make the pace, and he jumps freer."</p> + + <p>"If he'll do it, I'll let him," said Picton. "Will he stay + there? Remember he's giving lumps of weight away."</p> + + <p>"He can do it," was the confident reply.</p> + + <p>Six runners went out, a field above the average at + Petitor.</p> + + <p>Most people thought some of the runners would have been better + out of it, they would only be in the way, a danger to the others + at the fences; a blunderer is often a veritable death trap.</p> + + <p>It astonished Leek, who was on Sandy, to see Picton take The + Rascal to the front. He smiled as he thought, "He's making a + mistake this time."</p> + + <p>Evidently the others thought the same, for they patiently + waited for the leader to come back to them.</p> + + <p>Arnold Brent smiled.</p> + + <p>"I gave him good advice. They're doing exactly what I thought + they would, waiting. Let 'em wait."</p> + + <p>The distance was two miles and a half. The Rascal held a big + lead at the end of a mile and <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page47" id="page47"></a>[47]</span> a half. Leek on Sandy + thought it was about time he came back to him, but The Rascal + showed no sign of this; on the contrary, he gained ground. To go + after him was the best thing and Leek tried. Much to his + astonishment, he discovered the pace was much faster than he + thought; Sandy made very little headway. At first Picton's policy + of making the running was considered a mistaken one; this opinion + changed as the race progressed; and when they saw Leek hard at + work on Sandy in second place and making hardly any headway, The + Rascal's numerous backers were jubilant. The cheering commenced, + it became deafening as Picton drew near to the winning post. It + was an extraordinary race. The Rascal, the top weight, made all + the running and won by twenty lengths; more than that, he was not + in the least distressed.</p> + + <p>Picton was congratulated on all sides. Turning to Dick and + Rita he said: "He's one of the best horses I have ever ridden + over fences; there's a National in him."</p> + + <p>Dick shook his head.</p> + + <p>"You're too enthusiastic. Wait until you've cooled down," he + said.</p> + + <p>"I shall not alter my opinion," said Picton. "Where's + Planet?"</p> + + <p>"Over there," said Dick, and they walked across.</p> + + <p>The next race was the Marychurch Hurdle Plate, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page48" id="page48"></a>[48]</span> and + Picton rode Planet. The race needs little description; there were + three runners, and Dick's horse won comfortably.</p> + + <p>At Torwood that evening there were great rejoicings; but as + Picton wished to sleep on the <i>Sea-mew</i> he and Ben were + driven to Torquay.</p> + + <p class="tb">Before he left, Picton said to Rita: "Next time I am here I + have a very important question to ask you."</p> + + <p>"Have you?" she said. "I wonder what it is."</p> + + <p>"Cannot you guess?"</p> + + <p>"I'll try," she answered, smiling happily.</p> + + <p>"It's too important to put in a hurry," laughed Picton, "and I + haven't the courage to do it now."</p> + + <p>"Not after four victories," she answered, laughing.</p> + + <p>He shook his head, as he got up beside her brother in the + trap.</p> + + <p>"If you won't sell The Rascal, send him to Haverton," said + Picton as they bade Dick good-night.</p> + + <p>"All right, I will, and you can do what you like with him," + said Dick cheerily.</p> + + <p>"Brack's not here; that's strange. We shall have to get some + one else," said Ben.</p> + + <p>They hired a younger man. He happened to be the boatmen's + bookie.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page49" id= + "page49"></a>[49]</span> + + <p>"Where's Brack?" asked Ben.</p> + + <p>"He backed the double with me for half a sov.," said the man. + "He's about broke me, sir, but I don't begrudge it him; he's a + real good sort. I expect he's celebrating it in town."</p> + + <p>Brack was not celebrating it; he was biding his time, and + opportunity.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_VI" id="CHAPTER_VI"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page50" id="page50"></a>[50]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER VI</h2> + + <h3>IN BRACK'S COTTAGE</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">BRACK'S was a humble abode not far from the inner harbor. He + lived there with his mother. The old woman idolized him; he was a + very good son. She attended to their small wants and kept the + house scrupulously clean.</p> + + <p>"I've brought a mate, mother," said Brack as he entered with + his companion.</p> + + <p>"He's welcome, my boy." She always called him her boy, and + somehow it did not sound strange.</p> + + <p>"Come in, don't be afraid," said Brack.</p> + + <p>The man stepped into the small room, looking round + suspiciously. Why had Brack brought him here, had he any + particular reasons for doing so, reasons that would benefit + himself?</p> + + <p>Brack gathered something of what was passing in his mind and + whispered, "You'll be quite safe here, sit down."</p> + + <p>They had a fish supper; to the stranger it was the most + wonderful meal he had partaken of for some years. He ate + greedily, he could not help it, but Brack, watching him, knew he + was a well-bred man.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page51" + id="page51"></a>[51]</span> + + <p>The old lady asked no questions, she never questioned what her + son did; she bade them good-night and went to her room. It was + then Brack learned something of the man he had brought to his + home; and the tale harrowed his feelings, froze the marrow in his + bones, horrified him; he shuddered as he imagined what this + highly cultured man must have suffered.</p> + + <p>They talked until the small hours of the morning, Brack + considering what he should do, how to get his companion away from + Torquay?</p> + + <p>Suddenly he said, "Do yer mind telling me yer name? I'd like + to know it in case I hear of yer in the world sometimes. You'll + be far away from here, but I'd like to have something to remember + yer by and I reckon yer name's the best thing."</p> + + <p>The man was startled; again the suspicious look came into his + eyes. Would it ever be entirely absent, that haunted gaze; it was + pitiable.</p> + + <p>"I don't want it if you don't care to give it to me."</p> + + <p>"I beg your pardon. You deserve my entire confidence. You are + running grave risk for my sake, an unknown man, a stranger, + worse—an escaped prisoner from Dartmoor."</p> + + <p>"Never mind the risk; we'll not trouble about that," said + Brack.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page52" id= + "page52"></a>[52]</span> + + <p>"Do you know what the consequences would be if it were known + you had hidden me?"</p> + + <p>"I don't know and I don't care," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"Think of your mother."</p> + + <p>Brack laughed as he said: "She'll glory in what I've done when + I tell her; she's Bill out there."</p> + + <p>"I forgot; that makes all the difference. And he's + innocent."</p> + + <p>"Like you."</p> + + <p>"How do you know I am innocent?"</p> + + <p>"Yer face tells me. I'd trust a man like you anywhere and + anyhow."</p> + + <p>"If ever I come into my own again, if ever my innocence is + proved, I'll see to you and your mother for life, and I'll + promise to do all I can for Bill, your brother."</p> + + <p>Brack's face glowed.</p> + + <p>"Damn me but you're a man!" he said and seized his hand. "I + forgot, I'm a fool," he added, as the man winced. The pain from + Brack's honest grip was intense.</p> + + <p>"I will tell you my name. You may have heard it + before—we receive news sometimes—my brother is a + famous rider. You are a bit of a sportsman?"</p> + + <p>"I am," said Brack. "I've had a tip for the races here, for + the double, and I've got ten bob to put on; the gentleman who's + goin' to ride gave it me. <span class="pagenum"><a name="page53" + id="page53"></a>[53]</span> He says to me as I left the + yacht—I'd rowed him out there—he says, 'Here, Brack, + there's half a sov. for you. Back The Rascal for the double.' And + I mean to."</p> + + <p>"The Rascal?"</p> + + <p>"That's the name of the horse—funny, isn't it?"</p> + + <p>"Who was the gentleman?"</p> + + <p>"The owner of the <i>Sea-mew</i>, the yacht lying at anchor in + the bay."</p> + + <p>"The yacht with such beautiful lines, painted white? I just + saw her as I came along by the wall before I met you, my good + friend."</p> + + <p>"That's her. She's not big but she's a gem. She's been here + several times."</p> + + <p>"And who is the owner?"</p> + + <p>"The same as rides Mr. Langford's horses at the races."</p> + + <p>"But you have not told me who he is."</p> + + <p>"Ain't I? No more I have! It's Mr. Picton Woodridge."</p> + + <p>The man stared at Brack; he seemed on the point of falling off + his chair.</p> + + <p>"Picton Woodridge," he said in a hoarse voice.</p> + + <p>"Yes; have you met him in days gone by?" asked Brack.</p> + + <p>"He is my younger brother," said the man. "I am Hector + Woodridge."</p> + + <p>It was Brack's turn to stare now. This man he <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page54" id="page54"></a>[54]</span> had + brought to his home Picton Woodridge's brother? Was it possible? + This was indeed a strange chance! He peered into his companion's + face, trying to trace a resemblance, and found one.</p> + + <p>"Yes," he said, "you're like him, or you were once."</p> + + <p>Hector Woodridge sighed.</p> + + <p>"Once," he said; "it all seems such a long while ago."</p> + + <p>"I remember, I recollect now," said Brack. "I wonder it did + not strike me afore. Yer a Yorkshire family. I know, at Haverton. + I was a boatman at Scarborough when it happened. I always said + you were innocent; I call to mind the trial well. Yer Mr. Hector + Woodridge, thank God for that; I see a way out of it all. You + must bide here and I'll pick the night when I can get you + away."</p> + + <p>"Get me away!" exclaimed Hector. "How, where shall I go?"</p> + + <p>"Leave that to me. There's a man on the watch here. His name's + Carl Hackler. He's from Dartmoor, and he's prowling around here + on the lookout—has been for a week or more."</p> + + <p>"I don't remember his name," said Hector.</p> + + <p>"Likely enough not; there's plenty of 'em there as you'd never + see, but he's seen you, and he'd recognize you. I've fooled him + once and I think <span class="pagenum"><a name="page55" id= + "page55"></a>[55]</span> he knows it; I'll have a stiff job to + do it again; but I will do it, and you'll get clear away."</p> + + <p>"What is your plan?"</p> + + <p>Brack hesitated; he wondered if Hector Woodridge would care to + go on board the <i>Sea-mew</i>, whether he would be afraid to + implicate his brother. He decided it would be better for his + purpose not to say what his plan was until he had his man safe in + his boat on the way to the yacht.</p> + + <p>"I'll tell you that when the time's ripe. You'd best turn in + and have some sleep; you look as though you could do with + it."</p> + + <p>"I can. Where shall I go?"</p> + + <p>"In there," said Brack, pointing to a small room.</p> + + <p>"It is your room."</p> + + <p>"Never mind me. Go in and rest."</p> + + <p>Hector was dead beat. He opened the door, he was so exhausted + he fell fast asleep before he had time to undress.</p> + + <p>Brack sat ruminating until an early hour. This discovery that + his guest was Hector Woodridge stunned him, he could not + comprehend it. He recollected all about the celebrated trial + which resulted in Hector Woodridge being condemned to death for + the murder of the husband of the woman he had become entangled + with. All Yorkshire signed the petition for a reprieve and the + sentence was commuted to penal servitude for life. He remembered + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page56" id="page56"></a>[56]</span> how the shock killed Admiral Woodridge, Hector's + father.</p> + + <p>Brack went to the old black horse-hair sofa and lay down. He + was soon asleep, dreaming in a few minutes, strange dreams in + which convicts, Dartmoor, the <i>Sea-mew</i>, The Rascal, Carl + Hackler, and divers and other persons and places were mixed up in + the most extraordinary manner.</p> + + <p>A knocking at the door roused Brack.</p> + + <p>Sitting up, he rubbed his eyes, yawned, struggled to his feet. + He had his sailor clothes on.</p> + + <p>Another knock.</p> + + <p>"Comin'. Don't be in such a hurry. Leave the milk can, yer + fool."</p> + + <p>Another knock.</p> + + <p>"Must be deaf. Drat the lad, what's he wakin' an honest man up + at this hour for?"</p> + + <p>He went to the door, unlocked it, pulled back the bolt, opened + it, and found Carl Hackler standing before him.</p> + + <p>As Brack said afterward: "I wish I could 'ave pushed him into + the harbor, me a'top of him."</p> + + <p>"'Morning, Brack. I want a boat; can you come quick?" said + Carl.</p> + + <p>Brack's relief was so great that he gave a loud, startling + laugh.</p> + + <p>"What the deuce is the matter with you? Have you suddenly gone + mad?"</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page57" id= + "page57"></a>[57]</span> + + <p>"Sane as you are, Mister Hackler," said Brack. "Maybe a bit + saner at times."</p> + + <p>"I believe you fooled me about that man being rowed out to the + tramp. Anyhow the tramp's here, put back for something I suppose, + and I'm going to board her before she leaves again, and question + the skipper. I particularly want you to row me out because I mean + to tell him who gave me the information while you are alongside," + said Hackler.</p> + + <p>"Now I call that nice of you," said Brack. "Here I gives you + the best tip I can and you want to get me into trouble if it's + correct. I did my best for yer, Mr. Hackler, on my honor."</p> + + <p>"Will you row me out?" said Hackler impatiently.</p> + + <p>"What's it worth?"</p> + + <p>"Five shillings."</p> + + <p>"I'll be with you in a minute," said Brack. "I'll just tell + mother."</p> + + <p>"Let her know her little boy is going out in good company," + said Hackler.</p> + + <p>"I'll tell her who I'm goin' with, then she can judge for + herself, whether the company's good or bad," replied Brack.</p> + + <p>Hackler laughed as he said: "You're a smart chap, + Brack."</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page58" id= + "page58"></a>[58]</span> + + <p>"Am I? Then perhaps you can find me a job out your way."</p> + + <p>"Better where you are," said Hackler, with what sounded very + much like a sigh.</p> + + <p>Brack went into his mother's room. She was awake.</p> + + <p>"What is it, lad?" she asked.</p> + + <p>"Hush, mother! I'm goin' out with Hackler in my boat. He's the + man from Dartmoor, on the lookout for the escaped prisoner. I'm + rowin' him out to the tramp; she's put back again."</p> + + <p>She smiled; she knew all about it.</p> + + <p>"Tell him not to stir out of that room until I comes home. + He'll sleep a good while. He must not come out, not even in + here—you understand, mother?"</p> + + <p>"Yes, but who is he?"</p> + + <p>"He's the man Hackler's after; the man who strangled the + bloodhound. He knows our Bill. He's a gentleman; he'll do what he + can for him when he's proved his innocence. He + is——"</p> + + <p>"Come on, Brack; don't be all day," called Hackler.</p> + + <p>"I'll see to him, lad, never fear; he's safe with me," said + his mother.</p> + + <p>"Comin'," said Brack as he went out and joined him.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_VII" id="CHAPTER_VII"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page59" id="page59"></a>[59]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER VII</h2> + + <h3>A CRITICAL MOMENT</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">BRACK, as I remarked before, you are a smart fellow. Were you + putting me off the scent when you said the man I am looking for + went off in the tramp?" said Hackler.</p> + + <p>"I never said he were the man; I said there were a man went + off with the boat's crew to the tramp."</p> + + <p>"I gave a description of him."</p> + + <p>"It seemed like him to me," said Brack.</p> + + <p>They reached the harbor; Brack pulled in his boat; Hackler + stepped in and was rowed toward the tramp. The dirty looking + steamer was farther out than anticipated, and Brack took his + time; his practiced eyes discerned something invisible to + Hackler.</p> + + <p>"Steam up," said Carl.</p> + + <p>"Most likely she'll be going in an hour or two."</p> + + <p>"I wonder what she put back for?" said Hackler half to + himself.</p> + + <p>"Short o' coal," grinned Brack.</p> + + <p>"Shut up and don't be a fool," growled Carl.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page60" id="page60"></a>[60]</span> + + <p>Brack could see the steamer as he looked sideways over his + shoulder. A humorous smile stole over his face.</p> + + <p>"She's movin'," he thought.</p> + + <p>There was a stir at the stern of the tramp, the screw + revolved, she was steaming away, and Carl Hackler was too late. + When he recognized this he lost his temper; he had taken his + journey for nothing. Catching sight of Brack's face, he fancied + he detected laughter there; this did not improve matters.</p> + + <p>"Confound you, I believe you knew she was going!" he said + angrily.</p> + + <p>"Not until the screw turned," said Brack.</p> + + <p>Hackler stood up in the boat and waved; some one on the tramp + answered the signal but she continued on her way.</p> + + <p>"D——n the fellow, why doesn't he stop!" raged + Carl.</p> + + <p>"Looks suspicious, but he doesn't know who you are. If he did + he'd be sure to slow down," said Brack.</p> + + <p>Carl turned round quickly; he had an idea he was being chaffed + and didn't like it. He stumbled, barked his leg on the seat, fell + forward, and sprawled in the bottom of the boat. He did not know + a sudden spurt by Brack caused this.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page61" id="page61"></a>[61]</span> + + <p>He floundered about, smothered his rage as best he could, then + ordered Brack to row him back.</p> + + <p>"Hope yer not hurt," said Brack sympathetically.</p> + + <p>No answer was vouchsafed to this polite inquiry.</p> + + <p>"Looks as though he might be aboard that tramp," said Brack. + "They got off pretty sudden; perhaps you were recognized."</p> + + <p>"Who'd have recognized me?" asked Carl.</p> + + <p>"Him as yer looking for."</p> + + <p>Carl laughed.</p> + + <p>"Not likely; I don't think he ever saw me."</p> + + <p>"But you've seen him?"</p> + + <p>"Scores of times."</p> + + <p>"You'd know him again?"</p> + + <p>"Of course; he's easy to recognize. But they've probably got + him by now."</p> + + <p>"Poor chap."</p> + + <p>"Call him that, do you? You'd not do it if you knew what he + was there for."</p> + + <p>"Tell me."</p> + + <p>"He shot a man whose wife he had been carrying on with. It was + a brutal, cold-blooded murder. The husband found them together; + they were fairly trapped, so the fellow shot him."</p> + + <p>"Funny he should carry a revolver about with him," said + Brack.</p> + + <p>"It wasn't his revolver, it was the husband's; that's why he + was reprieved. It was argued that <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page62" id="page62"></a>[62]</span> the weapon was in the + room, that on the spur of the moment he picked it up and shot + him."</p> + + <p>"Oh," said Brack meditatively. "I suppose it never occurred to + you, or the larned judge, or the blessed jury, that some one else + might have shot him."</p> + + <p>Carl laughed.</p> + + <p>"Who else could have shot him?"</p> + + <p>"It's not for me to say; I'm not clever enough. She might 'a' + done it."</p> + + <p>"Who?"</p> + + <p>"The wife."</p> + + <p>"What nonsense! He confessed he did it."</p> + + <p>"Eh!" exclaimed Brack.</p> + + <p>"I say he confessed he fired the shot."</p> + + <p>"And he says he's innocent," said Brack.</p> + + <p>Carl stared at him.</p> + + <p>"Says he's innocent!" he exclaimed. "How do you know?"</p> + + <p>Brack saw his mistake and quickly covered it.</p> + + <p>"I lived in Yorkshire at the time. I know all about the trial; + I read it."</p> + + <p>"Oh," said Carl. "If you read it you know more about it than I + do."</p> + + <p>"Very likely," said Brack as the boat went alongside the + steps.</p> + + <p>Carl landed; he gave Brack half a crown.</p> + + <p>"Five bob," said Brack.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page63" id="page63"></a>[63]</span> + + <p>"But you didn't go to the tramp."</p> + + <p>"I couldn't; she was away."</p> + + <p>"Then you can't claim the lot," said Carl, who was annoyed at + missing the steamer.</p> + + <p>"I suppose not exactly," drawled Brack, "but betwixt gents, I + should say it holds good."</p> + + <p>Despite his annoyance, Carl could not help laughing.</p> + + <p>"I suppose you must have it," he said, and handed him another + half-crown.</p> + + <p>"Goin' home to-day?" asked Brack.</p> + + <p>"Home!"</p> + + <p>"To Dartmoor."</p> + + <p>"That's not my home."</p> + + <p>"It's where yer located, at any rate."</p> + + <p>"I don't know. There's no trace of the man. It's queer where + he's got to; I fancy he's dead—fallen down a mine, or been + starved out."</p> + + <p>"That's about it," said Brack. "Fancy looking for him round + here! Seems a bit soft to me."</p> + + <p>"You take a lot of interest in this man," said Carl eying him + closely.</p> + + <p>"No more than I do in any man who makes a fight for + liberty."</p> + + <p>"Would you let 'em all loose on Dartmoor?" sneered Carl.</p> + + <p>"I'd chance it if there were any innocent men among + 'em."</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page64" id= + "page64"></a>[64]</span> + + <p>"There are none."</p> + + <p>"There's one I know of."</p> + + <p>"Who?"</p> + + <p>"My brother Bill."</p> + + <p>Carl laughed as he said: "Your brother Bill was lucky not to + be hanged," and walked away.</p> + + <p>Brack scowled after him and muttered: "And you'll be lucky not + to be drowned if yer not careful."</p> + + <p>When Brack arrived home he told Hector Woodridge what + happened.</p> + + <p>"By gad, he gave me a shock when he came to the door this + morning," said Brack. "You must wait for to-night; I'll come and + fetch you if the coast is clear. You'll have to trust me, leave + it all to me."</p> + + <p>"I will," said Hector. "I can do nothing for myself."</p> + + <p>"You can do a lot. If there's danger keep cool and don't + betray any alarm—face it out."</p> + + <p>"I place myself entirely in your hands," said Hector.</p> + + <p>There was no chance that night. Brack stayed about the harbor + until ten o'clock. Just as he thought the opportunity favorable + Carl Hackler turned up, and Brack made for home, thinking he had + not been seen. He was mistaken.</p> + + <p>"Something mysterious about the old fellow <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page65" id="page65"></a>[65]</span> + lately," thought Carl. "He can't know anything; it's absurd, of + course; but I'll swear he put me off the scent about that tramp. + Confound him, he's a shrewd 'un, he is. It's my belief No. 832 is + in Torquay somewhere. There'll be a shindy if he gets away, + because he's got a lot of rich relations I believe; somebody's + sure to say it's a put up job. There wasn't any put up business + about strangling that dog; I can't help admiring the fellow for + that. He bore a good name in the prison too."</p> + + <p>"No go to-night," said Brack as he came in, "but I've got a + bit of news."</p> + + <p>"What is it?" asked Hector.</p> + + <p>"I've won the first part of my bet with The Rascal."</p> + + <p>Hector could not help smiling; it seemed a curious piece of + news under the circumstances. He said: "I hope you'll win the + double."</p> + + <p>"It'll mean a fiver to me," said Brack, "and that's a lot to a + poor man."</p> + + <p>"You shall have a pocket full of fivers when I prove my + innocence," said Hector.</p> + + <p>"I'd not take 'em," said Brack. "I'd be satisfied to know I'd + done you a good turn, that I would," and he meant it.</p> + + <p>Next evening Brack was very well pleased with himself when The + Rascal won the double. He <span class="pagenum"><a name="page66" + id="page66"></a>[66]</span> proceeded to draw his money and + enlighten the youthful bookie on the follies of gambling; he also + exhibited some liberality in the matter of drinks to several + mates.</p> + + <p>He saw nothing of Carl Hackler, although he walked about the + streets and loitered near the water.</p> + + <p>"I'll try it to-night," he thought. "The races are over and + maybe the <i>Sea-mew</i> will sail before morning. There's no + telling, and it's the best chance there is; it can't be missed; + it's too good, even if we run some risk. If I only knew where + that Dartmoor chap was. I'd give half my winnings to + know—I'd give the whole blessed lot to get him safe on that + yacht."</p> + + <p>Brack went home full of his plan, and how best to manage it + without exciting suspicion.</p> + + <p>It was after ten o'clock when he slipped out of the house. + Hector Woodridge followed at some distance, keeping him in + sight.</p> + + <p>"He's going to the harbor," thought Hector. "What will he do + there?"</p> + + <p>Brack looked round in every direction as he went down the + steps and hauled in his boat. It was no unusual thing for a boat + to go out at night to a man-o'-war, or to some craft lying in the + bay, but he was not fond of such work and knew if any of his + mates saw him it would attract notice. <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page67" id="page67"></a>[67]</span> Looking + up, he saw Hector leaning over, and beckoned him to come + down.</p> + + <p>"Once we're out of the inner harbor there'll not be much + danger," said Brack. "Chuck that waterproof over yer shoulders; + it'll keep yer warm and it looks seaman-like. Now we're + ready."</p> + + <p>"Hallo, Brack!"</p> + + <p>He looked up and saw Carl Hackler on the steps peering at the + man in the boat. Brack had wonderful control. It was a matter of + more than life or death to Hector Woodridge; if Hackler got him + he would be sent back to his living tomb, for such it was to + him.</p> + + <p>"Oh, it's you!" said Brack with as much contempt as he could + master. "And pray what are you doing here? Want another trip in + the bay? If you do, jump in and I'll take you. I've got the mate + of the <i>London Belle</i> here; he's a bit overseas and I'm + taking him out. Ain't that right, Harry?"</p> + + <p>"That's the job, Brack, that's it," hiccoughed Hector, who + guessed the danger was great.</p> + + <p>"I've half a mind to come," said Carl, not quite satisfied, + but utterly deceived by Brack's cool manner.</p> + + <p>"You'll have ter make up the other half quick," said + Brack.</p> + + <p>"I'll leave you to it. Mind your mate doesn't fall overboard," + said Carl.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page68" id= + "page68"></a>[68]</span> + + <p>"I'll see to that," said Brack.</p> + + <p>A hoot came across the bay, a peculiar sound. Brack knew it; + it came from the <i>Sea-mew</i>.</p> + + <p>He sat down and pulled his best. Would he reach her in + time?</p> + + <p>Carl Hackler watched the boat until it was out of sight.</p> + + <p>The hoot came again.</p> + + <p>"What's that steamer sounding?" he asked a sailor close to + him.</p> + + <p>"The <i>Sea-mew</i>; she'll be leaving to-night, I + reckon."</p> + + <p>Carl started. Was it possible? No, of course not. What a fool + he was; and yet, Brack was rowing as though his life depended on + it.</p> + + <p>"Better make sure," he muttered, and turning to the boatman + said: "Will you row me out to the <i>London Belle</i>?"</p> + + <p>"Yes, sir, how much?"</p> + + <p>"Half a sovereign," said Carl.</p> + + <p>Another hoot came across the bay from the <i>Sea-mew</i>.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_VIII" id="CHAPTER_VIII"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page69" id="page69"></a>[69]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER VIII</h2> + + <h3>ON BOARD THE "SEA-MEW"</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">I wonder if the beggar'll follow us," gasped Brack, between + his spurts; "seemed mor'n half inclined to it—cuss him for + his meddling!"</p> + + <p>"Where are you going?" asked Hector.</p> + + <p>"To the <i>Sea-mew</i>."</p> + + <p>Hector started—his brother's yacht. He must not go + there. What would be the consequences if he were taken on her, + found concealed? Picton would be compromised, in grave danger, + probably of imprisonment.</p> + + <p>"I cannot let you go there," said Hector; "it is + impossible."</p> + + <p>"Just you sit still. You're a'goin' there whether you like it + or not," said Brack doggedly.</p> + + <p>"I will not place my brother in a false position."</p> + + <p>"What'd you do if he were in your place and came to the yacht + as you're doin'?"</p> + + <p>Hector made no answer; he knew he would take the + risk.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page70" id= + "page70"></a>[70]</span> + + <p>"There y'ar," said Brack triumphantly; "I knew it. You'd take + him aboard and gie him a hearty welcome."</p> + + <p>"Put back; I won't go," said Hector.</p> + + <p>"Put back, eh, and land yer right in his arms. Not me, not for + Brack, oh dear, no; you just sit still, will yer?"</p> + + <p>Brack had a peculiar habit of saying "you" and "yer," and + sundry other words, changing them as the mood took him.</p> + + <p>"Now I'd not be at all surprised if he'd hired a boat and was + on his way to the <i>London Belle</i>, just to scent out things; + he's a human bloodhound, d——n him, that's what he + is."</p> + + <p>"If he goes to the <i>London Belle</i> he'll find out we have + not been there and he will guess we have come to the + <i>Sea-mew</i>," said Hector. "I cannot risk it, Brack."</p> + + <p>"Leave him to me. We'll reach the <i>Sea-mew</i> long afore he + can get to the <i>Belle</i>. That's her out there, right beyond + the yacht. I'll put you aboard and row round to her like + h——, and I'll meet him comin' to her if so be he's + set out; I'll see he doesn't board her if I have to run him + down."</p> + + <p>Brack was pulling with all his might; the boat seemed to skim + through the still water of the bay like a skiff; they were + nearing the <i>Sea-mew</i>.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page71" id="page71"></a>[71]</span> + + <p>Captain Ben Bruce was on deck, looking over the side. They + were about to leave the harbor; Picton was anxious to get away. + He was in the cabin. Ben left him reading; probably he had fallen + asleep after the excitement of the day.</p> + + <p>He heard the sound of oars, and in another minute or two saw + the boat shooting toward the yacht.</p> + + <p>"Who's this coming here?" he wondered.</p> + + <p>He made no sound, merely watched, wondering what would + happen.</p> + + <p>Brack did not see him as he came alongside; the gangway steps + were up; how was he to get Hector aboard?</p> + + <p>"Is that you, Brack?" said Ben.</p> + + <p>"It's me, sir. Let down the steps quick. I've something to say + to you, something that won't keep."</p> + + <p>"As particular as all that?"</p> + + <p>"Yes, a matter of life or death," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"We're just about to leave the harbor."</p> + + <p>"For God's sake, let down the steps!" said Brack.</p> + + <p>Hector did not move or speak; his nerves were strung to the + highest pitch, he quivered all over.</p> + + <p>Captain Ben called a hand and they opened the gangway and + lowered the steps.</p> + + <p>"Now's yer time—go up quick!" said Brack.</p> + + <p>"Who's that?" asked Ben, as Hector rose up.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page72" id="page72"></a>[72]</span> + + <p>"He's comin' aboard; he's a friend of Mr. Woodridge's."</p> + + <p>"Who is he?"</p> + + <p>"He'll tell you when he's aboard," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"That won't do for me," said Ben.</p> + + <p>"Don't yer trust me?" asked Brack.</p> + + <p>"Yes."</p> + + <p>"Then, for God's sake, let him aboard or you'll regret it for + the rest of your days."</p> + + <p>"Come up," said Ben, thinking it passing strange the man did + not give his name.</p> + + <p>Hector hesitated; Brack urged him on.</p> + + <p>"Go, go! Think what I've got to do—row round by the + <i>Belle</i> in case he's after us."</p> + + <p>Hector hesitated no longer; he could not leave Brack in the + lurch, and if Hackler found out they had not rowed to the + <i>Belle</i> there would be trouble. He got out of the boat; no + sooner was he on the steps than Brack pushed off and shot away. + Ben called after him but he did not stop; he was making for the + <i>London Belle</i> as fast as he could row.</p> + + <p>"Who are you?" again asked Ben as he came on deck.</p> + + <p>Hector trembled with excitement; he was unstrung, he had + suffered much; the chase over the moor, the battle with the + hound, the naked flight, hunger, exposure, the fear of being + taken, the suspense <span class="pagenum"><a name="page73" id= + "page73"></a>[73]</span> of the past few days brought on a + burning fever. He tried to speak but could not; his tongue clove + to the roof of his mouth; his lips were parched; he held out his + hands in a helpless fashion; he staggered, reeled across the + deck. Ben gazed at him in wonder. He could not make it out. There + was something very mysterious; Brack must have known what he was + doing.</p> + + <p>Hector groped along the deck like a man walking unsteadily in + his sleep; he mumbled to himself, looked from side to side + furtively, began to run, stopped, knelt down, put his face close + to the deck in a listening attitude. Ben watched him, followed + him. Was this a madman Brack had put on board?</p> + + <p>Presently Hector came across a coil of rope. He seized it with + both hands and wrestled with it in his fierce grasp.</p> + + <p>"Strangling some one," thought Ben.</p> + + <p>"You beast, you're dead, ha, ha, ha, I've done for you!" and + the weird laugh sounded doubly strange on the water.</p> + + <p>Hector rose and pulled off his coat, then stripped off his + shirt.</p> + + <p>"I must stop this," said Ben. He stepped forward and was about + to take him by the arm, when Hector whipped round and flung + himself on him.</p> + + <p>"You'll never take me alive, never, I'll die first! + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page74" id="page74"></a>[74]</span> Kill me if you like—I'll never go back!" hissed + Hector, as he clenched Ben by the throat. It was an easy matter + for the Captain to hold him off at arm's length, a strong man + against a weak, and as he did so he saw into his face by the + light of the lamp behind him.</p> + + <p>Something in the face roused memories in Ben. He looked long + and earnestly. The fever-stricken man returned his gaze; the poor + tired brain had a glimmering of reason again. Thus they stood, + gazing, forging the past, piecing links together in a chain of + recollection.</p> + + <p>"Ben, Ben, don't you know me?"</p> + + <p>It was a bitter, heartbroken cry, a wail of anguish, and it + struck Ben like a knife, it seemed to cut through him. As + Hector's cry ceased he fell forward into Ben's arms. Like a flood + the incidents of the past few days rushed into Ben's mind. The + boom of the gun, the escape of the convict, Brack's story, the + strangling of the bloodhound, the man on the road to Torwood.</p> + + <p>"Great heaven, it's Hector!" said Ben. "Poor fellow! My God, + what a wreck!"</p> + + <p>Then his thoughts flew to Picton. It would never do to let him + know to-night; he must be prepared for the shock. Where to + conceal Hector? For the present, at any rate, he would put him in + his <span class="pagenum"><a name="page75" id="page75"></a>[75]</span> cabin. The hands on board—could they be trusted? + Some story would have to be concocted. There was a man near and + Ben called him.</p> + + <p>"Help me to carry him into my cabin," said Ben.</p> + + <p>The sailor obeyed without a word. He was an elderly man; he + had served with Captain Bruce on the <i>Tiger</i>.</p> + + <p>"Say nothing of this until I give you permission," said + Ben.</p> + + <p>"Right, sir," said Abe Glovey.</p> + + <p>"Abe, you are much attached to Woodridge and myself?"</p> + + <p>"I am, sir."</p> + + <p>"Can you persuade every man on board to keep this man's + presence here a secret? It's very important."</p> + + <p>"It shall be done, sir. They are all good men and true."</p> + + <p>"Mr. Woodridge will reward them handsomely if nothing + transpires ashore."</p> + + <p>Hector lay on Captain Ben's bunk, and they stood looking at + him.</p> + + <p>Ben took a sudden resolution.</p> + + <p>"Abe, I will confide in you, tell you a secret, which if + disclosed means ruin to us all, and a living death to him."</p> + + <p>"I think I understand, sir."</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page76" id="page76"></a>[76]</span> + + <p>"You guess who he is?"</p> + + <p>"I know, sir. A terrible change has come over him, and no + wonder, but I can recognize him, for I knew him and loved him in + the old days. There's not one in a thousand would know him, but I + do—it's Hector, sir, is it not?"</p> + + <p>"Yes, it's Hector Woodridge, or what's left of him. He's in a + bad way, Abe."</p> + + <p>"He is, sir."</p> + + <p>"And we can't have a doctor to him."</p> + + <p>"No, sir, but we'll pull him through. Every man of us will + help. Give me permission to tell them. They'll stand by him and + Mr. Picton; you need have no fear of that, sir."</p> + + <p>"Trust them all; yes, that will be the best," said Ben.</p> + + <p>"I'm sure you're right, sir; quite sure."</p> + + <p>Captain Ben gave orders for the <i>Sea-mew</i> to leave + Torbay, and she was soon moving slowly toward the sea.</p> + + <p>He sat beside Hector and listened to his moaning and + muttering. He saw the wasted form, the haggard, drawn face, the + gray hair, then he noticed the hands and shuddered. What an awful + chase that must have been across the moor, bloodhounds on his + track, every man's hand against him, no hope, no place to hide + in. Yet there must have <span class="pagenum"><a name="page77" + id="page77"></a>[77]</span> been one man whose compassion had + been aroused on the moor, the man who clothed Hector, when he + found him almost naked. Ben vowed when he knew that man's name he + should receive his due reward. And there was another man, Brack, + honest rough old Brack, with a heart of gold, and the courage of + a bulldog. Ben felt it was good to be a sailor and be one of such + a class.</p> + + <p>Brack must have discovered Hector in Torquay, and hidden him + until he could get him on the <i>Sea-mew</i>. Where had he found + him? That story was to be told. They were only just in time; Ben + thought what might have happened had they missed the + <i>Sea-mew</i> and had to return to Torquay, and shuddered. He + vowed again that Hector should not be recaptured; no, not if he + had to sail the <i>Sea-mew</i> half the world round, and fight + for him. It would be weeks, perhaps months, before the + fever-stricken man became well, and there was no better + hiding-place than the <i>Sea-mew</i>, and no better doctor than + the sea and its attendant breeze.</p> + + <p>Brack, rowing from the <i>London Belle</i>, saw the + <i>Sea-mew</i> moving slowly toward the entrance to the bay.</p> + + <p>"He's safe; they'll never part with him. Brack, you're not + such a bad sort after all! I wonder where's Hackler got + to—perhaps he didn't follow us," thought the old + boatman.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page78" id= + "page78"></a>[78]</span> + + <p>He lay on his oars and watched the <i>Sea-mew's</i> lights + until they disappeared.</p> + + <p>"There's a boat comin' now—wonder if it's him?" he said + with a chuckle. "I'm ready for him, anyway."</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_IX" id="CHAPTER_IX"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page79" id="page79"></a>[79]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER IX</h2> + + <h3>LENISE ELROY</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">YOU'LL have to hurry," said Hackler impatiently as the seaman + slouched round for his boat.</p> + + <p>"That's my craft over there; I'll have her alongside in a + bit," said the man.</p> + + <p>"Can't we take this boat?"</p> + + <p>"No, I'll get my own; besides, I'm used to her."</p> + + <p>It seemed a long time to Carl before the man brought the boat + alongside and he was seated in her.</p> + + <p>"Row faster!" said Carl.</p> + + <p>"Wait until we're out of the harbor; it's rather dark."</p> + + <p>"Go ahead, pull!"</p> + + <p>The man obeyed. He was not such a skillful pilot as Brack; as + they reached the wall he pulled hard with his right and the boat + crashed into the stonework. Carl shot forward, bruising his face; + there was a sound of splintering timber; the boatman fell + forward. When they recovered, Carl <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page80" id="page80"></a>[80]</span> cursed him for a + blundering fool. The man found the boat leaked badly; there was + nothing for it but to row back as fast as possible and take + another.</p> + + <p>This caused a delay and enabled Brack to put Hector aboard the + <i>Sea-mew</i> and row round by the <i>London Belle</i> in + time.</p> + + <p>"Who goes there?" shouted Brack.</p> + + <p>Carl was sick of the whole business; he was glad to hear + Brack's voice. He had been to the <i>London Belle</i>, his story + was correct. What a fool he, Carl, had been for his pains!</p> + + <p>There was no answer to Brack's hail. Carl said to the man: + "Keep on rowing; never mind him."</p> + + <p>This did not suit Brack's purpose. He had no desire for Carl + to go on board the <i>London Belle</i>; that would upset + everything.</p> + + <p>Brack went after the boat, quickly overtaking it. By the dim + light he saw who was in it.</p> + + <p>"You again!" he said with a laugh. "What yer scouring the bay + at this time o' night for? Looking for pirates?"</p> + + <p>"No, smugglers!" said Carl.</p> + + <p>"Hope ye'll catch 'em. Where do they hail from? I thought the + days of smuggling in Torbay were over. Better come with me; I'll + row you back quicker than him," said Brack.</p> + + <p>An altercation ensued between the seamen. <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page81" id="page81"></a>[81]</span> Brack + had insulted Carl's man; the wordy warfare became furious.</p> + + <p>"Row back to the harbor!" shouted Carl in a rage. "And you + sheer off or it will be the worse for you."</p> + + <p>This was all Brack wished to hear. If Hackler returned, there + was no danger.</p> + + <p>"Keep cool," shouted Brack. "I reckon I'll be home first."</p> + + <p>His mother was sitting up anxiously awaiting the news when he + came.</p> + + <p>"He's got safe away, but we had a narrow squeak for it," he + said, and told her what happened.</p> + + <p>"I wish our Bill were on the <i>Sea-mew</i>," she said with a + sigh.</p> + + <p>"Maybe he will be some day, mother," said Brack.</p> + + <p>The <i>Sea-mew</i> forged ahead toward the North and Captain + Ben watched at Hector's bedside. The unfortunate man slept + heavily but uneasily; he groaned and raved incoherently, tossed + from side to side, sometimes in danger of falling out of the + berth.</p> + + <p>Toward six o'clock Ben sent for Abe Glovey, who came and took + his place while he went to meet Picton.</p> + + <p>Ben had a difficult task before him. He wished <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page82" id="page82"></a>[82]</span> to + break the news gently; the shock would be great; then they would + have to think what was best to be done.</p> + + <p>Picton was out early; he had not slept well; strange dreams + caused him uneasiness.</p> + + <p>"I've had a restless night. You look as though you had," he + said to Ben.</p> + + <p>"I have; it has been a strange night. I've something to tell + you," and he proceeded to explain about Brack coming to the + yacht.</p> + + <p>"What on earth did he want at that hour of the night?" said + Picton.</p> + + <p>"He brought some one to see me."</p> + + <p>Picton was surprised.</p> + + <p>"Who was it?"</p> + + <p>"A man," said Ben. He was not a good hand at this sort of + thing; he wanted to blurt it all out in his blunt way.</p> + + <p>Picton smiled.</p> + + <p>"Don't beat about the bush, Ben; you can't do it."</p> + + <p>"That's a fact, I can't. You'll stand a shock, Picton, a very + great shock."</p> + + <p>"Is it tremendous?"</p> + + <p>"Yes," said Ben seriously. "The man Brack brought here last + night is aboard now; he's asleep in my cabin; he is very ill; he + has suffered a lot; <span class="pagenum"><a name="page83" id= + "page83"></a>[83]</span> he will require a great deal of care. + We shall have to be very careful."</p> + + <p>Picton looked at him wonderingly. Gradually a light broke in + upon him; he turned pale and felt giddy. Ever since the boom of + the gun startled him he had had Hector in his mind.</p> + + <p>"Was it Hector who escaped?" he asked.</p> + + <p>Ben nodded.</p> + + <p>"Was it Hector Brack brought to the <i>Sea-mew</i>?"</p> + + <p>Again Ben nodded.</p> + + <p>"Let us go to him," said Picton.</p> + + <p>Ben wondered at his taking it so calmly, but he knew the + strain must be great. They went to Ben's cabin.</p> + + <p>"Glovey's inside; I'll send him out," said Ben.</p> + + <p>When the man was gone Picton stepped inside and looked at his + brother with tears in his eyes.</p> + + <p>"What a wreck, Ben; it's awful."</p> + + <p>Captain Ben turned away his head. There are some things worse + than death to look upon, cause more sorrow and pain.</p> + + <p>Hector lay on his back. His face told a tale of misery such as + few care to hear, and none to suffer.</p> + + <p>"Leave me, Ben; I'd rather bear this alone; I may get used to + it in time," said Picton in a hollow voice.</p> + + <p>Ben put his hand on the younger man's shoulder for a moment, + then went out of the cabin; he never <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page84" id="page84"></a>[84]</span> wished + to feel again as he felt then, in the whole course of his life. + Picton watched Hector, heard his ravings, shuddered at them, and + wondered how it were possible for a man to suffer so much and + live. He stayed there over two hours, and what his thoughts were + during that time no one knew; there was, however, throughout, one + predominant resolve: Hector should never go back to Dartmoor. He + would sooner see him dead; it would be more merciful. What roused + Picton was the thought of the woman who had done this thing; he + held her responsible. She was older than Hector, a woman subtle, + versed in the wiles of the world, and she had lured him to + destruction. If ever a woman should suffer she ought. He wondered + how she would feel if she stood where he stood now, looking down + at the awful disaster of this man's life. Would she smile? She + might; he thought she would; he believed at that moment she was + the worst woman he had ever heard of. She must pay the penalty + sooner or later; no atonement on her part could wash out that. + These thoughts stifled him; he opened the door for fresh air. + Ben's cabin was on deck; as the light streamed in Hector awoke. + Before Picton realized what had happened his brother sprang from + the berth, rushed past him, and had Abe Glovey not caught him + round the waist would have flung himself + overboard.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page85" id= + "page85"></a>[85]</span> + + <p>With difficulty they carried him, struggling, back to the + cabin, and laid him down exhausted.</p> + + <p>"He's mad," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Temporarily, but we'll cure all that. I'm a bit of a doctor; + leave him to me," said Ben, trying to make the best of it.</p> + + <p>"What are we to do?" asked Picton.</p> + + <p>"You mean about concealing him?"</p> + + <p>"Yes."</p> + + <p>Ben said he had taken Abe Glovey into his confidence, and they + had decided the whole of the crew should know the facts.</p> + + <p>"Will it be safe?" asked Picton.</p> + + <p>"I am sure of it; they are all real good fellows, and it is + our only chance."</p> + + <p>"You must call them together and explain it all," said + Picton.</p> + + <p>Ben said he would, and went on: "This is the opportunity we + have waited for—Hector's escape. How fortunate we came + here! Providence had a hand in this, it's more than mere + coincidence, and as Providence helps those who help themselves we + must lend a hand. When Hector recovers, it will be some weeks; he + must remain on the <i>Sea-mew</i> until he becomes a changed man. + In twelve months no one will know him who has seen him now; the + change will be wonderful, and it will be quite as wonderful a + change from what he was before the <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page86" id="page86"></a>[86]</span> trial. Hector Woodridge + must cease to exist; he is dead; his body was never found on the + Moor because he probably fell down some disused mine or was + drowned in a still pond. That way safety lies, but there may be + one stumbling block."</p> + + <p>"What is that?" asked Picton.</p> + + <p>"Hector's desire to prove his innocence," said Ben.</p> + + <p>"He must be persuaded that will be easier to do if it is + thought he is dead; we must try and do it."</p> + + <p>"We have tried; there is only one person in the world who can + prove his innocence," said Ben.</p> + + <p>"Lenise Elroy," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Yes, Lenise Elroy. There were three persons in the room at + the time: Raoul Elroy, Lenise Elroy, and Hector," said Ben.</p> + + <p>"Hector said at the trial the weapon went off in a struggle," + said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Lenise Elroy, with apparent reluctance, said Hector shot her + husband," said Ben.</p> + + <p>"If this were not true, why did she say it?" asked Picton.</p> + + <p>"She may have thought it true. Heaven knows what is in the + mind of a woman like that! But the truth will come out some + day."</p> + + <p>"Still, she ought to have shielded him, corroborated his story + that it was an accident," said Picton.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page87" id="page87"></a>[87]</span> + + <p>"The strangest part of the whole thing is that Hector has not + told even you what actually happened," said Ben.</p> + + <p>"And I don't believe he will," said Picton.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_X" id="CHAPTER_X"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page88" id="page88"></a>[88]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER X</h2> + + <h3>HAVERTON</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">WHEN the <i>Sea-mew</i> arrived at Bridlington Bay Hector + Woodridge lay at death's door, but the fever had somewhat abated + and the ravings ceased. He was completely exhausted, worn out, + and Picton doubted if he would have strength to struggle back to + life.</p> + + <p>Captain Ben had seen a good deal of illness and was confident + he could pull Hector round in time, but he said it would take + many weeks.</p> + + <p>What was to be done? Picton could not remain on the + <i>Sea-mew</i>; his absence would be noted at Haverton, where + Brant Blackett was busy with the horses and expecting his arrival + daily.</p> + + <p>"Abe Glovey is a good seaman, quite capable of looking after + the <i>Sea-mew</i>," said Ben. "There is no reason why she should + not remain here for a time; there will be nothing unusual about + it. I will stay until Hector is convalescent, or nearly so, and + then join you at Haverton. Glovey can take the <i>Sea-mew</i> + short cruises; when they are away <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page89" id="page89"></a>[89]</span> from the coast Hector can + come on deck freely without danger. Leave it all to me; I'll + explain to him when he is well enough."</p> + + <p>Picton thought this the best thing they could do.</p> + + <p>He went ashore at Bridlington and from there traveled to + Haverton. He knew he was running a grave risk in having Hector on + board his yacht. He cared very little about that; all he wanted + was for his brother to get well. He was certain no one would + recognize him, he was so changed. It was a long, tedious journey + to Haverton, and Picton was glad when it was over, and he was in + his own house again.</p> + + <p>Mrs. Yeoman, the housekeeper, was surprised not to see Captain + Bruce; he was seldom away from Picton. He explained in answer to + her question that the Captain had remained on the <i>Sea-mew</i> + to see to some repairs in the engineers' department. This only + half satisfied her; she knew McTavish was a capable man and could + look after repairs himself. She had a very kindly feeling toward + Jack McTavish, who sometimes came to Haverton and was not at all + averse to a mild flirtation with the buxom, comely widow.</p> + + <p>When she saw Blackett she asked him what he thought about + it.</p> + + <p>"Why hasn't the Captain come with him? It's all moonshine his + staying on the <i>Sea-mew</i> to see <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page90" id="page90"></a>[90]</span> to + repairs in the engine room. Mac's quite good enough for that + job," she said.</p> + + <p>"It's none of your business, anyway," said Brant; "and as for + McTavish, you're prejudiced in his favor—I shouldn't wonder + if you aren't Sarah McTavish some day."</p> + + <p>"Nonsense, Brant! I've had one dose of married life; I don't + want to try it again," she said.</p> + + <p>"Give the poor man a chance; he's only one thing against him," + said the trainer.</p> + + <p>"And pray what's that?" she asked.</p> + + <p>"His name."</p> + + <p>"Jack McTavish. I reckon it's the equal of Brant Blackett, + anyway," she said.</p> + + <p>He laughed as he answered: "You're always a bit touchy where + the McTavish is concerned. I wish you luck with him, Sarah. We'll + see you a Highland chieftainess before many months are passed. + I'll put myself in training and dance a reel after the ceremony's + over."</p> + + <p>"You're old enough to know better, and you ought to have more + sense," she snapped, and walked away.</p> + + <p>Picton had been at Haverton a week and still Captain Ben did + not come. He was anxious, but knew he could do no good if he went + to the yacht; he was better away. He rode several of the horses + at work to keep himself occupied, and was constantly <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page91" id="page91"></a>[91]</span> roaming + about the estate. He felt lonely; he missed Ben sadly; he was + such excellent company.</p> + + <p>Haverton was a large mansion situated in one of the most + beautiful districts in Yorkshire. The mansion had an aspect of + gentility, and its various forms of architecture made it doubly + interesting. The strong tower on the North East dated from + Plantagenet times, and was a fine example of those peel towers on + the border, of which the most southern are in the north of + Yorkshire. The west side was in the Tudor times, showing the + domestic architecture of the period. The two towers were + commanding features of the fine old mansion. The gardens were + lovely old-world places; clipped yews and flower beds + intermingled on the south terrace The entrance was imposing and + the gates were always open, as though the visitors were expected; + the hospitality of Haverton was proverbial, even in such a county + as Yorkshire.</p> + + <p>Picton was very proud of the old mansion, which had been in + the possession of the Woodridges for many generations. He loved + the glorious park with its magnificent trees, and undulating + stretches of land. Oaks of great age, with their knotted arms + outstretched, studded the landscape in all directions. There was + a large lake, a mile long, half a mile wide, and in it were pike + of great size and weight. <span class="pagenum"><a name="page92" + id="page92"></a>[92]</span> In the river Aver, which flowed + through the park, were trout, perch, grayling, and many other + kinds of fish, and here they were safe from the voracious pike in + the lake. Picton was a good angler, and he loved to have a tussle + with a twenty-four-pound pike, or a thirty-one-pound trout in the + river. He was the owner of the land for many miles round, + numerous farms, which had been in the same families for ages, and + the famous downs of Haverton, where so many good horses had been + trained. These downs were magnificent galloping grounds, and + there was a clear stretch of three miles straight—small + wonder that Brant Blackett turned out some good stayers.</p> + + <p>Picton gloried in a good gallop on the downs, where the wind + whistled in freedom, and where there was no occasion to ease a + horse until he had done a four- or five-mile burst.</p> + + <p>He was happy at Haverton—at least he always appeared to + be—but there was one thing cast a gloom over the place at + all times: that was the Admiral's death, and the cause of + it—Hector's sentence to penal servitude, after his + reprieve. This was why Picton did not care to be alone in the + great house, why he always wished Captain Ben to be with him. He + had many friends who came to see him, but his best friend next to + Ben was Dick Langford, and he was far away in Devonshire. + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page93" id="page93"></a>[93]</span> Sarah Yeoman, at the end of a week, took it upon + herself to speak to Picton.</p> + + <p>"You're lonely, sir; you're brooding. It's not good for young + folks to brood. Wait till you're my age; then you can start if + you are so minded. The Captain ought to come, sir. He's been + gallivanting on the <i>Sea-mew</i> long enough; I hope there's + not a lady in the case, Mr. Picton," she said.</p> + + <p>Mrs. Yeoman was privileged; she had been at Haverton since she + came as a girl over thirty years ago and by sheer worth had risen + to the position of housekeeper, and ruler, at Haverton. Her + husband had been a groom there. Sarah Yeoman practically ruled + everybody and everything at Haverton; even Robert Rose, the + butler, Amos Kidd, the head gardener, and all the rest of the + male and female kind bowed down to her will. They bowed but did + not worship; some of the maids—there were four—would + have liked to pull her back hair at times and scratch her, but + Sarah, although aware some feeling of this sort existed, went on + her way serene and calm, knowing she was doing her duty. There + was one thing about her: she was just, she held an even balance + when there was a dispute; and Fanny, the head housemaid, who at + times almost hated her, said she'd trust Sarah Yeoman under any + circumstances to arrive at a right decision. She was slow to + anger but when roused <span class="pagenum"><a name="page94" id= + "page94"></a>[94]</span> "all hands" fled from her wrath. With + all her faults, there could have been no better woman chosen to + take the helm at Haverton. She was loyal to the backbone; she + considered the Woodridges the best family in Yorkshire, or any + other shire. She felt the blow when Hector was condemned, and had + not forgotten it, never would forget. She loved both boys in her + motherly way, and, although Picton was her favorite, she held + Hector in high esteem. She was surprised at Hector's falling a + victim to a woman, she would not have been surprised had Picton + done so.</p> + + <p>"No, I don't think there's a lady in the case," replied + Picton, smiling. "At least I am not aware of it."</p> + + <p>"Sailors are sly," she said.</p> + + <p>"I thought Captain Ben was a favorite of yours," he said.</p> + + <p>"So he is, but sailors are sailors all the same, and there's + no telling what he's up to on board the <i>Sea-mew</i>," she + said.</p> + + <p>Picton thought she would be astonished if she knew what + Captain Ben was up to.</p> + + <p>"I think I'll go to Bridlington to-morrow and see him," he + said.</p> + + <p>"If you do, bring him back with you."</p> + + <p>"I will if possible."</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page95" id="page95"></a>[95]</span> + + <p>"Why should it not be possible? What's to hinder him from + coming?" she asked.</p> + + <p>They would need her help later on, when Hector came to + Haverton; he might as well tell her now: she was thoroughly + trustworthy.</p> + + <p>"A strange thing happened when we were at Torquay," said + Picton.</p> + + <p>She waited for him to go on.</p> + + <p>"Late one night, just before we sailed, an old boatman rowed + across the bay to the <i>Sea-mew</i> bringing a man with + him."</p> + + <p>"Well?" she said anxiously.</p> + + <p>"Captain Ben was on deck, the boatman hailed him and said the + man had come to see me. Ben asked his name, it was not given, but + the boatman—Brack we call him—implored him to permit + the man to go on board. So earnestly did he plead that Ben opened + the gangway and let down the steps. The man no sooner set foot on + them than Brack cleared away as fast as he could. The man came on + deck, he seemed dazed, behaved like a madman. He flung himself on + Ben, who easily held him back, the poor fellow was terribly weak + and starved. Ben looked into his face, the man looked back; they + recognized each other. That man is on the <i>Sea-mew</i> now. + Captain Ben is watching over him, nursing him back to life and + sanity. A great and grave task lies before us. We have to shield + this <span class="pagenum"><a name="page96" id="page96"></a>[96]</span> man, hide him, until such time as he can come ashore + without danger of being recognized. There was an escape from + Dartmoor when we were at Torquay, Sarah."</p> + + <p>She gasped; she felt faint; she pulled herself together.</p> + + <p>"An escape from Dartmoor—not——"</p> + + <p>"Hector. He is on the <i>Sea-mew</i>. That is why Captain Ben + is not here," said Picton.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XI" id="CHAPTER_XI"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page97" id="page97"></a>[97]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XI</h2> + + <h3>TEARAWAY AND OTHERS</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">THERE was no occasion for Picton to travel to Bridlington. + Captain Ben arrived next day and was very pleased to see him.</p> + + <p>"He's much better," said Ben; "making a wonderful recovery. + He's quite sane, remembers everything, but his health is terribly + shattered and a long rest on the <i>Sea-mew</i> will do him a + world of good. He has no desire to come to Haverton, or to leave + the yacht; he thinks he is safer where he is, and he is right. + There was no need to caution him to be careful, he knows what it + means for all of us if there is the slightest suspicion about the + <i>Sea-mew</i>. Glovey will attend to him, so will Mac, and the + crew to a man have sworn to keep everything secret. Don't worry + yourself about it, Picton; it will do no good; and I will return + in a week or so to see how he is going on."</p> + + <p>"Mrs. Yeoman knows," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"She can be trusted, and it is better she should; it will + prepare her for his coming," said Ben.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page98" id="page98"></a>[98]</span> + + <p>It was no use worrying, as Ben said, and as Brant Blackett was + anxious to put the horses through the mill, several trials took + place on the moor.</p> + + <p>Tearaway proved herself a veritable flyer; she easily disposed + of the lot pitted against her, and fully bore out the trainer's + opinion of her, that she was as fast as the wind. She was a + beautiful mare, black as coal, not a white speck on her, and + stood sixteen hands high. No fault could be found with her; she + was sound in her wind and limb, possessed terrific speed and was + also a stayer. Blackett idolized her; he was desperately cut up + that she had not been entered in any of the classic events, with + the exception of the St. Leger. How she came to be entered in the + great Doncaster race was peculiar. Her breeder, a Yorkshire + squire, always entered his youngsters freely in the classic + races. Somehow Tearaway had been overlooked until the last moment + and a telegram was sent to enter the filly by King + Charles—Far Away, in the St. Leger only. This was Tearaway, + who was named afterward.</p> + + <p>Picton bought her at the sales at Doncaster for five hundred + guineas, at which price she was a bargain.</p> + + <p>She ran only once as a two-year-old because Blackett saw she + was growing fast and required <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page99" id="page99"></a>[99]</span> time; to hurry her thus + early in her career might, he said, ruin her.</p> + + <p>Picton was immensely proud of her, and desirous of bringing + off a great coup by winning the St. Leger. It had been the + Admiral's ambition to win the Doncaster event, and more than once + he had been within an ace of doing so. Every Yorkshire owner of + horses, on any pretensions to a large scale, is anxious to win + the Leger, the greatest race in the North.</p> + + <p>Tearaway was practically an unknown quantity and Picton + decided she should not run in public before September. With some + fillies this would have been a risky policy to pursue, but + Tearaway was so quiet and docile that there was no fear of her + being frightened by a crowd, no matter how large, or by any + amount of noise. The trainer agreed with this plan: Blackett was + quite as anxious to win a Leger as his master. He was a + Yorkshireman, and patriotism was strong within him.</p> + + <p>Brant Blackett was intended by his father for an auctioneer + and had been sent to a local firm in Whitby. He hated office work + and was always slipping away and going out to sea on one of the + fishing boats. The firm declined to have anything to do with him, + and in some way or other he drifted to Middleham and took a + situation in a <span class="pagenum"><a name="page100" id= + "page100"></a>[100]</span> racing stable. He was small, + weighed under eight stone, and soon learned to ride well. He + never rode in public but was considered as good as the best of + them in getting the strength of a trial. He was recommended to + the Admiral, when he wanted a private trainer, and came to + Haverton, where he had been for many years. He was much attached + to the family, and the place, and, like the rest of them, he was + cut up over Hector Woodridge's trial. He had won many races + during the time he had been at Haverton, but vowed no such flier + had been in his hands as Tearaway. He was fond of the breed, and + fond of the mare, and she repaid his kindness by being as + obedient as a child.</p> + + <p>"She's the sweetest-tempered filly I ever handled," he said. + "Her temper's just lovely. She never flares up, or misbehaves; a + perfect lady, that's what she is."</p> + + <p>Everybody who saw the filly agreed with him, and in the + Haverton district Tearaway was regarded as a good thing for the + St. Leger.</p> + + <p>"It's a long way off to September," said Picton as he and Ben + sat on their hacks and looked at her after a morning gallop. She + had been two miles at a fast pace and pulled up without the + slightest sign of blowing. Her glorious black coat shone like + satin in the sunlight; she tossed her head proudly, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page101" id="page101"></a>[101]</span> + looking round with intelligent eyes that took in all her + surroundings.</p> + + <p>"No need to hurry her," said the trainer; "and there's nothing + will happen to her, I'm sure. A sounder mare never stepped."</p> + + <p>"We have hardly anything good enough to try her," said + Picton.</p> + + <p>"That's a fact," said Blackett. "It takes something out of the + common to extend her."</p> + + <p>There were a dozen horses at work, some cantering, others + having spins over five and six furlongs.</p> + + <p>As Picton rode back with Ben and the trainer he said: "What + with one thing and another I forgot to tell you Mr. Langford is + sending The Rascal here and he says I am at liberty to do what I + like with him. He's a real good 'chaser, the same I won the + double on at Torquay. It would be rather a joke if we won the St. + Leger with Tearaway, and the National with The Rascal. I wonder + if a trainer ever accomplished that feat?" said Picton, + smiling.</p> + + <p>"Never heard of it," said Blackett; "but I don't see why it + should not be done. We've a pretty good schooling ground + here."</p> + + <p>"The Rascal is one of the best horses I have ridden over + fences. He's a bit queer-tempered, but <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page102" id="page102"></a>[102]</span> once + he settles down to his work you can depend upon him to do his + best," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Then, if he'll do that, he must be a good horse no matter + what his temper may be," said the trainer.</p> + + <p>During the week The Rascal arrived at Haverton and the + white-faced chestnut created a favorable impression.</p> + + <p>Picton found the same difficulty in mounting him, but once in + the saddle all went well, and the way the horse took the stiffish + fences on the Haverton schooling ground convinced the trainer + there was a good race in him; but whether The Rascal was up to + National form was another matter.</p> + + <p>Picton wrote to Dick Langford, stating The Rascal had arrived + safely, and saying he wished he, Dick, had come with him.</p> + + <p>When Dick received this letter he said to his sister: "This is + as good as an invitation. I'll avail myself of it and go down to + Haverton for a few days. You don't mind, Rita?"</p> + + <p>"Indeed, no; I think Mr. Woodridge is a very good friend," she + replied.</p> + + <p>"He is, and he'll make a very decent sort of brother-in-law," + said Dick.</p> + + <p>"Don't be silly," said Rita, her cheeks glowing.</p> + + <p>"Is it silly? Not a bit of it—you know it's not. + Picton's fond of you, and you're fond of him—that + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page103" id="page103"></a>[103]</span> ends the matter. I wonder he hasn't asked you + before."</p> + + <p>"Asked what?"</p> + + <p>"To be his wife."</p> + + <p>Rita laughed as she said: "I think you spoilt an opportunity + when you called to us in the garden that night. You + remember?"</p> + + <p>"Yes, I remember, and I also recollect I thought what a fool I + was at the time," he said.</p> + + <p>Picton was glad when Dick Langford arrived at Haverton; it + gave Ben a chance to go back to the <i>Sea-mew</i> for a few + days.</p> + + <p>Dick always enjoyed a visit here, and small wonder, for such a + lovely place could not fail to attract. He was fond of horses and + Brant Blackett liked him.</p> + + <p>"I hate showing a fellow round who pretends he knows a heap + and knows nothing," said the trainer. "With Mr. Langford it's + different; he's a very fair judge, and he's willing to learn; + he's never cocksure about anything. He makes some shrewd remarks + too, and he's clever—yes, I like Mr. Langford; there's grit + in him."</p> + + <p>Mrs. Yeoman gave Dick the hall-mark of her approval.</p> + + <p>"He's a cheerful soul, not given to moping, and he's easily + pleased; he always cheers Mr. Picton <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page104" id="page104"></a>[104]</span> up, + and he wants it at times—more than ever now," she + thought.</p> + + <p>It had come as a shock to her when Picton told her Hector had + escaped and was on board the <i>Sea-mew</i>. She wondered if he + were safe there. Picton told her Hector would be so changed when + he left the yacht that no one would recognize him, and that he + would change his name. Hector Woodridge would be dead to the + world.</p> + + <p>"Unless he can prove his innocence," he said.</p> + + <p>"Oh, I wish that could be done!" she said. "Some day I think + it will come to pass. He's innocent, I'm sure of it. Do you know + what I think, Mr. Picton?"</p> + + <p>"No; what is it?"</p> + + <p>"I believe Mrs. Elroy killed her husband."</p> + + <p>"Good heavens!" exclaimed Picton. "What makes you think + that?"</p> + + <p>"I read every scrap of evidence at the trial. I am almost + certain Mr. Hector was shielding her; he's just the sort."</p> + + <p>"If your surmise is correct his innocence will never come to + light, because he will never betray her," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Perhaps not, but she can't stand that on her conscience + forever, she'll have to confess sooner or later, the burden is + more than any woman or man can bear," she said.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page105" id="page105"></a>[105]</span> + + <p>"She may have done it," said Picton. "Her punishment must + already be great if she did."</p> + + <p>"If I were Mr. Hector, I'd seek her out and make her own up to + it," she said.</p> + + <p>"That's all very well, but you may be mistaken. In any case it + is in Hector's hands, and he will not allow any one to + interfere," said Picton.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XII" id="CHAPTER_XII"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page106" id="page106"></a>[106]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XII</h2> + + <h3>"I THINK HE'S DEAD"</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">IT was Lenise Elroy who was supping at the Torbay Hotel when + Hector Woodridge looked through the chink in the blind and saw + her with her friends. The man who brought her the wrap to put on + her shoulders was Fletcher Denyer.</p> + + <p>Denyer lived mainly on his wits. He was a dark, handsome man, + about ten years younger than Mrs. Elroy, and made her + acquaintance some two years back at a ball at a large London + hotel. He was a man likely to attract such a woman. He was + unscrupulous; of his morals the less said the better; he + possessed unlimited confidence in himself. Who he was, or where + he came from, no one appeared to know, but he had wormed himself + into a certain class of society, had become known on the + racecourse, and in financial circles, and acted as a kind of tout + to more than one firm of wine merchants, also to a big turf + commission agent, who treated him liberally when he introduced + business. His address was Marine View, Hove, Brighton, and he + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page107" id="page107"></a>[107]</span> was frequently to be seen in the gay city by the + sea.</p> + + <p>Marine View was a small house off one of the main streets, + comfortably furnished, and Denyer was the sole tenant. Two half + caste servants, a man and his wife, looked after the place. The + man's name was Antonio Tobasco, his wife's Lucille, and they knew + more about their master than any one.</p> + + <p>Tobasco seemed devoted to Denyer; so did his wife; they + attended to his wants, and looked after the house during his + absence. Tobasco's father was an Italian emigrant who went to + America in the fifties, and gradually drifted to Mexico, where he + married a native woman. Lucille's mother was an Italian, her + father a dark man in the Southern States. There was plenty of + black blood in them, and with it mingled a certain amount of + treachery. Denyer had lived in Mexico; it was here he became + acquainted with them, through Lucille, whom at one time he + admired—it was his money <a name="Error030" id= + "Error030"></a> <a class="correction" title="Original omitted "that"." + href="#Error030Ref">that</a> gave Tobasco the chance to marry + her, but the man did not know of the relations which at one time + existed between Denyer and Lucille. She was quite contented to + marry him, and the union had proved satisfactory for several + years.</p> + + <p>It was Lucille who persuaded Denyer to bring them to England + with him. At first he refused, <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page108" id="page108"></a>[108]</span> but she knew how to + handle him and succeeded in having her way.</p> + + <p>Lenise Elroy had seen Hector's face at the window, just a + glimpse, but sufficient to frighten her. She thought she + recognized him, then wondered why she had been such a fool; he + was safe in Dartmoor, and not likely to come out again. At the + same time she could not get rid of the impression, nor could she + make an excuse for her sudden alarm.</p> + + <p>She came to Torquay with Denyer at his request; he said he + wanted a change, and her society. There was no question of love + on his side, although Lenise was a handsome woman, but he was to + a certain extent infatuated with her, and proud of being seen in + her company. What her feelings were toward him she hardly knew. + She was at a critical age, when a woman sometimes loses her head + over a man much younger than herself. She would have been very + sorry to lose Denyer's friendship, but she had no intention of + letting her inclinations run away with her common sense. She kept + on the right side, there was nothing wrong between them; they + were familiar, but it had been carried no farther, and she was + determined to be his wife, if she wished—at present she did + not wish it.</p> + + <p>She tormented him, but at the same time attracted him; + moreover, she was useful to him. She <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page109" id="page109"></a>[109]</span> had + a settled income, he had not; occasionally he found himself short + of money, hard up. She helped him, he pocketed the cash and felt + grateful for a few days. She did not despise him for taking the + money from her; she wished to bind him to her, and this was a + sure way.</p> + + <p>It was during her brief stay at Torquay that Lenise Elroy came + across Brack. She was fond of the sea, had a liking for rowing in + small boats.</p> + + <p>"Can't understand what you see in 'em," said Denyer; "beastly + cockly things, might go over at any moment."</p> + + <p>"Well, I do like them, and I'm not going to explain why. If + you don't care to go out, stay here until I come back; I'm going + to have a row round the men-of-war," she said.</p> + + <p>"Please yourself, but it's a waste of time. Why not go for a + motor drive instead?"</p> + + <p>"I prefer the row; you take the motor."</p> + + <p>"I will. Brady's doing business, so I'll take his wife for a + spin; she's good company."</p> + + <p>"Very," said Lenise. "She's not at all a bad sort."</p> + + <p>She knew very well Mrs. Brady would not go out alone with him; + if he didn't know it, he was not quite so wide awake as she + imagined.</p> + + <p>She went to the harbor, and, seeing Brack, took a fancy to + him.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page110" id= + "page110"></a>[110]</span> + + <p>"Want to go for a row?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"Yes, round the warships."</p> + + <p>"I'm yer man. I get a lot of patronage from ladies; they're + safe with me, I'm a steady goin' old 'un."</p> + + <p>He took his blackened pipe out of his mouth and slipped it + into his pocket.</p> + + <p>"This is my boat, <i>The Dart</i>," he said. "Wait till I put + the cushion right for you."</p> + + <p>She got in. Brack thought what a handsome woman she was.</p> + + <p>He was about to push off when he looked up and saw Carl + Hackler.</p> + + <p>"So yer here still, messin' about! Wonder yer not tired of + it," he said.</p> + + <p>"I am," said Carl. "Dead tired of it! Nothing can be done + here. My belief is he's dead."</p> + + <p>"And mine too; he couldn't have stood it all this time, + wandering about the moor," Brack said.</p> + + <p>When they were out in the bay she asked:</p> + + <p>"Who is dead? What were you talking about?"</p> + + <p>"It's a long story, mum, a sad story; I don't suppose it would + interest you."</p> + + <p>"Who was that man on the quay?" she asked.</p> + + <p>"He's from Dartmoor, from the prison," said Brack.</p> + + <p>He did not see the look of interest on her face as he + spoke.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page111" id= + "page111"></a>[111]</span> + + <p>"A warder?" she asked.</p> + + <p>"Not exactly that; I fancy he's one of the fellows turned on + for special duty at times."</p> + + <p>"And what is he doing at Torquay?"</p> + + <p>"A week or so back a man escaped from Dartmoor prison. They've + not caught him yet; it's my opinion they never will," he answered + with a chuckle.</p> + + <p>She felt that peculiar feeling come over that she experienced + when she fancied she saw Hector's face looking through the window + of the hotel.</p> + + <p>"What nonsense!" she thought. "There are hundreds of prisoners + there; why should he be the one to escape?"</p> + + <p>She was restless, all the same, and wished Brack would tell + her more.</p> + + <p>"I suppose it is no uncommon thing for a prisoner to escape?" + she asked.</p> + + <p>"No; they do a bolt sometimes. They're generally caught inside + twenty-four hours."</p> + + <p>"But this man is not taken?"</p> + + <p>"No, and Hackler's been mooning about Torquay looking for him + for a week, just as though the fellow would be likely to come + here," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"I wonder who he was?"</p> + + <p>"Don't know, but he was a good plucked 'un," <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page112" id="page112"></a>[112]</span> said + Brack, and proceeded to tell her all about the throttling of the + hound.</p> + + <p>"He must be a very desperate character," she said.</p> + + <p>"It's enough to make a man desperate," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"What was he in prison for?" she asked.</p> + + <p>"Murder, so I've heard," said Brack.</p> + + <p>She started.</p> + + <p>"What murder, where?"</p> + + <p>"Somewhere up in Yorkshire, I believe," said Brack, who was + now watching her. He saw her turn pale and clutch the side of the + boat with one hand.</p> + + <p>"Takes an uncommon interest in it," he thought. "Wonder who + she is?"</p> + + <p>"Do you know anything about the murder—the trial I mean? + You come from Yorkshire, do you not—I can tell by your + accent," she said with a faint attempt at a smile.</p> + + <p>"Yes, I'm fra Yorkshire," said Brack. "Used to be at + Scarborough some years ago."</p> + + <p>"I come from Yorkshire too," she said. "I remember some years + ago there was a celebrated trial there, a murder case, the man + who was convicted shot the husband of some lady he had been + compromised with. It was a very sad case, a very old Yorkshire + family, I forget the name, it was Wood <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page113" id="page113"></a>[113]</span> + something—oh, I have it, Woodridge, that's it. Do you + recollect it?"</p> + + <p>Brack was on the alert. She knew a good deal more about it + than she pretended; he was sure of it. Who was she?</p> + + <p>"I remember it; most folks up our way will remember it to + their dying day," he said.</p> + + <p>"Why?"</p> + + <p>"Because no one believed him guilty."</p> + + <p>"But he was found guilty and sentenced."</p> + + <p>"Many an innocent man suffers for another's crime," said + Brack.</p> + + <p>"Perhaps it was this man who escaped," she said.</p> + + <p>"If it were, the poor fellow's dead by now," said Brack. "They + did say at the time it was the woman, the wife, that got him into + his trouble. Women's generally at the bottom of these things. I + believe she was a mighty fine woman too; but she must have been + wicked."</p> + + <p>Lenise was restless.</p> + + <p>"Don't you think we had better put back?" she said.</p> + + <p>"I thought you wanted to row round the men-o'-war," he + said.</p> + + <p>"It is too far; I want to be back for lunch."</p> + + <p>"Shall I turn round?"</p> + + <p>"Yes, please."</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page114" id= + "page114"></a>[114]</span> + + <p>"Do you think they'll catch the man who escaped?" she asked + before they reached the landing steps.</p> + + <p>"I think he's dead or they'd have got him afore now," said + Brack.</p> + + <p>She gave a sigh of relief, as she handed him half a + sovereign.</p> + + <p>"I haven't got any change," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"You can keep that; you interested me in your conversation. + What did you say was the name of the man from the prison?"</p> + + <p>"Carl Hackler," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"Thank you; if I wish to go out again I will take your + boat."</p> + + <p>"Very good, my lady, always at your service," said Brack; + adding to himself, "I'd like to find out who she is, and why + she's so mighty interested in it all."</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XIII" id="CHAPTER_XIII"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page115" id="page115"></a>[115]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XIII</h2> + + <h3>A WOMAN'S FEAR</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">LENISE ELROY was troubled; she felt uneasy, afraid of + something, she hardly knew what; she had a presentiment that a + calamity hung over her, that much trouble was in store.</p> + + <p>Fletcher Denyer was irritated. She was not at all like the gay + woman of a few days back; what ailed her? He questioned her, + received no satisfactory reply.</p> + + <p>"I want to go to town," he said.</p> + + <p>"I don't; I like being here."</p> + + <p>"But I must return to London, I have a lot of business to see + to."</p> + + <p>She smiled; when he talked about business it amused her.</p> + + <p>He noticed it and said angrily: "You never think I do anything + in the way of business."</p> + + <p>"I judge by results," she answered.</p> + + <p>"And I don't show any, is that it?"</p> + + <p>She nodded.</p> + + <p>"Look here, Len, we've been together for a couple <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page116" id="page116"></a>[116]</span> of + years and been good friends; we don't want to quarrel now."</p> + + <p>"I'm sure I've no wish to do so."</p> + + <p>"There's a good deal more in me than you imagine. Why didn't + you speculate in those Mexican shares I told you about? You'd + have made a pile."</p> + + <p>"I should; you were right in that instance. It has always + struck me you know a good deal about Mexico."</p> + + <p>"Perhaps I do; it's a great country, I'm told."</p> + + <p>"I suppose you have not been there?" she said.</p> + + <p>"If I had, I should probably be better off."</p> + + <p>"If you must go to London, go. I'll follow in a few days," she + said.</p> + + <p>"You seem to have suddenly taken an interest in the + place."</p> + + <p>"I have, I like it. It is my first visit. I think it + beautiful," she said.</p> + + <p>He wondered why she wished to remain, but did not question her + further. In the afternoon he went to London. She was glad to be + alone; she wanted to be quiet and think. Supposing Hector + Woodridge had escaped from Dartmoor, and was not dead, what would + happen? What would he do to her? She trembled, felt faint; there + was no telling to what lengths such a man infuriated at the + cruelty and misery he had suffered, might go. She <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page117" id="page117"></a>[117]</span> must + find out more about it. The man to see was Carl Hackler, but how + to approach him?</p> + + <p>She meant to converse with him at any cost, and went out with + that intention.</p> + + <p>Carl had nothing to do but idle time away; he was quite + certain the prisoner had either got clear off, or was lying dead + on the moor. He saw Mrs. Elroy coming toward him, and recognized + her as the lady Brack had taken out in his boat. She evidently + intended speaking to him.</p> + + <p>"You are Mr. Hackler, I believe?" she asked.</p> + + <p>"I am; at your service."</p> + + <p>"The boatman told me who you were. You come from the prison at + Dartmoor?"</p> + + <p>"I do."</p> + + <p>"A man has escaped, I want to know more about it. The boatman + gave me to understand he was tried for murder in Yorkshire some + years ago. If this is the man who escaped I know him, I know the + family," she said.</p> + + <p>"What name?" asked Hackler.</p> + + <p>"Woodridge. Hector Woodridge," she said.</p> + + <p>"I believe it's the same man," said Hackler, interested.</p> + + <p>"Will he be caught?"</p> + + <p>"If he's alive he's sure to be taken."</p> + + <p>"But you think it probable he is dead?" she + questioned.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page118" id= + "page118"></a>[118]</span> + + <p>"I think it quite possible."</p> + + <p>"Are you here on the lookout for him?"</p> + + <p>"Yes."</p> + + <p>"Surely he would not be likely to come to Torquay."</p> + + <p>"I don't know so much about that. You see he might be able to + get away by sea if he had friends, or some one willing to help + him," said Hackler.</p> + + <p>"Who would help him? The risk would be too great."</p> + + <p>"There's many men take risks for each other. You seem + interested in him."</p> + + <p>"I am. I know him, a dangerous man, I should not care to meet + him again," she said.</p> + + <p>"He had not that reputation at Dartmoor. He was quiet and + inoffensive, about the last man we'd have thought would try to + escape," he said.</p> + + <p>"And you have no doubt he is Hector Woodridge?"</p> + + <p>"No, I don't think there's much doubt about that; in fact none + at all. It is improbable he will meet you again. Even if he has + got away he'll go out of the country into some safe hiding-place; + he's not likely to roam about England," he said.</p> + + <p>She thanked him, asked him to accept a sovereign, which he did + not refuse.</p> + + <p>Carl Hackler watched her as she walked away; <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page119" id="page119"></a>[119]</span> she + looked stately, carried herself well, what he called a + "stunner."</p> + + <p>Carl wondered why she was so anxious to find out who the + escaped prisoner was. She must have some personal interest in + him; she did not seem like a woman who wasted her time over + trifles. He determined to see Brack and hear what he had to say + about the lady. He had a good deal of regard for Brack, also a + shrewd idea that in some way or another the boatman had the + better of him.</p> + + <p>Brack was nothing loath to chat when Carl came up.</p> + + <p>"All the ladies seem fond of you, Brack," he said.</p> + + <p>"Yes, I don't say as they're not; I often has ladies in my + boat," he said.</p> + + <p>"Rather a smart woman you took out to-day."</p> + + <p>"A very pretty craft, built on fine lines," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"I've had a talk with her. She's interested in the man I'm on + the lookout for."</p> + + <p>"Is she?"</p> + + <p>"You know she is. Didn't she speak about him when you took her + out?"</p> + + <p>"Maybe she did, maybe she didn't."</p> + + <p>Carl laughed.</p> + + <p>"You're a sly old sea dog," he said. "Now Brack, listen to me. + That lady is interested in Hector Woodridge, No. 832; that's his + name, certain <span class="pagenum"><a name="page120" id= + "page120"></a>[120]</span> of it, no mistake. Another thing, + she's afraid of him; afraid he'll do her some bodily harm if he + comes across her. Now why should he? There must be some good + reason."</p> + + <p>"Afraid of him, is she? By gad, I thought the same thing."</p> + + <p>"Then you talked about him in the boat?"</p> + + <p>"Yes, that's so."</p> + + <p>"What did she say?"</p> + + <p>"Not much; she knew the family, his family, knew all about the + trial."</p> + + <p>"Did she now? What was the woman like?"</p> + + <p>"Which woman?"</p> + + <p>"The wife of the man Woodridge shot."</p> + + <p>Brack was thoughtful.</p> + + <p>"What yer drivin' at, Carl, my boy?"</p> + + <p>"I've got a kind of notion she must have been mixed up in the + case," said Carl.</p> + + <p>"There was only one woman in it—the wife," said Brack. + "Gosh!" he exclaimed, and looked at Carl with a startled + expression.</p> + + <p>"Well?" said Carl.</p> + + <p>"I thought I'd seen her face somewhere afore, pictures of her, + photos, or something."</p> + + <p>"Yes; go on."</p> + + <p>"I may be mistaken; I'd not like to say as much without being + certain."</p> + + <p>"You can trust me; it shall go no farther."</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page121" id="page121"></a>[121]</span> + + <p>"She's like the wife, the woman whose husband he shot," said + Brack.</p> + + <p>"You've hit it," said Carl. "That accounts for it; she is the + woman, no doubt."</p> + + <p>"Don't hurry; it may be only a likeness."</p> + + <p>"You'd not have remembered it if she'd not been the woman," + said Carl. "It's stuck in your memory."</p> + + <p>"If she's the one, no wonder she's afraid to meet + him—he'd do for her."</p> + + <p>"I don't think so. He must have been precious fond of her, or + he'd never have done time for her."</p> + + <p>"Come home with me and have a talk," said Brack, and Carl + went.</p> + + <p>Mrs. Elroy found it slow at night, but her thoughts were busy. + She was restless, ate very little dinner, hardly spoke to Mrs. + Brady, or her husband, and left them as soon as she could + decently do so.</p> + + <p>"Seems out of sorts," said Brady.</p> + + <p>"Fletcher Denyer has gone to town," was Mrs. Brady's comment, + and she spoke as though that explained everything.</p> + + <p>"Do you think she's fond of him?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"Yes, but she hardly knows it."</p> + + <p>"Is he fond of her?"</p> + + <p>"He's not in love with her; he's infatuated, that's + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page122" id="page122"></a>[122]</span> all. Lenise has a way with the men that's hard to + resist," she said.</p> + + <p>Mrs. Elroy, for want of something better to do, looked over + some back copies of the Torquay <i>Times</i>, and came across an + account of the races. She saw Picton Woodridge had ridden four + winners, which surprised her not a little; she had not seen him + for years, had no desire to meet him.</p> + + <p>Then she read about the escape from Dartmoor; there was not + much about it, she gleaned very little fresh information.</p> + + <p>A paragraph that attracted her close attention was about + Picton Woodridge's yacht, the <i>Sea-mew</i>. A description of it + was given and at the end it stated, "She left the bay during the + night, her departure was rather unexpected."</p> + + <p>Picton Woodridge's yacht in Torbay at the time Hector escaped + from Dartmoor. Was this a coincidence, or was it part of a + well-laid plan? She shivered, felt cold, a chill passed over her. + She rang the bell and ordered a brandy; this put new life into + her for the moment. Her brain worked actively; she was piecing + things together. The <i>Sea-mew</i> left in the night + unexpectedly. Why? Had Hector Woodridge contrived to board her? + Had Picton and Captain Ben Bruce helped him?</p> + + <p>The thought tormented her, she could not sleep, she tossed + uneasily on her bed.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page123" + id="page123"></a>[123]</span> + + <p>"He's dead! Hackler says so, the boatman says so; he could not + live on the moor. It is impossible. How could he reach the + <i>Sea-mew</i>? Supposing he seeks me out, what would he do?"</p> + + <p>A cold perspiration broke out over her body.</p> + + <p>"He'd kill me if I didn't speak," she said with a shudder.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XIV" id="CHAPTER_XIV"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page124" id="page124"></a>[124]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XIV</h2> + + <h3>NOT RECOGNIZED</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">THE <i>Sea-mew</i> cruised about from one place to another and + Hector Woodridge recovered his health and strength; but he was a + changed man. Even Picton thought it difficult to recognize him; + he would not have done so had he met him in the street.</p> + + <p>Captain Ben said: "It is quite safe for you to go ashore. You + are supposed to be dead; you must take another name."</p> + + <p>"William Rolfe—how will that do?" said Hector.</p> + + <p>"As good as any other," said Picton. "We'll test it. You come + to Haverton as William Rolfe to look at the horses, and if Sarah + Yeoman and Blackett don't recognize you it will be proof positive + there is no danger."</p> + + <p>It was early in August when Hector Woodridge, as William + Rolfe, came to Haverton. Mrs. Yeoman did not recognize him, nor + did the trainer, although the former thought his face + familiar.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page125" id= + "page125"></a>[125]</span> + + <p>The change in Hector was extraordinary. Not only was his + appearance entirely different, but his voice, manner, everything + about him was that of another man.</p> + + <p>Mrs. Yeoman and Blackett were not enlightened as to his + identity. Hector was glad they did not recognize him; he was + careful to give them no clue to his identity, although + occasionally when off his guard he almost betrayed himself by + showing his knowledge of the house and its surroundings. Amos + Kidd, the head gardener, as he saw him walking about, thought: + "He must have been here before, but I don't recollect seeing + him."</p> + + <p>It was a sore trial to him to come back to the old home as a + stranger. Everything revived recollections of the misery he had + caused, and of the Admiral's death, and at last these became so + vivid and painful that he told Picton he could stand it no + longer.</p> + + <p>"I shall go mad if I stay here," he said. "I must get + away."</p> + + <p>"Where will you go?" asked Picton.</p> + + <p>"To London for a time; it is a safe place—such a vast + crowd—and probably I am forgotten at Dartmoor. There is an + advantage in being dead, is there not?" he said, smiling + grimly.</p> + + <p>"Perhaps it will be for the best. In London you will see so + many sights, your attention will be <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page126" id="page126"></a>[126]</span> + taken away from the past. I quite understand how you feel about + Haverton, but you will grow out of it in time," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Never; at least not until my innocence is proved."</p> + + <p>"You think it will be?"</p> + + <p>"Yes, it must; I mean to prove it."</p> + + <p>"How?"</p> + + <p>"Leave that to me. I have a plan which may prove successful, + but it will be risky; everything will depend on the first bold + step."</p> + + <p>"Don't rush into danger," said Picton. "Where's the use? You + may fail; you may be recognized; and then, think what would + follow."</p> + + <p>"You fear I might be sent back to prison," he said, smiling. + "There is no fear of that. I promise you I will never go back to + Dartmoor."</p> + + <p>"You must have all the money you require, Hector," said his + brother.</p> + + <p>"I shall want money; there is plenty for both."</p> + + <p>"Ample; it costs a lot to keep up Haverton, but half of what I + have is yours."</p> + + <p>"Too generous, Pic; you always were. I shall not want half, + nothing like it. Place a few thousands to my credit in a London + bank."</p> + + <p>"That would not be safe. I will draw ten thousand pounds in + notes, and you can use it as you think best," said + Picton.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page127" id= + "page127"></a>[127]</span> + + <p>"Very well. That is a large sum, but I shall probably require + it. The scheme I have in my mind will cost money, a lot of it, + but I'd sacrifice all I have to prove my innocence," said + Hector.</p> + + <p>"And I will help you. I want to keep up Haverton, but you + shall have the rest. I'll tell you what. Hector, I'm going to + back Tearaway to win a fortune in the St. Leger. Already money is + going on at forty to one; I may get a thousand on at that price, + perhaps more," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"I'd like to see her have a spin before I leave," said + Hector.</p> + + <p>"And you shall. Blackett has obtained permission from Sir + Robert Raines to use his famous Cup horse Tristram in a trial + gallop. The horse will be here to-morrow, and we can put them + together with one or two more the next morning. Sir Robert is + coming over to see it. He takes a great interest in her; he owns + her sire King Charles."</p> + + <p>"Sir Robert coming?" said Hector doubtfully.</p> + + <p>"He'll never recognize you—no one would, not + even——"</p> + + <p>Picton pulled himself up short. He had spoken unthinkingly and + stopped just in time; but Hector was not satisfied.</p> + + <p>"Not even—whom did you mean?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"Never mind; it was a slip; I forgot."</p> + + <p>"Lenise Elroy?" asked Hector calmly.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page128" id="page128"></a>[128]</span> + + <p>"Yes, I thought of her."</p> + + <p>"And you think she, even that woman, would not recognize + me?"</p> + + <p>"I am certain she would not. She might have done so when you + escaped, but not now. Your illness has changed you in a very + strange way. I can hardly believe you are Hector sometimes," said + Picton.</p> + + <p>"Then I must be safe," he said, smiling. "Speaking of Mrs. + Elroy," he went on, "did I tell you I saw her in Torquay?"</p> + + <p>"No," said Picton surprised. "Where? Are you sure?"</p> + + <p>"I was passing a hotel when something prompted me to cross the + road and look in at the window. I saw her seated at the supper + table, laughing gayly with people, a man beside her, probably her + lover, he seemed infatuated with her. She is still very + beautiful, the same luring smile, and eyes like stars; you can + imagine how I felt. The sight was too much for me, as I + contrasted her position with mine. I raised my hands and appealed + to God for justice. My prayer was answered, for a little farther + on, as I staggered down the road, I came across that + great-hearted fellow Brack. You know the rest."</p> + + <p>"Yes, I know the rest," said Picton.</p> + + <p>They were in the study and could talk freely. No one ventured + in except Captain Ben, and he came <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page129" id="page129"></a>[129]</span> at this moment. He saw + something serious was going on; shutting the door quietly he sat + down.</p> + + <p>"Hector is going away, to London. He can't stand the + associations at Haverton. It is not to be wondered at," said + Picton.</p> + + <p>"I'm surprised he stood it so long; I know what it must have + cost him. You're brave, Hector, far braver than we are. By God, + you're a man if ever there was one!" said Ben in his straight + manner.</p> + + <p>"A man can bear far more than he imagines. Torture of the mind + is greater than torture of the body," said Hector.</p> + + <p>"You're right, no doubt," said Ben. "But why London, why go + there?"</p> + + <p>"I have my reasons; they are powerful. On board the + <i>Sea-mew</i> I laid my plans; I think I shall succeed," said + Hector.</p> + + <p>"Would you like Ben to go with you?" asked Picton.</p> + + <p>"No—he'd be too merciful," said Hector calmly.</p> + + <p>They looked at him; he spoke quietly, but there was that in + his voice and face boded ill for somebody.</p> + + <p>"When are you going?" asked Ben.</p> + + <p>"After Tearaway has had her trial with Tristram," said + Hector.</p> + + <p>"That will be worth seeing," said Ben.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page130" id="page130"></a>[130]</span> + + <p>"And the filly will beat Sir Robert's horse," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"I doubt it," said Ben. "Think what he's done, and Ascot Cup + winner, Doncaster Cup Cesarewitch, Metropolitan, Northumberland + Plate—he must be the best stayer in England."</p> + + <p>"So he is," said Picton, "but Tearaway will beat him for speed + at the finish. Blackett says he'll put them together over two + miles, with only seven pounds between them. I suggested level + weights but he doesn't want to take the heart out of her."</p> + + <p>"If she can beat Tristram at seven pounds she's the best filly + ever seen," said Ben.</p> + + <p>"And I believe she is," was Picton's enthusiastic comment.</p> + + <p>Hector Woodridge sat in his room, when everything was still in + the house, and thought over his plans. No one recognized him, + Picton said even Lenise Elroy would not recognize him; so much + the better, for he had dealings with her.</p> + + <p>How he hated this woman, who had fooled him to the top of his + bent and done him so great an injury! She must suffer. Did she + suffer now? She must, there was some sort of conscience in her. + Her beauty appealed to him once; never would it do so again. She + knew he was innocent, the only person who did, and he intended + wringing a confession from her.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page131" id="page131"></a>[131]</span> + + <p>Fortunately he had money. His brother was generous, and + offered him more than he had a right to expect; he would make it + up to him some day, when he had completed the work he + intended.</p> + + <p>There was a man on Dartmoor, and there was Brack: they must be + rewarded for their kindness, for the help they had given him. And + there was that gracious lady who assisted him as he tramped to + Torquay. He had not forgotten her face, it was engraven on his + memory. He was thinking of her now, how she gave him the coat, + the boots, food, and spoke kindly to him. When times were + changed, and his work done, he would seek her out again and thank + her. His heart warmed toward her; he contrasted her purity with + that of the other woman, and wondered how he could have been + caught in Lenise Elroy's toils.</p> + + <p>Elroy was a weak-minded, foolish fellow; she married him for + his money. He recalled his first meeting with her; they were + mutually attracted, and so it went on and on, from bad to worse, + until the end, when the fatal shot was fired.</p> + + <p>And since then? He could not bear to think of it all. He vowed + Lenise Elroy should pay the penalty as he had, that her tortures + of mind should equal his; then she would know what he had + suffered; no, not a tenth part of it; but even that would + overwhelm her.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XV" id="CHAPTER_XV"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page132" id="page132"></a>[132]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XV</h2> + + <h3>"THE ST. LEGER'S IN YOUR POCKET"</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">TRISTRAM arrived at Haverton; Sir Robert Raines came the same + day; everything was in readiness for the trial next morning.</p> + + <p>Sir Robert was a great racing man, came of a sporting family, + had a fine seat about forty miles from Haverton, called Beaumont + Hall, where he kept a stud of horses and about thirty or forty + racers. He was well known as a plunger, and had landed some big + stakes; occasionally he was hard hit, but so far the balance had + been on the right side. He and the Woodridges had been friends + for years; he had known the Admiral and admired him. He had also + known Raoul Elroy and his wife, and been present at Hector's + trial, on the grand jury, and after. Sir Robert was loath to + believe Hector guilty, but on the evidence could arrive at no + other conclusion. The result of the trial made no difference in + his friendship with the Admiral and Picton; when the former died + he helped his son to the best of his ability. He had a great + liking for Captain Ben, which was returned.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page133" id="page133"></a>[133]</span> + + <p>It was a critical moment when Hector was introduced to him as + William Rolfe, "a friend of mine from Devonshire," said + Picton.</p> + + <p>Sir Robert shook hands with him; it was easy to see he had no + idea it was Hector Woodridge, and all breathed more freely.</p> + + <p>"So you imagine you've got the winner of the St. Leger at + Haverton, eh, Pic?" he said as they sat smoking after dinner.</p> + + <p>"It's more than imagination. I think Tearaway is the best + filly I ever saw; so does Blackett; he says she's as fast as the + wind," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Is she? The wind blows at a pretty pace over the wolds + sometimes, sixty miles an hour or more; she's not quite up to + that," said Sir Robert.</p> + + <p>"No, not quite," laughed Picton; "but she has a rare turn of + speed, and can stay as long as she's wanted."</p> + + <p>"I haven't seen her for some time," he said.</p> + + <p>"She's improved a lot, a real beauty; I'm sure you will say + so. You ought to back her to win a good stake."</p> + + <p>"I'm told Ripon will win. They fancy him a lot at Newmarket; + they also think he had bad luck to lose the Derby."</p> + + <p>"Suppose Tearaway beats Tristram in the morning at seven + pounds difference?" said Picton.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page134" id="page134"></a>[134]</span> + + <p>"It will be the biggest certainty for the St. Leger ever + known," said Sir Robert.</p> + + <p>Hector joined in the conversation. Sir Robert liked him, but + no look or word reminded him of Hector Woodridge.</p> + + <p>"I'm safe," thought Hector. "Sir Robert ought to have been one + of the first to recognize me."</p> + + <p>Next morning they were all on the moor early. Four horses were + to take part in the trial: Tristram, Tearaway, Rodney and + Admiral, and the filly was giving weight to all except Sir + Robert's great horse.</p> + + <p>"By jove, she has grown into a beauty!" exclaimed the baronet + when he saw the beautiful black filly with Fred Erickson, the + popular Yorkshire jockey, in the saddle. Erickson lived at + Haverton village, but was not often at home, as he had an + enormous amount of riding, going to scale under eight stone + easily.</p> + + <p>"Good morning, Fred," said Sir Robert. "You're on a nice + filly."</p> + + <p>"She is, Sir Robert; one of the best."</p> + + <p>"Can she beat Tristram? You've ridden him."</p> + + <p>"I wouldn't go so far as that, but she'll give him a good + race," said the jockey.</p> + + <p>Abel Dent came from Beaumont Hall to ride Tristram in the + gallop. He was always on the horse's back in his work and knew + him thoroughly.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page135" id= + "page135"></a>[135]</span> + + <p>"You'll have to keep him going, Abe," said Sir Robert, + smiling.</p> + + <p>"I'll keep 'em all going," was the confident reply.</p> + + <p>Rodney and Admiral were more than useful; the latter was to + bring them along for the last mile, it was his favorite + distance.</p> + + <p>Brant Blackett greeted them as he rode up on his cob. He was + brimful of confidence as to the result of the spin. He set + Tearaway to give Rodney and Admiral a stone each.</p> + + <p>"I'll send them down to the two-mile post," he said.</p> + + <p>"This is the best long gallop anywhere, I should say," said + Sir Robert. "I often envy it you, Pic, my boy. Fancy four miles + straight—it's wonderful."</p> + + <p>It was indeed a glorious sight. The moor stretched away for + miles, undulating, until it was lost in the hill in the distance. + The training ground had been reclaimed from it, snatched from its + all-devouring grasp, and been perfected at great expense. Beside + the somber brown of the wild moorland it looked a brilliant, + dazzling green.</p> + + <p>Haverton Moor harbored vast numbers of birds, and the grouse + shooting was among the best in Yorkshire. Picton Woodridge owned + the moor; it was not profitable, but he loved it, and would + sooner have parted with fertile farms than one acre of + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page136" id="page136"></a>[136]</span> this brown space. It was not dull this morning; the + sun touched everything, and as far as the eye could see there + were billows of purple, brown, green, yellow, and tinges of red. + A haze hung over it when they arrived, but gradually floated away + like gossamer and disappeared into space. The air was bracing; it + was good to be out on such a morning, far away from the noise and + bustle of the busy world; a feeling of restfulness, which nature + alone gives, was over all.</p> + + <p>To Hector, however, it recalled memories which made him + shudder. He thought of that great moor he had so recently been a + prisoner on, and of his escape, and the privations he suffered. + There was not the cruel look about Haverton, and there was no + prison in its space.</p> + + <p>Blackett sent his head lad to start them. Looking through + powerful glasses he saw when they moved off and said, "They're on + the way; we shall know something."</p> + + <p>The three were galloping straight toward them at a tremendous + pace.</p> + + <p>Rodney held the lead; he would be done with at the end of the + first mile, then Admiral would jump in and pilot them home.</p> + + <p>Abe Dent meant winning on Tristram; he had little doubt about + it. How could Tearaway be expected <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page137" id="page137"></a>[137]</span> to beat him at a + difference of only seven pounds? It was absurd!</p> + + <p>Rodney fell back, and Admiral took command with a six lengths' + lead. The lad on him had instructions to come along at top speed, + and was nothing loath; he knew his mount was a smasher over a + mile.</p> + + <p>Tearaway was in the rear, Erickson keeping close behind + Tristram. When Admiral took Rodney's place the jockey knew the + filly was going splendidly; he felt sure he could pass Tristram + at any time.</p> + + <p>Dent saw Admiral sailing ahead and went after him; the gap + lessened, Tristram got within three lengths and stopped there. + Sir Robert's horse was a great stayer, but he lacked the + sprinting speed for a lightning finish. This was where Tearaway + had the advantage.</p> + + <p>"What a pace!" exclaimed Sir Robert. "By jove, Pic, you've got + a wonder in that filly, but she'll not beat my fellow."</p> + + <p>"They have half a mile to go yet," said the trainer. "There'll + be a change before long."</p> + + <p>So great was the pace that Admiral ran himself out at the end + of six furlongs and came back to Tristram. Fred saw this, and + giving Tearaway a hint she raced up alongside the Cup horse.</p> + + <p>When Dent saw her head level with him he set to work on his + mount. Tristram always finished <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page138" id="page138"></a>[138]</span> like a bulldog, and + had to be ridden out. He gained again.</p> + + <p>Sir Robert saw it and said: "He'll come right away now."</p> + + <p>So thought the others, with the exception of the trainer; he + sat on his cob, a self-satisfied smile on his face.</p> + + <p>"Wait till Fred turns the tap on," he thought.</p> + + <p>Erickson was not long in doing this. He knew Tearaway's speed + was something abnormal; in his opinion nothing could stand + against it.</p> + + <p>In answer to his call, Tearaway swooped down on Tristram + again, drew level, headed him, left him, and was a length ahead + before Dent recovered from the shock. On came Tearaway. They + looked in amazement. Sir Robert could hardly believe his eyes. + What a tremendous pace at the end of a two-mile gallop.</p> + + <p>"What did I tell you!" exclaimed the trainer triumphantly. + "Fast as the wind, you bet she is."</p> + + <p>The black filly came on, increasing her lead at every stride; + she passed them a good couple of lengths ahead of Tristram, + Admiral toiling in the rear.</p> + + <p>"Wonderful!" exclaimed Sir Robert. He seemed puzzled to + account for it. Was Tristram off color? He must ask Dent.</p> + + <p>The pair pulled up and came slowly to the + group.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page139" id= + "page139"></a>[139]</span> + + <p>"Anything wrong with my horse?" asked Sir Robert.</p> + + <p>"No, sir; he galloped as well as ever, but that filly's a + wonder, a holy terror, never saw anything like it, she flew past + him—her pace is tremendous," and Dent looked at Tearaway + with a sort of awe.</p> + + <p>"Won easily," said Fred. "Never had to press her. I had the + measure of Tristram all the way; I could have raced up to him at + any part of the spin. Look at her now. She doesn't blow enough to + put a match out; you can't feel her breathing hardly. She's the + best racer I ever put my leg across."</p> + + <p>"Pic, the St. Leger's in your pocket," said Sir Robert, as he + shook him heartily by the hand.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XVI" id="CHAPTER_XVI"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page140" id="page140"></a>[140]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XVI</h2> + + <h3>HOW HECTOR FOUGHT THE BLOODHOUND</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">THE night before Hector was to leave Haverton he sat with his + brother and Captain Ben in the study. They had been talking over + Tearaway's wonderful trial, and Picton said he should back her to + win the biggest stake he had ever gone for.</p> + + <p>"And you shall have half if she wins, as I feel sure she + will," he said to Hector.</p> + + <p>"You are too good," said Hector; "but I won't refuse it. I may + want it. I have a difficult and expensive game to play."</p> + + <p>"Don't run into danger," said Ben.</p> + + <p>"I'll avoid it where possible," said Hector.</p> + + <p>"You have not told us how you escaped from prison," said + Picton. "Perhaps it is too painful a subject."</p> + + <p>"Painful it is, but I fully intended telling you. I may as + well do it now. I want to recompense the man on the moor, also + Brack, without whose assistance I should not have boarded the + <i>Sea-mew</i>. I <span class="pagenum"><a name="page141" id= + "page141"></a>[141]</span> protested but he insisted on taking + me there. I thought my presence on board might compromise you. + Brack asked me what I would do if you and I changed places and I + confessed to myself I would help you to escape."</p> + + <p>"Did you doubt what I would do?" asked Picton.</p> + + <p>"No, but I did not wish you to run any risk for my sake."</p> + + <p>"That was unkind; you know I would do anything for you," said + Picton.</p> + + <p>"Anyhow, I am glad Brack insisted on my going on the + <i>Sea-mew</i>," said Hector, smiling. "I had some luck in + getting away. I do not think the warders thought I would try to + escape—I had been quiet and orderly during the time I had + been there. When the gang I was in returned to the prison I + managed to creep away and hide in some bushes. I had no irons on, + I had a good deal of liberty, most of the men liked me, one or + two of them were kind and pitied me. It was much easier to slip + away than I anticipated. When I was alone I ran as fast as I + could across the moor. They were not long in discovering I was + missing, and as I fled I heard the gun fired, giving warning that + a prisoner had escaped. The sound echoed across the moor; I knew + every man's hand was against me but I meant making a fight for + liberty. Even the hour's freedom I had enjoyed helped me. I was + out of prison, <span class="pagenum"><a name="page142" id= + "page142"></a>[142]</span> alone on the moor, I determined not + to be taken back—I would sooner die. I knew there were many + old disused quarries, and limekilns, about. Could I not hide in + one of these? No; they would be sure to search them. I must get + into densely wooded country, among the bushes and undergrowth, + and hide there. I was weak in body, for my health had broken + down, but I kept on until nightfall, when I sank down exhausted + in a mass of bracken and fell asleep. The sun was up when I + awoke. I looked cautiously round, starting at every sound; a bird + in the trees, or a rabbit scuttling away made me nervous. I saw + no one about, so I hurried along, taking advantage of every bit + of cover. I passed the back of a huge Tor, which reared its + granite head high above the country, like a giant hewn in stone. + It looked cold, bleak, forbidding, had a stern aspect, made me + shudder; I hurried away from it across more open country. How to + get rid of my clothes and obtain others puzzled me. I had no + money; if it came to the worst I must watch some farm house where + there was a chance of making an exchange. I dare not face any + one; when I saw a man coming toward me I hid until he passed. I + knew the trackers were after me, that a thorough search would be + made, and the feeling that I was being hunted down almost + overwhelmed me. I had nothing to eat except a few berries and + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page143" id="page143"></a>[143]</span> roots; the nights were cold and I lay shivering, ill, + and worn out. Two days passed and I began to think I had a + chance. My prison clothes were the great hindrance. I could not + leave the moor in them: it meant certain capture. I did not know + in which direction I was traveling; my one object was to go on + and on until an opportunity offered to rid myself of the + tell-tale garments.</p> + + <p>"Almost done up for want of food, and the long tramp, I sat + down to rest on a rock, from which I had a good view of the moor, + although I was hidden from sight. I knew telescopes and glasses + would be used, and that I should be discovered if I showed + myself.</p> + + <p>"I saw no one about, but about a mile distant was a farm + house. It was in a lonely, bleak spot. I wondered if the people + in it were as cold as the country; they could hardly be blamed if + their surroundings hardened them, made them callous to human + suffering. I don't know what it was, but something prompted me to + go toward this house. I walked along, keeping under cover where + possible, until half the distance had been traversed.</p> + + <p>"As I walked I fancied I heard a peculiar sound behind me. It + chilled my blood in me; it made me tremble. I dare not look back, + I stood still, panting with horror. It was not the sound of human + footsteps, and yet something was coming after me; <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page144" id="page144"></a>[144]</span> I + distinctly heard the thud on the ground, and whatever it was it + must be drawing nearer.</p> + + <p>"I cannot convey to you any idea of the peculiar unearthly + sound I heard, no description of mine could be adequate, but you + can imagine something of what I felt, weak and overtaxed as I + was, my mind in a whirl, my legs deadly tired and numbed, every + part of my body aching. The sound came nearer. Then a noise which + increased my horror—I had heard it before, near the + prison—it was the bay of a hound—a bloodhound was on + my track. I knew what such a brute would do, pull me down, tear + me, fasten his teeth in me, worry me to death. In desperation I + turned and stood still. I saw the bloodhound coming along at a + fast pace, scenting the ground, then baying from time to time. He + lifted his huge head and saw me. I fancied I saw fire flash in + his eyes, his mouth looked blood red, his huge jaws and cheeks + hung massively on each side. He was a great beast, savage, with + the lust of blood on him, and he came straight at me. There was a + chain attached to his collar, so I judged he must have wrenched + away from the man who held him in leash. He was within fifty + yards of me and I prepared to grapple with him; I had no + intention of allowing my weakness to overcome me. Fight him I + must. It was his life or mine; but how could I wrestle with so + much brute strength in my feeble <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page145" id="page145"></a>[145]</span> condition? He came at + me with the ferocity of a lion. He leaped upon me, and I caught + him by the collar. He bit and scratched my hands, but I did not + let go. For a moment I held him, his savage face glared into + mine, his huge paws were on my chest, he stood on his hind legs, + the incarnation of brute strength. We glared at each other. Like + a lightning flash it crossed my mind that I must loose my hold on + the collar and grasp his throat with both hands, throttle him. + This was easier thought than done, for once I loosened my grip on + the collar he might wrench himself free and hurl me to the + ground; then his teeth would be at my throat instead of my hands + at his. I did it in a second. He almost slipped me; he was very + cunning—the moment I loosened my hold on the collar he + seemed to know my intention. But I had him, held him, put all my + strength with it and felt his windpipe gradually being crushed + closer and closer. At that moment I think I was as great a savage + as the bloodhound, I felt if it had been a man I held by the + throat I should have done the same to free myself. How he + struggled! We fell to the ground and rolled over, but I never + loosened my hold and hardly felt the pain in my hands. He tore me + with his feet, scratching, striving to bite me and failing. We + rolled over and over but I did not let go. I was almost exhausted + when the hound's struggle relaxed—in <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page146" id="page146"></a>[146]</span> a + few minutes he was dead. No one can imagine the feeling of relief + and thankfulness that came over me. I offered up a prayer for my + delivery from a terrible death, then sank down in a faint by his + side.</p> + + <p>"When I came to I thought what I should do. There would be + another hound on the track, I must put it off the scent. The + smell of my clothes was what they were following; I knew this + from what I had been told in the prison. I must get rid of the + clothes. I stripped them off and laid them on the bloodhound, + then I tied my coarse vest round my loins and started toward the + farm house. As I went I saw a man come out at the gate with a + gun. I determined to face him, risk it, throw myself on his + mercy. He saw me and stood still, staring in amazement—and + well he might. At first I think he thought I was mad.</p> + + <p>"I sank down at his feet, utterly overcome, and I saw a look + of pity in his somewhat stern face and eyes.</p> + + <p>"'You are an escaped convict,' he said.</p> + + <p>"I acknowledged it and pleaded my innocence.</p> + + <p>"He smiled as he said: 'They are always innocent.'</p> + + <p>"I asked him to come and see what I had done.</p> + + <p>"'Here, put this coat on,' he said.</p> + + <p>"He wore a long coat, almost to his heels, and <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page147" id="page147"></a>[147]</span> it + covered me. We walked to where the hound lay. I explained what + had happened, that I had wrestled <a name="Error040" id= + "Error040"></a> <a class="correction" title="Original was "wth"." href= + "#Error040Ref">with</a> the brute and after a long struggle + throttled him. He was amazed and said I was a good plucked 'un. + There was no one in the house but himself, he said; the others + had gone to Torquay; would I come with him and tell my story? I + went, and made such an impression upon him that he said he + believed my tale and would help me. He gave me some old clothes, + food and drink, then hurried me on my way. He advised me to go to + Torquay and try and communicate with some friends. He promised to + put the searchers off the scent if they made inquiries. I said he + would reap a reward for what he had done, but he did not seem to + care about this. He urged me to get off the moor as quickly as + possible.</p> + + <p>"Before I left he filled my pockets with cheese, meat, and + bread, and gave me an old cap, and worn-out boots. I said I + should never forget him; he answered that he hoped he had done + right in helping me.</p> + + <p>"I tramped to Torquay, I—" he hesitated. No, he would + not tell them of the gracious lady who assisted him and treated + him as a man, not a tramp.</p> + + <p>"I found Brack. He took me to his home, concealed me there + until he contrived to smuggle me <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page148" id="page148"></a>[148]</span> on board the + <i>Sea-mew</i>," said Hector, as he finished his story.</p> + + <p>"What an awful experience!" exclaimed Ben.</p> + + <p>"Terrible!" said Picton with a shudder.</p> + + <p>"Can you wonder that I hunger for revenge?" said Hector; and + they understood him.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XVII" id="CHAPTER_XVII"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page149" id="page149"></a>[149]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XVII</h2> + + <h3>AN INTRODUCTION AT HURST PARK</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">IT was pure chance that led to the introduction of Hector + Woodridge, as William Rolfe, to Fletcher Denyer.</p> + + <p>Hector had been in London a week; he visited various places of + amusement, showed himself openly, made no attempt at concealment. + He went to the races at Hurst Park and Gatwick. It was at the + famous course on the banks of the Thames that he was made known + to Denyer, by a man he became friendly with at his hotel. There + is much freedom on the racecourse, and men, often unknown to each + other, speak on various topics connected with the sport, without + introduction.</p> + + <p>Denyer and Hector were soon in conversation, discussing the + merits of various horses. Denyer received a word from the man who + introduced them that Mr. Rolfe had money and might be exploited + profitably to both. A hint such as this was not likely to be + neglected; he thought if he could put this newly made + acquaintance on a winner it would <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page150" id="page150"></a>[150]</span> probably result in + future business. He had been advised to back Frisky in the Flying + Handicap, and told Hector it was a real good thing, and likely to + start at a long price.</p> + + <p>Hector wondered why he should tell him. As he looked at Denyer + he fancied he had seen him before, but where he could not for the + moment recall. Denyer walked away to speak to a jockey, and + Hector stood trying to remember where he had met him. It flashed + across his mind so vividly and suddenly that he was + startled—Denyer was the man he had seen at the supper table + in the hotel with Lenise Elroy. There was no doubt about it; he + remembered his face distinctly. Here was a stroke of luck. Some + guiding hand had led him to this man. He must cultivate his + acquaintance; through him he could be brought face to face with + the woman who had ruined him.</p> + + <p>Frisky won comfortably, started at ten to one, and Hector + landed a hundred pounds. He also backed the winner of the next + race, the Welter Handicap, and doubled his hundred. This was + encouraging; it was to be a day of success—at least it + appeared so.</p> + + <p>Denyer he did not see for some time. Shortly before the last + race he noticed him walking across the paddock with a lady. It + was Mrs. Elroy, and Hector's heart almost stopped beating. For a + moment <span class="pagenum"><a name="page151" id= + "page151"></a>[151]</span> he trembled with nervous + excitement, which by a great effort he suppressed.</p> + + <p>They came up; Denyer introduced her. She held out her hand, + Hector took it, they looked into each other's eyes. There was not + a shadow of recognition on her part, but there was something else + there—Lenise Elroy had by some strange intuition thrilled + at the sight of this man, felt a wave of emotion flow through her + body. She was sure she would like him, like him very much indeed, + and she immediately resolved to better the acquaintance. Hector + divined something of what passed in her mind and smiled. He could + have wished for nothing better; it was what he most desired, but + had not dared to hope for.</p> + + <p>Denyer left them together for a moment.</p> + + <p>"You are a friend of Mr. Denyer's?" she said in a soothing + voice.</p> + + <p>"I was introduced to him here," he said. "I have not known him + more than an hour or so. He put me on a winner, Frisky, and I + also backed the last winner. My luck is in to-day," he added, as + he looked meaningly at her.</p> + + <p>Lenise Elroy returned his glance; she understood men. She + thought she had made a conquest and that he was worth it.</p> + + <p>"Will you ride back to town with us in my motor?" said Denyer, + as he joined them again.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page152" id="page152"></a>[152]</span> + + <p>"Yes, do, Mr. Rolfe; we shall be delighted if you will. And + perhaps you will dine with us at the Savoy," she said.</p> + + <p>Hector said he would be delighted. Fortune was indeed favoring + him.</p> + + <p>They rode to town together, and dined at the Savoy; later on + they went to the Empire. It was an eventful day and night for + Hector. Before he left, Denyer was half inclined to regret + introducing him to Lenise; he did not care for her to show + preference for another man; where she was concerned he was + jealous. He reflected, however, that if she and Rolfe became good + friends it would facilitate the process of extracting money from + him, and this was his intention; every rich man he regarded as + his lawful prey. To him Rolfe appeared rather a simple-minded, + easy-going fellow; probably he had traveled a good deal, he + looked tanned with the sun, as though he had been in hot + climates; such men were generally free with their money, fond of + company, and the society of an attractive woman like Lenise, who + had very few scruples about the proprieties.</p> + + <p>When he left, Hector promised to lunch with them the following + day.</p> + + <p>Fletcher Denyer went home with Lenise. Her maid was accustomed + to seeing him in her rooms at all hours; she had never known him + remain in <span class="pagenum"><a name="page153" id= + "page153"></a>[153]</span> the house for the night; she + judged, and rightly, there was nothing improper in their + relations. The fact of the matter was, they were mutually useful + to each other. Lenise wanted some one to go about with; and + Denyer not only liked her society, but found her help to him in + many of his schemes.</p> + + <p>She took off her cloak, handing it to her maid, then sat down + on the couch and made herself comfortable, and attractive; she + knew the full value of her personal appearance, and fine figure, + and posed accordingly. Fletcher Denyer always admired her; + to-night she looked so radiant and alluring he was fascinated, + under her spell. He forgot his caution so far as to come to the + sofa, bend over her, attempt to kiss her. She pushed him back + roughly, and said: "Keep your distance, Fletcher, or we shall + fall out. You have had too much champagne."</p> + + <p>"It's not the champagne," he said hotly; "it's your beauty; it + acts like wine. You are lovelier than ever to-night. That fellow + Rolfe admired you, any one could see it. You're not going to + throw me over for him, are you, Len?"</p> + + <p>"Don't be a silly boy. As for throwing you over, there is no + engagement between us; we are merely good friends, and if you + wish to maintain the relationship you had better not try to kiss + me again. I hate being kissed; kisses are only for babes and + sucklings," she said.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page154" + id="page154"></a>[154]</span> + + <p>He laughed; it was no good quarreling with her. He was + satisfied to think that had any other man attempted to kiss her + she would have ordered him out of the house.</p> + + <p>"Not much of the babe about you," he said.</p> + + <p>"More than you think, but I'm not made to be kissed."</p> + + <p>"That's just what you are, the most lovable woman I ever + met."</p> + + <p>She laughed.</p> + + <p>"That champagne was certainly too strong for you," she + said.</p> + + <p>She never seemed tired; all go, no matter how late the hour; + her flow of spirits seldom flagged, her eyes always shone + brightly, her complexion never failed her; she was really a + remarkable woman. No one knew what an effort it cost her to keep + up appearances—alone a change came over her, the reaction + set in. She did not care to be alone, at times she was + afraid.</p> + + <p>"What do you think of Rolfe?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"In what way?"</p> + + <p>"All ways, as far as you can judge from what you have seen + to-day, and to-night," he said.</p> + + <p>She was thoughtful. He watched her; the jealous feeling came + uppermost again.</p> + + <p>"I think," she said slowly, "he is a man who has had a great + deal of trouble, suffered much, probably <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page155" id="page155"></a>[155]</span> on + account of a woman. I think he is a strong man, that he is + determined, and if he has an object in view he will attain it, no + matter what the obstacles in his way. Probably he has traveled, + seen a good deal of the world, had strange experiences. He has + remarkable eyes, they pierce, probe into one, search out things. + He is a fine looking man, well built, but has probably had a + severe illness not long ago. I think I shall like him; he is + worth cultivating, making a friend of."</p> + + <p>She spoke as though no one were present. Fletcher Denyer felt + for the time being he was forgotten and resented it.</p> + + <p>"You have analyzed him closely; you must be a character + reader. Have you ever turned your battery of close observation on + me?" he asked snappishly.</p> + + <p>She smiled.</p> + + <p>"You angry man, you asked me what I think of him and I have + told you. I have turned the battery on you, Fletcher. I know your + worth exactly. I am useful to you; you are useful to + me—that is all."</p> + + <p>"All!" he exclaimed.</p> + + <p>"Well, what else? We are not in love, are we?"</p> + + <p>"No, I suppose not. Has it ever occurred to you, Lenise, that + I want you to be my wife?" he asked.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page156" id="page156"></a>[156]</span> + + <p>"No, it has not occurred to me, nor has it occurred to you + before to-night," she said.</p> + + <p>"Yes, it has."</p> + + <p>"I doubt it. Besides, things are much better as they are. I + would not be your wife if you asked me," she said.</p> + + <p>"Why not?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"Because—oh, for the very sufficient reason that you + could not keep me, and I have sufficient to live upon," she + said.</p> + + <p>He saw it would be better to drop the subject and said: "You + have no objection to giving me a helping hand?"</p> + + <p>"In what way?"</p> + + <p>"This man Rolfe has money. I don't agree with your estimate of + him as a strong man; I think he is weak. He may be useful to + me."</p> + + <p>"You mean he may be induced to finance some of your schemes?" + she said.</p> + + <p>"Yes; why not? Where's the harm? His money is as good as + another's, or better."</p> + + <p>"And you think I will lure him into your financial net?" she + said calmly.</p> + + <p>"Not exactly that; you can hint that I sometimes get in the + know, behind the scenes, and so on, then leave the rest to me," + he said.</p> + + <p>"Take care, Fletcher. This man Rolfe is more than your equal; + I am sure of it. If he is drawn <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page157" id="page157"></a>[157]</span> into your schemes it + will be for some object of his own. Don't drag me into it."</p> + + <p>"There's no dragging about it. You have merely to give me a + good character, say I am clever and shrewd—you know how to + work it," he said.</p> + + <p>"Yes, I think I know how to work it," she said quietly.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XVIII" id="CHAPTER_XVIII"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page158" id="page158"></a>[158]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XVIII</h2> + + <h3>CONSCIENCE TROUBLES</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">LENISE ELROY sat in her bedroom long after Fletcher Denyer + left the house. She dismissed her maid before undressing, who, + accustomed to her mistress's moods, thought nothing of it.</p> + + <p>"I hate being alone," she said to herself, "and yet it is only + then I can throw off the mask. I am a wicked woman; at least I + have been told so, long ago. Perhaps I am, or was at that time. I + wonder if Hector Woodridge is dead, or if he escaped? It is + hardly likely he got away. I could wish he had, if he were out of + the country and I were safe. It was not my fault altogether; he + has suffered, so have I, and suffer still. I loved him in those + days, whatever he may have thought to the contrary, but I don't + think he loved me. Had Raoul been a man it would never have + happened, but he was a weak, feeble-minded mortal and bored me + intensely. I ought not to have married him; it was + folly—money is not everything. I could have been a happy + woman with such a man as Hector. <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page159" id="page159"></a>[159]</span> How he must have + suffered! But so have I. There is such a thing as conscience; I + discovered it long ago, and it has tormented me, made my life at + times a hell. I have tried to stifle it and cannot. Ever since + that night at Torquay I have been haunted by a horrible dread + that he got away on his brother's yacht, the <i>Sea-mew</i>. + Captain Bruce is devoted to them, he would do anything to help + them. Perhaps it was part of the plan that the <i>Sea-mew</i> + should lie in Torbay waiting for his escape. Money will do a + great deal, and bribery may have been at work. It seems hardly + possible, but there is no telling. The boatman said he was dead, + Hackler said the same; they may be wrong—who + knows—and at this moment he may be free and plotting + against me. I can expect no mercy from him; I have wronged him + too deeply; it is not in human nature to forgive what I have + done."</p> + + <p>She shuddered, her face was drawn and haggard, she looked ten + years older than she did an hour ago.</p> + + <p>"Do I regret what happened?" she asked herself. She could not + honestly say she did; given the same situation over again she + felt everything would happen as it did then. It was a blunder, a + crime, and the consequences were terrible, but it freed her, she + was left to live her life as she wished, and it was an intense + relief to be rid of Raoul. She knew it was callous, wicked, to + think like this, but she <span class="pagenum"><a name="page160" + id="page160"></a>[160]</span> could not help it. She had not + been a bad woman since her husband's death, not as bad women go. + She had had one or two love affairs, but she had been + circumspect, there was no more scandal, and she did no harm. She + prided herself on this, as she thought of the opportunities and + temptations that were thrown in her way and had been + resisted.</p> + + <p>"I'm not naturally a bad woman," she reasoned. "I do not lure + men to destruction, fleece them of their money, then cast them + aside. I have been merciful to young fellows who have become + infatuated with me, chilled their ardor, made them cool toward + me, saved them from themselves." She recalled two or three + instances where she had done this and it gave her + satisfaction.</p> + + <p>Her conscience, however, troubled her, and never more than + to-night. She could not account for it. Why on this particular + night should she be so vilely tormented? It was no use going to + bed; she could not sleep; at least not without a drug, and she + had taken too many of late. Sleep under such circumstances failed + to soothe her; she awoke with a heavy head and tired eyes, her + body hardly rested.</p> + + <p>She got up and walked to and fro in the room. She was debating + what to do, how to act. Never since her love affair with Hector + Woodridge had she met a man who appealed to her as William Rolfe + did. The moment she was introduced to him <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page161" id="page161"></a>[161]</span> at + the races she knew he was bound to influence her life for good, + or evil. She recognized the strong man in him, the man who could + bend her to his will; she knew in his hands she would be as weak + as the weakest of her sex, that she would yield to him. More, she + wished him to dominate her, to place herself in his power, to say + to him, "I am yours; do what you will with me." All this swept + over her as she looked into his eyes and caught, she fancied, an + answering response. She had felt much of this with Hector + Woodridge, but not all; William Rolfe had a surer hold of her, if + he wished to exercise his power, she knew it.</p> + + <p>Did she wish him to exercise the power?</p> + + <p>She thought no, and meant yes. Fletcher Denyer was useful to + her, but in her heart she despised him; he took her money without + scruple when she offered it. She was quite certain Rolfe would + not do so, even if he wanted it ever so badly. She had no fear of + Denyer, or his jealous moods. She smiled as she thought of him in + his fits of anger, spluttering like a big child. Rolfe was a man + in every respect, so she thought; she was a woman who liked to be + subdued by a strong hand. The tragedy in her life had not killed + her love of pleasure, although the result of it, as regards + Hector Woodridge, had caused her much pain. Still she was a woman + who cast aside trouble and steeled herself <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page162" id="page162"></a>[162]</span> + against it. She had not met a man who could make her forget the + past and live only in the present, but now she believed William + Rolfe could do it.</p> + + <p>Would he try, would he come to her? She thought it possible, + probable; and if he did, how would she act? Would she confess + what had happened in her life? She must, it would be necessary, + there would be no deception with such a man. What would be the + consequences—would he pity, or blame her?</p> + + <p>At last she went to bed, and toward morning fell asleep, a + restless slumber, accompanied by unpleasant dreams. It was eleven + o'clock when she dressed; she remembered she had to meet Fletcher + and William Rolfe at luncheon. She took a taxi to the hotel, and + found Rolfe waiting for her. He handed her a note; it was from + Denyer, stating he was detained in the city on urgent business, + apologizing for his unavoidable absence, asking Rolfe to meet him + later on, naming the place.</p> + + <p>He watched her as she read it, and saw she was pleased; it + gave him savage satisfaction. He had not thought his task would + be so easy; everything worked toward the end he had in view.</p> + + <p>"I hope you will keep your appointment, at any rate," he + said.</p> + + <p>"I have done so, I am here," she answered, + smiling.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page163" id= + "page163"></a>[163]</span> + + <p>"I mean that you will lunch with me."</p> + + <p>"Would it be quite proper?" she asked with a challenging + glance.</p> + + <p>"Quite," he said. "I will take every care of you."</p> + + <p>She wondered how old he was. It was difficult to guess. He + might be younger than herself—not more than a year or two + at the most. What caused that look on his face? It certainly was + not fear; he was fearless, she thought. It was a sort of hunted + look, as though he were always expecting something to happen and + was on his guard. She would like to know the cause of it.</p> + + <p>"You cannot imagine how difficult I am to take care of," she + said.</p> + + <p>"I am not afraid of the task," he said. "Will you lunch with + me?"</p> + + <p>"With pleasure," she replied, and they went inside.</p> + + <p>The room was well filled, a fashionable crowd; several people + knew Mrs. Elroy and acknowledged her. To a certain extent she had + lived down the past, but the recollection of it made her the more + interesting. Women were afraid of her attractions, especially + those who had somewhat fickle husbands; their alarm was + groundless, had they known it.</p> + + <p>"Wonder who that is with her? He's a fine looking man, but + there's something peculiar about him," said a + lady.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page164" id= + "page164"></a>[164]</span> + + <p>"What do you see peculiar in him? Seems an ordinary individual + to me," drawled her husband.</p> + + <p>"He is not ordinary by any means; his complexion is peculiar, + a curious yellowy brown," she said.</p> + + <p>"Perhaps he's a West Indian, or something of that sort."</p> + + <p>They sat at a small table alone; she thoroughly enjoyed the + lunch. She drank a couple of glasses of champagne and the + sparkling wine revived her.</p> + + <p>"Shall we go for a motor ride after?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"Yes, if you wish, and will not be tired of my company," she + said.</p> + + <p>"You do yourself an injustice," he said. "I do not think you + could tire any one."</p> + + <p>She laughed as she said: "You don't know much of me, I am dull + at times, rather depressed." She sighed, and for a moment the + haggard look came into her face. Hector wondered if remorse were + accountable for it; if she ever repented the injury she had done; + no, it was not possible or she would have stretched out her hand + to save him. He steeled his heart against her; he hated her; he + would have his revenge, cost her what it might.</p> + + <p>They entered a taxi and were driven in the direction of + Staines and Windsor. She felt a strange thrill of pleasure as she + sat close beside him.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XIX" id="CHAPTER_XIX"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page165" id="page165"></a>[165]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XIX</h2> + + <h3>"WHAT WOULD YOU DO?"</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">THEY went along the Staines Road, then by the banks of the + Thames past Runnymede, came to Old Windsor, and from there to the + White Hart Hotel. She thoroughly enjoyed it; the drive nerved + her; she forgot the painful reflections of the previous night. He + talked freely. She noticed with satisfaction he seemed attracted + by her, looked at her searchingly as though interested. They went + on the river and were rowed past the racecourse. It was warm and + fine, the flow of the water past the boat soothed her. They had + tea at the hotel, then returned to town.</p> + + <p>"Where to?" he asked when they were nearing Kensington. She + gave the name of her flat and they alighted there.</p> + + <p>"I have been here some time," she said. "I find it comfortable + and quiet. Will you come in?"</p> + + <p>He followed her. He noticed her room was furnished expensively + and in excellent taste; there was nothing grand or gaudy about + it.</p> + + <p>"I am alone here, with my maid," she said. "They <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page166" id="page166"></a>[166]</span> have + an excellent system: all meals are prepared downstairs and sent + up; there is a very good chef."</p> + + <p>"The least possible trouble," he said. "How long have you been + here?"</p> + + <p>"Three years. It suits me; I do not care to be away from + London. In my married days I lived in the country, but it bored + me to death. Do you like the country?"</p> + + <p>"Yes, I love it; but then much of my life has been spent in + solitude."</p> + + <p>"You have traveled?"</p> + + <p>"Yes."</p> + + <p>"I thought so."</p> + + <p>"Why?"</p> + + <p>"Your complexion denotes it. I like it, there is a healthy + brown about it."</p> + + <p>"I have done much hard work in my time," he said.</p> + + <p>"Mining?" she asked.</p> + + <p>"Yes, I suppose you would call it that."</p> + + <p>"Where?"</p> + + <p>"On Dartmoor," he said.</p> + + <p>She was so astonished she could not speak. She looked at him + with fear in her eyes.</p> + + <p>"Dartmoor?" she whispered. "I did not know there were mines on + Dartmoor."</p> + + <p>"Oh, yes, there are—copper mines. I was fool enough to + believe there was money in them, but I <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page167" id="page167"></a>[167]</span> was + mistaken; there is copper there, no doubt, but I did not find + it," he said.</p> + + <p>She felt as though a snake fascinated her, that she must ask + questions about it.</p> + + <p>"I have been to Torquay, but I did not go to Dartmoor," she + said.</p> + + <p>"You ought to have done so; it is a wonderful place. I was + there a long time. When were you in Torquay?"</p> + + <p>She told him.</p> + + <p>"Strange," he said; "I was there at that time."</p> + + <p>She felt a curious dread, not of him, but of something + unknown.</p> + + <p>"I went to the races—a friend of mine was riding there. + He won four events. Lucky, was it not?"</p> + + <p>"Yes," she said faintly. "Who was he?"</p> + + <p>"Picton Woodridge. His yacht the <i>Sea-mew</i> was in the + bay. I was on it."</p> + + <p>"You!" she exclaimed, and he saw the fear in her eyes.</p> + + <p>"Yes, why not? Is there anything strange about it?" he asked, + smiling. "He lives at Haverton. He is rich, but he is not quite + happy."</p> + + <p>"Why not, if he has everything he wants?"</p> + + <p>"He has not everything he wants; no one has, as a matter of + fact. It would not be good for us. You have not all you + want."</p> + + <p>"No, I have not; but I get along very well."</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page168" id="page168"></a>[168]</span> + + <p>"What is missing out of your life?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"I can hardly tell you."</p> + + <p>"My friend's life is overcast by a great calamity that befell + his family some years ago."</p> + + <p>"What was it?" she asked, and a slight shiver passed through + her.</p> + + <p>"His brother was accused of murder, of shooting the husband of + the woman he had fallen in love with. He was condemned and + reprieved; he is at Dartmoor now. That is enough to make his + brother's life unhappy; it killed the Admiral, their father."</p> + + <p>"How shocking!" she said.</p> + + <p>"I never thought of it before, but, strange to say, the man's + name was Elroy. It is your name," he said.</p> + + <p>She laughed uneasily; she could not tell him now.</p> + + <p>"I hope you do not connect me with the lady in question?"</p> + + <p>"No, of course not. How absurd! But still it is + strange—the name is uncommon," he said.</p> + + <p>"I suppose you never saw his brother at the prison?"</p> + + <p>"I did—I wish I had not."</p> + + <p>"Did he look very ill, broken down?"</p> + + <p>"He was a terrible wreck. He suffered awful agony, of mind + more than body. I never saw such a change in a man in my life. + When I knew Hector <span class="pagenum"><a name="page169" id= + "page169"></a>[169]</span> Woodridge he was a fine, well set + up, handsome man, in the army, a soldier's career before him. The + breakdown was complete; it made me suffer to look at him. I never + went again and I do not think he wanted it. If ever a man was + living in hell upon earth he was; the wonder is it did not kill + him."</p> + + <p>"How terrible!" she said.</p> + + <p>"I wonder if the woman suffers? He did it on her account. I do + not believe he is guilty—I am certain he is not. His + brother believes in his innocence, so does Captain Bruce, and all + his friends. I believe it is the knowledge that he is innocent + sustains him in his awful life; he told me he hoped one day to + prove his innocence, but that his lips were sealed, he could not + speak. I told him that was foolish, that it was due to himself to + speak, but he shook his head and said, 'Impossible!'"</p> + + <p>"Is it a very terrible place at Dartmoor?"</p> + + <p>"I suppose it is like all such prisons; but think what it must + be for an innocent man to be caged there with a lot of desperate + criminals, the scum of the earth. What must it be for such a man + as Hector Woodridge, cultured, refined, an army man, + well-bred—and on the top of it all the knowledge that the + disgrace killed his father. It would drive me mad."</p> + + <p>"And me too," she said. "You say he is there + still?"</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page170" id= + "page170"></a>[170]</span> + + <p>"Yes; there is no chance of his escaping. I wish he + could."</p> + + <p>"A prisoner escaped when I was at Torquay. I saw it in the + local paper," she said.</p> + + <p>"So did I; the fellow had a terrible fight with a bloodhound + and strangled it. A desperate man has desperate strength," he + said.</p> + + <p>"I met an old boatman named Brack there; he told me the man + must be dead."</p> + + <p>"No doubt; fell down a disused mine, or drowned himself, poor + devil. I don't wonder at it," he said.</p> + + <p>"I wonder how the woman feels about it?" she said in a low + voice. "She must suffer, her conscience must trouble her, in a + way her life must be as hard to bear as his."</p> + + <p>"That depends on the woman," he said. "I believe she can prove + his innocence; something tells me she can; his brother believes + it too. If this be so, she ought to speak and save him, no matter + at what cost to herself."</p> + + <p>"Do you think she will?"</p> + + <p>"No; or she would have spoken before. She must be callous, + hard-hearted, dead to all sense of human feeling. Such a woman + would make me shudder to come in contact with her," he said.</p> + + <p>She smiled as she thought: "He little knows I am that woman. I + must wait. If he loves me later on I can tell + him."</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page171" id= + "page171"></a>[171]</span> + + <p>"Perhaps the woman cannot prove his innocence. She may believe + him guilty."</p> + + <p>"Impossible. There were only three persons present: the + husband, the wife, and Hector Woodridge."</p> + + <p>"It seems very strange that if he is innocent she has not + declared the truth."</p> + + <p>"Steeped in wickedness and sin as she is, I do not wonder at + it; she is probably living in the world, leading a fast life, + ruining men as she ruined him."</p> + + <p>"Or she may be suffering agonies and be too much of a coward + to speak; she may be an object of pity; perhaps if you saw her + you would be sorry for her, as sorry as you are for him," she + said.</p> + + <p>"He is in prison, she is free; she has the world to distract + her, he has nothing."</p> + + <p>"You spoke of torture of the mind. Perhaps she is a sensitive + woman; if so, her sufferings are as terrible as his."</p> + + <p>"If you were the woman, what would you do?" he asked.</p> + + <p>The question was put with an abruptness that startled her; + again a feeling of fear was uppermost. It was strange he should + know Hector Woodridge; still more curious that he was on the + <i>Sea-mew</i> in Torbay. He must know if Hector Woodridge + boarded the yacht; was he concealing something?</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page172" id="page172"></a>[172]</span> + + <p>"I do not know what I should do. It would depend upon + circumstances."</p> + + <p>"What circumstances?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"If I knew he was innocent, I should speak, I think—that + is, if I could prove it."</p> + + <p>"She must be able to prove it," he said. "I believe he is + suffering, keeping silent, to save her."</p> + + <p>"If he is, his conduct is heroic," she said.</p> + + <p>"Foolish—a sin and a shame that he should waste his life + for such a woman."</p> + + <p>"You think her a very bad woman?"</p> + + <p>"I do, one of the worst," he said.</p> + + <p>She sighed.</p> + + <p>"I am glad I have never been placed in such an unfortunate + position," she said.</p> + + <p>"So am I, but I am sure if you had been, Hector Woodridge + would be a free man," he said.</p> + + <p>"I wonder if he loved her?" she asked quickly.</p> + + <p>"Loved her? He must have done so. Think how he is suffering + for her; he must love her still," he said.</p> + + <p>"Perhaps she does not know this."</p> + + <p>"She ought to know; all his actions speak of love for her. No + man ever made a greater sacrifice for a woman," he said. Then, + looking at his watch, he added, "It is time for me to go, to meet + Mr. Denyer. He is a great friend of yours, is he not?"</p> + + <p>"I should not call him a friend exactly, although <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page173" id="page173"></a>[173]</span> I + have known him a long time; he is useful to me in business + matters," she said.</p> + + <p>"Can I be of any use in that way?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"You might; I will ask you if I require anything."</p> + + <p>"And then I shall be an acquaintance," he said, smiling.</p> + + <p>"Would you rather be my friend?"</p> + + <p>"Yes."</p> + + <p>She held out her hand.</p> + + <p>"I do not think that will be difficult," she said, her eyes + flashing into his.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XX" id="CHAPTER_XX"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page174" id="page174"></a>[174]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XX</h2> + + <h3>RITA SEES A RESEMBLANCE</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">SOME acquaintanceships ripen fast into friendship; it was so + with Lenise Elroy and Hector, at least on her side. She knew him + as William Rolfe and as such he appealed to her. At times he + reminded her in a vague way of Hector Woodridge; she liked him + none the worse for this, although it brought back painful + memories. She was fast drifting into the ocean of love where she + would be tossed about, buffeted by the waves, and probably + damaged. The impression he made on her was not easily effaced; + she began to neglect Fletcher Denyer, much to his mortification. + Before she met Rolfe their connection had been smooth, going on + the even tenor of its way, with nothing to mar the harmony, but + this new acquaintance proved a disturbing element and she was no + longer the same to him. He resented it but could do nothing; he + was powerless. He spoke to her, remonstrated, and she laughed at + him; it was of no use tackling Rolfe, who would probably tell him + to mind his business.</p> + + <p>He had, however, no intention of relinquishing <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page175" id="page175"></a>[175]</span> what + little hold he had over her, and tried to make himself more + indispensable. Rolfe was friendly, took a hint as to some + speculative shares and made money.</p> + + <p>It was September and the St. Leger day drew near. Hector had + not forgotten Tearaway. He did not write to his brother; he + thought it better not, safer. He watched the papers and saw the + filly occasionally quoted at a hundred to four taken. The secret + of the trial had been well kept, nothing leaked out about it. + Ripon was a firm favorite at three to one, and all the wise men + at Newmarket were sanguine of his success. Bronze was much + fancied in certain quarters, and Harriet, The Monk, and Field + Gun, frequently figured in the list; there was every prospect of + a larger field than usual.</p> + + <p>Fletcher Denyer often talked about racing with Hector, who was + quite willing to discuss the chances of horses with him.</p> + + <p>"I am told on the best authority Bronze will win," said + Fletcher. "What do you fancy, Rolfe?"</p> + + <p>"I haven't thought much about it," replied Hector. "If Bronze + is as good as they make out, he must have a chance."</p> + + <p>"If you want to back him I can get your money on at a good + price," said Fletcher.</p> + + <p>"I'll think it over," said Hector.</p> + + <p>Mrs. Elroy was also interested in the St. Leger. <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page176" id="page176"></a>[176]</span> She + knew the owner of Ripon, who told her he did not think his horse + had anything to fear. This news was imparted to Hector.</p> + + <p>"Are you going to Doncaster?" she asked.</p> + + <p>He said he was, that he always liked to see the St. Leger + run.</p> + + <p>"I think I shall go," she said. "I have been asked to join a + house party near Doncaster."</p> + + <p>Hector wondered how it came about that a woman who had behaved + so badly could be so soon forgiven, and her past forgotten.</p> + + <p>"Then I shall have the pleasure of seeing you there," he + said.</p> + + <p>"I hope so. Your friend Mr. Woodridge has something in the + race—Tearaway, is it not? I suppose she hasn't got much of + a chance, it is such a good price about her," she said.</p> + + <p>"No, I don't expect she has or she would not be at such long + odds," he answered.</p> + + <p>"There have been some big surprises in the St. Leger," she + said.</p> + + <p>"It doesn't look like one this year," he replied.</p> + + <p>A few days before the Doncaster meeting, Hector went to + Haverton, where he had a warm welcome. Sir Robert Raines was + there, Captain Ben, and one or two more, including Dick Langford, + and Rita. Lady Raines came to act as hostess for Picton and + brought two of her daughters; it was the knowledge <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page177" id="page177"></a>[177]</span> that + she would be there induced Rita to come with her brother.</p> + + <p>At first Picton hesitated to ask her; she had never been to + Haverton; but finally he decided. Lady Raines and her daughters + would be there, it would be all right and proper. He was + delighted when he heard she had arranged to come with Dick.</p> + + <p>Hector came the following day after their arrival. He first + saw Rita in the garden with Picton. He recognized her at once: it + was the lady who had been so kind to him on his way from Dartmoor + to Torquay. He saw how close they walked together, how + confidential was their talk, and guessed the rest. He recognized + this with a pang; he had built castles in the air about her, + which, like most such edifices, are easily shattered. Would she + know him again as the tramp she helped on the road? It was not + likely. In the first place, he was greatly changed, and secondly + she would never expect to find him here. He smiled grimly as he + thought of the condition he was in the last time they met. He + went out to face her and walked toward them.</p> + + <p>Picton introduced them. She started slightly as she looked at + him.</p> + + <p>"I thought I had seen you somewhere before," she said with a + bright smile. "You quite startled <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page178" id="page178"></a>[178]</span> me, but I dare not + tell you about it, it is quite too ridiculous."</p> + + <p>"You have roused my curiosity. Please enlighten me," he + said.</p> + + <p>"You are quite sure you will not be offended?" She looked at + them both.</p> + + <p>"I shall not, and I am the principal person to consider," said + Hector.</p> + + <p>"Then, if you promise not to be angry with me, I will; after + all, I am sure he was a gentleman although in reduced + circumstances," she said.</p> + + <p>"Who was a gentleman?" asked Picton.</p> + + <p>"The man I for the moment fancied resembled Mr. Rolfe," she + said. "It was the day you came to Torwood."</p> + + <p>Rita told them about the tramp she had befriended, and + added:</p> + + <p>"He was a well-bred man who must have met with some great + misfortune. I pitied him, my heart bled for him; he was no common + man, it was easy to recognize that. He thanked me courteously and + went on his way down the road. I have often thought of him since + and wondered what became of him. When you first came up, Mr. + Rolfe, you reminded me of him, in looks and build, that is all. + Have I offended you?"</p> + + <p>"Not at all," said Hector. "You are quite sure I am not your + gentleman tramp? Look again."</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page179" id="page179"></a>[179]</span> + + <p>"Don't be absurd! Of course you are not the man; it was a mere + passing resemblance," she said.</p> + + <p>"You did a very kindly action, and I am sure the man, whoever + he is, will never forget it, or you. Perhaps at some future time + he may repay your kindness. Who knows? There are some strange + chances in the world, so many ups and downs, I should not at all + wonder if you met him again in a very different sphere," said + Hector.</p> + + <p>Lady Raines and her daughters came on to the terrace and Rita + joined them.</p> + + <p>"Whew!" said Hector, "that was a narrow squeak, Pic. I went + hot and cold all over when I recognized who it was with you, but + I thought I had better come out and face the music."</p> + + <p>"That's about the closest shave you've had, but even had she + been certain she would only have known you as William Rolfe."</p> + + <p>"I forgot that," said Hector. "Still, it is better as it is. I + say, Pic, is she the one?"</p> + + <p>"I hope so," his brother replied, laughing. "I mean to have a + good try."</p> + + <p>"Lucky fellow!" said Hector with a sigh. "There's no such + chance of happiness for me."</p> + + <p>"There may be some day," said Picton. "You have not told me + what you have been doing in London."</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page180" id="page180"></a>[180]</span> + + <p>"Plotting," said Hector. "I am on the way to secure my + revenge—I shall succeed."</p> + + <p>"Can't you give me some idea how you mean to be revenged?" + asked Picton.</p> + + <p>"Not at present. You may get an inkling at Doncaster, if you + keep your eyes open; but I expect all your attention will be + riveted on Tearaway," said Hector.</p> + + <p>"That's highly probable. One doesn't own a Leger winner every + year," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Then you think she is sure to win?"</p> + + <p>"Certain, and Sir Robert won't hear of her defeat. He has + backed her to win a large stake, and he's jubilant about it."</p> + + <p>"It seems strange she does not shorten in the betting," said + Hector.</p> + + <p>"I don't take much notice of that; she's not a public + performer, and it is a field above the average. If it had leaked + out about the trial it would have been different, but we have a + good lot of lads at Haverton; they know how to hold their + tongues," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"I'll tell you what, Pic, I'd like to let old Brack know. + Wouldn't the dear old boy rejoice at getting on a twenty-five to + one chance; he'd think more of it than anything. Brackish, + boatman, Torquay, would find him," said Hector.</p> + + <p>"He shall know," said Picton. "I'll tell you <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page181" id="page181"></a>[181]</span> + what, it would be a joke to get him to Doncaster for the St. + Leger. I'll send Rose down to hunt him up and bring him."</p> + + <p>"I'm afraid Rose would look askance at Brack, he's such a + highly superior person," said Hector.</p> + + <p>"I fancy Brack would break his reserve down before they + reached Doncaster," said Picton. "I shall send him, anyway."</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XXI" id="CHAPTER_XXI"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page182" id="page182"></a>[182]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XXI</h2> + + <h3>BRACK TURNS TRAVELER</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">ROSE, I am about to send you on an important mission to + Torquay," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Yes, sir."</p> + + <p>"You are to find an old boatman named Brackish, generally + called Brack. He is a well-known character; there will be no + difficulty about it. You will hand him this letter, and if he + requires persuading you will use all your eloquence in that + direction. You will give him ten pounds and pay all his expenses, + and you must land him in the paddock at Doncaster at the latest + on the St. Leger day. You understand?"</p> + + <p>"Yes, sir. May I ask what kind of an individual he is?"</p> + + <p>"Rough and ready. He was formerly a boatman at Scarborough. He + is a Yorkshireman. He will don his best clothes; perhaps he will + require a new pilot coat—if he does, buy him one."</p> + + <p>"And what am I to do when I land him in the paddock, + sir?"</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page183" id= + "page183"></a>[183]</span> + + <p>"Wait until I see him."</p> + + <p>"Very good, sir. Is that all?"</p> + + <p>"Yes, I think so. Look after him well; he once did me a good + turn. You'll find him interesting, also amusing."</p> + + <p>"When shall I go, sir?"</p> + + <p>"To-morrow; that will give you ample time—a day or two + in Torquay will be a pleasant change."</p> + + <p>"Thank you, sir; it will," said Rose.</p> + + <p>"Come to me in my study to-night and I will give you the + money," said Picton.</p> + + <p>Robert Rose thought, as he watched him walk away: "I hope he + doesn't expect me to make a friend of the man. No doubt he'll + smell of the sea, and fish, tar, oil-skins, and other beastly + things; it won't be a pleasant journey—we shall have to put + the windows down. I wonder if he washes, or whether he's caked + with dirt, like some of 'em I've seen. It's coming to a pretty + pass when I am dispatched on such an errand."</p> + + <p>He complained to Mrs. Yeoman but got no sympathy.</p> + + <p>"If Brack's good enough for your master he's good enough for + you," she snapped, and he thought it advisable not to pursue the + subject farther.</p> + + <p>Rose arrived in Torquay in due course, late at night, after a + tiring journey. Next morning he went forth in quest of Brack. A + policeman pointed <span class="pagenum"><a name="page184" id= + "page184"></a>[184]</span> the boatman out to him. Brack was + leaning against the iron rail protecting the inner harbor. Rose + looked at him in disgust. Brack had met a friend the night before + and they had indulged somewhat freely in ale. He was all right + but looked rather seedy and unkempt.</p> + + <p>Rose walked up to him, putting on his best air. Brack saw him + and summed him up at once.</p> + + <p>"Somebody's flunkey," he thought.</p> + + <p>"Are you Mr. Brackish?" asked Rose in a patronizing + manner.</p> + + <p>"I'm Brack, name Brackish, don't know about the mister, seldom + hear it used when I'm addressed. Now who may you be, my good + man?" said Brack, mischief lurking in his eyes.</p> + + <p>To be addressed by this clod of a boatman as "my good man" + quite upset Rose's dignity. He put on a severe look, which did + not abash Brack in the least, and said: "I am from Haverton in + Yorkshire. I represent Mr. Picton Woodridge. He desired me to see + you and deliver this letter," and he handed it to him.</p> + + <p>Brack took it, opened the envelope, and handed it back.</p> + + <p>"I've lost my glasses," he said; "must have left them in 'The + Sailor's Rest' last night. Me an' a mate had a few pints more + than we oughter. Why <span class="pagenum"><a name="page185" id= + "page185"></a>[185]</span> the deuce didn't he post the letter + and save <i>you</i> the trouble of comin' to see <i>me</i>?"</p> + + <p>"It suited Mr. Woodridge's purpose better that I should + personally deliver it. I will read it to you if you wish."</p> + + <p>"That's what I gave it to you for," said Brack.</p> + + <p>Rose read the letter. It was written in a kind and friendly + way; Robert thought it too familiar. Brack listened attentively; + at first he hardly grasped the full meaning.</p> + + <p>"Would you mind reading it again?" he asked.</p> + + <p>Rose did so with ill-concealed impatience; then said: "Now do + you understand its import, or shall I explain more fully?"</p> + + <p>"Don't trouble yourself. I wouldn't trouble such an almighty + high personage as yourself for the world," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"No trouble at all, I assure you," said Rose.</p> + + <p>"As far as I understand," said Brack, "I'm to put myself in + your charge and you are to convey me safely to Doncaster to see + the Leger run for."</p> + + <p>"That's it; we will leave to-morrow," said Rose.</p> + + <p>"Will we? Who said I was goin'?" asked Brack.</p> + + <p>"Of course you'll go; Mr. Picton wishes it."</p> + + <p>"He ain't my master, just you remember. Brack's got no master. + I'm my own boss, and a pretty stiff job I have with myself at + times. Last night, for instance. As boss I ordered myself home at + ten; <span class="pagenum"><a name="page186" id="page186"></a>[186]</span> as Brack I went on strike and declined to + move—see?"</p> + + <p>"But he will be very much disappointed if you don't go to + Doncaster with me. All your expenses will be paid. You'll have + ten pounds to invest on the course, and you'll back Tearaway, say + at twenty to one to a fiver," said Rose.</p> + + <p>"Shall I indeed? And pray who says Tearaway will win the + Leger?"</p> + + <p>"I do," said Rose confidently.</p> + + <p>"And I suppose that settles it. If you say so, she must + win."</p> + + <p>"Mr. Picton says she will; so does Sir Robert Raines."</p> + + <p>"Do they now? And I'm to take all this for gospel?"</p> + + <p>"It's quite correct. They have all backed Tearaway to win + large sums, thousands of pounds," said Rose.</p> + + <p>"Well, it's worth considering," said Brack. He wondered if + Hector Woodridge were at Haverton. It was not mentioned in the + letter. Perhaps this man did not know him; he would keep quiet + about it.</p> + + <p>"You'll have to make up your mind quick because we must leave + early in the morning. I was instructed to buy you a new coat, or + any other thing you wanted."</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page187" id="page187"></a>[187]</span> + + <p>"That's handsome; I'll accept the coat, a blue pilot, and a + pair of boots, a tie, and a cap. I've got a fancy waistcoat my + father used to wear. It's all over flowers and it's got pearl + buttons. It's a knock-out; you'll admire it—perhaps you'd + like to borrow it," said Brack.</p> + + <p>Rose declined, said he would not deprive Brack of it for + worlds.</p> + + <p>"You'll come with me?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"Oh, yes; I'll come to oblige Mr. Woodridge; he's a gent and + no mistake. Will you come and see my old mother?"</p> + + <p>Rose thought it would be diplomatic to do so. Evidently Brack + was a man who wanted humoring; it was humiliating, but he must go + through with it.</p> + + <p>Old Mrs. Brackish welcomed the visitor, dusted a chair for + him, treated him with apparent deference which soothed Rose's + feelings. He declined to remain for dinner, making as an excuse + that he never ate anything until evening, it did not agree with + him, the mid-day meal. When he left it was with a sense of + relief.</p> + + <p>"The mother is better than the son," he thought; "she knew + what was due to my position."</p> + + <p>"He's a pompous old fool," she said to Brack when he was out + of the house.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page188" id= + "page188"></a>[188]</span> + + <p>Brack laughed as he said: "You've hit it, mother; you + generally do."</p> + + <p>"An' so you're agoin' to Yorkshire," she said with a sigh. + "Sometimes I wish I were back there, but it wouldn't suit me, and + he's been very good to us here, Brack."</p> + + <p>"We've nowt to grumble at," said Brack. "We're better off than + lots o' people. I may make a bit o' money at Doncaster on Leger + day—you know how lucky I am over the race."</p> + + <p>"You oughtn't to bet," she said.</p> + + <p>"I don't. My bit isn't bettin'; I just put a shillin' on now + and again for the fun of the thing. Where's the harm in that?" he + asked.</p> + + <p>"I suppose you know best, Brack, and you've always been a good + son to me," she said.</p> + + <p>"And I always shall, have no fear of that, mother." And she + had not; her faith in him was unbounded.</p> + + <p>Brack looked quite rakish, so he told himself, when he gazed + in a mirror in the hat shop next day, on the way to the station. + He had been to the barber's, had his whiskers and mustache + trimmed, his hair cut, and a shampoo.</p> + + <p>"I'm fresh as paint," he said to Rose, who was glad to see him + so respectable. The smell of the sea hung about him, but it was + tempered by some <span class="pagenum"><a name="page189" id= + "page189"></a>[189]</span> very patent hair oil which emitted + an overpowering scent.</p> + + <p>Several porters spoke to Brack, asking where he was going.</p> + + <p>"Doncaster to see the Leger run."</p> + + <p>They laughed and one said: "Bet you a bob you don't get + farther than Exeter."</p> + + <p>"Don't want to rob you, Tommy," was the reply. "I'll give you + chaps a tip—have a shilling or two on Tearaway."</p> + + <p>"Never heard of him."</p> + + <p>"It's a her, not a he."</p> + + <p>"Whose is she?"</p> + + <p>"Mr. Woodridge's, Picton Woodridge's."</p> + + <p>"The gentleman who rode four winners here last Easter, and won + the double on The Rascal?"</p> + + <p>"The same, and he's given me the tip."</p> + + <p>"Nonsense!"</p> + + <p>"Gospel," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"You must have come into a fortune; it'll cost you a pot of + money going to Doncaster."</p> + + <p>"Mr. Woodridge is paying my expenses. He kind o' took a likin' + to me when he was here; I rowed him to his yacht several times. + He's one of the right sort, he is," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"You're in luck's way," said the porter he had addressed as + Tommy.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page190" id= + "page190"></a>[190]</span> + + <p>"It's men like me deserve to have luck—I'm a hard + worker."</p> + + <p>"We're all hard workers," said Tom.</p> + + <p>"Go on! Call trundling barrers, and handlin' bags hard work? + Rowin's hard work. You try it, and you'll find the difference," + said Brack.</p> + + <p>Tom laughed as he said: "You're a good sort, Brack, and I wish + you success. This is your train."</p> + + <p>Rose came up.</p> + + <p>"I've got the tickets. Is this the London train, porter?"</p> + + <p>"Yes, right through to Paddington," said Tom, staring as he + saw Rose and Brack get in together.</p> + + <p>"Who is he, Brack, your swell friend?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"Him? Oh, he's a cousin from Yorkshire," grinned Brack; and + Rose sank down on the seat overwhelmed.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XXII" id="CHAPTER_XXII"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page191" id="page191"></a>[191]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XXII</h2> + + <h3>DONCASTER</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">BRACK and Rose arrived at Doncaster on the eve of the St. + Leger, staying at a quiet hotel on the outskirts of the town. The + railway journey from Torquay had been a source of anxiety to + Rose. Brack made audible observations about the occupants of the + carriage, which were resented, and Rose exercised diplomacy to + keep the peace. He was horrified to see Brack pull a black bottle + out of his bag.</p> + + <p>"Beer," said Brack; "will you have some?"</p> + + <p>Rose declined in disgust; Brack pulled at it long and lustily, + emptied it before reaching Exeter, got out there, went into the + refreshment room, had it refilled, and nearly missed his train; + Rose pulled, a porter pushed behind, and he stumbled in just in + time; the bottle dropped on the floor, rolled under the seat, and + Brack created a diversion among the passengers by diving for it. + He generously passed it round, but no one partook of his + hospitality. It was a relief to Rose when he went to <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page192" id="page192"></a>[192]</span> + sleep, but he snored so loud he thought it advisable to wake him. + Brack resented this, and said he was entitled to snore if he + wished.</p> + + <p>It was with evident relief that Rose saw him go to bed. When + Brack disappeared he related his misfortunes to his host, who + sympathized with him to his face and laughed behind his back: he + considered Brack the better man of the two.</p> + + <p>At breakfast Rose explained what Doncaster was like in Leger + week, until Brack, with his mouth crammed with ham, and half a + poached egg, spurted out, "You're wastin' yer breath. I've been + to see t'Leger many a time."</p> + + <p>"Have you? I thought this was your first visit."</p> + + <p>"And me a Yorkshireman—go on!" said Brack.</p> + + <p>They drove to the course in the landlord's trap, arriving in + good time.</p> + + <p>"I suppose you have not been in the paddock before?" said Rose + patronizingly.</p> + + <p>"No; I've been over yonder most times," and he waved toward + the crowd on the moor.</p> + + <p>"Follow me and I will conduct you."</p> + + <p>Brack laughed.</p> + + <p>"You're a rum cove, you are. What do you do when you're at + home?"</p> + + <p>"I am Mr. Woodridge's general manager," said Rose loftily.</p> + + <p>"You don't say so! Now I should have thought <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page193" id="page193"></a>[193]</span> + you'd been the head footman, or something of that kind," said + Brack.</p> + + <p>"You are no judge of men," said Rose.</p> + + <p>"I'd never mistake you for one," growled Brack.</p> + + <p>When they were in the paddock Rose was anxious to get rid of + him, but he had his orders, and must wait until Mr. Woodridge saw + them.</p> + + <p>Brack attracted attention; he was a strange bird in the midst + of this gayly plumaged crowd, but he was quite at home, unaware + he was a subject of observation.</p> + + <p>At last Picton Woodridge saw him and came up.</p> + + <p>"Well, Brack, I am glad you came," he said as he shook hands. + "I hope Rose looked after you."</p> + + <p>"He did very well. He's not a jovial mate, a trifle stuck up + and so on, gives himself airs; expect he's considered a decent + sort in his own circle—in the servants' hall," said + Brack.</p> + + <p>Picton caught sight of Rose's face and burst out laughing.</p> + + <p>"Speaks his mind, eh, Rose?" he said. "You may leave us."</p> + + <p>"He's a rum 'un," said Brack. "What is he?"</p> + + <p>"My butler; I thought I had better send him for you in case + you were undecided whether to come. I am glad you are here; and, + Brack, I have a caution to give you. No one knows my brother, he + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page194" id="page194"></a>[194]</span> is so changed. If you recognize him, say + nothing—it would be dangerous."</p> + + <p>"I'll be dumb, never fear," said Brack. "I thank you for + giving me this treat; it's a long time since I saw t'Leger run. + Your man tells me Tearaway will win."</p> + + <p>"I feel certain of it. You had better put a little on her at + twenty to one," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"I will, and thank you. It was kind to give me ten + pounds."</p> + + <p>"You deserve it, and you shall have more, Brack. If my filly + wins to-day you shall have a hundred pounds and a new boat."</p> + + <p>"Good Lord!" exclaimed Brack. "A hundred pounds! It's as much + as I've saved all the time I've been in Torquay—and a new + boat, it's too much, far too much."</p> + + <p>"No, it isn't. Remember what you risked for us."</p> + + <p>"That's him, isn't it?" said Brack, pointing to Hector, who + had his back to them. "I recognize his build."</p> + + <p>"I'm glad no one else has," said Picton. "Yes, that's he."</p> + + <p>Hector, turning round, saw Brack, came up, and spoke to him. + Picton said: "This is Mr. Rolfe, William Rolfe, you + understand?"</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page195" id= + "page195"></a>[195]</span> + + <p>Brack nodded as he said: "He's changed. I'd hardly have known + his face."</p> + + <p>It was before the second race that Hector met Lenise Elroy in + the paddock with her friends. She was not present on the first + day and, strange to say, he missed her society. It startled him + to recognize this. Surely he was not falling into her toils, + coming under her spell, for the second time, and after all he had + suffered through her! Of course not; it was because of the + revenge burning in him that he was disappointed. How beautiful + she was, and how gracefully she walked across the paddock; she + was perfectly dressed, expensively, but in good taste. She was + recognized by many people, some of whom knew her past, and looked + askance at her.</p> + + <p>Hector went toward her. She saw him and a bright smile of + welcome lit up her face.</p> + + <p>"I am so glad to see you," she said.</p> + + <p>They walked away together, after she had introduced him to one + or two of her friends.</p> + + <p>Brack saw them and muttered to himself: "That's the lady was + making inquiries about him at Torquay, and she doesn't know who + he is; she can't. Wonder what her game is, and his? She knows + Hackler too. There may be danger. I'd best give him a hint if I + get a chance."</p> + + <p>"What will win the St. Leger, Mr. Rolfe?" she + asked.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page196" id= + "page196"></a>[196]</span> + + <p>"Ripon, I suppose; that is your tip," he said.</p> + + <p>"Yes, they are very confident. His owner is one of our party; + we are all on it. Have you backed anything?"</p> + + <p>"I have a modest investment on Tearaway; I am staying at + Haverton with Mr. Woodridge," he said.</p> + + <p>"You appear to have faith in the filly."</p> + + <p>"Oh, it's only a fancy; she may not be as good as they think," + he said.</p> + + <p>Picton saw them together. He was surprised, startled; he + thought of Hector's remark about keeping his eyes open. He + recognized Mrs. Elroy, although he had not seen her for several + years. What a terrible risk Hector ran! Was it possible she did + not recognize him, that she really thought he was William Rolfe? + It seemed incredible after all that had happened. Was she + deceiving Hector as he was her? Picton remembered his brother had + spoken about a plan, and revenge. What was his intention? If Mrs. + Elroy did not know he was Hector Woodridge, then indeed his + brother had a weapon in his hands which might help him to awful + vengeance; the mere possibility of what might happen made Picton + shudder. Hector had suffered terribly, but was it sufficient to + condone a revenge, the consequences of which no one could + foresee? They appeared quite happy together. Had his <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page197" id="page197"></a>[197]</span> + brother fallen under her spell for the second time? No, that was + not possible; it was not in human nature to forgive such injuries + as she had inflicted upon him. Mrs. Elroy saw Picton, recognized + him, and said to Hector: "That is your friend Mr. Woodridge, is + it not?"</p> + + <p>"Yes; do you know him?"</p> + + <p>"No."</p> + + <p>"Would you care to be introduced?"</p> + + <p>"As you please," she replied; she was thankful when Picton + went away with Sir Robert, and the introduction was avoided.</p> + + <p>"There will be an opportunity later on," said Hector. "When + are you returning to town?"</p> + + <p>"After the races, on Saturday."</p> + + <p>"From Doncaster?"</p> + + <p>"Yes."</p> + + <p>"What train do you travel by?"</p> + + <p>She named a train in the afternoon.</p> + + <p>"May I have the pleasure of your company?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"I shall be delighted if you wish it."</p> + + <p>"I do," he said. "Nothing will give me greater pleasure."</p> + + <p>"Then I shall expect you," she said, with a glance he knew + well, as she rejoined her friends.</p> + + <p>Undoubtedly Lenise Elroy was one of the most attractive women + at the races; there was just that <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page198" id="page198"></a>[198]</span> touch of uncertainty + about her mode of living which caused men to turn and look at + her, and women to avoid her when possible.</p> + + <p>Sir Robert Raines, when he saw her, said to Picton: "I wonder + she dare show her face here in Yorkshire; some women have no + shame in them."</p> + + <p>"She is a wicked woman, Bob; she ought to be in prison instead + of poor Hector. I believed at the trial she shot Elroy, and I + always shall," said his wife.</p> + + <p>"Who is that beautiful woman who was talking to Mr. Rolfe?" + asked Rita.</p> + + <p>"She is Mrs. Elroy," said Picton.</p> + + <p>Rita knew nothing about Hector's troubles; she was young at + the time of the trial.</p> + + <p>Something in his manner of speaking caused her to ask: "You do + not like her?"</p> + + <p>"No; she is a woman with a past, a very bad past, but she + faces it out, and is recognized by some people. I should not like + you to know her," he said.</p> + + <p>"Men are very unmerciful to a woman who errs," she said.</p> + + <p>"If you knew as much about her as I, you would agree with me + that she ought to be treated as an outcast; she is not fit to be + in the company of respectable people," he said + bitterly.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page199" id= + "page199"></a>[199]</span> + + <p>This was so unlike Picton that she felt he must have strong + grounds for what he said. Her curiosity was aroused; Mr. Rolfe + might enlighten her.</p> + + <p>"Let us go and see Tearaway," she said, and at the mention of + his favorite's name Picton's face cleared, the shadows flitted + away, he was himself again.</p> + + <p>Brant Blackett came up hastily, a troubled look on his + face.</p> + + <p>"What's the matter?" asked Picton anxiously.</p> + + <p>"Erickson's been taken suddenly ill," he said. "I'm afraid + he'll not be able to ride."</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XXIII" id="CHAPTER_XXIII"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page200" id="page200"></a>[200]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XXIII</h2> + + <h3>THE CROWD IN THE RING</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">THIS was a serious matter indeed. Erickson knew the mare well, + having ridden her in several gallops; in addition he was a + clever, capable rider. It would be a great misfortune if he could + not ride.</p> + + <p>Picton went with his trainer at once, leaving Rita with her + brother and Hector.</p> + + <p>Fred Erickson looked pale and ill; he was not a strong + man.</p> + + <p>"I'm afraid I can't do the filly justice," he said, "but I'll + ride if you wish, Mr. Woodridge. I feel a trifle better now, but + I'm weak."</p> + + <p>"I'd like you to ride, Fred, if you can manage it. I can't get + a suitable jockey at the last minute."</p> + + <p>"Then I'll do it. Will you get me some brandy?"</p> + + <p>The trainer went for it, a small group gathered round, + Erickson looked very pale, there were whispers that he would not + be able to ride. These quickly spread, and when some of the + people from Haverton village heard the rumor they were very + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page201" id="page201"></a>[201]</span> much upset; all had pinned their faith to, and put + their money on, Tearaway.</p> + + <p>Several came to Picton, asking him if there was any truth in + it; he said unfortunately there was, but that Erickson would be + able to ride, he thought. With this they had to be contented and + wait. It was an hour before the St. Leger was to be decided. Fred + Erickson pulled himself together, but he was afraid he would not + be able to do the mare justice; he would try his best, she was so + good that if he managed to stick on and guide her she would run + her own race and probably win.</p> + + <p>Sir Robert Raines spoke to him; he was very anxious, he had a + large sum at stake.</p> + + <p>"Feel any better, Fred? I hope so; we are all depending on you + to pull through."</p> + + <p>"I'll manage it somehow, Sir Robert," said the jockey, "but + I'm not myself at all. I wish I were. There'd be no doubt about + the result then."</p> + + <p>"But you are strong enough to ride, you'll not give in?"</p> + + <p>Fred smiled.</p> + + <p>"I'm not one to give in. I'll ride the filly and win on her if + I can," he said.</p> + + <p>"That's right," said Sir Robert. "Can I get you anything? + Would a glass or two of champagne brace you up?"</p> + + <p>"I've had a liqueur brandy," said Fred.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page202" id="page202"></a>[202]</span> + + <p>"That will mix with the champagne. Come with me."</p> + + <p>Fred drank two glasses and felt better; the color came back + into his cheeks, his hands were firmer, the shivering left him; + if only it would last until Tearaway had won.</p> + + <p>All was bustle and excitement; the horses were being saddled + for the great race, fifteen of them, a larger field than + usual.</p> + + <p>Ripon was a hot favorite, and it was probable he would start + at two to one. He had been second to Snowball in the Derby, and + ninety-nine out of a hundred people who saw the race vowed he was + unlucky to lose, that his jockey rode a bad race on him, and came + too late. Snowball broke down and was scratched for the St. + Leger, so they could not fight their Epsom battle over again; + even had this been the case Ripon would in all probability have + been the better favorite. Bronze, Harriet, The Monk, Field Gun, + Hot Pot, The Major, and Dark Donald, were all supported; a lot of + money was going on Bronze. Tearaway had been backed at a hundred + to five; when it was known Fred Erickson was not well her market + position was shaken and she went out to thirty-three to one.</p> + + <p>Fletcher Denyer was in the ring. Of late there had been some + coolness between him and Lenise. He had no desire to lose her; as + he saw her slipping <span class="pagenum"><a name="page203" id= + "page203"></a>[203]</span> away from him he became anxious to + possess her altogether. He recognized at last that he was in + love, that she was necessary to him, part of his life, that it + would be very dull without her. Chance might put something in his + way; he was a believer in luck. If only he could discover + something about this man Rolfe, who had come between them. No one + appeared to know anything about him. He had made inquiries in + various quarters; William Rolfe had never been heard of. It + seemed strange, a man with money too, and moving in racing + circles, where people generally found out all about each other. + Lenise Elroy had avoided him in the paddock, he saw it plainly; + it angered him, but he had the sense to know he must not + interfere but bide his time.</p> + + <p>It was in an ill-humor that he went into the ring. He had been + given a "great tip" about Bronze, and, as he was in funds for the + time being, he determined to speculate above his average. Bronze + was in a stable famous for great surprises. He was a horse that + had shown good form but in the summer seemed to go all to pieces + and was badly beaten at Ascot and Newmarket. There was, however, + no doubt that he had been backed to win a huge fortune for the + St. Leger. The famous Doncaster race, in this particular year, + was the medium of some wild plunging which was reminiscent of + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page204" id="page204"></a>[204]</span> twenty or thirty years before. At least six horses + were backed to win fortunes. The plunging on Ripon was desperate, + and on Bronze the money was poured like water. The Monk was + backed to win many thousands, so were Harriet, Field Gun, and Hot + Pot; Tearaway would take sixty thousand pounds or more out of the + ring, at long odds, if she won. Small wonder the scene in + Tattersalls was more animated than usual. The big bookmakers, + aware of every move in the market, kept laying the favorite and + others. Their wagers were framed on business lines: only one + horse could win and they were taking hundreds on half a dozen or + more; if an outsider came to the rescue they would land + thousands—with one exception—this was Tearaway. There + was hardly a well-known man in the ring who had not laid Picton + Woodridge's filly almost to the extent of his book, and more + money was coming on for her.</p> + + <p>Fred Erickson mastered his feeling of faintness in wonderful + fashion. His will helped him, he was determined, and as the time + drew near for the race the excitement of the event kept him + strung up to concert pitch.</p> + + <p>Gradually the filly came back to her former position in the + market, but twenty to one was freely offered against her: she was + an unknown quantity and this did not augur well for her + chance.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page205" id= + "page205"></a>[205]</span> + + <p>Hector went into the ring and put several hundreds on + Tearaway; he was anxious to have a good win, and Picton was so + sanguine of success.</p> + + <p>Fletcher Denyer saw him and, following behind, heard him book + several big wagers about Tearaway.</p> + + <p>"He can't know much about it," he thought, "to back an + outsider like that."</p> + + <p>At the same time he was uneasy, for he had a lot of money on + Bronze, and had put a saver on the favorite. William Rolfe had + shown he was not a man to be taken in: Denyer found that out in + one or two transactions he had with him.</p> + + <p>He spoke to Hector, asking him what he knew about + Tearaway.</p> + + <p>"Not much," he replied. "I fancy her, that's all; she's a very + good looking filly."</p> + + <p>"But you must have some line to go upon. Perhaps she has won a + good trial?"</p> + + <p>"I am not likely to know that," said Hector.</p> + + <p>"Be fair with me, Rolfe. Is she worth a tenner or two?"</p> + + <p>"Please yourself. I don't see how she can beat the favorite, + or Bronze; but she might—there's no telling," and he walked + on.</p> + + <p>"Hang him, I believe he knows something about her and he won't + enlighten me. He can keep it to <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page206" id="page206"></a>[206]</span> himself. If she wins + I'll pay him out in some way or other," muttered Fletcher.</p> + + <p>Brack had never been in Tattersalls before. The noise, the + crush, the yelling of odds, the struggle to get money on, amazed + him. He wondered if all the people had suddenly gone mad. He had + five pounds in his hands, he knew enough about betting to know + what to do.</p> + + <p>"What are you layin' Tearaway?" he asked a man on the + rails.</p> + + <p>The bookmaker looked at him and smiled.</p> + + <p>"Twenty to one," he said.</p> + + <p>"I'll have five pounds on," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"A hundred to five Tearaway," said the bookmaker, and his + clerk booked it. "What name?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"Brack, but you'd better give me a ticket."</p> + + <p>"As you please," and he handed him one. There was a lull in + the row for a moment and the bookmaker said to him: "You don't + often go to the races, eh?"</p> + + <p>"No, not often," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"A seaman?"</p> + + <p>"Yes."</p> + + <p>"Where do you hail from? I've a son at sea."</p> + + <p>"I'm a boat owner at Torquay; I used to be at + Scarborough."</p> + + <p>"Yorkshireman?"</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page207" id= + "page207"></a>[207]</span> + + <p>"Yes."</p> + + <p>"You seem a good sort. Who told you to back Tearaway?"</p> + + <p>"Never mind that. I fancy it," said Brack.</p> + + <p>"Somebody must have told you," persisted the man.</p> + + <p>"Well, if you want to know and it'll do you any good, the + owner told me," said Brack.</p> + + <p>The bookmaker laughed.</p> + + <p>"You're a cute 'un," he said. "The owner, eh? Mr. Woodridge. I + suppose you're a friend of his?"</p> + + <p>"I am."</p> + + <p>"Good, you'll do. I hope I have to pay you the hundred; it + will suit my book," laughed the bookmaker.</p> + + <p>"Don't believe me, eh?" muttered Brack as he walked away. + "You'll maybe have a better opinion of me after Tearaway's + won."</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XXIV" id="CHAPTER_XXIV"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page208" id="page208"></a>[208]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XXIV</h2> + + <h3>"BY JOVE, SHE'S WONDERFUL"</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">THE horses were saddled, the jockeys mounting, everything in + readiness to go out for the parade.</p> + + <p>Picton was talking anxiously to his trainer and Erickson, last + instructions were given, Fred was told to make the most of + Tearaway in every part of the race, use her staying powers, and + in the last furlong her wonderful sprinting qualities to the + utmost.</p> + + <p>"You feel better now?" asked Picton.</p> + + <p>"Yes, much better," said Fred; but he was anything but + strong.</p> + + <p>A great cheer broke out from the stands and course.</p> + + <p>"That's the favorite," said Picton, smiling.</p> + + <p>"Tearaway will make a hack of him before the winning post is + reached," said Fred.</p> + + <p>"You are the last out. Good luck to you, Fred," said Picton as + he rode off. "Well, Brant, what do you think of + it?"</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page209" id= + "page209"></a>[209]</span> + + <p>"What I have always thought, that she will win."</p> + + <p>"But about Fred?"</p> + + <p>"He'll be all right; he would not have ridden had he not been + confident of himself," said the trainer.</p> + + <p>It was a beautiful sight, the fifteen horses, parading in the + soft September light, the colors of the riders flashing, the + thoroughbreds eager for the fray, well knowing what was about to + be required of them. There was a dense crowd on the moor, a real + Yorkshire crowd, all horse lovers, enthusiasts, judges; on no + racecourse in the world is there a more sport-loving crowd than + Doncaster on St. Leger day.</p> + + <p>The stands were packed, so were the rings; bustle and + excitement on all sides; the only clear space was the course, a + bright green grass track, winding in and out amidst a black + surging mass of people. Brack surveyed the scene with wondering + eyes. It was all new to him, although he had been on the moor, + and seen the great race before, he had never witnessed it from + the stand side; the contrast was remarkable. It was also many + years since he had been on a racecourse.</p> + + <p>He was not excited, he viewed the scene calmly; it was not in + his nature to bubble over with enthusiasm. As the horses galloped + past, and went to the post, he was thinking about Lenise Elroy, + what she had said to him at Torquay, and how she <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page210" id="page210"></a>[210]</span> had + spoken to Carl Hackler. He wondered if danger threatened Hector + Woodridge; he must try and have a word or two with him before he + left the course.</p> + + <p>Mrs. Elroy watched the purple and white sleeves worn by Banks, + the rider of Ripon, the favorite. She wanted him to win. She had, + at Rupert Hansom's suggestion, put a hundred pounds on him. + Rupert Hansom was the owner of Ripon, a rich man, not + particularly popular, living apart from his wife, who had + obtained a separation from him on account of his conduct with a + well-known opera singer. He admired Mrs. Elroy, would have liked + to be intimate with her, but she did not care for him in that + way, he was merely a casual acquaintance. Her eyes rested on the + saffron jacket and red cap of Picton Woodridge.</p> + + <p>"What pretty colors!" she exclaimed.</p> + + <p>"Mine?" Hansom asked.</p> + + <p>"No; they are very nice. I was looking at that peculiar yellow + jacket and red cap."</p> + + <p>"They're Woodridge's colors—saffron, red cap. I don't + think Tearaway has much chance, although I hear they have backed + her for a large sum," he said.</p> + + <p>So that was Tearaway! What a splendid black mare, and how well + the colors of the racing jacket contrasted with her dark shining + coat.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page211" id= + "page211"></a>[211]</span> + + <p>There was not much time for reflection; in a few minutes they + were sent on their journey, getting off in an almost unbroken + line, a splendid start.</p> + + <p>Round the bend they swept, a moving mass of brilliant colors. + The Major held the lead, stretched out to his full extent, half a + dozen lengths in front; he was followed by Dark Donald, Bronze, + Harriet, Ripon, The Monk, Field Gun, and Tearaway, the remainder + well up.</p> + + <p>The Major traveled at a great pace; it was to be a fast run + race. He was a very fair horse, although not quite equal to + staying the St. Leger course; as a matter of fact, he was out on + a pace-making mission for Bronze. At the back of the course The + Major still led, the others were creeping up. Harriet was now in + second place, Ripon, and Bronze, racing together, Tearaway close + behind them, level with The Monk.</p> + + <p>The race became more interesting. All the well backed horses + shaped well, and their numerous backers watched every move with + interest.</p> + + <p>Picton worked his way through the crowd and entered his box + just before the start. Rita was all excitement; she said Torquay + races were very tame after this.</p> + + <p>"I don't suppose I shall ever have a chance of riding four + winners in two days here, or of winning a double," said + Picton.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page212" id= + "page212"></a>[212]</span> + + <p>Hector caught sight of Mrs. Elroy's glance and smiled; she was + not far away.</p> + + <p>Sir Robert was fidgety. He had done what he considered a + rather risky thing, backed Tearaway for several hundreds, + standing to win a large sum. He considered it risky because he + still doubted if the trial on Haverton Moor was quite correct; it + seemed too good to be true that Tearaway had beaten Tristram at + only seven pounds difference. He had on the spur of the moment + said that Picton had the St. Leger in his pocket, but that was + merely a figure of speech, the result of over-enthusiasm. He was + now watching the race with keen interest, and thought Tearaway + too far back.</p> + + <p>"Erickson's not making sufficient use of her," he said.</p> + + <p>"He'll get through presently," said Picton. "I think The Major + made the pace rather hot for the first six furlongs."</p> + + <p>"Perhaps that's it," said Sir Robert. "I hope he'll ride it + out, I wish that queer sort of faintness had not come over + him."</p> + + <p>They were entering the straight, when rounding the bend a good + deal of bumping took place.</p> + + <p>The cause of it was the sudden collapse of The Major, who + almost stopped dead, and narrowly escaped knocking Bronze down. + Bronze in turn collided with Harriet, and the pair interfered + with <span class="pagenum"><a name="page213" id="page213"></a>[213]</span> Ripon, and The Monk, who had come with a fast run, + Tearaway was in the center of the course and steered clear of the + lot.</p> + + <p>Fred Erickson pulled her wide on the outside to avoid any + possibility of a collision because he did not feel equal to it. + When he saw the interference at the bend he was glad; it was the + best thing he could have done.</p> + + <p>The consequences of the colliding were not serious; no one was + to blame. Fairly in the straight, Harriet took command, followed + by Bronze, Ripon, The Monk, and Dark Donald, with Tearaway in the + middle of the course.</p> + + <p>The race grew more and more exciting. Up to this point the + winner could not be picked, half a dozen horses had excellent + chances.</p> + + <p>"My fellow will win," said Rupert Hansom to Mrs. Elroy.</p> + + <p>"I hope so," she answered; but her glance was on the saffron + jacket, and the black mare. They looked dangerous.</p> + + <p>"He's going well," said Sir Robert.</p> + + <p>"Which is going well?" asked his wife.</p> + + <p>"The favorite, confound him," he snapped.</p> + + <p>Brack had a very good view of the horses as they came up the + straight. He saw the bright jacket of Tearaway's jockey in the + center of the course and to him it appeared the race was little + short of <span class="pagenum"><a name="page214" id= + "page214"></a>[214]</span> a certainty for her. He was not + much of a judge, but he loved racing, and when he saw the black + mare, out alone, catching the leaders, he shouted for joy. Some + one told him to make less noise; it had no effect on him, he + still continued to talk to himself, and give vent to an + occasional cheer.</p> + + <p>Fred Erickson rode a great race. Tearaway was going + splendidly; he felt a glow of pride in her, was glad he had such + a mount, for he had not yet won a St. Leger, it had long been his + ambition to do so.</p> + + <p>Halfway down the straight something seemed to stab him in the + chest; his head swam, for a moment he reeled in the saddle, the + reins loosened in his hands, Tearaway slackened speed. Half + dazed, by sheer force of will he controlled himself. His eyes + were dim, he saw the horses in a mist, they hardly appeared real. + He took hold of Tearaway and urged her forward, the gallant mare + responded, her astonishing speed began to tell.</p> + + <p>Blackett saw Fred almost swoon—he had exceptionally + powerful glasses—and wondered he did not fall off.</p> + + <p>"It's all up," he muttered; then, as he looked again, he saw + Tearaway coming along as fast as the wind. The black filly stood + out by herself, the saffron jacket alone in the center of the + course. On the rails Ripon and Harriet were racing hard, with + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page215" id="page215"></a>[215]</span> Bronze drawing up; the trio appeared to have the race + among them. Already there were shouts for the favorite, and + Rupert Hansom said to Mrs. Elroy: "I told you he would win."</p> + + <p>She had seen many races, and did not think Ripon would win. + She feared the black filly, who was going so fast, catching the + leaders. She wondered Hansom did not see it too.</p> + + <p>In Picton's box it was all excitement. Fred Erickson was seen + to swerve in the saddle, then recover, and send Tearaway along at + a terrific pace.</p> + + <p>"Well done, bravely done, Fred!" exclaimed Sir Robert.</p> + + <p>"Splendid!" said Rita.</p> + + <p>"She'll win!" said Picton as he watched her, the perspiration + standing in beads on his forehead.</p> + + <p>"I think she's a chance," said Hector; "but Ripon is forging + ahead, and Bronze is not done with."</p> + + <p>"Look at her now!" said Picton.</p> + + <p>"By jove, she's wonderful!" said Sir Robert.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XXV" id="CHAPTER_XXV"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page216" id="page216"></a>[216]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XXV</h2> + + <h3>FAST AS THE WIND</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">A ST. LEGER long to be remembered. Three horses abreast + fighting a terrific battle a furlong from the winning post; in + the center of the course a coal black mare, coming with a + beautiful even stride, at a pace men marveled at. Old hands who + had seen Hannah, Marie Stuart, and Apology win, later Dutch Oven, + and La Flèche, Throstle, and the peerless Scepter, were + astounded at Tearaway's speed.</p> + + <p>On came Picton Woodridge's black filly, the saffron jacket + showing boldly, Fred Erickson sitting motionless in the saddle. + How still he sat! No one knew he dared not move; had he done so + he felt he must fall off. With desperate efforts he retained his + seat; he alone knew what a great performance Tearaway was putting + in, that she was carrying more than a dead weight, that if + anything he hampered instead of assisting her.</p> + + <p>Ripon got his head in front of Harriet and Bronze, and the + shouting was deafening.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page217" id="page217"></a>[217]</span> + + <p>"Ripon wins!" yelled Rupert Hansom.</p> + + <p>Mrs. Elroy was looking at Tearaway. The black mare was gaining + fast, she would get up and win, she had no doubt about it. She + was mortified because William Rolfe had not told her the real + strength of the mare and her trial. He ought to have done so; + they were friends. What was his reason? Was he jealous of her + being with Rupert Hansom? Perhaps he was, and thought she would + tell him about the mare. If this were so, she did not mind losing + her hundred. He had promised to meet her at the station and + journey to town with her; much might happen between Doncaster and + London—possibly he might propose. She intended to urge him + on in every possible way, and she possessed remarkable powers of + fascinating men and was aware of it. These thoughts were mixed up + in her mind as she watched the saffron jacket. The great mass of + people on the rails, and standing on forms behind, at last saw + that Tearaway was dangerous. Ripon held the lead, Bronze next, + Harriet and Tearaway level. The noise was terrific, the thousands + of people surged to and fro, hundreds of them could just see the + red cap bobbing up in the center of the course.</p> + + <p>Tearaway settled Harriet's pretensions, and caught Bronze. + Fletcher Denyer turned pale with rage; he recognized that Rolfe + had not given him <span class="pagenum"><a name="page218" id= + "page218"></a>[218]</span> the strength of Tearaway. It was a + shame, after the excellent mining tips he had given him.</p> + + <p>Bronze was beaten. He had lost a large sum, more than he cared + to pay; when he had settled on Monday there would be very little + ready money left, and he must settle or his reputation, such as + it was, would be gone. Rolfe evidently knew all about Tearaway; + there was no doubt he backed the mare to win many thousands of + pounds. The commission agent he worked for said Tearaway was one + of the worst in his book, and the bulk of the money had gone to + William Rolfe. Denyer introduced Rolfe to the man, who would not + thank him for this client whose first wagers were on a winner at + thirty-three to one.</p> + + <p>Tearaway passed Bronze and drew level with Ripon. Rupert + Hansom was quiet now, watching the struggle on which so much + depended. His hopes of winning were of short duration. Tearaway + wrested the lead from him, passed him, forged ahead, Erickson + sitting perfectly still, and won by a couple of lengths, with the + greatest ease. The way the flying filly left the favorite was + wonderful. Ripon might have been standing still. Banks, his + rider, when he realized the situation was amazed. Ripon was a + good horse; what, then, must this filly be?</p> + + <p>No matter what wins the St. Leger, there are <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page219" id="page219"></a>[219]</span> + rousing cheers for the victor. It was so in this case. They were + given with more heartiness because she was a Yorkshire-bred mare, + owned by a popular Yorkshire squire; there was a real county + flavor about it, and the men of the wolds rejoiced exceedingly. + Some of them lost money on Ripon, but that was a small matter + compared with the defeat of the Newmarket champion by a home-bred + 'un; patriotism first is always the case with a Doncaster + crowd.</p> + + <p>"Picton, my boy, I congratulate you," said Sir Robert, + wringing his hand. "By gad, I wish the Admiral could have seen + this!"</p> + + <p>Hector heard the words and turned round quickly; they cut deep + into a not-yet-healed wound.</p> + + <p>Picton looked hastily at his brother and guessed what that + sudden movement meant.</p> + + <p>"Thank you, Sir Robert," he said. "It is a great victory. I + also wish my father could have seen it," he added in a low + voice.</p> + + <p>Rita's congratulations came next.</p> + + <p>"I am so glad," she said, "so very glad; you own the best mare + in England."</p> + + <p>"Go down and lead her in, don't waste time here," said Sir + Robert; and Picton went.</p> + + <p>Hector followed him, glad to get out of the box. "I wish the + Admiral could have seen it." Sir Robert's words rang in his + ears.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page220" id= + "page220"></a>[220]</span> + + <p>He caught sight of Mrs. Elroy in a box and vowed he would make + her pay to the uttermost for the misery she had caused. There was + no mercy in him at that moment; the recalling of his father's + death steeled his heart, deadened his conscience, made him cruel, + hard, almost murderous. She smiled at him and her glance fanned + the flame within him.</p> + + <p>"To-morrow we journey to London, to-morrow," he thought.</p> + + <p>Picton Woodridge was recognized as he came with his trainer to + lead Tearaway in. Cheer after cheer was given as he walked beside + her through the living lane.</p> + + <p>"How are you, Fred?" he asked.</p> + + <p>The jockey did not speak, he gazed straight before him with + dull eyes, like a man in a dream.</p> + + <p>"Brant, he's very ill," said Picton.</p> + + <p>The trainer looked at the jockey and was alarmed at the + expression on, and color of, his face. There was no spark of life + in it and his complexion was a leaden color.</p> + + <p>"Keep up, Fred, keep up! You've done splendidly!" said + Brant.</p> + + <p>Many people in the crowd noticed the jockey's condition and + wondered at it.</p> + + <p>"He's ill, poor chap."</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page221" id="page221"></a>[221]</span> + + <p>"The race has been too much for him."</p> + + <p>"I heard he was bad before they went out."</p> + + <p>"He's a good plucked 'un anyhow."</p> + + <p>Many such remarks were passed as Tearaway went in.</p> + + <p>"Get down," said Brant sharply, trying to rouse him.</p> + + <p>Fred looked at him but did not seem to understand.</p> + + <p>"Get down, unsaddle, and weigh in," said Brant.</p> + + <p>"Yes, of course, I forgot," said Fred in a hollow voice.</p> + + <p>Two of the stewards were looking on; they had just + congratulated Picton on his win.</p> + + <p>"Your jockey looks ill," one of them said.</p> + + <p>"He is; he was very bad, faint, before the race, but he said + he'd pull through, and I could not find a good jockey at the last + moment," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"You might have ridden her," said the other steward. "You are + about the weight, and would not have made any difference to the + result."</p> + + <p>Picton was flattered; this was high praise indeed; the steward + was one of the best judges of racing in the land.</p> + + <p>Fred managed to take the saddle off and walked with unsteady + steps to the weighing room. He sat in the chair with a bump. The + clerk at the scales looked at him.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page222" id="page222"></a>[222]</span> + + <p>"You're ill, Fred," he said.</p> + + <p>The jockey nodded; he would not have been surprised had they + told him he was dying. He got up from the scales, and Banks, the + rider of Ripon, dropped his saddle and caught him as he fell + forward in a faint.</p> + + <p>"All right," was called.</p> + + <p>Brant came forward; he and Picton carried him outside. A + doctor came, ordered him to be taken to the hospital at once, and + thither he was conveyed, Picton accompanying him.</p> + + <p>When Fred came to, he said to Picton, with a faint smile: + "Don't stay here; I'm all right. I did feel bad; I don't know how + I stuck on. She's a wonder; she won the race on her own, and + carried a log of wood on her back. I was quite as useless; I + could not help her at all."</p> + + <p>"You are sure you do not wish me to stay?"</p> + + <p>"Quite," said Fred. "I shall probably be on the course + to-morrow."</p> + + <p>"What's the matter with him, doctor?" asked Picton, when they + were in the consulting room.</p> + + <p>"He's consumptive, there are all the symptoms, and it is + weakness caused through that. He may be able to go out to-morrow + as he says; it is wonderful how they rally—a flash in the + pan. He can't live long, I'm afraid; in any case he ought to give + up riding," said the doctor.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page223" id="page223"></a>[223]</span> + + <p>"I don't think he'll mind that so much now he's won the St. + Leger," said Picton, smiling. He liked the doctor, fancied he + resembled some one he knew. "Will you come to Haverton and have a + shot on the moor?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"You are very kind, Mr. Woodridge, but perhaps when you hear + my name you may be prejudiced against me."</p> + + <p>"A name can make no difference," said Picton. "What is + it?"</p> + + <p>"Bernard Elroy."</p> + + <p>Picton started; he was much surprised.</p> + + <p>"I am the brother-in-law of Mrs. Elroy. Now do you + understand?"</p> + + <p>"Yes," said Picton. "It makes no difference; all that is + past."</p> + + <p>"But not forgotten," said the doctor.</p> + + <p>"No, it is not. You cannot expect it."</p> + + <p>"Mr. Woodridge, if I could prove your brother's innocence, I + would. I'd give a great deal to prove it, do anything that would + assist in proving it."</p> + + <p>"You believe he is innocent?" asked Picton.</p> + + <p>"I do not believe he shot Elroy," said Bernard.</p> + + <p>"Then who did shoot him?" asked Picton.</p> + + <p>"There is only one person can tell us that."</p> + + <p>"And it is?"</p> + + <p>"Mrs. Elroy," said Bernard.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XXVI" id="CHAPTER_XXVI"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page224" id="page224"></a>[224]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XXVI</h2> + + <h3>THE STRUGGLE FOR THE CUP</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">TEARAWAY was in the Doncaster Cup on the concluding day of the + meeting, but Fred Erickson was not well enough to ride, although + on the course.</p> + + <p>Picton said nothing to his brother about Dr. Elroy. Hector had + rather a serious wordy encounter with Fletcher Denyer, who called + him nasty names, and plainly said he had willfully deceived him + about Tearaway. Hector spoke his mind freely, saying he had no + wish to see him again.</p> + + <p>"If you think you've seen the last of me, you're mistaken," + said Fletcher. "I owe you a bad turn and I'll repay it, I always + do."</p> + + <p>Hector laughed as he walked away. He told Lenise Elroy of the + encounter.</p> + + <p>"You must choose between us," he said. "I have no desire to + meet him at your flat."</p> + + <p>"You can easily guess which I shall choose," she said.</p> + + <p>He questioned her and she replied, "You."</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page225" id="page225"></a>[225]</span> + + <p>"The climax is drawing near," he thought.</p> + + <p>"You'll run Tearaway in the Cup I expect?" asked Sir Robert. + His favorite Tristram was in, and he had no desire to see the + celebrated Cup horse beaten by the flying filly, as he feared + would be the case.</p> + + <p>"I think so," said Picton. "You will start Tristram?"</p> + + <p>"Yes. I must not own up I am afraid of your mare; but, by + jove, I am, my boy," said Sir Robert.</p> + + <p>"It will be a great race between them," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"A real sporting event," said Sir Robert. "It will cause more + excitement than the St. Leger."</p> + + <p>When it became known on Thursday night that Tristram and + Tearaway would oppose each other in the Doncaster Cup, and that + Ripon, Bronze, Fair Dame, and Sir Charles, would run, excitement + worked up to fever heat. Nothing else was talked about in the + town at night, and in all the papers on Friday morning mention + was made of the great struggle that might be expected. The + <i>Special Commissioner</i> wrote that it was an open fact that + Tristram and Tearaway had been tried on Haverton Moor before the + St. Leger and the filly had won at a very slight difference in + the weights, and he concluded as follows: "This being the case, + the Leger winner should be victorious, as Sir Robert <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page226" id="page226"></a>[226]</span> + Raines' great horse will have to give a lump of weight away, so I + shall go for Tearaway to win."</p> + + <p>This appeared to be the general opinion; only many shrewd men + thought Tristram would prove more than a match for Tearaway over + the Cup distance. Another argument was that the severe race in + the St. Leger must have taken it out of the filly, while Tristram + was fresh, and very fit; in fact, Sir Robert's horse was stated + to be better than he had ever been. Bronze, too, was given a + chance, as he was a proved stayer; while Ripon was not considered + out of it.</p> + + <p>Much to Rupert Hansom's disgust, Banks declined to ride Ripon + and accepted the mount on Tearaway. At first this seemed somewhat + unfair, but Hansom had severely taken the jockey to task over his + riding in the St. Leger, and Banks resented it, knowing he had + done his best.</p> + + <p>"Tearaway is the best filly we've seen for years," he said, + "and Ripon had no chance with her; you'll see how it is if she + runs in the Cup."</p> + + <p>"Perhaps you'd like to ride her?" sneered Rupert.</p> + + <p>"I should. I will if I get the chance."</p> + + <p>His chance came sooner than he expected. Seeing Picton + Woodridge on Thursday, before the last race, the jockey said, + "Will Fred be well enough to ride your mare in the Cup, + sir?"</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page227" id= + "page227"></a>[227]</span> + + <p>"No, he's not at all well, Dick. He's consumptive, I'm sorry + to say."</p> + + <p>"Have you a jockey?"</p> + + <p>"Not at present."</p> + + <p>"Will you give me the mount?"</p> + + <p>"Are you not engaged to ride Ripon?" asked Picton, + surprised.</p> + + <p>"No, there is no engagement, and I have fallen out with Mr. + Hansom about the riding of his horse in the St. Leger," said + Banks.</p> + + <p>"You are free to ride my mare?" asked Picton.</p> + + <p>"Yes."</p> + + <p>"Then you shall have the mount. I would sooner see you on her + than any one, except Fred," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Thank you, sir," said Banks, jubilant, and went off to tell + Rupert Hansom, who said it was an infernal shame, and raved about + it to his friends, calling Banks all sorts of names.</p> + + <p>"I don't see what you have to complain of," said Mrs. Elroy. + "You said he rode a bad race in the St. Leger, jeeringly asked + him if he'd like the mount on Tearaway in the Cup, when he + replied he would. It appears he took you at your word and + accepted the mount when it was offered him; I think he's on the + winner."</p> + + <p>"Do you indeed?" he said crossly. "I hope if you back her + you'll lose your money."</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page228" id="page228"></a>[228]</span> + + <p>"How very disagreeable you are," she said. "Men with + diminutive minds always appear to lose control over their + tempers, and forget their manners."</p> + + <p>Rupert Hansom found another jockey in Crosby, a very fair + rider.</p> + + <p>There were seven runners for the Cup, fields had been stronger + than usual at the meeting.</p> + + <p>Rita looked supremely happy. She knew what was coming; Picton + had more than hinted at it. Before she left Haverton he would ask + her to be his wife; she knew what her answer would be. She loved + him, had done so from the first time they met, and she was quite + sure he loved her.</p> + + <p>Dick Langford also guessed what was about to happen; it + pleased him to contemplate Picton as a brother-in-law.</p> + + <p>"I'll give him The Rascal as a wedding present," he said to + himself, laughing.</p> + + <p>Before they went to the races on Friday he said to Rita: + "Picton's having a great week—the Leger, the Cup to-day, a + wife before the week's out."</p> + + <p>She laughed as she replied: "That's a treble—better than + his double on The Rascal."</p> + + <p>"You're worth the winning, Rita," he said kindly. "Wonder what + I shall do without you."</p> + + <p>"Find a wife," she said.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page229" id="page229"></a>[229]</span> + + <p>"Expect it will be compulsory; it is not good for a man to + live alone," he answered.</p> + + <p>A tremendous crowd witnessed the Doncaster Cup. It was as + memorable a race as the St. Leger; many thought it more so.</p> + + <p>Sir Robert secured the services of May, a reliable jockey, at + times brilliant.</p> + + <p>"I hope I shall beat you," he said to Picton.</p> + + <p>"I hope Tearaway will win," was the laughing reply.</p> + + <p>"It will be a great race," said Dick; "but my bit goes on the + mare."</p> + + <p>"And mine," said Rita.</p> + + <p>"And mine," said Hector.</p> + + <p>"All against me," laughed Sir Robert. "My hundred or two goes + on Tristram."</p> + + <p>"Robert, I don't think you ought to bet. Remember the trial," + said his wife.</p> + + <p>"You against me!" he exclaimed. "I am in a terrible plight + indeed."</p> + + <p>The horses were out, seven in number, a real good lot.</p> + + <p>Sir Robert's face glowed with pride as he heard the roar of + cheers which greeted the red jacket and black cap, and his good + horse Tristram. Another roar was given for Tearaway; the others + were all cheered lustily. They were soon on their journey, Sir + Charles making the running, followed by Fair <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page230" id="page230"></a>[230]</span> + Dame, Bronze, and Harriet, with Ripon, and Tearaway next, and + Tristram last. Sir Robert's horse never went to the front in the + earlier stages of a race.</p> + + <p>Rupert Hansom gave Crosby instructions to keep in touch with + Tristram and Tearaway.</p> + + <p>"You've nothing else to fear," he said; "and remember there's + a hundred for you if you win."</p> + + <p>Sir Charles soon dropped out of it and Harriet took his place. + At the back of the close the lot closed up, half a dozen lengths + separated first and last.</p> + + <p>In the straight they swept; then a change took place. Ripon + made the first move forward, followed by Tearaway and + Tristram.</p> + + <p>Up the straight they came at a terrific pace, for Tearaway had + gone to the front, and Banks was making every use of her great + speed and staying powers.</p> + + <p>Cheer after cheer pealed over the course when the saffron + jacket was seen in the lead; the filly was favorite, a six to + four chance.</p> + + <p>Banks kept pushing her along; he did not know how to handle + her as well as Fred Erickson, but did his best.</p> + + <p>May was riding Tristram strictly to orders.</p> + + <p>"Bring him with a rush in the last quarter of a mile," said + Sir Robert.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page231" id= + "page231"></a>[231]</span> + + <p>Ripon was going well, but could not keep the pace with + Tearaway.</p> + + <p>At last May brought Tristram out and the great horse came + along with giant strides, his natural style of going. On he came + swooping down, passing first one then another, drawing level with + Ripon, leaving him, and going in pursuit of Tearaway.</p> + + <p>The excitement was intense; all eyes were fixed on the + splendid pair, the mare and the horse, owned by two good + sportsmen, hailing from Yorkshire, both well known in the county. + Captain Ben Bruce was with Brack, who had been persuaded to stop + until the meeting was over; he was very fond of the old boatman, + and knew he deserved well of them all. Brack was to have a look + round Haverton before he returned home. He had backed Tearaway + again, and was shouting her name frantically, much to the + Captain's amusement. She looked like a winner, she was going so + well, but there was no mistaking the way in which Tristram + galloped.</p> + + <p>"He's catching her!" said Sir Robert excitedly.</p> + + <p>Picton smiled confidently; he did not think he would do + it.</p> + + <p>A great shout went up when Tristram got to Tearaway's girth; + May rode a brilliant finish.</p> + + <p>Banks handled the filly well, but had not the same powers as + Fred Erickson at his best; they were wanted now just to help her + home.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page232" id= + "page232"></a>[232]</span> + + <p>Neck and neck they raced, head and head, not an inch between + them, outstretched nostrils; it was a tremendous race, one of the + best ever seen for the Cup.</p> + + <p>Sir Robert and Picton looked on, thrilling with excitement. It + was a desperate finish. Both were game, the filly and the horse, + and fought to the bitter end. As they passed the judge's box no + one could tell which had won.</p> + + <p>"Dead heat," said the judge.</p> + + <p>Sir Robert and Picton shook hands heartily.</p> + + <p>"By jove, what a race!" the baronet said.</p> + + <p>"I'm glad it was a dead heat," said Picton. "We've both + won."</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XXVII" id="CHAPTER_XXVII"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page233" id="page233"></a>[233]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XXVII</h2> + + <h3>THE RESERVED COMPARTMENT</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">LENISE ELROY arrived at the station and looked around for Mr. + Rolfe. He was not there; at least she did not see him. As the + time drew near for the departure of the train she became anxious; + she hoped much from this railway journey in a reserved + compartment: they would be able to talk without interruption.</p> + + <p>Hector had seen Brack, who explained how Mrs. Elroy had + questioned him at Torquay, and also Carl Hackler.</p> + + <p>"You'd best be careful," said Brack; "I saw you talking with + her on the course."</p> + + <p>"She has no idea who I am. I thank you all the same," he + answered.</p> + + <p>"Mr. Woodridge has given me a hundred pounds and a new boat," + said Brack.</p> + + <p>"And you richly deserve it! Here's a twenty-pound note to add + to it," said Hector.</p> + + <p>"I'll be a rich man before I get back to Torquay," said + Brack.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page234" id= + "page234"></a>[234]</span> + + <p>"Here you are; I thought you were not coming," said Mrs. + Elroy, as Hector came up.</p> + + <p>"There's plenty of time," he said; "ten minutes."</p> + + <p>"You can't think how anxious I felt."</p> + + <p>"Why? You could have gone on alone."</p> + + <p>"That would not have suited me; I want your company," she + said.</p> + + <p>They were shown to a reserved compartment, the guard locking + the door until the train started; it was crowded, and some of the + race-goers are not particular where they get in.</p> + + <p>"It's a non-stop train; we are alone until we arrive at King's + Cross," said Hector.</p> + + <p>Lenise was at her best. She confessed she was really in love + this time; she meant to find out how matters stood with him.</p> + + <p>Despite all she had done, he felt her charm still. She was not + a good woman, far from it, but there was something so subtle and + attractive about her he found it hard to resist the spell.</p> + + <p>The thought of Sir Robert's words, "I wish the Admiral could + have seen this," gave him courage. It had to be done—why + not do it now? There was no escape for her; it was not a corridor + train; they were boxed up for three hours or more. She looked at + him with softly gleaming eyes; her whole being thrilled toward + him; she had never been so fascinating.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page235" id="page235"></a>[235]</span> + + <p>"You are quiet. What are you thinking about?" she said. + "Reckoning up your winnings on Tearaway, I suppose."</p> + + <p>"My thoughts were far away from there," he said.</p> + + <p>"Where were they wandering?"</p> + + <p>"I was thinking about you," he said.</p> + + <p>"How nice of you," she said quietly.</p> + + <p>"You prefer me to Fletcher Denyer?"</p> + + <p>"How can you ask such an absurd question?"</p> + + <p>"I was wondering whether I loved you; I was thinking whether + you would be my wife, if I had the courage to ask you."</p> + + <p>"Try," she said, her eyes on him.</p> + + <p>"Do you really love me?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"You know I do; you must have known it from the first time we + met."</p> + + <p>"There should be no secrets between us," he said. "I have + something to tell you."</p> + + <p>She turned pale, a faint shiver passed through her; he noticed + it. Would she confess what she had done?</p> + + <p>"I too have a confession to make, if you love me, and wish me + to be your wife."</p> + + <p>"Otherwise?"</p> + + <p>"I shall keep my counsel; it would not interest you."</p> + + <p>"Let me tell you something first," he said.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page236" id="page236"></a>[236]</span> + + <p>"As you please, confidence for confidence," she said with a + faint smile.</p> + + <p>"I have not always lived a decent life," he said. "I once + committed a crime, I paid the penalty, I was sent to prison, to + Dartmoor."</p> + + <p>She started again, a look of fear was in her eyes.</p> + + <p>"When I told you I was mining on Dartmoor it was not true; I + worked on Dartmoor, but it was as a prisoner. I was in the same + gang as Mr. Woodridge's brother."</p> + + <p>"You were," she said in a hollow voice, wondering why he told + her this.</p> + + <p>"Yes, poor fellow. I never saw a man so broken down in my + life; his face haunted me. I said something about it before, you + may remember."</p> + + <p>"Yes, I recollect," she said.</p> + + <p>"We had very little chance of speaking but I heard his story + in fragments, how he hated the woman who had brought him down so + low. He swore to me he did not kill the woman's husband, but he + would not tell me who did, although I asked him many times. From + what I heard I came to the conclusion she fired the shot."</p> + + <p>His eyes were on her; she could not face their searching + glance.</p> + + <p>She made no remark, and he went on: "It was mainly through me + he escaped," he said. "When I was released I searched out his + brother and made <span class="pagenum"><a name="page237" id= + "page237"></a>[237]</span> a suggestion. Mr. Woodridge has no + idea I was in prison; he thought I had been abroad for several + years. Needless to say, I did not enlighten him; I will trust you + not to do so."</p> + + <p>"I shall never speak of it."</p> + + <p>"Does this alter your opinion of me? Shall I go on?" he + asked.</p> + + <p>"I love you," she said. "I shall always love you, no matter + what happens."</p> + + <p>"As you know, Hector Woodridge escaped."</p> + + <p>"But he is dead."</p> + + <p>"That is uncertain. He may be, or he may have got away and be + in hiding. He must be greatly changed, no one would recognize + him," he said.</p> + + <p>"It is hardly possible," she said.</p> + + <p>"Perhaps not, but still he may be alive, and if he is, the + woman who ruined him had better beware. I believe he would kill + her if he met her. What have you to confess to me? You see I have + placed my character in your hands; you can ruin me socially if + you wish."</p> + + <p>"I do not wish, and I thank you for the trust you have placed + in me," she said. "I am afraid to confess all to you, afraid you + will never speak to me again when you know who I am."</p> + + <p>"Who you are?" he exclaimed.</p> + + <p>"I told you, when you remarked on the curious coincidence that + my name was Mrs. Elroy, that I <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page238" id="page238"></a>[238]</span> was not the Mrs. Elroy + connected with Hector Woodridge's case."</p> + + <p>"Well," he said.</p> + + <p>"I told you a lie. I am the same Mrs. Elroy. It was my husband + Hector Woodridge shot. It was me he was in love with."</p> + + <p>He looked at her without speaking for several minutes. The + silence was painful; he was thinking how to launch his + thunderbolt, how best to trap and overwhelm her. There was no + escape, she was entirely at his mercy.</p> + + <p>"You ruined Hector Woodridge, sent him to penal servitude for + life," he said.</p> + + <p>"I was not entirely to blame. We loved, or at least we thought + so."</p> + + <p>"How did it happen?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"The shooting?"</p> + + <p>"Yes."</p> + + <p>"It was quite unpremeditated; had the revolver not been there + it would never have happened. I believe my husband intended to + shoot him, and me—it was his revolver."</p> + + <p>Hector wondered if this were true.</p> + + <p>"The revolver was on a small table. I saw it but did not + remove it; had I done so the tragedy would not have + happened."</p> + + <p>"Why did you leave it there?" he asked.</p> + + <p>"I do not know; probably because I did not wish <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page239" id="page239"></a>[239]</span> my + husband to know I was afraid. I was aware he had found us out, + that an exposure must come sooner or later. He was madly in love + with me; I almost hated him, he was so weak, almost childish, and + I wanted a strong man to rule me. Shall I go on, do you despise + me, look upon me as a very wicked woman?" she asked in a strained + voice.</p> + + <p>"Go on," he said; "tell me the whole story, how he was shot, + everything."</p> + + <p>"I will, I will make a full confession; but be merciful in + your judgment, remember I am doing this because I love you, that + I do not want it to stand between us, I plead to you not to throw + all the blame on me. Hector Woodridge was a strong man and I + loved him, I believe he loved me, he overcame all my scruples. I + yielded to him, gave myself to him—surely that was a great + sacrifice, my name, honor, everything for his sake. We were + together in my husband's study. We thought he was in London, but + he did not go; he set a trap and caught us. I shall never forget + the look on his face when he came into the room. I saw his eyes + rest on the revolver, and I felt it was our lives or his, but we + stood between him and the weapon.</p> + + <p>"Hector Woodridge guessed what was in his mind; he must have + done so, for he laid his hand on the revolver. My husband saw the + movement and said, 'Put that down, you scoundrel,' and advanced + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page240" id="page240"></a>[240]</span> toward us. Hector raised the revolver and told him to + stand back. He did so; he was afraid.</p> + + <p>"There was an angry altercation. I remember saying I was tired + of him, that I would live with him no longer, that I loved Hector + Woodridge. This drove him to distraction; he became furious, + dangerous; he would have killed us without hesitation had he + possessed the revolver, there was such a murderous look in his + eyes. Does my sordid story interest you?" she asked.</p> + + <p>"It does; everything you do or say interests me," he said.</p> + + <p>"And you do not utterly despise me, think me too bad to be in + decent society, to be sitting here alone with you?"</p> + + <p>"Go on," he said in a tone that was half a command, and which + caused her to feel afraid of something unknown.</p> + + <p>"At last Elroy's rage got the better of his prudence; he made + a dash forward to seize the revolver, raised in Hector's hand. It + was the work of a second, his finger was on the trigger; he + pulled it, there was a report, Elroy staggered forward, fell on + his face, dead," she said with a blanched face, and trembling + voice.</p> + + <p>"<i>You</i> pulled the trigger," he said, calmly looking + straight at her.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XXVIII" id="CHAPTER_XXVIII"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page241" id="page241"></a>[241]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XXVIII</h2> + + <h3>HOW HECTOR HAD HIS REVENGE</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">THIS direct charge so astonished her that for a few moments + she did not recognize its full significance. She sat wildly + staring at him, completely overwhelmed.</p> + + <p>He watched; her terror fascinated him, he could not take his + eyes off her.</p> + + <p>She tried to speak and failed, seemed on the point of + fainting. He let down the window; the cool air revived her, but + she was in a deplorably nervous condition.</p> + + <p>At last the words came.</p> + + <p>"I pulled the trigger?" she said. "What do you mean, how can + you possibly know what happened?"</p> + + <p>"I said you pulled the trigger. It is true, is it not?"</p> + + <p>"No; Hector Woodridge shot my husband," she said in a low + voice. She was afraid of him; his knowledge seemed + uncanny—or was it merely guesswork?</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page242" id="page242"></a>[242]</span> + + <p>"That is a lie," he said.</p> + + <p>"How dare you say that!" she said, her courage momentarily + flashing out.</p> + + <p>He smiled.</p> + + <p>"I thought this was to be a full confession," he said.</p> + + <p>"I will say no more; you do not believe me," she said.</p> + + <p>"Then I will continue it," he said, and she seemed petrified + with fright. He gave her no chance. He related the history of the + trial; so minute were his particulars that she wondered if he + were a man, or a being possessed of unearthly knowledge.</p> + + <p>"Hector Woodridge was condemned to be hanged, and you spoke no + word to save him. Your evidence damned him, almost hanged him, + sent him to a living tomb."</p> + + <p>"I could not lie; I had sworn to speak the truth," she + faltered.</p> + + <p>"You did not speak the truth," he almost shouted; and she + shrank back, cowering on her seat. She wondered if he had + suddenly gone mad. Impossible. His knowledge was uncanny.</p> + + <p>"Had you spoken the truth you would have saved him; but you + dared not. Had you told all he would have been set free, you + would have been sentenced. You were too much of a coward to + speak, fearing the consequences; but he, what did he do? He + remained <span class="pagenum"><a name="page243" id= + "page243"></a>[243]</span> silent, when he might have saved + himself and proved you guilty."</p> + + <p>"It is not true," she murmured faintly.</p> + + <p>"It is true," he said fiercely. "Think what he has suffered, + think and tremble when you imagine his revenue. I will tell you + something more. You were in Torquay when he escaped. You were at + supper one night; there was a chink in the blind; footsore, + hunted, his hands torn by the hound, his body all bruised and + battered, hungry, thirsty, every man's hand against him. Hector + Woodridge looked through it, he saw you feasting with your + friends."</p> + + <p>"Stop!" she cried in an agonized voice. "Stop! I can bear no + more. I saw his face, I have never had a peaceful moment + since."</p> + + <p>"I shall not stop," he said harshly. "Outside he cursed you, + prayed for justice, and another chance in life."</p> + + <p>"How do you know all this?" she asked in a voice trembling + with dread.</p> + + <p>"Never mind how I know; sufficient that I know," he said. + "Hector Woodridge, thanks to an old boatman, escaped and boarded + the <i>Sea-mew</i>, his brother's yacht, lying in Torbay."</p> + + <p>Her agitation was painful, her face became drawn and haggard, + she looked an old woman. Rising from her seat, she placed her + hands on his shoulders, looking long and searchingly into his + face.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page244" id= + "page244"></a>[244]</span> + + <p>"Sit down," he said sternly, and she obeyed.</p> + + <p>"He was taken away on the <i>Sea-mew</i>. He went mad, was + insane for some time, then he fell dangerously ill; when he + recovered he was so changed that even the servants at Haverton, + who had known him all his life, failed to recognize him."</p> + + <p>"He went to Haverton?" she said.</p> + + <p>"Yes; he is alive and well. No one recognizes him as Hector + Woodridge; he has assumed another name and once more taken a + place in the world. To all who knew him he is dead, with two or + three exceptions. The prison authorities think he is dead; they + have given up the search for him. He is safe, able to carry out + his scheme of revenge against the woman who so cruelly wronged + him. You are that woman, Lenise Elroy."</p> + + <p>"And what does he purpose doing with me?" she asked faintly. + "You cannot know that."</p> + + <p>"I do; I am his most intimate friend."</p> + + <p>She started; a weird, unearthly look came into her face.</p> + + <p>"His one object in life is to prove his innocence. He cannot + do that unless you confess," he said.</p> + + <p>"Confess!" she laughed mockingly. "There is nothing to + confess."</p> + + <p>"You know better, and you will be forced to confess or + else—"</p> + + <p>"What?"</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page245" id= + "page245"></a>[245]</span> + + <p>"If you do not prove his innocence he will—"</p> + + <p>"Kill me?"</p> + + <p>"That may happen, under certain circumstances, but he wishes + to give you a chance."</p> + + <p>"He has asked you to speak to me?"</p> + + <p>"Yes; he was at Doncaster."</p> + + <p>"At the races?"</p> + + <p>"He saw you there. Something of the old fascination you + exercise over him came back, and for a moment he wavered in his + desire for revenge."</p> + + <p>He saw a faint smile steal over her face.</p> + + <p>"He told you this?"</p> + + <p>"Yes, and more; but I have said enough."</p> + + <p>"You have indeed. You have brought a terrible indictment + against me, Mr. Rolfe; if it were true I ought to die of shame + and remorse, but it is not true, not all of it," she said.</p> + + <p>"Lenise, look at me. Do you love me after all I have + said?"</p> + + <p>"I do. Nothing you can say or do will ever alter that."</p> + + <p>"And you will marry me?" he asked. "It is a strange + wooing."</p> + + <p>"I will be your wife. You will save me from him; you will try + and persuade him I am not deserving of a terrible revenge," she + said.</p> + + <p>"Are you afraid of him—of—Hector + Woodridge?"</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page246" id= + "page246"></a>[246]</span> + + <p>She shuddered.</p> + + <p>"Yes," she said, "I am."</p> + + <p>"Supposing he were here, in this carriage in my place?"</p> + + <p>"I should fling myself out," she said. "I should be afraid of + him; it would be terrible, awful. I could not bear it."</p> + + <p>"Because you know you have wronged him. Do the right thing, + Lenise. Confess, prove his innocence, think how he has suffered + for your sake, how he has kept silent all these years," he + said.</p> + + <p>"Why do you torture me? If he has suffered, so have I. Do you + think the knowledge of his awful position has not made me shudder + every time I thought of it? I have pictured him there and wished + I could obtain his release."</p> + + <p>"You can prove his innocence," he said.</p> + + <p>"Supposing I could, what then? What would happen? I should + have to take his place."</p> + + <p>"And you dare not."</p> + + <p>"I am a woman."</p> + + <p>"Then you will not help to prove his innocence?"</p> + + <p>"I cannot."</p> + + <p>Hector got up quickly, took her by the wrists and dragged her + up.</p> + + <p>"Look at me, Lenise. Look well. Do you not know me?"</p> + + <p>He felt her trembling; she marked every feature <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page247" id="page247"></a>[247]</span> of + his face. Gradually it all came back to her, overwhelmed her. She + traced feature by feature—the eyes were <i>his</i> eyes, + yes, the face was <i>his</i> face. He saw the dawn of recognition + come over her and break into full light. She knew him; her eyes + dilated with terror, her cheeks went ashen pale, her lips were + colorless, her limbs trembled, she could hardly stand.</p> + + <p>"Yes," he said. "It is I, Lenise, Hector Woodridge, and you + are alone with me in this carriage."</p> + + <p>"Mercy, Hector, mercy, I am only a woman."</p> + + <p>"And you love me, you said so, you love William Rolfe?"</p> + + <p>She sank on her knees, she clasped his limbs, looking + piteously into his face. He saw how she suffered.</p> + + <p>"Get up," he said; "do not kneel there."</p> + + <p>She hid her face between her arms, he heard her sobs, saw they + shook her frame. The train rattled on, whirling at a great pace, + drawing nearer and nearer to London. She moaned, it cut him to + the heart to hear her. A fierce struggle went on within him, a + battle with his strong will. He placed in the front rank the + memory of all he had suffered, then brought up his father's + death, the cruel disgrace, as a reserve to support it. He had his + enemy beaten at his feet, he was victor, it was a humiliating + defeat for her.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page248" id= + "page248"></a>[248]</span> + + <p>"The quality of mercy is not strained."</p> + + <p>Strange how the line should come into his mind at this moment. + He had always been a student of Shakespeare, he knew much of it + by heart, in prison he repeated whole parts, and it solaced + him.</p> + + <p>"Lenise, get up."</p> + + <p>His tone had changed, she raised her tear-stained face. What + she saw in his look made her cry out:</p> + + <p>"Hector, is it possible? Speak to me, Hector! I know you now. + Oh, what a fool I have been! I have always loved you, but I was a + coward. It was you, not William Rolfe, I loved again when we met. + You were Hector Woodridge and my soul went out to you. Do with me + as you will. I am strong now, for I believe you love me. I will + confess, make it public, tell everything. You know I did it. The + revolver was in your hand, your finger on the trigger, I pulled + your hand and it went off. I will make it known if only you will + forgive me. God, what a fiend I have been to let you suffer so! + And you have kept silence all these years for my sake!"</p> + + <p>She spoke rapidly; he knew she was in earnest and his heart + softened. He had loved her deeply, he loved her now, he had + always loved her, even in his bitterest moments in prison, when + he had framed a terrible revenge. It had been his intention to + marry her in his assumed name, and on their wedding night tell + her he was Hector Woodridge <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page249" id="page249"></a>[249]</span> and then—well he + shuddered at the mere thought of how near a brute he had + been.</p> + + <p>Hector was never more of a man than at this moment. He had won + a great victory over himself, far greater than over the woman at + his feet. He had conquered revenge, utterly crushed it, cast it + out forever.</p> + + <p>He stooped down and raised her gently.</p> + + <p>The train hissed on, carrying its living freight, drawing + nearer to London.</p> + + <p>She hung her head; he raised it, looked straight into her + eyes, then kissed her.</p> + + <p>From that moment Lenise Elroy was another woman. She felt the + change instantaneously; she was transformed, she knew whatever + happened she would be true to him, that she would love him with a + devotion that could not be surpassed.</p> + + <p>He kissed her again as he held her in his arms.</p> + + <p>"This is my revenge, Lenise," he said.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XXIX" id="CHAPTER_XXIX"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page250" id="page250"></a>[250]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XXIX</h2> + + <h3>AN ASTONISHING COMMUNICATION</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">AT Haverton everything shaped well. Picton asked Rita to be + his wife and she consented. They were very happy, Dick rejoiced + exceedingly, Captain Ben was pleased, Brack congratulated them in + his quaint way before he returned to Torquay.</p> + + <p>"I'll give you The Rascal for a wedding present," said Dick. + "I hope he'll win the National for you."</p> + + <p>"He will have a good chance," said Picton. "It is a very + welcome gift."</p> + + <p>"I think you and Rita will be happy," Dick said.</p> + + <p>"We shall, and when she is mistress here there will be a + delightful change for the better," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"I hope there will be no collision between Rita and Mrs. + Yeoman," laughed Dick.</p> + + <p>"No fear of that. She is very fond of Rita; she told me so, + said she was very pleased I was going to marry her."</p> + + <p>"Then that's all right," said Dick.</p><span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page251" id="page251"></a>[251]</span> + + <p>He and his sister remained a week longer, then returned to + Torwood; Rita and Picton were to be married from there early in + the New Year.</p> + + <p>Dr. Elroy came from Doncaster for a few days' shooting. Picton + liked him, so did Captain Ben. The doctor was an excellent shot, + and accounted for many brace of grouse; he also showed some + knowledge of horses, which at once ensured Brant's good + opinion.</p> + + <p>It was during the doctor's stay Picton received a letter from + his brother, containing an enclosure. Both astonished him + immensely, and small wonder.</p> + + <p>He read them carefully twice, and decided that Hector's wishes + should be obeyed. These were to the effect that Picton should + read them to Captain Ben, Sir Robert Raines, and any other + persons he thought desirable should know the truth. Picton + decided Dr. Elroy should join them when he read the letter. Sir + Robert received a hasty summons to Haverton.</p> + + <p>"Wonder what's in the wind now," he said.</p> + + <p>"A trial I expect," said his wife.</p> + + <p>"You and Mr. Woodridge think of nothing but horses."</p> + + <p>"I have had a communication I wish you to hear," said Picton. + "I have heard from my brother."</p> + + <p>"Hector!" exclaimed Sir Robert.</p> + + <p>"Yes. He is alive and well. He knows you are <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page252" id="page252"></a>[252]</span> to + be trusted; he wished you to hear all he has written. You will be + surprised to learn William Rolfe is Hector."</p> + + <p>"Good heavens!" exclaimed Sir Robert. "Do you know, Picton, my + boy, I thought he resembled him, but of course I had no idea he + was Hector. It's wonderful; how did he get away?"</p> + + <p>Picton gave him an account of Hector's escape and how he + boarded the <i>Sea-mew</i>, and all that followed.</p> + + <p>"The strangest part of the story is better told in his own + words," said Picton. "I wish you, Captain Ben, and Dr. Elroy to + hear it."</p> + + <p>Sir Robert was lost in wonder at such strange happenings. When + they were all seated in Picton's study he asked them to promise + to keep everything secret, which they readily did, when he + explained whom the communication was from.</p> + + <p>Picton began Hector's letter, which, after a few + preliminaries, read as follows: "You know how I escaped, and + thanks to the good farmer on the moor, and with the aid of Brack, + boarded the <i>Sea-mew</i> and got safely away. Then, taking the + name of William Rolfe, I came to Haverton and no one knew me. I + wish it to be thought that Hector Woodridge is dead, that I am + William Rolfe, and shall always remain so, for reasons which I + will explain, and which will cause you great astonishment. + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page253" id="page253"></a>[253]</span> Something wonderful has happened since I left + Haverton, something that surprises me even now, and which I can + hardly understand, yet it is an accomplished fact, and I shall + never regret it.</p> + + <p>"I met Lenise Elroy at Doncaster station by appointment; we + traveled alone in a reserved compartment. You have some idea of + the vengeance I intended taking upon her, but you have no + conception how terrible it was to be. I purposed carrying it out + in the train, declaring to her who I was—she thought I was + William Rolfe. I gradually led the conversation up to a point + when I could relate to her how Hector Woodridge escaped and + boarded the <i>Sea-mew</i>, and that he was alive and well, + living under an assumed name. I posed as his best friend. She was + amazed, and frightened, at the minute details I gave her, thought + it uncanny. There was a dramatic moment when she explained what + happened when Elroy was shot, in order to clear herself, offer an + excuse for her conduct. She said Hector Woodridge pointed the + revolver at Elroy and as he advanced, fired. Then I said, 'You + pulled the trigger.' This, as you may imagine, was a knock-down + blow for her; she almost fainted. She denied it, of course; it + was a critical moment. Then I bade her look in my face, asked her + if she recognized me. Gradually she did so; she fell on her + knees, clasped my legs, sobbed as though her <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page254" id="page254"></a>[254]</span> + heart would break. She confessed all. She said I held the + revolver pointed at Elroy, but she pulled my hand back, and it + went off, killing him. I enclose a confession she has signed to + this effect. It proves my innocence. I did not actually fire the + shot, although I leveled the revolver at him, to frighten and + keep him back. I had no intention of shooting him; as God is my + judge, I did not wish to take his life. She acted on a sudden + impulse; perhaps she wished to pull my hand down, thinking I + intended shooting him, and, as my finger was on the trigger, it + went off. It was all a terrible blunder, which she and I have + suffered terribly for. You little know how she has suffered; she + has told me and I believe her. What I suffered no one can + imagine, but I believe I can learn to forget it under the new + conditions of life I have mapped out.</p> + + <p>"As she knelt at my feet sobbing, a strange revulsion of + feeling swept over me. Before all this happened she acknowledged + she loved me as William Rolfe, that she had done so from the + first time we met.</p> + + <p>"I looked down at her and spoke gently. She noticed the + changed tone in my voice and raised her head. 'Hector!' she cried + in strange surprise.</p> + + <p>"Stooping down I raised her gently. I felt no desire for + revenge; all my savage feelings were swept away. I loved her, + loved Lenise Elroy, who <span class="pagenum"><a name="page255" + id="page255"></a>[255]</span> had so deeply wronged me, with + an undying love. I knew I had always loved her, even when in + prison, and my feelings were bitterest against her. She saw + something of this in my face. I kissed her and held her close to + me. From that moment, Picton, I forgave all, she was very dear to + me. No matter how she had sinned I knew she had always been mine. + I remembered how she surrendered herself to me; I recognized that + I had tempted her, as she had tempted me; that we were both + guilty, that had I behaved as a man, and kept away from her, the + tragedy which blighted so many lives would not have happened.</p> + + <p>"We sat side by side and did not speak. The wonder of it all + swept over us and held us silent. We looked into each other's + eyes and read our thoughts. She was transfigured, a different + woman, a new soul had entered her body, she was not the Lenise + Elroy of old days. I felt all this; I was certain I could rely + upon her. She spoke at last, and said she would write a + confession which I could place in your hands to do as you wished + with; she would abide the consequences. I have sent this to you, + Picton, knowing you will never make it public, but hide it in + some place until our deaths take place. You can read it to our + old friend Sir Robert, and Captain Ben, and any one else you + think ought to <span class="pagenum"><a name="page256" id= + "page256"></a>[256]</span> know, and that you can depend upon + to keep silent. It is short, but true, and she has signed it.</p> + + <p>"Perhaps the strangest news of all for you is that we are + married, and are now Mr. and Mrs. Rolfe. I wished it to take + place at once, and she was willing to do anything I asked.</p> + + <p>"As Mr. and Mrs. William Rolfe, we sail for Melbourne in a + fortnight, where I shall go up country and buy a small station + somewhere. We intend to keep out of the world, to live for + ourselves. Lenise wishes it, she says a lifelong devotion to me + will only help to blot out the past. Of her love I am certain; + she is not demonstrative, but I catch her sometimes unawares, and + her face expresses her thoughts. Forgive her as I have, Picton, + write her a kindly letter, tell her she has done right, wish her + happiness in her new life. We shall not come to Haverton; it is + better not.</p> + + <p>"I won a large sum over Tearaway; I had a thousand pounds on + her at a hundred to three. I do not want any more money. Keep the + dear old place up; some day we may see it, but not for + years—it may be never. I should like to see you, Sir + Robert, and Captain Ben, if you will meet me in town, just to say + farewell. I hope you will be happy with Rita; I am sure you will. + At some future time you may tell her the tramp she treated so + kindly on his way to Torquay was your brother Hector. + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page257" id="page257"></a>[257]</span> I have Dick's coat she gave me; I shall always keep + it as a treasured remembrance of a good woman's kindness and + sympathy. Remember always that Hector Woodridge is dead, that + William Rolfe lives, and is a settler in Australia. In that great + country we shall be surrounded by new scenes, faces, and places; + no one will know us; we shall live our lives peacefully until the + end.</p> + + <p>"The storm is over, Picton, and calm come at last. This is how + I took my revenge. How strange are the workings of Providence, + how sure is His eternal justice, how wonderful and mysterious His + ordering of all things!"</p> + + <p>Picton then read Lenise's confession, which exonerated Hector + from blame. It was brief and to the point; she did not spare + herself.</p> + + <p>"I'll tell you what, Picton, Hector's a great man, an + extraordinary man, he deserves the highest praise we can give + him," said Sir Robert, and with this they all agreed.</p> + + <p>"Remember, Hector is dead, William Rolfe lives," said Picton, + and again they agreed to abide by this decision.</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <a name="CHAPTER_XXX" id="CHAPTER_XXX"></a> + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page258" id="page258"></a>[258]</span> + + <h2>CHAPTER XXX</h2> + + <h3>TEARAWAY'S PROGENY</h3> + + <p class="dropcap">IT was a quiet wedding and Dick gave his sister away. A few + friends met at Torwood to bid them speed on their honeymoon, + which was spent at Florence. On their return they went direct to + Haverton, and Mrs. Woodridge settled down to her duties as + mistress of the house, with Mrs. Yeoman as her trusty guide.</p> + + <p>Rita was supremely happy; Picton told her Hector's story when + they were in Florence.</p> + + <p>"So I was right when I thought I recognized Mr. Rolfe as the + man who asked me for help, or rather whom I assisted on his tramp + to Torquay," she said.</p> + + <p>"Yes, you were right," said Picton. "You made a greater hit + than you were aware of."</p> + + <p>Picton schooled The Rascal over stiff fences on Haverton Moor. + A four-mile course had been specially mapped out by Brant during + his absence in Italy, and the fences were as high as those on the + National course.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page259" id= + "page259"></a>[259]</span> + + <p>"You'll find 'em formidable," said the trainer, "but if he's + to jump the National course so much the better."</p> + + <p>Picton soon found, as he had thought when he won on him at + Torquay, that The Rascal was a great fencer. The ease with which + he went over the biggest jump without a mistake proved this, and + Brant grew enthusiastic about his chance. Rita was nervous when + she saw Picton riding over these great jumps, but The Rascal + seemed to fly them so easily she gained confidence and eventually + became as keen about his winning the National as Picton + himself.</p> + + <p>Everything went well with his preparation; the horse was as + sound as a bell, and under Brant's tuition became quiet and + docile.</p> + + <p>The Rascal liked Picton, he and his rider were on excellent + terms, they knew exactly how they felt toward each other. A week + before the Aintree meeting Dick Langford came to Haverton. He was + surprised when he saw the improvement in The Rascal, grew + enthusiastic as he watched Picton ride him over the big + fences.</p> + + <p>"I'd no idea he could jump like that!" exclaimed Dick.</p> + + <p>"I had when I won on him at Torquay," said Picton.</p> + + <p>"Do you think he's a chance in the National?" Dick said to the + trainer.</p><span class="pagenum"><a name="page260" id= + "page260"></a>[260]</span> + + <p>"He has, Mr. Langford, a ripping chance. I can't pick out + anything to beat him, and he's got such a nice weight, only ten + stone; he'll gallop them all to a standstill. And as for fencing, + he'll fly Beecher's Brook like a bird."</p> + + <p>Neither Rita nor Picton, nor their many friends who saw the + race, will ever forget that memorable Grand National. What an + awful day it was! The March wind howled and whistled over the + course, biting and stinging, cutting the face almost like a lash. + Then sleet fell, followed by a whirling snowstorm, which had not + abated when the horses went out. The course was heavy, + dangerously slippery, but for all that not bad going. It was all + against the top weights.</p> + + <p>The Rascal lashed out as he felt the stinging half-frozen + particles whipping his skin. He put back his ears, lowered his + head, and took a lot of persuading before he faced the blast. + Most of the horses protested in the same way.</p> + + <p>Then the sun gleamed out, the snow ceased, and for a few + minutes it was bright and clear.</p> + + <p>They were off, twenty of them, and a glorious sight it was. + Rita stood with Captain Ben, Sir Robert, and Dick. They had an + excellent view of the course; had it been clearer they would have + seen the whole race.</p> + + <p>When the horses had gone a little over a mile, <span class= + "pagenum"><a name="page261" id="page261"></a>[261]</span> snow + fell again, the sun disappeared in the gloom, the light became + bad.</p> + + <p>Picton could hardly see the jumps, so blinding was the storm; + but The Rascal saw them and despite slipping, and an occasional + stumble, cleared them. Once he rapped hard; this roused him and + for the remainder of the journey he did not make a mistake.</p> + + <p>It was an extraordinary race. Horse after horse came down, + until at the last two jumps only three were left in. Another + fell, then Mortimer came down at the last obstacle, and The + Rascal came in alone, being the only one to finish the course. It + was a day of triumph for Picton and his friends. A big stake was + landed, a big double, the St. Leger and the Grand National won + for the famous saffron colors.</p> + + <p>The Rascal and Tearaway were the pets of the Haverton stable. + The former won at Manchester and Sandown, Picton riding him. The + filly won the Great Metropolitan and the Ascot Gold Cup, + following this up with a veritable triumph in the Cesarewitch, + carrying nine stone. She then retired to the stud, and was mated + with her old opponent Tristram, to the huge delight of Sir + Robert, who prophesied the result would be a remarkable equine + prodigy. The Rascal ran in the National again and fell, the only + time he came down in a long and <span class="pagenum"><a name= + "page262" id="page262"></a>[262]</span> wonderful career; + Picton had a nasty spill and was brought back in the ambulance. + This was a shock to Rita; she longed for the time when he would + give up steeplechase riding, but she never hinted at it, she knew + how passionately fond of it he was. The Rascal won the great + 'Chase again the following year, thus setting the seal on his + fame by carrying top weight to victory.</p> + + <p>By this time Picton and Rita had two sons; this was followed + in due course by two girls; so they were supremely happy and all + went swimmingly at Haverton. They had troops of friends. Picton + became Master of the Haverton Hounds, and his popularity was + unbounded. Rita was regarded as a ministering angel when she went + abroad, scattering good things around in the depth of winter, and + all the poor blessed her name.</p> + + <p>Brack retired from active service, but had half a dozen boats + and was a popular favorite at Torquay. Picton never forgot him at + Christmas, or the farmer on the moor, who had helped Hector to + escape.</p> + + <p>Carl Hackler often chaffed Brack about the escaped prisoner + and said he was not quite sure yet whether he had not smuggled + him on board the <i>Sea-mew</i>.</p> + + <p>Brack, however, was as close as an oyster, and Carl got no + satisfaction in this direction.</p> + + <hr class="tb" /> + + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page263" id="page263"></a>[263]</span> + + <p>Far away across the ocean, in Australia, about fifty miles + from Ballarat in Victoria, Hector and his wife settled down, as + Mr. and Mrs. Rolfe, on a small station with a picturesque + homestead and excellent paddocks surrounding. They were happy, + but there was one shadow hanging over their lives which had not + yet lifted. They could not forget; it was impossible. They never + alluded to it, but they knew it was there. Still, they were + contented and made friends in the new land. They were prosperous. + Hector took kindly to the life. He worked; his hands all liked + him. He had a fine herd of cattle, a hundred good horses, sheep + on a large run he had just taken over, in addition to Willaura, + his homestead.</p> + + <p>Lenise had her share in the stock: she owned a few horses, a + couple of Alderney cows, and a large number of poultry of various + breeds with which she took prizes, and of which she was very + proud. After ten years came the crowning of her life. She had a + son, and in bearing him she almost lost her life. Never till he + felt her slipping away from him had Hector known how much he + loved her. When she recovered, after a long illness, she said to + him:</p> + + <p>"I feel we are forgiven. Our child has lifted the shadow from + our lives. We must think of the past no more; we must live for + him and the future."</p> + + <p>Picton received frequent letters from his brother, + <span class="pagenum"><a name="page264" id="page264"></a>[264]</span> and answered them. In one he wrote to Hector that it + was evident he never intended returning to England, and that the + only chance of seeing him again was to go out to Australia. "Rita + says she would like the trip, and it would do us both good. + Captain Ben is a trustworthy friend to leave in charge of + Haverton, so don't be surprised if some day we arrive at + Willaura."</p> + + <p>"Do you think she would like me?" Lenise asked her + husband.</p> + + <p>"Yes; no one could help liking you," he replied.</p> + + <p>"Do you ever regret marrying me?" she asked.</p> + + <p>"That is a foolish question. You know I do not. Never ask me + again," he said.</p> + + <p>Hector sometimes went to Melbourne. On one of his visits he + saw a broken-down man in Bourke Street and recognized him as + Fletcher Denyer. He gave him a wide berth and did not mention it + to his wife. He heard once or twice from Brack, who in one letter + said: "Brother Bill is a free man again—I reckon you know + what that means; the man who did it confessed on his death-bed. + He looks after my boats. He's a good sort, is Bill. Mr. Picton + never forgets me. He's a good sort too. So are you; so's + everybody to me."</p> + + <p>"Tearaway's stock are doing wonders," wrote Picton. "Her best + are by Tristram, and Runaway is a champion. I think he will turn + out the best <span class="pagenum"><a name="page265" id= + "page265"></a>[265]</span> she has had, and he is by Sir + Robert's old favorite, and will probably be the last he will get, + as he is very weak and ailing but hobbles about in his paddock. I + am sending you out as a present a six-year-old horse by + Tristram-Tearaway. He should make a splendid stallion. You can + expect him landed in Melbourne in about eight weeks from now. We + tried Runaway this morning and Brant says he is like his + mother—as 'fast as the wind.'"</p> + + <br /> + + <p class="h4">THE END</p> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + + <p class="h1">Popular Copyright Novels</p> + + <p class="h2"><i>AT MODERATE PRICES</i></p> + + <p class="h3">Ask Your Dealer for a Complete List of + <br /> + A. L. Burt Company's Popular Copyright Fiction + </p> + + <b>Abner Daniel.</b> By Will N. Harben. + <br /> + <b>Adventures of Gerard.</b> By A. Conan Doyle. + <br /> + <b>Adventures of a Modest Man.</b> By Robert W. Chambers. + <br /> + <b>Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.</b> By A. Conan Doyle. + <br /> + <b>Adventures of Jimmie Dale, The.</b> By Frank L. Packard. + <br /> + <b>After House, The.</b> By Mary Roberts Rinehart. + <br /> + <b>Alisa Paige.</b> By Robert W. Chambers. + <br /> + <b>Alton of Somasco.</b> By Harold Bindloss. + <br /> + <b>A Man's Man.</b> By Ian Hay. + <br /> + <b>Amateur Gentleman, The.</b> By Jeffery Farnol. + <br /> + <b>Andrew The Glad.</b> By Maria Thompson Daviess. + <br /> + <b>Ann Boyd.</b> By Will N. Harben. + <br /> + <b>Anna the Adventuress.</b> By E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Another Man's Shoes.</b> By Victor Bridges. + <br /> + <b>Ariadne of Allan Water.</b> By Sidney McCall. + <br /> + <b>Armchair at the Inn, The.</b> By F. Hopkinson Smith. + <br /> + <b>Around Old Chester.</b> By Margaret Deland. + <br /> + <b>Athalie.</b> By Robert W. Chambers. + <br /> + <b>At the Mercy of Tiberius.</b> By Augusta Evans Wilson. + <br /> + <b>Auction Block, The.</b> By Rex Beach. + <br /> + <b>Aunt Jane.</b> By Jeanette Lee. + <br /> + <b>Aunt Jane of Kentucky.</b> By Eliza C. Hall. + <br /> + <b>Awakening of Helena Richie.</b> By Margaret Deland. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Bambi.</b> By Marjorie Benton Cooke. + <br /> + <b>Bandbox, The.</b> By Louis Joseph Vance. + <br /> + <b>Barbara of the Snows.</b> By Harry Irving Green. + <br /> + <b>Bar 20.</b> By Clarence E. Mulford. + <br /> + <b>Bar 20 Days.</b> By Clarence E. Mulford. + <br /> + <b>Barrier, The.</b> By Rex Beach. + <br /> + <b>Beasts of Tarzan, The.</b> By Edgar Rice Burroughs. + <br /> + <b>Beechy.</b> By Bettina Von Hutten. + <br /> + <b>Bella Donna.</b> By Robert Hichens. + <br /> + <b>Beloved Vagabond, The.</b> By Wm. J. Locke. + <br /> + <b>Beltane the Smith.</b> By Jeffery Farnol. + <br /> + <b>Ben Blair.</b> By Will Lillibridge. + <br /> + <b>Betrayal, The.</b> By E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Better Man, The.</b> By Cyrus Townsend Brady. + <br /> + <b>Beulah.</b> (Ill. Ed.) By Augusta J. Evans. + <br /> + <b>Beyond the Frontier.</b> By Randall Parrish. + <br /> + <b>Black Is White.</b> By George Barr McCutcheon. + <br /> + <b>Blind Man's Eyes, The.</b> By Wm. MacHarg & Edwin Balmer. + <br /> + <b>Bob Hampton of Placer.</b> By Randall Parrish. + <br /> + <b>Bob, Son of Battle.</b> By Alfred Ollivant. + <br /> + <b>Britton of the Seventh.</b> By Cyrus Townsend Brady. + <br /> + <b>Broad Highway, The.</b> By Jeffery Farnol. + <br /> + <b>Bronze Bell, The.</b> By Louis Joseph Vance. + <br /> + <b>Bronze Eagle, The.</b> By Baroness Orczy. + <br /> + <b>Buck Peters, Ranchman.</b> By Clarence E. Mulford. + <br /> + <b>Business of Life, The.</b> By Robert W. Chambers. + <br /> + <b>By Right of Purchase.</b> By Harold Bindloss. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Cabbages and Kings.</b> By O. Henry. + <br /> + <b>Calling of Dan Matthews, The.</b> By Harold Bell Wright. + <br /> + <b>Cape Cod Stories.</b> By Joseph C. Lincoln. + <br /> + <b>Cap'n Dan's Daughter.</b> By Joseph C. Lincoln. + <br /> + <b>Cap'n Eri.</b> By Joseph C. Lincoln. + <br /> + <b>Cap'n Warren's Wards.</b> By Joseph C. Lincoln. + <br /> + <b>Cardigan.</b> By Robert W. Chambers. + <br /> + <b>Carpet From Bagdad, The.</b> By Harold MacGrath. + <br /> + <b>Cease Firing.</b> By Mary Johnson. + <br /> + <b>Chain of Evidence, A.</b> By Carolyn Wells. + <br /> + <b>Chief Legatee, The.</b> By Anna Katharine Green. + <br /> + <b>Cleek of Scotland Yard.</b> By T. W. Hanshew. + <br /> + <b>Clipped Wings.</b> By Rupert Hughes. + <br /> + <b>Coast of Adventure, The.</b> By Harold Bindloss. + <br /> + <b>Colonial Free Lance, A.</b> By Chauncey C. Hotchkiss. + <br /> + <b>Coming of Cassidy,</b> By Clarence E. Mulford. + <br /> + <b>Coming of the Law, The.</b> By Chas. A. Seltzer. + <br /> + <b>Conquest of Canaan, The.</b> By Booth Tarkington. + <br /> + <b>Conspirators, The.</b> By Robt. W. Chambers. + <br /> + <b>Counsel for the Defense.</b> By Leroy Scott. + <br /> + <b>Court of Inquiry, A.</b> By Grace S. Richmond. + <br /> + <b>Crime Doctor, The.</b> By E. W. Hornumg. + <br /> + <b>Crimson Gardenia, The, and Other Tales of Adventure.</b> By Rex Beach. + <br /> + <b>Cross Currents.</b> By Eleanor H. Porter. + <br /> + <b>Cry in the Wilderness, A.</b> By Mary E. Waller. + <br /> + <b>Cynthia of the Minute.</b> By Louis Jos. Vance. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Dark Hollow, The.</b> By Anna Katharine Green. + <br /> + <b>Dave's Daughter.</b> By Patience Bevier Cole. + <br /> + <b>Day of Days, The.</b> By Louis Joseph Vance. + <br /> + <b>Day of the Dog, The.</b> By George Barr McCutcheon. + <br /> + <b>Depot Master, The.</b> By Joseph C. Lincoln. + <br /> + <b>Desired Woman, The.</b> By Will N. Harben. + <br /> + <b>Destroying Angel, The.</b> By Louis Joseph Vance. + <br /> + <b>Dixie Hart.</b> By Will N. Harben. + <br /> + <b>Double Traitor, The.</b> By E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Drusilla With a Million.</b> By Elizabeth Cooper. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Eagle of the Empire, The.</b> By Cyrus Townsend Brady. + <br /> + <b>El Dorado.</b> By Baroness Orczy. + <br /> + <b>Elusive Isabel.</b> By Jacques Futrelle. + <br /> + <b>Empty Pockets.</b> By Rupert Hughes. + <br /> + <b>Enchanted Hat, The.</b> By Harold MacGrath. + <br /> + <b>Eye of Dread, The.</b> By Payne Erskine. + <br /> + <b>Eyes of the World, The.</b> By Harold Bell Wright. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Felix O'Day.</b> By F. Hopkinson Smith. + <br /> + <b>50-40 or Fight.</b> By Emerson Hough. + <br /> + <b>Fighting Chance, The.</b> By Robert W. Chambers. + <br /> + <b>Financier, The.</b> By Theodore Dreiser. + <br /> + <b>Flamsted Quarries.</b> By Mary E. Waller. + <br /> + <b>Flying Mercury, The.</b> By Eleanor M. Ingram. + <br /> + <b>For a Maiden Brave.</b> By Chauncey C. Hotchkiss. + <br /> + <b>Four Million, The.</b> By O. Henry. + <br /> + <b>Four Pool's Mystery, The.</b> By Jean Webster. + <br /> + <b>Fruitful Vine, The.</b> By Robert Hichens. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Get-Rich-Quick Wallingford.</b> By George Randolph Chester. + <br /> + <b>Gilbert Neal.</b> By Will N. Harben. + <br /> + <b>Girl From His Town, The.</b> By Marie Van Vorst. + <br /> + <b>Girl of the Blue Ridge, A.</b> By Payne Erskine. + <br /> + <b>Girl Who Lived in the Woods, The.</b> By Marjorie Benton Cook. + <br /> + <b>Girl Who Won, The.</b> By Beth Ellis. + <br /> + <b>Glory of Clementina, The.</b> By Wm. J. Locke. + <br /> + <b>Glory of the Conquered, The.</b> By Susan Glaspell. + <br /> + <b>God's Country and the Woman.</b> By James Oliver Curwood. + <br /> + <b>God's Good Man.</b> By Marie Corelli. + <br /> + <b>Going Some.</b> By Rex Beach. + <br /> + <b>Gold Bag, The.</b> By Carolyn Wells. + <br /> + <b>Golden Slipper, The.</b> By Anna Katharine Green. + <br /> + <b>Golden Web, The.</b> By Anthony Partridge. + <br /> + <b>Gordon Craig.</b> By Randall Parrish. + <br /> + <b>Greater Love Hath No Man.</b> By Frank L. Packard. + <br /> + <b>Greyfriars Bobby.</b> By Eleanor Atkinson. + <br /> + <b>Guests of Hercules, The.</b> By C. N. & A. M. Williamson. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Halcyone.</b> By Elinor Glyn. + <br /> + <b>Happy Island (Sequel to Uncle William).</b> By Jeannette Lee. + <br /> + <b>Havoc.</b> By E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Heart of Philura, The.</b> By Florence Kingsley. + <br /> + <b>Heart of the Desert, The.</b> By Honoré Willsie. + <br /> + <b>Heart of the Hills, The.</b> By John Fox, Jr. + <br /> + <b>Heart of the Sunset.</b> By Rex Beach. + <br /> + <b>Heart of Thunder Mountain, The.</b> By Elfrid A. Bingham. + <br /> + <b>Heather-Moon, The.</b> By C. N. and A. M. Williamson. + <br /> + <b>Her Weight in Gold.</b> By Geo. B. McCutcheon. + <br /> + <b>Hidden Children, The.</b> By Robert W. Chambers. + <br /> + <b>Hoosier Volunteer, The.</b> By Kate and Virgil D. Boyles. + <br /> + <b>Hopalong Cassidy.</b> By Clarence E. Mulford. + <br /> + <b>How Leslie Loved.</b> By Anne Warner. + <br /> + <b>Hugh Wynne, Free Quaker.</b> By S. Weir Mitchell, M.D. + <br /> + <b>Husbands of Edith, The.</b> By George Barr McCutcheon. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>I Conquered.</b> By Harold Titus. + <br /> + <b>Illustrious Prince, The.</b> By E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Idols.</b> By William J. Locke. + <br /> + <b>Indifference of Juliet, The.</b> By Grace S. Richmond. + <br /> + <b>Inez.</b> (Ill. Ed.) By Augusta J. Evans. + <br /> + <b>Infelice.</b> By Augusta Evans Wilson. + <br /> + <b>In Her Own Right.</b> By John Reed Scott. + <br /> + <b>Initials Only.</b> By Anna Katharine Green. + <br /> + <b>In Another Girl's Shoes.</b> By Berta Ruck. + <br /> + <b>Inner Law, The.</b> By Will N. Harben. + <br /> + <b>Innocent.</b> By Marie Corelli. + <br /> + <b>Insidious Dr. Fu-Manchu, The.</b> By Sax Rohmer. + <br /> + <b>In the Brooding Wild.</b> By Ridgwell Cullum. + <br /> + <b>Intrigues, The.</b> By Harold Bindloss. + <br /> + <b>Iron Trail, The.</b> By Rex Beach. + <br /> + <b>Iron Woman, The.</b> By Margaret Deland. + <br /> + <b>Ishmael.</b> (Ill.) By Mrs. Southworth. + <br /> + <b>Island of Regeneration, The.</b> By Cyrus Townsend Brady. + <br /> + <b>Island of Surprise, The.</b> By Cyrus Townsend Brady. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Japonette.</b> By Robert W. Chambers. + <br /> + <b>Jean of the Lazy A.</b> By B. M. Bower. + <br /> + <b>Jeanne of the Marshes.</b> By E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Jennie Gerhardt.</b> By Theodore Dreiser. + <br /> + <b>Joyful Heatherby.</b> By Payne Erskine. + <br /> + <b>Jude the Obscure.</b> By Thomas Hardy. + <br /> + <b>Judgment House, The.</b> By Gilbert Parker. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Keeper of the Door, The.</b> By Ethel M. Dell. + <br /> + <b>Keith of the Border.</b> By Randall Parrish. + <br /> + <b>Kent Knowles: Quahaug.</b> By Joseph C. Lincoln. + <br /> + <b>King Spruce.</b> By Holman Day. + <br /> + <b>Kingdom of Earth, The.</b> By Anthony Partridge. + <br /> + <b>Knave of Diamonds, The.</b> By Ethel M. Dell. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Lady and the Pirate, The.</b> By Emerson Hough. + <br /> + <b>Lady Merton, Colonist.</b> By Mrs. Humphrey Ward. + <br /> + <b>Landloper, The.</b> By Holman Day. + <br /> + <b>Land of Long Ago, The.</b> By Eliza Calvert Hall. + <br /> + <b>Last Try, The.</b> By John Reed Scott. + <br /> + <b>Last Shot, The.</b> By Frederick N. Palmer. + <br /> + <b>Last Trail, The.</b> By Zane Grey. + <br /> + <b>Laughing Cavalier, The.</b> By Baroness Orczy. + <br /> + <b>Law Breakers, The.</b> By Ridgwell Cullum. + <br /> + <b>Lighted Way, The.</b> By E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Lightning Conductor Discovers America, The.</b> By C. N. & A. M. Williamson. + <br /> + <b>Lin McLean.</b> By Owen Wister. + <br /> + <b>Little Brown Jug at Kildare, The.</b> By Meredith Nicholson. + <br /> + <b>Lone Wolf, The.</b> By Louis Joseph Vance. + <br /> + <b>Long Roll, The.</b> By Mary Johnson. + <br /> + <b>Lonesome Land.</b> By B. M. Bower. + <br /> + <b>Lord Loveland Discovers America.</b> By C. N. and A. M. Williamson. + <br /> + <b>Lost Ambassador.</b> By E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Lost Prince, The.</b> By Frances Hodgson Burnett. + <br /> + <b>Lost Road, The.</b> By Richard Harding Davis. + <br /> + <b>Love Under Fire.</b> By Randall Parrish. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Macaria.</b> (Ill. Ed.) By Augusta J. Evans. + <br /> + <b>Maids of Paradise, The.</b> By Robert W. Chambers. + <br /> + <b>Maid of the Forest, The.</b> By Randall Parrish. + <br /> + <b>Maid of the Whispering Hills, The.</b> By Vingie E. Roe. + <br /> + <b>Making of Bobby Burnit, The.</b> By Randolph Chester. + <br /> + <b>Making Money.</b> By Owen Johnson. + <br /> + <b>Mam' Linda.</b> By Will N. Harben. + <br /> + <b>Man Outside, The.</b> By Wyndham Martyn. + <br /> + <b>Man Trail, The.</b> By Henry Oyen. + <br /> + <b>Marriage.</b> By H. G. Wells. + <br /> + <b>Marriage of Theodora, The.</b> By Mollie Elliott Seawell. + <br /> + <b>Mary Moreland.</b> By Marie Van Vorst. + <br /> + <b>Master Mummer, The.</b> By E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Max.</b> By Katherine Cecil Thurston. + <br /> + <b>Maxwell Mystery, The.</b> By Caroline Wells. + <br /> + <b>Mediator, The.</b> By Roy Norton. + <br /> + <b>Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes.</b> By A. Conan Doyle. + <br /> + <b>Mischief Maker, The.</b> By E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Miss Gibbie Gault.</b> By Kate Langley Bosher. + <br /> + <b>Miss Philura's Wedding Gown.</b> By Florence Morse Kingsley. + <br /> + <b>Molly McDonald.</b> By Randall Parrish. + <br /> + <b>Money Master, The.</b> By Gilbert Parker. + <br /> + <b>Money Moon, The.</b> By Jeffery Farnol. + <br /> + <b>Motor Maid, The.</b> By C. N. and A. M. Williamson. + <br /> + <b>Moth, The.</b> By William Dana Orcutt. + <br /> + <b>Mountain Girl, The.</b> By Payne Erskine. + <br /> + <b>Mr. Bingle.</b> By George Barr McCutcheon. + <br /> + <b>Mr. Grex of Monte Carlo.</b> By E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Mr. Pratt.</b> By Joseph C. Lincoln. + <br /> + <b>Mr. Pratt's Patients.</b> By Joseph C. Lincoln. + <br /> + <b>Mrs. Balfame.</b> By Gertrude Atherton. + <br /> + <b>Mrs. Red Pepper.</b> By Grace S. Richmond. + <br /> + <b>My Demon Motor Boat.</b> By George Fitch. + <br /> + <b>My Friend the Chauffeur.</b> By C. N. and A. M. Williamson. + <br /> + <b>My Lady Caprice.</b> By Jeffery Farnol. + <br /> + <b>My Lady of Doubt.</b> By Randall Parrish. + <br /> + <b>My Lady of the North.</b> By Randall Parrish. + <br /> + <b>My Lady of the South.</b> By Randall Parrish. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Ne'er-Do-Well, The.</b> By Rex Beach. + <br /> + <b>Net, The.</b> By Rex Beach. + <br /> + <b>New Clarion.</b> By Will N. Harben. + <br /> + <b>Night Riders, The.</b> By Ridgwell Cullum. + <br /> + <b>Night Watches.</b> By W. W. Jacobs. + <br /> + <b>Nobody.</b> By Louis Joseph Vance. + <br /> + <br /> + <b>Once Upon a Time.</b> By Richard Harding Davis. + <br /> + <b>One Braver Thing.</b> By Richard Dehan. + <br /> + <b>One Way Trail, The.</b> By Ridgwell Cullum. + <br /> + <b>Otherwise Phyllis.</b> By Meredith Nicholson. + <br /> + <br /> + <b>Pardners.</b> By Rex Beach. + <br /> + <b>Parrott & Co.</b> By Harold MacGrath. + <br /> + <b>Partners of the Tide.</b> By Joseph C. Lincoln. + <br /> + <b>Passionate Friends, The.</b> By H. G. Wells. + <br /> + <b>Patrol of the Sun Dance Trail, The.</b> By Ralph Connor. + <br /> + <b>Paul Anthony, Christian.</b> By Hiram W. Hayes. + <br /> + <b>Perch of the Devil.</b> By Gertrude Atherton. + <br /> + <b>Peter Ruff.</b> By E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>People's Man, A.</b> By E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Phillip Steele.</b> By James Oliver Curwood. + <br /> + <b>Pidgin Island.</b> By Harold MacGrath. + <br /> + <b>Place of Honeymoon, The.</b> By Harold MacGrath. + <br /> + <b>Plunderer, The.</b> By Roy Norton. + <br /> + <b>Pole Baker.</b> By Will N. Harben. + <br /> + <b>Pool of Flame, The.</b> By Louis Joseph Vance. + <br /> + <b>Port of Adventure, The.</b> By C. N. and A. M. Williamson. + <br /> + <b>Postmaster, The.</b> By Joseph C. Lincoln. + <br /> + <b>Power and the Glory, The.</b> By Grace McGowan Cooke. + <br /> + <b>Prairie Wife, The.</b> By Arthur Stringer. + <br /> + <b>Price of Love, The.</b> By Arnold Bennett. + <br /> + <b>Price of the Prairie, The.</b> By Margaret Hill McCarter. + <br /> + <b>Prince of Sinners.</b> By A. E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Princess Passes, The.</b> By C. N. and A. M. Williamson. + <br /> + <b>Princess Virginia, The.</b> By C. N. and A. M. Williamson. + <br /> + + <b>Promise, The.</b> By J. B. Hendryx. + <br /> + <b>Purple Parasol, The.</b> By Geo. B. McCutcheon. + <br /> + <br /> + <b>Ranch at the Wolverine, The.</b> By B. M. Bower. + <br /> + <b>Ranching for Sylvia.</b> By Harold Bindloss. + <br /> + <b>Real Man, The.</b> By Francis Lynde. + <br /> + <b>Reason Why, The.</b> By Elinor Glyn. + <br /> + <b>Red Cross Girl, The.</b> By Richard Harding Davis. + <br /> + <b>Red Mist, The.</b> By Randall Parrish. + <br /> + <b>Redemption of Kenneth Galt, The.</b> By Will N. Harben. + <br /> + <b>Red Lane, The.</b> By Holman Day. + <br /> + <b>Red Mouse, The.</b> By Wm. Hamilton Osborne. + <br /> + <b>Red Pepper Burns.</b> By Grace S. Richmond. + <br /> + <b>Rejuvenation of Aunt Mary, The.</b> By Anne Warner. + <br /> + <b>Return of Tarzan, The.</b> By Edgar Rice Burroughs. + <br /> + <b>Riddle of Night, The.</b> By Thomas W. Hanshew. + <br /> + <b>Rim of the Desert, The.</b> By Ada Woodruff Anderson. + <br /> + <b>Rise of Roscoe Paine, The.</b> By J. C. Lincoln. + <br /> + <b>Road to Providence, The.</b> By Maria Thompson Daviess. + <br /> + <b>Robinetta.</b> By Kate Douglas Wiggin. + <br /> + <b>Rocks of Valpré, The.</b> By Ethel M. Dell. + <br /> + <b>Rogue by Compulsion, A.</b> By Victor Bridges. + <br /> + <b>Rose in the Ring, The.</b> By George Barr McCutcheon. + <br /> + <b>Rose of the World.</b> By Agnes and Egerton Castle. + <br /> + <b>Rose of Old Harpeth, The.</b> By Maria Thompson Daviess. + <br /> + <b>Round the Corner in Gay Street.</b> By Grace S. Richmond. + <br /> + <b>Routledge Rides Alone.</b> By Will L. Comfort. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>St. Elmo.</b> (Ill. Ed.) By Augusta J. Evans. + <br /> + <b>Salamander, The.</b> By Owen Johnson. + <br /> + <b>Scientific Sprague.</b> By Francis Lynde. + <br /> + <b>Second Violin, The.</b> By Grace S. Richmond. + <br /> + <b>Secret of the Reef, The.</b> By Harold Bindloss. + <br /> + <b>Secret History.</b> By C. N. & A. M. Williamson. + <br /> + <b>Self-Raised.</b> (Ill.) By Mrs. Southworth. + <br /> + <b>Septimus.</b> By William J. Locke. + <br /> + <b>Set in Silver.</b> By C. N. and A. M. Williamson. + <br /> + <b>Seven Darlings, The.</b> By Gouverneur Morris. + <br /> + <b>Shea of the Irish Brigade.</b> By Randall Parrish. + <br /> + <b>Shepherd of the Hills, The.</b> By Harold Bell Wright. + <br /> + <b>Sheriff of Dyke Hole, The.</b> By Ridgwell Cullum. + <br /> + <b>Sign at Six, The.</b> By Stewart Edw. White. + <br /> + <b>Silver Horde, The.</b> By Rex Beach. + <br /> + <b>Simon the Jester.</b> By William J. Locke. + <br /> + <b>Siren of the Snows, A.</b> By Stanley Shaw. + <br /> + <b>Sir Richard Calmady.</b> By Lucas Malet. + <br /> + <b>Sixty-First Second, The.</b> By Owen Johnson. + <br /> + <b>Slim Princess, The.</b> By George Ade. + <br /> + <b>Soldier of the Legion, A.</b> By C. N. and A. M. Williamson. + <br /> + <b>Somewhere in France.</b> By Richard Harding Davis. + <br /> + <b>Speckled Bird, A.</b> By Augusta Evans Wilson. + <br /> + <b>Spirit in Prison, A.</b> By Robert Hichens. + <br /> + <b>Spirit of the Border, The.</b> By Zane Grey. + <br /> + <b>Splendid Chance, The.</b> By Mary Hastings Bradley. + <br /> + <b>Spoilers, The.</b> By Rex Beach. + <br /> + <b>Spragge's Canyon.</b> By Horace Annesley Vachell. + <br /> + <b>Still Jim.</b> By Honoré Willsie. + <br /> + <b>Story of Foss River Ranch, The.</b> By Ridgwell Cullum. + <br /> + <b>Story of Marco, The.</b> By Eleanor H. Porter. + <br /> + <b>Strange Disappearance, A.</b> By Anna Katherine Green. + <br /> + <b>Strawberry Acres.</b> By Grace S. Richmond. + <br /> + <b>Streets of Ascalon, The.</b> By Robert W. Chambers. + <br /> + <b>Sunshine Jane.</b> By Anne Warner. + <br /> + <b>Susan Clegg and Her Friend Mrs. Lathrop.</b> By Anne Warner. + <br /> + <b>Sword of the Old Frontier, A.</b> By Randall Parrish. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Tales of Sherlock Holmes.</b> By A. Conan Doyle. + <br /> + <b>Taming of Zenas Henry, The.</b> By Sara Ware Bassett. + <br /> + <b>Tarzan of the Apes.</b> By Edgar R. Burroughs. + <br /> + <b>Taste of Apples, The.</b> By Jennette Lee. + <br /> + <b>Tempting of Tavernake, The.</b> By E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Tess of the D'Urbervilles.</b> By Thomas Hardy. + <br /> + <b>Thankful Inheritance.</b> By Joseph C. Lincoln. + <br /> + <b>That Affair Next Door.</b> By Anna Katharine Green. + <br /> + <b>That Printer of Udell's.</b> By Harold Bell Wright. + <br /> + <b>Their Yesterdays.</b> By Harold Bell Wright. + <br /> + <b>The Side of the Angels.</b> By Basil King. + <br /> + <b>Throwback, The.</b> By Alfred Henry Lewis. + <br /> + <b>Thurston of Orchard Valley.</b> By Harold Bindloss. + <br /> + <b>To M. L. G.; or, He Who Passed.</b> By Anon. + <br /> + <b>Trail of the Axe, The.</b> By Ridgwell Cullum. + <br /> + <b>Trail of Yesterday, The.</b> By Chas. A. Seltzer. + <br /> + <b>Treasure of Heaven, The.</b> By Marie Corelli. + <br /> + <b>Truth Dexter.</b> By Sidney McCall. + <br /> + <b>T. Tembarom.</b> By Frances Hodgson Burnett. + <br /> + <b>Turbulent Duchess, The.</b> By Percy J. Brebner. + <br /> + <b>Twenty-fourth of June, The.</b> By Grace S. Richmond. + <br /> + <b>Twins of Suffering Creek, The.</b> By Ridgwell Cullum. + <br /> + <b>Two-Gun Man, The.</b> By Charles A. Seltzer. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Uncle William.</b> By Jeannette Lee. + <br /> + <b>Under the Country Sky.</b> By Grace S. Richmond. + <br /> + <b>Unknown Mr. Kent, The.</b> By Roy Norton. + <br /> + "<b>Unto Caesar.</b>" By Baronett Orczy. + <br /> + <b>Up From Slavery.</b> By Booker T. Washington. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Valiants of Virginia, The.</b> By Hallie Erminie Rives. + <br /> + <b>Valley of Fear, The.</b> By Sir A. Conan Doyle. + <br /> + <b>Vane of the Timberlands.</b> By Harold Bindloss. + <br /> + <b>Vanished Messenger, The.</b> By F. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Vashti.</b> By Augusta Evans Wilson. + <br /> + <b>Village of Vagabonds, A.</b> By F. Berkley Smith. + <br /> + <b>Visioning, The.</b> By Susan Glaspell. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>Wall of Men, A.</b> By Margaret H. McCarter. + <br /> + <b>Wallingford in His Prime.</b> By George Randolph Chester. + <br /> + <b>Wanted—A Chaperon.</b> By Paul Leicester Ford. + <br /> + <b>Wanted—A Matchmaker.</b> By Paul Leicester Ford. + <br /> + <b>Watchers of the Plains, The.</b> By Ridgwell Cullum. + <br /> + <b>Way Home, The.</b> By Basil King. + <br /> + <b>Way of an Eagle, The.</b> By E. M. Dell. + <br /> + <b>Way of a Man, The.</b> By Emerson Hough. + <br /> + <b>Way of the Strong, The.</b> By Ridgwell Cullum. + <br /> + <b>Way of These Women, The.</b> By E. Phillips Oppenheim. + <br /> + <b>Weavers, The.</b> By Gilbert Parker. + <br /> + <b>West Wind, The.</b> By Cyrus T. Brady. + <br /> + <b>When Wilderness Was King.</b> By Randolph Parrish. + <br /> + <b>Where the Trail Divides.</b> By Will Lillibridge. + <br /> + <b>Where There's a Will.</b> By Mary R. Rinehart. + <br /> + <b>White Sister, The.</b> By Marion Crawford. + <br /> + <b>White Waterfall, The.</b> By James Francis Dwyer. + <br /> + <b>Who Goes There?</b> By Robert W. Chambers. + <br /> + <b>Window at the White Cat, The.</b> By Mary Roberts Rinehart. + <br /> + <b>Winning of Barbara Worth, The.</b> By Harold Bell Wright. + <br /> + <b>Winning the Wilderness.</b> By Margaret Hill McCarter. + <br /> + <b>With Juliet in England.</b> By Grace S. Richmond. + <br /> + <b>Witness for the Defense, The.</b> By A. E. W. Mason. + <br /> + <b>Woman in Question, The.</b> By John Reed Scott. + <br /> + <b>Woman Haters, The.</b> By Joseph C. Lincoln. + <br /> + <b>Woman Thou Gavest Me, The.</b> By Hall Caine. + <br /> + <b>Woodcarver of 'Lympus, The.</b> By Mary E. Waller. + <br /> + <b>Woodfire in No. 3, The.</b> By F. Hopkinson Smith. + <br /> + <b>Wooing of Rosamond Fayre, The.</b> By Berta Ruck. + + <br /> <br /> + + <b>You Never Know Your Luck.</b> By Gilbert Parker. + <br /> + <b>Younger Set, The.</b> By Robert W. Chambers. + <br /> + + <hr class="chapter" /> + <br /> + + <div class="trnote"> + <p class="cen"> + <a name="TN" id="TN"> + </a> + Typographical errors corrected in text: + <span class="totoc"> + <a title="Return to Table of Contents" href="#toc"> + ToC + </a> + </span> + </p> + + <p class="noin">Minor punctuation errors corrected without notice.</p> + + <p class="noin"><a name="Error020Ref" id="Error020Ref"></a> p. 27 "Plant" + amended to "Planet". + <br /> + <a class="correction" href="#Error020">Return</a></p> + + <p class="noin"><a name="Error030Ref" id="Error030Ref"></a> p. 107 It + appears that the word "that" has been omitted in the phrase "it + was his money gave Tobasco the chance to marry her". Text was + amended. + <br /> + <a class="correction" href="#Error030">Return</a></p> + + <p class="noin"><a name="Error040Ref" id="Error040Ref"></a> p. 147 "wth" + amended to "with" in "I had wrestled wth the brute". + <br /> + <a class="correction" href="#Error040">Return</a></p> + <br /> + + </div> + + </div> + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Fast as the Wind, by Nat Gould + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FAST AS THE WIND *** + +***** This file should be named 35618-h.htm or 35618-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/3/5/6/1/35618/ + +Produced by Matthew Wheaton, Suzanne Shell and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This +file was produced from images generously made available +by The Internet Archive/American Libraries.) + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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