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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of I've Been Thinking;, by Azel Stevens Roe
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org/license
+
+
+Title: I've Been Thinking;
+       or, the Secret of Success
+
+Author: Azel Stevens Roe
+
+Release Date: April 16, 2012 [EBook #39461]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK I'VE BEEN THINKING; ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Delphine Lettau, Mary Meehan and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                             I'VE BEEN THINKING;
+
+                                     OR,
+
+                           _THE SECRET OF SUCCESS_.
+
+                                 BY A. S. ROE,
+
+                          AUTHOR OF "LOOKING ROUND."
+
+    WARD, LOCK AND CO.
+    LONDON, NEW YORK, AND MELBOURNE
+
+
+
+
+I'VE BEEN THINKING.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+
+'Where is the use, Jim, of our working and working to raise so many
+vegetables? we never can use them all. Mother said last year there was
+no necessity for raising more than we could eat, and now this potato
+patch is larger than ever.' And as he said this, the little speaker
+threw himself upon the soft ground, struck his hoe into the soil, and
+looked up at his brother to see how he would take it.
+
+Jim, as he was called, rested a moment on his hoe, eyed his brother
+closely, and then, with something of a smile, replied:
+
+'Come, Ned, don't give up to lazy feelings; the things will do somebody
+good; and you know my father always told us, that it was better to be at
+work, even if we got no pay for it: and besides, I have been thinking of
+a plan by which we may do something with what we raise, if we have more
+than we can use.'
+
+'What plan, Jim?' and Ned raised himself from his prostrate position,
+and sitting with both hands resting on the ground, looked very
+inquiringly at his brother.
+
+'Why, suppose we should try to sell some of the things we raise?'
+
+'Try to _sell_, Jim? ha, ha, ha!' and the little fellow threw himself
+upon the ground, and indulged in a hearty fit of laughter. Jim laughed a
+little himself, resuming his work, and hauling the dirt up faster around
+the potatoes he was hilling.
+
+'Come, Ned, you had better go to work; the sun will soon be down, and we
+shall not get our task done.'
+
+'Well, tell me then _where_ you are going to sell the things; that's
+all.'
+
+'I shall say no more about it now, at any rate; you will only laugh at
+it. So come, take up your row.'
+
+Ned, perceiving that Jim was working upon both rows, was ashamed to
+waste any more time, and inspirited by his brother's kindness, sprang to
+his feet, and the two boys worked away with alacrity.
+
+The sun had gone down, the cow had been milked and the pigs fed, the
+hens had all gone to roost, and the two brothers had sauntered towards
+the river which ran before their dwelling, and taken a seat together on
+a rock under the branches of a huge oak, of which there were several
+around the premises. Before them lay, _first_; a gentle slope of short
+greensward, part of what was known as the town commons, where every
+body's cow, or pig, or goose, could roam unmolested; beyond _this_ lay a
+smooth sandy shore, washed by a river, whose waters had not far to go
+before they mingled with the ocean, or with a large arm of the ocean;
+along the shore, as far as the eye could reach, was the same, or nearly
+the same, strip of green commons, dotted here and there with small rude
+dwellings, the abodes of a few fishermen, who existed on the products of
+the river that rolled before them; a few small boats lay drawn up on the
+shore, and occasionally a row of stakes running out into the water, told
+where the fishermen had planted their nets. The only house in sight that
+had any appearance of comfort was the one these brothers called their
+home--a plain one-story building, with a little wing to it; a paling ran
+in front and around three sides, enclosing the patch of ground used as
+their garden; a few fine old trees threw their shadows over and around
+the premises, adding much to the domestic aspect of the place; a
+pleasant country spread back from the river, and in the distance could
+be seen here and there the chimney top, or the peaked roof of some
+obscure dwelling, making no greater pretensions than those described.
+
+'I wonder what Sam Oakum is doing along shore there?'
+
+'Where, Jim?'
+
+'Down by that clump of rocks. Don't you see him?'
+
+'Oh, he is picking up horse-shoes; he has not fed his pigs yet; I
+suppose his father is drunk to-day, and the pigs are squealing, and Sam
+has gone to look for something for them to eat; poor fellow!'
+
+'Sam is a clever fellow; I do wish his father would act differently. I
+cannot see what is to become of him. They who have no father are bad
+enough off, but I think poor Sam is worse off still.'
+
+'Do you think, Jim, if father had lived, that we should have stayed
+here?'
+
+'I cannot say--I suppose we should. Why do you ask that question, Ned?'
+
+'Because I think it is a poor place to get a living in; nor do I see how
+we are going to get along here; it is hard hoeing for it any how.'
+
+'_Hard hoeing?_ I don't think so, Ned; it is a great deal harder doing
+nothing.'
+
+'Perhaps it is; I should like to try it once, and see.'
+
+'I believe it to be true what father often said, that "hard work made
+short nights and sweet food," and if we should give up work, what would
+become of mother and Ellen?'
+
+'I will work for them, Jim, as long as I have got any fingers to work
+with; but we may hoe and hoe here all our lives, and what will it amount
+to?'
+
+'I have been thinking a great deal about that, Ned, and therefore I
+spoke to you as I did to-day when you laughed so at me.'
+
+'Well, tell me _now_, Jim; I promise you I will not laugh any more.'
+
+'I have been thinking for some time, just as you say, Ned, "that we must
+hoe and hoe all our lives," and without much hope of making our
+condition any better.'
+
+'Why you see, Jim, if there was any one here to buy what we raised, more
+than we wanted to eat, there would be some use in raising all we could.'
+
+'I know it, Ned; and the great trouble is, that the folks all round here
+are as poor as we are, and the most of them not so well off; they live
+from hand to mouth, and would never want any thing we could raise.'
+
+'Why, I suppose they would like our strawberries and peaches well
+enough, if we would give them away; but they will never take the trouble
+to raise any for themselves, and I am very sure they will never have any
+money to buy them with.'
+
+'That is it, Ned; you are right now. Father has taught us to raise such
+things, you know, and if we had any way to dispose of them, we could
+raise many more than we do.'
+
+'Then you would see how I could work, Jim, and we would stuff the old
+garden full of every thing.'
+
+'I have been thinking--now, you won't laugh again?'
+
+'No, I won't, I promise you.'
+
+'Well, I have been thinking--you know, just over the other side of the
+island is that large fort; sometimes there is quite a company of
+soldiers, and always some officers and their families there; the grounds
+about there are so rocky and sandy, that they cannot raise any thing if
+they would; they no doubt get their provisions in large quantities from
+a distance, but the officers and their families might like some of our
+fruits and vegetables, as we could supply them fresh; the only thing is,
+how to get there?'
+
+'Yes, Jim, that would be the trouble; we have no boat, and we should not
+know how to manage one if we had it, and mother would be so afraid to
+let us go such a distance on the water.'
+
+'I have thought of these difficulties, Ned, but I believe we can get
+along with them. I know it will be difficult getting to the fort
+sometimes, in rough weather; and then, as you say, we have no boat, and
+we should not be able to manage one if we had it; but how would it do to
+ask Sam Oakum to join us?'
+
+'Sam Oakum is the very fellow, just the very fellow; but stop, Jim, Sam
+has not got a boat.'
+
+'I know that; but no doubt he can borrow one for the first trip, and
+then, if our plan should succeed, perhaps we could hire it until we were
+able to buy one for ourselves.'
+
+Ned could stand it no longer; he jumped from the rock, clapped his
+hands, huzzaed, caught hold of Jowler, who had sprung up, and was
+barking away in answer to Ned's huzza, and down they went on the green
+sward together.
+
+'Don't go crazy, Ned, we may be disappointed after all; mother may not
+give her consent, Sam may be unwilling to go, or not able to get a
+boat.'
+
+'Do stop, Jim, bringing up difficulties; I don't want to hear them now.
+I know mother will let us go, and I know Sam will like dearly to join
+us; he can get a boat, I am sure he can.'
+
+'Well, Ned, the first thing we must do is, to get mother's consent.'
+
+'Yes, and you will speak to her this very night, won't you, Jim? I will
+put in a word once in a while, just to help along.'
+
+Twilight was past; the stars were shining through a clear bright sky,
+when these two brothers retraced their steps towards home. It is
+pleasant to see them so cheerfully complying with that command, 'Honor
+thy father and thy mother, that thy days may be long in the land which
+the Lord thy God giveth thee.'
+
+And now I suppose my readers may be anxious to know some particulars
+about our boys, and the place where they lived.
+
+Their father, Mr. James Montjoy, who had died a few months before the
+period at which our story commences, was rather a plain man in his
+appearance and manners, and lived on a small pension just enough to
+sustain his family, so that he left nothing for their support but the
+house and garden. I think he must have been a good man, for his boys
+revered his name, and often repeated his sayings to each other; and on
+no account would they deviate from what they believed would have been
+his will.
+
+As to the place where they lived, I have already partly described it; it
+was a very retired spot, a few farm-houses were scattered about at
+irregular intervals, but all wearing the same general aspect. A want of
+enterprise was manifest on every side; poor roads, poor fences, broken
+barns, patched windows in almost every house, miserable-looking waggons
+and horses, and people in appearance as uncouth and woe-begone as their
+teams.
+
+There was but one store in the place, and how that was supplied was
+somewhat mysterious; for no boats sailed from or to this lone spot. I
+have heard, that once in a year a large lumber waggon, that came from a
+distance, brought a load of casks and boxes, which contained all the
+goods necessary to supply the few wants of its customers, a little tea,
+and sugar, and molasses, and a few coarse dry goods, with an undue
+proportion of whiskey. The storekeeper looked no better than his
+customers; he was a dried-up, wrinkled little man, with a very red nose;
+always clad in a suit of grey clothes, with a broad-brimmed greasy hat,
+turned up in front, and a pair of iron spectacles, through which stared
+two very large eyes, somewhat the worse for the use of cider and
+whiskey.
+
+The store itself was a long, low, tumble-down-looking place, with a shed
+running along its front, under which might almost always be seen a
+certain number of miserably dressed persons, the customers of the
+store.
+
+It will be of no use to any of my readers to be told the real name of
+this place, nor its exact locality. I have mentioned that it was on a
+river, and not far from where that river emptied itself into a sound, or
+arm of the sea; but as there are a great many rivers and sounds in our
+beautiful country, I must leave you all to guess the right one. And
+perhaps many of you will pass this place, or have already passed it many
+times, and when you have seen, or shall see, the beautiful church spire
+that now rises from the midst of the trees which embower it, and the
+neat white houses along the shore, and the trim vessels that line the
+wharves, and hear the lively--'Yo, heave yo!' of the sailors, as they
+hoist the white sail to the breeze, you will little dream that it was
+once as I have described it.
+
+And now we must see how Jim gets along in gaining the consent of his
+mother.
+
+Mrs. Montjoy was a good mother, and loved her three children most
+tenderly; but as all mothers who truly love their children must
+sometimes deny their wishes, Jim and Ned had learned some lessons, which
+made them feel less and less confident the more they thought of the
+matter. At length the former, taking up the candle, whispered to his
+brother.--
+
+'Perhaps, Ned, we had better not say anything about it until to-morrow.'
+
+'I think so too, Jim.'
+
+So, kissing their mother and little Ellen, up they went to their garret
+room, talking and laughing in great spirits.
+
+'The poor dear children,' thought Mrs. Montjoy, 'it makes my heart ache
+to hear them; they think not of the future. May God, in his mercy, open
+some way, for I see but a poor prospect before them. And it may be that
+prayer was heard, and the God of the widow and the fatherless was
+preparing the means by which these unprotected children would prove the
+light of their native place, and her stay and comfort. Had she seen them
+as they knelt down by the bedside together, she would have felt that her
+children were not fatherless.
+
+The next morning the boys had a long conference with their mother; and
+after she had listened to their plans, and stated to them, more
+particularly than she had ever before done, the straitened circumstances
+to which they were reduced, and expressed many fears on account of their
+exposure on the water, she finally agreed that they might try what they
+could do.
+
+No sooner had they reached the door, after thus accomplishing their
+wishes, than Ned started on the full run, jumped over the first thing
+that stood in his way--which happened to be old Jowler--caught up his
+hoe from under the shed, and entering the garden by a cross cut, began
+tearing the dirt around the potato hills with all his might.
+
+Jim walked very leisurely to his work, and for some time permitted his
+brother to go on, thinking that he would soon become tired, and relax
+his efforts; but seeing that Ned was coming back on _his_ row,--
+
+'You had better keep your own row, Ned; I shall get along soon enough
+with mine, and you will only tire yourself by working so fast.'
+
+'Well, I am in such a hurry, Jim; I want to get these potato hills
+finished, so that we can go and talk with Sam Oakum about the boat.'
+
+'I am as much in a hurry as you are, Ned; but we have quite a patch to
+hill yet, and we shall get through sooner, by working steadily, besides
+doing our work better; we can get along with them by the middle of the
+afternoon, and that will give us time enough to see Sam.'
+
+And as Jim had said, by the middle of the afternoon the last hill of
+potatoes was finished; and, having made all their arrangements, and
+agreed upon all they would say to Sam, they had nothing to do but go to
+the tree where they placed their tools, and hang up their hoes for that
+day.
+
+As Sam Oakum will be a prominent character in our story, I must
+introduce him more particularly to my reader. His father lived in one of
+the huts which I have said were scattered along the shore of the river
+for some distance, and followed the occupation which _his_ father had
+followed before him, that of a fisherman; or, in other words, that of
+catching a few fish or clams, sufficient to satisfy the cravings of
+hunger for the day, and spending the rest of it in idleness and
+drinking, without enterprise or ambition. As their fathers had done for
+generations back, so did they; they seemed to feel that it was their
+luck to be poor, and, to all appearance, felt willing that their
+children should follow in their steps.
+
+Sam Oakum's father was rather a superior man to his neighbors; he had
+some knowledge, too, of boat-building; he had never learned the trade,
+but, being ingenious, could put together a small craft quite decently,
+and the few poor boats which the fisherman owned were the work of his
+hands; but he also exceeded many of his neighbors in the use of strong
+drink, and too frequently it was feared that his wife and children
+suffered for the necessaries of life, because the father was away, and
+in no condition to get home. For a few years past, however, since Sam
+had become able to manage a boat, he would see that there was food for
+his mother and sisters, although there had been as yet no opening for
+him by which he could do any more than this. There was no ground
+attached to their poor house for him to cultivate; there was no work in
+the vicinity that he could get; and the boat, by means of which he could
+procure their supply from the water, he was obliged to borrow.
+
+Sam was now about sixteen years of age; a good-looking fellow he was
+too, although his clothes were old and patched; his hair was black as a
+coal, and very much disposed to curl; he had a good open countenance,
+very bright black eyes, and a fine nut-brown complexion. As we shall
+learn his character in the progress of our story, it will not be
+necessary to describe him any closer at present.
+
+On the day that Jim and Ned had been so successful in obtaining the
+consent of their mother to put their plan into execution, Sam had
+experienced a severe trial: his father had indulged more freely his
+dreadful appetite, and although in general kind to his family, had begun
+to manifest a morose and sullen temper.
+
+Sam's mother was a good-natured, inoffensive woman, always endeavouring
+to make the best of things; managing as well as she could with what was
+in the house, and although sorely pinched sometimes, never finding fault
+with her husband.
+
+'It would do no good,' she said, 'to be dinging at Oakum; it would only
+make him worse.'
+
+So the poor soul went on from day to day, doing her best, and always
+hoping, woman like, that he would be different one of these days; but on
+this eventful morning her accumulated grievances could no longer be
+repressed, and as her husband was about to leave the house, only to
+return at evening in a wretched condition, she ventured to say to him--
+
+'Oakum, don't you think you'd better not go up to the store to-day?'
+
+'Don't I _think_ I'd better _not_? _No_, I don't--what makes you ask
+me?'
+
+'Oh well, I didn't mean no harm; only you have been away so much
+lately.'
+
+'Well, supposing I have, whose business is _that_, I want to know?'
+
+'Why nobody's, I suppose; only you know, Oakum, we ain't got nothing in
+the house but them two fish you brought in this morning; there ain't no
+meal nor nothing.'
+
+'No meal nor nothing; yes, there is meal: didn't I bring home some
+yesterday?'
+
+'Well, you know how that was, the pigs got at it.'
+
+'The pigs got at it--then why didn't you take care of it, and not let
+the pigs get the children's bread?'
+
+'It wasn't mother's fault,' said Sam, who was by at the time, and knew
+all the circumstances.
+
+'Whose fault was it then, you little vagabond?'
+
+'I ain't a vagabond yet; but we shall all be soon, if you keep going to
+Grizzle's every day.'
+
+Sam's father was utterly confounded; he took off his hat and sat down.
+
+'What, are my children going to rise up against me? Go out of the house,
+sir.'
+
+Poor Mrs. Oakum was in great trouble. Sam had said what was true; his
+father had, in a state of unconsciousness, left the flour at the mercy
+of the pigs; but she felt sorry that he had spoken, and Sam soon felt
+very sorry for it too; his conscience upbraided him; he went out of the
+house and kept as busy as he could, but he could not feel happy.
+
+By little and little Oakum found out from his wife all about the meal;
+he was thoroughly ashamed, asked for another bag, and immediately took
+his hat and departed.
+
+About the middle of the afternoon Sam sauntered along the shore to a
+large flat rock that stood just at the water's edge. He took a seat upon
+it, and with his eye stretched far over the beautiful bay, mused on his
+sad condition and hopeless prospects. Was life to be as it had ever
+been--a scene of idleness and want, a waste, with nothing to cheer or
+stimulate his youthful mind? without education (not being able even to
+read), without a trade, or the prospect of one, or any employment that
+offered the least inducement to exertion? His conscience sorely troubled
+him also on account of the disrespect he had shown to his father that
+morning; and as he mused, his excited feelings started the tears down
+his sunburnt face, and in the agony of the moment he exclaimed,
+
+'I wish I was--'
+
+'What do you wish?' said Ned Montjoy, as he stole up behind, and put his
+hands over Sam's eyes.
+
+'But what is it, Sam?' you are in trouble; tell us right away. 'Can Jim
+and I help you?'
+
+Sam wiped away his tears as he best could, but was unable at once to
+make any reply.
+
+'Come, Sam, tell us, has anything happened to day?'
+
+'Oh, nothing particular, Ned; only sometimes I get tired of living as I
+do.'
+
+'Oh well, Sam, if that is all, come cheer up; for Ned and I have a plan
+in view, and if you will join us, perhaps things will be better for us
+all.'
+
+'I'll join you and Ned in any thing, but I don't see what use I can be
+to you.'
+
+'So much use, that we can do nothing without you _do_ join us Sam. Can
+we, Jim?'
+
+'No, I fear we cannot.'
+
+'Well, what is it, boys? Come, I'm ready for any thing.'
+
+'You tell him, Jim, all about it. I say, Sam, it's the best thing you
+ever heard of. I tell you _what_, won't it be nice though?'
+
+And Ned kicked up his heels, ran a few steps, caught up a smooth flat
+stone, and away it went skimming the surface of the water, and in
+plunged Jowler, as he had often done before, on a fruitless search after
+it. Jim took a seat alongside of Sam, and soon unfolded his scheme for
+adventure. Sam's countenance brightened as Jim went on, and he was too
+impatient to wait until the whole was regularly told.
+
+'And you want me to manage the boat, and you will sell the things?'
+
+'That is it, Sam.'
+
+'I tell you what, Jim, who put all this in your head? I wonder why I
+never thought about taking clams and oysters there! I am sure they will
+buy them: I might try some, couldn't I?'
+
+'Certainly--but how are we to get a boat? your father has none, has he?'
+
+'No, not now, but I know where I can borrow one; it has a sail to
+it--it is old and leaky though, but a little calking will make all
+tight.'
+
+No sooner had Sam said this, than Ned started off again on another
+gallop; he took quite a circuit this time, and coming back caught Sam by
+the back of his collar, and pulled him over flat upon the rock.
+
+'Didn't I tell you, Jim, that Sam Oakum was the fellow for us?'
+
+'Don't, Ned, act so crazy; let Sam go.'
+
+'Oh let him alone, Jim; he is so full, he must let out a little.'
+
+Sam rolled himself off from the rock, and picked up his little tarred
+hat, which had fallen upon the sand.
+
+'Well, boys, when shall we go,--to-morrow?'
+
+'Why, can you get the boat ready by that time, Sam?'
+
+'Yes, that is, if old Andrews will let me have it; I guess there will be
+no fear of that.'
+
+'Well, how shall we know? for if we go to-morrow, we must be up early
+and pick our strawberries. Shall we come down here to-night, Sam?'
+
+'No; I tell you what we'll do--if I can get the boat, and father will
+let me go, I won't come up; so, if you don't see me, you may conclude we
+shall go.'
+
+'Agreed, Sam.'
+
+Sam was on good terms with the old man from whom he expected to get the
+boat, and found no difficulty on that score; it occupied him, however,
+the remainder of the afternoon in putting her in a condition suitable
+for their voyage, and even then it was but a frail concern to venture
+in, where at times the winds were strong and the waters rough. But Sam
+knew no fear; so taking the oars and thanking his old friend very
+heartily for his kindness, 'lay to,' and the little skiff flew through
+the smooth water like a bird.
+
+He had accomplished, however, but one part of his work; he had yet to
+meet his father and obtain his consent, and his heart sunk within him
+when he thought of home, and the probable condition of things there. He
+had resolved what course to pursue--he had done wrong, he had spoken
+improperly to his parent, he must ask his forgiveness before he could be
+happy. But he knew not in what condition he might find that parent. He
+rowed his boat up to the rock where he had held the conversation with
+Jim and Ned--hauled her up on the shore as far as he was able, carried
+the stone anchor on land, and walked directly towards home, strong in
+good resolutions, and with some faint hope that things might be better
+than he feared. He gathered up the horse-shoes as he went along which he
+had collected on the beach in the afternoon, enough to make a good
+supper for his pigs; and throwing them over into their pen as he passed,
+was just entering the door of his dwelling when he met his father, who
+had his hat on and was going out. Sam saw at a glance that all was
+right--he cast his eyes down:
+
+'Father, I'm sorry I spoke so this morning.'
+
+'Oh, never mind now, Sam.' And as he saw Sam wiping his eyes, for the
+tears came fast, 'Never mind now, my boy; it has gone by, and a good
+many other things I hope too--go in and get your supper.'
+
+Sam entered the room, happier than he had been for many a day; his
+mother's countenance was lighted up with a smile, and his little sister
+came up and whispered,
+
+'Father ain't been to Grizzle's to day.' Sam looked at his mother and
+she at him--tears were glistening in both their eyes, but they told only
+of joy and hope.
+
+He soon communicated to his mother his plan for the next day; she made
+no objections, only she hoped he would take care of himself.
+
+'And may be you'd better speak to your father, Sam.'
+
+Just then Mr. Oakum came in, and Sam proceeded at once to tell him what
+had been proposed, and what he had done about it.
+
+'I thought I saw a boat laying up by the rock there, and I couldn't
+think where it came from--is that Andrew's skiff? don't it leak badly?'
+
+'Oh, I've calked her, Father, she is tight as a whistle now.'
+
+'Well, Sam, you must take care of yourself, you know it's rough
+sometimes round the point; you most keep close to shore, that skiff
+won't stand much. I don't think it will be of much use for you to go
+there, but you may try.'
+
+Early the next morning--so early that a faint streak of light was barely
+visible in the east--Sam was off with his skiff, raking for clams and
+oysters as his share of the freight; and by the time Jim and Ned were at
+the shore with their baskets, he was ready to receive them.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+
+It was a bright and beautiful morning, the water as calm and peaceful as
+it was possible for water to be so near the restless ocean. Ned stood on
+the shore, delighted to see the little skiff cut her way through its
+glassy surface, and to hear the sound of Sam's oars reverberating for a
+great distance along the opposite shore.
+
+He watched as it receded, until thinking it was about as far as he could
+make them hear, hallooed with his loudest call, 'Good bye, boys!' He saw
+them both look towards the shore, and heard in return, 'Good bye, Ned!'
+coming as from a great distance. He took off his hat and waved it, then
+went on his way to his daily task.
+
+Sam, although not experienced in long excursions, knew enough of the
+labor of rowing, not to expend his strength at starting. They had ten
+miles to pass over before they could reach their place of destination,
+and the latter part would require much more exertion than the
+commencement of their voyage; so, like an experienced mariner, he made
+but little effort at first, and suffered his boat to flow along with the
+tide. Jim was quite a novice in such matters but Sam had placed him at
+the helm, and given him sundry directions how to steer.
+
+'The tide is just beginning to fall, and I guess it will bring me up
+with the point without much rowing, if you will just keep her head right
+there?'
+
+'I'll try, Sam; but don't you think I had better help you to row?'
+
+'Oh, no; it's easy work now. She goes a pretty good jog; and I only just
+dip my oars and take them out again. I guess, though, there will be some
+pulling when we get round the point; but perhaps we shall have a little
+breeze, and then we can put up our sail.'
+
+Sam's guessing turned out to be very correct; it required but little
+effort to make the point; and as they turned their course in the
+opposite direction to that in which they had been steering, and were no
+longer sheltered by the island which formed their beautiful harbor, but
+were fairly in the outer bay, across whose waters they could see the
+haze of the ocean and the white beacon that lighted its weary voyagers
+to their desired haven, the wind blew gently, and Sam lost no time in
+taking advantage of it; there was just enough to carry them along
+against the tide, which was no longer in their favor.
+
+The fort to which our little voyagers were steering had been erected
+about ten years. It was intended to command the channel through which
+vessels of ordinary size must pass, in their way from the ocean to one
+of our most valuable cities. It was built with two tiers of ports, and
+of sufficient strength for heavy guns; and as our foreign relations were
+in an unsettled state, it had, at the period under consideration, its
+full complement of men. It was erected at some distance from the shore
+on a ledge of rocks which, at low water, formed a passage to the main
+land; but when the tide was in, a few only of the highest rocks could be
+seen.
+
+The nearer they approached the place of their destination, the more
+serious did the matter appear to them.
+
+'Do you think, Sam, there is danger they won't let us in?'
+
+'I don't know; I hope not, Jim. It would be too bad, after all our
+trouble, not to get even a chance to sell any thing.'
+
+'Well, Sam, we can but try, you know. We have only to tell them what
+we've come for;--but I _say_, Sam, it makes my heart beat to look at it:
+what high walls it has; and see, there are the sentinels walking up and
+down--how their guns glitter in the sunshine!'
+
+'Halloo! halloo! where are you bound, my hearties?'
+
+The boys were startled by the gruff tones in which they had been
+accosted; and, turning their eyes toward the shore from whence the
+sounds seemed to come, saw an elderly man dressed in a sailor's habit,
+seated on a rock, and beckoning to them, or rather, by a motion,
+endeavouring to stop their progress.
+
+'Halloo! my boys; don't go ahead there, or you'll be foul of the rocks.'
+
+Sam immediately turned the skiff toward the shore, and they were soon in
+close contact with the stranger. He was sitting on the rock, with one
+leg swinging backwards and forwards, and the stump of the other sticking
+straight out. His dress was a true sailor's rig, of blue originally, but
+now much soiled, and of many colors. Spots of tar were pretty well
+sprinkled over both, coat and trousers; vest he had none; but instead
+thereof, a dark blue shirt, trimmed around the collar and bosom with
+something that had once been white. On his head sat (for the crown was
+too low to permit much of any thing to enter into it) a glazed hat,
+which, from its bright appearance, had lately received a fresh coat of
+tar; large bushy locks of sandy-colored hair stood out from beneath,
+based by a thick mat of whiskers, extending under his chin, and covering
+his whole neck; while down his back hung a queue of enormous size,
+reaching nearly to the rock on which he sat. His features, what could be
+seen of them, were not forbidding, although very much doubled and
+twisted by the wear and tear of time and rough weather.
+
+'We were going to the fort,' said Jim; 'and can you tell us, good man,
+if they will let us in!'
+
+'That's accordin' as to what your business is--if you got an arr'nd to
+the major or his lady, or any of his folks, or to the lieutenant and his
+lady, or so on--why the case is, they'll have to pass you right in; but
+if it's only one of the privates you see, that's another thing.'
+
+'But we have no particular errand to anybody; we have got a few things
+to sell, and would be glad to dispose of them at the fort.'
+
+'Ay, ay, that's a new case--things to sell, ha! I guess it will depend
+upon what things you've got. If it's contraband goods, and you're
+thinking to git the better of Uncle Sam, you've come to the wrong
+market; the major'll make short work with you.'
+
+'I don't know what you mean by contraband goods or trying to get the
+better of anybody,' said Jim; 'we only thought they might be in want of
+a few fresh vegetables and some strawberries.'
+
+'Ay, ay, that's clean another case, there's no contraband in them; but
+where under the blessed heaven have you come from? these things can't
+grow nowheres round here.'
+
+'I shouldn't think they could,' said Jim, looking significantly at the
+dreary waste of sand and stunted pine that spread as far as he could
+see; 'strawberries might grow up in the pines there, but I guess not
+such as these.' With that Jim stopped, and taking up a basket, pulled
+off the covering of green leaves, and held them out for the old man to
+look at.
+
+'Of all sights my eyes ever looked at!----'
+
+'I think you'll find them as good as they look,' taking a double
+handful, and holding them out towards the old man.
+
+'No, no,' shaking his weather-beaten face, 'I've no money to buy 'em;
+you must go to the major.'
+
+'Take them and welcome, sir; I had no thought of asking you for pay;
+you're very welcome to them.'
+
+'God bless your young heart!' and holding out his hands he soon showed
+that he knew how to dispose of them; as soon as he had finished he
+jumped down on his one leg, and adjusted his crutches.
+
+'Now, my hearties, I tell you what do you do; steer that craft o' your'n
+right straight across to the fort, and just where you see that ledge of
+rocks ends, you'll come foul of a pair o' stairs; haul up there, and
+wait till I hobble round to my boat, and I'll be with you afore you've
+made all fast.'
+
+Away went the old man, his crutches making the sand fly in his haste to
+get to his boat, which lay a short distance from where he had been
+sitting.
+
+The boys obeyed his directions, and had scarcely made their boat fast,
+ere the old man was alongside.
+
+'Now, my hearties, you just hold on awhile here, till I see the major.'
+
+The moments seem long when we are in suspense, and our boys, in their
+anxiety, began to fear that they should see no more of the old sailor;
+it appeared so long, so very long that he stayed. After gazing intently
+at the gate until their eyes were aching, all at once the sentinel
+stopped, made a peculiar motion with his musket, and put his hand to his
+cap; a gentleman of fine appearance passed out, followed at a respectful
+distance by the crutches. He came directly to the stairs, and accosting
+the boys in a very pleasant manner, inquired where they had come from,
+and what they had for sale. Jim, in a straightforward, manly way,
+answered his queries.
+
+'But, my little fellow, what ever put it into your head to come so far
+as this in search of a market?'
+
+'We could think, sir, of no other place where there would be the least
+chance to sell any thing; the people in this region are too poor to buy
+such things.'
+
+'You may well say so, my lad, and they are like to be so; for a lazier
+set I never saw; but I am glad to find that you, boys, are disposed to
+do something. Peter tells me that you have some choice things for sale.'
+
+Peter, as we must call him hereafter, touched his hat when his name was
+mentioned, but otherwise remained perfectly still, at a respectful
+distance, saying nothing.
+
+Jim immediately uncovered the different articles, and with his hat off,
+looked up at the officer, who smiled as he surveyed the little stock of
+goods.
+
+'You have made out a pretty good assortment--those strawberries are
+fine, indeed; are there plenty such raised in your area?'
+
+'None, sir, but in our garden; my father used to be very fond of fruit,
+and he taught us to raise it.'
+
+'Is your father living?'
+
+'He is not, sir.'
+
+A shade of sadness at once passed over the countenance of the officer,
+and his eye settled more intently upon the boy.
+
+'Well, my lad, have you fixed upon a price for your articles?'
+
+'I leave that to yourself, sir, as I am entirely ignorant of their
+value.'
+
+Major Morris then ordered the different articles to be measured, and
+putting down prices to them such as he was accustomed to pay, handed the
+paper to Jim.
+
+'Not reckoning the strawberries, which I must pay something extra for,
+the amount is one dollar and a half.'
+
+Jim looked up with astonishment.
+
+'I have calculated them at city prices, but if that is not enough----'
+
+'Oh yes, sir; yes, sir. I was not thinking of that; it is much more than
+I expected.'
+
+'And now for the strawberries, what shall I say for them? they are finer
+than those I usually purchase.'
+
+'Oh, sir, I cannot think of taking any thing for them, since you allow
+me so much for the others; if you will only let me take some out and
+give that good man there (pointing to Peter), you are welcome to the
+rest.'
+
+'Certainly, certainly, here Peter.' But Peter had other views of the
+matter, and instead of advancing to receive them, made two or three
+retrograde steps with his crutches, at the same time putting his hand
+upon his long queue and smoothing it down--a custom of his when at all
+confused, and rolling a tremendous quid from one side of his mouth to
+the other.
+
+'The young gentleman wishes to give you some of these, Peter.'
+
+'Thankee, sir, thankee;' nodding his head very fast all the time; 'no
+occasion at all.'
+
+'Well, Peter, since you refuse them, take this basket and hand it to
+Mrs. Morris yourself.'
+
+'Ay, ay, sir;' and away went Peter in double-quick time.
+
+In the meanwhile, Sam manifested no impatience, although somewhat
+anxious as to what would be _his_ fate; the moment Jim could with
+propriety, he directed the attention of the gentleman to Sam's little
+heap of clams and oysters.
+
+Sam took off the seaweed which he had thrown over them, and blushed
+deeply as he met the keen black eye of Major Morris, which having
+glanced a moment at _them_, was scrutinizing with apparent interest the
+appearance of their owner.
+
+As Sam had no more idea of fixing a price than Jim had, the buyer was
+obliged to pay for them on his own terms; so handing him fifty cents, he
+said,
+
+'I fear it will not compensate you for the trouble of bringing them so
+far, but it is the rate for which I buy them.'
+
+Sam expressed his perfect satisfaction the best way he could; for the
+eye of the major was so long fixed upon him, that it quite took away his
+self-possession.
+
+Having made arrangements to bring such articles as their garden afforded
+twice a week, with light and happy hearts, lighter and happier than can
+be well described, they pointed their sail and bent their course for
+home. The rock was to be their landing-place, and long before they
+reached it, Ned could be seen throwing stones and cutting capers with
+Jowler.
+
+'Well, boys, how are you? what luck--sold any thing? I know by your
+looks you haven't!'
+
+'How are you, Ned? any thing happened? You look sober.'
+
+'No, nothing.'
+
+All this was said while the boat was nearing shore, the moment it
+touched the land Ned was on board; he looked at the empty baskets, and
+then at Jim and Sam. Jim smiled, and held out his hand, full of silver
+pieces, and Sam held out his; and then they told him of their success,
+and what arrangements they had made for the future.
+
+Ned was somewhat confounded at the good news; but no sooner did he
+comprehend it fully, than he took hold of both of them at once, shaking
+them, and pushing them about, and hallooing.
+
+'How are you, boys? huzza! huzza!'
+
+'Do, Ned, stop your noise, and don't carry on so; you'll have us all in
+the water.'
+
+'Never mind, Jim, we'll soon work ourselves dry. Huzza! huzza!'
+
+'I'm afraid you'll set the old boat a leaking, Ned.'
+
+'Well, Sam, I'll stop; but how can you fellows keep so still when you've
+had such good luck?'
+
+Sam would have been perfectly contented with the product of his clams
+and oysters for his day's work, but Jim would insist upon giving him a
+certain proportion of what _he_ had received, which was finally fixed at
+one quarter; so that Sam was to have, besides all he could procure from
+the sale of his own articles, one-fourth of whatever other things were
+sold, as his pay for the boat, and his labor in rowing.
+
+And when Sam took the money which Jim handed to him, and put it with
+what he had already received, and looked at it, a crowd of thoughts
+rushed into his mind. Parents, sisters, home, the past, the present, and
+the future--and that future bright with prospect of employment, and the
+means of making those he loved as happy as himself. He could make no
+answer to the cheerful 'Good bye' of Ned and Jim, but he turned his
+bright and glistening eye towards them; and they went on their way the
+happier that they saw how full of joy Sam was.
+
+Sam kept his money in his hand until he reached home, and, going
+directly to his mother, put the whole of his treasure into her lap.
+
+'Why, Sam, where did you get all this?'
+
+'Earned it, mother;' and then he told her all about it, and what he was
+expecting to do in future.
+
+'Oh,' said his mother, laying down her work, and clasping her hands
+together in strong emotion, 'isn't this good! And now, Sam, you'll have
+something to do all the time, and may be, your father will help you; and
+may be he'll feel encouraged to do different; and may be----.' But the
+hope of what might be, was too bright for her to utter it; and so she
+sat and looked at Sam, and then she turned and looked out at the window;
+and who can tell what a pleasing picture was painted out before her on
+the sandy shore and the glassy river.
+
+Sam had designed that his mother should keep the money, and use it for
+their need; but she refused.
+
+'No, no; keep it yourself, Sam; or, if you please, hand it to your
+father. I see he's coming yonder, and all seems to be right with him.'
+
+And so it proved; he had been to work for a neighbor where no restraint
+would have been placed upon his appetite; but, strange to say, he had
+not indulged. He had received no money for his services, for there was
+seldom any of that to be got; but he had a bunch of fish in one hand,
+and a kettle with flour in the other.
+
+'Why, Sam, you got back? that is clever. What luck? not much, I guess.'
+
+Sam made no reply, but as soon as his father had laid down his things he
+handed out his little store.
+
+'Here, father, please to take this.'
+
+'Why, Sam, you didn't sell your things for all this, did you?'
+
+And then Sam told him all the story, while his father looked in
+amazement at the money, and at Sam, and then at his wife; as soon as he
+had finished he held out his hand.
+
+'Here, my boy, go give it to your mother; it's better with her than with
+me.'
+
+'No, father, I'd rather you would take it, and do what you please with
+it.'
+
+Blessings on you, Sam, that you had the good sense and good feeling to
+answer as you did. You have poured a cordial into that father's heart,
+which will do more to heal his weaknesses, and strengthen his good
+resolutions, than could have been done by all the world beside. He feels
+that he is yet a father, all is not lost--his _children yet_ trust in
+him--the bright happy look of that boy has accomplished a work which an
+angel would gladly have been commissioned to perform. God bless you,
+Sam, for this one act, to your latest day.
+
+'Well, Sam, then keep it yourself, and add as much to it as you can; for
+you are a good boy.'
+
+'They shall have it tho' yet, in some way or other,' said Sam to
+himself, as he put it into his little chest. 'I shan't keep it for
+myself; that _I shan't_.'
+
+It would have required two smart talkers to have answered all Ned's
+questions as fast as he put them; and as Jim never talked fast, he was
+not half through answering when they reached home: their lively
+conversation brought their mother out to meet them as they were entering
+the front yard.
+
+'Oh mother, what _do_ you think? Jim has sold all the things for ever so
+much; see the empty baskets, and (striking Jim's pocket) hear that--hear
+the money jingle.'
+
+Both smiled at Ned's earnestness; and entering the house, a little
+circle was soon formed around Jim, who went through with his story in
+his own way.
+
+'And now, mother,' said Ned, as soon as his brother had finished,
+'you'll see how I can work; and if you will only give me a little bite
+of something, I will go at once and finish my hoeing, for I was so
+anxious to see the boys come back, that I have done nothing all the
+afternoon but look over to the point.'
+
+'You now feel, boys, the benefit of having been taught to work; it is no
+hardship to you now.'
+
+'Why, mother, I would rather work than play.'
+
+'You thought differently the other day, Ned.'
+
+'I know that, Jim; but you see the case is altered--that plan of yours
+which I laughed so much about, makes altogether a great difference. I
+don't believe any body would want to work just for the sake of it, would
+they, mother?'
+
+'No doubt, my dear, we need some stimulus to make us exert ourselves
+cheerfully; but your father always said that it was better to be at
+work, even if it did not amount to much; it was impossible, he said, for
+an idle person to be happy.'
+
+Mrs. Montjoy said but little by way of encouragement, for she saw that
+the boys were both highly elated with their success and the prospect
+before them; but she secretly admired and gratefully acknowledged the
+overruling of that kind Providence, which had opened a way for her
+children's usefulness and the supply of their wants.
+
+The next morning Jim and Ned did not need to be awaked; there was real
+business on their hands now, and they must use their time to the best
+advantage; so at it they went while the sun was but just rising, and by
+the time their breakfast was prepared, had completed hilling their
+cabbages: as they ceased work, Jim leaned on his hoe, and looking at his
+brother,--
+
+'I've been thinking, Ned, what we've got to do.'
+
+'I knew you'd been thinking, for you haven't spoken a word this half
+hour; twice I asked you about old Peter, and you only answered, "Ha!"'
+
+'Did I, Ned? well, I was thinking what we are going to do about these
+cabbages.'
+
+'I don't see any thing to do about them; ain't they well hoed?'
+
+'Yes, they are doing well enough; but what will the cow do!'
+
+'Why, eat them; I am sure none of us wants them.'
+
+'Yes, but Ned, how can the cow have them if we sell them?'
+
+'That, to be sure; but where can we put any more--the garden is full?'
+
+'We can put one here, and another there, and there in those vacant
+spots; there will be room for one hundred heads and more.'
+
+'Well, Jim; any thing more?'
+
+'Yes, I've been thinking where we could plant some more potatoes.'
+
+'There is no use of thinking about that, Jim; for when these cabbages
+are planted, every spot will be occupied; you don't think of digging up
+the walks, do you?'
+
+'No, not exactly that, Ned; but there is that strip of turf, south of
+the path running to the barn; the grass is of no value, and if mother
+would let us take it, we might turn it over with our spades, and raise
+twenty bushels of potatoes there.'
+
+'Any thing else, Jim?'
+
+'That will do for to-day, won't it, Ned?'
+
+'I think we shall find it will--it makes my back ache already to think
+about that digging. I wish it was a little cooler.'
+
+The pleasant voice of their little sister was now heard calling them to
+breakfast, for which they were both well prepared by their early labors.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+
+Sam's first care after awaking on the morning which succeeded the scenes
+in the last chapter, was to make some arrangement with old Mr. Andrews
+for the boat. The old man was of the easy sort; he had never done much
+when young, and now in advanced life depended entirely for the few clams
+he wanted upon his son, who lived a short distance from him, and was
+growing up in his father's likeness.
+
+'You're welcome, Sam, to use the boat as long as you're amind to, and I
+won't ax you nothin' for it; only once in awhile you may bring the old
+woman a few clam.'
+
+'I thank you very much, Uncle John; I will take good care of the boat,
+and will bring you some clams every day.'
+
+'Oh, no, no, no, Sam; I don't want no sich thing as that; only once in a
+while, you see. Jack, he's a gettin' lazy like, and sometimes the old
+woman gets tired of fish, and then a few clams is a kind of change for
+her.'
+
+Sam's next business was to visit Mr. Grizzle's store, that he might
+purchase some article his mother needed.
+
+'There shan't be no more trust, if I can help it,' said he, as he took
+up his money-box, and put some of its precious contents into his pocket.
+It was quite early in the day, yet several of Mr. Grizzle's customers
+were already assembled when Sam reached the store; he had a great
+reluctance to enter it, associated as it was in his mind with all that
+had been dark and sorrowful in his past experience; but nowhere else
+could supplies be obtained. Old Mr. Grizzle was busy behind his counter,
+twirling the toddy-stick, saying smart things, or what he took to be so,
+for he laughed very heartily at his own wit; and his customers, poor
+souls! were so much in his debt that they were obliged to laugh too.
+
+Sam glanced his eye over them all--some were bald with age; some in the
+prime of life; and one, he knew him well, a lad but two years older than
+himself, was draining the last sweet drop from the cup of poison as Sam
+stepped up to the counter.
+
+'Mr. Grizzle, what do you charge for seven pounds of flour?'
+
+'What do I charge?' At the same time putting his spectacles upon his
+forehead.
+
+'Yes, sir, what is the price?'
+
+'The price, boy? Why, how does your father want it? for fish or for
+trust?'
+
+'We don't want it for neither, sir, but for the money.'
+
+'Ah!--the money. Well, I s'pose we must try to let you have it a little
+less; but flour is plaguy dear any how, and I aint got none but rye.'
+
+Sam succeeded in procuring a small deduction, and with that he purchased
+some tar.
+
+'I shall tar my boat with what I have saved by paying the money,' said
+Sam to himself, as he laid down his cash on the counter; then taking up
+his goods went straight on his way.
+
+'That seems to be rather a 'cute boy, Mr. Grizzle--that young Oakum.'
+
+'The younker, I guess, will go ahead of the old man,' said Grizzle, as
+he dropped the money Sam had given him through a little hole in the
+counter.
+
+An old man, with his thin white locks dangling on his shoulders, placed
+his half-emptied tumbler on the bench beside him, and turning his head
+very emphatically on one side, said, 'Oakum is naturally a smart man,
+and he has got a clever wife, but somehow he don't get along much--no
+better than the rest of us.'
+
+'And what is the reason, Uncle John,' said another, addressing the last
+speaker, 'that we are all so poor?'
+
+'Why, I s'pose it's to be so--it's our luck, as I take it.'
+
+'Our _luck_?' said the young man, who stood by the door with his hands
+in his pockets, looking at the receding form of Sam Oakum, whose light
+steps were carrying him far on his way--he laid a strong emphasis on the
+word luck.
+
+'Yes, as I take it, it's our luck; a man may work ever so hard, but if
+luck is agin him, it's no use.'
+
+'Yes, it is use,' said the same young man; 'that is, if a man would let
+rum alone--that makes the bad luck; I wish there had never been a drop
+made.'
+
+'What's that you say, Bill? I guess your bitters is gone down the wrong
+way this morning.' And old Grizzle laughed heartily, and so did his
+customers. Bill, as he was called, laughed a little too, but not as the
+rest did.
+
+'S'pose you mix Bill another glass, Mr. Grizzle, and see how that will
+go?' And they all laughed again; and to carry the joke through, Grizzle
+did prepare another glass, and placing it on the counter,
+
+'There, try that, Bill; but may be you darsen't, you seem to be so
+afraid all at once.'
+
+Bill hesitated a moment; the fear of ridicule was too powerful. He
+seized the glass, and pouring its contents hastily down his throat, left
+the store amidst the uproarious laughter of his companions.
+
+Jim and Ned had collected a much larger quantity of vegetables for their
+second trip, and to the baskets of strawberries which they designed as
+gifts, added a beautiful nosegay of the earlier flowers.
+
+'Strawberries and flowers,' said Sam, as he was pushing the boat from
+the shore; 'your things look tempting indeed; I guess old Peter will hop
+round when he sees these.'
+
+'I have brought that small basket on purpose for him; and the flowers I
+thought the ladies might be pleased with--I don't think they see many
+where they are.'
+
+'It almost makes me feel bad, Jim, to think that I have nothing to carry
+worth looking at.'
+
+'Why, it is all one concern, you know, Sam; and I mean to have you hand
+them the flowers.'
+
+'I shan't do it, Jim--I should make a pretty figure, with my old patched
+clothes and bare feet, handing flowers to ladies and gentlemen!'
+
+'Sam Oakum, if you talk so, you'll make me feel bad; who cares for your
+clothes?'
+
+'_You_ don't Jim, I know; but all don't feel as you and Ned do--Keep her
+head to the point, Jim, straight as you can.'
+
+Sam had much more rowing to do than on the former trip, the wind not
+coming quite so soon to their aid.
+
+Peter was on the look-out for them, and hailed them before they reached
+the landing.
+
+'Halloo, my hearties! keep her jist about so--there--ease up--in with
+your oars; you've had a long pull to-day--but you'll learn to take it
+sailor-fashion after a while.'
+
+The boys were very busy fastening their boat and taking down their sail,
+and did not at the moment perceive that any one was present but the old
+sailor, until attracted by the bunch of flowers lying on one of the
+baskets, he exclaimed,--
+
+'Susie, Susie, look here! did you ever see such posies as these?'
+
+Sam at once seated himself in the stern of the boat, as far out of the
+way as possible; while Jim, taking up the flowers, handed them to Peter,
+and blushing very much,--
+
+'These are for the lady, if you will be so good as to give them to
+her--and this basket of strawberries; and here is one for yourself, sir,
+if you will please accept it.'
+
+'Bless your young hearts, to think of the old sailor. I thank you
+kindly, boys; but'--putting his face down to Jim, and whispering--'you
+won't mind my giving them to this little pet of mine;'--then raising
+himself up--'Here, Susie, you carry these flowers to your Ma, and I'll
+carry the strawberries;'--then stooping down again, and speaking in a
+low voice--'the Major will be here pretty soon; he's busy now--you won't
+be none the loser for these, I tell you. He's a real gentleman, and a
+liberal soul, and he's got plenty to do with.' And the old man shook his
+head very knowingly, making his long queue, as it stuck out in the air,
+perform some strange manoeuvres; the boys, however, were diverted from
+observing its wonderful gyrations by a sudden attraction towards the
+flowers. It must have been that Peter's rapturous praises, or the
+delight which they seem to have afforded Miss Susan, had unfolded new
+beauties to our boys, for their eyes followed _the flowers_, even when
+the young lady buried her pretty face among them to enjoy a fulness of
+their fragrance--it could not possibly have been any thing else, Sam was
+so very bashful, and Jim so very discreet--but their eyes followed the
+flowers, even until the lovely little maiden that carried them was lost
+to their view, and entered the castle gate.
+
+Major Morris appeared well pleased with the variety Jim had brought, and
+arranged every thing, as to price and measurement, in the same business
+manner as before. He then proceeded to speak with him in reference to a
+supply for the ensuing winter, enumerating a variety of articles, and
+among them beans and potatoes.
+
+'Potatoes we shall have, sir, and perhaps a few beans.'
+
+'I wish to engage three hundred bushels of potatoes, to be well
+selected, and of good size, and fifty bushels of beans. If you choose to
+make a contract to deliver me these articles in the fall'--at the same
+time handing to Jim a strip of paper with the prices annexed--'on these
+terms, you can do so; and if you have not so many of your own, you can
+doubtless purchase them of your neighbors, so as to pay you well for
+your trouble.'
+
+The boys were so confounded by the magnitude of the business proposed to
+them, that when the Major ceased speaking, Sam looked at Jim and he at
+Sam, and neither of them the wiser for any thing gained from the
+countenance of the other--until Sam, as though it was more than he could
+stand under, sat down; in doing so, however, he stumbled over his clams
+and oysters, which attracted the notice of the Major to them.
+
+'Ah, what have you got there? clams and oysters? I had like to have
+forgotten to inquire for them.'
+
+This brought Sam to his senses again; clams and oysters, almost in any
+quantities, were familiar to him, but where three hundred bushels of
+potatoes and fifty bushels of beans were to come from, was beyond his
+comprehension. He soon had his part of the cargo on shore, and as Major
+Morris handed him the money, thanked him in a very civil manner.
+
+It was some time before Jim gave any reply to the proposal which had
+been made to him, he was so absorbed in thinking; his mind had to run
+over all the names of persons likely to have such articles for sale, and
+the probable quantity each might be willing to spare. At length, after
+thanking Major Morris for giving him such a chance--for he had sense
+enough to perceive that it was all in kindness that the offer had been
+made--he agreed to accept it.
+
+'And now, my lads, you must go with me, as Mrs. Morris wishes to thank
+you personally for the flowers and fruit.'
+
+Again the boys looked at each other, and Sam turned very pale and then
+very red, and finally sat down, and made signs to Jim to go along.
+
+Jim knew that it would not be proper to hesitate under such
+circumstances, so he prepared at once to follow; while Peter, who always
+observed the most perfect silence in the presence of the Major, as soon
+as he saw him on the way to the fort, began to make the most furious
+gestures imaginable, motioning with his head so violently, that his
+queue flew round behind him like a fly-brush; and when he thought there
+was no danger of being overheard,--
+
+'Go along; go along, I say! he's axed you himself--go along; it will be
+the makin' of you.'
+
+But it was of no avail. Sam shook his head and sat still, until the old
+man, having exhausted his means of persuasion, took a seat beside him,
+muttering something about 'dumb-founded perverseness.'
+
+Jim had a great curiosity to see what was within the walls of the fort;
+but he had only time to catch a glimpse of large guns on
+wheel-carriages, and soldiers with glittering muskets; for Major Morris
+passed quickly on, and opening a side door in the hall, was at once in
+an elegantly furnished apartment, and in the presence of several
+fine-looking ladies and the little girl, who still held the bunch of
+flowers in close contact with her face.
+
+Jim was not allowed to suffer the least embarrassment; for immediately
+on his entrance Mrs. Morris arose, and coming toward him with a pleasant
+smile and kindly salutation, thanked him so heartily for the present he
+had sent to her, and talked so familiarly with him about his home and
+his garden, that he felt as much freedom as though he had been long
+acquainted.
+
+'I regret exceedingly,' said Mrs. Morris, 'that I have nothing to offer
+you in return for such beautiful fruit; but you must not refuse to taste
+some of my cake. Susie, lay down your flowers, if you can part with them
+so long, and hand that plate to our young visitor.'
+
+Susie did at once as she was bidden: but she looked so very serious
+about it, and walked so very slowly, that Jim would just at that moment
+have preferred being in the boat by the side of Sam. She came directly
+towards him with the silver plate in her hand, and some rich-looking
+cake lying on it; so he had no alternative but to step towards her, and
+in the politest manner he could, select a piece. His attention was, of
+necessity, directed to the plate; but he could not help giving a glance
+at other things. And indeed, Jim, you are not to blame for blushing as
+you did, when you encountered the gaze of those sweet blue eyes, which,
+in all the unaffected simplicity of youth, were fastened upon you. Her
+golden-colored hair, parted smoothly from the fair forehead, and hung in
+such a cluster of curls upon her snow-white neck--the rich color that
+painted her parting lips, just tinged with the slightest blush her
+dimpled cheek. She meant nothing by her gaze; it was only the expression
+of an innocent curiosity in reference to the young gentleman she was
+waiting upon. His clothes, to be sure, were coarse, and such as well
+became the work in which he was engaged; but his collar was very white,
+and neatly tied with a black ribbon; and his light-brown hair, so soft
+and silky; his fair complexion, his pleasant voice, and good manners,
+all made a contrast which she did not understand; and it would seem that
+some of the company present, much older than Susie, were equally
+surprised.
+
+'What a fine, manly-looking boy! and how well he behaves,' said Mrs.
+Morris, as soon as Jim had retired, to an elderly lady richly dressed,
+and who, from the peculiar glance she gave to another lady much younger
+than herself, while Mrs. Morris and Susie were paying so much attention
+to our Jim, felt anything but satisfied at the scene.
+
+'I say, aunt, what a fine little fellow that is!'
+
+'Well, Lettie,' said the elderly lady, shaking her sides a little, as
+though it was something so ludicrous that she must laugh--she could not
+help it, 'I didn't see anything very extraordinary. Where is he from?
+who is he? a son of some of the gentlemen down in the pines here? Mary
+and I saw some specimens of their houses--a mansion or two;' and the old
+lady laughed so heartily, that she could say nothing more, and the young
+lady had to put her handkerchief to her face to hide the emotion which
+was agitating her. Mrs. Morris was aware of the peculiarities of this
+lady, an aunt of her husband's, and as she unintentionally had opened
+the way for a long lecture on the plebeian notions of herself and
+husband, she was much relieved by the entrance of the Major, who, full
+of praises of 'those manly little fellows,' as he called Jim and Sam,
+whom he had just parted with, drew upon himself the storm which Mrs.
+Morris came near enduring alone.
+
+'I felt disposed to laugh, I must say, Philip,' addressing the Major,
+'to see Lettie paying as much personal respect and attention to a little
+market boy, as it seems he is, as though he had belonged to one of our
+best and most respectable families. I say, I felt at first disposed to
+laugh, but I must say, Philip,' and the old lady straightened herself in
+a very decided manner, and began fanning herself very earnestly--'I must
+say, that when I saw that dear child, at her mother's bidding, waiting
+upon a young clown as though he had been a very gentleman, and when I
+thought what blood ran in her veins, it fired my indignation. Such
+things ought not to be, Philip; you will demolish all distinctions in
+society, or at any rate, bring your own family to feel that it is no
+matter whom they associate with, and that one is as good as another.'
+
+The Major suffered his aunt to 'say her say out,' and, knowing as he did
+what reason he had personally to set a high estimate on the pedigree to
+which she seemed to think it was such an honor to be allied, was
+designing some palpable hits for the special benefit of his kindred,
+drawn from his own experience; but being a wise man, as well as a
+noble-hearted one, he concluded to treat the matter as he saw his wife
+was doing, and laugh it off.
+
+'Why, aunt! I thought you had given me up long ago as an incorrigible
+boy, who would have his own way. You know, aunt, I began very early in
+life to do as I pleased; and having worked my own way up the ladder so
+far, it is not strange if I should be a little headstrong, or my notions
+of such matters as you have touched upon somewhat peculiar.'
+
+His good aunt had heard enough to refresh her memory on a matter that,
+now the subject of it had, as he reminded her, raised himself to
+distinction, she, as well as the rest of his kindred, would have been
+willing should pass into oblivion; and was well satisfied when the Major
+invited her and the other ladies to walk with him upon the ramparts to
+witness a fine sight, the passing of a ship of the largest class, under
+full sail.
+
+This lady and her daughter will not be subjects of our story; so I will
+not trouble the reader with any farther description of them. They belong
+to a class often met with in the common walks of life, who, because of
+some imaginary value which they attach to the ancestry from which they
+have descended, gauge their estimate of others by what they think to be
+the equality, or inequality, of their station to that which they suppose
+themselves to occupy. Major Morris estimated society by a different
+standard; and, as we shall have much to do with him, it may be well to
+trace the causes which led him thus to judge.
+
+He was born in a part of our country where the distinctions which
+formerly prevailed between the classes of society were still kept up.
+His parents were allied to those who claimed the higher ranks of life as
+theirs by birth, and struggled hard to maintain their station; but
+poverty and death are great levellers, and young Morris found himself,
+at twelve years of age, an orphan, without a home, or the means of
+support, except that which was afforded him by the charity of his
+kindred. He was invited by an uncle to make his house a home, and for a
+while enjoyed the privilege of dwelling within a splendid mansion, and
+faring sumptuously, and mingling amongst the gay youth that thronged
+where abundance flowed. But he soon found that poverty was thought to be
+a disgrace, even in nearest kin, by those who would have scorned the
+idea of his engaging in any lawful calling whereby he could have earned
+his bread, if that calling was not one which, in their view, his
+peculiar class could engage in. Young Morris knew nothing of such
+distinctions; but he knew that he was poor, and was made, on more than
+one occasion, to feel his dependence. His high spirit rebelled; he left
+his place of refuge, and took shelter beneath the roof of a poor family,
+with whom he labored for a time most cheerfully in earning his daily
+bread. From thence he obtained employment in one of our large cities in
+the mercantile line; but as he reached the age in which generally a
+choice is made of an occupation for life, his feelings prompted to the
+military profession. Through the influence of a friend, whom his own
+correct deportment had gained, he obtained a commission. His strict
+attention to all the rules of the service, his entire devotedness to
+every duty committed to him, and his well-established reputation as a
+noble-minded and chivalrous officer, gave him favor in high places, and
+he rose rapidly to the grade he then held. To a commanding appearance
+and most polished manners, he united a kind and benevolent heart, warm
+in its sympathies towards every object of distress; and he would have
+poured out full streams to every child of want, to the very extent of
+his ability. But well for him, as for those he would aid, he had learned
+not only to bring others under wholesome discipline, but himself also;
+he had learned that some of our best feelings must be under subjection
+to prudent counsel, and that he who scatters in profusion, even from the
+promptings of a noble heart, is as likely to do evil as good. He had
+abundance to bestow, for he had married a lady of great wealth, and the
+whole responsibility of its proper use was devolved on him; his lovely
+wife had not only committed herself, but all she possessed, entirely to
+him. 'She wanted nothing to call her own,' she said, 'but her husband's
+heart.'
+
+Nothing could have been more gratifying to Major Morris than his
+introduction to our boys. He could sympathise in their feelings; he
+could value properly their enterprising spirit, and he had an
+opportunity of indulging his kindness of heart in a way that would
+stimulate them to exertion.
+
+It would be no easy task to describe the happiness which our boys Jim
+and Sam enjoyed, as they drew their skiff to shore that evening, and
+separated, each for their several homes. Sam found every thing as
+peaceful as his heart could wish, while the wonderful story which he had
+to tell excited the astonishment of his parents.
+
+'I don't believe tho', Sam,' said his father, 'you will find so many
+beans and potatoes to sell in all this place; and then I don't see how
+you are goin' to carry them, nor how you are goin' to pay for them.'
+
+'I don't know much about it, father; but I guess Jim will work it out
+some way. He didn't hardly speak a word all the way home; he was
+thinking, I know.'
+
+'Perhaps he may manage it, somehow; but I don't well see through it all,
+Sam. I can't do much for you myself; only if I had the stuff, I might
+build you a bigger boat, and one that would stand the waves better than
+the old one you've got.'
+
+'Oh, would you, father?' and Sam's eyes began to glisten; and his
+mother, good soul, had to wipe away the tears that her joyful heart
+could not restrain--some of the _may-bes_ which had so lately played in
+pleasant vision before her, were indeed realised.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+
+The place where the scene of this story is laid, I have said was a lone
+village; it had no communication with other places by means of boats,
+although its water privileges were abundant; and between it and
+neighbouring towns intervened an extent of country, consisting of
+pine-barrens, where no settlements could exist, or at least any that
+deserved the name. There were those, however, who dwelt amid its dreary
+solitudes, and called it home. Scattered here and there upon an area of
+ten to fifteen miles square, might be seen, sometimes alone and
+sometimes in clusters of three or four, a few miserable dwellings, made
+principally of logs. A door, and one window without glass, were the only
+openings to these abodes; and a rude chimney running up against the
+outside, formed a receptacle for the pine logs, which blazed often
+through the long winter nights, the only light they could afford, as
+well as almost their only protection from the searching cold.
+
+Poverty and wretchedness generally make sad havoc with the human frame;
+the haggard countenance, the dry and skinny hands, the stoop, the
+feeble, tottering gait, we expect and look for, when visiting abodes
+that betoken destitution. But miserable as was the appearance of these
+dwellings, the aspect of their inhabitants was generally that of health
+and sufficiency; their swarthy complexions, and fine athletic forms,
+almost compelled the traveller through these lonely regions to believe
+that he had alighted upon a tribe of those sons of the forest who once
+called our country all their own.
+
+The moral character of this people was in keeping with the aspect of
+their dwellings. Having no regular religious instruction, seldom hearing
+the voice of a living teacher, with scarce a Bible to be found within
+their gloomy houses, they were but little in advance of the heathen as
+to religious knowledge, and far too near allied to them in many of their
+vicious habits.
+
+They earned their daily bread by laboring amid the lofty and dense
+forests, in levelling the majestic pines, cutting them into lengths
+suitable for transportation, and conveying them to the outskirts of the
+barrens: their hire was but a pittance when considered as a remuneration
+for their toil, but it enabled them to live; it procured for them food,
+coarse indeed, but enough to satisfy their appetite, and the plain and
+simple clothing which necessity demanded, or to which perhaps their
+taste aspired.
+
+The owners of these forests lived at some distance, and employed an
+agent to attend to all the various labors of preparing the timber and
+conveying it to market.
+
+Cross, the individual employed for this business, had grown up amid
+these solitudes, and labored with his axe for some years. Gifted by
+nature with shrewdness, and not very particular on the score of
+morality, he had managed to obtain the post he occupied, and with most
+of the proprietors stood on good terms; he was active, prompt, and
+efficient, and perhaps, for the business intrusted to him, did as well
+as any one could. But he was, beyond measure, grasping and avaricious;
+and as he could not well gain undue advantage from those who employed
+him, being bound by contracts not easily evaded, he made up such
+deficiency by 'grinding the faces' of the poor laborers.
+
+Without any means of gaining a livelihood besides, they had become
+entirely dependent on the good-will of Mr. Cross. He fixed their wages,
+supplied them from his store with the necessaries of life at his own
+price, and in that way managed to bring them, at the close of every
+month, either without any surplus, or most generally a trifle in debt.
+
+On the border of these barrens, and near the principal scene of our
+story, lived the widow Mary Brown; her husband had been one of the
+woodcutters, an intemperate man, who had caused her much trouble while
+he lived, and when he died left her with two orphans. She had to
+struggle hard to support herself and little ones. But as a light in a
+dark place, so was this widow among these outcasts. She was generally
+known throughout the region where she lived, and the wildest and most
+abandoned never brought against her a railing accusation--they never
+spoke lightly of her not her religion; for the garb of piety she wore
+was so unassuming, the light that shone around her humble path was so
+mild and unobtrusive:--
+
+    Like the soft fleecy cloud at the close of day,
+    That far in the west where the sun's last ray
+    Rests bright on its bosom--its mellow light
+    Steals to our heart, as we gaze in delight;
+    No glare to dazzle, we love to view
+    Its changing tints and its golden hue.
+
+Having a very humbling view of herself, she felt great pity for the
+deluded ones around her; she never chid them for their follies, but
+would weep and pray in secret, and when called to watch at their dying
+bed, she had such a quiet, happy way of holding up before the weak and
+guilty spirit the Saviour in his love and pity, that many a poor
+wanderer took courage from her message of mercy, and ere the spirit
+fled, it was enabled to look in faith, and go its lone way in peace.
+Wherever sorrow or sickness visited, there was she sent for, as one who
+carried with her a charm that could neutralize their power.
+
+Her dwelling was a log hut like those in that vicinity, but it had an
+air of comfort the others had not. Her plain door was white-washed, and
+a little curtain hung across the window; and there was a box of flowers
+by the step, and every useless thing was removed from around the house,
+and the ground swept neatly, and beneath some of the large pines that
+afforded a grateful shade to her lonely abode, were rude seats, as
+though made for the wayfaring man, on which to rest and be refreshed.
+
+Her children, though helpless little ones when their father died, had
+now grown up to an age when each of them, in different ways, could
+materially aid her. She felt no longer a dread of want, although often
+sighing in secret that her son was compelled to labor with those whose
+example could only lead astray, and that her daughter had no brighter
+prospect than a residence among these uncultivated foresters. But she
+had done what she could. Of worldly wisdom she knew nothing; but she had
+a Bible, and could read it. Its requirements and its doctrines were all
+plain to her, she loved them, and taught them to her children; they
+learned passages from them on the long, still Sabbath days, and as she
+sat in the shade of the large pines by her door, they would come and sit
+near her, to hear and listen to some story she would tell them of those
+whose names have been recorded, and their history handed down for the
+benefit of every coming generation. But other influences have now begun
+to exert a counteracting power; William is eighteen, a man in size and
+strength, a hardy laborer, and much from home. He still brings all he
+earns, or nearly all, to the common stock; he still reverences his
+mother, and listens to her instructions, and treats with kindness his
+only sister; but rumours have reached his home that his chosen
+associates were some whose names had become by-words for rude and evil
+doings, and any heart but a mother's would have given up his chance for
+any future good.
+
+'She had hope for William,' she said, 'although he might be led astray
+by evil companions.'
+
+And she had good cause for hoping--for she had fastened to his heart
+that golden chain, each link of which a mother's prayers and gentle
+teachings and untiring love had formed. He felt its power even in his
+hours of revelling, and although he never met with an upbraiding word or
+look from her, his conscience had no rest.
+
+The daughter was all that her mother could ask; she had no desire to
+depart from the beautiful precepts of the Bible--because she loved them.
+Her mind was active, thoughtful, and discerning beyond her years; of
+kind and generous disposition, ever ready for any work of love, and
+cheerful and happy in the consciousness of good-will to all. Her moral
+character was well matched with a beauty of person rarely found, even
+under every advantage. Hettie had no ornaments to set off her beauty,
+and no graces imparted by culture to heighten the natural ease of her
+movements; her complexion, though dark, was brightened by the rich color
+which adorned her cheeks, and her jet-black eyes were softened by the
+long dark lashes that gave to their expression almost the languor of a
+southern clime, while her dark hair dangled in luxuriant curls, very
+much to her annoyance, for she often said:--
+
+'She did wish her hair was straight like other girls; it was always
+getting into such a tangle.'
+
+As Mrs. Brown--or the Widow Brown, as she was universally called--lived
+nearer to the open and more cultivated settlement than any of the other
+inhabitants of the barrens, she was well known among the farmers'
+families, although intimate with very few. Hettie had some associates
+there, which her mother preferred for her to those in her own immediate
+vicinity. Of these, the family of the Widow Andrews was one to which
+they were peculiarly attached. They could sympathize with each other;
+the mothers were both widows, and each had two children of about the
+same age. They both loved good things; they could converse bout their
+past trials, and present hopes and fears. But while many things in their
+circumstances were similar, there were others in which they were very
+unlike to each other; for the Widow Andrews was much under the power of
+strong natural feelings, easily excited by joy or grief, and her
+passions when aroused seemed at times to know no bounds: no sooner was a
+chord struck that touched a tender point in her heart, than she would
+begin to talk very rapidly and to weep freely; her words flowing faster
+and faster, and louder and louder, until, between weeping and talking,
+she would finally break into a flood of tears, and all was over.
+
+The Widow Brown was aware of this weakness in her neighbor, and lamented
+it, for she knew that at times it did real evil; but there were so many
+things that she loved her for, this she considered as a mere weakness,
+for which she should be pitied.
+
+In reference to worldly goods, too, there was a dissimilarity. The Widow
+Andrews had a much better house, although a very plain one; still it was
+called a house, and not a log hut; and she had a few acres of land
+attached to it, and a small barn, old and shackling to be sure, and a
+few head of cattle, and had been enabled, hitherto, to make out to live
+in a very frugal way from her own resources.
+
+Mary, her daughter, was not pretty, like Hettie Brown, nor was she so
+intelligent; but she had a kind heart, and was obedient to her mother,
+and being about Hettie's age, the two girls became much attached.
+
+The son had promised fair to be a support to his mother, and a good
+member of society, but a dark cloud had arisen upon all such
+prospects--bad company had now begun to have attractions for him. He
+neglected his work, disobeyed his mother, lost his ambition, and was in
+a fair way to make a wreck of body and soul. His mother had been proud
+of her William--of his good behavior, of his efficiency at work, of his
+industrious habits; and not a little proud was she of his fine
+appearance--it was a mother's weakness; but we will not judge her
+harshly. He had, indeed, a very pleasant expression to his countenance;
+his lively eye looked so kindly at you; there was such a play of
+roguishness and good-nature about his mouth; and when he spoke, a
+musical voice brought out the words so soft and clear--all tended to
+interest both friends and strangers. But all the love which his mother
+bore towards him, and all her pride in him, caused her to be more
+violent in her rebukes. She poured out such a torrent of invective at
+him, that much as he felt he deserved her displeasure, he could not
+stand the violence of it. Every bad feeling of his heart was aroused; he
+began to dread his home and his mother's voice, and sought refuge where,
+alas! ruin alone could be the end thereof.
+
+He was now eighteen years of age, and as my reader was first introduced
+to him at Mr. Grizzle's store, we will follow him as he left that den of
+evil. His conscience was troubled; there was something in the appearance
+and behavior of Sam Oakum that morning, that revived the memory of what
+he himself had once been. We saw how he watched Sam when he left the
+store, as far his eye could follow him; how madly he poured down the
+offered glass, and rushed from the scene of his shame.
+
+Whither to direct his steps he knew not, but onward he went; he was glad
+to be in the open air, it was so much better than the poisonous
+atmosphere he had just left. Soon his attention was arrested by the
+appearance of a dwelling and its precincts that he was about to pass. It
+was a scene of desolation--the house and all its accompaniments; the
+windows stuffed with every variety of color and substance to supply the
+places of broken panes; the door hung sideways by one hinge, the boards
+loose and flapping against the timbers of the house, the roof broken in,
+and apparently ready to fall upon the inmates, and the inclosures around
+the place lying prostrate or scattered about the grounds. A woman was
+outside, picking up what rubbish she could meet with to replenish the
+fire; sorrow was plainly marked upon her withered features; and as she
+walked into the house with a few faggots in her hand, there was such a
+deadness in her step, such a bowing down under the weight of some too
+heavy burden--ambition, comfort, hope, all seemed to have departed, and
+left her in her misery with a broken spirit.
+
+William halted in his rapid course; he looked upon the scene and
+considered it well.
+
+This was the house of one of those whom he had just left; the one most
+forward to complain of bad luck, and who joined most heartily in the
+laugh which had been excited at his expense. He had been familiar with
+this place; often had he seen it, just as it then appeared, but never
+had its desolate condition affected him before;--a light from heaven
+seemed pouring upon it, and singling it out from all other objects. He
+could look at nothing else. 'It was the vineyard of the man void of
+understanding, and the field of the slothful; the stone wall thereof was
+broken down; it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles covered the
+face thereof.'
+
+William looked upon it, and received instruction: slowly and sadly he
+passed along.
+
+A little by-road now crossed the public highway. Instinctively almost,
+he turned into it; the trees which lined it formed a grateful shade, and
+seemed to invite him therein to cool his heated, feverish frame.
+
+Near to this path, and not far from the highway he had left, was a pure,
+bright, bubbling spring; it came up through the clean white sand, and
+the green turf formed its only curb. On one side it had cleared an
+opening, and meandered away through a little bed of fine gravel stones,
+which sparkled in the sunbeams as they stole through the branches of the
+willows which encircled the fountain. His throat parched with thirst,
+and his mind and body in an excited condition, he threw himself upon the
+velvet turf, and allayed his thirst from the pure stream. He tried to
+think, but his thoughts ran wild into each other; he turned his head
+towards the roots of one of the willows, and rested it there. It
+throbbed against the cool green turf; its coolness was refreshing to
+him, and there he slept.
+
+Hettie Brown had that morning left her home in the barrens to do an
+errand for her mother in Mr. Grizzle's store; she stopped at the Widow
+Andrews', and found the mother and daughter in tears, and had to listen
+to a long tale of William's delinquencies.
+
+'And he's gone off to Grizzle's, now again, I _know_ he has; and there
+he'll sit and drink, and he'll come home drunk yet one of these days,
+and he'll be a drunkard and a vagabond.'
+
+And the good woman went off into another hard crying spell. Hettie made
+no reply; she was not in the habit of talking much, nor did she shed any
+tears--she was not given to that either. A few expressions of sympathy
+she dropped as she parted from Mary, telling her to hope for the best,
+and making a short call, went on her way to the store.
+
+She was anxious to see William, and therefore she hastened her steps.
+She seemed to feel a consciousness of power to lead him away from the
+path of ruin. He had been her playmate when a little child; nor had he
+ever, by word or deed, done aught to offend her. The intimacy of
+childhood had indeed passed away--her wise mother had cautioned her on
+matters referring especially to William, and of late she had seldom seen
+him; but she felt that she possessed an influence over him, and she
+meant now to exert it.
+
+As she crossed the by-path we have already mentioned, she thought of the
+little spring, and how refreshing it would be to drink of its cool
+water. She turned, and followed the path towards the willows which
+marked the spot.
+
+When William Andrews awoke, it was from a troubled dream, and the quiet
+which surrounded him was grateful to his spirits. He arose and drank
+freely from the spring--the birds were singing sweetly in the hedges and
+on the trees; there was no sound beside, but the rippling of the little
+rill that stole gently away from the fountain where he had slaked his
+thirst. His feelings, late so hurried and disturbed, were calm--the
+storm had lulled, a dark and dreadful gulf seemed to have been passed,
+and now he was upon a path where all above and around him combined to
+make it light and pleasant. This change, however, was but the effect of
+that rest which sleep had given to his frame; 'twas the pure fresh
+feeling which the soul enjoys when waked by morning's dawn, before the
+hopes and fears, the business and the cares of life, have time to urge
+their claims. Scarce had he quenched his thirst, and fully awaked to a
+consciousness of his situation, ere the scenes of the morning rushed
+back upon him. As the tumult of his thoughts arose, he stood and leaned
+against one of the willows, and cast his eye down at the little
+fountain, bubbling up so incessantly and with so little disturbance,
+that it came to the surface with no alloy of earth about it; and he saw
+how fresh and rank was the greensward all along its course--it not only
+gave from its little receptacle a full supply for all who needed, but
+virtue seemed to emanate throughout its meanderings, and to bless
+wherever it flowed.
+
+'This spring,' said he, 'is like the life of one that is good--pure at
+the fountain, and the whole life a blessing, making things better and
+happier all around him; but _my_ life--oh, what has it been?' And his
+cheek flushed, and tears of anguish fell fast, while with hands firmly
+clasped, and still leaning against the tree, he looked down at the
+bubbling water.
+
+'Why William!'
+
+He started at the well-knows voice.
+
+'Oh, Hettie, is this _you_? how glad I am to see you.'
+
+She extended her hand towards him, but there was something in the sight
+of Hettie that caused the cup, already full, to overflow; he did not
+take the offered hand, but covering his face, gave way to a passionate
+burst of weeping.
+
+Hettie was much surprised, but she attempted not to interfere; nor did
+she weep with him, but waited silently until the violence of the storm
+had passed, and he was sufficiently composed to address her.
+
+'I am very unhappy, Hettie, and have been so for a long time.'
+
+'I have thought so, William, and I am very glad of an opportunity to say
+something to you about it. I was certain that you must be unhappy. There
+can be no peace for us when we have left the path of duty, until we
+return from our crooked ways: it would not be best for us that we should
+be happy when our doings are not right.'
+
+'Well, mine are not right, and I am afraid they will never be any
+better.'
+
+'Why not, William? are you willing still to be unhappy, and to break
+your mother's heart, and fill the minds of all your friends with
+sorrow?'
+
+'I have been far astray, Hettie. I have sunk myself very low, and have
+struggled hard at times to break the charm that was leading me to ruin;
+but I feel now as I have not felt before; and if you will only not
+despise me, if you will let me hope that a new course of life may yet
+gain your respect, it will be a helper to me--a great helper to me. And
+oh! Hettie, you cannot tell how much I need your aid.'
+
+Hettie was wise perhaps beyond her years. She felt much interest for the
+youth who had grown with her from childhood.
+
+'I fear, William, that the struggle you will be compelled to encounter
+will need help greater than a creature can give. You must look to Him
+who made you, and relying on his strength, resolve to do your duty, cost
+what it may. All that I can promise is my feeble prayer; and whenever I
+offer it for myself, I will offer it for you too, William. And now I
+must leave you, for I have an errand to the store, and mother will be
+uneasy at my absence.'
+
+And the happy girl, smiling a pleasant good-by, went on her way. William
+watched her until she turned into the public road, and then, with one
+strong cry to Heaven for help, turned towards his home, a happier person
+than he had been for many long months.
+
+_He had resolved to do right._
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+
+The difficulties which presented themselves to our boys in fulfilling
+the engagement they had made with Major Morris were of no trifling
+account, for it was a great question if so large a quantity could be
+found in the place, above what was pledged to Mr. Grizzle for debts
+already incurred. Again, if they should succeed in finding the quantity,
+how could they pay for them? and lastly, where was a boat to be
+procured, in which to carry them at a season of the year when storms and
+high winds were to be expected? But as difficulties are apt to vanish
+before a resolute mind, Jim felt not at all daunted by them.
+
+He had resolved, first of all, to make a thorough trial as to the
+possibility of finding persons willing to engage specific quantities to
+him. And it was for this purpose that the boys were assembled early in
+the morning of a bright and beautiful day in June; Jim and Sam to go on
+the expedition, and Ned to see them off.
+
+'Well, boys, I hope you'll find all you'll want; but it looks to me like
+a hard case.'
+
+'So it does to me, Ned, too; but Jim has been thinking it all out, you
+know. I should feel better, however, if we knew where the _money_ was to
+come from to pay for them; I do hate so to ask folks to trust us.'
+
+'I have no idea, Sam, of doing any such thing; I mean to offer them the
+money down as soon as they deliver the potatoes.'
+
+'Just hear _that_ Ned,' said Sam, looking verily confounded.
+
+'Well,' said Ned, kicking away a small stone that lay in reach of his
+foot, 'that is a good plan enough if one had the money; but it will take
+all of a hundred dollars: and it looks dark to me where such a sum as
+that is to come from.'
+
+'That is the least of the difficulties, boys; we shall make, I hope, by
+our summer's work enough money to pay for twenty-five bushels of
+potatoes, which will be the most we shall be able to carry at a trip,
+and Major Morris will pay us for them as we deliver them to him.'
+
+Ned and Sam looked at each other. 'I told you, Ned, that Jim would think
+it out somehow.'
+
+'And besides,' continued Jim, 'I have great hope that our offering them
+the money on delivery, will induce them to sell to us in preference to
+Grizzle. But what troubles me the most is, how to get a boat sufficient
+for our purpose.'
+
+'Supposing I should say'--and Sam's bright eyes sparkled as he looked
+from one to the other of his companions, while a smile played around the
+corners of his mouth--'I hope to have a good new boat, not very
+handsome, but tight and strong, and able to go in rough weather, and
+carry twenty-five bushels of potatoes at a load; what would you say to
+that?'
+
+'Now, Sam Oakum, what do you mean?'
+
+'I mean just what I say. My father told me last night, that as soon as
+he could get the stuff, he would go right to work and build a boat as
+large as that, and that it should be mine; and I am going to take my
+money as I can earn it, and buy the stuff. What do you think of that,
+Jim?'
+
+'It is the best news I have heard this long while;--how strangely things
+work! but look out for Ned there.'
+
+The warning was too late, for Sam was lying on his back, laughing
+heartily; and Jim was scolding Ned for his folly, and Jowler was barking
+at them all. As soon as matters were composed again, Jim and Sam started
+on their expedition; while Ned, with Jowler at his heels, went with
+right good-will to his work in the garden.
+
+A blacksmith's shop is a very necessary article in all social
+establishments, as the place where persons are likely to be met with and
+news collected or circulated. The one which answered the demands of this
+place was not a very extensive establishment; it was a little
+dark-looking hovel, with an exceedingly high chimney. It was situated at
+the meeting of several roads, and was surrounded with a multitude of
+articles that had once seen better days, but _when_, the oldest
+inhabitant could scarcely remember. Mr. Cutter, the proprietor of this
+establishment, was now somewhat advanced in life, but by no means so old
+as his appearance indicated. From some cause not well ascertained, he
+had begun about his thirtieth year to increase in flesh, and had for
+more than twenty years been adding to his stock; neither wielding the
+sledge-hammer in his shop, nor the worrying of his good wife in the
+house, could keep it back; but I believe it was all the increase, of any
+consequence, that resulted from his labors, and yet he was, in
+comparison with his neighbors, 'well to do in the world.' He was,
+moreover, of a good disposition, ready to oblige, and of sound judgment,
+and as well acquainted with persons and things for many miles round as
+any other man in the place, and a little better.
+
+Our boys had determined to make their first call at 'Uncle Sam
+Cutter's,' as he was generally styled.
+
+'He's a clever man,' said Sam, 'and he knows every body, and all about
+every thing in the place; and it may save us a great many steps.'
+
+It was a very warm day, and Uncle Sam was sitting outside his shop, on
+what had once been the hub of a large cart-wheel; there was a fine shade
+where he sat, a large apple tree which stood in an adjoining lot,
+extending its branches almost to his shop door. He had his hat in his
+hand, and was using it violently as a fan; the heat was making terrible
+work with him, for on his bald head and down his fat cheeks and sunburnt
+breast, the perspiration was running in streams.
+
+'A pretty warm day, Uncle Sam, ain't it?'
+
+'Here, you young rogue, take this, and blow a little wind on to me, if
+there's any to be got, for I'm most dead,' (handing Sam his great
+broad-brimmed chip hat.) 'I guess you'd think it warm, blowing them
+tarnel old bellows all day long, with such a lump of fat lugging to you
+as I've got; I can't hardly waddle under it, let alone handling them
+bellows.'
+
+'Why don't you have the boys blow for you, Uncle Sam?'
+
+'The boys! ah yes, the boys! I'd like any one to tell me what the hul
+kit on 'em is good for, but to eat mush and milk. Do blow away Sam, if
+there's any wind in all creation any more. I want to git this carcass o'
+mine cool a little, just so I shan't go _all_ to soap-grease. Talk of
+the boys, they're wus than wild cats; I wouldn't give my old mare for
+all the boys between this and the barrens--don't talk to me about boys,
+Sam--don't stop blowing, or I'm a dead man. Here, Jim, my good fellow,
+spell him a little.'
+
+'Yes, that I will, with pleasure, sir.'
+
+'That's like a man, there's no boy about that--ah, Jim, I knew your
+father well, and a likelier man never came to this place; but what he
+came _here_ for was more than I could ever see--it seems to me there's
+a cus on it; the men are bad enough, but the boys are the old Nick's
+property altogether. I tell you what, if we don't have a preacher, or
+something of that kind, along here pretty soon, we're a gone case;
+there'll be another sort of bellows blowin' than my old groaner, I tell
+you. Ah, Jim, that feels good, I won't touch a hammer agin' to day; if
+Grizzle wants his old plough mended, he may come and sweat away at it
+himself, it will do his old dry carcass good, won't it Sam? It won't
+hurt him, will it?' And the old man went off into a good hearty laugh,
+his whole body shaking like a lump of jelly--the idea of sweating
+Grizzle amused him so much, that he forgot about the heat, and taking
+his hat clapped it on his head.
+
+'And now, boys, what are you up to? going crabbing down to the mill, I
+know; for my boys have been there this hul blessed morning.'
+
+'Oh, no sir,' said Jim, 'we were not thinking about that this morning;
+but are wishing to find out who would be willing to engage some beans
+and potatoes for the fall.'
+
+'Beans and potatoes? why, you blessed child, are you crazy? You ain't
+grown up here, not to know better than to try to sell sich things in
+this place. You must go to Grizzle with them, and he won't take them
+only for jist what you owe him.'
+
+'Ah, but we don't want to sell, but to buy.'
+
+'Want to buy!--you're wus off than I thought you was. Why, didn't you
+plant any? How did you think you was goin' to live? like Bill Moore and
+his brother down the lane here? eh?'
+
+'Oh, no sir, we have plenty for our use; but we can sell quite a
+quantity of these articles, more than we shall have.'
+
+'And pray tell me what you call a quantity, mister.'
+
+'Why, we want two or three hundred bushels.'
+
+'_Two or three hundred bushels!_' And the old man took off his hat and
+began to fan himself again very fast. '_Two or three hundred
+bushels!_--you boys wasn't neither on you brought up to lie, but I don't
+know but you've taken up the trade; it's pretty easy larnt, to be sure.'
+
+'It's true, Uncle Sam, what Jim tells you; _true_ as we stand here.'
+
+'Sam Oakum, them eyes o' yourn warn't made to help a lyin' tongue; so
+don't stand there looking so honest, and telling me sich stuff as
+that.'
+
+'It is true, Mr. Cutter, just as Sam says; we are telling you the truth,
+and no joke about it.'
+
+But the old man kept shaking his head and fanning himself; so that Jim
+felt called upon to tell their whole story.
+
+'Now boys, _is_ this _true_, you're tellin' me? Sam, you're a smilin';
+there's some catch about it, ain't there, you rogue?'
+
+'No, there ain't, Uncle Sam, upon my honor.'
+
+'Well, it's a queer story, any how; _three hundred bushels potatoes_;
+why you'll take all that's raised, and Grizzle won't have none for Cross
+this year; you know he sends all he takes in up to Cross, who keeps the
+store or tavern, or whatever they call it, in the barrens; but it ain't
+much matter, they're two precious rogues, both on 'em. And you say you
+want to know where you can find so many: I raally can't say; but the
+Widow Andrews would be like to have _some_. Bill tell'd me he had
+planted a considerable patch, beans and potatoes too; but whether
+they'll come to any thing I don't know, for he's got like the rest on
+'em--he's round to Grizzle's too much, I guess. Sorry for it; Bill's a
+likely fellow if he'd mind his own business. And then there's my
+namesake, Cutter; he may have a few, not a great many. I tell you what,
+you'll have to hunt considerable, boys, afore you'll find all you want.
+And then there's Billy Bloodgood, deaf Billy, you know him; but you'll
+have to holler loud enough to wake the dead to make him hear--he ought
+to have a speakin' trumpet fastened into his ear, it's enough to give a
+man the consumption to talk with him. And may be I'll have a few myself,
+and I would as leave you'd have them as Grizzle, the old varmint; I
+don't believe I shall owe him much this year. What are you goin' to
+give, boys?'
+
+Sam looked at Jim for an answer.
+
+'Why, if they are fair-sized potatoes, we can give twenty-five cents a
+bushel.'
+
+'I wish I had more on 'em, for that's double what Grizzle gives; and
+_beans_ you want _too_; well, I guess I shall have three or four
+bushels. I can't say but they ought to be hoed now, and I can't do it,
+no how; for a man like me to work out in the sun, it's idle to talk
+about it. Why I should die in the operation, and the boys don't care for
+nothin'; but when they hear what a price you're givin', it may spur them
+up a little.'
+
+The boys thanked him for his information, and started off at a good
+pace on their way to the Widow Andrews'. Bill was at work in the field,
+fighting manfully with a large growth of weeds; he greeted them kindly,
+but continued his labors.
+
+'You will excuse me if I don't stop working; things are so behind-hand
+with me, that if I don't labor hard, I shall not catch up with my work,
+all summer.'
+
+'By no means stop,' said Jim; 'we can say what we wish to, just as well
+while your hoe is going.' He made known their errand in few words, but
+no sooner did Bill hear what Jim had to say than he stopped hoeing, and
+looked with some surprise, first at one and then at the other of the
+boys.
+
+'Yes, certainly, you shall have them; how many bushels do you want?
+Haven't you planted any this year?'
+
+Jim then acquainted him with his reasons for wanting them, and the
+quantity he wished; stating also the price he could afford to give.
+
+'And the money shall be paid to you when you deliver them.'
+
+'You shall have every potato and bean I have for sale. I supposed I
+should be obliged to let Grizzle have them, but he may whistle for them,
+for all me; he allowed me last year but ten cents for potatoes, and
+fifty cents for beans. He will be angry, probably, but if I can have the
+money to pay, I shall not fear him any more than you seemed to the other
+day'--looking at Sam.
+
+'No, I don't fear him; and all I wish is that father didn't owe him any
+thing.'
+
+'Well, he is a very bad man, and will injure us all, if he can in any
+way, when he finds he is to be disappointed in getting things at his own
+price. He and Cross work into each other's hands, and they will not, if
+they can help it, have any one interfere with them; but I don't well see
+how they can.'
+
+William Andrews was not mistaken in his views of the effect these things
+would have upon the minds of such men. But it will be time enough to
+meet trouble when it comes; at present we must hasten with our boys on
+their way to Billy Bloodgood's, much elated with their success, and with
+the change which seemed to have taken place in the views and feelings of
+young Andrews.
+
+Mr. William Bloodgood--or Billy, as he was generally called--was the
+best to do of any of the folks for miles round, that is, he had more
+land, and a few more head of cattle, and managed a little better than
+his neighbors. But his house was rather a small concern, and his fences
+were in all sorts of shape, and his barn had far too many rents in it,
+and things lay in all directions around. Still, he did better than his
+neighbors, for Billy did not drink, and he kept himself busy, flying
+round on his farm, and made out almost always to raise quite a
+respectable quantity of one thing and another. He was a very
+good-natured man, and was blessed, as many good-natured men are, with a
+wife that could take his part, and her own too, sometimes. He had a
+peculiar way with him of going from one piece of work to another,
+without finishing either. Before his field of corn was half hoed, he
+would begin the potato patch, and leaving that unfinished, would be
+among the beans; and so on. This habit he carried with him into smaller
+matters, to his disadvantage, certainly, and very much to his
+discomfort; for his good woman was sorely annoyed by it, and whatever
+troubled her, he was sure to be obliged to bear a part of it. They lived
+happily however; for although Billy did not practise sound philosophy in
+his work, he did in that very delicate matter of conjugal relationship.
+He knew it would never answer for both to have their own way, one or the
+other must rule sometimes; and as he saw very soon that it would be a
+very difficult matter, if not an impossibility to get his better half to
+yield, unless she had a mind to it, he very properly decided to give up
+the reins to her. He was a wiser man than many took him to be.
+
+As the boys entered the gate, Billy was coming out of the house, having
+just finished his dinner; he had a knife in one hand, and a piece of
+pigtail in the other, from which cutting a fair allowance, he put it
+into his mouth with a manifest relish. Without apparently noticing the
+boys who were walking towards him, he made directly to a great pile of
+brush which lay in the yard, and commenced chopping. They walked up to
+him, and endeavored to catch his eye, but he took no notice of them.
+After cutting a few sticks, he threw down the axe, and, looking at Jim,
+asked in a very loud voice,
+
+'Did you speak to me?'
+
+Jim shook his head in the negative, and then began to say something
+about his errand; he spoke, as he thought, in a pretty loud voice. But
+Billy only noticed his negative reply to the question he had put, and
+started for another corner of the yard, where lay a heap of farming
+utensils, and began dragging forth an old one-horse plough. After
+separating it from the rest, he commenced tinkering the rigging; Jim, in
+the meantime, trying to catch his eye, long enough to let him know
+that, although he had not yet spoken to him, he wished to do so. Twice,
+as he raised himself, Jim made a desperate effort, and called out as
+loud as he thought necessary,
+
+'Mr. Bloodgood!'
+
+But it availed nothing. He stared at him an instant, and then ran across
+to another side of the yard to a little old corn crib; and jumping into
+it, began to overhaul a box of old irons, for something probably that
+belonged to the plough. In the midst of all his hurry, however, he would
+find time every now and then to put his hand into his vest pocket, and
+taking out large pinches of snuff, would regale his olfactory sense, and
+apparently with great zest. The boys began to feel that it was a
+desperate case, and at the same time were so amused, that they could
+with difficulty refrain from showing it. In fact, Jim did once or twice
+give a kind of whine, just the beginning of a peculiar laugh he had, and
+Sam would go off with a very slight sneeze. As Billy appeared to be in
+no hurry to come out of the crib, they walked slowly across to where he
+was.
+
+'You try him this time, Sam? see if you can make him hear.'
+
+'I can't, Jim, no how. I should burst out laughing in his face.'
+
+'I am afraid, then, we must give it up, for I can't get him to look at
+me.'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood, however, saw their dilemma, and out she came. The boys
+hardly knew whether she was for peace or war, for she advanced towards
+them with tremendous strides, muttering as she came. Her appearance was
+indeed rather dubious, for her hair was flying, and her face was very
+red, from the joint exercise of cooking and eating, and helping half a
+dozen children. And as to the dress, having great respect for the female
+sex we will say nothing about it; it was, moreover, very warm weather,
+and a Calamink petticoat was warm enough without the burden of its upper
+companion, the short gown--but she was just as she was, and we cannot
+help it. She had a little more nose than most women, that is, it was a
+very long, sharp, and crooked nose; but the good woman had use for it.
+And never were boys more astonished when they saw how well it answered
+her turn; it was a veritable speaking-trumpet, and, although the sounds
+which issued from it were rather of the nasal order, they were the
+better calculated to penetrate the very narrow passages to her husband's
+sounding-board. Having been so long accustomed to use a very high pitch
+in her communications with the good man, she made no allowance for the
+more delicate organs of other people, but so drove the sounds into them
+as truly made their ears to tingle, not only at the time, but a great
+while after.
+
+'What is it you're wanting?'
+
+Jim started; he could not help it.
+
+'Do you want to speak to Bloodgood?'
+
+'Yes, ma'am; I should like to speak with him about some beans and
+potatoes.'
+
+With that she made off to the crib, where she met her good man coming
+out with a piece of old iron in his hand, and making for the other side
+of the yard where the plough was. He seemed as regardless of her as he
+had been of the boys; but as he was stooping over the plough, she put
+her hand on his shoulder, and gave such a blast in his ear that his soul
+must have stept out of his body not to have heard it; he immediately
+raised himself, and, looking at the boys, roared back to her in a strain
+scarcely less loud,--
+
+'What do they want?'
+
+'I don't know; something about potatoes and beans.'
+
+'Bees? We 'aint got no bees;' and with that he took one of his
+tremendous pinches of snuff.
+
+'Beans, beans! don't you hear _that_?' And then turning to Jim and Sam,
+who had walked up beside her--
+
+'He grows wus and wus; and it's my candid belief that it's his snuffin'
+and snuffin' all the time so; his ears, I s'pose, is all stopped clean
+up; and the only way the sound can git into his head is through his
+nose, like; and when he stuffs that full, it's like hollerin' agin' a
+log.'
+
+But he did hear _beans_, as she last spoke it.
+
+'Beans? What of 'em?'
+
+'Well, do tell _me_, boys, what you want on 'em, and I'll try to make
+him hear, for _you_ never can.'
+
+With that Jim communicated to her his business, and when she understood
+it clearly, appeared not a little pleased.
+
+'I didn't know but you'd come from Grizzle's, and I don't like him; he's
+a good-for-nothin' old varmint, and he's spilin' all the men and boys in
+the place; and I told Bloodgood I'd rather throw the potatoes in the
+creek than let him have one on 'em.' So she went to work with a good
+will to tell their errand.
+
+'Who sent 'em? Grizzle?'
+
+'No, no; you think there is nobody in the whole creation world to buy
+anything but Grizzle.' And then raising her voice to the very loudest--
+
+'Nobody sent 'em; they come o' themselves, and they'll pay you the money
+right down when you take 'em the things.'
+
+'Well, well, that will do,'--and he smiled then, for the first time, as
+he looked at the boys--'that'll do; you shall have 'em; let me know when
+you want 'em.'
+
+And now Mrs. Bloodgood would insist upon their going in, and taking
+something to eat. In vain it was they protested that they were not
+hungry, having eaten a lunch on their way.
+
+'I know better than that. I know what boys are; they can always eat; so
+if you won't go in, don't either on you stir one step till I come out.'
+
+In she ran, and in a moment appeared again with one-half of a large
+bread-cake, which she had just taken from the griddle, with a lump of
+butter on the top of it, and she with a knife spreading it on; but there
+was no occasion for the knife, for the butter was running like snow in
+summer, and dripping over the sides of the cake.
+
+'Here, boys, take this;' breaking it in two, and giving each half 'I
+_know_ it will taste good.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+
+A few evenings after the events recorded in the last chapter, Sam
+started from home on his way to meet Jim and Ned. When but a short
+distance from his house, to his surprise he met William Andrews; he was
+on his way to visit the Montjoys, and designed calling upon Sam that he
+might accompany him to their house.
+
+'I am going to see them,' said Sam; 'but they will not be at the house.
+Such fine evenings as this we meet at a large rock near by--they will be
+as glad to see you as I am.'
+
+The rock was large enough to accommodate the whole of them; but Ned
+preferred the grass for his seat; he and Jowler had always some business
+of their own to attend to, and very frequently they would both be
+rolling together on the ground. The moon was rising beautifully, and a
+long streak of light played across the expanse of water at a distance,
+dancing on the waves that were formed by the fresh sea-breeze, and,
+nearer the shore, where the water lay smooth and unruffled, marking a
+line of clear silver light, as from the surface of a mirror.
+
+There is always something peculiarly fascinating in the formation of
+youthful friendships--everything seems so fair; the interchange of
+confidence is so mutual, so whole-hearted--there is no secret standing
+on our guard--no cautious feeling of our way, to see whether we can
+safely trust. The heart has not yet been deceived, and therefore yields
+implicit confidence. One short hour, in our boyhood's days, will do more
+to knit our hearts in bonds strong and true, than months can accomplish,
+after the coldness and selfishness of the world have set us on our
+guard.
+
+William Andrews had yielded to the impulses of a kind and social
+disposition, and thereby had been led sadly astray; but the charm was
+now broken, and he turned away with disgust and loathing from his past
+habits and companions. He had formed no friendships with those who were
+his partners in the idle hour, and the place of temptation. His heart
+was yet in its freshness, with a love of the pure and good, more intense
+for what he had seen of impiety and evil. His spirit panted for
+communion with those on whom it could confide, and longed to pour out
+its breathings into the ear of virtue and truth.
+
+And now, under the great oak-tree, seated on the large flat rock, he
+confessed all his delinquencies, related the narrative of what he
+believed to be a change for life, and its happy influence upon his daily
+routine of duties.
+
+'I can work, now, without being wearied; I can go home and meet my
+mother without the fear of rebuke; and I can lie down to rest at night
+without my head throbbing, or my body burning as in a fever; and when I
+awake in the morning, the stupor of deadness I used to feel is gone; I
+am happy, and ready for my business.'
+
+Jim and Sam had no such personal experience of their own to tell. Sam
+might, indeed, have unfolded scenes of misery in his own past history;
+but in his own bosom must now for ever rest all that had been bitter in
+his own experience.
+
+But there was no lack of subjects, and the evening was gone before they
+had said the one half they had to say; and long before the evening was
+spent, they were as intimate, and as much one in their feelings, as
+though they, had associated for years.
+
+Sam's heart was full of happiness that night as he walked along the
+shore, and saw the water glistening in the moonlight, and heard the soft
+sound of the distant waves; and as he beheld the little light that
+twinkled in his lowly home, it seemed as bright to him--yea, brighter
+than does many an illuminated palace to its princely owner. Dark is the
+heart, Sam, that would bring a cloud over your pleasant sky; but such
+there are, sitting in council beneath the same pleasant moonlight which
+you are enjoying;--well for you that you see them, hear them not.
+
+Had we the power of knowing what is going on at the same time in
+different places--could we look into the hearts of the actors in these
+various scenes--could we know how very near, sometimes, are the plotters
+of mischief and spite to the unconscious, inoffensive objects of their
+malice, it would be a cause of misery to us, unless our power was equal
+to our knowledge. Happy is it for us, that but one place, and one set of
+circumstances, can engross our minds.
+
+Not far from where these happy youths held sweet counsel together,
+encouraging each other in the path of manliness and virtue, beneath the
+same clear sky and bright shining moon, sat two specimens of humanity,
+beneath the shed that ran along the front of Mr. Grizzle's store:--one
+of these the owner thereof, and the other a miserable-looking bloated
+youth, of about eighteen years of age.
+
+'Do you say, Bill Tice, that they've been round buying up all the
+potatoes, and giving twenty-five cents a bushel?'
+
+'Yes, it's fact. Old Sam Cutter told his boys on it, and they told me;
+and they said the old man wanted them to go to work and hoe 'em out,
+because they were goin' to bring sich a price, and he didn't mean to let
+old Grizzle have none on 'em.'
+
+'He did, ha? Ay, ay, well, well.'
+
+'And they'd bought all Billy Bloodgood's, and Bill Andrews', and ever so
+many more.'
+
+'They have, eh? and gin' twenty-five cents a bushel, you say? that's a
+putty business, Bill.' And Grizzle turned his bleared and spectacled
+eyes full upon his companion. 'A putty business, Bill, ain't it? And who
+is to have potatoes and sich things to sell in the dead o'winter to poor
+folks, who may be ain't raised none? What would your folks have done
+last winter in sich a case?'
+
+'Sure enough, we might starve; they wouldn't care.'
+
+'And then if you was jist to help yourself a little,' (giving him a
+slight hunch,) 'why they'd be the first to complain on you; and away you
+must go another three months in the old cage.
+
+'I hate them Montjoy boys, they always look as if no one was good enough
+for 'em; goin' round with their shirt collars on their necks, and shoes
+on their feet.'
+
+'And you say Oakum is with 'em, ha?'
+
+'Why yes, Oakum's boy is with 'em, and you know it must be the old man
+that does it; the boy aint got nothin'.'
+
+'No, nor the old one neither, when his debts is paid; but I'll see, I'll
+see. Folks musn't git in debt to me, and then come out agin' me; that
+won't do, Bill Tice.'
+
+'I shouldn't think it would.'
+
+'And you say Oakum is goin' to build a boat for his boy?'
+
+'That's what Dick Cutter tell'd me.'
+
+'To carry away everything we've got here, and make things so high, poor
+folks must starve or else work hard, one or the two.'
+
+'They don't care.'
+
+'I tell you what, Bill, you and I know one another; you've done some
+little jobs for me, and may be I've done some little things for you.'
+
+'Yes, I know that.'
+
+'Well now, Bill, this business must be stopped by fair means as foul.'
+
+'That boat shan't never be built.'
+
+'Whist, Bill, whist, don't be too fast; time enough yet.'
+
+'What will you do, then?'
+
+'What will I do--jist take the law on Oakum. Don't you see if I tie his
+hands the boat can't be built; and the old one they've got now, will
+only sink 'em to the bottom of the bay, if they try to take a load in
+her. I can make out a bill, I guess, that will keep him tight for three
+months at any rate.'
+
+'That's a good idee.'
+
+'Well, what I want of you is, to go some time to-morrow or next day, and
+jist ask Dick Tucker to come and see me, and may be I'll give him a job.
+You ain't afraid of Dick, now, are you?'
+
+'No, I don't _care_ nothin' for him; I should like just once to turn the
+key upon him, and see how he'd like it.'
+
+'He'd rather turn it upon you and me, Bill; but you jist go there and
+tell him what I say. But keep mum, Bill.'
+
+'No fear o' me.'
+
+With that the old man patted Bill on the back.
+
+'Come, come in and take something afore you go.' And in they went, and
+down went the fiery draught, and away went Bill Tice, a wretched victim
+to the hateful cup--a youth in age, but already old in ways of
+wickedness. Along the highway he plodded, his hat pulled down over his
+eyes, his head bent over, and his look fixed upon the path he was
+treading. He heeded not the beautiful moon that was lighting him on his
+way--brightly it shone upon him and his home, but only to expose
+wretchedness and vice waiting upon each other.
+
+The path of duty is said to be the path of safety. When considered in
+reference to all final results, this is doubtless true; but to go
+steadily forward in our daily or weekly routine, we must expect to
+encounter more or less exposure to danger and disaster.
+
+The little 'craft,' as Peter called the boat in which Jim and Sam made
+their voyages, was by no means suitable for the work; and again and
+again did the old sailor warn them, that 'they must look out for the
+southeasters, and never venture in no sich thing as that.'
+
+It was the only one at present that they could procure, and they must
+either run the risk or give up their trade--a thing not to be
+contemplated for a moment.
+
+It was early in July; the weather for some days had been oppressively
+warm. A dense fog covered the land and the water; and as our boys
+started upon their usual trip, they were obliged to lay their course as
+they best could, as there was nothing visible beyond a few lengths of
+their boat. The water was smooth without a ripple; not a breath of air
+could be felt from any direction. Sam's father had endeavored to
+dissuade him from venturing on the water at such a time.
+
+'There's no telling what kind of weather we may have when this goes off,
+and I'm most sure I heerd it thunder a while ago.'
+
+'I guess it wasn't thunder, father; and you know I can hardly miss my
+way in crossing the river; and when we get on the other shore, it will
+be easy to make the point; and by the time we get there, the wind will
+rise and the fog will go off.'
+
+Sam's reasoning was well enough, but his father was not quite satisfied
+that it was best for them to go; however, as he saw their minds were set
+upon it, and all their things on board, he made no further objections.
+
+As Sam had said, he was able to make the other shore without much
+difficulty; and that once reached, by keeping close to it, the point
+was also gained; but when about to turn into the open bay, Sam had some
+misgivings as to what was best to be done. The fog still surrounded
+them, as dense as ever, the shore could be seen only a few oars' length
+from it; and if they could keep within sight, they might proceed with
+their voyage, although by following the windings of the shore the
+distance would be greatly increased. This, however, would not have
+discouraged Sam, if he had not known that there were spots where close
+hugging the shore was impossible, as ledges of rocks ran off from it,
+which must be avoided. Thinking that he could keep the shore in sight
+until these were reached, and then venture out a little to avoid them,
+and not willing to turn back, he concluded to try the experiment. Jim
+knew nothing of the dangers to which they were exposed in being once out
+of sight of land, with no possible guide, in a small open boat, on the
+bosom of a bay that opened fair to the ocean. He therefore made no
+objections to any of Sam's movements. There was no wind, of course the
+sail was not up, and Sam handled the oars. Jim had his usual place at
+the helm, at which he had become quite expert.
+
+'Keep her along shore, Jim, and don't lose sight of the land for any
+thing. Tell me when you see the large white rock, or the big tree; but I
+don't much think you will be able to see _that_ to-day, but keep a sharp
+look-out for the rock.' The tree, as Sam expected, was not visible; but
+after half an hour's rowing, Jim pointed out the rock to which Sam had
+alluded.
+
+'You remember, Jim, that near to this is the first ledge of rocks--turn
+her off shore a little--there, that will do; look sharp for the rocks,
+for if we lose sight of them and the shore too, we are gone.'
+
+Jim did look sharp; for he perceived, from the anxious countenance of
+his companion, that there was some peculiar difficulty to be
+apprehended: in a few moments, however, they lost sight of the shore.
+This Sam expected; but instead thereof, anticipated making use of the
+large rocks, which usually protruded above the ledge or sunken reef, as
+his beacon. He exerted his utmost strength in the direction, as he
+supposed, they would be found, and the little boat skimmed rapidly
+through the water. Not a sign, however, of rock or shore could they
+discover; and, to add to their confusion, Sam, by accident, slipped an
+oar. Jim sprang to assist him in securing it, his tiller shifted, and
+the points of the compass were lost to them; the fog, too, evidently
+thickened around them--
+
+'Don't you feel a breeze, Sam? I did just then.'
+
+'Yes, and I think I know where it comes from; you see the fog grows
+thicker; it is driving in from the sea, and this wind must be from the
+east. Father said this morning he thought we should have the wind from
+that quarter--here it comes again, Jim.'
+
+In a few moments a fresh and steady breeze came on; Sam, too, confident
+in the direction from which it came, hastened to spread his sail, and
+taking the helm into his own hands, put her head, as he supposed, in a
+direction that would carry them towards the fort, and at the same time
+bring them near the shore. For a while after the breeze sprung up, the
+fog was by no means diminished; but at length it began to recede, and as
+the circle of their horizon enlarged, anxiously they watched on the
+quarter where they were confident the land lay.
+
+'We must be wrong, Sam, or we certainly could see the land by this
+time.'
+
+Sam answered not, for other signs than the non-appearance of the land
+convinced him that he had mistaken his bearings. The wind had not
+increased much since it had at first sprung up, and, in fact, was giving
+tokens of ceasing or changing, by its frequent lulls; yet the water was
+becoming very rough; in fact, the waves were different from any they had
+ever encountered yet, threatening at times to fill their boat;--he
+began, indeed, to fear that he had been running out instead of nearing
+shore. At length the covering which had so long enveloped them rolled
+off, the distant points of land appeared, and their truly critical
+position was clearly exposed. Far off, in nearly an opposite direction
+to the one they were steering for, loomed up the fort; and the shore,
+which they had trusted was near at hand, could just be seen through the
+creeping vapors which yet clung to the land rising in patches slowly
+into the atmosphere. Before them was the open ocean, and the
+southeastern shores of the bay in a proximity to them, which in their
+present circumstances was any thing but agreeable.
+
+Sam's first impulse, of course, was to steer directly for the haven they
+had started for; this, a moment's reflection upon the state of things
+convinced him would be madness.
+
+Several times, while still enveloped in the fog, they had distinctly
+heard peals of thunder, which had by no means been a source of
+quietude; and now, far over the western sky, had gathered a dark and
+threatening mass of vapours, heaps on heaps rolling together, and
+spreading to the north, where the blackness of darkness seemed to have
+settled. Beneath that heavy mass, at the edge of the horizon, was a long
+light streak, showing where in the far distance the storm had already
+begun, and the winds lifting it up and bearing it towards them. In the
+direction of the storm was the shore they had left; to reach that or the
+fort, before it should burst upon them, was utterly impossible, and to
+be caught in their frail boat by such a tempest would be certain
+destruction. On the south and south-east lay a long line of shore, not
+much nearer than that on the west; yet from it, there ran out for a mile
+from the land, in a circular direction, a bar of sand; at high tide this
+bar was nearly covered, but when the tide was out, some acres of hard
+white sand were exposed, and afforded a firm landing-place. Sam knew of
+this; and, in fact, he could plainly discern its white surface in the
+distance, for the tide had been for some time running out, and was the
+main cause why he had, in so short a time, made so long a stretch.
+
+'What shall we do, Sam? It looks black there, don't it?'
+
+'Black enough--we must run away from it.'
+
+At once, Sam tied up the sail as carefully as he could, and stowed it as
+near the bottom of the skiff as possible.
+
+'Where will you run, Sam? we are most out to sea now.'
+
+'We must go a little nearer yet, for all that _I_ see;--_quick_, Jim,
+take the helm; you see that white streak, don't you, running out from
+the shore yonder?'
+
+'Yes.'
+
+'It is a mile nearer to us than any place we can get to; make for
+that--it is our only chance.'
+
+Jim did as directed; for, on the water, he yielded implicitly to Sam.
+The oars were out, and Sam's utmost strength was tasked; their lives
+depended on the fact of his ability to reach that bar before the storm
+should overtake them. As they progressed, the waves sensibly increased;
+and occasionally, through Jim's inexperience in steering, water enough
+would be shipped, not only to wet them thoroughly, but to endanger the
+feeble craft.
+
+Sam's eye was steadily fixed upon the rising gust; he heeded not the
+waves--death was behind them--if they reached not that landing-place in
+time, they must be his prey. Vivid streaks of lightning ran along the
+curling edges of the clouds, and heavy-rolling thunder, increasing in
+loudness at every clap; far off upon the distant land could be seen
+volumes of dust rolling high up in the air; and when the thunder ceased,
+the sullen roar of the tempest was distinctly heard.
+
+'How fast it comes, Sam!'
+
+'Keep her straight for that bar, Jim.'
+
+'Do you hear the roaring, Sam?'
+
+'Are we near the bar? Keep her as straight as you can--it's coming
+fast.'
+
+Already had the storm reached the water. Sam knew now what they had to
+expect; for before it arose a mass of spray like a thick low mist.
+Rising on his feet, and throwing himself back with all his force, the
+little fellow did all that in him lay to reach the shore.
+
+'Don't let go the helm, Jim.'
+
+And Jim immediately braced himself upon the bottom of the boat, holding
+with main strength to the tiller. As the wind struck them, Sam was
+obliged to throw himself down in the boat; he could not face its fury.
+In an instant, all sights and sounds but that of the storm were lost;
+they were at its mercy, or more properly, at the mercy of Him who
+directed it. A few moments, their little boat tossed and floated amid
+the tumult, and then struck heavily upon the beach.
+
+'Out, Jim! out, and hold on!'
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+The days when the little skiff was expected at the fort began to be
+looked forward to with much pleasure by old Peter and his little charge.
+Seated on the parapet which surrounded the fort, with a spyglass in his
+hand, he would watch a bend of the shore, around which the little boat
+could first be seen. Susie would be near him, looking at the play of the
+waters among the broken rocks which formed the foundation of the fort,
+or listening to marvellous stories of sea life, of which Peter had the
+usual supply.
+
+This day they had watched until the storm came, and after it had cleared
+away; until giving up all expectation of seeing the boat, Peter had
+hobbled into the fort to attend to some little matters, and Susie sought
+for amusement in her usual play-ground--the narrow strip of land, about
+twenty feet in width, encircling them. It has been mentioned that a
+ledge of rocks connected with the main-land, being formed partly by
+nature and partly by a deposit of large broken stones--the design
+apparently was to have formed a passage to the shore without the aid of
+a boat, but for some cause or other it was not carried out. At low
+water, one acquainted with the locality might have made his way across
+it, from rock to rock, without much difficulty; but when the tide was
+in, all communication was cut off. At the rising and falling of the
+tide, the water flowed through the narrow passages with great rapidity;
+and a very expert swimmer would have needed much muscular strength not
+to have been swept away with it. Peter never ventured upon this rough
+causeway himself, for two very good reasons: first, because it was no
+place for crutches to travel over; and, secondly, considering it unsafe,
+he did not wish to set the little girl an example which might lead her
+into danger.
+
+Tired, however, with her narrow promenade, when she reached the ledge
+spoken of, without any misgivings, she rambled across the rough pavement
+of broken stones, until she came to a large rock forming the terminus.
+On one side this rock was shelving. Fearless she walked down to the
+water's edge: the tide was running swiftly past, and this peculiar
+motion of the water being new to her, she laid herself down, and watched
+the coursing of the dark current with delight.
+
+When Peter returned, he saw nothing of Susie; and thinking she had gone
+to the other side of the fort, was hobbling round to look after her;
+when to his surprise, on turning the first angle, he saw the little boat
+close at hand, and apparently coming from a very different quarter than
+usual.
+
+'Hulloa, my hearties: where do you hail from now?'
+
+'The Horse Shoe,' said Sam, putting his hand to his mouth, and making as
+grum a noise as old Peter did.
+
+'The Horse Shoe! What! druv down there in the gale?'
+
+'Got lost in the fog, and made for the sand-bar; when the storm came up,
+we had a hard time of it.'
+
+Peter began to chew hard on his cud, and shake his head very violently;
+at the same time resting on his crutches, he doubled up his fist, and
+held it in a very threatening manner towards Sam.
+
+'The fog--lost in the fog--and didn't you know better than to venture
+off shore, with no _pints of compass_, and _no reckoning_ and _no
+nothing_ to steer by, in _sich a craft_ as _that_? That ain't fit to
+trust a man's life in on a mill pond.'
+
+Sam smiled.
+
+'It aint no laughing matter, my young man, to foller the water; I've
+tell'd you _that_, many a time; it ain't like the land, where you can
+lay to, and hold on jist as you likes. No, no; them that deals with the
+winds and the waves must keep a sharp look-out, and watch their chances;
+its nothin' more nor less but a temptin' o' Providence with your
+dumb-founded perverseness. But howsomever, I'm glad to see you; so jist
+haul up, and I'll call the Major.'
+
+Peter hobbled towards the landing-place, to which Sam urged his boat.
+Just as she struck the stairs, a loud scream was heard. Sam sprang from
+the boat, and ran with lightning speed across the ledge of broken rocks.
+He had seen what those on the dock could not see. The little girl had
+caught a view of the boat, and rising to return, had ventured to tread
+upon a part of the rock which was covered with sea-weed; her foot had
+slipped, and when Sam beheld her, she was hanging just above the water,
+clinging to the rock, and screaming in her agony. Almost distracted,
+Peter called aloud for help; although he could see nothing, as yet, of
+the child. Sam felt that life or death depended upon his exertions; and
+none but one accustomed, as he had been, from infancy, to tread with
+bare feet the flinty shore, could have made such fearful haste over that
+rough pavement. One false step would, in all probability, have cost his
+life. He reached the rock--she was still clinging; he grasped at her--it
+was too late--and down she plunged into the deep water, and was borne
+swiftly along by the current. But Sam was with her; he waited not to
+calculate the chances against his own life--in an instant he plunged,
+and then arose a cry from the fort, that brought help and dear friends
+to witness the heart-rending spectacle; for there could be little doubt
+in the minds of all that both must perish. Major Morris, at the first
+alarm, rushed to the spot. His distress at seeing the idol of his heart
+sinking in the deep water, cannot be described. He flew with one or two
+attendants to his own boat, which lay near at hand; and made all the
+haste the most intense anxiety could urge, to reach the struggling
+children. But Peter was before him, in the little skiff with Jim; the
+moment he understood the case, he threw down his crutches, sprang into
+the boat, and like a master workman, made her fly through the water.
+
+'Hold on, my darlings, don't be frightened; I'll soon be with you.'
+
+But no answer was returned; Sam had not calculated his own strength, and
+had no idea of the desperate energy it would require to sustain himself
+with another clinging to him. His arms could afford him no assistance;
+the little girl had grasped them with such energy, that the most he
+could do, was just to keep her head from beneath the water. Every thing
+was done with the greatest speed from the moment their situation was
+observed; but it took some little time to reach them. Sam felt his
+strength failing, he could not even call for help--intent upon one only
+object, he struggled on; and when he could raise his head above water to
+speak, he tried to encourage her. But the powers of nature could do no
+more, and he felt the water rushing above his head, and was conscious
+that all was over with him; when a hand, strong and steady, grasped his
+arms, still extended, and bearing up their precious burden.
+
+'She's saved! she's saved!' hallooed Peter, with his loudest voice.
+'She's saved! God be praised!--she ain't hurt a bit.' With one hand he
+took Susie from her hold on Sam, and raised her into the boat; and with
+the other supported him, so that his head was above the water.
+
+'Thank God!' exclaimed Major Morris--'But the _boy_--is he alive?'
+
+'Oh yes,' said Peter; at the same time raising Sam, and laying him down
+in the boat.
+
+'No, no, he ain't,' said Jim, throwing himself on the body of Sam. 'He's
+dead!--oh dear--he's dead! he's dead!'
+
+'I tell you he ain't--he ain't; he's only swooned like--he ain't dead:
+no, no.'
+
+But when Major Morris saw his pale and deathlike countenance, he was in
+great alarm.
+
+'To shore, instantly; he has saved my child, but I fear with the loss of
+his own life.' And while he hugged the darling of his heart to his
+bosom, and thanked God for his mercy, he could not restrain the big
+tears as he looked at the pallid features, and felt the cold and clammy
+temples of the brave heart that had saved her. Frantic with grief and
+joy alternate, Mrs. Morris watched every motion, from the stairs to
+which she had flown, at the first summons of the danger of her child.
+Receiving her from the arms of the father, crying and kissing her in the
+wildness of her joy, surrounded by attendants, she hurried into the
+fort; while Major Morris took the lifeless body of Sam in his arms,
+followed by Peter and Jim, who was almost beside himself with grief and
+terror.
+
+It seemed a long, long time to those who, under the direction of the
+surgeon of the garrison, were using means to resuscitate him; and
+scarcely less rejoiced was Major Morris when he received his own child
+alive in his arms, than when he perceived the signs of returning
+consciousness in Sam. At length he awoke as from a troubled dream. With
+an expression of deep anxiety he looked upon the circle which surrounded
+him. Mrs. Morris was bending over him, parting the wet and tangled locks
+from off his pale forehead; beside her stood the Major, holding his
+hands, and rejoicing in the warmth which he felt was returning to his
+system. Peter stood at the foot of the bed, chewing incessantly a
+tremendous quid of tobacco, which he had found leisure to slip into his
+mouth even in the midst of all the confusion. He had done great
+execution in the way of rubbing; his hands, very unlike his heart, were
+rough, and well calculated for such a purpose. He had, however, now
+ceased rubbing, and was looking alternately at Sam and at a short,
+red-faced personage, the Irish servant woman, who stood at his elbow.
+Endowed with all the feelings of her sex and her nation, she continued
+to be in great agitation. Her arms were crossed upon her breast, her
+eyes turned up to the ceiling, and with her body swinging to and fro,
+she was uttering certain groans and exclamations.
+
+'Is the little girl safe?' said Sam, looking full into the face of Major
+Morris.
+
+'Yes, my fine fellow, she is safe and well; thanks to you, under a kind
+Providence, for it.'
+
+Sam shut his eyes again; he said nothing further; but there was a
+tremulous motion on his lips, and about the muscles of his face. Some
+cordial was administered, and he was allowed to fall asleep. As he
+slept, the powers of nature began to assume their natural energy, a
+gentle warmth spread over his frame, the color again glowed on his
+cheek, and his whole countenance told the story to those anxious
+watchers, that he was doing well. All breathed more freely; the scene so
+late full of terror and dismay, was changing, like the black clouds
+which bring the thunder storm, into beautiful visions for the eye to
+rest upon and enjoy.
+
+When Sam again awoke, Jim alone was with him. He was much refreshed,
+and asked whether they had not better return home.
+
+'Whenever you are well enough, we will do so. Every thing is settled
+for--I have got your money and mine too.'
+
+'Oh, have you? Well, I have not thought much about money, or any thing
+else; I have been in a kind of dream, I believe.'
+
+'Don't you remember any thing that has happened, Sam?'
+
+'Why, I remember seeing that little girl hanging on the rock:--oh Jim,
+how I _did_ feel; and I remember running as fast as I could, and just as
+I put my hand on her to catch her, off she slipped. I remember _that_,
+Jim; and I don't believe I shall ever forget it: and I remember holding
+her up out of the water, and trying to call for help; and then, just as
+I was giving up and going down, I felt something take hold of me; and
+after that, all seems to be confused. I thought they told me she was
+saved; and I thought I saw her once looking at me; but I don't know--may
+be I only dreamt it.' And Sam looked very anxiously at Jim.
+
+'No, it's no dream, Sam; for she has been here a good while by you, and
+when she saw how pale you looked, she cried.'
+
+'Did she?'
+
+'Yes, and they all cried. And you don't know what Mr. Morris says--he
+says if it hadn't been for you, she would have been drowned before any
+of them could possibly have reached her: and that you have saved her
+life.'
+
+Sam could make no reply. The thought that he had saved a life, and the
+life of one so beautiful and so much beloved, was too full of happiness,
+and it overpowered him. The door now opened slowly, and Peter's shaggy
+head made its appearance. He had a bundle under his arm--Sam's clothes,
+which had been dried and ironed for him. Seeing Sam sitting up, he
+hobbled to the bedside, took both his crutches under one arm, and
+throwing the other around Sam, gave him a hug--well meant, no doubt, and
+expressive of his kind feelings; but which would have been much more in
+keeping had Peter been holding on to a main-top-gallant-mast in a gale
+of wind.
+
+Sam was soon arrayed in his old but clean garments. While he was
+dressing, Peter stood with his crutches properly adjusted for moving,
+his jaws working very rapidly, and his head nodding approvingly at Sam.
+
+'And now, come, my hearty, you're all rigged. The ladies want to see you
+in t'other room; come.'
+
+'Oh, no, no, no; I can't do that; I can't go, no how.'
+
+'I tell you what it is, you're a good fellow of your age as ever handled
+an oar; but you are too dumbfounded perverse in your own ways. Here is
+you been a saving this child, riskin' your own life; and when they want
+jist to say to you, "God bless you," and kind o' relieve their own
+minds, you up and won't go.'
+
+But Sam persisted; he would jump into the water again if that was
+necessary; but as to going into a fine parlor, and being looked at by
+fine ladies, it was not to be thought of. Peter was about to make some
+violent pleas against Sam's 'perverseness,' as he called it; when seeing
+the Major, he suddenly adjusted his crutches, stroked down his queue,
+and backed off to another part of the room.
+
+We must now leave Sam to the care of these friends, and see what is
+going on beneath the humble roof of his parents; an eventful day it
+proved for him and for them.
+
+Bill Tice had done the errand which Mr. Grizzle intrusted to him. A few
+days after, the old yellow gig of Mr. Richard Tucker was seen standing
+at Mr. Grizzle's door, while the two worthies were sitting together in a
+little back room, adjoining the store, with an old greasy account-book
+lying on the table beside them, and sundry papers in Mr. Tucker's
+handwriting open, and almost ready to be folded up and put into a dirty
+pocket-book belonging to said Mr. Tucker; which was also lying there,
+and waiting to inclose within its clasp an instrument fully charged with
+a power to torture, only surpassed by the wheel, which, in former days,
+twisted the joints of the wretched victims from their strong fastenings.
+
+'A larger bill, Mr. Dick, than I thought I could muster up; and now you
+make the most of it.'
+
+'Trust me for that; all I want to know is what my principal
+requires--that's all.'
+
+And Mr. Tucker knit his bushy brows, and went on tying up, with a dirty
+blue string, the papers which had been lying on the table.
+
+After securing them in this manner, he opened his pocket-book, and
+deposited them in it; and then, in the same careful manner, thrust the
+whole into an inside pocket of his threadbare coat. Mr. Tucker was
+about to do a very dirty job, and he was a man well fitted for the duty.
+He had a heart, doubtless, that beat and threw the vital current about
+his frame, just as other men have; and he had bones, and sinews, and
+flesh, and these could suffer pain as other flesh and blood; but to say
+that Mr. Tucker had a heart as others have, that would beat in sympathy
+with his fellow in distress, or that he could be made to feel shame, or
+pain, or sorrow, or regard, in that secret fountain where springs so
+much that sweetens or embitters life, would be wrong--wrong to him,
+because it would be saying that of him which was not true--wrong to the
+mass of mankind, who _have_ feelings that can be touched. Mr. Tucker's
+appearance was in keeping with his character--little leaden-colored
+eyes, sunk deep in his head, over which scowled dark shaggy brows; a
+pale, cadaverous countenance, with no expression that one could lay hold
+of in an hour of distress, on which to found a hope that any compassion
+might be felt, or any mercy shown. A fit minister was he of that stern
+and barbarous code which legalised the torturing of the _poor_
+man--which allowed the tearing him away from the charities of home, and
+entombing him in the charnel-house of vice, debauchery, and filth.
+
+Some feelings of compunction seemed yet to be lingering in the breast of
+Mr. Grizzle; for as Mr. Richard put his hat on his head, and buttoned up
+his coat, and fumbled about in the act of departing, he stammered out--
+
+'It's right, you know; I ought to have my own. Folks cannot expect me to
+wait always for 'em--pay-day must come.'
+
+'_Right!_ to be sure it's right; and as you say he's running against
+you, and setting up his boy and others to hurt your trade--why, muzzle
+him, I say--who wouldn't?'
+
+'I suppose it wouldn't be much use taking the timber and stuff that he
+is building that boat with?--there is nothing else to take.'
+
+'No use in that; he hasn't done much to it but put the ribs
+together--it's of no value as it is. No--shut him up; that's the
+way--that will stop boat and all.'
+
+'Well, well; you know the law, Dick, let it work. I shall have to find
+him in bread and water--that won't cost much.'
+
+The day was drawing to a close, and the shades of evening were deepened
+by a heavy cloud which was rising in the west, and into which the sun
+was sinking. A muttering of distant thunder hastened the departure of
+Mr. Tucker. He sprang into his crazy old gig, and drove off at a quick
+pace to his deed of mischief.
+
+Oakum had worked diligently on his boat all day, and continued his labor
+till a later hour than usual, in expectation that the little skiff would
+be along, and Sam would accompany him home. He had felt much uneasiness
+for the safety of the boys, and was very desirous of witnessing their
+return. Darkness was coming on, and a storm threatening; so taking a
+long look across the water, and meeting no signs of the boat, with
+rather a sad heart he walked towards his home. Their evening meal was
+eaten in silence, while, as long as the light permitted any view of
+distant objects, the eyes of the parents were directed across the water.
+They felt, as they had never before, how dependent they were upon their
+boy for his smile and his voice to cheer their hearts.
+
+Scarcely had they finished their supper, when the yellow gig of Mr.
+Tucker drove up. Oakum and his wife cast their eyes at the gig, and then
+at each other. Instantly she perceived that trouble was at hand; for her
+husband grew very pale, and even faltered in his step as he walked to
+the door to admit their visitor. Mr. Tucker did not use much formality
+in his official visits, and entered without knocking.
+
+'Mr. Oakum, I believe.'
+
+'At your service, sir.'
+
+'Here is an account, sir, I believe against you, lately put into my
+hands'--at the same time opening his pocket-book, and taking out one of
+the papers which he had so carefully put there but a short time since,
+in the little back room of Mr. Grizzle's store. Mr. Oakum took the
+paper, and asking Mr. Tucker to be seated, availed himself of the same
+privilege--for, to tell the truth, he was completely unnerved. He knew
+well what office Mr. Tucker held: he also knew something of the man; and
+a strange weakness came over him, so that when he unfolded the paper,
+and held it up to the light of the window, his hands trembled so
+violently, it was impossible for him to make out the sum that was
+charged against him.
+
+'This is from Mr. Grizzle, I suppose, Mr. Tucker?'
+
+'It is, sir.'
+
+'I don't know that I can make out exactly what the amount is; but I
+suppose it is right. I owe Mr. Grizzle something, but I thought it
+wasn't much.'
+
+'Much or little, sir, you've got it there; it is something over thirty
+dollars.'
+
+'Thirty dollars! Ain't there some mistake, Mr. Tucker?' and Mr. Oakum
+looked at his wife in amazement. She, poor thing, stood like a statue,
+not comprehending the matter, but fearing it was something dreadful.
+
+'I guess there is no mistake, sir. Mr. Grizzle took it from his book,
+and he ain't apt to make mistakes; but that is between you and him--it
+is no concern of mine.'
+
+'Oh, no, sir; you are not to blame. I know I owe Mr. Grizzle, and I have
+thought of it a great deal, and am trying to get a little something
+ahead to give him; he shall have all I honestly owe him just as soon as
+my hands can earn it. I will call and see Mr. Grizzle to-morrow, and
+take him a little.'
+
+Mr. Tucker now arose from his seat, put his hat on his head, and
+stepping up to Mr. Oakum--
+
+'All _that_ is well enough, sir; but it don't pay the bill. If you
+cannot settle it at once, you will please go along with me'--at the same
+time putting his hand on his shoulder.
+
+'I have a warrant to take you, unless you can give me the money, or
+goods in the place of it. Shall I read the warrant?'
+
+'There is no occasion for that, sir. I have not got the money, if it was
+to save my life; and goods I have none, only what you see here.'
+
+'Well, sir, if you go peaceably, it is well enough; if not, I must read
+the warrant, for I have no time to lose--it is getting dark.'
+
+Mr. Oakum arose, but his limbs could scarcely sustain him; big drops of
+sweat stood on his pale forehead, and a deadly sickness was at his
+heart.
+
+'Oakum, Oakum! tell me what it is. What does this man want?'
+
+'I don't see, Mr. Tucker, what good it is going to do Mr. Grizzle to
+shut me up in jail. I can't do no work there. And what are my wife and
+children to do? must they starve?'
+
+'_Jail! jail!_ Ah, sir; you ain't going to put my husband in _jail_!
+What hurt has he done you, or any body else?'
+
+And she flew to her husband, and putting her arms around his neck, wept
+as though her heart had broken. But Mr. Tucker was not to be balked in
+the discharge of his official duties by the tears of either man or
+woman--some harsh things he said, which aroused the humbled spirits of
+this suffering husband and wife. Mrs. Oakum hushed her grief for the
+time, in order to quiet the distressed children, who were clinging to
+their father, and screaming in their agony when they learned whither he
+was going. Mr. Oakum, however, made no resistance to the imperious
+demands of the officer; but quieting the feelings of his family as far
+as he could, entered the gig with Mr. Tucker, and was driven rapidly
+away amid the darkness of the gathering storm.
+
+As soon as Mrs. Oakum was enabled to collect her thoughts, apprehensions
+on Sam's account again oppressed her. She took her seat by the window,
+and looked in every direction; but the darkness had increased so
+rapidly, that objects could be discerned at only a short distance from
+the house. Occasionally the vivid lightning would, for an instant, throw
+its bright glare across the water, making the prospect distinctly
+visible. On one occasion, she thought she saw a small white sail; and
+every succeeding flash she watched, until her eyes were nearly blinded
+by the dazzling light, but nothing more of it could she discern. A
+startling peal of thunder proclaimed that the storm was at hand, and the
+rain began to patter in large drops, and then to pour its floods upon
+them. Just at that moment the door opened; and Sam, with his cheerful
+smile and pleasant words, was in the midst of them. They all flew to
+caress him; but missing his father, and seeing the marks of distress in
+his mother's countenance--
+
+'Where is father?' he cried, 'is anything wrong--do tell me quick,
+mother.'
+
+'Ah, Sam! what shall we do?'
+
+All Sam's bright hopes were dashed at once; he durst ask no further. The
+day had been one of severe toil and imminent danger; but he had been
+richly rewarded in the approbation of those he esteemed so highly; he
+had been caressed by those whose rank in life was among the first in the
+land; and he had then about him a jewel of no inconsiderable value,
+given to him by Mrs. Morris as a token of her high approbation of his
+manly conduct, and of the obligation she should ever feel for the rescue
+of her child. All this had raised his spirits; and full of the fond
+anticipation of making his parents glad with the tidings of the day, he
+had landed with a happy heart, and hurried to his home. But now, alas!
+his father has yielded to the tempter, never, perhaps, to be restored,
+and all his proud dreams are gone.
+
+'You need not tell me about it, mother. But I must go and try to find
+him; he may be somewhere on the road, unable to help himself, and
+exposed to this storm.'
+
+His mother looked earnestly at him, as though not clearly comprehending
+what he meant; but it soon became evident to her.
+
+'Oh! it is not that, Sam. Your father has been hard at work all day, and
+we were only worrying a little about you, as he felt so anxious ever
+since the storm we had in the morning--if it hadn't been for that, we
+should have been as happy as could be--when, all at once, that
+good-for-nothing creature Richard Tucker came in, and said he was sent
+by Grizzle; and in spite of all we could say or do, he has took him off
+to the jail.'
+
+And she broke out again in a passionate flood of tears. Poor Sam was in
+a sad strait; but his heart was not so heavy as when under the
+impression that his father had fallen again into his evil habits. He
+resolved, however, immediately what course to pursue.
+
+'I am going out, mother. Perhaps I can get him clear; if not, I shall
+stay with him till morning. I cannot leave my father alone in that
+dreadful place to-night.'
+
+'Oh, Sam! what are you talking about? You cannot go out in such a storm,
+and then to stay all night in that awful jail.'
+
+'I don't care for the storm, mother; and the jail won't be worse for me
+than it will be for him.'
+
+'Well, Sam, I don't know what to say, my poor head is so bewildered. If
+it wasn't for these little ones, I would go with you.'
+
+Sam immediately went to his chest, and taking out all his little store
+of money, put it with that which he had brought home that day--in all it
+amounted to three dollars. He then took the jewel which had been
+presented to him--a handsome broach, in the form of a harp, and set with
+stones, worth no small sum in money; but to Sam more valuable than
+hoards of gold, and which no money would have purchased from him--and
+placed it in the bag with his little treasure, then threw on an old
+garment, to protect himself in some measure from the rain, and telling
+his mother 'to keep up a good heart,' left the house. He took the road
+leading to Mr. Grizzle's store, and forgetting the fatigue of the day,
+hurried along as fast as the storm would permit. Mr. Grizzle was sitting
+at his counter, resting his feet on an old rickety bench, and humming a
+tune by way of company, for the usual visitors of the evening were not
+in.
+
+Sam took off his hat as he entered, and walking up to Mr. Grizzle looked
+him full in the face, but was too much out of breath to speak.
+
+The old man stopped his tune, and looked quite smilingly at Sam.
+
+'Well, my lad, how do you do this evening? All well at home?'
+
+'Here, Mr. Grizzle, is all the money we have; it is not much--but I
+thought may be you would take it; and here is something that is worth a
+good deal--you may keep it until we bring you the rest of the money. We
+can only get a little at a time, but you shall have it all as fast as we
+can raise it.'
+
+'_Money_, boy! Who has said any thing to you about money? I
+haven't--have I?'
+
+'Why, sir, I suppose you sent Mr. Tucker to our house?'
+
+'Mr. Tucker! He has been to see you, has he? Well, he is a pretty hard
+customer. Why not give him the money?'
+
+'But he has taken my father to jail, sir; and says he must have the
+whole of the money--and this is all we have got,' holding up to Mr.
+Grizzle his little handful of change. 'Here is three dollars, sir, and I
+will soon get you some more, and you may keep _this_ until I bring it,'
+taking up also his brooch.
+
+'What, gold, ha! You must be pretty well off at your house--pretty well
+off.'
+
+'_Do_, Mr. Grizzle, take this, and let my father go. We will pay you
+every cent he owes, just as fast as we can; I promise you, sir, upon my
+honor.'
+
+'Oh, you had better go to Mr. Tucker's, he will take the money, I
+guess--and that thing too; may be he can find an owner for it. It don't
+look as if it had been living among poor folks.'
+
+Sam's heart was beginning to sink; he perceived that Mr. Grizzle was
+only mocking him. But he did not quite understand what he meant by
+'finding an owner for it.'
+
+'I am the owner of this, Mr. Grizzle.'
+
+'Are you? you look a good deal like it.' And he cast his eye down at
+Sam, surveying him from head to foot. This was more than he could bear;
+his heart beat quick, his face reddened; he could not then have asked a
+favour of that old withered wretch, had it been to save himself or his
+family from certain ruin. He put his money and jewel back again into his
+pocket, picked up his hat from the bench on which he had laid it, and
+turning his back on the store and its owner, hurried away, wishing that
+he might never see either again.
+
+The building used for the graceless evil-doers and penniless paupers of
+this vicinity was not a very sightly object, and its appearance was in
+keeping with its hideous character. It was a square, two-storied
+building, without any paint; the clapboards and roof were gray and
+mossy; storms and sunshine had played upon it for fifty years; and it
+was none the better for its age. In the upper story could be seen one
+room, with a small window at the end, with iron bars crossing
+sufficiently near together to keep a prisoner from getting through, if
+he was somewhat corpulent; but most rogues and poor men, that were not
+very stout, could, if so disposed, have found a way out with a little
+hard squeezing. But whether any did ever get out in that way I never
+learned--perhaps the sight of the iron was enough. The other apartments
+of the house had windows open as one could desire; glass may once have
+formed some obstruction, to the birds at least; but it had disappeared
+'long time ago,' and in that place thereof, shingles, old hats, old
+clothes--any thing that would keep out the rain and the cold for the
+time being, was substituted. It was inhabited by a family, which, for
+want of all those qualities and qualifications that would have fitted
+them for any other situation, were content to abide here. Old Adam Tice
+had never been able to comprehend the difference between mine and thine.
+He was not particularly bad in any other way; but it was generally
+thought that his boys would, in time, carry out his principles a little
+beyond their parent; and his son Bill, whom we have been introduced to
+at Mr. Grizzle's, had, on more than one occasion, enjoyed the occupancy
+of the room with the grated window.
+
+As there was but one apartment in this building suited for close
+confinement, it sometimes occurred that an unfortunate debtor, who had
+no friend to bail him out, so as to allow him the privilege, if such he
+should esteem it, of ranging the lot on which the house was built, and
+taking up his abode with Mr. Tice, must share the grated room with some
+vile character whose deeds against humanity had brought him there; and
+such was the case now. Two notorious vagabonds, guilty of flagrant
+crimes, the very offscouring of the earth, were there; and nightly they
+filled the old jail with noise and riot, as though fiends were holding
+their orgies. It made even old Tice shudder, as their horrid oaths rang
+through the building in the darkness of the night; and he almost
+regretted that he had procured the liquor which had thus given them the
+inspiration of demons.
+
+I shall not attempt to describe the feelings of poor Mr. Oakum when he
+heard the key turned upon him, and found himself in such company. Some
+straw was placed for him at one end of the room, out of the reach of his
+fellow-prisoners, who were chained. He tottered towards it, and was glad
+to cast himself down upon it. Sorrow will sometimes lull her suffering
+children to sleep: oblivion, like a handmaid of charity, steals upon
+them and shuts up the senses. Helpless, and almost hopeless, his mind
+could no longer bear the thoughts that haunted it, but settled down into
+unconsciousness. Occasionally some dreadful oath would rouse him, or the
+deep rolling thunder, but only for a moment; when thoughts of home, and
+wife, and children, would with lightning speed flash upon his mind, and
+then, overpowered with his sad condition, he would again sink into
+unconsciousness.
+
+At length he started from his bed of straw, awakened by the spring of
+the heavy bolt that was suddenly drawn back. He cast his eager glance
+upon the door; a light glimmered through a small square aperture at the
+top--the latch was raised--his senses he feared were leaving him; for
+there stood Sam, his dear, good child. Mr. Tice threw the light of his
+lamp upon that corner of the room, and Sam walked directly to his
+father.
+
+'Oh, my dear boy, is that you? is it you, Sam?'
+
+'I thought I would come and stay with you to-night, father.'
+
+'Oh, Sam, I do not mind this for my own sake; I deserve it: my own
+foolishness has brought this on to me.'
+
+'Don't talk so, father; you haven't done wrong. I will get you out, yet,
+and it will all be better than ever.'
+
+His father could make no reply; his heart was melted, and thoughts
+different from any he had ever indulged before began to agitate him. God
+had not forsaken him; this child was an angel of mercy, sent to cheer
+his gloom and give hope to his heart. New and strange feelings towards
+his God arose from within--how good, how forbearing, how full of
+compassion. New feelings in regard to himself oppressed him. A great
+sinner, both towards God and the dear ones God had given him, could he
+be pardoned? He remembered the thief upon the cross; and his whole heart
+arose in one strong impulse--'Lord, help me! save me!' It was a simple
+prayer--it was only breathed--but it was heard in heaven. And swift as
+angels fly, sweet peace came down and stole into his bosom, and there,
+amid that gloom and in that dire abode, whispered of pardon, and hope,
+and a Friend above.
+
+But where did Sam obtain that strong assurance that all would yet be
+well--_better_ than ever? It was no fiction invented to soothe his
+father's troubled mind. Sam really felt and truly believed it would be
+so. Ever since that dark hour upon the rock by the water-side, when his
+companions came to him with their plan of enterprise, had _resolution_,
+strong as his love of life, nerved his heart. He had since then tasted
+the rich fruits of honest labor; and his eyes were enlightened, and his
+hope and courage made strong. His parents and sisters had already been
+made happy by his exertions, and his way was enlarging before him. The
+present hour was one of severe trial, but his courage was not shaken by
+it, and he believed most firmly that it would be with them 'better than
+it had ever been.'
+
+It was a beautiful morning when Sam left the jail, and hurried on his
+way to carry what comfort he could to his home. He would have avoided
+every human being if he could, but just as he was about to pass the road
+which ran down to the blacksmith's shop, Mr. Cutter's two boys saw him,
+and being social fellows, ran up, and began, in their free-and-easy
+boy's style, to question him about what he was doing there that time of
+day, and where he had been, and so on. Sam's heart was about as full as
+it could hold. They were wild boys, but of a kind nature, and felt a
+right good-will towards Sam. They perceived that he was in trouble, for
+the tears stood in his eyes when they spoke to him.
+
+'Now, Sam, what's the matter? tell me who's been hurting you. I'll give
+it to him--who is it? See if I don't.' And Bill Cutter doubled up his
+fists, and put himself in a posture to go right at it. Sam Cutter was a
+little softer in his composition than his brother; and while Bill was
+putting himself into a great rage with somebody or other, he did not
+care who, Sam put his hand on the shoulder of his companion:
+
+'Tell me, Sam, what's the matter.' The storm, which had been so long
+pent up, broke forth; this made both boys more solicitous to find out
+the cause of his trouble, until Sam was compelled to tell the whole.
+
+No sooner had they heard the story, than, seizing Sam, each by an arm,
+they fairly forced him along.
+
+'Come along, right in, Sam Oakum, and tell father all about it.'
+
+And on he had to go, straight through the old shop, into a little back
+yard, and then into a little old house. The table was in the middle of
+the floor, on which lay the remains of the breakfast which had just been
+eaten.
+
+Mrs. Cutter was stooping over the fire, and doing something with a
+kettle which hung there; and as they entered, she turned her very large
+eyes upon the boys. I say large, because they were naturally very
+expansive, and because she wore on the bridge of her nose, right before
+them, a pair of nose spectacles; they were large, too, in contrast with
+the other features of her countenance, for while these were very round
+and full, everything else in sight was very long and sharp; her nose was
+long, and her chin was long, and her hands and arms were long; and other
+limbs long too, for when she let go the kettle and raised herself up,
+she appeared all length--of breadth there was nothing to mention, except
+the eyes.
+
+'What upon airth is the matter? what are you doin' with that boy? See,
+Cutter, they've been a hurtin' on him--he's a cryin' now--oh the massys!
+Let him go, you good-for-_nothins you_, let him _go_.'
+
+'No, we ain't been hurting him, neither--what do you think, father?
+they've been putting Sam Oakum's father in the old cage, they have.'
+
+Mr. Cutter was sitting yet at the table; _he_ and his good woman were
+the reverse of each other, in more ways than one. He was, as we have
+seen, very large and full-bodied. Standing and walking and going about,
+seemed to be, each of them, her natural situation; while with him,
+standing was not to be thought of if there was any chance for a seat;
+and when once at the table he seemed willing there to stay, until Mrs.
+Cutter had cleared plates, dishes, and the table itself from before him.
+As the boys entered he pushed himself round, and looked in quiet
+amazement at them.
+
+'Who is _they_? who's put him in jail?'
+
+'Old Grizzle, father; only think. If I ain't a mind to kill the old
+varmint; I'll burn his house down.'
+
+'_Whist, hush, hold your tongue_, you scoundrel; how dare you talk so?'
+
+And the old man, in his energy to do something to show his displeasure
+at such threats, caught hold of the pitcher, which yet stood on the
+table before him, and thinking not of its contents, elevated it above
+his head in a threatening manner at his lawless son. Cider he liked well
+enough in its proper place; but a shower of it on his bald head, and in
+his eyes, and so on, was another thing. It took him by surprise--he let
+the pitcher go, and put his hands to the afflicted parts.
+
+Crockery is brittle stuff; it could not stand every thing, any more than
+Mrs. Cutter's temper could. To see the look of horror she cast upon the
+dripping head of her husband, and then at the broken pieces of her
+pitcher, the very last thing in the house 'her mother gin' her,' as she
+often said; with her long arms and bony fingers stretched out in the
+air, was rather frightful: The moment the old man could recover himself
+sufficiently to realize what he had done, and what he had to expect, he
+exclaimed, very significantly,
+
+'Oh dear!' and rose up as hastily as he could, designing to retreat to
+his shop, his usual refuge from a storm.
+
+'_Oh dear!_ you may well say so--of _all things_. Well, Cutter, now you
+see what you've done. I've told you it would be so; the very last thing
+my mother gin' me--slam it right down on the harth--isn't that purty?
+you've been breakin' and breakin' all your life; and now you've broke
+the pitcher.'
+
+He said not a word in reply, but taking hold of Sam Oakum pulled him
+along towards the shop. Finding that her husband was fast retreating
+from the sound of her voice, she turned the battery upon her two boys,
+who were eyeing the broken crockery with no very equivocal looks,
+
+'And _you_, you villains! comin' and settin' your father crazy with your
+lies--_out_ of the house with you, this instant.' And she made a push
+for the broomstick. They understood her kind intentions right well,
+having had large experience in that way, and did not wait for any
+further instructions; but made after their father with all speed.
+
+Once in the shop, the old man felt safe. He had kept fast hold of Sam,
+and sitting down on his usual block, held him off at arms-length with
+one hand, while with the other, and the aid of an old handkerchief, he
+wiped down his bald head, and round, good-natured countenance.
+
+'Oh dear! it was unlucky about that pitcher, I shall never hear the last
+on it. Tell me now, Sam, what is all this? It ain't true--is it? that
+old varmint ain't put your father in jail, has he? Don't cry now, but
+just tell me the whole on it.'
+
+Sam told his story as well as he could, but it was hard work. He could
+command his feelings very well, when only thinking about it; but when
+compelled to speak his father's name, his lip trembled, and the words
+came out with great difficulty. Mr. Cutter had a very tender heart of
+his own, and Sam's story and appearance worked upon him more and more;
+so that he kept the old handkerchief wiping away long after the cider
+shower had dried off.
+
+'And why didn't you come to me, and tell me about it? Ain't I known your
+father from a boy, and your mother too--bless her good soul; and do you
+think I would have let such doings as these gone on? That old
+varmint--is that the way he is goin' to serve folks? Send 'em to jail,
+to lay there with them dreadful rapscallions? Oh dear!--jist to think on
+it! And you was comin' here to tell me about it this morning; wasn't
+you, Sam?'
+
+'No, sir, I was going home.'
+
+'Going _home_? Why, where have you been?'
+
+'I've been with father all night.'
+
+'_You?_ He didn't put you there _too_, did he? the old sinner!'
+
+'Oh no, sir, but I went there to stay with him. I thought father would
+feel so bad.'
+
+'You blessed child! Oh dear, what are we comin' to? And you ain't had no
+breakfast. Here, boys, go in and ask your mother to give this poor child
+a little something.'
+
+'Oh no, sir, I thank you; I can't stay; for mother will feel bad if I
+don't go home; and I ain't hungry a bit.'
+
+'Yes, you are hungry--you know you are--only you feel so bad, you can't
+eat. But I tell you, don't feel bad; you mustn't. Your father _shan't_
+stay there in that hole; I tell you he _shan't_! He shall see that he's
+got some friends. We ain't all dead and buried yet, I hope.'
+
+'Oh, Mr. Cutter!' and Sam, as he said this, caught hold of him with both
+his hands; 'if you can do any thing to help to get my father out of that
+dreadful place, I will thank you all my life for it, and I will pay you
+every cent of the money, just as fast as I can earn it.' And he looked
+so earnestly into Mr. Cutter's face, and his bright black eyes sparkled
+with such an intensity of feeling, that the old man's heart must have
+been made of much _sterner_ stuff than it was, not to have felt the
+appeal.
+
+'There, go home--go home, Sam; don't say no more.' And he fairly pushed
+Sam away from him; and then he kept the old handkerchief going for some
+time, not saying a word to either of his boys, who stood looking after
+Sam, as he went away, and pitying him from their hearts.
+
+'Now, boys, go and catch the old mare, and hitch her to the cart; and
+one of you must drive me to Billy Bloodgood's. Billy must help about
+this business, if I can only make him hear any thing; but it's like
+raising the dead.'
+
+The boys went off with a good will, and soon had the old nag tackled to
+the cart, her harness being of a very simple kind, and easily adjusted.
+
+Mr. Cutter had a way of his own about almost every thing, and it
+extended even to his manner of riding. Too bulky to climb very high
+places, he chose, generally, the lowest seat he could find; and the tail
+of the cart being more easily attained than any other part, and
+moreover, being easily resigned in case of accident, whenever Mr. Cutter
+rode, _that_ was his place. He would sit pretty well in on the body,
+with his legs dangling behind, and one hand on each of the side-boards.
+To an observer, it appeared to be a very uneasy situation; for the mare
+had a peculiar gait, something between a rack and a pace, which not only
+imparted a quick up-and-down motion to the stern of the vehicle, but a
+lateral one likewise; so that from the time she started until she
+stopped, Mr. Cutter was not only carried onward, but every which way:
+there was no quiet for his body. He never complained of it, however, nor
+seemed to realize any thing out of the way.
+
+Billy Bloodgood was just going out of his gate when Mr. Cutter drove up.
+Knowing that it would be useless trying to hold a parley with him out
+there, he told his son to drive close to the door; and taking Mr.
+Bloodgood by the arm, pulled him along, determined not to let him go, as
+he was well acquainted with his peculiarities. So, holding on with one
+hand to the side of the doorway, and with the other to his friend, he
+entered into Mrs. Bloodgood's sanctum--her kitchen, parlor, and bedroom.
+Puffing and blowing, he seized the first chair he could find, and
+bestowed himself upon it.
+
+'Now, woman, do you make this husband of your's sit down, for I want to
+talk to him; and he'll be running off if you don't see to him.'
+
+'Why, what's the matter, Uncle Sam? you're all in a heat, and out o'
+breath. Ain't nothing happened to home, has there?'
+
+'Happened? Yes, there has something happened--there's always something
+or other happening in this world; but that ain't neither here nor there.
+I can get along with that. The wind will have its blow out, and then it
+will stop, and so must a woman's tongue. But I tell you, make that man
+of your's sit down, and do you come and listen to me, and then try to
+git it into his head, for it's beyond me to do it.'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood did as she was bidden; for she had great respect for
+Uncle Sam Cutter. She placed a seat close beside him for her husband,
+and another for herself, immediately before him.
+
+'Do you know that our neighbor Oakum is in jail?'
+
+'In jail! Oh dear, how you _do_ talk!'
+
+'It is true--I tell you so.'
+
+'Then it's Grizzle--I know it is. First, he's 'ticed him to drink, and
+then he's come upon him. Ain't it so, Uncle Sam?'
+
+'Yes; but hear me. Oakum ain't the man he was--don't you know that? He's
+a clean changed man. He's to work now every day, and brings home all his
+earnings every night to his family, and stays to home, and acts like a
+man; and his wife looks like a new critter, and things all round his
+house look so you wouldn't hardly know it. And now, jist as they are
+beginning to be a little like folks, and have things right end up, that
+old varmint takes the law on him, and puts him in the old cage, among
+them rapscallions there, jist as if he was a thief or a murderer.'
+
+'Oh dear! jist to think on it.'
+
+'And there's that blessed child of his been through all the rain and
+thunder and lightning, and went and stayed there all night, because he
+couldn't bear to leave his father alone--jist think of that; and that
+poor woman, all stark alone with them little children--jist think of
+that. Don't it make your heart ache?'
+
+'Oh dear, dear! what are we comin' to?--jist think of it.'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood had her own peculiar ways, and was not always very
+particular what she said or did, when overcome by the little vexations
+of life; but she had a feeling heart, and would cry as hard as she would
+scold, if there was any thing calculated in an especial manner to bring
+tears; and now they were chasing each other down her cheeks faster than
+she could wipe them away.
+
+'I don't wonder you cry about it. I tell you what: when that little
+fellow took hold on me this morning, and begged me to help his father,
+and looked up at me so pitiful, and said that he would thank me all his
+life, and pay every cent of the debt as fast as he could earn it--why I
+tell you, Sally, I cried like a child. And now, I tell you what it is;
+we mustn't leave that man lying there like a thief. I can't eat, nor
+sleep--I can't do it, Sally. I haven't got but little; but Billy must
+help--it's thirty dollars. I know it's a great deal for poor folks to
+raise, but it must be done, somehow--mustn't it, Sally?'
+
+Mr. Bloodgood had been a silent spectator of the scene--he could not be
+said to be a listener. He saw that Mr. Cutter was very much engaged, and
+that his wife was quite to the other extremity of her feelings; but what
+was to pay he did not know. He kept looking first at one, and then at
+the other, for some explanation, taking large pinches of snuff all the
+time from a horn box which he held in his hand.
+
+'Any body _dead_?'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood put her nose close to his ear, and hallooed--'No!'
+
+Mr. Cutter pushed his chair back a little--the unearthly noise startled
+him.
+
+'Why! do you have to holler at that rate? I should think you'd split
+your throat, or your nose, or something or other. I never heard such a
+noise.'
+
+'Oh dear! I tell you, Uncle Sam, he gits wus and wus. I do candidly
+believe it's the snuff; he stops every thing up with it. His head ain't
+got no more sound to it than the harth stone.'
+
+'Well, I don't know but it's the best thing he can do, if he's got to
+have sich noises as them made in it. I should want to stop every thing
+up too; and how upon airth you are ever going to tell him what I want, I
+don't see. Let me get a little ways off afore you begin; my head sings
+now like a dozen teakettles.'
+
+With that the old man pushed his chair off against the opposite wall,
+while Mrs. Bloodgood undertook the task of explaining matters to her
+husband, and she accomplished it in much less time than could have been
+expected. Being nowise friendly to Mr. Grizzle, she handled his name in
+a very free way; and as her husband confided in her management, when she
+was through with the story, he looked at her very significantly--
+
+'Shall I do it, Sally?'
+
+'Yes, yes; do it--quick.'
+
+So he looked at Mr. Cutter, smiled, and nodded, and then left the room.
+
+'Well, well; all things was made for some use. I often wondered what
+your nose was made for, but I see now. But it will be the death of you,
+yet; you'll split something or other one of these days.'
+
+'Why, no, Uncle Sam, you see I'm used to it; but it does make me weak at
+the stomach like, it takes sich a power of wind to keep it up any time
+so; a body can holler pretty loud two or three words, and not mind it.
+But I s'pose it's my lot, and I must be content with it.'
+
+Mr. Bloodgood soon returned, making signs to Uncle Sam to draw up to the
+table. We must leave them to arrange matters, and carry out their kind
+designs as best they may be able.
+
+How beautifully the water sparkled with the bright rays of the morning
+sun, and how clean the shore looked, and how fresh every thing appeared,
+as Sam drew near to his home; but how very sad his heart was, none but
+such as have suffered like him can well imagine. But sad as were his
+feelings, it did not hinder his attending to all the duties which
+devolved upon him. The net was examined, and the fish for the morning's
+meal brought up. The pigs were fed, and the boat looked after, and all
+things done as usual. It was a solitary meal, _that breakfast_, and soon
+ended. But the best fish were frying by the fire, and on the griddle was
+a fine thick bread-cake cooking, and a little basket was brought and
+placed on the table, and a clean cloth lay beside the basket; and Sam
+had his hat in his hand, and was leaning against the fireplace, watching
+his mother, as she went about the little room getting things together.
+
+'May be he'd like a little pickle, mother. You know he eats it sometimes
+with his breakfast.' And the mother made no reply; but wiping away the
+tears that started as reference was made to him, she went directly to
+the cupboard and brought the pot of pickles; and then the fish was taken
+from the fire, and placed on a plate and put into the basket; and the
+cake was taken from the griddle, and broken in two and laid on the fish;
+and the pickle, and a little salt and pepper, and a knife and fork; and
+then the clean cloth was put over the whole, and Sam, taking the basket,
+walked straight out of the house, and his mother threw herself into the
+chair, and wept aloud.
+
+As Sam ascended the little rise of ground behind their dwelling, he
+looked across to the house of his friends, Jim and Ned, to see if they
+were out--as he then felt a sight of them would be good. There they
+were, working away in their garden. Presently one of them stops and
+looks round, walks to the fence, jumps over, and is running toward Sam,
+with Jowler after him.
+
+'There comes Ned. What shall I say to him?'
+
+'Sam, how are you? ain't this a beautiful morning? What have you got in
+your basket? where are you going?'
+
+'Oh, I am going a short distance.'
+
+'If you are not going too far, I'll go with you. I'm tired of hoeing.
+Jim has had me up ever since daybreak, and I mean to rest a few minutes.
+But what is the matter, Sam? What makes you look so? You ain't well, are
+you?'
+
+Sam did look pale, for he was alarmed at Ned's offer to accompany him.
+
+'Oh, I think you had better not go with me: it is something of a walk,
+and as you have been at work so long, you will be tired.'
+
+'No; I shan't be tired. But now, Sam Oakum, tell me what's the matter,'
+at the same time taking hold of him. 'There is something the matter, I
+know--you always tell me every thing.'
+
+'I know I do, Ned; but somehow I do not like to tell you this. Haven't
+you heard any thing.'
+
+'_Heard_ any thing? No. Do you think we should not have been down to see
+you, if we had known that any thing was the matter? But _do_ tell me,
+Sam.'
+
+'Father is in jail.'
+
+'That's Grizzle.'
+
+'Yes.'
+
+Ned stooped and caught up a good-sized stone, and aiming it at another
+still larger, sent it with such force that it was shivered into small
+fragments. He then looked at Sam a moment, with his hands in his
+pockets. He dared not speak, for his heart was aching so hard. It would
+have been a great relief to have cried; but Ned never cried--he could do
+any thing but that. He felt so much like it now though, as he kept his
+eyes on Sam, who looked so sad and pale, that all at once he turned
+short round, and walked away towards home; and Sam went on his way
+toward the jail.
+
+The two miserable beings who had filled the old jail with their ravings
+through most of the night, were now asleep; and as Sam was admitted
+again into the miserable room, he cast his eye upon them as they lay in
+all their loathsomeness. Never before had he seen human nature in such
+an appalling form--their garments filthy, and torn into shreds; their
+hair, long and matted, lay over their faces and among the straw which
+formed their bed; their faces bloated, bruised, and bloody. He shrunk
+back involuntarily. He cast his eye to the further end of the room, and
+it met the smile of his father. He hurried past these dreadful objects,
+and placed his basket beside his pale and sorrow-stricken parent. Sam
+started, when he saw how _very_ pale he looked, and how great a change
+his countenance had undergone since he last saw the daylight shine upon
+it. He took off the cloth which covered the basket, and upon that he
+placed the good breakfast his mother had prepared; and then he saw his
+father put his hands together, and that his eyes were closed, and his
+lips moved. He had never known him to do so before. Could it be that he
+was praying for a blessing, ere he tasted this token of love from
+earthly dear ones and heaven's bounteous King? Oh, Sam! how little can
+you realize the ordeal that parent has passed since the last setting
+sun. But the agony that racked his spirit has purified it also; and it
+has turned, 'trembling, hoping,' to its God. When years have passed, and
+you shall stand by his dying bed, and walk in the church-yard where
+rises the little mound of earth over the resting-place of his body, you
+will think of this night, and you will bless God for his goodness to you
+and your's.
+
+'It is very good, Sam; and it is very kind in you all to think of me
+so.'
+
+'Oh, father, don't say so; it makes me feel so bad.'
+
+'To think how much trouble I have been to my family.'
+
+Sam could stand it no longer, but wept aloud.
+
+'I don't wish to make you feel bad, Sam; but all your kind feelings,
+and all your mother's kind feelings, make me think how wrong I have
+acted, and wonder how anybody can care for me.'
+
+'But they do care for you--everybody cares for you. Uncle Sam Cutter
+says you shan't stay here--_that_ you shan't.'
+
+'Did he say so? Well, I thank him for his kind feelings; and I hope, if
+the Lord please, I may get my liberty soon, that I may be able to work
+and earn an honest living, and pay my debts. But, Sam, this place ain't
+so bad, gloomy as it looks. A bad life and a guilty conscience are
+harder things to get along with than this jail. I have spent worse
+hours, looking at you and your mother, and the little ones, with a fire
+burning in my bosom, than I spent here last night. I never knew before
+that there could be such things.'
+
+'What things, father?'
+
+'Why, Sam, that there could be such peace within, when all about me was
+so horrible. But I believe God has done it--and all for my good. He does
+everything for good.'
+
+Sam was utterly confounded at hearing such words from his father; but he
+rejoiced to hear them. He sat as long as he thought consistent with
+duties at home, and was preparing to return, when their attention was
+arrested by a bustle below stairs, and a loud puffing and blowing of
+some one ascending to the room.
+
+'What steps you've got here, Mr. Tice!--so high, I can hardly get my old
+carcass up. Oh, dear, dear, dear; what a world this is!'
+
+The heavy bolt was drawn; and as the door, creaking on its hinges,
+slowly opened, the portly form of Mr. Samuel Cutter appeared, filling
+the open space, and looking with a wild stare into and around the room.
+
+'You can go clean in, Mr. Cutter, an you like to; and I'll shut the
+door, and you may stay as long as you like.'
+
+'You will, hey? No, no, Mr. Tice, thank you, I'll do well enough here;'
+at the same time putting his hand out, and holding fast to the door.
+'None of your shutting up; it's bad enough to look at, without your
+turning the old lock on a body. _Of all sights!_--are these men dead?'
+
+'Oh it ain't nothin', Mr. Cutter; only they've been a little lively last
+night, and they're a sleepin' it out, I guess, this mornin'.'
+
+'You don't call them human critters, laying there in that shape, Mr.
+Tice, do you?'
+
+'Yes, they _be_, only their hair is got tangled a little. I should
+a'most think they'd been a fightin', by their looks--they _do_ look bad,
+that's a fact.'
+
+More noises were now heard below, and there was the trampling of horses
+at the door, and soon a lively treading up the stairs.
+
+'What does this mean, Mr. Tice? the jail door open, and people going in
+and out. Are the prisoners gone?' And Mr. Richard Tucker bustled up into
+the room. He was followed by Billy Bloodgood, and Uncle Sam Cutter's two
+boys. Mr. Richard seeing the doorway barricaded by a pretty large body,
+made no apology for hastily pushing through, and fairly taking the old
+gentleman quite into the room. He was about to shut the door when his
+arm was seized, and held by a grip as effectual as though an iron vice
+had embraced it.
+
+'Stop, stop, man; none of your shutting up, with my carcass in such a
+den as this. And besides, you came here now to let folks out; so the
+sooner you set about it, the better.'
+
+Mr. Richard was full of wrath, but he knew whom he had to deal with; and
+seeing likewise that Billy Bloodgood was looking at him very earnestly,
+and pointing towards Mr. Oakum at the other end of the room, he had no
+alternative; so called aloud in a very quick manner,
+
+'Mr. Oakum, you are at liberty, you are released; you can go.'
+
+Sam jumped up, and caught hold of his father:
+
+'Oh, father! come, come, father, quick!' And he fairly pulled his father
+along; who, amazed at the suddenness of his delivery, and weak with the
+agitation his mind had endured, almost staggered as he followed Sam to
+the door.
+
+'Come along, man, come along; don't stay a minute longer.' And old Mr.
+Cutter hobbled out, partly leaning on Mr. Oakum, and partly pulling him
+down the stairs, and out of doors.
+
+To describe all Mr. Oakum's feelings, when he found himself at liberty,
+and learned that a full settlement of his account had been made, and
+that it had dwindled down, under the scrutinizing eye of Billy
+Bloodgood, to the sum of twenty dollars, and that he could pay this
+amount back at his own convenience; or to describe the joy which danced
+in the heart of Sam when he saw his father once out of that place, and
+Uncle Sam Cutter shaking him with both hands; and Mr. Bloodgood nodding
+his head, and smiling, and running round--it would be vain to attempt.
+
+It was a bright spot in Sam's life, and it was a good day for more
+hearts than one; for it was the means of winning into the little circle
+of working boys the two sons of old Mr. Cutter: they became diligent
+from that day forward, and were constant in aiding their father, either
+in the garden, the shop, or the field.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+
+The establishment of Mr. Cross, up in the barrens, had not much to boast
+of as to its architecture or location. It consisted of a long, low
+building, formed of logs, but covered with boards, and the roof
+shingled. Attached to it were several buildings, constructed entirely of
+logs, but well shingled roofs were over the whole of them, and they were
+otherwise finished, so as to impress the beholder with the idea that the
+owner was in very different circumstances from those who occupied such
+buildings for many miles circuit. In front of this main house ran a
+piazza, its full length; while upon a tall pine tree, nearly opposite
+the centre of the premises, hung a rude sign, with the owner's name, D.
+Cross, in large letters on the bottom. The inside of the building
+presented a mongrel appearance of store and tavern; a little of both,
+and not much of either. There was a counter, and small scales upon it;
+with decanters, and a few dirty tumblers at one end. Barrels were
+standing in different parts of the room. There were one or two plain
+board tables, and a few benches, besides two chairs with backs, and
+several without. Three large casks were placed together against one side
+of the wall, and the faucets in them clearly told for what purpose they
+were used. Behind the counter ran some long shelves, upon which lay
+jumbled together a little iron ware, a little crockery, and very limited
+assortment of dry goods.
+
+The location was not an unpleasant one for those who admire the
+seclusion of a forest; for lofty pines towered on all sides of it,
+except to the north, where a clearing having been made, probably when
+the house was erected, a thick growth of scrub pines had come forward,
+and presented the appearance of a swamp.
+
+There was, however, somewhat of a clear space immediately around the
+building, formed by the meeting of three or four roads, running off into
+different directions, and pointing out this spot to be, as it really
+was, the centre of attraction and influence to all that region.
+
+The owner of this domain, Mr. David Cross, had become, from causes which
+have been explained in a previous chapter, a person of some
+consideration; he owned quite a number of acres of heavily timbered
+land, connectively with his house; and by various means had managed to
+bring the whole population, at least for some miles circuit, into a
+state of dependence upon himself. He was not gifted by nature with a
+very commanding form, being rather under than over the medium height.
+This deficiency, however, he did all he could to remedy, by holding
+himself very erect; and as he was a little inclined to be fleshy, it
+sometimes even appeared that he leaned backwards in his efforts to make
+the most of himself.
+
+The only member of Mr. Cross's family in any wise related to him, was
+his son David; a young man of some activity in the way of business. But
+having been tutored entirely by his father, it may be supposed he had
+not the most correct notions in matters of morality; although, as yet,
+no very flagrant charges had been laid up against him in the minds of
+those who dealt there; for the very good reason, that the elder Mr.
+Cross chose to keep things in his own hand, and bear all responsibility.
+As to the mother of David, little was known respecting her--it was
+supposed she had died when her child was an infant, for he had no
+remembrance of her.
+
+David was not unpopular with the inhabitants of the barrens. Being of a
+lively turn, and of careless, open manners, they felt a freedom in his
+presence, which was quite in contrast with the servile subjection they
+ever had to realize when dealing with his father.
+
+As the tavern of Mr. Cross was the only place where the laborers he
+employed could find a lodging place during the season of the year when
+their services were required--the distance from their own homes being
+often too great to allow of return until the close of the week--it was
+seldom that the place was without sojourners; and too many of them had
+but a scanty allowance for their families, after their six days' toil.
+
+It was a very warm day among the pines; no breeze abroad, and the air
+from the heated sand almost suffocating. Mr. Cross was behind his
+counter, busily employed in stirring the toddy stick, and waiting upon
+those who were calling for their favourite mixture; some were leaning
+over the counter, some resting on the benches, and not a few were lying
+at full length upon the piazza, and in the shade of the pine, scanty as
+it was, which served for the sign-post of the tavern, when the rumbling
+of a carriage was heard, and the unusual sound attracted the notice of
+all present. Those who were prostrate, arose at once, and looked forth
+through the different openings; and those who were in the act of
+drinking, suspended operations, and held their glasses on the counter,
+casting glances of inquiry at Mr. Cross and at each other.
+
+'It's Dave, I suppose,' said Mr. Cross; 'although I didn't think he'd be
+along this hour yet.'
+
+'That aint Dave,' replied one of the men; 'for it comes very slow, and
+sounds heavy: I can tell Dave's buggy a mile off, by its rattle.'
+
+Mr. Cross, apparently satisfied that there was truth in the remark,
+walked slowly from behind the counter, and approaching the door, those
+who were standing there hastily made way, and left the post of
+observation to him alone; they collecting in groups on the outside.
+Convinced that it was not his son's carriage that approached, the little
+man stood with his hands in his pockets, his person straightened up, and
+his eye intently fixed on the road upon which the heavy vehicle was
+rumbling, and glimpses of which could be seen through occasional small
+openings in the pines.
+
+Soon the cleared space before the tavern was gained, and every eye
+turned instinctively towards Cross, as though asking an explanation from
+his countenance. The ruddy, or rather purple hue which it usually bore,
+immediately assumed a higher color; his hands were withdrawn from their
+resting-places, his head uncovered, and bustling through the crowd which
+surrounded his door, he was bowing, and smiling, and doing his best to
+play the agreeable, the moment the superb vehicle drew up before his
+sign-post.
+
+The travellers were indeed persons of no small consideration, if an
+opinion could be formed from their equipage. The carriage was large and
+airy, hanging low and gracefully upon long sweeping springs; of a dark
+olive color, which contrasted finely with the light drab linings of the
+inside. The horses were two noble blacks, caparisoned in brass mounted
+harness, and driven by a negro somewhat advanced in life, and perched
+upon a heavy luxurious cushion. He was neatly dressed, in the fashion of
+days that were passing away, and was very much absorbed in the
+management of his team; which, although covered with lather and dust,
+were evidently full of mettle, and not at all fagged by their travel.
+Within sat a gentleman and lady, youthful in appearance, with two
+children; the eldest not over six years of age.
+
+Mr. Cross did not wait for the footman to alight, but advancing to the
+door.
+
+'Mr. Rutherford, your servant, sir,' opened it, and threw down the
+steps, before the gentleman had time to inform him that he was not
+intending to leave the carriage.
+
+'Your lady will surely want to rest a little; our accommodations,
+indeed, are not much to boast of, but poor as they are, we shall be
+proud to have you use them.'
+
+The lady bowed to Mr. Cross, acknowledging that she felt obliged for his
+offer.
+
+'You must excuse us at present, Mr. Cross; we have some miles farther to
+ride, and if you will show the footman where to procure a little water
+for our horses, I will be much obliged to you.'
+
+'Certainly, certainly; here, men, water, water; don't you hear? some
+water for these horses.' There was a great rush among those standing
+near to accomplish the request; but whether to obey Mr. Cross, or to
+oblige the traveller, may be questioned; for they had heard his name,
+and therefore knew that a man of more importance than Mr. Cross was
+present.
+
+But as there were reasons why the last-named gentleman should, if
+possible, have an interview with his visitor, he felt that an effort
+must be made to obtain one.
+
+'If Mr. Rutherford could favor me by stepping aside, but for a moment,
+it will not detain--'
+
+'It would be scarcely worth while, Mr. Cross. I presume I know what you
+wish to converse about; and I am not just now prepared to give you an
+answer.'
+
+'Ay--well, sir--I won't presume to dictate, sir; only you know we
+usually make our contracts about this time, so that we may make some
+calculations for hands, etc.'
+
+'That's true, sir; but to be plain, Mr. Cross, I am not sure that I
+shall not make some other arrangement, at least, so far as my interest
+goes in these barrens. I do not feel satisfied with our present plan--we
+pay great wages, you must be aware.'
+
+'Stand back, men, stand back; don't you know civility enough not to be
+crowding the gentleman?' Mr. Cross had his own reasons for not wishing
+too many listeners; for some ideas might possibly be conveyed to them
+not consonant with his interest.
+
+'Our people are rough, as you see, madam,' addressing the lady, 'and
+you'll pardon their ill manners.'
+
+'No pardon at all necessary, Mr. Cross; these good people are not the
+least in our way.' This the lady said in a voice sufficiently loud to be
+heard by all present; and then, with a pleasant smile cast upon the
+group, she asked,
+
+'Will one of you be kind enough to bring me a glass of water for my
+little girl?'
+
+Not one, but several glasses were, in an instant almost, at the carriage
+door. The lady took them all; and as they were returned to the brawny
+hands held out to receive them, dropped a piece of silver in each.
+
+'God bless you, lady!' responded at once each of the lucky attendants,
+and a smile of pleasure lighted up all the dark countenances of the half
+savage-looking beings, who were gazing in wonder at the equipage and its
+inmates.
+
+Mr. Cross was compelled to be a silent spectator of this little scene;
+but the dark scowl which passed across his features told plainly that it
+was not quite agreeable to him.
+
+'Am I in the direct road to Widow Brown's?' inquired Mr. Rutherford,
+casting a glance at the little man, and then around upon those present,
+as though it was a matter of no consequence from whom he received the
+answer. It came readily from many of the bystanders; the voice of Mr.
+Cross being lost in their louder exclamations; even if he answered at
+all, which is doubtful.
+
+'Yes, sir--yes, sir; its about six miles from here; but you must turn to
+the right hand when you get to the edge of the great swamp.'
+
+'Thank you, thank you all; and here is a trifle for you, my friend,'
+singling out the one who had procured the water for the horses, and
+tossing him a silver dollar.
+
+'God bless you, sir--you're a gentleman.'
+
+'Good day, Mr. Cross.' He bowed respectfully to the host, and to all
+the admiring group, and the heavy carriage rolled on its way.
+
+Mr. Cross walked back into his stronghold with a very dissatisfied air,
+while the men gathered outside in little knots, discussing the
+strangeness of the whole scene, and wondering what ailed the old man,
+'he seemed so out of sorts.' Scarcely had the carriage disappeared, when
+a rattling was heard, and the rapid and heavy stamping of horses' feet,
+and David Cross tore up to the door, among the groups of foresters,
+scattering them to either side, with as little consideration as though
+they had been so many sheep. Curses deep arose in their hearts, but came
+not forth at their lips.
+
+'Here, Jo, you put Bony in the stable, and rub him down--won't you?'
+
+'Yes, sir,' was the ready answer. But the man addressed shook his head
+so significantly, and jerked the horse so rudely, as he turned him
+round, that if Mr. David, Junior, could have seen it, he would have
+understood that his exploit in driving was not much relished by others,
+if very agreeable to himself.
+
+The elder Mr. Cross immediately led his son into a private room
+adjoining the store, and with much anxiety in his countenance waited for
+the result of the errand upon which he had been sent.
+
+'Foster says, he has closed the bargain with old Ross; he is to give you
+a quit-claim deed for all his right and title to the property in the
+barrens, for the sum you named.'
+
+'That's good--did he say anything further?'
+
+'He said something about my telling you that he was on the look out;
+that he would hunt like a cat for a mouse; but the old fool was afraid
+to tell me what he meant.'
+
+'Michael Foster is no fool; but, I suppose, he thinks it best to be mum.
+Yet do you know Rutherford has been here?'
+
+'No: has he?'
+
+'Yes; and he refuses to make any contract this year; and I could see, by
+his management with the men, what he's at: but he'll miss it. He'll have
+to stoop his head yet, high as he holds it now.'
+
+David made no reply; but, whistling a lively tune, walked away, and
+mingled with the men, who were again gathering around the counter.
+
+The travellers experienced no difficulty in finding their way, and soon
+drew up before the humble residence of the widow.
+
+'It looks better, my dear Mary, than I expected,' said Mr. Rutherford,
+as he alighted from the carriage. He was about to enter the dwelling,
+when Mrs. Brown appeared at the door. She was neatly dressed for one
+living in so poor a place--that is, her plain dark calico was put on
+with care, and she wore shoes and stockings--articles not often seen in
+the barrens. She wore no cap, for her light brown hair was not at all
+changed by age, and her countenance was as fresh and fair, almost, as at
+twenty-one. She seemed surprised for an instant--
+
+'Have you forgotten me, Aunt Mary?'
+
+'This ain't Mr. George Rutherford?'
+
+'Yes, it is--once your little Georgie.'
+
+'Oh, dear! how glad I am to see you;' and the tears started to her eyes.
+'And that is Mrs. Rutherford, and these are your dear little children.
+How they _do_ look _just_ as you used to look.'
+
+'We are all well acquainted with you, Mrs. Brown; for my husband is
+continually talking about you.'
+
+'Oh, dear! I never thought to see any of you again; for I did not
+suppose you would ever get so far out of the world as to come here. I
+cannot ask you to go into my poor house; but there are some seats under
+the trees, where your lady might sit down, and--'
+
+'Oh, Mrs. Brown, you don't think that your Georgie, as you used to call
+him, has got a wife who would not go into a house many times worse than
+yours, to see one he thinks so much of; so, with your leave, we will all
+go in, for we have come on purpose to see you.'
+
+'I am very happy, if he has got a lady who knows his worth.'
+
+'Take care, Mrs. Brown, what you say; I am afraid you did a little
+towards spoiling him when a boy: he is not out of danger yet.'
+
+The family now passed into the cottage, while the widow and old C�sar
+had a few kind salutations to make, 'ere she followed and took her seat
+among them.
+
+Many were the questions asked about the old homestead, for twelve years
+had passed by since she was last there. Deaths, births, marriages,
+changes of circumstances, and relations, how they had accumulated during
+that period! and how often the tears would start, and the lip tremble,
+as the recital went on! Her own story was but a short one; for many
+things she was obliged to pass over, or touch lightly upon.
+
+'But where is the little girl you had with you, when last at my
+father's? she must be almost grown up now.'
+
+'Oh, no; she is but a little girl still; she is only sixteen now; but
+she is very obedient and kind-hearted.'
+
+'Just like her mother.'
+
+'Oh, I don't know as to that, ma'am; but she is an obedient child, and a
+great comfort to me--and the best of all is, I hope she is a Christian.'
+
+'That is good,' exclaimed Mr. and Mrs. Rutherford, at the same time.
+
+'Ah--then you both love good things yourselves; don't you?'
+
+'We hope we do.'
+
+'The Lord be praised for his mercies. It seems to me always a great
+thing for the rich to be pious--they can do so much good.'
+
+'Yes, if they have a heart to do good. Is your daughter at home, Mrs.
+Brown?'
+
+'No, ma'am; but she will be here soon. She has gone to visit a neighbour
+a little south of us, among the farmers. We have but a poor
+neighbourhood around us; and you know young people want some one of
+their own age to be with and talk to.'
+
+'Why is it, Mrs. Brown, that the people in the barrens are so poor, and
+apparently so degraded?--they get work enough, and are well paid for it.
+My husband is very anxious about the matter, and wishes to remedy it if
+he can.'
+
+'Oh, well, ma'am; I don't know that I have got the right idea of things;
+but it has appeared to me these many years that there must be wrong
+management. Our men work hard, but are only able barely to live, as you
+see; and for so many people to be all poor together, is a great evil.'
+
+'Do you think, Mrs. Brown, that they get their pay?'
+
+'I think they do, ma'am, in a certain way. Mr. Cross settles with them
+every month, and keeps things square; but you know, ma'am, when a man
+gets so much power into his hands as Mr. Cross has, he may be tempted to
+do wrong because no one can bring him to account for it. The men are
+obliged to take the wages he sees fit to allow them, as there is no one
+in this region to give them employment.'
+
+'And charges them what he pleases for the goods they must purchase?'
+
+'It is pretty much so, ma'am. They must have the necessaries of life you
+know, ma'am; and although they purchase only such things as their
+families absolutely need, yet it is so managed, that they are brought a
+little in debt at each settlement. Some think that he charges almost
+double what the goods cost him; but, situated as they are, no one dares
+complain, and so they go on from year to year.'
+
+'This is slavery I think, Mary, with a vengeance,' said Mr. Rutherford,
+looking at his wife.
+
+'It is just as we expected, my dear.'
+
+'Well, I hope, Mr. Rutherford, that I have not done injustice to Mr.
+Cross. He has been good to me and mine. Perhaps, after all, the people
+think hard of him without sufficient cause.'
+
+'You have only confirmed my suspicions of the state of things here. You
+know that I own a large part of these barrens; and, therefore, it is my
+duty to look into matters, and not suffer evils to exist, if I can
+remedy them.'
+
+Mr. Rutherford then proceeded to touch upon matters more immediately
+relating to the widow's personal interests, and which, in fact, had been
+one of the objects of his visit. It was in reference to her removal from
+this region, so destitute of privileges, to her former home, beneath his
+own roof, where her children could be usefully employed, and herself
+made comfortable.
+
+It was some time before she could make any reply to this generous offer.
+
+'You must not hesitate, Mrs. Brown, to accept this offer; for I assure
+you, that I heartily join with my husband in it.'
+
+'Oh, I thank you, ma'am; I believe you are sincere, and are acting from
+the kindest motives, and perhaps you will think it strange that I should
+hesitate a moment about accepting it.'
+
+Just then, the conversation was interrupted by the entrance of Hettie.
+Her appearance surprised Mr. and Mrs. Rutherford--the fine glow on her
+cheek, the raven blackness of her hair and eyes, the pleasant smile that
+immediately lighted up her countenance, the simple curtsey that she
+dropped, all so pretty and so natural--they had not expected to meet so
+lovely a flower in such a waste; and the widow must not be blamed if she
+indulged some little pride as she presented her to their friend. Hettie
+was her bright star; hope always rose when she appeared. An increasing
+interest was excited in the minds of Mr. and Mrs. Rutherford, and the
+subject of her removal again introduced.
+
+'You cannot tell,' replied the widow, 'how much I feel the kindness of
+your offer; and were only the interest of myself and Hettie to be
+consulted, I should not long hesitate. But, oh! Mrs. Rutherford, you
+cannot yet tell how a mother feels towards a wayward son. William is not
+just what I could wish he was, but he still clings to me. I know he will
+not be willing to leave these parts, unpromising as they are: for me to
+separate from him, and allow him to go without restraint in the midst of
+so many temptations, would be like giving him up to ruin; and I cannot
+but hope he will one day be different from what he now is; the Lord, you
+know, has many ways to bring back the wanderer.'
+
+Her friends could urge no further the whole of their request, but
+ventured to say--
+
+'Will you not, Mrs. Brown, let us have Hettie? We will do for her as
+well as we can.'
+
+This proposal was one that she felt it her duty to accept, however
+trying to be separated from one she loved so dearly.
+
+After a short consultation with her daughter it was decided that she
+should accompany them. Wishing to give them an opportunity to make some
+little preparation, Mr. Rutherford concluded to drive into the open
+country, which lay a little to the south of the widow's cottage--the
+scene where our story commenced.
+
+It was with an united exclamation that they first met the view which
+opened to them, as they emerged from the pines.
+
+'Ah, how beautiful!'
+
+It was, indeed, a striking contrast to the region through which they had
+been travelling.
+
+The country was little varied by hill and dale, and in no wise improved
+by the hand of man: for the houses which could be seen were but
+unsightly buildings, and all the enclosures of the rudest kind; yet
+common-place as was the face of the land, in connection with the
+extensive water view, there was much to justify the exclamation--it was
+a panorama delightful to those who had been so long riding amid the dark
+monotony of a pine-forest.
+
+On either side of the strip of country which lay immediately before
+them, and around the whole view in front, was water: first a clear river
+stealing down on the right, and then another on the left, each
+hastening to mingle their waters in the beautiful bay, ere they rolled
+to the ocean; in the distance, a long line of land stretching towards
+the east, as far as the eye could reach, encircling an immense bay, and
+losing itself where sky, and earth, and water are mingled in one; while
+beautifully breaking the wild expanse of water, a strip of land ran out
+into the bay, over whose crest could be seen, in the distance, the white
+sail winging its way to the broad ocean.
+
+Even old C�sar felt the animating influence of the scenery; and urging
+on his horses by a cheering word, the carriage rolled along as fast as
+was becoming such a stately concern.
+
+'Whoa-a, whoa-up--whoa there.'
+
+'Oh, C�sar! what's the matter?'
+
+There was, at the same time, a fearful leaning to one side.
+
+'Nuttin', missus; only de wheel cum off.'
+
+It was, to be sure, nothing else; but that of itself was sufficient to
+prevent any farther progress for the time being. C�sar and his master
+were soon down; the horses detached from the carriage, and the wheel
+picked up and brought to its place.
+
+''Tis all right, Massa George, only de linch-pin is gone; may be me find
+um.'
+
+And very diligent was the search for the lost pin, but to no purpose;
+the prospect, indeed, was not the most agreeable; for a long road must
+be retraced ere home could be reached.
+
+A young man from an adjoining field, seeing their dilemma, hastened to
+offer his aid. Very soon rails were procured, and by means of them the
+heavy coach was raised, and the recusant wheel replaced; and then the
+young man who showed much readiness to assist, as well as ingenuity,
+procuring a bit of hard wood, began whittling it into the shape of a
+pin.
+
+'Mister, what a' yo goin' to do wid dat 'tick?'
+
+'I'm making a pin for you, daddy.'
+
+'My golly! you no t'ink dat hold dem big wheel on. No blacksmith nowhere
+here?'
+
+'Yes; there is one not far off; but you want something to keep your
+wheel on until you can get the carriage there.'
+
+'Why me no bring him here when he makes de pin?'
+
+'Why, you see, daddy, he will want the measure of the hole to make it
+by; and the old man does not like to walk very much, as he is fat and
+clumsy. It will be as much as we can do to get him to make the pin at
+all; he don't like to work such hot weather.'
+
+'Ay, ay. Well, den; you right, bubby.'
+
+With that C�sar prepared to attach the horses to the carriage, while the
+family walked on towards the little low building with a high chimney,
+which was pointed out to them.
+
+As the carriage drove up, a very fleshy person was seen waddling towards
+the door, and putting one arm out on each side, supported himself in the
+doorway. He looked at the coach, and the horses, and the driver,
+alternately, in great astonishment. He saw the old black smile, but took
+no notice of it; and fixed his eye at length on the long sweeping
+braces, as though wondering where such powerful springs were made.
+
+'Massa Cutter forget me.' The old man cast his eye up.
+
+'Massa Cutter no 'member C�sar?'
+
+'C�sar--C�sar--what, not C�sar Rutherford? No--yes--so it is--why, you
+old rascal, how do you do? Give us your fist. I thought, when you showed
+your teeth at me, that I'd seen you before. But you grow old, man--your
+head is all getting white.'
+
+'Ha, ha, ha; Massa Cutter growin' old, too, and big! My! what a sight!
+Good livin' I 'tink here, Massa Cutter.'
+
+'Good living--there's no living at all--it's too hot to live; nothing
+but salamanders could stand it. But what's brought you here?'
+
+'Oh, you see, Massa Cutter, me lose de linch-pin; so dis young gemman
+tell me de blacksmith close by; but I no 'spect to see Massa Cutter--ha,
+ha, ha!'
+
+'And you want me to make a new one, do you?'
+
+'If you please.'
+
+'Here, Bill Andrews, since you have been so helpful to these folks, and
+helped them here, you may just come and help me; so take hold of them
+'tarnal old bellows, and blow for your life.'
+
+'That I will, Uncle Sam.'
+
+The old man, although reluctant to move about much, made expeditious
+work with his hammer; the pin was soon made and fitted to its place, and
+the carriage ready for another start. Before this, however, Mr.
+Rutherford had reached the shop, having left Mrs. Rutherford and the
+children to enjoy a fine shade at a little distance. As Mr. Cutter had
+been acquainted with his father, it afforded the former an opportunity
+of making many inquiries about events long transpired, some of which,
+being connected with Mr. Cutter's removal to his present house,
+occasioned, on his part, very long and heavy sighs, and serious shakes
+of the head. At length he could hold in no longer.
+
+'Oh, dear, oh, dear! it makes me feel bad all over to hear you talk
+about them places and things;--to think what an old fool I've been to
+come to such a place as this.'
+
+'It does not look like a very thriving place, Mr. Cutter.'
+
+'Thriving! there's nothing thrives here but rum and deviltry.
+_Thriving!_--I tell you what, the _old 'un_ thrives here, no one else,
+and a great haul he'll have--he's fixing for it. No schools, no
+meetin'-houses, and no nothing that's good;--the men most all drunk and
+lazy, and the boys going to the d----l, if I must say so, asking your
+pardon, as fast as they can.'
+
+'This is a poor account of your place, Mr. Cutter. What do you suppose
+has caused such a state of things?'
+
+'It is beyond me to say, sir; there seems to be a kind of curse on the
+place; and it is my candid opinion, if something ain't done here
+soon--some preaching, or something else of that sort--we're a gone
+case;--even a dumb Quaker would be better than nothing. He might walk
+round in his square coat, and frighten the old 'un a little.'
+
+Mr. Rutherford could not restrain a smile at the earnestness of the old
+man, and the singularity of his idea.
+
+'From your description, Mr. Cutter, you are not much better off here
+than our people in the barrens.'
+
+'Not much to boast on, I tell you, sir. Only they can't raise nothing,
+and must depend upon old Cross for work to buy their bread with, and he
+charges them just what he pleases; and if they should grumble, or ask
+for their money to spend elsewhere, he would turn them off entirely, and
+then they might live on huckle berries and pine knots.'
+
+'They are badly off, I believe, sir; but I hope to be able to make some
+change in things there. The people are, no doubt, imposed upon, and I
+shall not allow it to be so if I can help it.'
+
+'Bless your young heart for saying so; but you must look out for Cross;
+he's a precious villain--I _tell_ you.'
+
+'I believe he is no better than he should be; but I shall try to manage
+it, so as not to injure the poor folks, at any rate.'
+
+'Well, I'm glad on it, for there are some clever people among them.
+There's the widow Brown; why you must know her? she used to live in your
+father's family.'
+
+'Oh, yes, I know her well, Mr. Cutter; and part of my errand down was to
+see her. Her daughter, I hope, will go home with me to live.'
+
+'What! Hettie! Hettie ain't going away--and yet she ought to go out of
+such a hole as this. She is too pretty and too good to be round here.
+What's the matter, Bill? Where's the use of keeping the old bellows
+creaking, when there's no iron in the fire?'
+
+'Oh, I didn't think. You are done, ain't you?'
+
+'Yes, I hope so. I've pounded myself all in a heat. But what makes you
+look so pale, man?'
+
+'Oh, nothing; I ain't pale, am I?'
+
+'Yes, you are pale--go sit down, man.'
+
+'No; I thank you, Uncle Sam. I believe I will go home now, if I can be
+of no more use to the gentleman.'
+
+Mr. Rutherford, seeing him about to depart, stepped up, and cordially
+thanked him for his kind and efficient services; and taking out his
+purse, was about to remunerate him handsomely for his trouble.
+
+'Oh, no, sir, nothing; I thank you.'
+
+'But it has taken your time, and you have been of great service to me;
+allow me to make you some compensation--thanks from a stranger are not
+worth much.'
+
+'They are worth a good deal to _me_, sir, since I have found out who you
+are.'
+
+'Why, what do you know of me?'
+
+'My father removed from your place, sir; and I have often heard him
+speak of your folks, how kind they were to him; perhaps you may remember
+him, Zechariah Andrews?'
+
+'Remember him? certainly I do; and are you his son? Well, this is
+strange indeed:' at the same time taking Bill's hand and giving it a
+hearty shake. Many inquiries were made and answered; and the interview
+closed by an invitation on the part of Mr. Rutherford, that whenever he
+might need a friend he would call upon him.
+
+'And now, Mr. Cutter, good by,' giving the old man his hand; 'I hope you
+may live to see things look brighter than they now do.
+
+'I hope so, sir; but I tell you there is but little chance of it. The
+old fellow has danced here so long, it will be hard getting him off the
+ground--preachin' might do it. But I want to say one thing to you--look
+out for Cross; he ain't too good in my opinion for any thing--he's a
+dangerous man, depend on it. But I won't keep you waiting. God bless
+you, and keep you out of harm's way.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+
+I suppose my readers are about tired with following our heroes on their
+little voyages; but as this is to be the last they will make in the old
+skiff, and as it is connected with some interesting circumstances
+regarding our friend Sam, we must go with them once again.
+
+It was but a short period after the scene of trial through which Sam and
+his family were called to pass. A pleasant sail they had made to the
+fort that morning; their stock of goods had been disposed of, their
+empty baskets stowed away, and they were just on the point of casting
+off for their return, when Peter appeared, coming through the gate of
+the castle. As soon as he passed the sentinel, he hobbled along towards
+them as fast as crutches would let him.
+
+'Hulloa; 'vast, there, my hearties.'
+
+The boys readily stopped, and waited his approach.
+
+'Here, you Sam, jist come here, follow me.'
+
+Sam was utterly at a loss as to what was to pay now; but as Peter turned
+short about, and was making his way back again, as though he expected of
+course his summons to be obeyed, Sam had no alternative but to jump
+ashore and hasten after him, and he had much ado to get up with the old
+man before he entered the gate. Peter hobbled along through the hall at
+the entrance, then turned to the right, and, by a narrow door, entered a
+dark passage, saying nothing all the while, only turning his head back
+occasionally to see that Sam was following; then up a broad stairs, into
+a long gallery studded with doors. Into one of these Peter entered, and,
+waiting until Sam passed in, shut it.
+
+'Now, my hearty, see what I've got for you. Take off them old duds o'
+your'n, jist as fast as you can.' Sam being somewhat in amaze, was
+looking at the queer little room, with the hammock hung up at one side
+of it, wondering how Peter ever contrived to stow himself away in it; in
+the meantime Peter was busy untying a large bundle, and taking out
+sundry articles.
+
+'Here, you sonny, jist put these on, and see how they'll fit;' holding
+up at the same time a pair of blue broadcloth pantaloons. 'But what are
+you about? why don't you doff your jacket and trousers? You ain't a goin
+to put these on over, are you?'
+
+'Oh, no, sir: but you don't mean to have me put on such fine things as
+these?'
+
+'And why not? didn't my lady git 'em 'spressly for you? and didn't she
+take me along with her, purpose to pick out a true sailor's rig? So off
+with the old riggin', it's stood long enough.'
+
+'Did _she_ get them? Oh, she is very good. I am sure I don't deserve--'
+
+'_Don't deserve!_ Yes, you do _deserve_; so down with your dumbfounded
+perverseness, for once, and do as you are bid.'
+
+Sam was indeed confounded, but he could not do otherwise than put them
+on. A better fit could not have been, and the suit was complete
+throughout. Blue roundabout, and trousers to match, of good broadcloth,
+finer than anything Sam had ever felt of before. Suspenders of blue and
+white, all finely figured; blue check shirt, with a large flowing
+collar, around the edge of which and down the bosom ran an ornament of
+white. Vest there was none, as Peter said 'it was of no mortal use.'
+
+Never was a father prouder of a son, than was Peter, when the whole rig
+was on. He turned Sam round to all points of the compass; examined him,
+as he said, ''fore and aft.' The shoes were the only articles Peter did
+not fancy.
+
+'Pumps is the only things fit to go on a sailor's foot, but my lady
+reasoned me out of it. They're good taut under-strappers, no doubt, and
+they'll do you a deal of service; but they spoil the looks, and there
+ain't no shuffle in 'em. But howsomever, perhaps as you're along shore
+now, they'll do you a good turn. But, do you hear? never put your foot
+on a ship's deck in such clumpers as them.'
+
+'Oh dear! how good they are to me.'
+
+'Good? to be sure they're good. But mind, my hearty, _there's One
+above_'--and Peter pointed his finger upward, as he said this--'who has
+made the wind shift round for you so fair and square; mind _that_, and
+don't think it's all luck that's made such big folks kind to you. You're
+but a youngster now, and can't be 'spected to understand how all these
+things are brought about; but an old sailor like me, that has sailed in
+all weathers, has seen things that will make a man feel that there is
+_One_ at the helm can steer for him when he can't do nothing for
+himself.'
+
+Sam looked at the old man with fixed attention, and drank in every word,
+his eyes sparkling with the deep emotion they aroused within him. He
+thought Peter no longer a poor maimed sailor, but some being from a
+better world, who had put on for a time a rough and forbidding garb.
+
+'And now, my hearty, see here.' And Peter began to pull out sundry other
+articles of dress.
+
+'That there rig you've got on ain't for storms, nor everyday sarvice; a
+man wants something tight and tidy for Sundays, and sich like--but
+here's your real stuff to brave all weathers in. This will stand you for
+rough and tumble and all sorts of work. These trousers is the regular
+duck; jist feel 'em, Sam. They're stiff like, I know, but you'll soon
+make 'em limber; and this here jacket is the jinivine blue nanking;
+there's no tear about it that I'll warrant you.'
+
+Sam had given up in amazement at the multitude of good things showered
+upon him. He knew not whether to laugh or cry--he did a little of
+both--it was so good, so far above any thing he had been thinking of;
+the feeling which came over him, and which we all, in our youthful days,
+have experienced when clad in a new suit, was so _very new_ to him, that
+he was oppressed by it; and as Peter held up the duck trousers and the
+blue nankeen coat, he proceeded to unrobe himself, thinking he was
+required to try them on too.
+
+'Now, what is the lad about?--Hands off; let alone. Ain't you going
+right down to show my lady what a spanking fit it is? So we'll jist
+bundle these up with the old duds, and you'll take 'em along--you hear?
+and let 'em lay in the boat till you git home.'
+
+Sam would have made some objections, if he dared; but Peter took things
+in his own hands, and seemed to feel that, for once, at least, he must
+be minded: so rolling the whole together, and tying them in a very
+knowing manner,
+
+'Now come along, my hearty,' he stumped it out of the room, and through
+the gallery, and down the stairs, and laying the bundle in the hall,
+crossed to the apartment where Sam had formerly been introduced to the
+presence of Mrs. Morris; and before he had time to reflect or make
+opposition, Peter was knocking at the door.
+
+A very pleasant smile and exclamation of delight, on the part of Mrs.
+Morris, greeted Sam as he entered.
+
+'Why, Peter!--who would have thought they could have fitted so well; and
+how very apropos they look. A sailor boy, he is now--is he not, Peter?'
+
+'All but the shoes, please you, madam.' And Peter, not having his hat
+on, touched his queue.
+
+'Oh, well; I think master Sam will be much pleased with the shoes,
+especially as he is on shore now. But let him come here--give me the
+neckerchief, Susie.'
+
+Susie walked to the table, and brought the little parcel and placed it
+in her mother's hand.
+
+'Here is a present from Susie; she has hemmed it herself, and I suppose
+ought to honor you by tying it on; but as she is a little bashful about
+it, I must do it for her.'
+
+Sam was too much confounded to make any opposition; but his flushed
+countenance told how he felt.
+
+'I suppose I cannot put it on after true sailor fashion, but I believe
+it must have a single tie, and hang loose, in this style. Will that do,
+Peter?'
+
+'That's the thing, madam.'
+
+'What shall I ever do for you, ma'am, you are so good to me?'
+
+'Oh, perhaps you will do a great deal for us yet; and you know, my dear
+boy, that we are under obligations to you we cannot soon get rid of.'
+
+'I am sure, ma'am'--and Sam looked intently at Mrs. Morris, his whole
+countenance beaming with honest emotion--'I don't know what I have done
+that you should say so. If you mean my trying to save Miss Susan, why I
+am sure, ma'am, if I had not done it, I wouldn't be fit to live. I would
+do it again, if I knew I should die for it; I am sure I would, and so
+would any one.'
+
+Mrs. Morris could not repress the starting tear, nor could she make an
+immediate reply. Sam's whole demeanor took her by surprise--she did not
+expect such a burst of genuine gallantry.
+
+'God bless you, my good fellow! you have a noble heart, and will make a
+proud station for yourself, yet; but keep in mind, that _the path to
+honor lies through difficulties and dangers_.'
+
+As she said this, her hand was smoothing down the dark curls which lay,
+in all their natural carelessness, around Sam's fine forehead.
+
+'But, Peter, only think! we have forgotten the hat--what a pity!'
+
+Peter made no reply, otherwise than by handling his queue, and rolling
+his quid from one side of his mouth to the other.
+
+'How could you let me forget it, Peter?'
+
+'Oh, ma'am, don't think of it; you have given me too many things
+already.'
+
+'Please, my lady, he'll do well enough, for all that. If my lady has no
+further orders, I must go.'
+
+'Nothing further, Peter.'
+
+Sam made the best bow he could, both to Mrs. Morris and to Susie; and
+Susie ventured, for the first time, as Sam made his obeisance to her, to
+say, very gently indeed, 'Good by.' It was not much beyond a whisper,
+but Sam heard it. Whenever the scene in that room came up before
+him--and it kept presenting itself very often--he loved to dwell on that
+part of it. Susie would be before him with her pretty smile, and those
+words, so soft, 'Good by,' would ring and ring in his ears.
+
+To say that Jim was astonished at the change in Sam's appearance, as he
+came from the fort and took his station in the boat, would describe but
+a very little of what Jim really did feel. He was amazed--he was
+pleased--no, he was delighted. He loved Sam like a brother; and when he
+heard from Sam's own lips what had been done for him,
+
+'They are the best people, Sam, I ever knew. But what will they say at
+home? I wonder what Ned will do? You must take care, or he will pull you
+down in the dirt. Clothes _do_ make some difference, don't they?'
+
+'Stop, my hearties.'
+
+The boys looked back.
+
+'Just come ashore here,' beckoning to Sam. 'You see my lady forgot about
+the hat, but, thinks I, there's a chance for me now; so I stops in
+slyly, and rummaging the old wallet, found enough stowage there to get
+this little shiner: so try it on, sonny, try it on.'
+
+'But you shouldn't do so: I am--'
+
+'No you ain't; so try it on.' And suiting the action to the word, he
+displaced Sam's little old tarred hat, and mounted a new one, all
+glistening with its bright polish.
+
+'That's the rig, now; it don't sit quite ship-shape as it ought, but it
+will work to the head, and it will keep the rain out, I'll warrant
+_that_. But I can't stop here, for the Major's boots must be cleaned; so
+a good passage to you, my hearties.'
+
+With that he bore away for the fort in quick time, paying no kind of
+heed to all Sam said about thanks.
+
+'I tell you, Sam Oakum, I should not know you if I met you in the road.
+Nobody will know you; Ned won't know you, see if he does.'
+
+'I don't hardly know myself, Jim, I feel so queer.'
+
+The wonder which Sam's appearance excited on their return was full as
+great as Jim had anticipated. On reaching the shore, Ned and Jowler
+stood ready to receive them. Ned stepped up to Jim, who had jumped
+ashore, and was carrying the little stone anchor out as far as the rope
+would reach, and whispered,
+
+'Who's that? Where's Sam?' Then Sam walked deliberately from the stern,
+and jumped ashore. Jowler set up a bark at him, and Ned fixed his eye
+upon him in some doubt until Sam smiled. He then commenced a retrograde
+movement, increasing the distance between him and Sam, and going round
+and round him, eyeing him from head to foot; while Jowler kept by his
+side, barking as he followed Ned round the circle. Ned knew _Sam_; he
+was _sure_ he did, and so did _Jowler_, as soon as Sam spoke to him, and
+began to sneeze and wriggle himself about, and to manifest great shame
+that he had made such a mistake. Ned was too much surprised this time;
+it sobered him. He knew it was _Sam_, his old playmate; but _such_ a
+change! How had it come about? He felt a kind of diffidence in
+approaching him; he almost wished for the old patched clothes and the
+little flat hat; but that feeling was only momentary, a flash through
+the mind. The neat trim of the clothes, the improved appearance of Sam's
+whole exterior, really delighted him; and instead of flying off into
+some extravagances, he took Sam's hand, and shaking it with all his
+might,
+
+'Did Major Morris give you this suit, Sam?'
+
+'No, it was the lady.'
+
+'She _is_ a lady. I should think you would love her, Sam, very much.
+Ain't they nice, though, Jim? Just look at this shirt collar and the
+bosom, and this handkerchief round his neck, and the hat and shoes. Oh,
+Sam, I am so glad you need not wear the old clothes any more;--_do_,
+won't you come and let mother see you and Ellen, just to see what they
+will say.'
+
+'But he will want to go home, first, Ned, and show himself there.'
+
+'I will come up this evening, right after supper.'
+
+And again they separated for their different homes, and Sam hastened,
+with his bundle under his arm, hardly able to keep from a run, he was so
+anxious to see how they would feel.
+
+They were at supper as Sam entered. His mother dropped her knife and
+fork and jumped up from the table; her hands were raised, and her whole
+countenance expressive of the most pleasant surprise.
+
+'Why, Sam! where _did_ you get these from? Oh, how nice! do father, look
+at him.'
+
+Mr. Oakum had pushed his chair, and a smile passed over his
+weather-beaten countenance as he looked at Sam; and his heart blessed
+God for him. He was pleased, indeed, and almost proud to perceive what a
+fine-looking boy he was, but he knew his worth as few could know it. He
+could not speak, but he felt of the clothes and smiled, and then wiped
+the tears that would come in spite of every effort to keep them back. He
+felt that there was something more than good luck in all this. Sam was
+already reaping the fruits of the promise, 'Thy days shall be long in
+the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+
+How swiftly pass the beautiful months of summer; its flowers and its
+fruits come and go in succession, and must be enjoyed in their season,
+or not at all.
+
+To our boys it seemed to have flown more rapidly than ever; the constant
+occupation of every day and almost every working hour, caused the days
+and weeks to pass away imperceptibly and pleasantly.
+
+And now, the long wished-for period has arrived, when the great contract
+with Major Morris is to be fulfilled. The boat is ready, and will carry
+quite a load. The farmers are busy digging, and each is anxious to
+deliver his quota as soon as possible. It was well for Jim that he
+stipulated in the bargain to receive them only as he wanted them. Jim's
+thinking habits were of great service to him.
+
+A new hand must be obtained to assist in navigating their little vessel;
+her size, the quantity of freight, and the season of the year, all
+demanded it. Sam Oakum felt that this devolved upon him, but Jim
+insisted upon it that they would unitedly pay for the extra help.
+
+'I shall not allow that, Jim, no how. You give me now one-third of all
+we make, and you do all the business. So you see I am going this very
+night to speak to Sam Cutter; he will be a good fellow to row with me,
+and you can steer, and I shall pay Sam out of my own money.'
+
+He was as good as his word, and found Sam Cutter ready enough to go with
+him; so a bargain was soon made, and as Mr. Cutter's potatoes were the
+first engaged, twenty-five bushels of the lot were carted early in the
+morning, and put on board. Jim was there ready to receive them, and as
+soon as delivered, counted out the money.
+
+'There, William, is six dollars and twenty-five cents. It is all in
+quarters, but it is just as good. Give that to your father, and when I
+take the next load I will pay for that in the same way. Twenty-five
+bushels, at twenty-five cents a bushel, make just six dollars and
+twenty-five cents, don't it?'
+
+Jim said this because William Cutter seemed to be in a maze, as though
+not exactly comprehending the matter.
+
+'Oh yes, it's all right, no doubt; but I say, Jim Montjoy, where did you
+get all this money from? I tell you what, I mean to work, see if I
+don't, if it brings in money at this rate.'
+
+'Why, we have had some pretty hard pulls for it, have we not, Sam?--or
+rather you have.'
+
+'Yes, we both have, but no matter for that; it makes the money all the
+sweeter. You see now, William, how this thing works--your brother and
+yourself have been busily engaged all summer, cultivating your potatoes
+and other things; now you have dug them and received your money, that
+pays you for your work; we now carry them off to a distance, where they
+are wanted more than they are here, and sell them for enough to pay us
+for our risk, and labor, and expense of freight. If you had not labored
+and raised them, we should not have them to carry away, and make a
+profit on; on the other hand, if we could not find a market for them
+abroad, you would not have received half the value for them you now get;
+so you see how your plough and hoe, and our boat, help one another.'
+
+'And your _head_, you ought to have added, Jim; for my boat and his
+potatoes would not have been worth much, without that head of yours.'
+
+William Cutter was no great philosopher, and perhaps did not clearly
+comprehend the drift of Jim's argument; but he felt the silver pieces in
+his hand, and realized that it was a larger sum than had ever been there
+before; and he was satisfied, that in some way it had been obtained by
+the enterprise and labor of Jim and Sam and as he walked along towards
+home he said to himself a great many times,
+
+'If working will do it, I'll work, see if I don't; there will be more
+potatoes and beans to sell another year, see if there ain't.'
+
+The new boat proved her value on her first trip; she was not a fast
+sailer, but she rode the waves well, and would bear a stiff breeze. How
+rejoiced was Sam, as he sat at the helm, to witness the beautiful manner
+in which she would meet the swell, and bound over it like a bird of the
+water.
+
+Old Peter had also much to say in her praise.
+
+'He did not 'spect to see such a ship-shape craft; she ain't made to run
+fast, but she'll bear the wind, and she'll ride the waves, and that's
+what you want, my hearties. But what's her name?'
+
+'Oh! we have not given her a name yet, we haven't thought about that!'
+
+'Never thought about that? but you must think about it; what is a boat
+without a name? but I s'pose it ain't worth while to do no such thing on
+this craft o' your'n, seeing she is launched, and in sailing trim; but I
+tell you what, if you ain't given her a name, I'll do it; you must call
+her Susie, do you hear?'
+
+'Would you?'
+
+'Yes would I; and where can you get a prettier name, or one that will
+bring you better luck than that?'
+
+'Well, if you say so; it's a pretty name, ain't it, Jim?'
+
+Old Peter was determined to see that his favorite name was fastened to
+the boat; and in a manner that could not have been expected from him,
+printed it, in very legible characters, on the inside of her stern.
+
+'Now, good luck to her! and don't you, boy, ever leave her while there's
+a plank to stand on; hear that?'
+
+'Yes, sir; I shall not leave her for a trifle.'
+
+The potatoes and beans proved very satisfactory to Major Morris. Jim
+received his money for each load, and was thus enabled to carry out his
+plan of paying for them. No sooner was a quantity brought down to him,
+measured and put into the boat, than he was ready with the pay; it was
+counted out to them in good silver money. Many wondered where it came
+from, and made up their minds that Mr. Montjoy had left his family quite
+a property, for all that was said about his dying poor.
+
+No time was lost by Jim in completing the contract; every day that would
+answer was seized upon to carry a load. He neither counted profits, nor
+indulged in the least recreation, until the whole matter was settled.
+
+A full month passed, using their utmost diligence, before they took on
+board the last load, and had the satisfaction of delivering it safely,
+and receiving from Major Morris, not only the full balance due, but an
+expression of his perfect satisfaction with the whole affair. One
+hundred dollars Jim and Ned could now call their own, for although Ned
+said that it ought to belong to Jim, he would hear of no such thing;
+Ned, he said, had worked as hard as either of them, and sometimes
+harder.
+
+'Well, Jim, what would all the working have amounted to without those
+thoughts of yours? and only to think how I laughed at you.'
+
+'We won't mind that now, Ned; but if you won't laugh, I will tell you
+what I have been thinking about again.'
+
+'Do tell, Jim? I will never ridicule any of your thoughts after this.'
+
+It happened that the boys were sitting on their favorite rock, enjoying
+the calm decline of one of autumn's loveliest days.
+
+'Come, Jim, I promise you I won't laugh.'
+
+'Why, to tell you the truth, Ned, I have been thinking whether there was
+no way that we might be supplied with such things as we need from a
+store, without going to Grizzle's; I am tired of it, for my part.'
+
+'There is no use of thinking about that, Jim, or talking about it
+either; we have had that over long enough; we cannot help ourselves, and
+there's the end of it.'
+
+'I don't know that; I think we might help ourselves.'
+
+'How, Jim? Come, let me hear.'
+
+'Do you remember, Ned, I once told you about a boat I saw at the fort,
+which had come from a distance with stores for the garrison? there were
+large square chests of tea, just as they came from China, and barrels of
+molasses and sugar, and casks of rice, and a great variety of things,
+enough to have completely filled Mr. Grizzle's store.'
+
+'Yes; I remember you told us about it, when you came home. But what of
+it, Jim? What good will they do us?'
+
+'I do not expect that those particular articles will benefit us,
+especially, but I have thought a great deal about the matter since then;
+and now, what I was going to propose is, to put your money with mine,
+and let me lay it out in tea, and molasses, and sugar and some other
+things.'
+
+'Why, Jim, now you _are_ crazy. Why, when should we ever eat up a
+hundred dollars' worth of such things?'
+
+'But you are too fast, Ned; you don't wait to hear what I have to say. I
+intended, when we had procured these things, to let the neighbors know
+of it, and when they wanted, we could sell to them for a small profit. I
+know many would prefer buying of us rather than of Grizzle.'
+
+'Why, Jim!' and Ned jumped down from the rock, and placing himself
+immediately before his brother, looked up at him with great earnestness.
+
+'You mean that we should set up a little store--don't you, Jim?'
+
+'Yes, it would be something like that.'
+
+'And then, perhaps, after a while we should have a great many things,
+and a great many people would come to buy of us; I know they would, for
+they all like you so much.'
+
+'I don't know about that, Ned; but I think we could sell things cheaper
+than they have been accustomed to buy them, and, if so, they will
+surely come; and if we can take such little things from them as we have
+sold at the fort, and give them a fair price--'
+
+'Oh, Jim, only think of it--hurra, hurra!'
+
+'Do, Ned, stop; you will frighten all the folks.'
+
+'What is to pay now, Ned?'
+
+'Oh, Sam, is that you? hurra, Sam.'
+
+'What ails him, Jim?'
+
+'Oh, he has got into one of his tantrums again.'
+
+'I tell you what, Sam Oakum, you don't know what Jim has been thinking
+about this time; it beats his _old_ thinking, I tell you.'
+
+'Why, what is it, Ned? Come, tell.'
+
+'Oh, Sam, Jim is going to set up a store, and do all manner of things.'
+
+Jim and Sam could stand no more; so they broke out into a hearty fit of
+laughter. Sam, supposing it to be a joke, took no farther notice of the
+matter.
+
+'You make me laugh, Ned, whether I will or no; but I don't feel much
+like laughing just now.'
+
+'Why, what's the matter, Sam?' said both boys at once.
+
+'There has nothing happened to me; but I have just been talking with
+Bill Andrews--he feels pretty bad. Bill is in trouble.'
+
+'There, Jim; I told you so. Don't you remember the day your boat was put
+into the water, Sam? I saw then that something was the matter with
+Bill.'
+
+'I hope he has not taken to any of his old ways.'
+
+'Oh, no, Jim; I don't think Bill will ever take to them again. But you
+know Bill's mother?'
+
+'She has not turned him away, has she?'
+
+'No, Ned, not exactly; but I am afraid he will go away.'
+
+'Oh, Sam! don't say so, for Bill is such a clever fellow.'
+
+'I know he is'--and Sam's eyes began to glisten, and his lip to
+tremble--'he is a real clever fellow; and to think how well he has
+behaved, and how different he is from what he once was. I should not
+think his mother could do so.'
+
+'Has she been scolding him, Sam?'
+
+'Pretty much so, Ned. You know how Bill used to let things go--almost
+any how--he says he did. Bill is sorry for all that; he is very sorry--I
+know he is. But I tell you what I believe, boys, that when we have done
+wrong, even if we are sorry for it, and try to do better, something or
+other comes up after a while to make us smart for it; perhaps we did
+not feel sorry enough, or may be it is to make us sorry all our lives; I
+suppose we ought to be. Well, as I was saying, Bill used to be much at
+Grizzle's, and Grizzle let him run in debt as much as he pleased.'
+
+'I tell you what, Sam Oakum, I would not go in debt for any thing. I had
+rather live on raw clams and sea-weed.'
+
+'So would I, Ned. But, as I was saying, Grizzle knew well enough that
+Bill's mother had land. He knew he should get his pay.'
+
+'But don't you remember, Sam, when you and I went there last summer to
+engage potatoes, Bill said he only owed Grizzle a trifle?'
+
+'I know he did, Jim, and so he thought, but Bill has been careless. He
+has taken potatoes there every year, as he thought, enough to square his
+account; but he never saw how it was, nor had any settlement made, and
+it has run on until lately; and when Bill asked him, for the first time,
+for his account--what do you think? Grizzle up's with a bill of more
+than eighty dollars.'
+
+'Eighty dollars!'
+
+'Yes, Jim, eighty dollars and upwards. Bill said when he saw it, he felt
+as if he should drop down.'
+
+'Did he pay any of it? I would not have paid one cent of it until it had
+been pretty well examined. You remember your father's account?'
+
+'Bill says he was confounded by it, and so afraid that his mother should
+hear any thing about it--for you know she is such a queer woman--that he
+paid Grizzle all the money that he received from you--thirty dollars.'
+
+'Oh, what a pity!'
+
+'Well, you see, Jim, Bill was so afraid his mother would know it he said
+it would make her about crazy.'
+
+'Yes; but for all that, he ought to have told his mother.'
+
+'I suppose he ought; but she soon knew it. For what did Grizzle do, but
+send Dick Tucker there; and he has taken the cattle, and other things,
+to pay the bill.'
+
+'Oh, Sam, I am sorry for Bill. I wonder what his mother did say?'
+
+'Bill says she called him every thing she could think of; and then she
+cried and hallooed so loud, that he had to go for the Widow Brown to
+come and pacify her. But he says he can stay at home no longer; so he is
+going across the barrens to see a Mr. Rutherford, who promised to be a
+friend to him; and he says he never means to come back, until he gets
+money enough to pay that account; and he is coming here to bid you good
+bye.'
+
+'Sam Oakum, this is too bad. I have been thinking how Bill might be a
+great help to us, and himself too.'
+
+'It is no use; he is done for--his cattle are gone, and so there is an
+end of it. But don't say any thing to Bill about this, nor let him see
+that you feel bad towards him.'
+
+'We don't feel bad towards him. Why, Sam Oakum, we like Bill Andrews
+almost as well as we do you; but there he comes.'
+
+Bill never appeared to better advantage than he did that evening: his
+countenance was naturally one of those bright and playful ones, over
+which there could always be seen some streaks of sunshine. He had really
+been through a severe trial; and had not his principles been well
+established, he might have been driven by desperation to his old habits;
+but his resolution against those evil ways was strong. And although
+Hettie had been for some time absent, yet her advice was before him,
+lifting his mind to better things, and creating a true disgust for what
+was low and corrupting. His look was sad, but not cast down. He gave his
+hand to the boys, and shook theirs with great cordiality. His eye indeed
+glistened, and his lip quivered; but these were only tokens of the pain
+it gave him to part from friends whom he loved so well. Few words were
+spoken. Ned had an abhorrence for tears. He therefore turned suddenly
+away, and began throwing stones very violently at some invisible object.
+Jim and Sam were not made of such stern material; and I do not suppose
+it ought to be set down against them, that, as soon as Bill's back was
+fairly turned, and on his way, they had between them quite a time of it.
+
+On the morrow, just as the sun was beginning to pour forth a flood of
+glorious light, Bill shut the little gate that led from his mother's
+door-yard, and turning round as he did so, gave a smile through the
+tears which were flowing to his mother and sister, who stood wringing
+their hands and weeping aloud, on the little stoop that projected from
+their front door. He smiled, to let them see that he had no unkindness
+in his heart; and his tears were witness that he was on no errand of
+pleasure. Yet he lingered not, but, brushing away the tears, and putting
+his bundle closer under his arm, walked with a firm step straight on his
+way. The sky was clear and blue, except where the beautiful sun-light
+was expanding in the east, and imparting a rich golden tint. The earth
+was whitened with the autumnal frost, and crisped under his footsteps,
+and the thick leaves rustled as he brushed along and disturbed their
+repose. His course was directed towards the Widow Brown's, where he must
+stop and say 'Good-bye,' and perhaps get a message to Hettie, whom he
+expected to meet before the day was over.
+
+He walked briskly on; the sun had not yet penetrated the thick pines,
+and the cold air of the night still floated undisturbed as he entered
+the barrens. A lively fire was crackling on the widow's hearth, and at a
+plain, but clean-looking table, sat Mrs. Brown and her son. Coarse but
+wholesome was the fare spread out upon it; and both arose as William
+entered, urging him to sit down and partake with them; having had but a
+little appetite when he left his home, the keen air and the walk had
+prepared him to enjoy refreshment. Their meal ended, a little parcel
+taken for Hettie, a warm shake of the hand, and God's blessing implored
+upon him, and he was off.
+
+This going to seek one's fortune is no trifling matter; the battle of
+life, where each is striving for his own particular benefit, and cares
+not who sinks so long as he himself securely floats, demands all the
+vital strength; and little else must claim our care or notice, save the
+great struggle.
+
+Bill was yet a stranger to life, only as it glided along in the quiet
+seclusion, and that seclusion not the best adapted to bring forth man's
+noblest efforts; beyond a bare support, and perhaps sometimes a thought
+of sharing his humble portion with her who had been a sort of guardian
+angel to him, his wishes had not hitherto aspired. No wonder, then, if
+trifles had a power to disturb him, which, to those immersed in scenes
+of busy life, would be but as an insect's buzz--a gentle brush, and it
+is gone. William Brown had left the cottage with him, and pleasant had
+been their chat together for a few miles; when about to separate, he
+merely said,
+
+'Well, I wish you good luck; and if you see Hettie, please say to her
+that Dave Cross will be along by Rutherford's next week, and that he
+will stop and bring any word home that she wishes to send; but I guess,
+between you and me, it is only an excuse to have a chat with Hettie.'
+
+Immediately after parting, Bill crossed the old bridge by the mill, and
+went on his way; but something had disturbed the inner man, for, as he
+ascended the hill, he paused where two roads met, one leading to Mr.
+Rutherford's, the other to the nearest town. A large stone lay at the
+point where they met: he threw his little bundle down, with an air that
+might mean, perhaps it did,
+
+'I don't care what becomes of you or me either;' and then took a seat on
+the stone, leaned his chin on the head of his hickory staff, and looked
+at the grass and the stones and the old fence, and occasionally at a
+stray bird, as though there was something wrong about them. He waited a
+good long hour, in thinking, and hesitating, and vexing himself, and
+then trying to make the best of it; and finally picked up his bundle and
+started off, not in the direction of the town, but straight towards Mr.
+Rutherford's. It was late in the afternoon before he accomplished his
+journey, and found himself entering the gate which opened into the
+extensive grounds surrounding, as it was commonly called, the Rutherford
+House. He had never seen any thing like it before, and a more pleasant
+or home-looking place was seldom to be met with. There was a beautiful
+green lawn, with a long broad gravel road extending to the house; and
+there were large trees, spreading their long and drooping branches,
+scattered thickly over the lawn and lining the road, and the house was
+nestled beneath the shelter of some of the very largest and most
+graceful of the trees. It made no pretensions to architectural beauty,
+but it was large and well built; and the multitude of outhouses, and
+extensive range of barns and sheds, all in good order, spoke of room for
+man and beast, and of comfort too. Bill thought nothing of all this, his
+heart was full of misgivings as to how he should be received; to him it
+was all fine, too fine for the like of him; and he looked at some of the
+outbuildings, as he passed along, to see if there was any place he could
+feel at home in, for the night.
+
+George Rutherford, the inheritor of this lovely spot, had of earthly
+goods a bounteous store; but he had, also, what many an inheritor of
+earthly substance does not possess, a noble heart, large in its embrace
+of his fellow-man in all conditions, ever going out in its kindly
+feelings towards some object of benevolence; humble in every thought
+connected with himself, and with devoted zeal seeking to aid, to
+comfort, and to gratify the most menial of his dependents, and the most
+degraded and sorrow-stricken of his neighbours, far or near. Although
+rich blessings crowned his days, and sweet was the cup of life he
+quaffed, he felt most truly that no desert of his had earned them. Gifts
+of mercy he called them all; abounding gifts--too good, but as the
+tokens of Infinite Benevolence to the most unworthy.
+
+He wanted, with all this, something of that shrewdness so essential to
+the getting or preserving property; this world so teems with those who
+covet all their eyes behold, who ask no counsel from the law of heaven
+or the code of earthly justice, so long as forms of law will screen them
+in their sly grasping after acres and goods, that a man needs, with all
+the piety of a saint, something of the serpent's cunning. It is not
+enough that he covets no man's silver or gold, that he wrongs no man of
+his due, that he extends his hand to the helpless, that he be ever ready
+to lift to his own level those who are struggling below him: he must
+take care for himself. Riches are fleeting substances, with wings ever
+ready for flight; he who enjoys the blessings they can bring, must give
+all diligence to 'see well to his flocks and herds; for riches are not
+for ever'; nor do they descend to many generations. Mr. Rutherford had
+already experienced some trials in this way; his confidence had been too
+strong, his sensibility for others' feelings too acute, and there was
+great danger that he might yet be a heavy sufferer, because he did not
+learn wisdom, as he might, from some of the trials he had already passed
+through.
+
+Whatever doubts may have disturbed Bill's mind as he was walking up the
+broad avenue, they were all dissipated the moment he was recognized by
+Mr. Rutherford. He grasped his hand with the cordiality of a friend,
+took him at once into the house, and into the presence of his lovely
+wife.
+
+'You remember, my dear, the young man who so kindly assisted us at the
+time of the accident to our carriage.'
+
+'Indeed I do,' said Mrs. Rutherford, rising and bidding him a hearty
+welcome.
+
+Bill was put at once at ease; he never before could have supposed, that
+persons who lived so very differently from what he had been accustomed
+to, could be so affable; they seemed to him to feel and act as if he was
+as good as any of them; asked him as many questions as old Sam Cutter
+would have done, and seemed as pleased with all the little news he
+communicated, as though he had been a city resident, loaded with tidings
+from the gay and stirring world. The little children, too, in all their
+sprightliness and beauty--those speaking images of the parent's
+heart--came fondling round him; his plain rough garments were unheeded
+by them, and he was soon as familiar with the little prattlers as though
+they had been the children of his nearest neighbor.
+
+But where was Hettie? Bill wondered much why she was not among the first
+to come and greet him. He did not ask; he heard her name spoken by the
+little ones, and his heart would beat and his breath grow short, and
+once he thought he heard her light step in the passage; and then sad
+thoughts would come and sink his spirits, so buoyant from his kind
+reception. But Bill had yet to learn some lessons in the school of life.
+
+Mr. Rutherford soon invited him to walk abroad, thus affording an
+opportunity to unburthen his mind, for he evidently had come for some
+express object. With much patience Mr. R. listened to his whole story,
+making no reply whatever until the budget was empty, nor, indeed, until
+some time after. Poor William thought that he had come to little
+purpose, and was anything than a welcome visitor. Mr. Rutherford,
+however, was only thinking in what way he could best serve the young
+man. He might indeed have taken him into his own family, and given him
+such employment as he had been accustomed to; but he thought he could
+perceive talents fitting him for a different sphere of life.
+
+'How would you like to go to the city, and try your hand in a store?'
+
+'I don't care where I go, sir, nor what the employment; if I can only
+have a chance to take care of myself honestly.'
+
+'It will be very different from anything you have been accustomed to;
+the work may not be any harder, but it will be very constant, and
+without much chance for relaxation, merchants think that business is a
+substitute for everything else.'
+
+But William was not to be daunted by any prospect of toil; and Mr.
+Rutherford, after telling him all he knew of the routine of business,
+proposed to give him a letter to a friend of his in an extensive
+business.
+
+'He will do all that can be done to procure you a situation, and then
+you must do the rest yourself; but remember, William, that the most
+strict attention to everything you are called to do, an unflinching
+integrity, and a determined perseverance, will be requisite to gain
+success; and unless you have made up your mind to exert every energy,
+you had better return and engage yourself with whatever you can best at
+home.'
+
+William's fine countenance was animated with an expression that told how
+his heart was touched.
+
+'So far, sir, as any exertions, day or night, to make myself useful and
+acceptable will do it, I fear not; and I hope my friends will never have
+to regret any efforts in my favor. A sense of gratitude, if nothing
+else, I trust will keep me watchful over myself.'
+
+'Well, William, I will write this evening; I hope you will succeed, and
+I think you will.'
+
+As they entered the house on their return, Hettie was just coming into
+the hall. Her appearance seemed to be accidental; perhaps it was. She
+blushed deeply, smiled a very little, and gave her hand to William in
+rather a timid manner. He was prepared to accost her warmly, but the
+peculiarity of her address chilled him; he felt a restraint he could not
+overcome, and his greeting was much like her own. She asked after her
+mother's health, thanked him for his trouble in bringing the little
+parcel for her, and then withdrew, leaving him to follow Mr. Rutherford,
+who was waiting at the parlor door to receive him.
+
+William was tired enough that night to have slept soundly, but his
+thoughts would not be quiet; so he hailed the dawn with delight, and was
+ready immediately after breakfast to go on his way. Mr. Rutherford took
+him into a small room adjoining the parlor, and handing him the letter,
+
+'There, William, I hope you will find this sufficient, and here is a
+trifle for you in case of need; if ever you become a rich man, you can
+return it: let me hear from you how you succeed.' So saying, he placed a
+little roll of bills in his hand, and bidding him God-speed, at once
+opened the door, apparently wishing to avoid the shower of thanks which
+he saw beaming from the eye of the young man.
+
+'Oh, sir, I never shall forget your kindness, and I hope I may yet prove
+it to you.'
+
+Mr. Rutherford made no reply; he was not indifferent to gratitude, but
+he did not care to be thanked personally. It was reward enough for him
+that he had made a fellow creature happy, and done what he could to give
+a helping hand to one just venturing on the deep waters. Long may that
+heart enjoy such draughts of pure happiness; and when, in years to
+come, you meet reverse of fortune, if such shall be thy fate, these
+stores, laid by in heaven's chancery, will be a refuge at your utmost
+need; and little deeds of love like this, long, long forgotten, will
+come like heavenly messengers, and with interest accumulated beyond the
+miser's compound gain. In the dark hour when clouds, blacker than the
+tempest's murky robe, shroud all the prospects of your earthly comfort,
+when hope of all deliverance that man may bring has gone, and your
+sickened heart turns away from earth, then shall you know that good
+deeds are not lost, even here below; and what your generous heart,
+inspired from above, devised to aid, to comfort, and to bless your
+fellows, has been a hidden treasure reserved against the time of deepest
+need.
+
+William went joyfully on his way, he had unrolled his little treasure,
+and counted fifty dollars. How his heart blessed the noble man; what a
+spring of love and hope burst forth from it, sending a quickening
+influence through all his frame; how elastic his step; what a cheerful
+light sparkles from his eye. The prospect before him is no longer dark.
+
+Immediately after passing the house, the road wound gradually around the
+premises; on one side skirted by a clump of woods, and on the other by a
+heavy stone wall, surmounted by shrubbery, so thick that nothing could
+be seen through it. Suddenly a little gate opened, and Hettie came down
+the steps, her face wearing that sweet smile with which she had in days
+past always met him.
+
+'I was afraid, William, that you would be past before I could get here,
+and I felt as if I must see you, just to say, good-by.'
+
+William was taken by surprise; he seized her offered hand, and grasped
+it warmly, but he could not speak.
+
+'I have wanted to see you very much, William, and to have a long talk
+with you about many things; but I suppose you must be going, and I must
+be back to my work. But, William, do you think you will like it in the
+city? You know things are so different from what you have been used to.'
+
+He was intending to be very stiff in all his bearing towards Hettie, but
+he made awkward work of it. There was she, looking up into his face with
+all her wonted interest, and how could he meet those eyes, and not
+return their look of pure and kindly feeling? So he gave it up: all his
+bad intentions flew off like mist, and his eye glanced as kindly as
+hers, and his voice softened into the old tones of friendship.
+
+'I know, Hettie, that they will be different; but I think I shall soon
+get used to them, and then I feel like taking care of myself, and who
+knows but I may get along as well as some others who go there, and come
+back with plenty of money in my pocket? I think, then, that some of my
+friends will not be ashamed to speak to me, or to acknowledge old
+friendships.' And as William said this, he looked at Hettie with so much
+meaning, that she could not mistake its reference to her.
+
+'If you think, William, that your prosperity will make a difference in
+the feelings of your friends towards you, or, at least, of some of them,
+you are mistaken. You may succeed as you anticipate, or you may not; you
+may return wealthy or poor, as you now are; if you only bring back as
+true and kind a heart, William, you will find some to welcome you, who
+will rejoice more in that, than in any great change in your
+circumstances.'
+
+And Hettie cast such a meaning in her look, too, as she fixed her eye
+full upon him, that he could not mistake its reference either. He saw
+the tears glistening in her mild eyes, and he could have done all manner
+of things to himself for speaking as he did.
+
+'Forgive me, Hettie, forgive me, if I have said any thing to trouble
+you; I know that you, at least, will not be affected by my condition, if
+my character is only good.'
+
+'I cannot say any thing more about the future, William, than that I am
+very sure I shall ever feel a deep interest in your welfare, and my
+ardent prayer shall be, that you may be kept from the many evils which I
+am told lurk around one going into the city, as you do, a stranger to
+its temptations.'
+
+'I know, Hettie, they say that I shall run a great risk in many ways,
+and I feel that I need something to keep my mind fastened on that will
+help me to avoid the evil, whatever it may be, and that will strengthen
+me in doing right. You have been such a helper to me, Hettie; you know
+from what a dreadful state you once delivered me; you have great power
+over me. I am now going from you; will you not let me carry along with
+me that promise which I have often asked? If you would only say that it
+_might_ be one of these days, I should go away happy; the hope would be
+like your presence with me.'
+
+Hettie cast down her eyes as William continued talking; she heard him
+quietly through, and then replied, in a voice that trembled indeed, but
+the words were well chosen, and came from her heart.
+
+'That promise, William, I cannot make now any more than I could have
+done before this; you and I are to be separated for many years perhaps;
+great changes may take place in that time; you will see many things very
+unlike what you have been accustomed to; your views about persons and
+things may change with your circumstances, I shall think of you as a
+dear friend, as a brother, if you wish it; I will pray for you when I do
+for myself, and as earnestly, William; but farther than this, you must
+not ask me.'
+
+William ceased, for he knew Hettie well enough to be certain that she
+would yield nothing more. He parted from her as a brother might leave a
+sister, dearly loved; he saw the deep color mantling in her cheek, and
+the tear that artlessly rolled over it; he could not say the parting
+word. She stepped back through the little gate, and as it closed, he
+went on his way to seek that fortune, which, at times, played before his
+fancy in all the witching forms of earthly prosperity. How often will
+this parting scene haunt his waking and sleeping dreams, through the
+long years that will intervene ere a sight of one so dear to him now
+will bless his eyes again; and how often will he admire the firmness and
+prudence of this earthly friend of his heart!
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+
+Sam Oakum had not forgotten the promise he had given old Mr. Cutter in
+the hour of his deep trouble; nor had he forgotten the kindness which
+prompted the old man to fly to the rescue of his parent. Every cent was
+precious in Sam's eyes, as sacred to repay that offering of mercy; he
+would no sooner have squandered it than he would have stolen; week after
+week, on every return from a trip, he would slip up to his little chest,
+and deposit there the earnings of the day. The additions were small, for
+he was obliged, occasionally, to expend some part of what he earned for
+little comforts that his mother needed; his father being rarely able to
+procure money for his labor. Small, however, as were the additions, the
+store increased. He had already carried to Mr. Cutter five dollars, and
+received his hearty blessing, and such a squeeze of his hand as Sam did
+not forget for the rest of the day.
+
+Jim had squared up with him the moment he had received the last payment;
+and as Sam looked at the heap of money which Jim said was his share of
+their enterprise, he was too happy to say any thing. He looked up at
+Jim, whose calm clear eye turned from the money to Sam, and then back
+again to the money, as much as to say--
+
+'It's your's, Sam, honestly come by;--it's all right, why don't you take
+it?'
+
+Ned, who was standing by also, and watching Sam, understood better than
+Jim what the matter was.
+
+'Why don't you hurra, Sam, and let it out, and not keep choking up so? I
+know how you feel;--shall I go it for you? Hurra, hurra, hurra!'
+
+'Ned, what does ail you? what is the use of making such a noise?'
+
+'Oh, nothing; only you see I want to help Sam out with some of his
+feelings; he is too full to hold.'
+
+Sam had to smile, and that started a tear or two, and then he tried to
+say something about gratitude to the boys; but Jim stopped him short.
+
+'Now, Sam, you must not feel so; you have earned that heap of money just
+as much as we have ours, and we ought to thank you; for how should we
+ever have got along without you and your boat.'
+
+'Oh,' said Sam, as he began to gather up his money, and looking archly
+at Jim, 'you would have thought out some other way, I know.'
+
+Jim had to smile a little; and Ned, throwing his arms on Sam's
+shoulders, and leaning over him, as he picked up the pieces of money.
+
+'Sam Oakum, I am as glad to see you put that money in your pocket as I
+should be to put it into my own; and so is Jim, I know.'
+
+Sam believed every word that Ned had spoken, and after making a plan to
+meet together that evening, he went on his way. His pockets were heavy,
+but his heart was light; and as he passed the rock which had ever been
+memorable to him since the hour when he sat there in his despondency,
+and the boys came to him with this plan of enterprise, he could not but
+say to himself,
+
+'What a grand thing it has been that Jim Montjoy had those thoughts.'
+
+Mr. and Mrs. Oakum were just about to sit down at their humble board as
+Sam entered.
+
+'Here, father; see what the boat has done.'
+
+'What is it, Sam?' said his mother, looking earnestly at him, her hands
+raised, and her countenance expressing great anxiety. Sam made no reply,
+but commenced unlading his pockets, and piling the money in little heaps
+on the table.
+
+'It is father's; it has all come of the boat. If father had not built
+that boat, we never could have got all this; and now he can pay Billy
+Bloodgood the fifteen dollars, and then we shall not owe a single cent
+to any one; there is the whole of it--twenty-five dollars--don't it look
+nice, mother?'
+
+Mrs. Oakum let her hands drop as soon as she understood the matter; but
+it was only to take up her apron--they had work to do with that. While
+the father, overcome with the sight of such abundance, and the noble
+spirit of his boy, could only say, in a very trembling voice,
+
+'God bless you, Sam.'
+
+_That_ was a happy meal, though plain and coarse. A spring of living joy
+was bubbling in each heart, and sparkling forth in pure and blessed
+thoughts towards God and man.
+
+Sam would gladly have had his father carry the money which was to repay
+Mr. Bloodgood, and never been known as the procurer of it. But to this
+the kind parent would not consent. He felt, and truly too, that it would
+be a mark upon his son's early life, not soon obliterated: and he was
+willing to have himself forgotten, if the dear boy might but be
+strengthened in the path of honor and virtue.
+
+The next morning Sam was up with the early dawn, and busy with his daily
+routine, that he might be ready to go on his pleasing errand. Breakfast
+over, he dressed himself in his best blue suit, and with the money in
+his pocket and his parent's blessing, started off, his heart as full of
+happiness as it could well be. Thoughts of the dark scene which he had
+passed through, when kind friends, like angels of mercy, came to his
+aid, he could not repress, nor did he wish to; the darker _then_, the
+brighter _now_. How his heart beat with pleasure as he walked briskly
+on, and drew near to the humble abode of Billy Bloodgood--rough, to be
+sure, was the exterior, and the peculiar habits of its owner too visible
+in the strange confusion around the premises; but Sam thought only of
+his kind heart and ready hand in an hour of need.
+
+Things had not yet been put to rights at neighbor Bloodgood's, and as
+Sam entered the house, there was not only a confused state of pots and
+kettles, and relics of the early meal, but the good woman herself was
+all wrong somehow; she was in quite an undress, and moved about amid the
+domestic articles surrounding her, with that quick, jerky air, which
+generally denotes an unsettled state of the inner man or woman.
+
+Sam wondered why things did not break, they rang against each other so
+sharply. If he was somewhat surprised at this, he was much more so at
+sight of a stranger, seated near the door, but a little behind it, which
+circumstances prevented him from noticing before. He was a stranger, not
+only to Sam, but he must have been to all those parts, for he was like
+nothing seen in that region for many miles' circuit; his air and contour
+was that of a gentleman. Sam had already seen enough of the world to
+know that. He was quite a youth, probably not over nineteen years of
+age; his countenance manly, and rather stern at the first glance; but
+Sam thought, from a particular twist of the corner of his mouth, that he
+was more amused than vexed with the state of things around him. His form
+was slender, and his complexion pale, like one who had never yet been
+exposed to the wear and tear of life; his light brown hair was thrown
+carelessly back from his forehead, and displayed to great advantage that
+index of the mind.
+
+He arose almost immediately upon Sam's entering, and with his hat in
+hand, bowed to the mistress of the house, who cast but a sideling glance
+at him, and then stooped down to rattle some of the dishes, without,
+apparently, any other motive than to let him see that she was too busy
+to attend to _him_.
+
+'You think then, madam, there would be no use in my waiting to see your
+husband?'
+
+'No; I don't think there's no earthly use in seeing _him_. I tell'd you,
+again and again, we ain't got no young ones to send--and that's the long
+and short on it.'
+
+'Good morning, madam.'
+
+The young man spoke kindly and courteously, and then left the house,
+walking with an erect carriage towards the highway.
+
+'Good morning, Aunt Sally.'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood, then, lifting herself up, and putting a hand on each
+hip, looked with a very stern and fixed gaze through the open door,
+until the stranger had fairly got out of hearing; and then, without
+answering Sam's salutation, began to rattle away in her usual style,
+when by any cause somewhat excited.
+
+'_Him_ set up for a schoolmaster, with his fine clothes on, and his bran
+new hat, and his bowin' and scrapin', and his _madam_, and all that kind
+of palaver; he ain't nothin' but a chicken himself. No, no: I've seen
+enough on 'em in my day; there ain't no good comes on 'em; they put more
+mischief in the heads of the young 'uns than they've got naturally, and
+that's enough we all know.'
+
+'What's the matter, Aunt Sally?'
+
+'I tell you what, Sam Oakum, I don't want none of them Yankees round me.
+I don't see why the critters can't stay in their own country, and do
+some honest thing there for a livin', and not come trampussing away down
+here with their larnin', that don't do no airthly good, but make the
+young 'uns lazy, and wanting to be gentlemen like themselves; and what
+old Molly Brown sent the critter here for, I don't see.'
+
+'Does he want to set up a school, aunt Sally?' said Sam, looking at her
+with a very anxious countenance.
+
+'He _did_ want to; but I guess he's got enough on it; and I'm so glad
+he's took himself off 'fore Bloodgood come in, for he's just fool enough
+to be clean took with him; and he's got his head set about havin' a
+schoolmaster, and I don't want none of the varmints round.' But looking
+at Sam very closely, and coming up to him, and feeling his coat and his
+trousers, and then holding him off at arm's length.
+
+'_Do tell!_ where upon airth, Sam, did you get this? How smart you _do_
+look. This has been gi'n to you, I know, by them great folks over the
+water there?'
+
+'Yes.'
+
+'Well, ain't that clever on 'em, Sam? but you're desarvin' of it, and
+I'm glad on it. It does a body's heart good to see your mother's child
+look so smart and tidy. I didn't hardly know you when you come in, and
+that plaguy man put me into such a pucker, I didn't hardly know what I
+was about.'
+
+Sam had become very impatient to be off; he had anticipated a great deal
+of joy from his errand, in the proud satisfaction of paying a just
+debt; but he thought not of that now. He had learned enough to know what
+the stranger's business was, and he could not endure the thought of his
+leaving the place in such a manner; so taking out his money, and handing
+it to Mrs. Bloodgood,
+
+'There, Aunt Sally, is the money which Mr. Bloodgood, so kindly helped
+my father to, when he was in trouble; won't you please tell him that we
+all thank him very much, and hope we shall never forget how good he has
+been to us?'
+
+'You dear, blessed child!' Aunt Sally could say no more, for she saw the
+tears in Sam's eyes, and her own heart was very peculiar--it was soon
+set on fire.
+
+'You will tell him, won't you, Aunt Sally? and that father says, if he
+will only let him know any time that he can do any thing for him, or for
+you, day or night, he will gladly do it; and mother says so too; for you
+don't know how happy it made us all, when you lent this money, and how
+very happy we are now, to be able to give it back to you.'
+
+Aunt Sally sat down, and taking up her apron with both hands, cried as
+hard as she had scolded but a few moments before. Sam laid the money on
+the table beside her, and wishing her good morning, made speed towards
+the highway. He saw the young man at a distance, walking rapidly, and
+bending his course away from the place, on the direct road to the
+barrens; his only chance to overtake him was by a cross cut over the
+fields, and through a little clump of wood, around which the road to the
+barrens passed. And while Sam is hurrying across the lots, I must
+introduce the young stranger a little more particularly to my reader.
+
+Henry Tracy was indeed descended from New England parents, but was not,
+as good Mrs. Bloodgood supposed, a real Yankee; for his father had
+emigrated from the state of Maine when quite a youth, and his mother
+from another of the goodly sisterhood, when a child. They had settled in
+one of the middle States, and Henry's birthplace was one of our largest
+cities; great pains had been taken with his education; his mind was
+uncommonly well stored for one of his age, and his manners distinguished
+by a gentlemanly grace; but, above all this, his heart had been nurtured
+by the tender care of a mother, whose love for the truth, whose meek and
+blameless life, and whose heavenly-minded temper, gave a power to the
+pure and holy thoughts which she was ever breathing into the ear of her
+son; they stole into his heart like the dew upon the tender plant.
+
+He was now an orphan, and cast upon the world, with the choice of
+depending upon the charity of friends to assist him in completing his
+education, or using what education he had already received as a means of
+support, and of further progress; he wisely chose the latter. Having a
+slight acquaintance with Mr. Rutherford, he had, on calling to visit the
+family, been directed to this region, and the "Widow Brown, to whom Mr.
+Rutherford advised him to apply, could think of no one more likely to
+take an interest in a school than Billy Bloodgood. His reception there,
+and the general appearance of things, had discouraged him from any
+further attempt, and he was hastening back to seek a spot more congenial
+to his own feelings, and where there might be at least some desire for
+instruction.
+
+Sam had to be expeditious, and was barely able to accomplish his object
+by running across one entire lot, and through the clump of woods.
+Breathless with his haste, he was unable to communicate his wishes, or
+to apologize to the young man for coming upon him in so abrupt a manner,
+who looked with much surprise at him for an explanation.
+
+'I hope you will excuse me, sir, for stopping you; I met you, just now,
+at Mr. Bloodgood's. I did not know what your business was, sir. But do
+come back, we want you very much.'
+
+'Want me! What do they know about _me_?'
+
+'Oh, I mean, Sir, they want a teacher.'
+
+'Mrs. Bloodgood says that no one here wishes a teacher, that the people
+think they are better off without any instruction.'
+
+'But they do not all feel so, sir; do come back with me, and I will take
+you to a man that will tell you all about it.'
+
+Sam's appearance pleased Mr. Tracy, and the earnestness of his entreaty
+induced him to consent to return and see what new feature the place
+might present.
+
+They were not long in reaching the spot to which Sam wished to conduct
+him, a very unlikely place in appearance to give encouragement to
+literature, being no other than the workshop of old Sam Cutter. The old
+man was in his usual seat, holding, or rather leaning upon the handle of
+his large hammer, and from his short breathing and flushed face, showing
+signs of his having just been wielding it. Running round the shop, with
+a tongs in one hand and a hammer in the other, was Billy Bloodgood,
+helping himself, with some directions and aid on Mr. Cutter's part, in
+repairing an old farming tool. He paid, as usual, no attention to the
+new-comers, except a slight nod of his head, and a pleasant smile to
+Sam.
+
+As Sam entered and motioned to Mr. Tracy to come in, Mr. Cutter passed
+his broad hand across the top of his head, smoothing down his bald
+forehead, at the same time saying.
+
+'Your sarvant, sir.'
+
+Mr. Tracy bowed to him politely, taking off his hat with as much respect
+as if in the presence of one of the great ones of the earth.
+
+Sam Oakum lost no time in communicating to Mr. Cutter the object of the
+visitor, and the circumstances under which he had met with him and
+brought him back.
+
+'Right, Sam, right; but of all things, to think of Sally Bloodgood
+treating the gentleman in that sort. But that's the way with them;
+they're a match for the old one, any time; all but your mother, Sam, she
+ain't like the rest on 'em.' And then turning to the young man,
+
+'Sorry, sir, you've had such an indifferent reception, but what can't be
+cured must be endured. Billy there knows that; but you see it don't
+matter to him whether she scolds or coaxes; he can't hear nothin' no
+more than the iron he's poundin' on.'
+
+'Is that Mr. Bloodgood? Mrs. Brown advised me to call upon him; but his
+good wife gave me such an account of things, that, but for this young
+gentleman, I should have made no further effort.'
+
+'Ay, ay, Sam knew well enough, the young rogue, who to come to; but dear
+me, you look like a lad that has seen fair weather and easy work; do you
+know what kind of a place you've come to?'
+
+'Only what I have seen of it this morning, sir; and Mrs. Brown said that
+she thought a teacher was much needed.'
+
+'Ay, that she might well say, much needed; that is, if you can teach
+them any better manners than they've got now: they're a hard case, my
+dear young man, most gone to the evil one altogether.'
+
+Mr. Tracy smiled. 'I hope not quite so bad as that, sir.'
+
+'Not much short on it, I tell you; but things look a little better than
+they have, and I ain't sure but a considerable lot on 'em might be got
+together; that is, the boys, I mean but--' and the old man regarded his
+young visitor with a very inquisitive countenance--'you don't look as if
+you could live on clam shells and oyster shells, and eels, and sich
+like; I'm afear'd you ain't used to them.'
+
+'Oh, yes, sir, I can eat what the rest of you do.'
+
+'Well, my young friend, you can't judge always from the looks, what kind
+of fare a man has; but howsomever, if you can get along with such things
+as I've tell'd you of, why you won't starve, for you see we've got
+plenty on 'em; and as to the boys, do you, Sam Oakum, up and tell the
+gentleman what you know about it, and not stand stretching your mouth
+and grinnin' at me.'
+
+Sam soon numbered quite a company of boys, and girls too, that he knew
+would be very glad of a chance for schooling, and many more that would
+no doubt come if the gentleman 'would only make a beginning, and open a
+school.'
+
+As Henry Tracy had perhaps full as much desire to do good, as to receive
+compensation for his labors, seeing the strong desire manifested by Sam,
+and hearing him tell how very anxious some of his companions were to
+learn something, he made up his mind to try the experiment.
+
+Sam was almost beside himself for joy; it was the only one thing now
+wanting in his cup of happiness. His deficiency in every kind of
+knowledge acquired from books, was felt by him daily as a sore evil. 'If
+he could only read and write, and calculate like Jim Montjoy,' was for
+ever coming into his mind, a wish unalloyed by envy or any other evil
+feeling towards Jim, but filling his heart with sadness. Old Sam Cutter
+was no less rejoiced, for his boys were but little in advance of Sam
+Oakum, and now that they had taken such a favourable turn in their
+course of conduct, the old man felt that a school would be a crowning
+mercy. Some little difficulty presented itself as to where the teacher
+should take up his abode; there were good reasons why Mr. Cutter could
+not offer a residence under his own roof; the house was but small, _too
+small_, he found for himself, sometimes, and he durst not venture upon
+an addition.
+
+Sam Oakum would have rejoiced could his home have afforded
+accommodations such as he might ask a stranger to partake of, and a
+person of Mr. Tracy's appearance. Mrs. Montjoy's was the only place that
+Sam could think of where any thing like comfort could be had.
+
+'I know--I know all that, Sam; Mrs. Montjoy is a nice woman, and the
+house, though small, is tidy-like, and the boys are good fellows, a
+credit to the place; but you see, Sam, we must 'be wise as sarpants'
+about this business. You know how the folks feel, full of their
+jealousies and nonsense; and if the teacher should go there, they would
+say that he felt himself above folks, that he was too good for the like
+of them, and all that, and you see,' looking at Mr. Tracy, 'we've got to
+take folks as they are, and make the best on 'em.' And then turning his
+eye towards Sam, 'The Widow Andrews' is the place. Bill, you know, is
+gone; sorry for that, but he's gone, and no help for it; the old woman
+is queer, but where is one on 'em that ain't, sometimes? Yet she is
+pretty good in the main, and she'll be proud to do her best; and if the
+gentleman won't be frightened at a little squall once in a while, he'll
+git along pretty comfortable there: now, don't you think so, Sam?'
+
+Sam thought just as Mr. Cutter did; and as Mr. Tracy was not particular
+as to accommodations, provided they were cleanly, and he could have a
+room to himself, it was accordingly decided that he should accompany Sam
+there, and see what could be done. There was nothing very inviting in
+the appearance of things, to one who had been accustomed to a very
+different style of living: the house was a one-story building, placed
+very flat on the ground; both the roof and the sides were covered with
+shingles. Moss had accumulated so as to contend with the shingles for
+the precedence, and if the latter did the most good, the former was the
+most distinctly to be seen. But it was situated in the midst of a green
+grass plot, and the grass was short and velvety to the tread, and a few
+old cedar trees surrounded it, which tended to screen its imperfections,
+and make it pass for full as much as it deserved. A fence ran before it,
+much dilapidated, sufficient, however, to keep out the larger animals,
+where the green short grass grew up to the window.
+
+The widow was evidently flattered by the proposal, only she feared 'the
+gentleman might find their living very different from what he had been
+used to.'
+
+Mr. Tracy was satisfied, from the appearance of things within doors,
+that neatness was one trait which the widow certainly had, whatever
+others he might discover on further acquaintance. She showed him her
+best room, and which she was perfectly willing to yield up to his use.
+It was large enough, with an agreeable view of the surrounding country,
+and Henry thought, when he should get his books around him, he could
+make himself at home.
+
+Mr. Cutter would have been glad to introduce the young man to Billy
+Bloodgood, but he dared not undertake the task, and suffered Billy to
+hammer away, and took no notice of the inquisitive glances which his
+good neighbor kept casting towards him. As soon, however, as the visitor
+had departed, still holding the hammer and tongs, he made up to Mr.
+Cutter, and putting his head close to his ear, hallooed in a voice
+almost sufficient to have made the sound reach his own tympanum.
+
+'Who's that?'
+
+'I ain't deaf; you needn't holler at that rate into a man.'
+
+'Who did you say? I didn't hear you.'
+
+'Dear me, what _shall_ I do? I'm all out of breath a talkin' to that
+youngster.'
+
+'Don't hear.'
+
+Uncle Sam made a desperate effort, opened his mouth, drew in a long
+breath, put his hand up to form a trumpet, and applying the machinery as
+near as possible to Billy's head, called out,
+
+'He's a teacher.'
+
+'A preacher?' and Billy nodded and smiled; 'that's _good_ going to stay
+here?'
+
+'Bless my soul, what _shall_ I do? I shan't try agin', no how.'
+
+'Sally'll be glad to hear that; where is he from?'
+
+Uncle Sam looked first one way and then the other, as though meditating
+an escape; but he hated to move, and in fact he knew there would be
+little use in trying it, for Billy would be after him so he finally cast
+an imploring eye up to his neighbor, who stooping down and looking very
+inquiringly into his face.
+
+'O dear, dear! I ain't got no breath to do it.'
+
+Billy shook his head.
+
+'Don't hear.'
+
+'No, nor you won't if the sound has got to come out of me; it can't be
+done.'
+
+'Don't hear what you say; speak a little louder.'
+
+'I don't know.' Old Sam made noise enough this time, and if it could
+have been concentrated might have gone to the place, but Billy had heard
+something, so he nodded his head.
+
+'From below? what place? anywhere near by?'
+
+'Dear, dear, he'll be the death of me!' Uncle Sam was indeed in a bad
+case; he had at no time any breath to spare, and to be called upon to
+expend it, first in working with the big hammer, and then in blowing
+trumpets, was a little more than his good-nature could stand. He was
+very red in the face, breathed short and heavy, and with his old straw
+hat flapping violently to catch fresh supplies of air, looked wildly
+about for some loophole whereby to creep out from this dilemma. Just at
+that moment, and as Billy was again upon the point of asking for more
+light on the obscurity of the last sound that reached him, the shop door
+was darkened by the entrance of no less a personage than Sally Bloodgood
+herself. She came in so rapidly, that she was nigh being foul of Uncle
+Sam; as it was, she only impeded the motion of the old hat. She was not
+at all in a visiting dress, having come, as she said, 'just as she was,'
+to see her neighbor, Mrs. Cutter, for a minute. 'But do, la, Uncle Sam,
+what ails you? your face is as red as a turkey's comb. You seem to be
+all blowed out. It's Bloodgood, I know it is. He's been asking you
+questions, I know he has. You hadn't ought to try to talk to him, Uncle
+Sam; it's enough to kill you.'
+
+'I believe you,' turning his eyes up at her very expressively; 'you're
+right there, Sally.'
+
+Billy Bloodgood now engrossed his wife's attention, by telling her the
+great news, 'that there was a preacher come, a nice-looking young man.'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood looked at Mr. Cutter for an explanation.
+
+'Do _tell_, Uncle Sam, was he a very youngerly man, very fine and
+delicate like?'
+
+Mr. Cutter nodded assent.
+
+'La, me, I wonder if it's the same one that called to see Bloodgood,
+this mornin'. A preacher?--who upon airth would have thought it? he
+never said nothin' about preach'n'.'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood had her own reasons for being so surprised; and as Uncle
+Sam Cutter saw clearly that her thoughts were very much troubled about
+the matter, he came to the conclusion to let her enjoy her mistake:
+
+'It will teach her, may be, to be a little more careful of her tongue.'
+
+But, as Billy Bloodgood was the principal man to whom Mr. Cutter looked
+for aid in sustaining and encouraging the young man, the fact that he
+wished to teach a young school among them, must be communicated to him.
+Utterly hopeless of any power in himself to do the thing, he, without
+any ceremony, took hold of the loose covering which hung about the
+person of the lady, and fairly forcing her down upon a rough seat, near
+himself,
+
+'Now you see, woman, I give it clean up; I shan't never try no more to
+drive a word into Billy's head. I can't do it--it will kill me.'
+
+''Tis hard work, Uncle Sam, ain't it? it takes such a power of wind. But
+you see somebody's got to make him hear, and I 'spose it's my lot; and
+what a body's got to do, you know, Uncle Sam, why, they must submit to
+it: but it takes my breath clean away sometimes, and makes me so faint
+and gone, that I can't hardly hold myself together.' And the good woman,
+pressing her hands very hard against her sides, exhibited to Uncle Sam
+the desperate efforts she had to make, at times, to keep things in their
+place.
+
+Billy stood close by, with one hand on Uncle Sam's shoulder, looking
+very complacently at his wife, and nodding every once in a while, as
+though he understood perfectly what she was saying.
+
+'Fine-looking young man; smart, I guess.' And then stooping over, and
+looking into Mr. Cutter's face, 'You didn't tell me what place he came
+from.'
+
+'Where is it, Uncle Sam? jist tell me, and I'll make him hear, I'll
+warrant.'
+
+'Why, Sally, I don't know where he's come from. No doubt Heaven has sent
+him from somewhere or another, and I don't much care, I am so glad to
+see any thing in a decent shape come to do a little good among us: he
+may have dropped right down, for all I know.'
+
+'Do, la, Uncle Sam, how you talk; you're enough to frighten a body. But
+I must tell Bloodgood somethin' or another.' So, raising herself a
+little, putting one hand on each knee, and placing her prominent member
+close to her husband's ear, who was still bending down and looking
+earnestly at Mr. Cutter, she was about to give one of her blasts, when
+she was suddenly arrested by the powerful hand of the latter.
+
+'Stop, Sally, stop!--not now: none of your hollering here, I can't
+stand it. Wait till you git home, and then you can tell Billy all about
+it.'
+
+Billy, finding that there was a sudden interruption to all
+correspondence for some cause he could not well define, and being
+accustomed to such events, put a stop to his inquiries for the present.
+
+How vast a change of feeling is sometimes effected by the passing away
+of sunlight, with the bustle of its busy hours and the silent shades of
+evening!
+
+Henry Tracy had made a busy day of it; he had met with unexpected
+success in engaging scholars, and had procured a room in a building,
+once used as a court-house, in which to hold his school. Gratified with
+his prospects, he sat down to the clean supper table with the Widow
+Andrews and her daughter, with feelings much more buoyant than could
+have been expected in one so young, for the first time a sojourner among
+strangers. He delighted them by the ease and pleasantness of his
+manners, so that when he retired, which he did soon after supper, the
+Widow Andrews looked at her daughter, and lifting her hands in
+expression of her admiration--
+
+'Who could ever ha' thought of it? Why, it's jist as easy talkin' to him
+as to Uncle Sam Cutter.'
+
+'Oh, mother! its as easy agin'.'
+
+The moon was in all her splendor, and her pale rays fell trembling
+through the foliage of the cottage. Taking a seat by the window, Henry
+looked out upon the beautiful night, and his heart filled with emotions
+to which he had hitherto been a stranger.
+
+Home, that idea so satisfying to the soul, that spot to which our wishes
+fly when in sickness or sorrow, was nought to him now but the
+resting-place of his past joys and trials--a beautiful vision that had
+left an impress on his heart, which time could not obliterate; although,
+like a vision, it had passed away, his bosom heaved with the swelling
+thoughts that rolled like ocean waves heavier and mightier in upon him.
+He drew from his breast a golden locket and unclasping it, held the
+miniature it enclosed beneath the rays of the moon; his lips trembled,
+as the sacred name of '_mother_' broke from them. 'Yes, I will ever
+think of thee, thy sweet love has made my home a paradise, and thy pure
+piety and gentle counsels have won me to the path of peace. My Saviour's
+image hast thou ever borne before me, until my heart has learned to
+love Him as my best and dearest friend. Oh, may my life be such as thy
+last dying prayer entreated it might be; and may I be led by the Holy
+Spirit in the way that leads to where thou art.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+
+It was a very bright to-morrow in Ned's imagination, as he lay down to
+rest; for then he was to accompany Jim and Sam, and was to see the fort,
+and old Peter and Major Morris, and perhaps little Susie too; and the
+new plan of Jim's was the object of their errand. If the day in Ned's
+imagination was brighter than the one which actually dawned upon them,
+it must have been a beauty indeed. The sky, the water, and the land
+opened in loveliness; the bright blue above was reflected from the
+glassy water, and the golden beams, that poured in full glory from the
+east, were thrown back by the fading forest in all variety of colors.
+This was to Ned a holiday indeed, and his active spirit enjoyed it to
+the full; faithfully had he toiled through the long summer days, nor
+even thought of relaxation. Now, the summer labors over, sweet was the
+rest, and exhilarating the prospect of new scenes and faces, which, with
+that morning's dawn, came playing before his view.
+
+Major Morris was not a little pleased, as he listened to Jim's simple
+exposition of the plan he had in view; his generous heart rejoiced to
+know that what he had already done to aid and stimulate these youths,
+had turned to so good account.
+
+'And you say that you have laid by one hundred dollars from your trading
+with me this summer, and so you begin to despise your old business? You
+wish to find some easier way to make a hundred dollars? Ay, ay--like all
+the rest of us.'
+
+'Oh, no, sir--no, sir; we do not think of giving up our garden; we
+expect to work at that the same as ever.'
+
+And then Jim explained how he intended to manage, which convinced Major
+Morris that the scheme was not only well laid, but included much closer
+attention to their work than heretofore. He looked at the boys with deep
+interest; the smile, which had played round his lips while speaking to
+them, passed away, and his keen black eye turned from one to the other,
+as though scrutinizing their very spirits. Sam's honest eye, as black as
+the one which was fixed on him, twinkled and turned aside, as the
+Major, after surveying the brothers, rested his gaze on him. What he saw
+in Sam, or what strange visions passed before him, wherein poor Sam
+acted a conspicuous part, may one day be revealed. A sigh at last broke
+the spell; he turned towards Jim.
+
+'Your plan, my good fellow, is one which meets my approbation, and any
+thing I can do to assist you in it, I will do with pleasure; but you
+know from past dealing with me, that my efforts will be merely directed
+so as to enable you to help yourselves.'
+
+'You are very kind, sir. I thought your judgment would be safe for us to
+follow, and that perhaps you could give me some directions as to
+purchases, and therefore I have taken this liberty.'
+
+'Your plan of setting up a small store is a good one; on many accounts:
+but you must bear in mind that great attention will be required, both in
+purchasing and selling. You will be in danger of losing some of your
+profits by waste in retailing; you will also be in danger of losing
+goods and profits too, by selling to those who will never pay you; and
+you will run some risk in the transportation of your goods, or of your
+money, so far by water, although this latter risk can be guarded
+against. What I would say to you then is, that this business, although
+small at first, will require the most strict attention in all its
+details; and I would also say another thing, if I did not fully believe
+that all of you have been trained to those correct principles, without
+which no man can or ought to rise to honor or prosperity.
+
+'I can assist you by introducing you to a house in the city, where you
+will be well dealt with; and as our boat sails to-morrow morning, you
+had better remain here, and I will accompany you.'
+
+Ned was ready for a caper; he looked at Sam, and rubbed his hands
+together very fast. Sam shook his head, as much as to say, 'Be quiet,
+Ned.'
+
+Jim blushed, looked at the boys, and then up at Major Morris.
+
+'I thank you, sir, for your kind offer; but having no idea of being able
+to do any thing so soon, have left my money at home.'
+
+'So much the better, then there will be the less risk; I will arrange
+for the payment of your goods in the city, the same as if you had your
+money with you, and when we return, you can settle with me here.'
+
+Jim was not very clear about this matter; but confiding in Major
+Morris, assented to remain, thanking him again for his kind interest.
+
+During this conversation, Peter stood back at some distance, leaning on
+his crutches, and chewing a tremendous quid of tobacco with great
+diligence, and occasionally smoothing down the end of his queue. Ned,
+while listening to the Major, kept an eye on Peter, scanning him from
+head to foot. No sooner had the Major withdrawn, than Peter hobbled
+towards the boys, who were standing on the steps by their boat, and
+making preparations to return; he threw his crutches down, and taking a
+seat on the stone coping close beside the boat, listened attentively to
+Jim, who was giving directions to Sam and Ned about some small matters
+at home, and about their coming for him on his return to the fort.
+
+'I suppose,' said Jim, looking at Peter, 'that I shall be back here by
+about three o'clock to-morrow afternoon.'
+
+'Bless your soul! what kind of a kalkelation have you run foul of now?
+you are out of your reck'nin' by a whole day at the least. Why you see,
+my hearty, you won't start from here 'afore say nine o'clock to-morrow
+mornin'; with the wind aft, or a little quaterin', say she goes eight
+knots an hour, which is good sailin' for sich kind of craft, it will
+take you all of four hours and no balks to git to the landin'; so you
+see' (giving his head a bob, and a corresponding motion to his queue)
+'you can't be there 'afore one o'clock, no how' (another bob); 'well
+then, if the wind is fair to carry you there, you don't think it is
+goin' to chop round jist when you're ready to come back, and blow astern
+all the way home, do you?'--looking at Jim again.--'No, no; the wind and
+weather don't care for nobody; we've got to take 'em, jist as it
+happens, and make the most on 'em. So you see, you may jist knock
+overboard all your figurin'; it won't do you no good; you've got to stay
+one night in the city, at any rate, for the boat never starts till the
+next mornin'; and if you've good luck, may be about three o'clock you'll
+be in, and may be not.'
+
+Jim was rather puzzled to make out from Peter's reckoning when to tell
+the boys to come for him; but Peter, seeing him in doubt, gave his own
+directions.
+
+'Here you, Sam, jist harkee; there won't be no need of your bein' here
+afore day a'ter to-morrow; then you see, you can jist hoist sail, and
+come along easy; no hurry; you be here by three o'clock, plenty time
+enough. Now you see, don't make no kalkelations about goin' home that
+night, 'kase--you hear me now?--sposin' the wind should take 'em right
+dead ahead, they can't get in no how afore six o'clock, and may be not
+then, and there's no tellin' when.'
+
+Jim found it a more serious matter, this going to the city, than he had
+anticipated. Peter's experience soon convinced him of that; as he could
+give no more certain directions to Sam than he had already received, he
+must let him go with what he had.
+
+The sail was hoisted; Peter had untied the rope, giving at the same time
+a sharp good-natured lecture to Sam, for making his boat fast in such an
+unsailor-like manner. Sam took it all in good part, for, in truth, he
+had not done the thing; it was some of Ned's handiwork. Jim stood on the
+stairs, giving Ned all sorts of directions and injunctions.
+
+'Yes, yes, Jim; I'll see to it, never you fear.'
+
+Off goes the little craft.
+
+'Good-by, Sam; good-by, Ned. Take care of yourselves.'
+
+'Good-by, Jim.'
+
+'Good-by, my hearties; haul in that bow-line, and don't let it drag in
+that fashion; and haul your peak taut; you'll have a stiff breeze, but
+she'll bear it. Good luck to you.'
+
+Gently the boat turned off, and took the swelling breeze. The boys
+looked back, to give a parting nod.
+
+'Oh, Sam, who is that? ain't she a beauty though!--is that Susie? See,
+Sam, she is shaking her hand to you.'
+
+Sam made no reply; he touched his hat lightly, as he had seen Peter do
+to the Major.
+
+'I tell you what, Sam, I don't wonder you jumped into the water; I would
+have jumped, too, if I had been here.'
+
+'I wouldn't be looking round so, Ned.'
+
+'Mustn't I? Well, I'll look ahead then. I thought sister Eller was
+pretty--but--but--may be it's the dress though.'
+
+Sam was in no talking mood; he kept his eye steadily fixed on the sail,
+which was swelled finely out, and making their boat skim along towards
+home to his heart's content; and as Ned received only monosyllables in
+reply to his many questions, he soon tired of putting them.
+
+Large cities have their evils, and they are not few. Hither the idle and
+the vicious throng, for here are dens to hide them from the public gaze,
+and companions to uphold them in their evil courses, and finery enough
+to glut their polluted appetite; but with the evils, are many things
+that tend to bless society. Here the good man finds many kindred
+spirits, too, and like coals to burning coals, they kindle in each other
+a warmer glow, and spread around them, in a wide and fervent circle, a
+cheering, healthful influence. Here busy industry plies her daily,
+nightly task, and meets with large reward, and hangs out her trophies to
+the gaze of the vast multitude, urging them on to diligence: here wealth
+erects her glittering palace; and here the darkest den of poverty is
+found. Here emulation and sympathy have each objects of heart-thrilling
+interest, sufficient to awaken all the energies of the jostling throng.
+Deeds of charity, which make us proud of our species, are here
+originated and carried into execution: and here, too, deeds of horror
+are enacted, that make us feel how like the very fiends of hell
+sometimes is man.
+
+Excitement, in all its various forms, keeps up a constant whirl; all
+feel the influence for good or ill, and onward all are pressing. The
+mind of man is tasked, until its energies, too strongly, constantly
+impelled, give way, and then the victim droops, and plods along, and
+sickens at the strife, and longs to be at rest.
+
+When the first view of the city broke upon the gazing eye of our hero,
+he scarcely knew what to make of it. The tall spires running up against
+the distant sky; the crowded masts that, like a wintry forest, lined the
+shores; the mighty mass of buildings, heaps on heaps, spreading for
+miles on either side; the boats of various size and shape crossing and
+recrossing, and sweeping by them with the arrow's speed; and as they
+neared the land, the busy throng of people hurrying to and fro; the
+confused and deafening noise, the smoke and dust, the huge hulks, old
+ocean-travellers, that lay fast corded to the strong stout piles; the
+long projecting piers, around whose dark-green slippery base the turbid
+waters swelled, and beat, and broke--all, all were new to Jim; and in
+mute wonder he looked and thought, until their little vessel glided into
+her resting-place, between two vast walls of docks.
+
+"Well, James, what do you think of the city?" said Major Morris, coming
+up to where he sat at the bow of the boat, and putting his hand kindly
+on his shoulder.
+
+"I hardly know, sir; but it seems a very busy place." 'Yes, busy you
+may well say, every one is in a hurry here, and we must be so, too, as
+we are rather late to-day, and I fear my friend will have left his
+store.'
+
+Jim hastened to accompany the Major, who, already on the wharf, was
+mingling with the crowd; it took him, however, some little time to learn
+how to make haste in a city, and not before he had received a few stout
+thumps against some other hurrying mortals, and a few harsh curses as an
+awkward country booby. But Jim heeded them not, for the Major walked
+fast, and to lose sight of him would be a dilemma indeed, amidst such a
+Babel. He twisted this way and that, sometimes running close to the
+wall, at others jumping off from the side-walk among the carts, and then
+quickly back again, over bales of cotton tumbling from the doors; around
+hogsheads of molasses, barrels of flour, puncheons of rum, bars of iron,
+old anchors, coils of cable, droves of little, ragged, dirty children,
+huddling about empty sugar hogsheads. Verily Jim had a time of it; he
+was not naturally one of the hurrying sort. To get around and through
+all these obstacles, and to keep his eye on the Major, at the same time,
+required more activity than he had been accustomed to use.
+
+After travelling in this way, as Jim fancied, a long distance, he
+rejoiced to see the Major make a halt, and enter a large store, the
+passage-way of which was blocked up with piles of tea-chests, casks,
+bales, boxes, and men. Jim squeezed along behind the Major, who, opening
+a glass door, entered a small neat room, where every thing was in
+perfect contrast with the confusion without: a large double desk
+occupied a considerable portion of the apartment; it was situated
+between the two front windows, and covered with fine green cloth; every
+thing upon it lay in order; each little paper seemed to be there by
+design. The windows were clean, and the glasses on the shelf shone
+brightly, and the floor was covered with white sand, and dust and
+cobwebs appeared to have no license there. At the desk two young men
+were busily employed with immense folios, working away in silence,
+occasionally passing a word with each other in a very low voice, and
+that only in reference to the work before them. A spell seemed to be
+upon Jim as soon as he entered that room; he had never felt so before,
+not even when first introduced into the parlor of Mrs. Morris; every
+thing wore the appearance of so much exactness, every thing was done and
+said in such a calm, thoughtful way, it was so still and orderly, it
+seemed to Jim that matters of great moment alone occupied each mind.
+
+Mr. Thomas was a large dealer; hundreds of thousands passed through his
+hands every year, and his extensive business was managed by him with
+perfect ease, because he had grown into it; unlike too many of modern
+times, who, aiming to catch the golden shower, involve themselves in a
+complication of difficulties, purchase without judgment, and sell at
+random, only anxious that their books shall show, at the end of the
+year, a large balance in their favor, whether realized or not.
+
+He had begun in a small way, and gradually increased his business with
+his means; never suffering himself to be allured by a tempting
+speculation, nor to engage in any undertaking beyond what he could well
+manage, he neither worried himself nor his friends. It was a busy place,
+though, that store of his; from early dawn until late at night, there
+was one continued round of active duty; but extensive as his sales were,
+he despised not the most insignificant of his customers, bestowing equal
+attention to him who wished to spend his hundred dollars, as to those
+who yearly drew from his vast storehouse their tens of thousands. An
+upright, manly course he had ever pursued; he was an honest dealer as
+well as a wealthy merchant.
+
+Major Morris knew well the man into whose hands he committed our young
+merchant; and it required but a few words in private to interest Mr.
+Thomas in his welfare, almost as much as he had himself been. The story
+of the youth immediately took with him, and Jim's modest and intelligent
+look added force to what the Major had related concerning him; and then,
+when Major Morris left the office to attend to business of his own
+elsewhere, he made Jim take a seat beside him, and with the familiarity
+of a friend, drew from his own lips a rehearsal of all he had done, and
+what he wished to do; inquiring into all the particulars respecting the
+place where he lived. Jim had but a plain and simple story to tell; but
+before he had finished, the heart of the merchant was so engaged in his
+plan, that he thought of him not as a customer, out of whom he might
+honestly make a small gain, but as one whom it would give him great
+pleasure to direct and aid. What a priceless jewel is integrity of
+heart! and happy is the youth who, trained to virtue, goes forth into
+the busy paths of life to act his part. A mild but steady light
+illuminates his track; his very countenance is radiant, and his plain,
+simple speech, which tells the meaning of his heart, wins every honest
+ear, and wakes a chord respondent in each noble soul; he needs no
+varnished tale, no flattering words, no cringing bows; a better passport
+to the confidence of all he carries with him, in his own honest purpose.
+
+With much patience Mr. Thomas made out a list of such articles as he
+thought would be the most saleable, and gave immediate directions to
+have them carefully put up. He then opened to Master Jim such a method
+of managing business, that he felt almost in a hurry--a thing Jim was
+not often guilty of,--to start off and get to work. Jim was not given to
+vanity; he had never felt that he had any thing to be proud of, but when
+he saw the cart loaded with the different articles intended for him,
+neatly marked with his name and place of residence, and when he received
+his bill made out in the most particular manner, and receipted by the
+clerk with a most significant flourish beneath the signer's name, and
+when Mr. Thomas cordially shook his hand, wishing him all success, and
+that he might have the pleasure of seeing him soon again, he was highly
+gratified, and would not just then have exchanged his place and
+prospects for any one he could think of.
+
+Sam and Ned, although somewhat confused by Peter's directions, had
+reached the fort a short time before the arrival of Master Jim with his
+little cargo. It was a happy meeting between the brothers, for they had
+never before been separated for a single night. How Ned stared, when he
+saw the boxes, and bags, and barrels with Jim's name upon them! How he
+would have shouted, if he dared, but Sam was close by him.
+
+'Keep still, Ned; you know it won't do here.'
+
+'But only to think, Sam, what a grand thing it is--only think, to have a
+store, and people buying things, and all that; and you in a great vessel
+bringing goods to us--hurra, Sam!'
+
+'Do, for goodness' sake, Ned, stop; what will they think?'
+
+Sam was in great perplexity; he felt that their character was in danger;
+but Ned promised that he would keep in, at any rate until they were out
+of hearing. Jim was fortunately out of the way, having gone with Major
+Morris into the fort, to settle their business matters. Old Peter,
+however, was a witness of the scene, and Sam had great respect for
+Peter, and feared that he would be horrified at Ned's disregard of the
+rules of propriety; but the old man shut up one eye, and screwing his
+countenance into a grimace almost frightful, sat and shook his sides,
+and worked away at his queue, making no noise whatever. Spasm after
+spasm came over him and passed away; and whenever he looked at Ned, off
+he would go again, shaking and wriggling and pulling at his queue, but
+making no noise. At length, beckoning to Sam to come near, he whispered,
+
+'He's full on it, I tell you;' and then another screwing of his face and
+a hearty shake--'he's a real boy, every inch on him. I only wish the
+Major had a heered him--how it come out, ha?' and then shake, shake,
+went the old man's sides. Sam, however, was greatly rejoiced that the
+Major was not there, and kept Ned very busy in stowing away the goods in
+their own boat, and did not feel quite at ease, until they had left the
+fort a good distance behind them.
+
+There was business enough on hand now for all our boys. The little end
+building was entered upon in earnest, and soon converted into quite a
+respectable-looking store, except as to size; in that respect it had not
+much to boast of. Sam labored with as much interest as either of them;
+and as they were all too busy to converse much while the store was in
+preparation, it was not until the evening of the second day after their
+return, that they could get a chance for talking. As the weather was too
+cold now to meet under their favorite tree, it was concluded, for the
+future, to make the store their rendezvous.
+
+'I tell you what, Sam, who would ever have thought of this six months
+ago? It is a regular store--ain't it? There are the shelves and the
+counter, and the barrels, and the canisters, and the scales, just as
+Grizzle has them, and a great deal nicer. But that little desk which Jim
+has fitted up so snug in the corner there behind the counter--that must
+be some city style. I never saw such a thing round here--did you?'
+
+'No; but it looks well--don't it? and that green cloth on it. Jim means
+to have everything snug here--don't he?'
+
+Ned did not reply, for Jim entered just then, and looking round with a
+smile, took his seat opposite to them.
+
+'Now, Jim, tell us all about your trip, and what you saw, and how you
+managed, and where you bought the things, and all about it.'
+
+'Oh, Ned; I cannot tell you half that I witnessed in that great city.
+You must go there yourself one of these days; it is a great place, and
+every one is busy, and all seem to be in a hurry to get along, as though
+they had something to do that must be done at once. It was as much as
+_I_ could do to get through the streets; but the gentleman to whom Major
+Morris introduced me, treated me very kindly, and told me how we must
+manage: said he, "You will find that the people in your place have got
+very little money (which you know, boys, is true), and if they can only
+buy for money, you will be able to sell very little. Now you must do
+this: you must offer to take from them any thing they have for
+sale--butter, eggs, yarn, wood--no matter what, in payment for whatever
+they want to buy of you."'
+
+'We should be in a fine fix then, Jim; what should we do with all the
+stuff--they would only take a small part at the fort, you know.'
+
+'Just wait, Ned, and you shall hear. "All these things," said he, "are
+wanted in the city, and are as good here as money. As soon as you get a
+supply of this kind of produce, load up your vessel and bring it to me;
+I will either take it of you or dispose of it. You can get more for it
+here than it is worth with you, and so you can make a profit both
+ways."'
+
+'Oh, Sam, did you ever hear the like?'
+
+'But just wait awhile, Ned. He said also, "that as soon as the people
+here found that they could purchase goods of us cheaper than they had
+been accustomed to, and get a larger price for their produce than they
+had ever received, which you will be able to do by trading here, you
+will not only get all the business of the place, but they will be
+stimulated to raise a great deal more, and so every year you will find
+your trade increasing;" and he said, "before two years, you will require
+a large sloop to do your carrying business."'
+
+'Just hear that, Sam--hurra!'
+
+'Now, Ned, keep quiet; it is not accomplished yet; and things may not
+work just as Mr. Thomas thinks they will.'
+
+'Oh, but I say, Jim, it will work--I know it will--hurra! Only to think
+of it--a large sloop in two years--hurra! Why don't you hurra, Sam? You
+will be captain of her--you know you will.'
+
+'I could hurra, Ned, if it would do any good, for I feel as glad as you
+do; but it is not always best to make a noise about it.'
+
+Sam had not forgotten the alarm he had received from Ned's shouting a
+few day's back.
+
+'Well, I don't see what you and Jim are made of: where's the use of any
+thing good, if a body can't let it out a little?'
+
+Jim soon got Ned back to real business, by asking him to read over the
+bill of goods, and call off the articles, while he and Sam examined
+them, and placed them away in readiness for use.
+
+We must now leave our boys, for a time, to try their new experiment, in
+order that we may bring forward the other parts of our story.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+
+Henry Tracy found himself surrounded by not only a large number of
+scholars, but such as listened to him with the strictest attention, and
+applied themselves to their tasks with unusual diligence. It was,
+however, to him a sad sight, to behold so many of them, and some almost
+his own age, commencing the first principles of education. The labours
+which devolved upon him were arduous, but the more he found to do, the
+greater was the interest he took, and the more untiring his zeal for
+their benefit. He walked amid his little community with no lordly air;
+great indeed was the disparity between his attainments and those of his
+pupils, but he felt it not, or felt it only to humble himself before
+God, that so superior had been his advantages.
+
+His power over them was unbounded. An influence had been gradually
+stealing over their minds, which caused them to listen to his
+instructions as though he was a messenger from heaven. It proceeded from
+the combined power of religion, intelligence, and refinement. He had, on
+opening his school, gathered them around him in solemn act of worship,
+and every day, morning and evening, he publicly commended himself and
+them to God, and poured out from his feeling heart such warm petitions
+for them all, that many a hard and careless youth would wipe away the
+starting tear, although he could not tell why that tear had come. And
+then through all the day he ministered to their intellectual wants, with
+so much kindness in his manner, and so efficiently too; he threw around
+him such a charm by his gentle, yet manly deportment, treating them with
+the same respect that he wished to be observed towards himself, that the
+most obdurate were soon softened. No harsh words ever escaped him, even
+when their improprieties affected him the most keenly; nothing but the
+expression of sorrow or surprise, brought out in that delicate manner,
+in tones low and touching, which seldom failed to start the blush on the
+cheek of the delinquent, and check at once whatever was wrong. Slowly,
+too, but most effectually, an influence was stealing ever the parents.
+It arose from the deep respect which they saw their children felt for
+their teacher: it flashed upon them as they met him in his daily walks;
+his lowliness, his pleasant smile, and his soft clear voice affected
+them, they knew not why; and wrapped itself around their hearts. There
+was no letting down of his own good manners, no seeming condescension to
+their ignorance; he conversed with them as his equals, and poured forth
+the thoughts which were uppermost in his mind, in as good language as he
+could command; and he ever left an impression of his mental power and
+moral worth that made them think and talk of him when he was gone, and
+wish that their children at least might be like him.
+
+The error which good Mrs. Bloodgood had fallen into in regard to the
+calling of the young man, was soon cleared up, but not until she was,
+herself, won to him; and as she could not get rid of some troublesome
+remembrances of their first interview, she took the greater pains to
+trumpet abroad continually her good thoughts concerning him now.
+
+'Of all the men that ever I sot my eyes on, he's the best; he's an angel
+on airth; he's clean too good for it, don't you think so, Aunt Sally
+Cutter?'
+
+'Why I don't know, Sally,' and the old lady straightened herself up, and
+pushed her spectacles further on her nose; '_men_ is _men_, and there
+ain't much angel about 'em, as ever I seed; but I 'spose he's as good as
+most on 'em; but they are all clean took with him, and what do you
+think?'--stretching her long arm out, and raising it over her
+head;--'Cutter has taken it into his head now, that, preacher or no
+preacher, he means to get him to hold some kind of a meetin' or other,
+and he's gone this very blessed day with the old mare to the Widow
+Andrews' to see him about it.'
+
+'Do tell, Aunt Sally, it ain't true? has Uncle Sam gone, though? Well
+that's jist what Bloodgood's been talkin' on; he'll be so glad; but,
+poor soul, what good will it do him?'
+
+It was indeed true; Uncle Sam Cutter had been long impressed with a
+sense of the need there was for some public religious services; he had
+in his youth been accustomed to mingle with those that kept 'holy
+day,'--he had gone to the house of God with the multitude, and he had
+never lost the savor of those solemn seasons; the remembrance came over
+him as he toiled in his shop, or sat by his door in the deep shades of
+evening; he mourned in secret that he had ever pitched his tent in
+Sodom. Oh! how he longed once again to hear the peal of the church-bell,
+calling the worshippers to the house of God; but he was now too old to
+remove to strange places, or do much towards obtaining such privileges
+as he felt were needed; and yet to think of leaving his family in such a
+moral waste, without some effort to remedy matters, he could not. He had
+listened attentively to all that his boys told at home about the
+teacher, and he thought what a pity it was that some of the older
+sinners also could not have the benefit of his prayers and instructions.
+'We all need it bad enough,' he said to himself one day, as he sat on
+his old block by the shop door; 'bad enough, bad enough. Oh dear me! to
+think what a heathen set we are, goin' whip and cut to the Evil one, and
+nobody to say "Whoa!" to us, no more than if we were fat sheep goin' to
+the slaughter-house.' With that the old man began to fan himself very
+fast with his straw hat, his lips moving all the while, as was his habit
+whenever he thought hard. His train of ideas at last led to the
+conclusion that something must be done; so ordering up the mare, he was
+soon off for the Widow Andrews', resolved to lay before the young man
+such a picture of their condition as would not fail to move him, 'if,'
+said he, 'he has any bowels of mercy in him.'
+
+The Widow Andrews was much surprised to see the old cart drive up to her
+door, for her good neighbour, though a very kind man, was an indifferent
+visitor. She did not wait for him to alight--a business never rapidly
+performed--but ran out to the little gate, and with an air of great
+wonderment looked up at the old man, as he sat dangling on the tail of
+his carryall.
+
+'What's the matter, Uncle Sam? there ain't no bad news, I'm hoping. But
+do tell! what a pucker you're in; you are clean blowed, ain't you, Uncle
+Sam? Do git down and come in, and let your boy tie the horse, and rest
+you a bit, and take a little breath.'
+
+The old man was somewhat put to it, for the old mare had not been
+exercised of late, and she had several additional gaits to try that day,
+and the road to the Widow's was none of the best.
+
+'Is the teacher to home?'
+
+'La me! what's to pay now, Uncle Sam? there ain't no turn up, I hope?
+But it's jist what I've been a fearin'; he's too good for 'em, I knew
+it, and I've told a good many on 'em so: he's jist an angel. Oh dear! if
+you've come to have him druv away, Uncle Sam, it will break my heart,
+and it will be the ruin of the place; and where will they ever git sich
+another?' And the old lady began to wring her hands, and to run upon her
+high notes at such a rate, that Uncle Sam began to be restless, and
+making a desperate effort to get some wind into his speaking apparatus,
+he let off at her in no very moderate terms.
+
+'Do, woman, stop with your clatter; you'll frighten the mare, the next
+thing, and she has a'most killed me a'ready; there ain't no need o' your
+howling and caterwauling at that rate. Why, dear me! can't a body ax to
+see the teacher, but you must set up all that noise and squalling? I
+don't want to hurt a hair of his head; so jist put your hands down and
+git into the house, and I'll come in to rights.'
+
+So telling Dick to stop yanking the beast, as it only made her worse,
+and to sit there and try to keep her quiet until he came out, he let
+himself down, and puffing and blowing, from his sudden and extra effort,
+he waddled through the little gate, and reaching the stoop, sat down on
+the low broad step.
+
+'Do please come in, Uncle Sam, and take a chair.'
+
+'You please tell me, first, if the teacher is to home.'
+
+'Why, you see, Uncle Sam,' coming up and almost whispering in his ear,
+'he ain't jist to home, but he'll be here in a minute; he's gone to take
+his evenin' walk down in the grove there. You see he goes out jist as
+reg'lar as can be, every livin' day, right after tea, straight down to
+the grove, and there he stays awhile, then back he comes agin; and Mary
+and I have been tryin' to make out what it is he's a doin' all alone by
+himself there. Mary says he's 'mantic like, as she calls it, but I don't
+believe it's no sich thing. Do, la, there he comes, now; jist see how
+still and quiet he walks along, that's the way he does every livin' day;
+so come in, Uncle Sam.'
+
+Mr. Cutter, however, much preferred seeing the young man, alone, and
+chose to remain where he was. It was but a few minutes after the widow
+had retired, that Mr. Tracy entered the gate, and seeing Mr. Cutter,
+walked quickly up, gave him a cordial shake of the hand, which was as
+cordially returned, and rather more so than his fingers could have
+wished; and politely invited the old gentleman into his private room,
+as Mr. Cutter had intimated his desire to say a few words to him.
+
+It took the old man some little time to recover himself after the
+operation of being ushered into a strange apartment, and getting himself
+fixed in a convenient seat. And after he had revived enough to begin to
+talk, a great many commonplace things had to be said before he could get
+at the subject of his errand. To that however, he was finally led by Mr.
+Tracy's remarking,
+
+'That he began to be very much encouraged about his school, the boys
+were attentive to their studies, and to all the regulations of the
+school.'
+
+'Yes, sir, I believe the boys is in a fair way now to learn decency and
+manners, and may be something else; but I've been a thinkin', sir,
+whether you couldn't do a little something or other for the rest on us
+here, who are too big and too old to go to school.'
+
+Mr. Tracy was at a loss to imagine in what way his assistance could be
+required, but he ventured to reply,
+
+'That any thing in his power, whereby he could be of service, consistent
+with his present duties, he would gladly do.'
+
+'Glad to hear you say so, for seeing you've got the larnin', there ain't
+nothin' else in the way; and sure am I, if you knew half the need there
+was to have somethin' done, if it is ever so little, just by way of
+decency, if nothing more, you would be more willing than you say you
+are. You see, my young friend, the Evil one has got a hard grip on us,
+and nothin' but preachin' and prayin' will ever make him let go; and
+even that won't do some of us much good if we don't have it soon. You
+see I am an old man, it ain't long that I shall be hobbling about here.
+I can't put off the evil day, as you who are just beginnin'; there are a
+good many things that tell me that I am 'most to the bottom of the hill,
+so you must not wonder if I feel a little anxious to have things more in
+a righter shape than they are with me at present. And there are a good
+many in all, just about as far on the road as I am; and for folks to be
+livin' on the edge of the grave, and never hear a word about any thing
+good; oh, my dear sir! if there is any pity in you, you'll begin right
+off, and try to do somethin' for us.'
+
+Henry Tracy was deeply affected by this address, for the old man spoke
+as if in earnest, and the tears that rolled freely told how much he
+felt.
+
+'I cannot, perhaps, fully understand what you would have me to do, my
+dear sir. You know that I am not at all qualified to preach, and whom to
+direct you to I know not.'
+
+'You can do all the preachin' that is needed, I ain't all afeared for
+that. All you have got to do is to give out in the school, that next
+Sabbath afternoon there will be a meetin' in the school-room, and all
+can come that's a mind to. There ain't no need of nothin' further, and
+God'll bless you for it.'
+
+Mr. Tracy would have made very decided resistance, had he consulted his
+judgment alone; but his own feelings were too much in unison with the
+old man's; the want of public religious privileges he had begun to feel
+most deeply, on his own account, and for the multitude around him. He
+could not resist this appeal; with a humble yet resolute heart he
+replied,
+
+'Well, Mr. Cutter, I will do as you say; and may God assist me, and
+grant His Spirit with us.'
+
+'May the Lord bless your dear young heart!'
+
+The old man could say no more, but with his heart overflowing with joy,
+he arose, pressed the hand of Mr. Tracy, and in silence hobbled out of
+the room and through the gate, and took his usual seat, waiting for his
+son to untie the beast and drive him home.
+
+The tidings that their young teacher was to hold a meeting on the
+Sabbath day soon spread throughout the place; and when he proceeded to
+give public notice to his school, it was only a confirmation to the boys
+that the report was true.
+
+It was a calm, lovely autumn day; and as Henry Tracy walked on his way
+by the path which he had chosen for his daily route to the school-house,
+his feelings were lulled into delicious repose; the rustling of the
+leaves, the stillness that reigned in field and wood, the waning tints
+of nature, the modest tones of the school-bell, calling all within its
+reach to the place of meeting; the little groups which could be seen in
+different roads, bending their steps thither; it seemed more like the
+Sabbath day than any he had spent here yet.
+
+He had done what he could to prepare himself, and he had a strong
+consciousness of being in the path of duty; and he felt a composure in
+view of the undertaking which he could not have anticipated. A few
+persons were collected round the door; they immediately followed him as
+he entered: to his surprise a large congregation was waiting his
+appearance.
+
+As he took his seat on a little platform that had been prepared for the
+occasion, and cast his eye over the assembly, like a flash of light his
+usually pale features were crimsoned with a deep blush, and then away it
+flew, and a deadly paleness that alarmed every beholder came in its
+place. A sympathy was excited in every bosom; his youth, his modesty,
+his grace of manner, his unostentatious effort to do them good, like a
+talisman spread its charm over all alike, and prepared them to receive
+whatever he should say, with the deepest attention. Henry was obliged to
+arouse himself, in order to overcome the oppressive weight that was
+becoming heavier every moment; he therefore proceeded at once to the
+business before him. He gave out a hymn, which he read with much
+propriety, and then inquired if there was any one present who could lead
+in singing; but as no one seemed ready to undertake, he commenced a
+familiar tune. An electric shock could not have surprised them more,
+than the melodious notes which rolled forth upon their delighted ears.
+Henry Tracey was gifted--for a gift surely it was, as no power of
+accomplishment could ever have imparted it--with one of those rich
+voices which might have entranced the multitude on a public stage, but
+its melodious tone had only rung beneath a parent's roof, and its
+sweetest, most touching notes, had only been drawn forth in praise.
+Quickened by the music, soon every voice that could follow joined fully
+in; but above them all, louder and sweeter as the hymn went on, floated
+those rich strains which Henry poured forth, as from a heart burning
+with intense devotion. Enraptured, solemnized, softened, the whole
+assembly, both speaker and hearer, were happily prepared for the
+remaining services.
+
+The prayer which followed was short and well ordered. He addressed the
+Being before whom angels veil their faces, with that humility of
+expression, with that pouring out of the heart in natural tones for a
+sinner's necessities, which plainly showed he was making a petition for
+wants which God alone could supply, and not framing forms of sentences
+to interest or please man.
+
+The passage of Scripture which he had selected was the story of the
+Prodigal Son, a portion of that blessed volume peculiarly precious to
+himself; and one with which he had become most familiar, and into the
+touching scenes it delineated, he had entered with his whole heart.
+
+In a very simple manner, he first explained the meaning of a parable,
+and the reason why our Saviour chose this method of instruction. Being
+well versed in ancient manners and customs, and the scenery of the
+eastern world, he delineated and filled up what was necessary to convey
+to the minds of uninformed persons, a perfect idea of the whole story.
+Every eye was riveted upon him, and his energies were strengthened, as
+he went along, by the deep interest which he saw was awakened among his
+hearers.
+
+When he had gone through with the story, and brought the prodigal back
+to his father's arms, he then proceeded to show how clearly it
+illustrated the sinner's erring path away from God, the fascinations
+which drew him on, and the misery to which they lead. Here and there a
+tear would be seen to start, and occasionally a head would droop: it was
+evident that there were many before him whose real character he had
+touched. At length he reached the turning point, the resolve of the
+sinner in his extremity, that he will arise and return to his God. The
+heart of the speaker filled with deep emotion; his voice trembled, his
+language became more glowing, his words flowed rapidly; he forgot
+himself, and free from all embarrassment, poured out the full feelings
+of his soul. His excited audience sat wrapped in solemnity, and yielded
+up their hearts to the enchanting theme: like fire in the stubble, the
+flame flew from heart to heart; tears flowed freely, and when he ceased,
+there was stillness like the house of mourning, interrupted only by the
+stifled sob.
+
+He sat down a few moments, and then informed them that the meeting was
+over. Some arose, but stopped and looked wistfully towards the desk, as
+though they might yet hear something more; others sat still and wept.
+Henry prepared to depart; he walked slowly through the benches, preceded
+by a few persons who were leaving the house.
+
+As he approached the door, his hand was seized in a powerful grasp. He
+looked round, and recognized at once his warm-hearted friend, old Mr.
+Cutter. He sat on the end of one of the benches, and by his side was
+Billy Bloodgood. Billy looked at him and nodded and smiled, while he
+wiped away the tears that overflowed his twinkling eyes. Billy had not
+heard a word, but he had a very tender heart; he was rejoiced to be
+where God was worshipped, and when he saw all around him affected, he
+yielded to the impulse, and wept too. Uncle Sam _had_ heard, and every
+word had gone deep into his heart. It was no sympathy of feeling with
+those around him, that caused the big tears to flow so freely; he
+thought of none but himself and his God: his sinful lost estate had
+been set before him: he knew it was his own, he felt it to be true. He
+listened to the voice of the speaker, telling him of the love of God,
+and inviting him to trust in it; he believed, and yielding to the call
+of mercy, had cast himself into the arms of his Saviour, and found
+peace. No wonder that he seized with such convulsive grasp the hand of
+the dear youth. Henry fixed his eyes upon the old man; he saw his
+emotion, he saw his lips quivering in a vain effort to speak. His own
+heart ached, and tears came to his relief. Mr. Cutter made a desperate
+effort, shaking the hand which he still held,
+
+'God bless you! God bless you!'
+
+Henry hurried away to his home.
+
+Long was this day and this meeting remembered in the place. It was the
+commencement of a great moral change; the darkness which had so long
+brooded over it was rolled back, and the light that streams from
+Heaven's mercy came to bless their spirits. A train of rich and lasting
+benefits followed quick, and spread a charm over this long neglected and
+desolate spot, which, from a dreary wilderness, converted it into a
+garden of the Lord.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+
+Six years in the early part of our life makes a mighty change in our
+personal appearance, the current of our feelings, and our course in
+life. Childhood and youth are ever anticipating the fancied joys of
+twenty-one, but that blissful period once past, and the goal reached,
+how much of innocent and heartfelt happiness is left behind! But time
+must on, and we must on with him, and meet each era of our being as best
+we may.
+
+Six years have made a vast change in the face of things within our
+village. The little store, which Jim and Ned started in the wood-shed of
+their mother's house, has been transferred to a large and commodious
+building situated near the water, and contiguous to a wharf, where are
+snug moorings for the good sloop Fanny, now under the command of Sam
+Oakum. Along the shore, where the few fishermen's huts alone gave signs
+of life in former days, are now decent dwellings. Docks and building:
+the frames of vessels of various size are lying in their cradles; and
+the noise of the lively hammer can be heard through the long summer day.
+Young men, the former companions of our boys, are now engaged at their
+trades, or preparing to man the different vessels when ready for a
+voyage. Above the beach, and in the town more properly, as great a
+change is manifest; old houses are neatly repaired, and new lines of
+fences supply the places of the old, tattered inclosures; while here and
+there, on sites commanding the finest views of the beautiful water
+scenery, are mansions that bespeak the wealth and taste of their owners;
+and, to crown all, a neat church sends up its lofty spire from a knoll
+near the water's edge, the last object that holds the eye of the mariner
+as he leaves this his native home to breast the stormy ocean, and the
+first to bless it on his return, and bid him think of Him whose wonders
+he has seen on the deep.
+
+All these results have not been accomplished alone by those whose
+youthful energies gave the first spring to life and activity in the
+place.
+
+Things had, indeed, gone prosperously with them. Their trade, although
+small at first, rapidly increased; the opportunity they afforded the
+inhabitants to dispose of their productions advantageously, soon
+stimulated to increased cultivation. A display of goods from the city
+introduced a better and neater style of dress, and that led to more
+neatness in their dwellings, and every thing around them. The timber
+from the barrens became an article of great demand; and those
+comparatively valueless wilds bade fair to yield an immense revenue to
+their owners.
+
+But in addition to all this, a few wealthy families from other parts,
+attracted by the pleasantness of the location, had come among them; and
+with these was the early patron of our boys--Major Morris and his lovely
+family. He had not retired from the service; for the sound of war was
+rumbling in the distance, and dark clouds were fast rising on our
+political horizon, and it was no time for a brave and good man to
+withdraw from his country's need. But he was tired of the unsettled
+manner of life to which he had been so long subjected, and resolved, so
+soon as a favorable opportunity should offer, to retire, and enjoy the
+sweets of home and domestic life. He had long admired the location, but
+perhaps might not have decided to make it his place of residence, but
+for an old friend of his--one whose life had been spent upon the ocean,
+and who could no more be easy without the sight and smell of salt-water
+than the fish who sport upon its sunny bosom--Commodore Trysail, a
+bluff, high-tempered, warm-hearted sailor. He had won high honors early
+in life, but for some cause, in an hour of excitement, had thrown up his
+commission. He had amassed a handsome fortune since then by engaging in
+the East India trade; and although never condescending to command even
+his own ship, he had made several voyages to Bengal, attending solely to
+business matters. He had now some fine vessels of his own, and having
+relinquished all idea of going abroad, had resolved to locate where he
+could enjoy what he had so long been accustomed to, without storms and
+billows. Having visited the place, in company with Major Morris, he was
+at once charmed, and they both decided to make it their home, and do
+what they could to build up things around them. No wonder, then, if six
+years has affected such an entire change in the aspect of things.
+
+Mr. Grizzle was yet alive, and kept his old place, but his stock of
+goods had not been replenished for some years. The advantage of the new
+store were too many for him to compete with. Goods new and cheap, a
+generous price for all country produce, respectability of character,
+good manners, and perfect fairness in dealing, all these made the odds
+too much for Mr. Grizzle to contend against. He gave it up. One corner
+of his counter yet received a few visitors; for through the day could be
+frequently seen some old tottering wreck of humanity, with bald head,
+and long thin locks, stirring eagerly the ancient toddy-stick in a large
+flowered tumbler, and then, with trembling hand, raising the much-loved
+mixture to his longing lips, already quivering with age, and soon to be
+at rest in the grasp of death.
+
+There had been, for some time past, a little mystery about a
+newly-erected house--and mysteries in small towns are always troublesome
+things. It was a neat and pleasant cottage, finished with much taste,
+and with every convenience for a small family. It had been placed on a
+very pretty location, not far from the hut where Sam Oakum and his
+parents lived, just on the rising ground which overlooked their humble
+place of abode, and commanded a full view of the whole panorama of bay
+and land and ocean, that stretched before the eye to the distant
+horizon. The question could not be solved all the while it was building,
+for whom this pleasant habitation was intended. Curiosity was on tiptoe;
+it formed the subject for many a long gossip over cup of tea, and so
+awakened the imagination of our good ladies, that all sorts of stories
+were circulated in reference to it.
+
+'Can any body tell me?' said Aunt Sally Bloodgood--as she sat pouring
+out tea to a select party of her own, with a tea-pot in one hand and a
+water-pot in the other, dressed in her new calico gown of the freshest
+pattern, and no more looking like Aunt Sally when we first saw her, than
+nothing at all. Casting her eye round, as she put the two pots down,
+upon the inquisitive countenances of her neighbors--'Can any body tell
+me whose that house is a building _for_?' and after looking round from
+one to the other, her eye finally settled upon her good friend Mrs.
+Cutter, as though she expected, if any body knew, she must.
+
+'You needn't look at me, Sally; I knows nothing about it,' leaning her
+long body over the table, and shaking her thin visage very
+significantly. 'Cutter, you know, don't go about much, and when he does
+hear any thing, he keeps it all to himself; a body has to ding their
+life out to get any thing out of him. We have fixed our old house, so
+that it is kind of snug like, so it ain't for us, no how; and who is
+a-goin' there, the massy only knows.'
+
+'They say,' said a very comfortable-looking personage, with very round
+cheeks, and ample proportions--'they say, Mrs. Andrews, that your
+William is a-building that 'are place for himself; and that he's a
+coming back and goin' to be married to Hettie Brown, and they are to
+live there.'
+
+'Now did I _ever_!' and the Widow Andrews turned up her eyes towards the
+ceiling--a common way with her--put her two hands together, and rested
+them on the tea-table. 'I don't see what people mean; I ain't heered no
+sich thing--have you, Mary?' appealing to her daughter, who sat beside
+her, and began to move about in her chair, and to smooth down the very
+stiff collar that encircled her neck. 'I don't see what people talk so
+for; I believe they do a-purpose;' and the widow began to slide up on
+her high notes, which at once aroused the energies of her daughter Mary.
+
+'Oh, _do_ Mother! don't mind if they do talk; it don't hurt any body; it
+don't make it so, you know;--does it, Mrs. Bloodgood?'
+
+'Do la, no; and if it did, where's the harm?'
+
+'Well,' said the fat lady, 'I guess you will all see: for every body
+knows the two young folks is dead in love, and they say he's made a
+power of money; only some say he won't have Hettie after all, jist
+because she's been out to service.'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood now saw that the harmony of her party was like to be
+destroyed, for the Widow Andrews was beginning to fan herself, and
+breathe short; so like a skilful commander, she brought all her forces
+to bear, in order to turn the attitude of affairs.
+
+'Now, Aunt Peggy!' addressing the fat woman, 'do, la--I wouldn't talk
+so. Folks say a great many things they don't know any thing about.
+'William is a brave boy; and if he's got ahead in the world, I'm glad on
+it; but who he will marry, or when he will marry, I guess there ain't
+any body that knows. Don't you say so, Mrs. Andrews? But, do, la! Here
+I've been a talking, and your tea is clean out; let me give you another
+cup; and, Aunt Peggy, won't you hand round that plate of cake? and won't
+you all help yourselves? and them baked pears, they are fresh and nice;
+I did them up this very morning--but may be some of you would like the
+preserves? Sally Cutter, you just hand the Widow Andrews that saucer of
+preserves.'
+
+The tea, and the cake, and the preserves, now demanded general and
+particular notice; and between eating and drinking, and praising the
+good things, and asking for receipts, a very delightful state of
+confusion and loud talking about all manner of things, showed how
+successful was Aunt Sally's effort to maintain the peace.
+
+Nor was Aunt Sally Bloodgood's the only tea-circle that was disturbed by
+this unaccountable affair. It was a great marvel, and the poor builder
+actually lost the good-will of more than one of the tea-drinking old
+ladies; but he did not seem to mind it, for he went on in a quiet way to
+finish the thing. And when he had done that, he locked the door, put the
+key in his pocket, shut the little gate, and went to work at another
+job.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+
+Mary Oakum was in personal appearance a lovely young creature, and an
+equally lovely spirit breathed forth in every word, sparkled from every
+look, and shone forth embodied in her whole conduct. She had the same
+black hair, the same flashing, deep-set hazel eye, the same laughing
+mouth--she was a beautiful miniature of Sam, only replacing his
+nut-brown complexion with a pure red and white. Mary was now seventeen,
+not tall of her age, but gracefully formed, and very feminine.
+
+Susan, the youngest sister, was in a different style; for her hair was
+light, and her eyes blue, and her complexion, though fair, without
+color. Although two years younger, she was nearly as tall as her sister,
+with a serious cast of countenance that made her appear at times of an
+equal age.
+
+The parents and children still occupied the little house on the shore;
+it was a very small, poor building, but they had kept patching it up the
+best they could; and being very happy among themselves, they thought not
+of its imperfections with any feelings of repining or discontent.
+
+Sam was the delight of them all; parents and sisters hung upon him with
+an ardor of attachment, looked up to him with a feeling of dependence,
+confidence, and joy, which made him ever the light of their humble home
+when present with them, and drew their hearts after him with almost
+painful interest when absent.
+
+He still wore his sailor's rig; was very neat in his dress; never
+appearing among business men or at his house, in the same garb in which
+he stood at the helm. How anxiously would his sisters watch for the
+first glimpse of his white sail in the distance! and how elastic were
+their steps, as they bounded from the house to meet him, as soon as they
+descried their neat, trim sailor-boy, as they called him, turning the
+angle in the shore near their house.
+
+The day of his return had come, and Mrs. Oakum and Susan were busily
+employed clearing away the relics of the early meal, and putting, if
+possible, a brighter polish on every thing, when Mary came into the
+room, arrayed in her very best, and in one hand she held a small green
+bag, and in the other her sun-bonnet.
+
+'Why, sister, whither away so early? Your new dress on too, your hair
+arranged so neatly, and your best shoes and all. Where are you going to
+make a call so early?'
+
+'Oh, no call, sister dear! I am only going to the store. You know I lost
+my thimble the other evening, and I thought I would get another before
+Sam comes; he might want me to do something, and I should be sorry to
+say I had no thimble.'
+
+A deep blush spread all over Mary's white neck, and temples, and
+forehead; the rich rose of her cheeks seemed, of an instant, to have
+sent its crimson hue in all directions. Had Mary equivocated? Not in
+the least; she had never learned that art. Was not the errand a lawful
+one? Certainly it was; she told the truth in all its simplicity. She
+wanted a thimble, and was going for that, and with no other motive
+whatever.
+
+It was simply a flash of truth that crossed her mind--it was elicited by
+the remark of her sister in reference to her dress. Susan meant nothing
+in particular; nor had Mary, until then, an idea that she meant any
+thing in particular by what she had done.
+
+We must look into things a little, however, while Mary is on her way to
+the store; for she smiled, slipped on her bonnet, and was off.
+
+Mary was but a few years since a laughing, little romping girl, and she
+had grown up in great intimacy with a very staid and rather good-looking
+boy. She had sat on his lap, walked with him by the shore hand in hand,
+looking for pretty stones and shells; played hide-and-seek with him, in
+company with her brother and sister, among the rocks by moonlight, and
+even kissed him just as she did Sam, and thought no harm of it. She has,
+to be sure, long since, eschewed all such things, and stands now upon
+her womanly dignity. But this boy, although grown up to manhood, has not
+grown out of her interest. When the playfulness of childhood passed
+away, as by right it should, other feelings began to take its place. A
+deep respect for his fine character, which shone brighter and brighter
+as he grew up; an admiration of his manly appearance; a feeling of
+gratitude for the kind interest he took in her brother; a desire to do
+whatever she heard him say he liked; in fine, to assimilate her views
+and feelings, her tastes and pleasures, to his, was the unconscious
+desire of her heart.
+
+But did any body know this? Not a human being. A mother's searching eye
+may possibly at times have discerned a glimmering of the truth; but if
+so, she had kept it to herself.
+
+Did Mary know this? No, not as the truth itself must say she did; it was
+a secret, within what she could see of her little heart, into which no
+human eye had yet pried; but there it was. It did sometimes betray
+itself a little--a very little: that blush which seemed to come without
+a cause, which sent her off so quickly from observation, was just a
+token that she was a little conscious--only a little--how the matter
+stood.
+
+And does he love her? If he does not, he ought to; for, let him look the
+world over, he cannot find a purer, lovelier object to meet his earthly
+happiness upon; he cannot find a soul that burns with an intenser ardor
+towards each friend her bosom cherishes; he cannot find a heart that,
+glowing with the purest earthly love, holds all its rich and priceless
+treasures for himself alone, like her's.
+
+But we must stop, for she has reached the store, and quietly walks up to
+the side of the counter; passes a pleasant word with the few smiling
+customers who are there before her, and receives a salutation from
+Edward, who, busily attending upon those immediately before him, was
+using his hand and his tongue with great skill and rapidity.
+
+'Good morning, Mary, are all well at home to-day?' said James, stepping
+from his place, and standing before her.
+
+Mary looked up in surprise, for she had not yet glanced her eye to see
+whether the graver senior partner was at his desk.
+
+'All well--very well, I thank you.' His address, and the reply, were
+delivered in a low tone, and he was leaning over the counter when he
+spoke.
+
+'Any demands to-day?'
+
+'Nothing but a thimble;' and she smiled and held up her hand, preparing
+to take off her glove. James immediately produced a little case, and
+placed it before her, but she shook her head--
+
+'These are silver--a common kind will answer me.' Another case was
+brought, and James leaned over again, and began to select what, in his
+judgment, should be about the size; but somehow he picked out of the
+silver case alone.
+
+'Just try this, Mary; none of those seem to fit you well;' and he gently
+took the little hand, and placed the thimble on the taper finger.
+
+'You will hardly do better than to keep that.'
+
+'But it is silver, and I cannot afford to lose it; I am for ever losing
+them.'
+
+'You may be more fortunate with this, for it is a present.'
+
+'Oh--thank you--thank you; it is a beautiful thimble. I shall be very
+choice of it.'
+
+'Because it is silver?' and James looked at her with rather a meaning
+glance.
+
+'Oh, no, not altogether; to be sure I should be sorry to lose this,
+because--because it is more valuable,'--and seeing James beginning to
+color--'it is not only silver, but it is a keepsake.'
+
+All this passed in a tone that could not be heard amidst the din which
+Edward and his customers kept up.
+
+'I have news to tell you, likewise, and was on the point of walking to
+your house to let you know that the owner of that building near you, and
+about which there has been so much curiosity, is expected to arrive
+to-day.'
+
+'Then you have known who was the owner?'
+
+'I suppose I may as well confess it.'
+
+'And never told us?'
+
+'You never asked me. The family I have long known; I esteem them highly,
+and I think you will be much pleased with them, especially with the
+eldest daughter.'
+
+Mary was silent; she wished to ask several questions, but that _eldest
+daughter_--somehow the words struck a chill to her heart; she was all at
+once very thoughtful.
+
+'Your brother and I are anxious to have things arranged before they get
+here, and Sam particularly wishes that his father and all of you should
+be there when they arrive, and I think,' said James, 'as you are to be
+such near neighbors, it would be well to show them all kindness.'
+
+'Oh, by all means; certainly, we will do every thing we can to welcome
+them, as they are friends of yours; but--'
+
+'But what, Mary?'
+
+'Oh, you cannot be sure that they will wish to be very intimate with us,
+our circumstances will be so different.'
+
+'They are a family, Mary, that do not regard such distinctions. You will
+love them--I know you will. I hope to enjoy their society much, and I am
+sure you will too.'
+
+'I will be there, as soon as I can, with the key; and if you are all
+willing, we will go to work, and arrange things a little for them.'
+
+'Oh, certainly; we will go with pleasure. Good morning.'
+
+James accompanied her to the door.
+
+'In an hour or so, I will be at your house. Good morning.'
+
+'And I suppose he thinks the thimble will be a bribe to induce me to be
+very polite to that _eldest daughter_; but he need not fear. I shall do
+every thing I can to make it pleasant. The thimble I shall return when I
+have an opportunity, and shall tell him that Mary Oakum could be kind to
+his friends without--'
+
+She could not say any more, and this she did not say--she only thought
+it; and then she began to be very much ashamed that she had even thought
+it. But there was a tumult in poor Mary's heart: at times she would hush
+it, but then again it would arise, in spite of herself.
+
+James came after a while with the key, but not so soon as he expected.
+Mrs. Oakum and the girls accompanied him to the house; and as Mary
+resolved to put down all selfish feelings, and to be very pleasant and
+agreeable, every thing wore a cheerful aspect; for Mrs. Oakum and Susan
+were delighted with the idea of seeing and becoming acquainted with
+their new neighbors, especially as James gave such a favorable account
+of them. He had to take a little scolding from Susan, but it was done in
+such a good-natured way, that the harmony was not in the least disturbed
+by it.
+
+As they had never gratified their curiosity while the house was
+building, as many had, it was all new to them; great was the admiration
+expressed at the neatness, taste, and convenience of all its parts; the
+rooms were so pleasant, and the view so charming.
+
+'And what a sweet place this is!' said Susan, as they entered one of the
+upper rooms; 'how gracefully those branches of the willow hang before
+the window, and how beautiful the water looks through them, and the
+church and the parsonage! It is the finest view from any part of the
+house, is it not, sister.'
+
+'It is very beautiful,' said Mary; and she sighed.
+
+'Now, sister dear, what was that for? You don't feel sad that we have no
+such place?'
+
+'My dear sister, do you think I am covetous or envious?' And Susan threw
+her arms around her neck, and kissed off a tear which she supposed her
+suggestion had produced.
+
+'Covetous, envious; no, indeed, dear Mary, forgive me, if what I said
+led to any such idea; but I don't think I ever heard you sigh before.
+Why was it, sister?'
+
+'Oh, nothing. But we ought not to stay here, ought we, as there is so
+much to do?'
+
+And down they went, and to work with good-will. Mrs. Oakum was in the
+kitchen, examining with an eye of one who knew well the comfort of
+conveniences there; every thing needed was close at hand: a well of
+water by the door, a shed for the wood, and such a beauty of a
+milk-room, it almost smelled of cream and butter; and from the kitchen
+you could look out upon such a love of a garden-spot, large enough to
+raise all that a moderate-sized family could possibly want; while
+opening into it and near the house was a neat little stable, of
+sufficient size for a cow and a horse, with their provender.
+
+'Some one,' said Mrs. Oakum, 'has contrived all this who knows what is
+needful for the comfort of a family.'
+
+James was very active, and showed great skill in distributing the
+several articles into the different apartments.
+
+'I guess,' said Susan, smiling archly, 'that one, who seems to know so
+well where things belong, must have had something to do in getting them:
+who knows,' said she, winking to Mary, 'but this house is for himself
+after all; and that _eldest daughter_ he talks so much about is to
+be----. Dear sister, I know you are not well, you are so pale; you have
+worked too hard.'
+
+'I am afraid she has,' said James, looking with much anxiety.
+
+'Oh, not at all; I am very well;--but these things, had we not better be
+putting them in their places?'
+
+'These must be all for one room; they are, you see, painted white and
+tipped with green,--the chairs, and the table, and washstand, they must
+be for that little upper room. Don't you think so Mary?' said Susan,
+catching up a chair.
+
+'I think they would be suitable there,' said Mary.
+
+'There they shall go then,' said James: and soon the little room was
+furnished.
+
+'Oh, is it not sweet?' said Susan. 'But mother is calling us to help her
+with the carpet,' replied Mary, and down they went. Here, however, was a
+difficulty; the carpet was in a roll, and there would be no time to cut
+it and sew it together.
+
+'It would take us a whole day,' said Susan, 'do our best.'
+
+Mrs. Oakum, however, proposed that she should cut the breadths, and lay
+them down, and some other day they would come and assist the family in
+sewing it together; so Mary took out her scissors, and soon the floor
+was covered; and as this was the best room, the furniture suitable was
+arranged in it, and to the girls it seemed a grand place.
+
+'And now,' said Mrs. Oakum, 'the rooms seem to be all provided with
+their furniture, except the kitchen, and I don't see that there is any
+provision made for that. What will they do?' looking from one to the
+other. James smiled, blushed, and appeared confused, and was about to
+say something explanatory, when the door was opened, and Mr. Oakum
+entered, dressed in his Sunday suit; this he had put on at the request
+of the girls. He informed them that the sloop was in, and that Sam was
+on his way up.
+
+Sam had no lack of kisses that day, and Mary even hung upon him more
+fondly than ever; and Sam thought he saw a tear glistening in her eye,
+but she wiped it away, and said--
+
+'It was nothing.'
+
+Ah, Mary! the world is full of such _nothings_; it is ever piercing the
+heart of such sensitive beings as yourself, and forcing out the drops
+that tell in mute but unmistaking language the aching within.
+
+'So, Mr. Sam, you knew the secret all the time about the house?' said
+his youngest sister, coming up and hanging on him for a kiss.
+
+'Oh, you know, Susan, secrets are troublesome to ladies; I did not wish
+to burden you, my dear.'
+
+'Very generous it was in you. Oh, I wish I was strong enough to shake
+you;' but as she was not, she caught him round the neck, and kissed him.
+
+'But come in, and see how well we have arranged things. Will they be
+here soon?'
+
+Sam made no reply to Susan's last question, but followed her immediately
+into the house.
+
+They were all soon collected in the parlor, expatiating on the beauty of
+the place, and were beginning to ask Sam a variety of questions, when
+James all at once left the room; and Sam, drawing from his pocket a
+packet neatly enveloped, his parents and sisters looked at him,
+expecting some new disclosure.
+
+'My dear parents: I have practised a little deception upon you, for the
+first time in my life, which I hope you will pardon when you hear the
+nature of it. This house, which you have been arranging, does not belong
+to any stranger, as you have been led to think--it is all your own; and
+here, my dear father, is the deed which makes it and the ground around
+it your's for ever,' handing to his wonder-stricken parent the paper he
+had in his hand.
+
+Mr. Oakum took the paper, but was so overcome with amazement, that he
+could say nothing; he looked at his wife, who, for a moment, sat with
+her hands clasped before her, her eyes strained in their intense gaze on
+her darling boy. She then sprang to clasp him in her arms, but the
+girls were before her, and were hanging around his neck, and fairly
+smothering him with their fond embrace. Sam put out his arms to receive
+his mother, and she fell upon his neck, and burst into tears.
+
+'Oh, Sam! my dear Sam! may God bless you for ever and ever.'
+
+His father, overcome by the rush of his own excited feelings and the
+outburst of affection on the part of the mother and sisters, dropped the
+paper, and leaning on his hands, could only shed tears of joy. It was
+not the beautiful gift--valuable as it was--nor the sudden flow of
+prosperity, that raised them at once from a poor and decayed tenement to
+a dwelling equal in respectability to the best in the place; thoughts
+far richer to a parent's heart were thrilling his bosom, and working up
+his feelings into intense and overpowering emotion. To find in the man
+who stood before him in his strength and ardor, the same kind, loving,
+feeling fondness that the boy had manifested--in fine, to know that
+prosperity and manhood had not changed his boy--it was enough: earth had
+no better good, heaven could give no richer earthly solace. And could
+that son have heard the thoughts which rose in gushing ardor to the
+throne on high, and could his vision but have burst the veil which hides
+that secret place where thoughts are registered, he would have felt that
+a recompense already had been treasured for him beyond the reach of
+venture or decay.
+
+Sam had made but little calculation as to the effect of this surprise,
+either on his parents or himself. He had often, in boyish days, even
+when all around was dark and forbidding, amused himself with visions of
+the future, of all that he might be and do, and in every fancy sketch,
+his mind portrayed for the comfort of his parents; the joy which, in
+some unexpected way, might be infused into their spirits, was ever the
+prominent figure in the scene. This object, now so happily accomplished,
+had been his aim for years: for this he had resisted his inward impulse
+to go abroad and visit distant climes, and seek a fortune more genial to
+his bounding spirit; steadily had he pursued his calling, and faithfully
+labored and stored away his earnings with almost a miser's care, to
+gratify this heaven-born, filial love, and in some hour of exquisite
+delight enjoy his long, long-treasured wish. And now that hour had come.
+He had opened the floodgates of happiness upon these dear objects of his
+affection, and was overpowered himself. He sat down beside his mother,
+and mingled his tears with her's.
+
+But why has Mary left the scene? and why has she gone with such haste to
+that little upper room? and why does she clasp her hands, and raise her
+eye to heaven, and shed such tears as now overflow those long dark lids
+and bathe her lovely cheek? Another token these of that deep feeling
+which her secret heart so long has nourished; that room is pleasant now,
+for hither she has come, in this moment of heart-felt bliss, to pour out
+her heaving thoughts in gratitude to God; and there she hopes, in days
+and years to come, to send up the incense so pleasing unto Him who loves
+a contrite heart.
+
+Mary had much to think of; no longer could she hide from herself the
+fact that she loved James Montjoy; and every word which he had said, and
+which had caused her so much inward pain, was now a source of new and
+heart-felt joy, and it was impossible for her to misunderstand those
+allusions which so plainly pointed to herself; and yet she would say,
+'He was only in jest; he knew it must all come out--he meant nothing by
+it, nothing particular.' Thus ruminating, and with a happy heart, she
+passed lightly down the little staircase and along the hall, as James
+was returning from a stroll in the garden, to which, out of delicacy for
+the feelings of the family, he had retired, just as Sam was about to
+make the disclosure.
+
+He put out his hand to congratulate her upon the happy surprise;
+overcome with the scene she had just passed through, and the rush of
+feelings at the sight of him, she extended her hand, and burst into
+tears.
+
+As James entered the parlor with Mary, the scene had to be in some
+measure renewed; for he was so identified with all the prosperity they
+had enjoyed, that a sight of him under present circumstances but added
+to the full tide of feeling.
+
+'Oh,' said Mrs. Oakum, 'this has been all your doing.'
+
+'By no means, my dear madam; Sam alone has devised it, and his own
+honest earnings have paid the cost.'
+
+'Yes, I have no doubt of that, and Heaven's blessing he will have for
+it; but you first took him by the hand and encouraged him, and--'
+
+'Oh, Mrs. Oakum, we will not go so far back now; and besides, I could no
+more have done without Sam than he felt he could do without me; but we
+must clear up our faces and prepare for company, for this matter will
+fly like the wind when it gets abroad, and you will have the whole town
+here to see you.'
+
+Commodore Trysail was one of those specimens of humanity with which we
+occasionally meet, where a rough exterior and a blunt manner conceal a
+warm and tender heart. In all matters of business he was prompt,
+correct, and very decided; a little tenacious of authority when he saw
+any disposition to slight his orders, but allowing great latitude
+whenever he knew there was a desire to please and obey him.
+
+Old Peter, who had accompanied the family of Major Morris to their new
+residence, was quite a favorite with the Commodore; and as the two
+families were but a short distance apart, with the exception that Peter
+had his hammock slung in one of the Major's out-buildings--he was as
+much at home at one house as the other.
+
+It was one part of Peter's business to watch the coming in of the mail,
+and see that the letters and papers for either family were distributed
+in the quickest possible time; also to attend upon the departure and
+arrival of the sloop, as there was always something to go or come by
+that conveyance, it being the only regular one to and from the city.
+This part of Peter's duty he performed with special pleasure; Sam had
+ever been a favorite of his, and he never tired of telling over what he
+knew of him when a boy, and extolling his fine appearance, his activity
+and his correct conduct in all things, now that he had grown to be a
+man.
+
+Between the Commodore and Peter Sam was often a subject of conversation,
+until all that Peter knew of his favorite had been many times repeated.
+
+On this day, so distinguished in the life of his hero, Peter not only
+brought along from the boat quite a number of parcels, but he had also a
+weighty cargo of news, which he had gathered on his way back. After
+giving Lady Morris, as he always styled her, the first of the tidings,
+he hastened to the Commodore's as fast as his crutches would carry him.
+
+It was a warm afternoon, and the Commodore was seated in his veranda on
+the shady side of the house, enjoying the cooling view of the expanse of
+water spread out before him, and the gentle breeze that scarce moved the
+long branches of the willow that hung above and around him, when he
+heard the well-known sound of the crutches stumping along the hard
+gravel path at double quick time. Peter was so much out of breath, and
+so excited with what he had to tell, that after he had reached the stoop
+and taken off his hat, and smoothed down his queue and made several
+obeisances, he could only stammer out,
+
+'Your honor--'
+
+The Commodore looked at him with no little surprise, for the preparation
+Peter had made betokened quite a long yarn.
+
+'A warm day, Peter.'
+
+'Very, your honor;' and Peter fumbled away at his queue, and twisted his
+quid to all sides of his mouth.
+
+'You are out of breath, Peter; what is the haste to-day? any news
+stirring?'
+
+'Great news, your honor, great news.'
+
+'Is war declared, or has the comet lost its tail? let me hear; out with
+it, Peter.'
+
+'No war, your honor, God forbid: and I guess the comet is whizzing away
+yet, though we can't see him by daylight; but your honor knows that
+picture of a house up along the bank there--'
+
+'Ay, ay--what, the house that has no owner? and a pretty box it is; what
+of it, Peter?'
+
+'But it has got an owner, and who does your honor think it is? Our
+Captain Sam; he's built it 'spressly for his father and mother, God
+bless him! and he's rigged it all up for 'em, and he's put 'em in it
+this blessed day, and there they are, as happy as your honor was in a
+tight, new ship. And now he says, "Good-by to the old sloop, Peter; I've
+got the old folks snug and happy, and now I am going to steer my way on
+the broad ocean, just as you have always been wishing me to do." That's
+just what he said, your honor. God bless him.'
+
+The Commodore was a match for Peter with the tobacco any day, and
+whenever a little excited, was sure to clap his finger and thumb into
+his vest pocket, where there was generally a supply ready cut up of
+suitable length. As Peter concluded his tale, the Commodore began to
+fumble for a charge.
+
+'Peter, I'm out; hand me that bit of yarn you are cutting from.'
+
+'Bless your honor, not this; no, no;' and taking out a package that had
+filled the whole capacity of his jacket pocket, 'here is some, your
+honor, the boys have put up for me to-day (Peter had the run of the
+store free), bless their kind hearts. It's bran new, your honor; take it
+all, and welcome.'
+
+Having untied the roll, cut off a liberal allowance, and given two or
+three squeezes to the delicious morsel,
+
+'Do you say, Peter, that he has built that handsome place for his father
+and mother, and furnished it, and given it to them out-and-out?'
+
+'It's God's truth, your honor.'
+
+'Well, Peter, all I can say is, that he has got more of a sailor's heart
+in him than I thought he had; and do you think that is the reason why he
+has been shoaling along shore here, when we have all been wondering why
+such a smart young fellow didn't try to climb a little higher in the
+world?'
+
+'Nothing else, as sure as that water is runnin' to the ocean. I always
+tell'd your honor, Capt. Sam would come out bright; he wasn't never made
+for a land lubber, your honor: his heart is too big, too big for that, I
+always knowed it was.'
+
+'And I suppose the old folks are very happy. Did they know of it
+before?'
+
+'Never, your honor, till this blessed day; and when I com'd along by
+there, Miss Mary came runnin' out; 'Come in, Peter, come in and see our
+new house;' and so in I goes, and sich a sight your honor never see;
+there was the mother with the tears a runnin', and the father lookin' as
+if he had been standin' eight-and-forty hours facing a nor'wester, and
+the galls and all hold on me, and showing me every thing, and making me
+eat and drink; it's the happiest family, your honor, I believe there is
+at this moment on the breathin' earth; I was no better than a baby
+myself, your honor.'
+
+'Peter, do you go this minute, do you hear?'--Peter had like not to have
+heard, for he was on his way going somewhere, he knew not exactly for
+what--'and tell Harry to rig up the carriage, and--do you hear, Peter?'
+
+'Ay, ay, sir.' Peter was hardly within hailing distance.
+
+'Tell Mrs. Morris that I shall call for her.'
+
+'Ay, ay, sir.'
+
+'Bless my soul! he's a fine fellow.' The Commodore was now walking up
+and down very fast: 'Something must be done for him; he must let that
+old sloop go to the ----;' the Commodore was not always particular
+where he sent things, so that they were out of his way.
+
+There are green spots in this world of ours, which tempt us to forget
+that it is a fallen world, and point us, in their exhibition of true
+enjoyment, to what it might have been, and what it may yet be. There are
+pleasures that seem so unalloyed by selfish, earthly dross, we almost
+feel the breath of heaven fanning our spirits while we mingle in them.
+
+Such was the bright and pleasant scene that Sam had lighted up within
+that circle of domestic love, his home.
+
+Nor was there any lack of friends that day to greet them kindly, or to
+sympathize in their joy. The tidings soon spread, as James said they
+would, and neighbor after neighbor came dropping in, some, no doubt, to
+gratify their curiosity, but many, many more to give utterance to the
+joy they really felt.
+
+It was about the middle of the afternoon when the equipage of Commodore
+Trysail drove up. The old gentleman was a sailor, and not very
+particular when dealing with men, at least not always so, to polish
+either his language or his manners; but in the company of ladies he
+never forgot the respect due to them; he was mild and courteous, no
+matter how humble the individual or the circle to which he was
+introduced. Mrs. Morris was no stranger to the family; she had often
+visited them in their lonely home, and by her affable and kind manners
+had won their hearts.
+
+No wonder, then, that the girls ran with such haste to welcome her, and
+conducted her into their new abode with feelings, if not of pride, at
+least of heart-felt pleasure. She kissed them as they met her at the
+door.
+
+'I wish you joy, my dear good girls, with all my heart. Mrs. Oakum, I
+congratulate you on your entrance into such a pretty home; it is a sweet
+place; but it must be doubly sweet and precious to you under all the
+circumstances.'
+
+Mrs. Oakum could not reply; tears alone responded to the kind greeting.
+
+'But where is that noble fellow, Sam? I must call him so yet--where is
+he?'
+
+'He has run away. Do you think, Mrs. Morris,' said Mary, 'he found the
+neighbors began to come in, and off he went.'
+
+'Do you tell him for me, he's a pretty fellow; and that I shall expect a
+visit from him expressly in return for this.'
+
+The Commodore had been detained at the door a moment, in offering his
+whole-soul congratulations to Sam's father. As he entered the room, Mrs.
+Morris formally introduced him to the mother and sisters. Bowing very
+low to Mrs. Oakum,
+
+'Madam, I do not wonder that your feelings are excited; he is a noble
+boy, and you have every reason to be proud of him.'
+
+'He has ever been a dear, good child, sir.'
+
+'Yes; I have no doubt of that, madam; and I suspect he has had a dear,
+good mother. Ah! it is these mothers that make men what they ought to
+be. I had a dear, good mother once. I never shall forget her; she taught
+me a great many good things, when she used to lean over me in my bed.
+What a different man I should have been had I minded her; but, thank
+God, I hope I have not forgotten them all.'
+
+A tear might have been seen bedewing an eye that had met the shock of
+battle, and the rush of the tempest, without a twinkle.
+
+'But, bless my soul! are these two cherubs your daughters?--a kiss,
+girls; a kiss.'
+
+There was no affectation in their honest hearts, and they received a
+hearty salutation without blushing any more than might have been
+expected.
+
+'Do you think, Commodore,' said Mrs. Morris, 'our hero has betaken
+himself away!'
+
+'The rogue! I wanted to have given him a good sailor's squeeze; and to
+tell him how happy I am to find that he has a true sailor's heart. But I
+see how it is; he had rather do a good deed than be praised for it. Will
+you tell him for me, madam,' turning to Mrs. Oakum, 'that I should be
+pleased to see him at my house as early to-morrow morning as his
+engagements will permit? Again, allow me, madam, to wish you much
+happiness in your new abode, and many, many years to enjoy it in.'
+
+The Commodore bowed to the whole circle, and offering his arm to Mrs.
+Morris, led her to the carriage.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+
+'Mr. Oakum, good morning to you; you will excuse me for omitting your
+title; although, if you must have it, I should prefer the one which
+your old friend Peter has adopted, and call you Captain Sam. I am glad
+to see you, sir; walk in.'
+
+All this was said at the door of the Commodore's office, and while he
+was shaking the hand of the young man with great cordiality. This office
+was a small addition to his handsome mansion, jutting out from one end,
+and into which was an entrance externally and independent of the passage
+in the main building.
+
+Sam had made the call at the office door, and was met with the greeting
+as stated above.
+
+There was a great disparity in their personal appearance, and yet either
+of them would have been handsome models to represent their different
+ages and standing in society. The Commodore's large, full, portly form,
+ruddy face, dark-gray eyes and powdered hair, would well represent the
+retired commander of sixty-five: while the trim and agile frame, the
+sun-burnt face, the raven locks, the sparkling, hazel, deep-set and
+deeply-shaded eye, would have answered well the idea of a young
+adventurer, ready to commence the untried dangers of the deep. Sam was
+decidedly a handsome fellow; and whether his sisters had been fixing him
+out that morning, I cannot say, but he was dressed with much care; too
+much, some might think, for his calling. It was, however, of the true
+sailor fashion; and if, when engaged in his work, he was a whole man, we
+can leave such matters to his fancy.
+
+'You will excuse me, Mr. Oakum, for requesting you to call upon me, or
+for the inquiries I may put to you; as I have a plan in view, which I
+should think would be more congenial to a young man of your abilities,
+than dodging back and forth in that little sloop.'
+
+'I am very happy, sir, to wait upon you, and will very thankfully listen
+to any views you may please to communicate.'
+
+'First, then, I wish you to state what are your plans for the future. I
+have heard through Peter--I give you my authority--that you design to
+leave your present business. If you have no objections, my young friend,
+make a clean breast to me; I want to hear all about you.'
+
+Sam smiled. 'Why, sir, to tell you the truth, I am really tired, as you
+say, of "dodging about in the sloop;" but hitherto duty has kept me at
+the helm very much against my inclination.'
+
+'Glad to hear you say so. Duty, sir, is a glorious master, although
+sometimes he drives us sadly against our wills. Then you have resolved
+to start upon a new course?'
+
+'I have, sir.'
+
+'But the sea will be a new business for you. Your cruise along shore
+cannot have fitted you for what you will meet with there.'
+
+'I have anticipated that, sir; and have already made three short
+voyages.'
+
+Sam saw that the Commodore appeared much pleased with this information.
+
+'Since you have so kindly requested me, sir, to tell you my past doings
+and present plans, I will presume upon the permission, and do so.'
+
+'That is just what I wish, sir.'
+
+'The sloop, which seems of late to have been a trouble to many of my
+good friends, besides the kind-hearted old Peter (Major Morris had not
+been backward to drop some broad hints in reference to it), was once the
+object of my highest ambition; but like many objects when attained,
+seemed only as a stepping-stone to something after which my imagination
+panted, and for which, I must confess, I have been at times too
+restless. But an end I had in view, and which I saw I could accomplish
+by retaining my situation in the sloop, has enabled me to continue at my
+post, although I must say against my fancy.'
+
+'Yes, yes; and let me tell you, my young friend, it was a noble end, and
+you will be a gainer, a great gainer by it in the long-run; but'--seeing
+that Sam was blushing very much, and apparently getting into a state of
+confusion--'pardon me for interrupting you; please go on, and tell me
+the whole story.'
+
+'Intending, so soon as that object was accomplished, to launch forth and
+push my way upon the ocean, I embraced an opportunity afforded me,
+during a season of the year when our navigation is obstructed, to make a
+short voyage. Three several times I have been, and the last was of
+peculiar advantage to me; for, experiencing a hurricane just after we
+left Havana, the captain and chief mate were washed overboard by a heavy
+sea that swept our decks, and the second mate did not know enough to
+keep the reckoning; so at the request of all hands, I took charge of the
+brig, and, although we encountered two severe gales, brought her safely
+into port.'
+
+The Commodore rose, and walking across the room, turned, and fixed his
+keen eye full on Sam.
+
+'You ought to have been handsomely rewarded for that, sir. Was no notice
+taken of it by the owners or the under writers?'
+
+'Oh, yes, sir'--and Sam drew forth a fine gold watch--'this is their
+token, but I should have preferred the offer of the brig; she was a fine
+vessel, but I suppose they had friends who laid a stronger claim than I
+could.'
+
+'Thus, you have no hesitation as to your ability to take sole command of
+a vessel to any quarter of the world?'
+
+'I have not, sir.'
+
+'And you are willing to do so?'
+
+'I am very anxious to do so, sir, if I can find any owners willing to
+trust me.'
+
+The Commodore resumed his seat.
+
+'Mr. Oakum, you must be well aware that our country is at present in a
+critical situation. War is inevitable. I think so--I am confident of it.
+The danger, then, in commercial navigation, will be of a very serious
+nature. I am, as you know, somewhat engaged in the trade to China; two
+of my vessels are now on the way there; one of these will not return for
+some time, and the other is to receive a cargo in the usual manner, and
+will probably be back a little short of one year; but I fear, that
+before six months come round, we shall be at war. I must make what
+preparation I can to secure my personal interest against an evil which I
+foresee. My design is to hasten the return of one of my ships with her
+cargo, by all possible means. You know that I have just completed a
+beautiful schooner; she will sail like a witch. I have resolved to send
+her express to China, and I now offer you the command of her.'
+
+Sam arose, and was about to thank the Commodore for the generous offer.
+
+'Please be seated, Mr. Oakum, you have not heard the end of the story
+yet. I have business of importance to be attended to in China, and the
+captain of the ship I design to order back must remain there, and you,
+sir, will take his place. On your arrival out, you will find yourself
+master of as fine a ship as swims the ocean.'
+
+Sam could contain himself no longer; he arose from his seat.
+
+'Commodore Trysail, I know not how to express the deep sense I feel of
+obligation to you--it is the happiest moment of my life, sir.'
+
+The Commodore grasped the hand of the young and ardent sailor, and was
+delighted to see the flash of joy and pride that sparkled forth from his
+bright eye.
+
+'You may thank yourself, Mr. Oakum, and the manly efforts you have made
+to improve your advantages.'
+
+Just then the office door was gently opened, and a shaggy head appeared,
+nodding very significantly, but saying nothing.
+
+'Well, Peter, any thing new stirring?'
+
+'Why, I thought your honor would be pleased to know that the Major had
+arrived, and the young lady.'
+
+'What, has Major Morris returned, and Susie with him? that is good
+news.'
+
+Peter's head was immediately withdrawn, and he was heard stumping it
+away at a rapid rate.
+
+'It will be no child's play, Mr. Oakum, as you will find, bringing that
+vessel home; for I am determined, war or no war, that you must get her
+into port at all hazards, and if I did not think that you would prove a
+man in the hour of extremity, depend upon it, sir, I should never
+confide such a trust to you. The risk of loss I expect to run; and after
+you have done your best, should you fall into the enemies' hands, you
+will not be in the least to blame. The management of every thing in
+reference to this matter I leave entirely to yourself. My schooner is
+ready for you. She is under your command; select your own crew, and
+hands enough to make a double crew for the ship on her return.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+
+Mr. George Rutherford, as I have hinted in a former chapter, was
+becoming entangled in his pecuniary circumstances. He had no fears as
+yet that he should not be able to pay every obligation, and have a
+competency left; but his sensitive spirit was keenly alive to that kind
+of humiliating deference which is always more or less demanded and
+received by those who, more calculating in their habits, keep their
+capital at command, and are enabled to exchange their ready money for
+the borrower's security.
+
+But whatever annoyance or inward torment he suffered was carefully
+concealed within his own breast; he could not bear to throw a shade over
+the bright and joyous heart of his wife.
+
+It was, however, impossible that one who loved with such entire
+devotedness, should not perceive when some dark and troublous cloud lay
+upon the object of her affection. Often would she come to him as he sat
+musing, at the close of day, and ask--
+
+'What is it, George! does anything trouble you? these wrinkles are truly
+beginning to be permanent. Do tell me, and let me share it with you.'
+
+And then he would smile, and kiss the fair hand, and say--
+
+'Nothing, dear Mary; nothing worth telling; there are a thousand little
+vexations and cares in life, you know, which help to make the marks upon
+us, I suppose, and thus show that they have been. Nothing, dear Mary.'
+
+But by degrees accumulated strokes began to bear most seriously upon
+him; his property melted away by little and little; at one time an
+unwise act of friendship, at another an unsuccessful negotiation in
+trade, or may be, a sharper's trick; there seemed to be always some
+cause at work to drive away his means.
+
+He had become largely implicated in establishing a store near to the
+property he owned in the barrens, in order to afford an opposition to
+Mr. Cross, hoping thereby to alleviate the condition of the poor
+laborers; but the person who managed the business proved to be no match
+for the wily Cross, and it only served to excite his adversary to bitter
+revenge.
+
+He had, also, become involved more seriously than he as yet had any idea
+of himself, with a Company that were engaged in working a quarry.
+
+The prospects held out to him were very flattering, as such things
+usually are when presented by interested and designing persons; but as
+each year passed by with no profit realized, and a fresh demand for
+money to carry on their operations, too confiding to suspect those whose
+bad management ought to have awakened his doubts, he suffered his purse
+to be drained, and, worse than all, suffered his name and credit to be
+used.
+
+Manfully had he borne up under all his reverses, shrinking from no loss
+nor responsibility, which, however unwisely brought upon himself, was
+still his own act, and, therefore, sacred as his honor.
+
+At length a storm, he saw, was rising fast, and spreading its dark and
+gloomy mantle over him. He could not avert its fury; but with fortitude,
+with a firm determination to maintain his integrity, he awaited the
+catastrophe.
+
+The first blow which came with much severity was in the failure of
+Bolton, the individual whom he had established in trade near the
+barrens. Many were involved in that calamity, and he was compelled, in
+order to meet the demands which would be made upon him in consequence,
+to use all his means and his utmost ingenuity to maintain his credit,
+now become of vital importance to him. Troubles, at times, overtake us
+like the tiding-bearers to the Patriarch of old; scarce has one sad tale
+been uttered, when another is ready to begin.
+
+Mr. Rutherford had passed a sleepless night; the long hours had been
+spent in running over the sad circuit of his misfortunes, and in
+endeavoring to extricate himself from the tangled maze in which he was
+involved. His wife would most willingly have been the partner of his
+cares, and spent the day and night in labor, either of body or of mind.
+But no--he must not, he cannot disturb the quiet of her bosom; he will
+yet, he fondly hopes, weather it through, and she shall never know the
+struggle his spirit has borne. And thus it would have been, and thus his
+proud and tender heart would have ached in secret, and cloistered all
+its trials, until it broke beneath the accumulated load; but a kind
+Providence was watching around his sleepless bed, and knew all that he
+could bear, and was preparing the way that would, in spite of himself,
+break open his secret sorrows, and compel him to unbosom himself to her
+whose gentle spirit would pour out its sweet consolations into his
+troubled heart, brace up his worn-out feelings, and lay them calmly to
+rest amid the soothings of love; earthly, it may be, but a bright emblem
+of that in which the weary soul will sweetly repose when the trials and
+toils of life are over.
+
+The watching and busy thoughts of the night past were too visible the
+next morning to escape the eye of love; and as his Mary entered the room
+where he was seated, waiting for their early meal, she could not help
+saying to him,
+
+'You are sick, dear George; I know you are.'
+
+Before he could reply there was a knock at the door, and Mr. Rutherford
+was summoned into an adjoining apartment.
+
+The gentleman expressed his regret for the business upon which he had
+come; he handed to Mr. Rutherford a paper, which proved to be an
+attachment upon his beautiful homestead, and the land connected with it.
+
+'You have, no doubt, heard, sir, that the Quarry Company has gone to
+pieces; and as you appear to be the only responsible one among them, the
+person named in that paper, and to whom they are largely indebted, feels
+compelled to take this step, although very reluctantly.'
+
+This explanation was sufficient; Mr. Rutherford perceived the dilemma to
+which things had at length come. His visitor, having no further
+business, withdrew; and as he closed the door upon him, he retired again
+by himself, and was seated by a table with the paper in his hand, when
+his wife entered the room, and closed the door.
+
+'My dear George, you must let me know what is the matter. You cannot
+hide from me, that there is some great trouble upon you. Tell me, my
+dear husband, tell me what it is'--and she threw herself upon her knees
+before him, and clasping her arms about him, looked up with intense
+interest beaming from her dark hazel eyes.
+
+'We are ruined, Mary! my property, the inheritance of my ancestors, is
+all, I fear, to be swept away from me.'
+
+'And you have known this, George, a long time, and have been bearing the
+trouble all alone in your own breast. Why have you done this, and not
+let me be a sharer of your sufferings?'
+
+'Oh, Mary, how could I do it? It was out of your power to stop the
+torrent I have been contending against, and I could not bear to disturb
+your quiet.'
+
+'My dear George, how little do you understand of a woman's love; bright
+and pleasant things do not always satisfy its warm desire. I had rather
+suffer with you, and for you, my dear husband, the sharpest pangs, and
+feel the direst vicissitudes of life, if I could only prove to you, how
+much dearer to me is your love than all things else on earth.'
+
+As she said this her eyes were filled with tears, and told so truly with
+the words she had just uttered, all the meaning of her soul, that he
+clasped her to his bosom.
+
+'My love, my life, my heart's richest treasure! may God bless you for
+all the comfort you have been to me, and for all you are now.'
+
+Sorrow, thou child of sin, strong and terrible as is thy power, and
+crushing as is the weight of thy hand when pressed on no worms of the
+dust, yet know thou, there is an antidote, a precious gift of Heaven,
+when by man's sin all blessings which his God had given were justly
+forfeited--this antidote is love; when fixed on God, it bows the spirit
+into childlike confidence, clinging closer to the heavenly hand the
+heavier the blow. And when two kindred souls on earth have merged their
+hopes, their fears, their interests, their warm desires, their whole
+hearts' sympathies in one strong true embrace, there is so much of
+heaven's own happiness in it, that spite of all the anguish under which
+at times they bow, this sweet and subtile charmer steals within, spreads
+a calm upon the bosom of the waters, hushes all to peace, and bids them
+still be happy.
+
+And now she sits beside him, and he tells her all his strange trials,
+and how dark his prospects are.
+
+'It must all go, Mary.'
+
+'Well, my dear husband, let it all go; your own sweet spirit is
+unstained by one wrong or mean act; you have never withheld a righteous
+due; you have never ground the face of the poor; you have never
+triumphed over those beneath you; you have rather tried to raise them to
+your own level: and now let poverty come, it cannot sink our spirits, so
+long as there is no blot on your fair fame, and no stain on your
+conscience.'
+
+Rutherford was manly in his feelings, but he could not repress his
+starting tears. His lovely wife, without a sigh, had let go all that
+wealth could hold out to her, and only thought of her husband's virtues.
+
+'Yes, Mary, that is true. I believe I can truly say with Job: "If I have
+withheld the poor from their desire, or have caused the eyes of the
+widow to fail, or have eaten my morsel myself alone, and the fatherless
+have not eaten thereof: if I have seen any perish for want of clothing,
+or any poor without covering, then let my arm fall from my
+shoulder-blade, and mine arm be broken from the bone."'
+
+'I know it, my dear husband, I know it; and as you have acted in the
+fear of God, his strength will be our refuge.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+
+The shades of evening had settled upon that retired spot, the stronghold
+of Mr. Cross up in the barrens. The doors and windows of his long, low
+building, were closed; a light was burning on the counter, beside which
+were seated the owner of the premises and a companion, very unlike him
+in appearance, whatever similarity there might be in the temper of their
+hearts--Mr. Cross having rather a round and plump carcass, with cheeks
+filled out, and bearing the hue which a liberal allowance of gin and
+water usually imparts. The other was altogether of the mummy order; his
+body thin and bent over, his limbs long and bony, with a loose furrowed
+visage, which looked as though it might once have been supplied with
+flesh, but its substance having melted away, the outer covering now hung
+flabby and puckered under his chin and beneath his cheek-bones and at
+the corners of his mouth; his hair was grisly, and stood far off from
+his wrinkled forehead, which was broad and high enough to indicate the
+presence of intellect, or at least room for it; the colour of his eyes
+it would be hard to determine, for they were very small, and the thick,
+heavy eye-lashes twinkled so continually, it was almost impossible to
+catch a glimpse of them. A bottle of gin, a pitcher of water and two
+tumblers stood on the counter, close beside them; and from this we may
+infer that the two gentlemen were not dissimilar in some of their
+tastes.
+
+'Now, Squire (for we must know that this gentleman belonged to an
+honourable profession), 'I think we've done this job up pretty
+considerably slick--don't you?'
+
+Turning his long face round as Mr. Cross spoke, so as to bring it into a
+horizontal position, and shaking it very significantly, as each word
+fell from his lips in a slow and measured tone--
+
+'It has worked, neighbour Cross, like a charm, just as I told you it
+would. The shoe pinches now, I guess, and more than one foot too--one,
+two, three, four; only think of it,'--giving Mr. Cross a poke with one
+of his long fingers--'only think of it--five birds with one stone--only
+think of it!'--another poke.
+
+'I never thought, Squire, what you could be at, when you wanted me to
+lend Bolton that money.'
+
+'I knew though, neighbour, what I was about. Jemmy Bolton wanted money
+bad; he had property enough laying round for you to slap on any time.
+You and I, you know, have talked about setting Dave up alongside the
+Montjoys; that, you see, will never work. Bolton I knew, for he told me
+of it, owed those boys all of three thousand dollars; they had advanced
+it to him on the timber, thinking, you see, that all was safe, and that
+it would be coming along. Stop that, says I; trip up Jemmy Bolton--clap
+on the timber; that cuts the Montjoys three thousand dollars--no small
+sum for young folks, considering the times too; then down goes
+Bolton--that gives Bowers & Co., and Jones & Brothers such a pull, you
+see, down they go too; ha, ha, ha!'--a poke with the long finger--'both
+of them owe the Montjoys considerable. That, with Bolton's affair, you
+see, will just about finish the job for them; they can't stand it no
+how.'
+
+'Poor fellows! I am almost sorry for them.' Mr. Cross was not so sorry
+but he could smile a little as he said it.
+
+'I am not a bit--I am not a bit sorry, neighbor; they are upstarts,
+nothing else; and they have made all the folks about them think that
+they are the end of the law. No, no; let them go down--the sooner the
+better; and when they are once down on their back, you see, then up goes
+Dave. You have got the cash, you know--a dash he will make; and the
+whole country round will be the better for it.'
+
+'Yes; but, Squire, you know these fellows will fight hard to live it
+through; they are no fancy boys; they have worked their way along by
+their own efforts; they stand high at the bank. McFall is a great friend
+of theirs; they will make the bank help them--see if they don't.'
+
+'I have thought of that too, neighbor'--another hard poke--'I've thought
+of that; and there you have them too.'
+
+'How so, Squire? I have nothing to do with the bank you know.'
+
+'Don't you know a certain man who would not refuse you a favor for a
+trifle? Bank Directors are not always so independent as they would wish
+to be thought--ha, ha, ha!'
+
+'Well, what of him?'
+
+'You just whisper in his ear that it would be no particular
+accommodation to you, that certain folks should receive any favors; that
+will be enough. One man, you know, in a board is as good as a
+dozen'--another poke.
+
+'Well, well, I understand.'
+
+'I thought you did--but what was that? There is nobody sleeps here, I
+hope?'
+
+'Oh no, it is the dog; he is dreaming I suppose.'
+
+'It startled me though, neighbour, for it would not be quite so clever
+to have any one get the run of what we have been saying.'
+
+'Never fear, Squire; I shut all up myself.'
+
+'I hope you are sure of that; for I was just going to tell you the best
+of the whole joke.'
+
+'Tell away, Squire; there are no listeners but the old casks; they won't
+tell any tales.'
+
+'They do sometimes though, neighbour.'
+
+'How so?'
+
+'They tell a little bit, sometimes by the end of our nose, ha, ha,
+ha!'--another poke--'don't they? ha, ha, ha! Well, as I was saying, the
+best of it is all to come. Rutherford is clean done up'--one, two, three
+pokes right off.
+
+'Rutherford done up! What do you mean now, Squire?'
+
+'Why you know I told you that we had killed five birds with one stone,
+and so we have. Bolton is dead, the other two fellows are kicking, and
+the Montjoys will be dead soon: and our old friend Rutherford, whom we
+have been picking at these six years, is down at last, all gone to
+smash. Think of that, neighbor Cross.'
+
+Mr. Cross made no reply; but turning to the decanter, filled his own
+glass and the Squire's about half full of the clear stuff, added a
+little water to his own, and then swallowed the potion at one draught.
+The Squire did not trouble the water, preferring the good creature in
+its pure state.
+
+'Your gin is uncommonly strong, neighbour--'ugh, 'ugh, 'ugh--it almost
+shakes a body--'ugh, 'ugh, 'ugh.'
+
+'Water it then, why don't you? But what is it about Rutherford, and how
+has that come?'
+
+'Why, you know as well as I do, that Rutherford is an easy body; you
+know that the quarry folks have been getting round him, and drawing him
+in more and more every year. He, good soul! thought all was right, while
+they have been going on, as you know very well, running into debt deeper
+and deeper. Well, it is only a little pull that is needed to bring down
+a great weight when it is tottering and ready to fall. This business of
+Bolton's has upset the whole concern; they only lost a trifle by him,
+but it touched them just at a delicate time. People got frightened, and
+the game was up, and Rutherford is in for all their debts; it is thought
+it will sweep every thing away, homestead and all.
+
+'Now this, I know, is of no consequence to you: it will not give you any
+title to these barrens; but now that they are in a muss, will be the
+time to accomplish our great plan. That deed is not on record yet'--a
+very hard poke--'you know that your deed from old Ross covers the whole
+ground, when once this claim of Rutherford's is put one side. Old
+Rutherford, I suppose, thought that the whole tract here was not worth
+the trouble of looking after, and the young one, no doubt, thinks that
+all is right; but mind me, neighbour, now is your time, or never. This
+land, between you and me, which Rutherford owns here, is worth all the
+rest of his property put together. These Montjoys have, you see, opened
+a trade for the timber, and there is no telling what its value will yet
+be. The creditors will be searching the records; it will soon be found
+out that this deed is not registered, and then your play is out. What
+you do, must be done at once.'
+
+'True enough, Squire; his deed once out of the way, mine is worth a
+trifle no doubt; but the question is, has he a deed at all? and if he
+has, how can we get hold of it?'
+
+'Ah, neighbour, he has got the deed; I have seen it with my own eyes:
+you see I have not been idle about this matter of yours, although it is
+a thing that it will not do to say much about. Some time since, I
+thought I would just call and inquire about some old matters, merely to
+see what might turn up. He was very polite, you know, handing me a
+chair, and all that. "You want to look at the old survey, do you,
+Squire?" "Yes," said I, "if it is not too much trouble, Mr. Rutherford."
+"Oh no, by no means." And so he out with the old tin trunk; you have
+seen that trunk in old Rutherford's time.'
+
+'Oh, yes, often.'
+
+'Well, he out with the old trunk; he keeps it just where the old man
+did, under the secretary; you know as well as I can tell you.'
+
+'Yes, yes, I've seen it, but go on with your story.'
+
+'Well he out with his trunk, as I was saying, and among the very first
+papers he threw on the table, was this very deed. Thinks I, old fellow,
+if I had you once in my grip, I guess I know whose fortune would be
+made.'
+
+'Well, the thing is now, how to get hold of it.'
+
+'That's the thing neighbour;'--one or two good pokes.
+
+'I have a few good fellows that are up to any thing, only let me tell
+them what to do.'
+
+'Then it can be done, neighbour. What a nice thing it would be to have
+a little bit of a fire happen, say about midnight. A pretty state of
+confusion that would make, you know; doors open, everybody running
+helter-skelter, all frightened to death! Wouldn't that do?'--a hard
+poke--'but there is no time to lose.'
+
+Cross evidently relished the idea suggested, for he replenished the
+glasses again, omitting the water this time; then talking in a much
+lower tone, named the persons--smart fellows, as he called
+them--arranged time, place of rendezvous, etc.; to all which the Squire
+assented, every once in a while putting out his long finger and striking
+neighbour Cross in the ecstacy of his admiration. And thus they devised
+this deed of darkness, careless of all the terrible consequences which
+might result, so that their own crafty designs were accomplished.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+
+Sam Oakum was indeed very much excited at the close of his interview
+with Commodore Trysail; the bright prospect before him of soon realizing
+what his heart had been so long aspiring after, gave a sudden spring to
+all his feelings, and the spirit of his station seemed already to have
+taken possession of his mind.
+
+The trifle of news, too, which Peter had communicated, might also have
+had something to do with the bouyancy of his feelings. Sam longed to see
+again the little fairy-like creature, with golden locks and dark blue
+eyes, that once in his early days he occasionally met.
+
+This little fairy, however, is a fairy no longer, for she has grown up
+to be a fine, good-natured young lady; her golden locks have turned to a
+rich auburn; her dark blue eyes illuminate, with their bright and
+pleasant sparkles, her full oval face, on which the rose and the lily
+have beautifully blended.
+
+Sam has not seen her, however, for four long years, and he thinks of her
+as she looked then. And if the Commodore had known how much more Sam was
+thinking about Peter's news, than about the schooner or the ship, it
+might have injured his confidence, a very little.
+
+As to what this little fairy ever thought of Sam, it would be equally
+hard to divine. All we know is that when a little girl she used to be
+very glad to see a little black-eyed boy in blue jacket and trousers,
+and would frequently smile when she saw him, and perhaps on one or two
+occasions exchanged a word with him--nothing more.
+
+She is now, I have said, a young lady; and whether she ever thinks of
+the little black-eyed boy is yet to be known.
+
+Sam had thought all day of the visit which he felt he ought to make to
+his friends the Morris's. He called there in the edge of evening, and no
+doubt spent a very pleasant hour, for his friends were rejoiced to see
+him, and gave him to understand that the Commodore had let them into the
+secret; and from the kindness with which he was treated, it was very
+evident that he had not fallen in their estimation.
+
+I said, that he no doubt spent a pleasant hour; but that idea intruded
+itself rather because there was everything conspiring to make it
+pleasant, than from its apparent effect upon our hero; for his
+countenance, as he walked on his way towards home, was sad, and it was
+some time before the lively, happy circle there could so impart their
+cheerfulness as to enable him to join heartily with them.
+
+Major Morris and his lovely daughter had reached home, as Peter had
+said, accompanied by a young lady, who had been a companion of Susan at
+school, and her brother, a fashionable young man, the parents of whom
+were wealthy and truly respectable in their standing. And it may as well
+be told at once, that although not engaged to this youth--for Susan's
+parents were too careful of her happiness to allow such a step at the
+age she then was--still there was decided feeling on the part of the
+young man, and Susan had been perhaps as well pleased with him as with
+any of those who constantly sought her company. He was not, however,
+visiting as a suitor, but had been invited with his sister to spend a
+few weeks at the Major's delightful residence.
+
+Susan Morris was by no means an imaginative girl. She had, it is true,
+very ardent feelings, but they had always been expended upon real
+objects; and, in consequence, she was the beloved of every circle where
+she moved.
+
+Two weeks from the day on which Commodore Trysail gave the appointment,
+Sam and his beautiful schooner were ready for the ocean.
+
+Partings with near friends are not pleasant scenes, so I shall pass
+them over. It was a lovely afternoon, one of summer's brightest days; a
+lively breeze played over the water, and scarcely bending to its power,
+a small trim vessel, rigged in pilot-boat fashion, was gliding
+gracefully along, not far from the shore. Every sail was set, and filled
+just enough to display their graceful cut, the little black hull beneath
+making them look more white and showy by the contrast. A row-boat, well
+manned, was by the shore, around which were gathered groups of
+lookers-on, or friends saying some last words to the youths who held the
+oars, and whose half serious smiles told plainly that their hearts were
+not so light as they would seem.
+
+Just beyond the shore, upon the sloping green, a little party stands,
+eyeing with apparent interest the motions of the schooner and the
+preparations for departure, which are plainly visible in the gathering
+crowd that was surrounding the little boat at the water's edge.
+
+'Oh, Susan, what a fine sight that vessel makes; but who would think of
+venturing to sea in such a craft?'
+
+'Why not, Julia?'
+
+'Oh, she is so small, I should think the waves would ingulf her--but
+here comes her Captain, I suppose. Your father keeps close to him; and
+the old Commodore, how proud he seems.'
+
+'Yes, he does, I assure you,' said Mrs. Morris; 'he is proud of his
+vessel and her Captain too.'
+
+The three gentlemen now approached the ladies, raising their hats, and
+again replacing them, with the exception of the younger one, who, having
+removed his light chapeau, kept it in his hand.
+
+There was a seriousness in his air as he immediately stepped up to Mrs.
+Morris, and received her offered hand.
+
+'May God bless you, my dear fellow! Come, a mother's kiss.'
+
+Sam's heart was brave, but it was very tender. He took the liberty
+allowed him, but uttered not a word, while Mrs. Morris took no pains to
+restrain the flowing tears. He bowed to Miss Walton, and then the hand
+of Susan is within his own. He bowed respectfully, raised her hand, and
+touched it to his lips. He saw a tear start as he cast one parting
+glance upon her sweet face, and, without a word on either side, they
+separated.
+
+The Commodore and Major Morris, each taking an arm, walked with him to
+the little boat.
+
+'God bless you!' and the Major clasped his hand in both of his.
+
+'God bless you, Captain Oakum--a fine voyage to you!' and the Commodore
+gave him a sailor's squeeze.
+
+A great many hands were stretched out, and Sam was busy enough for a
+little while. He was a great favorite, and all were sad at parting with
+him. Just as he was about to step into the boat, two men were seen
+hastening along shore.
+
+'There are the two men, Captain, that have shipped to-day.'
+
+'Have you your papers with you?' said Captain Oakum, addressing the men
+who had just reached them.
+
+'Yes, sir--here they are;' handing them at the same time to the Captain.
+
+'Aboard with you, then.'
+
+They sprang in and tumbled themselves away as they best could. Sam
+raised his hand; every oar was dropped, and the little boat shot away
+like an arrow from the strand. As she left the shore, he turned towards
+the land, and removing his chapeau, waved it towards those who stood on
+shore, and then raising his eye to the different groups which he saw on
+the elevated bank, bowed, and at once there was a great waving of
+handkerchiefs, and some among them had other work to do with theirs, for
+tears were flowing freely. A fond mother and sisters were there, and
+there were friends of his early days, hearts knit to him in tenderest
+friendship. Gracefully the little schooner rounds to, and for a few
+moments lies flapping in the wind. Her Captain springs upon her deck,
+again she falls off to take the breeze, the sails swell gently out, and
+on she goes ploughing her way towards the mighty ocean.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+
+Sam is now off, and for a season we must bid him adieu. Jim and Ned felt
+sorely the loss of one with whom they had been so long and happily
+connected; but matters of the last importance soon demanded their
+attention, and for the time banished thoughts of friends, and almost all
+other earthly considerations. Their business had hitherto been
+prosperous, and they had yet to learn, by their own experience, some of
+those trials which business men are ever liable to suffer. The
+advantage which they possessed of receiving supplies immediately from
+one of the largest marts in our country not only insured to them the
+trade of individual families, but also that of many stores removed far
+back into the country; with these they were obliged to deal on liberal
+terms, allowing them a credit of sufficient length to meet the slow
+returns of a country trade. They had as yet carried on a successful
+traffic, settling every six months by an exchange of produce, or a note
+at short time.
+
+One article of country produce had become a valuable item in their
+trade--the pine timber from the barrens--and so urgent was the demand
+for it, in consequence of its excellent quality, and the facility with
+which it could be floated to market, that they found it necessary to
+make large purchases beyond what they would receive as an exchange of
+goods; these purchases had frequently to be made by an advance of
+one-half or three-fourths of the value, and the balance paid on
+delivery.
+
+As their orders of late had been much increased, they had exerted
+themselves to procure funds, and by this method had, as they supposed,
+secured a very large and valuable lot of timber.
+
+One morning--the very day after the departure of Sam--they were favoured
+with a visit from Mr. Cross. James, the elder partner, received him
+politely, but with some reserve; for, to tell the truth, they had no
+favorable opinion of his character. He had a fine lot of timber for
+sale, and would be glad to contract with them for it.
+
+'We have already engaged as much as we need at present, sir, and are
+expecting it every day; in fact, Mr. Bolton promised to deliver it last
+week, but I presume he has met with some unexpected hindrance.'
+
+'If it is from Mr. Bolton you are expecting the timber, I think you may
+give up looking for it, as I have been obliged to take all he has on
+hand, to secure myself for a debt he owed me. I suppose you know that he
+has gone to pieces?'
+
+As Mr. Cross said this, he cast a very inquisitive glance at young
+Montjoy--
+
+'I hope you have not advanced much to neighbor Bolton on account of the
+timber; these are tight times, you know.'
+
+Just then Ned entered the store, and handed his brother a letter, which
+he had opened and read. Jim saw too clearly that there was a good reason
+for the very serious air which his brother's countenance assumed, when
+he handed it to him.
+
+'I believe, Mr. Cross, that we can do nothing about the timber this
+morning.'
+
+'Good morning, gentlemen.'
+
+No sooner had their visitor left, than they retired to a little back
+room at the end of their store, where they had held many a pleasant
+conversation in company with their friend Sam. Heretofore, when they had
+repaired to this room, it had been with light hearts, and many a joyous
+hour had they passed there--far different feelings now pressed their
+spirits. Their trials until now had been of the light and transient
+kind, which a little youthful energy, a little determination of purpose,
+or putting forth of physical power, could overcome and scatter. Now they
+have got a lesson to learn on a new page of life.
+
+When they reached the room, Jim again read over the letter, which proved
+to be another messenger with bad tidings.
+
+It ran as follows:--
+
+     'GENTLEMEN,--I am sorry to be compelled to inform you that the two
+     notes of Bowers & Co. and Jones & Brothers, which fell due
+     yesterday at the Bank, were protested for non-payment; the note
+     which I hold of yours for fifteen hundred dollars, and to meet
+     which the above notes were left with me, will be due in ten days,
+     and you will be obliged to remit the amount, or otherwise arrange
+     for it, as the distressing pressure at present on the money market
+     will render it utterly impossible for me to honor your note from my
+     own resources. I send this by private hands in advance of the mail,
+     as I wish you to have the earliest notice possible of this event.
+
+     'Yours respectfully,
+
+     'JAMES MCFALL.'
+
+To make this letter more intelligible, it may be proper to state that
+Mr. McFall was a personal friend of the Montjoys, who attended to their
+banking arrangements--the institution being at such a distance (full
+twenty miles) as rendered such aid necessary. He received their notes
+payable at the bank, due from merchants, collected and made payments as
+they directed, and having facilities, whenever they needed funds for
+extra service, procured for them what they wanted, either upon their own
+note, for which he held the business paper as security, or upon the
+paper itself. In the case of the fifteen hundred dollar note mentioned
+in the letter, he had procured the money from the bank on it alone, and
+held their business paper in two notes for about the same amount; these
+failing to be met, he was obliged to look to them for payment.
+
+To describe the feelings of the two young men, as the alarming news
+broke upon them, and the calamitous consequences which it threatened,
+would be a vain attempt. Had an earthquake burst at mid-day, and with
+its convulsive quiver rocked their building, until they could see the
+tottering fabric parting at its joints and falling upon their devoted
+heads, it could not have waked up more intense, more appalling
+sensations. They had begun by the sweat of their brow; they had exerted
+every energy; they had advanced step by step; their business had grown
+by a natural progress; they had not forced it by speculation, nor by an
+undue haste to acquire wealth; they had abstained from borrowing on the
+names of others, and from lending their own; they had trusted to none
+but those who stood well in trade; their yearly gains were such as they
+had every reason to be contented with; and, but yesterday, they felt
+firm in their own strength, and buoyant with the fair prospect before
+them. Now their foundation is gone, and the labor of years that are
+past, and hope for years to come, alike vanished, as a vision, from
+before them.
+
+Ned had so long been accustomed to lean upon his brother in every
+emergency, to have him think out a way for them, that hitherto he had
+never troubled himself with any further care than faithfully attending
+to the execution of his plans. Now he saw that the staff upon which he
+had leaned was broken: the pale features, the knit brow, the clammy
+sweat that stood upon his temples; the vacant gaze with which he looked
+upon the letter that lay folded in his hands, told him that James was
+sore dismayed, and at his wit's end.
+
+'Let us go, Jim, and tell mother all about it.'
+
+But Jim answered him not; he merely sighed and wiped his forehead, and
+then leaning forward, covered his face, as if he wished to hide even
+from his brother the agony that was wringing his bosom.
+
+Oh! ye who despise the plodding toil of your daily labor, who think it
+drudgery to follow the plough, and handle the hoe, and reap the fields,
+and gather in your scanty gains, and are ashamed of the homely fare and
+the rude dress that these afford you, could you but have known the
+bitterness of that trial which was sending its pangs into the heart of
+that young man, you would prize more highly the freedom you have from
+distressing care, the independence you enjoy of either the frown or the
+favor of man, the quiet that is spread over all your humble enjoyments,
+and the peace of mind which goes with you to your rest and meets your
+waking thoughts. Depend upon it, that the glitter of wealth is purchased
+at a higher price than your imagination fancies.
+
+Ned did not venture again to disturb his brother's meditations, and
+began even to hope that he was devising some plan for their rescue; but
+for once his clear and business intellect was at fault. The blow was so
+sudden, that his young mind could only suffer, without being able to
+wake up its energies to meet and ward off its consequences. Conscious at
+last that something must be done, and not sufficiently composed to know
+what that must be, he quietly arose, folded the letter, and placing it
+in his pocket--
+
+'You are right, Ned; let us go and tell mother. She ought to know how
+things stand, without delay.'
+
+It was no strange thing for these young men to make a confidant of their
+mother. She had accustomed them to tell her all their thoughts, and thus
+had they grown up beneath her fostering care; and opening, as they did
+to her, the fountain of their soul, she watched each bubble that came
+sparkling up, cleared all the dross and specks away with sweet maternal
+care; and still she loved to watch--it was her life's one duty; for well
+she knew, if all was bright and pure within the living spring, the
+streams must, in the end, be bright and sparkling too.
+
+Alarmed at once by the appearance of her sons, as they entered the
+little room, where she sat with their sweet sister, plying their busy
+needles, she laid aside her task, and turning her anxious eye on James--
+
+'What is it, my children? James, I know you are in some great trouble.'
+
+'We are in trouble, mother, and we have thought it our duty to let you
+know all about it at once.' And they each took a seat beside her, while
+Ellen, the darling of their hearts, unused to any thing but smiles from
+her dear brothers, took Ned's hand in hers, and pressed it in all the
+warmth of her love, and wept as she looked at the calm yet serious
+countenance of her light-hearted brother.
+
+In a very straight-forward way, James told his mother the news which had
+just been brought to them, and ended his communication by saying:
+
+'Thus you see, mother, at one blow, is swept away all that we, have
+earned by our labors for these six years past; but that is not the worst
+of it.'
+
+'You are afraid, my son, that it will take more than you have earned; it
+will leave you in debt?'
+
+'Yes, mother, it will leave us, I fear, one thousand dollars worse than
+nothing, and that is not all.'
+
+'That is bad enough, James, but I hope you cannot accuse yourselves of
+any wrong proceedings--any--'
+
+'Nothing wrong, mother, that we can see; but we shall lose--we shall
+lose our credit, and that, mother, is worse than death.'--And Jim could
+stand no more; manly as he was, he covered his face, and gave way to a
+passionate burst of grief.
+
+Mrs. Montjoy spoke not until the violence of it was past, and then, in a
+very calm and soothing way, gave such counsel as her judgment best
+dictated.
+
+There is something in the tones of a mother's voice that goes at once to
+the heart of man. James felt the influence of her sweet words, lulling
+the violence of the storm within. Calmer views began to break upon
+him--a juster sense of the responsibility of his present situation. This
+was his hour of adversity, and he must act the man.
+
+Ned, too, began to feel his heart grow lighter.
+
+'Come, Jim, let us keep up a good heart; things may come round right at
+last, and if the worst happens, we can go to work again in the old
+garden.'
+
+'Ah, my son, you will often think of your boyhood's days in that garden:
+you worked hard, but you were light-hearted and happy, although you
+sometimes complained of back-aches and blistered hands.'
+
+'Mother, I tell you what,' said Ned, 'heart-aches are worse than
+back-aches; the one you can sleep off, the other I don't believe we can
+get rid of in that way.'
+
+'Yes, brother, now that we look back upon them, those were the happiest
+days, I think, that you and I will ever see; but we did not think so
+then. Now we cannot go back; we must, therefore, as mother says, meet
+this trouble like men, and urge our way along the best we may. Mother, I
+thank you for your dear good words, they have revived my spirit'--and he
+stooped and kissed her. 'And now, Ned, we have a great deal to do; let
+us be about it.'
+
+As soon as the brothers were alone, Jim showed that he was himself
+again, and in a very calm and business-like manner prepared for action.
+
+'The first thing we must do, Ned, will be to see exactly how we stand.
+While you are attending to customers, I will make an abstract of our
+books. Then this evening, when the store is closed, we will take an
+account of our stock; we shall then know better our situation, and what
+course to pursue. We must put on a cheerful countenance, and keep
+straight along as usual, for to-day at any rate.'
+
+'I don't know about the cheerful face, Jim, but I will do the best I
+can.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+
+Scarcely had Cross and his companion in guilt retired from their dark
+conclave to carry out their dreadful purpose, when a young man arose
+stealthily from off a rude mattress upon which he had been lying,
+listened a moment, then hastily threw on a coat which had served him for
+a pillow, and with light steps proceeded towards the door; his further
+progress was now arrested, for the key had been removed, and the lock
+was bolted. Somewhat alarmed at this hindrance, he cast his eye
+anxiously along the front windows, and proceeded to undo the fastenings
+on the inside, when a thought occurred to him, that if he escaped
+through that opening, it would be noticed on the return of the owner of
+the store, which, from what he had overheard, would be in a few moments.
+He therefore replaced the bolt, and hastily retreated to a building
+connected with the store and running back from it. Here, too, by some
+unaccountable purpose, he was again frustrated; the door was fastened
+and the key withdrawn; and, to his consternation, he heard footsteps and
+voices. Cross, and the gang of wretches he had awaked from their lair,
+which was in one of the out-houses connected with his establishment,
+were about to enter the store--he to give his instructions to them, to
+inspire them with the hellish draught; and they to go hence on their
+errand of mischief. To remain where he was, and be discovered, his life
+would not be worth a mention; that he well knew. Above his head was a
+trap-door, opening into the loft which ran over the store. The covering
+was removed, he sprang upon a barrel, the nearest article to where he
+stood; making a desperate effort, his hands grasped the sides of the
+hole--he heard the key rattling in the lock, exerted himself with an
+energy the fear of death alone could have inspired, and drew at
+arms-length the whole weight of his body through the aperture. The door
+opened, and Cross entered with three of the creatures around whom he had
+wound the coils of iniquity, until they had become the slaves of his
+will.
+
+'Now, boys, sit down here. Dick, there's the measure--draw away, and
+help yourselves.'
+
+Nothing was said in reply; the running liquor alone sounded through the
+still room, and then the smack of the lips as each in turn gulped down
+the liquid fire.
+
+'I wouldn't have called you, boys, to-night, but I have a job on hand
+that must be done now or never.'
+
+'We're ready,' said two of the persons addressed, who were now seated on
+a bench near the counter.
+
+'You are all ready, I hope,' said Cross, who stood up before them, and
+eyed the individual who was the youngest of the three, and had not
+united in the assent. 'No skulking now, Jo.'
+
+'No, no, I'm ready for any thing--that is, I s'pose you don't want no
+bloody work?'
+
+'You are always afraid of blood, Jo. I've never set you at any such
+work, have I?'
+
+'No, not exactly--but we have come pretty near it sometimes, you know.'
+
+'"Pretty near it"--never hurt any body.'
+
+'Well, let's have the story,' said the eldest of the gang; 'if there is
+any thing to do to-night, it's time to be about it.'
+
+'You are the fellow, Dick;'--and Cross laid his hand familiarly on the
+ruffian, and gave him one or two hearty slaps on the back, in
+manifestation of his warm approval, and as a stimulant to the
+performance of his reasonable request.
+
+The demand of Mr. Cross upon their services was made in a low tone, and
+listened to by them with the deepest attention, each head drooping, and
+with eyes in a gazing attitude fixed upon the floor.
+
+His directions were given with great clearness; the horses they were to
+ride, the part of the premises they were to fire, which of them was to
+enter the house and seize the trunk, and who the individual that should
+bear it with, the utmost speed to the dark rendezvous, where he, Cross,
+would be in waiting to receive it.
+
+'And if it goes well, you shall be made men--you hear _that_?'
+
+'Yes.' But they had heard the same before, and were yet the drudges of
+his will. His power over them they knew--his frown they feared; and his
+command must be obeyed.
+
+Every word that passed came up with painful distinctness to the ears of
+the young man who lay above them, almost breathless in his dread lest
+some sound, even the beat of his heart against the planks, should be
+heard, and his presence discovered. He knew well the desperate character
+of the men, and that he must move with wary steps.
+
+Every thing is at length arranged, and he hears them again fortifying
+their spirits by a deep draught. The door is opened, and one by one they
+steal out, but apparently with little zest for the work before them.
+Cross waited a moment on the threshold, until they disappeared amid the
+dark pines, and then, muttering curses on the men who were about to
+blacken their souls with a heinous crime for his sake, he stepped back
+into the store, poured out some gin from his bottle, took a long drink,
+threw himself into one of the chairs, and, leaning back against the
+counter, amused himself with swinging his heel against one of the rungs.
+
+Bill Brown--for it was he who had been the providential listener to this
+vile scheme, had learned more in one short lesson than through his whole
+life before. Light, as though from heaven, flashed upon him; the
+dreadful character of his employer was revealed in all its blackness.
+Fear, likewise, had taken hold upon him; a groan, a movement, even too
+loud a breath, might place him in an instant on the verge of eternity.
+
+And then, too, the dreadful fate which hung over that family. Bill had
+been a recreant to the path of duty; his mother's counsels he had set
+light by, and too often had he ridiculed the interest which she felt in
+those friends of her early days, and had done his best to persuade
+Hettie against making her home there: but now he would give half his
+life for the power of flying to them. How he longed to grapple with the
+hateful wretch, and then spread the alarm ere their mansion was wrapped
+in flames, and perhaps some of the family victims to their fury. But he
+knew that Cross was armed, and a powerful man.
+
+The tramp of horses is heard; his heart sinks within him; furiously they
+pass the place, and far, far away, the sounds come back fainter and
+fainter upon the stillness of the night.
+
+How long he thus remained he could not tell, for minutes are hours when
+the heart is in such an exciting suspense. At length he hears the snap
+of a watch-case. Cross rises from his seat, opens the door, fastens it
+from without, and is off. Bill waited not to hear his retiring
+footsteps; he springs to the floor, hastens to a window, of which he had
+not thought in his first attempt; it opened on one side of the building,
+and was seldom used. The sash creaked as he forced it through the mouldy
+casement, and, quickly letting himself down, carefully closed the
+shutters, and then looking round as though the avenger of blood might be
+watching for him, crossed the road, and entered a thick covert of pines.
+He turned and looked at the long dark building where he had wasted so
+much of his past life--
+
+'If I once get beyond your reach, good-by to you for ever.'
+
+Distracting were the thoughts which rioted within the mind of this
+youth. He was sure that the villains were full an hour in advance of
+him, and the work of destruction no doubt begun ere this. To pursue
+them, would be fruitless as preventing the catastrophe; to go in the
+opposite direction and seek his mother's home, would be to fill her soul
+with unavailable terrors. No house was near, but the one from which he
+had just escaped--no human being within some miles, to whom he should
+dare communicate what he knew. It was full nine miles to Mr.
+Rutherford's. His utmost haste would only enable him, in all
+probability, to witness the smouldering ruins of their mansion, and, oh,
+dreadful thought! the ashes of his own sister perhaps. He could think no
+further; the spirit of vengeance stirred strong within--he groped about
+for something that might serve him for a weapon, and laid hold of a
+strong chesnut club; brandishing it in his hand and testing its strength
+by a blow upon the ground--
+
+'If I can do nothing more, I will make one of them feel the weight of an
+avenging arm.'
+
+He is resolved to urge on his way towards the scene of mischief. He
+remembers, too, that in the instructions which Cross had given, one of
+them on the fleetest horse, was to seize the trunk and hasten off. He
+might meet him alone, and possibly rescue the prize, if nothing more.
+
+Never had the road seemed so interminable, and his utmost speed was to
+his burning spirit but a snail's pace. Still he presses on--a long hill
+is before him; when he reaches its summit he will be near the edge of
+the barrens. He heeds not the ascent--his whole frame is nerved with an
+energy he never has felt before--it is his first essay in the path of
+duty. As he reaches the top a faint streak of light seems to tinge the
+distant cloud--his heart beats with deep emotion--an instant more, and a
+flush of light suffuses the whole heavens. He could scream in the
+intensity of his feelings. He thinks he hears a sound--he pauses to
+listen--it is--it is--the fiendish plot is accomplished, and the
+villains are returning with the spoil. The tramp of one horse, however,
+can only be heard as yet; the rider doubtless bears the fatal treasure.
+The resolution of a whole life fires his breast and nerves him with a
+fixed determination to grapple with the wretch--the horseman is
+galloping up the hill--his jaded beast lags as he nears the top. Bill
+crouches behind some bushes near the travelled path--his eye is on the
+horseman--it has caught sight of the burden borne in front of him. With
+a single bound he grasps the rein at the horse's head, and levelling a
+desperate blow, brings rider and trunk to the ground. The horse,
+affrighted, tears down the road, and makes directly for his home. Bill
+stoops to secure the trunk, not knowing or caring whether his victim is
+dead or not, when his antagonist, who is only stunned by the blow,
+springs upon him! They know each other well, and have often tried each
+other's strength in sport; they are nearly matched--both young, and
+possessed of great muscular power. Bill is now nerved with the energy of
+right, and the other with the strength of despair, maddened, too, with a
+desire for revenge. The violence with which they grapple brings both to
+the earth--it is a death-struggle--each endeavoring to get his opponent
+under, and each by turns gaining the advantage, until at length Bill
+lies apparently at the mercy of his adversary, whose hand is fast
+clenched to his throat, while he exerts his utmost strength to strangle
+him. Bill feels that his hour has come, for the death-grip which binds
+his throat is palsying his strength. One arm, however, is free--he
+clutches in his despair for something that might serve him for a
+weapon--his club lay within his grasp--hope springs to his heart--he
+brings down the weapon with a desperate effort, and it fell on the head
+of his opponent. Bill felt the tight clench relax, and putting forth
+his last powers, renews the blow. It has done the work. With scarce
+strength enough to throw off the body of the now helpless man, he
+attempts to rise, but in his effort to do this, the blood gushed in a
+torrent from his lungs. He believes that he has killed the wretched
+being beside him, and that he himself is parting with life. His reason
+is bright as ever--he takes up the trunk, and creeping as he best can,
+leaves the road, hoping to reach a hut which he knows is near by,
+deliver his charge, and then die, if so it must be. But his strength is
+less than he supposes--he can drag his trembling body but a short
+distance. Gradually his powers depart--a strange and dreamy sleep comes
+over him, and soon all earthly sounds and sense of earthly care are
+gone; and there he lies, still clenching the object for which he
+struggled so desperately.
+
+Scarcely had this scene transpired when the companions of the wretched
+being who lay stretched upon the highway came hurrying along; their
+horse started from the track. Casting their eyes at the object that had
+caused it, they both sprang to the earth, examined a moment to ascertain
+who and what it was, and then looking at each other, simultaneously
+uttered a horrid oath. But there was no time to loiter; the body must
+not be there to tell a tale.
+
+'He's dead, Dick; so let's throw him across the horse and be off.'
+
+'He's dead enough, Jo; but where is the trunk? we can't go without that.
+We had better not meet the old man, if that is gone.'
+
+Uttering all kinds of imprecations on their own souls for having had
+anything to do with the business, and wishing old Cross all manner of
+evil, as they groped about in vain for the prolific cause of all this
+mischief, in utter desperation they caught hold of the body: a groan
+caused them to drop it instantly--
+
+'Ned, are you alive? Can you tell us where the trunk is?' There was no
+reply; but the body was warm, and of course life was in it. How to
+proceed they knew not; and their guilty consciences urged them to do
+something with speed. In their dilemma, they sent forth again on the
+still night-air curses too profane for human ears; the light, too, of
+that foul deed they had committed was growing brighter and brighter; far
+over the murky sky it spread, and its blood-red glare came down upon
+them, exposing to their strained eyes the first tokens of the avenger's
+rod.
+
+At length, in their desperation, they determined to place the wounded
+and dying man astride the horse, between them. It was no easy matter to
+accomplish this, and more than one groan escaped the sufferer; but the
+strait they were in was urgent; they could not be deterred by trifles.
+
+Not far from the dwelling of Mr. Cross, about half a mile in a direct
+line, a great change was visible in the size of the timber and the
+aspect of the woods: the fine tall trees, with no undergrowth, and
+scarcely a bush to obstruct the passage through them in any direction,
+were suddenly exchanged for a thick and tangled mass of scrub pines,
+intermixed with alder and black birch. The road leading through it, or
+rather into it, showed clearly its unfrequented condition; the whole
+tract being left, after the first fine growth of timber had been taken
+off, to bring forth what it best could, none then living expecting to
+reap much benefit from it. The soil was sandy, with scarcely any stones
+to be seen, except occasionally a small boulder, which, as it lay
+disconnected with any of its species, impressed the mind with the idea
+that it was out of its place, and was there by accident.
+
+One spot, however, on this lone region, presented a singular contrast to
+all the rest; a few rods from the only road which passed into it, was an
+open, clear place, almost a perfect circle in its form, and about a
+hundred feet in diameter, upon which was neither shrub nor tree; the
+whole area being a flat granite rock, without seam or crack; it was not,
+indeed, a perfect level, but the protuberances upon its surface were
+scarcely noticeable, except as you walked across it.
+
+To this spot had Cross directed his emissaries, after they should have
+accomplished his purpose. It was lonely and desolate, and well chosen
+for such a rendezvous.
+
+What were his feelings, as he paced up and down that rock, lighted by
+the lurid glare reflected from the cloud above him, it would not be very
+profitable for us to know; nor shall I attempt to uncover the hideous
+secrets of such a heart. But there he walked and watched for two long
+hours--long indeed they seemed to him--and as he paused ever and anon to
+listen for approaching steps, would curse their tardiness, and then
+resume his lone, heavy tramp.
+
+At length he heard the sound of voices, and the slow tread of a single
+horse. In his haste to anticipate the accomplishment of his vile wish,
+he left the rock and hurried to the road; one of them had dismounted,
+and was about to pass from the road to the trysting-place, the other
+maintained his place upon the horse, holding the helpless body of his
+companion.
+
+Their tale was soon told, for there was not much to say; mystery lay
+upon every thing concerning the wounded man, or the trunk which had been
+committed to him.
+
+Cross listened awhile to their story, his rage gathering fire, until,
+bursting through all bounds, it broke forth like a volcano. He caught
+the one who was standing near him, by the throat, and drawing a pistol
+from his breast--
+
+'You lie, you villain! you know you lie! Tell me this moment where you
+have put that trunk, or I will blow your perjured soul from your
+body--tell me, quick.'
+
+Overcome with fatigue from the great exertion of the night, and with a
+consciousness of the atrocity of their crime, the young man exclaimed,
+in broken accents, weeping as he spoke,
+
+'You may blow my soul out, if you please, Mr. Cross; but as there is a
+God above, I cannot tell you where it is.'
+
+Throwing the young man away from him with a force that brought him to
+the earth, he dashed the pistol down with maniac rage, tore his hair,
+foamed at the mouth, and fairly howled in the violence of his anger. For
+a while the witnesses looked on in apparent apathy, seeming to care but
+little how much he vented his spite upon himself. At length the one who
+still retained his seat upon the horse, very coolly asked,
+
+'What shall we do with Ned? If he was dead we might bury him; but seeing
+there is life in him, it wouldn't be quite so well, may be; he may yet
+come to, so as to tell who hurt him, and may be some other things had
+better be seen to, for the night is wearing away, and--'
+
+Cross, enraged as he was, felt that there was reason in this, and,
+moreover, that it was of the greatest consequence to him that the
+wounded man should be taken care of, and placed beyond the reach of
+meddlers.
+
+'You are right. Take him down to the back part of the east swamp--you
+know who lives there. Tell Meg I sent him; that no one must know he is
+there; she must do what she can to bring life in him, and as soon as he
+can speak, to let me know.'
+
+He stooped and picked up his pistol, uncocked the trigger, replaced it
+in his bosom, and walked on his way, muttering curses, and pondering on
+the best manner to avert the danger of discovery which these untoward
+events threatened.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+
+The trial which had fallen upon the family of Mr. Rutherford was one so
+new and unexpected, that, with the exception of himself and wife, but
+little effect was made upon the members of it.
+
+A vague report, indeed, ran through the house, of some trouble that had
+befallen its master, but what was the nature of it they could not well
+define. To Hettie alone had Mrs. Rutherford confided the secret; for she
+felt that her strong attachment, her faithful disposition, and her
+discreet behaviour, entitled her to confidence. She received the
+information with a heart bleeding in sympathy, but manifested so much
+good sense, had so many encouraging things to say, and put on such a
+calm, peaceful look, that Mrs. Rutherford felt that she had indeed a
+prop to lean upon in this faithful girl. All that day Hettie went about
+with an energy beyond what was usual, taking from Mrs. Rutherford all
+her cares and duties immediately domestic, and exerting every effort to
+put as bright a face upon the family as if nothing had happened. The
+servants in the kitchen had whisperings among themselves, but further
+than that, there was no sign that any change had taken place. They
+little knew the cause of bitter anguish that wrung the master's heart;
+every thing to them appeared as heretofore: their beautiful mansion, the
+pleasant grounds about it, the noble trees, and all the comforts that
+spread such a satisfying charm over the whole, to them looked as sure as
+ever; to him they were but shadows of the past--things that had been,
+but are not--by one fell stroke swept, all swept away.
+
+After the distracting scenes of the morning, Mr. Rutherford prepared to
+make a journey of some miles, in order to attend to business connected
+with the peculiar situation of his affairs, and more especially to
+consult a legal friend, and get such advice as his case demanded.
+
+Not expecting to return until the following day, he bade adieu to his
+dear family with a sad heart; and as he mounted his favorite horse, and
+rode away from his much-loved home--now his no more--he felt that he was
+under the chastening rod--the hand of God was upon him.
+
+It is said that birds of prey can scent their victims from afar, and spy
+the hidden carcass, however secret the spot where it may fall.
+
+It must have been by some such instinctive power that our old
+acquaintance, Mr. Richard Tucker, was affected, on the day that
+witnessed the catastrophe of Mr. Rutherford's concerns. His place of
+residence was some miles off, and no tidings had he received of any such
+event; and yet his yellow gig was that day put in requisition, and
+northward he must go.
+
+'I shall be home by night, may be.'
+
+This was all that he deigned to say, as he left his home, and the old
+gig squeaked and rattled as his raw-bone mare started off at a round
+trot; perhaps she scented her master's game.
+
+About a mile from the Rutherford estate there was a small collection of
+buildings; it bore the title of village however, and comprised a church,
+a blacksmith's shop, and a tavern, as also a few small and plain
+tenements. The tavern, of course, was the rendezvous through the week,
+and the place where all the news and scandal could be enjoyed. It was
+soon known around that trouble had fallen on the great man of that
+region, and a larger number than usual was congregated there just after
+dinner. But, to their credit be it said, a feeling of deep regret was
+very manifest: not a tongue was loosened against the sufferer, nor was
+there one among them disposed to take any measures for his own security,
+although to most of them he was indebted for services of different
+kinds.
+
+'George Rutherford,' said an aged, portly man, who seemed to be the
+oracle of the place, and who had taken the large arm-chair on the wide
+front piazza of the tavern, 'I have known from a boy; and if there ever
+was an honest man and a gentleman, he is one. Things have been going
+hard with him for some time, that we all know; he has had cunning chaps
+to deal with, and may be they have ruined him; but sooner than take the
+law of him, I will lose all he owes me, at any rate.'
+
+'So would I;' and 'So would I,' resounded on all sides.
+
+'But here comes Dick,' said the first speaker. 'I wonder what he is
+after?--hunting for a job, I guess.'
+
+And the old yellow gig drove up, and Mr. Tucker, with all the elasticity
+of a young man, sprang from his seat, and alighted on the lower step.
+
+'Good afternoon, gentlemen;' and Mr. Tucker bowed very stiffly, which
+perhaps he was obliged to do, for his coat was buttoned up close to the
+neck--a habit he maintained at all seasons.
+
+'Good day, Mr. Tucker; you seem to be in a hurry, neighbor; the old mare
+is quite out of breath.'
+
+'Oh no; not at all,' turning at the same time, and eyeing his beast;
+'she always breathes so. You may put her under the shed, Jo,' addressing
+a good-natured looking black, who stood waiting orders at the head of
+the beast.
+
+'Yes, massa. Any oats, massa?'
+
+'No--well--I don't care--yes. You may give her a mess--two quarts, Jo.
+Wet them, you hear?'
+
+Jo took the mare by the head, turned his face away from the company,
+opened his broad mouth, and went grinning along to the shed.
+
+'My golly! two quarts--ha, ha, ha! a half bushel no fill her belly--ha,
+ha, ha!'
+
+Mr. Richard has not altered much since we last saw him, either in
+appearance or disposition. Why he had come along that afternoon, no one
+knew; nor did he seem to be making preparation as though he had a job on
+hand. He heard the news of Mr. Rutherford's disaster with apparent
+indifference. I say apparent, for there is no doubt he felt much and
+deeply; he talked with one and another, making very few remarks, but
+asking a great many questions, and occasionally shrugging his shoulders,
+and knitting his dark eyebrows--it was a way he had. What effect his
+pantomime had upon those with whom he conversed was not very manifest,
+for they finally dropped off, one by one, leaving no orders behind them.
+
+It is an old saying, 'If one won't, another will.' Mr. Richard, no doubt,
+had heard the saying, and must have had considerable faith in it; for
+there was not an individual, either high or low, that escaped his
+attentions.
+
+The Irish are proverbially susceptible. Whether Mr. Richard knew this
+as a historical fact, I will not pretend to say, nor whether it led him
+to make a more direct and positive attack on poor Pat than he had done
+upon others that day; the result, however, was, that Jerry Malony, a
+rather good-natured fellow, to whom Mr. Rutherford was indebted for a
+summer's ditching, and whose pay was as sure as though already in his
+own hands, was suddenly seized with great terrors, in view of the
+certain loss of all his hard earnings, and with a distressing anxiety to
+become possessed, as a means of securing himself, of a pair of fine
+black horses, then in the possession of said Rutherford.
+
+We will not enter into all the particulars; suffice it to say, that Mr.
+Tucker and Mr. Malony adjourned from the east corner of the piazza to a
+private room inside the building, and thence to a justice of the peace,
+and thence back again to the bar-room; and, finally, the two worthy
+gentlemen were wishing each other very good health, and confirming their
+wishes by potent draughts of genuine Monongahela. There were many little
+arrangements to be made, which occupied them until the shades of evening
+had settled very decidedly upon the land.
+
+Old C�sar, the coachman--with whom we once became acquainted on the
+little journey Mr. Rutherford and his lady took through the barrens some
+years since--was still alive, and, to all appearance, active as ever.
+The old black coach-horses, too, had lost none of their strength or
+fire, for they were never overburdened, and being under the exclusive
+charge of C�sar, were daily tended with as much care as though they had
+been pet horses of a prince; their dark hides shone as brightly as
+C�sar's countenance did after a good supper, and all their appurtenances
+were kept in the most perfect order. To say that C�sar was fond of these
+creatures, whom he had tended and driven so long, would not express all
+his emotions towards them; they were, next to his master and mistress,
+and their children, the objects that engrossed his feelings--and C�sar
+had very strong feelings, too--his life he would have risked, or even
+sacrificed, to have preserved any of them from harm. He had no wife or
+children of his own, nothing to love except his master's family; and no
+wonder then, if for these beasts, who obeyed every expression of his
+will, and pawed, and neighed, and pranced, and did all but talk to him
+when they heard his step approaching, he had peculiar feelings.
+Moreover, C�sar was very proud of them: for they were acknowledged, far
+and near, to be a noble pair; and, to crown all, they were looked upon
+as his own. Mr. Rutherford never claimed any further right to them than
+the privilege of a drive occasionally.
+
+C�sar knew very little about his master's troubles; he had, indeed,
+heard some whispering in the kitchen among the women; but he paid no
+further heed to it than to bestow a back-handed blessing on their
+tongues.
+
+'Dey are always a-goin' jabbering about sumpin' or anoder. Massa George
+know he own business well enough, neber fear.'
+
+As C�sar's principal employment of late years was to attend to the
+horses, he had persuaded his master to fit up for him a room in the
+building where they were kept, so that, in case any accident should
+occur to them in the night, he could be on hand. A door opened from this
+room immediately into the stable; and as the whole premises were kept
+with the greatest care, there might be found much less eligible sleeping
+apartments in places that made greater pretensions. C�sar, however, did
+not sleep there entirely alone. Besides his pets, the horses, he had a
+dog of the real mastiff breed, that had been trained with much care, and
+was as completely under the will of C�sar as the other quadrupeds; he
+was a large, powerful creature, and unless under the complete control of
+a master, would have been dangerous; but at C�sar's word, he would be
+passive as a lamb, and at his bidding would lay the stoutest man upon
+his back, and hold him there without doing further violence, unless
+there was an attempt at resistance.
+
+Mr. Richard and his client Jerry had been sitting on the piazza of the
+tavern, watching for the return of Mr. Rutherford, who must pass that
+way to his house; hour after hour slipped by, and they looked in vain.
+
+'It's striking nine, your honour; shall we wait any longer?'
+
+'It is my opinion, my good fellow, that we might as well be on our way.
+As a matter of form, perhaps, it might be well enough just to make the
+demand; but as there is no probability, if it is all true that I hear,
+not the least probability that he can pay it, or will ever pay it, your
+only chance, my friend, is, as I say'--slapping his hand on Jerry's
+knee--'clap on to something tangible; and as you say the horses are
+valuable, they will be about as handy as anything I can think of. They
+have legs, you know; we can carry them off, or more probably, we can
+make them carry us off--ha, ha, ha!'
+
+All this was said with his face turned towards Malony, and speaking
+close to his ear, while his auditor, being rather short and a little
+worse for liquor, sat very erect, and looked as consequential as any
+newly made Justice trying his first cause.
+
+'And as we are to walk, I think we may as well be jogging.'
+
+'I think so, your honor.'
+
+The two worthies accordingly walked slowly along, and before a great
+while found themselves in the broad avenue leading to Mr. Rutherford's
+mansion.
+
+'You are well acquainted here, I suppose, Malony? The dog you speak
+of--is he--is he--loose?'
+
+'No, your honor, not just loose; he keeps tight to the nigger.'
+
+'And he, you say, sleeps in the stable?'
+
+'Pretty near it, your honor--close by.'
+
+'I think, my good fellow, that we may as well go at once, then, to the
+stable; the nigger being there, it will be sufficient to demand them of
+him, or to leave the attachment with him.'
+
+Mr. Richard, it must be premised, was not over-burdened with law
+knowledge. The people among whom he labored had taken his word as law
+enough for them. They found it hard law, to be sure; but, poor souls,
+they knew no better, and thought all was right.
+
+Jerry had implicit confidence in his adviser, and so walked bravely
+along. The dog being just then uppermost in his mind, knowing, as he
+well did, his ferocious character, he cared much more about a proper
+introduction to him, than any nice point in law.
+
+'Hadn't I better be after strikin' a light, your honor? it's amazin'
+dark.'
+
+'Not yet, Malony; not until we reach the stable.'
+
+It cost master Jerry no little trouble to strike his light, for his hand
+was not very steady; and as he gave two blows with his finger against
+the steel to one with the flint, there was more blood than sparks
+flying.
+
+'Bloody murther! that was a pealer: it's taken the skin, it has, your
+honor.'
+
+'Can't you hit it, Malony?'
+
+'I hit it, your honor, but my finger took it fornint the stone.'
+
+Mr. Richard now took matters into his own hands, and while Jerry was
+blowing and snapping his fingers, he managed to get some sparks into
+the tinder, and soon had his lantern in trim.
+
+C�sar was about the middle of his first nap when he suddenly awoke, and
+found that Trap was growling in a low undertone. Trap never barked, and
+very seldom condescended to growl, C�sar knew that there must be
+something going wrong; he therefore extricated his head from beneath the
+bed-clothes, and cast his eye round the premises. The lamp was still
+burning, and so far as his half-opened eyelids would allow him to see,
+there was no one in his room besides the usual inmates. Trap, to be
+sure, was out of his place, and sitting close by his master's bed,
+looking very significantly up at the red night-cap. As soon as he
+perceived that his master was awake, he ceased growling, like a very
+sensible dog as he was, signifying thereby that his only design in using
+his vocal powers was to stop the snoring, and call his master's
+attention to matters and things in the waking world. After rubbing away
+upon his eyes awhile, and working things awake there, C�sar, in a very
+philosophic manner, by means of his two arms, which he threw behind him
+and used as levers, first to raise and then to support and brace his
+body up, attained a sufficiently elevated position to see and hear what
+was going on. He was afraid of nothing but witches, and for that reason
+always had a light on hand; it being well known that neither in daylight
+nor candle-light was any danger to be apprehended from the 'good
+neighbors.' But something or somebody was stirring, and near by, too,
+for he evidently heard footsteps and voices, and, as well as he could
+make it out, they must be in the stable. Being more or less afflicted
+with the rheumatism, he was very deliberate in his movements. First
+throwing his somewhat recumbent body into a straight and self-supporting
+posture, and thereby relieving his arms from their burden; then casting
+aside whatever impeded his progress, in the way of covering, he turned
+his nether extremities by the pivot principle, brought himself in
+position to stand erect on the floor, and proceeded at once to the
+light, which was safely shut up in an old carriage lamp, through which
+the rays streamed forth by a small glass, calculated to converge, and
+throw them far ahead.
+
+C�sar was somewhat of a gentleman in his feelings, and on the subject of
+dress quite particular; for he followed the old fashion of small clothes
+and knee buckles, and broad-skirted coat and vest, with large lappels,
+and was ever ready, at any short notice, to appear with becoming apparel
+in the presence of his mistress. These he wore by day; but he made a
+complete change when he laid these by, and put on his night rig. As he
+was a bachelor, and ladies, white or black, had no business about his
+premises at night, he fixed himself as he thought best; and his fancy
+was, red flannel. Why he chose that color, he never saw fit to
+communicate; it may have been, however, that his good sense suggested
+that white, the usual dress, would make too strong a contrast. He had on
+a red flannel cap, that came pretty well over his ears, and a red
+flannel frock, or tunic, covering him from the neck downwards to the
+usual gartering place; below that the bare poles were plainly visible.
+To those who knew him perfectly, there was nothing very frightful in all
+this, because it was C�sar; but to those who might not have had
+experience on their side, as he then appeared, with his lantern
+streaming before him, he might have been mistaken for any thing that was
+not earthly.
+
+As Trap knew that his business was to keep still and remain in his place
+until called, so soon as he saw his master upon his legs, he was
+satisfied that all was correct, and nestled quietly down on his own bed.
+
+The only weapon C�sar ever kept on hand, was a pitchfork, a very ugly
+sort of a thing to come in contact with; for in the first place, it not
+only makes two holes where a bayonet or sword would make but one, but it
+gives great advantage to the one who uses it in its length of handle;
+this may have been the reason why C�sar preferred it. At any rate, there
+was always one standing in the corner of his room; it had very long and
+heavy tines, and a handle sufficient to keep an enemy at a respectful
+and safe distance. Feeling that it might be prudent to be prepared for
+danger, even if there was none, he grasped his weapon in one hand, and
+with the lamp in the other, drew back the little bolt, and throwing the
+door wide open by a strong push, stood in bold relief, casting his light
+round about through the large roomy stable, and straining his eyes to
+ascertain who or what it was.
+
+His appearance was the cause of considerable surprise; for although Mr.
+Malony had talked very freely about the _nigger_, as he was pleased to
+style Mr. C�sar Rutherford, and although both he and Mr. Richard
+expected to see him in the course of their proceedings, yet they could
+have had no very correct idea what shape a mere mortal, especially a
+black one, could assume; for no sooner did their own light throw its
+beams upon this sudden apparition, than they both made rapid retrograde
+movements, Jerry, in his haste, bringing up against the opposite wall,
+and Mr. Richard stepping back towards the door, as though it would be
+safe at least to be out of reach of the pitchfork.
+
+Whether C�sar was alarmed, it would be difficult to say; for he made no
+motion other than to throw the light of his lamp, first on one and then
+on the other of his visitors.
+
+Jerry, he thought, he had seen before; in fact, he was quite sure that
+he could not be mistaken in the little chunky Irishman, who had been so
+long under his master's pay; but Mr. Richard, C�sar could not make out;
+he had never been in these parts, that he remembered.
+
+As C�sar's appearance did not improve upon inspection, and as the two
+gentlemen were too far separated to consult as to further proceedings, a
+long silence would have been maintained had not C�sar opened a parley--
+
+'What a you want here?'
+
+The tones were not very mild, nor was the address made in very good
+humor; for C�sar threw in a few emphatic words which he sometimes used
+when excited, just by way of seasoning, and which for brevity's sake are
+omitted; but then it was a human voice, and it gave some assurance to
+Mr. Richard at least. He therefore advanced one or two paces:
+
+'Ah, that's you, is it, Boss?'
+
+'Git out wid your Boss, and tell me what a you want here dis time a
+night!'
+
+'Oh, we don't want any thing with you, my good fellow, but we have got a
+little business here that must be attended to. You know Malony
+here?'--turning at the same time towards his discomfited
+companion:--'You know he's been at work here all summer for your master.
+Here, Malony, step up here; you have nothing against this good man, you
+know.'
+
+But Malony preferred remaining where he was. C�sar's eyes, he thought,
+showed a little too much of the white to be very safe, especially under
+the circumstances.
+
+'I am sorry to have disturbed you, my good fellow, but as somebody must
+be notified before we proceed, I will just read the warrant, as I
+suppose you will hardly be able to make it out yourself;' and Mr.
+Richard pulled out a bit of paper and began to read rapidly--'Know all
+men by these presents,' etc. C�sar, in the mean time, was getting his
+wrath up. He never liked the Irishman, and had often cautioned his
+master against him; and Mr. Richard's countenance not being, as my
+readers will remember, very pre-possessing, together with the fawning
+manner in which he attempted to get round him, woke up C�sar's
+sensibilities:
+
+'Mister, go to grass wid your paper, and tell a me what you want
+'sturbing people dis time a de night.'
+
+Mr. Richard being thus interrupted in his proceedings, stopped reading,
+and looking full in C�sar's face--
+
+'You know, I suppose, my good man, that Mr. Rutherford has failed?'
+
+'Hab what?'
+
+'Has failed; that is, can't pay his debts.'
+
+'You a big liar.'
+
+Mr. Richard didn't blush; he never had in his life; but he began to pick
+up a little courage.
+
+'You must take care, old fellow, how you speak; I am an officer of the
+law, take care, sir. Here Malony, lead out one of these horses, and I
+will take the other.'
+
+'What dat you say?'
+
+And C�sar stepped forward, Mr. Richard retreating at the same time,
+until he came to the edge of the stall.
+
+'Me like to see you touch one of dem horses.'
+
+Mr. Richard had now come in closer contact with C�sar; and perceiving
+that he was quite an old man, and walked rather stiff, made a sudden
+spring, and grasped the pitch-fork.
+
+'Trap, Trap.'
+
+There was a rush from the little room, and in the next moment Mr.
+Richard was lying on his back, with the fore-paws of master Trap resting
+one on each shoulder, and his mouth presenting a row of teeth in such
+dangerous contiguity to Mr. Richard's throat, that he began to fear
+matters were tending to extremities, and called out 'Murder!' at the top
+of his voice.
+
+'Hole you lyin' tongue; he be de death of you.'
+
+'Malony, Malony! help, help; kill the dog; quick, take a pitchfork, any
+thing, do, my good fellow, he'll murder me.'
+
+But Mr. Malony was not so drunk but he had sense enough to see that
+there was mischief brewing; and no sooner was Mr. Richard on his back,
+than he bolted and ran for dear life, Mr. Richard's cries only adding
+wings to his flight across lots for home.
+
+'I tell a you what, mister, you no hole you tongue and keep till, me let
+de dog take you lights out in a minit. Hold him dare, Trap, till a
+morning; den we see how he look.'
+
+'Oh, good man! good man!' Mr. Richard spoke now in a whisper--'do--don't
+go away, don't leave me here; I promise I will go right off; I was only
+doing my duty as an officer.'
+
+'Me gib a you duty; you 'member C�sar next time; take care de horses no
+kick a your brains out.' There was indeed a very dangerous proximity
+between Mr. Richard's head and the horses' heels, especially as they
+were pawing and prancing about under the exciting influence of C�sar's
+voice.
+
+'Oh do, good Mr. C�sar, for the love of mercy, just take the dog off,
+and let me go! I give you my sacred honor'--But C�sar had no such idea.
+The insult offered to his master and his horses had steeled his heart.
+
+'I tell a you what, mister; you no lay till and keep a your tongue, your
+time is short; he only take two mouthful, you be gone chicken, so good
+night to you;' and C�sar hobbled back into his room.
+
+The grave and the gay, the mirthful and the sad, are so blended in this
+world, that in delineating any series of events, we find ourselves
+constrained to shift the scenery so often and so suddenly, that if we
+did not know we were sketching from nature, we should fear to be charged
+with drawing upon fancy, even to extravagance.
+
+C�sar had bidden Mr. Richard good night, and to all appearance, designed
+leaving him, as he said, 'to de mornin', to see how he look den.'
+
+He had been sorely disturbed, and perhaps feeling that it would be
+rather difficult to compose himself to sleep under the existing state of
+things, he so far arranged himself in his day apparel that he felt ready
+for any emergency; it was not according to C�sar's sense of propriety to
+be caught in just the shape he had been. After fixing things a little,
+he threw himself on the bed, talked away for some time, and even made
+one or two broad grins, as though there was something on his mind not
+very unpleasant, and finally sunk into a dreamy state, conscious, most
+of the time, of the condition of external things immediately around him,
+and yet so mixed up with things and places very foreign to them, that
+it was not the easiest matter in the world for him to be sure whether he
+was asleep or awake.
+
+How long he had been lying in this state it would be difficult to say,
+for time, under such circumstances, makes no tracks that are
+perceptible.
+
+Among other ideas that flitted through his mind, was that of a light
+which kept flickering across his window, and occasionally brightening up
+his whole room. For some time even after he was awake, he lay and
+thought about it. Distinctly beholding the glare, which now had become
+steadily bright, filling his whole room and absorbing completely the
+light of his lantern, suddenly he sprang from his bed, his mind awaking
+to a full consciousness that something was wrong; he hurried through the
+stable, and calling off Trap from the pitiful object who had been
+writhing under his surveillance, opened the outer door.
+
+'Fire, fire, fire!' he called at the full extent of his voice--'fire,
+fire, fire! Oh, my missus and de children!--the lord hab mercy.'
+
+The old man forgot his age, and ran with the speed of youth.
+
+The sight which had burst upon him was enough to have nerved with energy
+the most sluggish and unfeeling. On C�sar it broke with most appalling
+interest.
+
+He could not, indeed, get a full view, for the house was screened by the
+large trees and thick shrubbery; but enough could be seen to assure him
+that the dwelling was on fire; and the inmates, if they had not escaped,
+were in imminent danger, for the flames were flashing up to the tops of
+the trees, higher than the roof of the main building. In a few moments
+he was beside the burning pile, and the whole extent of the awful
+calamity was revealed to him. The fire was raging over the whole of the
+back part of the house, having already completely enveloped the back
+building connected with it, and was throwing its forked flames over the
+high roof, while the pitch-black smoke, which rolled around the whole
+premises without, gave awful forebodings of what might be the state of
+things within. No alarm had yet seized the family that he could discern;
+he listened in vain for any sound but the terrible cracking of the
+raging fire.
+
+He attempted the nearest door, but found it fastened. The wood-pile was
+at hand; he seized the axe; at that moment two men came running into
+the court-yard and calling fire. C�sar barely glanced at them, they were
+strangers to him; but he felt encouraged in his efforts; his arm was
+nerved with the strength of his early days--one blow drove it from its
+fastenings, and in he rushed amid the heat and smoke.
+
+The two men followed him, but for a very different purpose than to
+rescue the sleeping family from their fiery envelope.
+
+When Mr. Rutherford left his home, as before related, his expectation
+was to remain until the following day; but having accomplished his
+errand early in the evening, he concluded to return to his family. It
+would occupy much of the night, but he preferred spending it on
+horseback, so anxious was he to be again with his wife and children;
+they were all he had now, and his heart yearned after them with a warmth
+of affection he had never realized before.
+
+A little past midnight, as he was turning the summit of a hill, a sudden
+flash of light shot up in the distance; he thought it was the glare of a
+meteor; but painted on the clouds which overhung the western sky, it
+left a deep-red glow. As he gazed, while slowly descending the hill, he
+saw the flush extending, and gradually assuming a brighter and more
+lurid aspect.
+
+'It must be a fire; perhaps some poor sufferers are looking in anguish
+upon the wreck of their little all.'
+
+And on he went, ever and anon casting his eye at the clouds, and marking
+their curious forms, as the light in fitful flashes displayed their
+shape.
+
+At times, across the distant hills, he seemed to think that he could see
+the position of the fire, but intervening objects would again confine
+his view, and he could only discern the light on the clouds above him.
+Coming at length to an angle in the road, from which he could look in
+the direction of his home, he was startled to find that there was a
+clear and well-defined streak of light emanating from some burning
+building, which must be at least in that vicinity.
+
+Without being conscious of any decided alarm, he urged his horse to a
+faster pace, and kept his eye more constantly on the light. For some
+miles from where he lived the road ran among the hills; so that, however
+great had been his anxiety, it could not be gratified until he should
+emerge into the open country. At length he is ascending the last
+eminence that intervenes between him and the objects of the affections;
+the light is still blazing on the clouds above him; he hastens to the
+summit, and beholds--heart-rending sight--the home of his childhood--the
+dwelling where all his earthly hopes and love were clustered--a mass of
+crumbling ruins, from which the forked flames were shooting up and
+crackling on the still night-air; those demon sounds went in streams of
+madness to his heart.
+
+'Oh, my God!' he exclaimed; and deep in the sides of his horse he struck
+his spurs, and the good creature was urged into terrific speed. It was
+but a mile, and it was passed with a whirlwind's pace. Straight to the
+burning pile he rode; a few person's he discerned collected as near the
+fire as the raging heat would permit.
+
+'My wife and children!--for God's sake tell me quick--where are they?'
+He sprang from his horse, and was in the arms of the faithful C�sar.
+
+'All safe, Massa George! all safe, tank God!'
+
+'Thank God! thank God!' and he fell upon the old man like a helpless
+infant. He was carried into an outhouse, which had been spared by the
+devouring element, and kind hands and hearts were soon about him
+administering to his relief. As he awoke to consciousness, his beloved
+Mary was bending over him, and her warm lips pressed to his in the
+ecstasy of her joy.
+
+'Oh, Mary! my dear wife! where are my darlings? bring them to me; let me
+clasp you all once more!'
+
+And quick they came. He cast a look on each, a fond, a satisfied look,
+and then in one warm embrace he held them all.
+
+'Oh God! this is enough--I ask no more. Let me have but these--poverty
+in any shape may come; we will not fear it.'
+
+'Amen! my dear husband; we will not fear it.'
+
+It is often said by those who look on the dark side of Divine
+dispensations, that troubles always come in clusters, and one deep
+sorrow soon gives place to another. This may be true, but not in the
+sense which these croakers of misery would intimate. As happiness and
+unhappiness are often but relative terms in our changing world, it needs
+but the wise Director of events so to time the dispensations of his
+Providence, that one evil may counteract another, or to hold up before
+us the certainty that we and every interest near our heart are at his
+disposal, to bring us quietly to acquiesce in his will; and in that
+submission there is peace. George Rutherford, as he rode towards his
+home, amid the solitude of midnight, pondering over his ruined fortunes,
+felt that he was suffering the severest stroke which could have come
+upon him; but when he came in sight of the spot where that home had
+been, when he looked upon the terrible flames, and felt the dread
+uncertainty which hung over the fate of those dear ones of his heart, he
+then felt that God, his Sovereign and his Father, had at his command
+profounder depths of sorrow in which his soul might agonize. The loss of
+fortune was but a mere sip of the bitter cup, a mere mist from the dark
+and waste wilderness of mortal suffering; and when he folded his dear
+wife and children in his arms, he felt, as he said, 'Let poverty come,
+we will not fear it.'
+
+But he had yet to learn the full meaning which that word conveys. Little
+could he tell, born as he had been to affluence, the anguish which would
+at times wring his spirit; his resources drained, his home destroyed,
+the little comforts to which his family had been accustomed, the
+gratification of their finer tastes, the elegancies of life--all cut
+off; it was well for him that he could not know at once the full extent
+of that change which had passed upon his fortunes.
+
+One bitter ingredient in his cup was, that he could now plainly see that
+he had been remiss in that watchfulness and care which were demanded of
+him, over the inheritance that had been bequeathed to him. His kind
+feelings had been indulged without the exercise of common prudence, and
+he had permitted a morbid sensibility that shrunk from a just suspicion
+of those whose delinquencies he was not wholly ignorant of, and last,
+though not least in the catalogue which he reckoned up against himself,
+was his gross neglect in regard to some things requiring but a moment's
+attention, and yet involving serious consequences. The most mortifying
+and truly disastrous of these was revealed to him a few days after the
+scenes recorded in the last chapter. It occurred, too, at a moment when
+his spirits had begun to revive a little from their depression. It had
+been suggested to him that the time was not far off when his tract in
+the barrens would be of immense value. Hitherto it had been estimated
+comparatively as but little worth. The timber was indeed large, and its
+value, when it reached the market, considerable; but the cost of
+preparing it and transporting it so far left but a trifling return to
+the owner. A new demand was about to be created in the successful
+application of steam for river navigation. As hope began to agitate his
+bosom, he immediately remembered that he had, but lately, been examining
+the deed by which he held that property, and had noticed that there was
+no certificate upon it of its having been recorded, and that he had
+designed having it placed upon the public register. This design he had
+not accomplished, and if it was not there, it was gone for ever, as he
+knew the flames had devoured the original, with all his other papers.
+
+Hoping that it might still have been recorded by his father, and the
+notice of the fact neglected to be put upon the deed, he immediately
+ordered his lawyer to make the search. It was in vain; and to add to his
+chagrin, the gentleman who made the search informed him that a deed
+which Mr. Cross had received from one of the original proprietors,
+intended, as was supposed, to convey a title to only a few acres, did,
+by this discrepancy, possess him of a vast tract of many miles in
+extent. Terrible indeed was this blow to him; his last hope of
+retrieving his condition vanished. He must now look abroad upon the wide
+world for some honest means of supporting his family. How he envied the
+laboring man, who, accustomed to toil from his boyhood, went forth to
+his daily occupation with a lively spirit. How gladly would he have
+taken his place, no matter how severe the work; but his muscular power
+was not equal to it. Trained to no regular business, stript of all
+external dependence, he saw before him but a dark and misty wilderness,
+through which he must grope his way as he best could.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+
+The influence which Henry Tracy was enabled to exert can only be fully
+known when all results and causes shall be developed in the clearer,
+brighter light of eternity; but a vast amount of good was manifest, even
+to those whose moral vision was not the clearest. Many a young mind was
+stimulated to exert its dormant energies, and feeling its strength,
+rushed on to distinction. His pleasing manners were a beautiful
+accompaniment to his cultivated mind, and gave a decided tone to those
+of the young who had any taste for what was refined and elegant. Nor was
+the renovation he was accomplishing altogether hidden from himself; a
+great change was working--he saw it; it did not fill his heart with
+pride, it only stimulated him to further progress, and warmed his
+gratitude to God. One thing was certain: he had entwined himself around
+the hearts of all, and his own affections were more truly interested
+than they had ever been before, beyond his parents' roof. It seemed to
+be the place where God would have him be--'The very niche he was
+designed to fill.' It was also the means of deciding him as to the
+calling he should pursue for life. To be suitably fitted to take the
+spiritual charge of a people, no matter how secluded or unpolished they
+might be, was now his highest aim; and after a suitable time he made
+known to the principal men that this was his intention, and that he must
+leave them, and go where he could obtain the necessary instruction.
+Little did he realize the hold he had of their affections, until this
+determination was expressed. Nothing would satisfy their yearning
+towards him but his promise, that, when through his course of study, he
+would come and be their minister.
+
+'We will build you a church just on the spot which you have selected,
+and we will put you up a house, that you shall call your home as long as
+you live; only promise that you will come and spend your days with us.'
+
+How could he say 'Nay'? Three years in all has he been separated from
+them, and now for more than a year he has been settled over them as
+their pastor. They have erected a church, and it stands, as we have
+seen, on a beautiful knoll that commands a lovely view of the
+surrounding waters; and they have built the parsonage, and it is near
+the church, embracing the same enchanting water view, although somewhat
+obstructed by its embowering trees and shrubbery. It is, however
+unoccupied, for Henry is yet a single man, and whether his affections
+are engaged, it matters not. He has made no declaration of them, and
+retains his old situation with the Widow Andrews.
+
+A favorite resort of his has been the cottage of Mary Brown. He loves to
+ramble amidst the seclusion of the thick forest, to call in at the poor
+cottages, give a word of comfort or instruction, and then rest himself
+at the table of the widow, and listen to her ready converse about the
+things of a better world. Sometimes, too, he seems not at all unwilling
+to listen while the widow talks of one she loves most dearly. Henry had
+met with Hettie Brown occasionally at Mr. Rutherford's. He had been
+struck with her appearance, and we need not be surprised at this, for
+she is some years older now than when we last saw her. The pretty girl
+with sun-burnt face, and curly raven locks, and dark hazel eyes, is now
+a lovely young woman. Nor was it her appearance alone that surprised
+him. Hettie had studied nature rather than books, but she had gathered
+quite a little store; and the ease with which she conversed, and the
+variety that her mind brought forth, together with the deep interest she
+manifested as he poured out from his own more enlarged mind the
+treasures of knowledge, convinced him that she had a desire for
+improvement, and an appetite for acquiring information that would make
+her an agreeable scholar.
+
+A warm yet lovely afternoon had tempted Henry to seek the refreshing
+shade among the pines; and not caring to extend his walk, he directed
+his steps at once to the widow's cottage.
+
+At that period of the day, he generally expected to see her sitting a
+little back from the house, beneath the shade of a large white pine,
+whose thick and spreading branches afforded a cool and pleasant shelter
+from the rays of the summer sun. Missing her in her usual seat, he
+entered the cottage; the moment he stood upon the threshold, he raised
+his hands and remained perfectly stationary, looking in silent
+astonishment at the scene before him.
+
+His eye met that of the widow; it was mild and calm as ever, but no
+smile returned his greeting, and she turned away immediately towards the
+object that then engrossed her heart, and perhaps intending thereby to
+direct his notice thither also.
+
+It was enough, indeed, to have chained a mother's attention; for on the
+bed by which she was sitting, lay her only son, for whose sake she lived
+thus alone, senseless, but still alive; his pallid countenance and
+sunken eye and cheek, his short faint breathing, all plainly indicated
+that life was held but by a slender thread--so slender, that a trifle
+might sunder it for ever. Close by the head of the sufferer stood his
+sister, gently waving a large fan, and thereby relieving in some measure
+the closeness of the atmosphere, which, to one so weak as he appeared,
+must have been oppressive in the extreme. Neither mother nor daughter
+attempted to offer any explanation of the circumstances; and Henry had
+too much delicacy, and was too sincerely affected by what he saw, to
+intrude any questions, or interrupt the perfect silence of the sick
+chamber.
+
+Gently rising from her seat, the widow touched the arm of her Hettie,
+who resigned the place and the fan, and turning her sad yet beautiful
+eyes toward the young minister, and stepping lightly to the door,
+signified that she wished him to follow.
+
+He offered his arm, and in silence she led him to a shade sufficiently
+removed, so that the sound of their voices could not reach the cottage.
+Resigning her arm, he motioned her to a seat.
+
+'Thank you; I cannot sit, but must return immediately. You have heard of
+my brother's illness?' looking full at Henry.
+
+'Not a word. But tell me what could have brought him so low in so short
+a period. When I was here a few days since, your mother said nothing of
+his being sick.'
+
+'He was brought home two days ago in the condition you now see him.'
+
+Hettie was much affected, and it was some time before she could command
+her feelings so as to give a clear recital of all she knew: 'That he was
+found lying by the road--that he was at first supposed to be dead--that
+a litter was made, and upon it he was brought home--that the ground
+where he lay was covered with blood, and other marks of a violent
+scuffle--that he had not spoken a word, nor could any one give the least
+explanation of the matter.'
+
+'Let me go with you to him at once,' said Henry.
+
+Henry entered the cottage with her. Little, however, could be done
+besides keeping the sufferer as quiet as possible, and administering
+some slight nourishment; and thus he lay from week to week, living,
+breathing, barely able to make himself understood by sign or word, and
+nothing more. But Henry was not the only male friend who clung to them
+in this their hour of need. David Cross had been almost a constant
+attendant from the moment William had been brought home. David had
+always been a visitor at the cottage; he had been invariably kind to the
+widow, watching over her in her loneliness, seeing to her little wants,
+calling and sitting many long hours, and apparently not unwilling to
+listen to her instructions, and ready to do any act of kindness,
+insomuch that she felt for him almost the affection of a mother. She
+pitied him, too, in his peculiar situation; he had no mother, or none
+that he had ever known as such--it was said that she had died many years
+ago; he had no brother, sister, or other relative beside his father;
+from him he had never received many tokens of affection. He would no
+doubt have been proud to see him rise in the world: and, as we have
+seen, was very willing to accomplish this end at the expense of others;
+but he was morose in his disposition, often unkind to the young man,
+supplying him indeed with money, but as often lavishing his curses upon
+him as any thing else.
+
+Dave was naturally of a kind nature, but had been bred among those who
+were rough and rude; his manners, of course, were more or less tinctured
+by his education; his associates were such as would be likely to lead
+him into wild adventures and corrupt practices. The only counteracting
+influence had been that which the widow exerted over him; and his
+conduct towards her evinced a kindness of feeling, and a sensibility to
+better things, which those who saw him among his wild companions would
+never have imagined. The heart of the widow yearned over him, and she
+never lost the hope that David Cross would one day rise above his
+present ways.
+
+And besides all this, there was in his heart a strong and long-enduring
+attachment for Hettie; he had been fond of her when but a girl; and his
+interest for her had become an absorbing feeling of his heart. During
+her long stay at Mr. Rutherford's, he had never lost sight of her; but
+having either business to attend to for his father in that region, or
+feigning it for his own ends, he would frequently take small parcels or
+trifling errands from the mother to the daughter, and many a precious
+bundle of good things had he brought from Hettie, through the kindness
+of Mrs. Rutherford, to comfort and cheer the widow. He was, therefore,
+by no means an unwelcome visitor at either house; his personal
+appearance was not unpleasant--a manly, open countenance, a kind manner,
+mingled indeed with some roughness, and a fearless, straightforward,
+animated way, calculated to make a favorable impression. Hettie seemed
+always glad to see him; so much so, that many of the family firmly
+believed that she had other feelings towards him than mere neighborly
+kindness. Mrs. Rutherford knew her heart in this matter, and was
+convinced that such was not the case.
+
+Hettie indeed did not love him, nor did she feel that she ever could;
+and was careful to do nothing that might give him occasion to indulge a
+false hope in regard to her. David had, as I have said, sympathized with
+William on his sick bed; he it was who had brought Hettie home, and day
+and night, with Henry Tracy, had been untiring in doing every thing for
+their relief.
+
+William's consciousness returned to him long before he had any ability
+to hold conversation, and the dilemma in which he found himself involved
+occupied almost constantly his waking thoughts. The desperate character
+of Cross; the vile plot that had been executed against the unsuspecting
+and noble-minded Rutherfords; the fate of the trunk for which he had
+fought so desperately, the least whisper of which had not reached his
+ear: all these subjects distracted his weak and flickering senses--a
+terrible secret lay in his breast, which he had not the power to reveal
+in any way that would be intelligible, and when revealed, must crush to
+ruin the hopes of the friend who was watching at his side, by bringing
+the father to an ignominious end. At times, in the agony of his
+contending thoughts, he would groan aloud, and the large drops would
+gather on his pale forehead. Hettie or the mother would bend over him,
+and say some soothing word, and wipe his clammy face, and inquire 'why
+he groaned? or where the pain was? or what they could do for him?' but
+he would shake his head, and closing his eyes, give up awhile his
+troubled thoughts and fall asleep. Thus day after day and week after
+week stole on, and still he lay in his feebleness, gaining strength, if
+at all, by a very slow and almost imperceptible progress.
+
+It was at the close of a lowery day; the shadows of night were deepened
+by a dark canopy of clouds which hung over the barrens. The Widow Brown
+had lighted her lamp and placed it on the stand by the bed of her son,
+wishing to sit as close to him as she could, while plying her busy
+needle. David Cross was reclining on a low cot-bed; he had taken Hettie
+to Mr. Rutherford's that day, and expecting to watch part of the night,
+was anticipating a few hours' sleep. A gentle tap was heard, and as the
+widow opened the door, a woman, clad in somewhat better garments than
+was usual among the people of that region, stood panting for breath, and
+looking with great earnestness, and in much apparent agitation--
+
+'Are you alone, Mrs. Brown?'
+
+'There is no one here, Margaret, but David, besides my sick son.'
+
+'Oh, _do_ step out here a moment--_do_, Mrs. Brown;' and the widow
+closed the door and followed the woman a few paces from the house. She
+knew her _well_--poor Margaret! and she pitied her too; for Margaret she
+had heard was once a pretty, happy girl; her home had been far from
+there. In an evil hour, she had listened to the flattering tale of the
+deceiver, and now she was a miserable dependant on the will of
+Cross--his slave to do his bidding.
+
+'I have run all the way, Mrs. Brown, from my house, and I want you to go
+right back with me.'
+
+'Not to-night, Margaret, surely; the weather looks so threatening, and I
+don't like to leave William, and Hettie gone too. What has happened,
+Margaret?'
+
+'You must go, ma'am, this blessed minute, for poor Ned Saunders is
+dying, and he says he cannot die in peace until he sees you. He has been
+raving crazy ever since the night he was brought to my house; but this
+morning he had a long sleep, and when he came out of it, his reason was
+all straight--but such a distressed creature you never see. He says he
+cannot live, and that he must see you--as he has something to tell you
+which he dare not tell to any one else. You don't know, Mrs. Brown, what
+a worry I am in; for you see Cross has charged me, by the worth of my
+life, to let him know the moment Ned had his reason. But I am afraid
+there have been some evil doings, from what Ned says; and if Cross
+should get there before I return, there is no telling what he might do
+to me.'
+
+'Well, Margaret, wait here a minute until I put my things on.'
+
+The widow was soon in readiness; and having committed matters to the
+charge of David Cross, without giving any particulars further than that
+she had a call to a neighbor's, closed the door and went on her way,
+dark as was the night and gloomy the errand on which she was bound.
+
+Margaret led the way; and excited by an impulse of some terrible kind,
+hurried on through the dark forest with maniac impetuosity. Their path
+was a difficult one to traverse, for it lay through an unfrequented
+region, and the opening by which they went, it was almost impossible to
+trace by the feeble light which yet glimmered from the close of day.
+Guided almost by instinct, Margaret pioneered, and the widow followed
+with all the speed she could make. For awhile they skirted the side of a
+thick and tangled swamp, and then turning a little to the right, came at
+once upon the feeble twinkle of a pine torch from the window of a log
+hut.
+
+'Anybody been here, Ned?'
+
+'No one. Has she come?'
+
+'She is here.'
+
+And the sick man raised his eyes to catch a glimpse of her he had wished
+so much to see, while a smile almost lighted up his wild and haggard
+countenance.
+
+'Oh, Aunty!'--this was the familiar title by which the good woman was
+generally addressed--'oh, Aunty! I'm so glad you're come. I'm a'most
+gone.'
+
+'I hope not, Edward.'
+
+'Yes, I am. I thought I couldn't die till I see you. You've often talked
+to me, you know--and I thought it was all foolish--I don't think so
+now.'
+
+He had to pause, for his feelings were greatly excited, and his frame
+apparently near dissolution. She put her hand upon his forehead, and
+felt that the death-damp was gathering there. She wiped his face with a
+cloth, and bathed his temples with some spirit: this revived him a
+little, and apparently in an agony to unburden his mind, he seized the
+first return of a little strength.
+
+'Oh, I have been so wicked! I shall go to hell--I know I shall.'
+
+'Are you truly sorry, Edward, that you have sinned against God?'
+
+'Oh, yes! I'm sorry--but what shall I do? I know I deserve to be
+punished; but oh, Aunty! how can I meet God?'
+
+'If you are truly sorry, and pray to God to have mercy on you for
+Christ's sake, He will forgive you, Edward; for He has said so.'
+
+'Oh, has He said so? Where? tell me quick, Aunty; for I feel the cold
+creeping over my heart--tell me quick.'
+
+'In the Bible, Edward: it is full of promises to those who repent of
+sin, and turn to God through Jesus Christ. He came into the world for
+that very purpose. He hung upon the cross for us poor sinners: and while
+he hung there, he pardoned a thief that was hanging beside him, and
+about to die. He says, "Whosoever cometh to me, I will in nowise cast
+out."'
+
+'You don't think He will save such a worthless sinner as I am?'
+
+'Oh, yes, Edward; if you throw yourself upon His mercy, and ask Him to
+forgive you.'
+
+The dying man turned his eyes away from the widow, raised them towards
+heaven, and clasped his trembling hands together,
+
+'God have mercy upon me, a poor sinner--a dreadful sinner! for Christ's
+sake; for _Christ's_ sake, only for _Christ's_ sake!'
+
+And the widow wiped away the big drops that stood upon his clay-cold,
+forehead. Again he fixed his eye upon her--
+
+'But, oh! there's a dreadful load upon my heart--there are--some
+things--I have done--that must be told--I cannot keep them. Come, lean
+your head down close to me.'
+
+The widow was by no means anxious to hear his tale of sins and
+misdoings, but she obeyed his request. He was greatly excited; his
+breath flew back and forth like a weaver's shuttle, and he could only
+get the words out by catches.
+
+'You know--Rutherford's house--has been burnt--and I don't know--but
+some of them were burnt in it. Cross--hired me and two others. We wanted
+to get a trunk--a tin trunk--I fired the house. They got the trunk--and
+I brought it along. Your son Bill met me on the road and struck me from
+the horse--and tried to get the trunk. We grappled--and I thought I'd
+killed him--but I don't know nothing since then--that's all--oh dear!
+Why did I go? Cross, Cross, Cross--did it all;--but, oh God!--here it
+comes--'
+
+He ceased speaking--his lips trembled, his eyes rolled back
+convulsively--he clutched at the clothing, a spasm shook his frame--it
+was death's last stroke; and as the quivering limbs settled into rest,
+breath and pulse were still.
+
+The widow saw that he was dead; and clasping her hands in silent horror,
+she looked at poor Margaret for an explanation. Margaret shook her head.
+
+'Don't speak; I believe it is all true, but you must not stay here a
+minute longer. The poor fellow is dead, you can do him no good; and
+Cross may be the death of me, if he finds you have been here--hark!'
+
+The noise of approaching footsteps was distinctly heard; but before they
+could make the least effort at concealment, the door opened, and Cross
+entered.
+
+The widow spoke to him in her mild, pleasant way. He manifested great
+confusion tried to speak calmly, but his voice choked and trembled
+greatly. He cast his eye quickly on the bed--
+
+'What! _dead?_ Ned is not _dead_?'
+
+'Yes,' said the widow; 'he has just breathed his last. Can I be of any
+service to you, Margaret, by staying here? If I can--'
+
+'Oh no,' replied Cross, quickly; 'there is no use, we won't trouble Mrs.
+Brown.'
+
+'Well, then, I will be going, as it is getting late in the evening.' So
+wishing them good-night, she quietly stepped from the door, walked
+slowly a few paces, and then hurried along with as much speed as the
+darkness would permit.
+
+No sooner did Cross perceive that the widow was gone, than his
+countenance assumed an aspect of the fiercest rage.
+
+'How is this?'--clenching his fist, and shaking it near to the head of
+the trembling, wretched female--'how is this? How came that old canting
+hypocrite here?'
+
+'Ned begged me to go for her: he said he could not die in peace until he
+saw her.'
+
+'Die in peace!' and he stamped his foot with rage--'die in peace! and
+did not I charge you, by your life, to let no human being see him in his
+reason, but myself?' And saying this, he caught her by the hair, and
+dashed her with his utmost power to the floor. She arose, without
+uttering a word or groan, upon her knees; she caught him by the arm; he
+endeavoured to thrust her from him, but her hold was the grasp of
+despair; at once he drew a poniard, that he always carried in a
+concealed case at his side; she saw it glitter as he held it up in the
+act of plunging it to her heart.
+
+'Oh mercy, mercy! for God's sake--for the sake of him who calls you
+father, don't kill me! Remember all I have suffered for you--the mother
+of your only child, though you have never owned me. Have not I always
+done your bidding? lost my soul and body for you?'
+
+Pity, or some other motive, unnerved his arm--he could not just then do
+the deed; but hurling her from him, threw her to the other side of the
+cabin, like a reptile that he hated.
+
+In an instant she was on her feet--a rifle was in her hand, and it was
+pointed in deadly aim at her vile oppressor. The gun Cross had not
+noticed--it always stood loaded; for Margaret (or Meg as she was called)
+lived alone, and in that wild place had learned how to use it. He had no
+idea that the poor worm he had so long trodden upon could ever turn
+against him; but when he beheld her eyes glaring with fury, and the
+deadly weapon levelled at his breast, his blood curdled at his heart.
+He made a step towards her.
+
+'One step more, and you are dead!'
+
+'Put that down, Meg; I don't want to hurt you.' The poor craven now
+began to cower, and thought that a few soft words would obliterate a
+life of abuse, carried to a point where woman's love turns to the direst
+hate.
+
+'No, never! Stir but one foot--move but a single limb--and you will lie
+beside that wretched victim of your hellish arts. Hear me now, David
+Cross; I am no longer your slave. You have ruined my name; you have
+defrauded me of the title of wife; you have made me disown my child; you
+have kept me in poverty, and made me a companion of outcasts; and now
+you have thrust me from you, like a hideous reptile--but your hour has
+come; that miserable being, whom you sent here a raving maniac, has let
+out your secret--it is already on the wings of the wind.'
+
+Cross trembled in every joint; a fiend, with demoniac power, seemed
+glaring at him in the being whom but a moment before he had so
+shamefully abused.
+
+'Meg, forgive me. I have wronged you; I know I have. Don't take my life,
+and I will make it all right. I will say you are my wife; I will do
+anything you want.'
+
+'_Forgive_ you? Yes, I will forgive you, when you bring back my poor
+parents who went down to the grave mourning for her you ruined; when you
+can tear from my mind the memory of wrongs none but a woman's heart
+could ever have borne so long. Forgive you? no, never. Your life you may
+have! but _go_--before the dreadful feelings which have been burning in
+my heart blaze up again. Go! go quick--'
+
+He waited not, but moved to the door, stepped trembling from the
+threshold, and hurried away through the dark forest.
+
+The moment Cross had gone Margaret opened a small trunk, hastily
+gathered together a few articles of dress, and slipping a little roll of
+paper containing her stock of money into her pocket, tied up her
+clothing in a bundle, cast one look upon the dead body, and then quitted
+the wretched tenement she had so long called her home, firmly resolved
+never to enter it again.
+
+She hastened at once towards the cottage of the Widow Brown, and so
+rapidly did she thread her way through the intricate path, that before
+the widow had passed over half the distance to her home, Margaret had
+overtaken her.
+
+'Don't be frightened, Mrs. Brown; I did not think to reach you so
+soon--but stop and listen to me.'
+
+The widow had indeed stopped, for Margaret came upon her so
+unexpectedly, that she was much alarmed, and deprived of the ability,
+even if she had the will, to escape.
+
+'I will listen to you, Margaret, but I have heard dreadful things enough
+to-night. I am almost distracted now.'
+
+'I would not add a straw to your burdens, my dear good Mrs. Brown, but I
+am a poor distressed creature. The whole of my life for these many years
+has been one scene of misery; but I can bear it no longer, and this very
+night will find me many miles from hence.'
+
+'Oh, _do_, don't talk so, Margaret. Come go with me, and rest you for
+the night at least; it is so dark, and beginning to storm already.'
+
+'This darkness and the rain are no troubles to me; but just listen one
+moment. You know that I have told you what I have no other human being.
+One secret more I must commit to you--that young man who is now at your
+house is my son.'
+
+'David Cross your son, Margaret?'
+
+'It is God's truth, and all I want of you is, whenever you think it
+best, to let him know what I have told you. I am now on my way to the
+city. I shall seek a place of service, and when I find a resting-place,
+if there is any such spot for me on earth, I shall let you know. But one
+thing I must beg of you--Cross has treated me like a brute, and I came
+very near taking his life to-night; but for David's sake, spare
+him--don't reveal the terrible tale you heard to-night. Promise me, now,
+won't you'--and Margaret fell upon her knees and clasped the arms of the
+widow--'promise me, you will not reveal it without in some way you are
+obliged to do it?'
+
+'Why, Margaret, my mind is so disturbed by all these scenes, that I
+cannot think of things as I should like to before making any promise;
+but you know I love David, and would be as careful of injuring him, as
+my own child.'
+
+'That is enough; but oh, do just put your hand upon my head, and say one
+prayer over me. I shall go lighter on my way, for I have but a heavy
+heart, and a weary road lies before me.'
+
+'May God bless you, my child, for Jesus Christ's sake, and make a way
+for you to some place where you will be in peace; and may you yet have
+some comfort before you die.'
+
+'Amen!' said Margaret; and seizing the hand of the widow, which had
+rested on her shoulder, she kissed it again and again, and then
+departed.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+
+Mr. Cross was in no enviable state of mind as he hastened along in the
+darkness, after leaving the hut of Margaret. The disappointment he had
+suffered in finding that Ned Saunders was dead; the terrible fright he
+had endured while standing with the rifle at his breast; the
+mortification of begging his life at the hand of one he had so long
+triumphed over; and above all, the knowledge that his secret was
+abroad--all operated with maddening power, and worked up a tempest
+within, that raged and tossed until he was bewildered by its fury. He
+passed his own dwelling without stopping, but hurried on, directing his
+steps to the north, through a by-path amidst the towering pines.
+
+After some miles of rapid walking, he reached the edge of the barrens,
+or rather that part of them that had been cleared and in some measure
+cultivated. He here descried the twinkle of lights from a small
+settlement. To one of these, a little separated from the rest, he soon
+came, and knocked with some violence at the door.
+
+'Come in.'
+
+Cross tried the latch, but finding it fastened, repeated the knocks in a
+way that showed he was in earnest to be let in.
+
+'Come in, I say--but stop, may be the door is fastened. Who are you?'
+
+'Open the door, will you? it's me.'
+
+'Aha--that I will;' and the bolt was withdrawn quickly.
+
+'Why, neighbor, is this you? how are you? come in. Well, you are the
+last man I should have thought of seeing here this dark night--take a
+chair, neighbor--what's the news?' And as Squire Foster (for he was the
+gentleman whom Mr. Cross had honored with a visit) said this, he threw
+away the smile, or rather grin, that had played over his sallow and
+flabby face, and assumed his naturally sly and mouserly look. 'Any thing
+good abroad?'
+
+Cross was in no talking humor: so let the gentleman run on, and in the
+mean time helping himself to a chair, sat down, and leaning back against
+the wall, fixed his eye, dark and lowry, full upon the little light that
+stood flaring and smoking on the middle of the table.
+
+'Well, there's the devil to pay now!'
+
+'Where? what, what, neighbor--any news?'
+
+'None that you will want to hear. Ned Saunders is dead.'
+
+'One rogue less, then, neighbor, ha, ha! he won't tell any tales then
+about here.'
+
+'But suppose he has told the tale already?'
+
+'That would be bad, neighbor; but you don't mean to say that he has?'
+
+'Yes, I do mean to say so; and the question is, what you mean to do
+about it?'
+
+'What _I_ mean to do about it?' and he looked at Cross with a vacant
+stare.
+
+'Why you know we are both implicated.'
+
+'Why, neighbor, that is all between you and me. You know I have been but
+a mere counsellor.'
+
+'Yes, and a pretty scrape your counsel has got me into. Here is one man
+dead, the two others gone out of reach, and the thing itself nowhere to
+be found. Like as not Rutherford has got it back again, and we have had
+our labor for our pains, and may be something beside not so agreeable.'
+
+'Well, now suppose, neighbor, I should tell you that Rutherford has not
+got it?'
+
+'Do you know that? and how?'
+
+'What would you give if I should tell you that I have got it, safe and
+snug in my own hands?'
+
+'Give! I have given enough already; but where is it? let's see it.'
+
+And Cross arose from his leaning posture, sat his chair square on the
+floor, and himself very erect in it, and looked fixedly at the Squire.
+
+Foster noticed the movement and the look of Cross, and without speaking,
+arose and stepped into a small adjoining room, took something from a
+case that stood upon an old dressing-table, and thrusting it hastily
+into his bosom, came back and resumed his 'Have you got it?'
+
+'Got what, neighbor?'
+
+'You know what, well enough--why, the deed. The trunk you may keep, but
+the deed can do you no good.'
+
+'Nor you, either, neighbor; it is safe--safe enough. I have got it, and
+I mean to keep it.' And as he said this, he very deliberately drew a
+pistol from his breast, and laying his hand on the table, leaned back in
+his chair and looked at the pretty plaything. Cross eyed him keenly,
+glancing from the pistol, which he saw was cocked, to the calm and
+almost unmeaning countenance of Foster.
+
+'What do you mean to do about this?'
+
+'I don't know exactly, neighbor; but at present I shall keep it.
+Something may turn up, you know--and to save a great deal of talk, as it
+is getting late, matters must stand thus: I have obtained possession of
+this at some risk; you agreed to pay me well, you know, if the job
+succeeded. Go on then--slash away at the timber; cut down and sell off
+as fast as you can--no one can hinder you--hand over half you get to me,
+and all will go smoothly enough. Do you agree to that?'
+
+Cross knew that Foster was a great villain, but he had never calculated
+upon the chance of thus getting into his power; he knew now that he was
+resolved upon a desperate course.
+
+'I suppose I shall be sued as soon as I begin to cut.'
+
+'No fear from that quarter. Rutherford is down, and has no means to
+contend with; his creditors will get picking enough to satisfy
+themselves out of his other property; and no lawyer will undertake the
+job, on his own risk, without more show of a title than he can now
+claim.'
+
+'Well, if they do prosecute, you agree to see to it?'
+
+'Ay, ay, neighbor, leave all that to me.'
+
+'And suppose there should be trouble about what Ned Saunders has been
+blabbing?'
+
+'That won't amount to much; it will soon be known that you are the owner
+of nearly all the barrens now, and they will be careful enough how they
+raise their tongue against you; a man is not very likely to swear to his
+own injury.'
+
+As Cross arose to depart, the other gentleman left his seat also, and
+dropping the hand which held the pistol, let it dangle by his side; the
+other hand he placed in his bosom, and facing his guest looked at him
+very complacently; a slight smile and a gentle, inclination of the head,
+on the part of Foster, were all the greeting that passed, as Cross
+neither turned his head nor uttered a word, but with a quick step left
+the house, and went on his way.
+
+The wages of iniquity are sometimes reaped in this world, and Cross was
+just tasting the bitter fruit.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+
+Mr. Rutherford had received his dear wife and children as it were from
+the jaws of death, but it had been by the almost super-human exertions
+of the faithful C�sar, who, for a long time, was disabled by the severe
+injuries he had received as he bore them through the burning building.
+The noble beasts for which C�sar had fought so bravely, with all the
+luxuries and comforts of his large establishment, were swept away at the
+demands of creditors, and nothing that he could call his own remained
+except the faithful old negro--who, although a slave, was too far
+advanced in life to be liable as property--and those dear objects in
+which his heart still found some sweet solace amid the drear prospect
+which surrounded him.
+
+At present he was occupying a small house which had belonged to him
+once, and used as a tenement for a laborer on his estate. Few were the
+articles of furniture which sufficed for their use, and those had been,
+for the most part, loaned for their immediate necessity. His lovely wife
+still kept her pleasant smile, but her heart was smitten with a stroke
+that pressed it down heavily. It was not the loss of all, nor the change
+of abode, nor the rude and scanty furniture, nor all the other
+aggravating tokens of their change of circumstances--but she saw the
+struggle that was agitating her husband's mind; she could not relieve
+him of that load of care; she could not obliterate from his memory past
+errors, nor could she mark out for him a path that offered any other
+prospect than the dark one in which they were travelling then. All she
+could do was to make the best of what they had, to throw into her words
+the softest tones, and to lighten up her countenance with the semblance
+of hope she did not feel.
+
+It was not long after they had thus been reduced to the extremity of
+fortune's change, wearied with the turmoil of his distracted mind, Mr.
+Rutherford was sitting at the little window that opened from their abode
+upon the highway; his Mary was beside him, and she held his hand, and
+fondly pressed it as she oft had done in better days, put it to her
+heart, and let him feel how true it beat for him. The shades of evening
+were just setting upon them, held back a little by the young moon which
+hung out her crescent in the west, when a vehicle stopped at their door,
+and a gentleman of lively mien alighted and prepared to enter. Mrs.
+Rutherford went for a light, while her husband repaired to the door to
+receive the visitor, whoever he might be, although, as he supposed, some
+messenger of evil tidings, like all of late.
+
+'Mr. Rutherford, I believe?'
+
+'My name is Rutherford, sir; will you walk in?'
+
+The stranger immediately followed, and entered their small apartment,
+Mrs. Rutherford, at the same time, placing the light on a little stand.
+
+'I expect you have forgotten me, Mr. Rutherford; my name is Andrews. You
+remember the poor boy you helped some six years since.'
+
+'Andrews--what, William Andrews!'
+
+'The same, sir. A few years make some change in our appearance.'
+
+It had, indeed, made some change, and one which entirely effaced every
+resemblance to the plain and homely-dressed lad who, six years since,
+had left his home to seek his fortune among strangers. He was now
+well-dressed; and had the ease of manner which is acquired only by
+mingling in society. He had grown in stature also, and was now a tall
+and slender man; his fresh, healthy countenance had grown pale. He wore
+his hair long, after the fashion of the South; his eye alone retained
+its naturally soft and expressive cast, although its brightness was
+dimmed, and seemed to indicate a want of energy in the physical frame.
+His own mother could scarcely have found a likeness to his former self;
+his very voice sympathized with the apparent languor of his frame, and
+had nothing in it that would recall the lively tone of boyhood.
+
+'It cannot be!' said Mrs. Rutherford, who now approached and took his
+hand. 'Not William Andrews! Time has indeed made a change--but we are
+glad, heartily glad to see you.'
+
+'It is not time alone, madam, that has made a change in my appearance,
+I suspect. I have been, you know, in a southern climate, and that takes
+severe hold sometimes of us northern men; but I am very happy again to
+see you, very happy indeed.'
+
+Without the least reference by either party to the great change which
+had occurred in circumstances, some little time was spent in a general
+interchange of question and answer about persons and things; when Mrs.
+Rutherford left the room, perhaps from feelings of delicacy to her
+husband, who might not wish to refer in her presence to his own peculiar
+situation.
+
+'You find, Mr. Andrews, that there have been changes here too, which
+perhaps must astonish you.'
+
+'I have heard of them, sir, a few miles from hence, and have urged on my
+journey further than I should have done. I need not say to you, sir,
+that to me it is the most painful event I have yet met with in life. Is
+it true, my dear sir? Are you as much reduced as report affirms and
+appearance indicate.'
+
+'I am as low down, so far as property is concerned, as I can be; there
+is absolutely nothing left.'
+
+And then, with much composure, Mr. Rutherford unfolded the complicated
+maze in which he had struggled for some time, and the closing of the
+scene in the last fatal blow. Although apparently unmoved himself, not
+so was he who listened to the tale of suffering. The southern clime had
+marred William's beauty, but it had only added to the warmth of his
+heart. For some time after Mr. Rutherford had done speaking, he sat
+wrapt in silent thought; his emotion too strong to dare trust the
+utterance of a single expression. At length he rose, and taking the hand
+of his friend--
+
+'Mr. Rutherford, the ways of the Almighty are mysterious, but they must
+be right. When a lone wanderer, you took me by the hand; you gave me
+counsel, you assisted me with means, you introduced me to influential
+friends; you made my heart glad then, and gave me an impetus which has
+led me on to success beyond my expectations. The money I have returned
+to you, but the debt of gratitude for your kindness to me in that hour
+will remain an uncancelled obligation while I live. And now, sir, you
+must take this trifle from me--I demand the right of a debtor to your
+bounty--take it, and keep it for your present need; it must not, it
+shall not be that either you or your angel wife know the pinchings of
+want.'
+
+His voice trembled so violently, that he could scarcely utter the few
+last words; nor could Mr. Rutherford respond to this warm burst of
+sympathy; it had gone directly to his heart, and caused a flow of
+feeling that could find no vent in words.
+
+'I must leave you for the night. God willing, I shall see you on the
+morrow, and tell you all my story. You then will see that I do not rob
+myself, and we will devise some other plan together.'
+
+Mr. Rutherford shook his hand with a silent grasp, but it told the young
+man that his offering of love and gratitude had done its work. Leaving
+his best respects for Mrs. Rutherford, William departed.
+
+As Mrs. Rutherford entered the room, after their guest had gone, she
+found her husband seated by the stand, and looking at something which he
+had spread out upon the table.
+
+'See here, Mary.'
+
+She stepped up to him, and putting her arm around his neck, stooped over
+beside him.
+
+'My dear husband! what does this mean? Five hundred dollars!' and she
+looked at him in amazement.
+
+'Yes, my love; it is five hundred dollars given us by that young man
+whom a few years since we befriended: this is the way, my dear, that God
+gives back the bread cast upon the waters.'
+
+'Oh, my dear George!' and she threw herself upon his bosom, 'how glad I
+am for you; you feel that you have one friend now, don't you?'
+
+'Yes, Mary; and you cannot think how my heart leaps at the thought; one
+sympathising friend in an hour like this, is indeed "cold water to a
+thirsty soul"; but oh! that better Friend above, shall we ever forget
+him, Mary? How good! how true! how wise! how unfailing! if we will only
+trust in Him.'
+
+They said no more: silently they sank together on their knees, and
+poured out the fulness of their hearts to that Friend--that better
+Friend above.
+
+In the hour of our deep distress, when the dark clouds are around and
+above us, the soul is prone to feel that the darkness which oppresses it
+is the frown of God: we forget that love may be concealed, not turned
+away.
+
+To Mr. Rutherford's heart this mercy-drop came; a delightful assurance
+that he was not forsaken, and that still the arm of sovereign love was
+stretched out over him.
+
+William Andrews had not been, for the few past years, engaged in the
+active whirl of business to no purpose: he had amassed a few thousands
+by a happy venture, and his success had been beyond his most sanguine
+expectations. But this was not all; he had learned to grapple with
+difficulties, and by energy and determination to accomplish results
+which the irresolute and fearful could only dream of. He called the next
+morning, and in a private interview with Mr. Rutherford procured from
+him a particular statement of his affairs.
+
+In a few days he called again; and there seemed to be a cheerfulness in
+his air which he had not before manifested.
+
+'I have been looking over your matters a little, my dear sir, and I
+cannot think they are in such a hopeless case as you imagine. Your
+property is indeed all attached, and if sold under the present state of
+things would, to be sure, be dreadfully sacrificed, and might not bring
+more than the claims upon it: you certainly value your estate beyond the
+amount for which it is holden.'
+
+'Most certainly; but by our laws an immediate sale can be forced; and in
+that case, the whole will scarcely meet the demand.'
+
+'You must apply then to some friend who will assume your debts'--Mr.
+Rutherford shook his head--'and who will take your property into his
+hands, until better times come round.'
+
+'I have no friends, Mr. Andrews.'
+
+'We once thought,' said Mrs. Rutherford, who was listening with much
+interest, 'that we had quite a number; but friends do not always stand
+the test of such a fall as ours has been.'
+
+'But they could not possibly lose any thing, Mrs. Rutherford.'
+
+'Perhaps they might not; still, you know, it is a delicate matter to ask
+the favor, when not one of all who have been with us in our prosperous
+days has seen fit to come near us now. My dear husband, until you so
+generously had poured out your kindness, felt that he was alone in the
+world.'
+
+For some time each sat musing in silence over the uncertainty of human
+fortunes and earthly friendships, when Mr. Andrews drew up to the table,
+and requesting the attention of Mr. Rutherford a moment, began to spread
+before him certain documents.
+
+'Please to examine these, sir, and say whether they are correct.'
+
+'These are my obligations, Mr. Andrews--I gave them in good faith; and
+although I cannot meet them now, will own them to the last farthing.'
+Mr. Rutherford looked with much astonishment, for he perceived that all
+the responsibilities he was involved in were lying before him.
+
+'Are there any more that you can think of, Mr. Rutherford?'
+
+'There are no more.'
+
+'Then, sir, you may take them and do what you please with them: all I
+ask of you is, to give me a claim upon your property for this amount,'
+naming not more than two-thirds the value of the notes. 'The interest of
+that I am sure you can pay, and your property is once more your own.'
+
+William was well aware that promptness in such matters was of the first
+moment. He had at once liquidated every claim at a rate which each one
+was glad to accept, and thus materially reduced the whole amount: this
+he could be well secured for; the property of his benefactor need not be
+sacrificed, and his heart was at rest.
+
+Blessings on you, William Andrews! Your frame is slender, and seems to
+be nurturing some hidden plague that may ere long make it a prey to the
+worm; but it is the abode of a generous spirit. How its quickened pulses
+beat with the ecstatic happiness which now plays within! Your eye is on
+that noble pair; and the overpowering emotion which is thrilling their
+bosom at this new and unexpected deed of love, is the richest feast you
+ever tasted. Oh how they will bless you as the years roll by, when in
+their happy home and on their own paternal soil they tread in freedom,
+and think of him whose generous friendship snatched them from the brink
+of ruin, and placed them there! Oh ye lovers of this world's treasures,
+did you but know the secret charm these treasures can unfold! Go, dry
+the widow's tears; go, aid the orphan's helpless steps; go, prop the man
+of pure and noble soul, bowing beneath the weight of penury's heavy
+load--and you will feel there is a talisman of untold value in your
+hoards of gold and silver which you never dreamed of.
+
+Mr. Rutherford had no idea of taking advantage of the arrangement
+Andrews had made, and insisted upon giving a claim for the full amount;
+but this William would not allow. He had made a fair bargain with the
+creditors, and would not permit Mr. Rutherford to bind himself further
+than the amount he had paid.
+
+'You can, my dear sir, as you are able, make good to each one what he
+has willingly relinquished.'
+
+'And, God permitting. I will do it to the full amount.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+
+We left our friends the Montjoys busy in their store, taking an account
+of their affairs, and preparing to encounter the difficulties they had
+been thrown into. They found things not quite so bad as they feared.
+Should the whole loss be realized, all which they had made would be
+swept off; but there would be enough to pay their debts--that was a
+great comfort: and if they could but preserve their credit, matters
+might all come right again. With the promptness which had ever marked
+his conduct, the morning after the reception of the intelligence which
+had given them such a shock, James was on his way to his friend McFall.
+
+The statement which he was enabled to make was very satisfactory; and
+would have been all that was required, could his friend have been able
+to advance the funds. The pressure was indeed of a most serious kind,
+affecting individuals and banks alike; and requiring on the part of each
+the utmost skill and exertion to stem it through. James found that his
+only resource now to meet the present emergency, was to lay his case
+immediately before the Bank; if he failed to procure aid from thence, he
+saw not whence it was to come. The power which by circumstances becomes
+thus concentrated, can only truly be felt by those situated as was this
+young man. Whether it be an individual, or a corporate body, and whether
+they are conscious of it or not, the ability, for the time being, which
+is at their command to afford or to withhold the life-blood of trade and
+commercial credit, is the most despotic in its grasp on the mind of man
+that can be conceived this side of infinite sway. It is not, of
+necessity, the fault of those who wield it, that it should often press
+with such sickening, despairing force; so long as enterprise shall
+stimulate man to go a step beyond the means at his own disposal, must he
+in some measure depend upon the aid of others; and once dependent, he
+can never calculate with certainty upon enduring peace of mind. The
+fluctuations in trade, like changes in the weather, baffle all the skill
+of the most shrewd and far-sighted: they come at times before any
+suitable preparation can be made to meet their destructive influence,
+and the high-minded, honorable man is obliged to stand before the same
+tribunal with the mean and designing, and for too often compelled to
+submit to rules which make no allowance for character.
+
+It was the first time that James had known really what it meant to ask a
+moneyed favor. He had begun life as we have seen, and gone on, hitherto,
+so much by his own means, that he felt more like a criminal about to be
+arraigned, than an honest man in the discharge of duty; and nothing but
+the absolute necessity of doing something to preserve the credit of his
+house, and upon which every thing now depended, would have driven him to
+it. He was not personally known to the cashier, and therefore his friend
+accompanied him to the Bank, introduced him, and left him to tell his
+own story. Fortunately for James, the person he had now to deal with was
+a gentleman in every sense of the word; a man of large experience, at
+home in all the routine of business, a complete financier, and with a
+large share of true benevolence.
+
+Every unpleasant feeling was, for the time, at once banished by the
+agreeable, frank, and very kind manner with which this officer received
+and addressed him. James felt almost sure that his end was accomplished.
+He very soon, in a brief manner, related the circumstances in which he
+had been placed by the sudden failure of so many persons, and then
+handed to the cashier the schedule of his property and liabilities.
+
+After carefully scrutinizing this paper with an air and expression of
+countenance that showed his business character, the stern and cold
+features of which damped James's hopes not a little, and at times caused
+a fluttering at his heart, which he had never felt before--
+
+'You are aware, I presume, Mr. Montjoy, that these are not only
+precarious times, in which the Bank feel that the utmost caution must be
+used, but the times are also very difficult. We cannot aid often, where
+we not only wish to, but should feel safe in so doing. It is as
+necessary for us to keep our credit unblemished as for individuals. I
+will, however, lay your proposition before the Board; if you will call
+again at one o'clock, you shall have the answer.'
+
+Two long hours of intense anxiety were passed, such as James had never
+before experienced. Not caring to return to the house of Mr. McFall, he
+repaired to a grove which lined the banks of pretty river that glided
+through the place; he sat down beneath the shade, and listened to the
+murmuring stream and the warbling birds--they were sights and sounds
+which he had always loved; but he now realized how necessary it was to
+the enjoyment of nature's simple sweets, to have a mind at rest. How
+often had he, after a weary day, sat in the quiet evening, and with Ned
+enjoyed its calm serenity, and watched the moonbeams play upon the
+water, or through the trembling leaves, and the bright stars coming one
+by one and gemming all the sky! What pure and peaceful thoughts they
+kindled, and how unalloyed the happiness that spread its soothing,
+quickening glow through all his frame! How he looked back now, as to an
+Eden, where he once had dwelt, but from which he seemed to be expelled
+for ever! Care, that canker of the heart, had come and taken, like a
+strong man armed, the full possession of his powers; tinging the heavens
+and the earth with its dark hue, and spoiling all their beauties.
+
+At the time appointed he returned to the Bank; it seemed to him that the
+interests of the universe were at stake; and as he walked up to the
+tall, commanding form of the Cashier, the man appeared to be vested with
+a power that held the very springs of life at his command.
+
+He was received with the same gentlemanly manner as at his introduction,
+and requested to walk behind the counter and take a seat, and as though
+he knew the workings of the young man's mind, and wished at once to
+relieve his suspense--
+
+'The Directors have concluded to accept your paper, sir; sit down, Mr.
+Montjoy;' and James took the seat with a lighter heart than he had felt
+for some time. 'They have done it in the confidence that your statement
+is correct: and I will say further to you, sir, as you are a young man,
+and have much business yet before you, that the manner in which you have
+commenced and carried on your trade, has had great weight in determining
+the decision of the Board. The times at present are very precarious, and
+you will need much prudence; but, sir, I believe I can assure you, that
+so long as you confine your operations to the regular run of your
+business, any facilities you may need will be at your service here.'
+
+The sun shone very brightly to James as he journeyed towards home that
+day; nature was almost as captivating to him as in the days of
+childhood; and the joyous shake of Ned's hand, and the calm sweet smile
+of his mother, as they listened to his story, all made his heart leap in
+gladness, and send up to Him whose blessing was the burden of his daily
+petitions, warm and devout thanksgiving.
+
+Thus the storm which had threatened to overwhelm these young men passed
+with but partial injury. The foundation they had laid in patient
+industry, prudent management, and stern integrity, bore them proudly on.
+The wily plots of Mr. Cross were anticipated by the promptness with
+which James attended to his affairs; and for the present, at least, the
+young firm is safe.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+
+The Widow Brown, in consequence of the disclosure made by the dying Ned
+Saunders, was placed in no very agreeable situation. She thought that
+the unhappy man had his reason, but she could not be so very sure as to
+be willing to publish what might not after all be true, to the certain
+injury not only of Mr. Cross, who had ever been kind to her, but of her
+son also, who had wound himself around her heart, and for whom she had
+been so earnestly entreated by that miserable woman who declared herself
+his mother.
+
+She comprehended but a very little of the nature of papers of any kind,
+beyond those solemn legacies from God to man, which daily she perused
+with love and gratitude. And what Ned Saunders meant by papers which Mr.
+Cross was anxious to get hold of, she could not conceive.
+
+'The poor, deluded soul,' said she one day, while walking alone, her
+thoughts too burdensome to be kept in; 'I am very doubtful that he knew
+what he said when he talked about those papers; and now that the
+dreadful deed is done, what good end can be answered by publishing it
+abroad? It will not build the house again, and God will avenge it in his
+own time and way.'
+
+She wished much, however, for the time when William should be able to
+make some disclosures as to his share in the terrible transaction. That
+he was a participator in the crime she could not believe; but that he
+had attacked Ned Saunders, and that the consequences had proved fatal to
+one of them, she had too strong evidence to doubt. The whole was
+altogether beyond the comprehension of the poor widow, and all she
+could do, at present, was to wait for time to make plain the path of
+duty.
+
+William, however, could no longer bear the struggle which agitated his
+mind, and he determined to unburden it. As there were reasons why he
+preferred to communicate with his sister, he took an opportunity, when
+alone, to reveal all he knew, and let her into the secret of his own
+present condition, and the villany of Cross. Hettie's first impulse was
+to fly at once to Mr. Rutherford.
+
+'He ought to be made acquainted with these facts without a moment's
+delay.'
+
+'But David, sister; think of him.'
+
+Hettie was silent; she gazed a moment at her brother, then leaned back
+in her chair, and resting her head upon her hand, was lost for awhile in
+busy thought.
+
+'David must be told, William; he must know it before any one else; he
+has had no hand in it, and all his kindness to us demands this
+confidence in him.'
+
+William made no reply; he was much exhausted, and even the effort of
+thinking was painful. The mother also now came in, and, wishing a little
+relaxation, Hettie left the room and sought a favourite spot to which
+she was in the habit of retiring, sheltered alike from the rays of the
+sun and common observation--a tumult of distracting thoughts rioted
+within; again and again she resolved the doubtful question as to her
+present duty, and the difficulties attending any course which presented
+itself to her were so great, that she most heartily longed for some
+experienced counsel to guide her steps.
+
+In the midst of her perplexities, she was startled at the sound of
+approaching footsteps.
+
+'I thought I should never find you. Your mother said she guessed you was
+here; but that thick clump of bushes hid you so, that I had almost given
+it up.'
+
+'I come here occasionally; it is so retired.'
+
+'I should think it was retired enough; but I don't see what you want to
+get off so alone for; it is lonely enough, I should think, all over
+these old barrens. But ain't you glad Bill is so much better?'
+
+'He is better certainly, David; more like himself than he has been
+yet--don't you think so?'
+
+'That he is--but you look sick; you sit by that bed too much, Hettie.
+You want a ride--come--Bony's at the cottage--go along with me: we will
+soon bring your color back.'
+
+'Not to-day, David; indeed I have no desire to ride to-day; and besides,
+since you are here, I want to have some conversation with you upon a
+matter in which you are deeply concerned.'
+
+'Well, come on--I'm ready for anything--out with it. I'm so glad Bill is
+better, I don't care what comes now; but look cheerful a little; do, I
+beg of you; I have dark looks enough at home. The old man is so cross
+about something or other lately, that he can't give me a civil word. I
+thought when I came along, what I would give just to live among you
+here. I tell you what, Hettie, I had rather live with you and your
+mother, and have nothing but bread and water, only to hear kind
+words;--well, you are queer--just now you was so pale, and now your face
+is red as a rose.'
+
+Hettie felt the flush which David had noticed; he had never spoken quite
+so plainly to her before, and she began to fear what next might come; so
+she commenced the unpleasant task of making him acquainted with his
+father's conduct; but she did not give the account in the order that she
+received it, for she began at the catastrophe, and told the story as
+well as she could, without alluding to the main instigator of the plot.
+
+'But what could have induced those men to commit such a deed? and what
+could they have wanted with the trunk without there was money in it?'
+
+'There was no money in it, but there were papers of great consequence.'
+
+'Papers? what could they know about papers? they can't read, not one of
+them; what good would papers do them?' said David; his countenance pale,
+and his lips trembling with emotion.
+
+'There is something more in all this that you have not yet told me,
+Hettie; some one is at the bottom of it. Who is it?'
+
+Hettie covered her face with her hands.
+
+'Don't be afraid, Hettie; out with it--is it my father?'
+
+Hettie burst into tears, and David sank to the earth, helpless as an
+infant. Seeing that he was greatly agitated, and that he seemed in need
+of help, she was about to go for her mother.
+
+'Don't leave me, Hettie. Do you think that this is truth, and that
+William has his reason?'
+
+'He seems to have it, perfectly; he has given a clear account of things
+from the first--I fear it is true.'
+
+'Does any one know of this besides you and your brother?'
+
+'No human being as yet.'
+
+'Depend upon it, Hettie, if my father has instigated this act, he has
+been in some way thwarted in his design; for his temper, never very
+good, has been outrageous for some time past; so much so, that I have
+made up my mind to leave him and this region for ever. There is but one
+thing which keeps me; you and your mother are the only persons in the
+world that I care much about--and you I love as I do my life. If you
+will marry me, Hettie, I will get together all I have got; it will be
+enough to purchase us a place far away from here, and we will take your
+mother, and Bill, too, if he gets well; and how happy we shall be.'
+
+Hettie was deeply affected, but she felt that she must deal plainly with
+him.
+
+'You must not talk so, David; you and I can never be married.'
+
+'You are ashamed of me already, Hettie. My father's disgrace, I see, is
+to be mine.'
+
+'I shall never attach to you, David, any wrong your father has done--but
+let us say no more about this. You have ever been kind to me and my
+family; all that a sister can do for you, I will; beyond this, I hope
+you will not urge me. But there are some things to be thought of that
+must be done soon. Mr. Rutherford ought not to be kept ignorant of this
+matter. I have, out of kindness to you, told you what I have heard, and
+with a hope that you will make an effort to recover these papers, and
+thus in part frustrate an evil design, and perhaps save your father from
+a great calamity. William has told me that he has some faint
+recollection of feeling the trunk taken from his grasp, while he lay in
+that helpless condition. You think your father has not got it; probably
+then, it is in the hands of some person who does not realize the value
+of it, and may easily be induced to relinquish it.'
+
+'I will do what I can, Hettie, to find out; but I caution you to let no
+person know a word of all this, at least not until I have failed in
+finding out some clue to it. Should Rutherford know what you do, and
+make attempts to search, or to expose matters, it would be the very way,
+as things are here, to have it put where no one can ever be the wiser
+for it. If my father has not got the trunk or the papers--and I don't
+believe he has, for the reason I have told you--it is probably in the
+hands of some one who has taken it from Bill, and is afraid to say any
+thing, for fear he would be charged with an attempt to murder.'
+
+David's reasoning appeared so plausible, that Hettie coincided with him
+as to the propriety, at present, of saying nothing further on the
+subject to any one.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+
+There were many things in the circumstances of Mr. Cross, in themselves
+not very desirable. He had, to be sure, injured Mr. Rutherford; he had
+destroyed his home; he had by his artifice, brought him to cruel
+suffering and mortification; and he had wrested from him an instrument
+of immense value to its rightful owner, although of very doubtful
+utility to himself. But this very instrument had fallen into the hands
+of one whom he hated and feared, and was now held over him as a rod of
+terror, to force him into compliance with just such measures as the
+dictator chose.
+
+He had committed also a flagrant crime--one that rendered him liable to
+the severest penalty of the law; and the knowledge of what he had done
+was not confined to himself and his agents. One at least, besides, held
+the fatal secret; and although she was a lone widow, and very much under
+his power, still she might disclose it--perhaps she had already done so.
+
+His situation was no enviable one. He walked by the crater of a volcano;
+he could see the fires and hear the rumbling beneath him; at any moment
+he might be engulfed.
+
+The wicked make the toils which entangle and distress them, but they are
+not the less troublesome on that account. Cross saw that something must
+be done, and without delay. The first step was, to ascertain what amount
+of information Ned Saunders had communicated to the Widow Brown, and
+then by some means, fair or foul, stop it from going any further. There
+was also a mystery about the disaster which had befallen William Brown;
+somehow he believed it to be connected with the loss of the trunk and
+the injury to Saunders, in what way he could not unravel; but he firmly
+believed that William knew, if he could or would tell, more than any one
+else. Cross had visited him frequently during his illness, and kept a
+shrewd eye upon him, at the same time continuing acts of kindness
+towards the family, as well as encouraging the attentions of David.
+
+He saw clearly, at length, that William was recovering his strength, and
+even guessed that he had more ability to converse than he felt willing
+should be known.
+
+It may seem strange that a father could be willing to expose his
+baseness to a son; but when the heart becomes accustomed to iniquity, it
+loses the finer feelings, and becomes callous to all sense of shame, or
+even desire for the respect and love of its nearest kindred. Cross
+thought he saw how he might, through the influence of his son, keep a
+hold upon that family, and he scrupled not to make a confidant of him,
+even to the exposure of his own base purposes.
+
+David had just returned from the cottage. It was at the closing of day;
+Cross was alone in his store, and sat pondering upon his plans and
+prospects, and the multitude of dangers surrounding him.
+
+'Have you been at the Widow Brown's?'
+
+'Just come from there.'
+
+'How is Bill?'
+
+'Better; pretty weak though yet.'
+
+'Can he talk yet?'
+
+'Not much.'
+
+'Not much! Can he talk at all? if he can I want to know it. But where
+are you going now?'
+
+'Not far; up north a short distance.'
+
+'You can't go now; sit down--I want to talk to you.'
+
+David obeyed without making any reply; he did not fancy his father's
+talks very much, but he feared to offend him.
+
+'I've got into trouble, and you may as well know it: it has all been
+done to give you a lift, and make you something in the world; but things
+have gone wrong end foremost, and now we must make the best of them.'
+
+Cross looked at his son and paused, seeming to expect an answer; but
+David either did not care how things went, or he wished to know more
+about them before venturing upon a reply.
+
+'You know Rutherford's house has been burned, and that Ned Saunders is
+dead; he was the one who did that job. He's gone out of the way, to be
+sure; but he has told a pack of lies to old Molly Brown, and if she
+should blab it about, we might get into a mess of trouble; but I
+suppose you know all about it--she has let it out to you, no doubt.'
+
+But David made no signs of acknowledgment as to whether he did or did
+not know any thing about it.
+
+'Are you dumb, all at once, that you cannot speak when you are spoken
+to?'
+
+'You haven't asked me any question yet.'
+
+'Yes, I have; has Molly Brown told you what Ned Saunders said?'
+
+'She has not.'
+
+'Has she talked about it that you know of?'
+
+'Not that I know of.'
+
+Cross sat silent for some time; at length making another effort, he
+disclosed his purpose.
+
+'The fact is, the old woman knows too much for our good. She likes you
+well enough; you know that I suppose, and she has good reason to do so;
+you can stop her tongue if you will.'
+
+'I should like to know how.'
+
+'How? Why, by marrying Hettie; she can't hurt us then, without hurting
+her own child, and she won't be likely to do that. You shall have money
+enough: the barrens are pretty much all ours now, or they will be when
+this matter is once quashed.'
+
+'How so?'
+
+'Why, Rutherford's deed for them is burned up, and there is no record of
+it, and mine covers it all.'
+
+'But suppose I should tell you that Rutherford's deed is not burnt?'
+
+'How do you know it ain't?' and Cross arose from his seat in great
+excitement.
+
+'Bill Brown has told all about it; he laid on the truck-bed under the
+counter the night you and old Foster were here together.'
+
+Dave looked at his father for the first time since the commencement of
+the interview. The dim light that came in through the open door just
+enabled him to see the ashy paleness that had over-spread his features.
+
+'Get me some gin;' and Cross nearly fell into his chair as Dave stepped
+up to him.
+
+'Get me some gin, I say; quick!'
+
+Dave immediately drew a tumbler of the clear liquor, and his father
+taking it with both hands, with difficulty put it to his mouth, so
+violent was his agitation; he accomplished it, however, and did not stop
+until the glass was empty. Drawing a long breath, he handed back the
+glass.
+
+'Go sit down; I'll be better directly.' Some moments elapsed before he
+could resume the conversation.
+
+'Who has Bill Brown told that lie to?'
+
+'He has told it to his sister; whether it's a lie or not, I can't say. I
+shouldn't think he would be like to lie just now, with one foot in the
+grave.'
+
+Cross saw too clearly that his villany was fully exposed; he sat
+apparently stunned by the perils which now hovered over him. David at
+last broke silence.
+
+'The best thing to be done is, to give Rutherford back his deed.'
+
+'That can't be done; I have not got it, nor has it ever been in my
+hands. There is only one thing that can be of any use now, and that is
+to stop the mouths of that family; you can easily do that by marrying
+the daughter.'
+
+'It takes two to make such a bargain as that.'
+
+'You don't suppose she would be fool enough to refuse you?'
+
+'Fool or no fool, she has refused me this very day.'
+
+Cross was again silent. It appeared that difficulties arose at every
+step; but when the end to be accomplished was so important, the means in
+his view were of no moment. A plan suggested itself to his mind, cruel
+and base to be sure; but he was in a strait, and what were the feelings
+of a gentle girl, even should her heart be broken, in comparison with
+his own selfish ends?
+
+'That is easy to get along with--there ain't half the girls round here
+that ever give consent at all. Get her over to the old rendezvous; give
+the boys and girls a wink, as to what you want; have old Goble on the
+spot--he's used to it. She'll give in easy enough when you're once
+buckled together; a little kind treatment and plenty of money will soon
+settle everything; and when you are in the family, and they can't help
+themselves, all will go right enough; and then, if they try to hurt
+either of us, they will only be cutting their own heads off; they won't
+be for doing that.'
+
+In order to the clear understanding of the plan which Cross had
+suggested, a little explanation will be necessary.
+
+Among these rude people, the subject of marriage, and everything
+connected with it, was treated in a peculiar manner; from first to
+last, secrecy seemed to be the main ingredient in the whole business.
+The courtship was carried on clandestinely, and very seldom was the
+marriage ceremony completed--it could scarcely be said to be
+solemnized--without at least a show of resistance and reluctance on the
+part of the female; she being often fairly forced into the room by the
+main strength of her companions, and never did the minister expect a
+reply, or even the sign of assent to his questions from either party.
+Goble, the character by whom nearly all the matrimonial bonds in this
+region had been riveted for the last twenty years, was a nondescript
+minister, who had some good things in his composition, mixed with a
+great many others of a very doubtful kind. He could preach in a certain
+way, on any occasion to which he was called, but he was very seldom
+asked to perform any such duty, and was well content, so far as he
+himself was concerned, to do nothing at it; he worked for his living at
+a small trade, and that, with the trifling fees he received for some
+professional services, satisfied his humble desires.
+
+David Cross listened to these suggestions of his father, outrageous as
+they were, with no little interest. He loved Hettie, or at least he
+thought he did; but brought up and educated as he had been, he could
+have no very correct idea of those pure and delicate feelings which
+constitute true love: he supposed that he could make her happy, and felt
+every disposition to do so. His interview with her the day before had
+not been as satisfactory as he had wished. He had never before doubted
+that she would willingly accept him, and had always looked upon her as
+appropriated to himself; to be thus disappointed, was not by any means
+grateful to his uncurbed will and unsubdued passions. It produced an
+unhappy effect upon his mind--a sort of determination to get her into
+his power; and he meant it in kindness too, for he was sure that he
+could make her happy.
+
+As his father, therefore, unfolded to him a way that his wish could be
+accomplished, he eagerly caught at it, and even then resolved that she
+should be his.
+
+The meeting between William Andrews and his mother was almost too much
+for the old lady; she ever had loved him dearly, even through all her
+harsh treatment of him. She had heard of his prosperity in his letters
+home; he had told her that he was doing well, and the supplies of money
+which he occasionally sent to her confirmed his statement. But she had
+not expected such a change in his appearance. His manners and style of
+dress, and the consideration which was paid to him, caused the old lady
+at times to feel almost sad as well as proud. William, however, was
+unchanged in his affection, and left nothing undone that could manifest
+to her his filial respect and love. The old house was refitted in the
+neatest manner, as she preferred living in that, she said, the rest of
+her days, to any new one that could be built. She would have been too
+happy, were it not that too many tokens of disease manifested
+themselves, for a mother's eye not to discern that there was a worm at
+the root of her gourd.
+
+The health of William was not benefited by his native air; the languor
+which oppressed him became more and more distressing, and the sunken
+cheek and the hectic flush gave sad notice to the hearts that loved him
+of his fatal malady. But his spirits retained their elasticity, and the
+hope of returning health seemed to grow stronger in his own breast, as
+it grew fainter in the hearts of his friends. He thought he should he
+better soon; and thus from day to day he went about among the neighbours
+who were now clustered in his native village, and rejoiced in the magic
+change which every where met his eye. What hours of delightful converse
+he enjoyed with those whose enterprise had given the first start to all
+these new and pleasant scenes, and by whose aid he himself had broken
+the chains of idleness and vice, and arisen to respectability and
+independence.
+
+Jim and Ned were the brothers of his heart, and between the three there
+was an interchange of the most entire confidence: Sam only was wanting
+to have made the circle of his heart's desire complete.
+
+Through the influence of William, Mr. Rutherford had been induced to
+hire a tenement for the present, not far from the abode of the Montjoys,
+until time should more clearly develop what course he ought to pursue
+for his future support.
+
+To this family he daily resorted, there he found another home, and in
+their friendship he enjoyed a repose that seemed to him a paradise.
+
+Hettie he often met, and treated her like a sister, so far as she would
+allow him, but he had said nothing to her about love. Perhaps his heart
+had been drawn far away, or the power of disease had so deadened his
+feelings, that he could not arouse himself to the effort of attempting
+to gain her affections, or perhaps he saw--for love is eagle-eyed--that
+there was one on whom Hettie looked with just such feelings as he would
+once fain have had her entertain towards himself.
+
+Henry Tracy still retained his situation, and, of course, William and he
+were thrown together in the same home; a sincere friendship had
+commenced between them; the mild and social character of both seemed
+formed upon the same basis. Although there was a vast difference in
+their mental attainments, yet William had learned much from intercourse
+with the world, and could impart valuable knowledge of men and things in
+exchange for the intellectual stores which Henry had at his command, and
+thus was his spirit beguiled from those dark and depressing thoughts
+which often attend upon the sinking frame, and even hasten its decay.
+Friendship met him at every turn in some new form, and her smile cheered
+his sensitive spirit, and kept up a genial glow; quickening his languid
+pulse, and animating him with unnatural vigor.
+
+He had been spending the evening at the Rutherford's, and had been more
+engaged in conversation than usual; it was near the time for retiring,
+when he was seized with a slight fit of coughing; and on Mrs.
+Rutherford's asking if he felt more unwell, as she noticed that he was
+unusually pale--
+
+'I am in some pain;' and he placed his hand upon his chest. She stepped
+up to him, and found that the handkerchief which he had just taken from
+his mouth was stained with blood.
+
+The physician was immediately called in, but his hopeless look, as he
+bent over the poor youth, gave sad presage of what the end would be. His
+mother and sister were likewise soon with him; but Mrs. Rutherford
+persuaded them to leave the care of him to her; and faithfully did that
+kind and gentle lady watch by his sick bed. She and Hettie moved about
+the apartment in that calm and unobtrusive manner so grateful to the
+weak and suffering. Every thing was kept in perfect order, and all
+tokens of a sick chamber were removed, save the chastened light that
+came in through the drawn curtains, and the noiseless tread of those who
+waited upon him. Their countenances, when around the bed, or bending
+over it to administer some food or cordial, wore no gloomy aspect, no
+anxious knitted brow, no look of sadness from the eye. He loved to gaze
+upon them both; angels they seemed to him--attendants from a better
+world, waiting on his frail body here, and soon to bear his soaring
+spirit to the bright abode which they had left. And when he talked of
+death, and told them he was going fast, and soon the struggle would be
+over; sweetly they would speak about the heaven that was beyond, of the
+pure white robes, and the golden harps, and the everlasting songs, and
+the bright meeting they would have when care and toil, and sin and
+death, were passed.
+
+Mr. Rutherford was often by his side, and showed, in every word and
+look, how much he felt. He could not hide his aching heart beneath a
+smile; he loved too well the youthful sufferer. Obligations of the
+tenderest kind he hourly felt. Nor was this all; he could sympathize
+with him as a man; how full of ardent hopes, with prospects bright for
+future years, and all earth's winning smiles beaming on his path, and
+now to die so soon, was hard, he thought, even though an angel beckoned
+him away. And thus when he stood by that silent bed, and heard the
+short, hard heavings of his chest, and saw the daily inroads of disease
+upon that face, which had so lately beamed like hope's bright star upon
+his troubled way; he felt like one who looks into an open grave, and
+hears the clod fall heavy on the coffin-lid; 'twas dark, all dark.
+
+And at that bed, by day and night, whenever he could snatch an hour from
+his varied duties, was Henry Tracy. His friendship had just begun to
+kindle into warmth, when he saw that it must soon be extinguished.
+William loved to have him near; he loved to hear him converse about
+those realities which now alone absorbed his spirit; and well did Henry
+know how to deal out the precious manna; so soft and clear, in tones
+that fell like heavenly music on the ear. He talked about the
+Saviour--for, to Henry, the name of Jesus was a name to quicken every
+pulse, and fill the heart with holy joy; and when he spoke of Him, it
+was as though he talked about a friend whose ardent sympathies beat in
+unison with his own; a friend who loved, who was now near at hand,
+feeling for all his woes, smoothing the dying pillow, taking away the
+sting of death, and preparing a triumphant passage for his soul into his
+own blest home.
+
+William drank in his words until his spirit rejoiced within him, and
+longed to depart. He had a strange pleasure, too, in seeing Hettie stand
+by the side of Henry and listen to his voice, until her face would glow
+with the holy fire it kindled in his breast; he could read in her
+glistening eye, perhaps, what few others could. William loved her even
+in death, and now, more than he had done for years past. He loved, too,
+Henry Tracy. As he gazed on them by turns, he felt how well suited they
+were to one another. He murmured something; Henry heard them, but though
+Hettie caught but a word, the rich colour that spread over her pale
+face, proved that she understood them. He spoke their names together,
+and he blessed them.
+
+Short were the hours after this that William struggled with the pains of
+life; around him were all the dear ones he had on earth; there was no
+violence of grief to trouble his departing spirit; hearts were bleeding
+silently, and as the last breath went to heaven, a moment all watched
+the still, sweet sleeper, and looked on silently while Mr. Rutherford
+closed his eyes, and then sat down and wept until their burdened spirits
+found relief.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+
+During all the period of Hettie's confinement around the sick bed of
+William Andrews, David saw nothing of her; he felt satisfied that she
+would not disclose what her brother had communicated to her. The efforts
+which, in the mean time, he was to make for the recovery of the lost
+document, were much relaxed by the interview with his father, as related
+in a former chapter. He saw now that his ultimate object might be
+gained, and suffered his selfish feelings to work their hateful purpose.
+He continued his attentions to William and his mother, and did much to
+supply to them the absence of Hettie.
+
+Reports are easily set in motion, and, as every one is willing to keep
+them moving, it is not strange that they spread so fast. Thus it began
+to be whispered that Mr. Tracy and Hettie Brown were engaged to be
+married; and although no one had any license for saying so, nor was it
+actually the case, yet so it was said, and David among the rest listened
+to the story. It took him not altogether by surprise, and only confirmed
+him in his purpose to accomplish the plan proposed by his father.
+
+The effort William had made to communicate the terrible secret which
+harassed his mind, enfeebled as it was by disease, had nearly proved
+fatal to him. The excitement produced by the thought of having the
+matter made public, with all its consequences to himself and others,
+together with the physical effort he was obliged to make in order to
+explain things fully to his sister, brought on a recurrence of his
+unfavorable symptoms, and as soon as Hettie could be spared from the
+dying room of William Andrews, she was again at her mother's home,
+although so exhausted in mind and body as to be able to do little else
+than watch by his bedside.
+
+'I could not come as soon as I expected,' said David Cross as he entered
+the cottage of the Widow Brown; 'but we shall have time enough for a
+good ride yet.'
+
+David looked very pale, and his voice trembled as he spoke, but Hettie
+did not notice it, for she was busy putting on her things. She had made
+an engagement with him that morning to take a drive; she felt that she
+needed the recreation, and as she supposed matters were well understood
+between them, hesitated not in accepting such an act of kindness.
+
+'I think you had better not drive far, David, for it will soon be night,
+and William has not been so well to-day.'
+
+'No, no, aunty, we shan't go far, or at least we shan't stay long, for
+Bony is in good spirits.'
+
+Hettie sprang into the buggy, and Dave drove off at his usual rapid
+pace.
+
+The rendezvous that Cross had spoken of in his conversation with his
+son, was situated in the midst of the thickest and least frequented part
+of the pines. It had once been used as a tavern, in days before Mr.
+Cross set up in his more public situation. Of late years, it became the
+haunt of all who wished to have a frolic as they called it--in other
+words, a low debauch; and scenes of riot were enacted there which even
+Cross himself did not approve. It was a lone place, and far from any
+settlement; of course no restraint was put upon those who wished thus to
+degrade themselves. It was also the chosen place for their marriage
+scenes; these seldom, if ever, taking place at the home of either party.
+Two old and miserable-looking beings kept the house, such as it was, and
+on occasion of an assemblage, gave matters up to the company to do as
+they pleased, their business being merely to deal out plenty of liquor
+from behind an old counter in one corner of the room.
+
+'I think we have gone far enough, David; I fear William will begin to be
+restless.'
+
+'I am only going as far as the house you see yonder. I must stop and
+water Bony, and as he is so restless, if you will step in and talk a
+moment to the old people, I will hurry all I can, and then we will be
+home in less than no time.'
+
+As they drove up, Hettie knew that she had not seen the place before;
+but hesitated not to do as she was requested, although the house was
+very forbidding in its appearance.
+
+'You've come airly,' said the old hag who sat just within the door,
+smoking a short black pipe. Hettie, not understanding her allusion,
+looked at her in some surprise, without making a reply.
+
+'I say you've come rather airly; the folks ain't none on 'em got along
+yet.'
+
+'What folks do you mean, granny?'
+
+'Ay, ay, I see you're jist like the rest of the galls, you want to keep
+it secret as long as you can. We know all about it though; but you're
+goin' to have a smart un; Dave's a good feller.'
+
+Hettie, supposing the old woman to be a little deranged, merely smiled,
+and walked into the room. David had driven his horse away, as she
+supposed, for the purpose of watering--Poor girl! she was in a trap, and
+soon her light and happy spirit would be writhing in agony.
+
+'Are you ready, David? but where is the horse?' seeing that he had not
+driven to the door, but come into the room where she was, his
+countenance pale, and with an aspect that alarmed her. 'Has any thing
+happened, David? You are not well?'
+
+'Come in the other room, Hettie.' She followed, but a strange foreboding
+of some evil flashed upon her mind, and so affected her in her then
+debilitated state, that she was glad to sit down on a long low bench,
+which ran along under the windows, at the same time fixing her
+penetrating eyes full on the young man. He took a seat beside her, and
+turning his head from her--
+
+'I want to talk with you, Hettie, on that subject which you and I have
+had up between us lately.'
+
+'What, David; about the trunk? have you heard of it?'
+
+'No, there isn't much chance of doing any thing about that just now; but
+you know what I said to you some time ago about our being married.'
+
+'That I supposed was all settled, David. I told you frankly when you
+first spoke to me, that it could never be; why should you bring it up
+again? I meant what I said, and I feel just as I did then.'
+
+'But it is not all settled: I have been thinking of you all my life,
+Hettie, and you know how intimate we have been, and when I think of your
+marrying some one else, as it is said you are going to do, I can't stand
+it, Hettie, no how; and there is no use of talking about it.'
+
+'But you surely would not wish to marry me if I did not love you, David;
+and that I tell you now, as I told you before, I do not as I expect to
+love the man whom I would give my hand to. You have been always very
+kind to me, and to my family, and we all think much of you, and would do
+any thing in our power for you, but on this subject I must beg of you to
+urge me no further, for it can never be.'
+
+David now rose and stood up before her. He took one of her hands, at
+which she made no resistance, but he felt that it was cold as marble,
+and lay in his grasp like a lifeless thing. He saw also that the color
+had left her cheek, and that her lips were of a purple hue; the eyes
+alone retained their life, and gazed at him with an earnestness that he
+had never met from Hettie's eyes before.
+
+'You must listen a moment to me, Hettie. I now ask you, once again, if
+you will marry me. I can take good care of you. My father has agreed to
+let me have money enough to purchase a handsome place, and we will go
+away from these dreary woods. Your mother and brother shall accompany
+us, if they will, and our home shall be theirs. I have invited the folks
+round, and the minister is sent for; in a short time they will be here.
+I want you to consent, and let it all go off smooth; but consent or not,
+Goble shall marry us when he comes, and then I should like to see the
+man that will separate you from me.'
+
+Hettie was not prepared for this; she knew well what were the strange
+and uncouth customs in that region; but little had she dreamed that they
+could ever be brought thus to bear upon her. A thousand thoughts rushed
+into her mind of the most appalling nature. She feared that her conduct
+towards this young man had not been sufficiently guarded. She had
+mistaken his character, and now that she was in his power it was
+revealed to her in colors too glaring to be misunderstood. But her
+courage did not forsake her. She was well aware that resistance would be
+of no avail: she cast her thoughts to heaven, and prayed most earnestly
+that God would make a way for her out of this trouble, in comparison
+with which death itself would be a welcome messenger. She resolved that
+there should be no misunderstanding of her feelings. She withdrew her
+hand, and after a moment's pause, replied:--
+
+'Your conduct, David, is as strange as it is ungenerous--unmanly. You
+have deceived me by coming to this place; you have taken me away from
+all help of friends. I am a woman, weak, and in your power; but I tell
+you now plainly, I despise you for your meanness. I shall protest most
+solemnly in the presence of your pretended minister, that I will never
+own you for a husband. No: I would sooner suffer the most excruciating
+torments, and die the bitterest death, than do one thing, by word or
+deed, that could give you a claim to me.'
+
+David Cross writhed under this address; but Hettie could not have
+pursued a course more likely to confirm him in his purpose. He was cut
+to the heart, and resolved upon revenge. He cared not now for her
+love--she should be his slave.
+
+As evening gathered over them, groups of females began to gather in the
+room; and as she cast her eye over them, not one countenance did she
+recognize as having ever seen before. They were arrayed in all sorts of
+fanciful styles; their dark complexions set off by pink, blue, yellow,
+and green dresses, according to the taste of the owner. Their untamed
+characters were too clearly visible in their rude behavior; and as they
+gathered around the suffering girl, the only sense they manifested of
+feeling was a hard, unmeaning smile, and a wink at each other,
+signifying that there was sport at hand. In the outer room, also, began
+to be heard the boisterous laugh of men, and the rattling of glasses on
+the counter, mingled with the harsh sounds of a violin, scraped by a
+negro, who had grown grey in the service, attending upon all the orgies
+of the country round. Little did Hettie, until that moment, ever think
+that there could be grouped within a few miles of her mother's dwelling
+a scene so nearly allied in her mind to the doings of the bottomless
+pit; and as the merriment increased with the exciting potions that were
+dealing out, her trembling spirit could only hang its hope on an unseen
+hand. She had made up her mind as to the course she intended to pursue.
+Resistance would be in vain; nor would an apparent opposition or
+repugnance to the performance of the ceremony avail any thing. She
+should therefore do as requested until the pretended ceremony began, and
+then would most solemnly protest against the violence done to her, and
+warn all present that her friends would prosecute to the utmost all who
+had a hand in the wickedness.
+
+As the groups were coming in, she anxiously looked among them for a face
+that she knew, and at length espied one that was familiar, dressed in
+rather poorer garments than the rest; a young woman whom she had in some
+measure befriended. She soon caught her eye, and beckoned to her--
+
+'Sally, will you get me a drink of cold water?' The young woman flew
+with alacrity to do her bidding. As she came near with the cup of water,
+Hettie spoke kindly to her, made a few inquiries, and then whispered in
+a very guarded manner a few words. The girl appeared much astonished,
+looked full at Hettie, and then towards David Cross, who was busily
+engaged at another part of the room. She then carried away the cup, and
+left the house.
+
+Inquiries now began to be made after the minister.
+
+'Goble ain't so hungry for his job as he is sometimes; he ought to have
+been here half an hour ago.'
+
+'He's getting old, Joe; he can't move as he once did. He'll be along,
+though, by and by--no fear of Goble.'
+
+The old negro, after a while, being pretty well warmed up with the
+liquor, kept up an incessant jingle on his crazy instrument, bobbing his
+old grey head about, and occasionally stamping violently with his foot,
+as he became excited by his own melody. In different parts of the room a
+couple might be seen shuffling away rapidly with their feet, tossing
+their arms up and down as they held each other's hands, swaying their
+bodies in all directions, and performing all sorts of uncouth gestures;
+until, exhausted by the exercise, they would slap their feet hard on the
+floor, let go of hands, swing round, and with a loud shout which was
+echoed by an uproarious laugh throughout the room, mingle again with the
+crowd.
+
+How long these scenes continued, Hettie could not tell, nor did she heed
+them much; her mind was too painfully oppressed in anticipation of what
+she might yet be called to go through.
+
+Henry Tracy had just returned from a visit to some of his charge, and
+was quietly seated in his study, when the Widow Andrews, putting her
+head carefully around the casement of the open door, said in a very low
+voice,
+
+'There's two of the Sheldrakes out here; they want to see the
+minister.'
+
+'Two what, Mrs. Andrews?'
+
+'Sheldrakes--there's two on 'em, and they're round the corner by the big
+tree; they won't come in, but they say they want to see the minister.'
+
+Henry stepped to the window, expecting to see he hardly knew what; there
+were, indeed, two uncouth looking figures, but he recognised them at
+once as inhabitants of the barrens.
+
+'Are those two men the persons you allude to, Mrs. Andrews.'
+
+'Yes, there they are--there's two on 'em; they're the real Sheldrakes,
+the critters are.'
+
+Without waiting to inquire into the peculiar meaning of the term, he
+went out immediately to them, and asked in his pleasant manner.
+
+'Were you inquiring for me?'
+
+'We's wanting to see the minister; there's a little job to be done up
+our way, and as the regular hand is sick we've come to git you.'
+
+Henry had become quite familiar with these rude sons of the forest, and
+therefore their appearance and manners were not at all surprising to
+him.
+
+'What kind of a job is it you have on hand, my friends?'
+
+'Oh, it's a little weddin' job; a couple of young un's want hitchin
+together; and Dave sent us for Goble, but the old crittur's got the
+rhumatiz, so he can't go no how; and as we thought it warn't no matter
+who does it, so as it's done, we've come arter you.'
+
+'What David? David Cross! He is not going to be married, is he?'
+
+'But you won't speak of it; so if you will be about dusk at the corner
+of the north road, we'll be there and show you the way.'
+
+'I will be there; but you must not lose me in your wild country;'
+smiling as he said it.
+
+'Never fear, sir, we'll take you safe and bring you back safe, and there
+shan't be a hair o' your head hurt; only you must'nt mind if the boys is
+noisy a little; but when they see it ain't Goble that's among 'em
+they'll behave more decenter, for they set store by you, minister, all
+over.'
+
+At the appointed time Henry was on the spot; a thick fog had settled
+around as evening approached, and the two guides were obliged very soon
+to light their pine knots. As Henry followed on through the thick
+woods, had it not been that he was somewhat accustomed to scenes of the
+kind, he might have felt no little uneasiness; for the men were wild
+looking figures, their long streaming hair, rude garments, dark, Indian
+countenances, together with the flaming brands throwing their pitchy
+glare upon the huge trunks of the giant pines through which they
+threaded their way, while all beyond the little circle of light in which
+they walked was a wilderness of darkness--the whole scene required no
+little confidence for one to be quite at ease. The men followed no
+beaten road, but were guided in their course by marks known only to
+themselves.
+
+The sound of the violin and the hum of voices were at length heard, and
+lights were seen close at hand.
+
+'Have you got him, Harry?'
+
+'Aye, aye; but tell 'em to stop their noise.' And the tidings could be
+heard flying from mouth to mouth; the violin ceased, and all was hushed.
+
+The room in which the ceremony was to be performed was spacious enough
+to contain a large assembly. It was nearly filled; the men and women
+standing promiscously in a dense mass, occupied about two-thirds of the
+apartment, leaving a clear space sufficiently large for those more
+immediately connected with the performance; within this stood a number
+of the younger females with their arms locked, and forming a complete
+ring encircling those who were intended to be the bride and groom.
+
+Hettie had followed, as she had been requested, on the announcement of
+the ministers approach; but the excitement under which she labored was
+so great, that it required her utmost energy to sustain herself without
+assistance, and she would have died before she would have sought it from
+him who stood beside her; to have lost her physical or mental powers at
+such a time, she knew would have been the end of hope for her. She stood
+with her face covered, as the only way she could command herself, and
+her agonized spirit poured out its terrible necessities to Him, who she
+believed could alone help her. As Henry Tracy entered the room, a buzz
+of astonishment ran through the assembly; the circle of girls opened and
+extended itself, so as to permit him to be immediately before the
+couple. He smiled, as he looked at David Cross, but casting his eye
+quickly to her who stood beside him, the smile flew away, and a deadly
+sickness came over him. He saw not her face, for it was still covered,
+but those raven locks, and that lovely form, he had seen too often not
+to recognise at once. For a moment he stood petrified with amazement,
+unable to utter a syllable, or do any thing but gaze, almost with
+horror, upon the terrible apparition which had thus risen before him.
+
+Hearing the movement around her, and supposing the ceremony was about to
+begin, Hettie sent one long, silent cry to heaven for aid, and then
+uncovered her face. Had an angel from that bright world appeared for her
+rescue, it could not have been more surprising to her than the sight of
+Henry Tracy. She clasped her hands together, fixed her eye full upon
+him, and uttering a scream of delight, flew towards him.
+
+'Oh, save me! save me!'
+
+'Where is she? where is she?' and a woman broke into the room. 'Where is
+my child?' And Henry Tracy laid the fainting girl in her mother's arms,
+and assisted in bearing her from the room into the open air.
+
+When David Cross saw Henry Tracy enter the room, accompanied by the two
+men whom he had commissioned to procure the services of Mr. Goble, he
+know at once that his design was frustrated. His countenance was deadly
+pale, and he cast a glance of fury at the two men, but he durst not vent
+his anger either in words or actions there. The mighty spell which
+Henry's influence exerted, even in this waste region, was too evident in
+the perfect stillness which reigned the moment he entered the room, and
+the looks of reverence that beamed even from those wild and untamed
+countenances.
+
+As Hettie darted from his side, he made his way through the crowd to an
+end door of the building, and with feelings which none might envy, was
+soon on his way towards his father's house. One by one the company slunk
+away, when they found that the proceedings were at an end, and in
+silence groped through the darkness towards their several homes.
+
+When Hettie awoke to consciousness, Henry was bending over her, while
+her mother sat by her side, smoothing her beautiful forehead, and
+putting back the dark locks which kept falling over it.
+
+All was still; she listened for those terrible sounds which had well
+nigh driven her reason; but no sound could she hear, except the sweet
+voice of Henry.
+
+'You feel better now?'
+
+'Oh, yes; but how has it all come about?'
+
+'We must ask you that, my dear?' said her mother; 'it is all a mystery,
+a great mystery to us.'
+
+'Sally went for you then, mother? I was fearful it would all be over
+before she could get there.'
+
+'Yes, my dear, and she is now sitting with your brother until we get
+home.'
+
+'Do let us go, then, for I am so anxious to get away from this terrible
+place--but there--what is that!' and Hettie darted a wild glance towards
+the door. Henry and her mother looked at each other.
+
+'There is nothing here, Hettie--no one beside your dear mother and
+myself.'
+
+'Oh--well--I am so glad!'
+
+Henry said nothing of his fears; but a terrible thought came into his
+mind; which was more and more confirmed by an occasional wild glance of
+her eye. 'Her mind has been injured, or she is about to be visited with
+severe illness.'
+
+The mother probably did not think as far as he did, although she felt
+that there was need for immediate departure.
+
+'Are you able to walk, my dear? if so, we had better be going.'
+
+'Oh yes, to be sure, mother.' And she quickly rose from the rude bed on
+which she had been laid; but no sooner did she attempt to stand, than
+her trembling limbs gave way. Henry caught her, and again laid her to
+rest: she was evidently ill already, and no time must be lost in getting
+away from that miserable abode.
+
+The men who had accompanied Henry were still in waiting to conduct him
+home. By their aid a litter was constructed; and while the anxious
+mother bore the torch to light them through the gloom, Henry with his
+two guides carried the suffering girl.
+
+It was a sad journey that for Henry Tracy. The wild and incoherent
+remarks which Hettie made, the deathly pallor of her countenance, and
+the quick flashing of her eye, which he discerned as the light
+occasionally fell upon her features, confirmed his worst fears.
+
+By his persuasion, the widow consented that she should be taken to Mr.
+Rutherford's, her own humble home offering no suitable convenience for
+another invalid.
+
+The ways of God appear unequal only to those who judge prematurely, or
+without taking into the account that this world is not the end. God sees
+as we do not: His design in all the dealings of His judgments and His
+mercies here towards those who love Him, is to make them trust in Him,
+and cast their thoughts, too prone to settle on this vale of tears and
+be content with earth, upwards, towards that better, purer home in
+heaven.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+
+War is a name that carries in its dreadful meaning scenes of suffering
+and woe, little thought of, it is feared, by those who, at the helm of
+power, too easily proclaim the deadly feud.
+
+The widow's tear, the orphan's helpless sigh, the agonizing groans of
+bleeding victims, the horrible necessities that wait upon the contest
+for supremacy where man forgets his nature, and hastes with tiger-thirst
+to seek the life-blood of his fellow man, are all forgotten or unheeded.
+A little land, not worth a single pang of one fond mother's heart; a
+little wrong that might by calm remonstrance be redressed, or even borne
+with, affords a pretext. The herald of defiance is sent forth, and
+misery, death, and desolation hover on his track.
+
+The event which Commodore Trysail had predicted came to pass, although
+somewhat sooner than either he or many other shrewd calculators had
+anticipated. The Commodore, as we have seen, had no misgivings of
+conscience about the necessity of the measure: he only wished for a
+better preparation, before engaging in hostilities with the greatest
+nation on the globe.
+
+As to his own private interests, a few months would have enabled him to
+place them on a better footing, yet, perhaps, he thought as little about
+that matter as most men; at any rate, he took a very decided stand for
+the government, and strongly upheld it in its declaration of war.
+
+With Peter he still held long private talks on Peter's favorite topic;
+and every new incident of the war seemed interesting to the old sailor,
+only as it in some way might affect the safe return of Captain Sam. One
+morning, as Peter handed in the pack of papers at the door of the
+office, he looked very anxiously at the Commodore.
+
+'There's three more on 'em come, your honor--'
+
+'More what, Peter?'
+
+'Of the blockaders, sir,--a brig and two schooners.'
+
+'What will become of our young captain, now, Peter?'
+
+Peter slipped the quid to the other side, and worked away at it awhile
+in good earnest.
+
+'I'm a-thinking, your honor, it's a great pity he ain't in a regular
+man-o'-war's man.'
+
+'What would he do then, Peter?'
+
+'He'd make her talk, your honor, or I'm mistaken.'
+
+'You don't think he'd fight, do you?'
+
+'What for not, your honor?'
+
+'Why, you know he has been dodging along shore here, Peter, all his
+life--he has hardly smelled gunpowder.'
+
+'Asking your honor's pardon for the freedom, but I must haul off from
+your honor this time. Captain Sam may be ain't had much experience in
+the fightin' way as yet; but your honor knows, it's more what's in a man
+than what he larns--a brave man ashore will be a brave man at sea, that
+is, a'ter the sickness is over; but if Captain Sam don't face an enemy's
+bullet with the best on 'em, I'll cut off my pigtail and give it to the
+cats.' Peter could have made no stronger asseveration; for he highly
+valued the long appendage to his bushy head, and of all creatures he
+hated cats.
+
+'Do you think, Peter, if he had a good ship and a dozen guns on board,
+with a fine crew, he would know what to do with them?'
+
+'If he don't, your honor, I'll give up t'other leg, and go upon stumps
+the rest of my days.'
+
+'Well, Peter, I believe you; and we think alike this time. You may take
+these papers, and show them to Lady Morris.'
+
+'Ay, ay, your honor.'
+
+And Peter hobbled away, discharging the old quid as soon as he had
+fairly left the house; and treating himself to a new one, muttering as
+he did so, 'Captain Sam will show 'em--see if he don't.'
+
+The Commodore, through the influence of Peter, had also become much
+interested in the Montjoys; all the story of their boyish days had been
+so often repeated that they seemed like old acquaintances; and although,
+for argument's sake, the old gentleman would appear to doubt the
+correctness of Peter's reasoning on the certainty of their doing well,
+yet he had great confidence in the young firm, and an earnest desire for
+their prosperity.
+
+Old Sam Cutter, too, with whom the Commodore was very intimate, had not
+failed to make him acquainted with the mighty change which had been
+brought about through the instrumentality of these boys in this place,
+now so lovely in its appearance. He felt that they deserved his respect
+as a citizen, and treated them with a consideration which, for the
+disparity in years and circumstances, was very gratifying to them.
+
+He was therefore a frequent visitor at their establishment--never
+hindering them at their work if he found them engaged; but bowing
+respectfully to the young men and those who might be in at the time,
+would walk straight through the store into the little back room, which
+was always in perfect order, and there seek for news among their papers
+which might not happen to be in his.
+
+On this particular day of which we have been speaking, he had an object
+of some importance in his visit; and as he passed along to the usual
+place, he politely requested the favor of an interview with the elder
+partner, when he could be spared from his desk.
+
+'In a short time, sir, I will wait upon you,' said James, who was making
+an entry in his book.
+
+That morning, the brothers had been spending some time in consultation
+about business matters. They had, as we have seen, been very kindly
+treated by the bank, and in consequence were enabled to keep along and
+meet their difficulties; but the serious losses which they had met,
+affected them much more than they at first anticipated. They had never
+before known what it was to be cramped in their means for doing
+business, because they had only increased their transactions as they
+found themselves able to do so; but things could not very easily be
+brought back by the same process--they must either go on, or suspend
+altogether; and either alternative involved difficulties of no ordinary
+kind. To continue as they had, they must for years to come, so far as
+they could see, be constantly devising ways and means to meet
+engagements, involving anxiety, dependence, watchfulness, and untiring
+attention: to suspend their operations, would not only be a bitter
+humiliation to their sensitive spirits, but there would be a sacrifice
+of property that might leave them without the ability to pay many of
+their just debts. There was also a difficulty attending their situation
+which troubled them more than all else beside. They had been in the
+habit of receiving from many of their customers small sums of money
+which they wished to secure against a time of need; the unbounded
+confidence reposed in the young men brought all the loose money of those
+in moderate circumstances into their hands: they allowed an interest for
+it, and hitherto had been able to return any sum when suddenly called
+for. The amount thus accumulated was now about two thousand dollars; and
+it was due in sums of from ten to three hundred. With many of these
+depositors, it was the whole of their possession.
+
+The idea of danger from thus receiving funds had never occurred to the
+brothers, until they found by experience the difficulties which attended
+the raising money on an emergency with their diminished capital--in
+fact, with no other capital than their credit. But now they clearly saw
+that it placed them over a volcano; it might explode at any time, lay
+their business and well-earned reputation in ruins together, and utterly
+disable them from giving back this money thus sacredly intrusted to
+their keeping. And it was on this particular point they had been
+consulting that morning; their fears were mutually expressed, and they
+came to the resolution that they would involve themselves in such
+difficulties no farther.
+
+As soon as James could leave his desk, he repaired to the back-room.
+After some kind greetings on either side, the Commodore straightened
+himself in his chair, and resting one hand on his large gold-headed
+cane--
+
+'I want to talk with you a little, Mr. Montjoy, about money this
+morning.'
+
+James's heart beat quick; he could not help it, for the Commodore had
+placed five hundred dollars in his hands a short time previous, and
+requested him to keep it until he called for it.
+
+'I put five hundred dollars in your hands lately, which I was to have,
+you know, when I should call for it.'
+
+'Yes, sir, certainly by all means.' Poor James! he knew not where it was
+to come from, and he secretly wished that he had never owned a dollar,
+or that there was no such thing as money.
+
+'Well, sir, I have just received advices from the city that certain sum
+of money, which I suppose--'
+
+Ned stepped into the office, and requested the presence of his brother a
+moment. The Commodore bade him go, by all means, that he would wait his
+leisure.
+
+The business for which James was required was to close a very
+advantageous bargain for some produce, but he was in no state of mind to
+do business--money, ready money, was the only idea he could cherish; it
+clung to his spirit like the nightmare; he could neither bargain nor
+calculate, so he waived the matter, and was back again to the little
+room; he merely whispered to Ned,
+
+'The Commodore, I suppose, has come for his money.'
+
+'What shall we do?'
+
+'I don't know.'
+
+And he entered the room again, and sat down.
+
+'As I was saying, Mr. Montjoy, when your brother called you away, a
+certain sum of money, which I supposed had been invested, I learn by my
+advices to-day is still lying idle, and waiting my orders. These are
+ticklish times, Mr. Montjoy, and they will be worse before long. I am
+afraid of stocks at present, and have therefore concluded to draw for
+these funds, and place them in your hands; you can use them to
+advantage, no doubt.'
+
+And the Commodore took a long pinch of snuff, which had been for some
+time in waiting between his thumb and forefinger.
+
+James felt a load fall from his heart, and for a moment was silent.
+
+'I thank you, sir, for your kind offer, and for the confidence reposed
+in us; but before I can give you an answer, allow me to confer with my
+brother.'
+
+The character of these two young men had never been so severely tested
+before. An offer, unsolicited, had been made to them of that which they
+stood so much in need of, and which would relieve them from
+embarrassment. Ned clapped his hands, and rubbed them violently together
+in the ecstasy of his joy.
+
+'But, my dear Ned, ought we to take it?'
+
+'Why not?'
+
+'Because, he doubtless supposes that we are well off, and has no idea of
+our losses; and I've been thinking that, under the circumstances, we
+ought not to touch a dollar of it.'
+
+'That, to be sure, Jim;'--and Ned's countenance drooped; he hung his
+head, and began to kick the counter with his foot.
+
+'We concluded, you know, Ned, that we would take no more money in this
+way.'
+
+'Well, we had better stick to that, let what will come.'
+
+'How would it answer to tell him just the situation of things with us,
+and the reasons why we cannot receive it.'
+
+'If you tell him any thing, Jim, you had better tell the whole.'
+
+James's heart was lighter, because he had resolved to act consistently
+with a sense of duty.
+
+'I believe, sir, we must decline your generous offer.'
+
+James saw that the Commodore seemed surprised.
+
+'We do this, sir, not but that we need the funds--and they would at the
+present moment be of immense advantage to us--but we have no doubt, that
+you have made the offer under the impression that we are in very
+different circumstances from what, I am sorry to say, is the truth. But
+as you are a man of business, and can appreciate our motives for not
+having made a general exposition of our affairs, I will communicate to
+you our true situation.'
+
+And James gave a clear account of their course of business, from its
+commencement to the time when such unexpected losses at one stroke swept
+off the hard-earned profits of their youthful enterprise. He also
+explained to him the unpleasant situation in which they felt themselves
+placed, by being made the depositaries of so many sums of money, which
+might be called for at any moment, and especially should the least
+surmise get abroad unfriendly to their standing.
+
+After he had closed, the Commodore took out his gold snuff-box, and
+rapping it pretty hard, helped himself freely, and then very
+deliberately returned it to his pocket.
+
+'Mr. Montjoy, what you tell me surprises me very much; but it shall go
+no further, I assure you. Can you favor me with pen and ink a moment?'
+
+He then drew up to the table on which James had placed the required
+articles.
+
+'I believe it is five hundred dollars exactly that I handed you lately?'
+
+'Just five hundred, sir.'
+
+'I have done it now,' thought Jim; 'he is afraid of us, and intends to
+draw it out; but my duty has been performed, let what will come.'
+
+'Mr. Montjoy, I said that I was much surprised at the statement you have
+made, but I cannot say that I am sorry for the misfortune you have met
+with'--and the keen black eye of the Commodore was fixed upon James; he
+saw that his remark had affected him, for a deep blush mantled his fine
+countenance--'because, sir, it affords me an opportunity of expressing,
+as I could not otherwise do, my sense of your invaluable services to
+this your native place, and my approbation of your noble character.
+Here, sir, is my draft for five thousand dollars, which, with what you
+already have, I place in your hands, if you will merely sign this
+receipt for the amount, payable as you see in ten years, without
+interest. Don't say any thing, my dear sir'--seeing that James was about
+to say a great deal--'not a word, if you please; just sit down a moment,
+Mr. Montjoy; you say that it has been a cause of uneasiness to you, that
+you have money in your hands intrusted to you for keeping.'
+
+'We shall now pay that off at once, sir; I will not keep it another
+day.'
+
+'You must do no such thing, sir. It is a great benefit to these people
+to have their funds in the hands of an honest firm. This you must do;
+take two thousand dollars of this money, and invest it in a mortgage, on
+some good property; keep it as a resort, in case of the worst, and hold
+it sacred for these deposits; the balance use as you please! And now,
+sir, a good morning to you;' rising, at the same time, and shaking the
+hand of James very warmly.
+
+'Your kindness, sir--'
+
+'Not a word, Mr. Montjoy, not a word, if you please; good morning, and
+God bless you.'
+
+The Commodore, walking through the store, saluted Edward, who stood
+behind the counter, attending upon customers, with a very long face.
+
+As soon as Ned could be disengaged, he stepped up to his brother, who
+was working away again at his books--
+
+'See here, Ned.'
+
+'What does it mean, Jim?'
+
+'It means that he has loaned it to us for ten years, free from interest,
+and with a full knowledge of our affairs.'
+
+Ned was deeply affected with this sudden interposition in their favor;
+he looked full in his brother's face, and Jim, for the first time in
+many years, saw tears in his brother's eye.
+
+'I hope we shall not forget this.'
+
+'I hope not, Ned.'
+
+The Commodore walked home with a very light heart that day. He must have
+felt that he had made a good investment, for his step was very elastic,
+and he gazed upon the pleasing prospect around him, and looked upon the
+signs of thrift that met his view on every side with so much
+complacency, that one would have supposed he had a new interest in it
+all, and felt that he was a partner in the great concern.
+
+It had been a lovely morning, and nature appeared to be in perfect
+repose; not a cloud to dim the bright sun, nor a motion in the
+atmosphere to stir even the leaf of the aspen, if there had been any
+just then to stir, but it was not the season of leaves. A change,
+however, was about to take place, and the Commodore was sailor enough to
+guess that it was likely to be a violent one. Seeing Peter occupying his
+favorite seat (a large flat rock on the brow of the hill overhanging the
+shore), with the spy-glass in his hand, and perhaps a little curious to
+take a peep through it himself, he extended his walk to the edge of the
+hill.
+
+'A sail in sight, Peter?'
+
+The old man hopped down from his perch at the sound of the Commodore's
+voice, hastily clapped a quid into his mouth, which he had just cut off
+for that very purpose, doffed his hat, and laid hold of his crutches,
+all which ceremonies he went through with a celerity quite surprising.
+
+'I was thinking, your honor, that there's goin' to be foul weather
+outside to-night; them clouds look squally, and they keep growing
+thicker and thicker.'
+
+'It certainly looks threatening, Peter.'
+
+'It looks very threatening, your honor; and I don't care, for one, how
+hard it comes, so it will only blow them ugly black craft that are
+laying off and on there, high and dry somewhere or another.'
+
+'That, to be sure, Peter; they would have an uneasy berth of it in a
+heavy gale, where they now are.'
+
+'They would, sir, you may depend on it; and I think they're a little
+uneasy a-ready, for the biggest on 'em have clawed off out of sight, and
+the others that were at anchor have hauled up, and are starting too. If
+your honor will look through the glass, you can see all their
+movements. They'll have a time on it--there, did you hear that, your
+honor?'
+
+'A gun, Peter, and a heavy one, but at a great distance.'
+
+'I've heard several on 'em, your honor, before; there's something to
+pay, out there; they wouldn't fire such metal as that for signals.'
+
+'Well, I only wish they were out of the way for a few weeks, Peter.
+Captain Sam would stand but a poor chance if he should get among them.'
+
+'There would be no chance at all, your honor, there's so many on 'em; I
+might as well try to run through that picket fence, crutches and all;
+and as to fightin' it out, your honor knows there's too much odds agin
+one--they'd blow him out of water.'
+
+'Or sink him under it.'
+
+'Or sink him under it, your honor.'
+
+Peter's prophecy respecting the weather was too truly realized: the
+heavens, ere the night shut in, were covered with dark and ragged
+clouds, chasing each other like heaving surges wildly through the air:
+gusts of wind occasionally swept along, increasing in violence at each
+succeeding blast; while in the distance, the heavy roar of the ocean
+told plainly of the tumult that was going on there, and what might be
+expected when the strength of the tempest should break upon the land.
+The fitful gusts at length settled into one long-continued, furious
+blast, increasing gradually its terrible power, until the strongest
+dwellings rocked and trembled to their base, and even the stout-hearted
+turned their thoughts to Him whose will the winds obey, and before whose
+power man shrinks to nothing.
+
+The family of Mr. Rutherford had been long in a state of painful
+anxiety, watching untiringly around the sick, and, to all human
+probability, the dying bed of Hettie. The scenes of trial which she had
+been passing through for several successive months, had imperceptibly
+weakened her frame; and the terrible ordeal of the mock-marriage proved
+just the stroke too much for her to bear. In the wildest delirium, her
+spirit tossed and agonized for weeks; and then, as her nature sunk, worn
+out with the wrestling of her troubled mind, it required the nicest care
+and most faithful attendance to stay up her feeble tenement.
+
+Nothing was wanting that love could minister for her benefit; and hope
+again began to bless the spirits of friends. Her reason was restored,
+her strength gradually returned, and although confined still to her bed,
+the signs of recovery were so evident, that cheerfulness once more
+blessed the countenances of that much afflicted but still happy family.
+
+Hettie had resolved to keep the secret with which she had been intrusted
+by her brother no longer than she could acquire strength to reveal it;
+and on this very day that we have been describing, she had told Mr.
+Rutherford all she knew.
+
+That evening, while the tempest was roaring around his dwelling, he sat
+alone in the room where his family usually congregated, Mrs. Rutherford
+and the children having retired to Hettie's apartment, to give what
+cheer they could to the sick room during the wild howling of the storm.
+His thoughts, busied with the intelligence which had that day been
+communicated to him, and agitated between hope and fear, were devising
+all manner of plans for the recovery of documents of so much value, and
+the surest way to bring the dangerous men concerned in the transaction
+to justice, when a loud knocking against an outer door reached his ear.
+Thinking it might be some benighted stranger, he hurried to admit him,
+as soon as possible, to a shelter from the peltings of a pitiless storm.
+
+Opening the door, he requested the stranger to hasten in, not waiting to
+inquire who he was, or what he wanted. The first glance, however, as he
+turned towards his visitor, made him regret that he had been so hasty;
+for David Cross, with a wild and haggard countenance, stood before him.
+Mr. Rutherford had no reason to think that his errand was a good one,
+but he was resolved to treat him with forbearance. David spoke first--
+
+'A terrible storm, sir.'
+
+'Your business must be urgent, Mr. Cross, that drives you out through
+such a night.'
+
+'It is urgent, sir. Is Miss Hettie in a condition to be seen?'
+
+'She is not, except by those with whom she feels perfectly at rest.'
+
+'I must see her, Mr. Rutherford, if such a thing is possible. I have
+done her great injustice, and I wish to make all the atonement in my
+power. As you value the future peace of an unhappy man, I beg you, sir,
+to allow me but a moment's interview.'
+
+'It cannot be, Mr. Cross; your presence in her chamber would, in all
+probability, throw her again into the same horrible condition from which
+she has but just recovered; and a relapse would be fatal.'
+
+Cross looked away from Mr. Rutherford, and fixed his eye on the door. He
+seemed in an agony, for occasionally a tremor shook his whole frame, and
+Mr. Rutherford thought he saw him wipe away a tear. For some moments
+neither spoke. At length turning, and with a beseeching look addressing
+Mr. Rutherford,
+
+'Will you allow me, sir, to send a line to her; perhaps she may wish to
+see me.'
+
+'I will, sir; but I am not at all sure that you will be permitted to see
+her, even if she consents.'
+
+He wrote a few lines, and handing it to Mr. Rutherford--
+
+'If she refuses to see me after she has read that, so be it; but I will
+not then be to blame for the consequences which may follow.'
+
+Hettie read the little note, or, more properly, it was read to her. It
+ran thus: 'Hettie, I want to ask your forgiveness, and to tell you that
+I have discovered the paper.--D. Cross.'
+
+'I think he had better come in,' said Hettie; 'there is business of
+great consequence, which it is in his power to communicate.'
+
+As David Cross entered the room, he paused a moment as his eye fell upon
+the emaciated countenance of the still lovely girl. He then slowly
+approached the bed, threw himself on his knees, and wept like an infant.
+As soon as he could speak--
+
+'Hettie,' said he, 'can you forgive me for my cruel wrong?'
+
+'I have forgiven you long since, David; and have prayed that you may be
+forgiven of God.'
+
+'I can make but little reparation for the past; I have done all I could.
+That paper is in the hands of Michael Foster; he holds it to extort
+money from my father. To-morrow night a plan is laid to wrest it out of
+Foster's power, and then it will no doubt be destroyed. Measures must
+therefore be taken in the course of to-morrow, or it will probably be
+too late. Spare my father, if you can; as for myself, Hettie, I leave
+you now for ever. You and I will probably never meet again.'
+
+Hettie cast a look of kindness at him as he left the room. Mr.
+Rutherford had witnessed the scene at the bedside, and his feelings were
+much softened towards the young man.
+
+'You do not mean to go away while the tempest rages thus?'
+
+'The storm is of little consequence to me, sir. I have communicated to
+Hettie some things which concern you deeply; and all I have to say is,
+that whatever steps you may take on the information she gives you,
+cannot be taken too soon.' Saying this, he left the house.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+
+A change from terra firma to the restless ocean is sometimes pleasant,
+even for its novelty, if nothing else--although none who try the
+experiment but are completely satisfied that, so far as everything
+connected with comfort is concerned, or real quiet of mind or body,
+there is nothing like the solid earth. I must, however, ask my readers
+to risk themselves with me for a short time on the ocean, and perhaps
+they will the more readily do so, when I tell them that we are to be on
+board the good ship Lady Washington, and under the immediate command of
+our favorite Captain Sam.
+
+Those who see our ships only as they lie along side of the busy wharves,
+and are either discharging or receiving their freight, have but a poor
+idea of the neatness which the deck of a well-regulated vessel presents
+in her usual sailing trim. It may be that our Captain was peculiar about
+this matter, but every thing was so snugly stowed away, and securely
+fastened, that to all appearance nothing would be displaced, should some
+sudden freak of old ocean roll her bottom upwards. Her deck was flush
+from stem to stern, and the gangway on each side was clean and clear;
+every hand on deck was actively employed in the performance of some
+duty, but it could be seen that they were intent upon some object more
+engrossing than that in which their hands were busied, for wistful
+glances were cast towards their young commander, who was standing near
+the helm, and, with marks of anxiety on his countenance, eyeing through
+a glass a distant speck upon the ocean.
+
+'Mr. Barnum, this breeze is not going to last; it's a dead calm already
+a mile to starboard. Hail the maintop; that fellow must be asleep.'
+
+The chief mate--for it was he who was thus addressed--placing his two
+brawny hands so as to form a speaking trumpet, raised his face aloft,
+and sent up a blast that would have aroused no common slumberer.
+
+'Hallo, maintop!'
+
+'Ay, ay, sir.'
+
+'What do you make her?'
+
+'Can't make her at all.'
+
+At this reply, the mate sprang into the shrouds with the agility of a
+squirrel, and was soon far up amid the complicated rigging, and seizing
+the glass from the one who had been using it, made a satisfactory
+examination, and then tumbling down as rapidly as he had ascended, was
+again beside his Captain.
+
+'It is difficult making her out, for she has got her three masts in one;
+but she looms large, and from the rig should judge she's a bull-dog,
+with at least two rows of teeth.'
+
+'Ship, ahoy!' from aloft.
+
+'What quarter?'
+
+'On the larboard beam, and coming down with a spanking breeze.'
+
+'Ship, ahoy!!'
+
+'Ay, ay, we see her; there's no mistake now, Captain Oakum; we are in
+the midst of them.'
+
+'Call the crew aft, Mr. Barnum.'
+
+Soon every sailor on board was standing near the quarter-deck, and, with
+respectful bearing, ready to hear the will of their Captain. He
+immediately stepped up before them, and casting his eye over their hardy
+and cheerful countenances, explained in a few brief sentences the
+peculiarity of their situation, and what he should require of them.
+
+'We are in the midst of our enemies; three of their frigates are now in
+sight, and bearing down upon us. We are bound for our port, and shall go
+there if we can; it will be no child's play, but I am exposed to equal
+danger with the rest of you. If we succeed, a handsome reward awaits us,
+and the satisfaction of having done our duty; if we are so unlucky as to
+fall into their hands, a prison or a life cruise in a man-of-war will be
+the game on the other side; but if you are all resolved for home or a
+watery grave, let me know it.'
+
+A loud and hearty huzza burst spontaneously from the whole crew; and at
+a signal from the mate they tumbled back to their quarters with an
+alacrity that showed they were ready for any sport their Captain chose.
+
+A steady breeze was yet bearing the vessel along at a moderate pace, and
+it could be plainly seen that two of the ships were becalmed, as they
+were fading away in the distance; from them, therefore, but little was
+to be apprehended, while the one on the larboard beam was rapidly
+gaining upon them.
+
+Captain Oakum now sprang into the mizzen chains, and marking with
+intense interest the surface of the ocean, the working of the clouds,
+and the situation of the different ships--
+
+'Mr. Barnum--'
+
+'Ay, ay, sir;' and the mate was in an instant by his side.
+
+'I think, that by laying her course due north, we shall carry the wind
+longer with us, and give them a wider berth.'
+
+The necessary order was given, and the Lady Washington was soon
+ploughing her way in the direction required.
+
+'The breeze is going, Captain; that ship gains on us fast.'
+
+'I see she does, but the probability is we shall both be becalmed soon;
+she won't hold the wind long after it leaves us; you had better have the
+boats unshipped, Mr. Barnum, and ready for launching.'
+
+The right good-will with which the sailors sprang to obey each command,
+gave satisfactory evidence of what their Captain might depend upon in
+the hour of extremity.
+
+He felt assured that, whatever forty good men could do, at any risk,
+would be done, but the responsibility of every movement, and of the
+result, rested upon himself alone. He had provided his vessel with a few
+guns of large calibre, and one of these occupied the after cabin--it was
+a long twenty-four pounder. A large port had been made for it in the
+stern, which was, however, at present closely fastened; four more of
+various sizes were stationed at different parts of the main deck, and a
+plentiful supply of pikes and cutlasses was snugly stowed away in
+readiness for a sudden call. All these he thought might be of service to
+him in an emergency, but his main dependence was upon the sailing
+qualities of his ship; he had tested her well, and felt a confidence
+which, perhaps, most young captains do, that nothing could outstrip his
+vessel in a good breeze.
+
+Although prepared for the worst, he had not heard of hostilities having
+been begun until nearing home. A French brig gave him the intelligence,
+and also that a blockading squadron was strictly guarding the port for
+which he was bound, part of which he had thus unexpectedly encountered;
+and now the ability of his ship, and the skill of her commander, were to
+be put to the test.
+
+Scarcely had the order been executed for unlashing the boats, when the
+sails flapped heavily against the masts.
+
+'It has gone sooner than I expected. Launch the boats, Mr. Barnum, and
+let them be manned to their full capacity; if we can move the ship but a
+few lengths, it may serve to take us out of the reach of their guns.'
+
+With incredible celerity a row of boats was strung ahead of the ship,
+and every man pulling with determined energy.
+
+'This calm ain't for nothing; I'm of opinion, sir; there's foul weather
+brewing, depend on it'--and the mate directed the Captain's attention to
+the threatening aspect of the clouds in the eastern sky. 'We shall have
+something to contend with soon, besides the enemy's guns, Captain Oakum;
+that long streak of light under them black clouds, and those scuds
+flying off and streaking up so fast, and spreading themselves out so, is
+no good sign; there'll be a north-easter, and a smasher when it comes.'
+
+'Let it come, Mr. Barnum; any thing but lying here and not able to stir,
+and that frigate almost ready to fire into us.'
+
+The only hope, indeed, which our Captain could indulge, was that the
+wind might die away as suddenly with their pursuer as it had with them;
+but her sails were yet well filled, and, of course, she was gaining upon
+them every moment; the slow and almost imperceptible motion which his
+own ship made by the power of oars, would have been discouraging to one
+who was not buoyed up with the consciousness of doing all that was then
+in his power to do to escape the trouble which had come upon them. He
+could not control the winds; he therefore neither cursed them, nor
+himself, nor the noble ship that was bearing down upon them; but he
+watched her advance with great anxiety, and would turn his gaze
+occasionally from this object of interest to the ominous-looking clouds
+that were gathering in heavier masses every moment--a hurricane, or
+something very near it, would be a great relief; any thing that would
+give him a chance to bear his much-loved ship out of the immediate reach
+of her powerful adversary.
+
+'It's a gone case with us, Captain Oakum; her guns will soon be able to
+reach us.'
+
+'If she keeps the breeze much longer. Call Derrick, will you, Mr.
+Barnum.'
+
+John Derrick, who now made his appearance at the call of the mate, held
+the title on board ship of the old man-of-war's-man. He was the only
+person of advanced age among the crew; he was about fifty, rather taller
+than was necessary for a sailor, and of slender make. His head on the
+top was bald, and the locks which hung from the lower part were long and
+thin; his neck and chin were concealed by a thick bushy beard, very
+dark, and making a strong contrast with his pale countenance. Sam had
+selected him for his skill in gunnery, as well as for his ability as a
+sailor, and in an emergency, felt more confidence in his opinion than in
+either of his officers.
+
+'Do you think she is near enough to trouble us, John?' and the Captain
+looked significantly at the frigate.
+
+'She don't think so, Captain Oakum, or we should hear from her; but I've
+been on the look out a little, and unless her guns are carronades--ay,
+ay, she speaks now;' and all at once a column of white smoke belched
+forth from her bow port, and a ball clipped the glassy surface of the
+water, passing the whole length of the vessel.
+
+'That tells the story, Captain.'
+
+'I suppose it is a gentle hint for us to let them know who we are,
+before they give us a benefit; so we may as well show them the stars and
+stripes, Mr. Barnum, and our boys will pull the better when they see
+them aloft, in the place of that French gewgaw.'
+
+A hearty cheer burst from the whole crew as they saw their native
+standard flying at the mast-head, and they bent themselves to their
+oars, until the boat nearest the ship was at times almost out of water.
+
+'Now we shall take it, Captain; she's rounding to; her whole broadside
+will be the next salute.'
+
+Captain Oakum felt, in all its force, the danger of their situation. In
+an instant he was at the bow of his ship.
+
+'Pull away, boys--lay to--every foot tells now.' The energy which he
+threw into his voice, as he gave out these brief directions, added fresh
+vigor to their willing hearts and pull away it was. As the frigate
+swayed round, two guns in quick succession sent forth their messengers
+of death, and evidently intended not as a compliment, for the aim was
+direct, both striking the ship, although doing but little damage.
+Scarce, however had they congratulated themselves on their escape, when
+a volume of smoke enveloped the deck of the frigate, and the waters were
+ploughed by a storm of bullets; but one of them reached the ship, the
+others sinking in the deep at her stern. A loud shout went forth from
+the Lady Washington, as it was now manifest that she was beyond the
+reach of harm.
+
+'Will you allow me, Captain, just to give them a try with the Long Tom?'
+said Derrick, stepping up, and touching his cap respectfully; 'just for
+the honor of the flag, sir.'
+
+'Not yet, John; we must save our fire until we shall be more sure of our
+mark. You shall have a chance soon, my good fellow, for I see that they
+are manning their boats for a visit to us; we must give them the best
+welcome in our power.'
+
+It was evident now that the time of trial was at hand; for two boats,
+well manned, were seen pulling towards them; the sea was unruffled as a
+lake, and nothing to prevent their rapid progress.
+
+As Sam did not intend, under such circumstances, to give up his noble
+vessel and her valuable cargo without a struggle, each gun was loaded,
+the men were called in from the boats, pikes were brought out and laid
+in readiness, and each sailor who was not aloft buckled on his cutlass.
+The faces of the young men assumed a determined yet cheerful expression,
+and not one on board but felt that the stripes should fly as long as his
+arm could wield a weapon.
+
+The sky, also, was becoming black with clouds, and spreading the gloom
+of night around them; and the long swell that occasionally lifted their
+vessel, told that already the tempest was doing its work in the
+distance; every sail aloft was taken in and well secured, and suitable
+preparation made for the emergency.
+
+'They are calculating, I guess, sir, to finish the job, and make a
+harbor on board the Lady Washington, afore the squall comes on, or
+surely no commander in his senses would send boats off with such a mess
+as any one can see is brewing yonder.
+
+'Now John, is your time: take your hands and get all ready. Don't open
+your port until I pass you the word, and then make sure work with them.'
+
+'Ay, ay, sir.'
+
+And down he tumbled, and the men allotted to him, with as good will as
+though piped to dinner. As the boats neared the ship, it could be seen
+that the officers were urging on to greater speed: and good cause had
+they, for the roar of the coming tempest had reached them, and but an
+alternative was now left; they must either secure their prize quickly,
+or perish amid the wild waves: a return in their open boats to their own
+ship was impossible.
+
+Captain Oakum saw that the time for an effort had arrived.
+
+'All ready below, John?'
+
+'All ready, sir.'
+
+'Now is your time; let them have it.'
+
+The ship trembled as the engine of destruction belched forth its deadly
+messenger; the thick smoke curled up over the stern, for a moment
+obscuring the view; but the next, a loud shout came up from below, and
+was echoed through the ship. Captain Oakum almost shuddered as he beheld
+what execution had been done, for the whole crew of one of the boats was
+battling with the waters, while their companions in the remaining boat
+were using their utmost exertions to rescue the living and the dying
+from the wreck of the other. But there was not a moment to spare to look
+at friend or foe, for the blast of the tempest came sweeping over them
+in its might, and each man flew to his post at the swift word of his
+commander, and was prepared to meet the contest with the stormy
+elements. As the gale struck the ship, the sails flew out with a report
+like the sudden burst of thunder, and the yielding ship lay over with
+her bulwarks to the water's edge; a moment she seemed pressed down by a
+weight that must whelm her in the deep, and then, recovering her
+balance, gracefully she rose to meet the adversary with which a contest
+for her life was now to be maintained.
+
+'They'll get their deserts now, Captain; those men can never reach their
+ship in their crowded state.'
+
+'We must save them, Mr. Barnum, if we can; put your helm to lee, and
+tack ship.'
+
+The gallant vessel bore proudly up against the mighty wind; a moment she
+seemed to waver in its very eye, and then falling off, and taking its
+power on her other beam, bore swiftly on towards the enemies who had so
+lately sought her destruction. As she dashed along to windward of the
+boat now struggling amid the foaming waves, Captain Oakum seized the
+trumpet from his mate, and hailed them--
+
+'You can never reach your ship.'
+
+'Not in our present condition,' replied a fine-looking young officer.
+
+'We will do the best we can for you, but leave your arms behind.'
+
+The roar of the tempest forbade any reply; but the officer raised a
+white handkerchief, and as the ship flew by, a rope was thrown to the
+boat, and by the united powers of both crews, she was drawn under the
+lee of the ship. As much care as possible was taken in removing the
+wounded seamen, and Sam, as yet unused to the horrors of war, felt his
+heart sicken as he looked at the terrible fruit of his own orders. He
+felt that there had been a necessity for it, but would gladly have
+relinquished his own prospective gains by the salvation of his vessel,
+rather than have heard one groan from the poor mangled sufferers that
+now lay in agony upon his deck.
+
+The moment the young officer stepped upon the deck, he presented his
+sword to Captain Oakum.
+
+'It is a singular fortune, sir, that has made me your prisoner; but I
+cannot mistake the kindness that has brought you to our rescue in a time
+like this, and when we were seeking your injury.'
+
+'Retain your sword, sir, and your liberty, as well as that of your
+companion'--a midshipman, who stood beside the Lieutenant, and was
+preparing to surrender his weapon in like manner--'and of your crew, I
+only ask your pledge of honor to attempt no rescue while on board my
+ship. I will do all I can for your safe return, if we outlive this
+storm.'
+
+Every thing that could be done for the wounded was immediately attended
+to; a brotherly feeling was at once established between the crew of the
+Lady Washington and their late enemies, and each seemed to vie with the
+other in kind attentions.
+
+Successful thus far beyond his hopes, our young Captain now took a
+station by the helm, and looked upon the scene, and his situation in
+reference to the vessels from whose power he had feared so much. Far off
+in the south-east, the frigate from which he had so narrowly escaped was
+bearing away in an opposite direction to the course she had been
+pursuing, and far enough off at present to remove all apprehension from
+her. In the west could be seen the two which had been becalmed, bearing
+to the south and east, and evidently doing their best to gain an offing
+from the coast. To preserve himself from a dangerous contiguity, he had
+two alternatives, either to endeavor to force his way to the
+north-ward--almost an impossibility, as the wind then held--or to run
+before the gale, and venture, through the darkness and the storm, to
+find his way into port. He was perfectly satisfied that his reckonings
+had been correct, and that he knew his bearings; although to point his
+bow to land at such a time, with no other guide than his compass and his
+chart, he felt to be almost a desperate undertaking. He resolved,
+however, rash as it appeared, to try the dreadful hazard.
+
+As he communicated his determination to his mate, and ordered him to put
+the ship before the wind--
+
+'It's a harsh night to venture on a lee shore, sir; but your command
+shall be obeyed.'
+
+The heavy clouds that rolled in huge masses, scarcely higher than the
+masts of the ship, had hastened the close of day, and gave sure tokens
+of what the night would be. The coast, however, had been clearly seen
+before the daylight departed, and soon the hopes and fears which, by
+turns, were triumphant in the breast of him on whom such immense
+responsibility rested, would be certain. All danger from armed vessels
+was now at an end; but his ship was flying on the wings of the wind; the
+driving clouds above, and the boiling sea beneath and around her. A
+costly and gallant vessel, a freight of immense value, and a multitude
+of human beings, were dependent upon the correctness of his judgment and
+the determination of his will.
+
+Onward and onward, like a chafed charger, rushed the proud ship, her bow
+at times nearly buried beneath the billows that tumbled before her, and
+rolled in majestic grandeur by her sides, or rose like mountains at her
+stern, threatening to whelm her in their deep dark bosom. How like an
+infant's dream appeared to Sam now all the past experience of his life:
+every care or sorrow faded into mist before the deep responsibility that
+weighed upon his heart. The young Lieutenant was not, as may well be
+supposed, an unconcerned spectator of the passing scene. He had been
+struck with admiration, not only at the generous conduct of our hero,
+but at his manly bearing, his prompt and determined action, and the
+perfect order and discipline that were so clearly manifested in such an
+hour of trial. He kept a strict eye on the course of the ship, and
+confirmed, much to the satisfaction of the Captain, the correctness of
+her bearings.
+
+'The light ought to be seen, however, Captain, by this time--we have
+been sailing with incredible rapidity, and must be near the land. Can
+nothing be seen of it yet?'
+
+'I have my ablest seaman on the look-out, but we have no tidings of it
+yet.'
+
+Captain Oakum left the stern of the ship and placed himself near to the
+look-out. It was Derrick whom he had especially intrusted with this
+important duty; although every soul on board might have been included,
+for not one but kept an eye ranged towards the quarter where it was
+expected to be seen.
+
+'Any signs of light yet, John?'
+
+'No signs yet, sir; but we must be drawing near land, sir; the roar of
+the surf can be plainly heard.'
+
+Scarce had the sailor uttered the last sentence, when at the top of his
+voice he called out,
+
+'Light on the starboard bow, Captain Oakum!'
+
+And as Sam cast his eye in that direction, the first twinkle of the
+beacon met his view, and in an instant he saw the imminence of their
+danger.
+
+'Helm to leeward! hard down!' And springing to his station again beside
+the helmsman, he issued forth his orders to the seamen without waiting
+to convey them through his mate. With magic speed the sails were braced
+to meet the new position of the ship, and take the gale upon her beam.
+Like a thing possessed of consciousness, the noble craft, almost as
+quick as thought, turned from the roaring surf, and threw the light upon
+her other quarter. Hope now hung for safety on the strength of her sails
+and spars. With all the canvas she could carry, it could but be scarcely
+visible that she made headway. The stout masts bent like whips, and the
+laboring ship groaned and cracked and trembled as she plunged into the
+mighty waves, throwing them, through her whole length, high into the
+air.
+
+'She'll weather it, Captain: if she can hold on so half an hour longer,
+we are safe.'
+
+The Captain made no reply; that half hour was freighted with
+consequences of most heart-stirring interest to him, and at no time had
+he felt so doubtful of what the end might be. His eye was riveted upon
+the beacon--that token of his danger and his safety too. What thoughts
+it kindled in his bosom! Oft had he seen it in his boyhood's days, when
+light of heart he sat with the dear ones of his home, at their old
+cottage door. Is he again so near them? Is success, prosperity, and
+honor soon to be fully realized; or disaster, shipwreck, and death?
+Slowly the light recedes--the struggling ship, battled fiercely by the
+terrible tempest, still forces her way, and still the good sails and the
+bending spars hold on and keep her true.
+
+'Don't you think we are far enough north, Captain, to run in?'
+
+'Ease her off slowly, Mr. Barnum, a point or so.'
+
+'She's a noble creature, sir, few ships could have stood it; but I
+believe you've the luck with you, Captain Oakum.'
+
+'We have had something with us better than good luck, Mr. Barnum. You
+may venture now, sir; in with her.'
+
+A loud hurra burst from the deck as the light flew past them; and the
+Lady Washington, bidding adieu to the raging ocean, entered the
+comparatively quiet waters of the sheltered bay.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+
+When clouds, and darkness, and the driving storm are upon us, we cannot
+realize that their power is but for a time, and they must give place to
+sunshine and peace. The beautiful morning that succeeded the tempestuous
+night recorded in the last chapter, was a surprise indeed to those whose
+trembling habitations had warned them of its terrible power.
+
+'It has been a hard night, Peter,' said the Commodore, as he stepped
+forth upon his piazza, and saw the old man busy with the eye-glass,
+peering across the bright waters of the bay.
+
+'Indeed it has, your honor, and mischief enough done; if you will cast
+your eye, sir, along the south shore,' handing the glass to the
+Commodore; 'your honor will see a sight. It's my opinion, sir, that the
+waters have cleared themselves of everything, and thrown them all bodily
+on the land.'
+
+'Bless my soul, Peter, what a scene! I fear many lives have been
+sacrificed yonder, but it must have been more terrible still outside.
+What is that, Peter? a ship ashore?'
+
+'It is a ship, I believe, your honor, but she's not ashore, sir; there
+is nothing much but her starn to be seen, but being pretty well
+acquainted with the bearings hereaway, you see, your honor, the land
+rises considerably north of the point there, and the trees into the
+bargain, make quite a bluff to look across, and she would be hid
+entirely before grounding; the channel runs near the shore, your honor.
+But she has had a narrow chance, sir, and I see one of her masts is by
+the board.'
+
+'It is not one of your friends, the blockaders, I hope, Peter? they must
+have had a lively time of it.'
+
+'If it had only sent them all high and dry, your honor! but I think they
+must have got a good offing afore the worst on it came; and your honor
+knows that wind and waves ain't apt to hurt a good ship, if there's no
+land interference no way: but that ship being there is a puzzle to me,
+your honor.'
+
+'Well, Peter? let me have my letters and papers in good season this
+morning.'
+
+'Ay, ay, sir;' and Peter hobbled away towards the town, and the
+Commodore entered his dwelling with a good appetite for breakfast.
+
+He has just finished his morning repast, when Mr. Rutherford entered his
+office. He met with a hearty welcome, for the two gentlemen had, since
+Mr. Rutherford's removal, been on terms of intimacy, although this was
+the first occasion on which any subject bordering on business matters
+had been introduced. Mr. Rutherford had resolved in his own mind, during
+the night past, the peculiar circumstances in which he was placed, and
+the necessity for prompt and efficient action. He felt the need of
+counsel, and could think of no one who would be so likely to afford it
+as Commodore Trysail: for this purpose he had therefore now come.
+
+It will not be necessary for the information of the reader to repeat the
+substance of his revelation to the Commodore. It was a story, however,
+which excited much interest in the mind of the old gentleman; he
+listened with profound attention to the whole recital, and when it was
+finished, gave his box an extra rap, and politely handing it to Mr.
+Rutherford--'It is, indeed, a singular event, my dear sir; and you are
+placed in a situation that requires not only very prompt, but very
+cautious measures. It would be a righteous thing, no doubt, to bring
+these men to justice; but the first hint they had of such an attempt
+would inevitably lead to the destruction of your papers! for although
+this Mr. Foster might find it a profitable business for him to hold them
+thus, as a rod over his accomplice Cross, yet he would never be so mad
+as to risk the discovery of them in his possession: they would be
+destroyed forthwith, sir. And as to bringing them to justice, it is a
+very doubtful matter, as it appears to me, whether there is evidence
+sufficient to convict either of them; they are men, it seems, of some
+standing in society, if I am correctly informed--none of the immediate
+actors in the scene are living, or at least to be found. The young man
+Brown, who is very feeble you say, can only testify to the intention of
+these men; and his mother does not feel qualified to swear that the
+unhappy man who made a dying avowal of his guilt in this matter had his
+full reason.'
+
+'It is all just as you say, Commodore Trysail, and the difficulties of
+the case presented themselves to my mind as I see they do to yours.'
+
+'And they are serious difficulties, Mr. Rutherford. The probabilities,
+indeed, would be very much against these men, and the public generally
+might be convinced that they had committed the nefarious crime; yet
+after all, a jury sworn to judge according to the evidence brought
+before them, might not be able to convict them.' The Commodore was
+suddenly interrupted by the entrance of Peter in a state of excitement
+really alarming; he did not pause as usual at the threshold, and making
+a low reverence, present his packet of letters and papers, with 'the
+mail, your honor,' but he bolted straight into the office, crutches and
+all, threw his hat down on the floor, took his quid from his mouth, and
+had liked to have dashed that down too; but his senses came to him in
+season to prevent such an enormity, so he put it back again as quick as
+possible. He was very much out of breath, and his eyes flashed with a
+vividness very unusual. The Commodore put his box away, and
+straightening himself up, looked at Peter with great astonishment, to
+say the least of it.
+
+'She's come, your honor.' Peter had great difficulty to get the sentence
+out, his voice trembled so.
+
+'What has come, sir?' The Commodore had evidently departed from his
+usual temper towards Peter.
+
+'She's come, your honor, spite of blockaders, harricanes and all, God be
+praised.'
+
+The Commodore began to catch a glimpse of his meaning.
+
+'You do not pretend to say that the ship has come, the--the--Lady
+Washington?' and the Commodore started to his feet, and looked very
+fiercely at Peter.
+
+'It's the truth, your honor, she's riding in the outer harbor: the very
+same we see'd this morning. A boat has just come ashore, your honor, and
+I've see'd the men, and sich doins as they tell on you never heered,
+sir. Captain Sam's blowed the enemy, and he's got twenty on 'em
+prisoners, and he's give 'em leg bail, and has run into port, God bless
+him, with that north-easter behind him.'
+
+After delivering himself, Peter turned round, and in two jumps was out
+of the room, and stumping it off at a round rate. The Commodore was
+somewhat surprised at this last movement, and stepping to the door, was
+in the act of recalling his excited valet, when he saw him, in a very
+animated manner, urging along a person dressed in sailor's garb, and
+whom the experienced eye of the old Commodore immediately recognized as
+fresh from on board ship; his rolling, unsteady gait showed very clearly
+that he had not yet got his land legs on.
+
+'Here's a shipmate, your honor,' said Peter, stepping a little in front
+of his companion, 'that has a word to say to your honor, but he feels
+backward like.'
+
+'Come in, my boy, come in; are you from the Lady Washington?'
+
+'Just from aboard, sir.'
+
+'Come in, come in, my good fellow.' And the sailor gave a spring up the
+stoop as though he was about to mount the shrouds, and taking a step
+into the office, put his hand into his tarred hat, took forth a sealed
+letter, and handed it to the Commodore, who immediately broke the seal
+and read as follows.
+
+     'COMMODORE TRYSAIL:
+
+     'Respected Sir:--I am very happy to inform you, that through the
+     aid of Divine Providence, I have brought the Lady Washington into
+     port. To prevent her driving on the beach, I was obliged to cut
+     away my masts, but am busy rigging jury masts to enable us to reach
+     the city, as I do not feel it safe to lie in the outer harbor,
+     should the blockading squadron return to their cruising ground. We
+     have received otherwise but trifling damage. I shall do myself the
+     honor of waiting upon you the moment I place my ship in the hands
+     of your consignees.
+
+     'The bearer of this will tell you his own story. He has been a fine
+     fellow on board, and whatever may have been his errors in past
+     days, seems to have taken a new turn.
+
+     'Your obedient servant,
+
+     'S. OAKUM.'
+
+The Commodore, having run over the letter, began to put sundry questions
+to the sailor, who answered in a style that was perfectly intelligible
+to the Commodore, but which would have been to ordinary listeners very
+much like a foreign language. Our friend Peter was an attentive
+listener. He was standing just without the door, with his head bent
+over, and turned one side, so as to permit his left ear to have a chance
+at what was going on. His long queue hung down over his left shoulder,
+and he was pulling away at it in great earnest. Peter could stand
+considerable in the way of excitement, but it is not in human nature to
+stand every thing. To hear such a glowing description of the doings of
+one that he loved as his own soul, given in a dialect that was
+sufficient of itself to work up the mind of an old sailor; his feelings
+got the better of his judgment, and no sooner was the tale over, than,
+swinging his old hat, he gave three hearty cheers, and stumped it away
+towards the mansion of Major Morris.
+
+The Commodore had too much of the sailor in him to be surprised at this
+outbreak of feeling. He smiled as he looked through the door, and saw
+how Peter was excited, and then addressing himself to the seaman--
+
+'Captain Oakum informs me, my good fellow, that you have something of
+consequence to say to me on your own account.'
+
+'I have, sir, if you can spare a few moments' leisure.'
+
+The Commodore then excused himself to Mr. Rutherford, and taking the man
+aside into a private apartment, 'Now, my good fellow, tell me your story
+without restraint. I am an old sailor, you know, and have lost none of
+my feelings for a shipmate in trouble.'
+
+'God bless you, sir; but it is an ugly story I have to tell, and if you
+can have patience to hear me out, you may do with the information what
+you please.'
+
+Ha then began and gave a short-hand account of his career; that he was
+born and brought up in a place called Barrens, near by--that he had
+gotten into bad company, and in the employ of a bad man--that at the
+instigation of this man, he had been guilty of many improper acts, but
+that one of these, and the last one in which he had taken a part, had
+stuck in his heart like a dagger from the moment he did it--that he and
+his companion, in order to escape punishment in case the crime was found
+out, and to get away from the man who had exerted his power over them
+for such shameful purposes, had shipped to sea--that his messmate had
+taken sick and died, and that his last hours were full of misery on
+account of what he had done.
+
+'I have therefore, sir, made a clean breast of it all to Captain Oakum,
+and I am on my way to see the man I once injured so much; but Captain
+Oakum thought how as you, sir, could tell me what was best to do, and
+that I might let you know, sir, just the whole on it.'
+
+'But you haven't told me, yet, my man, what this crime you speak of was.
+You have not murdered any one, surely?'
+
+'God only knows, sir; but we fired a house while they were all asleep;
+the man who hired us to do it wanted a tin trunk which stood in one of
+the back rooms. We waited round to have folks give the alarm, but it got
+well a-burning before any one see it. An old nigger then came and broke
+the door open with an axe: the house was filled with fire and smoke. The
+old black fellow--God bless him for a true heart as ever beat in a human
+body,--went right through the flames, up the stairs, calling as loud as
+his voice could scream, "Oh my missus and the children!" We hurried into
+the back room, and feeling about found the trunk, but we had like to
+have smothered afore we got out; but that old fellow's cry, sir, has
+rung in my head louder than the loudest noise that the wind and the
+waves have made, since I have been on the ocean. And, sir, I can't live
+with it any longer.'
+
+'Did you ever see the man whose house you fired?'
+
+'No, sir, nor do I now remember his name; but he had a character, sir,
+for being a fine man, far and near.'
+
+'The person's name is Rutherford, and he is now sitting in my office;
+the very gentleman you saw there.'
+
+'The Lord forgive me! may I not see him, sir, just to ask his pardon,
+and then let him do with me what he thinks best?'
+
+'You shall see him; but first answer me:--Are you willing to go with me,
+and meet face to face this man Cross, whom you say instigated this act?'
+
+'I will, sir; only I hope I may be restrained from doing him an injury,
+for there is that in me, when I think of the villain, that wouldn't mind
+putting his daylight out, and trampling him in the dust.'
+
+'That would do no good now, you know; it wouldn't rebuild the house, nor
+ease your conscience, nor reform the man. But I am this morning
+endeavoring to devise a plan with this gentleman, Mr. Rutherford, for
+the recovery of this very trunk you have been speaking about. It seems
+that, after all, it never went into the hands of Mr. Cross, but, by some
+strange accident, fell into possession of as great a villain as he was,
+one Michael Foster, who keeps it as a rod over Cross to force money from
+him. Your presence may be of great consequence. Can your Captain spare
+you?'
+
+'He has let me ashore for this very business, sir. He thought may be I
+might be of some use to this Mr. Rutherford; and if I can, God knows I
+wouldn't value my own life a feather, sir.'
+
+The Commodore told the man to be seated, and stepping into the office,
+communicated to Mr. Rutherford the particulars he had just been made
+acquainted with.
+
+'This is a most unexpected turn to affairs, Mr. Rutherford; and I think
+I can see a way now by which we can get hold of these papers, and get
+rid of these villains at the same time, if you will leave matters to my
+management.'
+
+'I will, certainly, sir, and feel deeply--'
+
+'Say nothing about that, if you please. I will call for you in about an
+hour with my carriage. But first will you see this poor fellow, and set
+him at rest if you can?'
+
+So saying, he led Mr. Rutherford into the adjoining room. The man was
+still seated, but was evidently in much agitation, for his countenance
+wore a death-like expression, and he trembled violently.
+
+'Did you wish to speak with me?' said Mr. Rutherford, stepping up to
+him; 'you seem to be ill.'
+
+'My body is well enough, sir; although I can't tell why it is in such an
+ague now. I never trembled before through all the dangers I have been
+in; but my mind is in a sad case, sir;--you see before you one of the
+men who burnt your beautiful house;'--and the rough sailor burst into
+tears.
+
+'Do you truly regret having thus injured one who never did you any
+harm?'
+
+'God knows I do; but tell me one thing, sir, was any of your family--'
+
+'Burned with the dwelling, you were going to say; no, thank God and the
+faithfulness of my good old negro, they were not injured.'
+
+'Thank God it is so, sir! and oh that my old messmate could have known
+this before he left the world!--he died, sir, howling like a raving
+man--"that he was a murderer!"'
+
+The Commodore now took Mr. Rutherford aside, and making some further
+arrangements for the accomplishment of his plan, the latter gentleman
+departed, and Commodore Trysail ordered his carriage to be in immediate
+readiness.
+
+In about two hours after this interview everything had been completed,
+and the party selected for the occasion was entering the barrens, and
+Joe, the Commodore's coachman, was urging on his horses at a very
+unusual speed, and one which the heavy fat beasts did not seem to
+relish.
+
+It consisted of Commodore Trysail, Mr. Rutherford, James Montjoy and the
+sailor. The carriage stopped at the Widow Brown's, and some time was
+spent in a very particular conversation with the Widow and her son, and
+then off again to the north at the same rapid rate.
+
+'Hold up a little, Joe, before you reach the tavern; and you may stop at
+Cross's, and let them blow awhile. It will not be best for us to appear
+to be in haste.' This latter sentence was intended by the Commodore for
+the company seated with him.
+
+As the carriage drove up to the long low tavern, the Commodore and James
+Montjoy alighted; and as they stepped upon the piazza, Mr. Cross met
+them with a polite bow, and welcomed them to his premises.
+
+Mr. Cross had, for a long time, been anxious to get into the good graces
+of both of them; for when he found that he could not destroy the young
+firm, he was desirous of their good-will, that he might the better make
+sales through them of his wood and timber; and the Commodore being so
+distinguished a personage, that a nod from him in any public place would
+be no small consideration for a man of Mr. Cross's standing.
+
+Chairs and benches were immediately presented for their acceptance, but
+as politely declined.
+
+'Mr. Montjoy and I have a little matter of business to talk with you
+about this morning, Mr. Cross, and would wish to see you in private.'
+
+'By all means, gentlemen,' and the little fat man led them into a small
+back room, and carrying chairs with him, even against the protest of his
+visitors, placed them with much care, as to position and then closed the
+door.
+
+'Since you have taken the trouble, Mr. Cross, to bring us seats, I
+suppose we may as well use them,' said the Commodore, taking up his
+chair, and placing it as if by accident near the door. Cross saw the
+movement, and from the sudden flush that deepened the purple hue of his
+face, appeared to feel that, at least, it was a singular one. He however
+took the stool which he had brought for himself, and placing it at a
+respectful distance, sat down in a composed manner, tilting it back so
+as to balance himself on two of its legs, and resting his hands one on
+each of his knees, as they were spread out, the better to maintain his
+position.
+
+'Mr. Cross,' said the Commodore, 'when we have business on hand, the
+fewer words by way of introduction the better. I have a serious charge
+to make against you this morning, and therefore it is that I have chosen
+to see you alone.'
+
+Cross immediately dropped his stool on its four legs, and straightening
+up to make the most of himself: 'If we are to be alone, sir, why have
+you brought company with you?' looking significantly at young Montjoy.
+
+'To set your mind at rest on that head, Mr. Cross, I will tell you that
+Mr. Montjoy has, at my request, been deputized by the Sheriff, and acts
+at present as an officer.'
+
+Cross did not turn pale, for that could not well be, but his countenance
+assumed a livid hue, and he immediately rose to his feet.
+
+'You may as well be seated, Mr. Cross; this business has been committed
+to me, and it must go forward, sir; but I have no disposition to treat
+you with harshness--sit down, Mr. Cross.'
+
+Mr. Cross sat down; there was something in the decided tones of the
+Commodore's voice that carried with them the idea of implicit obedience.
+
+'Without alluding to the serious crime which I have it in my power to
+substantiate against you, I at once propose to you, Mr. Cross, that if
+you deliver up to me the papers which were taken from Mr. Rutherford's
+house by the men employed by you for that purpose, and at the same time
+make a quit-claim to your son David of all your real estate, you may
+then have twenty-four hours to make what other arrangements you please
+in this vicinity, and nothing shall be revealed until the expiration of
+that time; otherwise I shall immediately have you arrested for robbery
+and arson. I give you ten minutes in which to make your choice.'
+
+'It is a false charge, sir; the whole of it is a falsehood, started by
+that old idiot the Widow Brown and her son; and I intend they shall
+smart well for it--that they shall, sir.'
+
+The Commodore then gave a signal to James Montjoy, who left the room,
+and turning himself to Mr. Cross: 'It is a solemn thing for you, sir, to
+violate the precepts of the Almighty, for sooner or later, the hour of
+just retribution overtakes the delinquent. I am not sitting in judgment
+over you, Mr. Cross; but I cannot shut my eyes against the marked tokens
+of an overruling Providence, that have been exhibited in bringing to
+light what you supposed was beyond the reach of detection.'
+
+At that moment the door opened, and Mr. Rutherford, followed by James
+Montjoy and the sailor, entered the room. Cross looked at them with
+intense anxiety until his eye fell on the latter; he started as though
+pierced by a ball, and then stood transfixed with amazement, until
+gradually he settled down into his seat, and stared wildly on the floor.
+
+'Your ten minutes has about expired, Mr. Cross; what do you decide?'
+
+'I am at your mercy, gentlemen, do what you think proper. As to the
+papers, they are not in my hands, nor ever have been.'
+
+'We know that, Mr. Cross; but as you were intending to take possession
+of them this evening, you cannot be very ignorant where they are to be
+found.'
+
+'Who told you that?'
+
+'It is sufficient, sir, that we know the fact. As I have just said to
+you, the searching eye of the Almighty has been upon you through all the
+windings of your crooked way, and has brought out all your sin. The
+wretched beings who have been dependent upon you as hirelings, and whom
+you have ground to the dust, and trained for your wicked purposes; the
+woman who has been in reality your lawful wife, although not known nor
+acknowledged by you as such, the mother of your only child, yet treated
+by you as the off-scouring of the earth; the son who, by your
+instigation, had like to have been the ruin of a lovely girl--all are
+ready to testify against you. Under such circumstances, Mr. Cross, the
+mercy offered you is very tender in contrast with your iniquity.'
+
+Cross was now indeed sensible that his hour of trial had come: large
+drops of sweat stood upon his forehead, and he trembled like a reed in
+the tempest.
+
+'Michael Foster has the papers in his possession; but you must take him
+by surprise and watch him close, for if he suspects what you want, they
+will be destroyed before you can help yourselves.'
+
+'He is a justice of the peace, I understand, Mr. Cross.'
+
+'Yes.'
+
+'You will please go with us, then, sir; you can execute the deed there,
+which you know was one of the terms I stated to you. You have one made
+out, have you not, Mr. Rutherford?'
+
+'I have, sir.'
+
+The Commodore, without further remark, signified his wish to be on the
+way: and soon Mr. Cross was seated on an easy cushion in a fine
+carriage, and with such company as he never had the honor of riding with
+before; but I presume it was a matter of secret rejoicing with him that
+the journey would be a short one--the soft seat and the good company
+were thorns and fire to him.
+
+Commodore Trysail alone left the carriage, and as Mr. Foster opened his
+door, entered without waiting for any ceremony.
+
+'Mr. Foster, I presume, sir?'
+
+'At your service, sir,' making a low bow to the Commodore.
+
+'You are a justice of the peace?'
+
+'I am, sir.'
+
+'Gentlemen,' said the Commodore--calling to those in the carriage--'the
+Esquire is at home, you can come in.'
+
+Mr. Foster began to be much surprised, not only at the peculiar manner
+of his visitor in his own abrupt entrance, but at calling, without
+leave, a coach-load of folks to follow: his looks however manifested
+something more than surprise, when he found himself honoured with the
+presence of those who now entered his apartment.
+
+'Mr. Rutherford, that deed, if you please.' The tones of the Commodore's
+voice assumed a harshness very unusual with him of late years; his keen
+eye had penetrated into the character of the man he had now to deal
+with. 'Mr. Cross wishes you, sir,' addressing Foster, 'to witness his
+signature, and take an acknowledgment of his free act and deed.'
+
+Foster bowed again, and without reply handed the pen and ink to neighbor
+Cross. He then sat down and wrote very rapidly, although it was
+impossible for him to conceal the agitation which his nerves suffered.
+
+'And now, Mr. Foster,' said the Commodore, 'this matter being through
+with, and Mr. Cross's business settled, your turn comes next.' Foster's
+jaws, as we have seen, were rather long and flabby at best; but as he
+dropped his chin and drew up his eyebrows in the surprise that came over
+him as the Commodore turned upon him his keen, searching eye, he made up
+altogether an expression rather wo-begone. 'You have had in your
+possession for some time, Mr. Foster, a small trunk of papers, of but
+little value to yourself, except as you have held them for the especial
+benefit of your friend, Mr. Cross, here; but as he has wisely chosen to
+give up doing business in these parts, they can be of no further use
+either to him or to you; and as we have abundant proof of the guilt and
+villany of you both, we shall therefore give you an equal chance,
+provided you immediately surrender those papers. Twenty-four hours, sir,
+you may have in order to settle up your business in this region; if,
+after the expiration of that time, you are seen in this vicinity, I
+pledge you my word, which has never been broken yet, that you shall be
+arrested as an accomplice in the crimes of robbery and arson.'
+
+Foster cast his eye at the downcast countenance of Cross, and read too
+plainly in that the sad situation in which their affairs were placed.
+Evasion would do nothing for his benefit in this case; he therefore,
+without making the least reply, walked to a closet which opened into the
+side of the large chimney, unlocked it, and began taking out sundry old
+boxes, bottles, paper bundles, etc.; these he placed upon the floor,
+until the whole cupboard was emptied. He then deliberately took from his
+pocket another key, and applying it to the back of his cupboard, opened
+another door there; and thrusting his long arm into the hole, brought
+forth the long-lost trunk.
+
+'What consummate villany!' exclaimed Mr. Rutherford, as he at once took
+possession of his property.
+
+'Open it at once, sir,' said the Commodore, 'and see that every thing is
+right; for if but one paper is missing, they shall both swing for it
+yet.'
+
+But the papers were all correct, and both Foster and Cross felt in no
+small degree relieved, even with the conditions then laid upon them,
+when the party which had thus made each of them such an unexpected
+visit, was again riding away. And here we may willingly, both for
+ourselves and our readers, take leave of these two characters: they
+suddenly disappeared--no one, excepting those in the secret,
+understanding why; they have been blots upon the scene of our story, and
+we bid adieu to them with pleasure.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+
+There are spots in life, like bright days in the year, when all above,
+around, and beneath, is so full of beauty, that the spirit bathes in the
+luxurious scene almost to weariness.
+
+Such a spot to Sam was the day of his return to his native village. The
+cordial welcome of the good old Commodore, testifying his hearty
+approbation of his gallant conduct by a commission that at once
+established his independence; the warm embrace of friends who had grown
+up with him from boyhood, and who exulted in his enviable prosperity;
+the respectful consideration that was meted out to him on all sides; and
+above all, the flow of ardent and almost overpowering affection that met
+him in that home, where parents and sisters poured out into his own
+glowing bosom the bursting fulness of their hearts--affection, respect,
+honor, and independence, all in one united band, waiting upon him, and
+doing all that in them lay, to make this hour of his life bright and
+happy.
+
+The meeting between Sam and the family of Major (now General) Morris,
+was all that he could have asked. His old and first friend, the General,
+was at a distant part of the country, engaged in active service; but
+Lady Morris greeted him with the warmth of a mother, and Susan, that
+once retiring and bashful little girl--a glance of whose eye filled the
+heart of the little sailor-boy with rapture, who had refused bright
+offers, and turned away from many an ardent lover--met our hero with a
+manner so cordial, and with all the friendship of her heart unmasked,
+that he could doubt no longer of the pure delight that awaited him.
+
+Peter was almost beside himself with joy, and kept his crutches going
+from morning till night, cutting off immense slices from his bundle of
+"pig-tail," and stowing them away two at a time; talking to every one he
+met, telling most incredible stories, and sometimes, when he thought he
+could do it without being heard huzzaing, as though to let off
+superfluous steam.
+
+The Commodore, however, before the close of the day, damped his ardor
+for a few moments, by bringing a serious charge against his favorite.
+
+'It is all well, Peter. To be sure, Captain Sam has shown himself a man,
+but what do you think about his letting prisoners slip out of his hands
+in that way?'
+
+'In what way, your honor?'
+
+'By letting them go, and giving them one of the ship's best boats; and
+finding them with compass and stores, and every thing so that they might
+put off to sea, and hunt up their squadron--that looks too much like
+comforting the enemy, Peter.'
+
+'Pardon me, your honor, if I can't agree with your honor this time.
+Captain Sam had good warrant for what he did.'
+
+'Good warrant, Peter--from whom?'
+
+'I heered our minister--God bless him--on the last Sabbath, and your
+honor must have heered him too, say--and he took it from the good old
+Book, your honor--"Love your inimies, do good to them that hate
+you"--and more of the same kind.'
+
+'But, Peter, you don't mean that we should deal with these men, whom you
+have been so long wishing that the winds would blow high and dry,
+according to the good Book, do you?'
+
+Peter had to turn his quid over, and chew a little on it, for he
+remembered having indulged some rather ungenerous feelings--especially
+towards his blockading friends.
+
+'It is hard, I allow, as your honor very well knows, to make a man's
+conscience always jibe right when encountering an inimy to one's self,
+or thinking of one that is dear to us that may be like to git into their
+clutches; but when a man can catch a chance to show a little Christian
+spirit towards them that seek his hurt, whether it be inimies to one's
+country, or inimies to one's self, it will be better, as I take it, in
+the long run, your honor, and at the last reckoning, that we should do
+so.'
+
+'Well, well, Peter, it is getting late, and you must be pretty well
+tired to-day, you had better turn in.'
+
+'Many thanks to your honor, and a long life.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+
+Time is not only a destroyer; he is a healer too. Sorrow and joy attend
+his flight; and each in turn commands the passing hour. The family of
+Mr. Rutherford had laid aside the badges of mourning which, in token of
+respect for the memory of one they loved, they had put on when William
+Andrews died. The scene at his bedside had been ratified in secret, and
+Henry Tracy felt every day more and more satisfied with the one he had
+chosen. There was some little stir, indeed, when it was known abroad,
+and some even hinted the idea that he had stooped a little in taking one
+situated as Hettie had been; but none who really knew her ever thought
+so. She was a bright star, dimmed awhile by clouds, and now to shine in
+her true, simple lustre; her husband's heart, her husband's home, and
+the circle over which his care rested, were now to feel her sweet and
+womanly influence.
+
+The pressure of trouble had done its bidden work upon the views and
+habits of Mr. Rutherford; and then, by the same kind hand which brought
+it, was it taken off. The recovery of his deed at once placed him in
+possession of wealth; the immense value of the tract of timber was daily
+becoming more evident, and he was in a few months enabled to commence
+the joyful duty of liquidating the claim upon his homestead. He had
+resolved, in time, to rebuild upon the ruins of his former house; but
+prudence was his watchword now, and until every cent of the claim was
+cancelled, he determined to remain in his present situation. He was,
+however, for a few months occupying the beautiful mansion of Commodore
+Trysail, at the special request of the latter, who was about to leave
+for the south, where he and his lady expected to remain some time.
+
+The pretty parsonage, which has been so long waiting for an occupant, is
+at last full of life and bustle. The windows have been opened for some
+days, and young female forms are seen moving about in all directions
+through the house. Curtains are putting up and carpets putting down,
+bedsteads are coming together, and large flat beds are lying about in
+readiness to be put upon them; piles of chairs, tied together two and
+two, are waiting to be released; and crates, boxes, and baskets, all
+well filled, are being broken open and pulled to pieces, while from
+them be borne off by nimble hands and feet all sorts of every thing, to
+be arranged according to their different uses.
+
+In the mean time there is a great stir at Mr. Rutherford's. Old ladies
+and young ones have been much together there of late; vast quantities of
+needles and pins and silk and thread have been in requisition; and then
+the old family recipe-book has been for days lying on the large kitchen
+table, with heaps of flour and butter alongside of it, and busy hands
+have been violently engaged beating insides of eggs, and taking out the
+insides of raisins, and stewing things together in all sorts of ways;
+while at times a most savory smell would escape to the upper stories,
+enough to set all the old women and young children running down stairs.
+
+At length the meaning of all this bustle is unfolded. A wedding day has
+come. Henry Tracy has been putting his pretty cottage in readiness to
+receive the lovely girl, who has consented to be its mistress; and
+Hettie, with the aid of her companions, and under the care of Mrs.
+Rutherford, has been making preparations for the hour when she yields
+herself in holy wedlock to the man she loves.
+
+It has been a busy day with the family of Mr. Rutherford from early dawn
+until near its close; and now, as evening approaches, lights are seen
+glistening from every window in the large building, and through the wide
+hall, flitting like fairies, young ladies are passing and repassing, and
+going up and down with light and joyous steps, as though pleasure had
+come down and shed her quickening charm upon them all. Carriages of
+various kinds are landing groups of young and old, and then driving off
+with speed. Attendants at the door in neat array, are leading the new
+comers to the various rooms assigned for their reception. For a while
+confusion seems to reign; then all subsides to quiet. The joyous laugh
+and the lively call are hushed, and within the spacious parlor have all
+assembled who are to be the witnesses of the solemn rite. Dazzling with
+lights, scattered profusely round, and trimmed with evergreens and early
+flowers, it seems a fairy bower; while, circling the room the
+well-dressed guests, with staid and even solemn faces, are whispering to
+each other, or eyeing with curious gaze the beautiful festoons that
+grace the windows or sweep across the lofty ceiling.
+
+It is the wedding day of the young pastor and his gentle bride, and
+Henry Tracy enters the room, accompanied by his three bridesmen, Captain
+Oakum, and James and Edward Montjoy. Soon after Hettie appears led by
+Mr. Rutherford, who is to act as her father, and give away the bride.
+She is simply dressed without ornament of any kind, but the long white
+veil which falls in light and graceful folds from her head, and partly
+hides her dark luxuriant hair. Her bridesmaids follow, Susan Morris, and
+the sisters of the young Captain, and of James and Edward Montjoy.
+
+'Before I present to you,' said Mr. Rutherford, addressing Mr. Tracy,
+'this chief earthly treasure'--and he turned his eyes for a moment to
+the blushing girl who was leaning on his arm--'I must beg your
+acceptance of this paper, you will find when you look upon it, that you
+are not taking to your home a portionless bride. She is as dear to the
+hearts of Mrs. Rutherford and myself as if she were our own child, and
+we have given to her the dowry of a daughter of our own. You chose her
+as a poor portionless girl, and would have loved her as tenderly had she
+continued so; but we all know that this is an uncertain world, and it is
+as well to be prepared for its troubles. May God bless you both!'
+
+One wedding, it is said, leads to another. Whether this is so or not, I
+cannot say, but the signs are ominous; for James Montjoy and Mary Oakum
+take long walks by moonlight, and Sam spends every evening at General
+Morris's, and other tokens tell plainly what things are coming to.
+
+But the long road which I and my readers have travelled together, must
+here end: are you not glad of it?
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+J. OGDEN AND CO. LIMITED, PRINTERS. GREAT SAFFRON HILL, E.C.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+THE LILY SERIES.
+
+_Uniform with this Volume._
+
+The design of this Series is to include no books except such as are
+peculiarly adapted by their high tone, pure taste, and thorough
+principle to be read by those persons, young and old, who look upon
+books as upon their friends--only worthy to be received into the Family
+Circle for their good qualities and excellent characters. In view of
+this design, no author whose name is not a guarantee of the real worth
+and purity of his or her work, or whose book has not been subjected to a
+rigid examination, will be admitted into the "Lily Series."
+
+    1 Leslie Goldthwaite.                 Whitney.
+    2 The Gayworthys.                     Whitney.
+    3 Faith Gartney's Girlhood.           Whitney.
+    4 The Gates Ajar.                     Phelps.
+    5 Little Women.                       Alcott.
+    6 Good Wives.                         Alcott.
+    7 Alone.                              Harland.
+    8 I've been Thinking.                 A. S. Roe.
+    9 Ida May.                            Langdon.
+    10 The Lamplighter.                   Cumming.
+    11 Stepping Heavenward.               Prentiss.
+    12 Gypsy Breynton.                    Phelps.
+    13 Aunt Jane's Hero.                  Prentiss.
+    14 Wide, Wide World.                  Wetherell.
+    15 Queechy.                           Wetherell.
+    16 Looking Round.                     A. S. Roe.
+    17 Fabrics: A Story of To-day.
+    18 Our Village: Tales.                Mitford.
+    19 The Winter Fire.                   Porter.
+    20 Flower of the Family.              Prentiss.
+    21 Mercy Gliddon's Work.              Phelps.
+    22 Patience Strong's Outings.         Whitney.
+    23 Something to Do.                   Alcott.
+    24 Gertrude's Trial.                  Jefferis.
+    25 The Hidden Path.                   Harland.
+    26 Uncle Tom's Cabin.                 Stowe.
+    27 Fireside & Camp Stories.           Alcott.
+    28 The Shady Side.                    A Pastor's Wife.
+    29 The Sunny Side.                    Trusta.
+    30 What Katy Did.                     Coolidge.
+    31 Fern Leaves.                       Fanny Fern.
+    32 Shadows and Sunbeams.              Fanny Fern.
+    33 What Katy did at School.           Coolidge.
+    34 Shiloh.                            Jay.
+    35 Pressing Heavenward.               Prentiss.
+    36 Gypsy's Sowing & Reaping.          Phelps.
+    37 Gypsy's Cousin Joy.                Phelps.
+    38 Gypsy at Golden Crescent.          Phelps.
+    39 Moral Tales.                       Edgeworth.
+    40 Popular Tales.                     Edgeworth.
+    41 Prince of House of David.          Ingraham.
+    42 Anna Lee.                          Arthur.
+    43 The Throne of David.               Ingraham.
+    44 The Pillar of Fire.                Ingraham.
+    45 Prudence Palfrey.                  Aldrich.
+    46 Peep at Number Five.               Trusta.
+    47 Marjorie's Quest.                  Gould.
+    48 Our Village: Country Pictures.
+    49 Woman our Angel.                   A. S. Roe.
+    50 How Marjory Helped.                Carroll.
+    51 Mabel Vaughan.                     Cumming.
+    52 Melbourne House.                   Wetherell.
+    53 Father Clement.                    Kennedy.
+    54 Dunallan.                          Kennedy.
+    55 From Jest to Earnest.              E. P. Roe.
+    56 Jessamine.                         Harland.
+    57 Miss Gilbert's Career.             Holland.
+    58 The Old Helmet.                    Wetherell.
+    59 Forging their Own Chains.          Cornwall.
+    60 Daisy.                             Wetherell.
+    61 Our Helen.                         May.
+    62 That Lass o'Lowrie's.              Burnett.
+    63 The Years that are Told.           Porter.
+    64 Near to Nature's Heart.            E. P. Roe.
+    65 Esther Douglas.                    Baskin.
+    66 Knight of 19th Century.            E. P. Roe.
+    67 Released.                          Baskin.
+    68 Quinnebasset Girls.                Porter.
+    69 Helen.                             Edgeworth.
+    70 The Fairchild Family.              Sherwood.
+    71 Freston Tower.                     Cobbold.
+    72 Godwyn's Ordeal.                   Spender.
+    73 Madeleine.
+    74 Onward to the Heights of Life.
+    75 Perry Harrison's Mistake.          "Pansy."
+    76 Carl Krinken.                      Wetherell.
+    77 Without a Home.                    E. P. Roe.
+    78 Her Wedding Day.                   Harland.
+    79 His Sombre Rivals.                 E. P. Roe.
+    80 Odd or Even.                       Whitney.
+    81 Julamerk.                          Webb.
+    82 Martyrs of Carthage.               Webb.
+    83 The Nun.
+    84 The Basket of Flowers.
+    85 Autobiography of a �5 Note.
+    86 Pilgrims of New England.           Webb.
+    87 Only a Dandelion.                  Prentiss.
+    88 Follow Me.                         Prentiss.
+    89 Nidworth.                          Prentiss.
+    90 Nellie of Truro.
+    91 An Original Belle.                 E. P. Roe.
+    92 Barriers Burned Away.              E. P. Roe.
+    93 Opening of a Chestnut Burr.        E. P. Roe.
+    94 What Can She Do?                   E. P. Roe.
+    95 A Day of Fate.                     E. P. Roe.
+    96 A Face Illumined.                  E. P. Roe.
+    97 He Fell in Love with his Wife.
+    98 Driven Back to Eden.               E. P. Roe.
+    99 What Katy Did Next.                Coolidge.
+    100 Christine's Crook.                Hamer.
+    101 Ben-Hur.                          Wallace.
+    102 Four Girls at Chautauqua.         "Pansy."
+    103 The Chautauqua Girls at Home.     E. P. Roe.
+    104 Christie's Christmas.             "Pansy."
+    105 True to the Best.                 Price.
+    106 Drone's Honey.                    May.
+    107 An Endless Chain.                 "Pansy."
+    108 Ruth Erskine's Crosses.           "Pansy."
+    109 Links in Rebecca's Life.          "Pansy."
+    110 Mrs. Solomon Smith Looking on.
+    111 The Earth Trembled.               E. P. Roe.
+    112 The Gates Between.                Phelps.
+    113 Found, yet Lost.                  E. P. Roe.
+    114 Three People.                     "Pansy."
+    115 Ester Ried.                       "Pansy."
+    116 Ester Ried yet Speaking.          "Pansy."
+    117 Julia Ried.                       "Pansy."
+    118 The Fair God.                     Wallace.
+    119 Sense and Sensibility.            Austen.
+    120 Pride and Prejudice.              Austen.
+    121 Emma.                             Austen.
+    124 Honoured in the Breach.
+    125 An Unexpected Result.             E. P. Roe.
+    126 Naomi.                            Webb.
+    127 Beulah.                           Wilson.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+Transcriber's Note: Hyphen variations left as printed.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of I've Been Thinking;, by Azel Stevens Roe
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+<pre>
+
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of I've Been Thinking;, by Azel Stevens Roe
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org/license
+
+
+Title: I've Been Thinking;
+       or, the Secret of Success
+
+Author: Azel Stevens Roe
+
+Release Date: April 16, 2012 [EBook #39461]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK I'VE BEEN THINKING; ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Delphine Lettau, Mary Meehan and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+
+
+<div class="figcenter">
+<img src="images/cover.jpg" alt=""/>
+</div>
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+
+
+
+<h1>I'VE BEEN THINKING;</h1>
+
+<h3>OR,</h3>
+
+<h2><i>THE SECRET OF SUCCESS</i>.</h2>
+
+<h2>BY A. S. ROE,</h2>
+
+<h3>AUTHOR OF "LOOKING ROUND."</h3>
+
+
+<p class="center">WARD, LOCK AND CO.<br />
+LONDON, NEW YORK, AND MELBOURNE</p>
+
+
+<div class="figcenter">
+<img src="images/illus.jpg" alt=""/>
+</div>
+
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>I'VE BEEN THINKING.</h2>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER I.</h2>
+
+
+<p>'Where is the use, Jim, of our working and working to raise so many
+vegetables? we never can use them all. Mother said last year there was
+no necessity for raising more than we could eat, and now this potato
+patch is larger than ever.' And as he said this, the little speaker
+threw himself upon the soft ground, struck his hoe into the soil, and
+looked up at his brother to see how he would take it.</p>
+
+<p>Jim, as he was called, rested a moment on his hoe, eyed his brother
+closely, and then, with something of a smile, replied:</p>
+
+<p>'Come, Ned, don't give up to lazy feelings; the things will do somebody
+good; and you know my father always told us, that it was better to be at
+work, even if we got no pay for it: and besides, I have been thinking of
+a plan by which we may do something with what we raise, if we have more
+than we can use.'</p>
+
+<p>'What plan, Jim?' and Ned raised himself from his prostrate position,
+and sitting with both hands resting on the ground, looked very
+inquiringly at his brother.</p>
+
+<p>'Why, suppose we should try to sell some of the things we raise?'</p>
+
+<p>'Try to <i>sell</i>, Jim? ha, ha, ha!' and the little fellow threw himself
+upon the ground, and indulged in a hearty fit of laughter. Jim laughed a
+little himself, resuming his work, and hauling the dirt up faster around
+the potatoes he was hilling.</p>
+
+<p>'Come, Ned, you had better go to work; the sun will soon be down, and we
+shall not get our task done.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, tell me then <i>where</i> you are going to sell the things; that's
+all.'</p>
+
+<p>'I shall say no more about it now, at any rate; you will only laugh at
+it. So come, take up your row.'</p>
+
+<p>Ned, perceiving that Jim was working upon both rows, was ashamed to
+waste any more time, and inspirited by his brother's kindness, sprang to
+his feet, and the two boys worked away with alacrity.</p>
+
+<p>The sun had gone down, the cow had been milked and the pigs fed, the
+hens had all gone to roost, and the two brothers had sauntered towards
+the river which ran before their dwelling, and taken a seat together on
+a rock under the branches of a huge oak, of which there were several
+around the premises. Before them lay, <i>first</i>; a gentle slope of short
+greensward, part of what was known as the town commons, where every
+body's cow, or pig, or goose, could roam unmolested; beyond <i>this</i> lay a
+smooth sandy shore, washed by a river, whose waters had not far to go
+before they mingled with the ocean, or with a large arm of the ocean;
+along the shore, as far as the eye could reach, was the same, or nearly
+the same, strip of green commons, dotted here and there with small rude
+dwellings, the abodes of a few fishermen, who existed on the products of
+the river that rolled before them; a few small boats lay drawn up on the
+shore, and occasionally a row of stakes running out into the water, told
+where the fishermen had planted their nets. The only house in sight that
+had any appearance of comfort was the one these brothers called their
+home&mdash;a plain one-story building, with a little wing to it; a paling ran
+in front and around three sides, enclosing the patch of ground used as
+their garden; a few fine old trees threw their shadows over and around
+the premises, adding much to the domestic aspect of the place; a
+pleasant country spread back from the river, and in the distance could
+be seen here and there the chimney top, or the peaked roof of some
+obscure dwelling, making no greater pretensions than those described.</p>
+
+<p>'I wonder what Sam Oakum is doing along shore there?'</p>
+
+<p>'Where, Jim?'</p>
+
+<p>'Down by that clump of rocks. Don't you see him?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, he is picking up horse-shoes; he has not fed his pigs yet; I
+suppose his father is drunk to-day, and the pigs are squealing, and Sam
+has gone to look for something for them to eat; poor fellow!'</p>
+
+<p>'Sam is a clever fellow; I do wish his father would act differently. I
+cannot see what is to become of him. They who have no father are bad
+enough off, but I think poor Sam is worse off still.'</p>
+
+<p>'Do you think, Jim, if father had lived, that we should have stayed
+here?'</p>
+
+<p>'I cannot say&mdash;I suppose we should. Why do you ask that question, Ned?'</p>
+
+<p>'Because I think it is a poor place to get a living in; nor do I see how
+we are going to get along here; it is hard hoeing for it any how.'</p>
+
+<p>'<i>Hard hoeing?</i> I don't think so, Ned; it is a great deal harder doing
+nothing.'</p>
+
+<p>'Perhaps it is; I should like to try it once, and see.'</p>
+
+<p>'I believe it to be true what father often said, that "hard work made
+short nights and sweet food," and if we should give up work, what would
+become of mother and Ellen?'</p>
+
+<p>'I will work for them, Jim, as long as I have got any fingers to work
+with; but we may hoe and hoe here all our lives, and what will it amount
+to?'</p>
+
+<p>'I have been thinking a great deal about that, Ned, and therefore I
+spoke to you as I did to-day when you laughed so at me.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, tell me <i>now</i>, Jim; I promise you I will not laugh any more.'</p>
+
+<p>'I have been thinking for some time, just as you say, Ned, "that we must
+hoe and hoe all our lives," and without much hope of making our
+condition any better.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why you see, Jim, if there was any one here to buy what we raised, more
+than we wanted to eat, there would be some use in raising all we could.'</p>
+
+<p>'I know it, Ned; and the great trouble is, that the folks all round here
+are as poor as we are, and the most of them not so well off; they live
+from hand to mouth, and would never want any thing we could raise.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, I suppose they would like our strawberries and peaches well
+enough, if we would give them away; but they will never take the trouble
+to raise any for themselves, and I am very sure they will never have any
+money to buy them with.'</p>
+
+<p>'That is it, Ned; you are right now. Father has taught us to raise such
+things, you know, and if we had any way to dispose of them, we could
+raise many more than we do.'</p>
+
+<p>'Then you would see how I could work, Jim, and we would stuff the old
+garden full of every thing.'</p>
+
+<p>'I have been thinking&mdash;now, you won't laugh again?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, I won't, I promise you.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, I have been thinking&mdash;you know, just over the other side of the
+island is that large fort; sometimes there is quite a company of
+soldiers, and always some officers and their families there; the grounds
+about there are so rocky and sandy, that they cannot raise any thing if
+they would; they no doubt get their provisions in large quantities from
+a distance, but the officers and their families might like some of our
+fruits and vegetables, as we could supply them fresh; the only thing is,
+how to get there?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, Jim, that would be the trouble; we have no boat, and we should not
+know how to manage one if we had it, and mother would be so afraid to
+let us go such a distance on the water.'</p>
+
+<p>'I have thought of these difficulties, Ned, but I believe we can get
+along with them. I know it will be difficult getting to the fort
+sometimes, in rough weather; and then, as you say, we have no boat, and
+we should not be able to manage one if we had it; but how would it do to
+ask Sam Oakum to join us?'</p>
+
+<p>'Sam Oakum is the very fellow, just the very fellow; but stop, Jim, Sam
+has not got a boat.'</p>
+
+<p>'I know that; but no doubt he can borrow one for the first trip, and
+then, if our plan should succeed, perhaps we could hire it until we were
+able to buy one for ourselves.'</p>
+
+<p>Ned could stand it no longer; he jumped from the rock, clapped his
+hands, huzzaed, caught hold of Jowler, who had sprung up, and was
+barking away in answer to Ned's huzza, and down they went on the green
+sward together.</p>
+
+<p>'Don't go crazy, Ned, we may be disappointed after all; mother may not
+give her consent, Sam may be unwilling to go, or not able to get a
+boat.'</p>
+
+<p>'Do stop, Jim, bringing up difficulties; I don't want to hear them now.
+I know mother will let us go, and I know Sam will like dearly to join
+us; he can get a boat, I am sure he can.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Ned, the first thing we must do is, to get mother's consent.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, and you will speak to her this very night, won't you, Jim? I will
+put in a word once in a while, just to help along.'</p>
+
+<p>Twilight was past; the stars were shining through a clear bright sky,
+when these two brothers retraced their steps towards home. It is
+pleasant to see them so cheerfully complying with that command, 'Honor
+thy father and thy mother, that thy days may be long in the land which
+the Lord thy God giveth thee.'</p>
+
+<p>And now I suppose my readers may be anxious to know some particulars
+about our boys, and the place where they lived.</p>
+
+<p>Their father, Mr. James Montjoy, who had died a few months before the
+period at which our story commences, was rather a plain man in his
+appearance and manners, and lived on a small pension just enough to
+sustain his family, so that he left nothing for their support but the
+house and garden. I think he must have been a good man, for his boys
+revered his name, and often repeated his sayings to each other; and on
+no account would they deviate from what they believed would have been
+his will.</p>
+
+<p>As to the place where they lived, I have already partly described it; it
+was a very retired spot, a few farm-houses were scattered about at
+irregular intervals, but all wearing the same general aspect. A want of
+enterprise was manifest on every side; poor roads, poor fences, broken
+barns, patched windows in almost every house, miserable-looking waggons
+and horses, and people in appearance as uncouth and woe-begone as their
+teams.</p>
+
+<p>There was but one store in the place, and how that was supplied was
+somewhat mysterious; for no boats sailed from or to this lone spot. I
+have heard, that once in a year a large lumber waggon, that came from a
+distance, brought a load of casks and boxes, which contained all the
+goods necessary to supply the few wants of its customers, a little tea,
+and sugar, and molasses, and a few coarse dry goods, with an undue
+proportion of whiskey. The storekeeper looked no better than his
+customers; he was a dried-up, wrinkled little man, with a very red nose;
+always clad in a suit of grey clothes, with a broad-brimmed greasy hat,
+turned up in front, and a pair of iron spectacles, through which stared
+two very large eyes, somewhat the worse for the use of cider and
+whiskey.</p>
+
+<p>The store itself was a long, low, tumble-down-looking place, with a shed
+running along its front, under which might almost always be seen a
+certain number of miserably dressed persons, the customers of the
+store.</p>
+
+<p>It will be of no use to any of my readers to be told the real name of
+this place, nor its exact locality. I have mentioned that it was on a
+river, and not far from where that river emptied itself into a sound, or
+arm of the sea; but as there are a great many rivers and sounds in our
+beautiful country, I must leave you all to guess the right one. And
+perhaps many of you will pass this place, or have already passed it many
+times, and when you have seen, or shall see, the beautiful church spire
+that now rises from the midst of the trees which embower it, and the
+neat white houses along the shore, and the trim vessels that line the
+wharves, and hear the lively&mdash;'Yo, heave yo!' of the sailors, as they
+hoist the white sail to the breeze, you will little dream that it was
+once as I have described it.</p>
+
+<p>And now we must see how Jim gets along in gaining the consent of his
+mother.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Montjoy was a good mother, and loved her three children most
+tenderly; but as all mothers who truly love their children must
+sometimes deny their wishes, Jim and Ned had learned some lessons, which
+made them feel less and less confident the more they thought of the
+matter. At length the former, taking up the candle, whispered to his
+brother.&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Perhaps, Ned, we had better not say anything about it until to-morrow.'</p>
+
+<p>'I think so too, Jim.'</p>
+
+<p>So, kissing their mother and little Ellen, up they went to their garret
+room, talking and laughing in great spirits.</p>
+
+<p>'The poor dear children,' thought Mrs. Montjoy, 'it makes my heart ache
+to hear them; they think not of the future. May God, in his mercy, open
+some way, for I see but a poor prospect before them. And it may be that
+prayer was heard, and the God of the widow and the fatherless was
+preparing the means by which these unprotected children would prove the
+light of their native place, and her stay and comfort. Had she seen them
+as they knelt down by the bedside together, she would have felt that her
+children were not fatherless.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning the boys had a long conference with their mother; and
+after she had listened to their plans, and stated to them, more
+particularly than she had ever before done, the straitened circumstances
+to which they were reduced, and expressed many fears on account of their
+exposure on the water, she finally agreed that they might try what they
+could do.</p>
+
+<p>No sooner had they reached the door, after thus accomplishing their
+wishes, than Ned started on the full run, jumped over the first thing
+that stood in his way&mdash;which happened to be old Jowler&mdash;caught up his
+hoe from under the shed, and entering the garden by a cross cut, began
+tearing the dirt around the potato hills with all his might.</p>
+
+<p>Jim walked very leisurely to his work, and for some time permitted his
+brother to go on, thinking that he would soon become tired, and relax
+his efforts; but seeing that Ned was coming back on <i>his</i> row,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'You had better keep your own row, Ned; I shall get along soon enough
+with mine, and you will only tire yourself by working so fast.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, I am in such a hurry, Jim; I want to get these potato hills
+finished, so that we can go and talk with Sam Oakum about the boat.'</p>
+
+<p>'I am as much in a hurry as you are, Ned; but we have quite a patch to
+hill yet, and we shall get through sooner, by working steadily, besides
+doing our work better; we can get along with them by the middle of the
+afternoon, and that will give us time enough to see Sam.'</p>
+
+<p>And as Jim had said, by the middle of the afternoon the last hill of
+potatoes was finished; and, having made all their arrangements, and
+agreed upon all they would say to Sam, they had nothing to do but go to
+the tree where they placed their tools, and hang up their hoes for that
+day.</p>
+
+<p>As Sam Oakum will be a prominent character in our story, I must
+introduce him more particularly to my reader. His father lived in one of
+the huts which I have said were scattered along the shore of the river
+for some distance, and followed the occupation which <i>his</i> father had
+followed before him, that of a fisherman; or, in other words, that of
+catching a few fish or clams, sufficient to satisfy the cravings of
+hunger for the day, and spending the rest of it in idleness and
+drinking, without enterprise or ambition. As their fathers had done for
+generations back, so did they; they seemed to feel that it was their
+luck to be poor, and, to all appearance, felt willing that their
+children should follow in their steps.</p>
+
+<p>Sam Oakum's father was rather a superior man to his neighbors; he had
+some knowledge, too, of boat-building; he had never learned the trade,
+but, being ingenious, could put together a small craft quite decently,
+and the few poor boats which the fisherman owned were the work of his
+hands; but he also exceeded many of his neighbors in the use of strong
+drink, and too frequently it was feared that his wife and children
+suffered for the necessaries of life, because the father was away, and
+in no condition to get home. For a few years past, however, since Sam
+had become able to manage a boat, he would see that there was food for
+his mother and sisters, although there had been as yet no opening for
+him by which he could do any more than this. There was no ground
+attached to their poor house for him to cultivate; there was no work in
+the vicinity that he could get; and the boat, by means of which he could
+procure their supply from the water, he was obliged to borrow.</p>
+
+<p>Sam was now about sixteen years of age; a good-looking fellow he was
+too, although his clothes were old and patched; his hair was black as a
+coal, and very much disposed to curl; he had a good open countenance,
+very bright black eyes, and a fine nut-brown complexion. As we shall
+learn his character in the progress of our story, it will not be
+necessary to describe him any closer at present.</p>
+
+<p>On the day that Jim and Ned had been so successful in obtaining the
+consent of their mother to put their plan into execution, Sam had
+experienced a severe trial: his father had indulged more freely his
+dreadful appetite, and although in general kind to his family, had begun
+to manifest a morose and sullen temper.</p>
+
+<p>Sam's mother was a good-natured, inoffensive woman, always endeavouring
+to make the best of things; managing as well as she could with what was
+in the house, and although sorely pinched sometimes, never finding fault
+with her husband.</p>
+
+<p>'It would do no good,' she said, 'to be dinging at Oakum; it would only
+make him worse.'</p>
+
+<p>So the poor soul went on from day to day, doing her best, and always
+hoping, woman like, that he would be different one of these days; but on
+this eventful morning her accumulated grievances could no longer be
+repressed, and as her husband was about to leave the house, only to
+return at evening in a wretched condition, she ventured to say to him&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Oakum, don't you think you'd better not go up to the store to-day?'</p>
+
+<p>'Don't I <i>think</i> I'd better <i>not</i>? <i>No</i>, I don't&mdash;what makes you ask
+me?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh well, I didn't mean no harm; only you have been away so much
+lately.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, supposing I have, whose business is <i>that</i>, I want to know?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why nobody's, I suppose; only you know, Oakum, we ain't got nothing in
+the house but them two fish you brought in this morning; there ain't no
+meal nor nothing.'</p>
+
+<p>'No meal nor nothing; yes, there is meal: didn't I bring home some
+yesterday?'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, you know how that was, the pigs got at it.'</p>
+
+<p>'The pigs got at it&mdash;then why didn't you take care of it, and not let
+the pigs get the children's bread?'</p>
+
+<p>'It wasn't mother's fault,' said Sam, who was by at the time, and knew
+all the circumstances.</p>
+
+<p>'Whose fault was it then, you little vagabond?'</p>
+
+<p>'I ain't a vagabond yet; but we shall all be soon, if you keep going to
+Grizzle's every day.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam's father was utterly confounded; he took off his hat and sat down.</p>
+
+<p>'What, are my children going to rise up against me? Go out of the house,
+sir.'</p>
+
+<p>Poor Mrs. Oakum was in great trouble. Sam had said what was true; his
+father had, in a state of unconsciousness, left the flour at the mercy
+of the pigs; but she felt sorry that he had spoken, and Sam soon felt
+very sorry for it too; his conscience upbraided him; he went out of the
+house and kept as busy as he could, but he could not feel happy.</p>
+
+<p>By little and little Oakum found out from his wife all about the meal;
+he was thoroughly ashamed, asked for another bag, and immediately took
+his hat and departed.</p>
+
+<p>About the middle of the afternoon Sam sauntered along the shore to a
+large flat rock that stood just at the water's edge. He took a seat upon
+it, and with his eye stretched far over the beautiful bay, mused on his
+sad condition and hopeless prospects. Was life to be as it had ever
+been&mdash;a scene of idleness and want, a waste, with nothing to cheer or
+stimulate his youthful mind? without education (not being able even to
+read), without a trade, or the prospect of one, or any employment that
+offered the least inducement to exertion? His conscience sorely troubled
+him also on account of the disrespect he had shown to his father that
+morning; and as he mused, his excited feelings started the tears down
+his sunburnt face, and in the agony of the moment he exclaimed,</p>
+
+<p>'I wish I was&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'What do you wish?' said Ned Montjoy, as he stole up behind, and put his
+hands over Sam's eyes.</p>
+
+<p>'But what is it, Sam?' you are in trouble; tell us right away. 'Can Jim
+and I help you?'</p>
+
+<p>Sam wiped away his tears as he best could, but was unable at once to
+make any reply.</p>
+
+<p>'Come, Sam, tell us, has anything happened to day?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, nothing particular, Ned; only sometimes I get tired of living as I
+do.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh well, Sam, if that is all, come cheer up; for Ned and I have a plan
+in view, and if you will join us, perhaps things will be better for us
+all.'</p>
+
+<p>'I'll join you and Ned in any thing, but I don't see what use I can be
+to you.'</p>
+
+<p>'So much use, that we can do nothing without you <i>do</i> join us Sam. Can
+we, Jim?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, I fear we cannot.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, what is it, boys? Come, I'm ready for any thing.'</p>
+
+<p>'You tell him, Jim, all about it. I say, Sam, it's the best thing you
+ever heard of. I tell you <i>what</i>, won't it be nice though?'</p>
+
+<p>And Ned kicked up his heels, ran a few steps, caught up a smooth flat
+stone, and away it went skimming the surface of the water, and in
+plunged Jowler, as he had often done before, on a fruitless search after
+it. Jim took a seat alongside of Sam, and soon unfolded his scheme for
+adventure. Sam's countenance brightened as Jim went on, and he was too
+impatient to wait until the whole was regularly told.</p>
+
+<p>'And you want me to manage the boat, and you will sell the things?'</p>
+
+<p>'That is it, Sam.'</p>
+
+<p>'I tell you what, Jim, who put all this in your head? I wonder why I
+never thought about taking clams and oysters there! I am sure they will
+buy them: I might try some, couldn't I?'</p>
+
+<p>'Certainly&mdash;but how are we to get a boat? your father has none, has he?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, not now, but I know where I can borrow one; it has a sail to
+it&mdash;it is old and leaky though, but a little calking will make all
+tight.'</p>
+
+<p>No sooner had Sam said this, than Ned started off again on another
+gallop; he took quite a circuit this time, and coming back caught Sam by
+the back of his collar, and pulled him over flat upon the rock.</p>
+
+<p>'Didn't I tell you, Jim, that Sam Oakum was the fellow for us?'</p>
+
+<p>'Don't, Ned, act so crazy; let Sam go.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh let him alone, Jim; he is so full, he must let out a little.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam rolled himself off from the rock, and picked up his little tarred
+hat, which had fallen upon the sand.</p>
+
+<p>'Well, boys, when shall we go,&mdash;to-morrow?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, can you get the boat ready by that time, Sam?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, that is, if old Andrews will let me have it; I guess there will be
+no fear of that.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, how shall we know? for if we go to-morrow, we must be up early
+and pick our strawberries. Shall we come down here to-night, Sam?'</p>
+
+<p>'No; I tell you what we'll do&mdash;if I can get the boat, and father will
+let me go, I won't come up; so, if you don't see me, you may conclude we
+shall go.'</p>
+
+<p>'Agreed, Sam.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam was on good terms with the old man from whom he expected to get the
+boat, and found no difficulty on that score; it occupied him, however,
+the remainder of the afternoon in putting her in a condition suitable
+for their voyage, and even then it was but a frail concern to venture
+in, where at times the winds were strong and the waters rough. But Sam
+knew no fear; so taking the oars and thanking his old friend very
+heartily for his kindness, 'lay to,' and the little skiff flew through
+the smooth water like a bird.</p>
+
+<p>He had accomplished, however, but one part of his work; he had yet to
+meet his father and obtain his consent, and his heart sunk within him
+when he thought of home, and the probable condition of things there. He
+had resolved what course to pursue&mdash;he had done wrong, he had spoken
+improperly to his parent, he must ask his forgiveness before he could be
+happy. But he knew not in what condition he might find that parent. He
+rowed his boat up to the rock where he had held the conversation with
+Jim and Ned&mdash;hauled her up on the shore as far as he was able, carried
+the stone anchor on land, and walked directly towards home, strong in
+good resolutions, and with some faint hope that things might be better
+than he feared. He gathered up the horse-shoes as he went along which he
+had collected on the beach in the afternoon, enough to make a good
+supper for his pigs; and throwing them over into their pen as he passed,
+was just entering the door of his dwelling when he met his father, who
+had his hat on and was going out. Sam saw at a glance that all was
+right&mdash;he cast his eyes down:</p>
+
+<p>'Father, I'm sorry I spoke so this morning.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, never mind now, Sam.' And as he saw Sam wiping his eyes, for the
+tears came fast, 'Never mind now, my boy; it has gone by, and a good
+many other things I hope too&mdash;go in and get your supper.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam entered the room, happier than he had been for many a day; his
+mother's countenance was lighted up with a smile, and his little sister
+came up and whispered,</p>
+
+<p>'Father ain't been to Grizzle's to day.' Sam looked at his mother and
+she at him&mdash;tears were glistening in both their eyes, but they told only
+of joy and hope.</p>
+
+<p>He soon communicated to his mother his plan for the next day; she made
+no objections, only she hoped he would take care of himself.</p>
+
+<p>'And may be you'd better speak to your father, Sam.'</p>
+
+<p>Just then Mr. Oakum came in, and Sam proceeded at once to tell him what
+had been proposed, and what he had done about it.</p>
+
+<p>'I thought I saw a boat laying up by the rock there, and I couldn't
+think where it came from&mdash;is that Andrew's skiff? don't it leak badly?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, I've calked her, Father, she is tight as a whistle now.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Sam, you must take care of yourself, you know it's rough
+sometimes round the point; you most keep close to shore, that skiff
+won't stand much. I don't think it will be of much use for you to go
+there, but you may try.'</p>
+
+<p>Early the next morning&mdash;so early that a faint streak of light was barely
+visible in the east&mdash;Sam was off with his skiff, raking for clams and
+oysters as his share of the freight; and by the time Jim and Ned were at
+the shore with their baskets, he was ready to receive them.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER II.</h2>
+
+
+<p>It was a bright and beautiful morning, the water as calm and peaceful as
+it was possible for water to be so near the restless ocean. Ned stood on
+the shore, delighted to see the little skiff cut her way through its
+glassy surface, and to hear the sound of Sam's oars reverberating for a
+great distance along the opposite shore.</p>
+
+<p>He watched as it receded, until thinking it was about as far as he could
+make them hear, hallooed with his loudest call, 'Good bye, boys!' He saw
+them both look towards the shore, and heard in return, 'Good bye, Ned!'
+coming as from a great distance. He took off his hat and waved it, then
+went on his way to his daily task.</p>
+
+<p>Sam, although not experienced in long excursions, knew enough of the
+labor of rowing, not to expend his strength at starting. They had ten
+miles to pass over before they could reach their place of destination,
+and the latter part would require much more exertion than the
+commencement of their voyage; so, like an experienced mariner, he made
+but little effort at first, and suffered his boat to flow along with the
+tide. Jim was quite a novice in such matters but Sam had placed him at
+the helm, and given him sundry directions how to steer.</p>
+
+<p>'The tide is just beginning to fall, and I guess it will bring me up
+with the point without much rowing, if you will just keep her head right
+there?'</p>
+
+<p>'I'll try, Sam; but don't you think I had better help you to row?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, no; it's easy work now. She goes a pretty good jog; and I only just
+dip my oars and take them out again. I guess, though, there will be some
+pulling when we get round the point; but perhaps we shall have a little
+breeze, and then we can put up our sail.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam's guessing turned out to be very correct; it required but little
+effort to make the point; and as they turned their course in the
+opposite direction to that in which they had been steering, and were no
+longer sheltered by the island which formed their beautiful harbor, but
+were fairly in the outer bay, across whose waters they could see the
+haze of the ocean and the white beacon that lighted its weary voyagers
+to their desired haven, the wind blew gently, and Sam lost no time in
+taking advantage of it; there was just enough to carry them along
+against the tide, which was no longer in their favor.</p>
+
+<p>The fort to which our little voyagers were steering had been erected
+about ten years. It was intended to command the channel through which
+vessels of ordinary size must pass, in their way from the ocean to one
+of our most valuable cities. It was built with two tiers of ports, and
+of sufficient strength for heavy guns; and as our foreign relations were
+in an unsettled state, it had, at the period under consideration, its
+full complement of men. It was erected at some distance from the shore
+on a ledge of rocks which, at low water, formed a passage to the main
+land; but when the tide was in, a few only of the highest rocks could be
+seen.</p>
+
+<p>The nearer they approached the place of their destination, the more
+serious did the matter appear to them.</p>
+
+<p>'Do you think, Sam, there is danger they won't let us in?'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't know; I hope not, Jim. It would be too bad, after all our
+trouble, not to get even a chance to sell any thing.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Sam, we can but try, you know. We have only to tell them what
+we've come for;&mdash;but I <i>say</i>, Sam, it makes my heart beat to look at it:
+what high walls it has; and see, there are the sentinels walking up and
+down&mdash;how their guns glitter in the sunshine!'</p>
+
+<p>'Halloo! halloo! where are you bound, my hearties?'</p>
+
+<p>The boys were startled by the gruff tones in which they had been
+accosted; and, turning their eyes toward the shore from whence the
+sounds seemed to come, saw an elderly man dressed in a sailor's habit,
+seated on a rock, and beckoning to them, or rather, by a motion,
+endeavouring to stop their progress.</p>
+
+<p>'Halloo! my boys; don't go ahead there, or you'll be foul of the rocks.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam immediately turned the skiff toward the shore, and they were soon in
+close contact with the stranger. He was sitting on the rock, with one
+leg swinging backwards and forwards, and the stump of the other sticking
+straight out. His dress was a true sailor's rig, of blue originally, but
+now much soiled, and of many colors. Spots of tar were pretty well
+sprinkled over both, coat and trousers; vest he had none; but instead
+thereof, a dark blue shirt, trimmed around the collar and bosom with
+something that had once been white. On his head sat (for the crown was
+too low to permit much of any thing to enter into it) a glazed hat,
+which, from its bright appearance, had lately received a fresh coat of
+tar; large bushy locks of sandy-colored hair stood out from beneath,
+based by a thick mat of whiskers, extending under his chin, and covering
+his whole neck; while down his back hung a queue of enormous size,
+reaching nearly to the rock on which he sat. His features, what could be
+seen of them, were not forbidding, although very much doubled and
+twisted by the wear and tear of time and rough weather.</p>
+
+<p>'We were going to the fort,' said Jim; 'and can you tell us, good man,
+if they will let us in!'</p>
+
+<p>'That's accordin' as to what your business is&mdash;if you got an arr'nd to
+the major or his lady, or any of his folks, or to the lieutenant and his
+lady, or so on&mdash;why the case is, they'll have to pass you right in; but
+if it's only one of the privates you see, that's another thing.'</p>
+
+<p>'But we have no particular errand to anybody; we have got a few things
+to sell, and would be glad to dispose of them at the fort.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay, that's a new case&mdash;things to sell, ha! I guess it will depend
+upon what things you've got. If it's contraband goods, and you're
+thinking to git the better of Uncle Sam, you've come to the wrong
+market; the major'll make short work with you.'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't know what you mean by contraband goods or trying to get the
+better of anybody,' said Jim; 'we only thought they might be in want of
+a few fresh vegetables and some strawberries.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay, that's clean another case, there's no contraband in them; but
+where under the blessed heaven have you come from? these things can't
+grow nowheres round here.'</p>
+
+<p>'I shouldn't think they could,' said Jim, looking significantly at the
+dreary waste of sand and stunted pine that spread as far as he could
+see; 'strawberries might grow up in the pines there, but I guess not
+such as these.' With that Jim stopped, and taking up a basket, pulled
+off the covering of green leaves, and held them out for the old man to
+look at.</p>
+
+<p>'Of all sights my eyes ever looked at!&mdash;--'</p>
+
+<p>'I think you'll find them as good as they look,' taking a double
+handful, and holding them out towards the old man.</p>
+
+<p>'No, no,' shaking his weather-beaten face, 'I've no money to buy 'em;
+you must go to the major.'</p>
+
+<p>'Take them and welcome, sir; I had no thought of asking you for pay;
+you're very welcome to them.'</p>
+
+<p>'God bless your young heart!' and holding out his hands he soon showed
+that he knew how to dispose of them; as soon as he had finished he
+jumped down on his one leg, and adjusted his crutches.</p>
+
+<p>'Now, my hearties, I tell you what do you do; steer that craft o' your'n
+right straight across to the fort, and just where you see that ledge of
+rocks ends, you'll come foul of a pair o' stairs; haul up there, and
+wait till I hobble round to my boat, and I'll be with you afore you've
+made all fast.'</p>
+
+<p>Away went the old man, his crutches making the sand fly in his haste to
+get to his boat, which lay a short distance from where he had been
+sitting.</p>
+
+<p>The boys obeyed his directions, and had scarcely made their boat fast,
+ere the old man was alongside.</p>
+
+<p>'Now, my hearties, you just hold on awhile here, till I see the major.'</p>
+
+<p>The moments seem long when we are in suspense, and our boys, in their
+anxiety, began to fear that they should see no more of the old sailor;
+it appeared so long, so very long that he stayed. After gazing intently
+at the gate until their eyes were aching, all at once the sentinel
+stopped, made a peculiar motion with his musket, and put his hand to his
+cap; a gentleman of fine appearance passed out, followed at a respectful
+distance by the crutches. He came directly to the stairs, and accosting
+the boys in a very pleasant manner, inquired where they had come from,
+and what they had for sale. Jim, in a straightforward, manly way,
+answered his queries.</p>
+
+<p>'But, my little fellow, what ever put it into your head to come so far
+as this in search of a market?'</p>
+
+<p>'We could think, sir, of no other place where there would be the least
+chance to sell any thing; the people in this region are too poor to buy
+such things.'</p>
+
+<p>'You may well say so, my lad, and they are like to be so; for a lazier
+set I never saw; but I am glad to find that you, boys, are disposed to
+do something. Peter tells me that you have some choice things for sale.'</p>
+
+<p>Peter, as we must call him hereafter, touched his hat when his name was
+mentioned, but otherwise remained perfectly still, at a respectful
+distance, saying nothing.</p>
+
+<p>Jim immediately uncovered the different articles, and with his hat off,
+looked up at the officer, who smiled as he surveyed the little stock of
+goods.</p>
+
+<p>'You have made out a pretty good assortment&mdash;those strawberries are
+fine, indeed; are there plenty such raised in your area?'</p>
+
+<p>'None, sir, but in our garden; my father used to be very fond of fruit,
+and he taught us to raise it.'</p>
+
+<p>'Is your father living?'</p>
+
+<p>'He is not, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>A shade of sadness at once passed over the countenance of the officer,
+and his eye settled more intently upon the boy.</p>
+
+<p>'Well, my lad, have you fixed upon a price for your articles?'</p>
+
+<p>'I leave that to yourself, sir, as I am entirely ignorant of their
+value.'</p>
+
+<p>Major Morris then ordered the different articles to be measured, and
+putting down prices to them such as he was accustomed to pay, handed the
+paper to Jim.</p>
+
+<p>'Not reckoning the strawberries, which I must pay something extra for,
+the amount is one dollar and a half.'</p>
+
+<p>Jim looked up with astonishment.</p>
+
+<p>'I have calculated them at city prices, but if that is not enough&mdash;&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh yes, sir; yes, sir. I was not thinking of that; it is much more than
+I expected.'</p>
+
+<p>'And now for the strawberries, what shall I say for them? they are finer
+than those I usually purchase.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, sir, I cannot think of taking any thing for them, since you allow
+me so much for the others; if you will only let me take some out and
+give that good man there (pointing to Peter), you are welcome to the
+rest.'</p>
+
+<p>'Certainly, certainly, here Peter.' But Peter had other views of the
+matter, and instead of advancing to receive them, made two or three
+retrograde steps with his crutches, at the same time putting his hand
+upon his long queue and smoothing it down&mdash;a custom of his when at all
+confused, and rolling a tremendous quid from one side of his mouth to
+the other.</p>
+
+<p>'The young gentleman wishes to give you some of these, Peter.'</p>
+
+<p>'Thankee, sir, thankee;' nodding his head very fast all the time; 'no
+occasion at all.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Peter, since you refuse them, take this basket and hand it to
+Mrs. Morris yourself.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay, sir;' and away went Peter in double-quick time.</p>
+
+<p>In the meanwhile, Sam manifested no impatience, although somewhat
+anxious as to what would be <i>his</i> fate; the moment Jim could with
+propriety, he directed the attention of the gentleman to Sam's little
+heap of clams and oysters.</p>
+
+<p>Sam took off the seaweed which he had thrown over them, and blushed
+deeply as he met the keen black eye of Major Morris, which having
+glanced a moment at <i>them</i>, was scrutinizing with apparent interest the
+appearance of their owner.</p>
+
+<p>As Sam had no more idea of fixing a price than Jim had, the buyer was
+obliged to pay for them on his own terms; so handing him fifty cents, he
+said,</p>
+
+<p>'I fear it will not compensate you for the trouble of bringing them so
+far, but it is the rate for which I buy them.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam expressed his perfect satisfaction the best way he could; for the
+eye of the major was so long fixed upon him, that it quite took away his
+self-possession.</p>
+
+<p>Having made arrangements to bring such articles as their garden afforded
+twice a week, with light and happy hearts, lighter and happier than can
+be well described, they pointed their sail and bent their course for
+home. The rock was to be their landing-place, and long before they
+reached it, Ned could be seen throwing stones and cutting capers with
+Jowler.</p>
+
+<p>'Well, boys, how are you? what luck&mdash;sold any thing? I know by your
+looks you haven't!'</p>
+
+<p>'How are you, Ned? any thing happened? You look sober.'</p>
+
+<p>'No, nothing.'</p>
+
+<p>All this was said while the boat was nearing shore, the moment it
+touched the land Ned was on board; he looked at the empty baskets, and
+then at Jim and Sam. Jim smiled, and held out his hand, full of silver
+pieces, and Sam held out his; and then they told him of their success,
+and what arrangements they had made for the future.</p>
+
+<p>Ned was somewhat confounded at the good news; but no sooner did he
+comprehend it fully, than he took hold of both of them at once, shaking
+them, and pushing them about, and hallooing.</p>
+
+<p>'How are you, boys? huzza! huzza!'</p>
+
+<p>'Do, Ned, stop your noise, and don't carry on so; you'll have us all in
+the water.'</p>
+
+<p>'Never mind, Jim, we'll soon work ourselves dry. Huzza! huzza!'</p>
+
+<p>'I'm afraid you'll set the old boat a leaking, Ned.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Sam, I'll stop; but how can you fellows keep so still when you've
+had such good luck?'</p>
+
+<p>Sam would have been perfectly contented with the product of his clams
+and oysters for his day's work, but Jim would insist upon giving him a
+certain proportion of what <i>he</i> had received, which was finally fixed at
+one quarter; so that Sam was to have, besides all he could procure from
+the sale of his own articles, one-fourth of whatever other things were
+sold, as his pay for the boat, and his labor in rowing.</p>
+
+<p>And when Sam took the money which Jim handed to him, and put it with
+what he had already received, and looked at it, a crowd of thoughts
+rushed into his mind. Parents, sisters, home, the past, the present, and
+the future&mdash;and that future bright with prospect of employment, and the
+means of making those he loved as happy as himself. He could make no
+answer to the cheerful 'Good bye' of Ned and Jim, but he turned his
+bright and glistening eye towards them; and they went on their way the
+happier that they saw how full of joy Sam was.</p>
+
+<p>Sam kept his money in his hand until he reached home, and, going
+directly to his mother, put the whole of his treasure into her lap.</p>
+
+<p>'Why, Sam, where did you get all this?'</p>
+
+<p>'Earned it, mother;' and then he told her all about it, and what he was
+expecting to do in future.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh,' said his mother, laying down her work, and clasping her hands
+together in strong emotion, 'isn't this good! And now, Sam, you'll have
+something to do all the time, and may be, your father will help you; and
+may be he'll feel encouraged to do different; and may be&mdash;&mdash;.' But the
+hope of what might be, was too bright for her to utter it; and so she
+sat and looked at Sam, and then she turned and looked out at the window;
+and who can tell what a pleasing picture was painted out before her on
+the sandy shore and the glassy river.</p>
+
+<p>Sam had designed that his mother should keep the money, and use it for
+their need; but she refused.</p>
+
+<p>'No, no; keep it yourself, Sam; or, if you please, hand it to your
+father. I see he's coming yonder, and all seems to be right with him.'</p>
+
+<p>And so it proved; he had been to work for a neighbor where no restraint
+would have been placed upon his appetite; but, strange to say, he had
+not indulged. He had received no money for his services, for there was
+seldom any of that to be got; but he had a bunch of fish in one hand,
+and a kettle with flour in the other.</p>
+
+<p>'Why, Sam, you got back? that is clever. What luck? not much, I guess.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam made no reply, but as soon as his father had laid down his things he
+handed out his little store.</p>
+
+<p>'Here, father, please to take this.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, Sam, you didn't sell your things for all this, did you?'</p>
+
+<p>And then Sam told him all the story, while his father looked in
+amazement at the money, and at Sam, and then at his wife; as soon as he
+had finished he held out his hand.</p>
+
+<p>'Here, my boy, go give it to your mother; it's better with her than with
+me.'</p>
+
+<p>'No, father, I'd rather you would take it, and do what you please with
+it.'</p>
+
+<p>Blessings on you, Sam, that you had the good sense and good feeling to
+answer as you did. You have poured a cordial into that father's heart,
+which will do more to heal his weaknesses, and strengthen his good
+resolutions, than could have been done by all the world beside. He feels
+that he is yet a father, all is not lost&mdash;his <i>children yet</i> trust in
+him&mdash;the bright happy look of that boy has accomplished a work which an
+angel would gladly have been commissioned to perform. God bless you,
+Sam, for this one act, to your latest day.</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Sam, then keep it yourself, and add as much to it as you can; for
+you are a good boy.'</p>
+
+<p>'They shall have it tho' yet, in some way or other,' said Sam to
+himself, as he put it into his little chest. 'I shan't keep it for
+myself; that <i>I shan't</i>.'</p>
+
+<p>It would have required two smart talkers to have answered all Ned's
+questions as fast as he put them; and as Jim never talked fast, he was
+not half through answering when they reached home: their lively
+conversation brought their mother out to meet them as they were entering
+the front yard.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh mother, what <i>do</i> you think? Jim has sold all the things for ever so
+much; see the empty baskets, and (striking Jim's pocket) hear that&mdash;hear
+the money jingle.'</p>
+
+<p>Both smiled at Ned's earnestness; and entering the house, a little
+circle was soon formed around Jim, who went through with his story in
+his own way.</p>
+
+<p>'And now, mother,' said Ned, as soon as his brother had finished,
+'you'll see how I can work; and if you will only give me a little bite
+of something, I will go at once and finish my hoeing, for I was so
+anxious to see the boys come back, that I have done nothing all the
+afternoon but look over to the point.'</p>
+
+<p>'You now feel, boys, the benefit of having been taught to work; it is no
+hardship to you now.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, mother, I would rather work than play.'</p>
+
+<p>'You thought differently the other day, Ned.'</p>
+
+<p>'I know that, Jim; but you see the case is altered&mdash;that plan of yours
+which I laughed so much about, makes altogether a great difference. I
+don't believe any body would want to work just for the sake of it, would
+they, mother?'</p>
+
+<p>'No doubt, my dear, we need some stimulus to make us exert ourselves
+cheerfully; but your father always said that it was better to be at
+work, even if it did not amount to much; it was impossible, he said, for
+an idle person to be happy.'</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Montjoy said but little by way of encouragement, for she saw that
+the boys were both highly elated with their success and the prospect
+before them; but she secretly admired and gratefully acknowledged the
+overruling of that kind Providence, which had opened a way for her
+children's usefulness and the supply of their wants.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning Jim and Ned did not need to be awaked; there was real
+business on their hands now, and they must use their time to the best
+advantage; so at it they went while the sun was but just rising, and by
+the time their breakfast was prepared, had completed hilling their
+cabbages: as they ceased work, Jim leaned on his hoe, and looking at his
+brother,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'I've been thinking, Ned, what we've got to do.'</p>
+
+<p>'I knew you'd been thinking, for you haven't spoken a word this half
+hour; twice I asked you about old Peter, and you only answered, "Ha!"'</p>
+
+<p>'Did I, Ned? well, I was thinking what we are going to do about these
+cabbages.'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't see any thing to do about them; ain't they well hoed?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, they are doing well enough; but what will the cow do!'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, eat them; I am sure none of us wants them.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, but Ned, how can the cow have them if we sell them?'</p>
+
+<p>'That, to be sure; but where can we put any more&mdash;the garden is full?'</p>
+
+<p>'We can put one here, and another there, and there in those vacant
+spots; there will be room for one hundred heads and more.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Jim; any thing more?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, I've been thinking where we could plant some more potatoes.'</p>
+
+<p>'There is no use of thinking about that, Jim; for when these cabbages
+are planted, every spot will be occupied; you don't think of digging up
+the walks, do you?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, not exactly that, Ned; but there is that strip of turf, south of
+the path running to the barn; the grass is of no value, and if mother
+would let us take it, we might turn it over with our spades, and raise
+twenty bushels of potatoes there.'</p>
+
+<p>'Any thing else, Jim?'</p>
+
+<p>'That will do for to-day, won't it, Ned?'</p>
+
+<p>'I think we shall find it will&mdash;it makes my back ache already to think
+about that digging. I wish it was a little cooler.'</p>
+
+<p>The pleasant voice of their little sister was now heard calling them to
+breakfast, for which they were both well prepared by their early labors.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER III.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Sam's first care after awaking on the morning which succeeded the scenes
+in the last chapter, was to make some arrangement with old Mr. Andrews
+for the boat. The old man was of the easy sort; he had never done much
+when young, and now in advanced life depended entirely for the few clams
+he wanted upon his son, who lived a short distance from him, and was
+growing up in his father's likeness.</p>
+
+<p>'You're welcome, Sam, to use the boat as long as you're amind to, and I
+won't ax you nothin' for it; only once in awhile you may bring the old
+woman a few clam.'</p>
+
+<p>'I thank you very much, Uncle John; I will take good care of the boat,
+and will bring you some clams every day.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, no, no, no, Sam; I don't want no sich thing as that; only once in a
+while, you see. Jack, he's a gettin' lazy like, and sometimes the old
+woman gets tired of fish, and then a few clams is a kind of change for
+her.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam's next business was to visit Mr. Grizzle's store, that he might
+purchase some article his mother needed.</p>
+
+<p>'There shan't be no more trust, if I can help it,' said he, as he took
+up his money-box, and put some of its precious contents into his pocket.
+It was quite early in the day, yet several of Mr. Grizzle's customers
+were already assembled when Sam reached the store; he had a great
+reluctance to enter it, associated as it was in his mind with all that
+had been dark and sorrowful in his past experience; but nowhere else
+could supplies be obtained. Old Mr. Grizzle was busy behind his counter,
+twirling the toddy-stick, saying smart things, or what he took to be so,
+for he laughed very heartily at his own wit; and his customers, poor
+souls! were so much in his debt that they were obliged to laugh too.</p>
+
+<p>Sam glanced his eye over them all&mdash;some were bald with age; some in the
+prime of life; and one, he knew him well, a lad but two years older than
+himself, was draining the last sweet drop from the cup of poison as Sam
+stepped up to the counter.</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Grizzle, what do you charge for seven pounds of flour?'</p>
+
+<p>'What do I charge?' At the same time putting his spectacles upon his
+forehead.</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, sir, what is the price?'</p>
+
+<p>'The price, boy? Why, how does your father want it? for fish or for
+trust?'</p>
+
+<p>'We don't want it for neither, sir, but for the money.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ah!&mdash;the money. Well, I s'pose we must try to let you have it a little
+less; but flour is plaguy dear any how, and I aint got none but rye.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam succeeded in procuring a small deduction, and with that he purchased
+some tar.</p>
+
+<p>'I shall tar my boat with what I have saved by paying the money,' said
+Sam to himself, as he laid down his cash on the counter; then taking up
+his goods went straight on his way.</p>
+
+<p>'That seems to be rather a 'cute boy, Mr. Grizzle&mdash;that young Oakum.'</p>
+
+<p>'The younker, I guess, will go ahead of the old man,' said Grizzle, as
+he dropped the money Sam had given him through a little hole in the
+counter.</p>
+
+<p>An old man, with his thin white locks dangling on his shoulders, placed
+his half-emptied tumbler on the bench beside him, and turning his head
+very emphatically on one side, said, 'Oakum is naturally a smart man,
+and he has got a clever wife, but somehow he don't get along much&mdash;no
+better than the rest of us.'</p>
+
+<p>'And what is the reason, Uncle John,' said another, addressing the last
+speaker, 'that we are all so poor?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, I s'pose it's to be so&mdash;it's our luck, as I take it.'</p>
+
+<p>'Our <i>luck</i>?' said the young man, who stood by the door with his hands
+in his pockets, looking at the receding form of Sam Oakum, whose light
+steps were carrying him far on his way&mdash;he laid a strong emphasis on the
+word luck.</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, as I take it, it's our luck; a man may work ever so hard, but if
+luck is agin him, it's no use.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, it is use,' said the same young man; 'that is, if a man would let
+rum alone&mdash;that makes the bad luck; I wish there had never been a drop
+made.'</p>
+
+<p>'What's that you say, Bill? I guess your bitters is gone down the wrong
+way this morning.' And old Grizzle laughed heartily, and so did his
+customers. Bill, as he was called, laughed a little too, but not as the
+rest did.</p>
+
+<p>'S'pose you mix Bill another glass, Mr. Grizzle, and see how that will
+go?' And they all laughed again; and to carry the joke through, Grizzle
+did prepare another glass, and placing it on the counter,</p>
+
+<p>'There, try that, Bill; but may be you darsen't, you seem to be so
+afraid all at once.'</p>
+
+<p>Bill hesitated a moment; the fear of ridicule was too powerful. He
+seized the glass, and pouring its contents hastily down his throat, left
+the store amidst the uproarious laughter of his companions.</p>
+
+<p>Jim and Ned had collected a much larger quantity of vegetables for their
+second trip, and to the baskets of strawberries which they designed as
+gifts, added a beautiful nosegay of the earlier flowers.</p>
+
+<p>'Strawberries and flowers,' said Sam, as he was pushing the boat from
+the shore; 'your things look tempting indeed; I guess old Peter will hop
+round when he sees these.'</p>
+
+<p>'I have brought that small basket on purpose for him; and the flowers I
+thought the ladies might be pleased with&mdash;I don't think they see many
+where they are.'</p>
+
+<p>'It almost makes me feel bad, Jim, to think that I have nothing to carry
+worth looking at.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, it is all one concern, you know, Sam; and I mean to have you hand
+them the flowers.'</p>
+
+<p>'I shan't do it, Jim&mdash;I should make a pretty figure, with my old patched
+clothes and bare feet, handing flowers to ladies and gentlemen!'</p>
+
+<p>'Sam Oakum, if you talk so, you'll make me feel bad; who cares for your
+clothes?'</p>
+
+<p>'<i>You</i> don't Jim, I know; but all don't feel as you and Ned do&mdash;Keep her
+head to the point, Jim, straight as you can.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam had much more rowing to do than on the former trip, the wind not
+coming quite so soon to their aid.</p>
+
+<p>Peter was on the look-out for them, and hailed them before they reached
+the landing.</p>
+
+<p>'Halloo, my hearties! keep her jist about so&mdash;there&mdash;ease up&mdash;in with
+your oars; you've had a long pull to-day&mdash;but you'll learn to take it
+sailor-fashion after a while.'</p>
+
+<p>The boys were very busy fastening their boat and taking down their sail,
+and did not at the moment perceive that any one was present but the old
+sailor, until attracted by the bunch of flowers lying on one of the
+baskets, he exclaimed,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Susie, Susie, look here! did you ever see such posies as these?'</p>
+
+<p>Sam at once seated himself in the stern of the boat, as far out of the
+way as possible; while Jim, taking up the flowers, handed them to Peter,
+and blushing very much,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'These are for the lady, if you will be so good as to give them to
+her&mdash;and this basket of strawberries; and here is one for yourself, sir,
+if you will please accept it.'</p>
+
+<p>'Bless your young hearts, to think of the old sailor. I thank you
+kindly, boys; but'&mdash;putting his face down to Jim, and whispering&mdash;'you
+won't mind my giving them to this little pet of mine;'&mdash;then raising
+himself up&mdash;'Here, Susie, you carry these flowers to your Ma, and I'll
+carry the strawberries;'&mdash;then stooping down again, and speaking in a
+low voice&mdash;'the Major will be here pretty soon; he's busy now&mdash;you won't
+be none the loser for these, I tell you. He's a real gentleman, and a
+liberal soul, and he's got plenty to do with.' And the old man shook his
+head very knowingly, making his long queue, as it stuck out in the air,
+perform some strange manoeuvres; the boys, however, were diverted from
+observing its wonderful gyrations by a sudden attraction towards the
+flowers. It must have been that Peter's rapturous praises, or the
+delight which they seem to have afforded Miss Susan, had unfolded new
+beauties to our boys, for their eyes followed <i>the flowers</i>, even when
+the young lady buried her pretty face among them to enjoy a fulness of
+their fragrance&mdash;it could not possibly have been any thing else, Sam was
+so very bashful, and Jim so very discreet&mdash;but their eyes followed the
+flowers, even until the lovely little maiden that carried them was lost
+to their view, and entered the castle gate.</p>
+
+<p>Major Morris appeared well pleased with the variety Jim had brought, and
+arranged every thing, as to price and measurement, in the same business
+manner as before. He then proceeded to speak with him in reference to a
+supply for the ensuing winter, enumerating a variety of articles, and
+among them beans and potatoes.</p>
+
+<p>'Potatoes we shall have, sir, and perhaps a few beans.'</p>
+
+<p>'I wish to engage three hundred bushels of potatoes, to be well
+selected, and of good size, and fifty bushels of beans. If you choose to
+make a contract to deliver me these articles in the fall'&mdash;at the same
+time handing to Jim a strip of paper with the prices annexed&mdash;'on these
+terms, you can do so; and if you have not so many of your own, you can
+doubtless purchase them of your neighbors, so as to pay you well for
+your trouble.'</p>
+
+<p>The boys were so confounded by the magnitude of the business proposed to
+them, that when the Major ceased speaking, Sam looked at Jim and he at
+Sam, and neither of them the wiser for any thing gained from the
+countenance of the other&mdash;until Sam, as though it was more than he could
+stand under, sat down; in doing so, however, he stumbled over his clams
+and oysters, which attracted the notice of the Major to them.</p>
+
+<p>'Ah, what have you got there? clams and oysters? I had like to have
+forgotten to inquire for them.'</p>
+
+<p>This brought Sam to his senses again; clams and oysters, almost in any
+quantities, were familiar to him, but where three hundred bushels of
+potatoes and fifty bushels of beans were to come from, was beyond his
+comprehension. He soon had his part of the cargo on shore, and as Major
+Morris handed him the money, thanked him in a very civil manner.</p>
+
+<p>It was some time before Jim gave any reply to the proposal which had
+been made to him, he was so absorbed in thinking; his mind had to run
+over all the names of persons likely to have such articles for sale, and
+the probable quantity each might be willing to spare. At length, after
+thanking Major Morris for giving him such a chance&mdash;for he had sense
+enough to perceive that it was all in kindness that the offer had been
+made&mdash;he agreed to accept it.</p>
+
+<p>'And now, my lads, you must go with me, as Mrs. Morris wishes to thank
+you personally for the flowers and fruit.'</p>
+
+<p>Again the boys looked at each other, and Sam turned very pale and then
+very red, and finally sat down, and made signs to Jim to go along.</p>
+
+<p>Jim knew that it would not be proper to hesitate under such
+circumstances, so he prepared at once to follow; while Peter, who always
+observed the most perfect silence in the presence of the Major, as soon
+as he saw him on the way to the fort, began to make the most furious
+gestures imaginable, motioning with his head so violently, that his
+queue flew round behind him like a fly-brush; and when he thought there
+was no danger of being overheard,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Go along; go along, I say! he's axed you himself&mdash;go along; it will be
+the makin' of you.'</p>
+
+<p>But it was of no avail. Sam shook his head and sat still, until the old
+man, having exhausted his means of persuasion, took a seat beside him,
+muttering something about 'dumb-founded perverseness.'</p>
+
+<p>Jim had a great curiosity to see what was within the walls of the fort;
+but he had only time to catch a glimpse of large guns on
+wheel-carriages, and soldiers with glittering muskets; for Major Morris
+passed quickly on, and opening a side door in the hall, was at once in
+an elegantly furnished apartment, and in the presence of several
+fine-looking ladies and the little girl, who still held the bunch of
+flowers in close contact with her face.</p>
+
+<p>Jim was not allowed to suffer the least embarrassment; for immediately
+on his entrance Mrs. Morris arose, and coming toward him with a pleasant
+smile and kindly salutation, thanked him so heartily for the present he
+had sent to her, and talked so familiarly with him about his home and
+his garden, that he felt as much freedom as though he had been long
+acquainted.</p>
+
+<p>'I regret exceedingly,' said Mrs. Morris, 'that I have nothing to offer
+you in return for such beautiful fruit; but you must not refuse to taste
+some of my cake. Susie, lay down your flowers, if you can part with them
+so long, and hand that plate to our young visitor.'</p>
+
+<p>Susie did at once as she was bidden: but she looked so very serious
+about it, and walked so very slowly, that Jim would just at that moment
+have preferred being in the boat by the side of Sam. She came directly
+towards him with the silver plate in her hand, and some rich-looking
+cake lying on it; so he had no alternative but to step towards her, and
+in the politest manner he could, select a piece. His attention was, of
+necessity, directed to the plate; but he could not help giving a glance
+at other things. And indeed, Jim, you are not to blame for blushing as
+you did, when you encountered the gaze of those sweet blue eyes, which,
+in all the unaffected simplicity of youth, were fastened upon you. Her
+golden-colored hair, parted smoothly from the fair forehead, and hung in
+such a cluster of curls upon her snow-white neck&mdash;the rich color that
+painted her parting lips, just tinged with the slightest blush her
+dimpled cheek. She meant nothing by her gaze; it was only the expression
+of an innocent curiosity in reference to the young gentleman she was
+waiting upon. His clothes, to be sure, were coarse, and such as well
+became the work in which he was engaged; but his collar was very white,
+and neatly tied with a black ribbon; and his light-brown hair, so soft
+and silky; his fair complexion, his pleasant voice, and good manners,
+all made a contrast which she did not understand; and it would seem that
+some of the company present, much older than Susie, were equally
+surprised.</p>
+
+<p>'What a fine, manly-looking boy! and how well he behaves,' said Mrs.
+Morris, as soon as Jim had retired, to an elderly lady richly dressed,
+and who, from the peculiar glance she gave to another lady much younger
+than herself, while Mrs. Morris and Susie were paying so much attention
+to our Jim, felt anything but satisfied at the scene.</p>
+
+<p>'I say, aunt, what a fine little fellow that is!'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Lettie,' said the elderly lady, shaking her sides a little, as
+though it was something so ludicrous that she must laugh&mdash;she could not
+help it, 'I didn't see anything very extraordinary. Where is he from?
+who is he? a son of some of the gentlemen down in the pines here? Mary
+and I saw some specimens of their houses&mdash;a mansion or two;' and the old
+lady laughed so heartily, that she could say nothing more, and the young
+lady had to put her handkerchief to her face to hide the emotion which
+was agitating her. Mrs. Morris was aware of the peculiarities of this
+lady, an aunt of her husband's, and as she unintentionally had opened
+the way for a long lecture on the plebeian notions of herself and
+husband, she was much relieved by the entrance of the Major, who, full
+of praises of 'those manly little fellows,' as he called Jim and Sam,
+whom he had just parted with, drew upon himself the storm which Mrs.
+Morris came near enduring alone.</p>
+
+<p>'I felt disposed to laugh, I must say, Philip,' addressing the Major,
+'to see Lettie paying as much personal respect and attention to a little
+market boy, as it seems he is, as though he had belonged to one of our
+best and most respectable families. I say, I felt at first disposed to
+laugh, but I must say, Philip,' and the old lady straightened herself in
+a very decided manner, and began fanning herself very earnestly&mdash;'I must
+say, that when I saw that dear child, at her mother's bidding, waiting
+upon a young clown as though he had been a very gentleman, and when I
+thought what blood ran in her veins, it fired my indignation. Such
+things ought not to be, Philip; you will demolish all distinctions in
+society, or at any rate, bring your own family to feel that it is no
+matter whom they associate with, and that one is as good as another.'</p>
+
+<p>The Major suffered his aunt to 'say her say out,' and, knowing as he did
+what reason he had personally to set a high estimate on the pedigree to
+which she seemed to think it was such an honor to be allied, was
+designing some palpable hits for the special benefit of his kindred,
+drawn from his own experience; but being a wise man, as well as a
+noble-hearted one, he concluded to treat the matter as he saw his wife
+was doing, and laugh it off.</p>
+
+<p>'Why, aunt! I thought you had given me up long ago as an incorrigible
+boy, who would have his own way. You know, aunt, I began very early in
+life to do as I pleased; and having worked my own way up the ladder so
+far, it is not strange if I should be a little headstrong, or my notions
+of such matters as you have touched upon somewhat peculiar.'</p>
+
+<p>His good aunt had heard enough to refresh her memory on a matter that,
+now the subject of it had, as he reminded her, raised himself to
+distinction, she, as well as the rest of his kindred, would have been
+willing should pass into oblivion; and was well satisfied when the Major
+invited her and the other ladies to walk with him upon the ramparts to
+witness a fine sight, the passing of a ship of the largest class, under
+full sail.</p>
+
+<p>This lady and her daughter will not be subjects of our story; so I will
+not trouble the reader with any farther description of them. They belong
+to a class often met with in the common walks of life, who, because of
+some imaginary value which they attach to the ancestry from which they
+have descended, gauge their estimate of others by what they think to be
+the equality, or inequality, of their station to that which they suppose
+themselves to occupy. Major Morris estimated society by a different
+standard; and, as we shall have much to do with him, it may be well to
+trace the causes which led him thus to judge.</p>
+
+<p>He was born in a part of our country where the distinctions which
+formerly prevailed between the classes of society were still kept up.
+His parents were allied to those who claimed the higher ranks of life as
+theirs by birth, and struggled hard to maintain their station; but
+poverty and death are great levellers, and young Morris found himself,
+at twelve years of age, an orphan, without a home, or the means of
+support, except that which was afforded him by the charity of his
+kindred. He was invited by an uncle to make his house a home, and for a
+while enjoyed the privilege of dwelling within a splendid mansion, and
+faring sumptuously, and mingling amongst the gay youth that thronged
+where abundance flowed. But he soon found that poverty was thought to be
+a disgrace, even in nearest kin, by those who would have scorned the
+idea of his engaging in any lawful calling whereby he could have earned
+his bread, if that calling was not one which, in their view, his
+peculiar class could engage in. Young Morris knew nothing of such
+distinctions; but he knew that he was poor, and was made, on more than
+one occasion, to feel his dependence. His high spirit rebelled; he left
+his place of refuge, and took shelter beneath the roof of a poor family,
+with whom he labored for a time most cheerfully in earning his daily
+bread. From thence he obtained employment in one of our large cities in
+the mercantile line; but as he reached the age in which generally a
+choice is made of an occupation for life, his feelings prompted to the
+military profession. Through the influence of a friend, whom his own
+correct deportment had gained, he obtained a commission. His strict
+attention to all the rules of the service, his entire devotedness to
+every duty committed to him, and his well-established reputation as a
+noble-minded and chivalrous officer, gave him favor in high places, and
+he rose rapidly to the grade he then held. To a commanding appearance
+and most polished manners, he united a kind and benevolent heart, warm
+in its sympathies towards every object of distress; and he would have
+poured out full streams to every child of want, to the very extent of
+his ability. But well for him, as for those he would aid, he had learned
+not only to bring others under wholesome discipline, but himself also;
+he had learned that some of our best feelings must be under subjection
+to prudent counsel, and that he who scatters in profusion, even from the
+promptings of a noble heart, is as likely to do evil as good. He had
+abundance to bestow, for he had married a lady of great wealth, and the
+whole responsibility of its proper use was devolved on him; his lovely
+wife had not only committed herself, but all she possessed, entirely to
+him. 'She wanted nothing to call her own,' she said, 'but her husband's
+heart.'</p>
+
+<p>Nothing could have been more gratifying to Major Morris than his
+introduction to our boys. He could sympathise in their feelings; he
+could value properly their enterprising spirit, and he had an
+opportunity of indulging his kindness of heart in a way that would
+stimulate them to exertion.</p>
+
+<p>It would be no easy task to describe the happiness which our boys Jim
+and Sam enjoyed, as they drew their skiff to shore that evening, and
+separated, each for their several homes. Sam found every thing as
+peaceful as his heart could wish, while the wonderful story which he had
+to tell excited the astonishment of his parents.</p>
+
+<p>'I don't believe tho', Sam,' said his father, 'you will find so many
+beans and potatoes to sell in all this place; and then I don't see how
+you are goin' to carry them, nor how you are goin' to pay for them.'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't know much about it, father; but I guess Jim will work it out
+some way. He didn't hardly speak a word all the way home; he was
+thinking, I know.'</p>
+
+<p>'Perhaps he may manage it, somehow; but I don't well see through it all,
+Sam. I can't do much for you myself; only if I had the stuff, I might
+build you a bigger boat, and one that would stand the waves better than
+the old one you've got.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, would you, father?' and Sam's eyes began to glisten; and his
+mother, good soul, had to wipe away the tears that her joyful heart
+could not restrain&mdash;some of the <i>may-bes</i> which had so lately played in
+pleasant vision before her, were indeed realised.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER IV.</h2>
+
+
+<p>The place where the scene of this story is laid, I have said was a lone
+village; it had no communication with other places by means of boats,
+although its water privileges were abundant; and between it and
+neighbouring towns intervened an extent of country, consisting of
+pine-barrens, where no settlements could exist, or at least any that
+deserved the name. There were those, however, who dwelt amid its dreary
+solitudes, and called it home. Scattered here and there upon an area of
+ten to fifteen miles square, might be seen, sometimes alone and
+sometimes in clusters of three or four, a few miserable dwellings, made
+principally of logs. A door, and one window without glass, were the only
+openings to these abodes; and a rude chimney running up against the
+outside, formed a receptacle for the pine logs, which blazed often
+through the long winter nights, the only light they could afford, as
+well as almost their only protection from the searching cold.</p>
+
+<p>Poverty and wretchedness generally make sad havoc with the human frame;
+the haggard countenance, the dry and skinny hands, the stoop, the
+feeble, tottering gait, we expect and look for, when visiting abodes
+that betoken destitution. But miserable as was the appearance of these
+dwellings, the aspect of their inhabitants was generally that of health
+and sufficiency; their swarthy complexions, and fine athletic forms,
+almost compelled the traveller through these lonely regions to believe
+that he had alighted upon a tribe of those sons of the forest who once
+called our country all their own.</p>
+
+<p>The moral character of this people was in keeping with the aspect of
+their dwellings. Having no regular religious instruction, seldom hearing
+the voice of a living teacher, with scarce a Bible to be found within
+their gloomy houses, they were but little in advance of the heathen as
+to religious knowledge, and far too near allied to them in many of their
+vicious habits.</p>
+
+<p>They earned their daily bread by laboring amid the lofty and dense
+forests, in levelling the majestic pines, cutting them into lengths
+suitable for transportation, and conveying them to the outskirts of the
+barrens: their hire was but a pittance when considered as a remuneration
+for their toil, but it enabled them to live; it procured for them food,
+coarse indeed, but enough to satisfy their appetite, and the plain and
+simple clothing which necessity demanded, or to which perhaps their
+taste aspired.</p>
+
+<p>The owners of these forests lived at some distance, and employed an
+agent to attend to all the various labors of preparing the timber and
+conveying it to market.</p>
+
+<p>Cross, the individual employed for this business, had grown up amid
+these solitudes, and labored with his axe for some years. Gifted by
+nature with shrewdness, and not very particular on the score of
+morality, he had managed to obtain the post he occupied, and with most
+of the proprietors stood on good terms; he was active, prompt, and
+efficient, and perhaps, for the business intrusted to him, did as well
+as any one could. But he was, beyond measure, grasping and avaricious;
+and as he could not well gain undue advantage from those who employed
+him, being bound by contracts not easily evaded, he made up such
+deficiency by 'grinding the faces' of the poor laborers.</p>
+
+<p>Without any means of gaining a livelihood besides, they had become
+entirely dependent on the good-will of Mr. Cross. He fixed their wages,
+supplied them from his store with the necessaries of life at his own
+price, and in that way managed to bring them, at the close of every
+month, either without any surplus, or most generally a trifle in debt.</p>
+
+<p>On the border of these barrens, and near the principal scene of our
+story, lived the widow Mary Brown; her husband had been one of the
+woodcutters, an intemperate man, who had caused her much trouble while
+he lived, and when he died left her with two orphans. She had to
+struggle hard to support herself and little ones. But as a light in a
+dark place, so was this widow among these outcasts. She was generally
+known throughout the region where she lived, and the wildest and most
+abandoned never brought against her a railing accusation&mdash;they never
+spoke lightly of her not her religion; for the garb of piety she wore
+was so unassuming, the light that shone around her humble path was so
+mild and unobtrusive:&mdash;</p>
+
+<div class="poem"><div class="stanza">
+<span class="i0">Like the soft fleecy cloud at the close of day,<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">That far in the west where the sun's last ray<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Rests bright on its bosom&mdash;its mellow light<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Steals to our heart, as we gaze in delight;<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">No glare to dazzle, we love to view<br /></span>
+<span class="i0">Its changing tints and its golden hue.<br /></span>
+</div></div>
+
+<p>Having a very humbling view of herself, she felt great pity for the
+deluded ones around her; she never chid them for their follies, but
+would weep and pray in secret, and when called to watch at their dying
+bed, she had such a quiet, happy way of holding up before the weak and
+guilty spirit the Saviour in his love and pity, that many a poor
+wanderer took courage from her message of mercy, and ere the spirit
+fled, it was enabled to look in faith, and go its lone way in peace.
+Wherever sorrow or sickness visited, there was she sent for, as one who
+carried with her a charm that could neutralize their power.</p>
+
+<p>Her dwelling was a log hut like those in that vicinity, but it had an
+air of comfort the others had not. Her plain door was white-washed, and
+a little curtain hung across the window; and there was a box of flowers
+by the step, and every useless thing was removed from around the house,
+and the ground swept neatly, and beneath some of the large pines that
+afforded a grateful shade to her lonely abode, were rude seats, as
+though made for the wayfaring man, on which to rest and be refreshed.</p>
+
+<p>Her children, though helpless little ones when their father died, had
+now grown up to an age when each of them, in different ways, could
+materially aid her. She felt no longer a dread of want, although often
+sighing in secret that her son was compelled to labor with those whose
+example could only lead astray, and that her daughter had no brighter
+prospect than a residence among these uncultivated foresters. But she
+had done what she could. Of worldly wisdom she knew nothing; but she had
+a Bible, and could read it. Its requirements and its doctrines were all
+plain to her, she loved them, and taught them to her children; they
+learned passages from them on the long, still Sabbath days, and as she
+sat in the shade of the large pines by her door, they would come and sit
+near her, to hear and listen to some story she would tell them of those
+whose names have been recorded, and their history handed down for the
+benefit of every coming generation. But other influences have now begun
+to exert a counteracting power; William is eighteen, a man in size and
+strength, a hardy laborer, and much from home. He still brings all he
+earns, or nearly all, to the common stock; he still reverences his
+mother, and listens to her instructions, and treats with kindness his
+only sister; but rumours have reached his home that his chosen
+associates were some whose names had become by-words for rude and evil
+doings, and any heart but a mother's would have given up his chance for
+any future good.</p>
+
+<p>'She had hope for William,' she said, 'although he might be led astray
+by evil companions.'</p>
+
+<p>And she had good cause for hoping&mdash;for she had fastened to his heart
+that golden chain, each link of which a mother's prayers and gentle
+teachings and untiring love had formed. He felt its power even in his
+hours of revelling, and although he never met with an upbraiding word or
+look from her, his conscience had no rest.</p>
+
+<p>The daughter was all that her mother could ask; she had no desire to
+depart from the beautiful precepts of the Bible&mdash;because she loved them.
+Her mind was active, thoughtful, and discerning beyond her years; of
+kind and generous disposition, ever ready for any work of love, and
+cheerful and happy in the consciousness of good-will to all. Her moral
+character was well matched with a beauty of person rarely found, even
+under every advantage. Hettie had no ornaments to set off her beauty,
+and no graces imparted by culture to heighten the natural ease of her
+movements; her complexion, though dark, was brightened by the rich color
+which adorned her cheeks, and her jet-black eyes were softened by the
+long dark lashes that gave to their expression almost the languor of a
+southern clime, while her dark hair dangled in luxuriant curls, very
+much to her annoyance, for she often said:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'She did wish her hair was straight like other girls; it was always
+getting into such a tangle.'</p>
+
+<p>As Mrs. Brown&mdash;or the Widow Brown, as she was universally called&mdash;lived
+nearer to the open and more cultivated settlement than any of the other
+inhabitants of the barrens, she was well known among the farmers'
+families, although intimate with very few. Hettie had some associates
+there, which her mother preferred for her to those in her own immediate
+vicinity. Of these, the family of the Widow Andrews was one to which
+they were peculiarly attached. They could sympathize with each other;
+the mothers were both widows, and each had two children of about the
+same age. They both loved good things; they could converse bout their
+past trials, and present hopes and fears. But while many things in their
+circumstances were similar, there were others in which they were very
+unlike to each other; for the Widow Andrews was much under the power of
+strong natural feelings, easily excited by joy or grief, and her
+passions when aroused seemed at times to know no bounds: no sooner was a
+chord struck that touched a tender point in her heart, than she would
+begin to talk very rapidly and to weep freely; her words flowing faster
+and faster, and louder and louder, until, between weeping and talking,
+she would finally break into a flood of tears, and all was over.</p>
+
+<p>The Widow Brown was aware of this weakness in her neighbor, and lamented
+it, for she knew that at times it did real evil; but there were so many
+things that she loved her for, this she considered as a mere weakness,
+for which she should be pitied.</p>
+
+<p>In reference to worldly goods, too, there was a dissimilarity. The Widow
+Andrews had a much better house, although a very plain one; still it was
+called a house, and not a log hut; and she had a few acres of land
+attached to it, and a small barn, old and shackling to be sure, and a
+few head of cattle, and had been enabled, hitherto, to make out to live
+in a very frugal way from her own resources.</p>
+
+<p>Mary, her daughter, was not pretty, like Hettie Brown, nor was she so
+intelligent; but she had a kind heart, and was obedient to her mother,
+and being about Hettie's age, the two girls became much attached.</p>
+
+<p>The son had promised fair to be a support to his mother, and a good
+member of society, but a dark cloud had arisen upon all such
+prospects&mdash;bad company had now begun to have attractions for him. He
+neglected his work, disobeyed his mother, lost his ambition, and was in
+a fair way to make a wreck of body and soul. His mother had been proud
+of her William&mdash;of his good behavior, of his efficiency at work, of his
+industrious habits; and not a little proud was she of his fine
+appearance&mdash;it was a mother's weakness; but we will not judge her
+harshly. He had, indeed, a very pleasant expression to his countenance;
+his lively eye looked so kindly at you; there was such a play of
+roguishness and good-nature about his mouth; and when he spoke, a
+musical voice brought out the words so soft and clear&mdash;all tended to
+interest both friends and strangers. But all the love which his mother
+bore towards him, and all her pride in him, caused her to be more
+violent in her rebukes. She poured out such a torrent of invective at
+him, that much as he felt he deserved her displeasure, he could not
+stand the violence of it. Every bad feeling of his heart was aroused; he
+began to dread his home and his mother's voice, and sought refuge where,
+alas! ruin alone could be the end thereof.</p>
+
+<p>He was now eighteen years of age, and as my reader was first introduced
+to him at Mr. Grizzle's store, we will follow him as he left that den of
+evil. His conscience was troubled; there was something in the appearance
+and behavior of Sam Oakum that morning, that revived the memory of what
+he himself had once been. We saw how he watched Sam when he left the
+store, as far his eye could follow him; how madly he poured down the
+offered glass, and rushed from the scene of his shame.</p>
+
+<p>Whither to direct his steps he knew not, but onward he went; he was glad
+to be in the open air, it was so much better than the poisonous
+atmosphere he had just left. Soon his attention was arrested by the
+appearance of a dwelling and its precincts that he was about to pass. It
+was a scene of desolation&mdash;the house and all its accompaniments; the
+windows stuffed with every variety of color and substance to supply the
+places of broken panes; the door hung sideways by one hinge, the boards
+loose and flapping against the timbers of the house, the roof broken in,
+and apparently ready to fall upon the inmates, and the inclosures around
+the place lying prostrate or scattered about the grounds. A woman was
+outside, picking up what rubbish she could meet with to replenish the
+fire; sorrow was plainly marked upon her withered features; and as she
+walked into the house with a few faggots in her hand, there was such a
+deadness in her step, such a bowing down under the weight of some too
+heavy burden&mdash;ambition, comfort, hope, all seemed to have departed, and
+left her in her misery with a broken spirit.</p>
+
+<p>William halted in his rapid course; he looked upon the scene and
+considered it well.</p>
+
+<p>This was the house of one of those whom he had just left; the one most
+forward to complain of bad luck, and who joined most heartily in the
+laugh which had been excited at his expense. He had been familiar with
+this place; often had he seen it, just as it then appeared, but never
+had its desolate condition affected him before;&mdash;a light from heaven
+seemed pouring upon it, and singling it out from all other objects. He
+could look at nothing else. 'It was the vineyard of the man void of
+understanding, and the field of the slothful; the stone wall thereof was
+broken down; it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles covered the
+face thereof.'</p>
+
+<p>William looked upon it, and received instruction: slowly and sadly he
+passed along.</p>
+
+<p>A little by-road now crossed the public highway. Instinctively almost,
+he turned into it; the trees which lined it formed a grateful shade, and
+seemed to invite him therein to cool his heated, feverish frame.</p>
+
+<p>Near to this path, and not far from the highway he had left, was a pure,
+bright, bubbling spring; it came up through the clean white sand, and
+the green turf formed its only curb. On one side it had cleared an
+opening, and meandered away through a little bed of fine gravel stones,
+which sparkled in the sunbeams as they stole through the branches of the
+willows which encircled the fountain. His throat parched with thirst,
+and his mind and body in an excited condition, he threw himself upon the
+velvet turf, and allayed his thirst from the pure stream. He tried to
+think, but his thoughts ran wild into each other; he turned his head
+towards the roots of one of the willows, and rested it there. It
+throbbed against the cool green turf; its coolness was refreshing to
+him, and there he slept.</p>
+
+<p>Hettie Brown had that morning left her home in the barrens to do an
+errand for her mother in Mr. Grizzle's store; she stopped at the Widow
+Andrews', and found the mother and daughter in tears, and had to listen
+to a long tale of William's delinquencies.</p>
+
+<p>'And he's gone off to Grizzle's, now again, I <i>know</i> he has; and there
+he'll sit and drink, and he'll come home drunk yet one of these days,
+and he'll be a drunkard and a vagabond.'</p>
+
+<p>And the good woman went off into another hard crying spell. Hettie made
+no reply; she was not in the habit of talking much, nor did she shed any
+tears&mdash;she was not given to that either. A few expressions of sympathy
+she dropped as she parted from Mary, telling her to hope for the best,
+and making a short call, went on her way to the store.</p>
+
+<p>She was anxious to see William, and therefore she hastened her steps.
+She seemed to feel a consciousness of power to lead him away from the
+path of ruin. He had been her playmate when a little child; nor had he
+ever, by word or deed, done aught to offend her. The intimacy of
+childhood had indeed passed away&mdash;her wise mother had cautioned her on
+matters referring especially to William, and of late she had seldom seen
+him; but she felt that she possessed an influence over him, and she
+meant now to exert it.</p>
+
+<p>As she crossed the by-path we have already mentioned, she thought of the
+little spring, and how refreshing it would be to drink of its cool
+water. She turned, and followed the path towards the willows which
+marked the spot.</p>
+
+<p>When William Andrews awoke, it was from a troubled dream, and the quiet
+which surrounded him was grateful to his spirits. He arose and drank
+freely from the spring&mdash;the birds were singing sweetly in the hedges and
+on the trees; there was no sound beside, but the rippling of the little
+rill that stole gently away from the fountain where he had slaked his
+thirst. His feelings, late so hurried and disturbed, were calm&mdash;the
+storm had lulled, a dark and dreadful gulf seemed to have been passed,
+and now he was upon a path where all above and around him combined to
+make it light and pleasant. This change, however, was but the effect of
+that rest which sleep had given to his frame; 'twas the pure fresh
+feeling which the soul enjoys when waked by morning's dawn, before the
+hopes and fears, the business and the cares of life, have time to urge
+their claims. Scarce had he quenched his thirst, and fully awaked to a
+consciousness of his situation, ere the scenes of the morning rushed
+back upon him. As the tumult of his thoughts arose, he stood and leaned
+against one of the willows, and cast his eye down at the little
+fountain, bubbling up so incessantly and with so little disturbance,
+that it came to the surface with no alloy of earth about it; and he saw
+how fresh and rank was the greensward all along its course&mdash;it not only
+gave from its little receptacle a full supply for all who needed, but
+virtue seemed to emanate throughout its meanderings, and to bless
+wherever it flowed.</p>
+
+<p>'This spring,' said he, 'is like the life of one that is good&mdash;pure at
+the fountain, and the whole life a blessing, making things better and
+happier all around him; but <i>my</i> life&mdash;oh, what has it been?' And his
+cheek flushed, and tears of anguish fell fast, while with hands firmly
+clasped, and still leaning against the tree, he looked down at the
+bubbling water.</p>
+
+<p>'Why William!'</p>
+
+<p>He started at the well-knows voice.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Hettie, is this <i>you</i>? how glad I am to see you.'</p>
+
+<p>She extended her hand towards him, but there was something in the sight
+of Hettie that caused the cup, already full, to overflow; he did not
+take the offered hand, but covering his face, gave way to a passionate
+burst of weeping.</p>
+
+<p>Hettie was much surprised, but she attempted not to interfere; nor did
+she weep with him, but waited silently until the violence of the storm
+had passed, and he was sufficiently composed to address her.</p>
+
+<p>'I am very unhappy, Hettie, and have been so for a long time.'</p>
+
+<p>'I have thought so, William, and I am very glad of an opportunity to say
+something to you about it. I was certain that you must be unhappy. There
+can be no peace for us when we have left the path of duty, until we
+return from our crooked ways: it would not be best for us that we should
+be happy when our doings are not right.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, mine are not right, and I am afraid they will never be any
+better.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why not, William? are you willing still to be unhappy, and to break
+your mother's heart, and fill the minds of all your friends with
+sorrow?'</p>
+
+<p>'I have been far astray, Hettie. I have sunk myself very low, and have
+struggled hard at times to break the charm that was leading me to ruin;
+but I feel now as I have not felt before; and if you will only not
+despise me, if you will let me hope that a new course of life may yet
+gain your respect, it will be a helper to me&mdash;a great helper to me. And
+oh! Hettie, you cannot tell how much I need your aid.'</p>
+
+<p>Hettie was wise perhaps beyond her years. She felt much interest for the
+youth who had grown with her from childhood.</p>
+
+<p>'I fear, William, that the struggle you will be compelled to encounter
+will need help greater than a creature can give. You must look to Him
+who made you, and relying on his strength, resolve to do your duty, cost
+what it may. All that I can promise is my feeble prayer; and whenever I
+offer it for myself, I will offer it for you too, William. And now I
+must leave you, for I have an errand to the store, and mother will be
+uneasy at my absence.'</p>
+
+<p>And the happy girl, smiling a pleasant good-by, went on her way. William
+watched her until she turned into the public road, and then, with one
+strong cry to Heaven for help, turned towards his home, a happier person
+than he had been for many long months.</p>
+
+<p><i>He had resolved to do right.</i></p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER V.</h2>
+
+
+<p>The difficulties which presented themselves to our boys in fulfilling
+the engagement they had made with Major Morris were of no trifling
+account, for it was a great question if so large a quantity could be
+found in the place, above what was pledged to Mr. Grizzle for debts
+already incurred. Again, if they should succeed in finding the quantity,
+how could they pay for them? and lastly, where was a boat to be
+procured, in which to carry them at a season of the year when storms and
+high winds were to be expected? But as difficulties are apt to vanish
+before a resolute mind, Jim felt not at all daunted by them.</p>
+
+<p>He had resolved, first of all, to make a thorough trial as to the
+possibility of finding persons willing to engage specific quantities to
+him. And it was for this purpose that the boys were assembled early in
+the morning of a bright and beautiful day in June; Jim and Sam to go on
+the expedition, and Ned to see them off.</p>
+
+<p>'Well, boys, I hope you'll find all you'll want; but it looks to me like
+a hard case.'</p>
+
+<p>'So it does to me, Ned, too; but Jim has been thinking it all out, you
+know. I should feel better, however, if we knew where the <i>money</i> was to
+come from to pay for them; I do hate so to ask folks to trust us.'</p>
+
+<p>'I have no idea, Sam, of doing any such thing; I mean to offer them the
+money down as soon as they deliver the potatoes.'</p>
+
+<p>'Just hear <i>that</i> Ned,' said Sam, looking verily confounded.</p>
+
+<p>'Well,' said Ned, kicking away a small stone that lay in reach of his
+foot, 'that is a good plan enough if one had the money; but it will take
+all of a hundred dollars: and it looks dark to me where such a sum as
+that is to come from.'</p>
+
+<p>'That is the least of the difficulties, boys; we shall make, I hope, by
+our summer's work enough money to pay for twenty-five bushels of
+potatoes, which will be the most we shall be able to carry at a trip,
+and Major Morris will pay us for them as we deliver them to him.'</p>
+
+<p>Ned and Sam looked at each other. 'I told you, Ned, that Jim would think
+it out somehow.'</p>
+
+<p>'And besides,' continued Jim, 'I have great hope that our offering them
+the money on delivery, will induce them to sell to us in preference to
+Grizzle. But what troubles me the most is, how to get a boat sufficient
+for our purpose.'</p>
+
+<p>'Supposing I should say'&mdash;and Sam's bright eyes sparkled as he looked
+from one to the other of his companions, while a smile played around the
+corners of his mouth&mdash;'I hope to have a good new boat, not very
+handsome, but tight and strong, and able to go in rough weather, and
+carry twenty-five bushels of potatoes at a load; what would you say to
+that?'</p>
+
+<p>'Now, Sam Oakum, what do you mean?'</p>
+
+<p>'I mean just what I say. My father told me last night, that as soon as
+he could get the stuff, he would go right to work and build a boat as
+large as that, and that it should be mine; and I am going to take my
+money as I can earn it, and buy the stuff. What do you think of that,
+Jim?'</p>
+
+<p>'It is the best news I have heard this long while;&mdash;how strangely things
+work! but look out for Ned there.'</p>
+
+<p>The warning was too late, for Sam was lying on his back, laughing
+heartily; and Jim was scolding Ned for his folly, and Jowler was barking
+at them all. As soon as matters were composed again, Jim and Sam started
+on their expedition; while Ned, with Jowler at his heels, went with
+right good-will to his work in the garden.</p>
+
+<p>A blacksmith's shop is a very necessary article in all social
+establishments, as the place where persons are likely to be met with and
+news collected or circulated. The one which answered the demands of this
+place was not a very extensive establishment; it was a little
+dark-looking hovel, with an exceedingly high chimney. It was situated at
+the meeting of several roads, and was surrounded with a multitude of
+articles that had once seen better days, but <i>when</i>, the oldest
+inhabitant could scarcely remember. Mr. Cutter, the proprietor of this
+establishment, was now somewhat advanced in life, but by no means so old
+as his appearance indicated. From some cause not well ascertained, he
+had begun about his thirtieth year to increase in flesh, and had for
+more than twenty years been adding to his stock; neither wielding the
+sledge-hammer in his shop, nor the worrying of his good wife in the
+house, could keep it back; but I believe it was all the increase, of any
+consequence, that resulted from his labors, and yet he was, in
+comparison with his neighbors, 'well to do in the world.' He was,
+moreover, of a good disposition, ready to oblige, and of sound judgment,
+and as well acquainted with persons and things for many miles round as
+any other man in the place, and a little better.</p>
+
+<p>Our boys had determined to make their first call at 'Uncle Sam
+Cutter's,' as he was generally styled.</p>
+
+<p>'He's a clever man,' said Sam, 'and he knows every body, and all about
+every thing in the place; and it may save us a great many steps.'</p>
+
+<p>It was a very warm day, and Uncle Sam was sitting outside his shop, on
+what had once been the hub of a large cart-wheel; there was a fine shade
+where he sat, a large apple tree which stood in an adjoining lot,
+extending its branches almost to his shop door. He had his hat in his
+hand, and was using it violently as a fan; the heat was making terrible
+work with him, for on his bald head and down his fat cheeks and sunburnt
+breast, the perspiration was running in streams.</p>
+
+<p>'A pretty warm day, Uncle Sam, ain't it?'</p>
+
+<p>'Here, you young rogue, take this, and blow a little wind on to me, if
+there's any to be got, for I'm most dead,' (handing Sam his great
+broad-brimmed chip hat.) 'I guess you'd think it warm, blowing them
+tarnel old bellows all day long, with such a lump of fat lugging to you
+as I've got; I can't hardly waddle under it, let alone handling them
+bellows.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why don't you have the boys blow for you, Uncle Sam?'</p>
+
+<p>'The boys! ah yes, the boys! I'd like any one to tell me what the hul
+kit on 'em is good for, but to eat mush and milk. Do blow away Sam, if
+there's any wind in all creation any more. I want to git this carcass o'
+mine cool a little, just so I shan't go <i>all</i> to soap-grease. Talk of
+the boys, they're wus than wild cats; I wouldn't give my old mare for
+all the boys between this and the barrens&mdash;don't talk to me about boys,
+Sam&mdash;don't stop blowing, or I'm a dead man. Here, Jim, my good fellow,
+spell him a little.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, that I will, with pleasure, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'That's like a man, there's no boy about that&mdash;ah, Jim, I knew your
+father well, and a likelier man never came to this place; but what he
+came <i>here</i> for was more than I could ever see&mdash;it seems to me there's
+a cus on it; the men are bad enough, but the boys are the old Nick's
+property altogether. I tell you what, if we don't have a preacher, or
+something of that kind, along here pretty soon, we're a gone case;
+there'll be another sort of bellows blowin' than my old groaner, I tell
+you. Ah, Jim, that feels good, I won't touch a hammer agin' to day; if
+Grizzle wants his old plough mended, he may come and sweat away at it
+himself, it will do his old dry carcass good, won't it Sam? It won't
+hurt him, will it?' And the old man went off into a good hearty laugh,
+his whole body shaking like a lump of jelly&mdash;the idea of sweating
+Grizzle amused him so much, that he forgot about the heat, and taking
+his hat clapped it on his head.</p>
+
+<p>'And now, boys, what are you up to? going crabbing down to the mill, I
+know; for my boys have been there this hul blessed morning.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, no sir,' said Jim, 'we were not thinking about that this morning;
+but are wishing to find out who would be willing to engage some beans
+and potatoes for the fall.'</p>
+
+<p>'Beans and potatoes? why, you blessed child, are you crazy? You ain't
+grown up here, not to know better than to try to sell sich things in
+this place. You must go to Grizzle with them, and he won't take them
+only for jist what you owe him.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ah, but we don't want to sell, but to buy.'</p>
+
+<p>'Want to buy!&mdash;you're wus off than I thought you was. Why, didn't you
+plant any? How did you think you was goin' to live? like Bill Moore and
+his brother down the lane here? eh?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, no sir, we have plenty for our use; but we can sell quite a
+quantity of these articles, more than we shall have.'</p>
+
+<p>'And pray tell me what you call a quantity, mister.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, we want two or three hundred bushels.'</p>
+
+<p>'<i>Two or three hundred bushels!</i>' And the old man took off his hat and
+began to fan himself again very fast. '<i>Two or three hundred
+bushels!</i>&mdash;you boys wasn't neither on you brought up to lie, but I don't
+know but you've taken up the trade; it's pretty easy larnt, to be sure.'</p>
+
+<p>'It's true, Uncle Sam, what Jim tells you; <i>true</i> as we stand here.'</p>
+
+<p>'Sam Oakum, them eyes o' yourn warn't made to help a lyin' tongue; so
+don't stand there looking so honest, and telling me sich stuff as
+that.'</p>
+
+<p>'It is true, Mr. Cutter, just as Sam says; we are telling you the truth,
+and no joke about it.'</p>
+
+<p>But the old man kept shaking his head and fanning himself; so that Jim
+felt called upon to tell their whole story.</p>
+
+<p>'Now boys, <i>is</i> this <i>true</i>, you're tellin' me? Sam, you're a smilin';
+there's some catch about it, ain't there, you rogue?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, there ain't, Uncle Sam, upon my honor.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, it's a queer story, any how; <i>three hundred bushels potatoes</i>;
+why you'll take all that's raised, and Grizzle won't have none for Cross
+this year; you know he sends all he takes in up to Cross, who keeps the
+store or tavern, or whatever they call it, in the barrens; but it ain't
+much matter, they're two precious rogues, both on 'em. And you say you
+want to know where you can find so many: I raally can't say; but the
+Widow Andrews would be like to have <i>some</i>. Bill tell'd me he had
+planted a considerable patch, beans and potatoes too; but whether
+they'll come to any thing I don't know, for he's got like the rest on
+'em&mdash;he's round to Grizzle's too much, I guess. Sorry for it; Bill's a
+likely fellow if he'd mind his own business. And then there's my
+namesake, Cutter; he may have a few, not a great many. I tell you what,
+you'll have to hunt considerable, boys, afore you'll find all you want.
+And then there's Billy Bloodgood, deaf Billy, you know him; but you'll
+have to holler loud enough to wake the dead to make him hear&mdash;he ought
+to have a speakin' trumpet fastened into his ear, it's enough to give a
+man the consumption to talk with him. And may be I'll have a few myself,
+and I would as leave you'd have them as Grizzle, the old varmint; I
+don't believe I shall owe him much this year. What are you goin' to
+give, boys?'</p>
+
+<p>Sam looked at Jim for an answer.</p>
+
+<p>'Why, if they are fair-sized potatoes, we can give twenty-five cents a
+bushel.'</p>
+
+<p>'I wish I had more on 'em, for that's double what Grizzle gives; and
+<i>beans</i> you want <i>too</i>; well, I guess I shall have three or four
+bushels. I can't say but they ought to be hoed now, and I can't do it,
+no how; for a man like me to work out in the sun, it's idle to talk
+about it. Why I should die in the operation, and the boys don't care for
+nothin'; but when they hear what a price you're givin', it may spur them
+up a little.'</p>
+
+<p>The boys thanked him for his information, and started off at a good
+pace on their way to the Widow Andrews'. Bill was at work in the field,
+fighting manfully with a large growth of weeds; he greeted them kindly,
+but continued his labors.</p>
+
+<p>'You will excuse me if I don't stop working; things are so behind-hand
+with me, that if I don't labor hard, I shall not catch up with my work,
+all summer.'</p>
+
+<p>'By no means stop,' said Jim; 'we can say what we wish to, just as well
+while your hoe is going.' He made known their errand in few words, but
+no sooner did Bill hear what Jim had to say than he stopped hoeing, and
+looked with some surprise, first at one and then at the other of the
+boys.</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, certainly, you shall have them; how many bushels do you want?
+Haven't you planted any this year?'</p>
+
+<p>Jim then acquainted him with his reasons for wanting them, and the
+quantity he wished; stating also the price he could afford to give.</p>
+
+<p>'And the money shall be paid to you when you deliver them.'</p>
+
+<p>'You shall have every potato and bean I have for sale. I supposed I
+should be obliged to let Grizzle have them, but he may whistle for them,
+for all me; he allowed me last year but ten cents for potatoes, and
+fifty cents for beans. He will be angry, probably, but if I can have the
+money to pay, I shall not fear him any more than you seemed to the other
+day'&mdash;looking at Sam.</p>
+
+<p>'No, I don't fear him; and all I wish is that father didn't owe him any
+thing.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, he is a very bad man, and will injure us all, if he can in any
+way, when he finds he is to be disappointed in getting things at his own
+price. He and Cross work into each other's hands, and they will not, if
+they can help it, have any one interfere with them; but I don't well see
+how they can.'</p>
+
+<p>William Andrews was not mistaken in his views of the effect these things
+would have upon the minds of such men. But it will be time enough to
+meet trouble when it comes; at present we must hasten with our boys on
+their way to Billy Bloodgood's, much elated with their success, and with
+the change which seemed to have taken place in the views and feelings of
+young Andrews.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. William Bloodgood&mdash;or Billy, as he was generally called&mdash;was the
+best to do of any of the folks for miles round, that is, he had more
+land, and a few more head of cattle, and managed a little better than
+his neighbors. But his house was rather a small concern, and his fences
+were in all sorts of shape, and his barn had far too many rents in it,
+and things lay in all directions around. Still, he did better than his
+neighbors, for Billy did not drink, and he kept himself busy, flying
+round on his farm, and made out almost always to raise quite a
+respectable quantity of one thing and another. He was a very
+good-natured man, and was blessed, as many good-natured men are, with a
+wife that could take his part, and her own too, sometimes. He had a
+peculiar way with him of going from one piece of work to another,
+without finishing either. Before his field of corn was half hoed, he
+would begin the potato patch, and leaving that unfinished, would be
+among the beans; and so on. This habit he carried with him into smaller
+matters, to his disadvantage, certainly, and very much to his
+discomfort; for his good woman was sorely annoyed by it, and whatever
+troubled her, he was sure to be obliged to bear a part of it. They lived
+happily however; for although Billy did not practise sound philosophy in
+his work, he did in that very delicate matter of conjugal relationship.
+He knew it would never answer for both to have their own way, one or the
+other must rule sometimes; and as he saw very soon that it would be a
+very difficult matter, if not an impossibility to get his better half to
+yield, unless she had a mind to it, he very properly decided to give up
+the reins to her. He was a wiser man than many took him to be.</p>
+
+<p>As the boys entered the gate, Billy was coming out of the house, having
+just finished his dinner; he had a knife in one hand, and a piece of
+pigtail in the other, from which cutting a fair allowance, he put it
+into his mouth with a manifest relish. Without apparently noticing the
+boys who were walking towards him, he made directly to a great pile of
+brush which lay in the yard, and commenced chopping. They walked up to
+him, and endeavored to catch his eye, but he took no notice of them.
+After cutting a few sticks, he threw down the axe, and, looking at Jim,
+asked in a very loud voice,</p>
+
+<p>'Did you speak to me?'</p>
+
+<p>Jim shook his head in the negative, and then began to say something
+about his errand; he spoke, as he thought, in a pretty loud voice. But
+Billy only noticed his negative reply to the question he had put, and
+started for another corner of the yard, where lay a heap of farming
+utensils, and began dragging forth an old one-horse plough. After
+separating it from the rest, he commenced tinkering the rigging; Jim, in
+the meantime, trying to catch his eye, long enough to let him know
+that, although he had not yet spoken to him, he wished to do so. Twice,
+as he raised himself, Jim made a desperate effort, and called out as
+loud as he thought necessary,</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Bloodgood!'</p>
+
+<p>But it availed nothing. He stared at him an instant, and then ran across
+to another side of the yard to a little old corn crib; and jumping into
+it, began to overhaul a box of old irons, for something probably that
+belonged to the plough. In the midst of all his hurry, however, he would
+find time every now and then to put his hand into his vest pocket, and
+taking out large pinches of snuff, would regale his olfactory sense, and
+apparently with great zest. The boys began to feel that it was a
+desperate case, and at the same time were so amused, that they could
+with difficulty refrain from showing it. In fact, Jim did once or twice
+give a kind of whine, just the beginning of a peculiar laugh he had, and
+Sam would go off with a very slight sneeze. As Billy appeared to be in
+no hurry to come out of the crib, they walked slowly across to where he
+was.</p>
+
+<p>'You try him this time, Sam? see if you can make him hear.'</p>
+
+<p>'I can't, Jim, no how. I should burst out laughing in his face.'</p>
+
+<p>'I am afraid, then, we must give it up, for I can't get him to look at
+me.'</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Bloodgood, however, saw their dilemma, and out she came. The boys
+hardly knew whether she was for peace or war, for she advanced towards
+them with tremendous strides, muttering as she came. Her appearance was
+indeed rather dubious, for her hair was flying, and her face was very
+red, from the joint exercise of cooking and eating, and helping half a
+dozen children. And as to the dress, having great respect for the female
+sex we will say nothing about it; it was, moreover, very warm weather,
+and a Calamink petticoat was warm enough without the burden of its upper
+companion, the short gown&mdash;but she was just as she was, and we cannot
+help it. She had a little more nose than most women, that is, it was a
+very long, sharp, and crooked nose; but the good woman had use for it.
+And never were boys more astonished when they saw how well it answered
+her turn; it was a veritable speaking-trumpet, and, although the sounds
+which issued from it were rather of the nasal order, they were the
+better calculated to penetrate the very narrow passages to her husband's
+sounding-board. Having been so long accustomed to use a very high pitch
+in her communications with the good man, she made no allowance for the
+more delicate organs of other people, but so drove the sounds into them
+as truly made their ears to tingle, not only at the time, but a great
+while after.</p>
+
+<p>'What is it you're wanting?'</p>
+
+<p>Jim started; he could not help it.</p>
+
+<p>'Do you want to speak to Bloodgood?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, ma'am; I should like to speak with him about some beans and
+potatoes.'</p>
+
+<p>With that she made off to the crib, where she met her good man coming
+out with a piece of old iron in his hand, and making for the other side
+of the yard where the plough was. He seemed as regardless of her as he
+had been of the boys; but as he was stooping over the plough, she put
+her hand on his shoulder, and gave such a blast in his ear that his soul
+must have stept out of his body not to have heard it; he immediately
+raised himself, and, looking at the boys, roared back to her in a strain
+scarcely less loud,&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'What do they want?'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't know; something about potatoes and beans.'</p>
+
+<p>'Bees? We 'aint got no bees;' and with that he took one of his
+tremendous pinches of snuff.</p>
+
+<p>'Beans, beans! don't you hear <i>that</i>?' And then turning to Jim and Sam,
+who had walked up beside her&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'He grows wus and wus; and it's my candid belief that it's his snuffin'
+and snuffin' all the time so; his ears, I s'pose, is all stopped clean
+up; and the only way the sound can git into his head is through his
+nose, like; and when he stuffs that full, it's like hollerin' agin' a
+log.'</p>
+
+<p>But he did hear <i>beans</i>, as she last spoke it.</p>
+
+<p>'Beans? What of 'em?'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, do tell <i>me</i>, boys, what you want on 'em, and I'll try to make
+him hear, for <i>you</i> never can.'</p>
+
+<p>With that Jim communicated to her his business, and when she understood
+it clearly, appeared not a little pleased.</p>
+
+<p>'I didn't know but you'd come from Grizzle's, and I don't like him; he's
+a good-for-nothin' old varmint, and he's spilin' all the men and boys in
+the place; and I told Bloodgood I'd rather throw the potatoes in the
+creek than let him have one on 'em.' So she went to work with a good
+will to tell their errand.</p>
+
+<p>'Who sent 'em? Grizzle?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, no; you think there is nobody in the whole creation world to buy
+anything but Grizzle.' And then raising her voice to the very loudest&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Nobody sent 'em; they come o' themselves, and they'll pay you the money
+right down when you take 'em the things.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, well, that will do,'&mdash;and he smiled then, for the first time, as
+he looked at the boys&mdash;'that'll do; you shall have 'em; let me know when
+you want 'em.'</p>
+
+<p>And now Mrs. Bloodgood would insist upon their going in, and taking
+something to eat. In vain it was they protested that they were not
+hungry, having eaten a lunch on their way.</p>
+
+<p>'I know better than that. I know what boys are; they can always eat; so
+if you won't go in, don't either on you stir one step till I come out.'</p>
+
+<p>In she ran, and in a moment appeared again with one-half of a large
+bread-cake, which she had just taken from the griddle, with a lump of
+butter on the top of it, and she with a knife spreading it on; but there
+was no occasion for the knife, for the butter was running like snow in
+summer, and dripping over the sides of the cake.</p>
+
+<p>'Here, boys, take this;' breaking it in two, and giving each half 'I
+<i>know</i> it will taste good.'</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER VI.</h2>
+
+
+<p>A few evenings after the events recorded in the last chapter, Sam
+started from home on his way to meet Jim and Ned. When but a short
+distance from his house, to his surprise he met William Andrews; he was
+on his way to visit the Montjoys, and designed calling upon Sam that he
+might accompany him to their house.</p>
+
+<p>'I am going to see them,' said Sam; 'but they will not be at the house.
+Such fine evenings as this we meet at a large rock near by&mdash;they will be
+as glad to see you as I am.'</p>
+
+<p>The rock was large enough to accommodate the whole of them; but Ned
+preferred the grass for his seat; he and Jowler had always some business
+of their own to attend to, and very frequently they would both be
+rolling together on the ground. The moon was rising beautifully, and a
+long streak of light played across the expanse of water at a distance,
+dancing on the waves that were formed by the fresh sea-breeze, and,
+nearer the shore, where the water lay smooth and unruffled, marking a
+line of clear silver light, as from the surface of a mirror.</p>
+
+<p>There is always something peculiarly fascinating in the formation of
+youthful friendships&mdash;everything seems so fair; the interchange of
+confidence is so mutual, so whole-hearted&mdash;there is no secret standing
+on our guard&mdash;no cautious feeling of our way, to see whether we can
+safely trust. The heart has not yet been deceived, and therefore yields
+implicit confidence. One short hour, in our boyhood's days, will do more
+to knit our hearts in bonds strong and true, than months can accomplish,
+after the coldness and selfishness of the world have set us on our
+guard.</p>
+
+<p>William Andrews had yielded to the impulses of a kind and social
+disposition, and thereby had been led sadly astray; but the charm was
+now broken, and he turned away with disgust and loathing from his past
+habits and companions. He had formed no friendships with those who were
+his partners in the idle hour, and the place of temptation. His heart
+was yet in its freshness, with a love of the pure and good, more intense
+for what he had seen of impiety and evil. His spirit panted for
+communion with those on whom it could confide, and longed to pour out
+its breathings into the ear of virtue and truth.</p>
+
+<p>And now, under the great oak-tree, seated on the large flat rock, he
+confessed all his delinquencies, related the narrative of what he
+believed to be a change for life, and its happy influence upon his daily
+routine of duties.</p>
+
+<p>'I can work, now, without being wearied; I can go home and meet my
+mother without the fear of rebuke; and I can lie down to rest at night
+without my head throbbing, or my body burning as in a fever; and when I
+awake in the morning, the stupor of deadness I used to feel is gone; I
+am happy, and ready for my business.'</p>
+
+<p>Jim and Sam had no such personal experience of their own to tell. Sam
+might, indeed, have unfolded scenes of misery in his own past history;
+but in his own bosom must now for ever rest all that had been bitter in
+his own experience.</p>
+
+<p>But there was no lack of subjects, and the evening was gone before they
+had said the one half they had to say; and long before the evening was
+spent, they were as intimate, and as much one in their feelings, as
+though they, had associated for years.</p>
+
+<p>Sam's heart was full of happiness that night as he walked along the
+shore, and saw the water glistening in the moonlight, and heard the soft
+sound of the distant waves; and as he beheld the little light that
+twinkled in his lowly home, it seemed as bright to him&mdash;yea, brighter
+than does many an illuminated palace to its princely owner. Dark is the
+heart, Sam, that would bring a cloud over your pleasant sky; but such
+there are, sitting in council beneath the same pleasant moonlight which
+you are enjoying;&mdash;well for you that you see them, hear them not.</p>
+
+<p>Had we the power of knowing what is going on at the same time in
+different places&mdash;could we look into the hearts of the actors in these
+various scenes&mdash;could we know how very near, sometimes, are the plotters
+of mischief and spite to the unconscious, inoffensive objects of their
+malice, it would be a cause of misery to us, unless our power was equal
+to our knowledge. Happy is it for us, that but one place, and one set of
+circumstances, can engross our minds.</p>
+
+<p>Not far from where these happy youths held sweet counsel together,
+encouraging each other in the path of manliness and virtue, beneath the
+same clear sky and bright shining moon, sat two specimens of humanity,
+beneath the shed that ran along the front of Mr. Grizzle's store:&mdash;one
+of these the owner thereof, and the other a miserable-looking bloated
+youth, of about eighteen years of age.</p>
+
+<p>'Do you say, Bill Tice, that they've been round buying up all the
+potatoes, and giving twenty-five cents a bushel?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, it's fact. Old Sam Cutter told his boys on it, and they told me;
+and they said the old man wanted them to go to work and hoe 'em out,
+because they were goin' to bring sich a price, and he didn't mean to let
+old Grizzle have none on 'em.'</p>
+
+<p>'He did, ha? Ay, ay, well, well.'</p>
+
+<p>'And they'd bought all Billy Bloodgood's, and Bill Andrews', and ever so
+many more.'</p>
+
+<p>'They have, eh? and gin' twenty-five cents a bushel, you say? that's a
+putty business, Bill.' And Grizzle turned his bleared and spectacled
+eyes full upon his companion. 'A putty business, Bill, ain't it? And who
+is to have potatoes and sich things to sell in the dead o'winter to poor
+folks, who may be ain't raised none? What would your folks have done
+last winter in sich a case?'</p>
+
+<p>'Sure enough, we might starve; they wouldn't care.'</p>
+
+<p>'And then if you was jist to help yourself a little,' (giving him a
+slight hunch,) 'why they'd be the first to complain on you; and away you
+must go another three months in the old cage.</p>
+
+<p>'I hate them Montjoy boys, they always look as if no one was good enough
+for 'em; goin' round with their shirt collars on their necks, and shoes
+on their feet.'</p>
+
+<p>'And you say Oakum is with 'em, ha?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why yes, Oakum's boy is with 'em, and you know it must be the old man
+that does it; the boy aint got nothin'.'</p>
+
+<p>'No, nor the old one neither, when his debts is paid; but I'll see, I'll
+see. Folks musn't git in debt to me, and then come out agin' me; that
+won't do, Bill Tice.'</p>
+
+<p>'I shouldn't think it would.'</p>
+
+<p>'And you say Oakum is goin' to build a boat for his boy?'</p>
+
+<p>'That's what Dick Cutter tell'd me.'</p>
+
+<p>'To carry away everything we've got here, and make things so high, poor
+folks must starve or else work hard, one or the two.'</p>
+
+<p>'They don't care.'</p>
+
+<p>'I tell you what, Bill, you and I know one another; you've done some
+little jobs for me, and may be I've done some little things for you.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, I know that.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well now, Bill, this business must be stopped by fair means as foul.'</p>
+
+<p>'That boat shan't never be built.'</p>
+
+<p>'Whist, Bill, whist, don't be too fast; time enough yet.'</p>
+
+<p>'What will you do, then?'</p>
+
+<p>'What will I do&mdash;jist take the law on Oakum. Don't you see if I tie his
+hands the boat can't be built; and the old one they've got now, will
+only sink 'em to the bottom of the bay, if they try to take a load in
+her. I can make out a bill, I guess, that will keep him tight for three
+months at any rate.'</p>
+
+<p>'That's a good idee.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, what I want of you is, to go some time to-morrow or next day, and
+jist ask Dick Tucker to come and see me, and may be I'll give him a job.
+You ain't afraid of Dick, now, are you?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, I don't <i>care</i> nothin' for him; I should like just once to turn the
+key upon him, and see how he'd like it.'</p>
+
+<p>'He'd rather turn it upon you and me, Bill; but you jist go there and
+tell him what I say. But keep mum, Bill.'</p>
+
+<p>'No fear o' me.'</p>
+
+<p>With that the old man patted Bill on the back.</p>
+
+<p>'Come, come in and take something afore you go.' And in they went, and
+down went the fiery draught, and away went Bill Tice, a wretched victim
+to the hateful cup&mdash;a youth in age, but already old in ways of
+wickedness. Along the highway he plodded, his hat pulled down over his
+eyes, his head bent over, and his look fixed upon the path he was
+treading. He heeded not the beautiful moon that was lighting him on his
+way&mdash;brightly it shone upon him and his home, but only to expose
+wretchedness and vice waiting upon each other.</p>
+
+<p>The path of duty is said to be the path of safety. When considered in
+reference to all final results, this is doubtless true; but to go
+steadily forward in our daily or weekly routine, we must expect to
+encounter more or less exposure to danger and disaster.</p>
+
+<p>The little 'craft,' as Peter called the boat in which Jim and Sam made
+their voyages, was by no means suitable for the work; and again and
+again did the old sailor warn them, that 'they must look out for the
+southeasters, and never venture in no sich thing as that.'</p>
+
+<p>It was the only one at present that they could procure, and they must
+either run the risk or give up their trade&mdash;a thing not to be
+contemplated for a moment.</p>
+
+<p>It was early in July; the weather for some days had been oppressively
+warm. A dense fog covered the land and the water; and as our boys
+started upon their usual trip, they were obliged to lay their course as
+they best could, as there was nothing visible beyond a few lengths of
+their boat. The water was smooth without a ripple; not a breath of air
+could be felt from any direction. Sam's father had endeavored to
+dissuade him from venturing on the water at such a time.</p>
+
+<p>'There's no telling what kind of weather we may have when this goes off,
+and I'm most sure I heerd it thunder a while ago.'</p>
+
+<p>'I guess it wasn't thunder, father; and you know I can hardly miss my
+way in crossing the river; and when we get on the other shore, it will
+be easy to make the point; and by the time we get there, the wind will
+rise and the fog will go off.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam's reasoning was well enough, but his father was not quite satisfied
+that it was best for them to go; however, as he saw their minds were set
+upon it, and all their things on board, he made no further objections.</p>
+
+<p>As Sam had said, he was able to make the other shore without much
+difficulty; and that once reached, by keeping close to it, the point
+was also gained; but when about to turn into the open bay, Sam had some
+misgivings as to what was best to be done. The fog still surrounded
+them, as dense as ever, the shore could be seen only a few oars' length
+from it; and if they could keep within sight, they might proceed with
+their voyage, although by following the windings of the shore the
+distance would be greatly increased. This, however, would not have
+discouraged Sam, if he had not known that there were spots where close
+hugging the shore was impossible, as ledges of rocks ran off from it,
+which must be avoided. Thinking that he could keep the shore in sight
+until these were reached, and then venture out a little to avoid them,
+and not willing to turn back, he concluded to try the experiment. Jim
+knew nothing of the dangers to which they were exposed in being once out
+of sight of land, with no possible guide, in a small open boat, on the
+bosom of a bay that opened fair to the ocean. He therefore made no
+objections to any of Sam's movements. There was no wind, of course the
+sail was not up, and Sam handled the oars. Jim had his usual place at
+the helm, at which he had become quite expert.</p>
+
+<p>'Keep her along shore, Jim, and don't lose sight of the land for any
+thing. Tell me when you see the large white rock, or the big tree; but I
+don't much think you will be able to see <i>that</i> to-day, but keep a sharp
+look-out for the rock.' The tree, as Sam expected, was not visible; but
+after half an hour's rowing, Jim pointed out the rock to which Sam had
+alluded.</p>
+
+<p>'You remember, Jim, that near to this is the first ledge of rocks&mdash;turn
+her off shore a little&mdash;there, that will do; look sharp for the rocks,
+for if we lose sight of them and the shore too, we are gone.'</p>
+
+<p>Jim did look sharp; for he perceived, from the anxious countenance of
+his companion, that there was some peculiar difficulty to be
+apprehended: in a few moments, however, they lost sight of the shore.
+This Sam expected; but instead thereof, anticipated making use of the
+large rocks, which usually protruded above the ledge or sunken reef, as
+his beacon. He exerted his utmost strength in the direction, as he
+supposed, they would be found, and the little boat skimmed rapidly
+through the water. Not a sign, however, of rock or shore could they
+discover; and, to add to their confusion, Sam, by accident, slipped an
+oar. Jim sprang to assist him in securing it, his tiller shifted, and
+the points of the compass were lost to them; the fog, too, evidently
+thickened around them&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Don't you feel a breeze, Sam? I did just then.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, and I think I know where it comes from; you see the fog grows
+thicker; it is driving in from the sea, and this wind must be from the
+east. Father said this morning he thought we should have the wind from
+that quarter&mdash;here it comes again, Jim.'</p>
+
+<p>In a few moments a fresh and steady breeze came on; Sam, too, confident
+in the direction from which it came, hastened to spread his sail, and
+taking the helm into his own hands, put her head, as he supposed, in a
+direction that would carry them towards the fort, and at the same time
+bring them near the shore. For a while after the breeze sprung up, the
+fog was by no means diminished; but at length it began to recede, and as
+the circle of their horizon enlarged, anxiously they watched on the
+quarter where they were confident the land lay.</p>
+
+<p>'We must be wrong, Sam, or we certainly could see the land by this
+time.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam answered not, for other signs than the non-appearance of the land
+convinced him that he had mistaken his bearings. The wind had not
+increased much since it had at first sprung up, and, in fact, was giving
+tokens of ceasing or changing, by its frequent lulls; yet the water was
+becoming very rough; in fact, the waves were different from any they had
+ever encountered yet, threatening at times to fill their boat;&mdash;he
+began, indeed, to fear that he had been running out instead of nearing
+shore. At length the covering which had so long enveloped them rolled
+off, the distant points of land appeared, and their truly critical
+position was clearly exposed. Far off, in nearly an opposite direction
+to the one they were steering for, loomed up the fort; and the shore,
+which they had trusted was near at hand, could just be seen through the
+creeping vapors which yet clung to the land rising in patches slowly
+into the atmosphere. Before them was the open ocean, and the
+southeastern shores of the bay in a proximity to them, which in their
+present circumstances was any thing but agreeable.</p>
+
+<p>Sam's first impulse, of course, was to steer directly for the haven they
+had started for; this, a moment's reflection upon the state of things
+convinced him would be madness.</p>
+
+<p>Several times, while still enveloped in the fog, they had distinctly
+heard peals of thunder, which had by no means been a source of
+quietude; and now, far over the western sky, had gathered a dark and
+threatening mass of vapours, heaps on heaps rolling together, and
+spreading to the north, where the blackness of darkness seemed to have
+settled. Beneath that heavy mass, at the edge of the horizon, was a long
+light streak, showing where in the far distance the storm had already
+begun, and the winds lifting it up and bearing it towards them. In the
+direction of the storm was the shore they had left; to reach that or the
+fort, before it should burst upon them, was utterly impossible, and to
+be caught in their frail boat by such a tempest would be certain
+destruction. On the south and south-east lay a long line of shore, not
+much nearer than that on the west; yet from it, there ran out for a mile
+from the land, in a circular direction, a bar of sand; at high tide this
+bar was nearly covered, but when the tide was out, some acres of hard
+white sand were exposed, and afforded a firm landing-place. Sam knew of
+this; and, in fact, he could plainly discern its white surface in the
+distance, for the tide had been for some time running out, and was the
+main cause why he had, in so short a time, made so long a stretch.</p>
+
+<p>'What shall we do, Sam? It looks black there, don't it?'</p>
+
+<p>'Black enough&mdash;we must run away from it.'</p>
+
+<p>At once, Sam tied up the sail as carefully as he could, and stowed it as
+near the bottom of the skiff as possible.</p>
+
+<p>'Where will you run, Sam? we are most out to sea now.'</p>
+
+<p>'We must go a little nearer yet, for all that <i>I</i> see;&mdash;<i>quick</i>, Jim,
+take the helm; you see that white streak, don't you, running out from
+the shore yonder?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes.'</p>
+
+<p>'It is a mile nearer to us than any place we can get to; make for
+that&mdash;it is our only chance.'</p>
+
+<p>Jim did as directed; for, on the water, he yielded implicitly to Sam.
+The oars were out, and Sam's utmost strength was tasked; their lives
+depended on the fact of his ability to reach that bar before the storm
+should overtake them. As they progressed, the waves sensibly increased;
+and occasionally, through Jim's inexperience in steering, water enough
+would be shipped, not only to wet them thoroughly, but to endanger the
+feeble craft.</p>
+
+<p>Sam's eye was steadily fixed upon the rising gust; he heeded not the
+waves&mdash;death was behind them&mdash;if they reached not that landing-place in
+time, they must be his prey. Vivid streaks of lightning ran along the
+curling edges of the clouds, and heavy-rolling thunder, increasing in
+loudness at every clap; far off upon the distant land could be seen
+volumes of dust rolling high up in the air; and when the thunder ceased,
+the sullen roar of the tempest was distinctly heard.</p>
+
+<p>'How fast it comes, Sam!'</p>
+
+<p>'Keep her straight for that bar, Jim.'</p>
+
+<p>'Do you hear the roaring, Sam?'</p>
+
+<p>'Are we near the bar? Keep her as straight as you can&mdash;it's coming
+fast.'</p>
+
+<p>Already had the storm reached the water. Sam knew now what they had to
+expect; for before it arose a mass of spray like a thick low mist.
+Rising on his feet, and throwing himself back with all his force, the
+little fellow did all that in him lay to reach the shore.</p>
+
+<p>'Don't let go the helm, Jim.'</p>
+
+<p>And Jim immediately braced himself upon the bottom of the boat, holding
+with main strength to the tiller. As the wind struck them, Sam was
+obliged to throw himself down in the boat; he could not face its fury.
+In an instant, all sights and sounds but that of the storm were lost;
+they were at its mercy, or more properly, at the mercy of Him who
+directed it. A few moments, their little boat tossed and floated amid
+the tumult, and then struck heavily upon the beach.</p>
+
+<p>'Out, Jim! out, and hold on!'</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<p>The days when the little skiff was expected at the fort began to be
+looked forward to with much pleasure by old Peter and his little charge.
+Seated on the parapet which surrounded the fort, with a spyglass in his
+hand, he would watch a bend of the shore, around which the little boat
+could first be seen. Susie would be near him, looking at the play of the
+waters among the broken rocks which formed the foundation of the fort,
+or listening to marvellous stories of sea life, of which Peter had the
+usual supply.</p>
+
+<p>This day they had watched until the storm came, and after it had cleared
+away; until giving up all expectation of seeing the boat, Peter had
+hobbled into the fort to attend to some little matters, and Susie sought
+for amusement in her usual play-ground&mdash;the narrow strip of land, about
+twenty feet in width, encircling them. It has been mentioned that a
+ledge of rocks connected with the main-land, being formed partly by
+nature and partly by a deposit of large broken stones&mdash;the design
+apparently was to have formed a passage to the shore without the aid of
+a boat, but for some cause or other it was not carried out. At low
+water, one acquainted with the locality might have made his way across
+it, from rock to rock, without much difficulty; but when the tide was
+in, all communication was cut off. At the rising and falling of the
+tide, the water flowed through the narrow passages with great rapidity;
+and a very expert swimmer would have needed much muscular strength not
+to have been swept away with it. Peter never ventured upon this rough
+causeway himself, for two very good reasons: first, because it was no
+place for crutches to travel over; and, secondly, considering it unsafe,
+he did not wish to set the little girl an example which might lead her
+into danger.</p>
+
+<p>Tired, however, with her narrow promenade, when she reached the ledge
+spoken of, without any misgivings, she rambled across the rough pavement
+of broken stones, until she came to a large rock forming the terminus.
+On one side this rock was shelving. Fearless she walked down to the
+water's edge: the tide was running swiftly past, and this peculiar
+motion of the water being new to her, she laid herself down, and watched
+the coursing of the dark current with delight.</p>
+
+<p>When Peter returned, he saw nothing of Susie; and thinking she had gone
+to the other side of the fort, was hobbling round to look after her;
+when to his surprise, on turning the first angle, he saw the little boat
+close at hand, and apparently coming from a very different quarter than
+usual.</p>
+
+<p>'Hulloa, my hearties: where do you hail from now?'</p>
+
+<p>'The Horse Shoe,' said Sam, putting his hand to his mouth, and making as
+grum a noise as old Peter did.</p>
+
+<p>'The Horse Shoe! What! druv down there in the gale?'</p>
+
+<p>'Got lost in the fog, and made for the sand-bar; when the storm came up,
+we had a hard time of it.'</p>
+
+<p>Peter began to chew hard on his cud, and shake his head very violently;
+at the same time resting on his crutches, he doubled up his fist, and
+held it in a very threatening manner towards Sam.</p>
+
+<p>'The fog&mdash;lost in the fog&mdash;and didn't you know better than to venture
+off shore, with no <i>pints of compass</i>, and <i>no reckoning</i> and <i>no
+nothing</i> to steer by, in <i>sich a craft</i> as <i>that</i>? That ain't fit to
+trust a man's life in on a mill pond.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam smiled.</p>
+
+<p>'It aint no laughing matter, my young man, to foller the water; I've
+tell'd you <i>that</i>, many a time; it ain't like the land, where you can
+lay to, and hold on jist as you likes. No, no; them that deals with the
+winds and the waves must keep a sharp look-out, and watch their chances;
+its nothin' more nor less but a temptin' o' Providence with your
+dumb-founded perverseness. But howsomever, I'm glad to see you; so jist
+haul up, and I'll call the Major.'</p>
+
+<p>Peter hobbled towards the landing-place, to which Sam urged his boat.
+Just as she struck the stairs, a loud scream was heard. Sam sprang from
+the boat, and ran with lightning speed across the ledge of broken rocks.
+He had seen what those on the dock could not see. The little girl had
+caught a view of the boat, and rising to return, had ventured to tread
+upon a part of the rock which was covered with sea-weed; her foot had
+slipped, and when Sam beheld her, she was hanging just above the water,
+clinging to the rock, and screaming in her agony. Almost distracted,
+Peter called aloud for help; although he could see nothing, as yet, of
+the child. Sam felt that life or death depended upon his exertions; and
+none but one accustomed, as he had been, from infancy, to tread with
+bare feet the flinty shore, could have made such fearful haste over that
+rough pavement. One false step would, in all probability, have cost his
+life. He reached the rock&mdash;she was still clinging; he grasped at her&mdash;it
+was too late&mdash;and down she plunged into the deep water, and was borne
+swiftly along by the current. But Sam was with her; he waited not to
+calculate the chances against his own life&mdash;in an instant he plunged,
+and then arose a cry from the fort, that brought help and dear friends
+to witness the heart-rending spectacle; for there could be little doubt
+in the minds of all that both must perish. Major Morris, at the first
+alarm, rushed to the spot. His distress at seeing the idol of his heart
+sinking in the deep water, cannot be described. He flew with one or two
+attendants to his own boat, which lay near at hand; and made all the
+haste the most intense anxiety could urge, to reach the struggling
+children. But Peter was before him, in the little skiff with Jim; the
+moment he understood the case, he threw down his crutches, sprang into
+the boat, and like a master workman, made her fly through the water.</p>
+
+<p>'Hold on, my darlings, don't be frightened; I'll soon be with you.'</p>
+
+<p>But no answer was returned; Sam had not calculated his own strength, and
+had no idea of the desperate energy it would require to sustain himself
+with another clinging to him. His arms could afford him no assistance;
+the little girl had grasped them with such energy, that the most he
+could do, was just to keep her head from beneath the water. Every thing
+was done with the greatest speed from the moment their situation was
+observed; but it took some little time to reach them. Sam felt his
+strength failing, he could not even call for help&mdash;intent upon one only
+object, he struggled on; and when he could raise his head above water to
+speak, he tried to encourage her. But the powers of nature could do no
+more, and he felt the water rushing above his head, and was conscious
+that all was over with him; when a hand, strong and steady, grasped his
+arms, still extended, and bearing up their precious burden.</p>
+
+<p>'She's saved! she's saved!' hallooed Peter, with his loudest voice.
+'She's saved! God be praised!&mdash;she ain't hurt a bit.' With one hand he
+took Susie from her hold on Sam, and raised her into the boat; and with
+the other supported him, so that his head was above the water.</p>
+
+<p>'Thank God!' exclaimed Major Morris&mdash;'But the <i>boy</i>&mdash;is he alive?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh yes,' said Peter; at the same time raising Sam, and laying him down
+in the boat.</p>
+
+<p>'No, no, he ain't,' said Jim, throwing himself on the body of Sam. 'He's
+dead!&mdash;oh dear&mdash;he's dead! he's dead!'</p>
+
+<p>'I tell you he ain't&mdash;he ain't; he's only swooned like&mdash;he ain't dead:
+no, no.'</p>
+
+<p>But when Major Morris saw his pale and deathlike countenance, he was in
+great alarm.</p>
+
+<p>'To shore, instantly; he has saved my child, but I fear with the loss of
+his own life.' And while he hugged the darling of his heart to his
+bosom, and thanked God for his mercy, he could not restrain the big
+tears as he looked at the pallid features, and felt the cold and clammy
+temples of the brave heart that had saved her. Frantic with grief and
+joy alternate, Mrs. Morris watched every motion, from the stairs to
+which she had flown, at the first summons of the danger of her child.
+Receiving her from the arms of the father, crying and kissing her in the
+wildness of her joy, surrounded by attendants, she hurried into the
+fort; while Major Morris took the lifeless body of Sam in his arms,
+followed by Peter and Jim, who was almost beside himself with grief and
+terror.</p>
+
+<p>It seemed a long, long time to those who, under the direction of the
+surgeon of the garrison, were using means to resuscitate him; and
+scarcely less rejoiced was Major Morris when he received his own child
+alive in his arms, than when he perceived the signs of returning
+consciousness in Sam. At length he awoke as from a troubled dream. With
+an expression of deep anxiety he looked upon the circle which surrounded
+him. Mrs. Morris was bending over him, parting the wet and tangled locks
+from off his pale forehead; beside her stood the Major, holding his
+hands, and rejoicing in the warmth which he felt was returning to his
+system. Peter stood at the foot of the bed, chewing incessantly a
+tremendous quid of tobacco, which he had found leisure to slip into his
+mouth even in the midst of all the confusion. He had done great
+execution in the way of rubbing; his hands, very unlike his heart, were
+rough, and well calculated for such a purpose. He had, however, now
+ceased rubbing, and was looking alternately at Sam and at a short,
+red-faced personage, the Irish servant woman, who stood at his elbow.
+Endowed with all the feelings of her sex and her nation, she continued
+to be in great agitation. Her arms were crossed upon her breast, her
+eyes turned up to the ceiling, and with her body swinging to and fro,
+she was uttering certain groans and exclamations.</p>
+
+<p>'Is the little girl safe?' said Sam, looking full into the face of Major
+Morris.</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, my fine fellow, she is safe and well; thanks to you, under a kind
+Providence, for it.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam shut his eyes again; he said nothing further; but there was a
+tremulous motion on his lips, and about the muscles of his face. Some
+cordial was administered, and he was allowed to fall asleep. As he
+slept, the powers of nature began to assume their natural energy, a
+gentle warmth spread over his frame, the color again glowed on his
+cheek, and his whole countenance told the story to those anxious
+watchers, that he was doing well. All breathed more freely; the scene so
+late full of terror and dismay, was changing, like the black clouds
+which bring the thunder storm, into beautiful visions for the eye to
+rest upon and enjoy.</p>
+
+<p>When Sam again awoke, Jim alone was with him. He was much refreshed,
+and asked whether they had not better return home.</p>
+
+<p>'Whenever you are well enough, we will do so. Every thing is settled
+for&mdash;I have got your money and mine too.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, have you? Well, I have not thought much about money, or any thing
+else; I have been in a kind of dream, I believe.'</p>
+
+<p>'Don't you remember any thing that has happened, Sam?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, I remember seeing that little girl hanging on the rock:&mdash;oh Jim,
+how I <i>did</i> feel; and I remember running as fast as I could, and just as
+I put my hand on her to catch her, off she slipped. I remember <i>that</i>,
+Jim; and I don't believe I shall ever forget it: and I remember holding
+her up out of the water, and trying to call for help; and then, just as
+I was giving up and going down, I felt something take hold of me; and
+after that, all seems to be confused. I thought they told me she was
+saved; and I thought I saw her once looking at me; but I don't know&mdash;may
+be I only dreamt it.' And Sam looked very anxiously at Jim.</p>
+
+<p>'No, it's no dream, Sam; for she has been here a good while by you, and
+when she saw how pale you looked, she cried.'</p>
+
+<p>'Did she?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, and they all cried. And you don't know what Mr. Morris says&mdash;he
+says if it hadn't been for you, she would have been drowned before any
+of them could possibly have reached her: and that you have saved her
+life.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam could make no reply. The thought that he had saved a life, and the
+life of one so beautiful and so much beloved, was too full of happiness,
+and it overpowered him. The door now opened slowly, and Peter's shaggy
+head made its appearance. He had a bundle under his arm&mdash;Sam's clothes,
+which had been dried and ironed for him. Seeing Sam sitting up, he
+hobbled to the bedside, took both his crutches under one arm, and
+throwing the other around Sam, gave him a hug&mdash;well meant, no doubt, and
+expressive of his kind feelings; but which would have been much more in
+keeping had Peter been holding on to a main-top-gallant-mast in a gale
+of wind.</p>
+
+<p>Sam was soon arrayed in his old but clean garments. While he was
+dressing, Peter stood with his crutches properly adjusted for moving,
+his jaws working very rapidly, and his head nodding approvingly at Sam.</p>
+
+<p>'And now, come, my hearty, you're all rigged. The ladies want to see you
+in t'other room; come.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, no, no, no; I can't do that; I can't go, no how.'</p>
+
+<p>'I tell you what it is, you're a good fellow of your age as ever handled
+an oar; but you are too dumbfounded perverse in your own ways. Here is
+you been a saving this child, riskin' your own life; and when they want
+jist to say to you, "God bless you," and kind o' relieve their own
+minds, you up and won't go.'</p>
+
+<p>But Sam persisted; he would jump into the water again if that was
+necessary; but as to going into a fine parlor, and being looked at by
+fine ladies, it was not to be thought of. Peter was about to make some
+violent pleas against Sam's 'perverseness,' as he called it; when seeing
+the Major, he suddenly adjusted his crutches, stroked down his queue,
+and backed off to another part of the room.</p>
+
+<p>We must now leave Sam to the care of these friends, and see what is
+going on beneath the humble roof of his parents; an eventful day it
+proved for him and for them.</p>
+
+<p>Bill Tice had done the errand which Mr. Grizzle intrusted to him. A few
+days after, the old yellow gig of Mr. Richard Tucker was seen standing
+at Mr. Grizzle's door, while the two worthies were sitting together in a
+little back room, adjoining the store, with an old greasy account-book
+lying on the table beside them, and sundry papers in Mr. Tucker's
+handwriting open, and almost ready to be folded up and put into a dirty
+pocket-book belonging to said Mr. Tucker; which was also lying there,
+and waiting to inclose within its clasp an instrument fully charged with
+a power to torture, only surpassed by the wheel, which, in former days,
+twisted the joints of the wretched victims from their strong fastenings.</p>
+
+<p>'A larger bill, Mr. Dick, than I thought I could muster up; and now you
+make the most of it.'</p>
+
+<p>'Trust me for that; all I want to know is what my principal
+requires&mdash;that's all.'</p>
+
+<p>And Mr. Tucker knit his bushy brows, and went on tying up, with a dirty
+blue string, the papers which had been lying on the table.</p>
+
+<p>After securing them in this manner, he opened his pocket-book, and
+deposited them in it; and then, in the same careful manner, thrust the
+whole into an inside pocket of his threadbare coat. Mr. Tucker was
+about to do a very dirty job, and he was a man well fitted for the duty.
+He had a heart, doubtless, that beat and threw the vital current about
+his frame, just as other men have; and he had bones, and sinews, and
+flesh, and these could suffer pain as other flesh and blood; but to say
+that Mr. Tucker had a heart as others have, that would beat in sympathy
+with his fellow in distress, or that he could be made to feel shame, or
+pain, or sorrow, or regard, in that secret fountain where springs so
+much that sweetens or embitters life, would be wrong&mdash;wrong to him,
+because it would be saying that of him which was not true&mdash;wrong to the
+mass of mankind, who <i>have</i> feelings that can be touched. Mr. Tucker's
+appearance was in keeping with his character&mdash;little leaden-colored
+eyes, sunk deep in his head, over which scowled dark shaggy brows; a
+pale, cadaverous countenance, with no expression that one could lay hold
+of in an hour of distress, on which to found a hope that any compassion
+might be felt, or any mercy shown. A fit minister was he of that stern
+and barbarous code which legalised the torturing of the <i>poor</i>
+man&mdash;which allowed the tearing him away from the charities of home, and
+entombing him in the charnel-house of vice, debauchery, and filth.</p>
+
+<p>Some feelings of compunction seemed yet to be lingering in the breast of
+Mr. Grizzle; for as Mr. Richard put his hat on his head, and buttoned up
+his coat, and fumbled about in the act of departing, he stammered out&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'It's right, you know; I ought to have my own. Folks cannot expect me to
+wait always for 'em&mdash;pay-day must come.'</p>
+
+<p>'<i>Right!</i> to be sure it's right; and as you say he's running against
+you, and setting up his boy and others to hurt your trade&mdash;why, muzzle
+him, I say&mdash;who wouldn't?'</p>
+
+<p>'I suppose it wouldn't be much use taking the timber and stuff that he
+is building that boat with?&mdash;there is nothing else to take.'</p>
+
+<p>'No use in that; he hasn't done much to it but put the ribs
+together&mdash;it's of no value as it is. No&mdash;shut him up; that's the
+way&mdash;that will stop boat and all.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, well; you know the law, Dick, let it work. I shall have to find
+him in bread and water&mdash;that won't cost much.'</p>
+
+<p>The day was drawing to a close, and the shades of evening were deepened
+by a heavy cloud which was rising in the west, and into which the sun
+was sinking. A muttering of distant thunder hastened the departure of
+Mr. Tucker. He sprang into his crazy old gig, and drove off at a quick
+pace to his deed of mischief.</p>
+
+<p>Oakum had worked diligently on his boat all day, and continued his labor
+till a later hour than usual, in expectation that the little skiff would
+be along, and Sam would accompany him home. He had felt much uneasiness
+for the safety of the boys, and was very desirous of witnessing their
+return. Darkness was coming on, and a storm threatening; so taking a
+long look across the water, and meeting no signs of the boat, with
+rather a sad heart he walked towards his home. Their evening meal was
+eaten in silence, while, as long as the light permitted any view of
+distant objects, the eyes of the parents were directed across the water.
+They felt, as they had never before, how dependent they were upon their
+boy for his smile and his voice to cheer their hearts.</p>
+
+<p>Scarcely had they finished their supper, when the yellow gig of Mr.
+Tucker drove up. Oakum and his wife cast their eyes at the gig, and then
+at each other. Instantly she perceived that trouble was at hand; for her
+husband grew very pale, and even faltered in his step as he walked to
+the door to admit their visitor. Mr. Tucker did not use much formality
+in his official visits, and entered without knocking.</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Oakum, I believe.'</p>
+
+<p>'At your service, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'Here is an account, sir, I believe against you, lately put into my
+hands'&mdash;at the same time opening his pocket-book, and taking out one of
+the papers which he had so carefully put there but a short time since,
+in the little back room of Mr. Grizzle's store. Mr. Oakum took the
+paper, and asking Mr. Tucker to be seated, availed himself of the same
+privilege&mdash;for, to tell the truth, he was completely unnerved. He knew
+well what office Mr. Tucker held: he also knew something of the man; and
+a strange weakness came over him, so that when he unfolded the paper,
+and held it up to the light of the window, his hands trembled so
+violently, it was impossible for him to make out the sum that was
+charged against him.</p>
+
+<p>'This is from Mr. Grizzle, I suppose, Mr. Tucker?'</p>
+
+<p>'It is, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't know that I can make out exactly what the amount is; but I
+suppose it is right. I owe Mr. Grizzle something, but I thought it
+wasn't much.'</p>
+
+<p>'Much or little, sir, you've got it there; it is something over thirty
+dollars.'</p>
+
+<p>'Thirty dollars! Ain't there some mistake, Mr. Tucker?' and Mr. Oakum
+looked at his wife in amazement. She, poor thing, stood like a statue,
+not comprehending the matter, but fearing it was something dreadful.</p>
+
+<p>'I guess there is no mistake, sir. Mr. Grizzle took it from his book,
+and he ain't apt to make mistakes; but that is between you and him&mdash;it
+is no concern of mine.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, no, sir; you are not to blame. I know I owe Mr. Grizzle, and I have
+thought of it a great deal, and am trying to get a little something
+ahead to give him; he shall have all I honestly owe him just as soon as
+my hands can earn it. I will call and see Mr. Grizzle to-morrow, and
+take him a little.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Tucker now arose from his seat, put his hat on his head, and
+stepping up to Mr. Oakum&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'All <i>that</i> is well enough, sir; but it don't pay the bill. If you
+cannot settle it at once, you will please go along with me'&mdash;at the same
+time putting his hand on his shoulder.</p>
+
+<p>'I have a warrant to take you, unless you can give me the money, or
+goods in the place of it. Shall I read the warrant?'</p>
+
+<p>'There is no occasion for that, sir. I have not got the money, if it was
+to save my life; and goods I have none, only what you see here.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, sir, if you go peaceably, it is well enough; if not, I must read
+the warrant, for I have no time to lose&mdash;it is getting dark.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Oakum arose, but his limbs could scarcely sustain him; big drops of
+sweat stood on his pale forehead, and a deadly sickness was at his
+heart.</p>
+
+<p>'Oakum, Oakum! tell me what it is. What does this man want?'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't see, Mr. Tucker, what good it is going to do Mr. Grizzle to
+shut me up in jail. I can't do no work there. And what are my wife and
+children to do? must they starve?'</p>
+
+<p>'<i>Jail! jail!</i> Ah, sir; you ain't going to put my husband in <i>jail</i>!
+What hurt has he done you, or any body else?'</p>
+
+<p>And she flew to her husband, and putting her arms around his neck, wept
+as though her heart had broken. But Mr. Tucker was not to be balked in
+the discharge of his official duties by the tears of either man or
+woman&mdash;some harsh things he said, which aroused the humbled spirits of
+this suffering husband and wife. Mrs. Oakum hushed her grief for the
+time, in order to quiet the distressed children, who were clinging to
+their father, and screaming in their agony when they learned whither he
+was going. Mr. Oakum, however, made no resistance to the imperious
+demands of the officer; but quieting the feelings of his family as far
+as he could, entered the gig with Mr. Tucker, and was driven rapidly
+away amid the darkness of the gathering storm.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as Mrs. Oakum was enabled to collect her thoughts, apprehensions
+on Sam's account again oppressed her. She took her seat by the window,
+and looked in every direction; but the darkness had increased so
+rapidly, that objects could be discerned at only a short distance from
+the house. Occasionally the vivid lightning would, for an instant, throw
+its bright glare across the water, making the prospect distinctly
+visible. On one occasion, she thought she saw a small white sail; and
+every succeeding flash she watched, until her eyes were nearly blinded
+by the dazzling light, but nothing more of it could she discern. A
+startling peal of thunder proclaimed that the storm was at hand, and the
+rain began to patter in large drops, and then to pour its floods upon
+them. Just at that moment the door opened; and Sam, with his cheerful
+smile and pleasant words, was in the midst of them. They all flew to
+caress him; but missing his father, and seeing the marks of distress in
+his mother's countenance&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Where is father?' he cried, 'is anything wrong&mdash;do tell me quick,
+mother.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ah, Sam! what shall we do?'</p>
+
+<p>All Sam's bright hopes were dashed at once; he durst ask no further. The
+day had been one of severe toil and imminent danger; but he had been
+richly rewarded in the approbation of those he esteemed so highly; he
+had been caressed by those whose rank in life was among the first in the
+land; and he had then about him a jewel of no inconsiderable value,
+given to him by Mrs. Morris as a token of her high approbation of his
+manly conduct, and of the obligation she should ever feel for the rescue
+of her child. All this had raised his spirits; and full of the fond
+anticipation of making his parents glad with the tidings of the day, he
+had landed with a happy heart, and hurried to his home. But now, alas!
+his father has yielded to the tempter, never, perhaps, to be restored,
+and all his proud dreams are gone.</p>
+
+<p>'You need not tell me about it, mother. But I must go and try to find
+him; he may be somewhere on the road, unable to help himself, and
+exposed to this storm.'</p>
+
+<p>His mother looked earnestly at him, as though not clearly comprehending
+what he meant; but it soon became evident to her.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh! it is not that, Sam. Your father has been hard at work all day, and
+we were only worrying a little about you, as he felt so anxious ever
+since the storm we had in the morning&mdash;if it hadn't been for that, we
+should have been as happy as could be&mdash;when, all at once, that
+good-for-nothing creature Richard Tucker came in, and said he was sent
+by Grizzle; and in spite of all we could say or do, he has took him off
+to the jail.'</p>
+
+<p>And she broke out again in a passionate flood of tears. Poor Sam was in
+a sad strait; but his heart was not so heavy as when under the
+impression that his father had fallen again into his evil habits. He
+resolved, however, immediately what course to pursue.</p>
+
+<p>'I am going out, mother. Perhaps I can get him clear; if not, I shall
+stay with him till morning. I cannot leave my father alone in that
+dreadful place to-night.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Sam! what are you talking about? You cannot go out in such a storm,
+and then to stay all night in that awful jail.'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't care for the storm, mother; and the jail won't be worse for me
+than it will be for him.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Sam, I don't know what to say, my poor head is so bewildered. If
+it wasn't for these little ones, I would go with you.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam immediately went to his chest, and taking out all his little store
+of money, put it with that which he had brought home that day&mdash;in all it
+amounted to three dollars. He then took the jewel which had been
+presented to him&mdash;a handsome broach, in the form of a harp, and set with
+stones, worth no small sum in money; but to Sam more valuable than
+hoards of gold, and which no money would have purchased from him&mdash;and
+placed it in the bag with his little treasure, then threw on an old
+garment, to protect himself in some measure from the rain, and telling
+his mother 'to keep up a good heart,' left the house. He took the road
+leading to Mr. Grizzle's store, and forgetting the fatigue of the day,
+hurried along as fast as the storm would permit. Mr. Grizzle was sitting
+at his counter, resting his feet on an old rickety bench, and humming a
+tune by way of company, for the usual visitors of the evening were not
+in.</p>
+
+<p>Sam took off his hat as he entered, and walking up to Mr. Grizzle looked
+him full in the face, but was too much out of breath to speak.</p>
+
+<p>The old man stopped his tune, and looked quite smilingly at Sam.</p>
+
+<p>'Well, my lad, how do you do this evening? All well at home?'</p>
+
+<p>'Here, Mr. Grizzle, is all the money we have; it is not much&mdash;but I
+thought may be you would take it; and here is something that is worth a
+good deal&mdash;you may keep it until we bring you the rest of the money. We
+can only get a little at a time, but you shall have it all as fast as we
+can raise it.'</p>
+
+<p>'<i>Money</i>, boy! Who has said any thing to you about money? I
+haven't&mdash;have I?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, sir, I suppose you sent Mr. Tucker to our house?'</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Tucker! He has been to see you, has he? Well, he is a pretty hard
+customer. Why not give him the money?'</p>
+
+<p>'But he has taken my father to jail, sir; and says he must have the
+whole of the money&mdash;and this is all we have got,' holding up to Mr.
+Grizzle his little handful of change. 'Here is three dollars, sir, and I
+will soon get you some more, and you may keep <i>this</i> until I bring it,'
+taking up also his brooch.</p>
+
+<p>'What, gold, ha! You must be pretty well off at your house&mdash;pretty well
+off.'</p>
+
+<p>'<i>Do</i>, Mr. Grizzle, take this, and let my father go. We will pay you
+every cent he owes, just as fast as we can; I promise you, sir, upon my
+honor.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, you had better go to Mr. Tucker's, he will take the money, I
+guess&mdash;and that thing too; may be he can find an owner for it. It don't
+look as if it had been living among poor folks.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam's heart was beginning to sink; he perceived that Mr. Grizzle was
+only mocking him. But he did not quite understand what he meant by
+'finding an owner for it.'</p>
+
+<p>'I am the owner of this, Mr. Grizzle.'</p>
+
+<p>'Are you? you look a good deal like it.' And he cast his eye down at
+Sam, surveying him from head to foot. This was more than he could bear;
+his heart beat quick, his face reddened; he could not then have asked a
+favour of that old withered wretch, had it been to save himself or his
+family from certain ruin. He put his money and jewel back again into his
+pocket, picked up his hat from the bench on which he had laid it, and
+turning his back on the store and its owner, hurried away, wishing that
+he might never see either again.</p>
+
+<p>The building used for the graceless evil-doers and penniless paupers of
+this vicinity was not a very sightly object, and its appearance was in
+keeping with its hideous character. It was a square, two-storied
+building, without any paint; the clapboards and roof were gray and
+mossy; storms and sunshine had played upon it for fifty years; and it
+was none the better for its age. In the upper story could be seen one
+room, with a small window at the end, with iron bars crossing
+sufficiently near together to keep a prisoner from getting through, if
+he was somewhat corpulent; but most rogues and poor men, that were not
+very stout, could, if so disposed, have found a way out with a little
+hard squeezing. But whether any did ever get out in that way I never
+learned&mdash;perhaps the sight of the iron was enough. The other apartments
+of the house had windows open as one could desire; glass may once have
+formed some obstruction, to the birds at least; but it had disappeared
+'long time ago,' and in that place thereof, shingles, old hats, old
+clothes&mdash;any thing that would keep out the rain and the cold for the
+time being, was substituted. It was inhabited by a family, which, for
+want of all those qualities and qualifications that would have fitted
+them for any other situation, were content to abide here. Old Adam Tice
+had never been able to comprehend the difference between mine and thine.
+He was not particularly bad in any other way; but it was generally
+thought that his boys would, in time, carry out his principles a little
+beyond their parent; and his son Bill, whom we have been introduced to
+at Mr. Grizzle's, had, on more than one occasion, enjoyed the occupancy
+of the room with the grated window.</p>
+
+<p>As there was but one apartment in this building suited for close
+confinement, it sometimes occurred that an unfortunate debtor, who had
+no friend to bail him out, so as to allow him the privilege, if such he
+should esteem it, of ranging the lot on which the house was built, and
+taking up his abode with Mr. Tice, must share the grated room with some
+vile character whose deeds against humanity had brought him there; and
+such was the case now. Two notorious vagabonds, guilty of flagrant
+crimes, the very offscouring of the earth, were there; and nightly they
+filled the old jail with noise and riot, as though fiends were holding
+their orgies. It made even old Tice shudder, as their horrid oaths rang
+through the building in the darkness of the night; and he almost
+regretted that he had procured the liquor which had thus given them the
+inspiration of demons.</p>
+
+<p>I shall not attempt to describe the feelings of poor Mr. Oakum when he
+heard the key turned upon him, and found himself in such company. Some
+straw was placed for him at one end of the room, out of the reach of his
+fellow-prisoners, who were chained. He tottered towards it, and was glad
+to cast himself down upon it. Sorrow will sometimes lull her suffering
+children to sleep: oblivion, like a handmaid of charity, steals upon
+them and shuts up the senses. Helpless, and almost hopeless, his mind
+could no longer bear the thoughts that haunted it, but settled down into
+unconsciousness. Occasionally some dreadful oath would rouse him, or the
+deep rolling thunder, but only for a moment; when thoughts of home, and
+wife, and children, would with lightning speed flash upon his mind, and
+then, overpowered with his sad condition, he would again sink into
+unconsciousness.</p>
+
+<p>At length he started from his bed of straw, awakened by the spring of
+the heavy bolt that was suddenly drawn back. He cast his eager glance
+upon the door; a light glimmered through a small square aperture at the
+top&mdash;the latch was raised&mdash;his senses he feared were leaving him; for
+there stood Sam, his dear, good child. Mr. Tice threw the light of his
+lamp upon that corner of the room, and Sam walked directly to his
+father.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, my dear boy, is that you? is it you, Sam?'</p>
+
+<p>'I thought I would come and stay with you to-night, father.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Sam, I do not mind this for my own sake; I deserve it: my own
+foolishness has brought this on to me.'</p>
+
+<p>'Don't talk so, father; you haven't done wrong. I will get you out, yet,
+and it will all be better than ever.'</p>
+
+<p>His father could make no reply; his heart was melted, and thoughts
+different from any he had ever indulged before began to agitate him. God
+had not forsaken him; this child was an angel of mercy, sent to cheer
+his gloom and give hope to his heart. New and strange feelings towards
+his God arose from within&mdash;how good, how forbearing, how full of
+compassion. New feelings in regard to himself oppressed him. A great
+sinner, both towards God and the dear ones God had given him, could he
+be pardoned? He remembered the thief upon the cross; and his whole heart
+arose in one strong impulse&mdash;'Lord, help me! save me!' It was a simple
+prayer&mdash;it was only breathed&mdash;but it was heard in heaven. And swift as
+angels fly, sweet peace came down and stole into his bosom, and there,
+amid that gloom and in that dire abode, whispered of pardon, and hope,
+and a Friend above.</p>
+
+<p>But where did Sam obtain that strong assurance that all would yet be
+well&mdash;<i>better</i> than ever? It was no fiction invented to soothe his
+father's troubled mind. Sam really felt and truly believed it would be
+so. Ever since that dark hour upon the rock by the water-side, when his
+companions came to him with their plan of enterprise, had <i>resolution</i>,
+strong as his love of life, nerved his heart. He had since then tasted
+the rich fruits of honest labor; and his eyes were enlightened, and his
+hope and courage made strong. His parents and sisters had already been
+made happy by his exertions, and his way was enlarging before him. The
+present hour was one of severe trial, but his courage was not shaken by
+it, and he believed most firmly that it would be with them 'better than
+it had ever been.'</p>
+
+<p>It was a beautiful morning when Sam left the jail, and hurried on his
+way to carry what comfort he could to his home. He would have avoided
+every human being if he could, but just as he was about to pass the road
+which ran down to the blacksmith's shop, Mr. Cutter's two boys saw him,
+and being social fellows, ran up, and began, in their free-and-easy
+boy's style, to question him about what he was doing there that time of
+day, and where he had been, and so on. Sam's heart was about as full as
+it could hold. They were wild boys, but of a kind nature, and felt a
+right good-will towards Sam. They perceived that he was in trouble, for
+the tears stood in his eyes when they spoke to him.</p>
+
+<p>'Now, Sam, what's the matter? tell me who's been hurting you. I'll give
+it to him&mdash;who is it? See if I don't.' And Bill Cutter doubled up his
+fists, and put himself in a posture to go right at it. Sam Cutter was a
+little softer in his composition than his brother; and while Bill was
+putting himself into a great rage with somebody or other, he did not
+care who, Sam put his hand on the shoulder of his companion:</p>
+
+<p>'Tell me, Sam, what's the matter.' The storm, which had been so long
+pent up, broke forth; this made both boys more solicitous to find out
+the cause of his trouble, until Sam was compelled to tell the whole.</p>
+
+<p>No sooner had they heard the story, than, seizing Sam, each by an arm,
+they fairly forced him along.</p>
+
+<p>'Come along, right in, Sam Oakum, and tell father all about it.'</p>
+
+<p>And on he had to go, straight through the old shop, into a little back
+yard, and then into a little old house. The table was in the middle of
+the floor, on which lay the remains of the breakfast which had just been
+eaten.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Cutter was stooping over the fire, and doing something with a
+kettle which hung there; and as they entered, she turned her very large
+eyes upon the boys. I say large, because they were naturally very
+expansive, and because she wore on the bridge of her nose, right before
+them, a pair of nose spectacles; they were large, too, in contrast with
+the other features of her countenance, for while these were very round
+and full, everything else in sight was very long and sharp; her nose was
+long, and her chin was long, and her hands and arms were long; and other
+limbs long too, for when she let go the kettle and raised herself up,
+she appeared all length&mdash;of breadth there was nothing to mention, except
+the eyes.</p>
+
+<p>'What upon airth is the matter? what are you doin' with that boy? See,
+Cutter, they've been a hurtin' on him&mdash;he's a cryin' now&mdash;oh the massys!
+Let him go, you good-for-<i>nothins you</i>, let him <i>go</i>.'</p>
+
+<p>'No, we ain't been hurting him, neither&mdash;what do you think, father?
+they've been putting Sam Oakum's father in the old cage, they have.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Cutter was sitting yet at the table; <i>he</i> and his good woman were
+the reverse of each other, in more ways than one. He was, as we have
+seen, very large and full-bodied. Standing and walking and going about,
+seemed to be, each of them, her natural situation; while with him,
+standing was not to be thought of if there was any chance for a seat;
+and when once at the table he seemed willing there to stay, until Mrs.
+Cutter had cleared plates, dishes, and the table itself from before him.
+As the boys entered he pushed himself round, and looked in quiet
+amazement at them.</p>
+
+<p>'Who is <i>they</i>? who's put him in jail?'</p>
+
+<p>'Old Grizzle, father; only think. If I ain't a mind to kill the old
+varmint; I'll burn his house down.'</p>
+
+<p>'<i>Whist, hush, hold your tongue</i>, you scoundrel; how dare you talk so?'</p>
+
+<p>And the old man, in his energy to do something to show his displeasure
+at such threats, caught hold of the pitcher, which yet stood on the
+table before him, and thinking not of its contents, elevated it above
+his head in a threatening manner at his lawless son. Cider he liked well
+enough in its proper place; but a shower of it on his bald head, and in
+his eyes, and so on, was another thing. It took him by surprise&mdash;he let
+the pitcher go, and put his hands to the afflicted parts.</p>
+
+<p>Crockery is brittle stuff; it could not stand every thing, any more than
+Mrs. Cutter's temper could. To see the look of horror she cast upon the
+dripping head of her husband, and then at the broken pieces of her
+pitcher, the very last thing in the house 'her mother gin' her,' as she
+often said; with her long arms and bony fingers stretched out in the
+air, was rather frightful: The moment the old man could recover himself
+sufficiently to realize what he had done, and what he had to expect, he
+exclaimed, very significantly,</p>
+
+<p>'Oh dear!' and rose up as hastily as he could, designing to retreat to
+his shop, his usual refuge from a storm.</p>
+
+<p>'<i>Oh dear!</i> you may well say so&mdash;of <i>all things</i>. Well, Cutter, now you
+see what you've done. I've told you it would be so; the very last thing
+my mother gin' me&mdash;slam it right down on the harth&mdash;isn't that purty?
+you've been breakin' and breakin' all your life; and now you've broke
+the pitcher.'</p>
+
+<p>He said not a word in reply, but taking hold of Sam Oakum pulled him
+along towards the shop. Finding that her husband was fast retreating
+from the sound of her voice, she turned the battery upon her two boys,
+who were eyeing the broken crockery with no very equivocal looks,</p>
+
+<p>'And <i>you</i>, you villains! comin' and settin' your father crazy with your
+lies&mdash;<i>out</i> of the house with you, this instant.' And she made a push
+for the broomstick. They understood her kind intentions right well,
+having had large experience in that way, and did not wait for any
+further instructions; but made after their father with all speed.</p>
+
+<p>Once in the shop, the old man felt safe. He had kept fast hold of Sam,
+and sitting down on his usual block, held him off at arms-length with
+one hand, while with the other, and the aid of an old handkerchief, he
+wiped down his bald head, and round, good-natured countenance.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh dear! it was unlucky about that pitcher, I shall never hear the last
+on it. Tell me now, Sam, what is all this? It ain't true&mdash;is it? that
+old varmint ain't put your father in jail, has he? Don't cry now, but
+just tell me the whole on it.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam told his story as well as he could, but it was hard work. He could
+command his feelings very well, when only thinking about it; but when
+compelled to speak his father's name, his lip trembled, and the words
+came out with great difficulty. Mr. Cutter had a very tender heart of
+his own, and Sam's story and appearance worked upon him more and more;
+so that he kept the old handkerchief wiping away long after the cider
+shower had dried off.</p>
+
+<p>'And why didn't you come to me, and tell me about it? Ain't I known your
+father from a boy, and your mother too&mdash;bless her good soul; and do you
+think I would have let such doings as these gone on? That old
+varmint&mdash;is that the way he is goin' to serve folks? Send 'em to jail,
+to lay there with them dreadful rapscallions? Oh dear!&mdash;jist to think on
+it! And you was comin' here to tell me about it this morning; wasn't
+you, Sam?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, sir, I was going home.'</p>
+
+<p>'Going <i>home</i>? Why, where have you been?'</p>
+
+<p>'I've been with father all night.'</p>
+
+<p>'<i>You?</i> He didn't put you there <i>too</i>, did he? the old sinner!'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh no, sir, but I went there to stay with him. I thought father would
+feel so bad.'</p>
+
+<p>'You blessed child! Oh dear, what are we comin' to? And you ain't had no
+breakfast. Here, boys, go in and ask your mother to give this poor child
+a little something.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh no, sir, I thank you; I can't stay; for mother will feel bad if I
+don't go home; and I ain't hungry a bit.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, you are hungry&mdash;you know you are&mdash;only you feel so bad, you can't
+eat. But I tell you, don't feel bad; you mustn't. Your father <i>shan't</i>
+stay there in that hole; I tell you he <i>shan't</i>! He shall see that he's
+got some friends. We ain't all dead and buried yet, I hope.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Mr. Cutter!' and Sam, as he said this, caught hold of him with both
+his hands; 'if you can do any thing to help to get my father out of that
+dreadful place, I will thank you all my life for it, and I will pay you
+every cent of the money, just as fast as I can earn it.' And he looked
+so earnestly into Mr. Cutter's face, and his bright black eyes sparkled
+with such an intensity of feeling, that the old man's heart must have
+been made of much <i>sterner</i> stuff than it was, not to have felt the
+appeal.</p>
+
+<p>'There, go home&mdash;go home, Sam; don't say no more.' And he fairly pushed
+Sam away from him; and then he kept the old handkerchief going for some
+time, not saying a word to either of his boys, who stood looking after
+Sam, as he went away, and pitying him from their hearts.</p>
+
+<p>'Now, boys, go and catch the old mare, and hitch her to the cart; and
+one of you must drive me to Billy Bloodgood's. Billy must help about
+this business, if I can only make him hear any thing; but it's like
+raising the dead.'</p>
+
+<p>The boys went off with a good will, and soon had the old nag tackled to
+the cart, her harness being of a very simple kind, and easily adjusted.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Cutter had a way of his own about almost every thing, and it
+extended even to his manner of riding. Too bulky to climb very high
+places, he chose, generally, the lowest seat he could find; and the tail
+of the cart being more easily attained than any other part, and
+moreover, being easily resigned in case of accident, whenever Mr. Cutter
+rode, <i>that</i> was his place. He would sit pretty well in on the body,
+with his legs dangling behind, and one hand on each of the side-boards.
+To an observer, it appeared to be a very uneasy situation; for the mare
+had a peculiar gait, something between a rack and a pace, which not only
+imparted a quick up-and-down motion to the stern of the vehicle, but a
+lateral one likewise; so that from the time she started until she
+stopped, Mr. Cutter was not only carried onward, but every which way:
+there was no quiet for his body. He never complained of it, however, nor
+seemed to realize any thing out of the way.</p>
+
+<p>Billy Bloodgood was just going out of his gate when Mr. Cutter drove up.
+Knowing that it would be useless trying to hold a parley with him out
+there, he told his son to drive close to the door; and taking Mr.
+Bloodgood by the arm, pulled him along, determined not to let him go, as
+he was well acquainted with his peculiarities. So, holding on with one
+hand to the side of the doorway, and with the other to his friend, he
+entered into Mrs. Bloodgood's sanctum&mdash;her kitchen, parlor, and bedroom.
+Puffing and blowing, he seized the first chair he could find, and
+bestowed himself upon it.</p>
+
+<p>'Now, woman, do you make this husband of your's sit down, for I want to
+talk to him; and he'll be running off if you don't see to him.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, what's the matter, Uncle Sam? you're all in a heat, and out o'
+breath. Ain't nothing happened to home, has there?'</p>
+
+<p>'Happened? Yes, there has something happened&mdash;there's always something
+or other happening in this world; but that ain't neither here nor there.
+I can get along with that. The wind will have its blow out, and then it
+will stop, and so must a woman's tongue. But I tell you, make that man
+of your's sit down, and do you come and listen to me, and then try to
+git it into his head, for it's beyond me to do it.'</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Bloodgood did as she was bidden; for she had great respect for
+Uncle Sam Cutter. She placed a seat close beside him for her husband,
+and another for herself, immediately before him.</p>
+
+<p>'Do you know that our neighbor Oakum is in jail?'</p>
+
+<p>'In jail! Oh dear, how you <i>do</i> talk!'</p>
+
+<p>'It is true&mdash;I tell you so.'</p>
+
+<p>'Then it's Grizzle&mdash;I know it is. First, he's 'ticed him to drink, and
+then he's come upon him. Ain't it so, Uncle Sam?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes; but hear me. Oakum ain't the man he was&mdash;don't you know that? He's
+a clean changed man. He's to work now every day, and brings home all his
+earnings every night to his family, and stays to home, and acts like a
+man; and his wife looks like a new critter, and things all round his
+house look so you wouldn't hardly know it. And now, jist as they are
+beginning to be a little like folks, and have things right end up, that
+old varmint takes the law on him, and puts him in the old cage, among
+them rapscallions there, jist as if he was a thief or a murderer.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh dear! jist to think on it.'</p>
+
+<p>'And there's that blessed child of his been through all the rain and
+thunder and lightning, and went and stayed there all night, because he
+couldn't bear to leave his father alone&mdash;jist think of that; and that
+poor woman, all stark alone with them little children&mdash;jist think of
+that. Don't it make your heart ache?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh dear, dear! what are we comin' to?&mdash;jist think of it.'</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Bloodgood had her own peculiar ways, and was not always very
+particular what she said or did, when overcome by the little vexations
+of life; but she had a feeling heart, and would cry as hard as she would
+scold, if there was any thing calculated in an especial manner to bring
+tears; and now they were chasing each other down her cheeks faster than
+she could wipe them away.</p>
+
+<p>'I don't wonder you cry about it. I tell you what: when that little
+fellow took hold on me this morning, and begged me to help his father,
+and looked up at me so pitiful, and said that he would thank me all his
+life, and pay every cent of the debt as fast as he could earn it&mdash;why I
+tell you, Sally, I cried like a child. And now, I tell you what it is;
+we mustn't leave that man lying there like a thief. I can't eat, nor
+sleep&mdash;I can't do it, Sally. I haven't got but little; but Billy must
+help&mdash;it's thirty dollars. I know it's a great deal for poor folks to
+raise, but it must be done, somehow&mdash;mustn't it, Sally?'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Bloodgood had been a silent spectator of the scene&mdash;he could not be
+said to be a listener. He saw that Mr. Cutter was very much engaged, and
+that his wife was quite to the other extremity of her feelings; but what
+was to pay he did not know. He kept looking first at one, and then at
+the other, for some explanation, taking large pinches of snuff all the
+time from a horn box which he held in his hand.</p>
+
+<p>'Any body <i>dead</i>?'</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Bloodgood put her nose close to his ear, and hallooed&mdash;'No!'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Cutter pushed his chair back a little&mdash;the unearthly noise startled
+him.</p>
+
+<p>'Why! do you have to holler at that rate? I should think you'd split
+your throat, or your nose, or something or other. I never heard such a
+noise.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh dear! I tell you, Uncle Sam, he gits wus and wus. I do candidly
+believe it's the snuff; he stops every thing up with it. His head ain't
+got no more sound to it than the harth stone.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, I don't know but it's the best thing he can do, if he's got to
+have sich noises as them made in it. I should want to stop every thing
+up too; and how upon airth you are ever going to tell him what I want, I
+don't see. Let me get a little ways off afore you begin; my head sings
+now like a dozen teakettles.'</p>
+
+<p>With that the old man pushed his chair off against the opposite wall,
+while Mrs. Bloodgood undertook the task of explaining matters to her
+husband, and she accomplished it in much less time than could have been
+expected. Being nowise friendly to Mr. Grizzle, she handled his name in
+a very free way; and as her husband confided in her management, when she
+was through with the story, he looked at her very significantly&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Shall I do it, Sally?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, yes; do it&mdash;quick.'</p>
+
+<p>So he looked at Mr. Cutter, smiled, and nodded, and then left the room.</p>
+
+<p>'Well, well; all things was made for some use. I often wondered what
+your nose was made for, but I see now. But it will be the death of you,
+yet; you'll split something or other one of these days.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, no, Uncle Sam, you see I'm used to it; but it does make me weak at
+the stomach like, it takes sich a power of wind to keep it up any time
+so; a body can holler pretty loud two or three words, and not mind it.
+But I s'pose it's my lot, and I must be content with it.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Bloodgood soon returned, making signs to Uncle Sam to draw up to the
+table. We must leave them to arrange matters, and carry out their kind
+designs as best they may be able.</p>
+
+<p>How beautifully the water sparkled with the bright rays of the morning
+sun, and how clean the shore looked, and how fresh every thing appeared,
+as Sam drew near to his home; but how very sad his heart was, none but
+such as have suffered like him can well imagine. But sad as were his
+feelings, it did not hinder his attending to all the duties which
+devolved upon him. The net was examined, and the fish for the morning's
+meal brought up. The pigs were fed, and the boat looked after, and all
+things done as usual. It was a solitary meal, <i>that breakfast</i>, and soon
+ended. But the best fish were frying by the fire, and on the griddle was
+a fine thick bread-cake cooking, and a little basket was brought and
+placed on the table, and a clean cloth lay beside the basket; and Sam
+had his hat in his hand, and was leaning against the fireplace, watching
+his mother, as she went about the little room getting things together.</p>
+
+<p>'May be he'd like a little pickle, mother. You know he eats it sometimes
+with his breakfast.' And the mother made no reply; but wiping away the
+tears that started as reference was made to him, she went directly to
+the cupboard and brought the pot of pickles; and then the fish was taken
+from the fire, and placed on a plate and put into the basket; and the
+cake was taken from the griddle, and broken in two and laid on the fish;
+and the pickle, and a little salt and pepper, and a knife and fork; and
+then the clean cloth was put over the whole, and Sam, taking the basket,
+walked straight out of the house, and his mother threw herself into the
+chair, and wept aloud.</p>
+
+<p>As Sam ascended the little rise of ground behind their dwelling, he
+looked across to the house of his friends, Jim and Ned, to see if they
+were out&mdash;as he then felt a sight of them would be good. There they
+were, working away in their garden. Presently one of them stops and
+looks round, walks to the fence, jumps over, and is running toward Sam,
+with Jowler after him.</p>
+
+<p>'There comes Ned. What shall I say to him?'</p>
+
+<p>'Sam, how are you? ain't this a beautiful morning? What have you got in
+your basket? where are you going?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, I am going a short distance.'</p>
+
+<p>'If you are not going too far, I'll go with you. I'm tired of hoeing.
+Jim has had me up ever since daybreak, and I mean to rest a few minutes.
+But what is the matter, Sam? What makes you look so? You ain't well, are
+you?'</p>
+
+<p>Sam did look pale, for he was alarmed at Ned's offer to accompany him.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, I think you had better not go with me: it is something of a walk,
+and as you have been at work so long, you will be tired.'</p>
+
+<p>'No; I shan't be tired. But now, Sam Oakum, tell me what's the matter,'
+at the same time taking hold of him. 'There is something the matter, I
+know&mdash;you always tell me every thing.'</p>
+
+<p>'I know I do, Ned; but somehow I do not like to tell you this. Haven't
+you heard any thing.'</p>
+
+<p>'<i>Heard</i> any thing? No. Do you think we should not have been down to see
+you, if we had known that any thing was the matter? But <i>do</i> tell me,
+Sam.'</p>
+
+<p>'Father is in jail.'</p>
+
+<p>'That's Grizzle.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes.'</p>
+
+<p>Ned stooped and caught up a good-sized stone, and aiming it at another
+still larger, sent it with such force that it was shivered into small
+fragments. He then looked at Sam a moment, with his hands in his
+pockets. He dared not speak, for his heart was aching so hard. It would
+have been a great relief to have cried; but Ned never cried&mdash;he could do
+any thing but that. He felt so much like it now though, as he kept his
+eyes on Sam, who looked so sad and pale, that all at once he turned
+short round, and walked away towards home; and Sam went on his way
+toward the jail.</p>
+
+<p>The two miserable beings who had filled the old jail with their ravings
+through most of the night, were now asleep; and as Sam was admitted
+again into the miserable room, he cast his eye upon them as they lay in
+all their loathsomeness. Never before had he seen human nature in such
+an appalling form&mdash;their garments filthy, and torn into shreds; their
+hair, long and matted, lay over their faces and among the straw which
+formed their bed; their faces bloated, bruised, and bloody. He shrunk
+back involuntarily. He cast his eye to the further end of the room, and
+it met the smile of his father. He hurried past these dreadful objects,
+and placed his basket beside his pale and sorrow-stricken parent. Sam
+started, when he saw how <i>very</i> pale he looked, and how great a change
+his countenance had undergone since he last saw the daylight shine upon
+it. He took off the cloth which covered the basket, and upon that he
+placed the good breakfast his mother had prepared; and then he saw his
+father put his hands together, and that his eyes were closed, and his
+lips moved. He had never known him to do so before. Could it be that he
+was praying for a blessing, ere he tasted this token of love from
+earthly dear ones and heaven's bounteous King? Oh, Sam! how little can
+you realize the ordeal that parent has passed since the last setting
+sun. But the agony that racked his spirit has purified it also; and it
+has turned, 'trembling, hoping,' to its God. When years have passed, and
+you shall stand by his dying bed, and walk in the church-yard where
+rises the little mound of earth over the resting-place of his body, you
+will think of this night, and you will bless God for his goodness to you
+and your's.</p>
+
+<p>'It is very good, Sam; and it is very kind in you all to think of me
+so.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, father, don't say so; it makes me feel so bad.'</p>
+
+<p>'To think how much trouble I have been to my family.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam could stand it no longer, but wept aloud.</p>
+
+<p>'I don't wish to make you feel bad, Sam; but all your kind feelings,
+and all your mother's kind feelings, make me think how wrong I have
+acted, and wonder how anybody can care for me.'</p>
+
+<p>'But they do care for you&mdash;everybody cares for you. Uncle Sam Cutter
+says you shan't stay here&mdash;<i>that</i> you shan't.'</p>
+
+<p>'Did he say so? Well, I thank him for his kind feelings; and I hope, if
+the Lord please, I may get my liberty soon, that I may be able to work
+and earn an honest living, and pay my debts. But, Sam, this place ain't
+so bad, gloomy as it looks. A bad life and a guilty conscience are
+harder things to get along with than this jail. I have spent worse
+hours, looking at you and your mother, and the little ones, with a fire
+burning in my bosom, than I spent here last night. I never knew before
+that there could be such things.'</p>
+
+<p>'What things, father?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, Sam, that there could be such peace within, when all about me was
+so horrible. But I believe God has done it&mdash;and all for my good. He does
+everything for good.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam was utterly confounded at hearing such words from his father; but he
+rejoiced to hear them. He sat as long as he thought consistent with
+duties at home, and was preparing to return, when their attention was
+arrested by a bustle below stairs, and a loud puffing and blowing of
+some one ascending to the room.</p>
+
+<p>'What steps you've got here, Mr. Tice!&mdash;so high, I can hardly get my old
+carcass up. Oh, dear, dear, dear; what a world this is!'</p>
+
+<p>The heavy bolt was drawn; and as the door, creaking on its hinges,
+slowly opened, the portly form of Mr. Samuel Cutter appeared, filling
+the open space, and looking with a wild stare into and around the room.</p>
+
+<p>'You can go clean in, Mr. Cutter, an you like to; and I'll shut the
+door, and you may stay as long as you like.'</p>
+
+<p>'You will, hey? No, no, Mr. Tice, thank you, I'll do well enough here;'
+at the same time putting his hand out, and holding fast to the door.
+'None of your shutting up; it's bad enough to look at, without your
+turning the old lock on a body. <i>Of all sights!</i>&mdash;are these men dead?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh it ain't nothin', Mr. Cutter; only they've been a little lively last
+night, and they're a sleepin' it out, I guess, this mornin'.'</p>
+
+<p>'You don't call them human critters, laying there in that shape, Mr.
+Tice, do you?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, they <i>be</i>, only their hair is got tangled a little. I should
+a'most think they'd been a fightin', by their looks&mdash;they <i>do</i> look bad,
+that's a fact.'</p>
+
+<p>More noises were now heard below, and there was the trampling of horses
+at the door, and soon a lively treading up the stairs.</p>
+
+<p>'What does this mean, Mr. Tice? the jail door open, and people going in
+and out. Are the prisoners gone?' And Mr. Richard Tucker bustled up into
+the room. He was followed by Billy Bloodgood, and Uncle Sam Cutter's two
+boys. Mr. Richard seeing the doorway barricaded by a pretty large body,
+made no apology for hastily pushing through, and fairly taking the old
+gentleman quite into the room. He was about to shut the door when his
+arm was seized, and held by a grip as effectual as though an iron vice
+had embraced it.</p>
+
+<p>'Stop, stop, man; none of your shutting up, with my carcass in such a
+den as this. And besides, you came here now to let folks out; so the
+sooner you set about it, the better.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Richard was full of wrath, but he knew whom he had to deal with; and
+seeing likewise that Billy Bloodgood was looking at him very earnestly,
+and pointing towards Mr. Oakum at the other end of the room, he had no
+alternative; so called aloud in a very quick manner,</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Oakum, you are at liberty, you are released; you can go.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam jumped up, and caught hold of his father:</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, father! come, come, father, quick!' And he fairly pulled his father
+along; who, amazed at the suddenness of his delivery, and weak with the
+agitation his mind had endured, almost staggered as he followed Sam to
+the door.</p>
+
+<p>'Come along, man, come along; don't stay a minute longer.' And old Mr.
+Cutter hobbled out, partly leaning on Mr. Oakum, and partly pulling him
+down the stairs, and out of doors.</p>
+
+<p>To describe all Mr. Oakum's feelings, when he found himself at liberty,
+and learned that a full settlement of his account had been made, and
+that it had dwindled down, under the scrutinizing eye of Billy
+Bloodgood, to the sum of twenty dollars, and that he could pay this
+amount back at his own convenience; or to describe the joy which danced
+in the heart of Sam when he saw his father once out of that place, and
+Uncle Sam Cutter shaking him with both hands; and Mr. Bloodgood nodding
+his head, and smiling, and running round&mdash;it would be vain to attempt.</p>
+
+<p>It was a bright spot in Sam's life, and it was a good day for more
+hearts than one; for it was the means of winning into the little circle
+of working boys the two sons of old Mr. Cutter: they became diligent
+from that day forward, and were constant in aiding their father, either
+in the garden, the shop, or the field.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER VII.</h2>
+
+
+<p>The establishment of Mr. Cross, up in the barrens, had not much to boast
+of as to its architecture or location. It consisted of a long, low
+building, formed of logs, but covered with boards, and the roof
+shingled. Attached to it were several buildings, constructed entirely of
+logs, but well shingled roofs were over the whole of them, and they were
+otherwise finished, so as to impress the beholder with the idea that the
+owner was in very different circumstances from those who occupied such
+buildings for many miles circuit. In front of this main house ran a
+piazza, its full length; while upon a tall pine tree, nearly opposite
+the centre of the premises, hung a rude sign, with the owner's name, D.
+Cross, in large letters on the bottom. The inside of the building
+presented a mongrel appearance of store and tavern; a little of both,
+and not much of either. There was a counter, and small scales upon it;
+with decanters, and a few dirty tumblers at one end. Barrels were
+standing in different parts of the room. There were one or two plain
+board tables, and a few benches, besides two chairs with backs, and
+several without. Three large casks were placed together against one side
+of the wall, and the faucets in them clearly told for what purpose they
+were used. Behind the counter ran some long shelves, upon which lay
+jumbled together a little iron ware, a little crockery, and very limited
+assortment of dry goods.</p>
+
+<p>The location was not an unpleasant one for those who admire the
+seclusion of a forest; for lofty pines towered on all sides of it,
+except to the north, where a clearing having been made, probably when
+the house was erected, a thick growth of scrub pines had come forward,
+and presented the appearance of a swamp.</p>
+
+<p>There was, however, somewhat of a clear space immediately around the
+building, formed by the meeting of three or four roads, running off into
+different directions, and pointing out this spot to be, as it really
+was, the centre of attraction and influence to all that region.</p>
+
+<p>The owner of this domain, Mr. David Cross, had become, from causes which
+have been explained in a previous chapter, a person of some
+consideration; he owned quite a number of acres of heavily timbered
+land, connectively with his house; and by various means had managed to
+bring the whole population, at least for some miles circuit, into a
+state of dependence upon himself. He was not gifted by nature with a
+very commanding form, being rather under than over the medium height.
+This deficiency, however, he did all he could to remedy, by holding
+himself very erect; and as he was a little inclined to be fleshy, it
+sometimes even appeared that he leaned backwards in his efforts to make
+the most of himself.</p>
+
+<p>The only member of Mr. Cross's family in any wise related to him, was
+his son David; a young man of some activity in the way of business. But
+having been tutored entirely by his father, it may be supposed he had
+not the most correct notions in matters of morality; although, as yet,
+no very flagrant charges had been laid up against him in the minds of
+those who dealt there; for the very good reason, that the elder Mr.
+Cross chose to keep things in his own hand, and bear all responsibility.
+As to the mother of David, little was known respecting her&mdash;it was
+supposed she had died when her child was an infant, for he had no
+remembrance of her.</p>
+
+<p>David was not unpopular with the inhabitants of the barrens. Being of a
+lively turn, and of careless, open manners, they felt a freedom in his
+presence, which was quite in contrast with the servile subjection they
+ever had to realize when dealing with his father.</p>
+
+<p>As the tavern of Mr. Cross was the only place where the laborers he
+employed could find a lodging place during the season of the year when
+their services were required&mdash;the distance from their own homes being
+often too great to allow of return until the close of the week&mdash;it was
+seldom that the place was without sojourners; and too many of them had
+but a scanty allowance for their families, after their six days' toil.</p>
+
+<p>It was a very warm day among the pines; no breeze abroad, and the air
+from the heated sand almost suffocating. Mr. Cross was behind his
+counter, busily employed in stirring the toddy stick, and waiting upon
+those who were calling for their favourite mixture; some were leaning
+over the counter, some resting on the benches, and not a few were lying
+at full length upon the piazza, and in the shade of the pine, scanty as
+it was, which served for the sign-post of the tavern, when the rumbling
+of a carriage was heard, and the unusual sound attracted the notice of
+all present. Those who were prostrate, arose at once, and looked forth
+through the different openings; and those who were in the act of
+drinking, suspended operations, and held their glasses on the counter,
+casting glances of inquiry at Mr. Cross and at each other.</p>
+
+<p>'It's Dave, I suppose,' said Mr. Cross; 'although I didn't think he'd be
+along this hour yet.'</p>
+
+<p>'That aint Dave,' replied one of the men; 'for it comes very slow, and
+sounds heavy: I can tell Dave's buggy a mile off, by its rattle.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Cross, apparently satisfied that there was truth in the remark,
+walked slowly from behind the counter, and approaching the door, those
+who were standing there hastily made way, and left the post of
+observation to him alone; they collecting in groups on the outside.
+Convinced that it was not his son's carriage that approached, the little
+man stood with his hands in his pockets, his person straightened up, and
+his eye intently fixed on the road upon which the heavy vehicle was
+rumbling, and glimpses of which could be seen through occasional small
+openings in the pines.</p>
+
+<p>Soon the cleared space before the tavern was gained, and every eye
+turned instinctively towards Cross, as though asking an explanation from
+his countenance. The ruddy, or rather purple hue which it usually bore,
+immediately assumed a higher color; his hands were withdrawn from their
+resting-places, his head uncovered, and bustling through the crowd which
+surrounded his door, he was bowing, and smiling, and doing his best to
+play the agreeable, the moment the superb vehicle drew up before his
+sign-post.</p>
+
+<p>The travellers were indeed persons of no small consideration, if an
+opinion could be formed from their equipage. The carriage was large and
+airy, hanging low and gracefully upon long sweeping springs; of a dark
+olive color, which contrasted finely with the light drab linings of the
+inside. The horses were two noble blacks, caparisoned in brass mounted
+harness, and driven by a negro somewhat advanced in life, and perched
+upon a heavy luxurious cushion. He was neatly dressed, in the fashion of
+days that were passing away, and was very much absorbed in the
+management of his team; which, although covered with lather and dust,
+were evidently full of mettle, and not at all fagged by their travel.
+Within sat a gentleman and lady, youthful in appearance, with two
+children; the eldest not over six years of age.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Cross did not wait for the footman to alight, but advancing to the
+door.</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Rutherford, your servant, sir,' opened it, and threw down the
+steps, before the gentleman had time to inform him that he was not
+intending to leave the carriage.</p>
+
+<p>'Your lady will surely want to rest a little; our accommodations,
+indeed, are not much to boast of, but poor as they are, we shall be
+proud to have you use them.'</p>
+
+<p>The lady bowed to Mr. Cross, acknowledging that she felt obliged for his
+offer.</p>
+
+<p>'You must excuse us at present, Mr. Cross; we have some miles farther to
+ride, and if you will show the footman where to procure a little water
+for our horses, I will be much obliged to you.'</p>
+
+<p>'Certainly, certainly; here, men, water, water; don't you hear? some
+water for these horses.' There was a great rush among those standing
+near to accomplish the request; but whether to obey Mr. Cross, or to
+oblige the traveller, may be questioned; for they had heard his name,
+and therefore knew that a man of more importance than Mr. Cross was
+present.</p>
+
+<p>But as there were reasons why the last-named gentleman should, if
+possible, have an interview with his visitor, he felt that an effort
+must be made to obtain one.</p>
+
+<p>'If Mr. Rutherford could favor me by stepping aside, but for a moment,
+it will not detain&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'It would be scarcely worth while, Mr. Cross. I presume I know what you
+wish to converse about; and I am not just now prepared to give you an
+answer.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay&mdash;well, sir&mdash;I won't presume to dictate, sir; only you know we
+usually make our contracts about this time, so that we may make some
+calculations for hands, etc.'</p>
+
+<p>'That's true, sir; but to be plain, Mr. Cross, I am not sure that I
+shall not make some other arrangement, at least, so far as my interest
+goes in these barrens. I do not feel satisfied with our present plan&mdash;we
+pay great wages, you must be aware.'</p>
+
+<p>'Stand back, men, stand back; don't you know civility enough not to be
+crowding the gentleman?' Mr. Cross had his own reasons for not wishing
+too many listeners; for some ideas might possibly be conveyed to them
+not consonant with his interest.</p>
+
+<p>'Our people are rough, as you see, madam,' addressing the lady, 'and
+you'll pardon their ill manners.'</p>
+
+<p>'No pardon at all necessary, Mr. Cross; these good people are not the
+least in our way.' This the lady said in a voice sufficiently loud to be
+heard by all present; and then, with a pleasant smile cast upon the
+group, she asked,</p>
+
+<p>'Will one of you be kind enough to bring me a glass of water for my
+little girl?'</p>
+
+<p>Not one, but several glasses were, in an instant almost, at the carriage
+door. The lady took them all; and as they were returned to the brawny
+hands held out to receive them, dropped a piece of silver in each.</p>
+
+<p>'God bless you, lady!' responded at once each of the lucky attendants,
+and a smile of pleasure lighted up all the dark countenances of the half
+savage-looking beings, who were gazing in wonder at the equipage and its
+inmates.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Cross was compelled to be a silent spectator of this little scene;
+but the dark scowl which passed across his features told plainly that it
+was not quite agreeable to him.</p>
+
+<p>'Am I in the direct road to Widow Brown's?' inquired Mr. Rutherford,
+casting a glance at the little man, and then around upon those present,
+as though it was a matter of no consequence from whom he received the
+answer. It came readily from many of the bystanders; the voice of Mr.
+Cross being lost in their louder exclamations; even if he answered at
+all, which is doubtful.</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, sir&mdash;yes, sir; its about six miles from here; but you must turn to
+the right hand when you get to the edge of the great swamp.'</p>
+
+<p>'Thank you, thank you all; and here is a trifle for you, my friend,'
+singling out the one who had procured the water for the horses, and
+tossing him a silver dollar.</p>
+
+<p>'God bless you, sir&mdash;you're a gentleman.'</p>
+
+<p>'Good day, Mr. Cross.' He bowed respectfully to the host, and to all
+the admiring group, and the heavy carriage rolled on its way.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Cross walked back into his stronghold with a very dissatisfied air,
+while the men gathered outside in little knots, discussing the
+strangeness of the whole scene, and wondering what ailed the old man,
+'he seemed so out of sorts.' Scarcely had the carriage disappeared, when
+a rattling was heard, and the rapid and heavy stamping of horses' feet,
+and David Cross tore up to the door, among the groups of foresters,
+scattering them to either side, with as little consideration as though
+they had been so many sheep. Curses deep arose in their hearts, but came
+not forth at their lips.</p>
+
+<p>'Here, Jo, you put Bony in the stable, and rub him down&mdash;won't you?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, sir,' was the ready answer. But the man addressed shook his head
+so significantly, and jerked the horse so rudely, as he turned him
+round, that if Mr. David, Junior, could have seen it, he would have
+understood that his exploit in driving was not much relished by others,
+if very agreeable to himself.</p>
+
+<p>The elder Mr. Cross immediately led his son into a private room
+adjoining the store, and with much anxiety in his countenance waited for
+the result of the errand upon which he had been sent.</p>
+
+<p>'Foster says, he has closed the bargain with old Ross; he is to give you
+a quit-claim deed for all his right and title to the property in the
+barrens, for the sum you named.'</p>
+
+<p>'That's good&mdash;did he say anything further?'</p>
+
+<p>'He said something about my telling you that he was on the look out;
+that he would hunt like a cat for a mouse; but the old fool was afraid
+to tell me what he meant.'</p>
+
+<p>'Michael Foster is no fool; but, I suppose, he thinks it best to be mum.
+Yet do you know Rutherford has been here?'</p>
+
+<p>'No: has he?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes; and he refuses to make any contract this year; and I could see, by
+his management with the men, what he's at: but he'll miss it. He'll have
+to stoop his head yet, high as he holds it now.'</p>
+
+<p>David made no reply; but, whistling a lively tune, walked away, and
+mingled with the men, who were again gathering around the counter.</p>
+
+<p>The travellers experienced no difficulty in finding their way, and soon
+drew up before the humble residence of the widow.</p>
+
+<p>'It looks better, my dear Mary, than I expected,' said Mr. Rutherford,
+as he alighted from the carriage. He was about to enter the dwelling,
+when Mrs. Brown appeared at the door. She was neatly dressed for one
+living in so poor a place&mdash;that is, her plain dark calico was put on
+with care, and she wore shoes and stockings&mdash;articles not often seen in
+the barrens. She wore no cap, for her light brown hair was not at all
+changed by age, and her countenance was as fresh and fair, almost, as at
+twenty-one. She seemed surprised for an instant&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Have you forgotten me, Aunt Mary?'</p>
+
+<p>'This ain't Mr. George Rutherford?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, it is&mdash;once your little Georgie.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, dear! how glad I am to see you;' and the tears started to her eyes.
+'And that is Mrs. Rutherford, and these are your dear little children.
+How they <i>do</i> look <i>just</i> as you used to look.'</p>
+
+<p>'We are all well acquainted with you, Mrs. Brown; for my husband is
+continually talking about you.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, dear! I never thought to see any of you again; for I did not
+suppose you would ever get so far out of the world as to come here. I
+cannot ask you to go into my poor house; but there are some seats under
+the trees, where your lady might sit down, and&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Mrs. Brown, you don't think that your Georgie, as you used to call
+him, has got a wife who would not go into a house many times worse than
+yours, to see one he thinks so much of; so, with your leave, we will all
+go in, for we have come on purpose to see you.'</p>
+
+<p>'I am very happy, if he has got a lady who knows his worth.'</p>
+
+<p>'Take care, Mrs. Brown, what you say; I am afraid you did a little
+towards spoiling him when a boy: he is not out of danger yet.'</p>
+
+<p>The family now passed into the cottage, while the widow and old C�sar
+had a few kind salutations to make, 'ere she followed and took her seat
+among them.</p>
+
+<p>Many were the questions asked about the old homestead, for twelve years
+had passed by since she was last there. Deaths, births, marriages,
+changes of circumstances, and relations, how they had accumulated during
+that period! and how often the tears would start, and the lip tremble,
+as the recital went on! Her own story was but a short one; for many
+things she was obliged to pass over, or touch lightly upon.</p>
+
+<p>'But where is the little girl you had with you, when last at my
+father's? she must be almost grown up now.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, no; she is but a little girl still; she is only sixteen now; but
+she is very obedient and kind-hearted.'</p>
+
+<p>'Just like her mother.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, I don't know as to that, ma'am; but she is an obedient child, and a
+great comfort to me&mdash;and the best of all is, I hope she is a Christian.'</p>
+
+<p>'That is good,' exclaimed Mr. and Mrs. Rutherford, at the same time.</p>
+
+<p>'Ah&mdash;then you both love good things yourselves; don't you?'</p>
+
+<p>'We hope we do.'</p>
+
+<p>'The Lord be praised for his mercies. It seems to me always a great
+thing for the rich to be pious&mdash;they can do so much good.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, if they have a heart to do good. Is your daughter at home, Mrs.
+Brown?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, ma'am; but she will be here soon. She has gone to visit a neighbour
+a little south of us, among the farmers. We have but a poor
+neighbourhood around us; and you know young people want some one of
+their own age to be with and talk to.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why is it, Mrs. Brown, that the people in the barrens are so poor, and
+apparently so degraded?&mdash;they get work enough, and are well paid for it.
+My husband is very anxious about the matter, and wishes to remedy it if
+he can.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, well, ma'am; I don't know that I have got the right idea of things;
+but it has appeared to me these many years that there must be wrong
+management. Our men work hard, but are only able barely to live, as you
+see; and for so many people to be all poor together, is a great evil.'</p>
+
+<p>'Do you think, Mrs. Brown, that they get their pay?'</p>
+
+<p>'I think they do, ma'am, in a certain way. Mr. Cross settles with them
+every month, and keeps things square; but you know, ma'am, when a man
+gets so much power into his hands as Mr. Cross has, he may be tempted to
+do wrong because no one can bring him to account for it. The men are
+obliged to take the wages he sees fit to allow them, as there is no one
+in this region to give them employment.'</p>
+
+<p>'And charges them what he pleases for the goods they must purchase?'</p>
+
+<p>'It is pretty much so, ma'am. They must have the necessaries of life you
+know, ma'am; and although they purchase only such things as their
+families absolutely need, yet it is so managed, that they are brought a
+little in debt at each settlement. Some think that he charges almost
+double what the goods cost him; but, situated as they are, no one dares
+complain, and so they go on from year to year.'</p>
+
+<p>'This is slavery I think, Mary, with a vengeance,' said Mr. Rutherford,
+looking at his wife.</p>
+
+<p>'It is just as we expected, my dear.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, I hope, Mr. Rutherford, that I have not done injustice to Mr.
+Cross. He has been good to me and mine. Perhaps, after all, the people
+think hard of him without sufficient cause.'</p>
+
+<p>'You have only confirmed my suspicions of the state of things here. You
+know that I own a large part of these barrens; and, therefore, it is my
+duty to look into matters, and not suffer evils to exist, if I can
+remedy them.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Rutherford then proceeded to touch upon matters more immediately
+relating to the widow's personal interests, and which, in fact, had been
+one of the objects of his visit. It was in reference to her removal from
+this region, so destitute of privileges, to her former home, beneath his
+own roof, where her children could be usefully employed, and herself
+made comfortable.</p>
+
+<p>It was some time before she could make any reply to this generous offer.</p>
+
+<p>'You must not hesitate, Mrs. Brown, to accept this offer; for I assure
+you, that I heartily join with my husband in it.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, I thank you, ma'am; I believe you are sincere, and are acting from
+the kindest motives, and perhaps you will think it strange that I should
+hesitate a moment about accepting it.'</p>
+
+<p>Just then, the conversation was interrupted by the entrance of Hettie.
+Her appearance surprised Mr. and Mrs. Rutherford&mdash;the fine glow on her
+cheek, the raven blackness of her hair and eyes, the pleasant smile that
+immediately lighted up her countenance, the simple curtsey that she
+dropped, all so pretty and so natural&mdash;they had not expected to meet so
+lovely a flower in such a waste; and the widow must not be blamed if she
+indulged some little pride as she presented her to their friend. Hettie
+was her bright star; hope always rose when she appeared. An increasing
+interest was excited in the minds of Mr. and Mrs. Rutherford, and the
+subject of her removal again introduced.</p>
+
+<p>'You cannot tell,' replied the widow, 'how much I feel the kindness of
+your offer; and were only the interest of myself and Hettie to be
+consulted, I should not long hesitate. But, oh! Mrs. Rutherford, you
+cannot yet tell how a mother feels towards a wayward son. William is not
+just what I could wish he was, but he still clings to me. I know he will
+not be willing to leave these parts, unpromising as they are: for me to
+separate from him, and allow him to go without restraint in the midst of
+so many temptations, would be like giving him up to ruin; and I cannot
+but hope he will one day be different from what he now is; the Lord, you
+know, has many ways to bring back the wanderer.'</p>
+
+<p>Her friends could urge no further the whole of their request, but
+ventured to say&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Will you not, Mrs. Brown, let us have Hettie? We will do for her as
+well as we can.'</p>
+
+<p>This proposal was one that she felt it her duty to accept, however
+trying to be separated from one she loved so dearly.</p>
+
+<p>After a short consultation with her daughter it was decided that she
+should accompany them. Wishing to give them an opportunity to make some
+little preparation, Mr. Rutherford concluded to drive into the open
+country, which lay a little to the south of the widow's cottage&mdash;the
+scene where our story commenced.</p>
+
+<p>It was with an united exclamation that they first met the view which
+opened to them, as they emerged from the pines.</p>
+
+<p>'Ah, how beautiful!'</p>
+
+<p>It was, indeed, a striking contrast to the region through which they had
+been travelling.</p>
+
+<p>The country was little varied by hill and dale, and in no wise improved
+by the hand of man: for the houses which could be seen were but
+unsightly buildings, and all the enclosures of the rudest kind; yet
+common-place as was the face of the land, in connection with the
+extensive water view, there was much to justify the exclamation&mdash;it was
+a panorama delightful to those who had been so long riding amid the dark
+monotony of a pine-forest.</p>
+
+<p>On either side of the strip of country which lay immediately before
+them, and around the whole view in front, was water: first a clear river
+stealing down on the right, and then another on the left, each
+hastening to mingle their waters in the beautiful bay, ere they rolled
+to the ocean; in the distance, a long line of land stretching towards
+the east, as far as the eye could reach, encircling an immense bay, and
+losing itself where sky, and earth, and water are mingled in one; while
+beautifully breaking the wild expanse of water, a strip of land ran out
+into the bay, over whose crest could be seen, in the distance, the white
+sail winging its way to the broad ocean.</p>
+
+<p>Even old C�sar felt the animating influence of the scenery; and urging
+on his horses by a cheering word, the carriage rolled along as fast as
+was becoming such a stately concern.</p>
+
+<p>'Whoa-a, whoa-up&mdash;whoa there.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, C�sar! what's the matter?'</p>
+
+<p>There was, at the same time, a fearful leaning to one side.</p>
+
+<p>'Nuttin', missus; only de wheel cum off.'</p>
+
+<p>It was, to be sure, nothing else; but that of itself was sufficient to
+prevent any farther progress for the time being. C�sar and his master
+were soon down; the horses detached from the carriage, and the wheel
+picked up and brought to its place.</p>
+
+<p>''Tis all right, Massa George, only de linch-pin is gone; may be me find
+um.'</p>
+
+<p>And very diligent was the search for the lost pin, but to no purpose;
+the prospect, indeed, was not the most agreeable; for a long road must
+be retraced ere home could be reached.</p>
+
+<p>A young man from an adjoining field, seeing their dilemma, hastened to
+offer his aid. Very soon rails were procured, and by means of them the
+heavy coach was raised, and the recusant wheel replaced; and then the
+young man who showed much readiness to assist, as well as ingenuity,
+procuring a bit of hard wood, began whittling it into the shape of a
+pin.</p>
+
+<p>'Mister, what a' yo goin' to do wid dat 'tick?'</p>
+
+<p>'I'm making a pin for you, daddy.'</p>
+
+<p>'My golly! you no t'ink dat hold dem big wheel on. No blacksmith nowhere
+here?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes; there is one not far off; but you want something to keep your
+wheel on until you can get the carriage there.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why me no bring him here when he makes de pin?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, you see, daddy, he will want the measure of the hole to make it
+by; and the old man does not like to walk very much, as he is fat and
+clumsy. It will be as much as we can do to get him to make the pin at
+all; he don't like to work such hot weather.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay. Well, den; you right, bubby.'</p>
+
+<p>With that C�sar prepared to attach the horses to the carriage, while the
+family walked on towards the little low building with a high chimney,
+which was pointed out to them.</p>
+
+<p>As the carriage drove up, a very fleshy person was seen waddling towards
+the door, and putting one arm out on each side, supported himself in the
+doorway. He looked at the coach, and the horses, and the driver,
+alternately, in great astonishment. He saw the old black smile, but took
+no notice of it; and fixed his eye at length on the long sweeping
+braces, as though wondering where such powerful springs were made.</p>
+
+<p>'Massa Cutter forget me.' The old man cast his eye up.</p>
+
+<p>'Massa Cutter no 'member C�sar?'</p>
+
+<p>'C�sar&mdash;C�sar&mdash;what, not C�sar Rutherford? No&mdash;yes&mdash;so it is&mdash;why, you
+old rascal, how do you do? Give us your fist. I thought, when you showed
+your teeth at me, that I'd seen you before. But you grow old, man&mdash;your
+head is all getting white.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ha, ha, ha; Massa Cutter growin' old, too, and big! My! what a sight!
+Good livin' I 'tink here, Massa Cutter.'</p>
+
+<p>'Good living&mdash;there's no living at all&mdash;it's too hot to live; nothing
+but salamanders could stand it. But what's brought you here?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, you see, Massa Cutter, me lose de linch-pin; so dis young gemman
+tell me de blacksmith close by; but I no 'spect to see Massa Cutter&mdash;ha,
+ha, ha!'</p>
+
+<p>'And you want me to make a new one, do you?'</p>
+
+<p>'If you please.'</p>
+
+<p>'Here, Bill Andrews, since you have been so helpful to these folks, and
+helped them here, you may just come and help me; so take hold of them
+'tarnal old bellows, and blow for your life.'</p>
+
+<p>'That I will, Uncle Sam.'</p>
+
+<p>The old man, although reluctant to move about much, made expeditious
+work with his hammer; the pin was soon made and fitted to its place, and
+the carriage ready for another start. Before this, however, Mr.
+Rutherford had reached the shop, having left Mrs. Rutherford and the
+children to enjoy a fine shade at a little distance. As Mr. Cutter had
+been acquainted with his father, it afforded the former an opportunity
+of making many inquiries about events long transpired, some of which,
+being connected with Mr. Cutter's removal to his present house,
+occasioned, on his part, very long and heavy sighs, and serious shakes
+of the head. At length he could hold in no longer.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, dear, oh, dear! it makes me feel bad all over to hear you talk
+about them places and things;&mdash;to think what an old fool I've been to
+come to such a place as this.'</p>
+
+<p>'It does not look like a very thriving place, Mr. Cutter.'</p>
+
+<p>'Thriving! there's nothing thrives here but rum and deviltry.
+<i>Thriving!</i>&mdash;I tell you what, the <i>old 'un</i> thrives here, no one else,
+and a great haul he'll have&mdash;he's fixing for it. No schools, no
+meetin'-houses, and no nothing that's good;&mdash;the men most all drunk and
+lazy, and the boys going to the d&mdash;&mdash;l, if I must say so, asking your
+pardon, as fast as they can.'</p>
+
+<p>'This is a poor account of your place, Mr. Cutter. What do you suppose
+has caused such a state of things?'</p>
+
+<p>'It is beyond me to say, sir; there seems to be a kind of curse on the
+place; and it is my candid opinion, if something ain't done here
+soon&mdash;some preaching, or something else of that sort&mdash;we're a gone
+case;&mdash;even a dumb Quaker would be better than nothing. He might walk
+round in his square coat, and frighten the old 'un a little.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Rutherford could not restrain a smile at the earnestness of the old
+man, and the singularity of his idea.</p>
+
+<p>'From your description, Mr. Cutter, you are not much better off here
+than our people in the barrens.'</p>
+
+<p>'Not much to boast on, I tell you, sir. Only they can't raise nothing,
+and must depend upon old Cross for work to buy their bread with, and he
+charges them just what he pleases; and if they should grumble, or ask
+for their money to spend elsewhere, he would turn them off entirely, and
+then they might live on huckle berries and pine knots.'</p>
+
+<p>'They are badly off, I believe, sir; but I hope to be able to make some
+change in things there. The people are, no doubt, imposed upon, and I
+shall not allow it to be so if I can help it.'</p>
+
+<p>'Bless your young heart for saying so; but you must look out for Cross;
+he's a precious villain&mdash;I <i>tell</i> you.'</p>
+
+<p>'I believe he is no better than he should be; but I shall try to manage
+it, so as not to injure the poor folks, at any rate.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, I'm glad on it, for there are some clever people among them.
+There's the widow Brown; why you must know her? she used to live in your
+father's family.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, yes, I know her well, Mr. Cutter; and part of my errand down was to
+see her. Her daughter, I hope, will go home with me to live.'</p>
+
+<p>'What! Hettie! Hettie ain't going away&mdash;and yet she ought to go out of
+such a hole as this. She is too pretty and too good to be round here.
+What's the matter, Bill? Where's the use of keeping the old bellows
+creaking, when there's no iron in the fire?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, I didn't think. You are done, ain't you?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, I hope so. I've pounded myself all in a heat. But what makes you
+look so pale, man?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, nothing; I ain't pale, am I?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, you are pale&mdash;go sit down, man.'</p>
+
+<p>'No; I thank you, Uncle Sam. I believe I will go home now, if I can be
+of no more use to the gentleman.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Rutherford, seeing him about to depart, stepped up, and cordially
+thanked him for his kind and efficient services; and taking out his
+purse, was about to remunerate him handsomely for his trouble.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, no, sir, nothing; I thank you.'</p>
+
+<p>'But it has taken your time, and you have been of great service to me;
+allow me to make you some compensation&mdash;thanks from a stranger are not
+worth much.'</p>
+
+<p>'They are worth a good deal to <i>me</i>, sir, since I have found out who you
+are.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, what do you know of me?'</p>
+
+<p>'My father removed from your place, sir; and I have often heard him
+speak of your folks, how kind they were to him; perhaps you may remember
+him, Zechariah Andrews?'</p>
+
+<p>'Remember him? certainly I do; and are you his son? Well, this is
+strange indeed:' at the same time taking Bill's hand and giving it a
+hearty shake. Many inquiries were made and answered; and the interview
+closed by an invitation on the part of Mr. Rutherford, that whenever he
+might need a friend he would call upon him.</p>
+
+<p>'And now, Mr. Cutter, good by,' giving the old man his hand; 'I hope you
+may live to see things look brighter than they now do.</p>
+
+<p>'I hope so, sir; but I tell you there is but little chance of it. The
+old fellow has danced here so long, it will be hard getting him off the
+ground&mdash;preachin' might do it. But I want to say one thing to you&mdash;look
+out for Cross; he ain't too good in my opinion for any thing&mdash;he's a
+dangerous man, depend on it. But I won't keep you waiting. God bless
+you, and keep you out of harm's way.'</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER VIII.</h2>
+
+
+<p>I suppose my readers are about tired with following our heroes on their
+little voyages; but as this is to be the last they will make in the old
+skiff, and as it is connected with some interesting circumstances
+regarding our friend Sam, we must go with them once again.</p>
+
+<p>It was but a short period after the scene of trial through which Sam and
+his family were called to pass. A pleasant sail they had made to the
+fort that morning; their stock of goods had been disposed of, their
+empty baskets stowed away, and they were just on the point of casting
+off for their return, when Peter appeared, coming through the gate of
+the castle. As soon as he passed the sentinel, he hobbled along towards
+them as fast as crutches would let him.</p>
+
+<p>'Hulloa; 'vast, there, my hearties.'</p>
+
+<p>The boys readily stopped, and waited his approach.</p>
+
+<p>'Here, you Sam, jist come here, follow me.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam was utterly at a loss as to what was to pay now; but as Peter turned
+short about, and was making his way back again, as though he expected of
+course his summons to be obeyed, Sam had no alternative but to jump
+ashore and hasten after him, and he had much ado to get up with the old
+man before he entered the gate. Peter hobbled along through the hall at
+the entrance, then turned to the right, and, by a narrow door, entered a
+dark passage, saying nothing all the while, only turning his head back
+occasionally to see that Sam was following; then up a broad stairs, into
+a long gallery studded with doors. Into one of these Peter entered, and,
+waiting until Sam passed in, shut it.</p>
+
+<p>'Now, my hearty, see what I've got for you. Take off them old duds o'
+your'n, jist as fast as you can.' Sam being somewhat in amaze, was
+looking at the queer little room, with the hammock hung up at one side
+of it, wondering how Peter ever contrived to stow himself away in it; in
+the meantime Peter was busy untying a large bundle, and taking out
+sundry articles.</p>
+
+<p>'Here, you sonny, jist put these on, and see how they'll fit;' holding
+up at the same time a pair of blue broadcloth pantaloons. 'But what are
+you about? why don't you doff your jacket and trousers? You ain't a goin
+to put these on over, are you?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, no, sir: but you don't mean to have me put on such fine things as
+these?'</p>
+
+<p>'And why not? didn't my lady git 'em 'spressly for you? and didn't she
+take me along with her, purpose to pick out a true sailor's rig? So off
+with the old riggin', it's stood long enough.'</p>
+
+<p>'Did <i>she</i> get them? Oh, she is very good. I am sure I don't deserve&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'<i>Don't deserve!</i> Yes, you do <i>deserve</i>; so down with your dumbfounded
+perverseness, for once, and do as you are bid.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam was indeed confounded, but he could not do otherwise than put them
+on. A better fit could not have been, and the suit was complete
+throughout. Blue roundabout, and trousers to match, of good broadcloth,
+finer than anything Sam had ever felt of before. Suspenders of blue and
+white, all finely figured; blue check shirt, with a large flowing
+collar, around the edge of which and down the bosom ran an ornament of
+white. Vest there was none, as Peter said 'it was of no mortal use.'</p>
+
+<p>Never was a father prouder of a son, than was Peter, when the whole rig
+was on. He turned Sam round to all points of the compass; examined him,
+as he said, ''fore and aft.' The shoes were the only articles Peter did
+not fancy.</p>
+
+<p>'Pumps is the only things fit to go on a sailor's foot, but my lady
+reasoned me out of it. They're good taut under-strappers, no doubt, and
+they'll do you a deal of service; but they spoil the looks, and there
+ain't no shuffle in 'em. But howsomever, perhaps as you're along shore
+now, they'll do you a good turn. But, do you hear? never put your foot
+on a ship's deck in such clumpers as them.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh dear! how good they are to me.'</p>
+
+<p>'Good? to be sure they're good. But mind, my hearty, <i>there's One
+above</i>'&mdash;and Peter pointed his finger upward, as he said this&mdash;'who has
+made the wind shift round for you so fair and square; mind <i>that</i>, and
+don't think it's all luck that's made such big folks kind to you. You're
+but a youngster now, and can't be 'spected to understand how all these
+things are brought about; but an old sailor like me, that has sailed in
+all weathers, has seen things that will make a man feel that there is
+<i>One</i> at the helm can steer for him when he can't do nothing for
+himself.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam looked at the old man with fixed attention, and drank in every word,
+his eyes sparkling with the deep emotion they aroused within him. He
+thought Peter no longer a poor maimed sailor, but some being from a
+better world, who had put on for a time a rough and forbidding garb.</p>
+
+<p>'And now, my hearty, see here.' And Peter began to pull out sundry other
+articles of dress.</p>
+
+<p>'That there rig you've got on ain't for storms, nor everyday sarvice; a
+man wants something tight and tidy for Sundays, and sich like&mdash;but
+here's your real stuff to brave all weathers in. This will stand you for
+rough and tumble and all sorts of work. These trousers is the regular
+duck; jist feel 'em, Sam. They're stiff like, I know, but you'll soon
+make 'em limber; and this here jacket is the jinivine blue nanking;
+there's no tear about it that I'll warrant you.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam had given up in amazement at the multitude of good things showered
+upon him. He knew not whether to laugh or cry&mdash;he did a little of
+both&mdash;it was so good, so far above any thing he had been thinking of;
+the feeling which came over him, and which we all, in our youthful days,
+have experienced when clad in a new suit, was so <i>very new</i> to him, that
+he was oppressed by it; and as Peter held up the duck trousers and the
+blue nankeen coat, he proceeded to unrobe himself, thinking he was
+required to try them on too.</p>
+
+<p>'Now, what is the lad about?&mdash;Hands off; let alone. Ain't you going
+right down to show my lady what a spanking fit it is? So we'll jist
+bundle these up with the old duds, and you'll take 'em along&mdash;you hear?
+and let 'em lay in the boat till you git home.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam would have made some objections, if he dared; but Peter took things
+in his own hands, and seemed to feel that, for once, at least, he must
+be minded: so rolling the whole together, and tying them in a very
+knowing manner,</p>
+
+<p>'Now come along, my hearty,' he stumped it out of the room, and through
+the gallery, and down the stairs, and laying the bundle in the hall,
+crossed to the apartment where Sam had formerly been introduced to the
+presence of Mrs. Morris; and before he had time to reflect or make
+opposition, Peter was knocking at the door.</p>
+
+<p>A very pleasant smile and exclamation of delight, on the part of Mrs.
+Morris, greeted Sam as he entered.</p>
+
+<p>'Why, Peter!&mdash;who would have thought they could have fitted so well; and
+how very apropos they look. A sailor boy, he is now&mdash;is he not, Peter?'</p>
+
+<p>'All but the shoes, please you, madam.' And Peter, not having his hat
+on, touched his queue.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, well; I think master Sam will be much pleased with the shoes,
+especially as he is on shore now. But let him come here&mdash;give me the
+neckerchief, Susie.'</p>
+
+<p>Susie walked to the table, and brought the little parcel and placed it
+in her mother's hand.</p>
+
+<p>'Here is a present from Susie; she has hemmed it herself, and I suppose
+ought to honor you by tying it on; but as she is a little bashful about
+it, I must do it for her.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam was too much confounded to make any opposition; but his flushed
+countenance told how he felt.</p>
+
+<p>'I suppose I cannot put it on after true sailor fashion, but I believe
+it must have a single tie, and hang loose, in this style. Will that do,
+Peter?'</p>
+
+<p>'That's the thing, madam.'</p>
+
+<p>'What shall I ever do for you, ma'am, you are so good to me?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, perhaps you will do a great deal for us yet; and you know, my dear
+boy, that we are under obligations to you we cannot soon get rid of.'</p>
+
+<p>'I am sure, ma'am'&mdash;and Sam looked intently at Mrs. Morris, his whole
+countenance beaming with honest emotion&mdash;'I don't know what I have done
+that you should say so. If you mean my trying to save Miss Susan, why I
+am sure, ma'am, if I had not done it, I wouldn't be fit to live. I would
+do it again, if I knew I should die for it; I am sure I would, and so
+would any one.'</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Morris could not repress the starting tear, nor could she make an
+immediate reply. Sam's whole demeanor took her by surprise&mdash;she did not
+expect such a burst of genuine gallantry.</p>
+
+<p>'God bless you, my good fellow! you have a noble heart, and will make a
+proud station for yourself, yet; but keep in mind, that <i>the path to
+honor lies through difficulties and dangers</i>.'</p>
+
+<p>As she said this, her hand was smoothing down the dark curls which lay,
+in all their natural carelessness, around Sam's fine forehead.</p>
+
+<p>'But, Peter, only think! we have forgotten the hat&mdash;what a pity!'</p>
+
+<p>Peter made no reply, otherwise than by handling his queue, and rolling
+his quid from one side of his mouth to the other.</p>
+
+<p>'How could you let me forget it, Peter?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, ma'am, don't think of it; you have given me too many things
+already.'</p>
+
+<p>'Please, my lady, he'll do well enough, for all that. If my lady has no
+further orders, I must go.'</p>
+
+<p>'Nothing further, Peter.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam made the best bow he could, both to Mrs. Morris and to Susie; and
+Susie ventured, for the first time, as Sam made his obeisance to her, to
+say, very gently indeed, 'Good by.' It was not much beyond a whisper,
+but Sam heard it. Whenever the scene in that room came up before
+him&mdash;and it kept presenting itself very often&mdash;he loved to dwell on that
+part of it. Susie would be before him with her pretty smile, and those
+words, so soft, 'Good by,' would ring and ring in his ears.</p>
+
+<p>To say that Jim was astonished at the change in Sam's appearance, as he
+came from the fort and took his station in the boat, would describe but
+a very little of what Jim really did feel. He was amazed&mdash;he was
+pleased&mdash;no, he was delighted. He loved Sam like a brother; and when he
+heard from Sam's own lips what had been done for him,</p>
+
+<p>'They are the best people, Sam, I ever knew. But what will they say at
+home? I wonder what Ned will do? You must take care, or he will pull you
+down in the dirt. Clothes <i>do</i> make some difference, don't they?'</p>
+
+<p>'Stop, my hearties.'</p>
+
+<p>The boys looked back.</p>
+
+<p>'Just come ashore here,' beckoning to Sam. 'You see my lady forgot about
+the hat, but, thinks I, there's a chance for me now; so I stops in
+slyly, and rummaging the old wallet, found enough stowage there to get
+this little shiner: so try it on, sonny, try it on.'</p>
+
+<p>'But you shouldn't do so: I am&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'No you ain't; so try it on.' And suiting the action to the word, he
+displaced Sam's little old tarred hat, and mounted a new one, all
+glistening with its bright polish.</p>
+
+<p>'That's the rig, now; it don't sit quite ship-shape as it ought, but it
+will work to the head, and it will keep the rain out, I'll warrant
+<i>that</i>. But I can't stop here, for the Major's boots must be cleaned; so
+a good passage to you, my hearties.'</p>
+
+<p>With that he bore away for the fort in quick time, paying no kind of
+heed to all Sam said about thanks.</p>
+
+<p>'I tell you, Sam Oakum, I should not know you if I met you in the road.
+Nobody will know you; Ned won't know you, see if he does.'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't hardly know myself, Jim, I feel so queer.'</p>
+
+<p>The wonder which Sam's appearance excited on their return was full as
+great as Jim had anticipated. On reaching the shore, Ned and Jowler
+stood ready to receive them. Ned stepped up to Jim, who had jumped
+ashore, and was carrying the little stone anchor out as far as the rope
+would reach, and whispered,</p>
+
+<p>'Who's that? Where's Sam?' Then Sam walked deliberately from the stern,
+and jumped ashore. Jowler set up a bark at him, and Ned fixed his eye
+upon him in some doubt until Sam smiled. He then commenced a retrograde
+movement, increasing the distance between him and Sam, and going round
+and round him, eyeing him from head to foot; while Jowler kept by his
+side, barking as he followed Ned round the circle. Ned knew <i>Sam</i>; he
+was <i>sure</i> he did, and so did <i>Jowler</i>, as soon as Sam spoke to him, and
+began to sneeze and wriggle himself about, and to manifest great shame
+that he had made such a mistake. Ned was too much surprised this time;
+it sobered him. He knew it was <i>Sam</i>, his old playmate; but <i>such</i> a
+change! How had it come about? He felt a kind of diffidence in
+approaching him; he almost wished for the old patched clothes and the
+little flat hat; but that feeling was only momentary, a flash through
+the mind. The neat trim of the clothes, the improved appearance of Sam's
+whole exterior, really delighted him; and instead of flying off into
+some extravagances, he took Sam's hand, and shaking it with all his
+might,</p>
+
+<p>'Did Major Morris give you this suit, Sam?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, it was the lady.'</p>
+
+<p>'She <i>is</i> a lady. I should think you would love her, Sam, very much.
+Ain't they nice, though, Jim? Just look at this shirt collar and the
+bosom, and this handkerchief round his neck, and the hat and shoes. Oh,
+Sam, I am so glad you need not wear the old clothes any more;&mdash;<i>do</i>,
+won't you come and let mother see you and Ellen, just to see what they
+will say.'</p>
+
+<p>'But he will want to go home, first, Ned, and show himself there.'</p>
+
+<p>'I will come up this evening, right after supper.'</p>
+
+<p>And again they separated for their different homes, and Sam hastened,
+with his bundle under his arm, hardly able to keep from a run, he was so
+anxious to see how they would feel.</p>
+
+<p>They were at supper as Sam entered. His mother dropped her knife and
+fork and jumped up from the table; her hands were raised, and her whole
+countenance expressive of the most pleasant surprise.</p>
+
+<p>'Why, Sam! where <i>did</i> you get these from? Oh, how nice! do father, look
+at him.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Oakum had pushed his chair, and a smile passed over his
+weather-beaten countenance as he looked at Sam; and his heart blessed
+God for him. He was pleased, indeed, and almost proud to perceive what a
+fine-looking boy he was, but he knew his worth as few could know it. He
+could not speak, but he felt of the clothes and smiled, and then wiped
+the tears that would come in spite of every effort to keep them back. He
+felt that there was something more than good luck in all this. Sam was
+already reaping the fruits of the promise, 'Thy days shall be long in
+the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.'</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER IX.</h2>
+
+
+<p>How swiftly pass the beautiful months of summer; its flowers and its
+fruits come and go in succession, and must be enjoyed in their season,
+or not at all.</p>
+
+<p>To our boys it seemed to have flown more rapidly than ever; the constant
+occupation of every day and almost every working hour, caused the days
+and weeks to pass away imperceptibly and pleasantly.</p>
+
+<p>And now, the long wished-for period has arrived, when the great contract
+with Major Morris is to be fulfilled. The boat is ready, and will carry
+quite a load. The farmers are busy digging, and each is anxious to
+deliver his quota as soon as possible. It was well for Jim that he
+stipulated in the bargain to receive them only as he wanted them. Jim's
+thinking habits were of great service to him.</p>
+
+<p>A new hand must be obtained to assist in navigating their little vessel;
+her size, the quantity of freight, and the season of the year, all
+demanded it. Sam Oakum felt that this devolved upon him, but Jim
+insisted upon it that they would unitedly pay for the extra help.</p>
+
+<p>'I shall not allow that, Jim, no how. You give me now one-third of all
+we make, and you do all the business. So you see I am going this very
+night to speak to Sam Cutter; he will be a good fellow to row with me,
+and you can steer, and I shall pay Sam out of my own money.'</p>
+
+<p>He was as good as his word, and found Sam Cutter ready enough to go with
+him; so a bargain was soon made, and as Mr. Cutter's potatoes were the
+first engaged, twenty-five bushels of the lot were carted early in the
+morning, and put on board. Jim was there ready to receive them, and as
+soon as delivered, counted out the money.</p>
+
+<p>'There, William, is six dollars and twenty-five cents. It is all in
+quarters, but it is just as good. Give that to your father, and when I
+take the next load I will pay for that in the same way. Twenty-five
+bushels, at twenty-five cents a bushel, make just six dollars and
+twenty-five cents, don't it?'</p>
+
+<p>Jim said this because William Cutter seemed to be in a maze, as though
+not exactly comprehending the matter.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh yes, it's all right, no doubt; but I say, Jim Montjoy, where did you
+get all this money from? I tell you what, I mean to work, see if I
+don't, if it brings in money at this rate.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, we have had some pretty hard pulls for it, have we not, Sam?&mdash;or
+rather you have.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, we both have, but no matter for that; it makes the money all the
+sweeter. You see now, William, how this thing works&mdash;your brother and
+yourself have been busily engaged all summer, cultivating your potatoes
+and other things; now you have dug them and received your money, that
+pays you for your work; we now carry them off to a distance, where they
+are wanted more than they are here, and sell them for enough to pay us
+for our risk, and labor, and expense of freight. If you had not labored
+and raised them, we should not have them to carry away, and make a
+profit on; on the other hand, if we could not find a market for them
+abroad, you would not have received half the value for them you now get;
+so you see how your plough and hoe, and our boat, help one another.'</p>
+
+<p>'And your <i>head</i>, you ought to have added, Jim; for my boat and his
+potatoes would not have been worth much, without that head of yours.'</p>
+
+<p>William Cutter was no great philosopher, and perhaps did not clearly
+comprehend the drift of Jim's argument; but he felt the silver pieces in
+his hand, and realized that it was a larger sum than had ever been there
+before; and he was satisfied, that in some way it had been obtained by
+the enterprise and labor of Jim and Sam and as he walked along towards
+home he said to himself a great many times,</p>
+
+<p>'If working will do it, I'll work, see if I don't; there will be more
+potatoes and beans to sell another year, see if there ain't.'</p>
+
+<p>The new boat proved her value on her first trip; she was not a fast
+sailer, but she rode the waves well, and would bear a stiff breeze. How
+rejoiced was Sam, as he sat at the helm, to witness the beautiful manner
+in which she would meet the swell, and bound over it like a bird of the
+water.</p>
+
+<p>Old Peter had also much to say in her praise.</p>
+
+<p>'He did not 'spect to see such a ship-shape craft; she ain't made to run
+fast, but she'll bear the wind, and she'll ride the waves, and that's
+what you want, my hearties. But what's her name?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh! we have not given her a name yet, we haven't thought about that!'</p>
+
+<p>'Never thought about that? but you must think about it; what is a boat
+without a name? but I s'pose it ain't worth while to do no such thing on
+this craft o' your'n, seeing she is launched, and in sailing trim; but I
+tell you what, if you ain't given her a name, I'll do it; you must call
+her Susie, do you hear?'</p>
+
+<p>'Would you?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes would I; and where can you get a prettier name, or one that will
+bring you better luck than that?'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, if you say so; it's a pretty name, ain't it, Jim?'</p>
+
+<p>Old Peter was determined to see that his favorite name was fastened to
+the boat; and in a manner that could not have been expected from him,
+printed it, in very legible characters, on the inside of her stern.</p>
+
+<p>'Now, good luck to her! and don't you, boy, ever leave her while there's
+a plank to stand on; hear that?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, sir; I shall not leave her for a trifle.'</p>
+
+<p>The potatoes and beans proved very satisfactory to Major Morris. Jim
+received his money for each load, and was thus enabled to carry out his
+plan of paying for them. No sooner was a quantity brought down to him,
+measured and put into the boat, than he was ready with the pay; it was
+counted out to them in good silver money. Many wondered where it came
+from, and made up their minds that Mr. Montjoy had left his family quite
+a property, for all that was said about his dying poor.</p>
+
+<p>No time was lost by Jim in completing the contract; every day that would
+answer was seized upon to carry a load. He neither counted profits, nor
+indulged in the least recreation, until the whole matter was settled.</p>
+
+<p>A full month passed, using their utmost diligence, before they took on
+board the last load, and had the satisfaction of delivering it safely,
+and receiving from Major Morris, not only the full balance due, but an
+expression of his perfect satisfaction with the whole affair. One
+hundred dollars Jim and Ned could now call their own, for although Ned
+said that it ought to belong to Jim, he would hear of no such thing;
+Ned, he said, had worked as hard as either of them, and sometimes
+harder.</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Jim, what would all the working have amounted to without those
+thoughts of yours? and only to think how I laughed at you.'</p>
+
+<p>'We won't mind that now, Ned; but if you won't laugh, I will tell you
+what I have been thinking about again.'</p>
+
+<p>'Do tell, Jim? I will never ridicule any of your thoughts after this.'</p>
+
+<p>It happened that the boys were sitting on their favorite rock, enjoying
+the calm decline of one of autumn's loveliest days.</p>
+
+<p>'Come, Jim, I promise you I won't laugh.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, to tell you the truth, Ned, I have been thinking whether there was
+no way that we might be supplied with such things as we need from a
+store, without going to Grizzle's; I am tired of it, for my part.'</p>
+
+<p>'There is no use of thinking about that, Jim, or talking about it
+either; we have had that over long enough; we cannot help ourselves, and
+there's the end of it.'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't know that; I think we might help ourselves.'</p>
+
+<p>'How, Jim? Come, let me hear.'</p>
+
+<p>'Do you remember, Ned, I once told you about a boat I saw at the fort,
+which had come from a distance with stores for the garrison? there were
+large square chests of tea, just as they came from China, and barrels of
+molasses and sugar, and casks of rice, and a great variety of things,
+enough to have completely filled Mr. Grizzle's store.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes; I remember you told us about it, when you came home. But what of
+it, Jim? What good will they do us?'</p>
+
+<p>'I do not expect that those particular articles will benefit us,
+especially, but I have thought a great deal about the matter since then;
+and now, what I was going to propose is, to put your money with mine,
+and let me lay it out in tea, and molasses, and sugar and some other
+things.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, Jim, now you <i>are</i> crazy. Why, when should we ever eat up a
+hundred dollars' worth of such things?'</p>
+
+<p>'But you are too fast, Ned; you don't wait to hear what I have to say. I
+intended, when we had procured these things, to let the neighbors know
+of it, and when they wanted, we could sell to them for a small profit. I
+know many would prefer buying of us rather than of Grizzle.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, Jim!' and Ned jumped down from the rock, and placing himself
+immediately before his brother, looked up at him with great earnestness.</p>
+
+<p>'You mean that we should set up a little store&mdash;don't you, Jim?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, it would be something like that.'</p>
+
+<p>'And then, perhaps, after a while we should have a great many things,
+and a great many people would come to buy of us; I know they would, for
+they all like you so much.'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't know about that, Ned; but I think we could sell things cheaper
+than they have been accustomed to buy them, and, if so, they will
+surely come; and if we can take such little things from them as we have
+sold at the fort, and give them a fair price&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Jim, only think of it&mdash;hurra, hurra!'</p>
+
+<p>'Do, Ned, stop; you will frighten all the folks.'</p>
+
+<p>'What is to pay now, Ned?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Sam, is that you? hurra, Sam.'</p>
+
+<p>'What ails him, Jim?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, he has got into one of his tantrums again.'</p>
+
+<p>'I tell you what, Sam Oakum, you don't know what Jim has been thinking
+about this time; it beats his <i>old</i> thinking, I tell you.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, what is it, Ned? Come, tell.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Sam, Jim is going to set up a store, and do all manner of things.'</p>
+
+<p>Jim and Sam could stand no more; so they broke out into a hearty fit of
+laughter. Sam, supposing it to be a joke, took no farther notice of the
+matter.</p>
+
+<p>'You make me laugh, Ned, whether I will or no; but I don't feel much
+like laughing just now.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, what's the matter, Sam?' said both boys at once.</p>
+
+<p>'There has nothing happened to me; but I have just been talking with
+Bill Andrews&mdash;he feels pretty bad. Bill is in trouble.'</p>
+
+<p>'There, Jim; I told you so. Don't you remember the day your boat was put
+into the water, Sam? I saw then that something was the matter with
+Bill.'</p>
+
+<p>'I hope he has not taken to any of his old ways.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, no, Jim; I don't think Bill will ever take to them again. But you
+know Bill's mother?'</p>
+
+<p>'She has not turned him away, has she?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, Ned, not exactly; but I am afraid he will go away.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Sam! don't say so, for Bill is such a clever fellow.'</p>
+
+<p>'I know he is'&mdash;and Sam's eyes began to glisten, and his lip to
+tremble&mdash;'he is a real clever fellow; and to think how well he has
+behaved, and how different he is from what he once was. I should not
+think his mother could do so.'</p>
+
+<p>'Has she been scolding him, Sam?'</p>
+
+<p>'Pretty much so, Ned. You know how Bill used to let things go&mdash;almost
+any how&mdash;he says he did. Bill is sorry for all that; he is very sorry&mdash;I
+know he is. But I tell you what I believe, boys, that when we have done
+wrong, even if we are sorry for it, and try to do better, something or
+other comes up after a while to make us smart for it; perhaps we did
+not feel sorry enough, or may be it is to make us sorry all our lives; I
+suppose we ought to be. Well, as I was saying, Bill used to be much at
+Grizzle's, and Grizzle let him run in debt as much as he pleased.'</p>
+
+<p>'I tell you what, Sam Oakum, I would not go in debt for any thing. I had
+rather live on raw clams and sea-weed.'</p>
+
+<p>'So would I, Ned. But, as I was saying, Grizzle knew well enough that
+Bill's mother had land. He knew he should get his pay.'</p>
+
+<p>'But don't you remember, Sam, when you and I went there last summer to
+engage potatoes, Bill said he only owed Grizzle a trifle?'</p>
+
+<p>'I know he did, Jim, and so he thought, but Bill has been careless. He
+has taken potatoes there every year, as he thought, enough to square his
+account; but he never saw how it was, nor had any settlement made, and
+it has run on until lately; and when Bill asked him, for the first time,
+for his account&mdash;what do you think? Grizzle up's with a bill of more
+than eighty dollars.'</p>
+
+<p>'Eighty dollars!'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, Jim, eighty dollars and upwards. Bill said when he saw it, he felt
+as if he should drop down.'</p>
+
+<p>'Did he pay any of it? I would not have paid one cent of it until it had
+been pretty well examined. You remember your father's account?'</p>
+
+<p>'Bill says he was confounded by it, and so afraid that his mother should
+hear any thing about it&mdash;for you know she is such a queer woman&mdash;that he
+paid Grizzle all the money that he received from you&mdash;thirty dollars.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, what a pity!'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, you see, Jim, Bill was so afraid his mother would know it he said
+it would make her about crazy.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes; but for all that, he ought to have told his mother.'</p>
+
+<p>'I suppose he ought; but she soon knew it. For what did Grizzle do, but
+send Dick Tucker there; and he has taken the cattle, and other things,
+to pay the bill.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Sam, I am sorry for Bill. I wonder what his mother did say?'</p>
+
+<p>'Bill says she called him every thing she could think of; and then she
+cried and hallooed so loud, that he had to go for the Widow Brown to
+come and pacify her. But he says he can stay at home no longer; so he is
+going across the barrens to see a Mr. Rutherford, who promised to be a
+friend to him; and he says he never means to come back, until he gets
+money enough to pay that account; and he is coming here to bid you good
+bye.'</p>
+
+<p>'Sam Oakum, this is too bad. I have been thinking how Bill might be a
+great help to us, and himself too.'</p>
+
+<p>'It is no use; he is done for&mdash;his cattle are gone, and so there is an
+end of it. But don't say any thing to Bill about this, nor let him see
+that you feel bad towards him.'</p>
+
+<p>'We don't feel bad towards him. Why, Sam Oakum, we like Bill Andrews
+almost as well as we do you; but there he comes.'</p>
+
+<p>Bill never appeared to better advantage than he did that evening: his
+countenance was naturally one of those bright and playful ones, over
+which there could always be seen some streaks of sunshine. He had really
+been through a severe trial; and had not his principles been well
+established, he might have been driven by desperation to his old habits;
+but his resolution against those evil ways was strong. And although
+Hettie had been for some time absent, yet her advice was before him,
+lifting his mind to better things, and creating a true disgust for what
+was low and corrupting. His look was sad, but not cast down. He gave his
+hand to the boys, and shook theirs with great cordiality. His eye indeed
+glistened, and his lip quivered; but these were only tokens of the pain
+it gave him to part from friends whom he loved so well. Few words were
+spoken. Ned had an abhorrence for tears. He therefore turned suddenly
+away, and began throwing stones very violently at some invisible object.
+Jim and Sam were not made of such stern material; and I do not suppose
+it ought to be set down against them, that, as soon as Bill's back was
+fairly turned, and on his way, they had between them quite a time of it.</p>
+
+<p>On the morrow, just as the sun was beginning to pour forth a flood of
+glorious light, Bill shut the little gate that led from his mother's
+door-yard, and turning round as he did so, gave a smile through the
+tears which were flowing to his mother and sister, who stood wringing
+their hands and weeping aloud, on the little stoop that projected from
+their front door. He smiled, to let them see that he had no unkindness
+in his heart; and his tears were witness that he was on no errand of
+pleasure. Yet he lingered not, but, brushing away the tears, and putting
+his bundle closer under his arm, walked with a firm step straight on his
+way. The sky was clear and blue, except where the beautiful sun-light
+was expanding in the east, and imparting a rich golden tint. The earth
+was whitened with the autumnal frost, and crisped under his footsteps,
+and the thick leaves rustled as he brushed along and disturbed their
+repose. His course was directed towards the Widow Brown's, where he must
+stop and say 'Good-bye,' and perhaps get a message to Hettie, whom he
+expected to meet before the day was over.</p>
+
+<p>He walked briskly on; the sun had not yet penetrated the thick pines,
+and the cold air of the night still floated undisturbed as he entered
+the barrens. A lively fire was crackling on the widow's hearth, and at a
+plain, but clean-looking table, sat Mrs. Brown and her son. Coarse but
+wholesome was the fare spread out upon it; and both arose as William
+entered, urging him to sit down and partake with them; having had but a
+little appetite when he left his home, the keen air and the walk had
+prepared him to enjoy refreshment. Their meal ended, a little parcel
+taken for Hettie, a warm shake of the hand, and God's blessing implored
+upon him, and he was off.</p>
+
+<p>This going to seek one's fortune is no trifling matter; the battle of
+life, where each is striving for his own particular benefit, and cares
+not who sinks so long as he himself securely floats, demands all the
+vital strength; and little else must claim our care or notice, save the
+great struggle.</p>
+
+<p>Bill was yet a stranger to life, only as it glided along in the quiet
+seclusion, and that seclusion not the best adapted to bring forth man's
+noblest efforts; beyond a bare support, and perhaps sometimes a thought
+of sharing his humble portion with her who had been a sort of guardian
+angel to him, his wishes had not hitherto aspired. No wonder, then, if
+trifles had a power to disturb him, which, to those immersed in scenes
+of busy life, would be but as an insect's buzz&mdash;a gentle brush, and it
+is gone. William Brown had left the cottage with him, and pleasant had
+been their chat together for a few miles; when about to separate, he
+merely said,</p>
+
+<p>'Well, I wish you good luck; and if you see Hettie, please say to her
+that Dave Cross will be along by Rutherford's next week, and that he
+will stop and bring any word home that she wishes to send; but I guess,
+between you and me, it is only an excuse to have a chat with Hettie.'</p>
+
+<p>Immediately after parting, Bill crossed the old bridge by the mill, and
+went on his way; but something had disturbed the inner man, for, as he
+ascended the hill, he paused where two roads met, one leading to Mr.
+Rutherford's, the other to the nearest town. A large stone lay at the
+point where they met: he threw his little bundle down, with an air that
+might mean, perhaps it did,</p>
+
+<p>'I don't care what becomes of you or me either;' and then took a seat on
+the stone, leaned his chin on the head of his hickory staff, and looked
+at the grass and the stones and the old fence, and occasionally at a
+stray bird, as though there was something wrong about them. He waited a
+good long hour, in thinking, and hesitating, and vexing himself, and
+then trying to make the best of it; and finally picked up his bundle and
+started off, not in the direction of the town, but straight towards Mr.
+Rutherford's. It was late in the afternoon before he accomplished his
+journey, and found himself entering the gate which opened into the
+extensive grounds surrounding, as it was commonly called, the Rutherford
+House. He had never seen any thing like it before, and a more pleasant
+or home-looking place was seldom to be met with. There was a beautiful
+green lawn, with a long broad gravel road extending to the house; and
+there were large trees, spreading their long and drooping branches,
+scattered thickly over the lawn and lining the road, and the house was
+nestled beneath the shelter of some of the very largest and most
+graceful of the trees. It made no pretensions to architectural beauty,
+but it was large and well built; and the multitude of outhouses, and
+extensive range of barns and sheds, all in good order, spoke of room for
+man and beast, and of comfort too. Bill thought nothing of all this, his
+heart was full of misgivings as to how he should be received; to him it
+was all fine, too fine for the like of him; and he looked at some of the
+outbuildings, as he passed along, to see if there was any place he could
+feel at home in, for the night.</p>
+
+<p>George Rutherford, the inheritor of this lovely spot, had of earthly
+goods a bounteous store; but he had, also, what many an inheritor of
+earthly substance does not possess, a noble heart, large in its embrace
+of his fellow-man in all conditions, ever going out in its kindly
+feelings towards some object of benevolence; humble in every thought
+connected with himself, and with devoted zeal seeking to aid, to
+comfort, and to gratify the most menial of his dependents, and the most
+degraded and sorrow-stricken of his neighbours, far or near. Although
+rich blessings crowned his days, and sweet was the cup of life he
+quaffed, he felt most truly that no desert of his had earned them. Gifts
+of mercy he called them all; abounding gifts&mdash;too good, but as the
+tokens of Infinite Benevolence to the most unworthy.</p>
+
+<p>He wanted, with all this, something of that shrewdness so essential to
+the getting or preserving property; this world so teems with those who
+covet all their eyes behold, who ask no counsel from the law of heaven
+or the code of earthly justice, so long as forms of law will screen them
+in their sly grasping after acres and goods, that a man needs, with all
+the piety of a saint, something of the serpent's cunning. It is not
+enough that he covets no man's silver or gold, that he wrongs no man of
+his due, that he extends his hand to the helpless, that he be ever ready
+to lift to his own level those who are struggling below him: he must
+take care for himself. Riches are fleeting substances, with wings ever
+ready for flight; he who enjoys the blessings they can bring, must give
+all diligence to 'see well to his flocks and herds; for riches are not
+for ever'; nor do they descend to many generations. Mr. Rutherford had
+already experienced some trials in this way; his confidence had been too
+strong, his sensibility for others' feelings too acute, and there was
+great danger that he might yet be a heavy sufferer, because he did not
+learn wisdom, as he might, from some of the trials he had already passed
+through.</p>
+
+<p>Whatever doubts may have disturbed Bill's mind as he was walking up the
+broad avenue, they were all dissipated the moment he was recognized by
+Mr. Rutherford. He grasped his hand with the cordiality of a friend,
+took him at once into the house, and into the presence of his lovely
+wife.</p>
+
+<p>'You remember, my dear, the young man who so kindly assisted us at the
+time of the accident to our carriage.'</p>
+
+<p>'Indeed I do,' said Mrs. Rutherford, rising and bidding him a hearty
+welcome.</p>
+
+<p>Bill was put at once at ease; he never before could have supposed, that
+persons who lived so very differently from what he had been accustomed
+to, could be so affable; they seemed to him to feel and act as if he was
+as good as any of them; asked him as many questions as old Sam Cutter
+would have done, and seemed as pleased with all the little news he
+communicated, as though he had been a city resident, loaded with tidings
+from the gay and stirring world. The little children, too, in all their
+sprightliness and beauty&mdash;those speaking images of the parent's
+heart&mdash;came fondling round him; his plain rough garments were unheeded
+by them, and he was soon as familiar with the little prattlers as though
+they had been the children of his nearest neighbor.</p>
+
+<p>But where was Hettie? Bill wondered much why she was not among the first
+to come and greet him. He did not ask; he heard her name spoken by the
+little ones, and his heart would beat and his breath grow short, and
+once he thought he heard her light step in the passage; and then sad
+thoughts would come and sink his spirits, so buoyant from his kind
+reception. But Bill had yet to learn some lessons in the school of life.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Rutherford soon invited him to walk abroad, thus affording an
+opportunity to unburthen his mind, for he evidently had come for some
+express object. With much patience Mr. R. listened to his whole story,
+making no reply whatever until the budget was empty, nor, indeed, until
+some time after. Poor William thought that he had come to little
+purpose, and was anything than a welcome visitor. Mr. Rutherford,
+however, was only thinking in what way he could best serve the young
+man. He might indeed have taken him into his own family, and given him
+such employment as he had been accustomed to; but he thought he could
+perceive talents fitting him for a different sphere of life.</p>
+
+<p>'How would you like to go to the city, and try your hand in a store?'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't care where I go, sir, nor what the employment; if I can only
+have a chance to take care of myself honestly.'</p>
+
+<p>'It will be very different from anything you have been accustomed to;
+the work may not be any harder, but it will be very constant, and
+without much chance for relaxation, merchants think that business is a
+substitute for everything else.'</p>
+
+<p>But William was not to be daunted by any prospect of toil; and Mr.
+Rutherford, after telling him all he knew of the routine of business,
+proposed to give him a letter to a friend of his in an extensive
+business.</p>
+
+<p>'He will do all that can be done to procure you a situation, and then
+you must do the rest yourself; but remember, William, that the most
+strict attention to everything you are called to do, an unflinching
+integrity, and a determined perseverance, will be requisite to gain
+success; and unless you have made up your mind to exert every energy,
+you had better return and engage yourself with whatever you can best at
+home.'</p>
+
+<p>William's fine countenance was animated with an expression that told how
+his heart was touched.</p>
+
+<p>'So far, sir, as any exertions, day or night, to make myself useful and
+acceptable will do it, I fear not; and I hope my friends will never have
+to regret any efforts in my favor. A sense of gratitude, if nothing
+else, I trust will keep me watchful over myself.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, William, I will write this evening; I hope you will succeed, and
+I think you will.'</p>
+
+<p>As they entered the house on their return, Hettie was just coming into
+the hall. Her appearance seemed to be accidental; perhaps it was. She
+blushed deeply, smiled a very little, and gave her hand to William in
+rather a timid manner. He was prepared to accost her warmly, but the
+peculiarity of her address chilled him; he felt a restraint he could not
+overcome, and his greeting was much like her own. She asked after her
+mother's health, thanked him for his trouble in bringing the little
+parcel for her, and then withdrew, leaving him to follow Mr. Rutherford,
+who was waiting at the parlor door to receive him.</p>
+
+<p>William was tired enough that night to have slept soundly, but his
+thoughts would not be quiet; so he hailed the dawn with delight, and was
+ready immediately after breakfast to go on his way. Mr. Rutherford took
+him into a small room adjoining the parlor, and handing him the letter,</p>
+
+<p>'There, William, I hope you will find this sufficient, and here is a
+trifle for you in case of need; if ever you become a rich man, you can
+return it: let me hear from you how you succeed.' So saying, he placed a
+little roll of bills in his hand, and bidding him God-speed, at once
+opened the door, apparently wishing to avoid the shower of thanks which
+he saw beaming from the eye of the young man.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, sir, I never shall forget your kindness, and I hope I may yet prove
+it to you.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Rutherford made no reply; he was not indifferent to gratitude, but
+he did not care to be thanked personally. It was reward enough for him
+that he had made a fellow creature happy, and done what he could to give
+a helping hand to one just venturing on the deep waters. Long may that
+heart enjoy such draughts of pure happiness; and when, in years to
+come, you meet reverse of fortune, if such shall be thy fate, these
+stores, laid by in heaven's chancery, will be a refuge at your utmost
+need; and little deeds of love like this, long, long forgotten, will
+come like heavenly messengers, and with interest accumulated beyond the
+miser's compound gain. In the dark hour when clouds, blacker than the
+tempest's murky robe, shroud all the prospects of your earthly comfort,
+when hope of all deliverance that man may bring has gone, and your
+sickened heart turns away from earth, then shall you know that good
+deeds are not lost, even here below; and what your generous heart,
+inspired from above, devised to aid, to comfort, and to bless your
+fellows, has been a hidden treasure reserved against the time of deepest
+need.</p>
+
+<p>William went joyfully on his way, he had unrolled his little treasure,
+and counted fifty dollars. How his heart blessed the noble man; what a
+spring of love and hope burst forth from it, sending a quickening
+influence through all his frame; how elastic his step; what a cheerful
+light sparkles from his eye. The prospect before him is no longer dark.</p>
+
+<p>Immediately after passing the house, the road wound gradually around the
+premises; on one side skirted by a clump of woods, and on the other by a
+heavy stone wall, surmounted by shrubbery, so thick that nothing could
+be seen through it. Suddenly a little gate opened, and Hettie came down
+the steps, her face wearing that sweet smile with which she had in days
+past always met him.</p>
+
+<p>'I was afraid, William, that you would be past before I could get here,
+and I felt as if I must see you, just to say, good-by.'</p>
+
+<p>William was taken by surprise; he seized her offered hand, and grasped
+it warmly, but he could not speak.</p>
+
+<p>'I have wanted to see you very much, William, and to have a long talk
+with you about many things; but I suppose you must be going, and I must
+be back to my work. But, William, do you think you will like it in the
+city? You know things are so different from what you have been used to.'</p>
+
+<p>He was intending to be very stiff in all his bearing towards Hettie, but
+he made awkward work of it. There was she, looking up into his face with
+all her wonted interest, and how could he meet those eyes, and not
+return their look of pure and kindly feeling? So he gave it up: all his
+bad intentions flew off like mist, and his eye glanced as kindly as
+hers, and his voice softened into the old tones of friendship.</p>
+
+<p>'I know, Hettie, that they will be different; but I think I shall soon
+get used to them, and then I feel like taking care of myself, and who
+knows but I may get along as well as some others who go there, and come
+back with plenty of money in my pocket? I think, then, that some of my
+friends will not be ashamed to speak to me, or to acknowledge old
+friendships.' And as William said this, he looked at Hettie with so much
+meaning, that she could not mistake its reference to her.</p>
+
+<p>'If you think, William, that your prosperity will make a difference in
+the feelings of your friends towards you, or, at least, of some of them,
+you are mistaken. You may succeed as you anticipate, or you may not; you
+may return wealthy or poor, as you now are; if you only bring back as
+true and kind a heart, William, you will find some to welcome you, who
+will rejoice more in that, than in any great change in your
+circumstances.'</p>
+
+<p>And Hettie cast such a meaning in her look, too, as she fixed her eye
+full upon him, that he could not mistake its reference either. He saw
+the tears glistening in her mild eyes, and he could have done all manner
+of things to himself for speaking as he did.</p>
+
+<p>'Forgive me, Hettie, forgive me, if I have said any thing to trouble
+you; I know that you, at least, will not be affected by my condition, if
+my character is only good.'</p>
+
+<p>'I cannot say any thing more about the future, William, than that I am
+very sure I shall ever feel a deep interest in your welfare, and my
+ardent prayer shall be, that you may be kept from the many evils which I
+am told lurk around one going into the city, as you do, a stranger to
+its temptations.'</p>
+
+<p>'I know, Hettie, they say that I shall run a great risk in many ways,
+and I feel that I need something to keep my mind fastened on that will
+help me to avoid the evil, whatever it may be, and that will strengthen
+me in doing right. You have been such a helper to me, Hettie; you know
+from what a dreadful state you once delivered me; you have great power
+over me. I am now going from you; will you not let me carry along with
+me that promise which I have often asked? If you would only say that it
+<i>might</i> be one of these days, I should go away happy; the hope would be
+like your presence with me.'</p>
+
+<p>Hettie cast down her eyes as William continued talking; she heard him
+quietly through, and then replied, in a voice that trembled indeed, but
+the words were well chosen, and came from her heart.</p>
+
+<p>'That promise, William, I cannot make now any more than I could have
+done before this; you and I are to be separated for many years perhaps;
+great changes may take place in that time; you will see many things very
+unlike what you have been accustomed to; your views about persons and
+things may change with your circumstances, I shall think of you as a
+dear friend, as a brother, if you wish it; I will pray for you when I do
+for myself, and as earnestly, William; but farther than this, you must
+not ask me.'</p>
+
+<p>William ceased, for he knew Hettie well enough to be certain that she
+would yield nothing more. He parted from her as a brother might leave a
+sister, dearly loved; he saw the deep color mantling in her cheek, and
+the tear that artlessly rolled over it; he could not say the parting
+word. She stepped back through the little gate, and as it closed, he
+went on his way to seek that fortune, which, at times, played before his
+fancy in all the witching forms of earthly prosperity. How often will
+this parting scene haunt his waking and sleeping dreams, through the
+long years that will intervene ere a sight of one so dear to him now
+will bless his eyes again; and how often will he admire the firmness and
+prudence of this earthly friend of his heart!</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER X.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Sam Oakum had not forgotten the promise he had given old Mr. Cutter in
+the hour of his deep trouble; nor had he forgotten the kindness which
+prompted the old man to fly to the rescue of his parent. Every cent was
+precious in Sam's eyes, as sacred to repay that offering of mercy; he
+would no sooner have squandered it than he would have stolen; week after
+week, on every return from a trip, he would slip up to his little chest,
+and deposit there the earnings of the day. The additions were small, for
+he was obliged, occasionally, to expend some part of what he earned for
+little comforts that his mother needed; his father being rarely able to
+procure money for his labor. Small, however, as were the additions, the
+store increased. He had already carried to Mr. Cutter five dollars, and
+received his hearty blessing, and such a squeeze of his hand as Sam did
+not forget for the rest of the day.</p>
+
+<p>Jim had squared up with him the moment he had received the last payment;
+and as Sam looked at the heap of money which Jim said was his share of
+their enterprise, he was too happy to say any thing. He looked up at
+Jim, whose calm clear eye turned from the money to Sam, and then back
+again to the money, as much as to say&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'It's your's, Sam, honestly come by;&mdash;it's all right, why don't you take
+it?'</p>
+
+<p>Ned, who was standing by also, and watching Sam, understood better than
+Jim what the matter was.</p>
+
+<p>'Why don't you hurra, Sam, and let it out, and not keep choking up so? I
+know how you feel;&mdash;shall I go it for you? Hurra, hurra, hurra!'</p>
+
+<p>'Ned, what does ail you? what is the use of making such a noise?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, nothing; only you see I want to help Sam out with some of his
+feelings; he is too full to hold.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam had to smile, and that started a tear or two, and then he tried to
+say something about gratitude to the boys; but Jim stopped him short.</p>
+
+<p>'Now, Sam, you must not feel so; you have earned that heap of money just
+as much as we have ours, and we ought to thank you; for how should we
+ever have got along without you and your boat.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh,' said Sam, as he began to gather up his money, and looking archly
+at Jim, 'you would have thought out some other way, I know.'</p>
+
+<p>Jim had to smile a little; and Ned, throwing his arms on Sam's
+shoulders, and leaning over him, as he picked up the pieces of money.</p>
+
+<p>'Sam Oakum, I am as glad to see you put that money in your pocket as I
+should be to put it into my own; and so is Jim, I know.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam believed every word that Ned had spoken, and after making a plan to
+meet together that evening, he went on his way. His pockets were heavy,
+but his heart was light; and as he passed the rock which had ever been
+memorable to him since the hour when he sat there in his despondency,
+and the boys came to him with this plan of enterprise, he could not but
+say to himself,</p>
+
+<p>'What a grand thing it has been that Jim Montjoy had those thoughts.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. and Mrs. Oakum were just about to sit down at their humble board as
+Sam entered.</p>
+
+<p>'Here, father; see what the boat has done.'</p>
+
+<p>'What is it, Sam?' said his mother, looking earnestly at him, her hands
+raised, and her countenance expressing great anxiety. Sam made no reply,
+but commenced unlading his pockets, and piling the money in little heaps
+on the table.</p>
+
+<p>'It is father's; it has all come of the boat. If father had not built
+that boat, we never could have got all this; and now he can pay Billy
+Bloodgood the fifteen dollars, and then we shall not owe a single cent
+to any one; there is the whole of it&mdash;twenty-five dollars&mdash;don't it look
+nice, mother?'</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Oakum let her hands drop as soon as she understood the matter; but
+it was only to take up her apron&mdash;they had work to do with that. While
+the father, overcome with the sight of such abundance, and the noble
+spirit of his boy, could only say, in a very trembling voice,</p>
+
+<p>'God bless you, Sam.'</p>
+
+<p><i>That</i> was a happy meal, though plain and coarse. A spring of living joy
+was bubbling in each heart, and sparkling forth in pure and blessed
+thoughts towards God and man.</p>
+
+<p>Sam would gladly have had his father carry the money which was to repay
+Mr. Bloodgood, and never been known as the procurer of it. But to this
+the kind parent would not consent. He felt, and truly too, that it would
+be a mark upon his son's early life, not soon obliterated: and he was
+willing to have himself forgotten, if the dear boy might but be
+strengthened in the path of honor and virtue.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning Sam was up with the early dawn, and busy with his daily
+routine, that he might be ready to go on his pleasing errand. Breakfast
+over, he dressed himself in his best blue suit, and with the money in
+his pocket and his parent's blessing, started off, his heart as full of
+happiness as it could well be. Thoughts of the dark scene which he had
+passed through, when kind friends, like angels of mercy, came to his
+aid, he could not repress, nor did he wish to; the darker <i>then</i>, the
+brighter <i>now</i>. How his heart beat with pleasure as he walked briskly
+on, and drew near to the humble abode of Billy Bloodgood&mdash;rough, to be
+sure, was the exterior, and the peculiar habits of its owner too visible
+in the strange confusion around the premises; but Sam thought only of
+his kind heart and ready hand in an hour of need.</p>
+
+<p>Things had not yet been put to rights at neighbor Bloodgood's, and as
+Sam entered the house, there was not only a confused state of pots and
+kettles, and relics of the early meal, but the good woman herself was
+all wrong somehow; she was in quite an undress, and moved about amid the
+domestic articles surrounding her, with that quick, jerky air, which
+generally denotes an unsettled state of the inner man or woman.</p>
+
+<p>Sam wondered why things did not break, they rang against each other so
+sharply. If he was somewhat surprised at this, he was much more so at
+sight of a stranger, seated near the door, but a little behind it, which
+circumstances prevented him from noticing before. He was a stranger, not
+only to Sam, but he must have been to all those parts, for he was like
+nothing seen in that region for many miles' circuit; his air and contour
+was that of a gentleman. Sam had already seen enough of the world to
+know that. He was quite a youth, probably not over nineteen years of
+age; his countenance manly, and rather stern at the first glance; but
+Sam thought, from a particular twist of the corner of his mouth, that he
+was more amused than vexed with the state of things around him. His form
+was slender, and his complexion pale, like one who had never yet been
+exposed to the wear and tear of life; his light brown hair was thrown
+carelessly back from his forehead, and displayed to great advantage that
+index of the mind.</p>
+
+<p>He arose almost immediately upon Sam's entering, and with his hat in
+hand, bowed to the mistress of the house, who cast but a sideling glance
+at him, and then stooped down to rattle some of the dishes, without,
+apparently, any other motive than to let him see that she was too busy
+to attend to <i>him</i>.</p>
+
+<p>'You think then, madam, there would be no use in my waiting to see your
+husband?'</p>
+
+<p>'No; I don't think there's no earthly use in seeing <i>him</i>. I tell'd you,
+again and again, we ain't got no young ones to send&mdash;and that's the long
+and short on it.'</p>
+
+<p>'Good morning, madam.'</p>
+
+<p>The young man spoke kindly and courteously, and then left the house,
+walking with an erect carriage towards the highway.</p>
+
+<p>'Good morning, Aunt Sally.'</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Bloodgood, then, lifting herself up, and putting a hand on each
+hip, looked with a very stern and fixed gaze through the open door,
+until the stranger had fairly got out of hearing; and then, without
+answering Sam's salutation, began to rattle away in her usual style,
+when by any cause somewhat excited.</p>
+
+<p>'<i>Him</i> set up for a schoolmaster, with his fine clothes on, and his bran
+new hat, and his bowin' and scrapin', and his <i>madam</i>, and all that kind
+of palaver; he ain't nothin' but a chicken himself. No, no: I've seen
+enough on 'em in my day; there ain't no good comes on 'em; they put more
+mischief in the heads of the young 'uns than they've got naturally, and
+that's enough we all know.'</p>
+
+<p>'What's the matter, Aunt Sally?'</p>
+
+<p>'I tell you what, Sam Oakum, I don't want none of them Yankees round me.
+I don't see why the critters can't stay in their own country, and do
+some honest thing there for a livin', and not come trampussing away down
+here with their larnin', that don't do no airthly good, but make the
+young 'uns lazy, and wanting to be gentlemen like themselves; and what
+old Molly Brown sent the critter here for, I don't see.'</p>
+
+<p>'Does he want to set up a school, aunt Sally?' said Sam, looking at her
+with a very anxious countenance.</p>
+
+<p>'He <i>did</i> want to; but I guess he's got enough on it; and I'm so glad
+he's took himself off 'fore Bloodgood come in, for he's just fool enough
+to be clean took with him; and he's got his head set about havin' a
+schoolmaster, and I don't want none of the varmints round.' But looking
+at Sam very closely, and coming up to him, and feeling his coat and his
+trousers, and then holding him off at arm's length.</p>
+
+<p>'<i>Do tell!</i> where upon airth, Sam, did you get this? How smart you <i>do</i>
+look. This has been gi'n to you, I know, by them great folks over the
+water there?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, ain't that clever on 'em, Sam? but you're desarvin' of it, and
+I'm glad on it. It does a body's heart good to see your mother's child
+look so smart and tidy. I didn't hardly know you when you come in, and
+that plaguy man put me into such a pucker, I didn't hardly know what I
+was about.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam had become very impatient to be off; he had anticipated a great deal
+of joy from his errand, in the proud satisfaction of paying a just
+debt; but he thought not of that now. He had learned enough to know what
+the stranger's business was, and he could not endure the thought of his
+leaving the place in such a manner; so taking out his money, and handing
+it to Mrs. Bloodgood,</p>
+
+<p>'There, Aunt Sally, is the money which Mr. Bloodgood, so kindly helped
+my father to, when he was in trouble; won't you please tell him that we
+all thank him very much, and hope we shall never forget how good he has
+been to us?'</p>
+
+<p>'You dear, blessed child!' Aunt Sally could say no more, for she saw the
+tears in Sam's eyes, and her own heart was very peculiar&mdash;it was soon
+set on fire.</p>
+
+<p>'You will tell him, won't you, Aunt Sally? and that father says, if he
+will only let him know any time that he can do any thing for him, or for
+you, day or night, he will gladly do it; and mother says so too; for you
+don't know how happy it made us all, when you lent this money, and how
+very happy we are now, to be able to give it back to you.'</p>
+
+<p>Aunt Sally sat down, and taking up her apron with both hands, cried as
+hard as she had scolded but a few moments before. Sam laid the money on
+the table beside her, and wishing her good morning, made speed towards
+the highway. He saw the young man at a distance, walking rapidly, and
+bending his course away from the place, on the direct road to the
+barrens; his only chance to overtake him was by a cross cut over the
+fields, and through a little clump of wood, around which the road to the
+barrens passed. And while Sam is hurrying across the lots, I must
+introduce the young stranger a little more particularly to my reader.</p>
+
+<p>Henry Tracy was indeed descended from New England parents, but was not,
+as good Mrs. Bloodgood supposed, a real Yankee; for his father had
+emigrated from the state of Maine when quite a youth, and his mother
+from another of the goodly sisterhood, when a child. They had settled in
+one of the middle States, and Henry's birthplace was one of our largest
+cities; great pains had been taken with his education; his mind was
+uncommonly well stored for one of his age, and his manners distinguished
+by a gentlemanly grace; but, above all this, his heart had been nurtured
+by the tender care of a mother, whose love for the truth, whose meek and
+blameless life, and whose heavenly-minded temper, gave a power to the
+pure and holy thoughts which she was ever breathing into the ear of her
+son; they stole into his heart like the dew upon the tender plant.</p>
+
+<p>He was now an orphan, and cast upon the world, with the choice of
+depending upon the charity of friends to assist him in completing his
+education, or using what education he had already received as a means of
+support, and of further progress; he wisely chose the latter. Having a
+slight acquaintance with Mr. Rutherford, he had, on calling to visit the
+family, been directed to this region, and the "Widow Brown, to whom Mr.
+Rutherford advised him to apply, could think of no one more likely to
+take an interest in a school than Billy Bloodgood. His reception there,
+and the general appearance of things, had discouraged him from any
+further attempt, and he was hastening back to seek a spot more congenial
+to his own feelings, and where there might be at least some desire for
+instruction.</p>
+
+<p>Sam had to be expeditious, and was barely able to accomplish his object
+by running across one entire lot, and through the clump of woods.
+Breathless with his haste, he was unable to communicate his wishes, or
+to apologize to the young man for coming upon him in so abrupt a manner,
+who looked with much surprise at him for an explanation.</p>
+
+<p>'I hope you will excuse me, sir, for stopping you; I met you, just now,
+at Mr. Bloodgood's. I did not know what your business was, sir. But do
+come back, we want you very much.'</p>
+
+<p>'Want me! What do they know about <i>me</i>?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, I mean, Sir, they want a teacher.'</p>
+
+<p>'Mrs. Bloodgood says that no one here wishes a teacher, that the people
+think they are better off without any instruction.'</p>
+
+<p>'But they do not all feel so, sir; do come back with me, and I will take
+you to a man that will tell you all about it.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam's appearance pleased Mr. Tracy, and the earnestness of his entreaty
+induced him to consent to return and see what new feature the place
+might present.</p>
+
+<p>They were not long in reaching the spot to which Sam wished to conduct
+him, a very unlikely place in appearance to give encouragement to
+literature, being no other than the workshop of old Sam Cutter. The old
+man was in his usual seat, holding, or rather leaning upon the handle of
+his large hammer, and from his short breathing and flushed face, showing
+signs of his having just been wielding it. Running round the shop, with
+a tongs in one hand and a hammer in the other, was Billy Bloodgood,
+helping himself, with some directions and aid on Mr. Cutter's part, in
+repairing an old farming tool. He paid, as usual, no attention to the
+new-comers, except a slight nod of his head, and a pleasant smile to
+Sam.</p>
+
+<p>As Sam entered and motioned to Mr. Tracy to come in, Mr. Cutter passed
+his broad hand across the top of his head, smoothing down his bald
+forehead, at the same time saying.</p>
+
+<p>'Your sarvant, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Tracy bowed to him politely, taking off his hat with as much respect
+as if in the presence of one of the great ones of the earth.</p>
+
+<p>Sam Oakum lost no time in communicating to Mr. Cutter the object of the
+visitor, and the circumstances under which he had met with him and
+brought him back.</p>
+
+<p>'Right, Sam, right; but of all things, to think of Sally Bloodgood
+treating the gentleman in that sort. But that's the way with them;
+they're a match for the old one, any time; all but your mother, Sam, she
+ain't like the rest on 'em.' And then turning to the young man,</p>
+
+<p>'Sorry, sir, you've had such an indifferent reception, but what can't be
+cured must be endured. Billy there knows that; but you see it don't
+matter to him whether she scolds or coaxes; he can't hear nothin' no
+more than the iron he's poundin' on.'</p>
+
+<p>'Is that Mr. Bloodgood? Mrs. Brown advised me to call upon him; but his
+good wife gave me such an account of things, that, but for this young
+gentleman, I should have made no further effort.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay, Sam knew well enough, the young rogue, who to come to; but dear
+me, you look like a lad that has seen fair weather and easy work; do you
+know what kind of a place you've come to?'</p>
+
+<p>'Only what I have seen of it this morning, sir; and Mrs. Brown said that
+she thought a teacher was much needed.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, that she might well say, much needed; that is, if you can teach
+them any better manners than they've got now: they're a hard case, my
+dear young man, most gone to the evil one altogether.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Tracy smiled. 'I hope not quite so bad as that, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'Not much short on it, I tell you; but things look a little better than
+they have, and I ain't sure but a considerable lot on 'em might be got
+together; that is, the boys, I mean but&mdash;' and the old man regarded his
+young visitor with a very inquisitive countenance&mdash;'you don't look as if
+you could live on clam shells and oyster shells, and eels, and sich
+like; I'm afear'd you ain't used to them.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, yes, sir, I can eat what the rest of you do.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, my young friend, you can't judge always from the looks, what kind
+of fare a man has; but howsomever, if you can get along with such things
+as I've tell'd you of, why you won't starve, for you see we've got
+plenty on 'em; and as to the boys, do you, Sam Oakum, up and tell the
+gentleman what you know about it, and not stand stretching your mouth
+and grinnin' at me.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam soon numbered quite a company of boys, and girls too, that he knew
+would be very glad of a chance for schooling, and many more that would
+no doubt come if the gentleman 'would only make a beginning, and open a
+school.'</p>
+
+<p>As Henry Tracy had perhaps full as much desire to do good, as to receive
+compensation for his labors, seeing the strong desire manifested by Sam,
+and hearing him tell how very anxious some of his companions were to
+learn something, he made up his mind to try the experiment.</p>
+
+<p>Sam was almost beside himself for joy; it was the only one thing now
+wanting in his cup of happiness. His deficiency in every kind of
+knowledge acquired from books, was felt by him daily as a sore evil. 'If
+he could only read and write, and calculate like Jim Montjoy,' was for
+ever coming into his mind, a wish unalloyed by envy or any other evil
+feeling towards Jim, but filling his heart with sadness. Old Sam Cutter
+was no less rejoiced, for his boys were but little in advance of Sam
+Oakum, and now that they had taken such a favourable turn in their
+course of conduct, the old man felt that a school would be a crowning
+mercy. Some little difficulty presented itself as to where the teacher
+should take up his abode; there were good reasons why Mr. Cutter could
+not offer a residence under his own roof; the house was but small, <i>too
+small</i>, he found for himself, sometimes, and he durst not venture upon
+an addition.</p>
+
+<p>Sam Oakum would have rejoiced could his home have afforded
+accommodations such as he might ask a stranger to partake of, and a
+person of Mr. Tracy's appearance. Mrs. Montjoy's was the only place that
+Sam could think of where any thing like comfort could be had.</p>
+
+<p>'I know&mdash;I know all that, Sam; Mrs. Montjoy is a nice woman, and the
+house, though small, is tidy-like, and the boys are good fellows, a
+credit to the place; but you see, Sam, we must 'be wise as sarpants'
+about this business. You know how the folks feel, full of their
+jealousies and nonsense; and if the teacher should go there, they would
+say that he felt himself above folks, that he was too good for the like
+of them, and all that, and you see,' looking at Mr. Tracy, 'we've got to
+take folks as they are, and make the best on 'em.' And then turning his
+eye towards Sam, 'The Widow Andrews' is the place. Bill, you know, is
+gone; sorry for that, but he's gone, and no help for it; the old woman
+is queer, but where is one on 'em that ain't, sometimes? Yet she is
+pretty good in the main, and she'll be proud to do her best; and if the
+gentleman won't be frightened at a little squall once in a while, he'll
+git along pretty comfortable there: now, don't you think so, Sam?'</p>
+
+<p>Sam thought just as Mr. Cutter did; and as Mr. Tracy was not particular
+as to accommodations, provided they were cleanly, and he could have a
+room to himself, it was accordingly decided that he should accompany Sam
+there, and see what could be done. There was nothing very inviting in
+the appearance of things, to one who had been accustomed to a very
+different style of living: the house was a one-story building, placed
+very flat on the ground; both the roof and the sides were covered with
+shingles. Moss had accumulated so as to contend with the shingles for
+the precedence, and if the latter did the most good, the former was the
+most distinctly to be seen. But it was situated in the midst of a green
+grass plot, and the grass was short and velvety to the tread, and a few
+old cedar trees surrounded it, which tended to screen its imperfections,
+and make it pass for full as much as it deserved. A fence ran before it,
+much dilapidated, sufficient, however, to keep out the larger animals,
+where the green short grass grew up to the window.</p>
+
+<p>The widow was evidently flattered by the proposal, only she feared 'the
+gentleman might find their living very different from what he had been
+used to.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Tracy was satisfied, from the appearance of things within doors,
+that neatness was one trait which the widow certainly had, whatever
+others he might discover on further acquaintance. She showed him her
+best room, and which she was perfectly willing to yield up to his use.
+It was large enough, with an agreeable view of the surrounding country,
+and Henry thought, when he should get his books around him, he could
+make himself at home.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Cutter would have been glad to introduce the young man to Billy
+Bloodgood, but he dared not undertake the task, and suffered Billy to
+hammer away, and took no notice of the inquisitive glances which his
+good neighbor kept casting towards him. As soon, however, as the visitor
+had departed, still holding the hammer and tongs, he made up to Mr.
+Cutter, and putting his head close to his ear, hallooed in a voice
+almost sufficient to have made the sound reach his own tympanum.</p>
+
+<p>'Who's that?'</p>
+
+<p>'I ain't deaf; you needn't holler at that rate into a man.'</p>
+
+<p>'Who did you say? I didn't hear you.'</p>
+
+<p>'Dear me, what <i>shall</i> I do? I'm all out of breath a talkin' to that
+youngster.'</p>
+
+<p>'Don't hear.'</p>
+
+<p>Uncle Sam made a desperate effort, opened his mouth, drew in a long
+breath, put his hand up to form a trumpet, and applying the machinery as
+near as possible to Billy's head, called out,</p>
+
+<p>'He's a teacher.'</p>
+
+<p>'A preacher?' and Billy nodded and smiled; 'that's <i>good</i> going to stay
+here?'</p>
+
+<p>'Bless my soul, what <i>shall</i> I do? I shan't try agin', no how.'</p>
+
+<p>'Sally'll be glad to hear that; where is he from?'</p>
+
+<p>Uncle Sam looked first one way and then the other, as though meditating
+an escape; but he hated to move, and in fact he knew there would be
+little use in trying it, for Billy would be after him so he finally cast
+an imploring eye up to his neighbor, who stooping down and looking very
+inquiringly into his face.</p>
+
+<p>'O dear, dear! I ain't got no breath to do it.'</p>
+
+<p>Billy shook his head.</p>
+
+<p>'Don't hear.'</p>
+
+<p>'No, nor you won't if the sound has got to come out of me; it can't be
+done.'</p>
+
+<p>'Don't hear what you say; speak a little louder.'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't know.' Old Sam made noise enough this time, and if it could
+have been concentrated might have gone to the place, but Billy had heard
+something, so he nodded his head.</p>
+
+<p>'From below? what place? anywhere near by?'</p>
+
+<p>'Dear, dear, he'll be the death of me!' Uncle Sam was indeed in a bad
+case; he had at no time any breath to spare, and to be called upon to
+expend it, first in working with the big hammer, and then in blowing
+trumpets, was a little more than his good-nature could stand. He was
+very red in the face, breathed short and heavy, and with his old straw
+hat flapping violently to catch fresh supplies of air, looked wildly
+about for some loophole whereby to creep out from this dilemma. Just at
+that moment, and as Billy was again upon the point of asking for more
+light on the obscurity of the last sound that reached him, the shop door
+was darkened by the entrance of no less a personage than Sally Bloodgood
+herself. She came in so rapidly, that she was nigh being foul of Uncle
+Sam; as it was, she only impeded the motion of the old hat. She was not
+at all in a visiting dress, having come, as she said, 'just as she was,'
+to see her neighbor, Mrs. Cutter, for a minute. 'But do, la, Uncle Sam,
+what ails you? your face is as red as a turkey's comb. You seem to be
+all blowed out. It's Bloodgood, I know it is. He's been asking you
+questions, I know he has. You hadn't ought to try to talk to him, Uncle
+Sam; it's enough to kill you.'</p>
+
+<p>'I believe you,' turning his eyes up at her very expressively; 'you're
+right there, Sally.'</p>
+
+<p>Billy Bloodgood now engrossed his wife's attention, by telling her the
+great news, 'that there was a preacher come, a nice-looking young man.'</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Bloodgood looked at Mr. Cutter for an explanation.</p>
+
+<p>'Do <i>tell</i>, Uncle Sam, was he a very youngerly man, very fine and
+delicate like?'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Cutter nodded assent.</p>
+
+<p>'La, me, I wonder if it's the same one that called to see Bloodgood,
+this mornin'. A preacher?&mdash;who upon airth would have thought it? he
+never said nothin' about preach'n'.'</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Bloodgood had her own reasons for being so surprised; and as Uncle
+Sam Cutter saw clearly that her thoughts were very much troubled about
+the matter, he came to the conclusion to let her enjoy her mistake:</p>
+
+<p>'It will teach her, may be, to be a little more careful of her tongue.'</p>
+
+<p>But, as Billy Bloodgood was the principal man to whom Mr. Cutter looked
+for aid in sustaining and encouraging the young man, the fact that he
+wished to teach a young school among them, must be communicated to him.
+Utterly hopeless of any power in himself to do the thing, he, without
+any ceremony, took hold of the loose covering which hung about the
+person of the lady, and fairly forcing her down upon a rough seat, near
+himself,</p>
+
+<p>'Now you see, woman, I give it clean up; I shan't never try no more to
+drive a word into Billy's head. I can't do it&mdash;it will kill me.'</p>
+
+<p>''Tis hard work, Uncle Sam, ain't it? it takes such a power of wind. But
+you see somebody's got to make him hear, and I 'spose it's my lot; and
+what a body's got to do, you know, Uncle Sam, why, they must submit to
+it: but it takes my breath clean away sometimes, and makes me so faint
+and gone, that I can't hardly hold myself together.' And the good woman,
+pressing her hands very hard against her sides, exhibited to Uncle Sam
+the desperate efforts she had to make, at times, to keep things in their
+place.</p>
+
+<p>Billy stood close by, with one hand on Uncle Sam's shoulder, looking
+very complacently at his wife, and nodding every once in a while, as
+though he understood perfectly what she was saying.</p>
+
+<p>'Fine-looking young man; smart, I guess.' And then stooping over, and
+looking into Mr. Cutter's face, 'You didn't tell me what place he came
+from.'</p>
+
+<p>'Where is it, Uncle Sam? jist tell me, and I'll make him hear, I'll
+warrant.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, Sally, I don't know where he's come from. No doubt Heaven has sent
+him from somewhere or another, and I don't much care, I am so glad to
+see any thing in a decent shape come to do a little good among us: he
+may have dropped right down, for all I know.'</p>
+
+<p>'Do, la, Uncle Sam, how you talk; you're enough to frighten a body. But
+I must tell Bloodgood somethin' or another.' So, raising herself a
+little, putting one hand on each knee, and placing her prominent member
+close to her husband's ear, who was still bending down and looking
+earnestly at Mr. Cutter, she was about to give one of her blasts, when
+she was suddenly arrested by the powerful hand of the latter.</p>
+
+<p>'Stop, Sally, stop!&mdash;not now: none of your hollering here, I can't
+stand it. Wait till you git home, and then you can tell Billy all about
+it.'</p>
+
+<p>Billy, finding that there was a sudden interruption to all
+correspondence for some cause he could not well define, and being
+accustomed to such events, put a stop to his inquiries for the present.</p>
+
+<p>How vast a change of feeling is sometimes effected by the passing away
+of sunlight, with the bustle of its busy hours and the silent shades of
+evening!</p>
+
+<p>Henry Tracy had made a busy day of it; he had met with unexpected
+success in engaging scholars, and had procured a room in a building,
+once used as a court-house, in which to hold his school. Gratified with
+his prospects, he sat down to the clean supper table with the Widow
+Andrews and her daughter, with feelings much more buoyant than could
+have been expected in one so young, for the first time a sojourner among
+strangers. He delighted them by the ease and pleasantness of his
+manners, so that when he retired, which he did soon after supper, the
+Widow Andrews looked at her daughter, and lifting her hands in
+expression of her admiration&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Who could ever ha' thought of it? Why, it's jist as easy talkin' to him
+as to Uncle Sam Cutter.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, mother! its as easy agin'.'</p>
+
+<p>The moon was in all her splendor, and her pale rays fell trembling
+through the foliage of the cottage. Taking a seat by the window, Henry
+looked out upon the beautiful night, and his heart filled with emotions
+to which he had hitherto been a stranger.</p>
+
+<p>Home, that idea so satisfying to the soul, that spot to which our wishes
+fly when in sickness or sorrow, was nought to him now but the
+resting-place of his past joys and trials&mdash;a beautiful vision that had
+left an impress on his heart, which time could not obliterate; although,
+like a vision, it had passed away, his bosom heaved with the swelling
+thoughts that rolled like ocean waves heavier and mightier in upon him.
+He drew from his breast a golden locket and unclasping it, held the
+miniature it enclosed beneath the rays of the moon; his lips trembled,
+as the sacred name of '<i>mother</i>' broke from them. 'Yes, I will ever
+think of thee, thy sweet love has made my home a paradise, and thy pure
+piety and gentle counsels have won me to the path of peace. My Saviour's
+image hast thou ever borne before me, until my heart has learned to
+love Him as my best and dearest friend. Oh, may my life be such as thy
+last dying prayer entreated it might be; and may I be led by the Holy
+Spirit in the way that leads to where thou art.'</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XI.</h2>
+
+
+<p>It was a very bright to-morrow in Ned's imagination, as he lay down to
+rest; for then he was to accompany Jim and Sam, and was to see the fort,
+and old Peter and Major Morris, and perhaps little Susie too; and the
+new plan of Jim's was the object of their errand. If the day in Ned's
+imagination was brighter than the one which actually dawned upon them,
+it must have been a beauty indeed. The sky, the water, and the land
+opened in loveliness; the bright blue above was reflected from the
+glassy water, and the golden beams, that poured in full glory from the
+east, were thrown back by the fading forest in all variety of colors.
+This was to Ned a holiday indeed, and his active spirit enjoyed it to
+the full; faithfully had he toiled through the long summer days, nor
+even thought of relaxation. Now, the summer labors over, sweet was the
+rest, and exhilarating the prospect of new scenes and faces, which, with
+that morning's dawn, came playing before his view.</p>
+
+<p>Major Morris was not a little pleased, as he listened to Jim's simple
+exposition of the plan he had in view; his generous heart rejoiced to
+know that what he had already done to aid and stimulate these youths,
+had turned to so good account.</p>
+
+<p>'And you say that you have laid by one hundred dollars from your trading
+with me this summer, and so you begin to despise your old business? You
+wish to find some easier way to make a hundred dollars? Ay, ay&mdash;like all
+the rest of us.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, no, sir&mdash;no, sir; we do not think of giving up our garden; we
+expect to work at that the same as ever.'</p>
+
+<p>And then Jim explained how he intended to manage, which convinced Major
+Morris that the scheme was not only well laid, but included much closer
+attention to their work than heretofore. He looked at the boys with deep
+interest; the smile, which had played round his lips while speaking to
+them, passed away, and his keen black eye turned from one to the other,
+as though scrutinizing their very spirits. Sam's honest eye, as black as
+the one which was fixed on him, twinkled and turned aside, as the
+Major, after surveying the brothers, rested his gaze on him. What he saw
+in Sam, or what strange visions passed before him, wherein poor Sam
+acted a conspicuous part, may one day be revealed. A sigh at last broke
+the spell; he turned towards Jim.</p>
+
+<p>'Your plan, my good fellow, is one which meets my approbation, and any
+thing I can do to assist you in it, I will do with pleasure; but you
+know from past dealing with me, that my efforts will be merely directed
+so as to enable you to help yourselves.'</p>
+
+<p>'You are very kind, sir. I thought your judgment would be safe for us to
+follow, and that perhaps you could give me some directions as to
+purchases, and therefore I have taken this liberty.'</p>
+
+<p>'Your plan of setting up a small store is a good one; on many accounts:
+but you must bear in mind that great attention will be required, both in
+purchasing and selling. You will be in danger of losing some of your
+profits by waste in retailing; you will also be in danger of losing
+goods and profits too, by selling to those who will never pay you; and
+you will run some risk in the transportation of your goods, or of your
+money, so far by water, although this latter risk can be guarded
+against. What I would say to you then is, that this business, although
+small at first, will require the most strict attention in all its
+details; and I would also say another thing, if I did not fully believe
+that all of you have been trained to those correct principles, without
+which no man can or ought to rise to honor or prosperity.</p>
+
+<p>'I can assist you by introducing you to a house in the city, where you
+will be well dealt with; and as our boat sails to-morrow morning, you
+had better remain here, and I will accompany you.'</p>
+
+<p>Ned was ready for a caper; he looked at Sam, and rubbed his hands
+together very fast. Sam shook his head, as much as to say, 'Be quiet,
+Ned.'</p>
+
+<p>Jim blushed, looked at the boys, and then up at Major Morris.</p>
+
+<p>'I thank you, sir, for your kind offer; but having no idea of being able
+to do any thing so soon, have left my money at home.'</p>
+
+<p>'So much the better, then there will be the less risk; I will arrange
+for the payment of your goods in the city, the same as if you had your
+money with you, and when we return, you can settle with me here.'</p>
+
+<p>Jim was not very clear about this matter; but confiding in Major
+Morris, assented to remain, thanking him again for his kind interest.</p>
+
+<p>During this conversation, Peter stood back at some distance, leaning on
+his crutches, and chewing a tremendous quid of tobacco with great
+diligence, and occasionally smoothing down the end of his queue. Ned,
+while listening to the Major, kept an eye on Peter, scanning him from
+head to foot. No sooner had the Major withdrawn, than Peter hobbled
+towards the boys, who were standing on the steps by their boat, and
+making preparations to return; he threw his crutches down, and taking a
+seat on the stone coping close beside the boat, listened attentively to
+Jim, who was giving directions to Sam and Ned about some small matters
+at home, and about their coming for him on his return to the fort.</p>
+
+<p>'I suppose,' said Jim, looking at Peter, 'that I shall be back here by
+about three o'clock to-morrow afternoon.'</p>
+
+<p>'Bless your soul! what kind of a kalkelation have you run foul of now?
+you are out of your reck'nin' by a whole day at the least. Why you see,
+my hearty, you won't start from here 'afore say nine o'clock to-morrow
+mornin'; with the wind aft, or a little quaterin', say she goes eight
+knots an hour, which is good sailin' for sich kind of craft, it will
+take you all of four hours and no balks to git to the landin'; so you
+see' (giving his head a bob, and a corresponding motion to his queue)
+'you can't be there 'afore one o'clock, no how' (another bob); 'well
+then, if the wind is fair to carry you there, you don't think it is
+goin' to chop round jist when you're ready to come back, and blow astern
+all the way home, do you?'&mdash;looking at Jim again.&mdash;'No, no; the wind and
+weather don't care for nobody; we've got to take 'em, jist as it
+happens, and make the most on 'em. So you see, you may jist knock
+overboard all your figurin'; it won't do you no good; you've got to stay
+one night in the city, at any rate, for the boat never starts till the
+next mornin'; and if you've good luck, may be about three o'clock you'll
+be in, and may be not.'</p>
+
+<p>Jim was rather puzzled to make out from Peter's reckoning when to tell
+the boys to come for him; but Peter, seeing him in doubt, gave his own
+directions.</p>
+
+<p>'Here you, Sam, jist harkee; there won't be no need of your bein' here
+afore day a'ter to-morrow; then you see, you can jist hoist sail, and
+come along easy; no hurry; you be here by three o'clock, plenty time
+enough. Now you see, don't make no kalkelations about goin' home that
+night, 'kase&mdash;you hear me now?&mdash;sposin' the wind should take 'em right
+dead ahead, they can't get in no how afore six o'clock, and may be not
+then, and there's no tellin' when.'</p>
+
+<p>Jim found it a more serious matter, this going to the city, than he had
+anticipated. Peter's experience soon convinced him of that; as he could
+give no more certain directions to Sam than he had already received, he
+must let him go with what he had.</p>
+
+<p>The sail was hoisted; Peter had untied the rope, giving at the same time
+a sharp good-natured lecture to Sam, for making his boat fast in such an
+unsailor-like manner. Sam took it all in good part, for, in truth, he
+had not done the thing; it was some of Ned's handiwork. Jim stood on the
+stairs, giving Ned all sorts of directions and injunctions.</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, yes, Jim; I'll see to it, never you fear.'</p>
+
+<p>Off goes the little craft.</p>
+
+<p>'Good-by, Sam; good-by, Ned. Take care of yourselves.'</p>
+
+<p>'Good-by, Jim.'</p>
+
+<p>'Good-by, my hearties; haul in that bow-line, and don't let it drag in
+that fashion; and haul your peak taut; you'll have a stiff breeze, but
+she'll bear it. Good luck to you.'</p>
+
+<p>Gently the boat turned off, and took the swelling breeze. The boys
+looked back, to give a parting nod.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Sam, who is that? ain't she a beauty though!&mdash;is that Susie? See,
+Sam, she is shaking her hand to you.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam made no reply; he touched his hat lightly, as he had seen Peter do
+to the Major.</p>
+
+<p>'I tell you what, Sam, I don't wonder you jumped into the water; I would
+have jumped, too, if I had been here.'</p>
+
+<p>'I wouldn't be looking round so, Ned.'</p>
+
+<p>'Mustn't I? Well, I'll look ahead then. I thought sister Eller was
+pretty&mdash;but&mdash;but&mdash;may be it's the dress though.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam was in no talking mood; he kept his eye steadily fixed on the sail,
+which was swelled finely out, and making their boat skim along towards
+home to his heart's content; and as Ned received only monosyllables in
+reply to his many questions, he soon tired of putting them.</p>
+
+<p>Large cities have their evils, and they are not few. Hither the idle and
+the vicious throng, for here are dens to hide them from the public gaze,
+and companions to uphold them in their evil courses, and finery enough
+to glut their polluted appetite; but with the evils, are many things
+that tend to bless society. Here the good man finds many kindred
+spirits, too, and like coals to burning coals, they kindle in each other
+a warmer glow, and spread around them, in a wide and fervent circle, a
+cheering, healthful influence. Here busy industry plies her daily,
+nightly task, and meets with large reward, and hangs out her trophies to
+the gaze of the vast multitude, urging them on to diligence: here wealth
+erects her glittering palace; and here the darkest den of poverty is
+found. Here emulation and sympathy have each objects of heart-thrilling
+interest, sufficient to awaken all the energies of the jostling throng.
+Deeds of charity, which make us proud of our species, are here
+originated and carried into execution: and here, too, deeds of horror
+are enacted, that make us feel how like the very fiends of hell
+sometimes is man.</p>
+
+<p>Excitement, in all its various forms, keeps up a constant whirl; all
+feel the influence for good or ill, and onward all are pressing. The
+mind of man is tasked, until its energies, too strongly, constantly
+impelled, give way, and then the victim droops, and plods along, and
+sickens at the strife, and longs to be at rest.</p>
+
+<p>When the first view of the city broke upon the gazing eye of our hero,
+he scarcely knew what to make of it. The tall spires running up against
+the distant sky; the crowded masts that, like a wintry forest, lined the
+shores; the mighty mass of buildings, heaps on heaps, spreading for
+miles on either side; the boats of various size and shape crossing and
+recrossing, and sweeping by them with the arrow's speed; and as they
+neared the land, the busy throng of people hurrying to and fro; the
+confused and deafening noise, the smoke and dust, the huge hulks, old
+ocean-travellers, that lay fast corded to the strong stout piles; the
+long projecting piers, around whose dark-green slippery base the turbid
+waters swelled, and beat, and broke&mdash;all, all were new to Jim; and in
+mute wonder he looked and thought, until their little vessel glided into
+her resting-place, between two vast walls of docks.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, James, what do you think of the city?" said Major Morris, coming
+up to where he sat at the bow of the boat, and putting his hand kindly
+on his shoulder.</p>
+
+<p>"I hardly know, sir; but it seems a very busy place." 'Yes, busy you
+may well say, every one is in a hurry here, and we must be so, too, as
+we are rather late to-day, and I fear my friend will have left his
+store.'</p>
+
+<p>Jim hastened to accompany the Major, who, already on the wharf, was
+mingling with the crowd; it took him, however, some little time to learn
+how to make haste in a city, and not before he had received a few stout
+thumps against some other hurrying mortals, and a few harsh curses as an
+awkward country booby. But Jim heeded them not, for the Major walked
+fast, and to lose sight of him would be a dilemma indeed, amidst such a
+Babel. He twisted this way and that, sometimes running close to the
+wall, at others jumping off from the side-walk among the carts, and then
+quickly back again, over bales of cotton tumbling from the doors; around
+hogsheads of molasses, barrels of flour, puncheons of rum, bars of iron,
+old anchors, coils of cable, droves of little, ragged, dirty children,
+huddling about empty sugar hogsheads. Verily Jim had a time of it; he
+was not naturally one of the hurrying sort. To get around and through
+all these obstacles, and to keep his eye on the Major, at the same time,
+required more activity than he had been accustomed to use.</p>
+
+<p>After travelling in this way, as Jim fancied, a long distance, he
+rejoiced to see the Major make a halt, and enter a large store, the
+passage-way of which was blocked up with piles of tea-chests, casks,
+bales, boxes, and men. Jim squeezed along behind the Major, who, opening
+a glass door, entered a small neat room, where every thing was in
+perfect contrast with the confusion without: a large double desk
+occupied a considerable portion of the apartment; it was situated
+between the two front windows, and covered with fine green cloth; every
+thing upon it lay in order; each little paper seemed to be there by
+design. The windows were clean, and the glasses on the shelf shone
+brightly, and the floor was covered with white sand, and dust and
+cobwebs appeared to have no license there. At the desk two young men
+were busily employed with immense folios, working away in silence,
+occasionally passing a word with each other in a very low voice, and
+that only in reference to the work before them. A spell seemed to be
+upon Jim as soon as he entered that room; he had never felt so before,
+not even when first introduced into the parlor of Mrs. Morris; every
+thing wore the appearance of so much exactness, every thing was done and
+said in such a calm, thoughtful way, it was so still and orderly, it
+seemed to Jim that matters of great moment alone occupied each mind.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Thomas was a large dealer; hundreds of thousands passed through his
+hands every year, and his extensive business was managed by him with
+perfect ease, because he had grown into it; unlike too many of modern
+times, who, aiming to catch the golden shower, involve themselves in a
+complication of difficulties, purchase without judgment, and sell at
+random, only anxious that their books shall show, at the end of the
+year, a large balance in their favor, whether realized or not.</p>
+
+<p>He had begun in a small way, and gradually increased his business with
+his means; never suffering himself to be allured by a tempting
+speculation, nor to engage in any undertaking beyond what he could well
+manage, he neither worried himself nor his friends. It was a busy place,
+though, that store of his; from early dawn until late at night, there
+was one continued round of active duty; but extensive as his sales were,
+he despised not the most insignificant of his customers, bestowing equal
+attention to him who wished to spend his hundred dollars, as to those
+who yearly drew from his vast storehouse their tens of thousands. An
+upright, manly course he had ever pursued; he was an honest dealer as
+well as a wealthy merchant.</p>
+
+<p>Major Morris knew well the man into whose hands he committed our young
+merchant; and it required but a few words in private to interest Mr.
+Thomas in his welfare, almost as much as he had himself been. The story
+of the youth immediately took with him, and Jim's modest and intelligent
+look added force to what the Major had related concerning him; and then,
+when Major Morris left the office to attend to business of his own
+elsewhere, he made Jim take a seat beside him, and with the familiarity
+of a friend, drew from his own lips a rehearsal of all he had done, and
+what he wished to do; inquiring into all the particulars respecting the
+place where he lived. Jim had but a plain and simple story to tell; but
+before he had finished, the heart of the merchant was so engaged in his
+plan, that he thought of him not as a customer, out of whom he might
+honestly make a small gain, but as one whom it would give him great
+pleasure to direct and aid. What a priceless jewel is integrity of
+heart! and happy is the youth who, trained to virtue, goes forth into
+the busy paths of life to act his part. A mild but steady light
+illuminates his track; his very countenance is radiant, and his plain,
+simple speech, which tells the meaning of his heart, wins every honest
+ear, and wakes a chord respondent in each noble soul; he needs no
+varnished tale, no flattering words, no cringing bows; a better passport
+to the confidence of all he carries with him, in his own honest purpose.</p>
+
+<p>With much patience Mr. Thomas made out a list of such articles as he
+thought would be the most saleable, and gave immediate directions to
+have them carefully put up. He then opened to Master Jim such a method
+of managing business, that he felt almost in a hurry&mdash;a thing Jim was
+not often guilty of,&mdash;to start off and get to work. Jim was not given to
+vanity; he had never felt that he had any thing to be proud of, but when
+he saw the cart loaded with the different articles intended for him,
+neatly marked with his name and place of residence, and when he received
+his bill made out in the most particular manner, and receipted by the
+clerk with a most significant flourish beneath the signer's name, and
+when Mr. Thomas cordially shook his hand, wishing him all success, and
+that he might have the pleasure of seeing him soon again, he was highly
+gratified, and would not just then have exchanged his place and
+prospects for any one he could think of.</p>
+
+<p>Sam and Ned, although somewhat confused by Peter's directions, had
+reached the fort a short time before the arrival of Master Jim with his
+little cargo. It was a happy meeting between the brothers, for they had
+never before been separated for a single night. How Ned stared, when he
+saw the boxes, and bags, and barrels with Jim's name upon them! How he
+would have shouted, if he dared, but Sam was close by him.</p>
+
+<p>'Keep still, Ned; you know it won't do here.'</p>
+
+<p>'But only to think, Sam, what a grand thing it is&mdash;only think, to have a
+store, and people buying things, and all that; and you in a great vessel
+bringing goods to us&mdash;hurra, Sam!'</p>
+
+<p>'Do, for goodness' sake, Ned, stop; what will they think?'</p>
+
+<p>Sam was in great perplexity; he felt that their character was in danger;
+but Ned promised that he would keep in, at any rate until they were out
+of hearing. Jim was fortunately out of the way, having gone with Major
+Morris into the fort, to settle their business matters. Old Peter,
+however, was a witness of the scene, and Sam had great respect for
+Peter, and feared that he would be horrified at Ned's disregard of the
+rules of propriety; but the old man shut up one eye, and screwing his
+countenance into a grimace almost frightful, sat and shook his sides,
+and worked away at his queue, making no noise whatever. Spasm after
+spasm came over him and passed away; and whenever he looked at Ned, off
+he would go again, shaking and wriggling and pulling at his queue, but
+making no noise. At length, beckoning to Sam to come near, he whispered,</p>
+
+<p>'He's full on it, I tell you;' and then another screwing of his face and
+a hearty shake&mdash;'he's a real boy, every inch on him. I only wish the
+Major had a heered him&mdash;how it come out, ha?' and then shake, shake,
+went the old man's sides. Sam, however, was greatly rejoiced that the
+Major was not there, and kept Ned very busy in stowing away the goods in
+their own boat, and did not feel quite at ease, until they had left the
+fort a good distance behind them.</p>
+
+<p>There was business enough on hand now for all our boys. The little end
+building was entered upon in earnest, and soon converted into quite a
+respectable-looking store, except as to size; in that respect it had not
+much to boast of. Sam labored with as much interest as either of them;
+and as they were all too busy to converse much while the store was in
+preparation, it was not until the evening of the second day after their
+return, that they could get a chance for talking. As the weather was too
+cold now to meet under their favorite tree, it was concluded, for the
+future, to make the store their rendezvous.</p>
+
+<p>'I tell you what, Sam, who would ever have thought of this six months
+ago? It is a regular store&mdash;ain't it? There are the shelves and the
+counter, and the barrels, and the canisters, and the scales, just as
+Grizzle has them, and a great deal nicer. But that little desk which Jim
+has fitted up so snug in the corner there behind the counter&mdash;that must
+be some city style. I never saw such a thing round here&mdash;did you?'</p>
+
+<p>'No; but it looks well&mdash;don't it? and that green cloth on it. Jim means
+to have everything snug here&mdash;don't he?'</p>
+
+<p>Ned did not reply, for Jim entered just then, and looking round with a
+smile, took his seat opposite to them.</p>
+
+<p>'Now, Jim, tell us all about your trip, and what you saw, and how you
+managed, and where you bought the things, and all about it.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Ned; I cannot tell you half that I witnessed in that great city.
+You must go there yourself one of these days; it is a great place, and
+every one is busy, and all seem to be in a hurry to get along, as though
+they had something to do that must be done at once. It was as much as
+<i>I</i> could do to get through the streets; but the gentleman to whom Major
+Morris introduced me, treated me very kindly, and told me how we must
+manage: said he, "You will find that the people in your place have got
+very little money (which you know, boys, is true), and if they can only
+buy for money, you will be able to sell very little. Now you must do
+this: you must offer to take from them any thing they have for
+sale&mdash;butter, eggs, yarn, wood&mdash;no matter what, in payment for whatever
+they want to buy of you."'</p>
+
+<p>'We should be in a fine fix then, Jim; what should we do with all the
+stuff&mdash;they would only take a small part at the fort, you know.'</p>
+
+<p>'Just wait, Ned, and you shall hear. "All these things," said he, "are
+wanted in the city, and are as good here as money. As soon as you get a
+supply of this kind of produce, load up your vessel and bring it to me;
+I will either take it of you or dispose of it. You can get more for it
+here than it is worth with you, and so you can make a profit both
+ways."'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Sam, did you ever hear the like?'</p>
+
+<p>'But just wait awhile, Ned. He said also, "that as soon as the people
+here found that they could purchase goods of us cheaper than they had
+been accustomed to, and get a larger price for their produce than they
+had ever received, which you will be able to do by trading here, you
+will not only get all the business of the place, but they will be
+stimulated to raise a great deal more, and so every year you will find
+your trade increasing;" and he said, "before two years, you will require
+a large sloop to do your carrying business."'</p>
+
+<p>'Just hear that, Sam&mdash;hurra!'</p>
+
+<p>'Now, Ned, keep quiet; it is not accomplished yet; and things may not
+work just as Mr. Thomas thinks they will.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, but I say, Jim, it will work&mdash;I know it will&mdash;hurra! Only to think
+of it&mdash;a large sloop in two years&mdash;hurra! Why don't you hurra, Sam? You
+will be captain of her&mdash;you know you will.'</p>
+
+<p>'I could hurra, Ned, if it would do any good, for I feel as glad as you
+do; but it is not always best to make a noise about it.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam had not forgotten the alarm he had received from Ned's shouting a
+few day's back.</p>
+
+<p>'Well, I don't see what you and Jim are made of: where's the use of any
+thing good, if a body can't let it out a little?'</p>
+
+<p>Jim soon got Ned back to real business, by asking him to read over the
+bill of goods, and call off the articles, while he and Sam examined
+them, and placed them away in readiness for use.</p>
+
+<p>We must now leave our boys, for a time, to try their new experiment, in
+order that we may bring forward the other parts of our story.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XII.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Henry Tracy found himself surrounded by not only a large number of
+scholars, but such as listened to him with the strictest attention, and
+applied themselves to their tasks with unusual diligence. It was,
+however, to him a sad sight, to behold so many of them, and some almost
+his own age, commencing the first principles of education. The labours
+which devolved upon him were arduous, but the more he found to do, the
+greater was the interest he took, and the more untiring his zeal for
+their benefit. He walked amid his little community with no lordly air;
+great indeed was the disparity between his attainments and those of his
+pupils, but he felt it not, or felt it only to humble himself before
+God, that so superior had been his advantages.</p>
+
+<p>His power over them was unbounded. An influence had been gradually
+stealing over their minds, which caused them to listen to his
+instructions as though he was a messenger from heaven. It proceeded from
+the combined power of religion, intelligence, and refinement. He had, on
+opening his school, gathered them around him in solemn act of worship,
+and every day, morning and evening, he publicly commended himself and
+them to God, and poured out from his feeling heart such warm petitions
+for them all, that many a hard and careless youth would wipe away the
+starting tear, although he could not tell why that tear had come. And
+then through all the day he ministered to their intellectual wants, with
+so much kindness in his manner, and so efficiently too; he threw around
+him such a charm by his gentle, yet manly deportment, treating them with
+the same respect that he wished to be observed towards himself, that the
+most obdurate were soon softened. No harsh words ever escaped him, even
+when their improprieties affected him the most keenly; nothing but the
+expression of sorrow or surprise, brought out in that delicate manner,
+in tones low and touching, which seldom failed to start the blush on the
+cheek of the delinquent, and check at once whatever was wrong. Slowly,
+too, but most effectually, an influence was stealing ever the parents.
+It arose from the deep respect which they saw their children felt for
+their teacher: it flashed upon them as they met him in his daily walks;
+his lowliness, his pleasant smile, and his soft clear voice affected
+them, they knew not why; and wrapped itself around their hearts. There
+was no letting down of his own good manners, no seeming condescension to
+their ignorance; he conversed with them as his equals, and poured forth
+the thoughts which were uppermost in his mind, in as good language as he
+could command; and he ever left an impression of his mental power and
+moral worth that made them think and talk of him when he was gone, and
+wish that their children at least might be like him.</p>
+
+<p>The error which good Mrs. Bloodgood had fallen into in regard to the
+calling of the young man, was soon cleared up, but not until she was,
+herself, won to him; and as she could not get rid of some troublesome
+remembrances of their first interview, she took the greater pains to
+trumpet abroad continually her good thoughts concerning him now.</p>
+
+<p>'Of all the men that ever I sot my eyes on, he's the best; he's an angel
+on airth; he's clean too good for it, don't you think so, Aunt Sally
+Cutter?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why I don't know, Sally,' and the old lady straightened herself up, and
+pushed her spectacles further on her nose; '<i>men</i> is <i>men</i>, and there
+ain't much angel about 'em, as ever I seed; but I 'spose he's as good as
+most on 'em; but they are all clean took with him, and what do you
+think?'&mdash;stretching her long arm out, and raising it over her
+head;&mdash;'Cutter has taken it into his head now, that, preacher or no
+preacher, he means to get him to hold some kind of a meetin' or other,
+and he's gone this very blessed day with the old mare to the Widow
+Andrews' to see him about it.'</p>
+
+<p>'Do tell, Aunt Sally, it ain't true? has Uncle Sam gone, though? Well
+that's jist what Bloodgood's been talkin' on; he'll be so glad; but,
+poor soul, what good will it do him?'</p>
+
+<p>It was indeed true; Uncle Sam Cutter had been long impressed with a
+sense of the need there was for some public religious services; he had
+in his youth been accustomed to mingle with those that kept 'holy
+day,'&mdash;he had gone to the house of God with the multitude, and he had
+never lost the savor of those solemn seasons; the remembrance came over
+him as he toiled in his shop, or sat by his door in the deep shades of
+evening; he mourned in secret that he had ever pitched his tent in
+Sodom. Oh! how he longed once again to hear the peal of the church-bell,
+calling the worshippers to the house of God; but he was now too old to
+remove to strange places, or do much towards obtaining such privileges
+as he felt were needed; and yet to think of leaving his family in such a
+moral waste, without some effort to remedy matters, he could not. He had
+listened attentively to all that his boys told at home about the
+teacher, and he thought what a pity it was that some of the older
+sinners also could not have the benefit of his prayers and instructions.
+'We all need it bad enough,' he said to himself one day, as he sat on
+his old block by the shop door; 'bad enough, bad enough. Oh dear me! to
+think what a heathen set we are, goin' whip and cut to the Evil one, and
+nobody to say "Whoa!" to us, no more than if we were fat sheep goin' to
+the slaughter-house.' With that the old man began to fan himself very
+fast with his straw hat, his lips moving all the while, as was his habit
+whenever he thought hard. His train of ideas at last led to the
+conclusion that something must be done; so ordering up the mare, he was
+soon off for the Widow Andrews', resolved to lay before the young man
+such a picture of their condition as would not fail to move him, 'if,'
+said he, 'he has any bowels of mercy in him.'</p>
+
+<p>The Widow Andrews was much surprised to see the old cart drive up to her
+door, for her good neighbour, though a very kind man, was an indifferent
+visitor. She did not wait for him to alight&mdash;a business never rapidly
+performed&mdash;but ran out to the little gate, and with an air of great
+wonderment looked up at the old man, as he sat dangling on the tail of
+his carryall.</p>
+
+<p>'What's the matter, Uncle Sam? there ain't no bad news, I'm hoping. But
+do tell! what a pucker you're in; you are clean blowed, ain't you, Uncle
+Sam? Do git down and come in, and let your boy tie the horse, and rest
+you a bit, and take a little breath.'</p>
+
+<p>The old man was somewhat put to it, for the old mare had not been
+exercised of late, and she had several additional gaits to try that day,
+and the road to the Widow's was none of the best.</p>
+
+<p>'Is the teacher to home?'</p>
+
+<p>'La me! what's to pay now, Uncle Sam? there ain't no turn up, I hope?
+But it's jist what I've been a fearin'; he's too good for 'em, I knew
+it, and I've told a good many on 'em so: he's jist an angel. Oh dear! if
+you've come to have him druv away, Uncle Sam, it will break my heart,
+and it will be the ruin of the place; and where will they ever git sich
+another?' And the old lady began to wring her hands, and to run upon her
+high notes at such a rate, that Uncle Sam began to be restless, and
+making a desperate effort to get some wind into his speaking apparatus,
+he let off at her in no very moderate terms.</p>
+
+<p>'Do, woman, stop with your clatter; you'll frighten the mare, the next
+thing, and she has a'most killed me a'ready; there ain't no need o' your
+howling and caterwauling at that rate. Why, dear me! can't a body ax to
+see the teacher, but you must set up all that noise and squalling? I
+don't want to hurt a hair of his head; so jist put your hands down and
+git into the house, and I'll come in to rights.'</p>
+
+<p>So telling Dick to stop yanking the beast, as it only made her worse,
+and to sit there and try to keep her quiet until he came out, he let
+himself down, and puffing and blowing, from his sudden and extra effort,
+he waddled through the little gate, and reaching the stoop, sat down on
+the low broad step.</p>
+
+<p>'Do please come in, Uncle Sam, and take a chair.'</p>
+
+<p>'You please tell me, first, if the teacher is to home.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, you see, Uncle Sam,' coming up and almost whispering in his ear,
+'he ain't jist to home, but he'll be here in a minute; he's gone to take
+his evenin' walk down in the grove there. You see he goes out jist as
+reg'lar as can be, every livin' day, right after tea, straight down to
+the grove, and there he stays awhile, then back he comes agin; and Mary
+and I have been tryin' to make out what it is he's a doin' all alone by
+himself there. Mary says he's 'mantic like, as she calls it, but I don't
+believe it's no sich thing. Do, la, there he comes, now; jist see how
+still and quiet he walks along, that's the way he does every livin' day;
+so come in, Uncle Sam.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Cutter, however, much preferred seeing the young man, alone, and
+chose to remain where he was. It was but a few minutes after the widow
+had retired, that Mr. Tracy entered the gate, and seeing Mr. Cutter,
+walked quickly up, gave him a cordial shake of the hand, which was as
+cordially returned, and rather more so than his fingers could have
+wished; and politely invited the old gentleman into his private room,
+as Mr. Cutter had intimated his desire to say a few words to him.</p>
+
+<p>It took the old man some little time to recover himself after the
+operation of being ushered into a strange apartment, and getting himself
+fixed in a convenient seat. And after he had revived enough to begin to
+talk, a great many commonplace things had to be said before he could get
+at the subject of his errand. To that however, he was finally led by Mr.
+Tracy's remarking,</p>
+
+<p>'That he began to be very much encouraged about his school, the boys
+were attentive to their studies, and to all the regulations of the
+school.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, sir, I believe the boys is in a fair way now to learn decency and
+manners, and may be something else; but I've been a thinkin', sir,
+whether you couldn't do a little something or other for the rest on us
+here, who are too big and too old to go to school.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Tracy was at a loss to imagine in what way his assistance could be
+required, but he ventured to reply,</p>
+
+<p>'That any thing in his power, whereby he could be of service, consistent
+with his present duties, he would gladly do.'</p>
+
+<p>'Glad to hear you say so, for seeing you've got the larnin', there ain't
+nothin' else in the way; and sure am I, if you knew half the need there
+was to have somethin' done, if it is ever so little, just by way of
+decency, if nothing more, you would be more willing than you say you
+are. You see, my young friend, the Evil one has got a hard grip on us,
+and nothin' but preachin' and prayin' will ever make him let go; and
+even that won't do some of us much good if we don't have it soon. You
+see I am an old man, it ain't long that I shall be hobbling about here.
+I can't put off the evil day, as you who are just beginnin'; there are a
+good many things that tell me that I am 'most to the bottom of the hill,
+so you must not wonder if I feel a little anxious to have things more in
+a righter shape than they are with me at present. And there are a good
+many in all, just about as far on the road as I am; and for folks to be
+livin' on the edge of the grave, and never hear a word about any thing
+good; oh, my dear sir! if there is any pity in you, you'll begin right
+off, and try to do somethin' for us.'</p>
+
+<p>Henry Tracy was deeply affected by this address, for the old man spoke
+as if in earnest, and the tears that rolled freely told how much he
+felt.</p>
+
+<p>'I cannot, perhaps, fully understand what you would have me to do, my
+dear sir. You know that I am not at all qualified to preach, and whom to
+direct you to I know not.'</p>
+
+<p>'You can do all the preachin' that is needed, I ain't all afeared for
+that. All you have got to do is to give out in the school, that next
+Sabbath afternoon there will be a meetin' in the school-room, and all
+can come that's a mind to. There ain't no need of nothin' further, and
+God'll bless you for it.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Tracy would have made very decided resistance, had he consulted his
+judgment alone; but his own feelings were too much in unison with the
+old man's; the want of public religious privileges he had begun to feel
+most deeply, on his own account, and for the multitude around him. He
+could not resist this appeal; with a humble yet resolute heart he
+replied,</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Mr. Cutter, I will do as you say; and may God assist me, and
+grant His Spirit with us.'</p>
+
+<p>'May the Lord bless your dear young heart!'</p>
+
+<p>The old man could say no more, but with his heart overflowing with joy,
+he arose, pressed the hand of Mr. Tracy, and in silence hobbled out of
+the room and through the gate, and took his usual seat, waiting for his
+son to untie the beast and drive him home.</p>
+
+<p>The tidings that their young teacher was to hold a meeting on the
+Sabbath day soon spread throughout the place; and when he proceeded to
+give public notice to his school, it was only a confirmation to the boys
+that the report was true.</p>
+
+<p>It was a calm, lovely autumn day; and as Henry Tracy walked on his way
+by the path which he had chosen for his daily route to the school-house,
+his feelings were lulled into delicious repose; the rustling of the
+leaves, the stillness that reigned in field and wood, the waning tints
+of nature, the modest tones of the school-bell, calling all within its
+reach to the place of meeting; the little groups which could be seen in
+different roads, bending their steps thither; it seemed more like the
+Sabbath day than any he had spent here yet.</p>
+
+<p>He had done what he could to prepare himself, and he had a strong
+consciousness of being in the path of duty; and he felt a composure in
+view of the undertaking which he could not have anticipated. A few
+persons were collected round the door; they immediately followed him as
+he entered: to his surprise a large congregation was waiting his
+appearance.</p>
+
+<p>As he took his seat on a little platform that had been prepared for the
+occasion, and cast his eye over the assembly, like a flash of light his
+usually pale features were crimsoned with a deep blush, and then away it
+flew, and a deadly paleness that alarmed every beholder came in its
+place. A sympathy was excited in every bosom; his youth, his modesty,
+his grace of manner, his unostentatious effort to do them good, like a
+talisman spread its charm over all alike, and prepared them to receive
+whatever he should say, with the deepest attention. Henry was obliged to
+arouse himself, in order to overcome the oppressive weight that was
+becoming heavier every moment; he therefore proceeded at once to the
+business before him. He gave out a hymn, which he read with much
+propriety, and then inquired if there was any one present who could lead
+in singing; but as no one seemed ready to undertake, he commenced a
+familiar tune. An electric shock could not have surprised them more,
+than the melodious notes which rolled forth upon their delighted ears.
+Henry Tracey was gifted&mdash;for a gift surely it was, as no power of
+accomplishment could ever have imparted it&mdash;with one of those rich
+voices which might have entranced the multitude on a public stage, but
+its melodious tone had only rung beneath a parent's roof, and its
+sweetest, most touching notes, had only been drawn forth in praise.
+Quickened by the music, soon every voice that could follow joined fully
+in; but above them all, louder and sweeter as the hymn went on, floated
+those rich strains which Henry poured forth, as from a heart burning
+with intense devotion. Enraptured, solemnized, softened, the whole
+assembly, both speaker and hearer, were happily prepared for the
+remaining services.</p>
+
+<p>The prayer which followed was short and well ordered. He addressed the
+Being before whom angels veil their faces, with that humility of
+expression, with that pouring out of the heart in natural tones for a
+sinner's necessities, which plainly showed he was making a petition for
+wants which God alone could supply, and not framing forms of sentences
+to interest or please man.</p>
+
+<p>The passage of Scripture which he had selected was the story of the
+Prodigal Son, a portion of that blessed volume peculiarly precious to
+himself; and one with which he had become most familiar, and into the
+touching scenes it delineated, he had entered with his whole heart.</p>
+
+<p>In a very simple manner, he first explained the meaning of a parable,
+and the reason why our Saviour chose this method of instruction. Being
+well versed in ancient manners and customs, and the scenery of the
+eastern world, he delineated and filled up what was necessary to convey
+to the minds of uninformed persons, a perfect idea of the whole story.
+Every eye was riveted upon him, and his energies were strengthened, as
+he went along, by the deep interest which he saw was awakened among his
+hearers.</p>
+
+<p>When he had gone through with the story, and brought the prodigal back
+to his father's arms, he then proceeded to show how clearly it
+illustrated the sinner's erring path away from God, the fascinations
+which drew him on, and the misery to which they lead. Here and there a
+tear would be seen to start, and occasionally a head would droop: it was
+evident that there were many before him whose real character he had
+touched. At length he reached the turning point, the resolve of the
+sinner in his extremity, that he will arise and return to his God. The
+heart of the speaker filled with deep emotion; his voice trembled, his
+language became more glowing, his words flowed rapidly; he forgot
+himself, and free from all embarrassment, poured out the full feelings
+of his soul. His excited audience sat wrapped in solemnity, and yielded
+up their hearts to the enchanting theme: like fire in the stubble, the
+flame flew from heart to heart; tears flowed freely, and when he ceased,
+there was stillness like the house of mourning, interrupted only by the
+stifled sob.</p>
+
+<p>He sat down a few moments, and then informed them that the meeting was
+over. Some arose, but stopped and looked wistfully towards the desk, as
+though they might yet hear something more; others sat still and wept.
+Henry prepared to depart; he walked slowly through the benches, preceded
+by a few persons who were leaving the house.</p>
+
+<p>As he approached the door, his hand was seized in a powerful grasp. He
+looked round, and recognized at once his warm-hearted friend, old Mr.
+Cutter. He sat on the end of one of the benches, and by his side was
+Billy Bloodgood. Billy looked at him and nodded and smiled, while he
+wiped away the tears that overflowed his twinkling eyes. Billy had not
+heard a word, but he had a very tender heart; he was rejoiced to be
+where God was worshipped, and when he saw all around him affected, he
+yielded to the impulse, and wept too. Uncle Sam <i>had</i> heard, and every
+word had gone deep into his heart. It was no sympathy of feeling with
+those around him, that caused the big tears to flow so freely; he
+thought of none but himself and his God: his sinful lost estate had
+been set before him: he knew it was his own, he felt it to be true. He
+listened to the voice of the speaker, telling him of the love of God,
+and inviting him to trust in it; he believed, and yielding to the call
+of mercy, had cast himself into the arms of his Saviour, and found
+peace. No wonder that he seized with such convulsive grasp the hand of
+the dear youth. Henry fixed his eyes upon the old man; he saw his
+emotion, he saw his lips quivering in a vain effort to speak. His own
+heart ached, and tears came to his relief. Mr. Cutter made a desperate
+effort, shaking the hand which he still held,</p>
+
+<p>'God bless you! God bless you!'</p>
+
+<p>Henry hurried away to his home.</p>
+
+<p>Long was this day and this meeting remembered in the place. It was the
+commencement of a great moral change; the darkness which had so long
+brooded over it was rolled back, and the light that streams from
+Heaven's mercy came to bless their spirits. A train of rich and lasting
+benefits followed quick, and spread a charm over this long neglected and
+desolate spot, which, from a dreary wilderness, converted it into a
+garden of the Lord.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XIII.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Six years in the early part of our life makes a mighty change in our
+personal appearance, the current of our feelings, and our course in
+life. Childhood and youth are ever anticipating the fancied joys of
+twenty-one, but that blissful period once past, and the goal reached,
+how much of innocent and heartfelt happiness is left behind! But time
+must on, and we must on with him, and meet each era of our being as best
+we may.</p>
+
+<p>Six years have made a vast change in the face of things within our
+village. The little store, which Jim and Ned started in the wood-shed of
+their mother's house, has been transferred to a large and commodious
+building situated near the water, and contiguous to a wharf, where are
+snug moorings for the good sloop Fanny, now under the command of Sam
+Oakum. Along the shore, where the few fishermen's huts alone gave signs
+of life in former days, are now decent dwellings. Docks and building:
+the frames of vessels of various size are lying in their cradles; and
+the noise of the lively hammer can be heard through the long summer day.
+Young men, the former companions of our boys, are now engaged at their
+trades, or preparing to man the different vessels when ready for a
+voyage. Above the beach, and in the town more properly, as great a
+change is manifest; old houses are neatly repaired, and new lines of
+fences supply the places of the old, tattered inclosures; while here and
+there, on sites commanding the finest views of the beautiful water
+scenery, are mansions that bespeak the wealth and taste of their owners;
+and, to crown all, a neat church sends up its lofty spire from a knoll
+near the water's edge, the last object that holds the eye of the mariner
+as he leaves this his native home to breast the stormy ocean, and the
+first to bless it on his return, and bid him think of Him whose wonders
+he has seen on the deep.</p>
+
+<p>All these results have not been accomplished alone by those whose
+youthful energies gave the first spring to life and activity in the
+place.</p>
+
+<p>Things had, indeed, gone prosperously with them. Their trade, although
+small at first, rapidly increased; the opportunity they afforded the
+inhabitants to dispose of their productions advantageously, soon
+stimulated to increased cultivation. A display of goods from the city
+introduced a better and neater style of dress, and that led to more
+neatness in their dwellings, and every thing around them. The timber
+from the barrens became an article of great demand; and those
+comparatively valueless wilds bade fair to yield an immense revenue to
+their owners.</p>
+
+<p>But in addition to all this, a few wealthy families from other parts,
+attracted by the pleasantness of the location, had come among them; and
+with these was the early patron of our boys&mdash;Major Morris and his lovely
+family. He had not retired from the service; for the sound of war was
+rumbling in the distance, and dark clouds were fast rising on our
+political horizon, and it was no time for a brave and good man to
+withdraw from his country's need. But he was tired of the unsettled
+manner of life to which he had been so long subjected, and resolved, so
+soon as a favorable opportunity should offer, to retire, and enjoy the
+sweets of home and domestic life. He had long admired the location, but
+perhaps might not have decided to make it his place of residence, but
+for an old friend of his&mdash;one whose life had been spent upon the ocean,
+and who could no more be easy without the sight and smell of salt-water
+than the fish who sport upon its sunny bosom&mdash;Commodore Trysail, a
+bluff, high-tempered, warm-hearted sailor. He had won high honors early
+in life, but for some cause, in an hour of excitement, had thrown up his
+commission. He had amassed a handsome fortune since then by engaging in
+the East India trade; and although never condescending to command even
+his own ship, he had made several voyages to Bengal, attending solely to
+business matters. He had now some fine vessels of his own, and having
+relinquished all idea of going abroad, had resolved to locate where he
+could enjoy what he had so long been accustomed to, without storms and
+billows. Having visited the place, in company with Major Morris, he was
+at once charmed, and they both decided to make it their home, and do
+what they could to build up things around them. No wonder, then, if six
+years has affected such an entire change in the aspect of things.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Grizzle was yet alive, and kept his old place, but his stock of
+goods had not been replenished for some years. The advantage of the new
+store were too many for him to compete with. Goods new and cheap, a
+generous price for all country produce, respectability of character,
+good manners, and perfect fairness in dealing, all these made the odds
+too much for Mr. Grizzle to contend against. He gave it up. One corner
+of his counter yet received a few visitors; for through the day could be
+frequently seen some old tottering wreck of humanity, with bald head,
+and long thin locks, stirring eagerly the ancient toddy-stick in a large
+flowered tumbler, and then, with trembling hand, raising the much-loved
+mixture to his longing lips, already quivering with age, and soon to be
+at rest in the grasp of death.</p>
+
+<p>There had been, for some time past, a little mystery about a
+newly-erected house&mdash;and mysteries in small towns are always troublesome
+things. It was a neat and pleasant cottage, finished with much taste,
+and with every convenience for a small family. It had been placed on a
+very pretty location, not far from the hut where Sam Oakum and his
+parents lived, just on the rising ground which overlooked their humble
+place of abode, and commanded a full view of the whole panorama of bay
+and land and ocean, that stretched before the eye to the distant
+horizon. The question could not be solved all the while it was building,
+for whom this pleasant habitation was intended. Curiosity was on tiptoe;
+it formed the subject for many a long gossip over cup of tea, and so
+awakened the imagination of our good ladies, that all sorts of stories
+were circulated in reference to it.</p>
+
+<p>'Can any body tell me?' said Aunt Sally Bloodgood&mdash;as she sat pouring
+out tea to a select party of her own, with a tea-pot in one hand and a
+water-pot in the other, dressed in her new calico gown of the freshest
+pattern, and no more looking like Aunt Sally when we first saw her, than
+nothing at all. Casting her eye round, as she put the two pots down,
+upon the inquisitive countenances of her neighbors&mdash;'Can any body tell
+me whose that house is a building <i>for</i>?' and after looking round from
+one to the other, her eye finally settled upon her good friend Mrs.
+Cutter, as though she expected, if any body knew, she must.</p>
+
+<p>'You needn't look at me, Sally; I knows nothing about it,' leaning her
+long body over the table, and shaking her thin visage very
+significantly. 'Cutter, you know, don't go about much, and when he does
+hear any thing, he keeps it all to himself; a body has to ding their
+life out to get any thing out of him. We have fixed our old house, so
+that it is kind of snug like, so it ain't for us, no how; and who is
+a-goin' there, the massy only knows.'</p>
+
+<p>'They say,' said a very comfortable-looking personage, with very round
+cheeks, and ample proportions&mdash;'they say, Mrs. Andrews, that your
+William is a-building that 'are place for himself; and that he's a
+coming back and goin' to be married to Hettie Brown, and they are to
+live there.'</p>
+
+<p>'Now did I <i>ever</i>!' and the Widow Andrews turned up her eyes towards the
+ceiling&mdash;a common way with her&mdash;put her two hands together, and rested
+them on the tea-table. 'I don't see what people mean; I ain't heered no
+sich thing&mdash;have you, Mary?' appealing to her daughter, who sat beside
+her, and began to move about in her chair, and to smooth down the very
+stiff collar that encircled her neck. 'I don't see what people talk so
+for; I believe they do a-purpose;' and the widow began to slide up on
+her high notes, which at once aroused the energies of her daughter Mary.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, <i>do</i> Mother! don't mind if they do talk; it don't hurt any body; it
+don't make it so, you know;&mdash;does it, Mrs. Bloodgood?'</p>
+
+<p>'Do la, no; and if it did, where's the harm?'</p>
+
+<p>'Well,' said the fat lady, 'I guess you will all see: for every body
+knows the two young folks is dead in love, and they say he's made a
+power of money; only some say he won't have Hettie after all, jist
+because she's been out to service.'</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Bloodgood now saw that the harmony of her party was like to be
+destroyed, for the Widow Andrews was beginning to fan herself, and
+breathe short; so like a skilful commander, she brought all her forces
+to bear, in order to turn the attitude of affairs.</p>
+
+<p>'Now, Aunt Peggy!' addressing the fat woman, 'do, la&mdash;I wouldn't talk
+so. Folks say a great many things they don't know any thing about.
+'William is a brave boy; and if he's got ahead in the world, I'm glad on
+it; but who he will marry, or when he will marry, I guess there ain't
+any body that knows. Don't you say so, Mrs. Andrews? But, do, la! Here
+I've been a talking, and your tea is clean out; let me give you another
+cup; and, Aunt Peggy, won't you hand round that plate of cake? and won't
+you all help yourselves? and them baked pears, they are fresh and nice;
+I did them up this very morning&mdash;but may be some of you would like the
+preserves? Sally Cutter, you just hand the Widow Andrews that saucer of
+preserves.'</p>
+
+<p>The tea, and the cake, and the preserves, now demanded general and
+particular notice; and between eating and drinking, and praising the
+good things, and asking for receipts, a very delightful state of
+confusion and loud talking about all manner of things, showed how
+successful was Aunt Sally's effort to maintain the peace.</p>
+
+<p>Nor was Aunt Sally Bloodgood's the only tea-circle that was disturbed by
+this unaccountable affair. It was a great marvel, and the poor builder
+actually lost the good-will of more than one of the tea-drinking old
+ladies; but he did not seem to mind it, for he went on in a quiet way to
+finish the thing. And when he had done that, he locked the door, put the
+key in his pocket, shut the little gate, and went to work at another
+job.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XIV.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Mary Oakum was in personal appearance a lovely young creature, and an
+equally lovely spirit breathed forth in every word, sparkled from every
+look, and shone forth embodied in her whole conduct. She had the same
+black hair, the same flashing, deep-set hazel eye, the same laughing
+mouth&mdash;she was a beautiful miniature of Sam, only replacing his
+nut-brown complexion with a pure red and white. Mary was now seventeen,
+not tall of her age, but gracefully formed, and very feminine.</p>
+
+<p>Susan, the youngest sister, was in a different style; for her hair was
+light, and her eyes blue, and her complexion, though fair, without
+color. Although two years younger, she was nearly as tall as her sister,
+with a serious cast of countenance that made her appear at times of an
+equal age.</p>
+
+<p>The parents and children still occupied the little house on the shore;
+it was a very small, poor building, but they had kept patching it up the
+best they could; and being very happy among themselves, they thought not
+of its imperfections with any feelings of repining or discontent.</p>
+
+<p>Sam was the delight of them all; parents and sisters hung upon him with
+an ardor of attachment, looked up to him with a feeling of dependence,
+confidence, and joy, which made him ever the light of their humble home
+when present with them, and drew their hearts after him with almost
+painful interest when absent.</p>
+
+<p>He still wore his sailor's rig; was very neat in his dress; never
+appearing among business men or at his house, in the same garb in which
+he stood at the helm. How anxiously would his sisters watch for the
+first glimpse of his white sail in the distance! and how elastic were
+their steps, as they bounded from the house to meet him, as soon as they
+descried their neat, trim sailor-boy, as they called him, turning the
+angle in the shore near their house.</p>
+
+<p>The day of his return had come, and Mrs. Oakum and Susan were busily
+employed clearing away the relics of the early meal, and putting, if
+possible, a brighter polish on every thing, when Mary came into the
+room, arrayed in her very best, and in one hand she held a small green
+bag, and in the other her sun-bonnet.</p>
+
+<p>'Why, sister, whither away so early? Your new dress on too, your hair
+arranged so neatly, and your best shoes and all. Where are you going to
+make a call so early?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, no call, sister dear! I am only going to the store. You know I lost
+my thimble the other evening, and I thought I would get another before
+Sam comes; he might want me to do something, and I should be sorry to
+say I had no thimble.'</p>
+
+<p>A deep blush spread all over Mary's white neck, and temples, and
+forehead; the rich rose of her cheeks seemed, of an instant, to have
+sent its crimson hue in all directions. Had Mary equivocated? Not in
+the least; she had never learned that art. Was not the errand a lawful
+one? Certainly it was; she told the truth in all its simplicity. She
+wanted a thimble, and was going for that, and with no other motive
+whatever.</p>
+
+<p>It was simply a flash of truth that crossed her mind&mdash;it was elicited by
+the remark of her sister in reference to her dress. Susan meant nothing
+in particular; nor had Mary, until then, an idea that she meant any
+thing in particular by what she had done.</p>
+
+<p>We must look into things a little, however, while Mary is on her way to
+the store; for she smiled, slipped on her bonnet, and was off.</p>
+
+<p>Mary was but a few years since a laughing, little romping girl, and she
+had grown up in great intimacy with a very staid and rather good-looking
+boy. She had sat on his lap, walked with him by the shore hand in hand,
+looking for pretty stones and shells; played hide-and-seek with him, in
+company with her brother and sister, among the rocks by moonlight, and
+even kissed him just as she did Sam, and thought no harm of it. She has,
+to be sure, long since, eschewed all such things, and stands now upon
+her womanly dignity. But this boy, although grown up to manhood, has not
+grown out of her interest. When the playfulness of childhood passed
+away, as by right it should, other feelings began to take its place. A
+deep respect for his fine character, which shone brighter and brighter
+as he grew up; an admiration of his manly appearance; a feeling of
+gratitude for the kind interest he took in her brother; a desire to do
+whatever she heard him say he liked; in fine, to assimilate her views
+and feelings, her tastes and pleasures, to his, was the unconscious
+desire of her heart.</p>
+
+<p>But did any body know this? Not a human being. A mother's searching eye
+may possibly at times have discerned a glimmering of the truth; but if
+so, she had kept it to herself.</p>
+
+<p>Did Mary know this? No, not as the truth itself must say she did; it was
+a secret, within what she could see of her little heart, into which no
+human eye had yet pried; but there it was. It did sometimes betray
+itself a little&mdash;a very little: that blush which seemed to come without
+a cause, which sent her off so quickly from observation, was just a
+token that she was a little conscious&mdash;only a little&mdash;how the matter
+stood.</p>
+
+<p>And does he love her? If he does not, he ought to; for, let him look the
+world over, he cannot find a purer, lovelier object to meet his earthly
+happiness upon; he cannot find a soul that burns with an intenser ardor
+towards each friend her bosom cherishes; he cannot find a heart that,
+glowing with the purest earthly love, holds all its rich and priceless
+treasures for himself alone, like her's.</p>
+
+<p>But we must stop, for she has reached the store, and quietly walks up to
+the side of the counter; passes a pleasant word with the few smiling
+customers who are there before her, and receives a salutation from
+Edward, who, busily attending upon those immediately before him, was
+using his hand and his tongue with great skill and rapidity.</p>
+
+<p>'Good morning, Mary, are all well at home to-day?' said James, stepping
+from his place, and standing before her.</p>
+
+<p>Mary looked up in surprise, for she had not yet glanced her eye to see
+whether the graver senior partner was at his desk.</p>
+
+<p>'All well&mdash;very well, I thank you.' His address, and the reply, were
+delivered in a low tone, and he was leaning over the counter when he
+spoke.</p>
+
+<p>'Any demands to-day?'</p>
+
+<p>'Nothing but a thimble;' and she smiled and held up her hand, preparing
+to take off her glove. James immediately produced a little case, and
+placed it before her, but she shook her head&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'These are silver&mdash;a common kind will answer me.' Another case was
+brought, and James leaned over again, and began to select what, in his
+judgment, should be about the size; but somehow he picked out of the
+silver case alone.</p>
+
+<p>'Just try this, Mary; none of those seem to fit you well;' and he gently
+took the little hand, and placed the thimble on the taper finger.</p>
+
+<p>'You will hardly do better than to keep that.'</p>
+
+<p>'But it is silver, and I cannot afford to lose it; I am for ever losing
+them.'</p>
+
+<p>'You may be more fortunate with this, for it is a present.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh&mdash;thank you&mdash;thank you; it is a beautiful thimble. I shall be very
+choice of it.'</p>
+
+<p>'Because it is silver?' and James looked at her with rather a meaning
+glance.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, no, not altogether; to be sure I should be sorry to lose this,
+because&mdash;because it is more valuable,'&mdash;and seeing James beginning to
+color&mdash;'it is not only silver, but it is a keepsake.'</p>
+
+<p>All this passed in a tone that could not be heard amidst the din which
+Edward and his customers kept up.</p>
+
+<p>'I have news to tell you, likewise, and was on the point of walking to
+your house to let you know that the owner of that building near you, and
+about which there has been so much curiosity, is expected to arrive
+to-day.'</p>
+
+<p>'Then you have known who was the owner?'</p>
+
+<p>'I suppose I may as well confess it.'</p>
+
+<p>'And never told us?'</p>
+
+<p>'You never asked me. The family I have long known; I esteem them highly,
+and I think you will be much pleased with them, especially with the
+eldest daughter.'</p>
+
+<p>Mary was silent; she wished to ask several questions, but that <i>eldest
+daughter</i>&mdash;somehow the words struck a chill to her heart; she was all at
+once very thoughtful.</p>
+
+<p>'Your brother and I are anxious to have things arranged before they get
+here, and Sam particularly wishes that his father and all of you should
+be there when they arrive, and I think,' said James, 'as you are to be
+such near neighbors, it would be well to show them all kindness.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, by all means; certainly, we will do every thing we can to welcome
+them, as they are friends of yours; but&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'But what, Mary?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, you cannot be sure that they will wish to be very intimate with us,
+our circumstances will be so different.'</p>
+
+<p>'They are a family, Mary, that do not regard such distinctions. You will
+love them&mdash;I know you will. I hope to enjoy their society much, and I am
+sure you will too.'</p>
+
+<p>'I will be there, as soon as I can, with the key; and if you are all
+willing, we will go to work, and arrange things a little for them.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, certainly; we will go with pleasure. Good morning.'</p>
+
+<p>James accompanied her to the door.</p>
+
+<p>'In an hour or so, I will be at your house. Good morning.'</p>
+
+<p>'And I suppose he thinks the thimble will be a bribe to induce me to be
+very polite to that <i>eldest daughter</i>; but he need not fear. I shall do
+every thing I can to make it pleasant. The thimble I shall return when I
+have an opportunity, and shall tell him that Mary Oakum could be kind to
+his friends without&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>She could not say any more, and this she did not say&mdash;she only thought
+it; and then she began to be very much ashamed that she had even thought
+it. But there was a tumult in poor Mary's heart: at times she would hush
+it, but then again it would arise, in spite of herself.</p>
+
+<p>James came after a while with the key, but not so soon as he expected.
+Mrs. Oakum and the girls accompanied him to the house; and as Mary
+resolved to put down all selfish feelings, and to be very pleasant and
+agreeable, every thing wore a cheerful aspect; for Mrs. Oakum and Susan
+were delighted with the idea of seeing and becoming acquainted with
+their new neighbors, especially as James gave such a favorable account
+of them. He had to take a little scolding from Susan, but it was done in
+such a good-natured way, that the harmony was not in the least disturbed
+by it.</p>
+
+<p>As they had never gratified their curiosity while the house was
+building, as many had, it was all new to them; great was the admiration
+expressed at the neatness, taste, and convenience of all its parts; the
+rooms were so pleasant, and the view so charming.</p>
+
+<p>'And what a sweet place this is!' said Susan, as they entered one of the
+upper rooms; 'how gracefully those branches of the willow hang before
+the window, and how beautiful the water looks through them, and the
+church and the parsonage! It is the finest view from any part of the
+house, is it not, sister.'</p>
+
+<p>'It is very beautiful,' said Mary; and she sighed.</p>
+
+<p>'Now, sister dear, what was that for? You don't feel sad that we have no
+such place?'</p>
+
+<p>'My dear sister, do you think I am covetous or envious?' And Susan threw
+her arms around her neck, and kissed off a tear which she supposed her
+suggestion had produced.</p>
+
+<p>'Covetous, envious; no, indeed, dear Mary, forgive me, if what I said
+led to any such idea; but I don't think I ever heard you sigh before.
+Why was it, sister?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, nothing. But we ought not to stay here, ought we, as there is so
+much to do?'</p>
+
+<p>And down they went, and to work with good-will. Mrs. Oakum was in the
+kitchen, examining with an eye of one who knew well the comfort of
+conveniences there; every thing needed was close at hand: a well of
+water by the door, a shed for the wood, and such a beauty of a
+milk-room, it almost smelled of cream and butter; and from the kitchen
+you could look out upon such a love of a garden-spot, large enough to
+raise all that a moderate-sized family could possibly want; while
+opening into it and near the house was a neat little stable, of
+sufficient size for a cow and a horse, with their provender.</p>
+
+<p>'Some one,' said Mrs. Oakum, 'has contrived all this who knows what is
+needful for the comfort of a family.'</p>
+
+<p>James was very active, and showed great skill in distributing the
+several articles into the different apartments.</p>
+
+<p>'I guess,' said Susan, smiling archly, 'that one, who seems to know so
+well where things belong, must have had something to do in getting them:
+who knows,' said she, winking to Mary, 'but this house is for himself
+after all; and that <i>eldest daughter</i> he talks so much about is to
+be&mdash;&mdash;. Dear sister, I know you are not well, you are so pale; you have
+worked too hard.'</p>
+
+<p>'I am afraid she has,' said James, looking with much anxiety.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, not at all; I am very well;&mdash;but these things, had we not better be
+putting them in their places?'</p>
+
+<p>'These must be all for one room; they are, you see, painted white and
+tipped with green,&mdash;the chairs, and the table, and washstand, they must
+be for that little upper room. Don't you think so Mary?' said Susan,
+catching up a chair.</p>
+
+<p>'I think they would be suitable there,' said Mary.</p>
+
+<p>'There they shall go then,' said James: and soon the little room was
+furnished.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, is it not sweet?' said Susan. 'But mother is calling us to help her
+with the carpet,' replied Mary, and down they went. Here, however, was a
+difficulty; the carpet was in a roll, and there would be no time to cut
+it and sew it together.</p>
+
+<p>'It would take us a whole day,' said Susan, 'do our best.'</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Oakum, however, proposed that she should cut the breadths, and lay
+them down, and some other day they would come and assist the family in
+sewing it together; so Mary took out her scissors, and soon the floor
+was covered; and as this was the best room, the furniture suitable was
+arranged in it, and to the girls it seemed a grand place.</p>
+
+<p>'And now,' said Mrs. Oakum, 'the rooms seem to be all provided with
+their furniture, except the kitchen, and I don't see that there is any
+provision made for that. What will they do?' looking from one to the
+other. James smiled, blushed, and appeared confused, and was about to
+say something explanatory, when the door was opened, and Mr. Oakum
+entered, dressed in his Sunday suit; this he had put on at the request
+of the girls. He informed them that the sloop was in, and that Sam was
+on his way up.</p>
+
+<p>Sam had no lack of kisses that day, and Mary even hung upon him more
+fondly than ever; and Sam thought he saw a tear glistening in her eye,
+but she wiped it away, and said&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'It was nothing.'</p>
+
+<p>Ah, Mary! the world is full of such <i>nothings</i>; it is ever piercing the
+heart of such sensitive beings as yourself, and forcing out the drops
+that tell in mute but unmistaking language the aching within.</p>
+
+<p>'So, Mr. Sam, you knew the secret all the time about the house?' said
+his youngest sister, coming up and hanging on him for a kiss.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, you know, Susan, secrets are troublesome to ladies; I did not wish
+to burden you, my dear.'</p>
+
+<p>'Very generous it was in you. Oh, I wish I was strong enough to shake
+you;' but as she was not, she caught him round the neck, and kissed him.</p>
+
+<p>'But come in, and see how well we have arranged things. Will they be
+here soon?'</p>
+
+<p>Sam made no reply to Susan's last question, but followed her immediately
+into the house.</p>
+
+<p>They were all soon collected in the parlor, expatiating on the beauty of
+the place, and were beginning to ask Sam a variety of questions, when
+James all at once left the room; and Sam, drawing from his pocket a
+packet neatly enveloped, his parents and sisters looked at him,
+expecting some new disclosure.</p>
+
+<p>'My dear parents: I have practised a little deception upon you, for the
+first time in my life, which I hope you will pardon when you hear the
+nature of it. This house, which you have been arranging, does not belong
+to any stranger, as you have been led to think&mdash;it is all your own; and
+here, my dear father, is the deed which makes it and the ground around
+it your's for ever,' handing to his wonder-stricken parent the paper he
+had in his hand.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Oakum took the paper, but was so overcome with amazement, that he
+could say nothing; he looked at his wife, who, for a moment, sat with
+her hands clasped before her, her eyes strained in their intense gaze on
+her darling boy. She then sprang to clasp him in her arms, but the
+girls were before her, and were hanging around his neck, and fairly
+smothering him with their fond embrace. Sam put out his arms to receive
+his mother, and she fell upon his neck, and burst into tears.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Sam! my dear Sam! may God bless you for ever and ever.'</p>
+
+<p>His father, overcome by the rush of his own excited feelings and the
+outburst of affection on the part of the mother and sisters, dropped the
+paper, and leaning on his hands, could only shed tears of joy. It was
+not the beautiful gift&mdash;valuable as it was&mdash;nor the sudden flow of
+prosperity, that raised them at once from a poor and decayed tenement to
+a dwelling equal in respectability to the best in the place; thoughts
+far richer to a parent's heart were thrilling his bosom, and working up
+his feelings into intense and overpowering emotion. To find in the man
+who stood before him in his strength and ardor, the same kind, loving,
+feeling fondness that the boy had manifested&mdash;in fine, to know that
+prosperity and manhood had not changed his boy&mdash;it was enough: earth had
+no better good, heaven could give no richer earthly solace. And could
+that son have heard the thoughts which rose in gushing ardor to the
+throne on high, and could his vision but have burst the veil which hides
+that secret place where thoughts are registered, he would have felt that
+a recompense already had been treasured for him beyond the reach of
+venture or decay.</p>
+
+<p>Sam had made but little calculation as to the effect of this surprise,
+either on his parents or himself. He had often, in boyish days, even
+when all around was dark and forbidding, amused himself with visions of
+the future, of all that he might be and do, and in every fancy sketch,
+his mind portrayed for the comfort of his parents; the joy which, in
+some unexpected way, might be infused into their spirits, was ever the
+prominent figure in the scene. This object, now so happily accomplished,
+had been his aim for years: for this he had resisted his inward impulse
+to go abroad and visit distant climes, and seek a fortune more genial to
+his bounding spirit; steadily had he pursued his calling, and faithfully
+labored and stored away his earnings with almost a miser's care, to
+gratify this heaven-born, filial love, and in some hour of exquisite
+delight enjoy his long, long-treasured wish. And now that hour had come.
+He had opened the floodgates of happiness upon these dear objects of his
+affection, and was overpowered himself. He sat down beside his mother,
+and mingled his tears with her's.</p>
+
+<p>But why has Mary left the scene? and why has she gone with such haste to
+that little upper room? and why does she clasp her hands, and raise her
+eye to heaven, and shed such tears as now overflow those long dark lids
+and bathe her lovely cheek? Another token these of that deep feeling
+which her secret heart so long has nourished; that room is pleasant now,
+for hither she has come, in this moment of heart-felt bliss, to pour out
+her heaving thoughts in gratitude to God; and there she hopes, in days
+and years to come, to send up the incense so pleasing unto Him who loves
+a contrite heart.</p>
+
+<p>Mary had much to think of; no longer could she hide from herself the
+fact that she loved James Montjoy; and every word which he had said, and
+which had caused her so much inward pain, was now a source of new and
+heart-felt joy, and it was impossible for her to misunderstand those
+allusions which so plainly pointed to herself; and yet she would say,
+'He was only in jest; he knew it must all come out&mdash;he meant nothing by
+it, nothing particular.' Thus ruminating, and with a happy heart, she
+passed lightly down the little staircase and along the hall, as James
+was returning from a stroll in the garden, to which, out of delicacy for
+the feelings of the family, he had retired, just as Sam was about to
+make the disclosure.</p>
+
+<p>He put out his hand to congratulate her upon the happy surprise;
+overcome with the scene she had just passed through, and the rush of
+feelings at the sight of him, she extended her hand, and burst into
+tears.</p>
+
+<p>As James entered the parlor with Mary, the scene had to be in some
+measure renewed; for he was so identified with all the prosperity they
+had enjoyed, that a sight of him under present circumstances but added
+to the full tide of feeling.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh,' said Mrs. Oakum, 'this has been all your doing.'</p>
+
+<p>'By no means, my dear madam; Sam alone has devised it, and his own
+honest earnings have paid the cost.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, I have no doubt of that, and Heaven's blessing he will have for
+it; but you first took him by the hand and encouraged him, and&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Mrs. Oakum, we will not go so far back now; and besides, I could no
+more have done without Sam than he felt he could do without me; but we
+must clear up our faces and prepare for company, for this matter will
+fly like the wind when it gets abroad, and you will have the whole town
+here to see you.'</p>
+
+<p>Commodore Trysail was one of those specimens of humanity with which we
+occasionally meet, where a rough exterior and a blunt manner conceal a
+warm and tender heart. In all matters of business he was prompt,
+correct, and very decided; a little tenacious of authority when he saw
+any disposition to slight his orders, but allowing great latitude
+whenever he knew there was a desire to please and obey him.</p>
+
+<p>Old Peter, who had accompanied the family of Major Morris to their new
+residence, was quite a favorite with the Commodore; and as the two
+families were but a short distance apart, with the exception that Peter
+had his hammock slung in one of the Major's out-buildings&mdash;he was as
+much at home at one house as the other.</p>
+
+<p>It was one part of Peter's business to watch the coming in of the mail,
+and see that the letters and papers for either family were distributed
+in the quickest possible time; also to attend upon the departure and
+arrival of the sloop, as there was always something to go or come by
+that conveyance, it being the only regular one to and from the city.
+This part of Peter's duty he performed with special pleasure; Sam had
+ever been a favorite of his, and he never tired of telling over what he
+knew of him when a boy, and extolling his fine appearance, his activity
+and his correct conduct in all things, now that he had grown to be a
+man.</p>
+
+<p>Between the Commodore and Peter Sam was often a subject of conversation,
+until all that Peter knew of his favorite had been many times repeated.</p>
+
+<p>On this day, so distinguished in the life of his hero, Peter not only
+brought along from the boat quite a number of parcels, but he had also a
+weighty cargo of news, which he had gathered on his way back. After
+giving Lady Morris, as he always styled her, the first of the tidings,
+he hastened to the Commodore's as fast as his crutches would carry him.</p>
+
+<p>It was a warm afternoon, and the Commodore was seated in his veranda on
+the shady side of the house, enjoying the cooling view of the expanse of
+water spread out before him, and the gentle breeze that scarce moved the
+long branches of the willow that hung above and around him, when he
+heard the well-known sound of the crutches stumping along the hard
+gravel path at double quick time. Peter was so much out of breath, and
+so excited with what he had to tell, that after he had reached the stoop
+and taken off his hat, and smoothed down his queue and made several
+obeisances, he could only stammer out,</p>
+
+<p>'Your honor&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore looked at him with no little surprise, for the preparation
+Peter had made betokened quite a long yarn.</p>
+
+<p>'A warm day, Peter.'</p>
+
+<p>'Very, your honor;' and Peter fumbled away at his queue, and twisted his
+quid to all sides of his mouth.</p>
+
+<p>'You are out of breath, Peter; what is the haste to-day? any news
+stirring?'</p>
+
+<p>'Great news, your honor, great news.'</p>
+
+<p>'Is war declared, or has the comet lost its tail? let me hear; out with
+it, Peter.'</p>
+
+<p>'No war, your honor, God forbid: and I guess the comet is whizzing away
+yet, though we can't see him by daylight; but your honor knows that
+picture of a house up along the bank there&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay&mdash;what, the house that has no owner? and a pretty box it is; what
+of it, Peter?'</p>
+
+<p>'But it has got an owner, and who does your honor think it is? Our
+Captain Sam; he's built it 'spressly for his father and mother, God
+bless him! and he's rigged it all up for 'em, and he's put 'em in it
+this blessed day, and there they are, as happy as your honor was in a
+tight, new ship. And now he says, "Good-by to the old sloop, Peter; I've
+got the old folks snug and happy, and now I am going to steer my way on
+the broad ocean, just as you have always been wishing me to do." That's
+just what he said, your honor. God bless him.'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore was a match for Peter with the tobacco any day, and
+whenever a little excited, was sure to clap his finger and thumb into
+his vest pocket, where there was generally a supply ready cut up of
+suitable length. As Peter concluded his tale, the Commodore began to
+fumble for a charge.</p>
+
+<p>'Peter, I'm out; hand me that bit of yarn you are cutting from.'</p>
+
+<p>'Bless your honor, not this; no, no;' and taking out a package that had
+filled the whole capacity of his jacket pocket, 'here is some, your
+honor, the boys have put up for me to-day (Peter had the run of the
+store free), bless their kind hearts. It's bran new, your honor; take it
+all, and welcome.'</p>
+
+<p>Having untied the roll, cut off a liberal allowance, and given two or
+three squeezes to the delicious morsel,</p>
+
+<p>'Do you say, Peter, that he has built that handsome place for his father
+and mother, and furnished it, and given it to them out-and-out?'</p>
+
+<p>'It's God's truth, your honor.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Peter, all I can say is, that he has got more of a sailor's heart
+in him than I thought he had; and do you think that is the reason why he
+has been shoaling along shore here, when we have all been wondering why
+such a smart young fellow didn't try to climb a little higher in the
+world?'</p>
+
+<p>'Nothing else, as sure as that water is runnin' to the ocean. I always
+tell'd your honor, Capt. Sam would come out bright; he wasn't never made
+for a land lubber, your honor: his heart is too big, too big for that, I
+always knowed it was.'</p>
+
+<p>'And I suppose the old folks are very happy. Did they know of it
+before?'</p>
+
+<p>'Never, your honor, till this blessed day; and when I com'd along by
+there, Miss Mary came runnin' out; 'Come in, Peter, come in and see our
+new house;' and so in I goes, and sich a sight your honor never see;
+there was the mother with the tears a runnin', and the father lookin' as
+if he had been standin' eight-and-forty hours facing a nor'wester, and
+the galls and all hold on me, and showing me every thing, and making me
+eat and drink; it's the happiest family, your honor, I believe there is
+at this moment on the breathin' earth; I was no better than a baby
+myself, your honor.'</p>
+
+<p>'Peter, do you go this minute, do you hear?'&mdash;Peter had like not to have
+heard, for he was on his way going somewhere, he knew not exactly for
+what&mdash;'and tell Harry to rig up the carriage, and&mdash;do you hear, Peter?'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay, sir.' Peter was hardly within hailing distance.</p>
+
+<p>'Tell Mrs. Morris that I shall call for her.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'Bless my soul! he's a fine fellow.' The Commodore was now walking up
+and down very fast: 'Something must be done for him; he must let that
+old sloop go to the &mdash;&mdash;;' the Commodore was not always particular
+where he sent things, so that they were out of his way.</p>
+
+<p>There are green spots in this world of ours, which tempt us to forget
+that it is a fallen world, and point us, in their exhibition of true
+enjoyment, to what it might have been, and what it may yet be. There are
+pleasures that seem so unalloyed by selfish, earthly dross, we almost
+feel the breath of heaven fanning our spirits while we mingle in them.</p>
+
+<p>Such was the bright and pleasant scene that Sam had lighted up within
+that circle of domestic love, his home.</p>
+
+<p>Nor was there any lack of friends that day to greet them kindly, or to
+sympathize in their joy. The tidings soon spread, as James said they
+would, and neighbor after neighbor came dropping in, some, no doubt, to
+gratify their curiosity, but many, many more to give utterance to the
+joy they really felt.</p>
+
+<p>It was about the middle of the afternoon when the equipage of Commodore
+Trysail drove up. The old gentleman was a sailor, and not very
+particular when dealing with men, at least not always so, to polish
+either his language or his manners; but in the company of ladies he
+never forgot the respect due to them; he was mild and courteous, no
+matter how humble the individual or the circle to which he was
+introduced. Mrs. Morris was no stranger to the family; she had often
+visited them in their lonely home, and by her affable and kind manners
+had won their hearts.</p>
+
+<p>No wonder, then, that the girls ran with such haste to welcome her, and
+conducted her into their new abode with feelings, if not of pride, at
+least of heart-felt pleasure. She kissed them as they met her at the
+door.</p>
+
+<p>'I wish you joy, my dear good girls, with all my heart. Mrs. Oakum, I
+congratulate you on your entrance into such a pretty home; it is a sweet
+place; but it must be doubly sweet and precious to you under all the
+circumstances.'</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Oakum could not reply; tears alone responded to the kind greeting.</p>
+
+<p>'But where is that noble fellow, Sam? I must call him so yet&mdash;where is
+he?'</p>
+
+<p>'He has run away. Do you think, Mrs. Morris,' said Mary, 'he found the
+neighbors began to come in, and off he went.'</p>
+
+<p>'Do you tell him for me, he's a pretty fellow; and that I shall expect a
+visit from him expressly in return for this.'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore had been detained at the door a moment, in offering his
+whole-soul congratulations to Sam's father. As he entered the room, Mrs.
+Morris formally introduced him to the mother and sisters. Bowing very
+low to Mrs. Oakum,</p>
+
+<p>'Madam, I do not wonder that your feelings are excited; he is a noble
+boy, and you have every reason to be proud of him.'</p>
+
+<p>'He has ever been a dear, good child, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes; I have no doubt of that, madam; and I suspect he has had a dear,
+good mother. Ah! it is these mothers that make men what they ought to
+be. I had a dear, good mother once. I never shall forget her; she taught
+me a great many good things, when she used to lean over me in my bed.
+What a different man I should have been had I minded her; but, thank
+God, I hope I have not forgotten them all.'</p>
+
+<p>A tear might have been seen bedewing an eye that had met the shock of
+battle, and the rush of the tempest, without a twinkle.</p>
+
+<p>'But, bless my soul! are these two cherubs your daughters?&mdash;a kiss,
+girls; a kiss.'</p>
+
+<p>There was no affectation in their honest hearts, and they received a
+hearty salutation without blushing any more than might have been
+expected.</p>
+
+<p>'Do you think, Commodore,' said Mrs. Morris, 'our hero has betaken
+himself away!'</p>
+
+<p>'The rogue! I wanted to have given him a good sailor's squeeze; and to
+tell him how happy I am to find that he has a true sailor's heart. But I
+see how it is; he had rather do a good deed than be praised for it. Will
+you tell him for me, madam,' turning to Mrs. Oakum, 'that I should be
+pleased to see him at my house as early to-morrow morning as his
+engagements will permit? Again, allow me, madam, to wish you much
+happiness in your new abode, and many, many years to enjoy it in.'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore bowed to the whole circle, and offering his arm to Mrs.
+Morris, led her to the carriage.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XV.</h2>
+
+
+<p>'Mr. Oakum, good morning to you; you will excuse me for omitting your
+title; although, if you must have it, I should prefer the one which
+your old friend Peter has adopted, and call you Captain Sam. I am glad
+to see you, sir; walk in.'</p>
+
+<p>All this was said at the door of the Commodore's office, and while he
+was shaking the hand of the young man with great cordiality. This office
+was a small addition to his handsome mansion, jutting out from one end,
+and into which was an entrance externally and independent of the passage
+in the main building.</p>
+
+<p>Sam had made the call at the office door, and was met with the greeting
+as stated above.</p>
+
+<p>There was a great disparity in their personal appearance, and yet either
+of them would have been handsome models to represent their different
+ages and standing in society. The Commodore's large, full, portly form,
+ruddy face, dark-gray eyes and powdered hair, would well represent the
+retired commander of sixty-five: while the trim and agile frame, the
+sun-burnt face, the raven locks, the sparkling, hazel, deep-set and
+deeply-shaded eye, would have answered well the idea of a young
+adventurer, ready to commence the untried dangers of the deep. Sam was
+decidedly a handsome fellow; and whether his sisters had been fixing him
+out that morning, I cannot say, but he was dressed with much care; too
+much, some might think, for his calling. It was, however, of the true
+sailor fashion; and if, when engaged in his work, he was a whole man, we
+can leave such matters to his fancy.</p>
+
+<p>'You will excuse me, Mr. Oakum, for requesting you to call upon me, or
+for the inquiries I may put to you; as I have a plan in view, which I
+should think would be more congenial to a young man of your abilities,
+than dodging back and forth in that little sloop.'</p>
+
+<p>'I am very happy, sir, to wait upon you, and will very thankfully listen
+to any views you may please to communicate.'</p>
+
+<p>'First, then, I wish you to state what are your plans for the future. I
+have heard through Peter&mdash;I give you my authority&mdash;that you design to
+leave your present business. If you have no objections, my young friend,
+make a clean breast to me; I want to hear all about you.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam smiled. 'Why, sir, to tell you the truth, I am really tired, as you
+say, of "dodging about in the sloop;" but hitherto duty has kept me at
+the helm very much against my inclination.'</p>
+
+<p>'Glad to hear you say so. Duty, sir, is a glorious master, although
+sometimes he drives us sadly against our wills. Then you have resolved
+to start upon a new course?'</p>
+
+<p>'I have, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'But the sea will be a new business for you. Your cruise along shore
+cannot have fitted you for what you will meet with there.'</p>
+
+<p>'I have anticipated that, sir; and have already made three short
+voyages.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam saw that the Commodore appeared much pleased with this information.</p>
+
+<p>'Since you have so kindly requested me, sir, to tell you my past doings
+and present plans, I will presume upon the permission, and do so.'</p>
+
+<p>'That is just what I wish, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'The sloop, which seems of late to have been a trouble to many of my
+good friends, besides the kind-hearted old Peter (Major Morris had not
+been backward to drop some broad hints in reference to it), was once the
+object of my highest ambition; but like many objects when attained,
+seemed only as a stepping-stone to something after which my imagination
+panted, and for which, I must confess, I have been at times too
+restless. But an end I had in view, and which I saw I could accomplish
+by retaining my situation in the sloop, has enabled me to continue at my
+post, although I must say against my fancy.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, yes; and let me tell you, my young friend, it was a noble end, and
+you will be a gainer, a great gainer by it in the long-run; but'&mdash;seeing
+that Sam was blushing very much, and apparently getting into a state of
+confusion&mdash;'pardon me for interrupting you; please go on, and tell me
+the whole story.'</p>
+
+<p>'Intending, so soon as that object was accomplished, to launch forth and
+push my way upon the ocean, I embraced an opportunity afforded me,
+during a season of the year when our navigation is obstructed, to make a
+short voyage. Three several times I have been, and the last was of
+peculiar advantage to me; for, experiencing a hurricane just after we
+left Havana, the captain and chief mate were washed overboard by a heavy
+sea that swept our decks, and the second mate did not know enough to
+keep the reckoning; so at the request of all hands, I took charge of the
+brig, and, although we encountered two severe gales, brought her safely
+into port.'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore rose, and walking across the room, turned, and fixed his
+keen eye full on Sam.</p>
+
+<p>'You ought to have been handsomely rewarded for that, sir. Was no notice
+taken of it by the owners or the under writers?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, yes, sir'&mdash;and Sam drew forth a fine gold watch&mdash;'this is their
+token, but I should have preferred the offer of the brig; she was a fine
+vessel, but I suppose they had friends who laid a stronger claim than I
+could.'</p>
+
+<p>'Thus, you have no hesitation as to your ability to take sole command of
+a vessel to any quarter of the world?'</p>
+
+<p>'I have not, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'And you are willing to do so?'</p>
+
+<p>'I am very anxious to do so, sir, if I can find any owners willing to
+trust me.'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore resumed his seat.</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Oakum, you must be well aware that our country is at present in a
+critical situation. War is inevitable. I think so&mdash;I am confident of it.
+The danger, then, in commercial navigation, will be of a very serious
+nature. I am, as you know, somewhat engaged in the trade to China; two
+of my vessels are now on the way there; one of these will not return for
+some time, and the other is to receive a cargo in the usual manner, and
+will probably be back a little short of one year; but I fear, that
+before six months come round, we shall be at war. I must make what
+preparation I can to secure my personal interest against an evil which I
+foresee. My design is to hasten the return of one of my ships with her
+cargo, by all possible means. You know that I have just completed a
+beautiful schooner; she will sail like a witch. I have resolved to send
+her express to China, and I now offer you the command of her.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam arose, and was about to thank the Commodore for the generous offer.</p>
+
+<p>'Please be seated, Mr. Oakum, you have not heard the end of the story
+yet. I have business of importance to be attended to in China, and the
+captain of the ship I design to order back must remain there, and you,
+sir, will take his place. On your arrival out, you will find yourself
+master of as fine a ship as swims the ocean.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam could contain himself no longer; he arose from his seat.</p>
+
+<p>'Commodore Trysail, I know not how to express the deep sense I feel of
+obligation to you&mdash;it is the happiest moment of my life, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore grasped the hand of the young and ardent sailor, and was
+delighted to see the flash of joy and pride that sparkled forth from his
+bright eye.</p>
+
+<p>'You may thank yourself, Mr. Oakum, and the manly efforts you have made
+to improve your advantages.'</p>
+
+<p>Just then the office door was gently opened, and a shaggy head appeared,
+nodding very significantly, but saying nothing.</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Peter, any thing new stirring?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, I thought your honor would be pleased to know that the Major had
+arrived, and the young lady.'</p>
+
+<p>'What, has Major Morris returned, and Susie with him? that is good
+news.'</p>
+
+<p>Peter's head was immediately withdrawn, and he was heard stumping it
+away at a rapid rate.</p>
+
+<p>'It will be no child's play, Mr. Oakum, as you will find, bringing that
+vessel home; for I am determined, war or no war, that you must get her
+into port at all hazards, and if I did not think that you would prove a
+man in the hour of extremity, depend upon it, sir, I should never
+confide such a trust to you. The risk of loss I expect to run; and after
+you have done your best, should you fall into the enemies' hands, you
+will not be in the least to blame. The management of every thing in
+reference to this matter I leave entirely to yourself. My schooner is
+ready for you. She is under your command; select your own crew, and
+hands enough to make a double crew for the ship on her return.'</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XVI.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Mr. George Rutherford, as I have hinted in a former chapter, was
+becoming entangled in his pecuniary circumstances. He had no fears as
+yet that he should not be able to pay every obligation, and have a
+competency left; but his sensitive spirit was keenly alive to that kind
+of humiliating deference which is always more or less demanded and
+received by those who, more calculating in their habits, keep their
+capital at command, and are enabled to exchange their ready money for
+the borrower's security.</p>
+
+<p>But whatever annoyance or inward torment he suffered was carefully
+concealed within his own breast; he could not bear to throw a shade over
+the bright and joyous heart of his wife.</p>
+
+<p>It was, however, impossible that one who loved with such entire
+devotedness, should not perceive when some dark and troublous cloud lay
+upon the object of her affection. Often would she come to him as he sat
+musing, at the close of day, and ask&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'What is it, George! does anything trouble you? these wrinkles are truly
+beginning to be permanent. Do tell me, and let me share it with you.'</p>
+
+<p>And then he would smile, and kiss the fair hand, and say&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Nothing, dear Mary; nothing worth telling; there are a thousand little
+vexations and cares in life, you know, which help to make the marks upon
+us, I suppose, and thus show that they have been. Nothing, dear Mary.'</p>
+
+<p>But by degrees accumulated strokes began to bear most seriously upon
+him; his property melted away by little and little; at one time an
+unwise act of friendship, at another an unsuccessful negotiation in
+trade, or may be, a sharper's trick; there seemed to be always some
+cause at work to drive away his means.</p>
+
+<p>He had become largely implicated in establishing a store near to the
+property he owned in the barrens, in order to afford an opposition to
+Mr. Cross, hoping thereby to alleviate the condition of the poor
+laborers; but the person who managed the business proved to be no match
+for the wily Cross, and it only served to excite his adversary to bitter
+revenge.</p>
+
+<p>He had, also, become involved more seriously than he as yet had any idea
+of himself, with a Company that were engaged in working a quarry.</p>
+
+<p>The prospects held out to him were very flattering, as such things
+usually are when presented by interested and designing persons; but as
+each year passed by with no profit realized, and a fresh demand for
+money to carry on their operations, too confiding to suspect those whose
+bad management ought to have awakened his doubts, he suffered his purse
+to be drained, and, worse than all, suffered his name and credit to be
+used.</p>
+
+<p>Manfully had he borne up under all his reverses, shrinking from no loss
+nor responsibility, which, however unwisely brought upon himself, was
+still his own act, and, therefore, sacred as his honor.</p>
+
+<p>At length a storm, he saw, was rising fast, and spreading its dark and
+gloomy mantle over him. He could not avert its fury; but with fortitude,
+with a firm determination to maintain his integrity, he awaited the
+catastrophe.</p>
+
+<p>The first blow which came with much severity was in the failure of
+Bolton, the individual whom he had established in trade near the
+barrens. Many were involved in that calamity, and he was compelled, in
+order to meet the demands which would be made upon him in consequence,
+to use all his means and his utmost ingenuity to maintain his credit,
+now become of vital importance to him. Troubles, at times, overtake us
+like the tiding-bearers to the Patriarch of old; scarce has one sad tale
+been uttered, when another is ready to begin.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Rutherford had passed a sleepless night; the long hours had been
+spent in running over the sad circuit of his misfortunes, and in
+endeavoring to extricate himself from the tangled maze in which he was
+involved. His wife would most willingly have been the partner of his
+cares, and spent the day and night in labor, either of body or of mind.
+But no&mdash;he must not, he cannot disturb the quiet of her bosom; he will
+yet, he fondly hopes, weather it through, and she shall never know the
+struggle his spirit has borne. And thus it would have been, and thus his
+proud and tender heart would have ached in secret, and cloistered all
+its trials, until it broke beneath the accumulated load; but a kind
+Providence was watching around his sleepless bed, and knew all that he
+could bear, and was preparing the way that would, in spite of himself,
+break open his secret sorrows, and compel him to unbosom himself to her
+whose gentle spirit would pour out its sweet consolations into his
+troubled heart, brace up his worn-out feelings, and lay them calmly to
+rest amid the soothings of love; earthly, it may be, but a bright emblem
+of that in which the weary soul will sweetly repose when the trials and
+toils of life are over.</p>
+
+<p>The watching and busy thoughts of the night past were too visible the
+next morning to escape the eye of love; and as his Mary entered the room
+where he was seated, waiting for their early meal, she could not help
+saying to him,</p>
+
+<p>'You are sick, dear George; I know you are.'</p>
+
+<p>Before he could reply there was a knock at the door, and Mr. Rutherford
+was summoned into an adjoining apartment.</p>
+
+<p>The gentleman expressed his regret for the business upon which he had
+come; he handed to Mr. Rutherford a paper, which proved to be an
+attachment upon his beautiful homestead, and the land connected with it.</p>
+
+<p>'You have, no doubt, heard, sir, that the Quarry Company has gone to
+pieces; and as you appear to be the only responsible one among them, the
+person named in that paper, and to whom they are largely indebted, feels
+compelled to take this step, although very reluctantly.'</p>
+
+<p>This explanation was sufficient; Mr. Rutherford perceived the dilemma to
+which things had at length come. His visitor, having no further
+business, withdrew; and as he closed the door upon him, he retired again
+by himself, and was seated by a table with the paper in his hand, when
+his wife entered the room, and closed the door.</p>
+
+<p>'My dear George, you must let me know what is the matter. You cannot
+hide from me, that there is some great trouble upon you. Tell me, my
+dear husband, tell me what it is'&mdash;and she threw herself upon her knees
+before him, and clasping her arms about him, looked up with intense
+interest beaming from her dark hazel eyes.</p>
+
+<p>'We are ruined, Mary! my property, the inheritance of my ancestors, is
+all, I fear, to be swept away from me.'</p>
+
+<p>'And you have known this, George, a long time, and have been bearing the
+trouble all alone in your own breast. Why have you done this, and not
+let me be a sharer of your sufferings?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Mary, how could I do it? It was out of your power to stop the
+torrent I have been contending against, and I could not bear to disturb
+your quiet.'</p>
+
+<p>'My dear George, how little do you understand of a woman's love; bright
+and pleasant things do not always satisfy its warm desire. I had rather
+suffer with you, and for you, my dear husband, the sharpest pangs, and
+feel the direst vicissitudes of life, if I could only prove to you, how
+much dearer to me is your love than all things else on earth.'</p>
+
+<p>As she said this her eyes were filled with tears, and told so truly with
+the words she had just uttered, all the meaning of her soul, that he
+clasped her to his bosom.</p>
+
+<p>'My love, my life, my heart's richest treasure! may God bless you for
+all the comfort you have been to me, and for all you are now.'</p>
+
+<p>Sorrow, thou child of sin, strong and terrible as is thy power, and
+crushing as is the weight of thy hand when pressed on no worms of the
+dust, yet know thou, there is an antidote, a precious gift of Heaven,
+when by man's sin all blessings which his God had given were justly
+forfeited&mdash;this antidote is love; when fixed on God, it bows the spirit
+into childlike confidence, clinging closer to the heavenly hand the
+heavier the blow. And when two kindred souls on earth have merged their
+hopes, their fears, their interests, their warm desires, their whole
+hearts' sympathies in one strong true embrace, there is so much of
+heaven's own happiness in it, that spite of all the anguish under which
+at times they bow, this sweet and subtile charmer steals within, spreads
+a calm upon the bosom of the waters, hushes all to peace, and bids them
+still be happy.</p>
+
+<p>And now she sits beside him, and he tells her all his strange trials,
+and how dark his prospects are.</p>
+
+<p>'It must all go, Mary.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, my dear husband, let it all go; your own sweet spirit is
+unstained by one wrong or mean act; you have never withheld a righteous
+due; you have never ground the face of the poor; you have never
+triumphed over those beneath you; you have rather tried to raise them to
+your own level: and now let poverty come, it cannot sink our spirits, so
+long as there is no blot on your fair fame, and no stain on your
+conscience.'</p>
+
+<p>Rutherford was manly in his feelings, but he could not repress his
+starting tears. His lovely wife, without a sigh, had let go all that
+wealth could hold out to her, and only thought of her husband's virtues.</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, Mary, that is true. I believe I can truly say with Job: "If I have
+withheld the poor from their desire, or have caused the eyes of the
+widow to fail, or have eaten my morsel myself alone, and the fatherless
+have not eaten thereof: if I have seen any perish for want of clothing,
+or any poor without covering, then let my arm fall from my
+shoulder-blade, and mine arm be broken from the bone."'</p>
+
+<p>'I know it, my dear husband, I know it; and as you have acted in the
+fear of God, his strength will be our refuge.'</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XVII.</h2>
+
+
+<p>The shades of evening had settled upon that retired spot, the stronghold
+of Mr. Cross up in the barrens. The doors and windows of his long, low
+building, were closed; a light was burning on the counter, beside which
+were seated the owner of the premises and a companion, very unlike him
+in appearance, whatever similarity there might be in the temper of their
+hearts&mdash;Mr. Cross having rather a round and plump carcass, with cheeks
+filled out, and bearing the hue which a liberal allowance of gin and
+water usually imparts. The other was altogether of the mummy order; his
+body thin and bent over, his limbs long and bony, with a loose furrowed
+visage, which looked as though it might once have been supplied with
+flesh, but its substance having melted away, the outer covering now hung
+flabby and puckered under his chin and beneath his cheek-bones and at
+the corners of his mouth; his hair was grisly, and stood far off from
+his wrinkled forehead, which was broad and high enough to indicate the
+presence of intellect, or at least room for it; the colour of his eyes
+it would be hard to determine, for they were very small, and the thick,
+heavy eye-lashes twinkled so continually, it was almost impossible to
+catch a glimpse of them. A bottle of gin, a pitcher of water and two
+tumblers stood on the counter, close beside them; and from this we may
+infer that the two gentlemen were not dissimilar in some of their
+tastes.</p>
+
+<p>'Now, Squire (for we must know that this gentleman belonged to an
+honourable profession), 'I think we've done this job up pretty
+considerably slick&mdash;don't you?'</p>
+
+<p>Turning his long face round as Mr. Cross spoke, so as to bring it into a
+horizontal position, and shaking it very significantly, as each word
+fell from his lips in a slow and measured tone&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'It has worked, neighbour Cross, like a charm, just as I told you it
+would. The shoe pinches now, I guess, and more than one foot too&mdash;one,
+two, three, four; only think of it,'&mdash;giving Mr. Cross a poke with one
+of his long fingers&mdash;'only think of it&mdash;five birds with one stone&mdash;only
+think of it!'&mdash;another poke.</p>
+
+<p>'I never thought, Squire, what you could be at, when you wanted me to
+lend Bolton that money.'</p>
+
+<p>'I knew though, neighbour, what I was about. Jemmy Bolton wanted money
+bad; he had property enough laying round for you to slap on any time.
+You and I, you know, have talked about setting Dave up alongside the
+Montjoys; that, you see, will never work. Bolton I knew, for he told me
+of it, owed those boys all of three thousand dollars; they had advanced
+it to him on the timber, thinking, you see, that all was safe, and that
+it would be coming along. Stop that, says I; trip up Jemmy Bolton&mdash;clap
+on the timber; that cuts the Montjoys three thousand dollars&mdash;no small
+sum for young folks, considering the times too; then down goes
+Bolton&mdash;that gives Bowers &amp; Co., and Jones &amp; Brothers such a pull, you
+see, down they go too; ha, ha, ha!'&mdash;a poke with the long finger&mdash;'both
+of them owe the Montjoys considerable. That, with Bolton's affair, you
+see, will just about finish the job for them; they can't stand it no
+how.'</p>
+
+<p>'Poor fellows! I am almost sorry for them.' Mr. Cross was not so sorry
+but he could smile a little as he said it.</p>
+
+<p>'I am not a bit&mdash;I am not a bit sorry, neighbor; they are upstarts,
+nothing else; and they have made all the folks about them think that
+they are the end of the law. No, no; let them go down&mdash;the sooner the
+better; and when they are once down on their back, you see, then up goes
+Dave. You have got the cash, you know&mdash;a dash he will make; and the
+whole country round will be the better for it.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes; but, Squire, you know these fellows will fight hard to live it
+through; they are no fancy boys; they have worked their way along by
+their own efforts; they stand high at the bank. McFall is a great friend
+of theirs; they will make the bank help them&mdash;see if they don't.'</p>
+
+<p>'I have thought of that too, neighbor'&mdash;another hard poke&mdash;'I've thought
+of that; and there you have them too.'</p>
+
+<p>'How so, Squire? I have nothing to do with the bank you know.'</p>
+
+<p>'Don't you know a certain man who would not refuse you a favor for a
+trifle? Bank Directors are not always so independent as they would wish
+to be thought&mdash;ha, ha, ha!'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, what of him?'</p>
+
+<p>'You just whisper in his ear that it would be no particular
+accommodation to you, that certain folks should receive any favors; that
+will be enough. One man, you know, in a board is as good as a
+dozen'&mdash;another poke.</p>
+
+<p>'Well, well, I understand.'</p>
+
+<p>'I thought you did&mdash;but what was that? There is nobody sleeps here, I
+hope?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh no, it is the dog; he is dreaming I suppose.'</p>
+
+<p>'It startled me though, neighbour, for it would not be quite so clever
+to have any one get the run of what we have been saying.'</p>
+
+<p>'Never fear, Squire; I shut all up myself.'</p>
+
+<p>'I hope you are sure of that; for I was just going to tell you the best
+of the whole joke.'</p>
+
+<p>'Tell away, Squire; there are no listeners but the old casks; they won't
+tell any tales.'</p>
+
+<p>'They do sometimes though, neighbour.'</p>
+
+<p>'How so?'</p>
+
+<p>'They tell a little bit, sometimes by the end of our nose, ha, ha,
+ha!'&mdash;another poke&mdash;'don't they? ha, ha, ha! Well, as I was saying, the
+best of it is all to come. Rutherford is clean done up'&mdash;one, two, three
+pokes right off.</p>
+
+<p>'Rutherford done up! What do you mean now, Squire?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why you know I told you that we had killed five birds with one stone,
+and so we have. Bolton is dead, the other two fellows are kicking, and
+the Montjoys will be dead soon: and our old friend Rutherford, whom we
+have been picking at these six years, is down at last, all gone to
+smash. Think of that, neighbor Cross.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Cross made no reply; but turning to the decanter, filled his own
+glass and the Squire's about half full of the clear stuff, added a
+little water to his own, and then swallowed the potion at one draught.
+The Squire did not trouble the water, preferring the good creature in
+its pure state.</p>
+
+<p>'Your gin is uncommonly strong, neighbour&mdash;'ugh, 'ugh, 'ugh&mdash;it almost
+shakes a body&mdash;'ugh, 'ugh, 'ugh.'</p>
+
+<p>'Water it then, why don't you? But what is it about Rutherford, and how
+has that come?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, you know as well as I do, that Rutherford is an easy body; you
+know that the quarry folks have been getting round him, and drawing him
+in more and more every year. He, good soul! thought all was right, while
+they have been going on, as you know very well, running into debt deeper
+and deeper. Well, it is only a little pull that is needed to bring down
+a great weight when it is tottering and ready to fall. This business of
+Bolton's has upset the whole concern; they only lost a trifle by him,
+but it touched them just at a delicate time. People got frightened, and
+the game was up, and Rutherford is in for all their debts; it is thought
+it will sweep every thing away, homestead and all.</p>
+
+<p>'Now this, I know, is of no consequence to you: it will not give you any
+title to these barrens; but now that they are in a muss, will be the
+time to accomplish our great plan. That deed is not on record yet'&mdash;a
+very hard poke&mdash;'you know that your deed from old Ross covers the whole
+ground, when once this claim of Rutherford's is put one side. Old
+Rutherford, I suppose, thought that the whole tract here was not worth
+the trouble of looking after, and the young one, no doubt, thinks that
+all is right; but mind me, neighbour, now is your time, or never. This
+land, between you and me, which Rutherford owns here, is worth all the
+rest of his property put together. These Montjoys have, you see, opened
+a trade for the timber, and there is no telling what its value will yet
+be. The creditors will be searching the records; it will soon be found
+out that this deed is not registered, and then your play is out. What
+you do, must be done at once.'</p>
+
+<p>'True enough, Squire; his deed once out of the way, mine is worth a
+trifle no doubt; but the question is, has he a deed at all? and if he
+has, how can we get hold of it?'</p>
+
+<p>'Ah, neighbour, he has got the deed; I have seen it with my own eyes:
+you see I have not been idle about this matter of yours, although it is
+a thing that it will not do to say much about. Some time since, I
+thought I would just call and inquire about some old matters, merely to
+see what might turn up. He was very polite, you know, handing me a
+chair, and all that. "You want to look at the old survey, do you,
+Squire?" "Yes," said I, "if it is not too much trouble, Mr. Rutherford."
+"Oh no, by no means." And so he out with the old tin trunk; you have
+seen that trunk in old Rutherford's time.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, yes, often.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, he out with the old trunk; he keeps it just where the old man
+did, under the secretary; you know as well as I can tell you.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, yes, I've seen it, but go on with your story.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well he out with his trunk, as I was saying, and among the very first
+papers he threw on the table, was this very deed. Thinks I, old fellow,
+if I had you once in my grip, I guess I know whose fortune would be
+made.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, the thing is now, how to get hold of it.'</p>
+
+<p>'That's the thing neighbour;'&mdash;one or two good pokes.</p>
+
+<p>'I have a few good fellows that are up to any thing, only let me tell
+them what to do.'</p>
+
+<p>'Then it can be done, neighbour. What a nice thing it would be to have
+a little bit of a fire happen, say about midnight. A pretty state of
+confusion that would make, you know; doors open, everybody running
+helter-skelter, all frightened to death! Wouldn't that do?'&mdash;a hard
+poke&mdash;'but there is no time to lose.'</p>
+
+<p>Cross evidently relished the idea suggested, for he replenished the
+glasses again, omitting the water this time; then talking in a much
+lower tone, named the persons&mdash;smart fellows, as he called
+them&mdash;arranged time, place of rendezvous, etc.; to all which the Squire
+assented, every once in a while putting out his long finger and striking
+neighbour Cross in the ecstacy of his admiration. And thus they devised
+this deed of darkness, careless of all the terrible consequences which
+might result, so that their own crafty designs were accomplished.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XVIII.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Sam Oakum was indeed very much excited at the close of his interview
+with Commodore Trysail; the bright prospect before him of soon realizing
+what his heart had been so long aspiring after, gave a sudden spring to
+all his feelings, and the spirit of his station seemed already to have
+taken possession of his mind.</p>
+
+<p>The trifle of news, too, which Peter had communicated, might also have
+had something to do with the bouyancy of his feelings. Sam longed to see
+again the little fairy-like creature, with golden locks and dark blue
+eyes, that once in his early days he occasionally met.</p>
+
+<p>This little fairy, however, is a fairy no longer, for she has grown up
+to be a fine, good-natured young lady; her golden locks have turned to a
+rich auburn; her dark blue eyes illuminate, with their bright and
+pleasant sparkles, her full oval face, on which the rose and the lily
+have beautifully blended.</p>
+
+<p>Sam has not seen her, however, for four long years, and he thinks of her
+as she looked then. And if the Commodore had known how much more Sam was
+thinking about Peter's news, than about the schooner or the ship, it
+might have injured his confidence, a very little.</p>
+
+<p>As to what this little fairy ever thought of Sam, it would be equally
+hard to divine. All we know is that when a little girl she used to be
+very glad to see a little black-eyed boy in blue jacket and trousers,
+and would frequently smile when she saw him, and perhaps on one or two
+occasions exchanged a word with him&mdash;nothing more.</p>
+
+<p>She is now, I have said, a young lady; and whether she ever thinks of
+the little black-eyed boy is yet to be known.</p>
+
+<p>Sam had thought all day of the visit which he felt he ought to make to
+his friends the Morris's. He called there in the edge of evening, and no
+doubt spent a very pleasant hour, for his friends were rejoiced to see
+him, and gave him to understand that the Commodore had let them into the
+secret; and from the kindness with which he was treated, it was very
+evident that he had not fallen in their estimation.</p>
+
+<p>I said, that he no doubt spent a pleasant hour; but that idea intruded
+itself rather because there was everything conspiring to make it
+pleasant, than from its apparent effect upon our hero; for his
+countenance, as he walked on his way towards home, was sad, and it was
+some time before the lively, happy circle there could so impart their
+cheerfulness as to enable him to join heartily with them.</p>
+
+<p>Major Morris and his lovely daughter had reached home, as Peter had
+said, accompanied by a young lady, who had been a companion of Susan at
+school, and her brother, a fashionable young man, the parents of whom
+were wealthy and truly respectable in their standing. And it may as well
+be told at once, that although not engaged to this youth&mdash;for Susan's
+parents were too careful of her happiness to allow such a step at the
+age she then was&mdash;still there was decided feeling on the part of the
+young man, and Susan had been perhaps as well pleased with him as with
+any of those who constantly sought her company. He was not, however,
+visiting as a suitor, but had been invited with his sister to spend a
+few weeks at the Major's delightful residence.</p>
+
+<p>Susan Morris was by no means an imaginative girl. She had, it is true,
+very ardent feelings, but they had always been expended upon real
+objects; and, in consequence, she was the beloved of every circle where
+she moved.</p>
+
+<p>Two weeks from the day on which Commodore Trysail gave the appointment,
+Sam and his beautiful schooner were ready for the ocean.</p>
+
+<p>Partings with near friends are not pleasant scenes, so I shall pass
+them over. It was a lovely afternoon, one of summer's brightest days; a
+lively breeze played over the water, and scarcely bending to its power,
+a small trim vessel, rigged in pilot-boat fashion, was gliding
+gracefully along, not far from the shore. Every sail was set, and filled
+just enough to display their graceful cut, the little black hull beneath
+making them look more white and showy by the contrast. A row-boat, well
+manned, was by the shore, around which were gathered groups of
+lookers-on, or friends saying some last words to the youths who held the
+oars, and whose half serious smiles told plainly that their hearts were
+not so light as they would seem.</p>
+
+<p>Just beyond the shore, upon the sloping green, a little party stands,
+eyeing with apparent interest the motions of the schooner and the
+preparations for departure, which are plainly visible in the gathering
+crowd that was surrounding the little boat at the water's edge.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Susan, what a fine sight that vessel makes; but who would think of
+venturing to sea in such a craft?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why not, Julia?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, she is so small, I should think the waves would ingulf her&mdash;but
+here comes her Captain, I suppose. Your father keeps close to him; and
+the old Commodore, how proud he seems.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, he does, I assure you,' said Mrs. Morris; 'he is proud of his
+vessel and her Captain too.'</p>
+
+<p>The three gentlemen now approached the ladies, raising their hats, and
+again replacing them, with the exception of the younger one, who, having
+removed his light chapeau, kept it in his hand.</p>
+
+<p>There was a seriousness in his air as he immediately stepped up to Mrs.
+Morris, and received her offered hand.</p>
+
+<p>'May God bless you, my dear fellow! Come, a mother's kiss.'</p>
+
+<p>Sam's heart was brave, but it was very tender. He took the liberty
+allowed him, but uttered not a word, while Mrs. Morris took no pains to
+restrain the flowing tears. He bowed to Miss Walton, and then the hand
+of Susan is within his own. He bowed respectfully, raised her hand, and
+touched it to his lips. He saw a tear start as he cast one parting
+glance upon her sweet face, and, without a word on either side, they
+separated.</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore and Major Morris, each taking an arm, walked with him to
+the little boat.</p>
+
+<p>'God bless you!' and the Major clasped his hand in both of his.</p>
+
+<p>'God bless you, Captain Oakum&mdash;a fine voyage to you!' and the Commodore
+gave him a sailor's squeeze.</p>
+
+<p>A great many hands were stretched out, and Sam was busy enough for a
+little while. He was a great favorite, and all were sad at parting with
+him. Just as he was about to step into the boat, two men were seen
+hastening along shore.</p>
+
+<p>'There are the two men, Captain, that have shipped to-day.'</p>
+
+<p>'Have you your papers with you?' said Captain Oakum, addressing the men
+who had just reached them.</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, sir&mdash;here they are;' handing them at the same time to the Captain.</p>
+
+<p>'Aboard with you, then.'</p>
+
+<p>They sprang in and tumbled themselves away as they best could. Sam
+raised his hand; every oar was dropped, and the little boat shot away
+like an arrow from the strand. As she left the shore, he turned towards
+the land, and removing his chapeau, waved it towards those who stood on
+shore, and then raising his eye to the different groups which he saw on
+the elevated bank, bowed, and at once there was a great waving of
+handkerchiefs, and some among them had other work to do with theirs, for
+tears were flowing freely. A fond mother and sisters were there, and
+there were friends of his early days, hearts knit to him in tenderest
+friendship. Gracefully the little schooner rounds to, and for a few
+moments lies flapping in the wind. Her Captain springs upon her deck,
+again she falls off to take the breeze, the sails swell gently out, and
+on she goes ploughing her way towards the mighty ocean.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XIX.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Sam is now off, and for a season we must bid him adieu. Jim and Ned felt
+sorely the loss of one with whom they had been so long and happily
+connected; but matters of the last importance soon demanded their
+attention, and for the time banished thoughts of friends, and almost all
+other earthly considerations. Their business had hitherto been
+prosperous, and they had yet to learn, by their own experience, some of
+those trials which business men are ever liable to suffer. The
+advantage which they possessed of receiving supplies immediately from
+one of the largest marts in our country not only insured to them the
+trade of individual families, but also that of many stores removed far
+back into the country; with these they were obliged to deal on liberal
+terms, allowing them a credit of sufficient length to meet the slow
+returns of a country trade. They had as yet carried on a successful
+traffic, settling every six months by an exchange of produce, or a note
+at short time.</p>
+
+<p>One article of country produce had become a valuable item in their
+trade&mdash;the pine timber from the barrens&mdash;and so urgent was the demand
+for it, in consequence of its excellent quality, and the facility with
+which it could be floated to market, that they found it necessary to
+make large purchases beyond what they would receive as an exchange of
+goods; these purchases had frequently to be made by an advance of
+one-half or three-fourths of the value, and the balance paid on
+delivery.</p>
+
+<p>As their orders of late had been much increased, they had exerted
+themselves to procure funds, and by this method had, as they supposed,
+secured a very large and valuable lot of timber.</p>
+
+<p>One morning&mdash;the very day after the departure of Sam&mdash;they were favoured
+with a visit from Mr. Cross. James, the elder partner, received him
+politely, but with some reserve; for, to tell the truth, they had no
+favorable opinion of his character. He had a fine lot of timber for
+sale, and would be glad to contract with them for it.</p>
+
+<p>'We have already engaged as much as we need at present, sir, and are
+expecting it every day; in fact, Mr. Bolton promised to deliver it last
+week, but I presume he has met with some unexpected hindrance.'</p>
+
+<p>'If it is from Mr. Bolton you are expecting the timber, I think you may
+give up looking for it, as I have been obliged to take all he has on
+hand, to secure myself for a debt he owed me. I suppose you know that he
+has gone to pieces?'</p>
+
+<p>As Mr. Cross said this, he cast a very inquisitive glance at young
+Montjoy&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'I hope you have not advanced much to neighbor Bolton on account of the
+timber; these are tight times, you know.'</p>
+
+<p>Just then Ned entered the store, and handed his brother a letter, which
+he had opened and read. Jim saw too clearly that there was a good reason
+for the very serious air which his brother's countenance assumed, when
+he handed it to him.</p>
+
+<p>'I believe, Mr. Cross, that we can do nothing about the timber this
+morning.'</p>
+
+<p>'Good morning, gentlemen.'</p>
+
+<p>No sooner had their visitor left, than they retired to a little back
+room at the end of their store, where they had held many a pleasant
+conversation in company with their friend Sam. Heretofore, when they had
+repaired to this room, it had been with light hearts, and many a joyous
+hour had they passed there&mdash;far different feelings now pressed their
+spirits. Their trials until now had been of the light and transient
+kind, which a little youthful energy, a little determination of purpose,
+or putting forth of physical power, could overcome and scatter. Now they
+have got a lesson to learn on a new page of life.</p>
+
+<p>When they reached the room, Jim again read over the letter, which proved
+to be another messenger with bad tidings.</p>
+
+<p>It ran as follows:&mdash;</p>
+
+<blockquote><p>'<span class="smcap">Gentlemen</span>,&mdash;I am sorry to be compelled to inform you that the two
+notes of Bowers &amp; Co. and Jones &amp; Brothers, which fell due
+yesterday at the Bank, were protested for non-payment; the note
+which I hold of yours for fifteen hundred dollars, and to meet
+which the above notes were left with me, will be due in ten days,
+and you will be obliged to remit the amount, or otherwise arrange
+for it, as the distressing pressure at present on the money market
+will render it utterly impossible for me to honor your note from my
+own resources. I send this by private hands in advance of the mail,
+as I wish you to have the earliest notice possible of this event.</p>
+
+<p class="right">'Yours respectfully,&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
+'<span class="smcap">James McFall</span>.'</p></blockquote>
+
+<p>To make this letter more intelligible, it may be proper to state that
+Mr. McFall was a personal friend of the Montjoys, who attended to their
+banking arrangements&mdash;the institution being at such a distance (full
+twenty miles) as rendered such aid necessary. He received their notes
+payable at the bank, due from merchants, collected and made payments as
+they directed, and having facilities, whenever they needed funds for
+extra service, procured for them what they wanted, either upon their own
+note, for which he held the business paper as security, or upon the
+paper itself. In the case of the fifteen hundred dollar note mentioned
+in the letter, he had procured the money from the bank on it alone, and
+held their business paper in two notes for about the same amount; these
+failing to be met, he was obliged to look to them for payment.</p>
+
+<p>To describe the feelings of the two young men, as the alarming news
+broke upon them, and the calamitous consequences which it threatened,
+would be a vain attempt. Had an earthquake burst at mid-day, and with
+its convulsive quiver rocked their building, until they could see the
+tottering fabric parting at its joints and falling upon their devoted
+heads, it could not have waked up more intense, more appalling
+sensations. They had begun by the sweat of their brow; they had exerted
+every energy; they had advanced step by step; their business had grown
+by a natural progress; they had not forced it by speculation, nor by an
+undue haste to acquire wealth; they had abstained from borrowing on the
+names of others, and from lending their own; they had trusted to none
+but those who stood well in trade; their yearly gains were such as they
+had every reason to be contented with; and, but yesterday, they felt
+firm in their own strength, and buoyant with the fair prospect before
+them. Now their foundation is gone, and the labor of years that are
+past, and hope for years to come, alike vanished, as a vision, from
+before them.</p>
+
+<p>Ned had so long been accustomed to lean upon his brother in every
+emergency, to have him think out a way for them, that hitherto he had
+never troubled himself with any further care than faithfully attending
+to the execution of his plans. Now he saw that the staff upon which he
+had leaned was broken: the pale features, the knit brow, the clammy
+sweat that stood upon his temples; the vacant gaze with which he looked
+upon the letter that lay folded in his hands, told him that James was
+sore dismayed, and at his wit's end.</p>
+
+<p>'Let us go, Jim, and tell mother all about it.'</p>
+
+<p>But Jim answered him not; he merely sighed and wiped his forehead, and
+then leaning forward, covered his face, as if he wished to hide even
+from his brother the agony that was wringing his bosom.</p>
+
+<p>Oh! ye who despise the plodding toil of your daily labor, who think it
+drudgery to follow the plough, and handle the hoe, and reap the fields,
+and gather in your scanty gains, and are ashamed of the homely fare and
+the rude dress that these afford you, could you but have known the
+bitterness of that trial which was sending its pangs into the heart of
+that young man, you would prize more highly the freedom you have from
+distressing care, the independence you enjoy of either the frown or the
+favor of man, the quiet that is spread over all your humble enjoyments,
+and the peace of mind which goes with you to your rest and meets your
+waking thoughts. Depend upon it, that the glitter of wealth is purchased
+at a higher price than your imagination fancies.</p>
+
+<p>Ned did not venture again to disturb his brother's meditations, and
+began even to hope that he was devising some plan for their rescue; but
+for once his clear and business intellect was at fault. The blow was so
+sudden, that his young mind could only suffer, without being able to
+wake up its energies to meet and ward off its consequences. Conscious at
+last that something must be done, and not sufficiently composed to know
+what that must be, he quietly arose, folded the letter, and placing it
+in his pocket&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'You are right, Ned; let us go and tell mother. She ought to know how
+things stand, without delay.'</p>
+
+<p>It was no strange thing for these young men to make a confidant of their
+mother. She had accustomed them to tell her all their thoughts, and thus
+had they grown up beneath her fostering care; and opening, as they did
+to her, the fountain of their soul, she watched each bubble that came
+sparkling up, cleared all the dross and specks away with sweet maternal
+care; and still she loved to watch&mdash;it was her life's one duty; for well
+she knew, if all was bright and pure within the living spring, the
+streams must, in the end, be bright and sparkling too.</p>
+
+<p>Alarmed at once by the appearance of her sons, as they entered the
+little room, where she sat with their sweet sister, plying their busy
+needles, she laid aside her task, and turning her anxious eye on James&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'What is it, my children? James, I know you are in some great trouble.'</p>
+
+<p>'We are in trouble, mother, and we have thought it our duty to let you
+know all about it at once.' And they each took a seat beside her, while
+Ellen, the darling of their hearts, unused to any thing but smiles from
+her dear brothers, took Ned's hand in hers, and pressed it in all the
+warmth of her love, and wept as she looked at the calm yet serious
+countenance of her light-hearted brother.</p>
+
+<p>In a very straight-forward way, James told his mother the news which had
+just been brought to them, and ended his communication by saying:</p>
+
+<p>'Thus you see, mother, at one blow, is swept away all that we, have
+earned by our labors for these six years past; but that is not the worst
+of it.'</p>
+
+<p>'You are afraid, my son, that it will take more than you have earned; it
+will leave you in debt?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, mother, it will leave us, I fear, one thousand dollars worse than
+nothing, and that is not all.'</p>
+
+<p>'That is bad enough, James, but I hope you cannot accuse yourselves of
+any wrong proceedings&mdash;any&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'Nothing wrong, mother, that we can see; but we shall lose&mdash;we shall
+lose our credit, and that, mother, is worse than death.'&mdash;And Jim could
+stand no more; manly as he was, he covered his face, and gave way to a
+passionate burst of grief.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Montjoy spoke not until the violence of it was past, and then, in a
+very calm and soothing way, gave such counsel as her judgment best
+dictated.</p>
+
+<p>There is something in the tones of a mother's voice that goes at once to
+the heart of man. James felt the influence of her sweet words, lulling
+the violence of the storm within. Calmer views began to break upon
+him&mdash;a juster sense of the responsibility of his present situation. This
+was his hour of adversity, and he must act the man.</p>
+
+<p>Ned, too, began to feel his heart grow lighter.</p>
+
+<p>'Come, Jim, let us keep up a good heart; things may come round right at
+last, and if the worst happens, we can go to work again in the old
+garden.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ah, my son, you will often think of your boyhood's days in that garden:
+you worked hard, but you were light-hearted and happy, although you
+sometimes complained of back-aches and blistered hands.'</p>
+
+<p>'Mother, I tell you what,' said Ned, 'heart-aches are worse than
+back-aches; the one you can sleep off, the other I don't believe we can
+get rid of in that way.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, brother, now that we look back upon them, those were the happiest
+days, I think, that you and I will ever see; but we did not think so
+then. Now we cannot go back; we must, therefore, as mother says, meet
+this trouble like men, and urge our way along the best we may. Mother, I
+thank you for your dear good words, they have revived my spirit'&mdash;and he
+stooped and kissed her. 'And now, Ned, we have a great deal to do; let
+us be about it.'</p>
+
+<p>As soon as the brothers were alone, Jim showed that he was himself
+again, and in a very calm and business-like manner prepared for action.</p>
+
+<p>'The first thing we must do, Ned, will be to see exactly how we stand.
+While you are attending to customers, I will make an abstract of our
+books. Then this evening, when the store is closed, we will take an
+account of our stock; we shall then know better our situation, and what
+course to pursue. We must put on a cheerful countenance, and keep
+straight along as usual, for to-day at any rate.'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't know about the cheerful face, Jim, but I will do the best I
+can.'</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XX.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Scarcely had Cross and his companion in guilt retired from their dark
+conclave to carry out their dreadful purpose, when a young man arose
+stealthily from off a rude mattress upon which he had been lying,
+listened a moment, then hastily threw on a coat which had served him for
+a pillow, and with light steps proceeded towards the door; his further
+progress was now arrested, for the key had been removed, and the lock
+was bolted. Somewhat alarmed at this hindrance, he cast his eye
+anxiously along the front windows, and proceeded to undo the fastenings
+on the inside, when a thought occurred to him, that if he escaped
+through that opening, it would be noticed on the return of the owner of
+the store, which, from what he had overheard, would be in a few moments.
+He therefore replaced the bolt, and hastily retreated to a building
+connected with the store and running back from it. Here, too, by some
+unaccountable purpose, he was again frustrated; the door was fastened
+and the key withdrawn; and, to his consternation, he heard footsteps and
+voices. Cross, and the gang of wretches he had awaked from their lair,
+which was in one of the out-houses connected with his establishment,
+were about to enter the store&mdash;he to give his instructions to them, to
+inspire them with the hellish draught; and they to go hence on their
+errand of mischief. To remain where he was, and be discovered, his life
+would not be worth a mention; that he well knew. Above his head was a
+trap-door, opening into the loft which ran over the store. The covering
+was removed, he sprang upon a barrel, the nearest article to where he
+stood; making a desperate effort, his hands grasped the sides of the
+hole&mdash;he heard the key rattling in the lock, exerted himself with an
+energy the fear of death alone could have inspired, and drew at
+arms-length the whole weight of his body through the aperture. The door
+opened, and Cross entered with three of the creatures around whom he had
+wound the coils of iniquity, until they had become the slaves of his
+will.</p>
+
+<p>'Now, boys, sit down here. Dick, there's the measure&mdash;draw away, and
+help yourselves.'</p>
+
+<p>Nothing was said in reply; the running liquor alone sounded through the
+still room, and then the smack of the lips as each in turn gulped down
+the liquid fire.</p>
+
+<p>'I wouldn't have called you, boys, to-night, but I have a job on hand
+that must be done now or never.'</p>
+
+<p>'We're ready,' said two of the persons addressed, who were now seated on
+a bench near the counter.</p>
+
+<p>'You are all ready, I hope,' said Cross, who stood up before them, and
+eyed the individual who was the youngest of the three, and had not
+united in the assent. 'No skulking now, Jo.'</p>
+
+<p>'No, no, I'm ready for any thing&mdash;that is, I s'pose you don't want no
+bloody work?'</p>
+
+<p>'You are always afraid of blood, Jo. I've never set you at any such
+work, have I?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, not exactly&mdash;but we have come pretty near it sometimes, you know.'</p>
+
+<p>'"Pretty near it"&mdash;never hurt any body.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, let's have the story,' said the eldest of the gang; 'if there is
+any thing to do to-night, it's time to be about it.'</p>
+
+<p>'You are the fellow, Dick;'&mdash;and Cross laid his hand familiarly on the
+ruffian, and gave him one or two hearty slaps on the back, in
+manifestation of his warm approval, and as a stimulant to the
+performance of his reasonable request.</p>
+
+<p>The demand of Mr. Cross upon their services was made in a low tone, and
+listened to by them with the deepest attention, each head drooping, and
+with eyes in a gazing attitude fixed upon the floor.</p>
+
+<p>His directions were given with great clearness; the horses they were to
+ride, the part of the premises they were to fire, which of them was to
+enter the house and seize the trunk, and who the individual that should
+bear it with, the utmost speed to the dark rendezvous, where he, Cross,
+would be in waiting to receive it.</p>
+
+<p>'And if it goes well, you shall be made men&mdash;you hear <i>that</i>?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes.' But they had heard the same before, and were yet the drudges of
+his will. His power over them they knew&mdash;his frown they feared; and his
+command must be obeyed.</p>
+
+<p>Every word that passed came up with painful distinctness to the ears of
+the young man who lay above them, almost breathless in his dread lest
+some sound, even the beat of his heart against the planks, should be
+heard, and his presence discovered. He knew well the desperate character
+of the men, and that he must move with wary steps.</p>
+
+<p>Every thing is at length arranged, and he hears them again fortifying
+their spirits by a deep draught. The door is opened, and one by one they
+steal out, but apparently with little zest for the work before them.
+Cross waited a moment on the threshold, until they disappeared amid the
+dark pines, and then, muttering curses on the men who were about to
+blacken their souls with a heinous crime for his sake, he stepped back
+into the store, poured out some gin from his bottle, took a long drink,
+threw himself into one of the chairs, and, leaning back against the
+counter, amused himself with swinging his heel against one of the rungs.</p>
+
+<p>Bill Brown&mdash;for it was he who had been the providential listener to this
+vile scheme, had learned more in one short lesson than through his whole
+life before. Light, as though from heaven, flashed upon him; the
+dreadful character of his employer was revealed in all its blackness.
+Fear, likewise, had taken hold upon him; a groan, a movement, even too
+loud a breath, might place him in an instant on the verge of eternity.</p>
+
+<p>And then, too, the dreadful fate which hung over that family. Bill had
+been a recreant to the path of duty; his mother's counsels he had set
+light by, and too often had he ridiculed the interest which she felt in
+those friends of her early days, and had done his best to persuade
+Hettie against making her home there: but now he would give half his
+life for the power of flying to them. How he longed to grapple with the
+hateful wretch, and then spread the alarm ere their mansion was wrapped
+in flames, and perhaps some of the family victims to their fury. But he
+knew that Cross was armed, and a powerful man.</p>
+
+<p>The tramp of horses is heard; his heart sinks within him; furiously they
+pass the place, and far, far away, the sounds come back fainter and
+fainter upon the stillness of the night.</p>
+
+<p>How long he thus remained he could not tell, for minutes are hours when
+the heart is in such an exciting suspense. At length he hears the snap
+of a watch-case. Cross rises from his seat, opens the door, fastens it
+from without, and is off. Bill waited not to hear his retiring
+footsteps; he springs to the floor, hastens to a window, of which he had
+not thought in his first attempt; it opened on one side of the building,
+and was seldom used. The sash creaked as he forced it through the mouldy
+casement, and, quickly letting himself down, carefully closed the
+shutters, and then looking round as though the avenger of blood might be
+watching for him, crossed the road, and entered a thick covert of pines.
+He turned and looked at the long dark building where he had wasted so
+much of his past life&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'If I once get beyond your reach, good-by to you for ever.'</p>
+
+<p>Distracting were the thoughts which rioted within the mind of this
+youth. He was sure that the villains were full an hour in advance of
+him, and the work of destruction no doubt begun ere this. To pursue
+them, would be fruitless as preventing the catastrophe; to go in the
+opposite direction and seek his mother's home, would be to fill her soul
+with unavailable terrors. No house was near, but the one from which he
+had just escaped&mdash;no human being within some miles, to whom he should
+dare communicate what he knew. It was full nine miles to Mr.
+Rutherford's. His utmost haste would only enable him, in all
+probability, to witness the smouldering ruins of their mansion, and, oh,
+dreadful thought! the ashes of his own sister perhaps. He could think no
+further; the spirit of vengeance stirred strong within&mdash;he groped about
+for something that might serve him for a weapon, and laid hold of a
+strong chesnut club; brandishing it in his hand and testing its strength
+by a blow upon the ground&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'If I can do nothing more, I will make one of them feel the weight of an
+avenging arm.'</p>
+
+<p>He is resolved to urge on his way towards the scene of mischief. He
+remembers, too, that in the instructions which Cross had given, one of
+them on the fleetest horse, was to seize the trunk and hasten off. He
+might meet him alone, and possibly rescue the prize, if nothing more.</p>
+
+<p>Never had the road seemed so interminable, and his utmost speed was to
+his burning spirit but a snail's pace. Still he presses on&mdash;a long hill
+is before him; when he reaches its summit he will be near the edge of
+the barrens. He heeds not the ascent&mdash;his whole frame is nerved with an
+energy he never has felt before&mdash;it is his first essay in the path of
+duty. As he reaches the top a faint streak of light seems to tinge the
+distant cloud&mdash;his heart beats with deep emotion&mdash;an instant more, and a
+flush of light suffuses the whole heavens. He could scream in the
+intensity of his feelings. He thinks he hears a sound&mdash;he pauses to
+listen&mdash;it is&mdash;it is&mdash;the fiendish plot is accomplished, and the
+villains are returning with the spoil. The tramp of one horse, however,
+can only be heard as yet; the rider doubtless bears the fatal treasure.
+The resolution of a whole life fires his breast and nerves him with a
+fixed determination to grapple with the wretch&mdash;the horseman is
+galloping up the hill&mdash;his jaded beast lags as he nears the top. Bill
+crouches behind some bushes near the travelled path&mdash;his eye is on the
+horseman&mdash;it has caught sight of the burden borne in front of him. With
+a single bound he grasps the rein at the horse's head, and levelling a
+desperate blow, brings rider and trunk to the ground. The horse,
+affrighted, tears down the road, and makes directly for his home. Bill
+stoops to secure the trunk, not knowing or caring whether his victim is
+dead or not, when his antagonist, who is only stunned by the blow,
+springs upon him! They know each other well, and have often tried each
+other's strength in sport; they are nearly matched&mdash;both young, and
+possessed of great muscular power. Bill is now nerved with the energy of
+right, and the other with the strength of despair, maddened, too, with a
+desire for revenge. The violence with which they grapple brings both to
+the earth&mdash;it is a death-struggle&mdash;each endeavoring to get his opponent
+under, and each by turns gaining the advantage, until at length Bill
+lies apparently at the mercy of his adversary, whose hand is fast
+clenched to his throat, while he exerts his utmost strength to strangle
+him. Bill feels that his hour has come, for the death-grip which binds
+his throat is palsying his strength. One arm, however, is free&mdash;he
+clutches in his despair for something that might serve him for a
+weapon&mdash;his club lay within his grasp&mdash;hope springs to his heart&mdash;he
+brings down the weapon with a desperate effort, and it fell on the head
+of his opponent. Bill felt the tight clench relax, and putting forth
+his last powers, renews the blow. It has done the work. With scarce
+strength enough to throw off the body of the now helpless man, he
+attempts to rise, but in his effort to do this, the blood gushed in a
+torrent from his lungs. He believes that he has killed the wretched
+being beside him, and that he himself is parting with life. His reason
+is bright as ever&mdash;he takes up the trunk, and creeping as he best can,
+leaves the road, hoping to reach a hut which he knows is near by,
+deliver his charge, and then die, if so it must be. But his strength is
+less than he supposes&mdash;he can drag his trembling body but a short
+distance. Gradually his powers depart&mdash;a strange and dreamy sleep comes
+over him, and soon all earthly sounds and sense of earthly care are
+gone; and there he lies, still clenching the object for which he
+struggled so desperately.</p>
+
+<p>Scarcely had this scene transpired when the companions of the wretched
+being who lay stretched upon the highway came hurrying along; their
+horse started from the track. Casting their eyes at the object that had
+caused it, they both sprang to the earth, examined a moment to ascertain
+who and what it was, and then looking at each other, simultaneously
+uttered a horrid oath. But there was no time to loiter; the body must
+not be there to tell a tale.</p>
+
+<p>'He's dead, Dick; so let's throw him across the horse and be off.'</p>
+
+<p>'He's dead enough, Jo; but where is the trunk? we can't go without that.
+We had better not meet the old man, if that is gone.'</p>
+
+<p>Uttering all kinds of imprecations on their own souls for having had
+anything to do with the business, and wishing old Cross all manner of
+evil, as they groped about in vain for the prolific cause of all this
+mischief, in utter desperation they caught hold of the body: a groan
+caused them to drop it instantly&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Ned, are you alive? Can you tell us where the trunk is?' There was no
+reply; but the body was warm, and of course life was in it. How to
+proceed they knew not; and their guilty consciences urged them to do
+something with speed. In their dilemma, they sent forth again on the
+still night-air curses too profane for human ears; the light, too, of
+that foul deed they had committed was growing brighter and brighter; far
+over the murky sky it spread, and its blood-red glare came down upon
+them, exposing to their strained eyes the first tokens of the avenger's
+rod.</p>
+
+<p>At length, in their desperation, they determined to place the wounded
+and dying man astride the horse, between them. It was no easy matter to
+accomplish this, and more than one groan escaped the sufferer; but the
+strait they were in was urgent; they could not be deterred by trifles.</p>
+
+<p>Not far from the dwelling of Mr. Cross, about half a mile in a direct
+line, a great change was visible in the size of the timber and the
+aspect of the woods: the fine tall trees, with no undergrowth, and
+scarcely a bush to obstruct the passage through them in any direction,
+were suddenly exchanged for a thick and tangled mass of scrub pines,
+intermixed with alder and black birch. The road leading through it, or
+rather into it, showed clearly its unfrequented condition; the whole
+tract being left, after the first fine growth of timber had been taken
+off, to bring forth what it best could, none then living expecting to
+reap much benefit from it. The soil was sandy, with scarcely any stones
+to be seen, except occasionally a small boulder, which, as it lay
+disconnected with any of its species, impressed the mind with the idea
+that it was out of its place, and was there by accident.</p>
+
+<p>One spot, however, on this lone region, presented a singular contrast to
+all the rest; a few rods from the only road which passed into it, was an
+open, clear place, almost a perfect circle in its form, and about a
+hundred feet in diameter, upon which was neither shrub nor tree; the
+whole area being a flat granite rock, without seam or crack; it was not,
+indeed, a perfect level, but the protuberances upon its surface were
+scarcely noticeable, except as you walked across it.</p>
+
+<p>To this spot had Cross directed his emissaries, after they should have
+accomplished his purpose. It was lonely and desolate, and well chosen
+for such a rendezvous.</p>
+
+<p>What were his feelings, as he paced up and down that rock, lighted by
+the lurid glare reflected from the cloud above him, it would not be very
+profitable for us to know; nor shall I attempt to uncover the hideous
+secrets of such a heart. But there he walked and watched for two long
+hours&mdash;long indeed they seemed to him&mdash;and as he paused ever and anon to
+listen for approaching steps, would curse their tardiness, and then
+resume his lone, heavy tramp.</p>
+
+<p>At length he heard the sound of voices, and the slow tread of a single
+horse. In his haste to anticipate the accomplishment of his vile wish,
+he left the rock and hurried to the road; one of them had dismounted,
+and was about to pass from the road to the trysting-place, the other
+maintained his place upon the horse, holding the helpless body of his
+companion.</p>
+
+<p>Their tale was soon told, for there was not much to say; mystery lay
+upon every thing concerning the wounded man, or the trunk which had been
+committed to him.</p>
+
+<p>Cross listened awhile to their story, his rage gathering fire, until,
+bursting through all bounds, it broke forth like a volcano. He caught
+the one who was standing near him, by the throat, and drawing a pistol
+from his breast&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'You lie, you villain! you know you lie! Tell me this moment where you
+have put that trunk, or I will blow your perjured soul from your
+body&mdash;tell me, quick.'</p>
+
+<p>Overcome with fatigue from the great exertion of the night, and with a
+consciousness of the atrocity of their crime, the young man exclaimed,
+in broken accents, weeping as he spoke,</p>
+
+<p>'You may blow my soul out, if you please, Mr. Cross; but as there is a
+God above, I cannot tell you where it is.'</p>
+
+<p>Throwing the young man away from him with a force that brought him to
+the earth, he dashed the pistol down with maniac rage, tore his hair,
+foamed at the mouth, and fairly howled in the violence of his anger. For
+a while the witnesses looked on in apparent apathy, seeming to care but
+little how much he vented his spite upon himself. At length the one who
+still retained his seat upon the horse, very coolly asked,</p>
+
+<p>'What shall we do with Ned? If he was dead we might bury him; but seeing
+there is life in him, it wouldn't be quite so well, may be; he may yet
+come to, so as to tell who hurt him, and may be some other things had
+better be seen to, for the night is wearing away, and&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>Cross, enraged as he was, felt that there was reason in this, and,
+moreover, that it was of the greatest consequence to him that the
+wounded man should be taken care of, and placed beyond the reach of
+meddlers.</p>
+
+<p>'You are right. Take him down to the back part of the east swamp&mdash;you
+know who lives there. Tell Meg I sent him; that no one must know he is
+there; she must do what she can to bring life in him, and as soon as he
+can speak, to let me know.'</p>
+
+<p>He stooped and picked up his pistol, uncocked the trigger, replaced it
+in his bosom, and walked on his way, muttering curses, and pondering on
+the best manner to avert the danger of discovery which these untoward
+events threatened.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XXI.</h2>
+
+
+<p>The trial which had fallen upon the family of Mr. Rutherford was one so
+new and unexpected, that, with the exception of himself and wife, but
+little effect was made upon the members of it.</p>
+
+<p>A vague report, indeed, ran through the house, of some trouble that had
+befallen its master, but what was the nature of it they could not well
+define. To Hettie alone had Mrs. Rutherford confided the secret; for she
+felt that her strong attachment, her faithful disposition, and her
+discreet behaviour, entitled her to confidence. She received the
+information with a heart bleeding in sympathy, but manifested so much
+good sense, had so many encouraging things to say, and put on such a
+calm, peaceful look, that Mrs. Rutherford felt that she had indeed a
+prop to lean upon in this faithful girl. All that day Hettie went about
+with an energy beyond what was usual, taking from Mrs. Rutherford all
+her cares and duties immediately domestic, and exerting every effort to
+put as bright a face upon the family as if nothing had happened. The
+servants in the kitchen had whisperings among themselves, but further
+than that, there was no sign that any change had taken place. They
+little knew the cause of bitter anguish that wrung the master's heart;
+every thing to them appeared as heretofore: their beautiful mansion, the
+pleasant grounds about it, the noble trees, and all the comforts that
+spread such a satisfying charm over the whole, to them looked as sure as
+ever; to him they were but shadows of the past&mdash;things that had been,
+but are not&mdash;by one fell stroke swept, all swept away.</p>
+
+<p>After the distracting scenes of the morning, Mr. Rutherford prepared to
+make a journey of some miles, in order to attend to business connected
+with the peculiar situation of his affairs, and more especially to
+consult a legal friend, and get such advice as his case demanded.</p>
+
+<p>Not expecting to return until the following day, he bade adieu to his
+dear family with a sad heart; and as he mounted his favorite horse, and
+rode away from his much-loved home&mdash;now his no more&mdash;he felt that he was
+under the chastening rod&mdash;the hand of God was upon him.</p>
+
+<p>It is said that birds of prey can scent their victims from afar, and spy
+the hidden carcass, however secret the spot where it may fall.</p>
+
+<p>It must have been by some such instinctive power that our old
+acquaintance, Mr. Richard Tucker, was affected, on the day that
+witnessed the catastrophe of Mr. Rutherford's concerns. His place of
+residence was some miles off, and no tidings had he received of any such
+event; and yet his yellow gig was that day put in requisition, and
+northward he must go.</p>
+
+<p>'I shall be home by night, may be.'</p>
+
+<p>This was all that he deigned to say, as he left his home, and the old
+gig squeaked and rattled as his raw-bone mare started off at a round
+trot; perhaps she scented her master's game.</p>
+
+<p>About a mile from the Rutherford estate there was a small collection of
+buildings; it bore the title of village however, and comprised a church,
+a blacksmith's shop, and a tavern, as also a few small and plain
+tenements. The tavern, of course, was the rendezvous through the week,
+and the place where all the news and scandal could be enjoyed. It was
+soon known around that trouble had fallen on the great man of that
+region, and a larger number than usual was congregated there just after
+dinner. But, to their credit be it said, a feeling of deep regret was
+very manifest: not a tongue was loosened against the sufferer, nor was
+there one among them disposed to take any measures for his own security,
+although to most of them he was indebted for services of different
+kinds.</p>
+
+<p>'George Rutherford,' said an aged, portly man, who seemed to be the
+oracle of the place, and who had taken the large arm-chair on the wide
+front piazza of the tavern, 'I have known from a boy; and if there ever
+was an honest man and a gentleman, he is one. Things have been going
+hard with him for some time, that we all know; he has had cunning chaps
+to deal with, and may be they have ruined him; but sooner than take the
+law of him, I will lose all he owes me, at any rate.'</p>
+
+<p>'So would I;' and 'So would I,' resounded on all sides.</p>
+
+<p>'But here comes Dick,' said the first speaker. 'I wonder what he is
+after?&mdash;hunting for a job, I guess.'</p>
+
+<p>And the old yellow gig drove up, and Mr. Tucker, with all the elasticity
+of a young man, sprang from his seat, and alighted on the lower step.</p>
+
+<p>'Good afternoon, gentlemen;' and Mr. Tucker bowed very stiffly, which
+perhaps he was obliged to do, for his coat was buttoned up close to the
+neck&mdash;a habit he maintained at all seasons.</p>
+
+<p>'Good day, Mr. Tucker; you seem to be in a hurry, neighbor; the old mare
+is quite out of breath.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh no; not at all,' turning at the same time, and eyeing his beast;
+'she always breathes so. You may put her under the shed, Jo,' addressing
+a good-natured looking black, who stood waiting orders at the head of
+the beast.</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, massa. Any oats, massa?'</p>
+
+<p>'No&mdash;well&mdash;I don't care&mdash;yes. You may give her a mess&mdash;two quarts, Jo.
+Wet them, you hear?'</p>
+
+<p>Jo took the mare by the head, turned his face away from the company,
+opened his broad mouth, and went grinning along to the shed.</p>
+
+<p>'My golly! two quarts&mdash;ha, ha, ha! a half bushel no fill her belly&mdash;ha,
+ha, ha!'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Richard has not altered much since we last saw him, either in
+appearance or disposition. Why he had come along that afternoon, no one
+knew; nor did he seem to be making preparation as though he had a job on
+hand. He heard the news of Mr. Rutherford's disaster with apparent
+indifference. I say apparent, for there is no doubt he felt much and
+deeply; he talked with one and another, making very few remarks, but
+asking a great many questions, and occasionally shrugging his shoulders,
+and knitting his dark eyebrows&mdash;it was a way he had. What effect his
+pantomime had upon those with whom he conversed was not very manifest,
+for they finally dropped off, one by one, leaving no orders behind them.</p>
+
+<p>It is an old saying, 'If one won't, another will.' Mr. Richard, no doubt,
+had heard the saying, and must have had considerable faith in it; for
+there was not an individual, either high or low, that escaped his
+attentions.</p>
+
+<p>The Irish are proverbially susceptible. Whether Mr. Richard knew this
+as a historical fact, I will not pretend to say, nor whether it led him
+to make a more direct and positive attack on poor Pat than he had done
+upon others that day; the result, however, was, that Jerry Malony, a
+rather good-natured fellow, to whom Mr. Rutherford was indebted for a
+summer's ditching, and whose pay was as sure as though already in his
+own hands, was suddenly seized with great terrors, in view of the
+certain loss of all his hard earnings, and with a distressing anxiety to
+become possessed, as a means of securing himself, of a pair of fine
+black horses, then in the possession of said Rutherford.</p>
+
+<p>We will not enter into all the particulars; suffice it to say, that Mr.
+Tucker and Mr. Malony adjourned from the east corner of the piazza to a
+private room inside the building, and thence to a justice of the peace,
+and thence back again to the bar-room; and, finally, the two worthy
+gentlemen were wishing each other very good health, and confirming their
+wishes by potent draughts of genuine Monongahela. There were many little
+arrangements to be made, which occupied them until the shades of evening
+had settled very decidedly upon the land.</p>
+
+<p>Old C�sar, the coachman&mdash;with whom we once became acquainted on the
+little journey Mr. Rutherford and his lady took through the barrens some
+years since&mdash;was still alive, and, to all appearance, active as ever.
+The old black coach-horses, too, had lost none of their strength or
+fire, for they were never overburdened, and being under the exclusive
+charge of C�sar, were daily tended with as much care as though they had
+been pet horses of a prince; their dark hides shone as brightly as
+C�sar's countenance did after a good supper, and all their appurtenances
+were kept in the most perfect order. To say that C�sar was fond of these
+creatures, whom he had tended and driven so long, would not express all
+his emotions towards them; they were, next to his master and mistress,
+and their children, the objects that engrossed his feelings&mdash;and C�sar
+had very strong feelings, too&mdash;his life he would have risked, or even
+sacrificed, to have preserved any of them from harm. He had no wife or
+children of his own, nothing to love except his master's family; and no
+wonder then, if for these beasts, who obeyed every expression of his
+will, and pawed, and neighed, and pranced, and did all but talk to him
+when they heard his step approaching, he had peculiar feelings.
+Moreover, C�sar was very proud of them: for they were acknowledged, far
+and near, to be a noble pair; and, to crown all, they were looked upon
+as his own. Mr. Rutherford never claimed any further right to them than
+the privilege of a drive occasionally.</p>
+
+<p>C�sar knew very little about his master's troubles; he had, indeed,
+heard some whispering in the kitchen among the women; but he paid no
+further heed to it than to bestow a back-handed blessing on their
+tongues.</p>
+
+<p>'Dey are always a-goin' jabbering about sumpin' or anoder. Massa George
+know he own business well enough, neber fear.'</p>
+
+<p>As C�sar's principal employment of late years was to attend to the
+horses, he had persuaded his master to fit up for him a room in the
+building where they were kept, so that, in case any accident should
+occur to them in the night, he could be on hand. A door opened from this
+room immediately into the stable; and as the whole premises were kept
+with the greatest care, there might be found much less eligible sleeping
+apartments in places that made greater pretensions. C�sar, however, did
+not sleep there entirely alone. Besides his pets, the horses, he had a
+dog of the real mastiff breed, that had been trained with much care, and
+was as completely under the will of C�sar as the other quadrupeds; he
+was a large, powerful creature, and unless under the complete control of
+a master, would have been dangerous; but at C�sar's word, he would be
+passive as a lamb, and at his bidding would lay the stoutest man upon
+his back, and hold him there without doing further violence, unless
+there was an attempt at resistance.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Richard and his client Jerry had been sitting on the piazza of the
+tavern, watching for the return of Mr. Rutherford, who must pass that
+way to his house; hour after hour slipped by, and they looked in vain.</p>
+
+<p>'It's striking nine, your honour; shall we wait any longer?'</p>
+
+<p>'It is my opinion, my good fellow, that we might as well be on our way.
+As a matter of form, perhaps, it might be well enough just to make the
+demand; but as there is no probability, if it is all true that I hear,
+not the least probability that he can pay it, or will ever pay it, your
+only chance, my friend, is, as I say'&mdash;slapping his hand on Jerry's
+knee&mdash;'clap on to something tangible; and as you say the horses are
+valuable, they will be about as handy as anything I can think of. They
+have legs, you know; we can carry them off, or more probably, we can
+make them carry us off&mdash;ha, ha, ha!'</p>
+
+<p>All this was said with his face turned towards Malony, and speaking
+close to his ear, while his auditor, being rather short and a little
+worse for liquor, sat very erect, and looked as consequential as any
+newly made Justice trying his first cause.</p>
+
+<p>'And as we are to walk, I think we may as well be jogging.'</p>
+
+<p>'I think so, your honor.'</p>
+
+<p>The two worthies accordingly walked slowly along, and before a great
+while found themselves in the broad avenue leading to Mr. Rutherford's
+mansion.</p>
+
+<p>'You are well acquainted here, I suppose, Malony? The dog you speak
+of&mdash;is he&mdash;is he&mdash;loose?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, your honor, not just loose; he keeps tight to the nigger.'</p>
+
+<p>'And he, you say, sleeps in the stable?'</p>
+
+<p>'Pretty near it, your honor&mdash;close by.'</p>
+
+<p>'I think, my good fellow, that we may as well go at once, then, to the
+stable; the nigger being there, it will be sufficient to demand them of
+him, or to leave the attachment with him.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Richard, it must be premised, was not over-burdened with law
+knowledge. The people among whom he labored had taken his word as law
+enough for them. They found it hard law, to be sure; but, poor souls,
+they knew no better, and thought all was right.</p>
+
+<p>Jerry had implicit confidence in his adviser, and so walked bravely
+along. The dog being just then uppermost in his mind, knowing, as he
+well did, his ferocious character, he cared much more about a proper
+introduction to him, than any nice point in law.</p>
+
+<p>'Hadn't I better be after strikin' a light, your honor? it's amazin'
+dark.'</p>
+
+<p>'Not yet, Malony; not until we reach the stable.'</p>
+
+<p>It cost master Jerry no little trouble to strike his light, for his hand
+was not very steady; and as he gave two blows with his finger against
+the steel to one with the flint, there was more blood than sparks
+flying.</p>
+
+<p>'Bloody murther! that was a pealer: it's taken the skin, it has, your
+honor.'</p>
+
+<p>'Can't you hit it, Malony?'</p>
+
+<p>'I hit it, your honor, but my finger took it fornint the stone.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Richard now took matters into his own hands, and while Jerry was
+blowing and snapping his fingers, he managed to get some sparks into
+the tinder, and soon had his lantern in trim.</p>
+
+<p>C�sar was about the middle of his first nap when he suddenly awoke, and
+found that Trap was growling in a low undertone. Trap never barked, and
+very seldom condescended to growl, C�sar knew that there must be
+something going wrong; he therefore extricated his head from beneath the
+bed-clothes, and cast his eye round the premises. The lamp was still
+burning, and so far as his half-opened eyelids would allow him to see,
+there was no one in his room besides the usual inmates. Trap, to be
+sure, was out of his place, and sitting close by his master's bed,
+looking very significantly up at the red night-cap. As soon as he
+perceived that his master was awake, he ceased growling, like a very
+sensible dog as he was, signifying thereby that his only design in using
+his vocal powers was to stop the snoring, and call his master's
+attention to matters and things in the waking world. After rubbing away
+upon his eyes awhile, and working things awake there, C�sar, in a very
+philosophic manner, by means of his two arms, which he threw behind him
+and used as levers, first to raise and then to support and brace his
+body up, attained a sufficiently elevated position to see and hear what
+was going on. He was afraid of nothing but witches, and for that reason
+always had a light on hand; it being well known that neither in daylight
+nor candle-light was any danger to be apprehended from the 'good
+neighbors.' But something or somebody was stirring, and near by, too,
+for he evidently heard footsteps and voices, and, as well as he could
+make it out, they must be in the stable. Being more or less afflicted
+with the rheumatism, he was very deliberate in his movements. First
+throwing his somewhat recumbent body into a straight and self-supporting
+posture, and thereby relieving his arms from their burden; then casting
+aside whatever impeded his progress, in the way of covering, he turned
+his nether extremities by the pivot principle, brought himself in
+position to stand erect on the floor, and proceeded at once to the
+light, which was safely shut up in an old carriage lamp, through which
+the rays streamed forth by a small glass, calculated to converge, and
+throw them far ahead.</p>
+
+<p>C�sar was somewhat of a gentleman in his feelings, and on the subject of
+dress quite particular; for he followed the old fashion of small clothes
+and knee buckles, and broad-skirted coat and vest, with large lappels,
+and was ever ready, at any short notice, to appear with becoming apparel
+in the presence of his mistress. These he wore by day; but he made a
+complete change when he laid these by, and put on his night rig. As he
+was a bachelor, and ladies, white or black, had no business about his
+premises at night, he fixed himself as he thought best; and his fancy
+was, red flannel. Why he chose that color, he never saw fit to
+communicate; it may have been, however, that his good sense suggested
+that white, the usual dress, would make too strong a contrast. He had on
+a red flannel cap, that came pretty well over his ears, and a red
+flannel frock, or tunic, covering him from the neck downwards to the
+usual gartering place; below that the bare poles were plainly visible.
+To those who knew him perfectly, there was nothing very frightful in all
+this, because it was C�sar; but to those who might not have had
+experience on their side, as he then appeared, with his lantern
+streaming before him, he might have been mistaken for any thing that was
+not earthly.</p>
+
+<p>As Trap knew that his business was to keep still and remain in his place
+until called, so soon as he saw his master upon his legs, he was
+satisfied that all was correct, and nestled quietly down on his own bed.</p>
+
+<p>The only weapon C�sar ever kept on hand, was a pitchfork, a very ugly
+sort of a thing to come in contact with; for in the first place, it not
+only makes two holes where a bayonet or sword would make but one, but it
+gives great advantage to the one who uses it in its length of handle;
+this may have been the reason why C�sar preferred it. At any rate, there
+was always one standing in the corner of his room; it had very long and
+heavy tines, and a handle sufficient to keep an enemy at a respectful
+and safe distance. Feeling that it might be prudent to be prepared for
+danger, even if there was none, he grasped his weapon in one hand, and
+with the lamp in the other, drew back the little bolt, and throwing the
+door wide open by a strong push, stood in bold relief, casting his light
+round about through the large roomy stable, and straining his eyes to
+ascertain who or what it was.</p>
+
+<p>His appearance was the cause of considerable surprise; for although Mr.
+Malony had talked very freely about the <i>nigger</i>, as he was pleased to
+style Mr. C�sar Rutherford, and although both he and Mr. Richard
+expected to see him in the course of their proceedings, yet they could
+have had no very correct idea what shape a mere mortal, especially a
+black one, could assume; for no sooner did their own light throw its
+beams upon this sudden apparition, than they both made rapid retrograde
+movements, Jerry, in his haste, bringing up against the opposite wall,
+and Mr. Richard stepping back towards the door, as though it would be
+safe at least to be out of reach of the pitchfork.</p>
+
+<p>Whether C�sar was alarmed, it would be difficult to say; for he made no
+motion other than to throw the light of his lamp, first on one and then
+on the other of his visitors.</p>
+
+<p>Jerry, he thought, he had seen before; in fact, he was quite sure that
+he could not be mistaken in the little chunky Irishman, who had been so
+long under his master's pay; but Mr. Richard, C�sar could not make out;
+he had never been in these parts, that he remembered.</p>
+
+<p>As C�sar's appearance did not improve upon inspection, and as the two
+gentlemen were too far separated to consult as to further proceedings, a
+long silence would have been maintained had not C�sar opened a parley&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'What a you want here?'</p>
+
+<p>The tones were not very mild, nor was the address made in very good
+humor; for C�sar threw in a few emphatic words which he sometimes used
+when excited, just by way of seasoning, and which for brevity's sake are
+omitted; but then it was a human voice, and it gave some assurance to
+Mr. Richard at least. He therefore advanced one or two paces:</p>
+
+<p>'Ah, that's you, is it, Boss?'</p>
+
+<p>'Git out wid your Boss, and tell me what a you want here dis time a
+night!'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, we don't want any thing with you, my good fellow, but we have got a
+little business here that must be attended to. You know Malony
+here?'&mdash;turning at the same time towards his discomfited
+companion:&mdash;'You know he's been at work here all summer for your master.
+Here, Malony, step up here; you have nothing against this good man, you
+know.'</p>
+
+<p>But Malony preferred remaining where he was. C�sar's eyes, he thought,
+showed a little too much of the white to be very safe, especially under
+the circumstances.</p>
+
+<p>'I am sorry to have disturbed you, my good fellow, but as somebody must
+be notified before we proceed, I will just read the warrant, as I
+suppose you will hardly be able to make it out yourself;' and Mr.
+Richard pulled out a bit of paper and began to read rapidly&mdash;'Know all
+men by these presents,' etc. C�sar, in the mean time, was getting his
+wrath up. He never liked the Irishman, and had often cautioned his
+master against him; and Mr. Richard's countenance not being, as my
+readers will remember, very pre-possessing, together with the fawning
+manner in which he attempted to get round him, woke up C�sar's
+sensibilities:</p>
+
+<p>'Mister, go to grass wid your paper, and tell a me what you want
+'sturbing people dis time a de night.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Richard being thus interrupted in his proceedings, stopped reading,
+and looking full in C�sar's face&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'You know, I suppose, my good man, that Mr. Rutherford has failed?'</p>
+
+<p>'Hab what?'</p>
+
+<p>'Has failed; that is, can't pay his debts.'</p>
+
+<p>'You a big liar.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Richard didn't blush; he never had in his life; but he began to pick
+up a little courage.</p>
+
+<p>'You must take care, old fellow, how you speak; I am an officer of the
+law, take care, sir. Here Malony, lead out one of these horses, and I
+will take the other.'</p>
+
+<p>'What dat you say?'</p>
+
+<p>And C�sar stepped forward, Mr. Richard retreating at the same time,
+until he came to the edge of the stall.</p>
+
+<p>'Me like to see you touch one of dem horses.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Richard had now come in closer contact with C�sar; and perceiving
+that he was quite an old man, and walked rather stiff, made a sudden
+spring, and grasped the pitch-fork.</p>
+
+<p>'Trap, Trap.'</p>
+
+<p>There was a rush from the little room, and in the next moment Mr.
+Richard was lying on his back, with the fore-paws of master Trap resting
+one on each shoulder, and his mouth presenting a row of teeth in such
+dangerous contiguity to Mr. Richard's throat, that he began to fear
+matters were tending to extremities, and called out 'Murder!' at the top
+of his voice.</p>
+
+<p>'Hole you lyin' tongue; he be de death of you.'</p>
+
+<p>'Malony, Malony! help, help; kill the dog; quick, take a pitchfork, any
+thing, do, my good fellow, he'll murder me.'</p>
+
+<p>But Mr. Malony was not so drunk but he had sense enough to see that
+there was mischief brewing; and no sooner was Mr. Richard on his back,
+than he bolted and ran for dear life, Mr. Richard's cries only adding
+wings to his flight across lots for home.</p>
+
+<p>'I tell a you what, mister, you no hole you tongue and keep till, me let
+de dog take you lights out in a minit. Hold him dare, Trap, till a
+morning; den we see how he look.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, good man! good man!' Mr. Richard spoke now in a whisper&mdash;'do&mdash;don't
+go away, don't leave me here; I promise I will go right off; I was only
+doing my duty as an officer.'</p>
+
+<p>'Me gib a you duty; you 'member C�sar next time; take care de horses no
+kick a your brains out.' There was indeed a very dangerous proximity
+between Mr. Richard's head and the horses' heels, especially as they
+were pawing and prancing about under the exciting influence of C�sar's
+voice.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh do, good Mr. C�sar, for the love of mercy, just take the dog off,
+and let me go! I give you my sacred honor'&mdash;But C�sar had no such idea.
+The insult offered to his master and his horses had steeled his heart.</p>
+
+<p>'I tell a you what, mister; you no lay till and keep a your tongue, your
+time is short; he only take two mouthful, you be gone chicken, so good
+night to you;' and C�sar hobbled back into his room.</p>
+
+<p>The grave and the gay, the mirthful and the sad, are so blended in this
+world, that in delineating any series of events, we find ourselves
+constrained to shift the scenery so often and so suddenly, that if we
+did not know we were sketching from nature, we should fear to be charged
+with drawing upon fancy, even to extravagance.</p>
+
+<p>C�sar had bidden Mr. Richard good night, and to all appearance, designed
+leaving him, as he said, 'to de mornin', to see how he look den.'</p>
+
+<p>He had been sorely disturbed, and perhaps feeling that it would be
+rather difficult to compose himself to sleep under the existing state of
+things, he so far arranged himself in his day apparel that he felt ready
+for any emergency; it was not according to C�sar's sense of propriety to
+be caught in just the shape he had been. After fixing things a little,
+he threw himself on the bed, talked away for some time, and even made
+one or two broad grins, as though there was something on his mind not
+very unpleasant, and finally sunk into a dreamy state, conscious, most
+of the time, of the condition of external things immediately around him,
+and yet so mixed up with things and places very foreign to them, that
+it was not the easiest matter in the world for him to be sure whether he
+was asleep or awake.</p>
+
+<p>How long he had been lying in this state it would be difficult to say,
+for time, under such circumstances, makes no tracks that are
+perceptible.</p>
+
+<p>Among other ideas that flitted through his mind, was that of a light
+which kept flickering across his window, and occasionally brightening up
+his whole room. For some time even after he was awake, he lay and
+thought about it. Distinctly beholding the glare, which now had become
+steadily bright, filling his whole room and absorbing completely the
+light of his lantern, suddenly he sprang from his bed, his mind awaking
+to a full consciousness that something was wrong; he hurried through the
+stable, and calling off Trap from the pitiful object who had been
+writhing under his surveillance, opened the outer door.</p>
+
+<p>'Fire, fire, fire!' he called at the full extent of his voice&mdash;'fire,
+fire, fire! Oh, my missus and de children!&mdash;the lord hab mercy.'</p>
+
+<p>The old man forgot his age, and ran with the speed of youth.</p>
+
+<p>The sight which had burst upon him was enough to have nerved with energy
+the most sluggish and unfeeling. On C�sar it broke with most appalling
+interest.</p>
+
+<p>He could not, indeed, get a full view, for the house was screened by the
+large trees and thick shrubbery; but enough could be seen to assure him
+that the dwelling was on fire; and the inmates, if they had not escaped,
+were in imminent danger, for the flames were flashing up to the tops of
+the trees, higher than the roof of the main building. In a few moments
+he was beside the burning pile, and the whole extent of the awful
+calamity was revealed to him. The fire was raging over the whole of the
+back part of the house, having already completely enveloped the back
+building connected with it, and was throwing its forked flames over the
+high roof, while the pitch-black smoke, which rolled around the whole
+premises without, gave awful forebodings of what might be the state of
+things within. No alarm had yet seized the family that he could discern;
+he listened in vain for any sound but the terrible cracking of the
+raging fire.</p>
+
+<p>He attempted the nearest door, but found it fastened. The wood-pile was
+at hand; he seized the axe; at that moment two men came running into
+the court-yard and calling fire. C�sar barely glanced at them, they were
+strangers to him; but he felt encouraged in his efforts; his arm was
+nerved with the strength of his early days&mdash;one blow drove it from its
+fastenings, and in he rushed amid the heat and smoke.</p>
+
+<p>The two men followed him, but for a very different purpose than to
+rescue the sleeping family from their fiery envelope.</p>
+
+<p>When Mr. Rutherford left his home, as before related, his expectation
+was to remain until the following day; but having accomplished his
+errand early in the evening, he concluded to return to his family. It
+would occupy much of the night, but he preferred spending it on
+horseback, so anxious was he to be again with his wife and children;
+they were all he had now, and his heart yearned after them with a warmth
+of affection he had never realized before.</p>
+
+<p>A little past midnight, as he was turning the summit of a hill, a sudden
+flash of light shot up in the distance; he thought it was the glare of a
+meteor; but painted on the clouds which overhung the western sky, it
+left a deep-red glow. As he gazed, while slowly descending the hill, he
+saw the flush extending, and gradually assuming a brighter and more
+lurid aspect.</p>
+
+<p>'It must be a fire; perhaps some poor sufferers are looking in anguish
+upon the wreck of their little all.'</p>
+
+<p>And on he went, ever and anon casting his eye at the clouds, and marking
+their curious forms, as the light in fitful flashes displayed their
+shape.</p>
+
+<p>At times, across the distant hills, he seemed to think that he could see
+the position of the fire, but intervening objects would again confine
+his view, and he could only discern the light on the clouds above him.
+Coming at length to an angle in the road, from which he could look in
+the direction of his home, he was startled to find that there was a
+clear and well-defined streak of light emanating from some burning
+building, which must be at least in that vicinity.</p>
+
+<p>Without being conscious of any decided alarm, he urged his horse to a
+faster pace, and kept his eye more constantly on the light. For some
+miles from where he lived the road ran among the hills; so that, however
+great had been his anxiety, it could not be gratified until he should
+emerge into the open country. At length he is ascending the last
+eminence that intervenes between him and the objects of the affections;
+the light is still blazing on the clouds above him; he hastens to the
+summit, and beholds&mdash;heart-rending sight&mdash;the home of his childhood&mdash;the
+dwelling where all his earthly hopes and love were clustered&mdash;a mass of
+crumbling ruins, from which the forked flames were shooting up and
+crackling on the still night-air; those demon sounds went in streams of
+madness to his heart.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, my God!' he exclaimed; and deep in the sides of his horse he struck
+his spurs, and the good creature was urged into terrific speed. It was
+but a mile, and it was passed with a whirlwind's pace. Straight to the
+burning pile he rode; a few person's he discerned collected as near the
+fire as the raging heat would permit.</p>
+
+<p>'My wife and children!&mdash;for God's sake tell me quick&mdash;where are they?'
+He sprang from his horse, and was in the arms of the faithful C�sar.</p>
+
+<p>'All safe, Massa George! all safe, tank God!'</p>
+
+<p>'Thank God! thank God!' and he fell upon the old man like a helpless
+infant. He was carried into an outhouse, which had been spared by the
+devouring element, and kind hands and hearts were soon about him
+administering to his relief. As he awoke to consciousness, his beloved
+Mary was bending over him, and her warm lips pressed to his in the
+ecstasy of her joy.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Mary! my dear wife! where are my darlings? bring them to me; let me
+clasp you all once more!'</p>
+
+<p>And quick they came. He cast a look on each, a fond, a satisfied look,
+and then in one warm embrace he held them all.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh God! this is enough&mdash;I ask no more. Let me have but these&mdash;poverty
+in any shape may come; we will not fear it.'</p>
+
+<p>'Amen! my dear husband; we will not fear it.'</p>
+
+<p>It is often said by those who look on the dark side of Divine
+dispensations, that troubles always come in clusters, and one deep
+sorrow soon gives place to another. This may be true, but not in the
+sense which these croakers of misery would intimate. As happiness and
+unhappiness are often but relative terms in our changing world, it needs
+but the wise Director of events so to time the dispensations of his
+Providence, that one evil may counteract another, or to hold up before
+us the certainty that we and every interest near our heart are at his
+disposal, to bring us quietly to acquiesce in his will; and in that
+submission there is peace. George Rutherford, as he rode towards his
+home, amid the solitude of midnight, pondering over his ruined fortunes,
+felt that he was suffering the severest stroke which could have come
+upon him; but when he came in sight of the spot where that home had
+been, when he looked upon the terrible flames, and felt the dread
+uncertainty which hung over the fate of those dear ones of his heart, he
+then felt that God, his Sovereign and his Father, had at his command
+profounder depths of sorrow in which his soul might agonize. The loss of
+fortune was but a mere sip of the bitter cup, a mere mist from the dark
+and waste wilderness of mortal suffering; and when he folded his dear
+wife and children in his arms, he felt, as he said, 'Let poverty come,
+we will not fear it.'</p>
+
+<p>But he had yet to learn the full meaning which that word conveys. Little
+could he tell, born as he had been to affluence, the anguish which would
+at times wring his spirit; his resources drained, his home destroyed,
+the little comforts to which his family had been accustomed, the
+gratification of their finer tastes, the elegancies of life&mdash;all cut
+off; it was well for him that he could not know at once the full extent
+of that change which had passed upon his fortunes.</p>
+
+<p>One bitter ingredient in his cup was, that he could now plainly see that
+he had been remiss in that watchfulness and care which were demanded of
+him, over the inheritance that had been bequeathed to him. His kind
+feelings had been indulged without the exercise of common prudence, and
+he had permitted a morbid sensibility that shrunk from a just suspicion
+of those whose delinquencies he was not wholly ignorant of, and last,
+though not least in the catalogue which he reckoned up against himself,
+was his gross neglect in regard to some things requiring but a moment's
+attention, and yet involving serious consequences. The most mortifying
+and truly disastrous of these was revealed to him a few days after the
+scenes recorded in the last chapter. It occurred, too, at a moment when
+his spirits had begun to revive a little from their depression. It had
+been suggested to him that the time was not far off when his tract in
+the barrens would be of immense value. Hitherto it had been estimated
+comparatively as but little worth. The timber was indeed large, and its
+value, when it reached the market, considerable; but the cost of
+preparing it and transporting it so far left but a trifling return to
+the owner. A new demand was about to be created in the successful
+application of steam for river navigation. As hope began to agitate his
+bosom, he immediately remembered that he had, but lately, been examining
+the deed by which he held that property, and had noticed that there was
+no certificate upon it of its having been recorded, and that he had
+designed having it placed upon the public register. This design he had
+not accomplished, and if it was not there, it was gone for ever, as he
+knew the flames had devoured the original, with all his other papers.</p>
+
+<p>Hoping that it might still have been recorded by his father, and the
+notice of the fact neglected to be put upon the deed, he immediately
+ordered his lawyer to make the search. It was in vain; and to add to his
+chagrin, the gentleman who made the search informed him that a deed
+which Mr. Cross had received from one of the original proprietors,
+intended, as was supposed, to convey a title to only a few acres, did,
+by this discrepancy, possess him of a vast tract of many miles in
+extent. Terrible indeed was this blow to him; his last hope of
+retrieving his condition vanished. He must now look abroad upon the wide
+world for some honest means of supporting his family. How he envied the
+laboring man, who, accustomed to toil from his boyhood, went forth to
+his daily occupation with a lively spirit. How gladly would he have
+taken his place, no matter how severe the work; but his muscular power
+was not equal to it. Trained to no regular business, stript of all
+external dependence, he saw before him but a dark and misty wilderness,
+through which he must grope his way as he best could.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XXII.</h2>
+
+
+<p>The influence which Henry Tracy was enabled to exert can only be fully
+known when all results and causes shall be developed in the clearer,
+brighter light of eternity; but a vast amount of good was manifest, even
+to those whose moral vision was not the clearest. Many a young mind was
+stimulated to exert its dormant energies, and feeling its strength,
+rushed on to distinction. His pleasing manners were a beautiful
+accompaniment to his cultivated mind, and gave a decided tone to those
+of the young who had any taste for what was refined and elegant. Nor was
+the renovation he was accomplishing altogether hidden from himself; a
+great change was working&mdash;he saw it; it did not fill his heart with
+pride, it only stimulated him to further progress, and warmed his
+gratitude to God. One thing was certain: he had entwined himself around
+the hearts of all, and his own affections were more truly interested
+than they had ever been before, beyond his parents' roof. It seemed to
+be the place where God would have him be&mdash;'The very niche he was
+designed to fill.' It was also the means of deciding him as to the
+calling he should pursue for life. To be suitably fitted to take the
+spiritual charge of a people, no matter how secluded or unpolished they
+might be, was now his highest aim; and after a suitable time he made
+known to the principal men that this was his intention, and that he must
+leave them, and go where he could obtain the necessary instruction.
+Little did he realize the hold he had of their affections, until this
+determination was expressed. Nothing would satisfy their yearning
+towards him but his promise, that, when through his course of study, he
+would come and be their minister.</p>
+
+<p>'We will build you a church just on the spot which you have selected,
+and we will put you up a house, that you shall call your home as long as
+you live; only promise that you will come and spend your days with us.'</p>
+
+<p>How could he say 'Nay'? Three years in all has he been separated from
+them, and now for more than a year he has been settled over them as
+their pastor. They have erected a church, and it stands, as we have
+seen, on a beautiful knoll that commands a lovely view of the
+surrounding waters; and they have built the parsonage, and it is near
+the church, embracing the same enchanting water view, although somewhat
+obstructed by its embowering trees and shrubbery. It is, however
+unoccupied, for Henry is yet a single man, and whether his affections
+are engaged, it matters not. He has made no declaration of them, and
+retains his old situation with the Widow Andrews.</p>
+
+<p>A favorite resort of his has been the cottage of Mary Brown. He loves to
+ramble amidst the seclusion of the thick forest, to call in at the poor
+cottages, give a word of comfort or instruction, and then rest himself
+at the table of the widow, and listen to her ready converse about the
+things of a better world. Sometimes, too, he seems not at all unwilling
+to listen while the widow talks of one she loves most dearly. Henry had
+met with Hettie Brown occasionally at Mr. Rutherford's. He had been
+struck with her appearance, and we need not be surprised at this, for
+she is some years older now than when we last saw her. The pretty girl
+with sun-burnt face, and curly raven locks, and dark hazel eyes, is now
+a lovely young woman. Nor was it her appearance alone that surprised
+him. Hettie had studied nature rather than books, but she had gathered
+quite a little store; and the ease with which she conversed, and the
+variety that her mind brought forth, together with the deep interest she
+manifested as he poured out from his own more enlarged mind the
+treasures of knowledge, convinced him that she had a desire for
+improvement, and an appetite for acquiring information that would make
+her an agreeable scholar.</p>
+
+<p>A warm yet lovely afternoon had tempted Henry to seek the refreshing
+shade among the pines; and not caring to extend his walk, he directed
+his steps at once to the widow's cottage.</p>
+
+<p>At that period of the day, he generally expected to see her sitting a
+little back from the house, beneath the shade of a large white pine,
+whose thick and spreading branches afforded a cool and pleasant shelter
+from the rays of the summer sun. Missing her in her usual seat, he
+entered the cottage; the moment he stood upon the threshold, he raised
+his hands and remained perfectly stationary, looking in silent
+astonishment at the scene before him.</p>
+
+<p>His eye met that of the widow; it was mild and calm as ever, but no
+smile returned his greeting, and she turned away immediately towards the
+object that then engrossed her heart, and perhaps intending thereby to
+direct his notice thither also.</p>
+
+<p>It was enough, indeed, to have chained a mother's attention; for on the
+bed by which she was sitting, lay her only son, for whose sake she lived
+thus alone, senseless, but still alive; his pallid countenance and
+sunken eye and cheek, his short faint breathing, all plainly indicated
+that life was held but by a slender thread&mdash;so slender, that a trifle
+might sunder it for ever. Close by the head of the sufferer stood his
+sister, gently waving a large fan, and thereby relieving in some measure
+the closeness of the atmosphere, which, to one so weak as he appeared,
+must have been oppressive in the extreme. Neither mother nor daughter
+attempted to offer any explanation of the circumstances; and Henry had
+too much delicacy, and was too sincerely affected by what he saw, to
+intrude any questions, or interrupt the perfect silence of the sick
+chamber.</p>
+
+<p>Gently rising from her seat, the widow touched the arm of her Hettie,
+who resigned the place and the fan, and turning her sad yet beautiful
+eyes toward the young minister, and stepping lightly to the door,
+signified that she wished him to follow.</p>
+
+<p>He offered his arm, and in silence she led him to a shade sufficiently
+removed, so that the sound of their voices could not reach the cottage.
+Resigning her arm, he motioned her to a seat.</p>
+
+<p>'Thank you; I cannot sit, but must return immediately. You have heard of
+my brother's illness?' looking full at Henry.</p>
+
+<p>'Not a word. But tell me what could have brought him so low in so short
+a period. When I was here a few days since, your mother said nothing of
+his being sick.'</p>
+
+<p>'He was brought home two days ago in the condition you now see him.'</p>
+
+<p>Hettie was much affected, and it was some time before she could command
+her feelings so as to give a clear recital of all she knew: 'That he was
+found lying by the road&mdash;that he was at first supposed to be dead&mdash;that
+a litter was made, and upon it he was brought home&mdash;that the ground
+where he lay was covered with blood, and other marks of a violent
+scuffle&mdash;that he had not spoken a word, nor could any one give the least
+explanation of the matter.'</p>
+
+<p>'Let me go with you to him at once,' said Henry.</p>
+
+<p>Henry entered the cottage with her. Little, however, could be done
+besides keeping the sufferer as quiet as possible, and administering
+some slight nourishment; and thus he lay from week to week, living,
+breathing, barely able to make himself understood by sign or word, and
+nothing more. But Henry was not the only male friend who clung to them
+in this their hour of need. David Cross had been almost a constant
+attendant from the moment William had been brought home. David had
+always been a visitor at the cottage; he had been invariably kind to the
+widow, watching over her in her loneliness, seeing to her little wants,
+calling and sitting many long hours, and apparently not unwilling to
+listen to her instructions, and ready to do any act of kindness,
+insomuch that she felt for him almost the affection of a mother. She
+pitied him, too, in his peculiar situation; he had no mother, or none
+that he had ever known as such&mdash;it was said that she had died many years
+ago; he had no brother, sister, or other relative beside his father;
+from him he had never received many tokens of affection. He would no
+doubt have been proud to see him rise in the world: and, as we have
+seen, was very willing to accomplish this end at the expense of others;
+but he was morose in his disposition, often unkind to the young man,
+supplying him indeed with money, but as often lavishing his curses upon
+him as any thing else.</p>
+
+<p>Dave was naturally of a kind nature, but had been bred among those who
+were rough and rude; his manners, of course, were more or less tinctured
+by his education; his associates were such as would be likely to lead
+him into wild adventures and corrupt practices. The only counteracting
+influence had been that which the widow exerted over him; and his
+conduct towards her evinced a kindness of feeling, and a sensibility to
+better things, which those who saw him among his wild companions would
+never have imagined. The heart of the widow yearned over him, and she
+never lost the hope that David Cross would one day rise above his
+present ways.</p>
+
+<p>And besides all this, there was in his heart a strong and long-enduring
+attachment for Hettie; he had been fond of her when but a girl; and his
+interest for her had become an absorbing feeling of his heart. During
+her long stay at Mr. Rutherford's, he had never lost sight of her; but
+having either business to attend to for his father in that region, or
+feigning it for his own ends, he would frequently take small parcels or
+trifling errands from the mother to the daughter, and many a precious
+bundle of good things had he brought from Hettie, through the kindness
+of Mrs. Rutherford, to comfort and cheer the widow. He was, therefore,
+by no means an unwelcome visitor at either house; his personal
+appearance was not unpleasant&mdash;a manly, open countenance, a kind manner,
+mingled indeed with some roughness, and a fearless, straightforward,
+animated way, calculated to make a favorable impression. Hettie seemed
+always glad to see him; so much so, that many of the family firmly
+believed that she had other feelings towards him than mere neighborly
+kindness. Mrs. Rutherford knew her heart in this matter, and was
+convinced that such was not the case.</p>
+
+<p>Hettie indeed did not love him, nor did she feel that she ever could;
+and was careful to do nothing that might give him occasion to indulge a
+false hope in regard to her. David had, as I have said, sympathized with
+William on his sick bed; he it was who had brought Hettie home, and day
+and night, with Henry Tracy, had been untiring in doing every thing for
+their relief.</p>
+
+<p>William's consciousness returned to him long before he had any ability
+to hold conversation, and the dilemma in which he found himself involved
+occupied almost constantly his waking thoughts. The desperate character
+of Cross; the vile plot that had been executed against the unsuspecting
+and noble-minded Rutherfords; the fate of the trunk for which he had
+fought so desperately, the least whisper of which had not reached his
+ear: all these subjects distracted his weak and flickering senses&mdash;a
+terrible secret lay in his breast, which he had not the power to reveal
+in any way that would be intelligible, and when revealed, must crush to
+ruin the hopes of the friend who was watching at his side, by bringing
+the father to an ignominious end. At times, in the agony of his
+contending thoughts, he would groan aloud, and the large drops would
+gather on his pale forehead. Hettie or the mother would bend over him,
+and say some soothing word, and wipe his clammy face, and inquire 'why
+he groaned? or where the pain was? or what they could do for him?' but
+he would shake his head, and closing his eyes, give up awhile his
+troubled thoughts and fall asleep. Thus day after day and week after
+week stole on, and still he lay in his feebleness, gaining strength, if
+at all, by a very slow and almost imperceptible progress.</p>
+
+<p>It was at the close of a lowery day; the shadows of night were deepened
+by a dark canopy of clouds which hung over the barrens. The Widow Brown
+had lighted her lamp and placed it on the stand by the bed of her son,
+wishing to sit as close to him as she could, while plying her busy
+needle. David Cross was reclining on a low cot-bed; he had taken Hettie
+to Mr. Rutherford's that day, and expecting to watch part of the night,
+was anticipating a few hours' sleep. A gentle tap was heard, and as the
+widow opened the door, a woman, clad in somewhat better garments than
+was usual among the people of that region, stood panting for breath, and
+looking with great earnestness, and in much apparent agitation&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Are you alone, Mrs. Brown?'</p>
+
+<p>'There is no one here, Margaret, but David, besides my sick son.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, <i>do</i> step out here a moment&mdash;<i>do</i>, Mrs. Brown;' and the widow
+closed the door and followed the woman a few paces from the house. She
+knew her <i>well</i>&mdash;poor Margaret! and she pitied her too; for Margaret she
+had heard was once a pretty, happy girl; her home had been far from
+there. In an evil hour, she had listened to the flattering tale of the
+deceiver, and now she was a miserable dependant on the will of
+Cross&mdash;his slave to do his bidding.</p>
+
+<p>'I have run all the way, Mrs. Brown, from my house, and I want you to go
+right back with me.'</p>
+
+<p>'Not to-night, Margaret, surely; the weather looks so threatening, and I
+don't like to leave William, and Hettie gone too. What has happened,
+Margaret?'</p>
+
+<p>'You must go, ma'am, this blessed minute, for poor Ned Saunders is
+dying, and he says he cannot die in peace until he sees you. He has been
+raving crazy ever since the night he was brought to my house; but this
+morning he had a long sleep, and when he came out of it, his reason was
+all straight&mdash;but such a distressed creature you never see. He says he
+cannot live, and that he must see you&mdash;as he has something to tell you
+which he dare not tell to any one else. You don't know, Mrs. Brown, what
+a worry I am in; for you see Cross has charged me, by the worth of my
+life, to let him know the moment Ned had his reason. But I am afraid
+there have been some evil doings, from what Ned says; and if Cross
+should get there before I return, there is no telling what he might do
+to me.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Margaret, wait here a minute until I put my things on.'</p>
+
+<p>The widow was soon in readiness; and having committed matters to the
+charge of David Cross, without giving any particulars further than that
+she had a call to a neighbor's, closed the door and went on her way,
+dark as was the night and gloomy the errand on which she was bound.</p>
+
+<p>Margaret led the way; and excited by an impulse of some terrible kind,
+hurried on through the dark forest with maniac impetuosity. Their path
+was a difficult one to traverse, for it lay through an unfrequented
+region, and the opening by which they went, it was almost impossible to
+trace by the feeble light which yet glimmered from the close of day.
+Guided almost by instinct, Margaret pioneered, and the widow followed
+with all the speed she could make. For awhile they skirted the side of a
+thick and tangled swamp, and then turning a little to the right, came at
+once upon the feeble twinkle of a pine torch from the window of a log
+hut.</p>
+
+<p>'Anybody been here, Ned?'</p>
+
+<p>'No one. Has she come?'</p>
+
+<p>'She is here.'</p>
+
+<p>And the sick man raised his eyes to catch a glimpse of her he had wished
+so much to see, while a smile almost lighted up his wild and haggard
+countenance.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, Aunty!'&mdash;this was the familiar title by which the good woman was
+generally addressed&mdash;'oh, Aunty! I'm so glad you're come. I'm a'most
+gone.'</p>
+
+<p>'I hope not, Edward.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, I am. I thought I couldn't die till I see you. You've often talked
+to me, you know&mdash;and I thought it was all foolish&mdash;I don't think so
+now.'</p>
+
+<p>He had to pause, for his feelings were greatly excited, and his frame
+apparently near dissolution. She put her hand upon his forehead, and
+felt that the death-damp was gathering there. She wiped his face with a
+cloth, and bathed his temples with some spirit: this revived him a
+little, and apparently in an agony to unburden his mind, he seized the
+first return of a little strength.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, I have been so wicked! I shall go to hell&mdash;I know I shall.'</p>
+
+<p>'Are you truly sorry, Edward, that you have sinned against God?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, yes! I'm sorry&mdash;but what shall I do? I know I deserve to be
+punished; but oh, Aunty! how can I meet God?'</p>
+
+<p>'If you are truly sorry, and pray to God to have mercy on you for
+Christ's sake, He will forgive you, Edward; for He has said so.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, has He said so? Where? tell me quick, Aunty; for I feel the cold
+creeping over my heart&mdash;tell me quick.'</p>
+
+<p>'In the Bible, Edward: it is full of promises to those who repent of
+sin, and turn to God through Jesus Christ. He came into the world for
+that very purpose. He hung upon the cross for us poor sinners: and while
+he hung there, he pardoned a thief that was hanging beside him, and
+about to die. He says, "Whosoever cometh to me, I will in nowise cast
+out."'</p>
+
+<p>'You don't think He will save such a worthless sinner as I am?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, yes, Edward; if you throw yourself upon His mercy, and ask Him to
+forgive you.'</p>
+
+<p>The dying man turned his eyes away from the widow, raised them towards
+heaven, and clasped his trembling hands together,</p>
+
+<p>'God have mercy upon me, a poor sinner&mdash;a dreadful sinner! for Christ's
+sake; for <i>Christ's</i> sake, only for <i>Christ's</i> sake!'</p>
+
+<p>And the widow wiped away the big drops that stood upon his clay-cold,
+forehead. Again he fixed his eye upon her&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'But, oh! there's a dreadful load upon my heart&mdash;there are&mdash;some
+things&mdash;I have done&mdash;that must be told&mdash;I cannot keep them. Come, lean
+your head down close to me.'</p>
+
+<p>The widow was by no means anxious to hear his tale of sins and
+misdoings, but she obeyed his request. He was greatly excited; his
+breath flew back and forth like a weaver's shuttle, and he could only
+get the words out by catches.</p>
+
+<p>'You know&mdash;Rutherford's house&mdash;has been burnt&mdash;and I don't know&mdash;but
+some of them were burnt in it. Cross&mdash;hired me and two others. We wanted
+to get a trunk&mdash;a tin trunk&mdash;I fired the house. They got the trunk&mdash;and
+I brought it along. Your son Bill met me on the road and struck me from
+the horse&mdash;and tried to get the trunk. We grappled&mdash;and I thought I'd
+killed him&mdash;but I don't know nothing since then&mdash;that's all&mdash;oh dear!
+Why did I go? Cross, Cross, Cross&mdash;did it all;&mdash;but, oh God!&mdash;here it
+comes&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>He ceased speaking&mdash;his lips trembled, his eyes rolled back
+convulsively&mdash;he clutched at the clothing, a spasm shook his frame&mdash;it
+was death's last stroke; and as the quivering limbs settled into rest,
+breath and pulse were still.</p>
+
+<p>The widow saw that he was dead; and clasping her hands in silent horror,
+she looked at poor Margaret for an explanation. Margaret shook her head.</p>
+
+<p>'Don't speak; I believe it is all true, but you must not stay here a
+minute longer. The poor fellow is dead, you can do him no good; and
+Cross may be the death of me, if he finds you have been here&mdash;hark!'</p>
+
+<p>The noise of approaching footsteps was distinctly heard; but before they
+could make the least effort at concealment, the door opened, and Cross
+entered.</p>
+
+<p>The widow spoke to him in her mild, pleasant way. He manifested great
+confusion tried to speak calmly, but his voice choked and trembled
+greatly. He cast his eye quickly on the bed&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'What! <i>dead?</i> Ned is not <i>dead</i>?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes,' said the widow; 'he has just breathed his last. Can I be of any
+service to you, Margaret, by staying here? If I can&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh no,' replied Cross, quickly; 'there is no use, we won't trouble Mrs.
+Brown.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, then, I will be going, as it is getting late in the evening.' So
+wishing them good-night, she quietly stepped from the door, walked
+slowly a few paces, and then hurried along with as much speed as the
+darkness would permit.</p>
+
+<p>No sooner did Cross perceive that the widow was gone, than his
+countenance assumed an aspect of the fiercest rage.</p>
+
+<p>'How is this?'&mdash;clenching his fist, and shaking it near to the head of
+the trembling, wretched female&mdash;'how is this? How came that old canting
+hypocrite here?'</p>
+
+<p>'Ned begged me to go for her: he said he could not die in peace until he
+saw her.'</p>
+
+<p>'Die in peace!' and he stamped his foot with rage&mdash;'die in peace! and
+did not I charge you, by your life, to let no human being see him in his
+reason, but myself?' And saying this, he caught her by the hair, and
+dashed her with his utmost power to the floor. She arose, without
+uttering a word or groan, upon her knees; she caught him by the arm; he
+endeavoured to thrust her from him, but her hold was the grasp of
+despair; at once he drew a poniard, that he always carried in a
+concealed case at his side; she saw it glitter as he held it up in the
+act of plunging it to her heart.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh mercy, mercy! for God's sake&mdash;for the sake of him who calls you
+father, don't kill me! Remember all I have suffered for you&mdash;the mother
+of your only child, though you have never owned me. Have not I always
+done your bidding? lost my soul and body for you?'</p>
+
+<p>Pity, or some other motive, unnerved his arm&mdash;he could not just then do
+the deed; but hurling her from him, threw her to the other side of the
+cabin, like a reptile that he hated.</p>
+
+<p>In an instant she was on her feet&mdash;a rifle was in her hand, and it was
+pointed in deadly aim at her vile oppressor. The gun Cross had not
+noticed&mdash;it always stood loaded; for Margaret (or Meg as she was called)
+lived alone, and in that wild place had learned how to use it. He had no
+idea that the poor worm he had so long trodden upon could ever turn
+against him; but when he beheld her eyes glaring with fury, and the
+deadly weapon levelled at his breast, his blood curdled at his heart.
+He made a step towards her.</p>
+
+<p>'One step more, and you are dead!'</p>
+
+<p>'Put that down, Meg; I don't want to hurt you.' The poor craven now
+began to cower, and thought that a few soft words would obliterate a
+life of abuse, carried to a point where woman's love turns to the direst
+hate.</p>
+
+<p>'No, never! Stir but one foot&mdash;move but a single limb&mdash;and you will lie
+beside that wretched victim of your hellish arts. Hear me now, David
+Cross; I am no longer your slave. You have ruined my name; you have
+defrauded me of the title of wife; you have made me disown my child; you
+have kept me in poverty, and made me a companion of outcasts; and now
+you have thrust me from you, like a hideous reptile&mdash;but your hour has
+come; that miserable being, whom you sent here a raving maniac, has let
+out your secret&mdash;it is already on the wings of the wind.'</p>
+
+<p>Cross trembled in every joint; a fiend, with demoniac power, seemed
+glaring at him in the being whom but a moment before he had so
+shamefully abused.</p>
+
+<p>'Meg, forgive me. I have wronged you; I know I have. Don't take my life,
+and I will make it all right. I will say you are my wife; I will do
+anything you want.'</p>
+
+<p>'<i>Forgive</i> you? Yes, I will forgive you, when you bring back my poor
+parents who went down to the grave mourning for her you ruined; when you
+can tear from my mind the memory of wrongs none but a woman's heart
+could ever have borne so long. Forgive you? no, never. Your life you may
+have! but <i>go</i>&mdash;before the dreadful feelings which have been burning in
+my heart blaze up again. Go! go quick&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>He waited not, but moved to the door, stepped trembling from the
+threshold, and hurried away through the dark forest.</p>
+
+<p>The moment Cross had gone Margaret opened a small trunk, hastily
+gathered together a few articles of dress, and slipping a little roll of
+paper containing her stock of money into her pocket, tied up her
+clothing in a bundle, cast one look upon the dead body, and then quitted
+the wretched tenement she had so long called her home, firmly resolved
+never to enter it again.</p>
+
+<p>She hastened at once towards the cottage of the Widow Brown, and so
+rapidly did she thread her way through the intricate path, that before
+the widow had passed over half the distance to her home, Margaret had
+overtaken her.</p>
+
+<p>'Don't be frightened, Mrs. Brown; I did not think to reach you so
+soon&mdash;but stop and listen to me.'</p>
+
+<p>The widow had indeed stopped, for Margaret came upon her so
+unexpectedly, that she was much alarmed, and deprived of the ability,
+even if she had the will, to escape.</p>
+
+<p>'I will listen to you, Margaret, but I have heard dreadful things enough
+to-night. I am almost distracted now.'</p>
+
+<p>'I would not add a straw to your burdens, my dear good Mrs. Brown, but I
+am a poor distressed creature. The whole of my life for these many years
+has been one scene of misery; but I can bear it no longer, and this very
+night will find me many miles from hence.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, <i>do</i>, don't talk so, Margaret. Come go with me, and rest you for
+the night at least; it is so dark, and beginning to storm already.'</p>
+
+<p>'This darkness and the rain are no troubles to me; but just listen one
+moment. You know that I have told you what I have no other human being.
+One secret more I must commit to you&mdash;that young man who is now at your
+house is my son.'</p>
+
+<p>'David Cross your son, Margaret?'</p>
+
+<p>'It is God's truth, and all I want of you is, whenever you think it
+best, to let him know what I have told you. I am now on my way to the
+city. I shall seek a place of service, and when I find a resting-place,
+if there is any such spot for me on earth, I shall let you know. But one
+thing I must beg of you&mdash;Cross has treated me like a brute, and I came
+very near taking his life to-night; but for David's sake, spare
+him&mdash;don't reveal the terrible tale you heard to-night. Promise me, now,
+won't you'&mdash;and Margaret fell upon her knees and clasped the arms of the
+widow&mdash;'promise me, you will not reveal it without in some way you are
+obliged to do it?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, Margaret, my mind is so disturbed by all these scenes, that I
+cannot think of things as I should like to before making any promise;
+but you know I love David, and would be as careful of injuring him, as
+my own child.'</p>
+
+<p>'That is enough; but oh, do just put your hand upon my head, and say one
+prayer over me. I shall go lighter on my way, for I have but a heavy
+heart, and a weary road lies before me.'</p>
+
+<p>'May God bless you, my child, for Jesus Christ's sake, and make a way
+for you to some place where you will be in peace; and may you yet have
+some comfort before you die.'</p>
+
+<p>'Amen!' said Margaret; and seizing the hand of the widow, which had
+rested on her shoulder, she kissed it again and again, and then
+departed.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XXIII.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Mr. Cross was in no enviable state of mind as he hastened along in the
+darkness, after leaving the hut of Margaret. The disappointment he had
+suffered in finding that Ned Saunders was dead; the terrible fright he
+had endured while standing with the rifle at his breast; the
+mortification of begging his life at the hand of one he had so long
+triumphed over; and above all, the knowledge that his secret was
+abroad&mdash;all operated with maddening power, and worked up a tempest
+within, that raged and tossed until he was bewildered by its fury. He
+passed his own dwelling without stopping, but hurried on, directing his
+steps to the north, through a by-path amidst the towering pines.</p>
+
+<p>After some miles of rapid walking, he reached the edge of the barrens,
+or rather that part of them that had been cleared and in some measure
+cultivated. He here descried the twinkle of lights from a small
+settlement. To one of these, a little separated from the rest, he soon
+came, and knocked with some violence at the door.</p>
+
+<p>'Come in.'</p>
+
+<p>Cross tried the latch, but finding it fastened, repeated the knocks in a
+way that showed he was in earnest to be let in.</p>
+
+<p>'Come in, I say&mdash;but stop, may be the door is fastened. Who are you?'</p>
+
+<p>'Open the door, will you? it's me.'</p>
+
+<p>'Aha&mdash;that I will;' and the bolt was withdrawn quickly.</p>
+
+<p>'Why, neighbor, is this you? how are you? come in. Well, you are the
+last man I should have thought of seeing here this dark night&mdash;take a
+chair, neighbor&mdash;what's the news?' And as Squire Foster (for he was the
+gentleman whom Mr. Cross had honored with a visit) said this, he threw
+away the smile, or rather grin, that had played over his sallow and
+flabby face, and assumed his naturally sly and mouserly look. 'Any thing
+good abroad?'</p>
+
+<p>Cross was in no talking humor: so let the gentleman run on, and in the
+mean time helping himself to a chair, sat down, and leaning back against
+the wall, fixed his eye, dark and lowry, full upon the little light that
+stood flaring and smoking on the middle of the table.</p>
+
+<p>'Well, there's the devil to pay now!'</p>
+
+<p>'Where? what, what, neighbor&mdash;any news?'</p>
+
+<p>'None that you will want to hear. Ned Saunders is dead.'</p>
+
+<p>'One rogue less, then, neighbor, ha, ha! he won't tell any tales then
+about here.'</p>
+
+<p>'But suppose he has told the tale already?'</p>
+
+<p>'That would be bad, neighbor; but you don't mean to say that he has?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, I do mean to say so; and the question is, what you mean to do
+about it?'</p>
+
+<p>'What <i>I</i> mean to do about it?' and he looked at Cross with a vacant
+stare.</p>
+
+<p>'Why you know we are both implicated.'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, neighbor, that is all between you and me. You know I have been but
+a mere counsellor.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, and a pretty scrape your counsel has got me into. Here is one man
+dead, the two others gone out of reach, and the thing itself nowhere to
+be found. Like as not Rutherford has got it back again, and we have had
+our labor for our pains, and may be something beside not so agreeable.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, now suppose, neighbor, I should tell you that Rutherford has not
+got it?'</p>
+
+<p>'Do you know that? and how?'</p>
+
+<p>'What would you give if I should tell you that I have got it, safe and
+snug in my own hands?'</p>
+
+<p>'Give! I have given enough already; but where is it? let's see it.'</p>
+
+<p>And Cross arose from his leaning posture, sat his chair square on the
+floor, and himself very erect in it, and looked fixedly at the Squire.</p>
+
+<p>Foster noticed the movement and the look of Cross, and without speaking,
+arose and stepped into a small adjoining room, took something from a
+case that stood upon an old dressing-table, and thrusting it hastily
+into his bosom, came back and resumed his 'Have you got it?'</p>
+
+<p>'Got what, neighbor?'</p>
+
+<p>'You know what, well enough&mdash;why, the deed. The trunk you may keep, but
+the deed can do you no good.'</p>
+
+<p>'Nor you, either, neighbor; it is safe&mdash;safe enough. I have got it, and
+I mean to keep it.' And as he said this, he very deliberately drew a
+pistol from his breast, and laying his hand on the table, leaned back in
+his chair and looked at the pretty plaything. Cross eyed him keenly,
+glancing from the pistol, which he saw was cocked, to the calm and
+almost unmeaning countenance of Foster.</p>
+
+<p>'What do you mean to do about this?'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't know exactly, neighbor; but at present I shall keep it.
+Something may turn up, you know&mdash;and to save a great deal of talk, as it
+is getting late, matters must stand thus: I have obtained possession of
+this at some risk; you agreed to pay me well, you know, if the job
+succeeded. Go on then&mdash;slash away at the timber; cut down and sell off
+as fast as you can&mdash;no one can hinder you&mdash;hand over half you get to me,
+and all will go smoothly enough. Do you agree to that?'</p>
+
+<p>Cross knew that Foster was a great villain, but he had never calculated
+upon the chance of thus getting into his power; he knew now that he was
+resolved upon a desperate course.</p>
+
+<p>'I suppose I shall be sued as soon as I begin to cut.'</p>
+
+<p>'No fear from that quarter. Rutherford is down, and has no means to
+contend with; his creditors will get picking enough to satisfy
+themselves out of his other property; and no lawyer will undertake the
+job, on his own risk, without more show of a title than he can now
+claim.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, if they do prosecute, you agree to see to it?'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay, neighbor, leave all that to me.'</p>
+
+<p>'And suppose there should be trouble about what Ned Saunders has been
+blabbing?'</p>
+
+<p>'That won't amount to much; it will soon be known that you are the owner
+of nearly all the barrens now, and they will be careful enough how they
+raise their tongue against you; a man is not very likely to swear to his
+own injury.'</p>
+
+<p>As Cross arose to depart, the other gentleman left his seat also, and
+dropping the hand which held the pistol, let it dangle by his side; the
+other hand he placed in his bosom, and facing his guest looked at him
+very complacently; a slight smile and a gentle, inclination of the head,
+on the part of Foster, were all the greeting that passed, as Cross
+neither turned his head nor uttered a word, but with a quick step left
+the house, and went on his way.</p>
+
+<p>The wages of iniquity are sometimes reaped in this world, and Cross was
+just tasting the bitter fruit.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XXIV.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Mr. Rutherford had received his dear wife and children as it were from
+the jaws of death, but it had been by the almost super-human exertions
+of the faithful C�sar, who, for a long time, was disabled by the severe
+injuries he had received as he bore them through the burning building.
+The noble beasts for which C�sar had fought so bravely, with all the
+luxuries and comforts of his large establishment, were swept away at the
+demands of creditors, and nothing that he could call his own remained
+except the faithful old negro&mdash;who, although a slave, was too far
+advanced in life to be liable as property&mdash;and those dear objects in
+which his heart still found some sweet solace amid the drear prospect
+which surrounded him.</p>
+
+<p>At present he was occupying a small house which had belonged to him
+once, and used as a tenement for a laborer on his estate. Few were the
+articles of furniture which sufficed for their use, and those had been,
+for the most part, loaned for their immediate necessity. His lovely wife
+still kept her pleasant smile, but her heart was smitten with a stroke
+that pressed it down heavily. It was not the loss of all, nor the change
+of abode, nor the rude and scanty furniture, nor all the other
+aggravating tokens of their change of circumstances&mdash;but she saw the
+struggle that was agitating her husband's mind; she could not relieve
+him of that load of care; she could not obliterate from his memory past
+errors, nor could she mark out for him a path that offered any other
+prospect than the dark one in which they were travelling then. All she
+could do was to make the best of what they had, to throw into her words
+the softest tones, and to lighten up her countenance with the semblance
+of hope she did not feel.</p>
+
+<p>It was not long after they had thus been reduced to the extremity of
+fortune's change, wearied with the turmoil of his distracted mind, Mr.
+Rutherford was sitting at the little window that opened from their abode
+upon the highway; his Mary was beside him, and she held his hand, and
+fondly pressed it as she oft had done in better days, put it to her
+heart, and let him feel how true it beat for him. The shades of evening
+were just setting upon them, held back a little by the young moon which
+hung out her crescent in the west, when a vehicle stopped at their door,
+and a gentleman of lively mien alighted and prepared to enter. Mrs.
+Rutherford went for a light, while her husband repaired to the door to
+receive the visitor, whoever he might be, although, as he supposed, some
+messenger of evil tidings, like all of late.</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Rutherford, I believe?'</p>
+
+<p>'My name is Rutherford, sir; will you walk in?'</p>
+
+<p>The stranger immediately followed, and entered their small apartment,
+Mrs. Rutherford, at the same time, placing the light on a little stand.</p>
+
+<p>'I expect you have forgotten me, Mr. Rutherford; my name is Andrews. You
+remember the poor boy you helped some six years since.'</p>
+
+<p>'Andrews&mdash;what, William Andrews!'</p>
+
+<p>'The same, sir. A few years make some change in our appearance.'</p>
+
+<p>It had, indeed, made some change, and one which entirely effaced every
+resemblance to the plain and homely-dressed lad who, six years since,
+had left his home to seek his fortune among strangers. He was now
+well-dressed; and had the ease of manner which is acquired only by
+mingling in society. He had grown in stature also, and was now a tall
+and slender man; his fresh, healthy countenance had grown pale. He wore
+his hair long, after the fashion of the South; his eye alone retained
+its naturally soft and expressive cast, although its brightness was
+dimmed, and seemed to indicate a want of energy in the physical frame.
+His own mother could scarcely have found a likeness to his former self;
+his very voice sympathized with the apparent languor of his frame, and
+had nothing in it that would recall the lively tone of boyhood.</p>
+
+<p>'It cannot be!' said Mrs. Rutherford, who now approached and took his
+hand. 'Not William Andrews! Time has indeed made a change&mdash;but we are
+glad, heartily glad to see you.'</p>
+
+<p>'It is not time alone, madam, that has made a change in my appearance,
+I suspect. I have been, you know, in a southern climate, and that takes
+severe hold sometimes of us northern men; but I am very happy again to
+see you, very happy indeed.'</p>
+
+<p>Without the least reference by either party to the great change which
+had occurred in circumstances, some little time was spent in a general
+interchange of question and answer about persons and things; when Mrs.
+Rutherford left the room, perhaps from feelings of delicacy to her
+husband, who might not wish to refer in her presence to his own peculiar
+situation.</p>
+
+<p>'You find, Mr. Andrews, that there have been changes here too, which
+perhaps must astonish you.'</p>
+
+<p>'I have heard of them, sir, a few miles from hence, and have urged on my
+journey further than I should have done. I need not say to you, sir,
+that to me it is the most painful event I have yet met with in life. Is
+it true, my dear sir? Are you as much reduced as report affirms and
+appearance indicate.'</p>
+
+<p>'I am as low down, so far as property is concerned, as I can be; there
+is absolutely nothing left.'</p>
+
+<p>And then, with much composure, Mr. Rutherford unfolded the complicated
+maze in which he had struggled for some time, and the closing of the
+scene in the last fatal blow. Although apparently unmoved himself, not
+so was he who listened to the tale of suffering. The southern clime had
+marred William's beauty, but it had only added to the warmth of his
+heart. For some time after Mr. Rutherford had done speaking, he sat
+wrapt in silent thought; his emotion too strong to dare trust the
+utterance of a single expression. At length he rose, and taking the hand
+of his friend&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Rutherford, the ways of the Almighty are mysterious, but they must
+be right. When a lone wanderer, you took me by the hand; you gave me
+counsel, you assisted me with means, you introduced me to influential
+friends; you made my heart glad then, and gave me an impetus which has
+led me on to success beyond my expectations. The money I have returned
+to you, but the debt of gratitude for your kindness to me in that hour
+will remain an uncancelled obligation while I live. And now, sir, you
+must take this trifle from me&mdash;I demand the right of a debtor to your
+bounty&mdash;take it, and keep it for your present need; it must not, it
+shall not be that either you or your angel wife know the pinchings of
+want.'</p>
+
+<p>His voice trembled so violently, that he could scarcely utter the few
+last words; nor could Mr. Rutherford respond to this warm burst of
+sympathy; it had gone directly to his heart, and caused a flow of
+feeling that could find no vent in words.</p>
+
+<p>'I must leave you for the night. God willing, I shall see you on the
+morrow, and tell you all my story. You then will see that I do not rob
+myself, and we will devise some other plan together.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Rutherford shook his hand with a silent grasp, but it told the young
+man that his offering of love and gratitude had done its work. Leaving
+his best respects for Mrs. Rutherford, William departed.</p>
+
+<p>As Mrs. Rutherford entered the room, after their guest had gone, she
+found her husband seated by the stand, and looking at something which he
+had spread out upon the table.</p>
+
+<p>'See here, Mary.'</p>
+
+<p>She stepped up to him, and putting her arm around his neck, stooped over
+beside him.</p>
+
+<p>'My dear husband! what does this mean? Five hundred dollars!' and she
+looked at him in amazement.</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, my love; it is five hundred dollars given us by that young man
+whom a few years since we befriended: this is the way, my dear, that God
+gives back the bread cast upon the waters.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, my dear George!' and she threw herself upon his bosom, 'how glad I
+am for you; you feel that you have one friend now, don't you?'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, Mary; and you cannot think how my heart leaps at the thought; one
+sympathising friend in an hour like this, is indeed "cold water to a
+thirsty soul"; but oh! that better Friend above, shall we ever forget
+him, Mary? How good! how true! how wise! how unfailing! if we will only
+trust in Him.'</p>
+
+<p>They said no more: silently they sank together on their knees, and
+poured out the fulness of their hearts to that Friend&mdash;that better
+Friend above.</p>
+
+<p>In the hour of our deep distress, when the dark clouds are around and
+above us, the soul is prone to feel that the darkness which oppresses it
+is the frown of God: we forget that love may be concealed, not turned
+away.</p>
+
+<p>To Mr. Rutherford's heart this mercy-drop came; a delightful assurance
+that he was not forsaken, and that still the arm of sovereign love was
+stretched out over him.</p>
+
+<p>William Andrews had not been, for the few past years, engaged in the
+active whirl of business to no purpose: he had amassed a few thousands
+by a happy venture, and his success had been beyond his most sanguine
+expectations. But this was not all; he had learned to grapple with
+difficulties, and by energy and determination to accomplish results
+which the irresolute and fearful could only dream of. He called the next
+morning, and in a private interview with Mr. Rutherford procured from
+him a particular statement of his affairs.</p>
+
+<p>In a few days he called again; and there seemed to be a cheerfulness in
+his air which he had not before manifested.</p>
+
+<p>'I have been looking over your matters a little, my dear sir, and I
+cannot think they are in such a hopeless case as you imagine. Your
+property is indeed all attached, and if sold under the present state of
+things would, to be sure, be dreadfully sacrificed, and might not bring
+more than the claims upon it: you certainly value your estate beyond the
+amount for which it is holden.'</p>
+
+<p>'Most certainly; but by our laws an immediate sale can be forced; and in
+that case, the whole will scarcely meet the demand.'</p>
+
+<p>'You must apply then to some friend who will assume your debts'&mdash;Mr.
+Rutherford shook his head&mdash;'and who will take your property into his
+hands, until better times come round.'</p>
+
+<p>'I have no friends, Mr. Andrews.'</p>
+
+<p>'We once thought,' said Mrs. Rutherford, who was listening with much
+interest, 'that we had quite a number; but friends do not always stand
+the test of such a fall as ours has been.'</p>
+
+<p>'But they could not possibly lose any thing, Mrs. Rutherford.'</p>
+
+<p>'Perhaps they might not; still, you know, it is a delicate matter to ask
+the favor, when not one of all who have been with us in our prosperous
+days has seen fit to come near us now. My dear husband, until you so
+generously had poured out your kindness, felt that he was alone in the
+world.'</p>
+
+<p>For some time each sat musing in silence over the uncertainty of human
+fortunes and earthly friendships, when Mr. Andrews drew up to the table,
+and requesting the attention of Mr. Rutherford a moment, began to spread
+before him certain documents.</p>
+
+<p>'Please to examine these, sir, and say whether they are correct.'</p>
+
+<p>'These are my obligations, Mr. Andrews&mdash;I gave them in good faith; and
+although I cannot meet them now, will own them to the last farthing.'
+Mr. Rutherford looked with much astonishment, for he perceived that all
+the responsibilities he was involved in were lying before him.</p>
+
+<p>'Are there any more that you can think of, Mr. Rutherford?'</p>
+
+<p>'There are no more.'</p>
+
+<p>'Then, sir, you may take them and do what you please with them: all I
+ask of you is, to give me a claim upon your property for this amount,'
+naming not more than two-thirds the value of the notes. 'The interest of
+that I am sure you can pay, and your property is once more your own.'</p>
+
+<p>William was well aware that promptness in such matters was of the first
+moment. He had at once liquidated every claim at a rate which each one
+was glad to accept, and thus materially reduced the whole amount: this
+he could be well secured for; the property of his benefactor need not be
+sacrificed, and his heart was at rest.</p>
+
+<p>Blessings on you, William Andrews! Your frame is slender, and seems to
+be nurturing some hidden plague that may ere long make it a prey to the
+worm; but it is the abode of a generous spirit. How its quickened pulses
+beat with the ecstatic happiness which now plays within! Your eye is on
+that noble pair; and the overpowering emotion which is thrilling their
+bosom at this new and unexpected deed of love, is the richest feast you
+ever tasted. Oh how they will bless you as the years roll by, when in
+their happy home and on their own paternal soil they tread in freedom,
+and think of him whose generous friendship snatched them from the brink
+of ruin, and placed them there! Oh ye lovers of this world's treasures,
+did you but know the secret charm these treasures can unfold! Go, dry
+the widow's tears; go, aid the orphan's helpless steps; go, prop the man
+of pure and noble soul, bowing beneath the weight of penury's heavy
+load&mdash;and you will feel there is a talisman of untold value in your
+hoards of gold and silver which you never dreamed of.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Rutherford had no idea of taking advantage of the arrangement
+Andrews had made, and insisted upon giving a claim for the full amount;
+but this William would not allow. He had made a fair bargain with the
+creditors, and would not permit Mr. Rutherford to bind himself further
+than the amount he had paid.</p>
+
+<p>'You can, my dear sir, as you are able, make good to each one what he
+has willingly relinquished.'</p>
+
+<p>'And, God permitting. I will do it to the full amount.'</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XXV.</h2>
+
+
+<p>We left our friends the Montjoys busy in their store, taking an account
+of their affairs, and preparing to encounter the difficulties they had
+been thrown into. They found things not quite so bad as they feared.
+Should the whole loss be realized, all which they had made would be
+swept off; but there would be enough to pay their debts&mdash;that was a
+great comfort: and if they could but preserve their credit, matters
+might all come right again. With the promptness which had ever marked
+his conduct, the morning after the reception of the intelligence which
+had given them such a shock, James was on his way to his friend McFall.</p>
+
+<p>The statement which he was enabled to make was very satisfactory; and
+would have been all that was required, could his friend have been able
+to advance the funds. The pressure was indeed of a most serious kind,
+affecting individuals and banks alike; and requiring on the part of each
+the utmost skill and exertion to stem it through. James found that his
+only resource now to meet the present emergency, was to lay his case
+immediately before the Bank; if he failed to procure aid from thence, he
+saw not whence it was to come. The power which by circumstances becomes
+thus concentrated, can only truly be felt by those situated as was this
+young man. Whether it be an individual, or a corporate body, and whether
+they are conscious of it or not, the ability, for the time being, which
+is at their command to afford or to withhold the life-blood of trade and
+commercial credit, is the most despotic in its grasp on the mind of man
+that can be conceived this side of infinite sway. It is not, of
+necessity, the fault of those who wield it, that it should often press
+with such sickening, despairing force; so long as enterprise shall
+stimulate man to go a step beyond the means at his own disposal, must he
+in some measure depend upon the aid of others; and once dependent, he
+can never calculate with certainty upon enduring peace of mind. The
+fluctuations in trade, like changes in the weather, baffle all the skill
+of the most shrewd and far-sighted: they come at times before any
+suitable preparation can be made to meet their destructive influence,
+and the high-minded, honorable man is obliged to stand before the same
+tribunal with the mean and designing, and for too often compelled to
+submit to rules which make no allowance for character.</p>
+
+<p>It was the first time that James had known really what it meant to ask a
+moneyed favor. He had begun life as we have seen, and gone on, hitherto,
+so much by his own means, that he felt more like a criminal about to be
+arraigned, than an honest man in the discharge of duty; and nothing but
+the absolute necessity of doing something to preserve the credit of his
+house, and upon which every thing now depended, would have driven him to
+it. He was not personally known to the cashier, and therefore his friend
+accompanied him to the Bank, introduced him, and left him to tell his
+own story. Fortunately for James, the person he had now to deal with was
+a gentleman in every sense of the word; a man of large experience, at
+home in all the routine of business, a complete financier, and with a
+large share of true benevolence.</p>
+
+<p>Every unpleasant feeling was, for the time, at once banished by the
+agreeable, frank, and very kind manner with which this officer received
+and addressed him. James felt almost sure that his end was accomplished.
+He very soon, in a brief manner, related the circumstances in which he
+had been placed by the sudden failure of so many persons, and then
+handed to the cashier the schedule of his property and liabilities.</p>
+
+<p>After carefully scrutinizing this paper with an air and expression of
+countenance that showed his business character, the stern and cold
+features of which damped James's hopes not a little, and at times caused
+a fluttering at his heart, which he had never felt before&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'You are aware, I presume, Mr. Montjoy, that these are not only
+precarious times, in which the Bank feel that the utmost caution must be
+used, but the times are also very difficult. We cannot aid often, where
+we not only wish to, but should feel safe in so doing. It is as
+necessary for us to keep our credit unblemished as for individuals. I
+will, however, lay your proposition before the Board; if you will call
+again at one o'clock, you shall have the answer.'</p>
+
+<p>Two long hours of intense anxiety were passed, such as James had never
+before experienced. Not caring to return to the house of Mr. McFall, he
+repaired to a grove which lined the banks of pretty river that glided
+through the place; he sat down beneath the shade, and listened to the
+murmuring stream and the warbling birds&mdash;they were sights and sounds
+which he had always loved; but he now realized how necessary it was to
+the enjoyment of nature's simple sweets, to have a mind at rest. How
+often had he, after a weary day, sat in the quiet evening, and with Ned
+enjoyed its calm serenity, and watched the moonbeams play upon the
+water, or through the trembling leaves, and the bright stars coming one
+by one and gemming all the sky! What pure and peaceful thoughts they
+kindled, and how unalloyed the happiness that spread its soothing,
+quickening glow through all his frame! How he looked back now, as to an
+Eden, where he once had dwelt, but from which he seemed to be expelled
+for ever! Care, that canker of the heart, had come and taken, like a
+strong man armed, the full possession of his powers; tinging the heavens
+and the earth with its dark hue, and spoiling all their beauties.</p>
+
+<p>At the time appointed he returned to the Bank; it seemed to him that the
+interests of the universe were at stake; and as he walked up to the
+tall, commanding form of the Cashier, the man appeared to be vested with
+a power that held the very springs of life at his command.</p>
+
+<p>He was received with the same gentlemanly manner as at his introduction,
+and requested to walk behind the counter and take a seat, and as though
+he knew the workings of the young man's mind, and wished at once to
+relieve his suspense&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'The Directors have concluded to accept your paper, sir; sit down, Mr.
+Montjoy;' and James took the seat with a lighter heart than he had felt
+for some time. 'They have done it in the confidence that your statement
+is correct: and I will say further to you, sir, as you are a young man,
+and have much business yet before you, that the manner in which you have
+commenced and carried on your trade, has had great weight in determining
+the decision of the Board. The times at present are very precarious, and
+you will need much prudence; but, sir, I believe I can assure you, that
+so long as you confine your operations to the regular run of your
+business, any facilities you may need will be at your service here.'</p>
+
+<p>The sun shone very brightly to James as he journeyed towards home that
+day; nature was almost as captivating to him as in the days of
+childhood; and the joyous shake of Ned's hand, and the calm sweet smile
+of his mother, as they listened to his story, all made his heart leap in
+gladness, and send up to Him whose blessing was the burden of his daily
+petitions, warm and devout thanksgiving.</p>
+
+<p>Thus the storm which had threatened to overwhelm these young men passed
+with but partial injury. The foundation they had laid in patient
+industry, prudent management, and stern integrity, bore them proudly on.
+The wily plots of Mr. Cross were anticipated by the promptness with
+which James attended to his affairs; and for the present, at least, the
+young firm is safe.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XXVI.</h2>
+
+
+<p>The Widow Brown, in consequence of the disclosure made by the dying Ned
+Saunders, was placed in no very agreeable situation. She thought that
+the unhappy man had his reason, but she could not be so very sure as to
+be willing to publish what might not after all be true, to the certain
+injury not only of Mr. Cross, who had ever been kind to her, but of her
+son also, who had wound himself around her heart, and for whom she had
+been so earnestly entreated by that miserable woman who declared herself
+his mother.</p>
+
+<p>She comprehended but a very little of the nature of papers of any kind,
+beyond those solemn legacies from God to man, which daily she perused
+with love and gratitude. And what Ned Saunders meant by papers which Mr.
+Cross was anxious to get hold of, she could not conceive.</p>
+
+<p>'The poor, deluded soul,' said she one day, while walking alone, her
+thoughts too burdensome to be kept in; 'I am very doubtful that he knew
+what he said when he talked about those papers; and now that the
+dreadful deed is done, what good end can be answered by publishing it
+abroad? It will not build the house again, and God will avenge it in his
+own time and way.'</p>
+
+<p>She wished much, however, for the time when William should be able to
+make some disclosures as to his share in the terrible transaction. That
+he was a participator in the crime she could not believe; but that he
+had attacked Ned Saunders, and that the consequences had proved fatal to
+one of them, she had too strong evidence to doubt. The whole was
+altogether beyond the comprehension of the poor widow, and all she
+could do, at present, was to wait for time to make plain the path of
+duty.</p>
+
+<p>William, however, could no longer bear the struggle which agitated his
+mind, and he determined to unburden it. As there were reasons why he
+preferred to communicate with his sister, he took an opportunity, when
+alone, to reveal all he knew, and let her into the secret of his own
+present condition, and the villany of Cross. Hettie's first impulse was
+to fly at once to Mr. Rutherford.</p>
+
+<p>'He ought to be made acquainted with these facts without a moment's
+delay.'</p>
+
+<p>'But David, sister; think of him.'</p>
+
+<p>Hettie was silent; she gazed a moment at her brother, then leaned back
+in her chair, and resting her head upon her hand, was lost for awhile in
+busy thought.</p>
+
+<p>'David must be told, William; he must know it before any one else; he
+has had no hand in it, and all his kindness to us demands this
+confidence in him.'</p>
+
+<p>William made no reply; he was much exhausted, and even the effort of
+thinking was painful. The mother also now came in, and, wishing a little
+relaxation, Hettie left the room and sought a favourite spot to which
+she was in the habit of retiring, sheltered alike from the rays of the
+sun and common observation&mdash;a tumult of distracting thoughts rioted
+within; again and again she resolved the doubtful question as to her
+present duty, and the difficulties attending any course which presented
+itself to her were so great, that she most heartily longed for some
+experienced counsel to guide her steps.</p>
+
+<p>In the midst of her perplexities, she was startled at the sound of
+approaching footsteps.</p>
+
+<p>'I thought I should never find you. Your mother said she guessed you was
+here; but that thick clump of bushes hid you so, that I had almost given
+it up.'</p>
+
+<p>'I come here occasionally; it is so retired.'</p>
+
+<p>'I should think it was retired enough; but I don't see what you want to
+get off so alone for; it is lonely enough, I should think, all over
+these old barrens. But ain't you glad Bill is so much better?'</p>
+
+<p>'He is better certainly, David; more like himself than he has been
+yet&mdash;don't you think so?'</p>
+
+<p>'That he is&mdash;but you look sick; you sit by that bed too much, Hettie.
+You want a ride&mdash;come&mdash;Bony's at the cottage&mdash;go along with me: we will
+soon bring your color back.'</p>
+
+<p>'Not to-day, David; indeed I have no desire to ride to-day; and besides,
+since you are here, I want to have some conversation with you upon a
+matter in which you are deeply concerned.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, come on&mdash;I'm ready for anything&mdash;out with it. I'm so glad Bill is
+better, I don't care what comes now; but look cheerful a little; do, I
+beg of you; I have dark looks enough at home. The old man is so cross
+about something or other lately, that he can't give me a civil word. I
+thought when I came along, what I would give just to live among you
+here. I tell you what, Hettie, I had rather live with you and your
+mother, and have nothing but bread and water, only to hear kind
+words;&mdash;well, you are queer&mdash;just now you was so pale, and now your face
+is red as a rose.'</p>
+
+<p>Hettie felt the flush which David had noticed; he had never spoken quite
+so plainly to her before, and she began to fear what next might come; so
+she commenced the unpleasant task of making him acquainted with his
+father's conduct; but she did not give the account in the order that she
+received it, for she began at the catastrophe, and told the story as
+well as she could, without alluding to the main instigator of the plot.</p>
+
+<p>'But what could have induced those men to commit such a deed? and what
+could they have wanted with the trunk without there was money in it?'</p>
+
+<p>'There was no money in it, but there were papers of great consequence.'</p>
+
+<p>'Papers? what could they know about papers? they can't read, not one of
+them; what good would papers do them?' said David; his countenance pale,
+and his lips trembling with emotion.</p>
+
+<p>'There is something more in all this that you have not yet told me,
+Hettie; some one is at the bottom of it. Who is it?'</p>
+
+<p>Hettie covered her face with her hands.</p>
+
+<p>'Don't be afraid, Hettie; out with it&mdash;is it my father?'</p>
+
+<p>Hettie burst into tears, and David sank to the earth, helpless as an
+infant. Seeing that he was greatly agitated, and that he seemed in need
+of help, she was about to go for her mother.</p>
+
+<p>'Don't leave me, Hettie. Do you think that this is truth, and that
+William has his reason?'</p>
+
+<p>'He seems to have it, perfectly; he has given a clear account of things
+from the first&mdash;I fear it is true.'</p>
+
+<p>'Does any one know of this besides you and your brother?'</p>
+
+<p>'No human being as yet.'</p>
+
+<p>'Depend upon it, Hettie, if my father has instigated this act, he has
+been in some way thwarted in his design; for his temper, never very
+good, has been outrageous for some time past; so much so, that I have
+made up my mind to leave him and this region for ever. There is but one
+thing which keeps me; you and your mother are the only persons in the
+world that I care much about&mdash;and you I love as I do my life. If you
+will marry me, Hettie, I will get together all I have got; it will be
+enough to purchase us a place far away from here, and we will take your
+mother, and Bill, too, if he gets well; and how happy we shall be.'</p>
+
+<p>Hettie was deeply affected, but she felt that she must deal plainly with
+him.</p>
+
+<p>'You must not talk so, David; you and I can never be married.'</p>
+
+<p>'You are ashamed of me already, Hettie. My father's disgrace, I see, is
+to be mine.'</p>
+
+<p>'I shall never attach to you, David, any wrong your father has done&mdash;but
+let us say no more about this. You have ever been kind to me and my
+family; all that a sister can do for you, I will; beyond this, I hope
+you will not urge me. But there are some things to be thought of that
+must be done soon. Mr. Rutherford ought not to be kept ignorant of this
+matter. I have, out of kindness to you, told you what I have heard, and
+with a hope that you will make an effort to recover these papers, and
+thus in part frustrate an evil design, and perhaps save your father from
+a great calamity. William has told me that he has some faint
+recollection of feeling the trunk taken from his grasp, while he lay in
+that helpless condition. You think your father has not got it; probably
+then, it is in the hands of some person who does not realize the value
+of it, and may easily be induced to relinquish it.'</p>
+
+<p>'I will do what I can, Hettie, to find out; but I caution you to let no
+person know a word of all this, at least not until I have failed in
+finding out some clue to it. Should Rutherford know what you do, and
+make attempts to search, or to expose matters, it would be the very way,
+as things are here, to have it put where no one can ever be the wiser
+for it. If my father has not got the trunk or the papers&mdash;and I don't
+believe he has, for the reason I have told you&mdash;it is probably in the
+hands of some one who has taken it from Bill, and is afraid to say any
+thing, for fear he would be charged with an attempt to murder.'</p>
+
+<p>David's reasoning appeared so plausible, that Hettie coincided with him
+as to the propriety, at present, of saying nothing further on the
+subject to any one.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XXVII.</h2>
+
+
+<p>There were many things in the circumstances of Mr. Cross, in themselves
+not very desirable. He had, to be sure, injured Mr. Rutherford; he had
+destroyed his home; he had by his artifice, brought him to cruel
+suffering and mortification; and he had wrested from him an instrument
+of immense value to its rightful owner, although of very doubtful
+utility to himself. But this very instrument had fallen into the hands
+of one whom he hated and feared, and was now held over him as a rod of
+terror, to force him into compliance with just such measures as the
+dictator chose.</p>
+
+<p>He had committed also a flagrant crime&mdash;one that rendered him liable to
+the severest penalty of the law; and the knowledge of what he had done
+was not confined to himself and his agents. One at least, besides, held
+the fatal secret; and although she was a lone widow, and very much under
+his power, still she might disclose it&mdash;perhaps she had already done so.</p>
+
+<p>His situation was no enviable one. He walked by the crater of a volcano;
+he could see the fires and hear the rumbling beneath him; at any moment
+he might be engulfed.</p>
+
+<p>The wicked make the toils which entangle and distress them, but they are
+not the less troublesome on that account. Cross saw that something must
+be done, and without delay. The first step was, to ascertain what amount
+of information Ned Saunders had communicated to the Widow Brown, and
+then by some means, fair or foul, stop it from going any further. There
+was also a mystery about the disaster which had befallen William Brown;
+somehow he believed it to be connected with the loss of the trunk and
+the injury to Saunders, in what way he could not unravel; but he firmly
+believed that William knew, if he could or would tell, more than any one
+else. Cross had visited him frequently during his illness, and kept a
+shrewd eye upon him, at the same time continuing acts of kindness
+towards the family, as well as encouraging the attentions of David.</p>
+
+<p>He saw clearly, at length, that William was recovering his strength, and
+even guessed that he had more ability to converse than he felt willing
+should be known.</p>
+
+<p>It may seem strange that a father could be willing to expose his
+baseness to a son; but when the heart becomes accustomed to iniquity, it
+loses the finer feelings, and becomes callous to all sense of shame, or
+even desire for the respect and love of its nearest kindred. Cross
+thought he saw how he might, through the influence of his son, keep a
+hold upon that family, and he scrupled not to make a confidant of him,
+even to the exposure of his own base purposes.</p>
+
+<p>David had just returned from the cottage. It was at the closing of day;
+Cross was alone in his store, and sat pondering upon his plans and
+prospects, and the multitude of dangers surrounding him.</p>
+
+<p>'Have you been at the Widow Brown's?'</p>
+
+<p>'Just come from there.'</p>
+
+<p>'How is Bill?'</p>
+
+<p>'Better; pretty weak though yet.'</p>
+
+<p>'Can he talk yet?'</p>
+
+<p>'Not much.'</p>
+
+<p>'Not much! Can he talk at all? if he can I want to know it. But where
+are you going now?'</p>
+
+<p>'Not far; up north a short distance.'</p>
+
+<p>'You can't go now; sit down&mdash;I want to talk to you.'</p>
+
+<p>David obeyed without making any reply; he did not fancy his father's
+talks very much, but he feared to offend him.</p>
+
+<p>'I've got into trouble, and you may as well know it: it has all been
+done to give you a lift, and make you something in the world; but things
+have gone wrong end foremost, and now we must make the best of them.'</p>
+
+<p>Cross looked at his son and paused, seeming to expect an answer; but
+David either did not care how things went, or he wished to know more
+about them before venturing upon a reply.</p>
+
+<p>'You know Rutherford's house has been burned, and that Ned Saunders is
+dead; he was the one who did that job. He's gone out of the way, to be
+sure; but he has told a pack of lies to old Molly Brown, and if she
+should blab it about, we might get into a mess of trouble; but I
+suppose you know all about it&mdash;she has let it out to you, no doubt.'</p>
+
+<p>But David made no signs of acknowledgment as to whether he did or did
+not know any thing about it.</p>
+
+<p>'Are you dumb, all at once, that you cannot speak when you are spoken
+to?'</p>
+
+<p>'You haven't asked me any question yet.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, I have; has Molly Brown told you what Ned Saunders said?'</p>
+
+<p>'She has not.'</p>
+
+<p>'Has she talked about it that you know of?'</p>
+
+<p>'Not that I know of.'</p>
+
+<p>Cross sat silent for some time; at length making another effort, he
+disclosed his purpose.</p>
+
+<p>'The fact is, the old woman knows too much for our good. She likes you
+well enough; you know that I suppose, and she has good reason to do so;
+you can stop her tongue if you will.'</p>
+
+<p>'I should like to know how.'</p>
+
+<p>'How? Why, by marrying Hettie; she can't hurt us then, without hurting
+her own child, and she won't be likely to do that. You shall have money
+enough: the barrens are pretty much all ours now, or they will be when
+this matter is once quashed.'</p>
+
+<p>'How so?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, Rutherford's deed for them is burned up, and there is no record of
+it, and mine covers it all.'</p>
+
+<p>'But suppose I should tell you that Rutherford's deed is not burnt?'</p>
+
+<p>'How do you know it ain't?' and Cross arose from his seat in great
+excitement.</p>
+
+<p>'Bill Brown has told all about it; he laid on the truck-bed under the
+counter the night you and old Foster were here together.'</p>
+
+<p>Dave looked at his father for the first time since the commencement of
+the interview. The dim light that came in through the open door just
+enabled him to see the ashy paleness that had over-spread his features.</p>
+
+<p>'Get me some gin;' and Cross nearly fell into his chair as Dave stepped
+up to him.</p>
+
+<p>'Get me some gin, I say; quick!'</p>
+
+<p>Dave immediately drew a tumbler of the clear liquor, and his father
+taking it with both hands, with difficulty put it to his mouth, so
+violent was his agitation; he accomplished it, however, and did not stop
+until the glass was empty. Drawing a long breath, he handed back the
+glass.</p>
+
+<p>'Go sit down; I'll be better directly.' Some moments elapsed before he
+could resume the conversation.</p>
+
+<p>'Who has Bill Brown told that lie to?'</p>
+
+<p>'He has told it to his sister; whether it's a lie or not, I can't say. I
+shouldn't think he would be like to lie just now, with one foot in the
+grave.'</p>
+
+<p>Cross saw too clearly that his villany was fully exposed; he sat
+apparently stunned by the perils which now hovered over him. David at
+last broke silence.</p>
+
+<p>'The best thing to be done is, to give Rutherford back his deed.'</p>
+
+<p>'That can't be done; I have not got it, nor has it ever been in my
+hands. There is only one thing that can be of any use now, and that is
+to stop the mouths of that family; you can easily do that by marrying
+the daughter.'</p>
+
+<p>'It takes two to make such a bargain as that.'</p>
+
+<p>'You don't suppose she would be fool enough to refuse you?'</p>
+
+<p>'Fool or no fool, she has refused me this very day.'</p>
+
+<p>Cross was again silent. It appeared that difficulties arose at every
+step; but when the end to be accomplished was so important, the means in
+his view were of no moment. A plan suggested itself to his mind, cruel
+and base to be sure; but he was in a strait, and what were the feelings
+of a gentle girl, even should her heart be broken, in comparison with
+his own selfish ends?</p>
+
+<p>'That is easy to get along with&mdash;there ain't half the girls round here
+that ever give consent at all. Get her over to the old rendezvous; give
+the boys and girls a wink, as to what you want; have old Goble on the
+spot&mdash;he's used to it. She'll give in easy enough when you're once
+buckled together; a little kind treatment and plenty of money will soon
+settle everything; and when you are in the family, and they can't help
+themselves, all will go right enough; and then, if they try to hurt
+either of us, they will only be cutting their own heads off; they won't
+be for doing that.'</p>
+
+<p>In order to the clear understanding of the plan which Cross had
+suggested, a little explanation will be necessary.</p>
+
+<p>Among these rude people, the subject of marriage, and everything
+connected with it, was treated in a peculiar manner; from first to
+last, secrecy seemed to be the main ingredient in the whole business.
+The courtship was carried on clandestinely, and very seldom was the
+marriage ceremony completed&mdash;it could scarcely be said to be
+solemnized&mdash;without at least a show of resistance and reluctance on the
+part of the female; she being often fairly forced into the room by the
+main strength of her companions, and never did the minister expect a
+reply, or even the sign of assent to his questions from either party.
+Goble, the character by whom nearly all the matrimonial bonds in this
+region had been riveted for the last twenty years, was a nondescript
+minister, who had some good things in his composition, mixed with a
+great many others of a very doubtful kind. He could preach in a certain
+way, on any occasion to which he was called, but he was very seldom
+asked to perform any such duty, and was well content, so far as he
+himself was concerned, to do nothing at it; he worked for his living at
+a small trade, and that, with the trifling fees he received for some
+professional services, satisfied his humble desires.</p>
+
+<p>David Cross listened to these suggestions of his father, outrageous as
+they were, with no little interest. He loved Hettie, or at least he
+thought he did; but brought up and educated as he had been, he could
+have no very correct idea of those pure and delicate feelings which
+constitute true love: he supposed that he could make her happy, and felt
+every disposition to do so. His interview with her the day before had
+not been as satisfactory as he had wished. He had never before doubted
+that she would willingly accept him, and had always looked upon her as
+appropriated to himself; to be thus disappointed, was not by any means
+grateful to his uncurbed will and unsubdued passions. It produced an
+unhappy effect upon his mind&mdash;a sort of determination to get her into
+his power; and he meant it in kindness too, for he was sure that he
+could make her happy.</p>
+
+<p>As his father, therefore, unfolded to him a way that his wish could be
+accomplished, he eagerly caught at it, and even then resolved that she
+should be his.</p>
+
+<p>The meeting between William Andrews and his mother was almost too much
+for the old lady; she ever had loved him dearly, even through all her
+harsh treatment of him. She had heard of his prosperity in his letters
+home; he had told her that he was doing well, and the supplies of money
+which he occasionally sent to her confirmed his statement. But she had
+not expected such a change in his appearance. His manners and style of
+dress, and the consideration which was paid to him, caused the old lady
+at times to feel almost sad as well as proud. William, however, was
+unchanged in his affection, and left nothing undone that could manifest
+to her his filial respect and love. The old house was refitted in the
+neatest manner, as she preferred living in that, she said, the rest of
+her days, to any new one that could be built. She would have been too
+happy, were it not that too many tokens of disease manifested
+themselves, for a mother's eye not to discern that there was a worm at
+the root of her gourd.</p>
+
+<p>The health of William was not benefited by his native air; the languor
+which oppressed him became more and more distressing, and the sunken
+cheek and the hectic flush gave sad notice to the hearts that loved him
+of his fatal malady. But his spirits retained their elasticity, and the
+hope of returning health seemed to grow stronger in his own breast, as
+it grew fainter in the hearts of his friends. He thought he should he
+better soon; and thus from day to day he went about among the neighbours
+who were now clustered in his native village, and rejoiced in the magic
+change which every where met his eye. What hours of delightful converse
+he enjoyed with those whose enterprise had given the first start to all
+these new and pleasant scenes, and by whose aid he himself had broken
+the chains of idleness and vice, and arisen to respectability and
+independence.</p>
+
+<p>Jim and Ned were the brothers of his heart, and between the three there
+was an interchange of the most entire confidence: Sam only was wanting
+to have made the circle of his heart's desire complete.</p>
+
+<p>Through the influence of William, Mr. Rutherford had been induced to
+hire a tenement for the present, not far from the abode of the Montjoys,
+until time should more clearly develop what course he ought to pursue
+for his future support.</p>
+
+<p>To this family he daily resorted, there he found another home, and in
+their friendship he enjoyed a repose that seemed to him a paradise.</p>
+
+<p>Hettie he often met, and treated her like a sister, so far as she would
+allow him, but he had said nothing to her about love. Perhaps his heart
+had been drawn far away, or the power of disease had so deadened his
+feelings, that he could not arouse himself to the effort of attempting
+to gain her affections, or perhaps he saw&mdash;for love is eagle-eyed&mdash;that
+there was one on whom Hettie looked with just such feelings as he would
+once fain have had her entertain towards himself.</p>
+
+<p>Henry Tracy still retained his situation, and, of course, William and he
+were thrown together in the same home; a sincere friendship had
+commenced between them; the mild and social character of both seemed
+formed upon the same basis. Although there was a vast difference in
+their mental attainments, yet William had learned much from intercourse
+with the world, and could impart valuable knowledge of men and things in
+exchange for the intellectual stores which Henry had at his command, and
+thus was his spirit beguiled from those dark and depressing thoughts
+which often attend upon the sinking frame, and even hasten its decay.
+Friendship met him at every turn in some new form, and her smile cheered
+his sensitive spirit, and kept up a genial glow; quickening his languid
+pulse, and animating him with unnatural vigor.</p>
+
+<p>He had been spending the evening at the Rutherford's, and had been more
+engaged in conversation than usual; it was near the time for retiring,
+when he was seized with a slight fit of coughing; and on Mrs.
+Rutherford's asking if he felt more unwell, as she noticed that he was
+unusually pale&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'I am in some pain;' and he placed his hand upon his chest. She stepped
+up to him, and found that the handkerchief which he had just taken from
+his mouth was stained with blood.</p>
+
+<p>The physician was immediately called in, but his hopeless look, as he
+bent over the poor youth, gave sad presage of what the end would be. His
+mother and sister were likewise soon with him; but Mrs. Rutherford
+persuaded them to leave the care of him to her; and faithfully did that
+kind and gentle lady watch by his sick bed. She and Hettie moved about
+the apartment in that calm and unobtrusive manner so grateful to the
+weak and suffering. Every thing was kept in perfect order, and all
+tokens of a sick chamber were removed, save the chastened light that
+came in through the drawn curtains, and the noiseless tread of those who
+waited upon him. Their countenances, when around the bed, or bending
+over it to administer some food or cordial, wore no gloomy aspect, no
+anxious knitted brow, no look of sadness from the eye. He loved to gaze
+upon them both; angels they seemed to him&mdash;attendants from a better
+world, waiting on his frail body here, and soon to bear his soaring
+spirit to the bright abode which they had left. And when he talked of
+death, and told them he was going fast, and soon the struggle would be
+over; sweetly they would speak about the heaven that was beyond, of the
+pure white robes, and the golden harps, and the everlasting songs, and
+the bright meeting they would have when care and toil, and sin and
+death, were passed.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Rutherford was often by his side, and showed, in every word and
+look, how much he felt. He could not hide his aching heart beneath a
+smile; he loved too well the youthful sufferer. Obligations of the
+tenderest kind he hourly felt. Nor was this all; he could sympathize
+with him as a man; how full of ardent hopes, with prospects bright for
+future years, and all earth's winning smiles beaming on his path, and
+now to die so soon, was hard, he thought, even though an angel beckoned
+him away. And thus when he stood by that silent bed, and heard the
+short, hard heavings of his chest, and saw the daily inroads of disease
+upon that face, which had so lately beamed like hope's bright star upon
+his troubled way; he felt like one who looks into an open grave, and
+hears the clod fall heavy on the coffin-lid; 'twas dark, all dark.</p>
+
+<p>And at that bed, by day and night, whenever he could snatch an hour from
+his varied duties, was Henry Tracy. His friendship had just begun to
+kindle into warmth, when he saw that it must soon be extinguished.
+William loved to have him near; he loved to hear him converse about
+those realities which now alone absorbed his spirit; and well did Henry
+know how to deal out the precious manna; so soft and clear, in tones
+that fell like heavenly music on the ear. He talked about the
+Saviour&mdash;for, to Henry, the name of Jesus was a name to quicken every
+pulse, and fill the heart with holy joy; and when he spoke of Him, it
+was as though he talked about a friend whose ardent sympathies beat in
+unison with his own; a friend who loved, who was now near at hand,
+feeling for all his woes, smoothing the dying pillow, taking away the
+sting of death, and preparing a triumphant passage for his soul into his
+own blest home.</p>
+
+<p>William drank in his words until his spirit rejoiced within him, and
+longed to depart. He had a strange pleasure, too, in seeing Hettie stand
+by the side of Henry and listen to his voice, until her face would glow
+with the holy fire it kindled in his breast; he could read in her
+glistening eye, perhaps, what few others could. William loved her even
+in death, and now, more than he had done for years past. He loved, too,
+Henry Tracy. As he gazed on them by turns, he felt how well suited they
+were to one another. He murmured something; Henry heard them, but though
+Hettie caught but a word, the rich colour that spread over her pale
+face, proved that she understood them. He spoke their names together,
+and he blessed them.</p>
+
+<p>Short were the hours after this that William struggled with the pains of
+life; around him were all the dear ones he had on earth; there was no
+violence of grief to trouble his departing spirit; hearts were bleeding
+silently, and as the last breath went to heaven, a moment all watched
+the still, sweet sleeper, and looked on silently while Mr. Rutherford
+closed his eyes, and then sat down and wept until their burdened spirits
+found relief.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XXVIII.</h2>
+
+
+<p>During all the period of Hettie's confinement around the sick bed of
+William Andrews, David saw nothing of her; he felt satisfied that she
+would not disclose what her brother had communicated to her. The efforts
+which, in the mean time, he was to make for the recovery of the lost
+document, were much relaxed by the interview with his father, as related
+in a former chapter. He saw now that his ultimate object might be
+gained, and suffered his selfish feelings to work their hateful purpose.
+He continued his attentions to William and his mother, and did much to
+supply to them the absence of Hettie.</p>
+
+<p>Reports are easily set in motion, and, as every one is willing to keep
+them moving, it is not strange that they spread so fast. Thus it began
+to be whispered that Mr. Tracy and Hettie Brown were engaged to be
+married; and although no one had any license for saying so, nor was it
+actually the case, yet so it was said, and David among the rest listened
+to the story. It took him not altogether by surprise, and only confirmed
+him in his purpose to accomplish the plan proposed by his father.</p>
+
+<p>The effort William had made to communicate the terrible secret which
+harassed his mind, enfeebled as it was by disease, had nearly proved
+fatal to him. The excitement produced by the thought of having the
+matter made public, with all its consequences to himself and others,
+together with the physical effort he was obliged to make in order to
+explain things fully to his sister, brought on a recurrence of his
+unfavorable symptoms, and as soon as Hettie could be spared from the
+dying room of William Andrews, she was again at her mother's home,
+although so exhausted in mind and body as to be able to do little else
+than watch by his bedside.</p>
+
+<p>'I could not come as soon as I expected,' said David Cross as he entered
+the cottage of the Widow Brown; 'but we shall have time enough for a
+good ride yet.'</p>
+
+<p>David looked very pale, and his voice trembled as he spoke, but Hettie
+did not notice it, for she was busy putting on her things. She had made
+an engagement with him that morning to take a drive; she felt that she
+needed the recreation, and as she supposed matters were well understood
+between them, hesitated not in accepting such an act of kindness.</p>
+
+<p>'I think you had better not drive far, David, for it will soon be night,
+and William has not been so well to-day.'</p>
+
+<p>'No, no, aunty, we shan't go far, or at least we shan't stay long, for
+Bony is in good spirits.'</p>
+
+<p>Hettie sprang into the buggy, and Dave drove off at his usual rapid
+pace.</p>
+
+<p>The rendezvous that Cross had spoken of in his conversation with his
+son, was situated in the midst of the thickest and least frequented part
+of the pines. It had once been used as a tavern, in days before Mr.
+Cross set up in his more public situation. Of late years, it became the
+haunt of all who wished to have a frolic as they called it&mdash;in other
+words, a low debauch; and scenes of riot were enacted there which even
+Cross himself did not approve. It was a lone place, and far from any
+settlement; of course no restraint was put upon those who wished thus to
+degrade themselves. It was also the chosen place for their marriage
+scenes; these seldom, if ever, taking place at the home of either party.
+Two old and miserable-looking beings kept the house, such as it was, and
+on occasion of an assemblage, gave matters up to the company to do as
+they pleased, their business being merely to deal out plenty of liquor
+from behind an old counter in one corner of the room.</p>
+
+<p>'I think we have gone far enough, David; I fear William will begin to be
+restless.'</p>
+
+<p>'I am only going as far as the house you see yonder. I must stop and
+water Bony, and as he is so restless, if you will step in and talk a
+moment to the old people, I will hurry all I can, and then we will be
+home in less than no time.'</p>
+
+<p>As they drove up, Hettie knew that she had not seen the place before;
+but hesitated not to do as she was requested, although the house was
+very forbidding in its appearance.</p>
+
+<p>'You've come airly,' said the old hag who sat just within the door,
+smoking a short black pipe. Hettie, not understanding her allusion,
+looked at her in some surprise, without making a reply.</p>
+
+<p>'I say you've come rather airly; the folks ain't none on 'em got along
+yet.'</p>
+
+<p>'What folks do you mean, granny?'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay, I see you're jist like the rest of the galls, you want to keep
+it secret as long as you can. We know all about it though; but you're
+goin' to have a smart un; Dave's a good feller.'</p>
+
+<p>Hettie, supposing the old woman to be a little deranged, merely smiled,
+and walked into the room. David had driven his horse away, as she
+supposed, for the purpose of watering&mdash;Poor girl! she was in a trap, and
+soon her light and happy spirit would be writhing in agony.</p>
+
+<p>'Are you ready, David? but where is the horse?' seeing that he had not
+driven to the door, but come into the room where she was, his
+countenance pale, and with an aspect that alarmed her. 'Has any thing
+happened, David? You are not well?'</p>
+
+<p>'Come in the other room, Hettie.' She followed, but a strange foreboding
+of some evil flashed upon her mind, and so affected her in her then
+debilitated state, that she was glad to sit down on a long low bench,
+which ran along under the windows, at the same time fixing her
+penetrating eyes full on the young man. He took a seat beside her, and
+turning his head from her&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'I want to talk with you, Hettie, on that subject which you and I have
+had up between us lately.'</p>
+
+<p>'What, David; about the trunk? have you heard of it?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, there isn't much chance of doing any thing about that just now; but
+you know what I said to you some time ago about our being married.'</p>
+
+<p>'That I supposed was all settled, David. I told you frankly when you
+first spoke to me, that it could never be; why should you bring it up
+again? I meant what I said, and I feel just as I did then.'</p>
+
+<p>'But it is not all settled: I have been thinking of you all my life,
+Hettie, and you know how intimate we have been, and when I think of your
+marrying some one else, as it is said you are going to do, I can't stand
+it, Hettie, no how; and there is no use of talking about it.'</p>
+
+<p>'But you surely would not wish to marry me if I did not love you, David;
+and that I tell you now, as I told you before, I do not as I expect to
+love the man whom I would give my hand to. You have been always very
+kind to me, and to my family, and we all think much of you, and would do
+any thing in our power for you, but on this subject I must beg of you to
+urge me no further, for it can never be.'</p>
+
+<p>David now rose and stood up before her. He took one of her hands, at
+which she made no resistance, but he felt that it was cold as marble,
+and lay in his grasp like a lifeless thing. He saw also that the color
+had left her cheek, and that her lips were of a purple hue; the eyes
+alone retained their life, and gazed at him with an earnestness that he
+had never met from Hettie's eyes before.</p>
+
+<p>'You must listen a moment to me, Hettie. I now ask you, once again, if
+you will marry me. I can take good care of you. My father has agreed to
+let me have money enough to purchase a handsome place, and we will go
+away from these dreary woods. Your mother and brother shall accompany
+us, if they will, and our home shall be theirs. I have invited the folks
+round, and the minister is sent for; in a short time they will be here.
+I want you to consent, and let it all go off smooth; but consent or not,
+Goble shall marry us when he comes, and then I should like to see the
+man that will separate you from me.'</p>
+
+<p>Hettie was not prepared for this; she knew well what were the strange
+and uncouth customs in that region; but little had she dreamed that they
+could ever be brought thus to bear upon her. A thousand thoughts rushed
+into her mind of the most appalling nature. She feared that her conduct
+towards this young man had not been sufficiently guarded. She had
+mistaken his character, and now that she was in his power it was
+revealed to her in colors too glaring to be misunderstood. But her
+courage did not forsake her. She was well aware that resistance would be
+of no avail: she cast her thoughts to heaven, and prayed most earnestly
+that God would make a way for her out of this trouble, in comparison
+with which death itself would be a welcome messenger. She resolved that
+there should be no misunderstanding of her feelings. She withdrew her
+hand, and after a moment's pause, replied:&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Your conduct, David, is as strange as it is ungenerous&mdash;unmanly. You
+have deceived me by coming to this place; you have taken me away from
+all help of friends. I am a woman, weak, and in your power; but I tell
+you now plainly, I despise you for your meanness. I shall protest most
+solemnly in the presence of your pretended minister, that I will never
+own you for a husband. No: I would sooner suffer the most excruciating
+torments, and die the bitterest death, than do one thing, by word or
+deed, that could give you a claim to me.'</p>
+
+<p>David Cross writhed under this address; but Hettie could not have
+pursued a course more likely to confirm him in his purpose. He was cut
+to the heart, and resolved upon revenge. He cared not now for her
+love&mdash;she should be his slave.</p>
+
+<p>As evening gathered over them, groups of females began to gather in the
+room; and as she cast her eye over them, not one countenance did she
+recognize as having ever seen before. They were arrayed in all sorts of
+fanciful styles; their dark complexions set off by pink, blue, yellow,
+and green dresses, according to the taste of the owner. Their untamed
+characters were too clearly visible in their rude behavior; and as they
+gathered around the suffering girl, the only sense they manifested of
+feeling was a hard, unmeaning smile, and a wink at each other,
+signifying that there was sport at hand. In the outer room, also, began
+to be heard the boisterous laugh of men, and the rattling of glasses on
+the counter, mingled with the harsh sounds of a violin, scraped by a
+negro, who had grown grey in the service, attending upon all the orgies
+of the country round. Little did Hettie, until that moment, ever think
+that there could be grouped within a few miles of her mother's dwelling
+a scene so nearly allied in her mind to the doings of the bottomless
+pit; and as the merriment increased with the exciting potions that were
+dealing out, her trembling spirit could only hang its hope on an unseen
+hand. She had made up her mind as to the course she intended to pursue.
+Resistance would be in vain; nor would an apparent opposition or
+repugnance to the performance of the ceremony avail any thing. She
+should therefore do as requested until the pretended ceremony began, and
+then would most solemnly protest against the violence done to her, and
+warn all present that her friends would prosecute to the utmost all who
+had a hand in the wickedness.</p>
+
+<p>As the groups were coming in, she anxiously looked among them for a face
+that she knew, and at length espied one that was familiar, dressed in
+rather poorer garments than the rest; a young woman whom she had in some
+measure befriended. She soon caught her eye, and beckoned to her&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Sally, will you get me a drink of cold water?' The young woman flew
+with alacrity to do her bidding. As she came near with the cup of water,
+Hettie spoke kindly to her, made a few inquiries, and then whispered in
+a very guarded manner a few words. The girl appeared much astonished,
+looked full at Hettie, and then towards David Cross, who was busily
+engaged at another part of the room. She then carried away the cup, and
+left the house.</p>
+
+<p>Inquiries now began to be made after the minister.</p>
+
+<p>'Goble ain't so hungry for his job as he is sometimes; he ought to have
+been here half an hour ago.'</p>
+
+<p>'He's getting old, Joe; he can't move as he once did. He'll be along,
+though, by and by&mdash;no fear of Goble.'</p>
+
+<p>The old negro, after a while, being pretty well warmed up with the
+liquor, kept up an incessant jingle on his crazy instrument, bobbing his
+old grey head about, and occasionally stamping violently with his foot,
+as he became excited by his own melody. In different parts of the room a
+couple might be seen shuffling away rapidly with their feet, tossing
+their arms up and down as they held each other's hands, swaying their
+bodies in all directions, and performing all sorts of uncouth gestures;
+until, exhausted by the exercise, they would slap their feet hard on the
+floor, let go of hands, swing round, and with a loud shout which was
+echoed by an uproarious laugh throughout the room, mingle again with the
+crowd.</p>
+
+<p>How long these scenes continued, Hettie could not tell, nor did she heed
+them much; her mind was too painfully oppressed in anticipation of what
+she might yet be called to go through.</p>
+
+<p>Henry Tracy had just returned from a visit to some of his charge, and
+was quietly seated in his study, when the Widow Andrews, putting her
+head carefully around the casement of the open door, said in a very low
+voice,</p>
+
+<p>'There's two of the Sheldrakes out here; they want to see the
+minister.'</p>
+
+<p>'Two what, Mrs. Andrews?'</p>
+
+<p>'Sheldrakes&mdash;there's two on 'em, and they're round the corner by the big
+tree; they won't come in, but they say they want to see the minister.'</p>
+
+<p>Henry stepped to the window, expecting to see he hardly knew what; there
+were, indeed, two uncouth looking figures, but he recognised them at
+once as inhabitants of the barrens.</p>
+
+<p>'Are those two men the persons you allude to, Mrs. Andrews.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, there they are&mdash;there's two on 'em; they're the real Sheldrakes,
+the critters are.'</p>
+
+<p>Without waiting to inquire into the peculiar meaning of the term, he
+went out immediately to them, and asked in his pleasant manner.</p>
+
+<p>'Were you inquiring for me?'</p>
+
+<p>'We's wanting to see the minister; there's a little job to be done up
+our way, and as the regular hand is sick we've come to git you.'</p>
+
+<p>Henry had become quite familiar with these rude sons of the forest, and
+therefore their appearance and manners were not at all surprising to
+him.</p>
+
+<p>'What kind of a job is it you have on hand, my friends?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, it's a little weddin' job; a couple of young un's want hitchin
+together; and Dave sent us for Goble, but the old crittur's got the
+rhumatiz, so he can't go no how; and as we thought it warn't no matter
+who does it, so as it's done, we've come arter you.'</p>
+
+<p>'What David? David Cross! He is not going to be married, is he?'</p>
+
+<p>'But you won't speak of it; so if you will be about dusk at the corner
+of the north road, we'll be there and show you the way.'</p>
+
+<p>'I will be there; but you must not lose me in your wild country;'
+smiling as he said it.</p>
+
+<p>'Never fear, sir, we'll take you safe and bring you back safe, and there
+shan't be a hair o' your head hurt; only you must'nt mind if the boys is
+noisy a little; but when they see it ain't Goble that's among 'em
+they'll behave more decenter, for they set store by you, minister, all
+over.'</p>
+
+<p>At the appointed time Henry was on the spot; a thick fog had settled
+around as evening approached, and the two guides were obliged very soon
+to light their pine knots. As Henry followed on through the thick
+woods, had it not been that he was somewhat accustomed to scenes of the
+kind, he might have felt no little uneasiness; for the men were wild
+looking figures, their long streaming hair, rude garments, dark, Indian
+countenances, together with the flaming brands throwing their pitchy
+glare upon the huge trunks of the giant pines through which they
+threaded their way, while all beyond the little circle of light in which
+they walked was a wilderness of darkness&mdash;the whole scene required no
+little confidence for one to be quite at ease. The men followed no
+beaten road, but were guided in their course by marks known only to
+themselves.</p>
+
+<p>The sound of the violin and the hum of voices were at length heard, and
+lights were seen close at hand.</p>
+
+<p>'Have you got him, Harry?'</p>
+
+<p>'Aye, aye; but tell 'em to stop their noise.' And the tidings could be
+heard flying from mouth to mouth; the violin ceased, and all was hushed.</p>
+
+<p>The room in which the ceremony was to be performed was spacious enough
+to contain a large assembly. It was nearly filled; the men and women
+standing promiscously in a dense mass, occupied about two-thirds of the
+apartment, leaving a clear space sufficiently large for those more
+immediately connected with the performance; within this stood a number
+of the younger females with their arms locked, and forming a complete
+ring encircling those who were intended to be the bride and groom.</p>
+
+<p>Hettie had followed, as she had been requested, on the announcement of
+the ministers approach; but the excitement under which she labored was
+so great, that it required her utmost energy to sustain herself without
+assistance, and she would have died before she would have sought it from
+him who stood beside her; to have lost her physical or mental powers at
+such a time, she knew would have been the end of hope for her. She stood
+with her face covered, as the only way she could command herself, and
+her agonized spirit poured out its terrible necessities to Him, who she
+believed could alone help her. As Henry Tracy entered the room, a buzz
+of astonishment ran through the assembly; the circle of girls opened and
+extended itself, so as to permit him to be immediately before the
+couple. He smiled, as he looked at David Cross, but casting his eye
+quickly to her who stood beside him, the smile flew away, and a deadly
+sickness came over him. He saw not her face, for it was still covered,
+but those raven locks, and that lovely form, he had seen too often not
+to recognise at once. For a moment he stood petrified with amazement,
+unable to utter a syllable, or do any thing but gaze, almost with
+horror, upon the terrible apparition which had thus risen before him.</p>
+
+<p>Hearing the movement around her, and supposing the ceremony was about to
+begin, Hettie sent one long, silent cry to heaven for aid, and then
+uncovered her face. Had an angel from that bright world appeared for her
+rescue, it could not have been more surprising to her than the sight of
+Henry Tracy. She clasped her hands together, fixed her eye full upon
+him, and uttering a scream of delight, flew towards him.</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, save me! save me!'</p>
+
+<p>'Where is she? where is she?' and a woman broke into the room. 'Where is
+my child?' And Henry Tracy laid the fainting girl in her mother's arms,
+and assisted in bearing her from the room into the open air.</p>
+
+<p>When David Cross saw Henry Tracy enter the room, accompanied by the two
+men whom he had commissioned to procure the services of Mr. Goble, he
+know at once that his design was frustrated. His countenance was deadly
+pale, and he cast a glance of fury at the two men, but he durst not vent
+his anger either in words or actions there. The mighty spell which
+Henry's influence exerted, even in this waste region, was too evident in
+the perfect stillness which reigned the moment he entered the room, and
+the looks of reverence that beamed even from those wild and untamed
+countenances.</p>
+
+<p>As Hettie darted from his side, he made his way through the crowd to an
+end door of the building, and with feelings which none might envy, was
+soon on his way towards his father's house. One by one the company slunk
+away, when they found that the proceedings were at an end, and in
+silence groped through the darkness towards their several homes.</p>
+
+<p>When Hettie awoke to consciousness, Henry was bending over her, while
+her mother sat by her side, smoothing her beautiful forehead, and
+putting back the dark locks which kept falling over it.</p>
+
+<p>All was still; she listened for those terrible sounds which had well
+nigh driven her reason; but no sound could she hear, except the sweet
+voice of Henry.</p>
+
+<p>'You feel better now?'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh, yes; but how has it all come about?'</p>
+
+<p>'We must ask you that, my dear?' said her mother; 'it is all a mystery,
+a great mystery to us.'</p>
+
+<p>'Sally went for you then, mother? I was fearful it would all be over
+before she could get there.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, my dear, and she is now sitting with your brother until we get
+home.'</p>
+
+<p>'Do let us go, then, for I am so anxious to get away from this terrible
+place&mdash;but there&mdash;what is that!' and Hettie darted a wild glance towards
+the door. Henry and her mother looked at each other.</p>
+
+<p>'There is nothing here, Hettie&mdash;no one beside your dear mother and
+myself.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh&mdash;well&mdash;I am so glad!'</p>
+
+<p>Henry said nothing of his fears; but a terrible thought came into his
+mind; which was more and more confirmed by an occasional wild glance of
+her eye. 'Her mind has been injured, or she is about to be visited with
+severe illness.'</p>
+
+<p>The mother probably did not think as far as he did, although she felt
+that there was need for immediate departure.</p>
+
+<p>'Are you able to walk, my dear? if so, we had better be going.'</p>
+
+<p>'Oh yes, to be sure, mother.' And she quickly rose from the rude bed on
+which she had been laid; but no sooner did she attempt to stand, than
+her trembling limbs gave way. Henry caught her, and again laid her to
+rest: she was evidently ill already, and no time must be lost in getting
+away from that miserable abode.</p>
+
+<p>The men who had accompanied Henry were still in waiting to conduct him
+home. By their aid a litter was constructed; and while the anxious
+mother bore the torch to light them through the gloom, Henry with his
+two guides carried the suffering girl.</p>
+
+<p>It was a sad journey that for Henry Tracy. The wild and incoherent
+remarks which Hettie made, the deathly pallor of her countenance, and
+the quick flashing of her eye, which he discerned as the light
+occasionally fell upon her features, confirmed his worst fears.</p>
+
+<p>By his persuasion, the widow consented that she should be taken to Mr.
+Rutherford's, her own humble home offering no suitable convenience for
+another invalid.</p>
+
+<p>The ways of God appear unequal only to those who judge prematurely, or
+without taking into the account that this world is not the end. God sees
+as we do not: His design in all the dealings of His judgments and His
+mercies here towards those who love Him, is to make them trust in Him,
+and cast their thoughts, too prone to settle on this vale of tears and
+be content with earth, upwards, towards that better, purer home in
+heaven.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XXIX.</h2>
+
+
+<p>War is a name that carries in its dreadful meaning scenes of suffering
+and woe, little thought of, it is feared, by those who, at the helm of
+power, too easily proclaim the deadly feud.</p>
+
+<p>The widow's tear, the orphan's helpless sigh, the agonizing groans of
+bleeding victims, the horrible necessities that wait upon the contest
+for supremacy where man forgets his nature, and hastes with tiger-thirst
+to seek the life-blood of his fellow man, are all forgotten or unheeded.
+A little land, not worth a single pang of one fond mother's heart; a
+little wrong that might by calm remonstrance be redressed, or even borne
+with, affords a pretext. The herald of defiance is sent forth, and
+misery, death, and desolation hover on his track.</p>
+
+<p>The event which Commodore Trysail had predicted came to pass, although
+somewhat sooner than either he or many other shrewd calculators had
+anticipated. The Commodore, as we have seen, had no misgivings of
+conscience about the necessity of the measure: he only wished for a
+better preparation, before engaging in hostilities with the greatest
+nation on the globe.</p>
+
+<p>As to his own private interests, a few months would have enabled him to
+place them on a better footing, yet, perhaps, he thought as little about
+that matter as most men; at any rate, he took a very decided stand for
+the government, and strongly upheld it in its declaration of war.</p>
+
+<p>With Peter he still held long private talks on Peter's favorite topic;
+and every new incident of the war seemed interesting to the old sailor,
+only as it in some way might affect the safe return of Captain Sam. One
+morning, as Peter handed in the pack of papers at the door of the
+office, he looked very anxiously at the Commodore.</p>
+
+<p>'There's three more on 'em come, your honor&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'More what, Peter?'</p>
+
+<p>'Of the blockaders, sir,&mdash;a brig and two schooners.'</p>
+
+<p>'What will become of our young captain, now, Peter?'</p>
+
+<p>Peter slipped the quid to the other side, and worked away at it awhile
+in good earnest.</p>
+
+<p>'I'm a-thinking, your honor, it's a great pity he ain't in a regular
+man-o'-war's man.'</p>
+
+<p>'What would he do then, Peter?'</p>
+
+<p>'He'd make her talk, your honor, or I'm mistaken.'</p>
+
+<p>'You don't think he'd fight, do you?'</p>
+
+<p>'What for not, your honor?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why, you know he has been dodging along shore here, Peter, all his
+life&mdash;he has hardly smelled gunpowder.'</p>
+
+<p>'Asking your honor's pardon for the freedom, but I must haul off from
+your honor this time. Captain Sam may be ain't had much experience in
+the fightin' way as yet; but your honor knows, it's more what's in a man
+than what he larns&mdash;a brave man ashore will be a brave man at sea, that
+is, a'ter the sickness is over; but if Captain Sam don't face an enemy's
+bullet with the best on 'em, I'll cut off my pigtail and give it to the
+cats.' Peter could have made no stronger asseveration; for he highly
+valued the long appendage to his bushy head, and of all creatures he
+hated cats.</p>
+
+<p>'Do you think, Peter, if he had a good ship and a dozen guns on board,
+with a fine crew, he would know what to do with them?'</p>
+
+<p>'If he don't, your honor, I'll give up t'other leg, and go upon stumps
+the rest of my days.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Peter, I believe you; and we think alike this time. You may take
+these papers, and show them to Lady Morris.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay, your honor.'</p>
+
+<p>And Peter hobbled away, discharging the old quid as soon as he had
+fairly left the house; and treating himself to a new one, muttering as
+he did so, 'Captain Sam will show 'em&mdash;see if he don't.'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore, through the influence of Peter, had also become much
+interested in the Montjoys; all the story of their boyish days had been
+so often repeated that they seemed like old acquaintances; and although,
+for argument's sake, the old gentleman would appear to doubt the
+correctness of Peter's reasoning on the certainty of their doing well,
+yet he had great confidence in the young firm, and an earnest desire for
+their prosperity.</p>
+
+<p>Old Sam Cutter, too, with whom the Commodore was very intimate, had not
+failed to make him acquainted with the mighty change which had been
+brought about through the instrumentality of these boys in this place,
+now so lovely in its appearance. He felt that they deserved his respect
+as a citizen, and treated them with a consideration which, for the
+disparity in years and circumstances, was very gratifying to them.</p>
+
+<p>He was therefore a frequent visitor at their establishment&mdash;never
+hindering them at their work if he found them engaged; but bowing
+respectfully to the young men and those who might be in at the time,
+would walk straight through the store into the little back room, which
+was always in perfect order, and there seek for news among their papers
+which might not happen to be in his.</p>
+
+<p>On this particular day of which we have been speaking, he had an object
+of some importance in his visit; and as he passed along to the usual
+place, he politely requested the favor of an interview with the elder
+partner, when he could be spared from his desk.</p>
+
+<p>'In a short time, sir, I will wait upon you,' said James, who was making
+an entry in his book.</p>
+
+<p>That morning, the brothers had been spending some time in consultation
+about business matters. They had, as we have seen, been very kindly
+treated by the bank, and in consequence were enabled to keep along and
+meet their difficulties; but the serious losses which they had met,
+affected them much more than they at first anticipated. They had never
+before known what it was to be cramped in their means for doing
+business, because they had only increased their transactions as they
+found themselves able to do so; but things could not very easily be
+brought back by the same process&mdash;they must either go on, or suspend
+altogether; and either alternative involved difficulties of no ordinary
+kind. To continue as they had, they must for years to come, so far as
+they could see, be constantly devising ways and means to meet
+engagements, involving anxiety, dependence, watchfulness, and untiring
+attention: to suspend their operations, would not only be a bitter
+humiliation to their sensitive spirits, but there would be a sacrifice
+of property that might leave them without the ability to pay many of
+their just debts. There was also a difficulty attending their situation
+which troubled them more than all else beside. They had been in the
+habit of receiving from many of their customers small sums of money
+which they wished to secure against a time of need; the unbounded
+confidence reposed in the young men brought all the loose money of those
+in moderate circumstances into their hands: they allowed an interest for
+it, and hitherto had been able to return any sum when suddenly called
+for. The amount thus accumulated was now about two thousand dollars; and
+it was due in sums of from ten to three hundred. With many of these
+depositors, it was the whole of their possession.</p>
+
+<p>The idea of danger from thus receiving funds had never occurred to the
+brothers, until they found by experience the difficulties which attended
+the raising money on an emergency with their diminished capital&mdash;in
+fact, with no other capital than their credit. But now they clearly saw
+that it placed them over a volcano; it might explode at any time, lay
+their business and well-earned reputation in ruins together, and utterly
+disable them from giving back this money thus sacredly intrusted to
+their keeping. And it was on this particular point they had been
+consulting that morning; their fears were mutually expressed, and they
+came to the resolution that they would involve themselves in such
+difficulties no farther.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as James could leave his desk, he repaired to the back-room.
+After some kind greetings on either side, the Commodore straightened
+himself in his chair, and resting one hand on his large gold-headed
+cane&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'I want to talk with you a little, Mr. Montjoy, about money this
+morning.'</p>
+
+<p>James's heart beat quick; he could not help it, for the Commodore had
+placed five hundred dollars in his hands a short time previous, and
+requested him to keep it until he called for it.</p>
+
+<p>'I put five hundred dollars in your hands lately, which I was to have,
+you know, when I should call for it.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes, sir, certainly by all means.' Poor James! he knew not where it was
+to come from, and he secretly wished that he had never owned a dollar,
+or that there was no such thing as money.</p>
+
+<p>'Well, sir, I have just received advices from the city that certain sum
+of money, which I suppose&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>Ned stepped into the office, and requested the presence of his brother a
+moment. The Commodore bade him go, by all means, that he would wait his
+leisure.</p>
+
+<p>The business for which James was required was to close a very
+advantageous bargain for some produce, but he was in no state of mind to
+do business&mdash;money, ready money, was the only idea he could cherish; it
+clung to his spirit like the nightmare; he could neither bargain nor
+calculate, so he waived the matter, and was back again to the little
+room; he merely whispered to Ned,</p>
+
+<p>'The Commodore, I suppose, has come for his money.'</p>
+
+<p>'What shall we do?'</p>
+
+<p>'I don't know.'</p>
+
+<p>And he entered the room again, and sat down.</p>
+
+<p>'As I was saying, Mr. Montjoy, when your brother called you away, a
+certain sum of money, which I supposed had been invested, I learn by my
+advices to-day is still lying idle, and waiting my orders. These are
+ticklish times, Mr. Montjoy, and they will be worse before long. I am
+afraid of stocks at present, and have therefore concluded to draw for
+these funds, and place them in your hands; you can use them to
+advantage, no doubt.'</p>
+
+<p>And the Commodore took a long pinch of snuff, which had been for some
+time in waiting between his thumb and forefinger.</p>
+
+<p>James felt a load fall from his heart, and for a moment was silent.</p>
+
+<p>'I thank you, sir, for your kind offer, and for the confidence reposed
+in us; but before I can give you an answer, allow me to confer with my
+brother.'</p>
+
+<p>The character of these two young men had never been so severely tested
+before. An offer, unsolicited, had been made to them of that which they
+stood so much in need of, and which would relieve them from
+embarrassment. Ned clapped his hands, and rubbed them violently together
+in the ecstasy of his joy.</p>
+
+<p>'But, my dear Ned, ought we to take it?'</p>
+
+<p>'Why not?'</p>
+
+<p>'Because, he doubtless supposes that we are well off, and has no idea of
+our losses; and I've been thinking that, under the circumstances, we
+ought not to touch a dollar of it.'</p>
+
+<p>'That, to be sure, Jim;'&mdash;and Ned's countenance drooped; he hung his
+head, and began to kick the counter with his foot.</p>
+
+<p>'We concluded, you know, Ned, that we would take no more money in this
+way.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, we had better stick to that, let what will come.'</p>
+
+<p>'How would it answer to tell him just the situation of things with us,
+and the reasons why we cannot receive it.'</p>
+
+<p>'If you tell him any thing, Jim, you had better tell the whole.'</p>
+
+<p>James's heart was lighter, because he had resolved to act consistently
+with a sense of duty.</p>
+
+<p>'I believe, sir, we must decline your generous offer.'</p>
+
+<p>James saw that the Commodore seemed surprised.</p>
+
+<p>'We do this, sir, not but that we need the funds&mdash;and they would at the
+present moment be of immense advantage to us&mdash;but we have no doubt, that
+you have made the offer under the impression that we are in very
+different circumstances from what, I am sorry to say, is the truth. But
+as you are a man of business, and can appreciate our motives for not
+having made a general exposition of our affairs, I will communicate to
+you our true situation.'</p>
+
+<p>And James gave a clear account of their course of business, from its
+commencement to the time when such unexpected losses at one stroke swept
+off the hard-earned profits of their youthful enterprise. He also
+explained to him the unpleasant situation in which they felt themselves
+placed, by being made the depositaries of so many sums of money, which
+might be called for at any moment, and especially should the least
+surmise get abroad unfriendly to their standing.</p>
+
+<p>After he had closed, the Commodore took out his gold snuff-box, and
+rapping it pretty hard, helped himself freely, and then very
+deliberately returned it to his pocket.</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Montjoy, what you tell me surprises me very much; but it shall go
+no further, I assure you. Can you favor me with pen and ink a moment?'</p>
+
+<p>He then drew up to the table on which James had placed the required
+articles.</p>
+
+<p>'I believe it is five hundred dollars exactly that I handed you lately?'</p>
+
+<p>'Just five hundred, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'I have done it now,' thought Jim; 'he is afraid of us, and intends to
+draw it out; but my duty has been performed, let what will come.'</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Montjoy, I said that I was much surprised at the statement you have
+made, but I cannot say that I am sorry for the misfortune you have met
+with'&mdash;and the keen black eye of the Commodore was fixed upon James; he
+saw that his remark had affected him, for a deep blush mantled his fine
+countenance&mdash;'because, sir, it affords me an opportunity of expressing,
+as I could not otherwise do, my sense of your invaluable services to
+this your native place, and my approbation of your noble character.
+Here, sir, is my draft for five thousand dollars, which, with what you
+already have, I place in your hands, if you will merely sign this
+receipt for the amount, payable as you see in ten years, without
+interest. Don't say any thing, my dear sir'&mdash;seeing that James was about
+to say a great deal&mdash;'not a word, if you please; just sit down a moment,
+Mr. Montjoy; you say that it has been a cause of uneasiness to you, that
+you have money in your hands intrusted to you for keeping.'</p>
+
+<p>'We shall now pay that off at once, sir; I will not keep it another
+day.'</p>
+
+<p>'You must do no such thing, sir. It is a great benefit to these people
+to have their funds in the hands of an honest firm. This you must do;
+take two thousand dollars of this money, and invest it in a mortgage, on
+some good property; keep it as a resort, in case of the worst, and hold
+it sacred for these deposits; the balance use as you please! And now,
+sir, a good morning to you;' rising, at the same time, and shaking the
+hand of James very warmly.</p>
+
+<p>'Your kindness, sir&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'Not a word, Mr. Montjoy, not a word, if you please; good morning, and
+God bless you.'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore, walking through the store, saluted Edward, who stood
+behind the counter, attending upon customers, with a very long face.</p>
+
+<p>As soon as Ned could be disengaged, he stepped up to his brother, who
+was working away again at his books&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'See here, Ned.'</p>
+
+<p>'What does it mean, Jim?'</p>
+
+<p>'It means that he has loaned it to us for ten years, free from interest,
+and with a full knowledge of our affairs.'</p>
+
+<p>Ned was deeply affected with this sudden interposition in their favor;
+he looked full in his brother's face, and Jim, for the first time in
+many years, saw tears in his brother's eye.</p>
+
+<p>'I hope we shall not forget this.'</p>
+
+<p>'I hope not, Ned.'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore walked home with a very light heart that day. He must have
+felt that he had made a good investment, for his step was very elastic,
+and he gazed upon the pleasing prospect around him, and looked upon the
+signs of thrift that met his view on every side with so much
+complacency, that one would have supposed he had a new interest in it
+all, and felt that he was a partner in the great concern.</p>
+
+<p>It had been a lovely morning, and nature appeared to be in perfect
+repose; not a cloud to dim the bright sun, nor a motion in the
+atmosphere to stir even the leaf of the aspen, if there had been any
+just then to stir, but it was not the season of leaves. A change,
+however, was about to take place, and the Commodore was sailor enough to
+guess that it was likely to be a violent one. Seeing Peter occupying his
+favorite seat (a large flat rock on the brow of the hill overhanging the
+shore), with the spy-glass in his hand, and perhaps a little curious to
+take a peep through it himself, he extended his walk to the edge of the
+hill.</p>
+
+<p>'A sail in sight, Peter?'</p>
+
+<p>The old man hopped down from his perch at the sound of the Commodore's
+voice, hastily clapped a quid into his mouth, which he had just cut off
+for that very purpose, doffed his hat, and laid hold of his crutches,
+all which ceremonies he went through with a celerity quite surprising.</p>
+
+<p>'I was thinking, your honor, that there's goin' to be foul weather
+outside to-night; them clouds look squally, and they keep growing
+thicker and thicker.'</p>
+
+<p>'It certainly looks threatening, Peter.'</p>
+
+<p>'It looks very threatening, your honor; and I don't care, for one, how
+hard it comes, so it will only blow them ugly black craft that are
+laying off and on there, high and dry somewhere or another.'</p>
+
+<p>'That, to be sure, Peter; they would have an uneasy berth of it in a
+heavy gale, where they now are.'</p>
+
+<p>'They would, sir, you may depend on it; and I think they're a little
+uneasy a-ready, for the biggest on 'em have clawed off out of sight, and
+the others that were at anchor have hauled up, and are starting too. If
+your honor will look through the glass, you can see all their
+movements. They'll have a time on it&mdash;there, did you hear that, your
+honor?'</p>
+
+<p>'A gun, Peter, and a heavy one, but at a great distance.'</p>
+
+<p>'I've heard several on 'em, your honor, before; there's something to
+pay, out there; they wouldn't fire such metal as that for signals.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, I only wish they were out of the way for a few weeks, Peter.
+Captain Sam would stand but a poor chance if he should get among them.'</p>
+
+<p>'There would be no chance at all, your honor, there's so many on 'em; I
+might as well try to run through that picket fence, crutches and all;
+and as to fightin' it out, your honor knows there's too much odds agin
+one&mdash;they'd blow him out of water.'</p>
+
+<p>'Or sink him under it.'</p>
+
+<p>'Or sink him under it, your honor.'</p>
+
+<p>Peter's prophecy respecting the weather was too truly realized: the
+heavens, ere the night shut in, were covered with dark and ragged
+clouds, chasing each other like heaving surges wildly through the air:
+gusts of wind occasionally swept along, increasing in violence at each
+succeeding blast; while in the distance, the heavy roar of the ocean
+told plainly of the tumult that was going on there, and what might be
+expected when the strength of the tempest should break upon the land.
+The fitful gusts at length settled into one long-continued, furious
+blast, increasing gradually its terrible power, until the strongest
+dwellings rocked and trembled to their base, and even the stout-hearted
+turned their thoughts to Him whose will the winds obey, and before whose
+power man shrinks to nothing.</p>
+
+<p>The family of Mr. Rutherford had been long in a state of painful
+anxiety, watching untiringly around the sick, and, to all human
+probability, the dying bed of Hettie. The scenes of trial which she had
+been passing through for several successive months, had imperceptibly
+weakened her frame; and the terrible ordeal of the mock-marriage proved
+just the stroke too much for her to bear. In the wildest delirium, her
+spirit tossed and agonized for weeks; and then, as her nature sunk, worn
+out with the wrestling of her troubled mind, it required the nicest care
+and most faithful attendance to stay up her feeble tenement.</p>
+
+<p>Nothing was wanting that love could minister for her benefit; and hope
+again began to bless the spirits of friends. Her reason was restored,
+her strength gradually returned, and although confined still to her bed,
+the signs of recovery were so evident, that cheerfulness once more
+blessed the countenances of that much afflicted but still happy family.</p>
+
+<p>Hettie had resolved to keep the secret with which she had been intrusted
+by her brother no longer than she could acquire strength to reveal it;
+and on this very day that we have been describing, she had told Mr.
+Rutherford all she knew.</p>
+
+<p>That evening, while the tempest was roaring around his dwelling, he sat
+alone in the room where his family usually congregated, Mrs. Rutherford
+and the children having retired to Hettie's apartment, to give what
+cheer they could to the sick room during the wild howling of the storm.
+His thoughts, busied with the intelligence which had that day been
+communicated to him, and agitated between hope and fear, were devising
+all manner of plans for the recovery of documents of so much value, and
+the surest way to bring the dangerous men concerned in the transaction
+to justice, when a loud knocking against an outer door reached his ear.
+Thinking it might be some benighted stranger, he hurried to admit him,
+as soon as possible, to a shelter from the peltings of a pitiless storm.</p>
+
+<p>Opening the door, he requested the stranger to hasten in, not waiting to
+inquire who he was, or what he wanted. The first glance, however, as he
+turned towards his visitor, made him regret that he had been so hasty;
+for David Cross, with a wild and haggard countenance, stood before him.
+Mr. Rutherford had no reason to think that his errand was a good one,
+but he was resolved to treat him with forbearance. David spoke first&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'A terrible storm, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'Your business must be urgent, Mr. Cross, that drives you out through
+such a night.'</p>
+
+<p>'It is urgent, sir. Is Miss Hettie in a condition to be seen?'</p>
+
+<p>'She is not, except by those with whom she feels perfectly at rest.'</p>
+
+<p>'I must see her, Mr. Rutherford, if such a thing is possible. I have
+done her great injustice, and I wish to make all the atonement in my
+power. As you value the future peace of an unhappy man, I beg you, sir,
+to allow me but a moment's interview.'</p>
+
+<p>'It cannot be, Mr. Cross; your presence in her chamber would, in all
+probability, throw her again into the same horrible condition from which
+she has but just recovered; and a relapse would be fatal.'</p>
+
+<p>Cross looked away from Mr. Rutherford, and fixed his eye on the door. He
+seemed in an agony, for occasionally a tremor shook his whole frame, and
+Mr. Rutherford thought he saw him wipe away a tear. For some moments
+neither spoke. At length turning, and with a beseeching look addressing
+Mr. Rutherford,</p>
+
+<p>'Will you allow me, sir, to send a line to her; perhaps she may wish to
+see me.'</p>
+
+<p>'I will, sir; but I am not at all sure that you will be permitted to see
+her, even if she consents.'</p>
+
+<p>He wrote a few lines, and handing it to Mr. Rutherford&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'If she refuses to see me after she has read that, so be it; but I will
+not then be to blame for the consequences which may follow.'</p>
+
+<p>Hettie read the little note, or, more properly, it was read to her. It
+ran thus: 'Hettie, I want to ask your forgiveness, and to tell you that
+I have discovered the paper.&mdash;D. Cross.'</p>
+
+<p>'I think he had better come in,' said Hettie; 'there is business of
+great consequence, which it is in his power to communicate.'</p>
+
+<p>As David Cross entered the room, he paused a moment as his eye fell upon
+the emaciated countenance of the still lovely girl. He then slowly
+approached the bed, threw himself on his knees, and wept like an infant.
+As soon as he could speak&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Hettie,' said he, 'can you forgive me for my cruel wrong?'</p>
+
+<p>'I have forgiven you long since, David; and have prayed that you may be
+forgiven of God.'</p>
+
+<p>'I can make but little reparation for the past; I have done all I could.
+That paper is in the hands of Michael Foster; he holds it to extort
+money from my father. To-morrow night a plan is laid to wrest it out of
+Foster's power, and then it will no doubt be destroyed. Measures must
+therefore be taken in the course of to-morrow, or it will probably be
+too late. Spare my father, if you can; as for myself, Hettie, I leave
+you now for ever. You and I will probably never meet again.'</p>
+
+<p>Hettie cast a look of kindness at him as he left the room. Mr.
+Rutherford had witnessed the scene at the bedside, and his feelings were
+much softened towards the young man.</p>
+
+<p>'You do not mean to go away while the tempest rages thus?'</p>
+
+<p>'The storm is of little consequence to me, sir. I have communicated to
+Hettie some things which concern you deeply; and all I have to say is,
+that whatever steps you may take on the information she gives you,
+cannot be taken too soon.' Saying this, he left the house.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XXX.</h2>
+
+
+<p>A change from terra firma to the restless ocean is sometimes pleasant,
+even for its novelty, if nothing else&mdash;although none who try the
+experiment but are completely satisfied that, so far as everything
+connected with comfort is concerned, or real quiet of mind or body,
+there is nothing like the solid earth. I must, however, ask my readers
+to risk themselves with me for a short time on the ocean, and perhaps
+they will the more readily do so, when I tell them that we are to be on
+board the good ship Lady Washington, and under the immediate command of
+our favorite Captain Sam.</p>
+
+<p>Those who see our ships only as they lie along side of the busy wharves,
+and are either discharging or receiving their freight, have but a poor
+idea of the neatness which the deck of a well-regulated vessel presents
+in her usual sailing trim. It may be that our Captain was peculiar about
+this matter, but every thing was so snugly stowed away, and securely
+fastened, that to all appearance nothing would be displaced, should some
+sudden freak of old ocean roll her bottom upwards. Her deck was flush
+from stem to stern, and the gangway on each side was clean and clear;
+every hand on deck was actively employed in the performance of some
+duty, but it could be seen that they were intent upon some object more
+engrossing than that in which their hands were busied, for wistful
+glances were cast towards their young commander, who was standing near
+the helm, and, with marks of anxiety on his countenance, eyeing through
+a glass a distant speck upon the ocean.</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Barnum, this breeze is not going to last; it's a dead calm already
+a mile to starboard. Hail the maintop; that fellow must be asleep.'</p>
+
+<p>The chief mate&mdash;for it was he who was thus addressed&mdash;placing his two
+brawny hands so as to form a speaking trumpet, raised his face aloft,
+and sent up a blast that would have aroused no common slumberer.</p>
+
+<p>'Hallo, maintop!'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'What do you make her?'</p>
+
+<p>'Can't make her at all.'</p>
+
+<p>At this reply, the mate sprang into the shrouds with the agility of a
+squirrel, and was soon far up amid the complicated rigging, and seizing
+the glass from the one who had been using it, made a satisfactory
+examination, and then tumbling down as rapidly as he had ascended, was
+again beside his Captain.</p>
+
+<p>'It is difficult making her out, for she has got her three masts in one;
+but she looms large, and from the rig should judge she's a bull-dog,
+with at least two rows of teeth.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ship, ahoy!' from aloft.</p>
+
+<p>'What quarter?'</p>
+
+<p>'On the larboard beam, and coming down with a spanking breeze.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ship, ahoy!!'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay, we see her; there's no mistake now, Captain Oakum; we are in
+the midst of them.'</p>
+
+<p>'Call the crew aft, Mr. Barnum.'</p>
+
+<p>Soon every sailor on board was standing near the quarter-deck, and, with
+respectful bearing, ready to hear the will of their Captain. He
+immediately stepped up before them, and casting his eye over their hardy
+and cheerful countenances, explained in a few brief sentences the
+peculiarity of their situation, and what he should require of them.</p>
+
+<p>'We are in the midst of our enemies; three of their frigates are now in
+sight, and bearing down upon us. We are bound for our port, and shall go
+there if we can; it will be no child's play, but I am exposed to equal
+danger with the rest of you. If we succeed, a handsome reward awaits us,
+and the satisfaction of having done our duty; if we are so unlucky as to
+fall into their hands, a prison or a life cruise in a man-of-war will be
+the game on the other side; but if you are all resolved for home or a
+watery grave, let me know it.'</p>
+
+<p>A loud and hearty huzza burst spontaneously from the whole crew; and at
+a signal from the mate they tumbled back to their quarters with an
+alacrity that showed they were ready for any sport their Captain chose.</p>
+
+<p>A steady breeze was yet bearing the vessel along at a moderate pace, and
+it could be plainly seen that two of the ships were becalmed, as they
+were fading away in the distance; from them, therefore, but little was
+to be apprehended, while the one on the larboard beam was rapidly
+gaining upon them.</p>
+
+<p>Captain Oakum now sprang into the mizzen chains, and marking with
+intense interest the surface of the ocean, the working of the clouds,
+and the situation of the different ships&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Barnum&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay, sir;' and the mate was in an instant by his side.</p>
+
+<p>'I think, that by laying her course due north, we shall carry the wind
+longer with us, and give them a wider berth.'</p>
+
+<p>The necessary order was given, and the Lady Washington was soon
+ploughing her way in the direction required.</p>
+
+<p>'The breeze is going, Captain; that ship gains on us fast.'</p>
+
+<p>'I see she does, but the probability is we shall both be becalmed soon;
+she won't hold the wind long after it leaves us; you had better have the
+boats unshipped, Mr. Barnum, and ready for launching.'</p>
+
+<p>The right good-will with which the sailors sprang to obey each command,
+gave satisfactory evidence of what their Captain might depend upon in
+the hour of extremity.</p>
+
+<p>He felt assured that, whatever forty good men could do, at any risk,
+would be done, but the responsibility of every movement, and of the
+result, rested upon himself alone. He had provided his vessel with a few
+guns of large calibre, and one of these occupied the after cabin&mdash;it was
+a long twenty-four pounder. A large port had been made for it in the
+stern, which was, however, at present closely fastened; four more of
+various sizes were stationed at different parts of the main deck, and a
+plentiful supply of pikes and cutlasses was snugly stowed away in
+readiness for a sudden call. All these he thought might be of service to
+him in an emergency, but his main dependence was upon the sailing
+qualities of his ship; he had tested her well, and felt a confidence
+which, perhaps, most young captains do, that nothing could outstrip his
+vessel in a good breeze.</p>
+
+<p>Although prepared for the worst, he had not heard of hostilities having
+been begun until nearing home. A French brig gave him the intelligence,
+and also that a blockading squadron was strictly guarding the port for
+which he was bound, part of which he had thus unexpectedly encountered;
+and now the ability of his ship, and the skill of her commander, were to
+be put to the test.</p>
+
+<p>Scarcely had the order been executed for unlashing the boats, when the
+sails flapped heavily against the masts.</p>
+
+<p>'It has gone sooner than I expected. Launch the boats, Mr. Barnum, and
+let them be manned to their full capacity; if we can move the ship but a
+few lengths, it may serve to take us out of the reach of their guns.'</p>
+
+<p>With incredible celerity a row of boats was strung ahead of the ship,
+and every man pulling with determined energy.</p>
+
+<p>'This calm ain't for nothing; I'm of opinion, sir; there's foul weather
+brewing, depend on it'&mdash;and the mate directed the Captain's attention to
+the threatening aspect of the clouds in the eastern sky. 'We shall have
+something to contend with soon, besides the enemy's guns, Captain Oakum;
+that long streak of light under them black clouds, and those scuds
+flying off and streaking up so fast, and spreading themselves out so, is
+no good sign; there'll be a north-easter, and a smasher when it comes.'</p>
+
+<p>'Let it come, Mr. Barnum; any thing but lying here and not able to stir,
+and that frigate almost ready to fire into us.'</p>
+
+<p>The only hope, indeed, which our Captain could indulge, was that the
+wind might die away as suddenly with their pursuer as it had with them;
+but her sails were yet well filled, and, of course, she was gaining upon
+them every moment; the slow and almost imperceptible motion which his
+own ship made by the power of oars, would have been discouraging to one
+who was not buoyed up with the consciousness of doing all that was then
+in his power to do to escape the trouble which had come upon them. He
+could not control the winds; he therefore neither cursed them, nor
+himself, nor the noble ship that was bearing down upon them; but he
+watched her advance with great anxiety, and would turn his gaze
+occasionally from this object of interest to the ominous-looking clouds
+that were gathering in heavier masses every moment&mdash;a hurricane, or
+something very near it, would be a great relief; any thing that would
+give him a chance to bear his much-loved ship out of the immediate reach
+of her powerful adversary.</p>
+
+<p>'It's a gone case with us, Captain Oakum; her guns will soon be able to
+reach us.'</p>
+
+<p>'If she keeps the breeze much longer. Call Derrick, will you, Mr.
+Barnum.'</p>
+
+<p>John Derrick, who now made his appearance at the call of the mate, held
+the title on board ship of the old man-of-war's-man. He was the only
+person of advanced age among the crew; he was about fifty, rather taller
+than was necessary for a sailor, and of slender make. His head on the
+top was bald, and the locks which hung from the lower part were long and
+thin; his neck and chin were concealed by a thick bushy beard, very
+dark, and making a strong contrast with his pale countenance. Sam had
+selected him for his skill in gunnery, as well as for his ability as a
+sailor, and in an emergency, felt more confidence in his opinion than in
+either of his officers.</p>
+
+<p>'Do you think she is near enough to trouble us, John?' and the Captain
+looked significantly at the frigate.</p>
+
+<p>'She don't think so, Captain Oakum, or we should hear from her; but I've
+been on the look out a little, and unless her guns are carronades&mdash;ay,
+ay, she speaks now;' and all at once a column of white smoke belched
+forth from her bow port, and a ball clipped the glassy surface of the
+water, passing the whole length of the vessel.</p>
+
+<p>'That tells the story, Captain.'</p>
+
+<p>'I suppose it is a gentle hint for us to let them know who we are,
+before they give us a benefit; so we may as well show them the stars and
+stripes, Mr. Barnum, and our boys will pull the better when they see
+them aloft, in the place of that French gewgaw.'</p>
+
+<p>A hearty cheer burst from the whole crew as they saw their native
+standard flying at the mast-head, and they bent themselves to their
+oars, until the boat nearest the ship was at times almost out of water.</p>
+
+<p>'Now we shall take it, Captain; she's rounding to; her whole broadside
+will be the next salute.'</p>
+
+<p>Captain Oakum felt, in all its force, the danger of their situation. In
+an instant he was at the bow of his ship.</p>
+
+<p>'Pull away, boys&mdash;lay to&mdash;every foot tells now.' The energy which he
+threw into his voice, as he gave out these brief directions, added fresh
+vigor to their willing hearts and pull away it was. As the frigate
+swayed round, two guns in quick succession sent forth their messengers
+of death, and evidently intended not as a compliment, for the aim was
+direct, both striking the ship, although doing but little damage.
+Scarce, however had they congratulated themselves on their escape, when
+a volume of smoke enveloped the deck of the frigate, and the waters were
+ploughed by a storm of bullets; but one of them reached the ship, the
+others sinking in the deep at her stern. A loud shout went forth from
+the Lady Washington, as it was now manifest that she was beyond the
+reach of harm.</p>
+
+<p>'Will you allow me, Captain, just to give them a try with the Long Tom?'
+said Derrick, stepping up, and touching his cap respectfully; 'just for
+the honor of the flag, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'Not yet, John; we must save our fire until we shall be more sure of our
+mark. You shall have a chance soon, my good fellow, for I see that they
+are manning their boats for a visit to us; we must give them the best
+welcome in our power.'</p>
+
+<p>It was evident now that the time of trial was at hand; for two boats,
+well manned, were seen pulling towards them; the sea was unruffled as a
+lake, and nothing to prevent their rapid progress.</p>
+
+<p>As Sam did not intend, under such circumstances, to give up his noble
+vessel and her valuable cargo without a struggle, each gun was loaded,
+the men were called in from the boats, pikes were brought out and laid
+in readiness, and each sailor who was not aloft buckled on his cutlass.
+The faces of the young men assumed a determined yet cheerful expression,
+and not one on board but felt that the stripes should fly as long as his
+arm could wield a weapon.</p>
+
+<p>The sky, also, was becoming black with clouds, and spreading the gloom
+of night around them; and the long swell that occasionally lifted their
+vessel, told that already the tempest was doing its work in the
+distance; every sail aloft was taken in and well secured, and suitable
+preparation made for the emergency.</p>
+
+<p>'They are calculating, I guess, sir, to finish the job, and make a
+harbor on board the Lady Washington, afore the squall comes on, or
+surely no commander in his senses would send boats off with such a mess
+as any one can see is brewing yonder.</p>
+
+<p>'Now John, is your time: take your hands and get all ready. Don't open
+your port until I pass you the word, and then make sure work with them.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>And down he tumbled, and the men allotted to him, with as good will as
+though piped to dinner. As the boats neared the ship, it could be seen
+that the officers were urging on to greater speed: and good cause had
+they, for the roar of the coming tempest had reached them, and but an
+alternative was now left; they must either secure their prize quickly,
+or perish amid the wild waves: a return in their open boats to their own
+ship was impossible.</p>
+
+<p>Captain Oakum saw that the time for an effort had arrived.</p>
+
+<p>'All ready below, John?'</p>
+
+<p>'All ready, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'Now is your time; let them have it.'</p>
+
+<p>The ship trembled as the engine of destruction belched forth its deadly
+messenger; the thick smoke curled up over the stern, for a moment
+obscuring the view; but the next, a loud shout came up from below, and
+was echoed through the ship. Captain Oakum almost shuddered as he beheld
+what execution had been done, for the whole crew of one of the boats was
+battling with the waters, while their companions in the remaining boat
+were using their utmost exertions to rescue the living and the dying
+from the wreck of the other. But there was not a moment to spare to look
+at friend or foe, for the blast of the tempest came sweeping over them
+in its might, and each man flew to his post at the swift word of his
+commander, and was prepared to meet the contest with the stormy
+elements. As the gale struck the ship, the sails flew out with a report
+like the sudden burst of thunder, and the yielding ship lay over with
+her bulwarks to the water's edge; a moment she seemed pressed down by a
+weight that must whelm her in the deep, and then, recovering her
+balance, gracefully she rose to meet the adversary with which a contest
+for her life was now to be maintained.</p>
+
+<p>'They'll get their deserts now, Captain; those men can never reach their
+ship in their crowded state.'</p>
+
+<p>'We must save them, Mr. Barnum, if we can; put your helm to lee, and
+tack ship.'</p>
+
+<p>The gallant vessel bore proudly up against the mighty wind; a moment she
+seemed to waver in its very eye, and then falling off, and taking its
+power on her other beam, bore swiftly on towards the enemies who had so
+lately sought her destruction. As she dashed along to windward of the
+boat now struggling amid the foaming waves, Captain Oakum seized the
+trumpet from his mate, and hailed them&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'You can never reach your ship.'</p>
+
+<p>'Not in our present condition,' replied a fine-looking young officer.</p>
+
+<p>'We will do the best we can for you, but leave your arms behind.'</p>
+
+<p>The roar of the tempest forbade any reply; but the officer raised a
+white handkerchief, and as the ship flew by, a rope was thrown to the
+boat, and by the united powers of both crews, she was drawn under the
+lee of the ship. As much care as possible was taken in removing the
+wounded seamen, and Sam, as yet unused to the horrors of war, felt his
+heart sicken as he looked at the terrible fruit of his own orders. He
+felt that there had been a necessity for it, but would gladly have
+relinquished his own prospective gains by the salvation of his vessel,
+rather than have heard one groan from the poor mangled sufferers that
+now lay in agony upon his deck.</p>
+
+<p>The moment the young officer stepped upon the deck, he presented his
+sword to Captain Oakum.</p>
+
+<p>'It is a singular fortune, sir, that has made me your prisoner; but I
+cannot mistake the kindness that has brought you to our rescue in a time
+like this, and when we were seeking your injury.'</p>
+
+<p>'Retain your sword, sir, and your liberty, as well as that of your
+companion'&mdash;a midshipman, who stood beside the Lieutenant, and was
+preparing to surrender his weapon in like manner&mdash;'and of your crew, I
+only ask your pledge of honor to attempt no rescue while on board my
+ship. I will do all I can for your safe return, if we outlive this
+storm.'</p>
+
+<p>Every thing that could be done for the wounded was immediately attended
+to; a brotherly feeling was at once established between the crew of the
+Lady Washington and their late enemies, and each seemed to vie with the
+other in kind attentions.</p>
+
+<p>Successful thus far beyond his hopes, our young Captain now took a
+station by the helm, and looked upon the scene, and his situation in
+reference to the vessels from whose power he had feared so much. Far off
+in the south-east, the frigate from which he had so narrowly escaped was
+bearing away in an opposite direction to the course she had been
+pursuing, and far enough off at present to remove all apprehension from
+her. In the west could be seen the two which had been becalmed, bearing
+to the south and east, and evidently doing their best to gain an offing
+from the coast. To preserve himself from a dangerous contiguity, he had
+two alternatives, either to endeavor to force his way to the
+north-ward&mdash;almost an impossibility, as the wind then held&mdash;or to run
+before the gale, and venture, through the darkness and the storm, to
+find his way into port. He was perfectly satisfied that his reckonings
+had been correct, and that he knew his bearings; although to point his
+bow to land at such a time, with no other guide than his compass and his
+chart, he felt to be almost a desperate undertaking. He resolved,
+however, rash as it appeared, to try the dreadful hazard.</p>
+
+<p>As he communicated his determination to his mate, and ordered him to put
+the ship before the wind&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'It's a harsh night to venture on a lee shore, sir; but your command
+shall be obeyed.'</p>
+
+<p>The heavy clouds that rolled in huge masses, scarcely higher than the
+masts of the ship, had hastened the close of day, and gave sure tokens
+of what the night would be. The coast, however, had been clearly seen
+before the daylight departed, and soon the hopes and fears which, by
+turns, were triumphant in the breast of him on whom such immense
+responsibility rested, would be certain. All danger from armed vessels
+was now at an end; but his ship was flying on the wings of the wind; the
+driving clouds above, and the boiling sea beneath and around her. A
+costly and gallant vessel, a freight of immense value, and a multitude
+of human beings, were dependent upon the correctness of his judgment and
+the determination of his will.</p>
+
+<p>Onward and onward, like a chafed charger, rushed the proud ship, her bow
+at times nearly buried beneath the billows that tumbled before her, and
+rolled in majestic grandeur by her sides, or rose like mountains at her
+stern, threatening to whelm her in their deep dark bosom. How like an
+infant's dream appeared to Sam now all the past experience of his life:
+every care or sorrow faded into mist before the deep responsibility that
+weighed upon his heart. The young Lieutenant was not, as may well be
+supposed, an unconcerned spectator of the passing scene. He had been
+struck with admiration, not only at the generous conduct of our hero,
+but at his manly bearing, his prompt and determined action, and the
+perfect order and discipline that were so clearly manifested in such an
+hour of trial. He kept a strict eye on the course of the ship, and
+confirmed, much to the satisfaction of the Captain, the correctness of
+her bearings.</p>
+
+<p>'The light ought to be seen, however, Captain, by this time&mdash;we have
+been sailing with incredible rapidity, and must be near the land. Can
+nothing be seen of it yet?'</p>
+
+<p>'I have my ablest seaman on the look-out, but we have no tidings of it
+yet.'</p>
+
+<p>Captain Oakum left the stern of the ship and placed himself near to the
+look-out. It was Derrick whom he had especially intrusted with this
+important duty; although every soul on board might have been included,
+for not one but kept an eye ranged towards the quarter where it was
+expected to be seen.</p>
+
+<p>'Any signs of light yet, John?'</p>
+
+<p>'No signs yet, sir; but we must be drawing near land, sir; the roar of
+the surf can be plainly heard.'</p>
+
+<p>Scarce had the sailor uttered the last sentence, when at the top of his
+voice he called out,</p>
+
+<p>'Light on the starboard bow, Captain Oakum!'</p>
+
+<p>And as Sam cast his eye in that direction, the first twinkle of the
+beacon met his view, and in an instant he saw the imminence of their
+danger.</p>
+
+<p>'Helm to leeward! hard down!' And springing to his station again beside
+the helmsman, he issued forth his orders to the seamen without waiting
+to convey them through his mate. With magic speed the sails were braced
+to meet the new position of the ship, and take the gale upon her beam.
+Like a thing possessed of consciousness, the noble craft, almost as
+quick as thought, turned from the roaring surf, and threw the light upon
+her other quarter. Hope now hung for safety on the strength of her sails
+and spars. With all the canvas she could carry, it could but be scarcely
+visible that she made headway. The stout masts bent like whips, and the
+laboring ship groaned and cracked and trembled as she plunged into the
+mighty waves, throwing them, through her whole length, high into the
+air.</p>
+
+<p>'She'll weather it, Captain: if she can hold on so half an hour longer,
+we are safe.'</p>
+
+<p>The Captain made no reply; that half hour was freighted with
+consequences of most heart-stirring interest to him, and at no time had
+he felt so doubtful of what the end might be. His eye was riveted upon
+the beacon&mdash;that token of his danger and his safety too. What thoughts
+it kindled in his bosom! Oft had he seen it in his boyhood's days, when
+light of heart he sat with the dear ones of his home, at their old
+cottage door. Is he again so near them? Is success, prosperity, and
+honor soon to be fully realized; or disaster, shipwreck, and death?
+Slowly the light recedes&mdash;the struggling ship, battled fiercely by the
+terrible tempest, still forces her way, and still the good sails and the
+bending spars hold on and keep her true.</p>
+
+<p>'Don't you think we are far enough north, Captain, to run in?'</p>
+
+<p>'Ease her off slowly, Mr. Barnum, a point or so.'</p>
+
+<p>'She's a noble creature, sir, few ships could have stood it; but I
+believe you've the luck with you, Captain Oakum.'</p>
+
+<p>'We have had something with us better than good luck, Mr. Barnum. You
+may venture now, sir; in with her.'</p>
+
+<p>A loud hurra burst from the deck as the light flew past them; and the
+Lady Washington, bidding adieu to the raging ocean, entered the
+comparatively quiet waters of the sheltered bay.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXI.</h2>
+
+
+<p>When clouds, and darkness, and the driving storm are upon us, we cannot
+realize that their power is but for a time, and they must give place to
+sunshine and peace. The beautiful morning that succeeded the tempestuous
+night recorded in the last chapter, was a surprise indeed to those whose
+trembling habitations had warned them of its terrible power.</p>
+
+<p>'It has been a hard night, Peter,' said the Commodore, as he stepped
+forth upon his piazza, and saw the old man busy with the eye-glass,
+peering across the bright waters of the bay.</p>
+
+<p>'Indeed it has, your honor, and mischief enough done; if you will cast
+your eye, sir, along the south shore,' handing the glass to the
+Commodore; 'your honor will see a sight. It's my opinion, sir, that the
+waters have cleared themselves of everything, and thrown them all bodily
+on the land.'</p>
+
+<p>'Bless my soul, Peter, what a scene! I fear many lives have been
+sacrificed yonder, but it must have been more terrible still outside.
+What is that, Peter? a ship ashore?'</p>
+
+<p>'It is a ship, I believe, your honor, but she's not ashore, sir; there
+is nothing much but her starn to be seen, but being pretty well
+acquainted with the bearings hereaway, you see, your honor, the land
+rises considerably north of the point there, and the trees into the
+bargain, make quite a bluff to look across, and she would be hid
+entirely before grounding; the channel runs near the shore, your honor.
+But she has had a narrow chance, sir, and I see one of her masts is by
+the board.'</p>
+
+<p>'It is not one of your friends, the blockaders, I hope, Peter? they must
+have had a lively time of it.'</p>
+
+<p>'If it had only sent them all high and dry, your honor! but I think they
+must have got a good offing afore the worst on it came; and your honor
+knows that wind and waves ain't apt to hurt a good ship, if there's no
+land interference no way: but that ship being there is a puzzle to me,
+your honor.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, Peter? let me have my letters and papers in good season this
+morning.'</p>
+
+<p>'Ay, ay, sir;' and Peter hobbled away towards the town, and the
+Commodore entered his dwelling with a good appetite for breakfast.</p>
+
+<p>He has just finished his morning repast, when Mr. Rutherford entered his
+office. He met with a hearty welcome, for the two gentlemen had, since
+Mr. Rutherford's removal, been on terms of intimacy, although this was
+the first occasion on which any subject bordering on business matters
+had been introduced. Mr. Rutherford had resolved in his own mind, during
+the night past, the peculiar circumstances in which he was placed, and
+the necessity for prompt and efficient action. He felt the need of
+counsel, and could think of no one who would be so likely to afford it
+as Commodore Trysail: for this purpose he had therefore now come.</p>
+
+<p>It will not be necessary for the information of the reader to repeat the
+substance of his revelation to the Commodore. It was a story, however,
+which excited much interest in the mind of the old gentleman; he
+listened with profound attention to the whole recital, and when it was
+finished, gave his box an extra rap, and politely handing it to Mr.
+Rutherford&mdash;'It is, indeed, a singular event, my dear sir; and you are
+placed in a situation that requires not only very prompt, but very
+cautious measures. It would be a righteous thing, no doubt, to bring
+these men to justice; but the first hint they had of such an attempt
+would inevitably lead to the destruction of your papers! for although
+this Mr. Foster might find it a profitable business for him to hold them
+thus, as a rod over his accomplice Cross, yet he would never be so mad
+as to risk the discovery of them in his possession: they would be
+destroyed forthwith, sir. And as to bringing them to justice, it is a
+very doubtful matter, as it appears to me, whether there is evidence
+sufficient to convict either of them; they are men, it seems, of some
+standing in society, if I am correctly informed&mdash;none of the immediate
+actors in the scene are living, or at least to be found. The young man
+Brown, who is very feeble you say, can only testify to the intention of
+these men; and his mother does not feel qualified to swear that the
+unhappy man who made a dying avowal of his guilt in this matter had his
+full reason.'</p>
+
+<p>'It is all just as you say, Commodore Trysail, and the difficulties of
+the case presented themselves to my mind as I see they do to yours.'</p>
+
+<p>'And they are serious difficulties, Mr. Rutherford. The probabilities,
+indeed, would be very much against these men, and the public generally
+might be convinced that they had committed the nefarious crime; yet
+after all, a jury sworn to judge according to the evidence brought
+before them, might not be able to convict them.' The Commodore was
+suddenly interrupted by the entrance of Peter in a state of excitement
+really alarming; he did not pause as usual at the threshold, and making
+a low reverence, present his packet of letters and papers, with 'the
+mail, your honor,' but he bolted straight into the office, crutches and
+all, threw his hat down on the floor, took his quid from his mouth, and
+had liked to have dashed that down too; but his senses came to him in
+season to prevent such an enormity, so he put it back again as quick as
+possible. He was very much out of breath, and his eyes flashed with a
+vividness very unusual. The Commodore put his box away, and
+straightening himself up, looked at Peter with great astonishment, to
+say the least of it.</p>
+
+<p>'She's come, your honor.' Peter had great difficulty to get the sentence
+out, his voice trembled so.</p>
+
+<p>'What has come, sir?' The Commodore had evidently departed from his
+usual temper towards Peter.</p>
+
+<p>'She's come, your honor, spite of blockaders, harricanes and all, God be
+praised.'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore began to catch a glimpse of his meaning.</p>
+
+<p>'You do not pretend to say that the ship has come, the&mdash;the&mdash;Lady
+Washington?' and the Commodore started to his feet, and looked very
+fiercely at Peter.</p>
+
+<p>'It's the truth, your honor, she's riding in the outer harbor: the very
+same we see'd this morning. A boat has just come ashore, your honor, and
+I've see'd the men, and sich doins as they tell on you never heered,
+sir. Captain Sam's blowed the enemy, and he's got twenty on 'em
+prisoners, and he's give 'em leg bail, and has run into port, God bless
+him, with that north-easter behind him.'</p>
+
+<p>After delivering himself, Peter turned round, and in two jumps was out
+of the room, and stumping it off at a round rate. The Commodore was
+somewhat surprised at this last movement, and stepping to the door, was
+in the act of recalling his excited valet, when he saw him, in a very
+animated manner, urging along a person dressed in sailor's garb, and
+whom the experienced eye of the old Commodore immediately recognized as
+fresh from on board ship; his rolling, unsteady gait showed very clearly
+that he had not yet got his land legs on.</p>
+
+<p>'Here's a shipmate, your honor,' said Peter, stepping a little in front
+of his companion, 'that has a word to say to your honor, but he feels
+backward like.'</p>
+
+<p>'Come in, my boy, come in; are you from the Lady Washington?'</p>
+
+<p>'Just from aboard, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'Come in, come in, my good fellow.' And the sailor gave a spring up the
+stoop as though he was about to mount the shrouds, and taking a step
+into the office, put his hand into his tarred hat, took forth a sealed
+letter, and handed it to the Commodore, who immediately broke the seal
+and read as follows.</p>
+
+<blockquote><p>'<span class="smcap">Commodore Trysail</span>:</p>
+
+<p>'Respected Sir:&mdash;I am very happy to inform you, that through the
+aid of Divine Providence, I have brought the Lady Washington into
+port. To prevent her driving on the beach, I was obliged to cut
+away my masts, but am busy rigging jury masts to enable us to reach
+the city, as I do not feel it safe to lie in the outer harbor,
+should the blockading squadron return to their cruising ground. We
+have received otherwise but trifling damage. I shall do myself the
+honor of waiting upon you the moment I place my ship in the hands
+of your consignees.</p>
+
+<p>'The bearer of this will tell you his own story. He has been a fine
+fellow on board, and whatever may have been his errors in past
+days, seems to have taken a new turn.</p>
+
+<p class="right">'Your obedient servant,&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
+'<span class="smcap">S. Oakum</span>.'</p></blockquote>
+
+<p>The Commodore, having run over the letter, began to put sundry questions
+to the sailor, who answered in a style that was perfectly intelligible
+to the Commodore, but which would have been to ordinary listeners very
+much like a foreign language. Our friend Peter was an attentive
+listener. He was standing just without the door, with his head bent
+over, and turned one side, so as to permit his left ear to have a chance
+at what was going on. His long queue hung down over his left shoulder,
+and he was pulling away at it in great earnest. Peter could stand
+considerable in the way of excitement, but it is not in human nature to
+stand every thing. To hear such a glowing description of the doings of
+one that he loved as his own soul, given in a dialect that was
+sufficient of itself to work up the mind of an old sailor; his feelings
+got the better of his judgment, and no sooner was the tale over, than,
+swinging his old hat, he gave three hearty cheers, and stumped it away
+towards the mansion of Major Morris.</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore had too much of the sailor in him to be surprised at this
+outbreak of feeling. He smiled as he looked through the door, and saw
+how Peter was excited, and then addressing himself to the seaman&mdash;</p>
+
+<p>'Captain Oakum informs me, my good fellow, that you have something of
+consequence to say to me on your own account.'</p>
+
+<p>'I have, sir, if you can spare a few moments' leisure.'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore then excused himself to Mr. Rutherford, and taking the man
+aside into a private apartment, 'Now, my good fellow, tell me your story
+without restraint. I am an old sailor, you know, and have lost none of
+my feelings for a shipmate in trouble.'</p>
+
+<p>'God bless you, sir; but it is an ugly story I have to tell, and if you
+can have patience to hear me out, you may do with the information what
+you please.'</p>
+
+<p>Ha then began and gave a short-hand account of his career; that he was
+born and brought up in a place called Barrens, near by&mdash;that he had
+gotten into bad company, and in the employ of a bad man&mdash;that at the
+instigation of this man, he had been guilty of many improper acts, but
+that one of these, and the last one in which he had taken a part, had
+stuck in his heart like a dagger from the moment he did it&mdash;that he and
+his companion, in order to escape punishment in case the crime was found
+out, and to get away from the man who had exerted his power over them
+for such shameful purposes, had shipped to sea&mdash;that his messmate had
+taken sick and died, and that his last hours were full of misery on
+account of what he had done.</p>
+
+<p>'I have therefore, sir, made a clean breast of it all to Captain Oakum,
+and I am on my way to see the man I once injured so much; but Captain
+Oakum thought how as you, sir, could tell me what was best to do, and
+that I might let you know, sir, just the whole on it.'</p>
+
+<p>'But you haven't told me, yet, my man, what this crime you speak of was.
+You have not murdered any one, surely?'</p>
+
+<p>'God only knows, sir; but we fired a house while they were all asleep;
+the man who hired us to do it wanted a tin trunk which stood in one of
+the back rooms. We waited round to have folks give the alarm, but it got
+well a-burning before any one see it. An old nigger then came and broke
+the door open with an axe: the house was filled with fire and smoke. The
+old black fellow&mdash;God bless him for a true heart as ever beat in a human
+body,&mdash;went right through the flames, up the stairs, calling as loud as
+his voice could scream, "Oh my missus and the children!" We hurried into
+the back room, and feeling about found the trunk, but we had like to
+have smothered afore we got out; but that old fellow's cry, sir, has
+rung in my head louder than the loudest noise that the wind and the
+waves have made, since I have been on the ocean. And, sir, I can't live
+with it any longer.'</p>
+
+<p>'Did you ever see the man whose house you fired?'</p>
+
+<p>'No, sir, nor do I now remember his name; but he had a character, sir,
+for being a fine man, far and near.'</p>
+
+<p>'The person's name is Rutherford, and he is now sitting in my office;
+the very gentleman you saw there.'</p>
+
+<p>'The Lord forgive me! may I not see him, sir, just to ask his pardon,
+and then let him do with me what he thinks best?'</p>
+
+<p>'You shall see him; but first answer me:&mdash;Are you willing to go with me,
+and meet face to face this man Cross, whom you say instigated this act?'</p>
+
+<p>'I will, sir; only I hope I may be restrained from doing him an injury,
+for there is that in me, when I think of the villain, that wouldn't mind
+putting his daylight out, and trampling him in the dust.'</p>
+
+<p>'That would do no good now, you know; it wouldn't rebuild the house, nor
+ease your conscience, nor reform the man. But I am this morning
+endeavoring to devise a plan with this gentleman, Mr. Rutherford, for
+the recovery of this very trunk you have been speaking about. It seems
+that, after all, it never went into the hands of Mr. Cross, but, by some
+strange accident, fell into possession of as great a villain as he was,
+one Michael Foster, who keeps it as a rod over Cross to force money from
+him. Your presence may be of great consequence. Can your Captain spare
+you?'</p>
+
+<p>'He has let me ashore for this very business, sir. He thought may be I
+might be of some use to this Mr. Rutherford; and if I can, God knows I
+wouldn't value my own life a feather, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore told the man to be seated, and stepping into the office,
+communicated to Mr. Rutherford the particulars he had just been made
+acquainted with.</p>
+
+<p>'This is a most unexpected turn to affairs, Mr. Rutherford; and I think
+I can see a way now by which we can get hold of these papers, and get
+rid of these villains at the same time, if you will leave matters to my
+management.'</p>
+
+<p>'I will, certainly, sir, and feel deeply&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'Say nothing about that, if you please. I will call for you in about an
+hour with my carriage. But first will you see this poor fellow, and set
+him at rest if you can?'</p>
+
+<p>So saying, he led Mr. Rutherford into the adjoining room. The man was
+still seated, but was evidently in much agitation, for his countenance
+wore a death-like expression, and he trembled violently.</p>
+
+<p>'Did you wish to speak with me?' said Mr. Rutherford, stepping up to
+him; 'you seem to be ill.'</p>
+
+<p>'My body is well enough, sir; although I can't tell why it is in such an
+ague now. I never trembled before through all the dangers I have been
+in; but my mind is in a sad case, sir;&mdash;you see before you one of the
+men who burnt your beautiful house;'&mdash;and the rough sailor burst into
+tears.</p>
+
+<p>'Do you truly regret having thus injured one who never did you any
+harm?'</p>
+
+<p>'God knows I do; but tell me one thing, sir, was any of your family&mdash;'</p>
+
+<p>'Burned with the dwelling, you were going to say; no, thank God and the
+faithfulness of my good old negro, they were not injured.'</p>
+
+<p>'Thank God it is so, sir! and oh that my old messmate could have known
+this before he left the world!&mdash;he died, sir, howling like a raving
+man&mdash;"that he was a murderer!"'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore now took Mr. Rutherford aside, and making some further
+arrangements for the accomplishment of his plan, the latter gentleman
+departed, and Commodore Trysail ordered his carriage to be in immediate
+readiness.</p>
+
+<p>In about two hours after this interview everything had been completed,
+and the party selected for the occasion was entering the barrens, and
+Joe, the Commodore's coachman, was urging on his horses at a very
+unusual speed, and one which the heavy fat beasts did not seem to
+relish.</p>
+
+<p>It consisted of Commodore Trysail, Mr. Rutherford, James Montjoy and the
+sailor. The carriage stopped at the Widow Brown's, and some time was
+spent in a very particular conversation with the Widow and her son, and
+then off again to the north at the same rapid rate.</p>
+
+<p>'Hold up a little, Joe, before you reach the tavern; and you may stop at
+Cross's, and let them blow awhile. It will not be best for us to appear
+to be in haste.' This latter sentence was intended by the Commodore for
+the company seated with him.</p>
+
+<p>As the carriage drove up to the long low tavern, the Commodore and James
+Montjoy alighted; and as they stepped upon the piazza, Mr. Cross met
+them with a polite bow, and welcomed them to his premises.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Cross had, for a long time, been anxious to get into the good graces
+of both of them; for when he found that he could not destroy the young
+firm, he was desirous of their good-will, that he might the better make
+sales through them of his wood and timber; and the Commodore being so
+distinguished a personage, that a nod from him in any public place would
+be no small consideration for a man of Mr. Cross's standing.</p>
+
+<p>Chairs and benches were immediately presented for their acceptance, but
+as politely declined.</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Montjoy and I have a little matter of business to talk with you
+about this morning, Mr. Cross, and would wish to see you in private.'</p>
+
+<p>'By all means, gentlemen,' and the little fat man led them into a small
+back room, and carrying chairs with him, even against the protest of his
+visitors, placed them with much care, as to position and then closed the
+door.</p>
+
+<p>'Since you have taken the trouble, Mr. Cross, to bring us seats, I
+suppose we may as well use them,' said the Commodore, taking up his
+chair, and placing it as if by accident near the door. Cross saw the
+movement, and from the sudden flush that deepened the purple hue of his
+face, appeared to feel that, at least, it was a singular one. He however
+took the stool which he had brought for himself, and placing it at a
+respectful distance, sat down in a composed manner, tilting it back so
+as to balance himself on two of its legs, and resting his hands one on
+each of his knees, as they were spread out, the better to maintain his
+position.</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Cross,' said the Commodore, 'when we have business on hand, the
+fewer words by way of introduction the better. I have a serious charge
+to make against you this morning, and therefore it is that I have chosen
+to see you alone.'</p>
+
+<p>Cross immediately dropped his stool on its four legs, and straightening
+up to make the most of himself: 'If we are to be alone, sir, why have
+you brought company with you?' looking significantly at young Montjoy.</p>
+
+<p>'To set your mind at rest on that head, Mr. Cross, I will tell you that
+Mr. Montjoy has, at my request, been deputized by the Sheriff, and acts
+at present as an officer.'</p>
+
+<p>Cross did not turn pale, for that could not well be, but his countenance
+assumed a livid hue, and he immediately rose to his feet.</p>
+
+<p>'You may as well be seated, Mr. Cross; this business has been committed
+to me, and it must go forward, sir; but I have no disposition to treat
+you with harshness&mdash;sit down, Mr. Cross.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Cross sat down; there was something in the decided tones of the
+Commodore's voice that carried with them the idea of implicit obedience.</p>
+
+<p>'Without alluding to the serious crime which I have it in my power to
+substantiate against you, I at once propose to you, Mr. Cross, that if
+you deliver up to me the papers which were taken from Mr. Rutherford's
+house by the men employed by you for that purpose, and at the same time
+make a quit-claim to your son David of all your real estate, you may
+then have twenty-four hours to make what other arrangements you please
+in this vicinity, and nothing shall be revealed until the expiration of
+that time; otherwise I shall immediately have you arrested for robbery
+and arson. I give you ten minutes in which to make your choice.'</p>
+
+<p>'It is a false charge, sir; the whole of it is a falsehood, started by
+that old idiot the Widow Brown and her son; and I intend they shall
+smart well for it&mdash;that they shall, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore then gave a signal to James Montjoy, who left the room,
+and turning himself to Mr. Cross: 'It is a solemn thing for you, sir, to
+violate the precepts of the Almighty, for sooner or later, the hour of
+just retribution overtakes the delinquent. I am not sitting in judgment
+over you, Mr. Cross; but I cannot shut my eyes against the marked tokens
+of an overruling Providence, that have been exhibited in bringing to
+light what you supposed was beyond the reach of detection.'</p>
+
+<p>At that moment the door opened, and Mr. Rutherford, followed by James
+Montjoy and the sailor, entered the room. Cross looked at them with
+intense anxiety until his eye fell on the latter; he started as though
+pierced by a ball, and then stood transfixed with amazement, until
+gradually he settled down into his seat, and stared wildly on the floor.</p>
+
+<p>'Your ten minutes has about expired, Mr. Cross; what do you decide?'</p>
+
+<p>'I am at your mercy, gentlemen, do what you think proper. As to the
+papers, they are not in my hands, nor ever have been.'</p>
+
+<p>'We know that, Mr. Cross; but as you were intending to take possession
+of them this evening, you cannot be very ignorant where they are to be
+found.'</p>
+
+<p>'Who told you that?'</p>
+
+<p>'It is sufficient, sir, that we know the fact. As I have just said to
+you, the searching eye of the Almighty has been upon you through all the
+windings of your crooked way, and has brought out all your sin. The
+wretched beings who have been dependent upon you as hirelings, and whom
+you have ground to the dust, and trained for your wicked purposes; the
+woman who has been in reality your lawful wife, although not known nor
+acknowledged by you as such, the mother of your only child, yet treated
+by you as the off-scouring of the earth; the son who, by your
+instigation, had like to have been the ruin of a lovely girl&mdash;all are
+ready to testify against you. Under such circumstances, Mr. Cross, the
+mercy offered you is very tender in contrast with your iniquity.'</p>
+
+<p>Cross was now indeed sensible that his hour of trial had come: large
+drops of sweat stood upon his forehead, and he trembled like a reed in
+the tempest.</p>
+
+<p>'Michael Foster has the papers in his possession; but you must take him
+by surprise and watch him close, for if he suspects what you want, they
+will be destroyed before you can help yourselves.'</p>
+
+<p>'He is a justice of the peace, I understand, Mr. Cross.'</p>
+
+<p>'Yes.'</p>
+
+<p>'You will please go with us, then, sir; you can execute the deed there,
+which you know was one of the terms I stated to you. You have one made
+out, have you not, Mr. Rutherford?'</p>
+
+<p>'I have, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore, without further remark, signified his wish to be on the
+way: and soon Mr. Cross was seated on an easy cushion in a fine
+carriage, and with such company as he never had the honor of riding with
+before; but I presume it was a matter of secret rejoicing with him that
+the journey would be a short one&mdash;the soft seat and the good company
+were thorns and fire to him.</p>
+
+<p>Commodore Trysail alone left the carriage, and as Mr. Foster opened his
+door, entered without waiting for any ceremony.</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Foster, I presume, sir?'</p>
+
+<p>'At your service, sir,' making a low bow to the Commodore.</p>
+
+<p>'You are a justice of the peace?'</p>
+
+<p>'I am, sir.'</p>
+
+<p>'Gentlemen,' said the Commodore&mdash;calling to those in the carriage&mdash;'the
+Esquire is at home, you can come in.'</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Foster began to be much surprised, not only at the peculiar manner
+of his visitor in his own abrupt entrance, but at calling, without
+leave, a coach-load of folks to follow: his looks however manifested
+something more than surprise, when he found himself honoured with the
+presence of those who now entered his apartment.</p>
+
+<p>'Mr. Rutherford, that deed, if you please.' The tones of the Commodore's
+voice assumed a harshness very unusual with him of late years; his keen
+eye had penetrated into the character of the man he had now to deal
+with. 'Mr. Cross wishes you, sir,' addressing Foster, 'to witness his
+signature, and take an acknowledgment of his free act and deed.'</p>
+
+<p>Foster bowed again, and without reply handed the pen and ink to neighbor
+Cross. He then sat down and wrote very rapidly, although it was
+impossible for him to conceal the agitation which his nerves suffered.</p>
+
+<p>'And now, Mr. Foster,' said the Commodore, 'this matter being through
+with, and Mr. Cross's business settled, your turn comes next.' Foster's
+jaws, as we have seen, were rather long and flabby at best; but as he
+dropped his chin and drew up his eyebrows in the surprise that came over
+him as the Commodore turned upon him his keen, searching eye, he made up
+altogether an expression rather wo-begone. 'You have had in your
+possession for some time, Mr. Foster, a small trunk of papers, of but
+little value to yourself, except as you have held them for the especial
+benefit of your friend, Mr. Cross, here; but as he has wisely chosen to
+give up doing business in these parts, they can be of no further use
+either to him or to you; and as we have abundant proof of the guilt and
+villany of you both, we shall therefore give you an equal chance,
+provided you immediately surrender those papers. Twenty-four hours, sir,
+you may have in order to settle up your business in this region; if,
+after the expiration of that time, you are seen in this vicinity, I
+pledge you my word, which has never been broken yet, that you shall be
+arrested as an accomplice in the crimes of robbery and arson.'</p>
+
+<p>Foster cast his eye at the downcast countenance of Cross, and read too
+plainly in that the sad situation in which their affairs were placed.
+Evasion would do nothing for his benefit in this case; he therefore,
+without making the least reply, walked to a closet which opened into the
+side of the large chimney, unlocked it, and began taking out sundry old
+boxes, bottles, paper bundles, etc.; these he placed upon the floor,
+until the whole cupboard was emptied. He then deliberately took from his
+pocket another key, and applying it to the back of his cupboard, opened
+another door there; and thrusting his long arm into the hole, brought
+forth the long-lost trunk.</p>
+
+<p>'What consummate villany!' exclaimed Mr. Rutherford, as he at once took
+possession of his property.</p>
+
+<p>'Open it at once, sir,' said the Commodore, 'and see that every thing is
+right; for if but one paper is missing, they shall both swing for it
+yet.'</p>
+
+<p>But the papers were all correct, and both Foster and Cross felt in no
+small degree relieved, even with the conditions then laid upon them,
+when the party which had thus made each of them such an unexpected
+visit, was again riding away. And here we may willingly, both for
+ourselves and our readers, take leave of these two characters: they
+suddenly disappeared&mdash;no one, excepting those in the secret,
+understanding why; they have been blots upon the scene of our story, and
+we bid adieu to them with pleasure.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXII.</h2>
+
+
+<p>There are spots in life, like bright days in the year, when all above,
+around, and beneath, is so full of beauty, that the spirit bathes in the
+luxurious scene almost to weariness.</p>
+
+<p>Such a spot to Sam was the day of his return to his native village. The
+cordial welcome of the good old Commodore, testifying his hearty
+approbation of his gallant conduct by a commission that at once
+established his independence; the warm embrace of friends who had grown
+up with him from boyhood, and who exulted in his enviable prosperity;
+the respectful consideration that was meted out to him on all sides; and
+above all, the flow of ardent and almost overpowering affection that met
+him in that home, where parents and sisters poured out into his own
+glowing bosom the bursting fulness of their hearts&mdash;affection, respect,
+honor, and independence, all in one united band, waiting upon him, and
+doing all that in them lay, to make this hour of his life bright and
+happy.</p>
+
+<p>The meeting between Sam and the family of Major (now General) Morris,
+was all that he could have asked. His old and first friend, the General,
+was at a distant part of the country, engaged in active service; but
+Lady Morris greeted him with the warmth of a mother, and Susan, that
+once retiring and bashful little girl&mdash;a glance of whose eye filled the
+heart of the little sailor-boy with rapture, who had refused bright
+offers, and turned away from many an ardent lover&mdash;met our hero with a
+manner so cordial, and with all the friendship of her heart unmasked,
+that he could doubt no longer of the pure delight that awaited him.</p>
+
+<p>Peter was almost beside himself with joy, and kept his crutches going
+from morning till night, cutting off immense slices from his bundle of
+"pig-tail," and stowing them away two at a time; talking to every one he
+met, telling most incredible stories, and sometimes, when he thought he
+could do it without being heard huzzaing, as though to let off
+superfluous steam.</p>
+
+<p>The Commodore, however, before the close of the day, damped his ardor
+for a few moments, by bringing a serious charge against his favorite.</p>
+
+<p>'It is all well, Peter. To be sure, Captain Sam has shown himself a man,
+but what do you think about his letting prisoners slip out of his hands
+in that way?'</p>
+
+<p>'In what way, your honor?'</p>
+
+<p>'By letting them go, and giving them one of the ship's best boats; and
+finding them with compass and stores, and every thing so that they might
+put off to sea, and hunt up their squadron&mdash;that looks too much like
+comforting the enemy, Peter.'</p>
+
+<p>'Pardon me, your honor, if I can't agree with your honor this time.
+Captain Sam had good warrant for what he did.'</p>
+
+<p>'Good warrant, Peter&mdash;from whom?'</p>
+
+<p>'I heered our minister&mdash;God bless him&mdash;on the last Sabbath, and your
+honor must have heered him too, say&mdash;and he took it from the good old
+Book, your honor&mdash;"Love your inimies, do good to them that hate
+you"&mdash;and more of the same kind.'</p>
+
+<p>'But, Peter, you don't mean that we should deal with these men, whom you
+have been so long wishing that the winds would blow high and dry,
+according to the good Book, do you?'</p>
+
+<p>Peter had to turn his quid over, and chew a little on it, for he
+remembered having indulged some rather ungenerous feelings&mdash;especially
+towards his blockading friends.</p>
+
+<p>'It is hard, I allow, as your honor very well knows, to make a man's
+conscience always jibe right when encountering an inimy to one's self,
+or thinking of one that is dear to us that may be like to git into their
+clutches; but when a man can catch a chance to show a little Christian
+spirit towards them that seek his hurt, whether it be inimies to one's
+country, or inimies to one's self, it will be better, as I take it, in
+the long run, your honor, and at the last reckoning, that we should do
+so.'</p>
+
+<p>'Well, well, Peter, it is getting late, and you must be pretty well
+tired to-day, you had better turn in.'</p>
+
+<p>'Many thanks to your honor, and a long life.'</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CHAPTER XXXIII.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Time is not only a destroyer; he is a healer too. Sorrow and joy attend
+his flight; and each in turn commands the passing hour. The family of
+Mr. Rutherford had laid aside the badges of mourning which, in token of
+respect for the memory of one they loved, they had put on when William
+Andrews died. The scene at his bedside had been ratified in secret, and
+Henry Tracy felt every day more and more satisfied with the one he had
+chosen. There was some little stir, indeed, when it was known abroad,
+and some even hinted the idea that he had stooped a little in taking one
+situated as Hettie had been; but none who really knew her ever thought
+so. She was a bright star, dimmed awhile by clouds, and now to shine in
+her true, simple lustre; her husband's heart, her husband's home, and
+the circle over which his care rested, were now to feel her sweet and
+womanly influence.</p>
+
+<p>The pressure of trouble had done its bidden work upon the views and
+habits of Mr. Rutherford; and then, by the same kind hand which brought
+it, was it taken off. The recovery of his deed at once placed him in
+possession of wealth; the immense value of the tract of timber was daily
+becoming more evident, and he was in a few months enabled to commence
+the joyful duty of liquidating the claim upon his homestead. He had
+resolved, in time, to rebuild upon the ruins of his former house; but
+prudence was his watchword now, and until every cent of the claim was
+cancelled, he determined to remain in his present situation. He was,
+however, for a few months occupying the beautiful mansion of Commodore
+Trysail, at the special request of the latter, who was about to leave
+for the south, where he and his lady expected to remain some time.</p>
+
+<p>The pretty parsonage, which has been so long waiting for an occupant, is
+at last full of life and bustle. The windows have been opened for some
+days, and young female forms are seen moving about in all directions
+through the house. Curtains are putting up and carpets putting down,
+bedsteads are coming together, and large flat beds are lying about in
+readiness to be put upon them; piles of chairs, tied together two and
+two, are waiting to be released; and crates, boxes, and baskets, all
+well filled, are being broken open and pulled to pieces, while from
+them be borne off by nimble hands and feet all sorts of every thing, to
+be arranged according to their different uses.</p>
+
+<p>In the mean time there is a great stir at Mr. Rutherford's. Old ladies
+and young ones have been much together there of late; vast quantities of
+needles and pins and silk and thread have been in requisition; and then
+the old family recipe-book has been for days lying on the large kitchen
+table, with heaps of flour and butter alongside of it, and busy hands
+have been violently engaged beating insides of eggs, and taking out the
+insides of raisins, and stewing things together in all sorts of ways;
+while at times a most savory smell would escape to the upper stories,
+enough to set all the old women and young children running down stairs.</p>
+
+<p>At length the meaning of all this bustle is unfolded. A wedding day has
+come. Henry Tracy has been putting his pretty cottage in readiness to
+receive the lovely girl, who has consented to be its mistress; and
+Hettie, with the aid of her companions, and under the care of Mrs.
+Rutherford, has been making preparations for the hour when she yields
+herself in holy wedlock to the man she loves.</p>
+
+<p>It has been a busy day with the family of Mr. Rutherford from early dawn
+until near its close; and now, as evening approaches, lights are seen
+glistening from every window in the large building, and through the wide
+hall, flitting like fairies, young ladies are passing and repassing, and
+going up and down with light and joyous steps, as though pleasure had
+come down and shed her quickening charm upon them all. Carriages of
+various kinds are landing groups of young and old, and then driving off
+with speed. Attendants at the door in neat array, are leading the new
+comers to the various rooms assigned for their reception. For a while
+confusion seems to reign; then all subsides to quiet. The joyous laugh
+and the lively call are hushed, and within the spacious parlor have all
+assembled who are to be the witnesses of the solemn rite. Dazzling with
+lights, scattered profusely round, and trimmed with evergreens and early
+flowers, it seems a fairy bower; while, circling the room the
+well-dressed guests, with staid and even solemn faces, are whispering to
+each other, or eyeing with curious gaze the beautiful festoons that
+grace the windows or sweep across the lofty ceiling.</p>
+
+<p>It is the wedding day of the young pastor and his gentle bride, and
+Henry Tracy enters the room, accompanied by his three bridesmen, Captain
+Oakum, and James and Edward Montjoy. Soon after Hettie appears led by
+Mr. Rutherford, who is to act as her father, and give away the bride.
+She is simply dressed without ornament of any kind, but the long white
+veil which falls in light and graceful folds from her head, and partly
+hides her dark luxuriant hair. Her bridesmaids follow, Susan Morris, and
+the sisters of the young Captain, and of James and Edward Montjoy.</p>
+
+<p>'Before I present to you,' said Mr. Rutherford, addressing Mr. Tracy,
+'this chief earthly treasure'&mdash;and he turned his eyes for a moment to
+the blushing girl who was leaning on his arm&mdash;'I must beg your
+acceptance of this paper, you will find when you look upon it, that you
+are not taking to your home a portionless bride. She is as dear to the
+hearts of Mrs. Rutherford and myself as if she were our own child, and
+we have given to her the dowry of a daughter of our own. You chose her
+as a poor portionless girl, and would have loved her as tenderly had she
+continued so; but we all know that this is an uncertain world, and it is
+as well to be prepared for its troubles. May God bless you both!'</p>
+
+<p>One wedding, it is said, leads to another. Whether this is so or not, I
+cannot say, but the signs are ominous; for James Montjoy and Mary Oakum
+take long walks by moonlight, and Sam spends every evening at General
+Morris's, and other tokens tell plainly what things are coming to.</p>
+
+<p>But the long road which I and my readers have travelled together, must
+here end: are you not glad of it?</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<p class="center">J. OGDEN AND CO. LIMITED, PRINTERS. GREAT SAFFRON HILL, E.C.</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<p class="center">THE LILY SERIES.</p>
+
+<p class="center"><i>Uniform with this Volume.</i></p>
+
+<p>The design of this Series is to include no books except such as are
+peculiarly adapted by their high tone, pure taste, and thorough
+principle to be read by those persons, young and old, who look upon
+books as upon their friends&mdash;only worthy to be received into the Family
+Circle for their good qualities and excellent characters. In view of
+this design, no author whose name is not a guarantee of the real worth
+and purity of his or her work, or whose book has not been subjected to a
+rigid examination, will be admitted into the "Lily Series."</p>
+
+<table summary="contents" width="50%">
+<tr><td>1 Leslie Goldthwaite.              </td><td><span class="smcap">Whitney.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>2 The Gayworthys.                  </td><td><span class="smcap">Whitney.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>3 Faith Gartney's Girlhood.        </td><td><span class="smcap">Whitney.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>4 The Gates Ajar.                  </td><td><span class="smcap">Phelps.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>5 Little Women.                    </td><td><span class="smcap">Alcott.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>6 Good Wives.                      </td><td><span class="smcap">Alcott.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>7 Alone.                           </td><td><span class="smcap">Harland.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>8 I've been Thinking.              </td><td><span class="smcap">A. S. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>9 Ida May.                         </td><td><span class="smcap">Langdon.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>10 The Lamplighter.                </td><td><span class="smcap">Cumming.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>11 Stepping Heavenward.            </td><td><span class="smcap">Prentiss.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>12 Gypsy Breynton.                 </td><td><span class="smcap">Phelps.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>13 Aunt Jane's Hero.               </td><td><span class="smcap">Prentiss.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>14 Wide, Wide World.               </td><td><span class="smcap">Wetherell.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>15 Queechy.                        </td><td><span class="smcap">Wetherell.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>16 Looking Round.                  </td><td><span class="smcap">A. S. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>17 Fabrics: A Story of To-day.</td><td></td></tr>
+<tr><td>18 Our Village: Tales.             </td><td><span class="smcap">Mitford.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>19 The Winter Fire.                </td><td><span class="smcap">Porter.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>20 Flower of the Family.           </td><td><span class="smcap">Prentiss.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>21 Mercy Gliddon's Work.           </td><td><span class="smcap">Phelps.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>22 Patience Strong's Outings.      </td><td><span class="smcap">Whitney.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>23 Something to Do.                </td><td><span class="smcap">Alcott.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>24 Gertrude's Trial.               </td><td><span class="smcap">Jefferis.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>25 The Hidden Path.                </td><td><span class="smcap">Harland.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>26 Uncle Tom's Cabin.              </td><td><span class="smcap">Stowe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>27 Fireside &amp; Camp Stories.        </td><td><span class="smcap">Alcott.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>28 The Shady Side.                 </td><td><span class="smcap">A Pastor's Wife.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>29 The Sunny Side.                 </td><td><span class="smcap">Trusta.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>30 What Katy Did.                  </td><td><span class="smcap">Coolidge.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>31 Fern Leaves.                    </td><td><span class="smcap">Fanny Fern.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>32 Shadows and Sunbeams.           </td><td><span class="smcap">Fanny Fern.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>33 What Katy did at School.        </td><td><span class="smcap">Coolidge.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>34 Shiloh.                         </td><td><span class="smcap">Jay.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>35 Pressing Heavenward.            </td><td><span class="smcap">Prentiss.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>36 Gypsy's Sowing &amp; Reaping.       </td><td><span class="smcap">Phelps.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>37 Gypsy's Cousin Joy.             </td><td><span class="smcap">Phelps.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>38 Gypsy at Golden Crescent.       </td><td><span class="smcap">Phelps.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>39 Moral Tales.                    </td><td><span class="smcap">Edgeworth.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>40 Popular Tales.                  </td><td><span class="smcap">Edgeworth.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>41 Prince of House of David.       </td><td><span class="smcap">Ingraham.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>42 Anna Lee.                       </td><td><span class="smcap">Arthur.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>43 The Throne of David.            </td><td><span class="smcap">Ingraham.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>44 The Pillar of Fire.             </td><td><span class="smcap">Ingraham.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>45 Prudence Palfrey.               </td><td><span class="smcap">Aldrich.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>46 Peep at Number Five.            </td><td><span class="smcap">Trusta.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>47 Marjorie's Quest.               </td><td><span class="smcap">Gould.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>48 Our Village: Country Pictures.</td><td></td></tr>
+<tr><td>49 Woman our Angel.                </td><td><span class="smcap">A. S. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>50 How Marjory Helped.             </td><td><span class="smcap">Carroll.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>51 Mabel Vaughan.                  </td><td><span class="smcap">Cumming.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>52 Melbourne House.                </td><td><span class="smcap">Wetherell.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>53 Father Clement.                 </td><td><span class="smcap">Kennedy.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>54 Dunallan.                       </td><td><span class="smcap">Kennedy.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>55 From Jest to Earnest.           </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>56 Jessamine.                      </td><td><span class="smcap">Harland.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>57 Miss Gilbert's Career.          </td><td><span class="smcap">Holland.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>58 The Old Helmet.                 </td><td><span class="smcap">Wetherell.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>59 Forging their Own Chains.       </td><td><span class="smcap">Cornwall.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>60 Daisy.                          </td><td><span class="smcap">Wetherell.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>61 Our Helen.                      </td><td><span class="smcap">May.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>62 That Lass o'Lowrie's.           </td><td><span class="smcap">Burnett.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>63 The Years that are Told.        </td><td><span class="smcap">Porter.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>64 Near to Nature's Heart.         </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>65 Esther Douglas.                 </td><td><span class="smcap">Baskin.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>66 Knight of 19th Century.         </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>67 Released.                       </td><td><span class="smcap">Baskin.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>68 Quinnebasset Girls.             </td><td><span class="smcap">Porter.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>69 Helen.                          </td><td><span class="smcap">Edgeworth.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>70 The Fairchild Family.           </td><td><span class="smcap">Sherwood.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>71 Freston Tower.                  </td><td><span class="smcap">Cobbold.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>72 Godwyn's Ordeal.                </td><td><span class="smcap">Spender.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>73 Madeleine.</td><td></td></tr>
+<tr><td>74 Onward to the Heights of Life.</td><td></td></tr>
+<tr><td>75 Perry Harrison's Mistake.       </td><td>"<span class="smcap">Pansy.</span>"</td></tr>
+<tr><td>76 Carl Krinken.                   </td><td><span class="smcap">Wetherell.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>77 Without a Home.                 </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>78 Her Wedding Day.                </td><td><span class="smcap">Harland.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>79 His Sombre Rivals.              </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>80 Odd or Even.                    </td><td><span class="smcap">Whitney.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>81 Julamerk.                       </td><td><span class="smcap">Webb.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>82 Martyrs of Carthage.            </td><td><span class="smcap">Webb.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>83 The Nun.</td><td></td></tr>
+<tr><td>84 The Basket of Flowers.</td><td></td></tr>
+<tr><td>85 Autobiography of a �5 Note.</td><td></td></tr>
+<tr><td>86 Pilgrims of New England.        </td><td><span class="smcap">Webb.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>87 Only a Dandelion.               </td><td><span class="smcap">Prentiss.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>88 Follow Me.                      </td><td><span class="smcap">Prentiss.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>89 Nidworth.                       </td><td><span class="smcap">Prentiss.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>90 Nellie of Truro.</td><td></td></tr>
+<tr><td>91 An Original Belle.              </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>92 Barriers Burned Away.           </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>93 Opening of a Chestnut Burr.     </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>94 What Can She Do?                </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>95 A Day of Fate.                  </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>96 A Face Illumined.               </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>97 He Fell in Love with his Wife.</td><td></td></tr>
+<tr><td>98 Driven Back to Eden.            </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>99 What Katy Did Next.             </td><td><span class="smcap">Coolidge.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>100 Christine's Crook.             </td><td><span class="smcap">Hamer.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>101 Ben-Hur.                       </td><td><span class="smcap">Wallace.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>102 Four Girls at Chautauqua.      </td><td>"<span class="smcap">Pansy.</span>"</td></tr>
+<tr><td>103 The Chautauqua Girls at Home.  </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>104 Christie's Christmas.          </td><td>"<span class="smcap">Pansy.</span>"</td></tr>
+<tr><td>105 True to the Best.              </td><td><span class="smcap">Price.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>106 Drone's Honey.                 </td><td><span class="smcap">May.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>107 An Endless Chain.              </td><td>"<span class="smcap">Pansy.</span>"</td></tr>
+<tr><td>108 Ruth Erskine's Crosses.        </td><td>"<span class="smcap">Pansy.</span>"</td></tr>
+<tr><td>109 Links in Rebecca's Life.       </td><td>"<span class="smcap">Pansy.</span>"</td></tr>
+<tr><td>110 Mrs. Solomon Smith Looking on.</td><td></td></tr>
+<tr><td>111 The Earth Trembled.            </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>112 The Gates Between.             </td><td><span class="smcap">Phelps.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>113 Found, yet Lost.               </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>114 Three People.                  </td><td>"<span class="smcap">Pansy.</span>"</td></tr>
+<tr><td>115 Ester Ried.                    </td><td>"<span class="smcap">Pansy.</span>"</td></tr>
+<tr><td>116 Ester Ried yet Speaking.       </td><td>"<span class="smcap">Pansy.</span>"</td></tr>
+<tr><td>117 Julia Ried.                    </td><td>"<span class="smcap">Pansy.</span>"</td></tr>
+<tr><td>118 The Fair God.                  </td><td><span class="smcap">Wallace.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>119 Sense and Sensibility.        </td><td><span class="smcap">Austen.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>120 Pride and Prejudice.          </td><td><span class="smcap">Austen.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>121 Emma.                         </td><td><span class="smcap">Austen.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>124 Honoured in the Breach.</td><td></td></tr>
+<tr><td>125 An Unexpected Result.        </td><td><span class="smcap">E. P. Roe.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>126 Naomi.                       </td><td><span class="smcap">Webb.</span></td></tr>
+<tr><td>127 Beulah.                       </td><td><span class="smcap">Wilson.</span></td></tr>
+</table>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<p>Transcriber's Note: Hyphen variations left as printed.</p>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of I've Been Thinking;, by Azel Stevens Roe
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+</body>
+</html>
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of I've Been Thinking;, by Azel Stevens Roe
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org/license
+
+
+Title: I've Been Thinking;
+       or, the Secret of Success
+
+Author: Azel Stevens Roe
+
+Release Date: April 16, 2012 [EBook #39461]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK I'VE BEEN THINKING; ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Delphine Lettau, Mary Meehan and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                             I'VE BEEN THINKING;
+
+                                     OR,
+
+                           _THE SECRET OF SUCCESS_.
+
+                                 BY A. S. ROE,
+
+                          AUTHOR OF "LOOKING ROUND."
+
+    WARD, LOCK AND CO.
+    LONDON, NEW YORK, AND MELBOURNE
+
+
+
+
+I'VE BEEN THINKING.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+
+'Where is the use, Jim, of our working and working to raise so many
+vegetables? we never can use them all. Mother said last year there was
+no necessity for raising more than we could eat, and now this potato
+patch is larger than ever.' And as he said this, the little speaker
+threw himself upon the soft ground, struck his hoe into the soil, and
+looked up at his brother to see how he would take it.
+
+Jim, as he was called, rested a moment on his hoe, eyed his brother
+closely, and then, with something of a smile, replied:
+
+'Come, Ned, don't give up to lazy feelings; the things will do somebody
+good; and you know my father always told us, that it was better to be at
+work, even if we got no pay for it: and besides, I have been thinking of
+a plan by which we may do something with what we raise, if we have more
+than we can use.'
+
+'What plan, Jim?' and Ned raised himself from his prostrate position,
+and sitting with both hands resting on the ground, looked very
+inquiringly at his brother.
+
+'Why, suppose we should try to sell some of the things we raise?'
+
+'Try to _sell_, Jim? ha, ha, ha!' and the little fellow threw himself
+upon the ground, and indulged in a hearty fit of laughter. Jim laughed a
+little himself, resuming his work, and hauling the dirt up faster around
+the potatoes he was hilling.
+
+'Come, Ned, you had better go to work; the sun will soon be down, and we
+shall not get our task done.'
+
+'Well, tell me then _where_ you are going to sell the things; that's
+all.'
+
+'I shall say no more about it now, at any rate; you will only laugh at
+it. So come, take up your row.'
+
+Ned, perceiving that Jim was working upon both rows, was ashamed to
+waste any more time, and inspirited by his brother's kindness, sprang to
+his feet, and the two boys worked away with alacrity.
+
+The sun had gone down, the cow had been milked and the pigs fed, the
+hens had all gone to roost, and the two brothers had sauntered towards
+the river which ran before their dwelling, and taken a seat together on
+a rock under the branches of a huge oak, of which there were several
+around the premises. Before them lay, _first_; a gentle slope of short
+greensward, part of what was known as the town commons, where every
+body's cow, or pig, or goose, could roam unmolested; beyond _this_ lay a
+smooth sandy shore, washed by a river, whose waters had not far to go
+before they mingled with the ocean, or with a large arm of the ocean;
+along the shore, as far as the eye could reach, was the same, or nearly
+the same, strip of green commons, dotted here and there with small rude
+dwellings, the abodes of a few fishermen, who existed on the products of
+the river that rolled before them; a few small boats lay drawn up on the
+shore, and occasionally a row of stakes running out into the water, told
+where the fishermen had planted their nets. The only house in sight that
+had any appearance of comfort was the one these brothers called their
+home--a plain one-story building, with a little wing to it; a paling ran
+in front and around three sides, enclosing the patch of ground used as
+their garden; a few fine old trees threw their shadows over and around
+the premises, adding much to the domestic aspect of the place; a
+pleasant country spread back from the river, and in the distance could
+be seen here and there the chimney top, or the peaked roof of some
+obscure dwelling, making no greater pretensions than those described.
+
+'I wonder what Sam Oakum is doing along shore there?'
+
+'Where, Jim?'
+
+'Down by that clump of rocks. Don't you see him?'
+
+'Oh, he is picking up horse-shoes; he has not fed his pigs yet; I
+suppose his father is drunk to-day, and the pigs are squealing, and Sam
+has gone to look for something for them to eat; poor fellow!'
+
+'Sam is a clever fellow; I do wish his father would act differently. I
+cannot see what is to become of him. They who have no father are bad
+enough off, but I think poor Sam is worse off still.'
+
+'Do you think, Jim, if father had lived, that we should have stayed
+here?'
+
+'I cannot say--I suppose we should. Why do you ask that question, Ned?'
+
+'Because I think it is a poor place to get a living in; nor do I see how
+we are going to get along here; it is hard hoeing for it any how.'
+
+'_Hard hoeing?_ I don't think so, Ned; it is a great deal harder doing
+nothing.'
+
+'Perhaps it is; I should like to try it once, and see.'
+
+'I believe it to be true what father often said, that "hard work made
+short nights and sweet food," and if we should give up work, what would
+become of mother and Ellen?'
+
+'I will work for them, Jim, as long as I have got any fingers to work
+with; but we may hoe and hoe here all our lives, and what will it amount
+to?'
+
+'I have been thinking a great deal about that, Ned, and therefore I
+spoke to you as I did to-day when you laughed so at me.'
+
+'Well, tell me _now_, Jim; I promise you I will not laugh any more.'
+
+'I have been thinking for some time, just as you say, Ned, "that we must
+hoe and hoe all our lives," and without much hope of making our
+condition any better.'
+
+'Why you see, Jim, if there was any one here to buy what we raised, more
+than we wanted to eat, there would be some use in raising all we could.'
+
+'I know it, Ned; and the great trouble is, that the folks all round here
+are as poor as we are, and the most of them not so well off; they live
+from hand to mouth, and would never want any thing we could raise.'
+
+'Why, I suppose they would like our strawberries and peaches well
+enough, if we would give them away; but they will never take the trouble
+to raise any for themselves, and I am very sure they will never have any
+money to buy them with.'
+
+'That is it, Ned; you are right now. Father has taught us to raise such
+things, you know, and if we had any way to dispose of them, we could
+raise many more than we do.'
+
+'Then you would see how I could work, Jim, and we would stuff the old
+garden full of every thing.'
+
+'I have been thinking--now, you won't laugh again?'
+
+'No, I won't, I promise you.'
+
+'Well, I have been thinking--you know, just over the other side of the
+island is that large fort; sometimes there is quite a company of
+soldiers, and always some officers and their families there; the grounds
+about there are so rocky and sandy, that they cannot raise any thing if
+they would; they no doubt get their provisions in large quantities from
+a distance, but the officers and their families might like some of our
+fruits and vegetables, as we could supply them fresh; the only thing is,
+how to get there?'
+
+'Yes, Jim, that would be the trouble; we have no boat, and we should not
+know how to manage one if we had it, and mother would be so afraid to
+let us go such a distance on the water.'
+
+'I have thought of these difficulties, Ned, but I believe we can get
+along with them. I know it will be difficult getting to the fort
+sometimes, in rough weather; and then, as you say, we have no boat, and
+we should not be able to manage one if we had it; but how would it do to
+ask Sam Oakum to join us?'
+
+'Sam Oakum is the very fellow, just the very fellow; but stop, Jim, Sam
+has not got a boat.'
+
+'I know that; but no doubt he can borrow one for the first trip, and
+then, if our plan should succeed, perhaps we could hire it until we were
+able to buy one for ourselves.'
+
+Ned could stand it no longer; he jumped from the rock, clapped his
+hands, huzzaed, caught hold of Jowler, who had sprung up, and was
+barking away in answer to Ned's huzza, and down they went on the green
+sward together.
+
+'Don't go crazy, Ned, we may be disappointed after all; mother may not
+give her consent, Sam may be unwilling to go, or not able to get a
+boat.'
+
+'Do stop, Jim, bringing up difficulties; I don't want to hear them now.
+I know mother will let us go, and I know Sam will like dearly to join
+us; he can get a boat, I am sure he can.'
+
+'Well, Ned, the first thing we must do is, to get mother's consent.'
+
+'Yes, and you will speak to her this very night, won't you, Jim? I will
+put in a word once in a while, just to help along.'
+
+Twilight was past; the stars were shining through a clear bright sky,
+when these two brothers retraced their steps towards home. It is
+pleasant to see them so cheerfully complying with that command, 'Honor
+thy father and thy mother, that thy days may be long in the land which
+the Lord thy God giveth thee.'
+
+And now I suppose my readers may be anxious to know some particulars
+about our boys, and the place where they lived.
+
+Their father, Mr. James Montjoy, who had died a few months before the
+period at which our story commences, was rather a plain man in his
+appearance and manners, and lived on a small pension just enough to
+sustain his family, so that he left nothing for their support but the
+house and garden. I think he must have been a good man, for his boys
+revered his name, and often repeated his sayings to each other; and on
+no account would they deviate from what they believed would have been
+his will.
+
+As to the place where they lived, I have already partly described it; it
+was a very retired spot, a few farm-houses were scattered about at
+irregular intervals, but all wearing the same general aspect. A want of
+enterprise was manifest on every side; poor roads, poor fences, broken
+barns, patched windows in almost every house, miserable-looking waggons
+and horses, and people in appearance as uncouth and woe-begone as their
+teams.
+
+There was but one store in the place, and how that was supplied was
+somewhat mysterious; for no boats sailed from or to this lone spot. I
+have heard, that once in a year a large lumber waggon, that came from a
+distance, brought a load of casks and boxes, which contained all the
+goods necessary to supply the few wants of its customers, a little tea,
+and sugar, and molasses, and a few coarse dry goods, with an undue
+proportion of whiskey. The storekeeper looked no better than his
+customers; he was a dried-up, wrinkled little man, with a very red nose;
+always clad in a suit of grey clothes, with a broad-brimmed greasy hat,
+turned up in front, and a pair of iron spectacles, through which stared
+two very large eyes, somewhat the worse for the use of cider and
+whiskey.
+
+The store itself was a long, low, tumble-down-looking place, with a shed
+running along its front, under which might almost always be seen a
+certain number of miserably dressed persons, the customers of the
+store.
+
+It will be of no use to any of my readers to be told the real name of
+this place, nor its exact locality. I have mentioned that it was on a
+river, and not far from where that river emptied itself into a sound, or
+arm of the sea; but as there are a great many rivers and sounds in our
+beautiful country, I must leave you all to guess the right one. And
+perhaps many of you will pass this place, or have already passed it many
+times, and when you have seen, or shall see, the beautiful church spire
+that now rises from the midst of the trees which embower it, and the
+neat white houses along the shore, and the trim vessels that line the
+wharves, and hear the lively--'Yo, heave yo!' of the sailors, as they
+hoist the white sail to the breeze, you will little dream that it was
+once as I have described it.
+
+And now we must see how Jim gets along in gaining the consent of his
+mother.
+
+Mrs. Montjoy was a good mother, and loved her three children most
+tenderly; but as all mothers who truly love their children must
+sometimes deny their wishes, Jim and Ned had learned some lessons, which
+made them feel less and less confident the more they thought of the
+matter. At length the former, taking up the candle, whispered to his
+brother.--
+
+'Perhaps, Ned, we had better not say anything about it until to-morrow.'
+
+'I think so too, Jim.'
+
+So, kissing their mother and little Ellen, up they went to their garret
+room, talking and laughing in great spirits.
+
+'The poor dear children,' thought Mrs. Montjoy, 'it makes my heart ache
+to hear them; they think not of the future. May God, in his mercy, open
+some way, for I see but a poor prospect before them. And it may be that
+prayer was heard, and the God of the widow and the fatherless was
+preparing the means by which these unprotected children would prove the
+light of their native place, and her stay and comfort. Had she seen them
+as they knelt down by the bedside together, she would have felt that her
+children were not fatherless.
+
+The next morning the boys had a long conference with their mother; and
+after she had listened to their plans, and stated to them, more
+particularly than she had ever before done, the straitened circumstances
+to which they were reduced, and expressed many fears on account of their
+exposure on the water, she finally agreed that they might try what they
+could do.
+
+No sooner had they reached the door, after thus accomplishing their
+wishes, than Ned started on the full run, jumped over the first thing
+that stood in his way--which happened to be old Jowler--caught up his
+hoe from under the shed, and entering the garden by a cross cut, began
+tearing the dirt around the potato hills with all his might.
+
+Jim walked very leisurely to his work, and for some time permitted his
+brother to go on, thinking that he would soon become tired, and relax
+his efforts; but seeing that Ned was coming back on _his_ row,--
+
+'You had better keep your own row, Ned; I shall get along soon enough
+with mine, and you will only tire yourself by working so fast.'
+
+'Well, I am in such a hurry, Jim; I want to get these potato hills
+finished, so that we can go and talk with Sam Oakum about the boat.'
+
+'I am as much in a hurry as you are, Ned; but we have quite a patch to
+hill yet, and we shall get through sooner, by working steadily, besides
+doing our work better; we can get along with them by the middle of the
+afternoon, and that will give us time enough to see Sam.'
+
+And as Jim had said, by the middle of the afternoon the last hill of
+potatoes was finished; and, having made all their arrangements, and
+agreed upon all they would say to Sam, they had nothing to do but go to
+the tree where they placed their tools, and hang up their hoes for that
+day.
+
+As Sam Oakum will be a prominent character in our story, I must
+introduce him more particularly to my reader. His father lived in one of
+the huts which I have said were scattered along the shore of the river
+for some distance, and followed the occupation which _his_ father had
+followed before him, that of a fisherman; or, in other words, that of
+catching a few fish or clams, sufficient to satisfy the cravings of
+hunger for the day, and spending the rest of it in idleness and
+drinking, without enterprise or ambition. As their fathers had done for
+generations back, so did they; they seemed to feel that it was their
+luck to be poor, and, to all appearance, felt willing that their
+children should follow in their steps.
+
+Sam Oakum's father was rather a superior man to his neighbors; he had
+some knowledge, too, of boat-building; he had never learned the trade,
+but, being ingenious, could put together a small craft quite decently,
+and the few poor boats which the fisherman owned were the work of his
+hands; but he also exceeded many of his neighbors in the use of strong
+drink, and too frequently it was feared that his wife and children
+suffered for the necessaries of life, because the father was away, and
+in no condition to get home. For a few years past, however, since Sam
+had become able to manage a boat, he would see that there was food for
+his mother and sisters, although there had been as yet no opening for
+him by which he could do any more than this. There was no ground
+attached to their poor house for him to cultivate; there was no work in
+the vicinity that he could get; and the boat, by means of which he could
+procure their supply from the water, he was obliged to borrow.
+
+Sam was now about sixteen years of age; a good-looking fellow he was
+too, although his clothes were old and patched; his hair was black as a
+coal, and very much disposed to curl; he had a good open countenance,
+very bright black eyes, and a fine nut-brown complexion. As we shall
+learn his character in the progress of our story, it will not be
+necessary to describe him any closer at present.
+
+On the day that Jim and Ned had been so successful in obtaining the
+consent of their mother to put their plan into execution, Sam had
+experienced a severe trial: his father had indulged more freely his
+dreadful appetite, and although in general kind to his family, had begun
+to manifest a morose and sullen temper.
+
+Sam's mother was a good-natured, inoffensive woman, always endeavouring
+to make the best of things; managing as well as she could with what was
+in the house, and although sorely pinched sometimes, never finding fault
+with her husband.
+
+'It would do no good,' she said, 'to be dinging at Oakum; it would only
+make him worse.'
+
+So the poor soul went on from day to day, doing her best, and always
+hoping, woman like, that he would be different one of these days; but on
+this eventful morning her accumulated grievances could no longer be
+repressed, and as her husband was about to leave the house, only to
+return at evening in a wretched condition, she ventured to say to him--
+
+'Oakum, don't you think you'd better not go up to the store to-day?'
+
+'Don't I _think_ I'd better _not_? _No_, I don't--what makes you ask
+me?'
+
+'Oh well, I didn't mean no harm; only you have been away so much
+lately.'
+
+'Well, supposing I have, whose business is _that_, I want to know?'
+
+'Why nobody's, I suppose; only you know, Oakum, we ain't got nothing in
+the house but them two fish you brought in this morning; there ain't no
+meal nor nothing.'
+
+'No meal nor nothing; yes, there is meal: didn't I bring home some
+yesterday?'
+
+'Well, you know how that was, the pigs got at it.'
+
+'The pigs got at it--then why didn't you take care of it, and not let
+the pigs get the children's bread?'
+
+'It wasn't mother's fault,' said Sam, who was by at the time, and knew
+all the circumstances.
+
+'Whose fault was it then, you little vagabond?'
+
+'I ain't a vagabond yet; but we shall all be soon, if you keep going to
+Grizzle's every day.'
+
+Sam's father was utterly confounded; he took off his hat and sat down.
+
+'What, are my children going to rise up against me? Go out of the house,
+sir.'
+
+Poor Mrs. Oakum was in great trouble. Sam had said what was true; his
+father had, in a state of unconsciousness, left the flour at the mercy
+of the pigs; but she felt sorry that he had spoken, and Sam soon felt
+very sorry for it too; his conscience upbraided him; he went out of the
+house and kept as busy as he could, but he could not feel happy.
+
+By little and little Oakum found out from his wife all about the meal;
+he was thoroughly ashamed, asked for another bag, and immediately took
+his hat and departed.
+
+About the middle of the afternoon Sam sauntered along the shore to a
+large flat rock that stood just at the water's edge. He took a seat upon
+it, and with his eye stretched far over the beautiful bay, mused on his
+sad condition and hopeless prospects. Was life to be as it had ever
+been--a scene of idleness and want, a waste, with nothing to cheer or
+stimulate his youthful mind? without education (not being able even to
+read), without a trade, or the prospect of one, or any employment that
+offered the least inducement to exertion? His conscience sorely troubled
+him also on account of the disrespect he had shown to his father that
+morning; and as he mused, his excited feelings started the tears down
+his sunburnt face, and in the agony of the moment he exclaimed,
+
+'I wish I was--'
+
+'What do you wish?' said Ned Montjoy, as he stole up behind, and put his
+hands over Sam's eyes.
+
+'But what is it, Sam?' you are in trouble; tell us right away. 'Can Jim
+and I help you?'
+
+Sam wiped away his tears as he best could, but was unable at once to
+make any reply.
+
+'Come, Sam, tell us, has anything happened to day?'
+
+'Oh, nothing particular, Ned; only sometimes I get tired of living as I
+do.'
+
+'Oh well, Sam, if that is all, come cheer up; for Ned and I have a plan
+in view, and if you will join us, perhaps things will be better for us
+all.'
+
+'I'll join you and Ned in any thing, but I don't see what use I can be
+to you.'
+
+'So much use, that we can do nothing without you _do_ join us Sam. Can
+we, Jim?'
+
+'No, I fear we cannot.'
+
+'Well, what is it, boys? Come, I'm ready for any thing.'
+
+'You tell him, Jim, all about it. I say, Sam, it's the best thing you
+ever heard of. I tell you _what_, won't it be nice though?'
+
+And Ned kicked up his heels, ran a few steps, caught up a smooth flat
+stone, and away it went skimming the surface of the water, and in
+plunged Jowler, as he had often done before, on a fruitless search after
+it. Jim took a seat alongside of Sam, and soon unfolded his scheme for
+adventure. Sam's countenance brightened as Jim went on, and he was too
+impatient to wait until the whole was regularly told.
+
+'And you want me to manage the boat, and you will sell the things?'
+
+'That is it, Sam.'
+
+'I tell you what, Jim, who put all this in your head? I wonder why I
+never thought about taking clams and oysters there! I am sure they will
+buy them: I might try some, couldn't I?'
+
+'Certainly--but how are we to get a boat? your father has none, has he?'
+
+'No, not now, but I know where I can borrow one; it has a sail to
+it--it is old and leaky though, but a little calking will make all
+tight.'
+
+No sooner had Sam said this, than Ned started off again on another
+gallop; he took quite a circuit this time, and coming back caught Sam by
+the back of his collar, and pulled him over flat upon the rock.
+
+'Didn't I tell you, Jim, that Sam Oakum was the fellow for us?'
+
+'Don't, Ned, act so crazy; let Sam go.'
+
+'Oh let him alone, Jim; he is so full, he must let out a little.'
+
+Sam rolled himself off from the rock, and picked up his little tarred
+hat, which had fallen upon the sand.
+
+'Well, boys, when shall we go,--to-morrow?'
+
+'Why, can you get the boat ready by that time, Sam?'
+
+'Yes, that is, if old Andrews will let me have it; I guess there will be
+no fear of that.'
+
+'Well, how shall we know? for if we go to-morrow, we must be up early
+and pick our strawberries. Shall we come down here to-night, Sam?'
+
+'No; I tell you what we'll do--if I can get the boat, and father will
+let me go, I won't come up; so, if you don't see me, you may conclude we
+shall go.'
+
+'Agreed, Sam.'
+
+Sam was on good terms with the old man from whom he expected to get the
+boat, and found no difficulty on that score; it occupied him, however,
+the remainder of the afternoon in putting her in a condition suitable
+for their voyage, and even then it was but a frail concern to venture
+in, where at times the winds were strong and the waters rough. But Sam
+knew no fear; so taking the oars and thanking his old friend very
+heartily for his kindness, 'lay to,' and the little skiff flew through
+the smooth water like a bird.
+
+He had accomplished, however, but one part of his work; he had yet to
+meet his father and obtain his consent, and his heart sunk within him
+when he thought of home, and the probable condition of things there. He
+had resolved what course to pursue--he had done wrong, he had spoken
+improperly to his parent, he must ask his forgiveness before he could be
+happy. But he knew not in what condition he might find that parent. He
+rowed his boat up to the rock where he had held the conversation with
+Jim and Ned--hauled her up on the shore as far as he was able, carried
+the stone anchor on land, and walked directly towards home, strong in
+good resolutions, and with some faint hope that things might be better
+than he feared. He gathered up the horse-shoes as he went along which he
+had collected on the beach in the afternoon, enough to make a good
+supper for his pigs; and throwing them over into their pen as he passed,
+was just entering the door of his dwelling when he met his father, who
+had his hat on and was going out. Sam saw at a glance that all was
+right--he cast his eyes down:
+
+'Father, I'm sorry I spoke so this morning.'
+
+'Oh, never mind now, Sam.' And as he saw Sam wiping his eyes, for the
+tears came fast, 'Never mind now, my boy; it has gone by, and a good
+many other things I hope too--go in and get your supper.'
+
+Sam entered the room, happier than he had been for many a day; his
+mother's countenance was lighted up with a smile, and his little sister
+came up and whispered,
+
+'Father ain't been to Grizzle's to day.' Sam looked at his mother and
+she at him--tears were glistening in both their eyes, but they told only
+of joy and hope.
+
+He soon communicated to his mother his plan for the next day; she made
+no objections, only she hoped he would take care of himself.
+
+'And may be you'd better speak to your father, Sam.'
+
+Just then Mr. Oakum came in, and Sam proceeded at once to tell him what
+had been proposed, and what he had done about it.
+
+'I thought I saw a boat laying up by the rock there, and I couldn't
+think where it came from--is that Andrew's skiff? don't it leak badly?'
+
+'Oh, I've calked her, Father, she is tight as a whistle now.'
+
+'Well, Sam, you must take care of yourself, you know it's rough
+sometimes round the point; you most keep close to shore, that skiff
+won't stand much. I don't think it will be of much use for you to go
+there, but you may try.'
+
+Early the next morning--so early that a faint streak of light was barely
+visible in the east--Sam was off with his skiff, raking for clams and
+oysters as his share of the freight; and by the time Jim and Ned were at
+the shore with their baskets, he was ready to receive them.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+
+It was a bright and beautiful morning, the water as calm and peaceful as
+it was possible for water to be so near the restless ocean. Ned stood on
+the shore, delighted to see the little skiff cut her way through its
+glassy surface, and to hear the sound of Sam's oars reverberating for a
+great distance along the opposite shore.
+
+He watched as it receded, until thinking it was about as far as he could
+make them hear, hallooed with his loudest call, 'Good bye, boys!' He saw
+them both look towards the shore, and heard in return, 'Good bye, Ned!'
+coming as from a great distance. He took off his hat and waved it, then
+went on his way to his daily task.
+
+Sam, although not experienced in long excursions, knew enough of the
+labor of rowing, not to expend his strength at starting. They had ten
+miles to pass over before they could reach their place of destination,
+and the latter part would require much more exertion than the
+commencement of their voyage; so, like an experienced mariner, he made
+but little effort at first, and suffered his boat to flow along with the
+tide. Jim was quite a novice in such matters but Sam had placed him at
+the helm, and given him sundry directions how to steer.
+
+'The tide is just beginning to fall, and I guess it will bring me up
+with the point without much rowing, if you will just keep her head right
+there?'
+
+'I'll try, Sam; but don't you think I had better help you to row?'
+
+'Oh, no; it's easy work now. She goes a pretty good jog; and I only just
+dip my oars and take them out again. I guess, though, there will be some
+pulling when we get round the point; but perhaps we shall have a little
+breeze, and then we can put up our sail.'
+
+Sam's guessing turned out to be very correct; it required but little
+effort to make the point; and as they turned their course in the
+opposite direction to that in which they had been steering, and were no
+longer sheltered by the island which formed their beautiful harbor, but
+were fairly in the outer bay, across whose waters they could see the
+haze of the ocean and the white beacon that lighted its weary voyagers
+to their desired haven, the wind blew gently, and Sam lost no time in
+taking advantage of it; there was just enough to carry them along
+against the tide, which was no longer in their favor.
+
+The fort to which our little voyagers were steering had been erected
+about ten years. It was intended to command the channel through which
+vessels of ordinary size must pass, in their way from the ocean to one
+of our most valuable cities. It was built with two tiers of ports, and
+of sufficient strength for heavy guns; and as our foreign relations were
+in an unsettled state, it had, at the period under consideration, its
+full complement of men. It was erected at some distance from the shore
+on a ledge of rocks which, at low water, formed a passage to the main
+land; but when the tide was in, a few only of the highest rocks could be
+seen.
+
+The nearer they approached the place of their destination, the more
+serious did the matter appear to them.
+
+'Do you think, Sam, there is danger they won't let us in?'
+
+'I don't know; I hope not, Jim. It would be too bad, after all our
+trouble, not to get even a chance to sell any thing.'
+
+'Well, Sam, we can but try, you know. We have only to tell them what
+we've come for;--but I _say_, Sam, it makes my heart beat to look at it:
+what high walls it has; and see, there are the sentinels walking up and
+down--how their guns glitter in the sunshine!'
+
+'Halloo! halloo! where are you bound, my hearties?'
+
+The boys were startled by the gruff tones in which they had been
+accosted; and, turning their eyes toward the shore from whence the
+sounds seemed to come, saw an elderly man dressed in a sailor's habit,
+seated on a rock, and beckoning to them, or rather, by a motion,
+endeavouring to stop their progress.
+
+'Halloo! my boys; don't go ahead there, or you'll be foul of the rocks.'
+
+Sam immediately turned the skiff toward the shore, and they were soon in
+close contact with the stranger. He was sitting on the rock, with one
+leg swinging backwards and forwards, and the stump of the other sticking
+straight out. His dress was a true sailor's rig, of blue originally, but
+now much soiled, and of many colors. Spots of tar were pretty well
+sprinkled over both, coat and trousers; vest he had none; but instead
+thereof, a dark blue shirt, trimmed around the collar and bosom with
+something that had once been white. On his head sat (for the crown was
+too low to permit much of any thing to enter into it) a glazed hat,
+which, from its bright appearance, had lately received a fresh coat of
+tar; large bushy locks of sandy-colored hair stood out from beneath,
+based by a thick mat of whiskers, extending under his chin, and covering
+his whole neck; while down his back hung a queue of enormous size,
+reaching nearly to the rock on which he sat. His features, what could be
+seen of them, were not forbidding, although very much doubled and
+twisted by the wear and tear of time and rough weather.
+
+'We were going to the fort,' said Jim; 'and can you tell us, good man,
+if they will let us in!'
+
+'That's accordin' as to what your business is--if you got an arr'nd to
+the major or his lady, or any of his folks, or to the lieutenant and his
+lady, or so on--why the case is, they'll have to pass you right in; but
+if it's only one of the privates you see, that's another thing.'
+
+'But we have no particular errand to anybody; we have got a few things
+to sell, and would be glad to dispose of them at the fort.'
+
+'Ay, ay, that's a new case--things to sell, ha! I guess it will depend
+upon what things you've got. If it's contraband goods, and you're
+thinking to git the better of Uncle Sam, you've come to the wrong
+market; the major'll make short work with you.'
+
+'I don't know what you mean by contraband goods or trying to get the
+better of anybody,' said Jim; 'we only thought they might be in want of
+a few fresh vegetables and some strawberries.'
+
+'Ay, ay, that's clean another case, there's no contraband in them; but
+where under the blessed heaven have you come from? these things can't
+grow nowheres round here.'
+
+'I shouldn't think they could,' said Jim, looking significantly at the
+dreary waste of sand and stunted pine that spread as far as he could
+see; 'strawberries might grow up in the pines there, but I guess not
+such as these.' With that Jim stopped, and taking up a basket, pulled
+off the covering of green leaves, and held them out for the old man to
+look at.
+
+'Of all sights my eyes ever looked at!----'
+
+'I think you'll find them as good as they look,' taking a double
+handful, and holding them out towards the old man.
+
+'No, no,' shaking his weather-beaten face, 'I've no money to buy 'em;
+you must go to the major.'
+
+'Take them and welcome, sir; I had no thought of asking you for pay;
+you're very welcome to them.'
+
+'God bless your young heart!' and holding out his hands he soon showed
+that he knew how to dispose of them; as soon as he had finished he
+jumped down on his one leg, and adjusted his crutches.
+
+'Now, my hearties, I tell you what do you do; steer that craft o' your'n
+right straight across to the fort, and just where you see that ledge of
+rocks ends, you'll come foul of a pair o' stairs; haul up there, and
+wait till I hobble round to my boat, and I'll be with you afore you've
+made all fast.'
+
+Away went the old man, his crutches making the sand fly in his haste to
+get to his boat, which lay a short distance from where he had been
+sitting.
+
+The boys obeyed his directions, and had scarcely made their boat fast,
+ere the old man was alongside.
+
+'Now, my hearties, you just hold on awhile here, till I see the major.'
+
+The moments seem long when we are in suspense, and our boys, in their
+anxiety, began to fear that they should see no more of the old sailor;
+it appeared so long, so very long that he stayed. After gazing intently
+at the gate until their eyes were aching, all at once the sentinel
+stopped, made a peculiar motion with his musket, and put his hand to his
+cap; a gentleman of fine appearance passed out, followed at a respectful
+distance by the crutches. He came directly to the stairs, and accosting
+the boys in a very pleasant manner, inquired where they had come from,
+and what they had for sale. Jim, in a straightforward, manly way,
+answered his queries.
+
+'But, my little fellow, what ever put it into your head to come so far
+as this in search of a market?'
+
+'We could think, sir, of no other place where there would be the least
+chance to sell any thing; the people in this region are too poor to buy
+such things.'
+
+'You may well say so, my lad, and they are like to be so; for a lazier
+set I never saw; but I am glad to find that you, boys, are disposed to
+do something. Peter tells me that you have some choice things for sale.'
+
+Peter, as we must call him hereafter, touched his hat when his name was
+mentioned, but otherwise remained perfectly still, at a respectful
+distance, saying nothing.
+
+Jim immediately uncovered the different articles, and with his hat off,
+looked up at the officer, who smiled as he surveyed the little stock of
+goods.
+
+'You have made out a pretty good assortment--those strawberries are
+fine, indeed; are there plenty such raised in your area?'
+
+'None, sir, but in our garden; my father used to be very fond of fruit,
+and he taught us to raise it.'
+
+'Is your father living?'
+
+'He is not, sir.'
+
+A shade of sadness at once passed over the countenance of the officer,
+and his eye settled more intently upon the boy.
+
+'Well, my lad, have you fixed upon a price for your articles?'
+
+'I leave that to yourself, sir, as I am entirely ignorant of their
+value.'
+
+Major Morris then ordered the different articles to be measured, and
+putting down prices to them such as he was accustomed to pay, handed the
+paper to Jim.
+
+'Not reckoning the strawberries, which I must pay something extra for,
+the amount is one dollar and a half.'
+
+Jim looked up with astonishment.
+
+'I have calculated them at city prices, but if that is not enough----'
+
+'Oh yes, sir; yes, sir. I was not thinking of that; it is much more than
+I expected.'
+
+'And now for the strawberries, what shall I say for them? they are finer
+than those I usually purchase.'
+
+'Oh, sir, I cannot think of taking any thing for them, since you allow
+me so much for the others; if you will only let me take some out and
+give that good man there (pointing to Peter), you are welcome to the
+rest.'
+
+'Certainly, certainly, here Peter.' But Peter had other views of the
+matter, and instead of advancing to receive them, made two or three
+retrograde steps with his crutches, at the same time putting his hand
+upon his long queue and smoothing it down--a custom of his when at all
+confused, and rolling a tremendous quid from one side of his mouth to
+the other.
+
+'The young gentleman wishes to give you some of these, Peter.'
+
+'Thankee, sir, thankee;' nodding his head very fast all the time; 'no
+occasion at all.'
+
+'Well, Peter, since you refuse them, take this basket and hand it to
+Mrs. Morris yourself.'
+
+'Ay, ay, sir;' and away went Peter in double-quick time.
+
+In the meanwhile, Sam manifested no impatience, although somewhat
+anxious as to what would be _his_ fate; the moment Jim could with
+propriety, he directed the attention of the gentleman to Sam's little
+heap of clams and oysters.
+
+Sam took off the seaweed which he had thrown over them, and blushed
+deeply as he met the keen black eye of Major Morris, which having
+glanced a moment at _them_, was scrutinizing with apparent interest the
+appearance of their owner.
+
+As Sam had no more idea of fixing a price than Jim had, the buyer was
+obliged to pay for them on his own terms; so handing him fifty cents, he
+said,
+
+'I fear it will not compensate you for the trouble of bringing them so
+far, but it is the rate for which I buy them.'
+
+Sam expressed his perfect satisfaction the best way he could; for the
+eye of the major was so long fixed upon him, that it quite took away his
+self-possession.
+
+Having made arrangements to bring such articles as their garden afforded
+twice a week, with light and happy hearts, lighter and happier than can
+be well described, they pointed their sail and bent their course for
+home. The rock was to be their landing-place, and long before they
+reached it, Ned could be seen throwing stones and cutting capers with
+Jowler.
+
+'Well, boys, how are you? what luck--sold any thing? I know by your
+looks you haven't!'
+
+'How are you, Ned? any thing happened? You look sober.'
+
+'No, nothing.'
+
+All this was said while the boat was nearing shore, the moment it
+touched the land Ned was on board; he looked at the empty baskets, and
+then at Jim and Sam. Jim smiled, and held out his hand, full of silver
+pieces, and Sam held out his; and then they told him of their success,
+and what arrangements they had made for the future.
+
+Ned was somewhat confounded at the good news; but no sooner did he
+comprehend it fully, than he took hold of both of them at once, shaking
+them, and pushing them about, and hallooing.
+
+'How are you, boys? huzza! huzza!'
+
+'Do, Ned, stop your noise, and don't carry on so; you'll have us all in
+the water.'
+
+'Never mind, Jim, we'll soon work ourselves dry. Huzza! huzza!'
+
+'I'm afraid you'll set the old boat a leaking, Ned.'
+
+'Well, Sam, I'll stop; but how can you fellows keep so still when you've
+had such good luck?'
+
+Sam would have been perfectly contented with the product of his clams
+and oysters for his day's work, but Jim would insist upon giving him a
+certain proportion of what _he_ had received, which was finally fixed at
+one quarter; so that Sam was to have, besides all he could procure from
+the sale of his own articles, one-fourth of whatever other things were
+sold, as his pay for the boat, and his labor in rowing.
+
+And when Sam took the money which Jim handed to him, and put it with
+what he had already received, and looked at it, a crowd of thoughts
+rushed into his mind. Parents, sisters, home, the past, the present, and
+the future--and that future bright with prospect of employment, and the
+means of making those he loved as happy as himself. He could make no
+answer to the cheerful 'Good bye' of Ned and Jim, but he turned his
+bright and glistening eye towards them; and they went on their way the
+happier that they saw how full of joy Sam was.
+
+Sam kept his money in his hand until he reached home, and, going
+directly to his mother, put the whole of his treasure into her lap.
+
+'Why, Sam, where did you get all this?'
+
+'Earned it, mother;' and then he told her all about it, and what he was
+expecting to do in future.
+
+'Oh,' said his mother, laying down her work, and clasping her hands
+together in strong emotion, 'isn't this good! And now, Sam, you'll have
+something to do all the time, and may be, your father will help you; and
+may be he'll feel encouraged to do different; and may be----.' But the
+hope of what might be, was too bright for her to utter it; and so she
+sat and looked at Sam, and then she turned and looked out at the window;
+and who can tell what a pleasing picture was painted out before her on
+the sandy shore and the glassy river.
+
+Sam had designed that his mother should keep the money, and use it for
+their need; but she refused.
+
+'No, no; keep it yourself, Sam; or, if you please, hand it to your
+father. I see he's coming yonder, and all seems to be right with him.'
+
+And so it proved; he had been to work for a neighbor where no restraint
+would have been placed upon his appetite; but, strange to say, he had
+not indulged. He had received no money for his services, for there was
+seldom any of that to be got; but he had a bunch of fish in one hand,
+and a kettle with flour in the other.
+
+'Why, Sam, you got back? that is clever. What luck? not much, I guess.'
+
+Sam made no reply, but as soon as his father had laid down his things he
+handed out his little store.
+
+'Here, father, please to take this.'
+
+'Why, Sam, you didn't sell your things for all this, did you?'
+
+And then Sam told him all the story, while his father looked in
+amazement at the money, and at Sam, and then at his wife; as soon as he
+had finished he held out his hand.
+
+'Here, my boy, go give it to your mother; it's better with her than with
+me.'
+
+'No, father, I'd rather you would take it, and do what you please with
+it.'
+
+Blessings on you, Sam, that you had the good sense and good feeling to
+answer as you did. You have poured a cordial into that father's heart,
+which will do more to heal his weaknesses, and strengthen his good
+resolutions, than could have been done by all the world beside. He feels
+that he is yet a father, all is not lost--his _children yet_ trust in
+him--the bright happy look of that boy has accomplished a work which an
+angel would gladly have been commissioned to perform. God bless you,
+Sam, for this one act, to your latest day.
+
+'Well, Sam, then keep it yourself, and add as much to it as you can; for
+you are a good boy.'
+
+'They shall have it tho' yet, in some way or other,' said Sam to
+himself, as he put it into his little chest. 'I shan't keep it for
+myself; that _I shan't_.'
+
+It would have required two smart talkers to have answered all Ned's
+questions as fast as he put them; and as Jim never talked fast, he was
+not half through answering when they reached home: their lively
+conversation brought their mother out to meet them as they were entering
+the front yard.
+
+'Oh mother, what _do_ you think? Jim has sold all the things for ever so
+much; see the empty baskets, and (striking Jim's pocket) hear that--hear
+the money jingle.'
+
+Both smiled at Ned's earnestness; and entering the house, a little
+circle was soon formed around Jim, who went through with his story in
+his own way.
+
+'And now, mother,' said Ned, as soon as his brother had finished,
+'you'll see how I can work; and if you will only give me a little bite
+of something, I will go at once and finish my hoeing, for I was so
+anxious to see the boys come back, that I have done nothing all the
+afternoon but look over to the point.'
+
+'You now feel, boys, the benefit of having been taught to work; it is no
+hardship to you now.'
+
+'Why, mother, I would rather work than play.'
+
+'You thought differently the other day, Ned.'
+
+'I know that, Jim; but you see the case is altered--that plan of yours
+which I laughed so much about, makes altogether a great difference. I
+don't believe any body would want to work just for the sake of it, would
+they, mother?'
+
+'No doubt, my dear, we need some stimulus to make us exert ourselves
+cheerfully; but your father always said that it was better to be at
+work, even if it did not amount to much; it was impossible, he said, for
+an idle person to be happy.'
+
+Mrs. Montjoy said but little by way of encouragement, for she saw that
+the boys were both highly elated with their success and the prospect
+before them; but she secretly admired and gratefully acknowledged the
+overruling of that kind Providence, which had opened a way for her
+children's usefulness and the supply of their wants.
+
+The next morning Jim and Ned did not need to be awaked; there was real
+business on their hands now, and they must use their time to the best
+advantage; so at it they went while the sun was but just rising, and by
+the time their breakfast was prepared, had completed hilling their
+cabbages: as they ceased work, Jim leaned on his hoe, and looking at his
+brother,--
+
+'I've been thinking, Ned, what we've got to do.'
+
+'I knew you'd been thinking, for you haven't spoken a word this half
+hour; twice I asked you about old Peter, and you only answered, "Ha!"'
+
+'Did I, Ned? well, I was thinking what we are going to do about these
+cabbages.'
+
+'I don't see any thing to do about them; ain't they well hoed?'
+
+'Yes, they are doing well enough; but what will the cow do!'
+
+'Why, eat them; I am sure none of us wants them.'
+
+'Yes, but Ned, how can the cow have them if we sell them?'
+
+'That, to be sure; but where can we put any more--the garden is full?'
+
+'We can put one here, and another there, and there in those vacant
+spots; there will be room for one hundred heads and more.'
+
+'Well, Jim; any thing more?'
+
+'Yes, I've been thinking where we could plant some more potatoes.'
+
+'There is no use of thinking about that, Jim; for when these cabbages
+are planted, every spot will be occupied; you don't think of digging up
+the walks, do you?'
+
+'No, not exactly that, Ned; but there is that strip of turf, south of
+the path running to the barn; the grass is of no value, and if mother
+would let us take it, we might turn it over with our spades, and raise
+twenty bushels of potatoes there.'
+
+'Any thing else, Jim?'
+
+'That will do for to-day, won't it, Ned?'
+
+'I think we shall find it will--it makes my back ache already to think
+about that digging. I wish it was a little cooler.'
+
+The pleasant voice of their little sister was now heard calling them to
+breakfast, for which they were both well prepared by their early labors.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+
+Sam's first care after awaking on the morning which succeeded the scenes
+in the last chapter, was to make some arrangement with old Mr. Andrews
+for the boat. The old man was of the easy sort; he had never done much
+when young, and now in advanced life depended entirely for the few clams
+he wanted upon his son, who lived a short distance from him, and was
+growing up in his father's likeness.
+
+'You're welcome, Sam, to use the boat as long as you're amind to, and I
+won't ax you nothin' for it; only once in awhile you may bring the old
+woman a few clam.'
+
+'I thank you very much, Uncle John; I will take good care of the boat,
+and will bring you some clams every day.'
+
+'Oh, no, no, no, Sam; I don't want no sich thing as that; only once in a
+while, you see. Jack, he's a gettin' lazy like, and sometimes the old
+woman gets tired of fish, and then a few clams is a kind of change for
+her.'
+
+Sam's next business was to visit Mr. Grizzle's store, that he might
+purchase some article his mother needed.
+
+'There shan't be no more trust, if I can help it,' said he, as he took
+up his money-box, and put some of its precious contents into his pocket.
+It was quite early in the day, yet several of Mr. Grizzle's customers
+were already assembled when Sam reached the store; he had a great
+reluctance to enter it, associated as it was in his mind with all that
+had been dark and sorrowful in his past experience; but nowhere else
+could supplies be obtained. Old Mr. Grizzle was busy behind his counter,
+twirling the toddy-stick, saying smart things, or what he took to be so,
+for he laughed very heartily at his own wit; and his customers, poor
+souls! were so much in his debt that they were obliged to laugh too.
+
+Sam glanced his eye over them all--some were bald with age; some in the
+prime of life; and one, he knew him well, a lad but two years older than
+himself, was draining the last sweet drop from the cup of poison as Sam
+stepped up to the counter.
+
+'Mr. Grizzle, what do you charge for seven pounds of flour?'
+
+'What do I charge?' At the same time putting his spectacles upon his
+forehead.
+
+'Yes, sir, what is the price?'
+
+'The price, boy? Why, how does your father want it? for fish or for
+trust?'
+
+'We don't want it for neither, sir, but for the money.'
+
+'Ah!--the money. Well, I s'pose we must try to let you have it a little
+less; but flour is plaguy dear any how, and I aint got none but rye.'
+
+Sam succeeded in procuring a small deduction, and with that he purchased
+some tar.
+
+'I shall tar my boat with what I have saved by paying the money,' said
+Sam to himself, as he laid down his cash on the counter; then taking up
+his goods went straight on his way.
+
+'That seems to be rather a 'cute boy, Mr. Grizzle--that young Oakum.'
+
+'The younker, I guess, will go ahead of the old man,' said Grizzle, as
+he dropped the money Sam had given him through a little hole in the
+counter.
+
+An old man, with his thin white locks dangling on his shoulders, placed
+his half-emptied tumbler on the bench beside him, and turning his head
+very emphatically on one side, said, 'Oakum is naturally a smart man,
+and he has got a clever wife, but somehow he don't get along much--no
+better than the rest of us.'
+
+'And what is the reason, Uncle John,' said another, addressing the last
+speaker, 'that we are all so poor?'
+
+'Why, I s'pose it's to be so--it's our luck, as I take it.'
+
+'Our _luck_?' said the young man, who stood by the door with his hands
+in his pockets, looking at the receding form of Sam Oakum, whose light
+steps were carrying him far on his way--he laid a strong emphasis on the
+word luck.
+
+'Yes, as I take it, it's our luck; a man may work ever so hard, but if
+luck is agin him, it's no use.'
+
+'Yes, it is use,' said the same young man; 'that is, if a man would let
+rum alone--that makes the bad luck; I wish there had never been a drop
+made.'
+
+'What's that you say, Bill? I guess your bitters is gone down the wrong
+way this morning.' And old Grizzle laughed heartily, and so did his
+customers. Bill, as he was called, laughed a little too, but not as the
+rest did.
+
+'S'pose you mix Bill another glass, Mr. Grizzle, and see how that will
+go?' And they all laughed again; and to carry the joke through, Grizzle
+did prepare another glass, and placing it on the counter,
+
+'There, try that, Bill; but may be you darsen't, you seem to be so
+afraid all at once.'
+
+Bill hesitated a moment; the fear of ridicule was too powerful. He
+seized the glass, and pouring its contents hastily down his throat, left
+the store amidst the uproarious laughter of his companions.
+
+Jim and Ned had collected a much larger quantity of vegetables for their
+second trip, and to the baskets of strawberries which they designed as
+gifts, added a beautiful nosegay of the earlier flowers.
+
+'Strawberries and flowers,' said Sam, as he was pushing the boat from
+the shore; 'your things look tempting indeed; I guess old Peter will hop
+round when he sees these.'
+
+'I have brought that small basket on purpose for him; and the flowers I
+thought the ladies might be pleased with--I don't think they see many
+where they are.'
+
+'It almost makes me feel bad, Jim, to think that I have nothing to carry
+worth looking at.'
+
+'Why, it is all one concern, you know, Sam; and I mean to have you hand
+them the flowers.'
+
+'I shan't do it, Jim--I should make a pretty figure, with my old patched
+clothes and bare feet, handing flowers to ladies and gentlemen!'
+
+'Sam Oakum, if you talk so, you'll make me feel bad; who cares for your
+clothes?'
+
+'_You_ don't Jim, I know; but all don't feel as you and Ned do--Keep her
+head to the point, Jim, straight as you can.'
+
+Sam had much more rowing to do than on the former trip, the wind not
+coming quite so soon to their aid.
+
+Peter was on the look-out for them, and hailed them before they reached
+the landing.
+
+'Halloo, my hearties! keep her jist about so--there--ease up--in with
+your oars; you've had a long pull to-day--but you'll learn to take it
+sailor-fashion after a while.'
+
+The boys were very busy fastening their boat and taking down their sail,
+and did not at the moment perceive that any one was present but the old
+sailor, until attracted by the bunch of flowers lying on one of the
+baskets, he exclaimed,--
+
+'Susie, Susie, look here! did you ever see such posies as these?'
+
+Sam at once seated himself in the stern of the boat, as far out of the
+way as possible; while Jim, taking up the flowers, handed them to Peter,
+and blushing very much,--
+
+'These are for the lady, if you will be so good as to give them to
+her--and this basket of strawberries; and here is one for yourself, sir,
+if you will please accept it.'
+
+'Bless your young hearts, to think of the old sailor. I thank you
+kindly, boys; but'--putting his face down to Jim, and whispering--'you
+won't mind my giving them to this little pet of mine;'--then raising
+himself up--'Here, Susie, you carry these flowers to your Ma, and I'll
+carry the strawberries;'--then stooping down again, and speaking in a
+low voice--'the Major will be here pretty soon; he's busy now--you won't
+be none the loser for these, I tell you. He's a real gentleman, and a
+liberal soul, and he's got plenty to do with.' And the old man shook his
+head very knowingly, making his long queue, as it stuck out in the air,
+perform some strange manoeuvres; the boys, however, were diverted from
+observing its wonderful gyrations by a sudden attraction towards the
+flowers. It must have been that Peter's rapturous praises, or the
+delight which they seem to have afforded Miss Susan, had unfolded new
+beauties to our boys, for their eyes followed _the flowers_, even when
+the young lady buried her pretty face among them to enjoy a fulness of
+their fragrance--it could not possibly have been any thing else, Sam was
+so very bashful, and Jim so very discreet--but their eyes followed the
+flowers, even until the lovely little maiden that carried them was lost
+to their view, and entered the castle gate.
+
+Major Morris appeared well pleased with the variety Jim had brought, and
+arranged every thing, as to price and measurement, in the same business
+manner as before. He then proceeded to speak with him in reference to a
+supply for the ensuing winter, enumerating a variety of articles, and
+among them beans and potatoes.
+
+'Potatoes we shall have, sir, and perhaps a few beans.'
+
+'I wish to engage three hundred bushels of potatoes, to be well
+selected, and of good size, and fifty bushels of beans. If you choose to
+make a contract to deliver me these articles in the fall'--at the same
+time handing to Jim a strip of paper with the prices annexed--'on these
+terms, you can do so; and if you have not so many of your own, you can
+doubtless purchase them of your neighbors, so as to pay you well for
+your trouble.'
+
+The boys were so confounded by the magnitude of the business proposed to
+them, that when the Major ceased speaking, Sam looked at Jim and he at
+Sam, and neither of them the wiser for any thing gained from the
+countenance of the other--until Sam, as though it was more than he could
+stand under, sat down; in doing so, however, he stumbled over his clams
+and oysters, which attracted the notice of the Major to them.
+
+'Ah, what have you got there? clams and oysters? I had like to have
+forgotten to inquire for them.'
+
+This brought Sam to his senses again; clams and oysters, almost in any
+quantities, were familiar to him, but where three hundred bushels of
+potatoes and fifty bushels of beans were to come from, was beyond his
+comprehension. He soon had his part of the cargo on shore, and as Major
+Morris handed him the money, thanked him in a very civil manner.
+
+It was some time before Jim gave any reply to the proposal which had
+been made to him, he was so absorbed in thinking; his mind had to run
+over all the names of persons likely to have such articles for sale, and
+the probable quantity each might be willing to spare. At length, after
+thanking Major Morris for giving him such a chance--for he had sense
+enough to perceive that it was all in kindness that the offer had been
+made--he agreed to accept it.
+
+'And now, my lads, you must go with me, as Mrs. Morris wishes to thank
+you personally for the flowers and fruit.'
+
+Again the boys looked at each other, and Sam turned very pale and then
+very red, and finally sat down, and made signs to Jim to go along.
+
+Jim knew that it would not be proper to hesitate under such
+circumstances, so he prepared at once to follow; while Peter, who always
+observed the most perfect silence in the presence of the Major, as soon
+as he saw him on the way to the fort, began to make the most furious
+gestures imaginable, motioning with his head so violently, that his
+queue flew round behind him like a fly-brush; and when he thought there
+was no danger of being overheard,--
+
+'Go along; go along, I say! he's axed you himself--go along; it will be
+the makin' of you.'
+
+But it was of no avail. Sam shook his head and sat still, until the old
+man, having exhausted his means of persuasion, took a seat beside him,
+muttering something about 'dumb-founded perverseness.'
+
+Jim had a great curiosity to see what was within the walls of the fort;
+but he had only time to catch a glimpse of large guns on
+wheel-carriages, and soldiers with glittering muskets; for Major Morris
+passed quickly on, and opening a side door in the hall, was at once in
+an elegantly furnished apartment, and in the presence of several
+fine-looking ladies and the little girl, who still held the bunch of
+flowers in close contact with her face.
+
+Jim was not allowed to suffer the least embarrassment; for immediately
+on his entrance Mrs. Morris arose, and coming toward him with a pleasant
+smile and kindly salutation, thanked him so heartily for the present he
+had sent to her, and talked so familiarly with him about his home and
+his garden, that he felt as much freedom as though he had been long
+acquainted.
+
+'I regret exceedingly,' said Mrs. Morris, 'that I have nothing to offer
+you in return for such beautiful fruit; but you must not refuse to taste
+some of my cake. Susie, lay down your flowers, if you can part with them
+so long, and hand that plate to our young visitor.'
+
+Susie did at once as she was bidden: but she looked so very serious
+about it, and walked so very slowly, that Jim would just at that moment
+have preferred being in the boat by the side of Sam. She came directly
+towards him with the silver plate in her hand, and some rich-looking
+cake lying on it; so he had no alternative but to step towards her, and
+in the politest manner he could, select a piece. His attention was, of
+necessity, directed to the plate; but he could not help giving a glance
+at other things. And indeed, Jim, you are not to blame for blushing as
+you did, when you encountered the gaze of those sweet blue eyes, which,
+in all the unaffected simplicity of youth, were fastened upon you. Her
+golden-colored hair, parted smoothly from the fair forehead, and hung in
+such a cluster of curls upon her snow-white neck--the rich color that
+painted her parting lips, just tinged with the slightest blush her
+dimpled cheek. She meant nothing by her gaze; it was only the expression
+of an innocent curiosity in reference to the young gentleman she was
+waiting upon. His clothes, to be sure, were coarse, and such as well
+became the work in which he was engaged; but his collar was very white,
+and neatly tied with a black ribbon; and his light-brown hair, so soft
+and silky; his fair complexion, his pleasant voice, and good manners,
+all made a contrast which she did not understand; and it would seem that
+some of the company present, much older than Susie, were equally
+surprised.
+
+'What a fine, manly-looking boy! and how well he behaves,' said Mrs.
+Morris, as soon as Jim had retired, to an elderly lady richly dressed,
+and who, from the peculiar glance she gave to another lady much younger
+than herself, while Mrs. Morris and Susie were paying so much attention
+to our Jim, felt anything but satisfied at the scene.
+
+'I say, aunt, what a fine little fellow that is!'
+
+'Well, Lettie,' said the elderly lady, shaking her sides a little, as
+though it was something so ludicrous that she must laugh--she could not
+help it, 'I didn't see anything very extraordinary. Where is he from?
+who is he? a son of some of the gentlemen down in the pines here? Mary
+and I saw some specimens of their houses--a mansion or two;' and the old
+lady laughed so heartily, that she could say nothing more, and the young
+lady had to put her handkerchief to her face to hide the emotion which
+was agitating her. Mrs. Morris was aware of the peculiarities of this
+lady, an aunt of her husband's, and as she unintentionally had opened
+the way for a long lecture on the plebeian notions of herself and
+husband, she was much relieved by the entrance of the Major, who, full
+of praises of 'those manly little fellows,' as he called Jim and Sam,
+whom he had just parted with, drew upon himself the storm which Mrs.
+Morris came near enduring alone.
+
+'I felt disposed to laugh, I must say, Philip,' addressing the Major,
+'to see Lettie paying as much personal respect and attention to a little
+market boy, as it seems he is, as though he had belonged to one of our
+best and most respectable families. I say, I felt at first disposed to
+laugh, but I must say, Philip,' and the old lady straightened herself in
+a very decided manner, and began fanning herself very earnestly--'I must
+say, that when I saw that dear child, at her mother's bidding, waiting
+upon a young clown as though he had been a very gentleman, and when I
+thought what blood ran in her veins, it fired my indignation. Such
+things ought not to be, Philip; you will demolish all distinctions in
+society, or at any rate, bring your own family to feel that it is no
+matter whom they associate with, and that one is as good as another.'
+
+The Major suffered his aunt to 'say her say out,' and, knowing as he did
+what reason he had personally to set a high estimate on the pedigree to
+which she seemed to think it was such an honor to be allied, was
+designing some palpable hits for the special benefit of his kindred,
+drawn from his own experience; but being a wise man, as well as a
+noble-hearted one, he concluded to treat the matter as he saw his wife
+was doing, and laugh it off.
+
+'Why, aunt! I thought you had given me up long ago as an incorrigible
+boy, who would have his own way. You know, aunt, I began very early in
+life to do as I pleased; and having worked my own way up the ladder so
+far, it is not strange if I should be a little headstrong, or my notions
+of such matters as you have touched upon somewhat peculiar.'
+
+His good aunt had heard enough to refresh her memory on a matter that,
+now the subject of it had, as he reminded her, raised himself to
+distinction, she, as well as the rest of his kindred, would have been
+willing should pass into oblivion; and was well satisfied when the Major
+invited her and the other ladies to walk with him upon the ramparts to
+witness a fine sight, the passing of a ship of the largest class, under
+full sail.
+
+This lady and her daughter will not be subjects of our story; so I will
+not trouble the reader with any farther description of them. They belong
+to a class often met with in the common walks of life, who, because of
+some imaginary value which they attach to the ancestry from which they
+have descended, gauge their estimate of others by what they think to be
+the equality, or inequality, of their station to that which they suppose
+themselves to occupy. Major Morris estimated society by a different
+standard; and, as we shall have much to do with him, it may be well to
+trace the causes which led him thus to judge.
+
+He was born in a part of our country where the distinctions which
+formerly prevailed between the classes of society were still kept up.
+His parents were allied to those who claimed the higher ranks of life as
+theirs by birth, and struggled hard to maintain their station; but
+poverty and death are great levellers, and young Morris found himself,
+at twelve years of age, an orphan, without a home, or the means of
+support, except that which was afforded him by the charity of his
+kindred. He was invited by an uncle to make his house a home, and for a
+while enjoyed the privilege of dwelling within a splendid mansion, and
+faring sumptuously, and mingling amongst the gay youth that thronged
+where abundance flowed. But he soon found that poverty was thought to be
+a disgrace, even in nearest kin, by those who would have scorned the
+idea of his engaging in any lawful calling whereby he could have earned
+his bread, if that calling was not one which, in their view, his
+peculiar class could engage in. Young Morris knew nothing of such
+distinctions; but he knew that he was poor, and was made, on more than
+one occasion, to feel his dependence. His high spirit rebelled; he left
+his place of refuge, and took shelter beneath the roof of a poor family,
+with whom he labored for a time most cheerfully in earning his daily
+bread. From thence he obtained employment in one of our large cities in
+the mercantile line; but as he reached the age in which generally a
+choice is made of an occupation for life, his feelings prompted to the
+military profession. Through the influence of a friend, whom his own
+correct deportment had gained, he obtained a commission. His strict
+attention to all the rules of the service, his entire devotedness to
+every duty committed to him, and his well-established reputation as a
+noble-minded and chivalrous officer, gave him favor in high places, and
+he rose rapidly to the grade he then held. To a commanding appearance
+and most polished manners, he united a kind and benevolent heart, warm
+in its sympathies towards every object of distress; and he would have
+poured out full streams to every child of want, to the very extent of
+his ability. But well for him, as for those he would aid, he had learned
+not only to bring others under wholesome discipline, but himself also;
+he had learned that some of our best feelings must be under subjection
+to prudent counsel, and that he who scatters in profusion, even from the
+promptings of a noble heart, is as likely to do evil as good. He had
+abundance to bestow, for he had married a lady of great wealth, and the
+whole responsibility of its proper use was devolved on him; his lovely
+wife had not only committed herself, but all she possessed, entirely to
+him. 'She wanted nothing to call her own,' she said, 'but her husband's
+heart.'
+
+Nothing could have been more gratifying to Major Morris than his
+introduction to our boys. He could sympathise in their feelings; he
+could value properly their enterprising spirit, and he had an
+opportunity of indulging his kindness of heart in a way that would
+stimulate them to exertion.
+
+It would be no easy task to describe the happiness which our boys Jim
+and Sam enjoyed, as they drew their skiff to shore that evening, and
+separated, each for their several homes. Sam found every thing as
+peaceful as his heart could wish, while the wonderful story which he had
+to tell excited the astonishment of his parents.
+
+'I don't believe tho', Sam,' said his father, 'you will find so many
+beans and potatoes to sell in all this place; and then I don't see how
+you are goin' to carry them, nor how you are goin' to pay for them.'
+
+'I don't know much about it, father; but I guess Jim will work it out
+some way. He didn't hardly speak a word all the way home; he was
+thinking, I know.'
+
+'Perhaps he may manage it, somehow; but I don't well see through it all,
+Sam. I can't do much for you myself; only if I had the stuff, I might
+build you a bigger boat, and one that would stand the waves better than
+the old one you've got.'
+
+'Oh, would you, father?' and Sam's eyes began to glisten; and his
+mother, good soul, had to wipe away the tears that her joyful heart
+could not restrain--some of the _may-bes_ which had so lately played in
+pleasant vision before her, were indeed realised.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+
+The place where the scene of this story is laid, I have said was a lone
+village; it had no communication with other places by means of boats,
+although its water privileges were abundant; and between it and
+neighbouring towns intervened an extent of country, consisting of
+pine-barrens, where no settlements could exist, or at least any that
+deserved the name. There were those, however, who dwelt amid its dreary
+solitudes, and called it home. Scattered here and there upon an area of
+ten to fifteen miles square, might be seen, sometimes alone and
+sometimes in clusters of three or four, a few miserable dwellings, made
+principally of logs. A door, and one window without glass, were the only
+openings to these abodes; and a rude chimney running up against the
+outside, formed a receptacle for the pine logs, which blazed often
+through the long winter nights, the only light they could afford, as
+well as almost their only protection from the searching cold.
+
+Poverty and wretchedness generally make sad havoc with the human frame;
+the haggard countenance, the dry and skinny hands, the stoop, the
+feeble, tottering gait, we expect and look for, when visiting abodes
+that betoken destitution. But miserable as was the appearance of these
+dwellings, the aspect of their inhabitants was generally that of health
+and sufficiency; their swarthy complexions, and fine athletic forms,
+almost compelled the traveller through these lonely regions to believe
+that he had alighted upon a tribe of those sons of the forest who once
+called our country all their own.
+
+The moral character of this people was in keeping with the aspect of
+their dwellings. Having no regular religious instruction, seldom hearing
+the voice of a living teacher, with scarce a Bible to be found within
+their gloomy houses, they were but little in advance of the heathen as
+to religious knowledge, and far too near allied to them in many of their
+vicious habits.
+
+They earned their daily bread by laboring amid the lofty and dense
+forests, in levelling the majestic pines, cutting them into lengths
+suitable for transportation, and conveying them to the outskirts of the
+barrens: their hire was but a pittance when considered as a remuneration
+for their toil, but it enabled them to live; it procured for them food,
+coarse indeed, but enough to satisfy their appetite, and the plain and
+simple clothing which necessity demanded, or to which perhaps their
+taste aspired.
+
+The owners of these forests lived at some distance, and employed an
+agent to attend to all the various labors of preparing the timber and
+conveying it to market.
+
+Cross, the individual employed for this business, had grown up amid
+these solitudes, and labored with his axe for some years. Gifted by
+nature with shrewdness, and not very particular on the score of
+morality, he had managed to obtain the post he occupied, and with most
+of the proprietors stood on good terms; he was active, prompt, and
+efficient, and perhaps, for the business intrusted to him, did as well
+as any one could. But he was, beyond measure, grasping and avaricious;
+and as he could not well gain undue advantage from those who employed
+him, being bound by contracts not easily evaded, he made up such
+deficiency by 'grinding the faces' of the poor laborers.
+
+Without any means of gaining a livelihood besides, they had become
+entirely dependent on the good-will of Mr. Cross. He fixed their wages,
+supplied them from his store with the necessaries of life at his own
+price, and in that way managed to bring them, at the close of every
+month, either without any surplus, or most generally a trifle in debt.
+
+On the border of these barrens, and near the principal scene of our
+story, lived the widow Mary Brown; her husband had been one of the
+woodcutters, an intemperate man, who had caused her much trouble while
+he lived, and when he died left her with two orphans. She had to
+struggle hard to support herself and little ones. But as a light in a
+dark place, so was this widow among these outcasts. She was generally
+known throughout the region where she lived, and the wildest and most
+abandoned never brought against her a railing accusation--they never
+spoke lightly of her not her religion; for the garb of piety she wore
+was so unassuming, the light that shone around her humble path was so
+mild and unobtrusive:--
+
+    Like the soft fleecy cloud at the close of day,
+    That far in the west where the sun's last ray
+    Rests bright on its bosom--its mellow light
+    Steals to our heart, as we gaze in delight;
+    No glare to dazzle, we love to view
+    Its changing tints and its golden hue.
+
+Having a very humbling view of herself, she felt great pity for the
+deluded ones around her; she never chid them for their follies, but
+would weep and pray in secret, and when called to watch at their dying
+bed, she had such a quiet, happy way of holding up before the weak and
+guilty spirit the Saviour in his love and pity, that many a poor
+wanderer took courage from her message of mercy, and ere the spirit
+fled, it was enabled to look in faith, and go its lone way in peace.
+Wherever sorrow or sickness visited, there was she sent for, as one who
+carried with her a charm that could neutralize their power.
+
+Her dwelling was a log hut like those in that vicinity, but it had an
+air of comfort the others had not. Her plain door was white-washed, and
+a little curtain hung across the window; and there was a box of flowers
+by the step, and every useless thing was removed from around the house,
+and the ground swept neatly, and beneath some of the large pines that
+afforded a grateful shade to her lonely abode, were rude seats, as
+though made for the wayfaring man, on which to rest and be refreshed.
+
+Her children, though helpless little ones when their father died, had
+now grown up to an age when each of them, in different ways, could
+materially aid her. She felt no longer a dread of want, although often
+sighing in secret that her son was compelled to labor with those whose
+example could only lead astray, and that her daughter had no brighter
+prospect than a residence among these uncultivated foresters. But she
+had done what she could. Of worldly wisdom she knew nothing; but she had
+a Bible, and could read it. Its requirements and its doctrines were all
+plain to her, she loved them, and taught them to her children; they
+learned passages from them on the long, still Sabbath days, and as she
+sat in the shade of the large pines by her door, they would come and sit
+near her, to hear and listen to some story she would tell them of those
+whose names have been recorded, and their history handed down for the
+benefit of every coming generation. But other influences have now begun
+to exert a counteracting power; William is eighteen, a man in size and
+strength, a hardy laborer, and much from home. He still brings all he
+earns, or nearly all, to the common stock; he still reverences his
+mother, and listens to her instructions, and treats with kindness his
+only sister; but rumours have reached his home that his chosen
+associates were some whose names had become by-words for rude and evil
+doings, and any heart but a mother's would have given up his chance for
+any future good.
+
+'She had hope for William,' she said, 'although he might be led astray
+by evil companions.'
+
+And she had good cause for hoping--for she had fastened to his heart
+that golden chain, each link of which a mother's prayers and gentle
+teachings and untiring love had formed. He felt its power even in his
+hours of revelling, and although he never met with an upbraiding word or
+look from her, his conscience had no rest.
+
+The daughter was all that her mother could ask; she had no desire to
+depart from the beautiful precepts of the Bible--because she loved them.
+Her mind was active, thoughtful, and discerning beyond her years; of
+kind and generous disposition, ever ready for any work of love, and
+cheerful and happy in the consciousness of good-will to all. Her moral
+character was well matched with a beauty of person rarely found, even
+under every advantage. Hettie had no ornaments to set off her beauty,
+and no graces imparted by culture to heighten the natural ease of her
+movements; her complexion, though dark, was brightened by the rich color
+which adorned her cheeks, and her jet-black eyes were softened by the
+long dark lashes that gave to their expression almost the languor of a
+southern clime, while her dark hair dangled in luxuriant curls, very
+much to her annoyance, for she often said:--
+
+'She did wish her hair was straight like other girls; it was always
+getting into such a tangle.'
+
+As Mrs. Brown--or the Widow Brown, as she was universally called--lived
+nearer to the open and more cultivated settlement than any of the other
+inhabitants of the barrens, she was well known among the farmers'
+families, although intimate with very few. Hettie had some associates
+there, which her mother preferred for her to those in her own immediate
+vicinity. Of these, the family of the Widow Andrews was one to which
+they were peculiarly attached. They could sympathize with each other;
+the mothers were both widows, and each had two children of about the
+same age. They both loved good things; they could converse bout their
+past trials, and present hopes and fears. But while many things in their
+circumstances were similar, there were others in which they were very
+unlike to each other; for the Widow Andrews was much under the power of
+strong natural feelings, easily excited by joy or grief, and her
+passions when aroused seemed at times to know no bounds: no sooner was a
+chord struck that touched a tender point in her heart, than she would
+begin to talk very rapidly and to weep freely; her words flowing faster
+and faster, and louder and louder, until, between weeping and talking,
+she would finally break into a flood of tears, and all was over.
+
+The Widow Brown was aware of this weakness in her neighbor, and lamented
+it, for she knew that at times it did real evil; but there were so many
+things that she loved her for, this she considered as a mere weakness,
+for which she should be pitied.
+
+In reference to worldly goods, too, there was a dissimilarity. The Widow
+Andrews had a much better house, although a very plain one; still it was
+called a house, and not a log hut; and she had a few acres of land
+attached to it, and a small barn, old and shackling to be sure, and a
+few head of cattle, and had been enabled, hitherto, to make out to live
+in a very frugal way from her own resources.
+
+Mary, her daughter, was not pretty, like Hettie Brown, nor was she so
+intelligent; but she had a kind heart, and was obedient to her mother,
+and being about Hettie's age, the two girls became much attached.
+
+The son had promised fair to be a support to his mother, and a good
+member of society, but a dark cloud had arisen upon all such
+prospects--bad company had now begun to have attractions for him. He
+neglected his work, disobeyed his mother, lost his ambition, and was in
+a fair way to make a wreck of body and soul. His mother had been proud
+of her William--of his good behavior, of his efficiency at work, of his
+industrious habits; and not a little proud was she of his fine
+appearance--it was a mother's weakness; but we will not judge her
+harshly. He had, indeed, a very pleasant expression to his countenance;
+his lively eye looked so kindly at you; there was such a play of
+roguishness and good-nature about his mouth; and when he spoke, a
+musical voice brought out the words so soft and clear--all tended to
+interest both friends and strangers. But all the love which his mother
+bore towards him, and all her pride in him, caused her to be more
+violent in her rebukes. She poured out such a torrent of invective at
+him, that much as he felt he deserved her displeasure, he could not
+stand the violence of it. Every bad feeling of his heart was aroused; he
+began to dread his home and his mother's voice, and sought refuge where,
+alas! ruin alone could be the end thereof.
+
+He was now eighteen years of age, and as my reader was first introduced
+to him at Mr. Grizzle's store, we will follow him as he left that den of
+evil. His conscience was troubled; there was something in the appearance
+and behavior of Sam Oakum that morning, that revived the memory of what
+he himself had once been. We saw how he watched Sam when he left the
+store, as far his eye could follow him; how madly he poured down the
+offered glass, and rushed from the scene of his shame.
+
+Whither to direct his steps he knew not, but onward he went; he was glad
+to be in the open air, it was so much better than the poisonous
+atmosphere he had just left. Soon his attention was arrested by the
+appearance of a dwelling and its precincts that he was about to pass. It
+was a scene of desolation--the house and all its accompaniments; the
+windows stuffed with every variety of color and substance to supply the
+places of broken panes; the door hung sideways by one hinge, the boards
+loose and flapping against the timbers of the house, the roof broken in,
+and apparently ready to fall upon the inmates, and the inclosures around
+the place lying prostrate or scattered about the grounds. A woman was
+outside, picking up what rubbish she could meet with to replenish the
+fire; sorrow was plainly marked upon her withered features; and as she
+walked into the house with a few faggots in her hand, there was such a
+deadness in her step, such a bowing down under the weight of some too
+heavy burden--ambition, comfort, hope, all seemed to have departed, and
+left her in her misery with a broken spirit.
+
+William halted in his rapid course; he looked upon the scene and
+considered it well.
+
+This was the house of one of those whom he had just left; the one most
+forward to complain of bad luck, and who joined most heartily in the
+laugh which had been excited at his expense. He had been familiar with
+this place; often had he seen it, just as it then appeared, but never
+had its desolate condition affected him before;--a light from heaven
+seemed pouring upon it, and singling it out from all other objects. He
+could look at nothing else. 'It was the vineyard of the man void of
+understanding, and the field of the slothful; the stone wall thereof was
+broken down; it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles covered the
+face thereof.'
+
+William looked upon it, and received instruction: slowly and sadly he
+passed along.
+
+A little by-road now crossed the public highway. Instinctively almost,
+he turned into it; the trees which lined it formed a grateful shade, and
+seemed to invite him therein to cool his heated, feverish frame.
+
+Near to this path, and not far from the highway he had left, was a pure,
+bright, bubbling spring; it came up through the clean white sand, and
+the green turf formed its only curb. On one side it had cleared an
+opening, and meandered away through a little bed of fine gravel stones,
+which sparkled in the sunbeams as they stole through the branches of the
+willows which encircled the fountain. His throat parched with thirst,
+and his mind and body in an excited condition, he threw himself upon the
+velvet turf, and allayed his thirst from the pure stream. He tried to
+think, but his thoughts ran wild into each other; he turned his head
+towards the roots of one of the willows, and rested it there. It
+throbbed against the cool green turf; its coolness was refreshing to
+him, and there he slept.
+
+Hettie Brown had that morning left her home in the barrens to do an
+errand for her mother in Mr. Grizzle's store; she stopped at the Widow
+Andrews', and found the mother and daughter in tears, and had to listen
+to a long tale of William's delinquencies.
+
+'And he's gone off to Grizzle's, now again, I _know_ he has; and there
+he'll sit and drink, and he'll come home drunk yet one of these days,
+and he'll be a drunkard and a vagabond.'
+
+And the good woman went off into another hard crying spell. Hettie made
+no reply; she was not in the habit of talking much, nor did she shed any
+tears--she was not given to that either. A few expressions of sympathy
+she dropped as she parted from Mary, telling her to hope for the best,
+and making a short call, went on her way to the store.
+
+She was anxious to see William, and therefore she hastened her steps.
+She seemed to feel a consciousness of power to lead him away from the
+path of ruin. He had been her playmate when a little child; nor had he
+ever, by word or deed, done aught to offend her. The intimacy of
+childhood had indeed passed away--her wise mother had cautioned her on
+matters referring especially to William, and of late she had seldom seen
+him; but she felt that she possessed an influence over him, and she
+meant now to exert it.
+
+As she crossed the by-path we have already mentioned, she thought of the
+little spring, and how refreshing it would be to drink of its cool
+water. She turned, and followed the path towards the willows which
+marked the spot.
+
+When William Andrews awoke, it was from a troubled dream, and the quiet
+which surrounded him was grateful to his spirits. He arose and drank
+freely from the spring--the birds were singing sweetly in the hedges and
+on the trees; there was no sound beside, but the rippling of the little
+rill that stole gently away from the fountain where he had slaked his
+thirst. His feelings, late so hurried and disturbed, were calm--the
+storm had lulled, a dark and dreadful gulf seemed to have been passed,
+and now he was upon a path where all above and around him combined to
+make it light and pleasant. This change, however, was but the effect of
+that rest which sleep had given to his frame; 'twas the pure fresh
+feeling which the soul enjoys when waked by morning's dawn, before the
+hopes and fears, the business and the cares of life, have time to urge
+their claims. Scarce had he quenched his thirst, and fully awaked to a
+consciousness of his situation, ere the scenes of the morning rushed
+back upon him. As the tumult of his thoughts arose, he stood and leaned
+against one of the willows, and cast his eye down at the little
+fountain, bubbling up so incessantly and with so little disturbance,
+that it came to the surface with no alloy of earth about it; and he saw
+how fresh and rank was the greensward all along its course--it not only
+gave from its little receptacle a full supply for all who needed, but
+virtue seemed to emanate throughout its meanderings, and to bless
+wherever it flowed.
+
+'This spring,' said he, 'is like the life of one that is good--pure at
+the fountain, and the whole life a blessing, making things better and
+happier all around him; but _my_ life--oh, what has it been?' And his
+cheek flushed, and tears of anguish fell fast, while with hands firmly
+clasped, and still leaning against the tree, he looked down at the
+bubbling water.
+
+'Why William!'
+
+He started at the well-knows voice.
+
+'Oh, Hettie, is this _you_? how glad I am to see you.'
+
+She extended her hand towards him, but there was something in the sight
+of Hettie that caused the cup, already full, to overflow; he did not
+take the offered hand, but covering his face, gave way to a passionate
+burst of weeping.
+
+Hettie was much surprised, but she attempted not to interfere; nor did
+she weep with him, but waited silently until the violence of the storm
+had passed, and he was sufficiently composed to address her.
+
+'I am very unhappy, Hettie, and have been so for a long time.'
+
+'I have thought so, William, and I am very glad of an opportunity to say
+something to you about it. I was certain that you must be unhappy. There
+can be no peace for us when we have left the path of duty, until we
+return from our crooked ways: it would not be best for us that we should
+be happy when our doings are not right.'
+
+'Well, mine are not right, and I am afraid they will never be any
+better.'
+
+'Why not, William? are you willing still to be unhappy, and to break
+your mother's heart, and fill the minds of all your friends with
+sorrow?'
+
+'I have been far astray, Hettie. I have sunk myself very low, and have
+struggled hard at times to break the charm that was leading me to ruin;
+but I feel now as I have not felt before; and if you will only not
+despise me, if you will let me hope that a new course of life may yet
+gain your respect, it will be a helper to me--a great helper to me. And
+oh! Hettie, you cannot tell how much I need your aid.'
+
+Hettie was wise perhaps beyond her years. She felt much interest for the
+youth who had grown with her from childhood.
+
+'I fear, William, that the struggle you will be compelled to encounter
+will need help greater than a creature can give. You must look to Him
+who made you, and relying on his strength, resolve to do your duty, cost
+what it may. All that I can promise is my feeble prayer; and whenever I
+offer it for myself, I will offer it for you too, William. And now I
+must leave you, for I have an errand to the store, and mother will be
+uneasy at my absence.'
+
+And the happy girl, smiling a pleasant good-by, went on her way. William
+watched her until she turned into the public road, and then, with one
+strong cry to Heaven for help, turned towards his home, a happier person
+than he had been for many long months.
+
+_He had resolved to do right._
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+
+The difficulties which presented themselves to our boys in fulfilling
+the engagement they had made with Major Morris were of no trifling
+account, for it was a great question if so large a quantity could be
+found in the place, above what was pledged to Mr. Grizzle for debts
+already incurred. Again, if they should succeed in finding the quantity,
+how could they pay for them? and lastly, where was a boat to be
+procured, in which to carry them at a season of the year when storms and
+high winds were to be expected? But as difficulties are apt to vanish
+before a resolute mind, Jim felt not at all daunted by them.
+
+He had resolved, first of all, to make a thorough trial as to the
+possibility of finding persons willing to engage specific quantities to
+him. And it was for this purpose that the boys were assembled early in
+the morning of a bright and beautiful day in June; Jim and Sam to go on
+the expedition, and Ned to see them off.
+
+'Well, boys, I hope you'll find all you'll want; but it looks to me like
+a hard case.'
+
+'So it does to me, Ned, too; but Jim has been thinking it all out, you
+know. I should feel better, however, if we knew where the _money_ was to
+come from to pay for them; I do hate so to ask folks to trust us.'
+
+'I have no idea, Sam, of doing any such thing; I mean to offer them the
+money down as soon as they deliver the potatoes.'
+
+'Just hear _that_ Ned,' said Sam, looking verily confounded.
+
+'Well,' said Ned, kicking away a small stone that lay in reach of his
+foot, 'that is a good plan enough if one had the money; but it will take
+all of a hundred dollars: and it looks dark to me where such a sum as
+that is to come from.'
+
+'That is the least of the difficulties, boys; we shall make, I hope, by
+our summer's work enough money to pay for twenty-five bushels of
+potatoes, which will be the most we shall be able to carry at a trip,
+and Major Morris will pay us for them as we deliver them to him.'
+
+Ned and Sam looked at each other. 'I told you, Ned, that Jim would think
+it out somehow.'
+
+'And besides,' continued Jim, 'I have great hope that our offering them
+the money on delivery, will induce them to sell to us in preference to
+Grizzle. But what troubles me the most is, how to get a boat sufficient
+for our purpose.'
+
+'Supposing I should say'--and Sam's bright eyes sparkled as he looked
+from one to the other of his companions, while a smile played around the
+corners of his mouth--'I hope to have a good new boat, not very
+handsome, but tight and strong, and able to go in rough weather, and
+carry twenty-five bushels of potatoes at a load; what would you say to
+that?'
+
+'Now, Sam Oakum, what do you mean?'
+
+'I mean just what I say. My father told me last night, that as soon as
+he could get the stuff, he would go right to work and build a boat as
+large as that, and that it should be mine; and I am going to take my
+money as I can earn it, and buy the stuff. What do you think of that,
+Jim?'
+
+'It is the best news I have heard this long while;--how strangely things
+work! but look out for Ned there.'
+
+The warning was too late, for Sam was lying on his back, laughing
+heartily; and Jim was scolding Ned for his folly, and Jowler was barking
+at them all. As soon as matters were composed again, Jim and Sam started
+on their expedition; while Ned, with Jowler at his heels, went with
+right good-will to his work in the garden.
+
+A blacksmith's shop is a very necessary article in all social
+establishments, as the place where persons are likely to be met with and
+news collected or circulated. The one which answered the demands of this
+place was not a very extensive establishment; it was a little
+dark-looking hovel, with an exceedingly high chimney. It was situated at
+the meeting of several roads, and was surrounded with a multitude of
+articles that had once seen better days, but _when_, the oldest
+inhabitant could scarcely remember. Mr. Cutter, the proprietor of this
+establishment, was now somewhat advanced in life, but by no means so old
+as his appearance indicated. From some cause not well ascertained, he
+had begun about his thirtieth year to increase in flesh, and had for
+more than twenty years been adding to his stock; neither wielding the
+sledge-hammer in his shop, nor the worrying of his good wife in the
+house, could keep it back; but I believe it was all the increase, of any
+consequence, that resulted from his labors, and yet he was, in
+comparison with his neighbors, 'well to do in the world.' He was,
+moreover, of a good disposition, ready to oblige, and of sound judgment,
+and as well acquainted with persons and things for many miles round as
+any other man in the place, and a little better.
+
+Our boys had determined to make their first call at 'Uncle Sam
+Cutter's,' as he was generally styled.
+
+'He's a clever man,' said Sam, 'and he knows every body, and all about
+every thing in the place; and it may save us a great many steps.'
+
+It was a very warm day, and Uncle Sam was sitting outside his shop, on
+what had once been the hub of a large cart-wheel; there was a fine shade
+where he sat, a large apple tree which stood in an adjoining lot,
+extending its branches almost to his shop door. He had his hat in his
+hand, and was using it violently as a fan; the heat was making terrible
+work with him, for on his bald head and down his fat cheeks and sunburnt
+breast, the perspiration was running in streams.
+
+'A pretty warm day, Uncle Sam, ain't it?'
+
+'Here, you young rogue, take this, and blow a little wind on to me, if
+there's any to be got, for I'm most dead,' (handing Sam his great
+broad-brimmed chip hat.) 'I guess you'd think it warm, blowing them
+tarnel old bellows all day long, with such a lump of fat lugging to you
+as I've got; I can't hardly waddle under it, let alone handling them
+bellows.'
+
+'Why don't you have the boys blow for you, Uncle Sam?'
+
+'The boys! ah yes, the boys! I'd like any one to tell me what the hul
+kit on 'em is good for, but to eat mush and milk. Do blow away Sam, if
+there's any wind in all creation any more. I want to git this carcass o'
+mine cool a little, just so I shan't go _all_ to soap-grease. Talk of
+the boys, they're wus than wild cats; I wouldn't give my old mare for
+all the boys between this and the barrens--don't talk to me about boys,
+Sam--don't stop blowing, or I'm a dead man. Here, Jim, my good fellow,
+spell him a little.'
+
+'Yes, that I will, with pleasure, sir.'
+
+'That's like a man, there's no boy about that--ah, Jim, I knew your
+father well, and a likelier man never came to this place; but what he
+came _here_ for was more than I could ever see--it seems to me there's
+a cus on it; the men are bad enough, but the boys are the old Nick's
+property altogether. I tell you what, if we don't have a preacher, or
+something of that kind, along here pretty soon, we're a gone case;
+there'll be another sort of bellows blowin' than my old groaner, I tell
+you. Ah, Jim, that feels good, I won't touch a hammer agin' to day; if
+Grizzle wants his old plough mended, he may come and sweat away at it
+himself, it will do his old dry carcass good, won't it Sam? It won't
+hurt him, will it?' And the old man went off into a good hearty laugh,
+his whole body shaking like a lump of jelly--the idea of sweating
+Grizzle amused him so much, that he forgot about the heat, and taking
+his hat clapped it on his head.
+
+'And now, boys, what are you up to? going crabbing down to the mill, I
+know; for my boys have been there this hul blessed morning.'
+
+'Oh, no sir,' said Jim, 'we were not thinking about that this morning;
+but are wishing to find out who would be willing to engage some beans
+and potatoes for the fall.'
+
+'Beans and potatoes? why, you blessed child, are you crazy? You ain't
+grown up here, not to know better than to try to sell sich things in
+this place. You must go to Grizzle with them, and he won't take them
+only for jist what you owe him.'
+
+'Ah, but we don't want to sell, but to buy.'
+
+'Want to buy!--you're wus off than I thought you was. Why, didn't you
+plant any? How did you think you was goin' to live? like Bill Moore and
+his brother down the lane here? eh?'
+
+'Oh, no sir, we have plenty for our use; but we can sell quite a
+quantity of these articles, more than we shall have.'
+
+'And pray tell me what you call a quantity, mister.'
+
+'Why, we want two or three hundred bushels.'
+
+'_Two or three hundred bushels!_' And the old man took off his hat and
+began to fan himself again very fast. '_Two or three hundred
+bushels!_--you boys wasn't neither on you brought up to lie, but I don't
+know but you've taken up the trade; it's pretty easy larnt, to be sure.'
+
+'It's true, Uncle Sam, what Jim tells you; _true_ as we stand here.'
+
+'Sam Oakum, them eyes o' yourn warn't made to help a lyin' tongue; so
+don't stand there looking so honest, and telling me sich stuff as
+that.'
+
+'It is true, Mr. Cutter, just as Sam says; we are telling you the truth,
+and no joke about it.'
+
+But the old man kept shaking his head and fanning himself; so that Jim
+felt called upon to tell their whole story.
+
+'Now boys, _is_ this _true_, you're tellin' me? Sam, you're a smilin';
+there's some catch about it, ain't there, you rogue?'
+
+'No, there ain't, Uncle Sam, upon my honor.'
+
+'Well, it's a queer story, any how; _three hundred bushels potatoes_;
+why you'll take all that's raised, and Grizzle won't have none for Cross
+this year; you know he sends all he takes in up to Cross, who keeps the
+store or tavern, or whatever they call it, in the barrens; but it ain't
+much matter, they're two precious rogues, both on 'em. And you say you
+want to know where you can find so many: I raally can't say; but the
+Widow Andrews would be like to have _some_. Bill tell'd me he had
+planted a considerable patch, beans and potatoes too; but whether
+they'll come to any thing I don't know, for he's got like the rest on
+'em--he's round to Grizzle's too much, I guess. Sorry for it; Bill's a
+likely fellow if he'd mind his own business. And then there's my
+namesake, Cutter; he may have a few, not a great many. I tell you what,
+you'll have to hunt considerable, boys, afore you'll find all you want.
+And then there's Billy Bloodgood, deaf Billy, you know him; but you'll
+have to holler loud enough to wake the dead to make him hear--he ought
+to have a speakin' trumpet fastened into his ear, it's enough to give a
+man the consumption to talk with him. And may be I'll have a few myself,
+and I would as leave you'd have them as Grizzle, the old varmint; I
+don't believe I shall owe him much this year. What are you goin' to
+give, boys?'
+
+Sam looked at Jim for an answer.
+
+'Why, if they are fair-sized potatoes, we can give twenty-five cents a
+bushel.'
+
+'I wish I had more on 'em, for that's double what Grizzle gives; and
+_beans_ you want _too_; well, I guess I shall have three or four
+bushels. I can't say but they ought to be hoed now, and I can't do it,
+no how; for a man like me to work out in the sun, it's idle to talk
+about it. Why I should die in the operation, and the boys don't care for
+nothin'; but when they hear what a price you're givin', it may spur them
+up a little.'
+
+The boys thanked him for his information, and started off at a good
+pace on their way to the Widow Andrews'. Bill was at work in the field,
+fighting manfully with a large growth of weeds; he greeted them kindly,
+but continued his labors.
+
+'You will excuse me if I don't stop working; things are so behind-hand
+with me, that if I don't labor hard, I shall not catch up with my work,
+all summer.'
+
+'By no means stop,' said Jim; 'we can say what we wish to, just as well
+while your hoe is going.' He made known their errand in few words, but
+no sooner did Bill hear what Jim had to say than he stopped hoeing, and
+looked with some surprise, first at one and then at the other of the
+boys.
+
+'Yes, certainly, you shall have them; how many bushels do you want?
+Haven't you planted any this year?'
+
+Jim then acquainted him with his reasons for wanting them, and the
+quantity he wished; stating also the price he could afford to give.
+
+'And the money shall be paid to you when you deliver them.'
+
+'You shall have every potato and bean I have for sale. I supposed I
+should be obliged to let Grizzle have them, but he may whistle for them,
+for all me; he allowed me last year but ten cents for potatoes, and
+fifty cents for beans. He will be angry, probably, but if I can have the
+money to pay, I shall not fear him any more than you seemed to the other
+day'--looking at Sam.
+
+'No, I don't fear him; and all I wish is that father didn't owe him any
+thing.'
+
+'Well, he is a very bad man, and will injure us all, if he can in any
+way, when he finds he is to be disappointed in getting things at his own
+price. He and Cross work into each other's hands, and they will not, if
+they can help it, have any one interfere with them; but I don't well see
+how they can.'
+
+William Andrews was not mistaken in his views of the effect these things
+would have upon the minds of such men. But it will be time enough to
+meet trouble when it comes; at present we must hasten with our boys on
+their way to Billy Bloodgood's, much elated with their success, and with
+the change which seemed to have taken place in the views and feelings of
+young Andrews.
+
+Mr. William Bloodgood--or Billy, as he was generally called--was the
+best to do of any of the folks for miles round, that is, he had more
+land, and a few more head of cattle, and managed a little better than
+his neighbors. But his house was rather a small concern, and his fences
+were in all sorts of shape, and his barn had far too many rents in it,
+and things lay in all directions around. Still, he did better than his
+neighbors, for Billy did not drink, and he kept himself busy, flying
+round on his farm, and made out almost always to raise quite a
+respectable quantity of one thing and another. He was a very
+good-natured man, and was blessed, as many good-natured men are, with a
+wife that could take his part, and her own too, sometimes. He had a
+peculiar way with him of going from one piece of work to another,
+without finishing either. Before his field of corn was half hoed, he
+would begin the potato patch, and leaving that unfinished, would be
+among the beans; and so on. This habit he carried with him into smaller
+matters, to his disadvantage, certainly, and very much to his
+discomfort; for his good woman was sorely annoyed by it, and whatever
+troubled her, he was sure to be obliged to bear a part of it. They lived
+happily however; for although Billy did not practise sound philosophy in
+his work, he did in that very delicate matter of conjugal relationship.
+He knew it would never answer for both to have their own way, one or the
+other must rule sometimes; and as he saw very soon that it would be a
+very difficult matter, if not an impossibility to get his better half to
+yield, unless she had a mind to it, he very properly decided to give up
+the reins to her. He was a wiser man than many took him to be.
+
+As the boys entered the gate, Billy was coming out of the house, having
+just finished his dinner; he had a knife in one hand, and a piece of
+pigtail in the other, from which cutting a fair allowance, he put it
+into his mouth with a manifest relish. Without apparently noticing the
+boys who were walking towards him, he made directly to a great pile of
+brush which lay in the yard, and commenced chopping. They walked up to
+him, and endeavored to catch his eye, but he took no notice of them.
+After cutting a few sticks, he threw down the axe, and, looking at Jim,
+asked in a very loud voice,
+
+'Did you speak to me?'
+
+Jim shook his head in the negative, and then began to say something
+about his errand; he spoke, as he thought, in a pretty loud voice. But
+Billy only noticed his negative reply to the question he had put, and
+started for another corner of the yard, where lay a heap of farming
+utensils, and began dragging forth an old one-horse plough. After
+separating it from the rest, he commenced tinkering the rigging; Jim, in
+the meantime, trying to catch his eye, long enough to let him know
+that, although he had not yet spoken to him, he wished to do so. Twice,
+as he raised himself, Jim made a desperate effort, and called out as
+loud as he thought necessary,
+
+'Mr. Bloodgood!'
+
+But it availed nothing. He stared at him an instant, and then ran across
+to another side of the yard to a little old corn crib; and jumping into
+it, began to overhaul a box of old irons, for something probably that
+belonged to the plough. In the midst of all his hurry, however, he would
+find time every now and then to put his hand into his vest pocket, and
+taking out large pinches of snuff, would regale his olfactory sense, and
+apparently with great zest. The boys began to feel that it was a
+desperate case, and at the same time were so amused, that they could
+with difficulty refrain from showing it. In fact, Jim did once or twice
+give a kind of whine, just the beginning of a peculiar laugh he had, and
+Sam would go off with a very slight sneeze. As Billy appeared to be in
+no hurry to come out of the crib, they walked slowly across to where he
+was.
+
+'You try him this time, Sam? see if you can make him hear.'
+
+'I can't, Jim, no how. I should burst out laughing in his face.'
+
+'I am afraid, then, we must give it up, for I can't get him to look at
+me.'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood, however, saw their dilemma, and out she came. The boys
+hardly knew whether she was for peace or war, for she advanced towards
+them with tremendous strides, muttering as she came. Her appearance was
+indeed rather dubious, for her hair was flying, and her face was very
+red, from the joint exercise of cooking and eating, and helping half a
+dozen children. And as to the dress, having great respect for the female
+sex we will say nothing about it; it was, moreover, very warm weather,
+and a Calamink petticoat was warm enough without the burden of its upper
+companion, the short gown--but she was just as she was, and we cannot
+help it. She had a little more nose than most women, that is, it was a
+very long, sharp, and crooked nose; but the good woman had use for it.
+And never were boys more astonished when they saw how well it answered
+her turn; it was a veritable speaking-trumpet, and, although the sounds
+which issued from it were rather of the nasal order, they were the
+better calculated to penetrate the very narrow passages to her husband's
+sounding-board. Having been so long accustomed to use a very high pitch
+in her communications with the good man, she made no allowance for the
+more delicate organs of other people, but so drove the sounds into them
+as truly made their ears to tingle, not only at the time, but a great
+while after.
+
+'What is it you're wanting?'
+
+Jim started; he could not help it.
+
+'Do you want to speak to Bloodgood?'
+
+'Yes, ma'am; I should like to speak with him about some beans and
+potatoes.'
+
+With that she made off to the crib, where she met her good man coming
+out with a piece of old iron in his hand, and making for the other side
+of the yard where the plough was. He seemed as regardless of her as he
+had been of the boys; but as he was stooping over the plough, she put
+her hand on his shoulder, and gave such a blast in his ear that his soul
+must have stept out of his body not to have heard it; he immediately
+raised himself, and, looking at the boys, roared back to her in a strain
+scarcely less loud,--
+
+'What do they want?'
+
+'I don't know; something about potatoes and beans.'
+
+'Bees? We 'aint got no bees;' and with that he took one of his
+tremendous pinches of snuff.
+
+'Beans, beans! don't you hear _that_?' And then turning to Jim and Sam,
+who had walked up beside her--
+
+'He grows wus and wus; and it's my candid belief that it's his snuffin'
+and snuffin' all the time so; his ears, I s'pose, is all stopped clean
+up; and the only way the sound can git into his head is through his
+nose, like; and when he stuffs that full, it's like hollerin' agin' a
+log.'
+
+But he did hear _beans_, as she last spoke it.
+
+'Beans? What of 'em?'
+
+'Well, do tell _me_, boys, what you want on 'em, and I'll try to make
+him hear, for _you_ never can.'
+
+With that Jim communicated to her his business, and when she understood
+it clearly, appeared not a little pleased.
+
+'I didn't know but you'd come from Grizzle's, and I don't like him; he's
+a good-for-nothin' old varmint, and he's spilin' all the men and boys in
+the place; and I told Bloodgood I'd rather throw the potatoes in the
+creek than let him have one on 'em.' So she went to work with a good
+will to tell their errand.
+
+'Who sent 'em? Grizzle?'
+
+'No, no; you think there is nobody in the whole creation world to buy
+anything but Grizzle.' And then raising her voice to the very loudest--
+
+'Nobody sent 'em; they come o' themselves, and they'll pay you the money
+right down when you take 'em the things.'
+
+'Well, well, that will do,'--and he smiled then, for the first time, as
+he looked at the boys--'that'll do; you shall have 'em; let me know when
+you want 'em.'
+
+And now Mrs. Bloodgood would insist upon their going in, and taking
+something to eat. In vain it was they protested that they were not
+hungry, having eaten a lunch on their way.
+
+'I know better than that. I know what boys are; they can always eat; so
+if you won't go in, don't either on you stir one step till I come out.'
+
+In she ran, and in a moment appeared again with one-half of a large
+bread-cake, which she had just taken from the griddle, with a lump of
+butter on the top of it, and she with a knife spreading it on; but there
+was no occasion for the knife, for the butter was running like snow in
+summer, and dripping over the sides of the cake.
+
+'Here, boys, take this;' breaking it in two, and giving each half 'I
+_know_ it will taste good.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+
+A few evenings after the events recorded in the last chapter, Sam
+started from home on his way to meet Jim and Ned. When but a short
+distance from his house, to his surprise he met William Andrews; he was
+on his way to visit the Montjoys, and designed calling upon Sam that he
+might accompany him to their house.
+
+'I am going to see them,' said Sam; 'but they will not be at the house.
+Such fine evenings as this we meet at a large rock near by--they will be
+as glad to see you as I am.'
+
+The rock was large enough to accommodate the whole of them; but Ned
+preferred the grass for his seat; he and Jowler had always some business
+of their own to attend to, and very frequently they would both be
+rolling together on the ground. The moon was rising beautifully, and a
+long streak of light played across the expanse of water at a distance,
+dancing on the waves that were formed by the fresh sea-breeze, and,
+nearer the shore, where the water lay smooth and unruffled, marking a
+line of clear silver light, as from the surface of a mirror.
+
+There is always something peculiarly fascinating in the formation of
+youthful friendships--everything seems so fair; the interchange of
+confidence is so mutual, so whole-hearted--there is no secret standing
+on our guard--no cautious feeling of our way, to see whether we can
+safely trust. The heart has not yet been deceived, and therefore yields
+implicit confidence. One short hour, in our boyhood's days, will do more
+to knit our hearts in bonds strong and true, than months can accomplish,
+after the coldness and selfishness of the world have set us on our
+guard.
+
+William Andrews had yielded to the impulses of a kind and social
+disposition, and thereby had been led sadly astray; but the charm was
+now broken, and he turned away with disgust and loathing from his past
+habits and companions. He had formed no friendships with those who were
+his partners in the idle hour, and the place of temptation. His heart
+was yet in its freshness, with a love of the pure and good, more intense
+for what he had seen of impiety and evil. His spirit panted for
+communion with those on whom it could confide, and longed to pour out
+its breathings into the ear of virtue and truth.
+
+And now, under the great oak-tree, seated on the large flat rock, he
+confessed all his delinquencies, related the narrative of what he
+believed to be a change for life, and its happy influence upon his daily
+routine of duties.
+
+'I can work, now, without being wearied; I can go home and meet my
+mother without the fear of rebuke; and I can lie down to rest at night
+without my head throbbing, or my body burning as in a fever; and when I
+awake in the morning, the stupor of deadness I used to feel is gone; I
+am happy, and ready for my business.'
+
+Jim and Sam had no such personal experience of their own to tell. Sam
+might, indeed, have unfolded scenes of misery in his own past history;
+but in his own bosom must now for ever rest all that had been bitter in
+his own experience.
+
+But there was no lack of subjects, and the evening was gone before they
+had said the one half they had to say; and long before the evening was
+spent, they were as intimate, and as much one in their feelings, as
+though they, had associated for years.
+
+Sam's heart was full of happiness that night as he walked along the
+shore, and saw the water glistening in the moonlight, and heard the soft
+sound of the distant waves; and as he beheld the little light that
+twinkled in his lowly home, it seemed as bright to him--yea, brighter
+than does many an illuminated palace to its princely owner. Dark is the
+heart, Sam, that would bring a cloud over your pleasant sky; but such
+there are, sitting in council beneath the same pleasant moonlight which
+you are enjoying;--well for you that you see them, hear them not.
+
+Had we the power of knowing what is going on at the same time in
+different places--could we look into the hearts of the actors in these
+various scenes--could we know how very near, sometimes, are the plotters
+of mischief and spite to the unconscious, inoffensive objects of their
+malice, it would be a cause of misery to us, unless our power was equal
+to our knowledge. Happy is it for us, that but one place, and one set of
+circumstances, can engross our minds.
+
+Not far from where these happy youths held sweet counsel together,
+encouraging each other in the path of manliness and virtue, beneath the
+same clear sky and bright shining moon, sat two specimens of humanity,
+beneath the shed that ran along the front of Mr. Grizzle's store:--one
+of these the owner thereof, and the other a miserable-looking bloated
+youth, of about eighteen years of age.
+
+'Do you say, Bill Tice, that they've been round buying up all the
+potatoes, and giving twenty-five cents a bushel?'
+
+'Yes, it's fact. Old Sam Cutter told his boys on it, and they told me;
+and they said the old man wanted them to go to work and hoe 'em out,
+because they were goin' to bring sich a price, and he didn't mean to let
+old Grizzle have none on 'em.'
+
+'He did, ha? Ay, ay, well, well.'
+
+'And they'd bought all Billy Bloodgood's, and Bill Andrews', and ever so
+many more.'
+
+'They have, eh? and gin' twenty-five cents a bushel, you say? that's a
+putty business, Bill.' And Grizzle turned his bleared and spectacled
+eyes full upon his companion. 'A putty business, Bill, ain't it? And who
+is to have potatoes and sich things to sell in the dead o'winter to poor
+folks, who may be ain't raised none? What would your folks have done
+last winter in sich a case?'
+
+'Sure enough, we might starve; they wouldn't care.'
+
+'And then if you was jist to help yourself a little,' (giving him a
+slight hunch,) 'why they'd be the first to complain on you; and away you
+must go another three months in the old cage.
+
+'I hate them Montjoy boys, they always look as if no one was good enough
+for 'em; goin' round with their shirt collars on their necks, and shoes
+on their feet.'
+
+'And you say Oakum is with 'em, ha?'
+
+'Why yes, Oakum's boy is with 'em, and you know it must be the old man
+that does it; the boy aint got nothin'.'
+
+'No, nor the old one neither, when his debts is paid; but I'll see, I'll
+see. Folks musn't git in debt to me, and then come out agin' me; that
+won't do, Bill Tice.'
+
+'I shouldn't think it would.'
+
+'And you say Oakum is goin' to build a boat for his boy?'
+
+'That's what Dick Cutter tell'd me.'
+
+'To carry away everything we've got here, and make things so high, poor
+folks must starve or else work hard, one or the two.'
+
+'They don't care.'
+
+'I tell you what, Bill, you and I know one another; you've done some
+little jobs for me, and may be I've done some little things for you.'
+
+'Yes, I know that.'
+
+'Well now, Bill, this business must be stopped by fair means as foul.'
+
+'That boat shan't never be built.'
+
+'Whist, Bill, whist, don't be too fast; time enough yet.'
+
+'What will you do, then?'
+
+'What will I do--jist take the law on Oakum. Don't you see if I tie his
+hands the boat can't be built; and the old one they've got now, will
+only sink 'em to the bottom of the bay, if they try to take a load in
+her. I can make out a bill, I guess, that will keep him tight for three
+months at any rate.'
+
+'That's a good idee.'
+
+'Well, what I want of you is, to go some time to-morrow or next day, and
+jist ask Dick Tucker to come and see me, and may be I'll give him a job.
+You ain't afraid of Dick, now, are you?'
+
+'No, I don't _care_ nothin' for him; I should like just once to turn the
+key upon him, and see how he'd like it.'
+
+'He'd rather turn it upon you and me, Bill; but you jist go there and
+tell him what I say. But keep mum, Bill.'
+
+'No fear o' me.'
+
+With that the old man patted Bill on the back.
+
+'Come, come in and take something afore you go.' And in they went, and
+down went the fiery draught, and away went Bill Tice, a wretched victim
+to the hateful cup--a youth in age, but already old in ways of
+wickedness. Along the highway he plodded, his hat pulled down over his
+eyes, his head bent over, and his look fixed upon the path he was
+treading. He heeded not the beautiful moon that was lighting him on his
+way--brightly it shone upon him and his home, but only to expose
+wretchedness and vice waiting upon each other.
+
+The path of duty is said to be the path of safety. When considered in
+reference to all final results, this is doubtless true; but to go
+steadily forward in our daily or weekly routine, we must expect to
+encounter more or less exposure to danger and disaster.
+
+The little 'craft,' as Peter called the boat in which Jim and Sam made
+their voyages, was by no means suitable for the work; and again and
+again did the old sailor warn them, that 'they must look out for the
+southeasters, and never venture in no sich thing as that.'
+
+It was the only one at present that they could procure, and they must
+either run the risk or give up their trade--a thing not to be
+contemplated for a moment.
+
+It was early in July; the weather for some days had been oppressively
+warm. A dense fog covered the land and the water; and as our boys
+started upon their usual trip, they were obliged to lay their course as
+they best could, as there was nothing visible beyond a few lengths of
+their boat. The water was smooth without a ripple; not a breath of air
+could be felt from any direction. Sam's father had endeavored to
+dissuade him from venturing on the water at such a time.
+
+'There's no telling what kind of weather we may have when this goes off,
+and I'm most sure I heerd it thunder a while ago.'
+
+'I guess it wasn't thunder, father; and you know I can hardly miss my
+way in crossing the river; and when we get on the other shore, it will
+be easy to make the point; and by the time we get there, the wind will
+rise and the fog will go off.'
+
+Sam's reasoning was well enough, but his father was not quite satisfied
+that it was best for them to go; however, as he saw their minds were set
+upon it, and all their things on board, he made no further objections.
+
+As Sam had said, he was able to make the other shore without much
+difficulty; and that once reached, by keeping close to it, the point
+was also gained; but when about to turn into the open bay, Sam had some
+misgivings as to what was best to be done. The fog still surrounded
+them, as dense as ever, the shore could be seen only a few oars' length
+from it; and if they could keep within sight, they might proceed with
+their voyage, although by following the windings of the shore the
+distance would be greatly increased. This, however, would not have
+discouraged Sam, if he had not known that there were spots where close
+hugging the shore was impossible, as ledges of rocks ran off from it,
+which must be avoided. Thinking that he could keep the shore in sight
+until these were reached, and then venture out a little to avoid them,
+and not willing to turn back, he concluded to try the experiment. Jim
+knew nothing of the dangers to which they were exposed in being once out
+of sight of land, with no possible guide, in a small open boat, on the
+bosom of a bay that opened fair to the ocean. He therefore made no
+objections to any of Sam's movements. There was no wind, of course the
+sail was not up, and Sam handled the oars. Jim had his usual place at
+the helm, at which he had become quite expert.
+
+'Keep her along shore, Jim, and don't lose sight of the land for any
+thing. Tell me when you see the large white rock, or the big tree; but I
+don't much think you will be able to see _that_ to-day, but keep a sharp
+look-out for the rock.' The tree, as Sam expected, was not visible; but
+after half an hour's rowing, Jim pointed out the rock to which Sam had
+alluded.
+
+'You remember, Jim, that near to this is the first ledge of rocks--turn
+her off shore a little--there, that will do; look sharp for the rocks,
+for if we lose sight of them and the shore too, we are gone.'
+
+Jim did look sharp; for he perceived, from the anxious countenance of
+his companion, that there was some peculiar difficulty to be
+apprehended: in a few moments, however, they lost sight of the shore.
+This Sam expected; but instead thereof, anticipated making use of the
+large rocks, which usually protruded above the ledge or sunken reef, as
+his beacon. He exerted his utmost strength in the direction, as he
+supposed, they would be found, and the little boat skimmed rapidly
+through the water. Not a sign, however, of rock or shore could they
+discover; and, to add to their confusion, Sam, by accident, slipped an
+oar. Jim sprang to assist him in securing it, his tiller shifted, and
+the points of the compass were lost to them; the fog, too, evidently
+thickened around them--
+
+'Don't you feel a breeze, Sam? I did just then.'
+
+'Yes, and I think I know where it comes from; you see the fog grows
+thicker; it is driving in from the sea, and this wind must be from the
+east. Father said this morning he thought we should have the wind from
+that quarter--here it comes again, Jim.'
+
+In a few moments a fresh and steady breeze came on; Sam, too, confident
+in the direction from which it came, hastened to spread his sail, and
+taking the helm into his own hands, put her head, as he supposed, in a
+direction that would carry them towards the fort, and at the same time
+bring them near the shore. For a while after the breeze sprung up, the
+fog was by no means diminished; but at length it began to recede, and as
+the circle of their horizon enlarged, anxiously they watched on the
+quarter where they were confident the land lay.
+
+'We must be wrong, Sam, or we certainly could see the land by this
+time.'
+
+Sam answered not, for other signs than the non-appearance of the land
+convinced him that he had mistaken his bearings. The wind had not
+increased much since it had at first sprung up, and, in fact, was giving
+tokens of ceasing or changing, by its frequent lulls; yet the water was
+becoming very rough; in fact, the waves were different from any they had
+ever encountered yet, threatening at times to fill their boat;--he
+began, indeed, to fear that he had been running out instead of nearing
+shore. At length the covering which had so long enveloped them rolled
+off, the distant points of land appeared, and their truly critical
+position was clearly exposed. Far off, in nearly an opposite direction
+to the one they were steering for, loomed up the fort; and the shore,
+which they had trusted was near at hand, could just be seen through the
+creeping vapors which yet clung to the land rising in patches slowly
+into the atmosphere. Before them was the open ocean, and the
+southeastern shores of the bay in a proximity to them, which in their
+present circumstances was any thing but agreeable.
+
+Sam's first impulse, of course, was to steer directly for the haven they
+had started for; this, a moment's reflection upon the state of things
+convinced him would be madness.
+
+Several times, while still enveloped in the fog, they had distinctly
+heard peals of thunder, which had by no means been a source of
+quietude; and now, far over the western sky, had gathered a dark and
+threatening mass of vapours, heaps on heaps rolling together, and
+spreading to the north, where the blackness of darkness seemed to have
+settled. Beneath that heavy mass, at the edge of the horizon, was a long
+light streak, showing where in the far distance the storm had already
+begun, and the winds lifting it up and bearing it towards them. In the
+direction of the storm was the shore they had left; to reach that or the
+fort, before it should burst upon them, was utterly impossible, and to
+be caught in their frail boat by such a tempest would be certain
+destruction. On the south and south-east lay a long line of shore, not
+much nearer than that on the west; yet from it, there ran out for a mile
+from the land, in a circular direction, a bar of sand; at high tide this
+bar was nearly covered, but when the tide was out, some acres of hard
+white sand were exposed, and afforded a firm landing-place. Sam knew of
+this; and, in fact, he could plainly discern its white surface in the
+distance, for the tide had been for some time running out, and was the
+main cause why he had, in so short a time, made so long a stretch.
+
+'What shall we do, Sam? It looks black there, don't it?'
+
+'Black enough--we must run away from it.'
+
+At once, Sam tied up the sail as carefully as he could, and stowed it as
+near the bottom of the skiff as possible.
+
+'Where will you run, Sam? we are most out to sea now.'
+
+'We must go a little nearer yet, for all that _I_ see;--_quick_, Jim,
+take the helm; you see that white streak, don't you, running out from
+the shore yonder?'
+
+'Yes.'
+
+'It is a mile nearer to us than any place we can get to; make for
+that--it is our only chance.'
+
+Jim did as directed; for, on the water, he yielded implicitly to Sam.
+The oars were out, and Sam's utmost strength was tasked; their lives
+depended on the fact of his ability to reach that bar before the storm
+should overtake them. As they progressed, the waves sensibly increased;
+and occasionally, through Jim's inexperience in steering, water enough
+would be shipped, not only to wet them thoroughly, but to endanger the
+feeble craft.
+
+Sam's eye was steadily fixed upon the rising gust; he heeded not the
+waves--death was behind them--if they reached not that landing-place in
+time, they must be his prey. Vivid streaks of lightning ran along the
+curling edges of the clouds, and heavy-rolling thunder, increasing in
+loudness at every clap; far off upon the distant land could be seen
+volumes of dust rolling high up in the air; and when the thunder ceased,
+the sullen roar of the tempest was distinctly heard.
+
+'How fast it comes, Sam!'
+
+'Keep her straight for that bar, Jim.'
+
+'Do you hear the roaring, Sam?'
+
+'Are we near the bar? Keep her as straight as you can--it's coming
+fast.'
+
+Already had the storm reached the water. Sam knew now what they had to
+expect; for before it arose a mass of spray like a thick low mist.
+Rising on his feet, and throwing himself back with all his force, the
+little fellow did all that in him lay to reach the shore.
+
+'Don't let go the helm, Jim.'
+
+And Jim immediately braced himself upon the bottom of the boat, holding
+with main strength to the tiller. As the wind struck them, Sam was
+obliged to throw himself down in the boat; he could not face its fury.
+In an instant, all sights and sounds but that of the storm were lost;
+they were at its mercy, or more properly, at the mercy of Him who
+directed it. A few moments, their little boat tossed and floated amid
+the tumult, and then struck heavily upon the beach.
+
+'Out, Jim! out, and hold on!'
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+The days when the little skiff was expected at the fort began to be
+looked forward to with much pleasure by old Peter and his little charge.
+Seated on the parapet which surrounded the fort, with a spyglass in his
+hand, he would watch a bend of the shore, around which the little boat
+could first be seen. Susie would be near him, looking at the play of the
+waters among the broken rocks which formed the foundation of the fort,
+or listening to marvellous stories of sea life, of which Peter had the
+usual supply.
+
+This day they had watched until the storm came, and after it had cleared
+away; until giving up all expectation of seeing the boat, Peter had
+hobbled into the fort to attend to some little matters, and Susie sought
+for amusement in her usual play-ground--the narrow strip of land, about
+twenty feet in width, encircling them. It has been mentioned that a
+ledge of rocks connected with the main-land, being formed partly by
+nature and partly by a deposit of large broken stones--the design
+apparently was to have formed a passage to the shore without the aid of
+a boat, but for some cause or other it was not carried out. At low
+water, one acquainted with the locality might have made his way across
+it, from rock to rock, without much difficulty; but when the tide was
+in, all communication was cut off. At the rising and falling of the
+tide, the water flowed through the narrow passages with great rapidity;
+and a very expert swimmer would have needed much muscular strength not
+to have been swept away with it. Peter never ventured upon this rough
+causeway himself, for two very good reasons: first, because it was no
+place for crutches to travel over; and, secondly, considering it unsafe,
+he did not wish to set the little girl an example which might lead her
+into danger.
+
+Tired, however, with her narrow promenade, when she reached the ledge
+spoken of, without any misgivings, she rambled across the rough pavement
+of broken stones, until she came to a large rock forming the terminus.
+On one side this rock was shelving. Fearless she walked down to the
+water's edge: the tide was running swiftly past, and this peculiar
+motion of the water being new to her, she laid herself down, and watched
+the coursing of the dark current with delight.
+
+When Peter returned, he saw nothing of Susie; and thinking she had gone
+to the other side of the fort, was hobbling round to look after her;
+when to his surprise, on turning the first angle, he saw the little boat
+close at hand, and apparently coming from a very different quarter than
+usual.
+
+'Hulloa, my hearties: where do you hail from now?'
+
+'The Horse Shoe,' said Sam, putting his hand to his mouth, and making as
+grum a noise as old Peter did.
+
+'The Horse Shoe! What! druv down there in the gale?'
+
+'Got lost in the fog, and made for the sand-bar; when the storm came up,
+we had a hard time of it.'
+
+Peter began to chew hard on his cud, and shake his head very violently;
+at the same time resting on his crutches, he doubled up his fist, and
+held it in a very threatening manner towards Sam.
+
+'The fog--lost in the fog--and didn't you know better than to venture
+off shore, with no _pints of compass_, and _no reckoning_ and _no
+nothing_ to steer by, in _sich a craft_ as _that_? That ain't fit to
+trust a man's life in on a mill pond.'
+
+Sam smiled.
+
+'It aint no laughing matter, my young man, to foller the water; I've
+tell'd you _that_, many a time; it ain't like the land, where you can
+lay to, and hold on jist as you likes. No, no; them that deals with the
+winds and the waves must keep a sharp look-out, and watch their chances;
+its nothin' more nor less but a temptin' o' Providence with your
+dumb-founded perverseness. But howsomever, I'm glad to see you; so jist
+haul up, and I'll call the Major.'
+
+Peter hobbled towards the landing-place, to which Sam urged his boat.
+Just as she struck the stairs, a loud scream was heard. Sam sprang from
+the boat, and ran with lightning speed across the ledge of broken rocks.
+He had seen what those on the dock could not see. The little girl had
+caught a view of the boat, and rising to return, had ventured to tread
+upon a part of the rock which was covered with sea-weed; her foot had
+slipped, and when Sam beheld her, she was hanging just above the water,
+clinging to the rock, and screaming in her agony. Almost distracted,
+Peter called aloud for help; although he could see nothing, as yet, of
+the child. Sam felt that life or death depended upon his exertions; and
+none but one accustomed, as he had been, from infancy, to tread with
+bare feet the flinty shore, could have made such fearful haste over that
+rough pavement. One false step would, in all probability, have cost his
+life. He reached the rock--she was still clinging; he grasped at her--it
+was too late--and down she plunged into the deep water, and was borne
+swiftly along by the current. But Sam was with her; he waited not to
+calculate the chances against his own life--in an instant he plunged,
+and then arose a cry from the fort, that brought help and dear friends
+to witness the heart-rending spectacle; for there could be little doubt
+in the minds of all that both must perish. Major Morris, at the first
+alarm, rushed to the spot. His distress at seeing the idol of his heart
+sinking in the deep water, cannot be described. He flew with one or two
+attendants to his own boat, which lay near at hand; and made all the
+haste the most intense anxiety could urge, to reach the struggling
+children. But Peter was before him, in the little skiff with Jim; the
+moment he understood the case, he threw down his crutches, sprang into
+the boat, and like a master workman, made her fly through the water.
+
+'Hold on, my darlings, don't be frightened; I'll soon be with you.'
+
+But no answer was returned; Sam had not calculated his own strength, and
+had no idea of the desperate energy it would require to sustain himself
+with another clinging to him. His arms could afford him no assistance;
+the little girl had grasped them with such energy, that the most he
+could do, was just to keep her head from beneath the water. Every thing
+was done with the greatest speed from the moment their situation was
+observed; but it took some little time to reach them. Sam felt his
+strength failing, he could not even call for help--intent upon one only
+object, he struggled on; and when he could raise his head above water to
+speak, he tried to encourage her. But the powers of nature could do no
+more, and he felt the water rushing above his head, and was conscious
+that all was over with him; when a hand, strong and steady, grasped his
+arms, still extended, and bearing up their precious burden.
+
+'She's saved! she's saved!' hallooed Peter, with his loudest voice.
+'She's saved! God be praised!--she ain't hurt a bit.' With one hand he
+took Susie from her hold on Sam, and raised her into the boat; and with
+the other supported him, so that his head was above the water.
+
+'Thank God!' exclaimed Major Morris--'But the _boy_--is he alive?'
+
+'Oh yes,' said Peter; at the same time raising Sam, and laying him down
+in the boat.
+
+'No, no, he ain't,' said Jim, throwing himself on the body of Sam. 'He's
+dead!--oh dear--he's dead! he's dead!'
+
+'I tell you he ain't--he ain't; he's only swooned like--he ain't dead:
+no, no.'
+
+But when Major Morris saw his pale and deathlike countenance, he was in
+great alarm.
+
+'To shore, instantly; he has saved my child, but I fear with the loss of
+his own life.' And while he hugged the darling of his heart to his
+bosom, and thanked God for his mercy, he could not restrain the big
+tears as he looked at the pallid features, and felt the cold and clammy
+temples of the brave heart that had saved her. Frantic with grief and
+joy alternate, Mrs. Morris watched every motion, from the stairs to
+which she had flown, at the first summons of the danger of her child.
+Receiving her from the arms of the father, crying and kissing her in the
+wildness of her joy, surrounded by attendants, she hurried into the
+fort; while Major Morris took the lifeless body of Sam in his arms,
+followed by Peter and Jim, who was almost beside himself with grief and
+terror.
+
+It seemed a long, long time to those who, under the direction of the
+surgeon of the garrison, were using means to resuscitate him; and
+scarcely less rejoiced was Major Morris when he received his own child
+alive in his arms, than when he perceived the signs of returning
+consciousness in Sam. At length he awoke as from a troubled dream. With
+an expression of deep anxiety he looked upon the circle which surrounded
+him. Mrs. Morris was bending over him, parting the wet and tangled locks
+from off his pale forehead; beside her stood the Major, holding his
+hands, and rejoicing in the warmth which he felt was returning to his
+system. Peter stood at the foot of the bed, chewing incessantly a
+tremendous quid of tobacco, which he had found leisure to slip into his
+mouth even in the midst of all the confusion. He had done great
+execution in the way of rubbing; his hands, very unlike his heart, were
+rough, and well calculated for such a purpose. He had, however, now
+ceased rubbing, and was looking alternately at Sam and at a short,
+red-faced personage, the Irish servant woman, who stood at his elbow.
+Endowed with all the feelings of her sex and her nation, she continued
+to be in great agitation. Her arms were crossed upon her breast, her
+eyes turned up to the ceiling, and with her body swinging to and fro,
+she was uttering certain groans and exclamations.
+
+'Is the little girl safe?' said Sam, looking full into the face of Major
+Morris.
+
+'Yes, my fine fellow, she is safe and well; thanks to you, under a kind
+Providence, for it.'
+
+Sam shut his eyes again; he said nothing further; but there was a
+tremulous motion on his lips, and about the muscles of his face. Some
+cordial was administered, and he was allowed to fall asleep. As he
+slept, the powers of nature began to assume their natural energy, a
+gentle warmth spread over his frame, the color again glowed on his
+cheek, and his whole countenance told the story to those anxious
+watchers, that he was doing well. All breathed more freely; the scene so
+late full of terror and dismay, was changing, like the black clouds
+which bring the thunder storm, into beautiful visions for the eye to
+rest upon and enjoy.
+
+When Sam again awoke, Jim alone was with him. He was much refreshed,
+and asked whether they had not better return home.
+
+'Whenever you are well enough, we will do so. Every thing is settled
+for--I have got your money and mine too.'
+
+'Oh, have you? Well, I have not thought much about money, or any thing
+else; I have been in a kind of dream, I believe.'
+
+'Don't you remember any thing that has happened, Sam?'
+
+'Why, I remember seeing that little girl hanging on the rock:--oh Jim,
+how I _did_ feel; and I remember running as fast as I could, and just as
+I put my hand on her to catch her, off she slipped. I remember _that_,
+Jim; and I don't believe I shall ever forget it: and I remember holding
+her up out of the water, and trying to call for help; and then, just as
+I was giving up and going down, I felt something take hold of me; and
+after that, all seems to be confused. I thought they told me she was
+saved; and I thought I saw her once looking at me; but I don't know--may
+be I only dreamt it.' And Sam looked very anxiously at Jim.
+
+'No, it's no dream, Sam; for she has been here a good while by you, and
+when she saw how pale you looked, she cried.'
+
+'Did she?'
+
+'Yes, and they all cried. And you don't know what Mr. Morris says--he
+says if it hadn't been for you, she would have been drowned before any
+of them could possibly have reached her: and that you have saved her
+life.'
+
+Sam could make no reply. The thought that he had saved a life, and the
+life of one so beautiful and so much beloved, was too full of happiness,
+and it overpowered him. The door now opened slowly, and Peter's shaggy
+head made its appearance. He had a bundle under his arm--Sam's clothes,
+which had been dried and ironed for him. Seeing Sam sitting up, he
+hobbled to the bedside, took both his crutches under one arm, and
+throwing the other around Sam, gave him a hug--well meant, no doubt, and
+expressive of his kind feelings; but which would have been much more in
+keeping had Peter been holding on to a main-top-gallant-mast in a gale
+of wind.
+
+Sam was soon arrayed in his old but clean garments. While he was
+dressing, Peter stood with his crutches properly adjusted for moving,
+his jaws working very rapidly, and his head nodding approvingly at Sam.
+
+'And now, come, my hearty, you're all rigged. The ladies want to see you
+in t'other room; come.'
+
+'Oh, no, no, no; I can't do that; I can't go, no how.'
+
+'I tell you what it is, you're a good fellow of your age as ever handled
+an oar; but you are too dumbfounded perverse in your own ways. Here is
+you been a saving this child, riskin' your own life; and when they want
+jist to say to you, "God bless you," and kind o' relieve their own
+minds, you up and won't go.'
+
+But Sam persisted; he would jump into the water again if that was
+necessary; but as to going into a fine parlor, and being looked at by
+fine ladies, it was not to be thought of. Peter was about to make some
+violent pleas against Sam's 'perverseness,' as he called it; when seeing
+the Major, he suddenly adjusted his crutches, stroked down his queue,
+and backed off to another part of the room.
+
+We must now leave Sam to the care of these friends, and see what is
+going on beneath the humble roof of his parents; an eventful day it
+proved for him and for them.
+
+Bill Tice had done the errand which Mr. Grizzle intrusted to him. A few
+days after, the old yellow gig of Mr. Richard Tucker was seen standing
+at Mr. Grizzle's door, while the two worthies were sitting together in a
+little back room, adjoining the store, with an old greasy account-book
+lying on the table beside them, and sundry papers in Mr. Tucker's
+handwriting open, and almost ready to be folded up and put into a dirty
+pocket-book belonging to said Mr. Tucker; which was also lying there,
+and waiting to inclose within its clasp an instrument fully charged with
+a power to torture, only surpassed by the wheel, which, in former days,
+twisted the joints of the wretched victims from their strong fastenings.
+
+'A larger bill, Mr. Dick, than I thought I could muster up; and now you
+make the most of it.'
+
+'Trust me for that; all I want to know is what my principal
+requires--that's all.'
+
+And Mr. Tucker knit his bushy brows, and went on tying up, with a dirty
+blue string, the papers which had been lying on the table.
+
+After securing them in this manner, he opened his pocket-book, and
+deposited them in it; and then, in the same careful manner, thrust the
+whole into an inside pocket of his threadbare coat. Mr. Tucker was
+about to do a very dirty job, and he was a man well fitted for the duty.
+He had a heart, doubtless, that beat and threw the vital current about
+his frame, just as other men have; and he had bones, and sinews, and
+flesh, and these could suffer pain as other flesh and blood; but to say
+that Mr. Tucker had a heart as others have, that would beat in sympathy
+with his fellow in distress, or that he could be made to feel shame, or
+pain, or sorrow, or regard, in that secret fountain where springs so
+much that sweetens or embitters life, would be wrong--wrong to him,
+because it would be saying that of him which was not true--wrong to the
+mass of mankind, who _have_ feelings that can be touched. Mr. Tucker's
+appearance was in keeping with his character--little leaden-colored
+eyes, sunk deep in his head, over which scowled dark shaggy brows; a
+pale, cadaverous countenance, with no expression that one could lay hold
+of in an hour of distress, on which to found a hope that any compassion
+might be felt, or any mercy shown. A fit minister was he of that stern
+and barbarous code which legalised the torturing of the _poor_
+man--which allowed the tearing him away from the charities of home, and
+entombing him in the charnel-house of vice, debauchery, and filth.
+
+Some feelings of compunction seemed yet to be lingering in the breast of
+Mr. Grizzle; for as Mr. Richard put his hat on his head, and buttoned up
+his coat, and fumbled about in the act of departing, he stammered out--
+
+'It's right, you know; I ought to have my own. Folks cannot expect me to
+wait always for 'em--pay-day must come.'
+
+'_Right!_ to be sure it's right; and as you say he's running against
+you, and setting up his boy and others to hurt your trade--why, muzzle
+him, I say--who wouldn't?'
+
+'I suppose it wouldn't be much use taking the timber and stuff that he
+is building that boat with?--there is nothing else to take.'
+
+'No use in that; he hasn't done much to it but put the ribs
+together--it's of no value as it is. No--shut him up; that's the
+way--that will stop boat and all.'
+
+'Well, well; you know the law, Dick, let it work. I shall have to find
+him in bread and water--that won't cost much.'
+
+The day was drawing to a close, and the shades of evening were deepened
+by a heavy cloud which was rising in the west, and into which the sun
+was sinking. A muttering of distant thunder hastened the departure of
+Mr. Tucker. He sprang into his crazy old gig, and drove off at a quick
+pace to his deed of mischief.
+
+Oakum had worked diligently on his boat all day, and continued his labor
+till a later hour than usual, in expectation that the little skiff would
+be along, and Sam would accompany him home. He had felt much uneasiness
+for the safety of the boys, and was very desirous of witnessing their
+return. Darkness was coming on, and a storm threatening; so taking a
+long look across the water, and meeting no signs of the boat, with
+rather a sad heart he walked towards his home. Their evening meal was
+eaten in silence, while, as long as the light permitted any view of
+distant objects, the eyes of the parents were directed across the water.
+They felt, as they had never before, how dependent they were upon their
+boy for his smile and his voice to cheer their hearts.
+
+Scarcely had they finished their supper, when the yellow gig of Mr.
+Tucker drove up. Oakum and his wife cast their eyes at the gig, and then
+at each other. Instantly she perceived that trouble was at hand; for her
+husband grew very pale, and even faltered in his step as he walked to
+the door to admit their visitor. Mr. Tucker did not use much formality
+in his official visits, and entered without knocking.
+
+'Mr. Oakum, I believe.'
+
+'At your service, sir.'
+
+'Here is an account, sir, I believe against you, lately put into my
+hands'--at the same time opening his pocket-book, and taking out one of
+the papers which he had so carefully put there but a short time since,
+in the little back room of Mr. Grizzle's store. Mr. Oakum took the
+paper, and asking Mr. Tucker to be seated, availed himself of the same
+privilege--for, to tell the truth, he was completely unnerved. He knew
+well what office Mr. Tucker held: he also knew something of the man; and
+a strange weakness came over him, so that when he unfolded the paper,
+and held it up to the light of the window, his hands trembled so
+violently, it was impossible for him to make out the sum that was
+charged against him.
+
+'This is from Mr. Grizzle, I suppose, Mr. Tucker?'
+
+'It is, sir.'
+
+'I don't know that I can make out exactly what the amount is; but I
+suppose it is right. I owe Mr. Grizzle something, but I thought it
+wasn't much.'
+
+'Much or little, sir, you've got it there; it is something over thirty
+dollars.'
+
+'Thirty dollars! Ain't there some mistake, Mr. Tucker?' and Mr. Oakum
+looked at his wife in amazement. She, poor thing, stood like a statue,
+not comprehending the matter, but fearing it was something dreadful.
+
+'I guess there is no mistake, sir. Mr. Grizzle took it from his book,
+and he ain't apt to make mistakes; but that is between you and him--it
+is no concern of mine.'
+
+'Oh, no, sir; you are not to blame. I know I owe Mr. Grizzle, and I have
+thought of it a great deal, and am trying to get a little something
+ahead to give him; he shall have all I honestly owe him just as soon as
+my hands can earn it. I will call and see Mr. Grizzle to-morrow, and
+take him a little.'
+
+Mr. Tucker now arose from his seat, put his hat on his head, and
+stepping up to Mr. Oakum--
+
+'All _that_ is well enough, sir; but it don't pay the bill. If you
+cannot settle it at once, you will please go along with me'--at the same
+time putting his hand on his shoulder.
+
+'I have a warrant to take you, unless you can give me the money, or
+goods in the place of it. Shall I read the warrant?'
+
+'There is no occasion for that, sir. I have not got the money, if it was
+to save my life; and goods I have none, only what you see here.'
+
+'Well, sir, if you go peaceably, it is well enough; if not, I must read
+the warrant, for I have no time to lose--it is getting dark.'
+
+Mr. Oakum arose, but his limbs could scarcely sustain him; big drops of
+sweat stood on his pale forehead, and a deadly sickness was at his
+heart.
+
+'Oakum, Oakum! tell me what it is. What does this man want?'
+
+'I don't see, Mr. Tucker, what good it is going to do Mr. Grizzle to
+shut me up in jail. I can't do no work there. And what are my wife and
+children to do? must they starve?'
+
+'_Jail! jail!_ Ah, sir; you ain't going to put my husband in _jail_!
+What hurt has he done you, or any body else?'
+
+And she flew to her husband, and putting her arms around his neck, wept
+as though her heart had broken. But Mr. Tucker was not to be balked in
+the discharge of his official duties by the tears of either man or
+woman--some harsh things he said, which aroused the humbled spirits of
+this suffering husband and wife. Mrs. Oakum hushed her grief for the
+time, in order to quiet the distressed children, who were clinging to
+their father, and screaming in their agony when they learned whither he
+was going. Mr. Oakum, however, made no resistance to the imperious
+demands of the officer; but quieting the feelings of his family as far
+as he could, entered the gig with Mr. Tucker, and was driven rapidly
+away amid the darkness of the gathering storm.
+
+As soon as Mrs. Oakum was enabled to collect her thoughts, apprehensions
+on Sam's account again oppressed her. She took her seat by the window,
+and looked in every direction; but the darkness had increased so
+rapidly, that objects could be discerned at only a short distance from
+the house. Occasionally the vivid lightning would, for an instant, throw
+its bright glare across the water, making the prospect distinctly
+visible. On one occasion, she thought she saw a small white sail; and
+every succeeding flash she watched, until her eyes were nearly blinded
+by the dazzling light, but nothing more of it could she discern. A
+startling peal of thunder proclaimed that the storm was at hand, and the
+rain began to patter in large drops, and then to pour its floods upon
+them. Just at that moment the door opened; and Sam, with his cheerful
+smile and pleasant words, was in the midst of them. They all flew to
+caress him; but missing his father, and seeing the marks of distress in
+his mother's countenance--
+
+'Where is father?' he cried, 'is anything wrong--do tell me quick,
+mother.'
+
+'Ah, Sam! what shall we do?'
+
+All Sam's bright hopes were dashed at once; he durst ask no further. The
+day had been one of severe toil and imminent danger; but he had been
+richly rewarded in the approbation of those he esteemed so highly; he
+had been caressed by those whose rank in life was among the first in the
+land; and he had then about him a jewel of no inconsiderable value,
+given to him by Mrs. Morris as a token of her high approbation of his
+manly conduct, and of the obligation she should ever feel for the rescue
+of her child. All this had raised his spirits; and full of the fond
+anticipation of making his parents glad with the tidings of the day, he
+had landed with a happy heart, and hurried to his home. But now, alas!
+his father has yielded to the tempter, never, perhaps, to be restored,
+and all his proud dreams are gone.
+
+'You need not tell me about it, mother. But I must go and try to find
+him; he may be somewhere on the road, unable to help himself, and
+exposed to this storm.'
+
+His mother looked earnestly at him, as though not clearly comprehending
+what he meant; but it soon became evident to her.
+
+'Oh! it is not that, Sam. Your father has been hard at work all day, and
+we were only worrying a little about you, as he felt so anxious ever
+since the storm we had in the morning--if it hadn't been for that, we
+should have been as happy as could be--when, all at once, that
+good-for-nothing creature Richard Tucker came in, and said he was sent
+by Grizzle; and in spite of all we could say or do, he has took him off
+to the jail.'
+
+And she broke out again in a passionate flood of tears. Poor Sam was in
+a sad strait; but his heart was not so heavy as when under the
+impression that his father had fallen again into his evil habits. He
+resolved, however, immediately what course to pursue.
+
+'I am going out, mother. Perhaps I can get him clear; if not, I shall
+stay with him till morning. I cannot leave my father alone in that
+dreadful place to-night.'
+
+'Oh, Sam! what are you talking about? You cannot go out in such a storm,
+and then to stay all night in that awful jail.'
+
+'I don't care for the storm, mother; and the jail won't be worse for me
+than it will be for him.'
+
+'Well, Sam, I don't know what to say, my poor head is so bewildered. If
+it wasn't for these little ones, I would go with you.'
+
+Sam immediately went to his chest, and taking out all his little store
+of money, put it with that which he had brought home that day--in all it
+amounted to three dollars. He then took the jewel which had been
+presented to him--a handsome broach, in the form of a harp, and set with
+stones, worth no small sum in money; but to Sam more valuable than
+hoards of gold, and which no money would have purchased from him--and
+placed it in the bag with his little treasure, then threw on an old
+garment, to protect himself in some measure from the rain, and telling
+his mother 'to keep up a good heart,' left the house. He took the road
+leading to Mr. Grizzle's store, and forgetting the fatigue of the day,
+hurried along as fast as the storm would permit. Mr. Grizzle was sitting
+at his counter, resting his feet on an old rickety bench, and humming a
+tune by way of company, for the usual visitors of the evening were not
+in.
+
+Sam took off his hat as he entered, and walking up to Mr. Grizzle looked
+him full in the face, but was too much out of breath to speak.
+
+The old man stopped his tune, and looked quite smilingly at Sam.
+
+'Well, my lad, how do you do this evening? All well at home?'
+
+'Here, Mr. Grizzle, is all the money we have; it is not much--but I
+thought may be you would take it; and here is something that is worth a
+good deal--you may keep it until we bring you the rest of the money. We
+can only get a little at a time, but you shall have it all as fast as we
+can raise it.'
+
+'_Money_, boy! Who has said any thing to you about money? I
+haven't--have I?'
+
+'Why, sir, I suppose you sent Mr. Tucker to our house?'
+
+'Mr. Tucker! He has been to see you, has he? Well, he is a pretty hard
+customer. Why not give him the money?'
+
+'But he has taken my father to jail, sir; and says he must have the
+whole of the money--and this is all we have got,' holding up to Mr.
+Grizzle his little handful of change. 'Here is three dollars, sir, and I
+will soon get you some more, and you may keep _this_ until I bring it,'
+taking up also his brooch.
+
+'What, gold, ha! You must be pretty well off at your house--pretty well
+off.'
+
+'_Do_, Mr. Grizzle, take this, and let my father go. We will pay you
+every cent he owes, just as fast as we can; I promise you, sir, upon my
+honor.'
+
+'Oh, you had better go to Mr. Tucker's, he will take the money, I
+guess--and that thing too; may be he can find an owner for it. It don't
+look as if it had been living among poor folks.'
+
+Sam's heart was beginning to sink; he perceived that Mr. Grizzle was
+only mocking him. But he did not quite understand what he meant by
+'finding an owner for it.'
+
+'I am the owner of this, Mr. Grizzle.'
+
+'Are you? you look a good deal like it.' And he cast his eye down at
+Sam, surveying him from head to foot. This was more than he could bear;
+his heart beat quick, his face reddened; he could not then have asked a
+favour of that old withered wretch, had it been to save himself or his
+family from certain ruin. He put his money and jewel back again into his
+pocket, picked up his hat from the bench on which he had laid it, and
+turning his back on the store and its owner, hurried away, wishing that
+he might never see either again.
+
+The building used for the graceless evil-doers and penniless paupers of
+this vicinity was not a very sightly object, and its appearance was in
+keeping with its hideous character. It was a square, two-storied
+building, without any paint; the clapboards and roof were gray and
+mossy; storms and sunshine had played upon it for fifty years; and it
+was none the better for its age. In the upper story could be seen one
+room, with a small window at the end, with iron bars crossing
+sufficiently near together to keep a prisoner from getting through, if
+he was somewhat corpulent; but most rogues and poor men, that were not
+very stout, could, if so disposed, have found a way out with a little
+hard squeezing. But whether any did ever get out in that way I never
+learned--perhaps the sight of the iron was enough. The other apartments
+of the house had windows open as one could desire; glass may once have
+formed some obstruction, to the birds at least; but it had disappeared
+'long time ago,' and in that place thereof, shingles, old hats, old
+clothes--any thing that would keep out the rain and the cold for the
+time being, was substituted. It was inhabited by a family, which, for
+want of all those qualities and qualifications that would have fitted
+them for any other situation, were content to abide here. Old Adam Tice
+had never been able to comprehend the difference between mine and thine.
+He was not particularly bad in any other way; but it was generally
+thought that his boys would, in time, carry out his principles a little
+beyond their parent; and his son Bill, whom we have been introduced to
+at Mr. Grizzle's, had, on more than one occasion, enjoyed the occupancy
+of the room with the grated window.
+
+As there was but one apartment in this building suited for close
+confinement, it sometimes occurred that an unfortunate debtor, who had
+no friend to bail him out, so as to allow him the privilege, if such he
+should esteem it, of ranging the lot on which the house was built, and
+taking up his abode with Mr. Tice, must share the grated room with some
+vile character whose deeds against humanity had brought him there; and
+such was the case now. Two notorious vagabonds, guilty of flagrant
+crimes, the very offscouring of the earth, were there; and nightly they
+filled the old jail with noise and riot, as though fiends were holding
+their orgies. It made even old Tice shudder, as their horrid oaths rang
+through the building in the darkness of the night; and he almost
+regretted that he had procured the liquor which had thus given them the
+inspiration of demons.
+
+I shall not attempt to describe the feelings of poor Mr. Oakum when he
+heard the key turned upon him, and found himself in such company. Some
+straw was placed for him at one end of the room, out of the reach of his
+fellow-prisoners, who were chained. He tottered towards it, and was glad
+to cast himself down upon it. Sorrow will sometimes lull her suffering
+children to sleep: oblivion, like a handmaid of charity, steals upon
+them and shuts up the senses. Helpless, and almost hopeless, his mind
+could no longer bear the thoughts that haunted it, but settled down into
+unconsciousness. Occasionally some dreadful oath would rouse him, or the
+deep rolling thunder, but only for a moment; when thoughts of home, and
+wife, and children, would with lightning speed flash upon his mind, and
+then, overpowered with his sad condition, he would again sink into
+unconsciousness.
+
+At length he started from his bed of straw, awakened by the spring of
+the heavy bolt that was suddenly drawn back. He cast his eager glance
+upon the door; a light glimmered through a small square aperture at the
+top--the latch was raised--his senses he feared were leaving him; for
+there stood Sam, his dear, good child. Mr. Tice threw the light of his
+lamp upon that corner of the room, and Sam walked directly to his
+father.
+
+'Oh, my dear boy, is that you? is it you, Sam?'
+
+'I thought I would come and stay with you to-night, father.'
+
+'Oh, Sam, I do not mind this for my own sake; I deserve it: my own
+foolishness has brought this on to me.'
+
+'Don't talk so, father; you haven't done wrong. I will get you out, yet,
+and it will all be better than ever.'
+
+His father could make no reply; his heart was melted, and thoughts
+different from any he had ever indulged before began to agitate him. God
+had not forsaken him; this child was an angel of mercy, sent to cheer
+his gloom and give hope to his heart. New and strange feelings towards
+his God arose from within--how good, how forbearing, how full of
+compassion. New feelings in regard to himself oppressed him. A great
+sinner, both towards God and the dear ones God had given him, could he
+be pardoned? He remembered the thief upon the cross; and his whole heart
+arose in one strong impulse--'Lord, help me! save me!' It was a simple
+prayer--it was only breathed--but it was heard in heaven. And swift as
+angels fly, sweet peace came down and stole into his bosom, and there,
+amid that gloom and in that dire abode, whispered of pardon, and hope,
+and a Friend above.
+
+But where did Sam obtain that strong assurance that all would yet be
+well--_better_ than ever? It was no fiction invented to soothe his
+father's troubled mind. Sam really felt and truly believed it would be
+so. Ever since that dark hour upon the rock by the water-side, when his
+companions came to him with their plan of enterprise, had _resolution_,
+strong as his love of life, nerved his heart. He had since then tasted
+the rich fruits of honest labor; and his eyes were enlightened, and his
+hope and courage made strong. His parents and sisters had already been
+made happy by his exertions, and his way was enlarging before him. The
+present hour was one of severe trial, but his courage was not shaken by
+it, and he believed most firmly that it would be with them 'better than
+it had ever been.'
+
+It was a beautiful morning when Sam left the jail, and hurried on his
+way to carry what comfort he could to his home. He would have avoided
+every human being if he could, but just as he was about to pass the road
+which ran down to the blacksmith's shop, Mr. Cutter's two boys saw him,
+and being social fellows, ran up, and began, in their free-and-easy
+boy's style, to question him about what he was doing there that time of
+day, and where he had been, and so on. Sam's heart was about as full as
+it could hold. They were wild boys, but of a kind nature, and felt a
+right good-will towards Sam. They perceived that he was in trouble, for
+the tears stood in his eyes when they spoke to him.
+
+'Now, Sam, what's the matter? tell me who's been hurting you. I'll give
+it to him--who is it? See if I don't.' And Bill Cutter doubled up his
+fists, and put himself in a posture to go right at it. Sam Cutter was a
+little softer in his composition than his brother; and while Bill was
+putting himself into a great rage with somebody or other, he did not
+care who, Sam put his hand on the shoulder of his companion:
+
+'Tell me, Sam, what's the matter.' The storm, which had been so long
+pent up, broke forth; this made both boys more solicitous to find out
+the cause of his trouble, until Sam was compelled to tell the whole.
+
+No sooner had they heard the story, than, seizing Sam, each by an arm,
+they fairly forced him along.
+
+'Come along, right in, Sam Oakum, and tell father all about it.'
+
+And on he had to go, straight through the old shop, into a little back
+yard, and then into a little old house. The table was in the middle of
+the floor, on which lay the remains of the breakfast which had just been
+eaten.
+
+Mrs. Cutter was stooping over the fire, and doing something with a
+kettle which hung there; and as they entered, she turned her very large
+eyes upon the boys. I say large, because they were naturally very
+expansive, and because she wore on the bridge of her nose, right before
+them, a pair of nose spectacles; they were large, too, in contrast with
+the other features of her countenance, for while these were very round
+and full, everything else in sight was very long and sharp; her nose was
+long, and her chin was long, and her hands and arms were long; and other
+limbs long too, for when she let go the kettle and raised herself up,
+she appeared all length--of breadth there was nothing to mention, except
+the eyes.
+
+'What upon airth is the matter? what are you doin' with that boy? See,
+Cutter, they've been a hurtin' on him--he's a cryin' now--oh the massys!
+Let him go, you good-for-_nothins you_, let him _go_.'
+
+'No, we ain't been hurting him, neither--what do you think, father?
+they've been putting Sam Oakum's father in the old cage, they have.'
+
+Mr. Cutter was sitting yet at the table; _he_ and his good woman were
+the reverse of each other, in more ways than one. He was, as we have
+seen, very large and full-bodied. Standing and walking and going about,
+seemed to be, each of them, her natural situation; while with him,
+standing was not to be thought of if there was any chance for a seat;
+and when once at the table he seemed willing there to stay, until Mrs.
+Cutter had cleared plates, dishes, and the table itself from before him.
+As the boys entered he pushed himself round, and looked in quiet
+amazement at them.
+
+'Who is _they_? who's put him in jail?'
+
+'Old Grizzle, father; only think. If I ain't a mind to kill the old
+varmint; I'll burn his house down.'
+
+'_Whist, hush, hold your tongue_, you scoundrel; how dare you talk so?'
+
+And the old man, in his energy to do something to show his displeasure
+at such threats, caught hold of the pitcher, which yet stood on the
+table before him, and thinking not of its contents, elevated it above
+his head in a threatening manner at his lawless son. Cider he liked well
+enough in its proper place; but a shower of it on his bald head, and in
+his eyes, and so on, was another thing. It took him by surprise--he let
+the pitcher go, and put his hands to the afflicted parts.
+
+Crockery is brittle stuff; it could not stand every thing, any more than
+Mrs. Cutter's temper could. To see the look of horror she cast upon the
+dripping head of her husband, and then at the broken pieces of her
+pitcher, the very last thing in the house 'her mother gin' her,' as she
+often said; with her long arms and bony fingers stretched out in the
+air, was rather frightful: The moment the old man could recover himself
+sufficiently to realize what he had done, and what he had to expect, he
+exclaimed, very significantly,
+
+'Oh dear!' and rose up as hastily as he could, designing to retreat to
+his shop, his usual refuge from a storm.
+
+'_Oh dear!_ you may well say so--of _all things_. Well, Cutter, now you
+see what you've done. I've told you it would be so; the very last thing
+my mother gin' me--slam it right down on the harth--isn't that purty?
+you've been breakin' and breakin' all your life; and now you've broke
+the pitcher.'
+
+He said not a word in reply, but taking hold of Sam Oakum pulled him
+along towards the shop. Finding that her husband was fast retreating
+from the sound of her voice, she turned the battery upon her two boys,
+who were eyeing the broken crockery with no very equivocal looks,
+
+'And _you_, you villains! comin' and settin' your father crazy with your
+lies--_out_ of the house with you, this instant.' And she made a push
+for the broomstick. They understood her kind intentions right well,
+having had large experience in that way, and did not wait for any
+further instructions; but made after their father with all speed.
+
+Once in the shop, the old man felt safe. He had kept fast hold of Sam,
+and sitting down on his usual block, held him off at arms-length with
+one hand, while with the other, and the aid of an old handkerchief, he
+wiped down his bald head, and round, good-natured countenance.
+
+'Oh dear! it was unlucky about that pitcher, I shall never hear the last
+on it. Tell me now, Sam, what is all this? It ain't true--is it? that
+old varmint ain't put your father in jail, has he? Don't cry now, but
+just tell me the whole on it.'
+
+Sam told his story as well as he could, but it was hard work. He could
+command his feelings very well, when only thinking about it; but when
+compelled to speak his father's name, his lip trembled, and the words
+came out with great difficulty. Mr. Cutter had a very tender heart of
+his own, and Sam's story and appearance worked upon him more and more;
+so that he kept the old handkerchief wiping away long after the cider
+shower had dried off.
+
+'And why didn't you come to me, and tell me about it? Ain't I known your
+father from a boy, and your mother too--bless her good soul; and do you
+think I would have let such doings as these gone on? That old
+varmint--is that the way he is goin' to serve folks? Send 'em to jail,
+to lay there with them dreadful rapscallions? Oh dear!--jist to think on
+it! And you was comin' here to tell me about it this morning; wasn't
+you, Sam?'
+
+'No, sir, I was going home.'
+
+'Going _home_? Why, where have you been?'
+
+'I've been with father all night.'
+
+'_You?_ He didn't put you there _too_, did he? the old sinner!'
+
+'Oh no, sir, but I went there to stay with him. I thought father would
+feel so bad.'
+
+'You blessed child! Oh dear, what are we comin' to? And you ain't had no
+breakfast. Here, boys, go in and ask your mother to give this poor child
+a little something.'
+
+'Oh no, sir, I thank you; I can't stay; for mother will feel bad if I
+don't go home; and I ain't hungry a bit.'
+
+'Yes, you are hungry--you know you are--only you feel so bad, you can't
+eat. But I tell you, don't feel bad; you mustn't. Your father _shan't_
+stay there in that hole; I tell you he _shan't_! He shall see that he's
+got some friends. We ain't all dead and buried yet, I hope.'
+
+'Oh, Mr. Cutter!' and Sam, as he said this, caught hold of him with both
+his hands; 'if you can do any thing to help to get my father out of that
+dreadful place, I will thank you all my life for it, and I will pay you
+every cent of the money, just as fast as I can earn it.' And he looked
+so earnestly into Mr. Cutter's face, and his bright black eyes sparkled
+with such an intensity of feeling, that the old man's heart must have
+been made of much _sterner_ stuff than it was, not to have felt the
+appeal.
+
+'There, go home--go home, Sam; don't say no more.' And he fairly pushed
+Sam away from him; and then he kept the old handkerchief going for some
+time, not saying a word to either of his boys, who stood looking after
+Sam, as he went away, and pitying him from their hearts.
+
+'Now, boys, go and catch the old mare, and hitch her to the cart; and
+one of you must drive me to Billy Bloodgood's. Billy must help about
+this business, if I can only make him hear any thing; but it's like
+raising the dead.'
+
+The boys went off with a good will, and soon had the old nag tackled to
+the cart, her harness being of a very simple kind, and easily adjusted.
+
+Mr. Cutter had a way of his own about almost every thing, and it
+extended even to his manner of riding. Too bulky to climb very high
+places, he chose, generally, the lowest seat he could find; and the tail
+of the cart being more easily attained than any other part, and
+moreover, being easily resigned in case of accident, whenever Mr. Cutter
+rode, _that_ was his place. He would sit pretty well in on the body,
+with his legs dangling behind, and one hand on each of the side-boards.
+To an observer, it appeared to be a very uneasy situation; for the mare
+had a peculiar gait, something between a rack and a pace, which not only
+imparted a quick up-and-down motion to the stern of the vehicle, but a
+lateral one likewise; so that from the time she started until she
+stopped, Mr. Cutter was not only carried onward, but every which way:
+there was no quiet for his body. He never complained of it, however, nor
+seemed to realize any thing out of the way.
+
+Billy Bloodgood was just going out of his gate when Mr. Cutter drove up.
+Knowing that it would be useless trying to hold a parley with him out
+there, he told his son to drive close to the door; and taking Mr.
+Bloodgood by the arm, pulled him along, determined not to let him go, as
+he was well acquainted with his peculiarities. So, holding on with one
+hand to the side of the doorway, and with the other to his friend, he
+entered into Mrs. Bloodgood's sanctum--her kitchen, parlor, and bedroom.
+Puffing and blowing, he seized the first chair he could find, and
+bestowed himself upon it.
+
+'Now, woman, do you make this husband of your's sit down, for I want to
+talk to him; and he'll be running off if you don't see to him.'
+
+'Why, what's the matter, Uncle Sam? you're all in a heat, and out o'
+breath. Ain't nothing happened to home, has there?'
+
+'Happened? Yes, there has something happened--there's always something
+or other happening in this world; but that ain't neither here nor there.
+I can get along with that. The wind will have its blow out, and then it
+will stop, and so must a woman's tongue. But I tell you, make that man
+of your's sit down, and do you come and listen to me, and then try to
+git it into his head, for it's beyond me to do it.'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood did as she was bidden; for she had great respect for
+Uncle Sam Cutter. She placed a seat close beside him for her husband,
+and another for herself, immediately before him.
+
+'Do you know that our neighbor Oakum is in jail?'
+
+'In jail! Oh dear, how you _do_ talk!'
+
+'It is true--I tell you so.'
+
+'Then it's Grizzle--I know it is. First, he's 'ticed him to drink, and
+then he's come upon him. Ain't it so, Uncle Sam?'
+
+'Yes; but hear me. Oakum ain't the man he was--don't you know that? He's
+a clean changed man. He's to work now every day, and brings home all his
+earnings every night to his family, and stays to home, and acts like a
+man; and his wife looks like a new critter, and things all round his
+house look so you wouldn't hardly know it. And now, jist as they are
+beginning to be a little like folks, and have things right end up, that
+old varmint takes the law on him, and puts him in the old cage, among
+them rapscallions there, jist as if he was a thief or a murderer.'
+
+'Oh dear! jist to think on it.'
+
+'And there's that blessed child of his been through all the rain and
+thunder and lightning, and went and stayed there all night, because he
+couldn't bear to leave his father alone--jist think of that; and that
+poor woman, all stark alone with them little children--jist think of
+that. Don't it make your heart ache?'
+
+'Oh dear, dear! what are we comin' to?--jist think of it.'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood had her own peculiar ways, and was not always very
+particular what she said or did, when overcome by the little vexations
+of life; but she had a feeling heart, and would cry as hard as she would
+scold, if there was any thing calculated in an especial manner to bring
+tears; and now they were chasing each other down her cheeks faster than
+she could wipe them away.
+
+'I don't wonder you cry about it. I tell you what: when that little
+fellow took hold on me this morning, and begged me to help his father,
+and looked up at me so pitiful, and said that he would thank me all his
+life, and pay every cent of the debt as fast as he could earn it--why I
+tell you, Sally, I cried like a child. And now, I tell you what it is;
+we mustn't leave that man lying there like a thief. I can't eat, nor
+sleep--I can't do it, Sally. I haven't got but little; but Billy must
+help--it's thirty dollars. I know it's a great deal for poor folks to
+raise, but it must be done, somehow--mustn't it, Sally?'
+
+Mr. Bloodgood had been a silent spectator of the scene--he could not be
+said to be a listener. He saw that Mr. Cutter was very much engaged, and
+that his wife was quite to the other extremity of her feelings; but what
+was to pay he did not know. He kept looking first at one, and then at
+the other, for some explanation, taking large pinches of snuff all the
+time from a horn box which he held in his hand.
+
+'Any body _dead_?'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood put her nose close to his ear, and hallooed--'No!'
+
+Mr. Cutter pushed his chair back a little--the unearthly noise startled
+him.
+
+'Why! do you have to holler at that rate? I should think you'd split
+your throat, or your nose, or something or other. I never heard such a
+noise.'
+
+'Oh dear! I tell you, Uncle Sam, he gits wus and wus. I do candidly
+believe it's the snuff; he stops every thing up with it. His head ain't
+got no more sound to it than the harth stone.'
+
+'Well, I don't know but it's the best thing he can do, if he's got to
+have sich noises as them made in it. I should want to stop every thing
+up too; and how upon airth you are ever going to tell him what I want, I
+don't see. Let me get a little ways off afore you begin; my head sings
+now like a dozen teakettles.'
+
+With that the old man pushed his chair off against the opposite wall,
+while Mrs. Bloodgood undertook the task of explaining matters to her
+husband, and she accomplished it in much less time than could have been
+expected. Being nowise friendly to Mr. Grizzle, she handled his name in
+a very free way; and as her husband confided in her management, when she
+was through with the story, he looked at her very significantly--
+
+'Shall I do it, Sally?'
+
+'Yes, yes; do it--quick.'
+
+So he looked at Mr. Cutter, smiled, and nodded, and then left the room.
+
+'Well, well; all things was made for some use. I often wondered what
+your nose was made for, but I see now. But it will be the death of you,
+yet; you'll split something or other one of these days.'
+
+'Why, no, Uncle Sam, you see I'm used to it; but it does make me weak at
+the stomach like, it takes sich a power of wind to keep it up any time
+so; a body can holler pretty loud two or three words, and not mind it.
+But I s'pose it's my lot, and I must be content with it.'
+
+Mr. Bloodgood soon returned, making signs to Uncle Sam to draw up to the
+table. We must leave them to arrange matters, and carry out their kind
+designs as best they may be able.
+
+How beautifully the water sparkled with the bright rays of the morning
+sun, and how clean the shore looked, and how fresh every thing appeared,
+as Sam drew near to his home; but how very sad his heart was, none but
+such as have suffered like him can well imagine. But sad as were his
+feelings, it did not hinder his attending to all the duties which
+devolved upon him. The net was examined, and the fish for the morning's
+meal brought up. The pigs were fed, and the boat looked after, and all
+things done as usual. It was a solitary meal, _that breakfast_, and soon
+ended. But the best fish were frying by the fire, and on the griddle was
+a fine thick bread-cake cooking, and a little basket was brought and
+placed on the table, and a clean cloth lay beside the basket; and Sam
+had his hat in his hand, and was leaning against the fireplace, watching
+his mother, as she went about the little room getting things together.
+
+'May be he'd like a little pickle, mother. You know he eats it sometimes
+with his breakfast.' And the mother made no reply; but wiping away the
+tears that started as reference was made to him, she went directly to
+the cupboard and brought the pot of pickles; and then the fish was taken
+from the fire, and placed on a plate and put into the basket; and the
+cake was taken from the griddle, and broken in two and laid on the fish;
+and the pickle, and a little salt and pepper, and a knife and fork; and
+then the clean cloth was put over the whole, and Sam, taking the basket,
+walked straight out of the house, and his mother threw herself into the
+chair, and wept aloud.
+
+As Sam ascended the little rise of ground behind their dwelling, he
+looked across to the house of his friends, Jim and Ned, to see if they
+were out--as he then felt a sight of them would be good. There they
+were, working away in their garden. Presently one of them stops and
+looks round, walks to the fence, jumps over, and is running toward Sam,
+with Jowler after him.
+
+'There comes Ned. What shall I say to him?'
+
+'Sam, how are you? ain't this a beautiful morning? What have you got in
+your basket? where are you going?'
+
+'Oh, I am going a short distance.'
+
+'If you are not going too far, I'll go with you. I'm tired of hoeing.
+Jim has had me up ever since daybreak, and I mean to rest a few minutes.
+But what is the matter, Sam? What makes you look so? You ain't well, are
+you?'
+
+Sam did look pale, for he was alarmed at Ned's offer to accompany him.
+
+'Oh, I think you had better not go with me: it is something of a walk,
+and as you have been at work so long, you will be tired.'
+
+'No; I shan't be tired. But now, Sam Oakum, tell me what's the matter,'
+at the same time taking hold of him. 'There is something the matter, I
+know--you always tell me every thing.'
+
+'I know I do, Ned; but somehow I do not like to tell you this. Haven't
+you heard any thing.'
+
+'_Heard_ any thing? No. Do you think we should not have been down to see
+you, if we had known that any thing was the matter? But _do_ tell me,
+Sam.'
+
+'Father is in jail.'
+
+'That's Grizzle.'
+
+'Yes.'
+
+Ned stooped and caught up a good-sized stone, and aiming it at another
+still larger, sent it with such force that it was shivered into small
+fragments. He then looked at Sam a moment, with his hands in his
+pockets. He dared not speak, for his heart was aching so hard. It would
+have been a great relief to have cried; but Ned never cried--he could do
+any thing but that. He felt so much like it now though, as he kept his
+eyes on Sam, who looked so sad and pale, that all at once he turned
+short round, and walked away towards home; and Sam went on his way
+toward the jail.
+
+The two miserable beings who had filled the old jail with their ravings
+through most of the night, were now asleep; and as Sam was admitted
+again into the miserable room, he cast his eye upon them as they lay in
+all their loathsomeness. Never before had he seen human nature in such
+an appalling form--their garments filthy, and torn into shreds; their
+hair, long and matted, lay over their faces and among the straw which
+formed their bed; their faces bloated, bruised, and bloody. He shrunk
+back involuntarily. He cast his eye to the further end of the room, and
+it met the smile of his father. He hurried past these dreadful objects,
+and placed his basket beside his pale and sorrow-stricken parent. Sam
+started, when he saw how _very_ pale he looked, and how great a change
+his countenance had undergone since he last saw the daylight shine upon
+it. He took off the cloth which covered the basket, and upon that he
+placed the good breakfast his mother had prepared; and then he saw his
+father put his hands together, and that his eyes were closed, and his
+lips moved. He had never known him to do so before. Could it be that he
+was praying for a blessing, ere he tasted this token of love from
+earthly dear ones and heaven's bounteous King? Oh, Sam! how little can
+you realize the ordeal that parent has passed since the last setting
+sun. But the agony that racked his spirit has purified it also; and it
+has turned, 'trembling, hoping,' to its God. When years have passed, and
+you shall stand by his dying bed, and walk in the church-yard where
+rises the little mound of earth over the resting-place of his body, you
+will think of this night, and you will bless God for his goodness to you
+and your's.
+
+'It is very good, Sam; and it is very kind in you all to think of me
+so.'
+
+'Oh, father, don't say so; it makes me feel so bad.'
+
+'To think how much trouble I have been to my family.'
+
+Sam could stand it no longer, but wept aloud.
+
+'I don't wish to make you feel bad, Sam; but all your kind feelings,
+and all your mother's kind feelings, make me think how wrong I have
+acted, and wonder how anybody can care for me.'
+
+'But they do care for you--everybody cares for you. Uncle Sam Cutter
+says you shan't stay here--_that_ you shan't.'
+
+'Did he say so? Well, I thank him for his kind feelings; and I hope, if
+the Lord please, I may get my liberty soon, that I may be able to work
+and earn an honest living, and pay my debts. But, Sam, this place ain't
+so bad, gloomy as it looks. A bad life and a guilty conscience are
+harder things to get along with than this jail. I have spent worse
+hours, looking at you and your mother, and the little ones, with a fire
+burning in my bosom, than I spent here last night. I never knew before
+that there could be such things.'
+
+'What things, father?'
+
+'Why, Sam, that there could be such peace within, when all about me was
+so horrible. But I believe God has done it--and all for my good. He does
+everything for good.'
+
+Sam was utterly confounded at hearing such words from his father; but he
+rejoiced to hear them. He sat as long as he thought consistent with
+duties at home, and was preparing to return, when their attention was
+arrested by a bustle below stairs, and a loud puffing and blowing of
+some one ascending to the room.
+
+'What steps you've got here, Mr. Tice!--so high, I can hardly get my old
+carcass up. Oh, dear, dear, dear; what a world this is!'
+
+The heavy bolt was drawn; and as the door, creaking on its hinges,
+slowly opened, the portly form of Mr. Samuel Cutter appeared, filling
+the open space, and looking with a wild stare into and around the room.
+
+'You can go clean in, Mr. Cutter, an you like to; and I'll shut the
+door, and you may stay as long as you like.'
+
+'You will, hey? No, no, Mr. Tice, thank you, I'll do well enough here;'
+at the same time putting his hand out, and holding fast to the door.
+'None of your shutting up; it's bad enough to look at, without your
+turning the old lock on a body. _Of all sights!_--are these men dead?'
+
+'Oh it ain't nothin', Mr. Cutter; only they've been a little lively last
+night, and they're a sleepin' it out, I guess, this mornin'.'
+
+'You don't call them human critters, laying there in that shape, Mr.
+Tice, do you?'
+
+'Yes, they _be_, only their hair is got tangled a little. I should
+a'most think they'd been a fightin', by their looks--they _do_ look bad,
+that's a fact.'
+
+More noises were now heard below, and there was the trampling of horses
+at the door, and soon a lively treading up the stairs.
+
+'What does this mean, Mr. Tice? the jail door open, and people going in
+and out. Are the prisoners gone?' And Mr. Richard Tucker bustled up into
+the room. He was followed by Billy Bloodgood, and Uncle Sam Cutter's two
+boys. Mr. Richard seeing the doorway barricaded by a pretty large body,
+made no apology for hastily pushing through, and fairly taking the old
+gentleman quite into the room. He was about to shut the door when his
+arm was seized, and held by a grip as effectual as though an iron vice
+had embraced it.
+
+'Stop, stop, man; none of your shutting up, with my carcass in such a
+den as this. And besides, you came here now to let folks out; so the
+sooner you set about it, the better.'
+
+Mr. Richard was full of wrath, but he knew whom he had to deal with; and
+seeing likewise that Billy Bloodgood was looking at him very earnestly,
+and pointing towards Mr. Oakum at the other end of the room, he had no
+alternative; so called aloud in a very quick manner,
+
+'Mr. Oakum, you are at liberty, you are released; you can go.'
+
+Sam jumped up, and caught hold of his father:
+
+'Oh, father! come, come, father, quick!' And he fairly pulled his father
+along; who, amazed at the suddenness of his delivery, and weak with the
+agitation his mind had endured, almost staggered as he followed Sam to
+the door.
+
+'Come along, man, come along; don't stay a minute longer.' And old Mr.
+Cutter hobbled out, partly leaning on Mr. Oakum, and partly pulling him
+down the stairs, and out of doors.
+
+To describe all Mr. Oakum's feelings, when he found himself at liberty,
+and learned that a full settlement of his account had been made, and
+that it had dwindled down, under the scrutinizing eye of Billy
+Bloodgood, to the sum of twenty dollars, and that he could pay this
+amount back at his own convenience; or to describe the joy which danced
+in the heart of Sam when he saw his father once out of that place, and
+Uncle Sam Cutter shaking him with both hands; and Mr. Bloodgood nodding
+his head, and smiling, and running round--it would be vain to attempt.
+
+It was a bright spot in Sam's life, and it was a good day for more
+hearts than one; for it was the means of winning into the little circle
+of working boys the two sons of old Mr. Cutter: they became diligent
+from that day forward, and were constant in aiding their father, either
+in the garden, the shop, or the field.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+
+The establishment of Mr. Cross, up in the barrens, had not much to boast
+of as to its architecture or location. It consisted of a long, low
+building, formed of logs, but covered with boards, and the roof
+shingled. Attached to it were several buildings, constructed entirely of
+logs, but well shingled roofs were over the whole of them, and they were
+otherwise finished, so as to impress the beholder with the idea that the
+owner was in very different circumstances from those who occupied such
+buildings for many miles circuit. In front of this main house ran a
+piazza, its full length; while upon a tall pine tree, nearly opposite
+the centre of the premises, hung a rude sign, with the owner's name, D.
+Cross, in large letters on the bottom. The inside of the building
+presented a mongrel appearance of store and tavern; a little of both,
+and not much of either. There was a counter, and small scales upon it;
+with decanters, and a few dirty tumblers at one end. Barrels were
+standing in different parts of the room. There were one or two plain
+board tables, and a few benches, besides two chairs with backs, and
+several without. Three large casks were placed together against one side
+of the wall, and the faucets in them clearly told for what purpose they
+were used. Behind the counter ran some long shelves, upon which lay
+jumbled together a little iron ware, a little crockery, and very limited
+assortment of dry goods.
+
+The location was not an unpleasant one for those who admire the
+seclusion of a forest; for lofty pines towered on all sides of it,
+except to the north, where a clearing having been made, probably when
+the house was erected, a thick growth of scrub pines had come forward,
+and presented the appearance of a swamp.
+
+There was, however, somewhat of a clear space immediately around the
+building, formed by the meeting of three or four roads, running off into
+different directions, and pointing out this spot to be, as it really
+was, the centre of attraction and influence to all that region.
+
+The owner of this domain, Mr. David Cross, had become, from causes which
+have been explained in a previous chapter, a person of some
+consideration; he owned quite a number of acres of heavily timbered
+land, connectively with his house; and by various means had managed to
+bring the whole population, at least for some miles circuit, into a
+state of dependence upon himself. He was not gifted by nature with a
+very commanding form, being rather under than over the medium height.
+This deficiency, however, he did all he could to remedy, by holding
+himself very erect; and as he was a little inclined to be fleshy, it
+sometimes even appeared that he leaned backwards in his efforts to make
+the most of himself.
+
+The only member of Mr. Cross's family in any wise related to him, was
+his son David; a young man of some activity in the way of business. But
+having been tutored entirely by his father, it may be supposed he had
+not the most correct notions in matters of morality; although, as yet,
+no very flagrant charges had been laid up against him in the minds of
+those who dealt there; for the very good reason, that the elder Mr.
+Cross chose to keep things in his own hand, and bear all responsibility.
+As to the mother of David, little was known respecting her--it was
+supposed she had died when her child was an infant, for he had no
+remembrance of her.
+
+David was not unpopular with the inhabitants of the barrens. Being of a
+lively turn, and of careless, open manners, they felt a freedom in his
+presence, which was quite in contrast with the servile subjection they
+ever had to realize when dealing with his father.
+
+As the tavern of Mr. Cross was the only place where the laborers he
+employed could find a lodging place during the season of the year when
+their services were required--the distance from their own homes being
+often too great to allow of return until the close of the week--it was
+seldom that the place was without sojourners; and too many of them had
+but a scanty allowance for their families, after their six days' toil.
+
+It was a very warm day among the pines; no breeze abroad, and the air
+from the heated sand almost suffocating. Mr. Cross was behind his
+counter, busily employed in stirring the toddy stick, and waiting upon
+those who were calling for their favourite mixture; some were leaning
+over the counter, some resting on the benches, and not a few were lying
+at full length upon the piazza, and in the shade of the pine, scanty as
+it was, which served for the sign-post of the tavern, when the rumbling
+of a carriage was heard, and the unusual sound attracted the notice of
+all present. Those who were prostrate, arose at once, and looked forth
+through the different openings; and those who were in the act of
+drinking, suspended operations, and held their glasses on the counter,
+casting glances of inquiry at Mr. Cross and at each other.
+
+'It's Dave, I suppose,' said Mr. Cross; 'although I didn't think he'd be
+along this hour yet.'
+
+'That aint Dave,' replied one of the men; 'for it comes very slow, and
+sounds heavy: I can tell Dave's buggy a mile off, by its rattle.'
+
+Mr. Cross, apparently satisfied that there was truth in the remark,
+walked slowly from behind the counter, and approaching the door, those
+who were standing there hastily made way, and left the post of
+observation to him alone; they collecting in groups on the outside.
+Convinced that it was not his son's carriage that approached, the little
+man stood with his hands in his pockets, his person straightened up, and
+his eye intently fixed on the road upon which the heavy vehicle was
+rumbling, and glimpses of which could be seen through occasional small
+openings in the pines.
+
+Soon the cleared space before the tavern was gained, and every eye
+turned instinctively towards Cross, as though asking an explanation from
+his countenance. The ruddy, or rather purple hue which it usually bore,
+immediately assumed a higher color; his hands were withdrawn from their
+resting-places, his head uncovered, and bustling through the crowd which
+surrounded his door, he was bowing, and smiling, and doing his best to
+play the agreeable, the moment the superb vehicle drew up before his
+sign-post.
+
+The travellers were indeed persons of no small consideration, if an
+opinion could be formed from their equipage. The carriage was large and
+airy, hanging low and gracefully upon long sweeping springs; of a dark
+olive color, which contrasted finely with the light drab linings of the
+inside. The horses were two noble blacks, caparisoned in brass mounted
+harness, and driven by a negro somewhat advanced in life, and perched
+upon a heavy luxurious cushion. He was neatly dressed, in the fashion of
+days that were passing away, and was very much absorbed in the
+management of his team; which, although covered with lather and dust,
+were evidently full of mettle, and not at all fagged by their travel.
+Within sat a gentleman and lady, youthful in appearance, with two
+children; the eldest not over six years of age.
+
+Mr. Cross did not wait for the footman to alight, but advancing to the
+door.
+
+'Mr. Rutherford, your servant, sir,' opened it, and threw down the
+steps, before the gentleman had time to inform him that he was not
+intending to leave the carriage.
+
+'Your lady will surely want to rest a little; our accommodations,
+indeed, are not much to boast of, but poor as they are, we shall be
+proud to have you use them.'
+
+The lady bowed to Mr. Cross, acknowledging that she felt obliged for his
+offer.
+
+'You must excuse us at present, Mr. Cross; we have some miles farther to
+ride, and if you will show the footman where to procure a little water
+for our horses, I will be much obliged to you.'
+
+'Certainly, certainly; here, men, water, water; don't you hear? some
+water for these horses.' There was a great rush among those standing
+near to accomplish the request; but whether to obey Mr. Cross, or to
+oblige the traveller, may be questioned; for they had heard his name,
+and therefore knew that a man of more importance than Mr. Cross was
+present.
+
+But as there were reasons why the last-named gentleman should, if
+possible, have an interview with his visitor, he felt that an effort
+must be made to obtain one.
+
+'If Mr. Rutherford could favor me by stepping aside, but for a moment,
+it will not detain--'
+
+'It would be scarcely worth while, Mr. Cross. I presume I know what you
+wish to converse about; and I am not just now prepared to give you an
+answer.'
+
+'Ay--well, sir--I won't presume to dictate, sir; only you know we
+usually make our contracts about this time, so that we may make some
+calculations for hands, etc.'
+
+'That's true, sir; but to be plain, Mr. Cross, I am not sure that I
+shall not make some other arrangement, at least, so far as my interest
+goes in these barrens. I do not feel satisfied with our present plan--we
+pay great wages, you must be aware.'
+
+'Stand back, men, stand back; don't you know civility enough not to be
+crowding the gentleman?' Mr. Cross had his own reasons for not wishing
+too many listeners; for some ideas might possibly be conveyed to them
+not consonant with his interest.
+
+'Our people are rough, as you see, madam,' addressing the lady, 'and
+you'll pardon their ill manners.'
+
+'No pardon at all necessary, Mr. Cross; these good people are not the
+least in our way.' This the lady said in a voice sufficiently loud to be
+heard by all present; and then, with a pleasant smile cast upon the
+group, she asked,
+
+'Will one of you be kind enough to bring me a glass of water for my
+little girl?'
+
+Not one, but several glasses were, in an instant almost, at the carriage
+door. The lady took them all; and as they were returned to the brawny
+hands held out to receive them, dropped a piece of silver in each.
+
+'God bless you, lady!' responded at once each of the lucky attendants,
+and a smile of pleasure lighted up all the dark countenances of the half
+savage-looking beings, who were gazing in wonder at the equipage and its
+inmates.
+
+Mr. Cross was compelled to be a silent spectator of this little scene;
+but the dark scowl which passed across his features told plainly that it
+was not quite agreeable to him.
+
+'Am I in the direct road to Widow Brown's?' inquired Mr. Rutherford,
+casting a glance at the little man, and then around upon those present,
+as though it was a matter of no consequence from whom he received the
+answer. It came readily from many of the bystanders; the voice of Mr.
+Cross being lost in their louder exclamations; even if he answered at
+all, which is doubtful.
+
+'Yes, sir--yes, sir; its about six miles from here; but you must turn to
+the right hand when you get to the edge of the great swamp.'
+
+'Thank you, thank you all; and here is a trifle for you, my friend,'
+singling out the one who had procured the water for the horses, and
+tossing him a silver dollar.
+
+'God bless you, sir--you're a gentleman.'
+
+'Good day, Mr. Cross.' He bowed respectfully to the host, and to all
+the admiring group, and the heavy carriage rolled on its way.
+
+Mr. Cross walked back into his stronghold with a very dissatisfied air,
+while the men gathered outside in little knots, discussing the
+strangeness of the whole scene, and wondering what ailed the old man,
+'he seemed so out of sorts.' Scarcely had the carriage disappeared, when
+a rattling was heard, and the rapid and heavy stamping of horses' feet,
+and David Cross tore up to the door, among the groups of foresters,
+scattering them to either side, with as little consideration as though
+they had been so many sheep. Curses deep arose in their hearts, but came
+not forth at their lips.
+
+'Here, Jo, you put Bony in the stable, and rub him down--won't you?'
+
+'Yes, sir,' was the ready answer. But the man addressed shook his head
+so significantly, and jerked the horse so rudely, as he turned him
+round, that if Mr. David, Junior, could have seen it, he would have
+understood that his exploit in driving was not much relished by others,
+if very agreeable to himself.
+
+The elder Mr. Cross immediately led his son into a private room
+adjoining the store, and with much anxiety in his countenance waited for
+the result of the errand upon which he had been sent.
+
+'Foster says, he has closed the bargain with old Ross; he is to give you
+a quit-claim deed for all his right and title to the property in the
+barrens, for the sum you named.'
+
+'That's good--did he say anything further?'
+
+'He said something about my telling you that he was on the look out;
+that he would hunt like a cat for a mouse; but the old fool was afraid
+to tell me what he meant.'
+
+'Michael Foster is no fool; but, I suppose, he thinks it best to be mum.
+Yet do you know Rutherford has been here?'
+
+'No: has he?'
+
+'Yes; and he refuses to make any contract this year; and I could see, by
+his management with the men, what he's at: but he'll miss it. He'll have
+to stoop his head yet, high as he holds it now.'
+
+David made no reply; but, whistling a lively tune, walked away, and
+mingled with the men, who were again gathering around the counter.
+
+The travellers experienced no difficulty in finding their way, and soon
+drew up before the humble residence of the widow.
+
+'It looks better, my dear Mary, than I expected,' said Mr. Rutherford,
+as he alighted from the carriage. He was about to enter the dwelling,
+when Mrs. Brown appeared at the door. She was neatly dressed for one
+living in so poor a place--that is, her plain dark calico was put on
+with care, and she wore shoes and stockings--articles not often seen in
+the barrens. She wore no cap, for her light brown hair was not at all
+changed by age, and her countenance was as fresh and fair, almost, as at
+twenty-one. She seemed surprised for an instant--
+
+'Have you forgotten me, Aunt Mary?'
+
+'This ain't Mr. George Rutherford?'
+
+'Yes, it is--once your little Georgie.'
+
+'Oh, dear! how glad I am to see you;' and the tears started to her eyes.
+'And that is Mrs. Rutherford, and these are your dear little children.
+How they _do_ look _just_ as you used to look.'
+
+'We are all well acquainted with you, Mrs. Brown; for my husband is
+continually talking about you.'
+
+'Oh, dear! I never thought to see any of you again; for I did not
+suppose you would ever get so far out of the world as to come here. I
+cannot ask you to go into my poor house; but there are some seats under
+the trees, where your lady might sit down, and--'
+
+'Oh, Mrs. Brown, you don't think that your Georgie, as you used to call
+him, has got a wife who would not go into a house many times worse than
+yours, to see one he thinks so much of; so, with your leave, we will all
+go in, for we have come on purpose to see you.'
+
+'I am very happy, if he has got a lady who knows his worth.'
+
+'Take care, Mrs. Brown, what you say; I am afraid you did a little
+towards spoiling him when a boy: he is not out of danger yet.'
+
+The family now passed into the cottage, while the widow and old Caesar
+had a few kind salutations to make, 'ere she followed and took her seat
+among them.
+
+Many were the questions asked about the old homestead, for twelve years
+had passed by since she was last there. Deaths, births, marriages,
+changes of circumstances, and relations, how they had accumulated during
+that period! and how often the tears would start, and the lip tremble,
+as the recital went on! Her own story was but a short one; for many
+things she was obliged to pass over, or touch lightly upon.
+
+'But where is the little girl you had with you, when last at my
+father's? she must be almost grown up now.'
+
+'Oh, no; she is but a little girl still; she is only sixteen now; but
+she is very obedient and kind-hearted.'
+
+'Just like her mother.'
+
+'Oh, I don't know as to that, ma'am; but she is an obedient child, and a
+great comfort to me--and the best of all is, I hope she is a Christian.'
+
+'That is good,' exclaimed Mr. and Mrs. Rutherford, at the same time.
+
+'Ah--then you both love good things yourselves; don't you?'
+
+'We hope we do.'
+
+'The Lord be praised for his mercies. It seems to me always a great
+thing for the rich to be pious--they can do so much good.'
+
+'Yes, if they have a heart to do good. Is your daughter at home, Mrs.
+Brown?'
+
+'No, ma'am; but she will be here soon. She has gone to visit a neighbour
+a little south of us, among the farmers. We have but a poor
+neighbourhood around us; and you know young people want some one of
+their own age to be with and talk to.'
+
+'Why is it, Mrs. Brown, that the people in the barrens are so poor, and
+apparently so degraded?--they get work enough, and are well paid for it.
+My husband is very anxious about the matter, and wishes to remedy it if
+he can.'
+
+'Oh, well, ma'am; I don't know that I have got the right idea of things;
+but it has appeared to me these many years that there must be wrong
+management. Our men work hard, but are only able barely to live, as you
+see; and for so many people to be all poor together, is a great evil.'
+
+'Do you think, Mrs. Brown, that they get their pay?'
+
+'I think they do, ma'am, in a certain way. Mr. Cross settles with them
+every month, and keeps things square; but you know, ma'am, when a man
+gets so much power into his hands as Mr. Cross has, he may be tempted to
+do wrong because no one can bring him to account for it. The men are
+obliged to take the wages he sees fit to allow them, as there is no one
+in this region to give them employment.'
+
+'And charges them what he pleases for the goods they must purchase?'
+
+'It is pretty much so, ma'am. They must have the necessaries of life you
+know, ma'am; and although they purchase only such things as their
+families absolutely need, yet it is so managed, that they are brought a
+little in debt at each settlement. Some think that he charges almost
+double what the goods cost him; but, situated as they are, no one dares
+complain, and so they go on from year to year.'
+
+'This is slavery I think, Mary, with a vengeance,' said Mr. Rutherford,
+looking at his wife.
+
+'It is just as we expected, my dear.'
+
+'Well, I hope, Mr. Rutherford, that I have not done injustice to Mr.
+Cross. He has been good to me and mine. Perhaps, after all, the people
+think hard of him without sufficient cause.'
+
+'You have only confirmed my suspicions of the state of things here. You
+know that I own a large part of these barrens; and, therefore, it is my
+duty to look into matters, and not suffer evils to exist, if I can
+remedy them.'
+
+Mr. Rutherford then proceeded to touch upon matters more immediately
+relating to the widow's personal interests, and which, in fact, had been
+one of the objects of his visit. It was in reference to her removal from
+this region, so destitute of privileges, to her former home, beneath his
+own roof, where her children could be usefully employed, and herself
+made comfortable.
+
+It was some time before she could make any reply to this generous offer.
+
+'You must not hesitate, Mrs. Brown, to accept this offer; for I assure
+you, that I heartily join with my husband in it.'
+
+'Oh, I thank you, ma'am; I believe you are sincere, and are acting from
+the kindest motives, and perhaps you will think it strange that I should
+hesitate a moment about accepting it.'
+
+Just then, the conversation was interrupted by the entrance of Hettie.
+Her appearance surprised Mr. and Mrs. Rutherford--the fine glow on her
+cheek, the raven blackness of her hair and eyes, the pleasant smile that
+immediately lighted up her countenance, the simple curtsey that she
+dropped, all so pretty and so natural--they had not expected to meet so
+lovely a flower in such a waste; and the widow must not be blamed if she
+indulged some little pride as she presented her to their friend. Hettie
+was her bright star; hope always rose when she appeared. An increasing
+interest was excited in the minds of Mr. and Mrs. Rutherford, and the
+subject of her removal again introduced.
+
+'You cannot tell,' replied the widow, 'how much I feel the kindness of
+your offer; and were only the interest of myself and Hettie to be
+consulted, I should not long hesitate. But, oh! Mrs. Rutherford, you
+cannot yet tell how a mother feels towards a wayward son. William is not
+just what I could wish he was, but he still clings to me. I know he will
+not be willing to leave these parts, unpromising as they are: for me to
+separate from him, and allow him to go without restraint in the midst of
+so many temptations, would be like giving him up to ruin; and I cannot
+but hope he will one day be different from what he now is; the Lord, you
+know, has many ways to bring back the wanderer.'
+
+Her friends could urge no further the whole of their request, but
+ventured to say--
+
+'Will you not, Mrs. Brown, let us have Hettie? We will do for her as
+well as we can.'
+
+This proposal was one that she felt it her duty to accept, however
+trying to be separated from one she loved so dearly.
+
+After a short consultation with her daughter it was decided that she
+should accompany them. Wishing to give them an opportunity to make some
+little preparation, Mr. Rutherford concluded to drive into the open
+country, which lay a little to the south of the widow's cottage--the
+scene where our story commenced.
+
+It was with an united exclamation that they first met the view which
+opened to them, as they emerged from the pines.
+
+'Ah, how beautiful!'
+
+It was, indeed, a striking contrast to the region through which they had
+been travelling.
+
+The country was little varied by hill and dale, and in no wise improved
+by the hand of man: for the houses which could be seen were but
+unsightly buildings, and all the enclosures of the rudest kind; yet
+common-place as was the face of the land, in connection with the
+extensive water view, there was much to justify the exclamation--it was
+a panorama delightful to those who had been so long riding amid the dark
+monotony of a pine-forest.
+
+On either side of the strip of country which lay immediately before
+them, and around the whole view in front, was water: first a clear river
+stealing down on the right, and then another on the left, each
+hastening to mingle their waters in the beautiful bay, ere they rolled
+to the ocean; in the distance, a long line of land stretching towards
+the east, as far as the eye could reach, encircling an immense bay, and
+losing itself where sky, and earth, and water are mingled in one; while
+beautifully breaking the wild expanse of water, a strip of land ran out
+into the bay, over whose crest could be seen, in the distance, the white
+sail winging its way to the broad ocean.
+
+Even old Caesar felt the animating influence of the scenery; and urging
+on his horses by a cheering word, the carriage rolled along as fast as
+was becoming such a stately concern.
+
+'Whoa-a, whoa-up--whoa there.'
+
+'Oh, Caesar! what's the matter?'
+
+There was, at the same time, a fearful leaning to one side.
+
+'Nuttin', missus; only de wheel cum off.'
+
+It was, to be sure, nothing else; but that of itself was sufficient to
+prevent any farther progress for the time being. Caesar and his master
+were soon down; the horses detached from the carriage, and the wheel
+picked up and brought to its place.
+
+''Tis all right, Massa George, only de linch-pin is gone; may be me find
+um.'
+
+And very diligent was the search for the lost pin, but to no purpose;
+the prospect, indeed, was not the most agreeable; for a long road must
+be retraced ere home could be reached.
+
+A young man from an adjoining field, seeing their dilemma, hastened to
+offer his aid. Very soon rails were procured, and by means of them the
+heavy coach was raised, and the recusant wheel replaced; and then the
+young man who showed much readiness to assist, as well as ingenuity,
+procuring a bit of hard wood, began whittling it into the shape of a
+pin.
+
+'Mister, what a' yo goin' to do wid dat 'tick?'
+
+'I'm making a pin for you, daddy.'
+
+'My golly! you no t'ink dat hold dem big wheel on. No blacksmith nowhere
+here?'
+
+'Yes; there is one not far off; but you want something to keep your
+wheel on until you can get the carriage there.'
+
+'Why me no bring him here when he makes de pin?'
+
+'Why, you see, daddy, he will want the measure of the hole to make it
+by; and the old man does not like to walk very much, as he is fat and
+clumsy. It will be as much as we can do to get him to make the pin at
+all; he don't like to work such hot weather.'
+
+'Ay, ay. Well, den; you right, bubby.'
+
+With that Caesar prepared to attach the horses to the carriage, while the
+family walked on towards the little low building with a high chimney,
+which was pointed out to them.
+
+As the carriage drove up, a very fleshy person was seen waddling towards
+the door, and putting one arm out on each side, supported himself in the
+doorway. He looked at the coach, and the horses, and the driver,
+alternately, in great astonishment. He saw the old black smile, but took
+no notice of it; and fixed his eye at length on the long sweeping
+braces, as though wondering where such powerful springs were made.
+
+'Massa Cutter forget me.' The old man cast his eye up.
+
+'Massa Cutter no 'member Caesar?'
+
+'Caesar--Caesar--what, not Caesar Rutherford? No--yes--so it is--why, you
+old rascal, how do you do? Give us your fist. I thought, when you showed
+your teeth at me, that I'd seen you before. But you grow old, man--your
+head is all getting white.'
+
+'Ha, ha, ha; Massa Cutter growin' old, too, and big! My! what a sight!
+Good livin' I 'tink here, Massa Cutter.'
+
+'Good living--there's no living at all--it's too hot to live; nothing
+but salamanders could stand it. But what's brought you here?'
+
+'Oh, you see, Massa Cutter, me lose de linch-pin; so dis young gemman
+tell me de blacksmith close by; but I no 'spect to see Massa Cutter--ha,
+ha, ha!'
+
+'And you want me to make a new one, do you?'
+
+'If you please.'
+
+'Here, Bill Andrews, since you have been so helpful to these folks, and
+helped them here, you may just come and help me; so take hold of them
+'tarnal old bellows, and blow for your life.'
+
+'That I will, Uncle Sam.'
+
+The old man, although reluctant to move about much, made expeditious
+work with his hammer; the pin was soon made and fitted to its place, and
+the carriage ready for another start. Before this, however, Mr.
+Rutherford had reached the shop, having left Mrs. Rutherford and the
+children to enjoy a fine shade at a little distance. As Mr. Cutter had
+been acquainted with his father, it afforded the former an opportunity
+of making many inquiries about events long transpired, some of which,
+being connected with Mr. Cutter's removal to his present house,
+occasioned, on his part, very long and heavy sighs, and serious shakes
+of the head. At length he could hold in no longer.
+
+'Oh, dear, oh, dear! it makes me feel bad all over to hear you talk
+about them places and things;--to think what an old fool I've been to
+come to such a place as this.'
+
+'It does not look like a very thriving place, Mr. Cutter.'
+
+'Thriving! there's nothing thrives here but rum and deviltry.
+_Thriving!_--I tell you what, the _old 'un_ thrives here, no one else,
+and a great haul he'll have--he's fixing for it. No schools, no
+meetin'-houses, and no nothing that's good;--the men most all drunk and
+lazy, and the boys going to the d----l, if I must say so, asking your
+pardon, as fast as they can.'
+
+'This is a poor account of your place, Mr. Cutter. What do you suppose
+has caused such a state of things?'
+
+'It is beyond me to say, sir; there seems to be a kind of curse on the
+place; and it is my candid opinion, if something ain't done here
+soon--some preaching, or something else of that sort--we're a gone
+case;--even a dumb Quaker would be better than nothing. He might walk
+round in his square coat, and frighten the old 'un a little.'
+
+Mr. Rutherford could not restrain a smile at the earnestness of the old
+man, and the singularity of his idea.
+
+'From your description, Mr. Cutter, you are not much better off here
+than our people in the barrens.'
+
+'Not much to boast on, I tell you, sir. Only they can't raise nothing,
+and must depend upon old Cross for work to buy their bread with, and he
+charges them just what he pleases; and if they should grumble, or ask
+for their money to spend elsewhere, he would turn them off entirely, and
+then they might live on huckle berries and pine knots.'
+
+'They are badly off, I believe, sir; but I hope to be able to make some
+change in things there. The people are, no doubt, imposed upon, and I
+shall not allow it to be so if I can help it.'
+
+'Bless your young heart for saying so; but you must look out for Cross;
+he's a precious villain--I _tell_ you.'
+
+'I believe he is no better than he should be; but I shall try to manage
+it, so as not to injure the poor folks, at any rate.'
+
+'Well, I'm glad on it, for there are some clever people among them.
+There's the widow Brown; why you must know her? she used to live in your
+father's family.'
+
+'Oh, yes, I know her well, Mr. Cutter; and part of my errand down was to
+see her. Her daughter, I hope, will go home with me to live.'
+
+'What! Hettie! Hettie ain't going away--and yet she ought to go out of
+such a hole as this. She is too pretty and too good to be round here.
+What's the matter, Bill? Where's the use of keeping the old bellows
+creaking, when there's no iron in the fire?'
+
+'Oh, I didn't think. You are done, ain't you?'
+
+'Yes, I hope so. I've pounded myself all in a heat. But what makes you
+look so pale, man?'
+
+'Oh, nothing; I ain't pale, am I?'
+
+'Yes, you are pale--go sit down, man.'
+
+'No; I thank you, Uncle Sam. I believe I will go home now, if I can be
+of no more use to the gentleman.'
+
+Mr. Rutherford, seeing him about to depart, stepped up, and cordially
+thanked him for his kind and efficient services; and taking out his
+purse, was about to remunerate him handsomely for his trouble.
+
+'Oh, no, sir, nothing; I thank you.'
+
+'But it has taken your time, and you have been of great service to me;
+allow me to make you some compensation--thanks from a stranger are not
+worth much.'
+
+'They are worth a good deal to _me_, sir, since I have found out who you
+are.'
+
+'Why, what do you know of me?'
+
+'My father removed from your place, sir; and I have often heard him
+speak of your folks, how kind they were to him; perhaps you may remember
+him, Zechariah Andrews?'
+
+'Remember him? certainly I do; and are you his son? Well, this is
+strange indeed:' at the same time taking Bill's hand and giving it a
+hearty shake. Many inquiries were made and answered; and the interview
+closed by an invitation on the part of Mr. Rutherford, that whenever he
+might need a friend he would call upon him.
+
+'And now, Mr. Cutter, good by,' giving the old man his hand; 'I hope you
+may live to see things look brighter than they now do.
+
+'I hope so, sir; but I tell you there is but little chance of it. The
+old fellow has danced here so long, it will be hard getting him off the
+ground--preachin' might do it. But I want to say one thing to you--look
+out for Cross; he ain't too good in my opinion for any thing--he's a
+dangerous man, depend on it. But I won't keep you waiting. God bless
+you, and keep you out of harm's way.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+
+I suppose my readers are about tired with following our heroes on their
+little voyages; but as this is to be the last they will make in the old
+skiff, and as it is connected with some interesting circumstances
+regarding our friend Sam, we must go with them once again.
+
+It was but a short period after the scene of trial through which Sam and
+his family were called to pass. A pleasant sail they had made to the
+fort that morning; their stock of goods had been disposed of, their
+empty baskets stowed away, and they were just on the point of casting
+off for their return, when Peter appeared, coming through the gate of
+the castle. As soon as he passed the sentinel, he hobbled along towards
+them as fast as crutches would let him.
+
+'Hulloa; 'vast, there, my hearties.'
+
+The boys readily stopped, and waited his approach.
+
+'Here, you Sam, jist come here, follow me.'
+
+Sam was utterly at a loss as to what was to pay now; but as Peter turned
+short about, and was making his way back again, as though he expected of
+course his summons to be obeyed, Sam had no alternative but to jump
+ashore and hasten after him, and he had much ado to get up with the old
+man before he entered the gate. Peter hobbled along through the hall at
+the entrance, then turned to the right, and, by a narrow door, entered a
+dark passage, saying nothing all the while, only turning his head back
+occasionally to see that Sam was following; then up a broad stairs, into
+a long gallery studded with doors. Into one of these Peter entered, and,
+waiting until Sam passed in, shut it.
+
+'Now, my hearty, see what I've got for you. Take off them old duds o'
+your'n, jist as fast as you can.' Sam being somewhat in amaze, was
+looking at the queer little room, with the hammock hung up at one side
+of it, wondering how Peter ever contrived to stow himself away in it; in
+the meantime Peter was busy untying a large bundle, and taking out
+sundry articles.
+
+'Here, you sonny, jist put these on, and see how they'll fit;' holding
+up at the same time a pair of blue broadcloth pantaloons. 'But what are
+you about? why don't you doff your jacket and trousers? You ain't a goin
+to put these on over, are you?'
+
+'Oh, no, sir: but you don't mean to have me put on such fine things as
+these?'
+
+'And why not? didn't my lady git 'em 'spressly for you? and didn't she
+take me along with her, purpose to pick out a true sailor's rig? So off
+with the old riggin', it's stood long enough.'
+
+'Did _she_ get them? Oh, she is very good. I am sure I don't deserve--'
+
+'_Don't deserve!_ Yes, you do _deserve_; so down with your dumbfounded
+perverseness, for once, and do as you are bid.'
+
+Sam was indeed confounded, but he could not do otherwise than put them
+on. A better fit could not have been, and the suit was complete
+throughout. Blue roundabout, and trousers to match, of good broadcloth,
+finer than anything Sam had ever felt of before. Suspenders of blue and
+white, all finely figured; blue check shirt, with a large flowing
+collar, around the edge of which and down the bosom ran an ornament of
+white. Vest there was none, as Peter said 'it was of no mortal use.'
+
+Never was a father prouder of a son, than was Peter, when the whole rig
+was on. He turned Sam round to all points of the compass; examined him,
+as he said, ''fore and aft.' The shoes were the only articles Peter did
+not fancy.
+
+'Pumps is the only things fit to go on a sailor's foot, but my lady
+reasoned me out of it. They're good taut under-strappers, no doubt, and
+they'll do you a deal of service; but they spoil the looks, and there
+ain't no shuffle in 'em. But howsomever, perhaps as you're along shore
+now, they'll do you a good turn. But, do you hear? never put your foot
+on a ship's deck in such clumpers as them.'
+
+'Oh dear! how good they are to me.'
+
+'Good? to be sure they're good. But mind, my hearty, _there's One
+above_'--and Peter pointed his finger upward, as he said this--'who has
+made the wind shift round for you so fair and square; mind _that_, and
+don't think it's all luck that's made such big folks kind to you. You're
+but a youngster now, and can't be 'spected to understand how all these
+things are brought about; but an old sailor like me, that has sailed in
+all weathers, has seen things that will make a man feel that there is
+_One_ at the helm can steer for him when he can't do nothing for
+himself.'
+
+Sam looked at the old man with fixed attention, and drank in every word,
+his eyes sparkling with the deep emotion they aroused within him. He
+thought Peter no longer a poor maimed sailor, but some being from a
+better world, who had put on for a time a rough and forbidding garb.
+
+'And now, my hearty, see here.' And Peter began to pull out sundry other
+articles of dress.
+
+'That there rig you've got on ain't for storms, nor everyday sarvice; a
+man wants something tight and tidy for Sundays, and sich like--but
+here's your real stuff to brave all weathers in. This will stand you for
+rough and tumble and all sorts of work. These trousers is the regular
+duck; jist feel 'em, Sam. They're stiff like, I know, but you'll soon
+make 'em limber; and this here jacket is the jinivine blue nanking;
+there's no tear about it that I'll warrant you.'
+
+Sam had given up in amazement at the multitude of good things showered
+upon him. He knew not whether to laugh or cry--he did a little of
+both--it was so good, so far above any thing he had been thinking of;
+the feeling which came over him, and which we all, in our youthful days,
+have experienced when clad in a new suit, was so _very new_ to him, that
+he was oppressed by it; and as Peter held up the duck trousers and the
+blue nankeen coat, he proceeded to unrobe himself, thinking he was
+required to try them on too.
+
+'Now, what is the lad about?--Hands off; let alone. Ain't you going
+right down to show my lady what a spanking fit it is? So we'll jist
+bundle these up with the old duds, and you'll take 'em along--you hear?
+and let 'em lay in the boat till you git home.'
+
+Sam would have made some objections, if he dared; but Peter took things
+in his own hands, and seemed to feel that, for once, at least, he must
+be minded: so rolling the whole together, and tying them in a very
+knowing manner,
+
+'Now come along, my hearty,' he stumped it out of the room, and through
+the gallery, and down the stairs, and laying the bundle in the hall,
+crossed to the apartment where Sam had formerly been introduced to the
+presence of Mrs. Morris; and before he had time to reflect or make
+opposition, Peter was knocking at the door.
+
+A very pleasant smile and exclamation of delight, on the part of Mrs.
+Morris, greeted Sam as he entered.
+
+'Why, Peter!--who would have thought they could have fitted so well; and
+how very apropos they look. A sailor boy, he is now--is he not, Peter?'
+
+'All but the shoes, please you, madam.' And Peter, not having his hat
+on, touched his queue.
+
+'Oh, well; I think master Sam will be much pleased with the shoes,
+especially as he is on shore now. But let him come here--give me the
+neckerchief, Susie.'
+
+Susie walked to the table, and brought the little parcel and placed it
+in her mother's hand.
+
+'Here is a present from Susie; she has hemmed it herself, and I suppose
+ought to honor you by tying it on; but as she is a little bashful about
+it, I must do it for her.'
+
+Sam was too much confounded to make any opposition; but his flushed
+countenance told how he felt.
+
+'I suppose I cannot put it on after true sailor fashion, but I believe
+it must have a single tie, and hang loose, in this style. Will that do,
+Peter?'
+
+'That's the thing, madam.'
+
+'What shall I ever do for you, ma'am, you are so good to me?'
+
+'Oh, perhaps you will do a great deal for us yet; and you know, my dear
+boy, that we are under obligations to you we cannot soon get rid of.'
+
+'I am sure, ma'am'--and Sam looked intently at Mrs. Morris, his whole
+countenance beaming with honest emotion--'I don't know what I have done
+that you should say so. If you mean my trying to save Miss Susan, why I
+am sure, ma'am, if I had not done it, I wouldn't be fit to live. I would
+do it again, if I knew I should die for it; I am sure I would, and so
+would any one.'
+
+Mrs. Morris could not repress the starting tear, nor could she make an
+immediate reply. Sam's whole demeanor took her by surprise--she did not
+expect such a burst of genuine gallantry.
+
+'God bless you, my good fellow! you have a noble heart, and will make a
+proud station for yourself, yet; but keep in mind, that _the path to
+honor lies through difficulties and dangers_.'
+
+As she said this, her hand was smoothing down the dark curls which lay,
+in all their natural carelessness, around Sam's fine forehead.
+
+'But, Peter, only think! we have forgotten the hat--what a pity!'
+
+Peter made no reply, otherwise than by handling his queue, and rolling
+his quid from one side of his mouth to the other.
+
+'How could you let me forget it, Peter?'
+
+'Oh, ma'am, don't think of it; you have given me too many things
+already.'
+
+'Please, my lady, he'll do well enough, for all that. If my lady has no
+further orders, I must go.'
+
+'Nothing further, Peter.'
+
+Sam made the best bow he could, both to Mrs. Morris and to Susie; and
+Susie ventured, for the first time, as Sam made his obeisance to her, to
+say, very gently indeed, 'Good by.' It was not much beyond a whisper,
+but Sam heard it. Whenever the scene in that room came up before
+him--and it kept presenting itself very often--he loved to dwell on that
+part of it. Susie would be before him with her pretty smile, and those
+words, so soft, 'Good by,' would ring and ring in his ears.
+
+To say that Jim was astonished at the change in Sam's appearance, as he
+came from the fort and took his station in the boat, would describe but
+a very little of what Jim really did feel. He was amazed--he was
+pleased--no, he was delighted. He loved Sam like a brother; and when he
+heard from Sam's own lips what had been done for him,
+
+'They are the best people, Sam, I ever knew. But what will they say at
+home? I wonder what Ned will do? You must take care, or he will pull you
+down in the dirt. Clothes _do_ make some difference, don't they?'
+
+'Stop, my hearties.'
+
+The boys looked back.
+
+'Just come ashore here,' beckoning to Sam. 'You see my lady forgot about
+the hat, but, thinks I, there's a chance for me now; so I stops in
+slyly, and rummaging the old wallet, found enough stowage there to get
+this little shiner: so try it on, sonny, try it on.'
+
+'But you shouldn't do so: I am--'
+
+'No you ain't; so try it on.' And suiting the action to the word, he
+displaced Sam's little old tarred hat, and mounted a new one, all
+glistening with its bright polish.
+
+'That's the rig, now; it don't sit quite ship-shape as it ought, but it
+will work to the head, and it will keep the rain out, I'll warrant
+_that_. But I can't stop here, for the Major's boots must be cleaned; so
+a good passage to you, my hearties.'
+
+With that he bore away for the fort in quick time, paying no kind of
+heed to all Sam said about thanks.
+
+'I tell you, Sam Oakum, I should not know you if I met you in the road.
+Nobody will know you; Ned won't know you, see if he does.'
+
+'I don't hardly know myself, Jim, I feel so queer.'
+
+The wonder which Sam's appearance excited on their return was full as
+great as Jim had anticipated. On reaching the shore, Ned and Jowler
+stood ready to receive them. Ned stepped up to Jim, who had jumped
+ashore, and was carrying the little stone anchor out as far as the rope
+would reach, and whispered,
+
+'Who's that? Where's Sam?' Then Sam walked deliberately from the stern,
+and jumped ashore. Jowler set up a bark at him, and Ned fixed his eye
+upon him in some doubt until Sam smiled. He then commenced a retrograde
+movement, increasing the distance between him and Sam, and going round
+and round him, eyeing him from head to foot; while Jowler kept by his
+side, barking as he followed Ned round the circle. Ned knew _Sam_; he
+was _sure_ he did, and so did _Jowler_, as soon as Sam spoke to him, and
+began to sneeze and wriggle himself about, and to manifest great shame
+that he had made such a mistake. Ned was too much surprised this time;
+it sobered him. He knew it was _Sam_, his old playmate; but _such_ a
+change! How had it come about? He felt a kind of diffidence in
+approaching him; he almost wished for the old patched clothes and the
+little flat hat; but that feeling was only momentary, a flash through
+the mind. The neat trim of the clothes, the improved appearance of Sam's
+whole exterior, really delighted him; and instead of flying off into
+some extravagances, he took Sam's hand, and shaking it with all his
+might,
+
+'Did Major Morris give you this suit, Sam?'
+
+'No, it was the lady.'
+
+'She _is_ a lady. I should think you would love her, Sam, very much.
+Ain't they nice, though, Jim? Just look at this shirt collar and the
+bosom, and this handkerchief round his neck, and the hat and shoes. Oh,
+Sam, I am so glad you need not wear the old clothes any more;--_do_,
+won't you come and let mother see you and Ellen, just to see what they
+will say.'
+
+'But he will want to go home, first, Ned, and show himself there.'
+
+'I will come up this evening, right after supper.'
+
+And again they separated for their different homes, and Sam hastened,
+with his bundle under his arm, hardly able to keep from a run, he was so
+anxious to see how they would feel.
+
+They were at supper as Sam entered. His mother dropped her knife and
+fork and jumped up from the table; her hands were raised, and her whole
+countenance expressive of the most pleasant surprise.
+
+'Why, Sam! where _did_ you get these from? Oh, how nice! do father, look
+at him.'
+
+Mr. Oakum had pushed his chair, and a smile passed over his
+weather-beaten countenance as he looked at Sam; and his heart blessed
+God for him. He was pleased, indeed, and almost proud to perceive what a
+fine-looking boy he was, but he knew his worth as few could know it. He
+could not speak, but he felt of the clothes and smiled, and then wiped
+the tears that would come in spite of every effort to keep them back. He
+felt that there was something more than good luck in all this. Sam was
+already reaping the fruits of the promise, 'Thy days shall be long in
+the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+
+How swiftly pass the beautiful months of summer; its flowers and its
+fruits come and go in succession, and must be enjoyed in their season,
+or not at all.
+
+To our boys it seemed to have flown more rapidly than ever; the constant
+occupation of every day and almost every working hour, caused the days
+and weeks to pass away imperceptibly and pleasantly.
+
+And now, the long wished-for period has arrived, when the great contract
+with Major Morris is to be fulfilled. The boat is ready, and will carry
+quite a load. The farmers are busy digging, and each is anxious to
+deliver his quota as soon as possible. It was well for Jim that he
+stipulated in the bargain to receive them only as he wanted them. Jim's
+thinking habits were of great service to him.
+
+A new hand must be obtained to assist in navigating their little vessel;
+her size, the quantity of freight, and the season of the year, all
+demanded it. Sam Oakum felt that this devolved upon him, but Jim
+insisted upon it that they would unitedly pay for the extra help.
+
+'I shall not allow that, Jim, no how. You give me now one-third of all
+we make, and you do all the business. So you see I am going this very
+night to speak to Sam Cutter; he will be a good fellow to row with me,
+and you can steer, and I shall pay Sam out of my own money.'
+
+He was as good as his word, and found Sam Cutter ready enough to go with
+him; so a bargain was soon made, and as Mr. Cutter's potatoes were the
+first engaged, twenty-five bushels of the lot were carted early in the
+morning, and put on board. Jim was there ready to receive them, and as
+soon as delivered, counted out the money.
+
+'There, William, is six dollars and twenty-five cents. It is all in
+quarters, but it is just as good. Give that to your father, and when I
+take the next load I will pay for that in the same way. Twenty-five
+bushels, at twenty-five cents a bushel, make just six dollars and
+twenty-five cents, don't it?'
+
+Jim said this because William Cutter seemed to be in a maze, as though
+not exactly comprehending the matter.
+
+'Oh yes, it's all right, no doubt; but I say, Jim Montjoy, where did you
+get all this money from? I tell you what, I mean to work, see if I
+don't, if it brings in money at this rate.'
+
+'Why, we have had some pretty hard pulls for it, have we not, Sam?--or
+rather you have.'
+
+'Yes, we both have, but no matter for that; it makes the money all the
+sweeter. You see now, William, how this thing works--your brother and
+yourself have been busily engaged all summer, cultivating your potatoes
+and other things; now you have dug them and received your money, that
+pays you for your work; we now carry them off to a distance, where they
+are wanted more than they are here, and sell them for enough to pay us
+for our risk, and labor, and expense of freight. If you had not labored
+and raised them, we should not have them to carry away, and make a
+profit on; on the other hand, if we could not find a market for them
+abroad, you would not have received half the value for them you now get;
+so you see how your plough and hoe, and our boat, help one another.'
+
+'And your _head_, you ought to have added, Jim; for my boat and his
+potatoes would not have been worth much, without that head of yours.'
+
+William Cutter was no great philosopher, and perhaps did not clearly
+comprehend the drift of Jim's argument; but he felt the silver pieces in
+his hand, and realized that it was a larger sum than had ever been there
+before; and he was satisfied, that in some way it had been obtained by
+the enterprise and labor of Jim and Sam and as he walked along towards
+home he said to himself a great many times,
+
+'If working will do it, I'll work, see if I don't; there will be more
+potatoes and beans to sell another year, see if there ain't.'
+
+The new boat proved her value on her first trip; she was not a fast
+sailer, but she rode the waves well, and would bear a stiff breeze. How
+rejoiced was Sam, as he sat at the helm, to witness the beautiful manner
+in which she would meet the swell, and bound over it like a bird of the
+water.
+
+Old Peter had also much to say in her praise.
+
+'He did not 'spect to see such a ship-shape craft; she ain't made to run
+fast, but she'll bear the wind, and she'll ride the waves, and that's
+what you want, my hearties. But what's her name?'
+
+'Oh! we have not given her a name yet, we haven't thought about that!'
+
+'Never thought about that? but you must think about it; what is a boat
+without a name? but I s'pose it ain't worth while to do no such thing on
+this craft o' your'n, seeing she is launched, and in sailing trim; but I
+tell you what, if you ain't given her a name, I'll do it; you must call
+her Susie, do you hear?'
+
+'Would you?'
+
+'Yes would I; and where can you get a prettier name, or one that will
+bring you better luck than that?'
+
+'Well, if you say so; it's a pretty name, ain't it, Jim?'
+
+Old Peter was determined to see that his favorite name was fastened to
+the boat; and in a manner that could not have been expected from him,
+printed it, in very legible characters, on the inside of her stern.
+
+'Now, good luck to her! and don't you, boy, ever leave her while there's
+a plank to stand on; hear that?'
+
+'Yes, sir; I shall not leave her for a trifle.'
+
+The potatoes and beans proved very satisfactory to Major Morris. Jim
+received his money for each load, and was thus enabled to carry out his
+plan of paying for them. No sooner was a quantity brought down to him,
+measured and put into the boat, than he was ready with the pay; it was
+counted out to them in good silver money. Many wondered where it came
+from, and made up their minds that Mr. Montjoy had left his family quite
+a property, for all that was said about his dying poor.
+
+No time was lost by Jim in completing the contract; every day that would
+answer was seized upon to carry a load. He neither counted profits, nor
+indulged in the least recreation, until the whole matter was settled.
+
+A full month passed, using their utmost diligence, before they took on
+board the last load, and had the satisfaction of delivering it safely,
+and receiving from Major Morris, not only the full balance due, but an
+expression of his perfect satisfaction with the whole affair. One
+hundred dollars Jim and Ned could now call their own, for although Ned
+said that it ought to belong to Jim, he would hear of no such thing;
+Ned, he said, had worked as hard as either of them, and sometimes
+harder.
+
+'Well, Jim, what would all the working have amounted to without those
+thoughts of yours? and only to think how I laughed at you.'
+
+'We won't mind that now, Ned; but if you won't laugh, I will tell you
+what I have been thinking about again.'
+
+'Do tell, Jim? I will never ridicule any of your thoughts after this.'
+
+It happened that the boys were sitting on their favorite rock, enjoying
+the calm decline of one of autumn's loveliest days.
+
+'Come, Jim, I promise you I won't laugh.'
+
+'Why, to tell you the truth, Ned, I have been thinking whether there was
+no way that we might be supplied with such things as we need from a
+store, without going to Grizzle's; I am tired of it, for my part.'
+
+'There is no use of thinking about that, Jim, or talking about it
+either; we have had that over long enough; we cannot help ourselves, and
+there's the end of it.'
+
+'I don't know that; I think we might help ourselves.'
+
+'How, Jim? Come, let me hear.'
+
+'Do you remember, Ned, I once told you about a boat I saw at the fort,
+which had come from a distance with stores for the garrison? there were
+large square chests of tea, just as they came from China, and barrels of
+molasses and sugar, and casks of rice, and a great variety of things,
+enough to have completely filled Mr. Grizzle's store.'
+
+'Yes; I remember you told us about it, when you came home. But what of
+it, Jim? What good will they do us?'
+
+'I do not expect that those particular articles will benefit us,
+especially, but I have thought a great deal about the matter since then;
+and now, what I was going to propose is, to put your money with mine,
+and let me lay it out in tea, and molasses, and sugar and some other
+things.'
+
+'Why, Jim, now you _are_ crazy. Why, when should we ever eat up a
+hundred dollars' worth of such things?'
+
+'But you are too fast, Ned; you don't wait to hear what I have to say. I
+intended, when we had procured these things, to let the neighbors know
+of it, and when they wanted, we could sell to them for a small profit. I
+know many would prefer buying of us rather than of Grizzle.'
+
+'Why, Jim!' and Ned jumped down from the rock, and placing himself
+immediately before his brother, looked up at him with great earnestness.
+
+'You mean that we should set up a little store--don't you, Jim?'
+
+'Yes, it would be something like that.'
+
+'And then, perhaps, after a while we should have a great many things,
+and a great many people would come to buy of us; I know they would, for
+they all like you so much.'
+
+'I don't know about that, Ned; but I think we could sell things cheaper
+than they have been accustomed to buy them, and, if so, they will
+surely come; and if we can take such little things from them as we have
+sold at the fort, and give them a fair price--'
+
+'Oh, Jim, only think of it--hurra, hurra!'
+
+'Do, Ned, stop; you will frighten all the folks.'
+
+'What is to pay now, Ned?'
+
+'Oh, Sam, is that you? hurra, Sam.'
+
+'What ails him, Jim?'
+
+'Oh, he has got into one of his tantrums again.'
+
+'I tell you what, Sam Oakum, you don't know what Jim has been thinking
+about this time; it beats his _old_ thinking, I tell you.'
+
+'Why, what is it, Ned? Come, tell.'
+
+'Oh, Sam, Jim is going to set up a store, and do all manner of things.'
+
+Jim and Sam could stand no more; so they broke out into a hearty fit of
+laughter. Sam, supposing it to be a joke, took no farther notice of the
+matter.
+
+'You make me laugh, Ned, whether I will or no; but I don't feel much
+like laughing just now.'
+
+'Why, what's the matter, Sam?' said both boys at once.
+
+'There has nothing happened to me; but I have just been talking with
+Bill Andrews--he feels pretty bad. Bill is in trouble.'
+
+'There, Jim; I told you so. Don't you remember the day your boat was put
+into the water, Sam? I saw then that something was the matter with
+Bill.'
+
+'I hope he has not taken to any of his old ways.'
+
+'Oh, no, Jim; I don't think Bill will ever take to them again. But you
+know Bill's mother?'
+
+'She has not turned him away, has she?'
+
+'No, Ned, not exactly; but I am afraid he will go away.'
+
+'Oh, Sam! don't say so, for Bill is such a clever fellow.'
+
+'I know he is'--and Sam's eyes began to glisten, and his lip to
+tremble--'he is a real clever fellow; and to think how well he has
+behaved, and how different he is from what he once was. I should not
+think his mother could do so.'
+
+'Has she been scolding him, Sam?'
+
+'Pretty much so, Ned. You know how Bill used to let things go--almost
+any how--he says he did. Bill is sorry for all that; he is very sorry--I
+know he is. But I tell you what I believe, boys, that when we have done
+wrong, even if we are sorry for it, and try to do better, something or
+other comes up after a while to make us smart for it; perhaps we did
+not feel sorry enough, or may be it is to make us sorry all our lives; I
+suppose we ought to be. Well, as I was saying, Bill used to be much at
+Grizzle's, and Grizzle let him run in debt as much as he pleased.'
+
+'I tell you what, Sam Oakum, I would not go in debt for any thing. I had
+rather live on raw clams and sea-weed.'
+
+'So would I, Ned. But, as I was saying, Grizzle knew well enough that
+Bill's mother had land. He knew he should get his pay.'
+
+'But don't you remember, Sam, when you and I went there last summer to
+engage potatoes, Bill said he only owed Grizzle a trifle?'
+
+'I know he did, Jim, and so he thought, but Bill has been careless. He
+has taken potatoes there every year, as he thought, enough to square his
+account; but he never saw how it was, nor had any settlement made, and
+it has run on until lately; and when Bill asked him, for the first time,
+for his account--what do you think? Grizzle up's with a bill of more
+than eighty dollars.'
+
+'Eighty dollars!'
+
+'Yes, Jim, eighty dollars and upwards. Bill said when he saw it, he felt
+as if he should drop down.'
+
+'Did he pay any of it? I would not have paid one cent of it until it had
+been pretty well examined. You remember your father's account?'
+
+'Bill says he was confounded by it, and so afraid that his mother should
+hear any thing about it--for you know she is such a queer woman--that he
+paid Grizzle all the money that he received from you--thirty dollars.'
+
+'Oh, what a pity!'
+
+'Well, you see, Jim, Bill was so afraid his mother would know it he said
+it would make her about crazy.'
+
+'Yes; but for all that, he ought to have told his mother.'
+
+'I suppose he ought; but she soon knew it. For what did Grizzle do, but
+send Dick Tucker there; and he has taken the cattle, and other things,
+to pay the bill.'
+
+'Oh, Sam, I am sorry for Bill. I wonder what his mother did say?'
+
+'Bill says she called him every thing she could think of; and then she
+cried and hallooed so loud, that he had to go for the Widow Brown to
+come and pacify her. But he says he can stay at home no longer; so he is
+going across the barrens to see a Mr. Rutherford, who promised to be a
+friend to him; and he says he never means to come back, until he gets
+money enough to pay that account; and he is coming here to bid you good
+bye.'
+
+'Sam Oakum, this is too bad. I have been thinking how Bill might be a
+great help to us, and himself too.'
+
+'It is no use; he is done for--his cattle are gone, and so there is an
+end of it. But don't say any thing to Bill about this, nor let him see
+that you feel bad towards him.'
+
+'We don't feel bad towards him. Why, Sam Oakum, we like Bill Andrews
+almost as well as we do you; but there he comes.'
+
+Bill never appeared to better advantage than he did that evening: his
+countenance was naturally one of those bright and playful ones, over
+which there could always be seen some streaks of sunshine. He had really
+been through a severe trial; and had not his principles been well
+established, he might have been driven by desperation to his old habits;
+but his resolution against those evil ways was strong. And although
+Hettie had been for some time absent, yet her advice was before him,
+lifting his mind to better things, and creating a true disgust for what
+was low and corrupting. His look was sad, but not cast down. He gave his
+hand to the boys, and shook theirs with great cordiality. His eye indeed
+glistened, and his lip quivered; but these were only tokens of the pain
+it gave him to part from friends whom he loved so well. Few words were
+spoken. Ned had an abhorrence for tears. He therefore turned suddenly
+away, and began throwing stones very violently at some invisible object.
+Jim and Sam were not made of such stern material; and I do not suppose
+it ought to be set down against them, that, as soon as Bill's back was
+fairly turned, and on his way, they had between them quite a time of it.
+
+On the morrow, just as the sun was beginning to pour forth a flood of
+glorious light, Bill shut the little gate that led from his mother's
+door-yard, and turning round as he did so, gave a smile through the
+tears which were flowing to his mother and sister, who stood wringing
+their hands and weeping aloud, on the little stoop that projected from
+their front door. He smiled, to let them see that he had no unkindness
+in his heart; and his tears were witness that he was on no errand of
+pleasure. Yet he lingered not, but, brushing away the tears, and putting
+his bundle closer under his arm, walked with a firm step straight on his
+way. The sky was clear and blue, except where the beautiful sun-light
+was expanding in the east, and imparting a rich golden tint. The earth
+was whitened with the autumnal frost, and crisped under his footsteps,
+and the thick leaves rustled as he brushed along and disturbed their
+repose. His course was directed towards the Widow Brown's, where he must
+stop and say 'Good-bye,' and perhaps get a message to Hettie, whom he
+expected to meet before the day was over.
+
+He walked briskly on; the sun had not yet penetrated the thick pines,
+and the cold air of the night still floated undisturbed as he entered
+the barrens. A lively fire was crackling on the widow's hearth, and at a
+plain, but clean-looking table, sat Mrs. Brown and her son. Coarse but
+wholesome was the fare spread out upon it; and both arose as William
+entered, urging him to sit down and partake with them; having had but a
+little appetite when he left his home, the keen air and the walk had
+prepared him to enjoy refreshment. Their meal ended, a little parcel
+taken for Hettie, a warm shake of the hand, and God's blessing implored
+upon him, and he was off.
+
+This going to seek one's fortune is no trifling matter; the battle of
+life, where each is striving for his own particular benefit, and cares
+not who sinks so long as he himself securely floats, demands all the
+vital strength; and little else must claim our care or notice, save the
+great struggle.
+
+Bill was yet a stranger to life, only as it glided along in the quiet
+seclusion, and that seclusion not the best adapted to bring forth man's
+noblest efforts; beyond a bare support, and perhaps sometimes a thought
+of sharing his humble portion with her who had been a sort of guardian
+angel to him, his wishes had not hitherto aspired. No wonder, then, if
+trifles had a power to disturb him, which, to those immersed in scenes
+of busy life, would be but as an insect's buzz--a gentle brush, and it
+is gone. William Brown had left the cottage with him, and pleasant had
+been their chat together for a few miles; when about to separate, he
+merely said,
+
+'Well, I wish you good luck; and if you see Hettie, please say to her
+that Dave Cross will be along by Rutherford's next week, and that he
+will stop and bring any word home that she wishes to send; but I guess,
+between you and me, it is only an excuse to have a chat with Hettie.'
+
+Immediately after parting, Bill crossed the old bridge by the mill, and
+went on his way; but something had disturbed the inner man, for, as he
+ascended the hill, he paused where two roads met, one leading to Mr.
+Rutherford's, the other to the nearest town. A large stone lay at the
+point where they met: he threw his little bundle down, with an air that
+might mean, perhaps it did,
+
+'I don't care what becomes of you or me either;' and then took a seat on
+the stone, leaned his chin on the head of his hickory staff, and looked
+at the grass and the stones and the old fence, and occasionally at a
+stray bird, as though there was something wrong about them. He waited a
+good long hour, in thinking, and hesitating, and vexing himself, and
+then trying to make the best of it; and finally picked up his bundle and
+started off, not in the direction of the town, but straight towards Mr.
+Rutherford's. It was late in the afternoon before he accomplished his
+journey, and found himself entering the gate which opened into the
+extensive grounds surrounding, as it was commonly called, the Rutherford
+House. He had never seen any thing like it before, and a more pleasant
+or home-looking place was seldom to be met with. There was a beautiful
+green lawn, with a long broad gravel road extending to the house; and
+there were large trees, spreading their long and drooping branches,
+scattered thickly over the lawn and lining the road, and the house was
+nestled beneath the shelter of some of the very largest and most
+graceful of the trees. It made no pretensions to architectural beauty,
+but it was large and well built; and the multitude of outhouses, and
+extensive range of barns and sheds, all in good order, spoke of room for
+man and beast, and of comfort too. Bill thought nothing of all this, his
+heart was full of misgivings as to how he should be received; to him it
+was all fine, too fine for the like of him; and he looked at some of the
+outbuildings, as he passed along, to see if there was any place he could
+feel at home in, for the night.
+
+George Rutherford, the inheritor of this lovely spot, had of earthly
+goods a bounteous store; but he had, also, what many an inheritor of
+earthly substance does not possess, a noble heart, large in its embrace
+of his fellow-man in all conditions, ever going out in its kindly
+feelings towards some object of benevolence; humble in every thought
+connected with himself, and with devoted zeal seeking to aid, to
+comfort, and to gratify the most menial of his dependents, and the most
+degraded and sorrow-stricken of his neighbours, far or near. Although
+rich blessings crowned his days, and sweet was the cup of life he
+quaffed, he felt most truly that no desert of his had earned them. Gifts
+of mercy he called them all; abounding gifts--too good, but as the
+tokens of Infinite Benevolence to the most unworthy.
+
+He wanted, with all this, something of that shrewdness so essential to
+the getting or preserving property; this world so teems with those who
+covet all their eyes behold, who ask no counsel from the law of heaven
+or the code of earthly justice, so long as forms of law will screen them
+in their sly grasping after acres and goods, that a man needs, with all
+the piety of a saint, something of the serpent's cunning. It is not
+enough that he covets no man's silver or gold, that he wrongs no man of
+his due, that he extends his hand to the helpless, that he be ever ready
+to lift to his own level those who are struggling below him: he must
+take care for himself. Riches are fleeting substances, with wings ever
+ready for flight; he who enjoys the blessings they can bring, must give
+all diligence to 'see well to his flocks and herds; for riches are not
+for ever'; nor do they descend to many generations. Mr. Rutherford had
+already experienced some trials in this way; his confidence had been too
+strong, his sensibility for others' feelings too acute, and there was
+great danger that he might yet be a heavy sufferer, because he did not
+learn wisdom, as he might, from some of the trials he had already passed
+through.
+
+Whatever doubts may have disturbed Bill's mind as he was walking up the
+broad avenue, they were all dissipated the moment he was recognized by
+Mr. Rutherford. He grasped his hand with the cordiality of a friend,
+took him at once into the house, and into the presence of his lovely
+wife.
+
+'You remember, my dear, the young man who so kindly assisted us at the
+time of the accident to our carriage.'
+
+'Indeed I do,' said Mrs. Rutherford, rising and bidding him a hearty
+welcome.
+
+Bill was put at once at ease; he never before could have supposed, that
+persons who lived so very differently from what he had been accustomed
+to, could be so affable; they seemed to him to feel and act as if he was
+as good as any of them; asked him as many questions as old Sam Cutter
+would have done, and seemed as pleased with all the little news he
+communicated, as though he had been a city resident, loaded with tidings
+from the gay and stirring world. The little children, too, in all their
+sprightliness and beauty--those speaking images of the parent's
+heart--came fondling round him; his plain rough garments were unheeded
+by them, and he was soon as familiar with the little prattlers as though
+they had been the children of his nearest neighbor.
+
+But where was Hettie? Bill wondered much why she was not among the first
+to come and greet him. He did not ask; he heard her name spoken by the
+little ones, and his heart would beat and his breath grow short, and
+once he thought he heard her light step in the passage; and then sad
+thoughts would come and sink his spirits, so buoyant from his kind
+reception. But Bill had yet to learn some lessons in the school of life.
+
+Mr. Rutherford soon invited him to walk abroad, thus affording an
+opportunity to unburthen his mind, for he evidently had come for some
+express object. With much patience Mr. R. listened to his whole story,
+making no reply whatever until the budget was empty, nor, indeed, until
+some time after. Poor William thought that he had come to little
+purpose, and was anything than a welcome visitor. Mr. Rutherford,
+however, was only thinking in what way he could best serve the young
+man. He might indeed have taken him into his own family, and given him
+such employment as he had been accustomed to; but he thought he could
+perceive talents fitting him for a different sphere of life.
+
+'How would you like to go to the city, and try your hand in a store?'
+
+'I don't care where I go, sir, nor what the employment; if I can only
+have a chance to take care of myself honestly.'
+
+'It will be very different from anything you have been accustomed to;
+the work may not be any harder, but it will be very constant, and
+without much chance for relaxation, merchants think that business is a
+substitute for everything else.'
+
+But William was not to be daunted by any prospect of toil; and Mr.
+Rutherford, after telling him all he knew of the routine of business,
+proposed to give him a letter to a friend of his in an extensive
+business.
+
+'He will do all that can be done to procure you a situation, and then
+you must do the rest yourself; but remember, William, that the most
+strict attention to everything you are called to do, an unflinching
+integrity, and a determined perseverance, will be requisite to gain
+success; and unless you have made up your mind to exert every energy,
+you had better return and engage yourself with whatever you can best at
+home.'
+
+William's fine countenance was animated with an expression that told how
+his heart was touched.
+
+'So far, sir, as any exertions, day or night, to make myself useful and
+acceptable will do it, I fear not; and I hope my friends will never have
+to regret any efforts in my favor. A sense of gratitude, if nothing
+else, I trust will keep me watchful over myself.'
+
+'Well, William, I will write this evening; I hope you will succeed, and
+I think you will.'
+
+As they entered the house on their return, Hettie was just coming into
+the hall. Her appearance seemed to be accidental; perhaps it was. She
+blushed deeply, smiled a very little, and gave her hand to William in
+rather a timid manner. He was prepared to accost her warmly, but the
+peculiarity of her address chilled him; he felt a restraint he could not
+overcome, and his greeting was much like her own. She asked after her
+mother's health, thanked him for his trouble in bringing the little
+parcel for her, and then withdrew, leaving him to follow Mr. Rutherford,
+who was waiting at the parlor door to receive him.
+
+William was tired enough that night to have slept soundly, but his
+thoughts would not be quiet; so he hailed the dawn with delight, and was
+ready immediately after breakfast to go on his way. Mr. Rutherford took
+him into a small room adjoining the parlor, and handing him the letter,
+
+'There, William, I hope you will find this sufficient, and here is a
+trifle for you in case of need; if ever you become a rich man, you can
+return it: let me hear from you how you succeed.' So saying, he placed a
+little roll of bills in his hand, and bidding him God-speed, at once
+opened the door, apparently wishing to avoid the shower of thanks which
+he saw beaming from the eye of the young man.
+
+'Oh, sir, I never shall forget your kindness, and I hope I may yet prove
+it to you.'
+
+Mr. Rutherford made no reply; he was not indifferent to gratitude, but
+he did not care to be thanked personally. It was reward enough for him
+that he had made a fellow creature happy, and done what he could to give
+a helping hand to one just venturing on the deep waters. Long may that
+heart enjoy such draughts of pure happiness; and when, in years to
+come, you meet reverse of fortune, if such shall be thy fate, these
+stores, laid by in heaven's chancery, will be a refuge at your utmost
+need; and little deeds of love like this, long, long forgotten, will
+come like heavenly messengers, and with interest accumulated beyond the
+miser's compound gain. In the dark hour when clouds, blacker than the
+tempest's murky robe, shroud all the prospects of your earthly comfort,
+when hope of all deliverance that man may bring has gone, and your
+sickened heart turns away from earth, then shall you know that good
+deeds are not lost, even here below; and what your generous heart,
+inspired from above, devised to aid, to comfort, and to bless your
+fellows, has been a hidden treasure reserved against the time of deepest
+need.
+
+William went joyfully on his way, he had unrolled his little treasure,
+and counted fifty dollars. How his heart blessed the noble man; what a
+spring of love and hope burst forth from it, sending a quickening
+influence through all his frame; how elastic his step; what a cheerful
+light sparkles from his eye. The prospect before him is no longer dark.
+
+Immediately after passing the house, the road wound gradually around the
+premises; on one side skirted by a clump of woods, and on the other by a
+heavy stone wall, surmounted by shrubbery, so thick that nothing could
+be seen through it. Suddenly a little gate opened, and Hettie came down
+the steps, her face wearing that sweet smile with which she had in days
+past always met him.
+
+'I was afraid, William, that you would be past before I could get here,
+and I felt as if I must see you, just to say, good-by.'
+
+William was taken by surprise; he seized her offered hand, and grasped
+it warmly, but he could not speak.
+
+'I have wanted to see you very much, William, and to have a long talk
+with you about many things; but I suppose you must be going, and I must
+be back to my work. But, William, do you think you will like it in the
+city? You know things are so different from what you have been used to.'
+
+He was intending to be very stiff in all his bearing towards Hettie, but
+he made awkward work of it. There was she, looking up into his face with
+all her wonted interest, and how could he meet those eyes, and not
+return their look of pure and kindly feeling? So he gave it up: all his
+bad intentions flew off like mist, and his eye glanced as kindly as
+hers, and his voice softened into the old tones of friendship.
+
+'I know, Hettie, that they will be different; but I think I shall soon
+get used to them, and then I feel like taking care of myself, and who
+knows but I may get along as well as some others who go there, and come
+back with plenty of money in my pocket? I think, then, that some of my
+friends will not be ashamed to speak to me, or to acknowledge old
+friendships.' And as William said this, he looked at Hettie with so much
+meaning, that she could not mistake its reference to her.
+
+'If you think, William, that your prosperity will make a difference in
+the feelings of your friends towards you, or, at least, of some of them,
+you are mistaken. You may succeed as you anticipate, or you may not; you
+may return wealthy or poor, as you now are; if you only bring back as
+true and kind a heart, William, you will find some to welcome you, who
+will rejoice more in that, than in any great change in your
+circumstances.'
+
+And Hettie cast such a meaning in her look, too, as she fixed her eye
+full upon him, that he could not mistake its reference either. He saw
+the tears glistening in her mild eyes, and he could have done all manner
+of things to himself for speaking as he did.
+
+'Forgive me, Hettie, forgive me, if I have said any thing to trouble
+you; I know that you, at least, will not be affected by my condition, if
+my character is only good.'
+
+'I cannot say any thing more about the future, William, than that I am
+very sure I shall ever feel a deep interest in your welfare, and my
+ardent prayer shall be, that you may be kept from the many evils which I
+am told lurk around one going into the city, as you do, a stranger to
+its temptations.'
+
+'I know, Hettie, they say that I shall run a great risk in many ways,
+and I feel that I need something to keep my mind fastened on that will
+help me to avoid the evil, whatever it may be, and that will strengthen
+me in doing right. You have been such a helper to me, Hettie; you know
+from what a dreadful state you once delivered me; you have great power
+over me. I am now going from you; will you not let me carry along with
+me that promise which I have often asked? If you would only say that it
+_might_ be one of these days, I should go away happy; the hope would be
+like your presence with me.'
+
+Hettie cast down her eyes as William continued talking; she heard him
+quietly through, and then replied, in a voice that trembled indeed, but
+the words were well chosen, and came from her heart.
+
+'That promise, William, I cannot make now any more than I could have
+done before this; you and I are to be separated for many years perhaps;
+great changes may take place in that time; you will see many things very
+unlike what you have been accustomed to; your views about persons and
+things may change with your circumstances, I shall think of you as a
+dear friend, as a brother, if you wish it; I will pray for you when I do
+for myself, and as earnestly, William; but farther than this, you must
+not ask me.'
+
+William ceased, for he knew Hettie well enough to be certain that she
+would yield nothing more. He parted from her as a brother might leave a
+sister, dearly loved; he saw the deep color mantling in her cheek, and
+the tear that artlessly rolled over it; he could not say the parting
+word. She stepped back through the little gate, and as it closed, he
+went on his way to seek that fortune, which, at times, played before his
+fancy in all the witching forms of earthly prosperity. How often will
+this parting scene haunt his waking and sleeping dreams, through the
+long years that will intervene ere a sight of one so dear to him now
+will bless his eyes again; and how often will he admire the firmness and
+prudence of this earthly friend of his heart!
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+
+Sam Oakum had not forgotten the promise he had given old Mr. Cutter in
+the hour of his deep trouble; nor had he forgotten the kindness which
+prompted the old man to fly to the rescue of his parent. Every cent was
+precious in Sam's eyes, as sacred to repay that offering of mercy; he
+would no sooner have squandered it than he would have stolen; week after
+week, on every return from a trip, he would slip up to his little chest,
+and deposit there the earnings of the day. The additions were small, for
+he was obliged, occasionally, to expend some part of what he earned for
+little comforts that his mother needed; his father being rarely able to
+procure money for his labor. Small, however, as were the additions, the
+store increased. He had already carried to Mr. Cutter five dollars, and
+received his hearty blessing, and such a squeeze of his hand as Sam did
+not forget for the rest of the day.
+
+Jim had squared up with him the moment he had received the last payment;
+and as Sam looked at the heap of money which Jim said was his share of
+their enterprise, he was too happy to say any thing. He looked up at
+Jim, whose calm clear eye turned from the money to Sam, and then back
+again to the money, as much as to say--
+
+'It's your's, Sam, honestly come by;--it's all right, why don't you take
+it?'
+
+Ned, who was standing by also, and watching Sam, understood better than
+Jim what the matter was.
+
+'Why don't you hurra, Sam, and let it out, and not keep choking up so? I
+know how you feel;--shall I go it for you? Hurra, hurra, hurra!'
+
+'Ned, what does ail you? what is the use of making such a noise?'
+
+'Oh, nothing; only you see I want to help Sam out with some of his
+feelings; he is too full to hold.'
+
+Sam had to smile, and that started a tear or two, and then he tried to
+say something about gratitude to the boys; but Jim stopped him short.
+
+'Now, Sam, you must not feel so; you have earned that heap of money just
+as much as we have ours, and we ought to thank you; for how should we
+ever have got along without you and your boat.'
+
+'Oh,' said Sam, as he began to gather up his money, and looking archly
+at Jim, 'you would have thought out some other way, I know.'
+
+Jim had to smile a little; and Ned, throwing his arms on Sam's
+shoulders, and leaning over him, as he picked up the pieces of money.
+
+'Sam Oakum, I am as glad to see you put that money in your pocket as I
+should be to put it into my own; and so is Jim, I know.'
+
+Sam believed every word that Ned had spoken, and after making a plan to
+meet together that evening, he went on his way. His pockets were heavy,
+but his heart was light; and as he passed the rock which had ever been
+memorable to him since the hour when he sat there in his despondency,
+and the boys came to him with this plan of enterprise, he could not but
+say to himself,
+
+'What a grand thing it has been that Jim Montjoy had those thoughts.'
+
+Mr. and Mrs. Oakum were just about to sit down at their humble board as
+Sam entered.
+
+'Here, father; see what the boat has done.'
+
+'What is it, Sam?' said his mother, looking earnestly at him, her hands
+raised, and her countenance expressing great anxiety. Sam made no reply,
+but commenced unlading his pockets, and piling the money in little heaps
+on the table.
+
+'It is father's; it has all come of the boat. If father had not built
+that boat, we never could have got all this; and now he can pay Billy
+Bloodgood the fifteen dollars, and then we shall not owe a single cent
+to any one; there is the whole of it--twenty-five dollars--don't it look
+nice, mother?'
+
+Mrs. Oakum let her hands drop as soon as she understood the matter; but
+it was only to take up her apron--they had work to do with that. While
+the father, overcome with the sight of such abundance, and the noble
+spirit of his boy, could only say, in a very trembling voice,
+
+'God bless you, Sam.'
+
+_That_ was a happy meal, though plain and coarse. A spring of living joy
+was bubbling in each heart, and sparkling forth in pure and blessed
+thoughts towards God and man.
+
+Sam would gladly have had his father carry the money which was to repay
+Mr. Bloodgood, and never been known as the procurer of it. But to this
+the kind parent would not consent. He felt, and truly too, that it would
+be a mark upon his son's early life, not soon obliterated: and he was
+willing to have himself forgotten, if the dear boy might but be
+strengthened in the path of honor and virtue.
+
+The next morning Sam was up with the early dawn, and busy with his daily
+routine, that he might be ready to go on his pleasing errand. Breakfast
+over, he dressed himself in his best blue suit, and with the money in
+his pocket and his parent's blessing, started off, his heart as full of
+happiness as it could well be. Thoughts of the dark scene which he had
+passed through, when kind friends, like angels of mercy, came to his
+aid, he could not repress, nor did he wish to; the darker _then_, the
+brighter _now_. How his heart beat with pleasure as he walked briskly
+on, and drew near to the humble abode of Billy Bloodgood--rough, to be
+sure, was the exterior, and the peculiar habits of its owner too visible
+in the strange confusion around the premises; but Sam thought only of
+his kind heart and ready hand in an hour of need.
+
+Things had not yet been put to rights at neighbor Bloodgood's, and as
+Sam entered the house, there was not only a confused state of pots and
+kettles, and relics of the early meal, but the good woman herself was
+all wrong somehow; she was in quite an undress, and moved about amid the
+domestic articles surrounding her, with that quick, jerky air, which
+generally denotes an unsettled state of the inner man or woman.
+
+Sam wondered why things did not break, they rang against each other so
+sharply. If he was somewhat surprised at this, he was much more so at
+sight of a stranger, seated near the door, but a little behind it, which
+circumstances prevented him from noticing before. He was a stranger, not
+only to Sam, but he must have been to all those parts, for he was like
+nothing seen in that region for many miles' circuit; his air and contour
+was that of a gentleman. Sam had already seen enough of the world to
+know that. He was quite a youth, probably not over nineteen years of
+age; his countenance manly, and rather stern at the first glance; but
+Sam thought, from a particular twist of the corner of his mouth, that he
+was more amused than vexed with the state of things around him. His form
+was slender, and his complexion pale, like one who had never yet been
+exposed to the wear and tear of life; his light brown hair was thrown
+carelessly back from his forehead, and displayed to great advantage that
+index of the mind.
+
+He arose almost immediately upon Sam's entering, and with his hat in
+hand, bowed to the mistress of the house, who cast but a sideling glance
+at him, and then stooped down to rattle some of the dishes, without,
+apparently, any other motive than to let him see that she was too busy
+to attend to _him_.
+
+'You think then, madam, there would be no use in my waiting to see your
+husband?'
+
+'No; I don't think there's no earthly use in seeing _him_. I tell'd you,
+again and again, we ain't got no young ones to send--and that's the long
+and short on it.'
+
+'Good morning, madam.'
+
+The young man spoke kindly and courteously, and then left the house,
+walking with an erect carriage towards the highway.
+
+'Good morning, Aunt Sally.'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood, then, lifting herself up, and putting a hand on each
+hip, looked with a very stern and fixed gaze through the open door,
+until the stranger had fairly got out of hearing; and then, without
+answering Sam's salutation, began to rattle away in her usual style,
+when by any cause somewhat excited.
+
+'_Him_ set up for a schoolmaster, with his fine clothes on, and his bran
+new hat, and his bowin' and scrapin', and his _madam_, and all that kind
+of palaver; he ain't nothin' but a chicken himself. No, no: I've seen
+enough on 'em in my day; there ain't no good comes on 'em; they put more
+mischief in the heads of the young 'uns than they've got naturally, and
+that's enough we all know.'
+
+'What's the matter, Aunt Sally?'
+
+'I tell you what, Sam Oakum, I don't want none of them Yankees round me.
+I don't see why the critters can't stay in their own country, and do
+some honest thing there for a livin', and not come trampussing away down
+here with their larnin', that don't do no airthly good, but make the
+young 'uns lazy, and wanting to be gentlemen like themselves; and what
+old Molly Brown sent the critter here for, I don't see.'
+
+'Does he want to set up a school, aunt Sally?' said Sam, looking at her
+with a very anxious countenance.
+
+'He _did_ want to; but I guess he's got enough on it; and I'm so glad
+he's took himself off 'fore Bloodgood come in, for he's just fool enough
+to be clean took with him; and he's got his head set about havin' a
+schoolmaster, and I don't want none of the varmints round.' But looking
+at Sam very closely, and coming up to him, and feeling his coat and his
+trousers, and then holding him off at arm's length.
+
+'_Do tell!_ where upon airth, Sam, did you get this? How smart you _do_
+look. This has been gi'n to you, I know, by them great folks over the
+water there?'
+
+'Yes.'
+
+'Well, ain't that clever on 'em, Sam? but you're desarvin' of it, and
+I'm glad on it. It does a body's heart good to see your mother's child
+look so smart and tidy. I didn't hardly know you when you come in, and
+that plaguy man put me into such a pucker, I didn't hardly know what I
+was about.'
+
+Sam had become very impatient to be off; he had anticipated a great deal
+of joy from his errand, in the proud satisfaction of paying a just
+debt; but he thought not of that now. He had learned enough to know what
+the stranger's business was, and he could not endure the thought of his
+leaving the place in such a manner; so taking out his money, and handing
+it to Mrs. Bloodgood,
+
+'There, Aunt Sally, is the money which Mr. Bloodgood, so kindly helped
+my father to, when he was in trouble; won't you please tell him that we
+all thank him very much, and hope we shall never forget how good he has
+been to us?'
+
+'You dear, blessed child!' Aunt Sally could say no more, for she saw the
+tears in Sam's eyes, and her own heart was very peculiar--it was soon
+set on fire.
+
+'You will tell him, won't you, Aunt Sally? and that father says, if he
+will only let him know any time that he can do any thing for him, or for
+you, day or night, he will gladly do it; and mother says so too; for you
+don't know how happy it made us all, when you lent this money, and how
+very happy we are now, to be able to give it back to you.'
+
+Aunt Sally sat down, and taking up her apron with both hands, cried as
+hard as she had scolded but a few moments before. Sam laid the money on
+the table beside her, and wishing her good morning, made speed towards
+the highway. He saw the young man at a distance, walking rapidly, and
+bending his course away from the place, on the direct road to the
+barrens; his only chance to overtake him was by a cross cut over the
+fields, and through a little clump of wood, around which the road to the
+barrens passed. And while Sam is hurrying across the lots, I must
+introduce the young stranger a little more particularly to my reader.
+
+Henry Tracy was indeed descended from New England parents, but was not,
+as good Mrs. Bloodgood supposed, a real Yankee; for his father had
+emigrated from the state of Maine when quite a youth, and his mother
+from another of the goodly sisterhood, when a child. They had settled in
+one of the middle States, and Henry's birthplace was one of our largest
+cities; great pains had been taken with his education; his mind was
+uncommonly well stored for one of his age, and his manners distinguished
+by a gentlemanly grace; but, above all this, his heart had been nurtured
+by the tender care of a mother, whose love for the truth, whose meek and
+blameless life, and whose heavenly-minded temper, gave a power to the
+pure and holy thoughts which she was ever breathing into the ear of her
+son; they stole into his heart like the dew upon the tender plant.
+
+He was now an orphan, and cast upon the world, with the choice of
+depending upon the charity of friends to assist him in completing his
+education, or using what education he had already received as a means of
+support, and of further progress; he wisely chose the latter. Having a
+slight acquaintance with Mr. Rutherford, he had, on calling to visit the
+family, been directed to this region, and the "Widow Brown, to whom Mr.
+Rutherford advised him to apply, could think of no one more likely to
+take an interest in a school than Billy Bloodgood. His reception there,
+and the general appearance of things, had discouraged him from any
+further attempt, and he was hastening back to seek a spot more congenial
+to his own feelings, and where there might be at least some desire for
+instruction.
+
+Sam had to be expeditious, and was barely able to accomplish his object
+by running across one entire lot, and through the clump of woods.
+Breathless with his haste, he was unable to communicate his wishes, or
+to apologize to the young man for coming upon him in so abrupt a manner,
+who looked with much surprise at him for an explanation.
+
+'I hope you will excuse me, sir, for stopping you; I met you, just now,
+at Mr. Bloodgood's. I did not know what your business was, sir. But do
+come back, we want you very much.'
+
+'Want me! What do they know about _me_?'
+
+'Oh, I mean, Sir, they want a teacher.'
+
+'Mrs. Bloodgood says that no one here wishes a teacher, that the people
+think they are better off without any instruction.'
+
+'But they do not all feel so, sir; do come back with me, and I will take
+you to a man that will tell you all about it.'
+
+Sam's appearance pleased Mr. Tracy, and the earnestness of his entreaty
+induced him to consent to return and see what new feature the place
+might present.
+
+They were not long in reaching the spot to which Sam wished to conduct
+him, a very unlikely place in appearance to give encouragement to
+literature, being no other than the workshop of old Sam Cutter. The old
+man was in his usual seat, holding, or rather leaning upon the handle of
+his large hammer, and from his short breathing and flushed face, showing
+signs of his having just been wielding it. Running round the shop, with
+a tongs in one hand and a hammer in the other, was Billy Bloodgood,
+helping himself, with some directions and aid on Mr. Cutter's part, in
+repairing an old farming tool. He paid, as usual, no attention to the
+new-comers, except a slight nod of his head, and a pleasant smile to
+Sam.
+
+As Sam entered and motioned to Mr. Tracy to come in, Mr. Cutter passed
+his broad hand across the top of his head, smoothing down his bald
+forehead, at the same time saying.
+
+'Your sarvant, sir.'
+
+Mr. Tracy bowed to him politely, taking off his hat with as much respect
+as if in the presence of one of the great ones of the earth.
+
+Sam Oakum lost no time in communicating to Mr. Cutter the object of the
+visitor, and the circumstances under which he had met with him and
+brought him back.
+
+'Right, Sam, right; but of all things, to think of Sally Bloodgood
+treating the gentleman in that sort. But that's the way with them;
+they're a match for the old one, any time; all but your mother, Sam, she
+ain't like the rest on 'em.' And then turning to the young man,
+
+'Sorry, sir, you've had such an indifferent reception, but what can't be
+cured must be endured. Billy there knows that; but you see it don't
+matter to him whether she scolds or coaxes; he can't hear nothin' no
+more than the iron he's poundin' on.'
+
+'Is that Mr. Bloodgood? Mrs. Brown advised me to call upon him; but his
+good wife gave me such an account of things, that, but for this young
+gentleman, I should have made no further effort.'
+
+'Ay, ay, Sam knew well enough, the young rogue, who to come to; but dear
+me, you look like a lad that has seen fair weather and easy work; do you
+know what kind of a place you've come to?'
+
+'Only what I have seen of it this morning, sir; and Mrs. Brown said that
+she thought a teacher was much needed.'
+
+'Ay, that she might well say, much needed; that is, if you can teach
+them any better manners than they've got now: they're a hard case, my
+dear young man, most gone to the evil one altogether.'
+
+Mr. Tracy smiled. 'I hope not quite so bad as that, sir.'
+
+'Not much short on it, I tell you; but things look a little better than
+they have, and I ain't sure but a considerable lot on 'em might be got
+together; that is, the boys, I mean but--' and the old man regarded his
+young visitor with a very inquisitive countenance--'you don't look as if
+you could live on clam shells and oyster shells, and eels, and sich
+like; I'm afear'd you ain't used to them.'
+
+'Oh, yes, sir, I can eat what the rest of you do.'
+
+'Well, my young friend, you can't judge always from the looks, what kind
+of fare a man has; but howsomever, if you can get along with such things
+as I've tell'd you of, why you won't starve, for you see we've got
+plenty on 'em; and as to the boys, do you, Sam Oakum, up and tell the
+gentleman what you know about it, and not stand stretching your mouth
+and grinnin' at me.'
+
+Sam soon numbered quite a company of boys, and girls too, that he knew
+would be very glad of a chance for schooling, and many more that would
+no doubt come if the gentleman 'would only make a beginning, and open a
+school.'
+
+As Henry Tracy had perhaps full as much desire to do good, as to receive
+compensation for his labors, seeing the strong desire manifested by Sam,
+and hearing him tell how very anxious some of his companions were to
+learn something, he made up his mind to try the experiment.
+
+Sam was almost beside himself for joy; it was the only one thing now
+wanting in his cup of happiness. His deficiency in every kind of
+knowledge acquired from books, was felt by him daily as a sore evil. 'If
+he could only read and write, and calculate like Jim Montjoy,' was for
+ever coming into his mind, a wish unalloyed by envy or any other evil
+feeling towards Jim, but filling his heart with sadness. Old Sam Cutter
+was no less rejoiced, for his boys were but little in advance of Sam
+Oakum, and now that they had taken such a favourable turn in their
+course of conduct, the old man felt that a school would be a crowning
+mercy. Some little difficulty presented itself as to where the teacher
+should take up his abode; there were good reasons why Mr. Cutter could
+not offer a residence under his own roof; the house was but small, _too
+small_, he found for himself, sometimes, and he durst not venture upon
+an addition.
+
+Sam Oakum would have rejoiced could his home have afforded
+accommodations such as he might ask a stranger to partake of, and a
+person of Mr. Tracy's appearance. Mrs. Montjoy's was the only place that
+Sam could think of where any thing like comfort could be had.
+
+'I know--I know all that, Sam; Mrs. Montjoy is a nice woman, and the
+house, though small, is tidy-like, and the boys are good fellows, a
+credit to the place; but you see, Sam, we must 'be wise as sarpants'
+about this business. You know how the folks feel, full of their
+jealousies and nonsense; and if the teacher should go there, they would
+say that he felt himself above folks, that he was too good for the like
+of them, and all that, and you see,' looking at Mr. Tracy, 'we've got to
+take folks as they are, and make the best on 'em.' And then turning his
+eye towards Sam, 'The Widow Andrews' is the place. Bill, you know, is
+gone; sorry for that, but he's gone, and no help for it; the old woman
+is queer, but where is one on 'em that ain't, sometimes? Yet she is
+pretty good in the main, and she'll be proud to do her best; and if the
+gentleman won't be frightened at a little squall once in a while, he'll
+git along pretty comfortable there: now, don't you think so, Sam?'
+
+Sam thought just as Mr. Cutter did; and as Mr. Tracy was not particular
+as to accommodations, provided they were cleanly, and he could have a
+room to himself, it was accordingly decided that he should accompany Sam
+there, and see what could be done. There was nothing very inviting in
+the appearance of things, to one who had been accustomed to a very
+different style of living: the house was a one-story building, placed
+very flat on the ground; both the roof and the sides were covered with
+shingles. Moss had accumulated so as to contend with the shingles for
+the precedence, and if the latter did the most good, the former was the
+most distinctly to be seen. But it was situated in the midst of a green
+grass plot, and the grass was short and velvety to the tread, and a few
+old cedar trees surrounded it, which tended to screen its imperfections,
+and make it pass for full as much as it deserved. A fence ran before it,
+much dilapidated, sufficient, however, to keep out the larger animals,
+where the green short grass grew up to the window.
+
+The widow was evidently flattered by the proposal, only she feared 'the
+gentleman might find their living very different from what he had been
+used to.'
+
+Mr. Tracy was satisfied, from the appearance of things within doors,
+that neatness was one trait which the widow certainly had, whatever
+others he might discover on further acquaintance. She showed him her
+best room, and which she was perfectly willing to yield up to his use.
+It was large enough, with an agreeable view of the surrounding country,
+and Henry thought, when he should get his books around him, he could
+make himself at home.
+
+Mr. Cutter would have been glad to introduce the young man to Billy
+Bloodgood, but he dared not undertake the task, and suffered Billy to
+hammer away, and took no notice of the inquisitive glances which his
+good neighbor kept casting towards him. As soon, however, as the visitor
+had departed, still holding the hammer and tongs, he made up to Mr.
+Cutter, and putting his head close to his ear, hallooed in a voice
+almost sufficient to have made the sound reach his own tympanum.
+
+'Who's that?'
+
+'I ain't deaf; you needn't holler at that rate into a man.'
+
+'Who did you say? I didn't hear you.'
+
+'Dear me, what _shall_ I do? I'm all out of breath a talkin' to that
+youngster.'
+
+'Don't hear.'
+
+Uncle Sam made a desperate effort, opened his mouth, drew in a long
+breath, put his hand up to form a trumpet, and applying the machinery as
+near as possible to Billy's head, called out,
+
+'He's a teacher.'
+
+'A preacher?' and Billy nodded and smiled; 'that's _good_ going to stay
+here?'
+
+'Bless my soul, what _shall_ I do? I shan't try agin', no how.'
+
+'Sally'll be glad to hear that; where is he from?'
+
+Uncle Sam looked first one way and then the other, as though meditating
+an escape; but he hated to move, and in fact he knew there would be
+little use in trying it, for Billy would be after him so he finally cast
+an imploring eye up to his neighbor, who stooping down and looking very
+inquiringly into his face.
+
+'O dear, dear! I ain't got no breath to do it.'
+
+Billy shook his head.
+
+'Don't hear.'
+
+'No, nor you won't if the sound has got to come out of me; it can't be
+done.'
+
+'Don't hear what you say; speak a little louder.'
+
+'I don't know.' Old Sam made noise enough this time, and if it could
+have been concentrated might have gone to the place, but Billy had heard
+something, so he nodded his head.
+
+'From below? what place? anywhere near by?'
+
+'Dear, dear, he'll be the death of me!' Uncle Sam was indeed in a bad
+case; he had at no time any breath to spare, and to be called upon to
+expend it, first in working with the big hammer, and then in blowing
+trumpets, was a little more than his good-nature could stand. He was
+very red in the face, breathed short and heavy, and with his old straw
+hat flapping violently to catch fresh supplies of air, looked wildly
+about for some loophole whereby to creep out from this dilemma. Just at
+that moment, and as Billy was again upon the point of asking for more
+light on the obscurity of the last sound that reached him, the shop door
+was darkened by the entrance of no less a personage than Sally Bloodgood
+herself. She came in so rapidly, that she was nigh being foul of Uncle
+Sam; as it was, she only impeded the motion of the old hat. She was not
+at all in a visiting dress, having come, as she said, 'just as she was,'
+to see her neighbor, Mrs. Cutter, for a minute. 'But do, la, Uncle Sam,
+what ails you? your face is as red as a turkey's comb. You seem to be
+all blowed out. It's Bloodgood, I know it is. He's been asking you
+questions, I know he has. You hadn't ought to try to talk to him, Uncle
+Sam; it's enough to kill you.'
+
+'I believe you,' turning his eyes up at her very expressively; 'you're
+right there, Sally.'
+
+Billy Bloodgood now engrossed his wife's attention, by telling her the
+great news, 'that there was a preacher come, a nice-looking young man.'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood looked at Mr. Cutter for an explanation.
+
+'Do _tell_, Uncle Sam, was he a very youngerly man, very fine and
+delicate like?'
+
+Mr. Cutter nodded assent.
+
+'La, me, I wonder if it's the same one that called to see Bloodgood,
+this mornin'. A preacher?--who upon airth would have thought it? he
+never said nothin' about preach'n'.'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood had her own reasons for being so surprised; and as Uncle
+Sam Cutter saw clearly that her thoughts were very much troubled about
+the matter, he came to the conclusion to let her enjoy her mistake:
+
+'It will teach her, may be, to be a little more careful of her tongue.'
+
+But, as Billy Bloodgood was the principal man to whom Mr. Cutter looked
+for aid in sustaining and encouraging the young man, the fact that he
+wished to teach a young school among them, must be communicated to him.
+Utterly hopeless of any power in himself to do the thing, he, without
+any ceremony, took hold of the loose covering which hung about the
+person of the lady, and fairly forcing her down upon a rough seat, near
+himself,
+
+'Now you see, woman, I give it clean up; I shan't never try no more to
+drive a word into Billy's head. I can't do it--it will kill me.'
+
+''Tis hard work, Uncle Sam, ain't it? it takes such a power of wind. But
+you see somebody's got to make him hear, and I 'spose it's my lot; and
+what a body's got to do, you know, Uncle Sam, why, they must submit to
+it: but it takes my breath clean away sometimes, and makes me so faint
+and gone, that I can't hardly hold myself together.' And the good woman,
+pressing her hands very hard against her sides, exhibited to Uncle Sam
+the desperate efforts she had to make, at times, to keep things in their
+place.
+
+Billy stood close by, with one hand on Uncle Sam's shoulder, looking
+very complacently at his wife, and nodding every once in a while, as
+though he understood perfectly what she was saying.
+
+'Fine-looking young man; smart, I guess.' And then stooping over, and
+looking into Mr. Cutter's face, 'You didn't tell me what place he came
+from.'
+
+'Where is it, Uncle Sam? jist tell me, and I'll make him hear, I'll
+warrant.'
+
+'Why, Sally, I don't know where he's come from. No doubt Heaven has sent
+him from somewhere or another, and I don't much care, I am so glad to
+see any thing in a decent shape come to do a little good among us: he
+may have dropped right down, for all I know.'
+
+'Do, la, Uncle Sam, how you talk; you're enough to frighten a body. But
+I must tell Bloodgood somethin' or another.' So, raising herself a
+little, putting one hand on each knee, and placing her prominent member
+close to her husband's ear, who was still bending down and looking
+earnestly at Mr. Cutter, she was about to give one of her blasts, when
+she was suddenly arrested by the powerful hand of the latter.
+
+'Stop, Sally, stop!--not now: none of your hollering here, I can't
+stand it. Wait till you git home, and then you can tell Billy all about
+it.'
+
+Billy, finding that there was a sudden interruption to all
+correspondence for some cause he could not well define, and being
+accustomed to such events, put a stop to his inquiries for the present.
+
+How vast a change of feeling is sometimes effected by the passing away
+of sunlight, with the bustle of its busy hours and the silent shades of
+evening!
+
+Henry Tracy had made a busy day of it; he had met with unexpected
+success in engaging scholars, and had procured a room in a building,
+once used as a court-house, in which to hold his school. Gratified with
+his prospects, he sat down to the clean supper table with the Widow
+Andrews and her daughter, with feelings much more buoyant than could
+have been expected in one so young, for the first time a sojourner among
+strangers. He delighted them by the ease and pleasantness of his
+manners, so that when he retired, which he did soon after supper, the
+Widow Andrews looked at her daughter, and lifting her hands in
+expression of her admiration--
+
+'Who could ever ha' thought of it? Why, it's jist as easy talkin' to him
+as to Uncle Sam Cutter.'
+
+'Oh, mother! its as easy agin'.'
+
+The moon was in all her splendor, and her pale rays fell trembling
+through the foliage of the cottage. Taking a seat by the window, Henry
+looked out upon the beautiful night, and his heart filled with emotions
+to which he had hitherto been a stranger.
+
+Home, that idea so satisfying to the soul, that spot to which our wishes
+fly when in sickness or sorrow, was nought to him now but the
+resting-place of his past joys and trials--a beautiful vision that had
+left an impress on his heart, which time could not obliterate; although,
+like a vision, it had passed away, his bosom heaved with the swelling
+thoughts that rolled like ocean waves heavier and mightier in upon him.
+He drew from his breast a golden locket and unclasping it, held the
+miniature it enclosed beneath the rays of the moon; his lips trembled,
+as the sacred name of '_mother_' broke from them. 'Yes, I will ever
+think of thee, thy sweet love has made my home a paradise, and thy pure
+piety and gentle counsels have won me to the path of peace. My Saviour's
+image hast thou ever borne before me, until my heart has learned to
+love Him as my best and dearest friend. Oh, may my life be such as thy
+last dying prayer entreated it might be; and may I be led by the Holy
+Spirit in the way that leads to where thou art.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+
+It was a very bright to-morrow in Ned's imagination, as he lay down to
+rest; for then he was to accompany Jim and Sam, and was to see the fort,
+and old Peter and Major Morris, and perhaps little Susie too; and the
+new plan of Jim's was the object of their errand. If the day in Ned's
+imagination was brighter than the one which actually dawned upon them,
+it must have been a beauty indeed. The sky, the water, and the land
+opened in loveliness; the bright blue above was reflected from the
+glassy water, and the golden beams, that poured in full glory from the
+east, were thrown back by the fading forest in all variety of colors.
+This was to Ned a holiday indeed, and his active spirit enjoyed it to
+the full; faithfully had he toiled through the long summer days, nor
+even thought of relaxation. Now, the summer labors over, sweet was the
+rest, and exhilarating the prospect of new scenes and faces, which, with
+that morning's dawn, came playing before his view.
+
+Major Morris was not a little pleased, as he listened to Jim's simple
+exposition of the plan he had in view; his generous heart rejoiced to
+know that what he had already done to aid and stimulate these youths,
+had turned to so good account.
+
+'And you say that you have laid by one hundred dollars from your trading
+with me this summer, and so you begin to despise your old business? You
+wish to find some easier way to make a hundred dollars? Ay, ay--like all
+the rest of us.'
+
+'Oh, no, sir--no, sir; we do not think of giving up our garden; we
+expect to work at that the same as ever.'
+
+And then Jim explained how he intended to manage, which convinced Major
+Morris that the scheme was not only well laid, but included much closer
+attention to their work than heretofore. He looked at the boys with deep
+interest; the smile, which had played round his lips while speaking to
+them, passed away, and his keen black eye turned from one to the other,
+as though scrutinizing their very spirits. Sam's honest eye, as black as
+the one which was fixed on him, twinkled and turned aside, as the
+Major, after surveying the brothers, rested his gaze on him. What he saw
+in Sam, or what strange visions passed before him, wherein poor Sam
+acted a conspicuous part, may one day be revealed. A sigh at last broke
+the spell; he turned towards Jim.
+
+'Your plan, my good fellow, is one which meets my approbation, and any
+thing I can do to assist you in it, I will do with pleasure; but you
+know from past dealing with me, that my efforts will be merely directed
+so as to enable you to help yourselves.'
+
+'You are very kind, sir. I thought your judgment would be safe for us to
+follow, and that perhaps you could give me some directions as to
+purchases, and therefore I have taken this liberty.'
+
+'Your plan of setting up a small store is a good one; on many accounts:
+but you must bear in mind that great attention will be required, both in
+purchasing and selling. You will be in danger of losing some of your
+profits by waste in retailing; you will also be in danger of losing
+goods and profits too, by selling to those who will never pay you; and
+you will run some risk in the transportation of your goods, or of your
+money, so far by water, although this latter risk can be guarded
+against. What I would say to you then is, that this business, although
+small at first, will require the most strict attention in all its
+details; and I would also say another thing, if I did not fully believe
+that all of you have been trained to those correct principles, without
+which no man can or ought to rise to honor or prosperity.
+
+'I can assist you by introducing you to a house in the city, where you
+will be well dealt with; and as our boat sails to-morrow morning, you
+had better remain here, and I will accompany you.'
+
+Ned was ready for a caper; he looked at Sam, and rubbed his hands
+together very fast. Sam shook his head, as much as to say, 'Be quiet,
+Ned.'
+
+Jim blushed, looked at the boys, and then up at Major Morris.
+
+'I thank you, sir, for your kind offer; but having no idea of being able
+to do any thing so soon, have left my money at home.'
+
+'So much the better, then there will be the less risk; I will arrange
+for the payment of your goods in the city, the same as if you had your
+money with you, and when we return, you can settle with me here.'
+
+Jim was not very clear about this matter; but confiding in Major
+Morris, assented to remain, thanking him again for his kind interest.
+
+During this conversation, Peter stood back at some distance, leaning on
+his crutches, and chewing a tremendous quid of tobacco with great
+diligence, and occasionally smoothing down the end of his queue. Ned,
+while listening to the Major, kept an eye on Peter, scanning him from
+head to foot. No sooner had the Major withdrawn, than Peter hobbled
+towards the boys, who were standing on the steps by their boat, and
+making preparations to return; he threw his crutches down, and taking a
+seat on the stone coping close beside the boat, listened attentively to
+Jim, who was giving directions to Sam and Ned about some small matters
+at home, and about their coming for him on his return to the fort.
+
+'I suppose,' said Jim, looking at Peter, 'that I shall be back here by
+about three o'clock to-morrow afternoon.'
+
+'Bless your soul! what kind of a kalkelation have you run foul of now?
+you are out of your reck'nin' by a whole day at the least. Why you see,
+my hearty, you won't start from here 'afore say nine o'clock to-morrow
+mornin'; with the wind aft, or a little quaterin', say she goes eight
+knots an hour, which is good sailin' for sich kind of craft, it will
+take you all of four hours and no balks to git to the landin'; so you
+see' (giving his head a bob, and a corresponding motion to his queue)
+'you can't be there 'afore one o'clock, no how' (another bob); 'well
+then, if the wind is fair to carry you there, you don't think it is
+goin' to chop round jist when you're ready to come back, and blow astern
+all the way home, do you?'--looking at Jim again.--'No, no; the wind and
+weather don't care for nobody; we've got to take 'em, jist as it
+happens, and make the most on 'em. So you see, you may jist knock
+overboard all your figurin'; it won't do you no good; you've got to stay
+one night in the city, at any rate, for the boat never starts till the
+next mornin'; and if you've good luck, may be about three o'clock you'll
+be in, and may be not.'
+
+Jim was rather puzzled to make out from Peter's reckoning when to tell
+the boys to come for him; but Peter, seeing him in doubt, gave his own
+directions.
+
+'Here you, Sam, jist harkee; there won't be no need of your bein' here
+afore day a'ter to-morrow; then you see, you can jist hoist sail, and
+come along easy; no hurry; you be here by three o'clock, plenty time
+enough. Now you see, don't make no kalkelations about goin' home that
+night, 'kase--you hear me now?--sposin' the wind should take 'em right
+dead ahead, they can't get in no how afore six o'clock, and may be not
+then, and there's no tellin' when.'
+
+Jim found it a more serious matter, this going to the city, than he had
+anticipated. Peter's experience soon convinced him of that; as he could
+give no more certain directions to Sam than he had already received, he
+must let him go with what he had.
+
+The sail was hoisted; Peter had untied the rope, giving at the same time
+a sharp good-natured lecture to Sam, for making his boat fast in such an
+unsailor-like manner. Sam took it all in good part, for, in truth, he
+had not done the thing; it was some of Ned's handiwork. Jim stood on the
+stairs, giving Ned all sorts of directions and injunctions.
+
+'Yes, yes, Jim; I'll see to it, never you fear.'
+
+Off goes the little craft.
+
+'Good-by, Sam; good-by, Ned. Take care of yourselves.'
+
+'Good-by, Jim.'
+
+'Good-by, my hearties; haul in that bow-line, and don't let it drag in
+that fashion; and haul your peak taut; you'll have a stiff breeze, but
+she'll bear it. Good luck to you.'
+
+Gently the boat turned off, and took the swelling breeze. The boys
+looked back, to give a parting nod.
+
+'Oh, Sam, who is that? ain't she a beauty though!--is that Susie? See,
+Sam, she is shaking her hand to you.'
+
+Sam made no reply; he touched his hat lightly, as he had seen Peter do
+to the Major.
+
+'I tell you what, Sam, I don't wonder you jumped into the water; I would
+have jumped, too, if I had been here.'
+
+'I wouldn't be looking round so, Ned.'
+
+'Mustn't I? Well, I'll look ahead then. I thought sister Eller was
+pretty--but--but--may be it's the dress though.'
+
+Sam was in no talking mood; he kept his eye steadily fixed on the sail,
+which was swelled finely out, and making their boat skim along towards
+home to his heart's content; and as Ned received only monosyllables in
+reply to his many questions, he soon tired of putting them.
+
+Large cities have their evils, and they are not few. Hither the idle and
+the vicious throng, for here are dens to hide them from the public gaze,
+and companions to uphold them in their evil courses, and finery enough
+to glut their polluted appetite; but with the evils, are many things
+that tend to bless society. Here the good man finds many kindred
+spirits, too, and like coals to burning coals, they kindle in each other
+a warmer glow, and spread around them, in a wide and fervent circle, a
+cheering, healthful influence. Here busy industry plies her daily,
+nightly task, and meets with large reward, and hangs out her trophies to
+the gaze of the vast multitude, urging them on to diligence: here wealth
+erects her glittering palace; and here the darkest den of poverty is
+found. Here emulation and sympathy have each objects of heart-thrilling
+interest, sufficient to awaken all the energies of the jostling throng.
+Deeds of charity, which make us proud of our species, are here
+originated and carried into execution: and here, too, deeds of horror
+are enacted, that make us feel how like the very fiends of hell
+sometimes is man.
+
+Excitement, in all its various forms, keeps up a constant whirl; all
+feel the influence for good or ill, and onward all are pressing. The
+mind of man is tasked, until its energies, too strongly, constantly
+impelled, give way, and then the victim droops, and plods along, and
+sickens at the strife, and longs to be at rest.
+
+When the first view of the city broke upon the gazing eye of our hero,
+he scarcely knew what to make of it. The tall spires running up against
+the distant sky; the crowded masts that, like a wintry forest, lined the
+shores; the mighty mass of buildings, heaps on heaps, spreading for
+miles on either side; the boats of various size and shape crossing and
+recrossing, and sweeping by them with the arrow's speed; and as they
+neared the land, the busy throng of people hurrying to and fro; the
+confused and deafening noise, the smoke and dust, the huge hulks, old
+ocean-travellers, that lay fast corded to the strong stout piles; the
+long projecting piers, around whose dark-green slippery base the turbid
+waters swelled, and beat, and broke--all, all were new to Jim; and in
+mute wonder he looked and thought, until their little vessel glided into
+her resting-place, between two vast walls of docks.
+
+"Well, James, what do you think of the city?" said Major Morris, coming
+up to where he sat at the bow of the boat, and putting his hand kindly
+on his shoulder.
+
+"I hardly know, sir; but it seems a very busy place." 'Yes, busy you
+may well say, every one is in a hurry here, and we must be so, too, as
+we are rather late to-day, and I fear my friend will have left his
+store.'
+
+Jim hastened to accompany the Major, who, already on the wharf, was
+mingling with the crowd; it took him, however, some little time to learn
+how to make haste in a city, and not before he had received a few stout
+thumps against some other hurrying mortals, and a few harsh curses as an
+awkward country booby. But Jim heeded them not, for the Major walked
+fast, and to lose sight of him would be a dilemma indeed, amidst such a
+Babel. He twisted this way and that, sometimes running close to the
+wall, at others jumping off from the side-walk among the carts, and then
+quickly back again, over bales of cotton tumbling from the doors; around
+hogsheads of molasses, barrels of flour, puncheons of rum, bars of iron,
+old anchors, coils of cable, droves of little, ragged, dirty children,
+huddling about empty sugar hogsheads. Verily Jim had a time of it; he
+was not naturally one of the hurrying sort. To get around and through
+all these obstacles, and to keep his eye on the Major, at the same time,
+required more activity than he had been accustomed to use.
+
+After travelling in this way, as Jim fancied, a long distance, he
+rejoiced to see the Major make a halt, and enter a large store, the
+passage-way of which was blocked up with piles of tea-chests, casks,
+bales, boxes, and men. Jim squeezed along behind the Major, who, opening
+a glass door, entered a small neat room, where every thing was in
+perfect contrast with the confusion without: a large double desk
+occupied a considerable portion of the apartment; it was situated
+between the two front windows, and covered with fine green cloth; every
+thing upon it lay in order; each little paper seemed to be there by
+design. The windows were clean, and the glasses on the shelf shone
+brightly, and the floor was covered with white sand, and dust and
+cobwebs appeared to have no license there. At the desk two young men
+were busily employed with immense folios, working away in silence,
+occasionally passing a word with each other in a very low voice, and
+that only in reference to the work before them. A spell seemed to be
+upon Jim as soon as he entered that room; he had never felt so before,
+not even when first introduced into the parlor of Mrs. Morris; every
+thing wore the appearance of so much exactness, every thing was done and
+said in such a calm, thoughtful way, it was so still and orderly, it
+seemed to Jim that matters of great moment alone occupied each mind.
+
+Mr. Thomas was a large dealer; hundreds of thousands passed through his
+hands every year, and his extensive business was managed by him with
+perfect ease, because he had grown into it; unlike too many of modern
+times, who, aiming to catch the golden shower, involve themselves in a
+complication of difficulties, purchase without judgment, and sell at
+random, only anxious that their books shall show, at the end of the
+year, a large balance in their favor, whether realized or not.
+
+He had begun in a small way, and gradually increased his business with
+his means; never suffering himself to be allured by a tempting
+speculation, nor to engage in any undertaking beyond what he could well
+manage, he neither worried himself nor his friends. It was a busy place,
+though, that store of his; from early dawn until late at night, there
+was one continued round of active duty; but extensive as his sales were,
+he despised not the most insignificant of his customers, bestowing equal
+attention to him who wished to spend his hundred dollars, as to those
+who yearly drew from his vast storehouse their tens of thousands. An
+upright, manly course he had ever pursued; he was an honest dealer as
+well as a wealthy merchant.
+
+Major Morris knew well the man into whose hands he committed our young
+merchant; and it required but a few words in private to interest Mr.
+Thomas in his welfare, almost as much as he had himself been. The story
+of the youth immediately took with him, and Jim's modest and intelligent
+look added force to what the Major had related concerning him; and then,
+when Major Morris left the office to attend to business of his own
+elsewhere, he made Jim take a seat beside him, and with the familiarity
+of a friend, drew from his own lips a rehearsal of all he had done, and
+what he wished to do; inquiring into all the particulars respecting the
+place where he lived. Jim had but a plain and simple story to tell; but
+before he had finished, the heart of the merchant was so engaged in his
+plan, that he thought of him not as a customer, out of whom he might
+honestly make a small gain, but as one whom it would give him great
+pleasure to direct and aid. What a priceless jewel is integrity of
+heart! and happy is the youth who, trained to virtue, goes forth into
+the busy paths of life to act his part. A mild but steady light
+illuminates his track; his very countenance is radiant, and his plain,
+simple speech, which tells the meaning of his heart, wins every honest
+ear, and wakes a chord respondent in each noble soul; he needs no
+varnished tale, no flattering words, no cringing bows; a better passport
+to the confidence of all he carries with him, in his own honest purpose.
+
+With much patience Mr. Thomas made out a list of such articles as he
+thought would be the most saleable, and gave immediate directions to
+have them carefully put up. He then opened to Master Jim such a method
+of managing business, that he felt almost in a hurry--a thing Jim was
+not often guilty of,--to start off and get to work. Jim was not given to
+vanity; he had never felt that he had any thing to be proud of, but when
+he saw the cart loaded with the different articles intended for him,
+neatly marked with his name and place of residence, and when he received
+his bill made out in the most particular manner, and receipted by the
+clerk with a most significant flourish beneath the signer's name, and
+when Mr. Thomas cordially shook his hand, wishing him all success, and
+that he might have the pleasure of seeing him soon again, he was highly
+gratified, and would not just then have exchanged his place and
+prospects for any one he could think of.
+
+Sam and Ned, although somewhat confused by Peter's directions, had
+reached the fort a short time before the arrival of Master Jim with his
+little cargo. It was a happy meeting between the brothers, for they had
+never before been separated for a single night. How Ned stared, when he
+saw the boxes, and bags, and barrels with Jim's name upon them! How he
+would have shouted, if he dared, but Sam was close by him.
+
+'Keep still, Ned; you know it won't do here.'
+
+'But only to think, Sam, what a grand thing it is--only think, to have a
+store, and people buying things, and all that; and you in a great vessel
+bringing goods to us--hurra, Sam!'
+
+'Do, for goodness' sake, Ned, stop; what will they think?'
+
+Sam was in great perplexity; he felt that their character was in danger;
+but Ned promised that he would keep in, at any rate until they were out
+of hearing. Jim was fortunately out of the way, having gone with Major
+Morris into the fort, to settle their business matters. Old Peter,
+however, was a witness of the scene, and Sam had great respect for
+Peter, and feared that he would be horrified at Ned's disregard of the
+rules of propriety; but the old man shut up one eye, and screwing his
+countenance into a grimace almost frightful, sat and shook his sides,
+and worked away at his queue, making no noise whatever. Spasm after
+spasm came over him and passed away; and whenever he looked at Ned, off
+he would go again, shaking and wriggling and pulling at his queue, but
+making no noise. At length, beckoning to Sam to come near, he whispered,
+
+'He's full on it, I tell you;' and then another screwing of his face and
+a hearty shake--'he's a real boy, every inch on him. I only wish the
+Major had a heered him--how it come out, ha?' and then shake, shake,
+went the old man's sides. Sam, however, was greatly rejoiced that the
+Major was not there, and kept Ned very busy in stowing away the goods in
+their own boat, and did not feel quite at ease, until they had left the
+fort a good distance behind them.
+
+There was business enough on hand now for all our boys. The little end
+building was entered upon in earnest, and soon converted into quite a
+respectable-looking store, except as to size; in that respect it had not
+much to boast of. Sam labored with as much interest as either of them;
+and as they were all too busy to converse much while the store was in
+preparation, it was not until the evening of the second day after their
+return, that they could get a chance for talking. As the weather was too
+cold now to meet under their favorite tree, it was concluded, for the
+future, to make the store their rendezvous.
+
+'I tell you what, Sam, who would ever have thought of this six months
+ago? It is a regular store--ain't it? There are the shelves and the
+counter, and the barrels, and the canisters, and the scales, just as
+Grizzle has them, and a great deal nicer. But that little desk which Jim
+has fitted up so snug in the corner there behind the counter--that must
+be some city style. I never saw such a thing round here--did you?'
+
+'No; but it looks well--don't it? and that green cloth on it. Jim means
+to have everything snug here--don't he?'
+
+Ned did not reply, for Jim entered just then, and looking round with a
+smile, took his seat opposite to them.
+
+'Now, Jim, tell us all about your trip, and what you saw, and how you
+managed, and where you bought the things, and all about it.'
+
+'Oh, Ned; I cannot tell you half that I witnessed in that great city.
+You must go there yourself one of these days; it is a great place, and
+every one is busy, and all seem to be in a hurry to get along, as though
+they had something to do that must be done at once. It was as much as
+_I_ could do to get through the streets; but the gentleman to whom Major
+Morris introduced me, treated me very kindly, and told me how we must
+manage: said he, "You will find that the people in your place have got
+very little money (which you know, boys, is true), and if they can only
+buy for money, you will be able to sell very little. Now you must do
+this: you must offer to take from them any thing they have for
+sale--butter, eggs, yarn, wood--no matter what, in payment for whatever
+they want to buy of you."'
+
+'We should be in a fine fix then, Jim; what should we do with all the
+stuff--they would only take a small part at the fort, you know.'
+
+'Just wait, Ned, and you shall hear. "All these things," said he, "are
+wanted in the city, and are as good here as money. As soon as you get a
+supply of this kind of produce, load up your vessel and bring it to me;
+I will either take it of you or dispose of it. You can get more for it
+here than it is worth with you, and so you can make a profit both
+ways."'
+
+'Oh, Sam, did you ever hear the like?'
+
+'But just wait awhile, Ned. He said also, "that as soon as the people
+here found that they could purchase goods of us cheaper than they had
+been accustomed to, and get a larger price for their produce than they
+had ever received, which you will be able to do by trading here, you
+will not only get all the business of the place, but they will be
+stimulated to raise a great deal more, and so every year you will find
+your trade increasing;" and he said, "before two years, you will require
+a large sloop to do your carrying business."'
+
+'Just hear that, Sam--hurra!'
+
+'Now, Ned, keep quiet; it is not accomplished yet; and things may not
+work just as Mr. Thomas thinks they will.'
+
+'Oh, but I say, Jim, it will work--I know it will--hurra! Only to think
+of it--a large sloop in two years--hurra! Why don't you hurra, Sam? You
+will be captain of her--you know you will.'
+
+'I could hurra, Ned, if it would do any good, for I feel as glad as you
+do; but it is not always best to make a noise about it.'
+
+Sam had not forgotten the alarm he had received from Ned's shouting a
+few day's back.
+
+'Well, I don't see what you and Jim are made of: where's the use of any
+thing good, if a body can't let it out a little?'
+
+Jim soon got Ned back to real business, by asking him to read over the
+bill of goods, and call off the articles, while he and Sam examined
+them, and placed them away in readiness for use.
+
+We must now leave our boys, for a time, to try their new experiment, in
+order that we may bring forward the other parts of our story.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+
+Henry Tracy found himself surrounded by not only a large number of
+scholars, but such as listened to him with the strictest attention, and
+applied themselves to their tasks with unusual diligence. It was,
+however, to him a sad sight, to behold so many of them, and some almost
+his own age, commencing the first principles of education. The labours
+which devolved upon him were arduous, but the more he found to do, the
+greater was the interest he took, and the more untiring his zeal for
+their benefit. He walked amid his little community with no lordly air;
+great indeed was the disparity between his attainments and those of his
+pupils, but he felt it not, or felt it only to humble himself before
+God, that so superior had been his advantages.
+
+His power over them was unbounded. An influence had been gradually
+stealing over their minds, which caused them to listen to his
+instructions as though he was a messenger from heaven. It proceeded from
+the combined power of religion, intelligence, and refinement. He had, on
+opening his school, gathered them around him in solemn act of worship,
+and every day, morning and evening, he publicly commended himself and
+them to God, and poured out from his feeling heart such warm petitions
+for them all, that many a hard and careless youth would wipe away the
+starting tear, although he could not tell why that tear had come. And
+then through all the day he ministered to their intellectual wants, with
+so much kindness in his manner, and so efficiently too; he threw around
+him such a charm by his gentle, yet manly deportment, treating them with
+the same respect that he wished to be observed towards himself, that the
+most obdurate were soon softened. No harsh words ever escaped him, even
+when their improprieties affected him the most keenly; nothing but the
+expression of sorrow or surprise, brought out in that delicate manner,
+in tones low and touching, which seldom failed to start the blush on the
+cheek of the delinquent, and check at once whatever was wrong. Slowly,
+too, but most effectually, an influence was stealing ever the parents.
+It arose from the deep respect which they saw their children felt for
+their teacher: it flashed upon them as they met him in his daily walks;
+his lowliness, his pleasant smile, and his soft clear voice affected
+them, they knew not why; and wrapped itself around their hearts. There
+was no letting down of his own good manners, no seeming condescension to
+their ignorance; he conversed with them as his equals, and poured forth
+the thoughts which were uppermost in his mind, in as good language as he
+could command; and he ever left an impression of his mental power and
+moral worth that made them think and talk of him when he was gone, and
+wish that their children at least might be like him.
+
+The error which good Mrs. Bloodgood had fallen into in regard to the
+calling of the young man, was soon cleared up, but not until she was,
+herself, won to him; and as she could not get rid of some troublesome
+remembrances of their first interview, she took the greater pains to
+trumpet abroad continually her good thoughts concerning him now.
+
+'Of all the men that ever I sot my eyes on, he's the best; he's an angel
+on airth; he's clean too good for it, don't you think so, Aunt Sally
+Cutter?'
+
+'Why I don't know, Sally,' and the old lady straightened herself up, and
+pushed her spectacles further on her nose; '_men_ is _men_, and there
+ain't much angel about 'em, as ever I seed; but I 'spose he's as good as
+most on 'em; but they are all clean took with him, and what do you
+think?'--stretching her long arm out, and raising it over her
+head;--'Cutter has taken it into his head now, that, preacher or no
+preacher, he means to get him to hold some kind of a meetin' or other,
+and he's gone this very blessed day with the old mare to the Widow
+Andrews' to see him about it.'
+
+'Do tell, Aunt Sally, it ain't true? has Uncle Sam gone, though? Well
+that's jist what Bloodgood's been talkin' on; he'll be so glad; but,
+poor soul, what good will it do him?'
+
+It was indeed true; Uncle Sam Cutter had been long impressed with a
+sense of the need there was for some public religious services; he had
+in his youth been accustomed to mingle with those that kept 'holy
+day,'--he had gone to the house of God with the multitude, and he had
+never lost the savor of those solemn seasons; the remembrance came over
+him as he toiled in his shop, or sat by his door in the deep shades of
+evening; he mourned in secret that he had ever pitched his tent in
+Sodom. Oh! how he longed once again to hear the peal of the church-bell,
+calling the worshippers to the house of God; but he was now too old to
+remove to strange places, or do much towards obtaining such privileges
+as he felt were needed; and yet to think of leaving his family in such a
+moral waste, without some effort to remedy matters, he could not. He had
+listened attentively to all that his boys told at home about the
+teacher, and he thought what a pity it was that some of the older
+sinners also could not have the benefit of his prayers and instructions.
+'We all need it bad enough,' he said to himself one day, as he sat on
+his old block by the shop door; 'bad enough, bad enough. Oh dear me! to
+think what a heathen set we are, goin' whip and cut to the Evil one, and
+nobody to say "Whoa!" to us, no more than if we were fat sheep goin' to
+the slaughter-house.' With that the old man began to fan himself very
+fast with his straw hat, his lips moving all the while, as was his habit
+whenever he thought hard. His train of ideas at last led to the
+conclusion that something must be done; so ordering up the mare, he was
+soon off for the Widow Andrews', resolved to lay before the young man
+such a picture of their condition as would not fail to move him, 'if,'
+said he, 'he has any bowels of mercy in him.'
+
+The Widow Andrews was much surprised to see the old cart drive up to her
+door, for her good neighbour, though a very kind man, was an indifferent
+visitor. She did not wait for him to alight--a business never rapidly
+performed--but ran out to the little gate, and with an air of great
+wonderment looked up at the old man, as he sat dangling on the tail of
+his carryall.
+
+'What's the matter, Uncle Sam? there ain't no bad news, I'm hoping. But
+do tell! what a pucker you're in; you are clean blowed, ain't you, Uncle
+Sam? Do git down and come in, and let your boy tie the horse, and rest
+you a bit, and take a little breath.'
+
+The old man was somewhat put to it, for the old mare had not been
+exercised of late, and she had several additional gaits to try that day,
+and the road to the Widow's was none of the best.
+
+'Is the teacher to home?'
+
+'La me! what's to pay now, Uncle Sam? there ain't no turn up, I hope?
+But it's jist what I've been a fearin'; he's too good for 'em, I knew
+it, and I've told a good many on 'em so: he's jist an angel. Oh dear! if
+you've come to have him druv away, Uncle Sam, it will break my heart,
+and it will be the ruin of the place; and where will they ever git sich
+another?' And the old lady began to wring her hands, and to run upon her
+high notes at such a rate, that Uncle Sam began to be restless, and
+making a desperate effort to get some wind into his speaking apparatus,
+he let off at her in no very moderate terms.
+
+'Do, woman, stop with your clatter; you'll frighten the mare, the next
+thing, and she has a'most killed me a'ready; there ain't no need o' your
+howling and caterwauling at that rate. Why, dear me! can't a body ax to
+see the teacher, but you must set up all that noise and squalling? I
+don't want to hurt a hair of his head; so jist put your hands down and
+git into the house, and I'll come in to rights.'
+
+So telling Dick to stop yanking the beast, as it only made her worse,
+and to sit there and try to keep her quiet until he came out, he let
+himself down, and puffing and blowing, from his sudden and extra effort,
+he waddled through the little gate, and reaching the stoop, sat down on
+the low broad step.
+
+'Do please come in, Uncle Sam, and take a chair.'
+
+'You please tell me, first, if the teacher is to home.'
+
+'Why, you see, Uncle Sam,' coming up and almost whispering in his ear,
+'he ain't jist to home, but he'll be here in a minute; he's gone to take
+his evenin' walk down in the grove there. You see he goes out jist as
+reg'lar as can be, every livin' day, right after tea, straight down to
+the grove, and there he stays awhile, then back he comes agin; and Mary
+and I have been tryin' to make out what it is he's a doin' all alone by
+himself there. Mary says he's 'mantic like, as she calls it, but I don't
+believe it's no sich thing. Do, la, there he comes, now; jist see how
+still and quiet he walks along, that's the way he does every livin' day;
+so come in, Uncle Sam.'
+
+Mr. Cutter, however, much preferred seeing the young man, alone, and
+chose to remain where he was. It was but a few minutes after the widow
+had retired, that Mr. Tracy entered the gate, and seeing Mr. Cutter,
+walked quickly up, gave him a cordial shake of the hand, which was as
+cordially returned, and rather more so than his fingers could have
+wished; and politely invited the old gentleman into his private room,
+as Mr. Cutter had intimated his desire to say a few words to him.
+
+It took the old man some little time to recover himself after the
+operation of being ushered into a strange apartment, and getting himself
+fixed in a convenient seat. And after he had revived enough to begin to
+talk, a great many commonplace things had to be said before he could get
+at the subject of his errand. To that however, he was finally led by Mr.
+Tracy's remarking,
+
+'That he began to be very much encouraged about his school, the boys
+were attentive to their studies, and to all the regulations of the
+school.'
+
+'Yes, sir, I believe the boys is in a fair way now to learn decency and
+manners, and may be something else; but I've been a thinkin', sir,
+whether you couldn't do a little something or other for the rest on us
+here, who are too big and too old to go to school.'
+
+Mr. Tracy was at a loss to imagine in what way his assistance could be
+required, but he ventured to reply,
+
+'That any thing in his power, whereby he could be of service, consistent
+with his present duties, he would gladly do.'
+
+'Glad to hear you say so, for seeing you've got the larnin', there ain't
+nothin' else in the way; and sure am I, if you knew half the need there
+was to have somethin' done, if it is ever so little, just by way of
+decency, if nothing more, you would be more willing than you say you
+are. You see, my young friend, the Evil one has got a hard grip on us,
+and nothin' but preachin' and prayin' will ever make him let go; and
+even that won't do some of us much good if we don't have it soon. You
+see I am an old man, it ain't long that I shall be hobbling about here.
+I can't put off the evil day, as you who are just beginnin'; there are a
+good many things that tell me that I am 'most to the bottom of the hill,
+so you must not wonder if I feel a little anxious to have things more in
+a righter shape than they are with me at present. And there are a good
+many in all, just about as far on the road as I am; and for folks to be
+livin' on the edge of the grave, and never hear a word about any thing
+good; oh, my dear sir! if there is any pity in you, you'll begin right
+off, and try to do somethin' for us.'
+
+Henry Tracy was deeply affected by this address, for the old man spoke
+as if in earnest, and the tears that rolled freely told how much he
+felt.
+
+'I cannot, perhaps, fully understand what you would have me to do, my
+dear sir. You know that I am not at all qualified to preach, and whom to
+direct you to I know not.'
+
+'You can do all the preachin' that is needed, I ain't all afeared for
+that. All you have got to do is to give out in the school, that next
+Sabbath afternoon there will be a meetin' in the school-room, and all
+can come that's a mind to. There ain't no need of nothin' further, and
+God'll bless you for it.'
+
+Mr. Tracy would have made very decided resistance, had he consulted his
+judgment alone; but his own feelings were too much in unison with the
+old man's; the want of public religious privileges he had begun to feel
+most deeply, on his own account, and for the multitude around him. He
+could not resist this appeal; with a humble yet resolute heart he
+replied,
+
+'Well, Mr. Cutter, I will do as you say; and may God assist me, and
+grant His Spirit with us.'
+
+'May the Lord bless your dear young heart!'
+
+The old man could say no more, but with his heart overflowing with joy,
+he arose, pressed the hand of Mr. Tracy, and in silence hobbled out of
+the room and through the gate, and took his usual seat, waiting for his
+son to untie the beast and drive him home.
+
+The tidings that their young teacher was to hold a meeting on the
+Sabbath day soon spread throughout the place; and when he proceeded to
+give public notice to his school, it was only a confirmation to the boys
+that the report was true.
+
+It was a calm, lovely autumn day; and as Henry Tracy walked on his way
+by the path which he had chosen for his daily route to the school-house,
+his feelings were lulled into delicious repose; the rustling of the
+leaves, the stillness that reigned in field and wood, the waning tints
+of nature, the modest tones of the school-bell, calling all within its
+reach to the place of meeting; the little groups which could be seen in
+different roads, bending their steps thither; it seemed more like the
+Sabbath day than any he had spent here yet.
+
+He had done what he could to prepare himself, and he had a strong
+consciousness of being in the path of duty; and he felt a composure in
+view of the undertaking which he could not have anticipated. A few
+persons were collected round the door; they immediately followed him as
+he entered: to his surprise a large congregation was waiting his
+appearance.
+
+As he took his seat on a little platform that had been prepared for the
+occasion, and cast his eye over the assembly, like a flash of light his
+usually pale features were crimsoned with a deep blush, and then away it
+flew, and a deadly paleness that alarmed every beholder came in its
+place. A sympathy was excited in every bosom; his youth, his modesty,
+his grace of manner, his unostentatious effort to do them good, like a
+talisman spread its charm over all alike, and prepared them to receive
+whatever he should say, with the deepest attention. Henry was obliged to
+arouse himself, in order to overcome the oppressive weight that was
+becoming heavier every moment; he therefore proceeded at once to the
+business before him. He gave out a hymn, which he read with much
+propriety, and then inquired if there was any one present who could lead
+in singing; but as no one seemed ready to undertake, he commenced a
+familiar tune. An electric shock could not have surprised them more,
+than the melodious notes which rolled forth upon their delighted ears.
+Henry Tracey was gifted--for a gift surely it was, as no power of
+accomplishment could ever have imparted it--with one of those rich
+voices which might have entranced the multitude on a public stage, but
+its melodious tone had only rung beneath a parent's roof, and its
+sweetest, most touching notes, had only been drawn forth in praise.
+Quickened by the music, soon every voice that could follow joined fully
+in; but above them all, louder and sweeter as the hymn went on, floated
+those rich strains which Henry poured forth, as from a heart burning
+with intense devotion. Enraptured, solemnized, softened, the whole
+assembly, both speaker and hearer, were happily prepared for the
+remaining services.
+
+The prayer which followed was short and well ordered. He addressed the
+Being before whom angels veil their faces, with that humility of
+expression, with that pouring out of the heart in natural tones for a
+sinner's necessities, which plainly showed he was making a petition for
+wants which God alone could supply, and not framing forms of sentences
+to interest or please man.
+
+The passage of Scripture which he had selected was the story of the
+Prodigal Son, a portion of that blessed volume peculiarly precious to
+himself; and one with which he had become most familiar, and into the
+touching scenes it delineated, he had entered with his whole heart.
+
+In a very simple manner, he first explained the meaning of a parable,
+and the reason why our Saviour chose this method of instruction. Being
+well versed in ancient manners and customs, and the scenery of the
+eastern world, he delineated and filled up what was necessary to convey
+to the minds of uninformed persons, a perfect idea of the whole story.
+Every eye was riveted upon him, and his energies were strengthened, as
+he went along, by the deep interest which he saw was awakened among his
+hearers.
+
+When he had gone through with the story, and brought the prodigal back
+to his father's arms, he then proceeded to show how clearly it
+illustrated the sinner's erring path away from God, the fascinations
+which drew him on, and the misery to which they lead. Here and there a
+tear would be seen to start, and occasionally a head would droop: it was
+evident that there were many before him whose real character he had
+touched. At length he reached the turning point, the resolve of the
+sinner in his extremity, that he will arise and return to his God. The
+heart of the speaker filled with deep emotion; his voice trembled, his
+language became more glowing, his words flowed rapidly; he forgot
+himself, and free from all embarrassment, poured out the full feelings
+of his soul. His excited audience sat wrapped in solemnity, and yielded
+up their hearts to the enchanting theme: like fire in the stubble, the
+flame flew from heart to heart; tears flowed freely, and when he ceased,
+there was stillness like the house of mourning, interrupted only by the
+stifled sob.
+
+He sat down a few moments, and then informed them that the meeting was
+over. Some arose, but stopped and looked wistfully towards the desk, as
+though they might yet hear something more; others sat still and wept.
+Henry prepared to depart; he walked slowly through the benches, preceded
+by a few persons who were leaving the house.
+
+As he approached the door, his hand was seized in a powerful grasp. He
+looked round, and recognized at once his warm-hearted friend, old Mr.
+Cutter. He sat on the end of one of the benches, and by his side was
+Billy Bloodgood. Billy looked at him and nodded and smiled, while he
+wiped away the tears that overflowed his twinkling eyes. Billy had not
+heard a word, but he had a very tender heart; he was rejoiced to be
+where God was worshipped, and when he saw all around him affected, he
+yielded to the impulse, and wept too. Uncle Sam _had_ heard, and every
+word had gone deep into his heart. It was no sympathy of feeling with
+those around him, that caused the big tears to flow so freely; he
+thought of none but himself and his God: his sinful lost estate had
+been set before him: he knew it was his own, he felt it to be true. He
+listened to the voice of the speaker, telling him of the love of God,
+and inviting him to trust in it; he believed, and yielding to the call
+of mercy, had cast himself into the arms of his Saviour, and found
+peace. No wonder that he seized with such convulsive grasp the hand of
+the dear youth. Henry fixed his eyes upon the old man; he saw his
+emotion, he saw his lips quivering in a vain effort to speak. His own
+heart ached, and tears came to his relief. Mr. Cutter made a desperate
+effort, shaking the hand which he still held,
+
+'God bless you! God bless you!'
+
+Henry hurried away to his home.
+
+Long was this day and this meeting remembered in the place. It was the
+commencement of a great moral change; the darkness which had so long
+brooded over it was rolled back, and the light that streams from
+Heaven's mercy came to bless their spirits. A train of rich and lasting
+benefits followed quick, and spread a charm over this long neglected and
+desolate spot, which, from a dreary wilderness, converted it into a
+garden of the Lord.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+
+Six years in the early part of our life makes a mighty change in our
+personal appearance, the current of our feelings, and our course in
+life. Childhood and youth are ever anticipating the fancied joys of
+twenty-one, but that blissful period once past, and the goal reached,
+how much of innocent and heartfelt happiness is left behind! But time
+must on, and we must on with him, and meet each era of our being as best
+we may.
+
+Six years have made a vast change in the face of things within our
+village. The little store, which Jim and Ned started in the wood-shed of
+their mother's house, has been transferred to a large and commodious
+building situated near the water, and contiguous to a wharf, where are
+snug moorings for the good sloop Fanny, now under the command of Sam
+Oakum. Along the shore, where the few fishermen's huts alone gave signs
+of life in former days, are now decent dwellings. Docks and building:
+the frames of vessels of various size are lying in their cradles; and
+the noise of the lively hammer can be heard through the long summer day.
+Young men, the former companions of our boys, are now engaged at their
+trades, or preparing to man the different vessels when ready for a
+voyage. Above the beach, and in the town more properly, as great a
+change is manifest; old houses are neatly repaired, and new lines of
+fences supply the places of the old, tattered inclosures; while here and
+there, on sites commanding the finest views of the beautiful water
+scenery, are mansions that bespeak the wealth and taste of their owners;
+and, to crown all, a neat church sends up its lofty spire from a knoll
+near the water's edge, the last object that holds the eye of the mariner
+as he leaves this his native home to breast the stormy ocean, and the
+first to bless it on his return, and bid him think of Him whose wonders
+he has seen on the deep.
+
+All these results have not been accomplished alone by those whose
+youthful energies gave the first spring to life and activity in the
+place.
+
+Things had, indeed, gone prosperously with them. Their trade, although
+small at first, rapidly increased; the opportunity they afforded the
+inhabitants to dispose of their productions advantageously, soon
+stimulated to increased cultivation. A display of goods from the city
+introduced a better and neater style of dress, and that led to more
+neatness in their dwellings, and every thing around them. The timber
+from the barrens became an article of great demand; and those
+comparatively valueless wilds bade fair to yield an immense revenue to
+their owners.
+
+But in addition to all this, a few wealthy families from other parts,
+attracted by the pleasantness of the location, had come among them; and
+with these was the early patron of our boys--Major Morris and his lovely
+family. He had not retired from the service; for the sound of war was
+rumbling in the distance, and dark clouds were fast rising on our
+political horizon, and it was no time for a brave and good man to
+withdraw from his country's need. But he was tired of the unsettled
+manner of life to which he had been so long subjected, and resolved, so
+soon as a favorable opportunity should offer, to retire, and enjoy the
+sweets of home and domestic life. He had long admired the location, but
+perhaps might not have decided to make it his place of residence, but
+for an old friend of his--one whose life had been spent upon the ocean,
+and who could no more be easy without the sight and smell of salt-water
+than the fish who sport upon its sunny bosom--Commodore Trysail, a
+bluff, high-tempered, warm-hearted sailor. He had won high honors early
+in life, but for some cause, in an hour of excitement, had thrown up his
+commission. He had amassed a handsome fortune since then by engaging in
+the East India trade; and although never condescending to command even
+his own ship, he had made several voyages to Bengal, attending solely to
+business matters. He had now some fine vessels of his own, and having
+relinquished all idea of going abroad, had resolved to locate where he
+could enjoy what he had so long been accustomed to, without storms and
+billows. Having visited the place, in company with Major Morris, he was
+at once charmed, and they both decided to make it their home, and do
+what they could to build up things around them. No wonder, then, if six
+years has affected such an entire change in the aspect of things.
+
+Mr. Grizzle was yet alive, and kept his old place, but his stock of
+goods had not been replenished for some years. The advantage of the new
+store were too many for him to compete with. Goods new and cheap, a
+generous price for all country produce, respectability of character,
+good manners, and perfect fairness in dealing, all these made the odds
+too much for Mr. Grizzle to contend against. He gave it up. One corner
+of his counter yet received a few visitors; for through the day could be
+frequently seen some old tottering wreck of humanity, with bald head,
+and long thin locks, stirring eagerly the ancient toddy-stick in a large
+flowered tumbler, and then, with trembling hand, raising the much-loved
+mixture to his longing lips, already quivering with age, and soon to be
+at rest in the grasp of death.
+
+There had been, for some time past, a little mystery about a
+newly-erected house--and mysteries in small towns are always troublesome
+things. It was a neat and pleasant cottage, finished with much taste,
+and with every convenience for a small family. It had been placed on a
+very pretty location, not far from the hut where Sam Oakum and his
+parents lived, just on the rising ground which overlooked their humble
+place of abode, and commanded a full view of the whole panorama of bay
+and land and ocean, that stretched before the eye to the distant
+horizon. The question could not be solved all the while it was building,
+for whom this pleasant habitation was intended. Curiosity was on tiptoe;
+it formed the subject for many a long gossip over cup of tea, and so
+awakened the imagination of our good ladies, that all sorts of stories
+were circulated in reference to it.
+
+'Can any body tell me?' said Aunt Sally Bloodgood--as she sat pouring
+out tea to a select party of her own, with a tea-pot in one hand and a
+water-pot in the other, dressed in her new calico gown of the freshest
+pattern, and no more looking like Aunt Sally when we first saw her, than
+nothing at all. Casting her eye round, as she put the two pots down,
+upon the inquisitive countenances of her neighbors--'Can any body tell
+me whose that house is a building _for_?' and after looking round from
+one to the other, her eye finally settled upon her good friend Mrs.
+Cutter, as though she expected, if any body knew, she must.
+
+'You needn't look at me, Sally; I knows nothing about it,' leaning her
+long body over the table, and shaking her thin visage very
+significantly. 'Cutter, you know, don't go about much, and when he does
+hear any thing, he keeps it all to himself; a body has to ding their
+life out to get any thing out of him. We have fixed our old house, so
+that it is kind of snug like, so it ain't for us, no how; and who is
+a-goin' there, the massy only knows.'
+
+'They say,' said a very comfortable-looking personage, with very round
+cheeks, and ample proportions--'they say, Mrs. Andrews, that your
+William is a-building that 'are place for himself; and that he's a
+coming back and goin' to be married to Hettie Brown, and they are to
+live there.'
+
+'Now did I _ever_!' and the Widow Andrews turned up her eyes towards the
+ceiling--a common way with her--put her two hands together, and rested
+them on the tea-table. 'I don't see what people mean; I ain't heered no
+sich thing--have you, Mary?' appealing to her daughter, who sat beside
+her, and began to move about in her chair, and to smooth down the very
+stiff collar that encircled her neck. 'I don't see what people talk so
+for; I believe they do a-purpose;' and the widow began to slide up on
+her high notes, which at once aroused the energies of her daughter Mary.
+
+'Oh, _do_ Mother! don't mind if they do talk; it don't hurt any body; it
+don't make it so, you know;--does it, Mrs. Bloodgood?'
+
+'Do la, no; and if it did, where's the harm?'
+
+'Well,' said the fat lady, 'I guess you will all see: for every body
+knows the two young folks is dead in love, and they say he's made a
+power of money; only some say he won't have Hettie after all, jist
+because she's been out to service.'
+
+Mrs. Bloodgood now saw that the harmony of her party was like to be
+destroyed, for the Widow Andrews was beginning to fan herself, and
+breathe short; so like a skilful commander, she brought all her forces
+to bear, in order to turn the attitude of affairs.
+
+'Now, Aunt Peggy!' addressing the fat woman, 'do, la--I wouldn't talk
+so. Folks say a great many things they don't know any thing about.
+'William is a brave boy; and if he's got ahead in the world, I'm glad on
+it; but who he will marry, or when he will marry, I guess there ain't
+any body that knows. Don't you say so, Mrs. Andrews? But, do, la! Here
+I've been a talking, and your tea is clean out; let me give you another
+cup; and, Aunt Peggy, won't you hand round that plate of cake? and won't
+you all help yourselves? and them baked pears, they are fresh and nice;
+I did them up this very morning--but may be some of you would like the
+preserves? Sally Cutter, you just hand the Widow Andrews that saucer of
+preserves.'
+
+The tea, and the cake, and the preserves, now demanded general and
+particular notice; and between eating and drinking, and praising the
+good things, and asking for receipts, a very delightful state of
+confusion and loud talking about all manner of things, showed how
+successful was Aunt Sally's effort to maintain the peace.
+
+Nor was Aunt Sally Bloodgood's the only tea-circle that was disturbed by
+this unaccountable affair. It was a great marvel, and the poor builder
+actually lost the good-will of more than one of the tea-drinking old
+ladies; but he did not seem to mind it, for he went on in a quiet way to
+finish the thing. And when he had done that, he locked the door, put the
+key in his pocket, shut the little gate, and went to work at another
+job.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+
+Mary Oakum was in personal appearance a lovely young creature, and an
+equally lovely spirit breathed forth in every word, sparkled from every
+look, and shone forth embodied in her whole conduct. She had the same
+black hair, the same flashing, deep-set hazel eye, the same laughing
+mouth--she was a beautiful miniature of Sam, only replacing his
+nut-brown complexion with a pure red and white. Mary was now seventeen,
+not tall of her age, but gracefully formed, and very feminine.
+
+Susan, the youngest sister, was in a different style; for her hair was
+light, and her eyes blue, and her complexion, though fair, without
+color. Although two years younger, she was nearly as tall as her sister,
+with a serious cast of countenance that made her appear at times of an
+equal age.
+
+The parents and children still occupied the little house on the shore;
+it was a very small, poor building, but they had kept patching it up the
+best they could; and being very happy among themselves, they thought not
+of its imperfections with any feelings of repining or discontent.
+
+Sam was the delight of them all; parents and sisters hung upon him with
+an ardor of attachment, looked up to him with a feeling of dependence,
+confidence, and joy, which made him ever the light of their humble home
+when present with them, and drew their hearts after him with almost
+painful interest when absent.
+
+He still wore his sailor's rig; was very neat in his dress; never
+appearing among business men or at his house, in the same garb in which
+he stood at the helm. How anxiously would his sisters watch for the
+first glimpse of his white sail in the distance! and how elastic were
+their steps, as they bounded from the house to meet him, as soon as they
+descried their neat, trim sailor-boy, as they called him, turning the
+angle in the shore near their house.
+
+The day of his return had come, and Mrs. Oakum and Susan were busily
+employed clearing away the relics of the early meal, and putting, if
+possible, a brighter polish on every thing, when Mary came into the
+room, arrayed in her very best, and in one hand she held a small green
+bag, and in the other her sun-bonnet.
+
+'Why, sister, whither away so early? Your new dress on too, your hair
+arranged so neatly, and your best shoes and all. Where are you going to
+make a call so early?'
+
+'Oh, no call, sister dear! I am only going to the store. You know I lost
+my thimble the other evening, and I thought I would get another before
+Sam comes; he might want me to do something, and I should be sorry to
+say I had no thimble.'
+
+A deep blush spread all over Mary's white neck, and temples, and
+forehead; the rich rose of her cheeks seemed, of an instant, to have
+sent its crimson hue in all directions. Had Mary equivocated? Not in
+the least; she had never learned that art. Was not the errand a lawful
+one? Certainly it was; she told the truth in all its simplicity. She
+wanted a thimble, and was going for that, and with no other motive
+whatever.
+
+It was simply a flash of truth that crossed her mind--it was elicited by
+the remark of her sister in reference to her dress. Susan meant nothing
+in particular; nor had Mary, until then, an idea that she meant any
+thing in particular by what she had done.
+
+We must look into things a little, however, while Mary is on her way to
+the store; for she smiled, slipped on her bonnet, and was off.
+
+Mary was but a few years since a laughing, little romping girl, and she
+had grown up in great intimacy with a very staid and rather good-looking
+boy. She had sat on his lap, walked with him by the shore hand in hand,
+looking for pretty stones and shells; played hide-and-seek with him, in
+company with her brother and sister, among the rocks by moonlight, and
+even kissed him just as she did Sam, and thought no harm of it. She has,
+to be sure, long since, eschewed all such things, and stands now upon
+her womanly dignity. But this boy, although grown up to manhood, has not
+grown out of her interest. When the playfulness of childhood passed
+away, as by right it should, other feelings began to take its place. A
+deep respect for his fine character, which shone brighter and brighter
+as he grew up; an admiration of his manly appearance; a feeling of
+gratitude for the kind interest he took in her brother; a desire to do
+whatever she heard him say he liked; in fine, to assimilate her views
+and feelings, her tastes and pleasures, to his, was the unconscious
+desire of her heart.
+
+But did any body know this? Not a human being. A mother's searching eye
+may possibly at times have discerned a glimmering of the truth; but if
+so, she had kept it to herself.
+
+Did Mary know this? No, not as the truth itself must say she did; it was
+a secret, within what she could see of her little heart, into which no
+human eye had yet pried; but there it was. It did sometimes betray
+itself a little--a very little: that blush which seemed to come without
+a cause, which sent her off so quickly from observation, was just a
+token that she was a little conscious--only a little--how the matter
+stood.
+
+And does he love her? If he does not, he ought to; for, let him look the
+world over, he cannot find a purer, lovelier object to meet his earthly
+happiness upon; he cannot find a soul that burns with an intenser ardor
+towards each friend her bosom cherishes; he cannot find a heart that,
+glowing with the purest earthly love, holds all its rich and priceless
+treasures for himself alone, like her's.
+
+But we must stop, for she has reached the store, and quietly walks up to
+the side of the counter; passes a pleasant word with the few smiling
+customers who are there before her, and receives a salutation from
+Edward, who, busily attending upon those immediately before him, was
+using his hand and his tongue with great skill and rapidity.
+
+'Good morning, Mary, are all well at home to-day?' said James, stepping
+from his place, and standing before her.
+
+Mary looked up in surprise, for she had not yet glanced her eye to see
+whether the graver senior partner was at his desk.
+
+'All well--very well, I thank you.' His address, and the reply, were
+delivered in a low tone, and he was leaning over the counter when he
+spoke.
+
+'Any demands to-day?'
+
+'Nothing but a thimble;' and she smiled and held up her hand, preparing
+to take off her glove. James immediately produced a little case, and
+placed it before her, but she shook her head--
+
+'These are silver--a common kind will answer me.' Another case was
+brought, and James leaned over again, and began to select what, in his
+judgment, should be about the size; but somehow he picked out of the
+silver case alone.
+
+'Just try this, Mary; none of those seem to fit you well;' and he gently
+took the little hand, and placed the thimble on the taper finger.
+
+'You will hardly do better than to keep that.'
+
+'But it is silver, and I cannot afford to lose it; I am for ever losing
+them.'
+
+'You may be more fortunate with this, for it is a present.'
+
+'Oh--thank you--thank you; it is a beautiful thimble. I shall be very
+choice of it.'
+
+'Because it is silver?' and James looked at her with rather a meaning
+glance.
+
+'Oh, no, not altogether; to be sure I should be sorry to lose this,
+because--because it is more valuable,'--and seeing James beginning to
+color--'it is not only silver, but it is a keepsake.'
+
+All this passed in a tone that could not be heard amidst the din which
+Edward and his customers kept up.
+
+'I have news to tell you, likewise, and was on the point of walking to
+your house to let you know that the owner of that building near you, and
+about which there has been so much curiosity, is expected to arrive
+to-day.'
+
+'Then you have known who was the owner?'
+
+'I suppose I may as well confess it.'
+
+'And never told us?'
+
+'You never asked me. The family I have long known; I esteem them highly,
+and I think you will be much pleased with them, especially with the
+eldest daughter.'
+
+Mary was silent; she wished to ask several questions, but that _eldest
+daughter_--somehow the words struck a chill to her heart; she was all at
+once very thoughtful.
+
+'Your brother and I are anxious to have things arranged before they get
+here, and Sam particularly wishes that his father and all of you should
+be there when they arrive, and I think,' said James, 'as you are to be
+such near neighbors, it would be well to show them all kindness.'
+
+'Oh, by all means; certainly, we will do every thing we can to welcome
+them, as they are friends of yours; but--'
+
+'But what, Mary?'
+
+'Oh, you cannot be sure that they will wish to be very intimate with us,
+our circumstances will be so different.'
+
+'They are a family, Mary, that do not regard such distinctions. You will
+love them--I know you will. I hope to enjoy their society much, and I am
+sure you will too.'
+
+'I will be there, as soon as I can, with the key; and if you are all
+willing, we will go to work, and arrange things a little for them.'
+
+'Oh, certainly; we will go with pleasure. Good morning.'
+
+James accompanied her to the door.
+
+'In an hour or so, I will be at your house. Good morning.'
+
+'And I suppose he thinks the thimble will be a bribe to induce me to be
+very polite to that _eldest daughter_; but he need not fear. I shall do
+every thing I can to make it pleasant. The thimble I shall return when I
+have an opportunity, and shall tell him that Mary Oakum could be kind to
+his friends without--'
+
+She could not say any more, and this she did not say--she only thought
+it; and then she began to be very much ashamed that she had even thought
+it. But there was a tumult in poor Mary's heart: at times she would hush
+it, but then again it would arise, in spite of herself.
+
+James came after a while with the key, but not so soon as he expected.
+Mrs. Oakum and the girls accompanied him to the house; and as Mary
+resolved to put down all selfish feelings, and to be very pleasant and
+agreeable, every thing wore a cheerful aspect; for Mrs. Oakum and Susan
+were delighted with the idea of seeing and becoming acquainted with
+their new neighbors, especially as James gave such a favorable account
+of them. He had to take a little scolding from Susan, but it was done in
+such a good-natured way, that the harmony was not in the least disturbed
+by it.
+
+As they had never gratified their curiosity while the house was
+building, as many had, it was all new to them; great was the admiration
+expressed at the neatness, taste, and convenience of all its parts; the
+rooms were so pleasant, and the view so charming.
+
+'And what a sweet place this is!' said Susan, as they entered one of the
+upper rooms; 'how gracefully those branches of the willow hang before
+the window, and how beautiful the water looks through them, and the
+church and the parsonage! It is the finest view from any part of the
+house, is it not, sister.'
+
+'It is very beautiful,' said Mary; and she sighed.
+
+'Now, sister dear, what was that for? You don't feel sad that we have no
+such place?'
+
+'My dear sister, do you think I am covetous or envious?' And Susan threw
+her arms around her neck, and kissed off a tear which she supposed her
+suggestion had produced.
+
+'Covetous, envious; no, indeed, dear Mary, forgive me, if what I said
+led to any such idea; but I don't think I ever heard you sigh before.
+Why was it, sister?'
+
+'Oh, nothing. But we ought not to stay here, ought we, as there is so
+much to do?'
+
+And down they went, and to work with good-will. Mrs. Oakum was in the
+kitchen, examining with an eye of one who knew well the comfort of
+conveniences there; every thing needed was close at hand: a well of
+water by the door, a shed for the wood, and such a beauty of a
+milk-room, it almost smelled of cream and butter; and from the kitchen
+you could look out upon such a love of a garden-spot, large enough to
+raise all that a moderate-sized family could possibly want; while
+opening into it and near the house was a neat little stable, of
+sufficient size for a cow and a horse, with their provender.
+
+'Some one,' said Mrs. Oakum, 'has contrived all this who knows what is
+needful for the comfort of a family.'
+
+James was very active, and showed great skill in distributing the
+several articles into the different apartments.
+
+'I guess,' said Susan, smiling archly, 'that one, who seems to know so
+well where things belong, must have had something to do in getting them:
+who knows,' said she, winking to Mary, 'but this house is for himself
+after all; and that _eldest daughter_ he talks so much about is to
+be----. Dear sister, I know you are not well, you are so pale; you have
+worked too hard.'
+
+'I am afraid she has,' said James, looking with much anxiety.
+
+'Oh, not at all; I am very well;--but these things, had we not better be
+putting them in their places?'
+
+'These must be all for one room; they are, you see, painted white and
+tipped with green,--the chairs, and the table, and washstand, they must
+be for that little upper room. Don't you think so Mary?' said Susan,
+catching up a chair.
+
+'I think they would be suitable there,' said Mary.
+
+'There they shall go then,' said James: and soon the little room was
+furnished.
+
+'Oh, is it not sweet?' said Susan. 'But mother is calling us to help her
+with the carpet,' replied Mary, and down they went. Here, however, was a
+difficulty; the carpet was in a roll, and there would be no time to cut
+it and sew it together.
+
+'It would take us a whole day,' said Susan, 'do our best.'
+
+Mrs. Oakum, however, proposed that she should cut the breadths, and lay
+them down, and some other day they would come and assist the family in
+sewing it together; so Mary took out her scissors, and soon the floor
+was covered; and as this was the best room, the furniture suitable was
+arranged in it, and to the girls it seemed a grand place.
+
+'And now,' said Mrs. Oakum, 'the rooms seem to be all provided with
+their furniture, except the kitchen, and I don't see that there is any
+provision made for that. What will they do?' looking from one to the
+other. James smiled, blushed, and appeared confused, and was about to
+say something explanatory, when the door was opened, and Mr. Oakum
+entered, dressed in his Sunday suit; this he had put on at the request
+of the girls. He informed them that the sloop was in, and that Sam was
+on his way up.
+
+Sam had no lack of kisses that day, and Mary even hung upon him more
+fondly than ever; and Sam thought he saw a tear glistening in her eye,
+but she wiped it away, and said--
+
+'It was nothing.'
+
+Ah, Mary! the world is full of such _nothings_; it is ever piercing the
+heart of such sensitive beings as yourself, and forcing out the drops
+that tell in mute but unmistaking language the aching within.
+
+'So, Mr. Sam, you knew the secret all the time about the house?' said
+his youngest sister, coming up and hanging on him for a kiss.
+
+'Oh, you know, Susan, secrets are troublesome to ladies; I did not wish
+to burden you, my dear.'
+
+'Very generous it was in you. Oh, I wish I was strong enough to shake
+you;' but as she was not, she caught him round the neck, and kissed him.
+
+'But come in, and see how well we have arranged things. Will they be
+here soon?'
+
+Sam made no reply to Susan's last question, but followed her immediately
+into the house.
+
+They were all soon collected in the parlor, expatiating on the beauty of
+the place, and were beginning to ask Sam a variety of questions, when
+James all at once left the room; and Sam, drawing from his pocket a
+packet neatly enveloped, his parents and sisters looked at him,
+expecting some new disclosure.
+
+'My dear parents: I have practised a little deception upon you, for the
+first time in my life, which I hope you will pardon when you hear the
+nature of it. This house, which you have been arranging, does not belong
+to any stranger, as you have been led to think--it is all your own; and
+here, my dear father, is the deed which makes it and the ground around
+it your's for ever,' handing to his wonder-stricken parent the paper he
+had in his hand.
+
+Mr. Oakum took the paper, but was so overcome with amazement, that he
+could say nothing; he looked at his wife, who, for a moment, sat with
+her hands clasped before her, her eyes strained in their intense gaze on
+her darling boy. She then sprang to clasp him in her arms, but the
+girls were before her, and were hanging around his neck, and fairly
+smothering him with their fond embrace. Sam put out his arms to receive
+his mother, and she fell upon his neck, and burst into tears.
+
+'Oh, Sam! my dear Sam! may God bless you for ever and ever.'
+
+His father, overcome by the rush of his own excited feelings and the
+outburst of affection on the part of the mother and sisters, dropped the
+paper, and leaning on his hands, could only shed tears of joy. It was
+not the beautiful gift--valuable as it was--nor the sudden flow of
+prosperity, that raised them at once from a poor and decayed tenement to
+a dwelling equal in respectability to the best in the place; thoughts
+far richer to a parent's heart were thrilling his bosom, and working up
+his feelings into intense and overpowering emotion. To find in the man
+who stood before him in his strength and ardor, the same kind, loving,
+feeling fondness that the boy had manifested--in fine, to know that
+prosperity and manhood had not changed his boy--it was enough: earth had
+no better good, heaven could give no richer earthly solace. And could
+that son have heard the thoughts which rose in gushing ardor to the
+throne on high, and could his vision but have burst the veil which hides
+that secret place where thoughts are registered, he would have felt that
+a recompense already had been treasured for him beyond the reach of
+venture or decay.
+
+Sam had made but little calculation as to the effect of this surprise,
+either on his parents or himself. He had often, in boyish days, even
+when all around was dark and forbidding, amused himself with visions of
+the future, of all that he might be and do, and in every fancy sketch,
+his mind portrayed for the comfort of his parents; the joy which, in
+some unexpected way, might be infused into their spirits, was ever the
+prominent figure in the scene. This object, now so happily accomplished,
+had been his aim for years: for this he had resisted his inward impulse
+to go abroad and visit distant climes, and seek a fortune more genial to
+his bounding spirit; steadily had he pursued his calling, and faithfully
+labored and stored away his earnings with almost a miser's care, to
+gratify this heaven-born, filial love, and in some hour of exquisite
+delight enjoy his long, long-treasured wish. And now that hour had come.
+He had opened the floodgates of happiness upon these dear objects of his
+affection, and was overpowered himself. He sat down beside his mother,
+and mingled his tears with her's.
+
+But why has Mary left the scene? and why has she gone with such haste to
+that little upper room? and why does she clasp her hands, and raise her
+eye to heaven, and shed such tears as now overflow those long dark lids
+and bathe her lovely cheek? Another token these of that deep feeling
+which her secret heart so long has nourished; that room is pleasant now,
+for hither she has come, in this moment of heart-felt bliss, to pour out
+her heaving thoughts in gratitude to God; and there she hopes, in days
+and years to come, to send up the incense so pleasing unto Him who loves
+a contrite heart.
+
+Mary had much to think of; no longer could she hide from herself the
+fact that she loved James Montjoy; and every word which he had said, and
+which had caused her so much inward pain, was now a source of new and
+heart-felt joy, and it was impossible for her to misunderstand those
+allusions which so plainly pointed to herself; and yet she would say,
+'He was only in jest; he knew it must all come out--he meant nothing by
+it, nothing particular.' Thus ruminating, and with a happy heart, she
+passed lightly down the little staircase and along the hall, as James
+was returning from a stroll in the garden, to which, out of delicacy for
+the feelings of the family, he had retired, just as Sam was about to
+make the disclosure.
+
+He put out his hand to congratulate her upon the happy surprise;
+overcome with the scene she had just passed through, and the rush of
+feelings at the sight of him, she extended her hand, and burst into
+tears.
+
+As James entered the parlor with Mary, the scene had to be in some
+measure renewed; for he was so identified with all the prosperity they
+had enjoyed, that a sight of him under present circumstances but added
+to the full tide of feeling.
+
+'Oh,' said Mrs. Oakum, 'this has been all your doing.'
+
+'By no means, my dear madam; Sam alone has devised it, and his own
+honest earnings have paid the cost.'
+
+'Yes, I have no doubt of that, and Heaven's blessing he will have for
+it; but you first took him by the hand and encouraged him, and--'
+
+'Oh, Mrs. Oakum, we will not go so far back now; and besides, I could no
+more have done without Sam than he felt he could do without me; but we
+must clear up our faces and prepare for company, for this matter will
+fly like the wind when it gets abroad, and you will have the whole town
+here to see you.'
+
+Commodore Trysail was one of those specimens of humanity with which we
+occasionally meet, where a rough exterior and a blunt manner conceal a
+warm and tender heart. In all matters of business he was prompt,
+correct, and very decided; a little tenacious of authority when he saw
+any disposition to slight his orders, but allowing great latitude
+whenever he knew there was a desire to please and obey him.
+
+Old Peter, who had accompanied the family of Major Morris to their new
+residence, was quite a favorite with the Commodore; and as the two
+families were but a short distance apart, with the exception that Peter
+had his hammock slung in one of the Major's out-buildings--he was as
+much at home at one house as the other.
+
+It was one part of Peter's business to watch the coming in of the mail,
+and see that the letters and papers for either family were distributed
+in the quickest possible time; also to attend upon the departure and
+arrival of the sloop, as there was always something to go or come by
+that conveyance, it being the only regular one to and from the city.
+This part of Peter's duty he performed with special pleasure; Sam had
+ever been a favorite of his, and he never tired of telling over what he
+knew of him when a boy, and extolling his fine appearance, his activity
+and his correct conduct in all things, now that he had grown to be a
+man.
+
+Between the Commodore and Peter Sam was often a subject of conversation,
+until all that Peter knew of his favorite had been many times repeated.
+
+On this day, so distinguished in the life of his hero, Peter not only
+brought along from the boat quite a number of parcels, but he had also a
+weighty cargo of news, which he had gathered on his way back. After
+giving Lady Morris, as he always styled her, the first of the tidings,
+he hastened to the Commodore's as fast as his crutches would carry him.
+
+It was a warm afternoon, and the Commodore was seated in his veranda on
+the shady side of the house, enjoying the cooling view of the expanse of
+water spread out before him, and the gentle breeze that scarce moved the
+long branches of the willow that hung above and around him, when he
+heard the well-known sound of the crutches stumping along the hard
+gravel path at double quick time. Peter was so much out of breath, and
+so excited with what he had to tell, that after he had reached the stoop
+and taken off his hat, and smoothed down his queue and made several
+obeisances, he could only stammer out,
+
+'Your honor--'
+
+The Commodore looked at him with no little surprise, for the preparation
+Peter had made betokened quite a long yarn.
+
+'A warm day, Peter.'
+
+'Very, your honor;' and Peter fumbled away at his queue, and twisted his
+quid to all sides of his mouth.
+
+'You are out of breath, Peter; what is the haste to-day? any news
+stirring?'
+
+'Great news, your honor, great news.'
+
+'Is war declared, or has the comet lost its tail? let me hear; out with
+it, Peter.'
+
+'No war, your honor, God forbid: and I guess the comet is whizzing away
+yet, though we can't see him by daylight; but your honor knows that
+picture of a house up along the bank there--'
+
+'Ay, ay--what, the house that has no owner? and a pretty box it is; what
+of it, Peter?'
+
+'But it has got an owner, and who does your honor think it is? Our
+Captain Sam; he's built it 'spressly for his father and mother, God
+bless him! and he's rigged it all up for 'em, and he's put 'em in it
+this blessed day, and there they are, as happy as your honor was in a
+tight, new ship. And now he says, "Good-by to the old sloop, Peter; I've
+got the old folks snug and happy, and now I am going to steer my way on
+the broad ocean, just as you have always been wishing me to do." That's
+just what he said, your honor. God bless him.'
+
+The Commodore was a match for Peter with the tobacco any day, and
+whenever a little excited, was sure to clap his finger and thumb into
+his vest pocket, where there was generally a supply ready cut up of
+suitable length. As Peter concluded his tale, the Commodore began to
+fumble for a charge.
+
+'Peter, I'm out; hand me that bit of yarn you are cutting from.'
+
+'Bless your honor, not this; no, no;' and taking out a package that had
+filled the whole capacity of his jacket pocket, 'here is some, your
+honor, the boys have put up for me to-day (Peter had the run of the
+store free), bless their kind hearts. It's bran new, your honor; take it
+all, and welcome.'
+
+Having untied the roll, cut off a liberal allowance, and given two or
+three squeezes to the delicious morsel,
+
+'Do you say, Peter, that he has built that handsome place for his father
+and mother, and furnished it, and given it to them out-and-out?'
+
+'It's God's truth, your honor.'
+
+'Well, Peter, all I can say is, that he has got more of a sailor's heart
+in him than I thought he had; and do you think that is the reason why he
+has been shoaling along shore here, when we have all been wondering why
+such a smart young fellow didn't try to climb a little higher in the
+world?'
+
+'Nothing else, as sure as that water is runnin' to the ocean. I always
+tell'd your honor, Capt. Sam would come out bright; he wasn't never made
+for a land lubber, your honor: his heart is too big, too big for that, I
+always knowed it was.'
+
+'And I suppose the old folks are very happy. Did they know of it
+before?'
+
+'Never, your honor, till this blessed day; and when I com'd along by
+there, Miss Mary came runnin' out; 'Come in, Peter, come in and see our
+new house;' and so in I goes, and sich a sight your honor never see;
+there was the mother with the tears a runnin', and the father lookin' as
+if he had been standin' eight-and-forty hours facing a nor'wester, and
+the galls and all hold on me, and showing me every thing, and making me
+eat and drink; it's the happiest family, your honor, I believe there is
+at this moment on the breathin' earth; I was no better than a baby
+myself, your honor.'
+
+'Peter, do you go this minute, do you hear?'--Peter had like not to have
+heard, for he was on his way going somewhere, he knew not exactly for
+what--'and tell Harry to rig up the carriage, and--do you hear, Peter?'
+
+'Ay, ay, sir.' Peter was hardly within hailing distance.
+
+'Tell Mrs. Morris that I shall call for her.'
+
+'Ay, ay, sir.'
+
+'Bless my soul! he's a fine fellow.' The Commodore was now walking up
+and down very fast: 'Something must be done for him; he must let that
+old sloop go to the ----;' the Commodore was not always particular
+where he sent things, so that they were out of his way.
+
+There are green spots in this world of ours, which tempt us to forget
+that it is a fallen world, and point us, in their exhibition of true
+enjoyment, to what it might have been, and what it may yet be. There are
+pleasures that seem so unalloyed by selfish, earthly dross, we almost
+feel the breath of heaven fanning our spirits while we mingle in them.
+
+Such was the bright and pleasant scene that Sam had lighted up within
+that circle of domestic love, his home.
+
+Nor was there any lack of friends that day to greet them kindly, or to
+sympathize in their joy. The tidings soon spread, as James said they
+would, and neighbor after neighbor came dropping in, some, no doubt, to
+gratify their curiosity, but many, many more to give utterance to the
+joy they really felt.
+
+It was about the middle of the afternoon when the equipage of Commodore
+Trysail drove up. The old gentleman was a sailor, and not very
+particular when dealing with men, at least not always so, to polish
+either his language or his manners; but in the company of ladies he
+never forgot the respect due to them; he was mild and courteous, no
+matter how humble the individual or the circle to which he was
+introduced. Mrs. Morris was no stranger to the family; she had often
+visited them in their lonely home, and by her affable and kind manners
+had won their hearts.
+
+No wonder, then, that the girls ran with such haste to welcome her, and
+conducted her into their new abode with feelings, if not of pride, at
+least of heart-felt pleasure. She kissed them as they met her at the
+door.
+
+'I wish you joy, my dear good girls, with all my heart. Mrs. Oakum, I
+congratulate you on your entrance into such a pretty home; it is a sweet
+place; but it must be doubly sweet and precious to you under all the
+circumstances.'
+
+Mrs. Oakum could not reply; tears alone responded to the kind greeting.
+
+'But where is that noble fellow, Sam? I must call him so yet--where is
+he?'
+
+'He has run away. Do you think, Mrs. Morris,' said Mary, 'he found the
+neighbors began to come in, and off he went.'
+
+'Do you tell him for me, he's a pretty fellow; and that I shall expect a
+visit from him expressly in return for this.'
+
+The Commodore had been detained at the door a moment, in offering his
+whole-soul congratulations to Sam's father. As he entered the room, Mrs.
+Morris formally introduced him to the mother and sisters. Bowing very
+low to Mrs. Oakum,
+
+'Madam, I do not wonder that your feelings are excited; he is a noble
+boy, and you have every reason to be proud of him.'
+
+'He has ever been a dear, good child, sir.'
+
+'Yes; I have no doubt of that, madam; and I suspect he has had a dear,
+good mother. Ah! it is these mothers that make men what they ought to
+be. I had a dear, good mother once. I never shall forget her; she taught
+me a great many good things, when she used to lean over me in my bed.
+What a different man I should have been had I minded her; but, thank
+God, I hope I have not forgotten them all.'
+
+A tear might have been seen bedewing an eye that had met the shock of
+battle, and the rush of the tempest, without a twinkle.
+
+'But, bless my soul! are these two cherubs your daughters?--a kiss,
+girls; a kiss.'
+
+There was no affectation in their honest hearts, and they received a
+hearty salutation without blushing any more than might have been
+expected.
+
+'Do you think, Commodore,' said Mrs. Morris, 'our hero has betaken
+himself away!'
+
+'The rogue! I wanted to have given him a good sailor's squeeze; and to
+tell him how happy I am to find that he has a true sailor's heart. But I
+see how it is; he had rather do a good deed than be praised for it. Will
+you tell him for me, madam,' turning to Mrs. Oakum, 'that I should be
+pleased to see him at my house as early to-morrow morning as his
+engagements will permit? Again, allow me, madam, to wish you much
+happiness in your new abode, and many, many years to enjoy it in.'
+
+The Commodore bowed to the whole circle, and offering his arm to Mrs.
+Morris, led her to the carriage.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+
+'Mr. Oakum, good morning to you; you will excuse me for omitting your
+title; although, if you must have it, I should prefer the one which
+your old friend Peter has adopted, and call you Captain Sam. I am glad
+to see you, sir; walk in.'
+
+All this was said at the door of the Commodore's office, and while he
+was shaking the hand of the young man with great cordiality. This office
+was a small addition to his handsome mansion, jutting out from one end,
+and into which was an entrance externally and independent of the passage
+in the main building.
+
+Sam had made the call at the office door, and was met with the greeting
+as stated above.
+
+There was a great disparity in their personal appearance, and yet either
+of them would have been handsome models to represent their different
+ages and standing in society. The Commodore's large, full, portly form,
+ruddy face, dark-gray eyes and powdered hair, would well represent the
+retired commander of sixty-five: while the trim and agile frame, the
+sun-burnt face, the raven locks, the sparkling, hazel, deep-set and
+deeply-shaded eye, would have answered well the idea of a young
+adventurer, ready to commence the untried dangers of the deep. Sam was
+decidedly a handsome fellow; and whether his sisters had been fixing him
+out that morning, I cannot say, but he was dressed with much care; too
+much, some might think, for his calling. It was, however, of the true
+sailor fashion; and if, when engaged in his work, he was a whole man, we
+can leave such matters to his fancy.
+
+'You will excuse me, Mr. Oakum, for requesting you to call upon me, or
+for the inquiries I may put to you; as I have a plan in view, which I
+should think would be more congenial to a young man of your abilities,
+than dodging back and forth in that little sloop.'
+
+'I am very happy, sir, to wait upon you, and will very thankfully listen
+to any views you may please to communicate.'
+
+'First, then, I wish you to state what are your plans for the future. I
+have heard through Peter--I give you my authority--that you design to
+leave your present business. If you have no objections, my young friend,
+make a clean breast to me; I want to hear all about you.'
+
+Sam smiled. 'Why, sir, to tell you the truth, I am really tired, as you
+say, of "dodging about in the sloop;" but hitherto duty has kept me at
+the helm very much against my inclination.'
+
+'Glad to hear you say so. Duty, sir, is a glorious master, although
+sometimes he drives us sadly against our wills. Then you have resolved
+to start upon a new course?'
+
+'I have, sir.'
+
+'But the sea will be a new business for you. Your cruise along shore
+cannot have fitted you for what you will meet with there.'
+
+'I have anticipated that, sir; and have already made three short
+voyages.'
+
+Sam saw that the Commodore appeared much pleased with this information.
+
+'Since you have so kindly requested me, sir, to tell you my past doings
+and present plans, I will presume upon the permission, and do so.'
+
+'That is just what I wish, sir.'
+
+'The sloop, which seems of late to have been a trouble to many of my
+good friends, besides the kind-hearted old Peter (Major Morris had not
+been backward to drop some broad hints in reference to it), was once the
+object of my highest ambition; but like many objects when attained,
+seemed only as a stepping-stone to something after which my imagination
+panted, and for which, I must confess, I have been at times too
+restless. But an end I had in view, and which I saw I could accomplish
+by retaining my situation in the sloop, has enabled me to continue at my
+post, although I must say against my fancy.'
+
+'Yes, yes; and let me tell you, my young friend, it was a noble end, and
+you will be a gainer, a great gainer by it in the long-run; but'--seeing
+that Sam was blushing very much, and apparently getting into a state of
+confusion--'pardon me for interrupting you; please go on, and tell me
+the whole story.'
+
+'Intending, so soon as that object was accomplished, to launch forth and
+push my way upon the ocean, I embraced an opportunity afforded me,
+during a season of the year when our navigation is obstructed, to make a
+short voyage. Three several times I have been, and the last was of
+peculiar advantage to me; for, experiencing a hurricane just after we
+left Havana, the captain and chief mate were washed overboard by a heavy
+sea that swept our decks, and the second mate did not know enough to
+keep the reckoning; so at the request of all hands, I took charge of the
+brig, and, although we encountered two severe gales, brought her safely
+into port.'
+
+The Commodore rose, and walking across the room, turned, and fixed his
+keen eye full on Sam.
+
+'You ought to have been handsomely rewarded for that, sir. Was no notice
+taken of it by the owners or the under writers?'
+
+'Oh, yes, sir'--and Sam drew forth a fine gold watch--'this is their
+token, but I should have preferred the offer of the brig; she was a fine
+vessel, but I suppose they had friends who laid a stronger claim than I
+could.'
+
+'Thus, you have no hesitation as to your ability to take sole command of
+a vessel to any quarter of the world?'
+
+'I have not, sir.'
+
+'And you are willing to do so?'
+
+'I am very anxious to do so, sir, if I can find any owners willing to
+trust me.'
+
+The Commodore resumed his seat.
+
+'Mr. Oakum, you must be well aware that our country is at present in a
+critical situation. War is inevitable. I think so--I am confident of it.
+The danger, then, in commercial navigation, will be of a very serious
+nature. I am, as you know, somewhat engaged in the trade to China; two
+of my vessels are now on the way there; one of these will not return for
+some time, and the other is to receive a cargo in the usual manner, and
+will probably be back a little short of one year; but I fear, that
+before six months come round, we shall be at war. I must make what
+preparation I can to secure my personal interest against an evil which I
+foresee. My design is to hasten the return of one of my ships with her
+cargo, by all possible means. You know that I have just completed a
+beautiful schooner; she will sail like a witch. I have resolved to send
+her express to China, and I now offer you the command of her.'
+
+Sam arose, and was about to thank the Commodore for the generous offer.
+
+'Please be seated, Mr. Oakum, you have not heard the end of the story
+yet. I have business of importance to be attended to in China, and the
+captain of the ship I design to order back must remain there, and you,
+sir, will take his place. On your arrival out, you will find yourself
+master of as fine a ship as swims the ocean.'
+
+Sam could contain himself no longer; he arose from his seat.
+
+'Commodore Trysail, I know not how to express the deep sense I feel of
+obligation to you--it is the happiest moment of my life, sir.'
+
+The Commodore grasped the hand of the young and ardent sailor, and was
+delighted to see the flash of joy and pride that sparkled forth from his
+bright eye.
+
+'You may thank yourself, Mr. Oakum, and the manly efforts you have made
+to improve your advantages.'
+
+Just then the office door was gently opened, and a shaggy head appeared,
+nodding very significantly, but saying nothing.
+
+'Well, Peter, any thing new stirring?'
+
+'Why, I thought your honor would be pleased to know that the Major had
+arrived, and the young lady.'
+
+'What, has Major Morris returned, and Susie with him? that is good
+news.'
+
+Peter's head was immediately withdrawn, and he was heard stumping it
+away at a rapid rate.
+
+'It will be no child's play, Mr. Oakum, as you will find, bringing that
+vessel home; for I am determined, war or no war, that you must get her
+into port at all hazards, and if I did not think that you would prove a
+man in the hour of extremity, depend upon it, sir, I should never
+confide such a trust to you. The risk of loss I expect to run; and after
+you have done your best, should you fall into the enemies' hands, you
+will not be in the least to blame. The management of every thing in
+reference to this matter I leave entirely to yourself. My schooner is
+ready for you. She is under your command; select your own crew, and
+hands enough to make a double crew for the ship on her return.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+
+Mr. George Rutherford, as I have hinted in a former chapter, was
+becoming entangled in his pecuniary circumstances. He had no fears as
+yet that he should not be able to pay every obligation, and have a
+competency left; but his sensitive spirit was keenly alive to that kind
+of humiliating deference which is always more or less demanded and
+received by those who, more calculating in their habits, keep their
+capital at command, and are enabled to exchange their ready money for
+the borrower's security.
+
+But whatever annoyance or inward torment he suffered was carefully
+concealed within his own breast; he could not bear to throw a shade over
+the bright and joyous heart of his wife.
+
+It was, however, impossible that one who loved with such entire
+devotedness, should not perceive when some dark and troublous cloud lay
+upon the object of her affection. Often would she come to him as he sat
+musing, at the close of day, and ask--
+
+'What is it, George! does anything trouble you? these wrinkles are truly
+beginning to be permanent. Do tell me, and let me share it with you.'
+
+And then he would smile, and kiss the fair hand, and say--
+
+'Nothing, dear Mary; nothing worth telling; there are a thousand little
+vexations and cares in life, you know, which help to make the marks upon
+us, I suppose, and thus show that they have been. Nothing, dear Mary.'
+
+But by degrees accumulated strokes began to bear most seriously upon
+him; his property melted away by little and little; at one time an
+unwise act of friendship, at another an unsuccessful negotiation in
+trade, or may be, a sharper's trick; there seemed to be always some
+cause at work to drive away his means.
+
+He had become largely implicated in establishing a store near to the
+property he owned in the barrens, in order to afford an opposition to
+Mr. Cross, hoping thereby to alleviate the condition of the poor
+laborers; but the person who managed the business proved to be no match
+for the wily Cross, and it only served to excite his adversary to bitter
+revenge.
+
+He had, also, become involved more seriously than he as yet had any idea
+of himself, with a Company that were engaged in working a quarry.
+
+The prospects held out to him were very flattering, as such things
+usually are when presented by interested and designing persons; but as
+each year passed by with no profit realized, and a fresh demand for
+money to carry on their operations, too confiding to suspect those whose
+bad management ought to have awakened his doubts, he suffered his purse
+to be drained, and, worse than all, suffered his name and credit to be
+used.
+
+Manfully had he borne up under all his reverses, shrinking from no loss
+nor responsibility, which, however unwisely brought upon himself, was
+still his own act, and, therefore, sacred as his honor.
+
+At length a storm, he saw, was rising fast, and spreading its dark and
+gloomy mantle over him. He could not avert its fury; but with fortitude,
+with a firm determination to maintain his integrity, he awaited the
+catastrophe.
+
+The first blow which came with much severity was in the failure of
+Bolton, the individual whom he had established in trade near the
+barrens. Many were involved in that calamity, and he was compelled, in
+order to meet the demands which would be made upon him in consequence,
+to use all his means and his utmost ingenuity to maintain his credit,
+now become of vital importance to him. Troubles, at times, overtake us
+like the tiding-bearers to the Patriarch of old; scarce has one sad tale
+been uttered, when another is ready to begin.
+
+Mr. Rutherford had passed a sleepless night; the long hours had been
+spent in running over the sad circuit of his misfortunes, and in
+endeavoring to extricate himself from the tangled maze in which he was
+involved. His wife would most willingly have been the partner of his
+cares, and spent the day and night in labor, either of body or of mind.
+But no--he must not, he cannot disturb the quiet of her bosom; he will
+yet, he fondly hopes, weather it through, and she shall never know the
+struggle his spirit has borne. And thus it would have been, and thus his
+proud and tender heart would have ached in secret, and cloistered all
+its trials, until it broke beneath the accumulated load; but a kind
+Providence was watching around his sleepless bed, and knew all that he
+could bear, and was preparing the way that would, in spite of himself,
+break open his secret sorrows, and compel him to unbosom himself to her
+whose gentle spirit would pour out its sweet consolations into his
+troubled heart, brace up his worn-out feelings, and lay them calmly to
+rest amid the soothings of love; earthly, it may be, but a bright emblem
+of that in which the weary soul will sweetly repose when the trials and
+toils of life are over.
+
+The watching and busy thoughts of the night past were too visible the
+next morning to escape the eye of love; and as his Mary entered the room
+where he was seated, waiting for their early meal, she could not help
+saying to him,
+
+'You are sick, dear George; I know you are.'
+
+Before he could reply there was a knock at the door, and Mr. Rutherford
+was summoned into an adjoining apartment.
+
+The gentleman expressed his regret for the business upon which he had
+come; he handed to Mr. Rutherford a paper, which proved to be an
+attachment upon his beautiful homestead, and the land connected with it.
+
+'You have, no doubt, heard, sir, that the Quarry Company has gone to
+pieces; and as you appear to be the only responsible one among them, the
+person named in that paper, and to whom they are largely indebted, feels
+compelled to take this step, although very reluctantly.'
+
+This explanation was sufficient; Mr. Rutherford perceived the dilemma to
+which things had at length come. His visitor, having no further
+business, withdrew; and as he closed the door upon him, he retired again
+by himself, and was seated by a table with the paper in his hand, when
+his wife entered the room, and closed the door.
+
+'My dear George, you must let me know what is the matter. You cannot
+hide from me, that there is some great trouble upon you. Tell me, my
+dear husband, tell me what it is'--and she threw herself upon her knees
+before him, and clasping her arms about him, looked up with intense
+interest beaming from her dark hazel eyes.
+
+'We are ruined, Mary! my property, the inheritance of my ancestors, is
+all, I fear, to be swept away from me.'
+
+'And you have known this, George, a long time, and have been bearing the
+trouble all alone in your own breast. Why have you done this, and not
+let me be a sharer of your sufferings?'
+
+'Oh, Mary, how could I do it? It was out of your power to stop the
+torrent I have been contending against, and I could not bear to disturb
+your quiet.'
+
+'My dear George, how little do you understand of a woman's love; bright
+and pleasant things do not always satisfy its warm desire. I had rather
+suffer with you, and for you, my dear husband, the sharpest pangs, and
+feel the direst vicissitudes of life, if I could only prove to you, how
+much dearer to me is your love than all things else on earth.'
+
+As she said this her eyes were filled with tears, and told so truly with
+the words she had just uttered, all the meaning of her soul, that he
+clasped her to his bosom.
+
+'My love, my life, my heart's richest treasure! may God bless you for
+all the comfort you have been to me, and for all you are now.'
+
+Sorrow, thou child of sin, strong and terrible as is thy power, and
+crushing as is the weight of thy hand when pressed on no worms of the
+dust, yet know thou, there is an antidote, a precious gift of Heaven,
+when by man's sin all blessings which his God had given were justly
+forfeited--this antidote is love; when fixed on God, it bows the spirit
+into childlike confidence, clinging closer to the heavenly hand the
+heavier the blow. And when two kindred souls on earth have merged their
+hopes, their fears, their interests, their warm desires, their whole
+hearts' sympathies in one strong true embrace, there is so much of
+heaven's own happiness in it, that spite of all the anguish under which
+at times they bow, this sweet and subtile charmer steals within, spreads
+a calm upon the bosom of the waters, hushes all to peace, and bids them
+still be happy.
+
+And now she sits beside him, and he tells her all his strange trials,
+and how dark his prospects are.
+
+'It must all go, Mary.'
+
+'Well, my dear husband, let it all go; your own sweet spirit is
+unstained by one wrong or mean act; you have never withheld a righteous
+due; you have never ground the face of the poor; you have never
+triumphed over those beneath you; you have rather tried to raise them to
+your own level: and now let poverty come, it cannot sink our spirits, so
+long as there is no blot on your fair fame, and no stain on your
+conscience.'
+
+Rutherford was manly in his feelings, but he could not repress his
+starting tears. His lovely wife, without a sigh, had let go all that
+wealth could hold out to her, and only thought of her husband's virtues.
+
+'Yes, Mary, that is true. I believe I can truly say with Job: "If I have
+withheld the poor from their desire, or have caused the eyes of the
+widow to fail, or have eaten my morsel myself alone, and the fatherless
+have not eaten thereof: if I have seen any perish for want of clothing,
+or any poor without covering, then let my arm fall from my
+shoulder-blade, and mine arm be broken from the bone."'
+
+'I know it, my dear husband, I know it; and as you have acted in the
+fear of God, his strength will be our refuge.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+
+The shades of evening had settled upon that retired spot, the stronghold
+of Mr. Cross up in the barrens. The doors and windows of his long, low
+building, were closed; a light was burning on the counter, beside which
+were seated the owner of the premises and a companion, very unlike him
+in appearance, whatever similarity there might be in the temper of their
+hearts--Mr. Cross having rather a round and plump carcass, with cheeks
+filled out, and bearing the hue which a liberal allowance of gin and
+water usually imparts. The other was altogether of the mummy order; his
+body thin and bent over, his limbs long and bony, with a loose furrowed
+visage, which looked as though it might once have been supplied with
+flesh, but its substance having melted away, the outer covering now hung
+flabby and puckered under his chin and beneath his cheek-bones and at
+the corners of his mouth; his hair was grisly, and stood far off from
+his wrinkled forehead, which was broad and high enough to indicate the
+presence of intellect, or at least room for it; the colour of his eyes
+it would be hard to determine, for they were very small, and the thick,
+heavy eye-lashes twinkled so continually, it was almost impossible to
+catch a glimpse of them. A bottle of gin, a pitcher of water and two
+tumblers stood on the counter, close beside them; and from this we may
+infer that the two gentlemen were not dissimilar in some of their
+tastes.
+
+'Now, Squire (for we must know that this gentleman belonged to an
+honourable profession), 'I think we've done this job up pretty
+considerably slick--don't you?'
+
+Turning his long face round as Mr. Cross spoke, so as to bring it into a
+horizontal position, and shaking it very significantly, as each word
+fell from his lips in a slow and measured tone--
+
+'It has worked, neighbour Cross, like a charm, just as I told you it
+would. The shoe pinches now, I guess, and more than one foot too--one,
+two, three, four; only think of it,'--giving Mr. Cross a poke with one
+of his long fingers--'only think of it--five birds with one stone--only
+think of it!'--another poke.
+
+'I never thought, Squire, what you could be at, when you wanted me to
+lend Bolton that money.'
+
+'I knew though, neighbour, what I was about. Jemmy Bolton wanted money
+bad; he had property enough laying round for you to slap on any time.
+You and I, you know, have talked about setting Dave up alongside the
+Montjoys; that, you see, will never work. Bolton I knew, for he told me
+of it, owed those boys all of three thousand dollars; they had advanced
+it to him on the timber, thinking, you see, that all was safe, and that
+it would be coming along. Stop that, says I; trip up Jemmy Bolton--clap
+on the timber; that cuts the Montjoys three thousand dollars--no small
+sum for young folks, considering the times too; then down goes
+Bolton--that gives Bowers & Co., and Jones & Brothers such a pull, you
+see, down they go too; ha, ha, ha!'--a poke with the long finger--'both
+of them owe the Montjoys considerable. That, with Bolton's affair, you
+see, will just about finish the job for them; they can't stand it no
+how.'
+
+'Poor fellows! I am almost sorry for them.' Mr. Cross was not so sorry
+but he could smile a little as he said it.
+
+'I am not a bit--I am not a bit sorry, neighbor; they are upstarts,
+nothing else; and they have made all the folks about them think that
+they are the end of the law. No, no; let them go down--the sooner the
+better; and when they are once down on their back, you see, then up goes
+Dave. You have got the cash, you know--a dash he will make; and the
+whole country round will be the better for it.'
+
+'Yes; but, Squire, you know these fellows will fight hard to live it
+through; they are no fancy boys; they have worked their way along by
+their own efforts; they stand high at the bank. McFall is a great friend
+of theirs; they will make the bank help them--see if they don't.'
+
+'I have thought of that too, neighbor'--another hard poke--'I've thought
+of that; and there you have them too.'
+
+'How so, Squire? I have nothing to do with the bank you know.'
+
+'Don't you know a certain man who would not refuse you a favor for a
+trifle? Bank Directors are not always so independent as they would wish
+to be thought--ha, ha, ha!'
+
+'Well, what of him?'
+
+'You just whisper in his ear that it would be no particular
+accommodation to you, that certain folks should receive any favors; that
+will be enough. One man, you know, in a board is as good as a
+dozen'--another poke.
+
+'Well, well, I understand.'
+
+'I thought you did--but what was that? There is nobody sleeps here, I
+hope?'
+
+'Oh no, it is the dog; he is dreaming I suppose.'
+
+'It startled me though, neighbour, for it would not be quite so clever
+to have any one get the run of what we have been saying.'
+
+'Never fear, Squire; I shut all up myself.'
+
+'I hope you are sure of that; for I was just going to tell you the best
+of the whole joke.'
+
+'Tell away, Squire; there are no listeners but the old casks; they won't
+tell any tales.'
+
+'They do sometimes though, neighbour.'
+
+'How so?'
+
+'They tell a little bit, sometimes by the end of our nose, ha, ha,
+ha!'--another poke--'don't they? ha, ha, ha! Well, as I was saying, the
+best of it is all to come. Rutherford is clean done up'--one, two, three
+pokes right off.
+
+'Rutherford done up! What do you mean now, Squire?'
+
+'Why you know I told you that we had killed five birds with one stone,
+and so we have. Bolton is dead, the other two fellows are kicking, and
+the Montjoys will be dead soon: and our old friend Rutherford, whom we
+have been picking at these six years, is down at last, all gone to
+smash. Think of that, neighbor Cross.'
+
+Mr. Cross made no reply; but turning to the decanter, filled his own
+glass and the Squire's about half full of the clear stuff, added a
+little water to his own, and then swallowed the potion at one draught.
+The Squire did not trouble the water, preferring the good creature in
+its pure state.
+
+'Your gin is uncommonly strong, neighbour--'ugh, 'ugh, 'ugh--it almost
+shakes a body--'ugh, 'ugh, 'ugh.'
+
+'Water it then, why don't you? But what is it about Rutherford, and how
+has that come?'
+
+'Why, you know as well as I do, that Rutherford is an easy body; you
+know that the quarry folks have been getting round him, and drawing him
+in more and more every year. He, good soul! thought all was right, while
+they have been going on, as you know very well, running into debt deeper
+and deeper. Well, it is only a little pull that is needed to bring down
+a great weight when it is tottering and ready to fall. This business of
+Bolton's has upset the whole concern; they only lost a trifle by him,
+but it touched them just at a delicate time. People got frightened, and
+the game was up, and Rutherford is in for all their debts; it is thought
+it will sweep every thing away, homestead and all.
+
+'Now this, I know, is of no consequence to you: it will not give you any
+title to these barrens; but now that they are in a muss, will be the
+time to accomplish our great plan. That deed is not on record yet'--a
+very hard poke--'you know that your deed from old Ross covers the whole
+ground, when once this claim of Rutherford's is put one side. Old
+Rutherford, I suppose, thought that the whole tract here was not worth
+the trouble of looking after, and the young one, no doubt, thinks that
+all is right; but mind me, neighbour, now is your time, or never. This
+land, between you and me, which Rutherford owns here, is worth all the
+rest of his property put together. These Montjoys have, you see, opened
+a trade for the timber, and there is no telling what its value will yet
+be. The creditors will be searching the records; it will soon be found
+out that this deed is not registered, and then your play is out. What
+you do, must be done at once.'
+
+'True enough, Squire; his deed once out of the way, mine is worth a
+trifle no doubt; but the question is, has he a deed at all? and if he
+has, how can we get hold of it?'
+
+'Ah, neighbour, he has got the deed; I have seen it with my own eyes:
+you see I have not been idle about this matter of yours, although it is
+a thing that it will not do to say much about. Some time since, I
+thought I would just call and inquire about some old matters, merely to
+see what might turn up. He was very polite, you know, handing me a
+chair, and all that. "You want to look at the old survey, do you,
+Squire?" "Yes," said I, "if it is not too much trouble, Mr. Rutherford."
+"Oh no, by no means." And so he out with the old tin trunk; you have
+seen that trunk in old Rutherford's time.'
+
+'Oh, yes, often.'
+
+'Well, he out with the old trunk; he keeps it just where the old man
+did, under the secretary; you know as well as I can tell you.'
+
+'Yes, yes, I've seen it, but go on with your story.'
+
+'Well he out with his trunk, as I was saying, and among the very first
+papers he threw on the table, was this very deed. Thinks I, old fellow,
+if I had you once in my grip, I guess I know whose fortune would be
+made.'
+
+'Well, the thing is now, how to get hold of it.'
+
+'That's the thing neighbour;'--one or two good pokes.
+
+'I have a few good fellows that are up to any thing, only let me tell
+them what to do.'
+
+'Then it can be done, neighbour. What a nice thing it would be to have
+a little bit of a fire happen, say about midnight. A pretty state of
+confusion that would make, you know; doors open, everybody running
+helter-skelter, all frightened to death! Wouldn't that do?'--a hard
+poke--'but there is no time to lose.'
+
+Cross evidently relished the idea suggested, for he replenished the
+glasses again, omitting the water this time; then talking in a much
+lower tone, named the persons--smart fellows, as he called
+them--arranged time, place of rendezvous, etc.; to all which the Squire
+assented, every once in a while putting out his long finger and striking
+neighbour Cross in the ecstacy of his admiration. And thus they devised
+this deed of darkness, careless of all the terrible consequences which
+might result, so that their own crafty designs were accomplished.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+
+Sam Oakum was indeed very much excited at the close of his interview
+with Commodore Trysail; the bright prospect before him of soon realizing
+what his heart had been so long aspiring after, gave a sudden spring to
+all his feelings, and the spirit of his station seemed already to have
+taken possession of his mind.
+
+The trifle of news, too, which Peter had communicated, might also have
+had something to do with the bouyancy of his feelings. Sam longed to see
+again the little fairy-like creature, with golden locks and dark blue
+eyes, that once in his early days he occasionally met.
+
+This little fairy, however, is a fairy no longer, for she has grown up
+to be a fine, good-natured young lady; her golden locks have turned to a
+rich auburn; her dark blue eyes illuminate, with their bright and
+pleasant sparkles, her full oval face, on which the rose and the lily
+have beautifully blended.
+
+Sam has not seen her, however, for four long years, and he thinks of her
+as she looked then. And if the Commodore had known how much more Sam was
+thinking about Peter's news, than about the schooner or the ship, it
+might have injured his confidence, a very little.
+
+As to what this little fairy ever thought of Sam, it would be equally
+hard to divine. All we know is that when a little girl she used to be
+very glad to see a little black-eyed boy in blue jacket and trousers,
+and would frequently smile when she saw him, and perhaps on one or two
+occasions exchanged a word with him--nothing more.
+
+She is now, I have said, a young lady; and whether she ever thinks of
+the little black-eyed boy is yet to be known.
+
+Sam had thought all day of the visit which he felt he ought to make to
+his friends the Morris's. He called there in the edge of evening, and no
+doubt spent a very pleasant hour, for his friends were rejoiced to see
+him, and gave him to understand that the Commodore had let them into the
+secret; and from the kindness with which he was treated, it was very
+evident that he had not fallen in their estimation.
+
+I said, that he no doubt spent a pleasant hour; but that idea intruded
+itself rather because there was everything conspiring to make it
+pleasant, than from its apparent effect upon our hero; for his
+countenance, as he walked on his way towards home, was sad, and it was
+some time before the lively, happy circle there could so impart their
+cheerfulness as to enable him to join heartily with them.
+
+Major Morris and his lovely daughter had reached home, as Peter had
+said, accompanied by a young lady, who had been a companion of Susan at
+school, and her brother, a fashionable young man, the parents of whom
+were wealthy and truly respectable in their standing. And it may as well
+be told at once, that although not engaged to this youth--for Susan's
+parents were too careful of her happiness to allow such a step at the
+age she then was--still there was decided feeling on the part of the
+young man, and Susan had been perhaps as well pleased with him as with
+any of those who constantly sought her company. He was not, however,
+visiting as a suitor, but had been invited with his sister to spend a
+few weeks at the Major's delightful residence.
+
+Susan Morris was by no means an imaginative girl. She had, it is true,
+very ardent feelings, but they had always been expended upon real
+objects; and, in consequence, she was the beloved of every circle where
+she moved.
+
+Two weeks from the day on which Commodore Trysail gave the appointment,
+Sam and his beautiful schooner were ready for the ocean.
+
+Partings with near friends are not pleasant scenes, so I shall pass
+them over. It was a lovely afternoon, one of summer's brightest days; a
+lively breeze played over the water, and scarcely bending to its power,
+a small trim vessel, rigged in pilot-boat fashion, was gliding
+gracefully along, not far from the shore. Every sail was set, and filled
+just enough to display their graceful cut, the little black hull beneath
+making them look more white and showy by the contrast. A row-boat, well
+manned, was by the shore, around which were gathered groups of
+lookers-on, or friends saying some last words to the youths who held the
+oars, and whose half serious smiles told plainly that their hearts were
+not so light as they would seem.
+
+Just beyond the shore, upon the sloping green, a little party stands,
+eyeing with apparent interest the motions of the schooner and the
+preparations for departure, which are plainly visible in the gathering
+crowd that was surrounding the little boat at the water's edge.
+
+'Oh, Susan, what a fine sight that vessel makes; but who would think of
+venturing to sea in such a craft?'
+
+'Why not, Julia?'
+
+'Oh, she is so small, I should think the waves would ingulf her--but
+here comes her Captain, I suppose. Your father keeps close to him; and
+the old Commodore, how proud he seems.'
+
+'Yes, he does, I assure you,' said Mrs. Morris; 'he is proud of his
+vessel and her Captain too.'
+
+The three gentlemen now approached the ladies, raising their hats, and
+again replacing them, with the exception of the younger one, who, having
+removed his light chapeau, kept it in his hand.
+
+There was a seriousness in his air as he immediately stepped up to Mrs.
+Morris, and received her offered hand.
+
+'May God bless you, my dear fellow! Come, a mother's kiss.'
+
+Sam's heart was brave, but it was very tender. He took the liberty
+allowed him, but uttered not a word, while Mrs. Morris took no pains to
+restrain the flowing tears. He bowed to Miss Walton, and then the hand
+of Susan is within his own. He bowed respectfully, raised her hand, and
+touched it to his lips. He saw a tear start as he cast one parting
+glance upon her sweet face, and, without a word on either side, they
+separated.
+
+The Commodore and Major Morris, each taking an arm, walked with him to
+the little boat.
+
+'God bless you!' and the Major clasped his hand in both of his.
+
+'God bless you, Captain Oakum--a fine voyage to you!' and the Commodore
+gave him a sailor's squeeze.
+
+A great many hands were stretched out, and Sam was busy enough for a
+little while. He was a great favorite, and all were sad at parting with
+him. Just as he was about to step into the boat, two men were seen
+hastening along shore.
+
+'There are the two men, Captain, that have shipped to-day.'
+
+'Have you your papers with you?' said Captain Oakum, addressing the men
+who had just reached them.
+
+'Yes, sir--here they are;' handing them at the same time to the Captain.
+
+'Aboard with you, then.'
+
+They sprang in and tumbled themselves away as they best could. Sam
+raised his hand; every oar was dropped, and the little boat shot away
+like an arrow from the strand. As she left the shore, he turned towards
+the land, and removing his chapeau, waved it towards those who stood on
+shore, and then raising his eye to the different groups which he saw on
+the elevated bank, bowed, and at once there was a great waving of
+handkerchiefs, and some among them had other work to do with theirs, for
+tears were flowing freely. A fond mother and sisters were there, and
+there were friends of his early days, hearts knit to him in tenderest
+friendship. Gracefully the little schooner rounds to, and for a few
+moments lies flapping in the wind. Her Captain springs upon her deck,
+again she falls off to take the breeze, the sails swell gently out, and
+on she goes ploughing her way towards the mighty ocean.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+
+Sam is now off, and for a season we must bid him adieu. Jim and Ned felt
+sorely the loss of one with whom they had been so long and happily
+connected; but matters of the last importance soon demanded their
+attention, and for the time banished thoughts of friends, and almost all
+other earthly considerations. Their business had hitherto been
+prosperous, and they had yet to learn, by their own experience, some of
+those trials which business men are ever liable to suffer. The
+advantage which they possessed of receiving supplies immediately from
+one of the largest marts in our country not only insured to them the
+trade of individual families, but also that of many stores removed far
+back into the country; with these they were obliged to deal on liberal
+terms, allowing them a credit of sufficient length to meet the slow
+returns of a country trade. They had as yet carried on a successful
+traffic, settling every six months by an exchange of produce, or a note
+at short time.
+
+One article of country produce had become a valuable item in their
+trade--the pine timber from the barrens--and so urgent was the demand
+for it, in consequence of its excellent quality, and the facility with
+which it could be floated to market, that they found it necessary to
+make large purchases beyond what they would receive as an exchange of
+goods; these purchases had frequently to be made by an advance of
+one-half or three-fourths of the value, and the balance paid on
+delivery.
+
+As their orders of late had been much increased, they had exerted
+themselves to procure funds, and by this method had, as they supposed,
+secured a very large and valuable lot of timber.
+
+One morning--the very day after the departure of Sam--they were favoured
+with a visit from Mr. Cross. James, the elder partner, received him
+politely, but with some reserve; for, to tell the truth, they had no
+favorable opinion of his character. He had a fine lot of timber for
+sale, and would be glad to contract with them for it.
+
+'We have already engaged as much as we need at present, sir, and are
+expecting it every day; in fact, Mr. Bolton promised to deliver it last
+week, but I presume he has met with some unexpected hindrance.'
+
+'If it is from Mr. Bolton you are expecting the timber, I think you may
+give up looking for it, as I have been obliged to take all he has on
+hand, to secure myself for a debt he owed me. I suppose you know that he
+has gone to pieces?'
+
+As Mr. Cross said this, he cast a very inquisitive glance at young
+Montjoy--
+
+'I hope you have not advanced much to neighbor Bolton on account of the
+timber; these are tight times, you know.'
+
+Just then Ned entered the store, and handed his brother a letter, which
+he had opened and read. Jim saw too clearly that there was a good reason
+for the very serious air which his brother's countenance assumed, when
+he handed it to him.
+
+'I believe, Mr. Cross, that we can do nothing about the timber this
+morning.'
+
+'Good morning, gentlemen.'
+
+No sooner had their visitor left, than they retired to a little back
+room at the end of their store, where they had held many a pleasant
+conversation in company with their friend Sam. Heretofore, when they had
+repaired to this room, it had been with light hearts, and many a joyous
+hour had they passed there--far different feelings now pressed their
+spirits. Their trials until now had been of the light and transient
+kind, which a little youthful energy, a little determination of purpose,
+or putting forth of physical power, could overcome and scatter. Now they
+have got a lesson to learn on a new page of life.
+
+When they reached the room, Jim again read over the letter, which proved
+to be another messenger with bad tidings.
+
+It ran as follows:--
+
+     'GENTLEMEN,--I am sorry to be compelled to inform you that the two
+     notes of Bowers & Co. and Jones & Brothers, which fell due
+     yesterday at the Bank, were protested for non-payment; the note
+     which I hold of yours for fifteen hundred dollars, and to meet
+     which the above notes were left with me, will be due in ten days,
+     and you will be obliged to remit the amount, or otherwise arrange
+     for it, as the distressing pressure at present on the money market
+     will render it utterly impossible for me to honor your note from my
+     own resources. I send this by private hands in advance of the mail,
+     as I wish you to have the earliest notice possible of this event.
+
+     'Yours respectfully,
+
+     'JAMES MCFALL.'
+
+To make this letter more intelligible, it may be proper to state that
+Mr. McFall was a personal friend of the Montjoys, who attended to their
+banking arrangements--the institution being at such a distance (full
+twenty miles) as rendered such aid necessary. He received their notes
+payable at the bank, due from merchants, collected and made payments as
+they directed, and having facilities, whenever they needed funds for
+extra service, procured for them what they wanted, either upon their own
+note, for which he held the business paper as security, or upon the
+paper itself. In the case of the fifteen hundred dollar note mentioned
+in the letter, he had procured the money from the bank on it alone, and
+held their business paper in two notes for about the same amount; these
+failing to be met, he was obliged to look to them for payment.
+
+To describe the feelings of the two young men, as the alarming news
+broke upon them, and the calamitous consequences which it threatened,
+would be a vain attempt. Had an earthquake burst at mid-day, and with
+its convulsive quiver rocked their building, until they could see the
+tottering fabric parting at its joints and falling upon their devoted
+heads, it could not have waked up more intense, more appalling
+sensations. They had begun by the sweat of their brow; they had exerted
+every energy; they had advanced step by step; their business had grown
+by a natural progress; they had not forced it by speculation, nor by an
+undue haste to acquire wealth; they had abstained from borrowing on the
+names of others, and from lending their own; they had trusted to none
+but those who stood well in trade; their yearly gains were such as they
+had every reason to be contented with; and, but yesterday, they felt
+firm in their own strength, and buoyant with the fair prospect before
+them. Now their foundation is gone, and the labor of years that are
+past, and hope for years to come, alike vanished, as a vision, from
+before them.
+
+Ned had so long been accustomed to lean upon his brother in every
+emergency, to have him think out a way for them, that hitherto he had
+never troubled himself with any further care than faithfully attending
+to the execution of his plans. Now he saw that the staff upon which he
+had leaned was broken: the pale features, the knit brow, the clammy
+sweat that stood upon his temples; the vacant gaze with which he looked
+upon the letter that lay folded in his hands, told him that James was
+sore dismayed, and at his wit's end.
+
+'Let us go, Jim, and tell mother all about it.'
+
+But Jim answered him not; he merely sighed and wiped his forehead, and
+then leaning forward, covered his face, as if he wished to hide even
+from his brother the agony that was wringing his bosom.
+
+Oh! ye who despise the plodding toil of your daily labor, who think it
+drudgery to follow the plough, and handle the hoe, and reap the fields,
+and gather in your scanty gains, and are ashamed of the homely fare and
+the rude dress that these afford you, could you but have known the
+bitterness of that trial which was sending its pangs into the heart of
+that young man, you would prize more highly the freedom you have from
+distressing care, the independence you enjoy of either the frown or the
+favor of man, the quiet that is spread over all your humble enjoyments,
+and the peace of mind which goes with you to your rest and meets your
+waking thoughts. Depend upon it, that the glitter of wealth is purchased
+at a higher price than your imagination fancies.
+
+Ned did not venture again to disturb his brother's meditations, and
+began even to hope that he was devising some plan for their rescue; but
+for once his clear and business intellect was at fault. The blow was so
+sudden, that his young mind could only suffer, without being able to
+wake up its energies to meet and ward off its consequences. Conscious at
+last that something must be done, and not sufficiently composed to know
+what that must be, he quietly arose, folded the letter, and placing it
+in his pocket--
+
+'You are right, Ned; let us go and tell mother. She ought to know how
+things stand, without delay.'
+
+It was no strange thing for these young men to make a confidant of their
+mother. She had accustomed them to tell her all their thoughts, and thus
+had they grown up beneath her fostering care; and opening, as they did
+to her, the fountain of their soul, she watched each bubble that came
+sparkling up, cleared all the dross and specks away with sweet maternal
+care; and still she loved to watch--it was her life's one duty; for well
+she knew, if all was bright and pure within the living spring, the
+streams must, in the end, be bright and sparkling too.
+
+Alarmed at once by the appearance of her sons, as they entered the
+little room, where she sat with their sweet sister, plying their busy
+needles, she laid aside her task, and turning her anxious eye on James--
+
+'What is it, my children? James, I know you are in some great trouble.'
+
+'We are in trouble, mother, and we have thought it our duty to let you
+know all about it at once.' And they each took a seat beside her, while
+Ellen, the darling of their hearts, unused to any thing but smiles from
+her dear brothers, took Ned's hand in hers, and pressed it in all the
+warmth of her love, and wept as she looked at the calm yet serious
+countenance of her light-hearted brother.
+
+In a very straight-forward way, James told his mother the news which had
+just been brought to them, and ended his communication by saying:
+
+'Thus you see, mother, at one blow, is swept away all that we, have
+earned by our labors for these six years past; but that is not the worst
+of it.'
+
+'You are afraid, my son, that it will take more than you have earned; it
+will leave you in debt?'
+
+'Yes, mother, it will leave us, I fear, one thousand dollars worse than
+nothing, and that is not all.'
+
+'That is bad enough, James, but I hope you cannot accuse yourselves of
+any wrong proceedings--any--'
+
+'Nothing wrong, mother, that we can see; but we shall lose--we shall
+lose our credit, and that, mother, is worse than death.'--And Jim could
+stand no more; manly as he was, he covered his face, and gave way to a
+passionate burst of grief.
+
+Mrs. Montjoy spoke not until the violence of it was past, and then, in a
+very calm and soothing way, gave such counsel as her judgment best
+dictated.
+
+There is something in the tones of a mother's voice that goes at once to
+the heart of man. James felt the influence of her sweet words, lulling
+the violence of the storm within. Calmer views began to break upon
+him--a juster sense of the responsibility of his present situation. This
+was his hour of adversity, and he must act the man.
+
+Ned, too, began to feel his heart grow lighter.
+
+'Come, Jim, let us keep up a good heart; things may come round right at
+last, and if the worst happens, we can go to work again in the old
+garden.'
+
+'Ah, my son, you will often think of your boyhood's days in that garden:
+you worked hard, but you were light-hearted and happy, although you
+sometimes complained of back-aches and blistered hands.'
+
+'Mother, I tell you what,' said Ned, 'heart-aches are worse than
+back-aches; the one you can sleep off, the other I don't believe we can
+get rid of in that way.'
+
+'Yes, brother, now that we look back upon them, those were the happiest
+days, I think, that you and I will ever see; but we did not think so
+then. Now we cannot go back; we must, therefore, as mother says, meet
+this trouble like men, and urge our way along the best we may. Mother, I
+thank you for your dear good words, they have revived my spirit'--and he
+stooped and kissed her. 'And now, Ned, we have a great deal to do; let
+us be about it.'
+
+As soon as the brothers were alone, Jim showed that he was himself
+again, and in a very calm and business-like manner prepared for action.
+
+'The first thing we must do, Ned, will be to see exactly how we stand.
+While you are attending to customers, I will make an abstract of our
+books. Then this evening, when the store is closed, we will take an
+account of our stock; we shall then know better our situation, and what
+course to pursue. We must put on a cheerful countenance, and keep
+straight along as usual, for to-day at any rate.'
+
+'I don't know about the cheerful face, Jim, but I will do the best I
+can.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+
+Scarcely had Cross and his companion in guilt retired from their dark
+conclave to carry out their dreadful purpose, when a young man arose
+stealthily from off a rude mattress upon which he had been lying,
+listened a moment, then hastily threw on a coat which had served him for
+a pillow, and with light steps proceeded towards the door; his further
+progress was now arrested, for the key had been removed, and the lock
+was bolted. Somewhat alarmed at this hindrance, he cast his eye
+anxiously along the front windows, and proceeded to undo the fastenings
+on the inside, when a thought occurred to him, that if he escaped
+through that opening, it would be noticed on the return of the owner of
+the store, which, from what he had overheard, would be in a few moments.
+He therefore replaced the bolt, and hastily retreated to a building
+connected with the store and running back from it. Here, too, by some
+unaccountable purpose, he was again frustrated; the door was fastened
+and the key withdrawn; and, to his consternation, he heard footsteps and
+voices. Cross, and the gang of wretches he had awaked from their lair,
+which was in one of the out-houses connected with his establishment,
+were about to enter the store--he to give his instructions to them, to
+inspire them with the hellish draught; and they to go hence on their
+errand of mischief. To remain where he was, and be discovered, his life
+would not be worth a mention; that he well knew. Above his head was a
+trap-door, opening into the loft which ran over the store. The covering
+was removed, he sprang upon a barrel, the nearest article to where he
+stood; making a desperate effort, his hands grasped the sides of the
+hole--he heard the key rattling in the lock, exerted himself with an
+energy the fear of death alone could have inspired, and drew at
+arms-length the whole weight of his body through the aperture. The door
+opened, and Cross entered with three of the creatures around whom he had
+wound the coils of iniquity, until they had become the slaves of his
+will.
+
+'Now, boys, sit down here. Dick, there's the measure--draw away, and
+help yourselves.'
+
+Nothing was said in reply; the running liquor alone sounded through the
+still room, and then the smack of the lips as each in turn gulped down
+the liquid fire.
+
+'I wouldn't have called you, boys, to-night, but I have a job on hand
+that must be done now or never.'
+
+'We're ready,' said two of the persons addressed, who were now seated on
+a bench near the counter.
+
+'You are all ready, I hope,' said Cross, who stood up before them, and
+eyed the individual who was the youngest of the three, and had not
+united in the assent. 'No skulking now, Jo.'
+
+'No, no, I'm ready for any thing--that is, I s'pose you don't want no
+bloody work?'
+
+'You are always afraid of blood, Jo. I've never set you at any such
+work, have I?'
+
+'No, not exactly--but we have come pretty near it sometimes, you know.'
+
+'"Pretty near it"--never hurt any body.'
+
+'Well, let's have the story,' said the eldest of the gang; 'if there is
+any thing to do to-night, it's time to be about it.'
+
+'You are the fellow, Dick;'--and Cross laid his hand familiarly on the
+ruffian, and gave him one or two hearty slaps on the back, in
+manifestation of his warm approval, and as a stimulant to the
+performance of his reasonable request.
+
+The demand of Mr. Cross upon their services was made in a low tone, and
+listened to by them with the deepest attention, each head drooping, and
+with eyes in a gazing attitude fixed upon the floor.
+
+His directions were given with great clearness; the horses they were to
+ride, the part of the premises they were to fire, which of them was to
+enter the house and seize the trunk, and who the individual that should
+bear it with, the utmost speed to the dark rendezvous, where he, Cross,
+would be in waiting to receive it.
+
+'And if it goes well, you shall be made men--you hear _that_?'
+
+'Yes.' But they had heard the same before, and were yet the drudges of
+his will. His power over them they knew--his frown they feared; and his
+command must be obeyed.
+
+Every word that passed came up with painful distinctness to the ears of
+the young man who lay above them, almost breathless in his dread lest
+some sound, even the beat of his heart against the planks, should be
+heard, and his presence discovered. He knew well the desperate character
+of the men, and that he must move with wary steps.
+
+Every thing is at length arranged, and he hears them again fortifying
+their spirits by a deep draught. The door is opened, and one by one they
+steal out, but apparently with little zest for the work before them.
+Cross waited a moment on the threshold, until they disappeared amid the
+dark pines, and then, muttering curses on the men who were about to
+blacken their souls with a heinous crime for his sake, he stepped back
+into the store, poured out some gin from his bottle, took a long drink,
+threw himself into one of the chairs, and, leaning back against the
+counter, amused himself with swinging his heel against one of the rungs.
+
+Bill Brown--for it was he who had been the providential listener to this
+vile scheme, had learned more in one short lesson than through his whole
+life before. Light, as though from heaven, flashed upon him; the
+dreadful character of his employer was revealed in all its blackness.
+Fear, likewise, had taken hold upon him; a groan, a movement, even too
+loud a breath, might place him in an instant on the verge of eternity.
+
+And then, too, the dreadful fate which hung over that family. Bill had
+been a recreant to the path of duty; his mother's counsels he had set
+light by, and too often had he ridiculed the interest which she felt in
+those friends of her early days, and had done his best to persuade
+Hettie against making her home there: but now he would give half his
+life for the power of flying to them. How he longed to grapple with the
+hateful wretch, and then spread the alarm ere their mansion was wrapped
+in flames, and perhaps some of the family victims to their fury. But he
+knew that Cross was armed, and a powerful man.
+
+The tramp of horses is heard; his heart sinks within him; furiously they
+pass the place, and far, far away, the sounds come back fainter and
+fainter upon the stillness of the night.
+
+How long he thus remained he could not tell, for minutes are hours when
+the heart is in such an exciting suspense. At length he hears the snap
+of a watch-case. Cross rises from his seat, opens the door, fastens it
+from without, and is off. Bill waited not to hear his retiring
+footsteps; he springs to the floor, hastens to a window, of which he had
+not thought in his first attempt; it opened on one side of the building,
+and was seldom used. The sash creaked as he forced it through the mouldy
+casement, and, quickly letting himself down, carefully closed the
+shutters, and then looking round as though the avenger of blood might be
+watching for him, crossed the road, and entered a thick covert of pines.
+He turned and looked at the long dark building where he had wasted so
+much of his past life--
+
+'If I once get beyond your reach, good-by to you for ever.'
+
+Distracting were the thoughts which rioted within the mind of this
+youth. He was sure that the villains were full an hour in advance of
+him, and the work of destruction no doubt begun ere this. To pursue
+them, would be fruitless as preventing the catastrophe; to go in the
+opposite direction and seek his mother's home, would be to fill her soul
+with unavailable terrors. No house was near, but the one from which he
+had just escaped--no human being within some miles, to whom he should
+dare communicate what he knew. It was full nine miles to Mr.
+Rutherford's. His utmost haste would only enable him, in all
+probability, to witness the smouldering ruins of their mansion, and, oh,
+dreadful thought! the ashes of his own sister perhaps. He could think no
+further; the spirit of vengeance stirred strong within--he groped about
+for something that might serve him for a weapon, and laid hold of a
+strong chesnut club; brandishing it in his hand and testing its strength
+by a blow upon the ground--
+
+'If I can do nothing more, I will make one of them feel the weight of an
+avenging arm.'
+
+He is resolved to urge on his way towards the scene of mischief. He
+remembers, too, that in the instructions which Cross had given, one of
+them on the fleetest horse, was to seize the trunk and hasten off. He
+might meet him alone, and possibly rescue the prize, if nothing more.
+
+Never had the road seemed so interminable, and his utmost speed was to
+his burning spirit but a snail's pace. Still he presses on--a long hill
+is before him; when he reaches its summit he will be near the edge of
+the barrens. He heeds not the ascent--his whole frame is nerved with an
+energy he never has felt before--it is his first essay in the path of
+duty. As he reaches the top a faint streak of light seems to tinge the
+distant cloud--his heart beats with deep emotion--an instant more, and a
+flush of light suffuses the whole heavens. He could scream in the
+intensity of his feelings. He thinks he hears a sound--he pauses to
+listen--it is--it is--the fiendish plot is accomplished, and the
+villains are returning with the spoil. The tramp of one horse, however,
+can only be heard as yet; the rider doubtless bears the fatal treasure.
+The resolution of a whole life fires his breast and nerves him with a
+fixed determination to grapple with the wretch--the horseman is
+galloping up the hill--his jaded beast lags as he nears the top. Bill
+crouches behind some bushes near the travelled path--his eye is on the
+horseman--it has caught sight of the burden borne in front of him. With
+a single bound he grasps the rein at the horse's head, and levelling a
+desperate blow, brings rider and trunk to the ground. The horse,
+affrighted, tears down the road, and makes directly for his home. Bill
+stoops to secure the trunk, not knowing or caring whether his victim is
+dead or not, when his antagonist, who is only stunned by the blow,
+springs upon him! They know each other well, and have often tried each
+other's strength in sport; they are nearly matched--both young, and
+possessed of great muscular power. Bill is now nerved with the energy of
+right, and the other with the strength of despair, maddened, too, with a
+desire for revenge. The violence with which they grapple brings both to
+the earth--it is a death-struggle--each endeavoring to get his opponent
+under, and each by turns gaining the advantage, until at length Bill
+lies apparently at the mercy of his adversary, whose hand is fast
+clenched to his throat, while he exerts his utmost strength to strangle
+him. Bill feels that his hour has come, for the death-grip which binds
+his throat is palsying his strength. One arm, however, is free--he
+clutches in his despair for something that might serve him for a
+weapon--his club lay within his grasp--hope springs to his heart--he
+brings down the weapon with a desperate effort, and it fell on the head
+of his opponent. Bill felt the tight clench relax, and putting forth
+his last powers, renews the blow. It has done the work. With scarce
+strength enough to throw off the body of the now helpless man, he
+attempts to rise, but in his effort to do this, the blood gushed in a
+torrent from his lungs. He believes that he has killed the wretched
+being beside him, and that he himself is parting with life. His reason
+is bright as ever--he takes up the trunk, and creeping as he best can,
+leaves the road, hoping to reach a hut which he knows is near by,
+deliver his charge, and then die, if so it must be. But his strength is
+less than he supposes--he can drag his trembling body but a short
+distance. Gradually his powers depart--a strange and dreamy sleep comes
+over him, and soon all earthly sounds and sense of earthly care are
+gone; and there he lies, still clenching the object for which he
+struggled so desperately.
+
+Scarcely had this scene transpired when the companions of the wretched
+being who lay stretched upon the highway came hurrying along; their
+horse started from the track. Casting their eyes at the object that had
+caused it, they both sprang to the earth, examined a moment to ascertain
+who and what it was, and then looking at each other, simultaneously
+uttered a horrid oath. But there was no time to loiter; the body must
+not be there to tell a tale.
+
+'He's dead, Dick; so let's throw him across the horse and be off.'
+
+'He's dead enough, Jo; but where is the trunk? we can't go without that.
+We had better not meet the old man, if that is gone.'
+
+Uttering all kinds of imprecations on their own souls for having had
+anything to do with the business, and wishing old Cross all manner of
+evil, as they groped about in vain for the prolific cause of all this
+mischief, in utter desperation they caught hold of the body: a groan
+caused them to drop it instantly--
+
+'Ned, are you alive? Can you tell us where the trunk is?' There was no
+reply; but the body was warm, and of course life was in it. How to
+proceed they knew not; and their guilty consciences urged them to do
+something with speed. In their dilemma, they sent forth again on the
+still night-air curses too profane for human ears; the light, too, of
+that foul deed they had committed was growing brighter and brighter; far
+over the murky sky it spread, and its blood-red glare came down upon
+them, exposing to their strained eyes the first tokens of the avenger's
+rod.
+
+At length, in their desperation, they determined to place the wounded
+and dying man astride the horse, between them. It was no easy matter to
+accomplish this, and more than one groan escaped the sufferer; but the
+strait they were in was urgent; they could not be deterred by trifles.
+
+Not far from the dwelling of Mr. Cross, about half a mile in a direct
+line, a great change was visible in the size of the timber and the
+aspect of the woods: the fine tall trees, with no undergrowth, and
+scarcely a bush to obstruct the passage through them in any direction,
+were suddenly exchanged for a thick and tangled mass of scrub pines,
+intermixed with alder and black birch. The road leading through it, or
+rather into it, showed clearly its unfrequented condition; the whole
+tract being left, after the first fine growth of timber had been taken
+off, to bring forth what it best could, none then living expecting to
+reap much benefit from it. The soil was sandy, with scarcely any stones
+to be seen, except occasionally a small boulder, which, as it lay
+disconnected with any of its species, impressed the mind with the idea
+that it was out of its place, and was there by accident.
+
+One spot, however, on this lone region, presented a singular contrast to
+all the rest; a few rods from the only road which passed into it, was an
+open, clear place, almost a perfect circle in its form, and about a
+hundred feet in diameter, upon which was neither shrub nor tree; the
+whole area being a flat granite rock, without seam or crack; it was not,
+indeed, a perfect level, but the protuberances upon its surface were
+scarcely noticeable, except as you walked across it.
+
+To this spot had Cross directed his emissaries, after they should have
+accomplished his purpose. It was lonely and desolate, and well chosen
+for such a rendezvous.
+
+What were his feelings, as he paced up and down that rock, lighted by
+the lurid glare reflected from the cloud above him, it would not be very
+profitable for us to know; nor shall I attempt to uncover the hideous
+secrets of such a heart. But there he walked and watched for two long
+hours--long indeed they seemed to him--and as he paused ever and anon to
+listen for approaching steps, would curse their tardiness, and then
+resume his lone, heavy tramp.
+
+At length he heard the sound of voices, and the slow tread of a single
+horse. In his haste to anticipate the accomplishment of his vile wish,
+he left the rock and hurried to the road; one of them had dismounted,
+and was about to pass from the road to the trysting-place, the other
+maintained his place upon the horse, holding the helpless body of his
+companion.
+
+Their tale was soon told, for there was not much to say; mystery lay
+upon every thing concerning the wounded man, or the trunk which had been
+committed to him.
+
+Cross listened awhile to their story, his rage gathering fire, until,
+bursting through all bounds, it broke forth like a volcano. He caught
+the one who was standing near him, by the throat, and drawing a pistol
+from his breast--
+
+'You lie, you villain! you know you lie! Tell me this moment where you
+have put that trunk, or I will blow your perjured soul from your
+body--tell me, quick.'
+
+Overcome with fatigue from the great exertion of the night, and with a
+consciousness of the atrocity of their crime, the young man exclaimed,
+in broken accents, weeping as he spoke,
+
+'You may blow my soul out, if you please, Mr. Cross; but as there is a
+God above, I cannot tell you where it is.'
+
+Throwing the young man away from him with a force that brought him to
+the earth, he dashed the pistol down with maniac rage, tore his hair,
+foamed at the mouth, and fairly howled in the violence of his anger. For
+a while the witnesses looked on in apparent apathy, seeming to care but
+little how much he vented his spite upon himself. At length the one who
+still retained his seat upon the horse, very coolly asked,
+
+'What shall we do with Ned? If he was dead we might bury him; but seeing
+there is life in him, it wouldn't be quite so well, may be; he may yet
+come to, so as to tell who hurt him, and may be some other things had
+better be seen to, for the night is wearing away, and--'
+
+Cross, enraged as he was, felt that there was reason in this, and,
+moreover, that it was of the greatest consequence to him that the
+wounded man should be taken care of, and placed beyond the reach of
+meddlers.
+
+'You are right. Take him down to the back part of the east swamp--you
+know who lives there. Tell Meg I sent him; that no one must know he is
+there; she must do what she can to bring life in him, and as soon as he
+can speak, to let me know.'
+
+He stooped and picked up his pistol, uncocked the trigger, replaced it
+in his bosom, and walked on his way, muttering curses, and pondering on
+the best manner to avert the danger of discovery which these untoward
+events threatened.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+
+The trial which had fallen upon the family of Mr. Rutherford was one so
+new and unexpected, that, with the exception of himself and wife, but
+little effect was made upon the members of it.
+
+A vague report, indeed, ran through the house, of some trouble that had
+befallen its master, but what was the nature of it they could not well
+define. To Hettie alone had Mrs. Rutherford confided the secret; for she
+felt that her strong attachment, her faithful disposition, and her
+discreet behaviour, entitled her to confidence. She received the
+information with a heart bleeding in sympathy, but manifested so much
+good sense, had so many encouraging things to say, and put on such a
+calm, peaceful look, that Mrs. Rutherford felt that she had indeed a
+prop to lean upon in this faithful girl. All that day Hettie went about
+with an energy beyond what was usual, taking from Mrs. Rutherford all
+her cares and duties immediately domestic, and exerting every effort to
+put as bright a face upon the family as if nothing had happened. The
+servants in the kitchen had whisperings among themselves, but further
+than that, there was no sign that any change had taken place. They
+little knew the cause of bitter anguish that wrung the master's heart;
+every thing to them appeared as heretofore: their beautiful mansion, the
+pleasant grounds about it, the noble trees, and all the comforts that
+spread such a satisfying charm over the whole, to them looked as sure as
+ever; to him they were but shadows of the past--things that had been,
+but are not--by one fell stroke swept, all swept away.
+
+After the distracting scenes of the morning, Mr. Rutherford prepared to
+make a journey of some miles, in order to attend to business connected
+with the peculiar situation of his affairs, and more especially to
+consult a legal friend, and get such advice as his case demanded.
+
+Not expecting to return until the following day, he bade adieu to his
+dear family with a sad heart; and as he mounted his favorite horse, and
+rode away from his much-loved home--now his no more--he felt that he was
+under the chastening rod--the hand of God was upon him.
+
+It is said that birds of prey can scent their victims from afar, and spy
+the hidden carcass, however secret the spot where it may fall.
+
+It must have been by some such instinctive power that our old
+acquaintance, Mr. Richard Tucker, was affected, on the day that
+witnessed the catastrophe of Mr. Rutherford's concerns. His place of
+residence was some miles off, and no tidings had he received of any such
+event; and yet his yellow gig was that day put in requisition, and
+northward he must go.
+
+'I shall be home by night, may be.'
+
+This was all that he deigned to say, as he left his home, and the old
+gig squeaked and rattled as his raw-bone mare started off at a round
+trot; perhaps she scented her master's game.
+
+About a mile from the Rutherford estate there was a small collection of
+buildings; it bore the title of village however, and comprised a church,
+a blacksmith's shop, and a tavern, as also a few small and plain
+tenements. The tavern, of course, was the rendezvous through the week,
+and the place where all the news and scandal could be enjoyed. It was
+soon known around that trouble had fallen on the great man of that
+region, and a larger number than usual was congregated there just after
+dinner. But, to their credit be it said, a feeling of deep regret was
+very manifest: not a tongue was loosened against the sufferer, nor was
+there one among them disposed to take any measures for his own security,
+although to most of them he was indebted for services of different
+kinds.
+
+'George Rutherford,' said an aged, portly man, who seemed to be the
+oracle of the place, and who had taken the large arm-chair on the wide
+front piazza of the tavern, 'I have known from a boy; and if there ever
+was an honest man and a gentleman, he is one. Things have been going
+hard with him for some time, that we all know; he has had cunning chaps
+to deal with, and may be they have ruined him; but sooner than take the
+law of him, I will lose all he owes me, at any rate.'
+
+'So would I;' and 'So would I,' resounded on all sides.
+
+'But here comes Dick,' said the first speaker. 'I wonder what he is
+after?--hunting for a job, I guess.'
+
+And the old yellow gig drove up, and Mr. Tucker, with all the elasticity
+of a young man, sprang from his seat, and alighted on the lower step.
+
+'Good afternoon, gentlemen;' and Mr. Tucker bowed very stiffly, which
+perhaps he was obliged to do, for his coat was buttoned up close to the
+neck--a habit he maintained at all seasons.
+
+'Good day, Mr. Tucker; you seem to be in a hurry, neighbor; the old mare
+is quite out of breath.'
+
+'Oh no; not at all,' turning at the same time, and eyeing his beast;
+'she always breathes so. You may put her under the shed, Jo,' addressing
+a good-natured looking black, who stood waiting orders at the head of
+the beast.
+
+'Yes, massa. Any oats, massa?'
+
+'No--well--I don't care--yes. You may give her a mess--two quarts, Jo.
+Wet them, you hear?'
+
+Jo took the mare by the head, turned his face away from the company,
+opened his broad mouth, and went grinning along to the shed.
+
+'My golly! two quarts--ha, ha, ha! a half bushel no fill her belly--ha,
+ha, ha!'
+
+Mr. Richard has not altered much since we last saw him, either in
+appearance or disposition. Why he had come along that afternoon, no one
+knew; nor did he seem to be making preparation as though he had a job on
+hand. He heard the news of Mr. Rutherford's disaster with apparent
+indifference. I say apparent, for there is no doubt he felt much and
+deeply; he talked with one and another, making very few remarks, but
+asking a great many questions, and occasionally shrugging his shoulders,
+and knitting his dark eyebrows--it was a way he had. What effect his
+pantomime had upon those with whom he conversed was not very manifest,
+for they finally dropped off, one by one, leaving no orders behind them.
+
+It is an old saying, 'If one won't, another will.' Mr. Richard, no doubt,
+had heard the saying, and must have had considerable faith in it; for
+there was not an individual, either high or low, that escaped his
+attentions.
+
+The Irish are proverbially susceptible. Whether Mr. Richard knew this
+as a historical fact, I will not pretend to say, nor whether it led him
+to make a more direct and positive attack on poor Pat than he had done
+upon others that day; the result, however, was, that Jerry Malony, a
+rather good-natured fellow, to whom Mr. Rutherford was indebted for a
+summer's ditching, and whose pay was as sure as though already in his
+own hands, was suddenly seized with great terrors, in view of the
+certain loss of all his hard earnings, and with a distressing anxiety to
+become possessed, as a means of securing himself, of a pair of fine
+black horses, then in the possession of said Rutherford.
+
+We will not enter into all the particulars; suffice it to say, that Mr.
+Tucker and Mr. Malony adjourned from the east corner of the piazza to a
+private room inside the building, and thence to a justice of the peace,
+and thence back again to the bar-room; and, finally, the two worthy
+gentlemen were wishing each other very good health, and confirming their
+wishes by potent draughts of genuine Monongahela. There were many little
+arrangements to be made, which occupied them until the shades of evening
+had settled very decidedly upon the land.
+
+Old Caesar, the coachman--with whom we once became acquainted on the
+little journey Mr. Rutherford and his lady took through the barrens some
+years since--was still alive, and, to all appearance, active as ever.
+The old black coach-horses, too, had lost none of their strength or
+fire, for they were never overburdened, and being under the exclusive
+charge of Caesar, were daily tended with as much care as though they had
+been pet horses of a prince; their dark hides shone as brightly as
+Caesar's countenance did after a good supper, and all their appurtenances
+were kept in the most perfect order. To say that Caesar was fond of these
+creatures, whom he had tended and driven so long, would not express all
+his emotions towards them; they were, next to his master and mistress,
+and their children, the objects that engrossed his feelings--and Caesar
+had very strong feelings, too--his life he would have risked, or even
+sacrificed, to have preserved any of them from harm. He had no wife or
+children of his own, nothing to love except his master's family; and no
+wonder then, if for these beasts, who obeyed every expression of his
+will, and pawed, and neighed, and pranced, and did all but talk to him
+when they heard his step approaching, he had peculiar feelings.
+Moreover, Caesar was very proud of them: for they were acknowledged, far
+and near, to be a noble pair; and, to crown all, they were looked upon
+as his own. Mr. Rutherford never claimed any further right to them than
+the privilege of a drive occasionally.
+
+Caesar knew very little about his master's troubles; he had, indeed,
+heard some whispering in the kitchen among the women; but he paid no
+further heed to it than to bestow a back-handed blessing on their
+tongues.
+
+'Dey are always a-goin' jabbering about sumpin' or anoder. Massa George
+know he own business well enough, neber fear.'
+
+As Caesar's principal employment of late years was to attend to the
+horses, he had persuaded his master to fit up for him a room in the
+building where they were kept, so that, in case any accident should
+occur to them in the night, he could be on hand. A door opened from this
+room immediately into the stable; and as the whole premises were kept
+with the greatest care, there might be found much less eligible sleeping
+apartments in places that made greater pretensions. Caesar, however, did
+not sleep there entirely alone. Besides his pets, the horses, he had a
+dog of the real mastiff breed, that had been trained with much care, and
+was as completely under the will of Caesar as the other quadrupeds; he
+was a large, powerful creature, and unless under the complete control of
+a master, would have been dangerous; but at Caesar's word, he would be
+passive as a lamb, and at his bidding would lay the stoutest man upon
+his back, and hold him there without doing further violence, unless
+there was an attempt at resistance.
+
+Mr. Richard and his client Jerry had been sitting on the piazza of the
+tavern, watching for the return of Mr. Rutherford, who must pass that
+way to his house; hour after hour slipped by, and they looked in vain.
+
+'It's striking nine, your honour; shall we wait any longer?'
+
+'It is my opinion, my good fellow, that we might as well be on our way.
+As a matter of form, perhaps, it might be well enough just to make the
+demand; but as there is no probability, if it is all true that I hear,
+not the least probability that he can pay it, or will ever pay it, your
+only chance, my friend, is, as I say'--slapping his hand on Jerry's
+knee--'clap on to something tangible; and as you say the horses are
+valuable, they will be about as handy as anything I can think of. They
+have legs, you know; we can carry them off, or more probably, we can
+make them carry us off--ha, ha, ha!'
+
+All this was said with his face turned towards Malony, and speaking
+close to his ear, while his auditor, being rather short and a little
+worse for liquor, sat very erect, and looked as consequential as any
+newly made Justice trying his first cause.
+
+'And as we are to walk, I think we may as well be jogging.'
+
+'I think so, your honor.'
+
+The two worthies accordingly walked slowly along, and before a great
+while found themselves in the broad avenue leading to Mr. Rutherford's
+mansion.
+
+'You are well acquainted here, I suppose, Malony? The dog you speak
+of--is he--is he--loose?'
+
+'No, your honor, not just loose; he keeps tight to the nigger.'
+
+'And he, you say, sleeps in the stable?'
+
+'Pretty near it, your honor--close by.'
+
+'I think, my good fellow, that we may as well go at once, then, to the
+stable; the nigger being there, it will be sufficient to demand them of
+him, or to leave the attachment with him.'
+
+Mr. Richard, it must be premised, was not over-burdened with law
+knowledge. The people among whom he labored had taken his word as law
+enough for them. They found it hard law, to be sure; but, poor souls,
+they knew no better, and thought all was right.
+
+Jerry had implicit confidence in his adviser, and so walked bravely
+along. The dog being just then uppermost in his mind, knowing, as he
+well did, his ferocious character, he cared much more about a proper
+introduction to him, than any nice point in law.
+
+'Hadn't I better be after strikin' a light, your honor? it's amazin'
+dark.'
+
+'Not yet, Malony; not until we reach the stable.'
+
+It cost master Jerry no little trouble to strike his light, for his hand
+was not very steady; and as he gave two blows with his finger against
+the steel to one with the flint, there was more blood than sparks
+flying.
+
+'Bloody murther! that was a pealer: it's taken the skin, it has, your
+honor.'
+
+'Can't you hit it, Malony?'
+
+'I hit it, your honor, but my finger took it fornint the stone.'
+
+Mr. Richard now took matters into his own hands, and while Jerry was
+blowing and snapping his fingers, he managed to get some sparks into
+the tinder, and soon had his lantern in trim.
+
+Caesar was about the middle of his first nap when he suddenly awoke, and
+found that Trap was growling in a low undertone. Trap never barked, and
+very seldom condescended to growl, Caesar knew that there must be
+something going wrong; he therefore extricated his head from beneath the
+bed-clothes, and cast his eye round the premises. The lamp was still
+burning, and so far as his half-opened eyelids would allow him to see,
+there was no one in his room besides the usual inmates. Trap, to be
+sure, was out of his place, and sitting close by his master's bed,
+looking very significantly up at the red night-cap. As soon as he
+perceived that his master was awake, he ceased growling, like a very
+sensible dog as he was, signifying thereby that his only design in using
+his vocal powers was to stop the snoring, and call his master's
+attention to matters and things in the waking world. After rubbing away
+upon his eyes awhile, and working things awake there, Caesar, in a very
+philosophic manner, by means of his two arms, which he threw behind him
+and used as levers, first to raise and then to support and brace his
+body up, attained a sufficiently elevated position to see and hear what
+was going on. He was afraid of nothing but witches, and for that reason
+always had a light on hand; it being well known that neither in daylight
+nor candle-light was any danger to be apprehended from the 'good
+neighbors.' But something or somebody was stirring, and near by, too,
+for he evidently heard footsteps and voices, and, as well as he could
+make it out, they must be in the stable. Being more or less afflicted
+with the rheumatism, he was very deliberate in his movements. First
+throwing his somewhat recumbent body into a straight and self-supporting
+posture, and thereby relieving his arms from their burden; then casting
+aside whatever impeded his progress, in the way of covering, he turned
+his nether extremities by the pivot principle, brought himself in
+position to stand erect on the floor, and proceeded at once to the
+light, which was safely shut up in an old carriage lamp, through which
+the rays streamed forth by a small glass, calculated to converge, and
+throw them far ahead.
+
+Caesar was somewhat of a gentleman in his feelings, and on the subject of
+dress quite particular; for he followed the old fashion of small clothes
+and knee buckles, and broad-skirted coat and vest, with large lappels,
+and was ever ready, at any short notice, to appear with becoming apparel
+in the presence of his mistress. These he wore by day; but he made a
+complete change when he laid these by, and put on his night rig. As he
+was a bachelor, and ladies, white or black, had no business about his
+premises at night, he fixed himself as he thought best; and his fancy
+was, red flannel. Why he chose that color, he never saw fit to
+communicate; it may have been, however, that his good sense suggested
+that white, the usual dress, would make too strong a contrast. He had on
+a red flannel cap, that came pretty well over his ears, and a red
+flannel frock, or tunic, covering him from the neck downwards to the
+usual gartering place; below that the bare poles were plainly visible.
+To those who knew him perfectly, there was nothing very frightful in all
+this, because it was Caesar; but to those who might not have had
+experience on their side, as he then appeared, with his lantern
+streaming before him, he might have been mistaken for any thing that was
+not earthly.
+
+As Trap knew that his business was to keep still and remain in his place
+until called, so soon as he saw his master upon his legs, he was
+satisfied that all was correct, and nestled quietly down on his own bed.
+
+The only weapon Caesar ever kept on hand, was a pitchfork, a very ugly
+sort of a thing to come in contact with; for in the first place, it not
+only makes two holes where a bayonet or sword would make but one, but it
+gives great advantage to the one who uses it in its length of handle;
+this may have been the reason why Caesar preferred it. At any rate, there
+was always one standing in the corner of his room; it had very long and
+heavy tines, and a handle sufficient to keep an enemy at a respectful
+and safe distance. Feeling that it might be prudent to be prepared for
+danger, even if there was none, he grasped his weapon in one hand, and
+with the lamp in the other, drew back the little bolt, and throwing the
+door wide open by a strong push, stood in bold relief, casting his light
+round about through the large roomy stable, and straining his eyes to
+ascertain who or what it was.
+
+His appearance was the cause of considerable surprise; for although Mr.
+Malony had talked very freely about the _nigger_, as he was pleased to
+style Mr. Caesar Rutherford, and although both he and Mr. Richard
+expected to see him in the course of their proceedings, yet they could
+have had no very correct idea what shape a mere mortal, especially a
+black one, could assume; for no sooner did their own light throw its
+beams upon this sudden apparition, than they both made rapid retrograde
+movements, Jerry, in his haste, bringing up against the opposite wall,
+and Mr. Richard stepping back towards the door, as though it would be
+safe at least to be out of reach of the pitchfork.
+
+Whether Caesar was alarmed, it would be difficult to say; for he made no
+motion other than to throw the light of his lamp, first on one and then
+on the other of his visitors.
+
+Jerry, he thought, he had seen before; in fact, he was quite sure that
+he could not be mistaken in the little chunky Irishman, who had been so
+long under his master's pay; but Mr. Richard, Caesar could not make out;
+he had never been in these parts, that he remembered.
+
+As Caesar's appearance did not improve upon inspection, and as the two
+gentlemen were too far separated to consult as to further proceedings, a
+long silence would have been maintained had not Caesar opened a parley--
+
+'What a you want here?'
+
+The tones were not very mild, nor was the address made in very good
+humor; for Caesar threw in a few emphatic words which he sometimes used
+when excited, just by way of seasoning, and which for brevity's sake are
+omitted; but then it was a human voice, and it gave some assurance to
+Mr. Richard at least. He therefore advanced one or two paces:
+
+'Ah, that's you, is it, Boss?'
+
+'Git out wid your Boss, and tell me what a you want here dis time a
+night!'
+
+'Oh, we don't want any thing with you, my good fellow, but we have got a
+little business here that must be attended to. You know Malony
+here?'--turning at the same time towards his discomfited
+companion:--'You know he's been at work here all summer for your master.
+Here, Malony, step up here; you have nothing against this good man, you
+know.'
+
+But Malony preferred remaining where he was. Caesar's eyes, he thought,
+showed a little too much of the white to be very safe, especially under
+the circumstances.
+
+'I am sorry to have disturbed you, my good fellow, but as somebody must
+be notified before we proceed, I will just read the warrant, as I
+suppose you will hardly be able to make it out yourself;' and Mr.
+Richard pulled out a bit of paper and began to read rapidly--'Know all
+men by these presents,' etc. Caesar, in the mean time, was getting his
+wrath up. He never liked the Irishman, and had often cautioned his
+master against him; and Mr. Richard's countenance not being, as my
+readers will remember, very pre-possessing, together with the fawning
+manner in which he attempted to get round him, woke up Caesar's
+sensibilities:
+
+'Mister, go to grass wid your paper, and tell a me what you want
+'sturbing people dis time a de night.'
+
+Mr. Richard being thus interrupted in his proceedings, stopped reading,
+and looking full in Caesar's face--
+
+'You know, I suppose, my good man, that Mr. Rutherford has failed?'
+
+'Hab what?'
+
+'Has failed; that is, can't pay his debts.'
+
+'You a big liar.'
+
+Mr. Richard didn't blush; he never had in his life; but he began to pick
+up a little courage.
+
+'You must take care, old fellow, how you speak; I am an officer of the
+law, take care, sir. Here Malony, lead out one of these horses, and I
+will take the other.'
+
+'What dat you say?'
+
+And Caesar stepped forward, Mr. Richard retreating at the same time,
+until he came to the edge of the stall.
+
+'Me like to see you touch one of dem horses.'
+
+Mr. Richard had now come in closer contact with Caesar; and perceiving
+that he was quite an old man, and walked rather stiff, made a sudden
+spring, and grasped the pitch-fork.
+
+'Trap, Trap.'
+
+There was a rush from the little room, and in the next moment Mr.
+Richard was lying on his back, with the fore-paws of master Trap resting
+one on each shoulder, and his mouth presenting a row of teeth in such
+dangerous contiguity to Mr. Richard's throat, that he began to fear
+matters were tending to extremities, and called out 'Murder!' at the top
+of his voice.
+
+'Hole you lyin' tongue; he be de death of you.'
+
+'Malony, Malony! help, help; kill the dog; quick, take a pitchfork, any
+thing, do, my good fellow, he'll murder me.'
+
+But Mr. Malony was not so drunk but he had sense enough to see that
+there was mischief brewing; and no sooner was Mr. Richard on his back,
+than he bolted and ran for dear life, Mr. Richard's cries only adding
+wings to his flight across lots for home.
+
+'I tell a you what, mister, you no hole you tongue and keep till, me let
+de dog take you lights out in a minit. Hold him dare, Trap, till a
+morning; den we see how he look.'
+
+'Oh, good man! good man!' Mr. Richard spoke now in a whisper--'do--don't
+go away, don't leave me here; I promise I will go right off; I was only
+doing my duty as an officer.'
+
+'Me gib a you duty; you 'member Caesar next time; take care de horses no
+kick a your brains out.' There was indeed a very dangerous proximity
+between Mr. Richard's head and the horses' heels, especially as they
+were pawing and prancing about under the exciting influence of Caesar's
+voice.
+
+'Oh do, good Mr. Caesar, for the love of mercy, just take the dog off,
+and let me go! I give you my sacred honor'--But Caesar had no such idea.
+The insult offered to his master and his horses had steeled his heart.
+
+'I tell a you what, mister; you no lay till and keep a your tongue, your
+time is short; he only take two mouthful, you be gone chicken, so good
+night to you;' and Caesar hobbled back into his room.
+
+The grave and the gay, the mirthful and the sad, are so blended in this
+world, that in delineating any series of events, we find ourselves
+constrained to shift the scenery so often and so suddenly, that if we
+did not know we were sketching from nature, we should fear to be charged
+with drawing upon fancy, even to extravagance.
+
+Caesar had bidden Mr. Richard good night, and to all appearance, designed
+leaving him, as he said, 'to de mornin', to see how he look den.'
+
+He had been sorely disturbed, and perhaps feeling that it would be
+rather difficult to compose himself to sleep under the existing state of
+things, he so far arranged himself in his day apparel that he felt ready
+for any emergency; it was not according to Caesar's sense of propriety to
+be caught in just the shape he had been. After fixing things a little,
+he threw himself on the bed, talked away for some time, and even made
+one or two broad grins, as though there was something on his mind not
+very unpleasant, and finally sunk into a dreamy state, conscious, most
+of the time, of the condition of external things immediately around him,
+and yet so mixed up with things and places very foreign to them, that
+it was not the easiest matter in the world for him to be sure whether he
+was asleep or awake.
+
+How long he had been lying in this state it would be difficult to say,
+for time, under such circumstances, makes no tracks that are
+perceptible.
+
+Among other ideas that flitted through his mind, was that of a light
+which kept flickering across his window, and occasionally brightening up
+his whole room. For some time even after he was awake, he lay and
+thought about it. Distinctly beholding the glare, which now had become
+steadily bright, filling his whole room and absorbing completely the
+light of his lantern, suddenly he sprang from his bed, his mind awaking
+to a full consciousness that something was wrong; he hurried through the
+stable, and calling off Trap from the pitiful object who had been
+writhing under his surveillance, opened the outer door.
+
+'Fire, fire, fire!' he called at the full extent of his voice--'fire,
+fire, fire! Oh, my missus and de children!--the lord hab mercy.'
+
+The old man forgot his age, and ran with the speed of youth.
+
+The sight which had burst upon him was enough to have nerved with energy
+the most sluggish and unfeeling. On Caesar it broke with most appalling
+interest.
+
+He could not, indeed, get a full view, for the house was screened by the
+large trees and thick shrubbery; but enough could be seen to assure him
+that the dwelling was on fire; and the inmates, if they had not escaped,
+were in imminent danger, for the flames were flashing up to the tops of
+the trees, higher than the roof of the main building. In a few moments
+he was beside the burning pile, and the whole extent of the awful
+calamity was revealed to him. The fire was raging over the whole of the
+back part of the house, having already completely enveloped the back
+building connected with it, and was throwing its forked flames over the
+high roof, while the pitch-black smoke, which rolled around the whole
+premises without, gave awful forebodings of what might be the state of
+things within. No alarm had yet seized the family that he could discern;
+he listened in vain for any sound but the terrible cracking of the
+raging fire.
+
+He attempted the nearest door, but found it fastened. The wood-pile was
+at hand; he seized the axe; at that moment two men came running into
+the court-yard and calling fire. Caesar barely glanced at them, they were
+strangers to him; but he felt encouraged in his efforts; his arm was
+nerved with the strength of his early days--one blow drove it from its
+fastenings, and in he rushed amid the heat and smoke.
+
+The two men followed him, but for a very different purpose than to
+rescue the sleeping family from their fiery envelope.
+
+When Mr. Rutherford left his home, as before related, his expectation
+was to remain until the following day; but having accomplished his
+errand early in the evening, he concluded to return to his family. It
+would occupy much of the night, but he preferred spending it on
+horseback, so anxious was he to be again with his wife and children;
+they were all he had now, and his heart yearned after them with a warmth
+of affection he had never realized before.
+
+A little past midnight, as he was turning the summit of a hill, a sudden
+flash of light shot up in the distance; he thought it was the glare of a
+meteor; but painted on the clouds which overhung the western sky, it
+left a deep-red glow. As he gazed, while slowly descending the hill, he
+saw the flush extending, and gradually assuming a brighter and more
+lurid aspect.
+
+'It must be a fire; perhaps some poor sufferers are looking in anguish
+upon the wreck of their little all.'
+
+And on he went, ever and anon casting his eye at the clouds, and marking
+their curious forms, as the light in fitful flashes displayed their
+shape.
+
+At times, across the distant hills, he seemed to think that he could see
+the position of the fire, but intervening objects would again confine
+his view, and he could only discern the light on the clouds above him.
+Coming at length to an angle in the road, from which he could look in
+the direction of his home, he was startled to find that there was a
+clear and well-defined streak of light emanating from some burning
+building, which must be at least in that vicinity.
+
+Without being conscious of any decided alarm, he urged his horse to a
+faster pace, and kept his eye more constantly on the light. For some
+miles from where he lived the road ran among the hills; so that, however
+great had been his anxiety, it could not be gratified until he should
+emerge into the open country. At length he is ascending the last
+eminence that intervenes between him and the objects of the affections;
+the light is still blazing on the clouds above him; he hastens to the
+summit, and beholds--heart-rending sight--the home of his childhood--the
+dwelling where all his earthly hopes and love were clustered--a mass of
+crumbling ruins, from which the forked flames were shooting up and
+crackling on the still night-air; those demon sounds went in streams of
+madness to his heart.
+
+'Oh, my God!' he exclaimed; and deep in the sides of his horse he struck
+his spurs, and the good creature was urged into terrific speed. It was
+but a mile, and it was passed with a whirlwind's pace. Straight to the
+burning pile he rode; a few person's he discerned collected as near the
+fire as the raging heat would permit.
+
+'My wife and children!--for God's sake tell me quick--where are they?'
+He sprang from his horse, and was in the arms of the faithful Caesar.
+
+'All safe, Massa George! all safe, tank God!'
+
+'Thank God! thank God!' and he fell upon the old man like a helpless
+infant. He was carried into an outhouse, which had been spared by the
+devouring element, and kind hands and hearts were soon about him
+administering to his relief. As he awoke to consciousness, his beloved
+Mary was bending over him, and her warm lips pressed to his in the
+ecstasy of her joy.
+
+'Oh, Mary! my dear wife! where are my darlings? bring them to me; let me
+clasp you all once more!'
+
+And quick they came. He cast a look on each, a fond, a satisfied look,
+and then in one warm embrace he held them all.
+
+'Oh God! this is enough--I ask no more. Let me have but these--poverty
+in any shape may come; we will not fear it.'
+
+'Amen! my dear husband; we will not fear it.'
+
+It is often said by those who look on the dark side of Divine
+dispensations, that troubles always come in clusters, and one deep
+sorrow soon gives place to another. This may be true, but not in the
+sense which these croakers of misery would intimate. As happiness and
+unhappiness are often but relative terms in our changing world, it needs
+but the wise Director of events so to time the dispensations of his
+Providence, that one evil may counteract another, or to hold up before
+us the certainty that we and every interest near our heart are at his
+disposal, to bring us quietly to acquiesce in his will; and in that
+submission there is peace. George Rutherford, as he rode towards his
+home, amid the solitude of midnight, pondering over his ruined fortunes,
+felt that he was suffering the severest stroke which could have come
+upon him; but when he came in sight of the spot where that home had
+been, when he looked upon the terrible flames, and felt the dread
+uncertainty which hung over the fate of those dear ones of his heart, he
+then felt that God, his Sovereign and his Father, had at his command
+profounder depths of sorrow in which his soul might agonize. The loss of
+fortune was but a mere sip of the bitter cup, a mere mist from the dark
+and waste wilderness of mortal suffering; and when he folded his dear
+wife and children in his arms, he felt, as he said, 'Let poverty come,
+we will not fear it.'
+
+But he had yet to learn the full meaning which that word conveys. Little
+could he tell, born as he had been to affluence, the anguish which would
+at times wring his spirit; his resources drained, his home destroyed,
+the little comforts to which his family had been accustomed, the
+gratification of their finer tastes, the elegancies of life--all cut
+off; it was well for him that he could not know at once the full extent
+of that change which had passed upon his fortunes.
+
+One bitter ingredient in his cup was, that he could now plainly see that
+he had been remiss in that watchfulness and care which were demanded of
+him, over the inheritance that had been bequeathed to him. His kind
+feelings had been indulged without the exercise of common prudence, and
+he had permitted a morbid sensibility that shrunk from a just suspicion
+of those whose delinquencies he was not wholly ignorant of, and last,
+though not least in the catalogue which he reckoned up against himself,
+was his gross neglect in regard to some things requiring but a moment's
+attention, and yet involving serious consequences. The most mortifying
+and truly disastrous of these was revealed to him a few days after the
+scenes recorded in the last chapter. It occurred, too, at a moment when
+his spirits had begun to revive a little from their depression. It had
+been suggested to him that the time was not far off when his tract in
+the barrens would be of immense value. Hitherto it had been estimated
+comparatively as but little worth. The timber was indeed large, and its
+value, when it reached the market, considerable; but the cost of
+preparing it and transporting it so far left but a trifling return to
+the owner. A new demand was about to be created in the successful
+application of steam for river navigation. As hope began to agitate his
+bosom, he immediately remembered that he had, but lately, been examining
+the deed by which he held that property, and had noticed that there was
+no certificate upon it of its having been recorded, and that he had
+designed having it placed upon the public register. This design he had
+not accomplished, and if it was not there, it was gone for ever, as he
+knew the flames had devoured the original, with all his other papers.
+
+Hoping that it might still have been recorded by his father, and the
+notice of the fact neglected to be put upon the deed, he immediately
+ordered his lawyer to make the search. It was in vain; and to add to his
+chagrin, the gentleman who made the search informed him that a deed
+which Mr. Cross had received from one of the original proprietors,
+intended, as was supposed, to convey a title to only a few acres, did,
+by this discrepancy, possess him of a vast tract of many miles in
+extent. Terrible indeed was this blow to him; his last hope of
+retrieving his condition vanished. He must now look abroad upon the wide
+world for some honest means of supporting his family. How he envied the
+laboring man, who, accustomed to toil from his boyhood, went forth to
+his daily occupation with a lively spirit. How gladly would he have
+taken his place, no matter how severe the work; but his muscular power
+was not equal to it. Trained to no regular business, stript of all
+external dependence, he saw before him but a dark and misty wilderness,
+through which he must grope his way as he best could.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+
+The influence which Henry Tracy was enabled to exert can only be fully
+known when all results and causes shall be developed in the clearer,
+brighter light of eternity; but a vast amount of good was manifest, even
+to those whose moral vision was not the clearest. Many a young mind was
+stimulated to exert its dormant energies, and feeling its strength,
+rushed on to distinction. His pleasing manners were a beautiful
+accompaniment to his cultivated mind, and gave a decided tone to those
+of the young who had any taste for what was refined and elegant. Nor was
+the renovation he was accomplishing altogether hidden from himself; a
+great change was working--he saw it; it did not fill his heart with
+pride, it only stimulated him to further progress, and warmed his
+gratitude to God. One thing was certain: he had entwined himself around
+the hearts of all, and his own affections were more truly interested
+than they had ever been before, beyond his parents' roof. It seemed to
+be the place where God would have him be--'The very niche he was
+designed to fill.' It was also the means of deciding him as to the
+calling he should pursue for life. To be suitably fitted to take the
+spiritual charge of a people, no matter how secluded or unpolished they
+might be, was now his highest aim; and after a suitable time he made
+known to the principal men that this was his intention, and that he must
+leave them, and go where he could obtain the necessary instruction.
+Little did he realize the hold he had of their affections, until this
+determination was expressed. Nothing would satisfy their yearning
+towards him but his promise, that, when through his course of study, he
+would come and be their minister.
+
+'We will build you a church just on the spot which you have selected,
+and we will put you up a house, that you shall call your home as long as
+you live; only promise that you will come and spend your days with us.'
+
+How could he say 'Nay'? Three years in all has he been separated from
+them, and now for more than a year he has been settled over them as
+their pastor. They have erected a church, and it stands, as we have
+seen, on a beautiful knoll that commands a lovely view of the
+surrounding waters; and they have built the parsonage, and it is near
+the church, embracing the same enchanting water view, although somewhat
+obstructed by its embowering trees and shrubbery. It is, however
+unoccupied, for Henry is yet a single man, and whether his affections
+are engaged, it matters not. He has made no declaration of them, and
+retains his old situation with the Widow Andrews.
+
+A favorite resort of his has been the cottage of Mary Brown. He loves to
+ramble amidst the seclusion of the thick forest, to call in at the poor
+cottages, give a word of comfort or instruction, and then rest himself
+at the table of the widow, and listen to her ready converse about the
+things of a better world. Sometimes, too, he seems not at all unwilling
+to listen while the widow talks of one she loves most dearly. Henry had
+met with Hettie Brown occasionally at Mr. Rutherford's. He had been
+struck with her appearance, and we need not be surprised at this, for
+she is some years older now than when we last saw her. The pretty girl
+with sun-burnt face, and curly raven locks, and dark hazel eyes, is now
+a lovely young woman. Nor was it her appearance alone that surprised
+him. Hettie had studied nature rather than books, but she had gathered
+quite a little store; and the ease with which she conversed, and the
+variety that her mind brought forth, together with the deep interest she
+manifested as he poured out from his own more enlarged mind the
+treasures of knowledge, convinced him that she had a desire for
+improvement, and an appetite for acquiring information that would make
+her an agreeable scholar.
+
+A warm yet lovely afternoon had tempted Henry to seek the refreshing
+shade among the pines; and not caring to extend his walk, he directed
+his steps at once to the widow's cottage.
+
+At that period of the day, he generally expected to see her sitting a
+little back from the house, beneath the shade of a large white pine,
+whose thick and spreading branches afforded a cool and pleasant shelter
+from the rays of the summer sun. Missing her in her usual seat, he
+entered the cottage; the moment he stood upon the threshold, he raised
+his hands and remained perfectly stationary, looking in silent
+astonishment at the scene before him.
+
+His eye met that of the widow; it was mild and calm as ever, but no
+smile returned his greeting, and she turned away immediately towards the
+object that then engrossed her heart, and perhaps intending thereby to
+direct his notice thither also.
+
+It was enough, indeed, to have chained a mother's attention; for on the
+bed by which she was sitting, lay her only son, for whose sake she lived
+thus alone, senseless, but still alive; his pallid countenance and
+sunken eye and cheek, his short faint breathing, all plainly indicated
+that life was held but by a slender thread--so slender, that a trifle
+might sunder it for ever. Close by the head of the sufferer stood his
+sister, gently waving a large fan, and thereby relieving in some measure
+the closeness of the atmosphere, which, to one so weak as he appeared,
+must have been oppressive in the extreme. Neither mother nor daughter
+attempted to offer any explanation of the circumstances; and Henry had
+too much delicacy, and was too sincerely affected by what he saw, to
+intrude any questions, or interrupt the perfect silence of the sick
+chamber.
+
+Gently rising from her seat, the widow touched the arm of her Hettie,
+who resigned the place and the fan, and turning her sad yet beautiful
+eyes toward the young minister, and stepping lightly to the door,
+signified that she wished him to follow.
+
+He offered his arm, and in silence she led him to a shade sufficiently
+removed, so that the sound of their voices could not reach the cottage.
+Resigning her arm, he motioned her to a seat.
+
+'Thank you; I cannot sit, but must return immediately. You have heard of
+my brother's illness?' looking full at Henry.
+
+'Not a word. But tell me what could have brought him so low in so short
+a period. When I was here a few days since, your mother said nothing of
+his being sick.'
+
+'He was brought home two days ago in the condition you now see him.'
+
+Hettie was much affected, and it was some time before she could command
+her feelings so as to give a clear recital of all she knew: 'That he was
+found lying by the road--that he was at first supposed to be dead--that
+a litter was made, and upon it he was brought home--that the ground
+where he lay was covered with blood, and other marks of a violent
+scuffle--that he had not spoken a word, nor could any one give the least
+explanation of the matter.'
+
+'Let me go with you to him at once,' said Henry.
+
+Henry entered the cottage with her. Little, however, could be done
+besides keeping the sufferer as quiet as possible, and administering
+some slight nourishment; and thus he lay from week to week, living,
+breathing, barely able to make himself understood by sign or word, and
+nothing more. But Henry was not the only male friend who clung to them
+in this their hour of need. David Cross had been almost a constant
+attendant from the moment William had been brought home. David had
+always been a visitor at the cottage; he had been invariably kind to the
+widow, watching over her in her loneliness, seeing to her little wants,
+calling and sitting many long hours, and apparently not unwilling to
+listen to her instructions, and ready to do any act of kindness,
+insomuch that she felt for him almost the affection of a mother. She
+pitied him, too, in his peculiar situation; he had no mother, or none
+that he had ever known as such--it was said that she had died many years
+ago; he had no brother, sister, or other relative beside his father;
+from him he had never received many tokens of affection. He would no
+doubt have been proud to see him rise in the world: and, as we have
+seen, was very willing to accomplish this end at the expense of others;
+but he was morose in his disposition, often unkind to the young man,
+supplying him indeed with money, but as often lavishing his curses upon
+him as any thing else.
+
+Dave was naturally of a kind nature, but had been bred among those who
+were rough and rude; his manners, of course, were more or less tinctured
+by his education; his associates were such as would be likely to lead
+him into wild adventures and corrupt practices. The only counteracting
+influence had been that which the widow exerted over him; and his
+conduct towards her evinced a kindness of feeling, and a sensibility to
+better things, which those who saw him among his wild companions would
+never have imagined. The heart of the widow yearned over him, and she
+never lost the hope that David Cross would one day rise above his
+present ways.
+
+And besides all this, there was in his heart a strong and long-enduring
+attachment for Hettie; he had been fond of her when but a girl; and his
+interest for her had become an absorbing feeling of his heart. During
+her long stay at Mr. Rutherford's, he had never lost sight of her; but
+having either business to attend to for his father in that region, or
+feigning it for his own ends, he would frequently take small parcels or
+trifling errands from the mother to the daughter, and many a precious
+bundle of good things had he brought from Hettie, through the kindness
+of Mrs. Rutherford, to comfort and cheer the widow. He was, therefore,
+by no means an unwelcome visitor at either house; his personal
+appearance was not unpleasant--a manly, open countenance, a kind manner,
+mingled indeed with some roughness, and a fearless, straightforward,
+animated way, calculated to make a favorable impression. Hettie seemed
+always glad to see him; so much so, that many of the family firmly
+believed that she had other feelings towards him than mere neighborly
+kindness. Mrs. Rutherford knew her heart in this matter, and was
+convinced that such was not the case.
+
+Hettie indeed did not love him, nor did she feel that she ever could;
+and was careful to do nothing that might give him occasion to indulge a
+false hope in regard to her. David had, as I have said, sympathized with
+William on his sick bed; he it was who had brought Hettie home, and day
+and night, with Henry Tracy, had been untiring in doing every thing for
+their relief.
+
+William's consciousness returned to him long before he had any ability
+to hold conversation, and the dilemma in which he found himself involved
+occupied almost constantly his waking thoughts. The desperate character
+of Cross; the vile plot that had been executed against the unsuspecting
+and noble-minded Rutherfords; the fate of the trunk for which he had
+fought so desperately, the least whisper of which had not reached his
+ear: all these subjects distracted his weak and flickering senses--a
+terrible secret lay in his breast, which he had not the power to reveal
+in any way that would be intelligible, and when revealed, must crush to
+ruin the hopes of the friend who was watching at his side, by bringing
+the father to an ignominious end. At times, in the agony of his
+contending thoughts, he would groan aloud, and the large drops would
+gather on his pale forehead. Hettie or the mother would bend over him,
+and say some soothing word, and wipe his clammy face, and inquire 'why
+he groaned? or where the pain was? or what they could do for him?' but
+he would shake his head, and closing his eyes, give up awhile his
+troubled thoughts and fall asleep. Thus day after day and week after
+week stole on, and still he lay in his feebleness, gaining strength, if
+at all, by a very slow and almost imperceptible progress.
+
+It was at the close of a lowery day; the shadows of night were deepened
+by a dark canopy of clouds which hung over the barrens. The Widow Brown
+had lighted her lamp and placed it on the stand by the bed of her son,
+wishing to sit as close to him as she could, while plying her busy
+needle. David Cross was reclining on a low cot-bed; he had taken Hettie
+to Mr. Rutherford's that day, and expecting to watch part of the night,
+was anticipating a few hours' sleep. A gentle tap was heard, and as the
+widow opened the door, a woman, clad in somewhat better garments than
+was usual among the people of that region, stood panting for breath, and
+looking with great earnestness, and in much apparent agitation--
+
+'Are you alone, Mrs. Brown?'
+
+'There is no one here, Margaret, but David, besides my sick son.'
+
+'Oh, _do_ step out here a moment--_do_, Mrs. Brown;' and the widow
+closed the door and followed the woman a few paces from the house. She
+knew her _well_--poor Margaret! and she pitied her too; for Margaret she
+had heard was once a pretty, happy girl; her home had been far from
+there. In an evil hour, she had listened to the flattering tale of the
+deceiver, and now she was a miserable dependant on the will of
+Cross--his slave to do his bidding.
+
+'I have run all the way, Mrs. Brown, from my house, and I want you to go
+right back with me.'
+
+'Not to-night, Margaret, surely; the weather looks so threatening, and I
+don't like to leave William, and Hettie gone too. What has happened,
+Margaret?'
+
+'You must go, ma'am, this blessed minute, for poor Ned Saunders is
+dying, and he says he cannot die in peace until he sees you. He has been
+raving crazy ever since the night he was brought to my house; but this
+morning he had a long sleep, and when he came out of it, his reason was
+all straight--but such a distressed creature you never see. He says he
+cannot live, and that he must see you--as he has something to tell you
+which he dare not tell to any one else. You don't know, Mrs. Brown, what
+a worry I am in; for you see Cross has charged me, by the worth of my
+life, to let him know the moment Ned had his reason. But I am afraid
+there have been some evil doings, from what Ned says; and if Cross
+should get there before I return, there is no telling what he might do
+to me.'
+
+'Well, Margaret, wait here a minute until I put my things on.'
+
+The widow was soon in readiness; and having committed matters to the
+charge of David Cross, without giving any particulars further than that
+she had a call to a neighbor's, closed the door and went on her way,
+dark as was the night and gloomy the errand on which she was bound.
+
+Margaret led the way; and excited by an impulse of some terrible kind,
+hurried on through the dark forest with maniac impetuosity. Their path
+was a difficult one to traverse, for it lay through an unfrequented
+region, and the opening by which they went, it was almost impossible to
+trace by the feeble light which yet glimmered from the close of day.
+Guided almost by instinct, Margaret pioneered, and the widow followed
+with all the speed she could make. For awhile they skirted the side of a
+thick and tangled swamp, and then turning a little to the right, came at
+once upon the feeble twinkle of a pine torch from the window of a log
+hut.
+
+'Anybody been here, Ned?'
+
+'No one. Has she come?'
+
+'She is here.'
+
+And the sick man raised his eyes to catch a glimpse of her he had wished
+so much to see, while a smile almost lighted up his wild and haggard
+countenance.
+
+'Oh, Aunty!'--this was the familiar title by which the good woman was
+generally addressed--'oh, Aunty! I'm so glad you're come. I'm a'most
+gone.'
+
+'I hope not, Edward.'
+
+'Yes, I am. I thought I couldn't die till I see you. You've often talked
+to me, you know--and I thought it was all foolish--I don't think so
+now.'
+
+He had to pause, for his feelings were greatly excited, and his frame
+apparently near dissolution. She put her hand upon his forehead, and
+felt that the death-damp was gathering there. She wiped his face with a
+cloth, and bathed his temples with some spirit: this revived him a
+little, and apparently in an agony to unburden his mind, he seized the
+first return of a little strength.
+
+'Oh, I have been so wicked! I shall go to hell--I know I shall.'
+
+'Are you truly sorry, Edward, that you have sinned against God?'
+
+'Oh, yes! I'm sorry--but what shall I do? I know I deserve to be
+punished; but oh, Aunty! how can I meet God?'
+
+'If you are truly sorry, and pray to God to have mercy on you for
+Christ's sake, He will forgive you, Edward; for He has said so.'
+
+'Oh, has He said so? Where? tell me quick, Aunty; for I feel the cold
+creeping over my heart--tell me quick.'
+
+'In the Bible, Edward: it is full of promises to those who repent of
+sin, and turn to God through Jesus Christ. He came into the world for
+that very purpose. He hung upon the cross for us poor sinners: and while
+he hung there, he pardoned a thief that was hanging beside him, and
+about to die. He says, "Whosoever cometh to me, I will in nowise cast
+out."'
+
+'You don't think He will save such a worthless sinner as I am?'
+
+'Oh, yes, Edward; if you throw yourself upon His mercy, and ask Him to
+forgive you.'
+
+The dying man turned his eyes away from the widow, raised them towards
+heaven, and clasped his trembling hands together,
+
+'God have mercy upon me, a poor sinner--a dreadful sinner! for Christ's
+sake; for _Christ's_ sake, only for _Christ's_ sake!'
+
+And the widow wiped away the big drops that stood upon his clay-cold,
+forehead. Again he fixed his eye upon her--
+
+'But, oh! there's a dreadful load upon my heart--there are--some
+things--I have done--that must be told--I cannot keep them. Come, lean
+your head down close to me.'
+
+The widow was by no means anxious to hear his tale of sins and
+misdoings, but she obeyed his request. He was greatly excited; his
+breath flew back and forth like a weaver's shuttle, and he could only
+get the words out by catches.
+
+'You know--Rutherford's house--has been burnt--and I don't know--but
+some of them were burnt in it. Cross--hired me and two others. We wanted
+to get a trunk--a tin trunk--I fired the house. They got the trunk--and
+I brought it along. Your son Bill met me on the road and struck me from
+the horse--and tried to get the trunk. We grappled--and I thought I'd
+killed him--but I don't know nothing since then--that's all--oh dear!
+Why did I go? Cross, Cross, Cross--did it all;--but, oh God!--here it
+comes--'
+
+He ceased speaking--his lips trembled, his eyes rolled back
+convulsively--he clutched at the clothing, a spasm shook his frame--it
+was death's last stroke; and as the quivering limbs settled into rest,
+breath and pulse were still.
+
+The widow saw that he was dead; and clasping her hands in silent horror,
+she looked at poor Margaret for an explanation. Margaret shook her head.
+
+'Don't speak; I believe it is all true, but you must not stay here a
+minute longer. The poor fellow is dead, you can do him no good; and
+Cross may be the death of me, if he finds you have been here--hark!'
+
+The noise of approaching footsteps was distinctly heard; but before they
+could make the least effort at concealment, the door opened, and Cross
+entered.
+
+The widow spoke to him in her mild, pleasant way. He manifested great
+confusion tried to speak calmly, but his voice choked and trembled
+greatly. He cast his eye quickly on the bed--
+
+'What! _dead?_ Ned is not _dead_?'
+
+'Yes,' said the widow; 'he has just breathed his last. Can I be of any
+service to you, Margaret, by staying here? If I can--'
+
+'Oh no,' replied Cross, quickly; 'there is no use, we won't trouble Mrs.
+Brown.'
+
+'Well, then, I will be going, as it is getting late in the evening.' So
+wishing them good-night, she quietly stepped from the door, walked
+slowly a few paces, and then hurried along with as much speed as the
+darkness would permit.
+
+No sooner did Cross perceive that the widow was gone, than his
+countenance assumed an aspect of the fiercest rage.
+
+'How is this?'--clenching his fist, and shaking it near to the head of
+the trembling, wretched female--'how is this? How came that old canting
+hypocrite here?'
+
+'Ned begged me to go for her: he said he could not die in peace until he
+saw her.'
+
+'Die in peace!' and he stamped his foot with rage--'die in peace! and
+did not I charge you, by your life, to let no human being see him in his
+reason, but myself?' And saying this, he caught her by the hair, and
+dashed her with his utmost power to the floor. She arose, without
+uttering a word or groan, upon her knees; she caught him by the arm; he
+endeavoured to thrust her from him, but her hold was the grasp of
+despair; at once he drew a poniard, that he always carried in a
+concealed case at his side; she saw it glitter as he held it up in the
+act of plunging it to her heart.
+
+'Oh mercy, mercy! for God's sake--for the sake of him who calls you
+father, don't kill me! Remember all I have suffered for you--the mother
+of your only child, though you have never owned me. Have not I always
+done your bidding? lost my soul and body for you?'
+
+Pity, or some other motive, unnerved his arm--he could not just then do
+the deed; but hurling her from him, threw her to the other side of the
+cabin, like a reptile that he hated.
+
+In an instant she was on her feet--a rifle was in her hand, and it was
+pointed in deadly aim at her vile oppressor. The gun Cross had not
+noticed--it always stood loaded; for Margaret (or Meg as she was called)
+lived alone, and in that wild place had learned how to use it. He had no
+idea that the poor worm he had so long trodden upon could ever turn
+against him; but when he beheld her eyes glaring with fury, and the
+deadly weapon levelled at his breast, his blood curdled at his heart.
+He made a step towards her.
+
+'One step more, and you are dead!'
+
+'Put that down, Meg; I don't want to hurt you.' The poor craven now
+began to cower, and thought that a few soft words would obliterate a
+life of abuse, carried to a point where woman's love turns to the direst
+hate.
+
+'No, never! Stir but one foot--move but a single limb--and you will lie
+beside that wretched victim of your hellish arts. Hear me now, David
+Cross; I am no longer your slave. You have ruined my name; you have
+defrauded me of the title of wife; you have made me disown my child; you
+have kept me in poverty, and made me a companion of outcasts; and now
+you have thrust me from you, like a hideous reptile--but your hour has
+come; that miserable being, whom you sent here a raving maniac, has let
+out your secret--it is already on the wings of the wind.'
+
+Cross trembled in every joint; a fiend, with demoniac power, seemed
+glaring at him in the being whom but a moment before he had so
+shamefully abused.
+
+'Meg, forgive me. I have wronged you; I know I have. Don't take my life,
+and I will make it all right. I will say you are my wife; I will do
+anything you want.'
+
+'_Forgive_ you? Yes, I will forgive you, when you bring back my poor
+parents who went down to the grave mourning for her you ruined; when you
+can tear from my mind the memory of wrongs none but a woman's heart
+could ever have borne so long. Forgive you? no, never. Your life you may
+have! but _go_--before the dreadful feelings which have been burning in
+my heart blaze up again. Go! go quick--'
+
+He waited not, but moved to the door, stepped trembling from the
+threshold, and hurried away through the dark forest.
+
+The moment Cross had gone Margaret opened a small trunk, hastily
+gathered together a few articles of dress, and slipping a little roll of
+paper containing her stock of money into her pocket, tied up her
+clothing in a bundle, cast one look upon the dead body, and then quitted
+the wretched tenement she had so long called her home, firmly resolved
+never to enter it again.
+
+She hastened at once towards the cottage of the Widow Brown, and so
+rapidly did she thread her way through the intricate path, that before
+the widow had passed over half the distance to her home, Margaret had
+overtaken her.
+
+'Don't be frightened, Mrs. Brown; I did not think to reach you so
+soon--but stop and listen to me.'
+
+The widow had indeed stopped, for Margaret came upon her so
+unexpectedly, that she was much alarmed, and deprived of the ability,
+even if she had the will, to escape.
+
+'I will listen to you, Margaret, but I have heard dreadful things enough
+to-night. I am almost distracted now.'
+
+'I would not add a straw to your burdens, my dear good Mrs. Brown, but I
+am a poor distressed creature. The whole of my life for these many years
+has been one scene of misery; but I can bear it no longer, and this very
+night will find me many miles from hence.'
+
+'Oh, _do_, don't talk so, Margaret. Come go with me, and rest you for
+the night at least; it is so dark, and beginning to storm already.'
+
+'This darkness and the rain are no troubles to me; but just listen one
+moment. You know that I have told you what I have no other human being.
+One secret more I must commit to you--that young man who is now at your
+house is my son.'
+
+'David Cross your son, Margaret?'
+
+'It is God's truth, and all I want of you is, whenever you think it
+best, to let him know what I have told you. I am now on my way to the
+city. I shall seek a place of service, and when I find a resting-place,
+if there is any such spot for me on earth, I shall let you know. But one
+thing I must beg of you--Cross has treated me like a brute, and I came
+very near taking his life to-night; but for David's sake, spare
+him--don't reveal the terrible tale you heard to-night. Promise me, now,
+won't you'--and Margaret fell upon her knees and clasped the arms of the
+widow--'promise me, you will not reveal it without in some way you are
+obliged to do it?'
+
+'Why, Margaret, my mind is so disturbed by all these scenes, that I
+cannot think of things as I should like to before making any promise;
+but you know I love David, and would be as careful of injuring him, as
+my own child.'
+
+'That is enough; but oh, do just put your hand upon my head, and say one
+prayer over me. I shall go lighter on my way, for I have but a heavy
+heart, and a weary road lies before me.'
+
+'May God bless you, my child, for Jesus Christ's sake, and make a way
+for you to some place where you will be in peace; and may you yet have
+some comfort before you die.'
+
+'Amen!' said Margaret; and seizing the hand of the widow, which had
+rested on her shoulder, she kissed it again and again, and then
+departed.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+
+Mr. Cross was in no enviable state of mind as he hastened along in the
+darkness, after leaving the hut of Margaret. The disappointment he had
+suffered in finding that Ned Saunders was dead; the terrible fright he
+had endured while standing with the rifle at his breast; the
+mortification of begging his life at the hand of one he had so long
+triumphed over; and above all, the knowledge that his secret was
+abroad--all operated with maddening power, and worked up a tempest
+within, that raged and tossed until he was bewildered by its fury. He
+passed his own dwelling without stopping, but hurried on, directing his
+steps to the north, through a by-path amidst the towering pines.
+
+After some miles of rapid walking, he reached the edge of the barrens,
+or rather that part of them that had been cleared and in some measure
+cultivated. He here descried the twinkle of lights from a small
+settlement. To one of these, a little separated from the rest, he soon
+came, and knocked with some violence at the door.
+
+'Come in.'
+
+Cross tried the latch, but finding it fastened, repeated the knocks in a
+way that showed he was in earnest to be let in.
+
+'Come in, I say--but stop, may be the door is fastened. Who are you?'
+
+'Open the door, will you? it's me.'
+
+'Aha--that I will;' and the bolt was withdrawn quickly.
+
+'Why, neighbor, is this you? how are you? come in. Well, you are the
+last man I should have thought of seeing here this dark night--take a
+chair, neighbor--what's the news?' And as Squire Foster (for he was the
+gentleman whom Mr. Cross had honored with a visit) said this, he threw
+away the smile, or rather grin, that had played over his sallow and
+flabby face, and assumed his naturally sly and mouserly look. 'Any thing
+good abroad?'
+
+Cross was in no talking humor: so let the gentleman run on, and in the
+mean time helping himself to a chair, sat down, and leaning back against
+the wall, fixed his eye, dark and lowry, full upon the little light that
+stood flaring and smoking on the middle of the table.
+
+'Well, there's the devil to pay now!'
+
+'Where? what, what, neighbor--any news?'
+
+'None that you will want to hear. Ned Saunders is dead.'
+
+'One rogue less, then, neighbor, ha, ha! he won't tell any tales then
+about here.'
+
+'But suppose he has told the tale already?'
+
+'That would be bad, neighbor; but you don't mean to say that he has?'
+
+'Yes, I do mean to say so; and the question is, what you mean to do
+about it?'
+
+'What _I_ mean to do about it?' and he looked at Cross with a vacant
+stare.
+
+'Why you know we are both implicated.'
+
+'Why, neighbor, that is all between you and me. You know I have been but
+a mere counsellor.'
+
+'Yes, and a pretty scrape your counsel has got me into. Here is one man
+dead, the two others gone out of reach, and the thing itself nowhere to
+be found. Like as not Rutherford has got it back again, and we have had
+our labor for our pains, and may be something beside not so agreeable.'
+
+'Well, now suppose, neighbor, I should tell you that Rutherford has not
+got it?'
+
+'Do you know that? and how?'
+
+'What would you give if I should tell you that I have got it, safe and
+snug in my own hands?'
+
+'Give! I have given enough already; but where is it? let's see it.'
+
+And Cross arose from his leaning posture, sat his chair square on the
+floor, and himself very erect in it, and looked fixedly at the Squire.
+
+Foster noticed the movement and the look of Cross, and without speaking,
+arose and stepped into a small adjoining room, took something from a
+case that stood upon an old dressing-table, and thrusting it hastily
+into his bosom, came back and resumed his 'Have you got it?'
+
+'Got what, neighbor?'
+
+'You know what, well enough--why, the deed. The trunk you may keep, but
+the deed can do you no good.'
+
+'Nor you, either, neighbor; it is safe--safe enough. I have got it, and
+I mean to keep it.' And as he said this, he very deliberately drew a
+pistol from his breast, and laying his hand on the table, leaned back in
+his chair and looked at the pretty plaything. Cross eyed him keenly,
+glancing from the pistol, which he saw was cocked, to the calm and
+almost unmeaning countenance of Foster.
+
+'What do you mean to do about this?'
+
+'I don't know exactly, neighbor; but at present I shall keep it.
+Something may turn up, you know--and to save a great deal of talk, as it
+is getting late, matters must stand thus: I have obtained possession of
+this at some risk; you agreed to pay me well, you know, if the job
+succeeded. Go on then--slash away at the timber; cut down and sell off
+as fast as you can--no one can hinder you--hand over half you get to me,
+and all will go smoothly enough. Do you agree to that?'
+
+Cross knew that Foster was a great villain, but he had never calculated
+upon the chance of thus getting into his power; he knew now that he was
+resolved upon a desperate course.
+
+'I suppose I shall be sued as soon as I begin to cut.'
+
+'No fear from that quarter. Rutherford is down, and has no means to
+contend with; his creditors will get picking enough to satisfy
+themselves out of his other property; and no lawyer will undertake the
+job, on his own risk, without more show of a title than he can now
+claim.'
+
+'Well, if they do prosecute, you agree to see to it?'
+
+'Ay, ay, neighbor, leave all that to me.'
+
+'And suppose there should be trouble about what Ned Saunders has been
+blabbing?'
+
+'That won't amount to much; it will soon be known that you are the owner
+of nearly all the barrens now, and they will be careful enough how they
+raise their tongue against you; a man is not very likely to swear to his
+own injury.'
+
+As Cross arose to depart, the other gentleman left his seat also, and
+dropping the hand which held the pistol, let it dangle by his side; the
+other hand he placed in his bosom, and facing his guest looked at him
+very complacently; a slight smile and a gentle, inclination of the head,
+on the part of Foster, were all the greeting that passed, as Cross
+neither turned his head nor uttered a word, but with a quick step left
+the house, and went on his way.
+
+The wages of iniquity are sometimes reaped in this world, and Cross was
+just tasting the bitter fruit.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+
+Mr. Rutherford had received his dear wife and children as it were from
+the jaws of death, but it had been by the almost super-human exertions
+of the faithful Caesar, who, for a long time, was disabled by the severe
+injuries he had received as he bore them through the burning building.
+The noble beasts for which Caesar had fought so bravely, with all the
+luxuries and comforts of his large establishment, were swept away at the
+demands of creditors, and nothing that he could call his own remained
+except the faithful old negro--who, although a slave, was too far
+advanced in life to be liable as property--and those dear objects in
+which his heart still found some sweet solace amid the drear prospect
+which surrounded him.
+
+At present he was occupying a small house which had belonged to him
+once, and used as a tenement for a laborer on his estate. Few were the
+articles of furniture which sufficed for their use, and those had been,
+for the most part, loaned for their immediate necessity. His lovely wife
+still kept her pleasant smile, but her heart was smitten with a stroke
+that pressed it down heavily. It was not the loss of all, nor the change
+of abode, nor the rude and scanty furniture, nor all the other
+aggravating tokens of their change of circumstances--but she saw the
+struggle that was agitating her husband's mind; she could not relieve
+him of that load of care; she could not obliterate from his memory past
+errors, nor could she mark out for him a path that offered any other
+prospect than the dark one in which they were travelling then. All she
+could do was to make the best of what they had, to throw into her words
+the softest tones, and to lighten up her countenance with the semblance
+of hope she did not feel.
+
+It was not long after they had thus been reduced to the extremity of
+fortune's change, wearied with the turmoil of his distracted mind, Mr.
+Rutherford was sitting at the little window that opened from their abode
+upon the highway; his Mary was beside him, and she held his hand, and
+fondly pressed it as she oft had done in better days, put it to her
+heart, and let him feel how true it beat for him. The shades of evening
+were just setting upon them, held back a little by the young moon which
+hung out her crescent in the west, when a vehicle stopped at their door,
+and a gentleman of lively mien alighted and prepared to enter. Mrs.
+Rutherford went for a light, while her husband repaired to the door to
+receive the visitor, whoever he might be, although, as he supposed, some
+messenger of evil tidings, like all of late.
+
+'Mr. Rutherford, I believe?'
+
+'My name is Rutherford, sir; will you walk in?'
+
+The stranger immediately followed, and entered their small apartment,
+Mrs. Rutherford, at the same time, placing the light on a little stand.
+
+'I expect you have forgotten me, Mr. Rutherford; my name is Andrews. You
+remember the poor boy you helped some six years since.'
+
+'Andrews--what, William Andrews!'
+
+'The same, sir. A few years make some change in our appearance.'
+
+It had, indeed, made some change, and one which entirely effaced every
+resemblance to the plain and homely-dressed lad who, six years since,
+had left his home to seek his fortune among strangers. He was now
+well-dressed; and had the ease of manner which is acquired only by
+mingling in society. He had grown in stature also, and was now a tall
+and slender man; his fresh, healthy countenance had grown pale. He wore
+his hair long, after the fashion of the South; his eye alone retained
+its naturally soft and expressive cast, although its brightness was
+dimmed, and seemed to indicate a want of energy in the physical frame.
+His own mother could scarcely have found a likeness to his former self;
+his very voice sympathized with the apparent languor of his frame, and
+had nothing in it that would recall the lively tone of boyhood.
+
+'It cannot be!' said Mrs. Rutherford, who now approached and took his
+hand. 'Not William Andrews! Time has indeed made a change--but we are
+glad, heartily glad to see you.'
+
+'It is not time alone, madam, that has made a change in my appearance,
+I suspect. I have been, you know, in a southern climate, and that takes
+severe hold sometimes of us northern men; but I am very happy again to
+see you, very happy indeed.'
+
+Without the least reference by either party to the great change which
+had occurred in circumstances, some little time was spent in a general
+interchange of question and answer about persons and things; when Mrs.
+Rutherford left the room, perhaps from feelings of delicacy to her
+husband, who might not wish to refer in her presence to his own peculiar
+situation.
+
+'You find, Mr. Andrews, that there have been changes here too, which
+perhaps must astonish you.'
+
+'I have heard of them, sir, a few miles from hence, and have urged on my
+journey further than I should have done. I need not say to you, sir,
+that to me it is the most painful event I have yet met with in life. Is
+it true, my dear sir? Are you as much reduced as report affirms and
+appearance indicate.'
+
+'I am as low down, so far as property is concerned, as I can be; there
+is absolutely nothing left.'
+
+And then, with much composure, Mr. Rutherford unfolded the complicated
+maze in which he had struggled for some time, and the closing of the
+scene in the last fatal blow. Although apparently unmoved himself, not
+so was he who listened to the tale of suffering. The southern clime had
+marred William's beauty, but it had only added to the warmth of his
+heart. For some time after Mr. Rutherford had done speaking, he sat
+wrapt in silent thought; his emotion too strong to dare trust the
+utterance of a single expression. At length he rose, and taking the hand
+of his friend--
+
+'Mr. Rutherford, the ways of the Almighty are mysterious, but they must
+be right. When a lone wanderer, you took me by the hand; you gave me
+counsel, you assisted me with means, you introduced me to influential
+friends; you made my heart glad then, and gave me an impetus which has
+led me on to success beyond my expectations. The money I have returned
+to you, but the debt of gratitude for your kindness to me in that hour
+will remain an uncancelled obligation while I live. And now, sir, you
+must take this trifle from me--I demand the right of a debtor to your
+bounty--take it, and keep it for your present need; it must not, it
+shall not be that either you or your angel wife know the pinchings of
+want.'
+
+His voice trembled so violently, that he could scarcely utter the few
+last words; nor could Mr. Rutherford respond to this warm burst of
+sympathy; it had gone directly to his heart, and caused a flow of
+feeling that could find no vent in words.
+
+'I must leave you for the night. God willing, I shall see you on the
+morrow, and tell you all my story. You then will see that I do not rob
+myself, and we will devise some other plan together.'
+
+Mr. Rutherford shook his hand with a silent grasp, but it told the young
+man that his offering of love and gratitude had done its work. Leaving
+his best respects for Mrs. Rutherford, William departed.
+
+As Mrs. Rutherford entered the room, after their guest had gone, she
+found her husband seated by the stand, and looking at something which he
+had spread out upon the table.
+
+'See here, Mary.'
+
+She stepped up to him, and putting her arm around his neck, stooped over
+beside him.
+
+'My dear husband! what does this mean? Five hundred dollars!' and she
+looked at him in amazement.
+
+'Yes, my love; it is five hundred dollars given us by that young man
+whom a few years since we befriended: this is the way, my dear, that God
+gives back the bread cast upon the waters.'
+
+'Oh, my dear George!' and she threw herself upon his bosom, 'how glad I
+am for you; you feel that you have one friend now, don't you?'
+
+'Yes, Mary; and you cannot think how my heart leaps at the thought; one
+sympathising friend in an hour like this, is indeed "cold water to a
+thirsty soul"; but oh! that better Friend above, shall we ever forget
+him, Mary? How good! how true! how wise! how unfailing! if we will only
+trust in Him.'
+
+They said no more: silently they sank together on their knees, and
+poured out the fulness of their hearts to that Friend--that better
+Friend above.
+
+In the hour of our deep distress, when the dark clouds are around and
+above us, the soul is prone to feel that the darkness which oppresses it
+is the frown of God: we forget that love may be concealed, not turned
+away.
+
+To Mr. Rutherford's heart this mercy-drop came; a delightful assurance
+that he was not forsaken, and that still the arm of sovereign love was
+stretched out over him.
+
+William Andrews had not been, for the few past years, engaged in the
+active whirl of business to no purpose: he had amassed a few thousands
+by a happy venture, and his success had been beyond his most sanguine
+expectations. But this was not all; he had learned to grapple with
+difficulties, and by energy and determination to accomplish results
+which the irresolute and fearful could only dream of. He called the next
+morning, and in a private interview with Mr. Rutherford procured from
+him a particular statement of his affairs.
+
+In a few days he called again; and there seemed to be a cheerfulness in
+his air which he had not before manifested.
+
+'I have been looking over your matters a little, my dear sir, and I
+cannot think they are in such a hopeless case as you imagine. Your
+property is indeed all attached, and if sold under the present state of
+things would, to be sure, be dreadfully sacrificed, and might not bring
+more than the claims upon it: you certainly value your estate beyond the
+amount for which it is holden.'
+
+'Most certainly; but by our laws an immediate sale can be forced; and in
+that case, the whole will scarcely meet the demand.'
+
+'You must apply then to some friend who will assume your debts'--Mr.
+Rutherford shook his head--'and who will take your property into his
+hands, until better times come round.'
+
+'I have no friends, Mr. Andrews.'
+
+'We once thought,' said Mrs. Rutherford, who was listening with much
+interest, 'that we had quite a number; but friends do not always stand
+the test of such a fall as ours has been.'
+
+'But they could not possibly lose any thing, Mrs. Rutherford.'
+
+'Perhaps they might not; still, you know, it is a delicate matter to ask
+the favor, when not one of all who have been with us in our prosperous
+days has seen fit to come near us now. My dear husband, until you so
+generously had poured out your kindness, felt that he was alone in the
+world.'
+
+For some time each sat musing in silence over the uncertainty of human
+fortunes and earthly friendships, when Mr. Andrews drew up to the table,
+and requesting the attention of Mr. Rutherford a moment, began to spread
+before him certain documents.
+
+'Please to examine these, sir, and say whether they are correct.'
+
+'These are my obligations, Mr. Andrews--I gave them in good faith; and
+although I cannot meet them now, will own them to the last farthing.'
+Mr. Rutherford looked with much astonishment, for he perceived that all
+the responsibilities he was involved in were lying before him.
+
+'Are there any more that you can think of, Mr. Rutherford?'
+
+'There are no more.'
+
+'Then, sir, you may take them and do what you please with them: all I
+ask of you is, to give me a claim upon your property for this amount,'
+naming not more than two-thirds the value of the notes. 'The interest of
+that I am sure you can pay, and your property is once more your own.'
+
+William was well aware that promptness in such matters was of the first
+moment. He had at once liquidated every claim at a rate which each one
+was glad to accept, and thus materially reduced the whole amount: this
+he could be well secured for; the property of his benefactor need not be
+sacrificed, and his heart was at rest.
+
+Blessings on you, William Andrews! Your frame is slender, and seems to
+be nurturing some hidden plague that may ere long make it a prey to the
+worm; but it is the abode of a generous spirit. How its quickened pulses
+beat with the ecstatic happiness which now plays within! Your eye is on
+that noble pair; and the overpowering emotion which is thrilling their
+bosom at this new and unexpected deed of love, is the richest feast you
+ever tasted. Oh how they will bless you as the years roll by, when in
+their happy home and on their own paternal soil they tread in freedom,
+and think of him whose generous friendship snatched them from the brink
+of ruin, and placed them there! Oh ye lovers of this world's treasures,
+did you but know the secret charm these treasures can unfold! Go, dry
+the widow's tears; go, aid the orphan's helpless steps; go, prop the man
+of pure and noble soul, bowing beneath the weight of penury's heavy
+load--and you will feel there is a talisman of untold value in your
+hoards of gold and silver which you never dreamed of.
+
+Mr. Rutherford had no idea of taking advantage of the arrangement
+Andrews had made, and insisted upon giving a claim for the full amount;
+but this William would not allow. He had made a fair bargain with the
+creditors, and would not permit Mr. Rutherford to bind himself further
+than the amount he had paid.
+
+'You can, my dear sir, as you are able, make good to each one what he
+has willingly relinquished.'
+
+'And, God permitting. I will do it to the full amount.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+
+We left our friends the Montjoys busy in their store, taking an account
+of their affairs, and preparing to encounter the difficulties they had
+been thrown into. They found things not quite so bad as they feared.
+Should the whole loss be realized, all which they had made would be
+swept off; but there would be enough to pay their debts--that was a
+great comfort: and if they could but preserve their credit, matters
+might all come right again. With the promptness which had ever marked
+his conduct, the morning after the reception of the intelligence which
+had given them such a shock, James was on his way to his friend McFall.
+
+The statement which he was enabled to make was very satisfactory; and
+would have been all that was required, could his friend have been able
+to advance the funds. The pressure was indeed of a most serious kind,
+affecting individuals and banks alike; and requiring on the part of each
+the utmost skill and exertion to stem it through. James found that his
+only resource now to meet the present emergency, was to lay his case
+immediately before the Bank; if he failed to procure aid from thence, he
+saw not whence it was to come. The power which by circumstances becomes
+thus concentrated, can only truly be felt by those situated as was this
+young man. Whether it be an individual, or a corporate body, and whether
+they are conscious of it or not, the ability, for the time being, which
+is at their command to afford or to withhold the life-blood of trade and
+commercial credit, is the most despotic in its grasp on the mind of man
+that can be conceived this side of infinite sway. It is not, of
+necessity, the fault of those who wield it, that it should often press
+with such sickening, despairing force; so long as enterprise shall
+stimulate man to go a step beyond the means at his own disposal, must he
+in some measure depend upon the aid of others; and once dependent, he
+can never calculate with certainty upon enduring peace of mind. The
+fluctuations in trade, like changes in the weather, baffle all the skill
+of the most shrewd and far-sighted: they come at times before any
+suitable preparation can be made to meet their destructive influence,
+and the high-minded, honorable man is obliged to stand before the same
+tribunal with the mean and designing, and for too often compelled to
+submit to rules which make no allowance for character.
+
+It was the first time that James had known really what it meant to ask a
+moneyed favor. He had begun life as we have seen, and gone on, hitherto,
+so much by his own means, that he felt more like a criminal about to be
+arraigned, than an honest man in the discharge of duty; and nothing but
+the absolute necessity of doing something to preserve the credit of his
+house, and upon which every thing now depended, would have driven him to
+it. He was not personally known to the cashier, and therefore his friend
+accompanied him to the Bank, introduced him, and left him to tell his
+own story. Fortunately for James, the person he had now to deal with was
+a gentleman in every sense of the word; a man of large experience, at
+home in all the routine of business, a complete financier, and with a
+large share of true benevolence.
+
+Every unpleasant feeling was, for the time, at once banished by the
+agreeable, frank, and very kind manner with which this officer received
+and addressed him. James felt almost sure that his end was accomplished.
+He very soon, in a brief manner, related the circumstances in which he
+had been placed by the sudden failure of so many persons, and then
+handed to the cashier the schedule of his property and liabilities.
+
+After carefully scrutinizing this paper with an air and expression of
+countenance that showed his business character, the stern and cold
+features of which damped James's hopes not a little, and at times caused
+a fluttering at his heart, which he had never felt before--
+
+'You are aware, I presume, Mr. Montjoy, that these are not only
+precarious times, in which the Bank feel that the utmost caution must be
+used, but the times are also very difficult. We cannot aid often, where
+we not only wish to, but should feel safe in so doing. It is as
+necessary for us to keep our credit unblemished as for individuals. I
+will, however, lay your proposition before the Board; if you will call
+again at one o'clock, you shall have the answer.'
+
+Two long hours of intense anxiety were passed, such as James had never
+before experienced. Not caring to return to the house of Mr. McFall, he
+repaired to a grove which lined the banks of pretty river that glided
+through the place; he sat down beneath the shade, and listened to the
+murmuring stream and the warbling birds--they were sights and sounds
+which he had always loved; but he now realized how necessary it was to
+the enjoyment of nature's simple sweets, to have a mind at rest. How
+often had he, after a weary day, sat in the quiet evening, and with Ned
+enjoyed its calm serenity, and watched the moonbeams play upon the
+water, or through the trembling leaves, and the bright stars coming one
+by one and gemming all the sky! What pure and peaceful thoughts they
+kindled, and how unalloyed the happiness that spread its soothing,
+quickening glow through all his frame! How he looked back now, as to an
+Eden, where he once had dwelt, but from which he seemed to be expelled
+for ever! Care, that canker of the heart, had come and taken, like a
+strong man armed, the full possession of his powers; tinging the heavens
+and the earth with its dark hue, and spoiling all their beauties.
+
+At the time appointed he returned to the Bank; it seemed to him that the
+interests of the universe were at stake; and as he walked up to the
+tall, commanding form of the Cashier, the man appeared to be vested with
+a power that held the very springs of life at his command.
+
+He was received with the same gentlemanly manner as at his introduction,
+and requested to walk behind the counter and take a seat, and as though
+he knew the workings of the young man's mind, and wished at once to
+relieve his suspense--
+
+'The Directors have concluded to accept your paper, sir; sit down, Mr.
+Montjoy;' and James took the seat with a lighter heart than he had felt
+for some time. 'They have done it in the confidence that your statement
+is correct: and I will say further to you, sir, as you are a young man,
+and have much business yet before you, that the manner in which you have
+commenced and carried on your trade, has had great weight in determining
+the decision of the Board. The times at present are very precarious, and
+you will need much prudence; but, sir, I believe I can assure you, that
+so long as you confine your operations to the regular run of your
+business, any facilities you may need will be at your service here.'
+
+The sun shone very brightly to James as he journeyed towards home that
+day; nature was almost as captivating to him as in the days of
+childhood; and the joyous shake of Ned's hand, and the calm sweet smile
+of his mother, as they listened to his story, all made his heart leap in
+gladness, and send up to Him whose blessing was the burden of his daily
+petitions, warm and devout thanksgiving.
+
+Thus the storm which had threatened to overwhelm these young men passed
+with but partial injury. The foundation they had laid in patient
+industry, prudent management, and stern integrity, bore them proudly on.
+The wily plots of Mr. Cross were anticipated by the promptness with
+which James attended to his affairs; and for the present, at least, the
+young firm is safe.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+
+The Widow Brown, in consequence of the disclosure made by the dying Ned
+Saunders, was placed in no very agreeable situation. She thought that
+the unhappy man had his reason, but she could not be so very sure as to
+be willing to publish what might not after all be true, to the certain
+injury not only of Mr. Cross, who had ever been kind to her, but of her
+son also, who had wound himself around her heart, and for whom she had
+been so earnestly entreated by that miserable woman who declared herself
+his mother.
+
+She comprehended but a very little of the nature of papers of any kind,
+beyond those solemn legacies from God to man, which daily she perused
+with love and gratitude. And what Ned Saunders meant by papers which Mr.
+Cross was anxious to get hold of, she could not conceive.
+
+'The poor, deluded soul,' said she one day, while walking alone, her
+thoughts too burdensome to be kept in; 'I am very doubtful that he knew
+what he said when he talked about those papers; and now that the
+dreadful deed is done, what good end can be answered by publishing it
+abroad? It will not build the house again, and God will avenge it in his
+own time and way.'
+
+She wished much, however, for the time when William should be able to
+make some disclosures as to his share in the terrible transaction. That
+he was a participator in the crime she could not believe; but that he
+had attacked Ned Saunders, and that the consequences had proved fatal to
+one of them, she had too strong evidence to doubt. The whole was
+altogether beyond the comprehension of the poor widow, and all she
+could do, at present, was to wait for time to make plain the path of
+duty.
+
+William, however, could no longer bear the struggle which agitated his
+mind, and he determined to unburden it. As there were reasons why he
+preferred to communicate with his sister, he took an opportunity, when
+alone, to reveal all he knew, and let her into the secret of his own
+present condition, and the villany of Cross. Hettie's first impulse was
+to fly at once to Mr. Rutherford.
+
+'He ought to be made acquainted with these facts without a moment's
+delay.'
+
+'But David, sister; think of him.'
+
+Hettie was silent; she gazed a moment at her brother, then leaned back
+in her chair, and resting her head upon her hand, was lost for awhile in
+busy thought.
+
+'David must be told, William; he must know it before any one else; he
+has had no hand in it, and all his kindness to us demands this
+confidence in him.'
+
+William made no reply; he was much exhausted, and even the effort of
+thinking was painful. The mother also now came in, and, wishing a little
+relaxation, Hettie left the room and sought a favourite spot to which
+she was in the habit of retiring, sheltered alike from the rays of the
+sun and common observation--a tumult of distracting thoughts rioted
+within; again and again she resolved the doubtful question as to her
+present duty, and the difficulties attending any course which presented
+itself to her were so great, that she most heartily longed for some
+experienced counsel to guide her steps.
+
+In the midst of her perplexities, she was startled at the sound of
+approaching footsteps.
+
+'I thought I should never find you. Your mother said she guessed you was
+here; but that thick clump of bushes hid you so, that I had almost given
+it up.'
+
+'I come here occasionally; it is so retired.'
+
+'I should think it was retired enough; but I don't see what you want to
+get off so alone for; it is lonely enough, I should think, all over
+these old barrens. But ain't you glad Bill is so much better?'
+
+'He is better certainly, David; more like himself than he has been
+yet--don't you think so?'
+
+'That he is--but you look sick; you sit by that bed too much, Hettie.
+You want a ride--come--Bony's at the cottage--go along with me: we will
+soon bring your color back.'
+
+'Not to-day, David; indeed I have no desire to ride to-day; and besides,
+since you are here, I want to have some conversation with you upon a
+matter in which you are deeply concerned.'
+
+'Well, come on--I'm ready for anything--out with it. I'm so glad Bill is
+better, I don't care what comes now; but look cheerful a little; do, I
+beg of you; I have dark looks enough at home. The old man is so cross
+about something or other lately, that he can't give me a civil word. I
+thought when I came along, what I would give just to live among you
+here. I tell you what, Hettie, I had rather live with you and your
+mother, and have nothing but bread and water, only to hear kind
+words;--well, you are queer--just now you was so pale, and now your face
+is red as a rose.'
+
+Hettie felt the flush which David had noticed; he had never spoken quite
+so plainly to her before, and she began to fear what next might come; so
+she commenced the unpleasant task of making him acquainted with his
+father's conduct; but she did not give the account in the order that she
+received it, for she began at the catastrophe, and told the story as
+well as she could, without alluding to the main instigator of the plot.
+
+'But what could have induced those men to commit such a deed? and what
+could they have wanted with the trunk without there was money in it?'
+
+'There was no money in it, but there were papers of great consequence.'
+
+'Papers? what could they know about papers? they can't read, not one of
+them; what good would papers do them?' said David; his countenance pale,
+and his lips trembling with emotion.
+
+'There is something more in all this that you have not yet told me,
+Hettie; some one is at the bottom of it. Who is it?'
+
+Hettie covered her face with her hands.
+
+'Don't be afraid, Hettie; out with it--is it my father?'
+
+Hettie burst into tears, and David sank to the earth, helpless as an
+infant. Seeing that he was greatly agitated, and that he seemed in need
+of help, she was about to go for her mother.
+
+'Don't leave me, Hettie. Do you think that this is truth, and that
+William has his reason?'
+
+'He seems to have it, perfectly; he has given a clear account of things
+from the first--I fear it is true.'
+
+'Does any one know of this besides you and your brother?'
+
+'No human being as yet.'
+
+'Depend upon it, Hettie, if my father has instigated this act, he has
+been in some way thwarted in his design; for his temper, never very
+good, has been outrageous for some time past; so much so, that I have
+made up my mind to leave him and this region for ever. There is but one
+thing which keeps me; you and your mother are the only persons in the
+world that I care much about--and you I love as I do my life. If you
+will marry me, Hettie, I will get together all I have got; it will be
+enough to purchase us a place far away from here, and we will take your
+mother, and Bill, too, if he gets well; and how happy we shall be.'
+
+Hettie was deeply affected, but she felt that she must deal plainly with
+him.
+
+'You must not talk so, David; you and I can never be married.'
+
+'You are ashamed of me already, Hettie. My father's disgrace, I see, is
+to be mine.'
+
+'I shall never attach to you, David, any wrong your father has done--but
+let us say no more about this. You have ever been kind to me and my
+family; all that a sister can do for you, I will; beyond this, I hope
+you will not urge me. But there are some things to be thought of that
+must be done soon. Mr. Rutherford ought not to be kept ignorant of this
+matter. I have, out of kindness to you, told you what I have heard, and
+with a hope that you will make an effort to recover these papers, and
+thus in part frustrate an evil design, and perhaps save your father from
+a great calamity. William has told me that he has some faint
+recollection of feeling the trunk taken from his grasp, while he lay in
+that helpless condition. You think your father has not got it; probably
+then, it is in the hands of some person who does not realize the value
+of it, and may easily be induced to relinquish it.'
+
+'I will do what I can, Hettie, to find out; but I caution you to let no
+person know a word of all this, at least not until I have failed in
+finding out some clue to it. Should Rutherford know what you do, and
+make attempts to search, or to expose matters, it would be the very way,
+as things are here, to have it put where no one can ever be the wiser
+for it. If my father has not got the trunk or the papers--and I don't
+believe he has, for the reason I have told you--it is probably in the
+hands of some one who has taken it from Bill, and is afraid to say any
+thing, for fear he would be charged with an attempt to murder.'
+
+David's reasoning appeared so plausible, that Hettie coincided with him
+as to the propriety, at present, of saying nothing further on the
+subject to any one.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+
+There were many things in the circumstances of Mr. Cross, in themselves
+not very desirable. He had, to be sure, injured Mr. Rutherford; he had
+destroyed his home; he had by his artifice, brought him to cruel
+suffering and mortification; and he had wrested from him an instrument
+of immense value to its rightful owner, although of very doubtful
+utility to himself. But this very instrument had fallen into the hands
+of one whom he hated and feared, and was now held over him as a rod of
+terror, to force him into compliance with just such measures as the
+dictator chose.
+
+He had committed also a flagrant crime--one that rendered him liable to
+the severest penalty of the law; and the knowledge of what he had done
+was not confined to himself and his agents. One at least, besides, held
+the fatal secret; and although she was a lone widow, and very much under
+his power, still she might disclose it--perhaps she had already done so.
+
+His situation was no enviable one. He walked by the crater of a volcano;
+he could see the fires and hear the rumbling beneath him; at any moment
+he might be engulfed.
+
+The wicked make the toils which entangle and distress them, but they are
+not the less troublesome on that account. Cross saw that something must
+be done, and without delay. The first step was, to ascertain what amount
+of information Ned Saunders had communicated to the Widow Brown, and
+then by some means, fair or foul, stop it from going any further. There
+was also a mystery about the disaster which had befallen William Brown;
+somehow he believed it to be connected with the loss of the trunk and
+the injury to Saunders, in what way he could not unravel; but he firmly
+believed that William knew, if he could or would tell, more than any one
+else. Cross had visited him frequently during his illness, and kept a
+shrewd eye upon him, at the same time continuing acts of kindness
+towards the family, as well as encouraging the attentions of David.
+
+He saw clearly, at length, that William was recovering his strength, and
+even guessed that he had more ability to converse than he felt willing
+should be known.
+
+It may seem strange that a father could be willing to expose his
+baseness to a son; but when the heart becomes accustomed to iniquity, it
+loses the finer feelings, and becomes callous to all sense of shame, or
+even desire for the respect and love of its nearest kindred. Cross
+thought he saw how he might, through the influence of his son, keep a
+hold upon that family, and he scrupled not to make a confidant of him,
+even to the exposure of his own base purposes.
+
+David had just returned from the cottage. It was at the closing of day;
+Cross was alone in his store, and sat pondering upon his plans and
+prospects, and the multitude of dangers surrounding him.
+
+'Have you been at the Widow Brown's?'
+
+'Just come from there.'
+
+'How is Bill?'
+
+'Better; pretty weak though yet.'
+
+'Can he talk yet?'
+
+'Not much.'
+
+'Not much! Can he talk at all? if he can I want to know it. But where
+are you going now?'
+
+'Not far; up north a short distance.'
+
+'You can't go now; sit down--I want to talk to you.'
+
+David obeyed without making any reply; he did not fancy his father's
+talks very much, but he feared to offend him.
+
+'I've got into trouble, and you may as well know it: it has all been
+done to give you a lift, and make you something in the world; but things
+have gone wrong end foremost, and now we must make the best of them.'
+
+Cross looked at his son and paused, seeming to expect an answer; but
+David either did not care how things went, or he wished to know more
+about them before venturing upon a reply.
+
+'You know Rutherford's house has been burned, and that Ned Saunders is
+dead; he was the one who did that job. He's gone out of the way, to be
+sure; but he has told a pack of lies to old Molly Brown, and if she
+should blab it about, we might get into a mess of trouble; but I
+suppose you know all about it--she has let it out to you, no doubt.'
+
+But David made no signs of acknowledgment as to whether he did or did
+not know any thing about it.
+
+'Are you dumb, all at once, that you cannot speak when you are spoken
+to?'
+
+'You haven't asked me any question yet.'
+
+'Yes, I have; has Molly Brown told you what Ned Saunders said?'
+
+'She has not.'
+
+'Has she talked about it that you know of?'
+
+'Not that I know of.'
+
+Cross sat silent for some time; at length making another effort, he
+disclosed his purpose.
+
+'The fact is, the old woman knows too much for our good. She likes you
+well enough; you know that I suppose, and she has good reason to do so;
+you can stop her tongue if you will.'
+
+'I should like to know how.'
+
+'How? Why, by marrying Hettie; she can't hurt us then, without hurting
+her own child, and she won't be likely to do that. You shall have money
+enough: the barrens are pretty much all ours now, or they will be when
+this matter is once quashed.'
+
+'How so?'
+
+'Why, Rutherford's deed for them is burned up, and there is no record of
+it, and mine covers it all.'
+
+'But suppose I should tell you that Rutherford's deed is not burnt?'
+
+'How do you know it ain't?' and Cross arose from his seat in great
+excitement.
+
+'Bill Brown has told all about it; he laid on the truck-bed under the
+counter the night you and old Foster were here together.'
+
+Dave looked at his father for the first time since the commencement of
+the interview. The dim light that came in through the open door just
+enabled him to see the ashy paleness that had over-spread his features.
+
+'Get me some gin;' and Cross nearly fell into his chair as Dave stepped
+up to him.
+
+'Get me some gin, I say; quick!'
+
+Dave immediately drew a tumbler of the clear liquor, and his father
+taking it with both hands, with difficulty put it to his mouth, so
+violent was his agitation; he accomplished it, however, and did not stop
+until the glass was empty. Drawing a long breath, he handed back the
+glass.
+
+'Go sit down; I'll be better directly.' Some moments elapsed before he
+could resume the conversation.
+
+'Who has Bill Brown told that lie to?'
+
+'He has told it to his sister; whether it's a lie or not, I can't say. I
+shouldn't think he would be like to lie just now, with one foot in the
+grave.'
+
+Cross saw too clearly that his villany was fully exposed; he sat
+apparently stunned by the perils which now hovered over him. David at
+last broke silence.
+
+'The best thing to be done is, to give Rutherford back his deed.'
+
+'That can't be done; I have not got it, nor has it ever been in my
+hands. There is only one thing that can be of any use now, and that is
+to stop the mouths of that family; you can easily do that by marrying
+the daughter.'
+
+'It takes two to make such a bargain as that.'
+
+'You don't suppose she would be fool enough to refuse you?'
+
+'Fool or no fool, she has refused me this very day.'
+
+Cross was again silent. It appeared that difficulties arose at every
+step; but when the end to be accomplished was so important, the means in
+his view were of no moment. A plan suggested itself to his mind, cruel
+and base to be sure; but he was in a strait, and what were the feelings
+of a gentle girl, even should her heart be broken, in comparison with
+his own selfish ends?
+
+'That is easy to get along with--there ain't half the girls round here
+that ever give consent at all. Get her over to the old rendezvous; give
+the boys and girls a wink, as to what you want; have old Goble on the
+spot--he's used to it. She'll give in easy enough when you're once
+buckled together; a little kind treatment and plenty of money will soon
+settle everything; and when you are in the family, and they can't help
+themselves, all will go right enough; and then, if they try to hurt
+either of us, they will only be cutting their own heads off; they won't
+be for doing that.'
+
+In order to the clear understanding of the plan which Cross had
+suggested, a little explanation will be necessary.
+
+Among these rude people, the subject of marriage, and everything
+connected with it, was treated in a peculiar manner; from first to
+last, secrecy seemed to be the main ingredient in the whole business.
+The courtship was carried on clandestinely, and very seldom was the
+marriage ceremony completed--it could scarcely be said to be
+solemnized--without at least a show of resistance and reluctance on the
+part of the female; she being often fairly forced into the room by the
+main strength of her companions, and never did the minister expect a
+reply, or even the sign of assent to his questions from either party.
+Goble, the character by whom nearly all the matrimonial bonds in this
+region had been riveted for the last twenty years, was a nondescript
+minister, who had some good things in his composition, mixed with a
+great many others of a very doubtful kind. He could preach in a certain
+way, on any occasion to which he was called, but he was very seldom
+asked to perform any such duty, and was well content, so far as he
+himself was concerned, to do nothing at it; he worked for his living at
+a small trade, and that, with the trifling fees he received for some
+professional services, satisfied his humble desires.
+
+David Cross listened to these suggestions of his father, outrageous as
+they were, with no little interest. He loved Hettie, or at least he
+thought he did; but brought up and educated as he had been, he could
+have no very correct idea of those pure and delicate feelings which
+constitute true love: he supposed that he could make her happy, and felt
+every disposition to do so. His interview with her the day before had
+not been as satisfactory as he had wished. He had never before doubted
+that she would willingly accept him, and had always looked upon her as
+appropriated to himself; to be thus disappointed, was not by any means
+grateful to his uncurbed will and unsubdued passions. It produced an
+unhappy effect upon his mind--a sort of determination to get her into
+his power; and he meant it in kindness too, for he was sure that he
+could make her happy.
+
+As his father, therefore, unfolded to him a way that his wish could be
+accomplished, he eagerly caught at it, and even then resolved that she
+should be his.
+
+The meeting between William Andrews and his mother was almost too much
+for the old lady; she ever had loved him dearly, even through all her
+harsh treatment of him. She had heard of his prosperity in his letters
+home; he had told her that he was doing well, and the supplies of money
+which he occasionally sent to her confirmed his statement. But she had
+not expected such a change in his appearance. His manners and style of
+dress, and the consideration which was paid to him, caused the old lady
+at times to feel almost sad as well as proud. William, however, was
+unchanged in his affection, and left nothing undone that could manifest
+to her his filial respect and love. The old house was refitted in the
+neatest manner, as she preferred living in that, she said, the rest of
+her days, to any new one that could be built. She would have been too
+happy, were it not that too many tokens of disease manifested
+themselves, for a mother's eye not to discern that there was a worm at
+the root of her gourd.
+
+The health of William was not benefited by his native air; the languor
+which oppressed him became more and more distressing, and the sunken
+cheek and the hectic flush gave sad notice to the hearts that loved him
+of his fatal malady. But his spirits retained their elasticity, and the
+hope of returning health seemed to grow stronger in his own breast, as
+it grew fainter in the hearts of his friends. He thought he should he
+better soon; and thus from day to day he went about among the neighbours
+who were now clustered in his native village, and rejoiced in the magic
+change which every where met his eye. What hours of delightful converse
+he enjoyed with those whose enterprise had given the first start to all
+these new and pleasant scenes, and by whose aid he himself had broken
+the chains of idleness and vice, and arisen to respectability and
+independence.
+
+Jim and Ned were the brothers of his heart, and between the three there
+was an interchange of the most entire confidence: Sam only was wanting
+to have made the circle of his heart's desire complete.
+
+Through the influence of William, Mr. Rutherford had been induced to
+hire a tenement for the present, not far from the abode of the Montjoys,
+until time should more clearly develop what course he ought to pursue
+for his future support.
+
+To this family he daily resorted, there he found another home, and in
+their friendship he enjoyed a repose that seemed to him a paradise.
+
+Hettie he often met, and treated her like a sister, so far as she would
+allow him, but he had said nothing to her about love. Perhaps his heart
+had been drawn far away, or the power of disease had so deadened his
+feelings, that he could not arouse himself to the effort of attempting
+to gain her affections, or perhaps he saw--for love is eagle-eyed--that
+there was one on whom Hettie looked with just such feelings as he would
+once fain have had her entertain towards himself.
+
+Henry Tracy still retained his situation, and, of course, William and he
+were thrown together in the same home; a sincere friendship had
+commenced between them; the mild and social character of both seemed
+formed upon the same basis. Although there was a vast difference in
+their mental attainments, yet William had learned much from intercourse
+with the world, and could impart valuable knowledge of men and things in
+exchange for the intellectual stores which Henry had at his command, and
+thus was his spirit beguiled from those dark and depressing thoughts
+which often attend upon the sinking frame, and even hasten its decay.
+Friendship met him at every turn in some new form, and her smile cheered
+his sensitive spirit, and kept up a genial glow; quickening his languid
+pulse, and animating him with unnatural vigor.
+
+He had been spending the evening at the Rutherford's, and had been more
+engaged in conversation than usual; it was near the time for retiring,
+when he was seized with a slight fit of coughing; and on Mrs.
+Rutherford's asking if he felt more unwell, as she noticed that he was
+unusually pale--
+
+'I am in some pain;' and he placed his hand upon his chest. She stepped
+up to him, and found that the handkerchief which he had just taken from
+his mouth was stained with blood.
+
+The physician was immediately called in, but his hopeless look, as he
+bent over the poor youth, gave sad presage of what the end would be. His
+mother and sister were likewise soon with him; but Mrs. Rutherford
+persuaded them to leave the care of him to her; and faithfully did that
+kind and gentle lady watch by his sick bed. She and Hettie moved about
+the apartment in that calm and unobtrusive manner so grateful to the
+weak and suffering. Every thing was kept in perfect order, and all
+tokens of a sick chamber were removed, save the chastened light that
+came in through the drawn curtains, and the noiseless tread of those who
+waited upon him. Their countenances, when around the bed, or bending
+over it to administer some food or cordial, wore no gloomy aspect, no
+anxious knitted brow, no look of sadness from the eye. He loved to gaze
+upon them both; angels they seemed to him--attendants from a better
+world, waiting on his frail body here, and soon to bear his soaring
+spirit to the bright abode which they had left. And when he talked of
+death, and told them he was going fast, and soon the struggle would be
+over; sweetly they would speak about the heaven that was beyond, of the
+pure white robes, and the golden harps, and the everlasting songs, and
+the bright meeting they would have when care and toil, and sin and
+death, were passed.
+
+Mr. Rutherford was often by his side, and showed, in every word and
+look, how much he felt. He could not hide his aching heart beneath a
+smile; he loved too well the youthful sufferer. Obligations of the
+tenderest kind he hourly felt. Nor was this all; he could sympathize
+with him as a man; how full of ardent hopes, with prospects bright for
+future years, and all earth's winning smiles beaming on his path, and
+now to die so soon, was hard, he thought, even though an angel beckoned
+him away. And thus when he stood by that silent bed, and heard the
+short, hard heavings of his chest, and saw the daily inroads of disease
+upon that face, which had so lately beamed like hope's bright star upon
+his troubled way; he felt like one who looks into an open grave, and
+hears the clod fall heavy on the coffin-lid; 'twas dark, all dark.
+
+And at that bed, by day and night, whenever he could snatch an hour from
+his varied duties, was Henry Tracy. His friendship had just begun to
+kindle into warmth, when he saw that it must soon be extinguished.
+William loved to have him near; he loved to hear him converse about
+those realities which now alone absorbed his spirit; and well did Henry
+know how to deal out the precious manna; so soft and clear, in tones
+that fell like heavenly music on the ear. He talked about the
+Saviour--for, to Henry, the name of Jesus was a name to quicken every
+pulse, and fill the heart with holy joy; and when he spoke of Him, it
+was as though he talked about a friend whose ardent sympathies beat in
+unison with his own; a friend who loved, who was now near at hand,
+feeling for all his woes, smoothing the dying pillow, taking away the
+sting of death, and preparing a triumphant passage for his soul into his
+own blest home.
+
+William drank in his words until his spirit rejoiced within him, and
+longed to depart. He had a strange pleasure, too, in seeing Hettie stand
+by the side of Henry and listen to his voice, until her face would glow
+with the holy fire it kindled in his breast; he could read in her
+glistening eye, perhaps, what few others could. William loved her even
+in death, and now, more than he had done for years past. He loved, too,
+Henry Tracy. As he gazed on them by turns, he felt how well suited they
+were to one another. He murmured something; Henry heard them, but though
+Hettie caught but a word, the rich colour that spread over her pale
+face, proved that she understood them. He spoke their names together,
+and he blessed them.
+
+Short were the hours after this that William struggled with the pains of
+life; around him were all the dear ones he had on earth; there was no
+violence of grief to trouble his departing spirit; hearts were bleeding
+silently, and as the last breath went to heaven, a moment all watched
+the still, sweet sleeper, and looked on silently while Mr. Rutherford
+closed his eyes, and then sat down and wept until their burdened spirits
+found relief.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+
+During all the period of Hettie's confinement around the sick bed of
+William Andrews, David saw nothing of her; he felt satisfied that she
+would not disclose what her brother had communicated to her. The efforts
+which, in the mean time, he was to make for the recovery of the lost
+document, were much relaxed by the interview with his father, as related
+in a former chapter. He saw now that his ultimate object might be
+gained, and suffered his selfish feelings to work their hateful purpose.
+He continued his attentions to William and his mother, and did much to
+supply to them the absence of Hettie.
+
+Reports are easily set in motion, and, as every one is willing to keep
+them moving, it is not strange that they spread so fast. Thus it began
+to be whispered that Mr. Tracy and Hettie Brown were engaged to be
+married; and although no one had any license for saying so, nor was it
+actually the case, yet so it was said, and David among the rest listened
+to the story. It took him not altogether by surprise, and only confirmed
+him in his purpose to accomplish the plan proposed by his father.
+
+The effort William had made to communicate the terrible secret which
+harassed his mind, enfeebled as it was by disease, had nearly proved
+fatal to him. The excitement produced by the thought of having the
+matter made public, with all its consequences to himself and others,
+together with the physical effort he was obliged to make in order to
+explain things fully to his sister, brought on a recurrence of his
+unfavorable symptoms, and as soon as Hettie could be spared from the
+dying room of William Andrews, she was again at her mother's home,
+although so exhausted in mind and body as to be able to do little else
+than watch by his bedside.
+
+'I could not come as soon as I expected,' said David Cross as he entered
+the cottage of the Widow Brown; 'but we shall have time enough for a
+good ride yet.'
+
+David looked very pale, and his voice trembled as he spoke, but Hettie
+did not notice it, for she was busy putting on her things. She had made
+an engagement with him that morning to take a drive; she felt that she
+needed the recreation, and as she supposed matters were well understood
+between them, hesitated not in accepting such an act of kindness.
+
+'I think you had better not drive far, David, for it will soon be night,
+and William has not been so well to-day.'
+
+'No, no, aunty, we shan't go far, or at least we shan't stay long, for
+Bony is in good spirits.'
+
+Hettie sprang into the buggy, and Dave drove off at his usual rapid
+pace.
+
+The rendezvous that Cross had spoken of in his conversation with his
+son, was situated in the midst of the thickest and least frequented part
+of the pines. It had once been used as a tavern, in days before Mr.
+Cross set up in his more public situation. Of late years, it became the
+haunt of all who wished to have a frolic as they called it--in other
+words, a low debauch; and scenes of riot were enacted there which even
+Cross himself did not approve. It was a lone place, and far from any
+settlement; of course no restraint was put upon those who wished thus to
+degrade themselves. It was also the chosen place for their marriage
+scenes; these seldom, if ever, taking place at the home of either party.
+Two old and miserable-looking beings kept the house, such as it was, and
+on occasion of an assemblage, gave matters up to the company to do as
+they pleased, their business being merely to deal out plenty of liquor
+from behind an old counter in one corner of the room.
+
+'I think we have gone far enough, David; I fear William will begin to be
+restless.'
+
+'I am only going as far as the house you see yonder. I must stop and
+water Bony, and as he is so restless, if you will step in and talk a
+moment to the old people, I will hurry all I can, and then we will be
+home in less than no time.'
+
+As they drove up, Hettie knew that she had not seen the place before;
+but hesitated not to do as she was requested, although the house was
+very forbidding in its appearance.
+
+'You've come airly,' said the old hag who sat just within the door,
+smoking a short black pipe. Hettie, not understanding her allusion,
+looked at her in some surprise, without making a reply.
+
+'I say you've come rather airly; the folks ain't none on 'em got along
+yet.'
+
+'What folks do you mean, granny?'
+
+'Ay, ay, I see you're jist like the rest of the galls, you want to keep
+it secret as long as you can. We know all about it though; but you're
+goin' to have a smart un; Dave's a good feller.'
+
+Hettie, supposing the old woman to be a little deranged, merely smiled,
+and walked into the room. David had driven his horse away, as she
+supposed, for the purpose of watering--Poor girl! she was in a trap, and
+soon her light and happy spirit would be writhing in agony.
+
+'Are you ready, David? but where is the horse?' seeing that he had not
+driven to the door, but come into the room where she was, his
+countenance pale, and with an aspect that alarmed her. 'Has any thing
+happened, David? You are not well?'
+
+'Come in the other room, Hettie.' She followed, but a strange foreboding
+of some evil flashed upon her mind, and so affected her in her then
+debilitated state, that she was glad to sit down on a long low bench,
+which ran along under the windows, at the same time fixing her
+penetrating eyes full on the young man. He took a seat beside her, and
+turning his head from her--
+
+'I want to talk with you, Hettie, on that subject which you and I have
+had up between us lately.'
+
+'What, David; about the trunk? have you heard of it?'
+
+'No, there isn't much chance of doing any thing about that just now; but
+you know what I said to you some time ago about our being married.'
+
+'That I supposed was all settled, David. I told you frankly when you
+first spoke to me, that it could never be; why should you bring it up
+again? I meant what I said, and I feel just as I did then.'
+
+'But it is not all settled: I have been thinking of you all my life,
+Hettie, and you know how intimate we have been, and when I think of your
+marrying some one else, as it is said you are going to do, I can't stand
+it, Hettie, no how; and there is no use of talking about it.'
+
+'But you surely would not wish to marry me if I did not love you, David;
+and that I tell you now, as I told you before, I do not as I expect to
+love the man whom I would give my hand to. You have been always very
+kind to me, and to my family, and we all think much of you, and would do
+any thing in our power for you, but on this subject I must beg of you to
+urge me no further, for it can never be.'
+
+David now rose and stood up before her. He took one of her hands, at
+which she made no resistance, but he felt that it was cold as marble,
+and lay in his grasp like a lifeless thing. He saw also that the color
+had left her cheek, and that her lips were of a purple hue; the eyes
+alone retained their life, and gazed at him with an earnestness that he
+had never met from Hettie's eyes before.
+
+'You must listen a moment to me, Hettie. I now ask you, once again, if
+you will marry me. I can take good care of you. My father has agreed to
+let me have money enough to purchase a handsome place, and we will go
+away from these dreary woods. Your mother and brother shall accompany
+us, if they will, and our home shall be theirs. I have invited the folks
+round, and the minister is sent for; in a short time they will be here.
+I want you to consent, and let it all go off smooth; but consent or not,
+Goble shall marry us when he comes, and then I should like to see the
+man that will separate you from me.'
+
+Hettie was not prepared for this; she knew well what were the strange
+and uncouth customs in that region; but little had she dreamed that they
+could ever be brought thus to bear upon her. A thousand thoughts rushed
+into her mind of the most appalling nature. She feared that her conduct
+towards this young man had not been sufficiently guarded. She had
+mistaken his character, and now that she was in his power it was
+revealed to her in colors too glaring to be misunderstood. But her
+courage did not forsake her. She was well aware that resistance would be
+of no avail: she cast her thoughts to heaven, and prayed most earnestly
+that God would make a way for her out of this trouble, in comparison
+with which death itself would be a welcome messenger. She resolved that
+there should be no misunderstanding of her feelings. She withdrew her
+hand, and after a moment's pause, replied:--
+
+'Your conduct, David, is as strange as it is ungenerous--unmanly. You
+have deceived me by coming to this place; you have taken me away from
+all help of friends. I am a woman, weak, and in your power; but I tell
+you now plainly, I despise you for your meanness. I shall protest most
+solemnly in the presence of your pretended minister, that I will never
+own you for a husband. No: I would sooner suffer the most excruciating
+torments, and die the bitterest death, than do one thing, by word or
+deed, that could give you a claim to me.'
+
+David Cross writhed under this address; but Hettie could not have
+pursued a course more likely to confirm him in his purpose. He was cut
+to the heart, and resolved upon revenge. He cared not now for her
+love--she should be his slave.
+
+As evening gathered over them, groups of females began to gather in the
+room; and as she cast her eye over them, not one countenance did she
+recognize as having ever seen before. They were arrayed in all sorts of
+fanciful styles; their dark complexions set off by pink, blue, yellow,
+and green dresses, according to the taste of the owner. Their untamed
+characters were too clearly visible in their rude behavior; and as they
+gathered around the suffering girl, the only sense they manifested of
+feeling was a hard, unmeaning smile, and a wink at each other,
+signifying that there was sport at hand. In the outer room, also, began
+to be heard the boisterous laugh of men, and the rattling of glasses on
+the counter, mingled with the harsh sounds of a violin, scraped by a
+negro, who had grown grey in the service, attending upon all the orgies
+of the country round. Little did Hettie, until that moment, ever think
+that there could be grouped within a few miles of her mother's dwelling
+a scene so nearly allied in her mind to the doings of the bottomless
+pit; and as the merriment increased with the exciting potions that were
+dealing out, her trembling spirit could only hang its hope on an unseen
+hand. She had made up her mind as to the course she intended to pursue.
+Resistance would be in vain; nor would an apparent opposition or
+repugnance to the performance of the ceremony avail any thing. She
+should therefore do as requested until the pretended ceremony began, and
+then would most solemnly protest against the violence done to her, and
+warn all present that her friends would prosecute to the utmost all who
+had a hand in the wickedness.
+
+As the groups were coming in, she anxiously looked among them for a face
+that she knew, and at length espied one that was familiar, dressed in
+rather poorer garments than the rest; a young woman whom she had in some
+measure befriended. She soon caught her eye, and beckoned to her--
+
+'Sally, will you get me a drink of cold water?' The young woman flew
+with alacrity to do her bidding. As she came near with the cup of water,
+Hettie spoke kindly to her, made a few inquiries, and then whispered in
+a very guarded manner a few words. The girl appeared much astonished,
+looked full at Hettie, and then towards David Cross, who was busily
+engaged at another part of the room. She then carried away the cup, and
+left the house.
+
+Inquiries now began to be made after the minister.
+
+'Goble ain't so hungry for his job as he is sometimes; he ought to have
+been here half an hour ago.'
+
+'He's getting old, Joe; he can't move as he once did. He'll be along,
+though, by and by--no fear of Goble.'
+
+The old negro, after a while, being pretty well warmed up with the
+liquor, kept up an incessant jingle on his crazy instrument, bobbing his
+old grey head about, and occasionally stamping violently with his foot,
+as he became excited by his own melody. In different parts of the room a
+couple might be seen shuffling away rapidly with their feet, tossing
+their arms up and down as they held each other's hands, swaying their
+bodies in all directions, and performing all sorts of uncouth gestures;
+until, exhausted by the exercise, they would slap their feet hard on the
+floor, let go of hands, swing round, and with a loud shout which was
+echoed by an uproarious laugh throughout the room, mingle again with the
+crowd.
+
+How long these scenes continued, Hettie could not tell, nor did she heed
+them much; her mind was too painfully oppressed in anticipation of what
+she might yet be called to go through.
+
+Henry Tracy had just returned from a visit to some of his charge, and
+was quietly seated in his study, when the Widow Andrews, putting her
+head carefully around the casement of the open door, said in a very low
+voice,
+
+'There's two of the Sheldrakes out here; they want to see the
+minister.'
+
+'Two what, Mrs. Andrews?'
+
+'Sheldrakes--there's two on 'em, and they're round the corner by the big
+tree; they won't come in, but they say they want to see the minister.'
+
+Henry stepped to the window, expecting to see he hardly knew what; there
+were, indeed, two uncouth looking figures, but he recognised them at
+once as inhabitants of the barrens.
+
+'Are those two men the persons you allude to, Mrs. Andrews.'
+
+'Yes, there they are--there's two on 'em; they're the real Sheldrakes,
+the critters are.'
+
+Without waiting to inquire into the peculiar meaning of the term, he
+went out immediately to them, and asked in his pleasant manner.
+
+'Were you inquiring for me?'
+
+'We's wanting to see the minister; there's a little job to be done up
+our way, and as the regular hand is sick we've come to git you.'
+
+Henry had become quite familiar with these rude sons of the forest, and
+therefore their appearance and manners were not at all surprising to
+him.
+
+'What kind of a job is it you have on hand, my friends?'
+
+'Oh, it's a little weddin' job; a couple of young un's want hitchin
+together; and Dave sent us for Goble, but the old crittur's got the
+rhumatiz, so he can't go no how; and as we thought it warn't no matter
+who does it, so as it's done, we've come arter you.'
+
+'What David? David Cross! He is not going to be married, is he?'
+
+'But you won't speak of it; so if you will be about dusk at the corner
+of the north road, we'll be there and show you the way.'
+
+'I will be there; but you must not lose me in your wild country;'
+smiling as he said it.
+
+'Never fear, sir, we'll take you safe and bring you back safe, and there
+shan't be a hair o' your head hurt; only you must'nt mind if the boys is
+noisy a little; but when they see it ain't Goble that's among 'em
+they'll behave more decenter, for they set store by you, minister, all
+over.'
+
+At the appointed time Henry was on the spot; a thick fog had settled
+around as evening approached, and the two guides were obliged very soon
+to light their pine knots. As Henry followed on through the thick
+woods, had it not been that he was somewhat accustomed to scenes of the
+kind, he might have felt no little uneasiness; for the men were wild
+looking figures, their long streaming hair, rude garments, dark, Indian
+countenances, together with the flaming brands throwing their pitchy
+glare upon the huge trunks of the giant pines through which they
+threaded their way, while all beyond the little circle of light in which
+they walked was a wilderness of darkness--the whole scene required no
+little confidence for one to be quite at ease. The men followed no
+beaten road, but were guided in their course by marks known only to
+themselves.
+
+The sound of the violin and the hum of voices were at length heard, and
+lights were seen close at hand.
+
+'Have you got him, Harry?'
+
+'Aye, aye; but tell 'em to stop their noise.' And the tidings could be
+heard flying from mouth to mouth; the violin ceased, and all was hushed.
+
+The room in which the ceremony was to be performed was spacious enough
+to contain a large assembly. It was nearly filled; the men and women
+standing promiscously in a dense mass, occupied about two-thirds of the
+apartment, leaving a clear space sufficiently large for those more
+immediately connected with the performance; within this stood a number
+of the younger females with their arms locked, and forming a complete
+ring encircling those who were intended to be the bride and groom.
+
+Hettie had followed, as she had been requested, on the announcement of
+the ministers approach; but the excitement under which she labored was
+so great, that it required her utmost energy to sustain herself without
+assistance, and she would have died before she would have sought it from
+him who stood beside her; to have lost her physical or mental powers at
+such a time, she knew would have been the end of hope for her. She stood
+with her face covered, as the only way she could command herself, and
+her agonized spirit poured out its terrible necessities to Him, who she
+believed could alone help her. As Henry Tracy entered the room, a buzz
+of astonishment ran through the assembly; the circle of girls opened and
+extended itself, so as to permit him to be immediately before the
+couple. He smiled, as he looked at David Cross, but casting his eye
+quickly to her who stood beside him, the smile flew away, and a deadly
+sickness came over him. He saw not her face, for it was still covered,
+but those raven locks, and that lovely form, he had seen too often not
+to recognise at once. For a moment he stood petrified with amazement,
+unable to utter a syllable, or do any thing but gaze, almost with
+horror, upon the terrible apparition which had thus risen before him.
+
+Hearing the movement around her, and supposing the ceremony was about to
+begin, Hettie sent one long, silent cry to heaven for aid, and then
+uncovered her face. Had an angel from that bright world appeared for her
+rescue, it could not have been more surprising to her than the sight of
+Henry Tracy. She clasped her hands together, fixed her eye full upon
+him, and uttering a scream of delight, flew towards him.
+
+'Oh, save me! save me!'
+
+'Where is she? where is she?' and a woman broke into the room. 'Where is
+my child?' And Henry Tracy laid the fainting girl in her mother's arms,
+and assisted in bearing her from the room into the open air.
+
+When David Cross saw Henry Tracy enter the room, accompanied by the two
+men whom he had commissioned to procure the services of Mr. Goble, he
+know at once that his design was frustrated. His countenance was deadly
+pale, and he cast a glance of fury at the two men, but he durst not vent
+his anger either in words or actions there. The mighty spell which
+Henry's influence exerted, even in this waste region, was too evident in
+the perfect stillness which reigned the moment he entered the room, and
+the looks of reverence that beamed even from those wild and untamed
+countenances.
+
+As Hettie darted from his side, he made his way through the crowd to an
+end door of the building, and with feelings which none might envy, was
+soon on his way towards his father's house. One by one the company slunk
+away, when they found that the proceedings were at an end, and in
+silence groped through the darkness towards their several homes.
+
+When Hettie awoke to consciousness, Henry was bending over her, while
+her mother sat by her side, smoothing her beautiful forehead, and
+putting back the dark locks which kept falling over it.
+
+All was still; she listened for those terrible sounds which had well
+nigh driven her reason; but no sound could she hear, except the sweet
+voice of Henry.
+
+'You feel better now?'
+
+'Oh, yes; but how has it all come about?'
+
+'We must ask you that, my dear?' said her mother; 'it is all a mystery,
+a great mystery to us.'
+
+'Sally went for you then, mother? I was fearful it would all be over
+before she could get there.'
+
+'Yes, my dear, and she is now sitting with your brother until we get
+home.'
+
+'Do let us go, then, for I am so anxious to get away from this terrible
+place--but there--what is that!' and Hettie darted a wild glance towards
+the door. Henry and her mother looked at each other.
+
+'There is nothing here, Hettie--no one beside your dear mother and
+myself.'
+
+'Oh--well--I am so glad!'
+
+Henry said nothing of his fears; but a terrible thought came into his
+mind; which was more and more confirmed by an occasional wild glance of
+her eye. 'Her mind has been injured, or she is about to be visited with
+severe illness.'
+
+The mother probably did not think as far as he did, although she felt
+that there was need for immediate departure.
+
+'Are you able to walk, my dear? if so, we had better be going.'
+
+'Oh yes, to be sure, mother.' And she quickly rose from the rude bed on
+which she had been laid; but no sooner did she attempt to stand, than
+her trembling limbs gave way. Henry caught her, and again laid her to
+rest: she was evidently ill already, and no time must be lost in getting
+away from that miserable abode.
+
+The men who had accompanied Henry were still in waiting to conduct him
+home. By their aid a litter was constructed; and while the anxious
+mother bore the torch to light them through the gloom, Henry with his
+two guides carried the suffering girl.
+
+It was a sad journey that for Henry Tracy. The wild and incoherent
+remarks which Hettie made, the deathly pallor of her countenance, and
+the quick flashing of her eye, which he discerned as the light
+occasionally fell upon her features, confirmed his worst fears.
+
+By his persuasion, the widow consented that she should be taken to Mr.
+Rutherford's, her own humble home offering no suitable convenience for
+another invalid.
+
+The ways of God appear unequal only to those who judge prematurely, or
+without taking into the account that this world is not the end. God sees
+as we do not: His design in all the dealings of His judgments and His
+mercies here towards those who love Him, is to make them trust in Him,
+and cast their thoughts, too prone to settle on this vale of tears and
+be content with earth, upwards, towards that better, purer home in
+heaven.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+
+War is a name that carries in its dreadful meaning scenes of suffering
+and woe, little thought of, it is feared, by those who, at the helm of
+power, too easily proclaim the deadly feud.
+
+The widow's tear, the orphan's helpless sigh, the agonizing groans of
+bleeding victims, the horrible necessities that wait upon the contest
+for supremacy where man forgets his nature, and hastes with tiger-thirst
+to seek the life-blood of his fellow man, are all forgotten or unheeded.
+A little land, not worth a single pang of one fond mother's heart; a
+little wrong that might by calm remonstrance be redressed, or even borne
+with, affords a pretext. The herald of defiance is sent forth, and
+misery, death, and desolation hover on his track.
+
+The event which Commodore Trysail had predicted came to pass, although
+somewhat sooner than either he or many other shrewd calculators had
+anticipated. The Commodore, as we have seen, had no misgivings of
+conscience about the necessity of the measure: he only wished for a
+better preparation, before engaging in hostilities with the greatest
+nation on the globe.
+
+As to his own private interests, a few months would have enabled him to
+place them on a better footing, yet, perhaps, he thought as little about
+that matter as most men; at any rate, he took a very decided stand for
+the government, and strongly upheld it in its declaration of war.
+
+With Peter he still held long private talks on Peter's favorite topic;
+and every new incident of the war seemed interesting to the old sailor,
+only as it in some way might affect the safe return of Captain Sam. One
+morning, as Peter handed in the pack of papers at the door of the
+office, he looked very anxiously at the Commodore.
+
+'There's three more on 'em come, your honor--'
+
+'More what, Peter?'
+
+'Of the blockaders, sir,--a brig and two schooners.'
+
+'What will become of our young captain, now, Peter?'
+
+Peter slipped the quid to the other side, and worked away at it awhile
+in good earnest.
+
+'I'm a-thinking, your honor, it's a great pity he ain't in a regular
+man-o'-war's man.'
+
+'What would he do then, Peter?'
+
+'He'd make her talk, your honor, or I'm mistaken.'
+
+'You don't think he'd fight, do you?'
+
+'What for not, your honor?'
+
+'Why, you know he has been dodging along shore here, Peter, all his
+life--he has hardly smelled gunpowder.'
+
+'Asking your honor's pardon for the freedom, but I must haul off from
+your honor this time. Captain Sam may be ain't had much experience in
+the fightin' way as yet; but your honor knows, it's more what's in a man
+than what he larns--a brave man ashore will be a brave man at sea, that
+is, a'ter the sickness is over; but if Captain Sam don't face an enemy's
+bullet with the best on 'em, I'll cut off my pigtail and give it to the
+cats.' Peter could have made no stronger asseveration; for he highly
+valued the long appendage to his bushy head, and of all creatures he
+hated cats.
+
+'Do you think, Peter, if he had a good ship and a dozen guns on board,
+with a fine crew, he would know what to do with them?'
+
+'If he don't, your honor, I'll give up t'other leg, and go upon stumps
+the rest of my days.'
+
+'Well, Peter, I believe you; and we think alike this time. You may take
+these papers, and show them to Lady Morris.'
+
+'Ay, ay, your honor.'
+
+And Peter hobbled away, discharging the old quid as soon as he had
+fairly left the house; and treating himself to a new one, muttering as
+he did so, 'Captain Sam will show 'em--see if he don't.'
+
+The Commodore, through the influence of Peter, had also become much
+interested in the Montjoys; all the story of their boyish days had been
+so often repeated that they seemed like old acquaintances; and although,
+for argument's sake, the old gentleman would appear to doubt the
+correctness of Peter's reasoning on the certainty of their doing well,
+yet he had great confidence in the young firm, and an earnest desire for
+their prosperity.
+
+Old Sam Cutter, too, with whom the Commodore was very intimate, had not
+failed to make him acquainted with the mighty change which had been
+brought about through the instrumentality of these boys in this place,
+now so lovely in its appearance. He felt that they deserved his respect
+as a citizen, and treated them with a consideration which, for the
+disparity in years and circumstances, was very gratifying to them.
+
+He was therefore a frequent visitor at their establishment--never
+hindering them at their work if he found them engaged; but bowing
+respectfully to the young men and those who might be in at the time,
+would walk straight through the store into the little back room, which
+was always in perfect order, and there seek for news among their papers
+which might not happen to be in his.
+
+On this particular day of which we have been speaking, he had an object
+of some importance in his visit; and as he passed along to the usual
+place, he politely requested the favor of an interview with the elder
+partner, when he could be spared from his desk.
+
+'In a short time, sir, I will wait upon you,' said James, who was making
+an entry in his book.
+
+That morning, the brothers had been spending some time in consultation
+about business matters. They had, as we have seen, been very kindly
+treated by the bank, and in consequence were enabled to keep along and
+meet their difficulties; but the serious losses which they had met,
+affected them much more than they at first anticipated. They had never
+before known what it was to be cramped in their means for doing
+business, because they had only increased their transactions as they
+found themselves able to do so; but things could not very easily be
+brought back by the same process--they must either go on, or suspend
+altogether; and either alternative involved difficulties of no ordinary
+kind. To continue as they had, they must for years to come, so far as
+they could see, be constantly devising ways and means to meet
+engagements, involving anxiety, dependence, watchfulness, and untiring
+attention: to suspend their operations, would not only be a bitter
+humiliation to their sensitive spirits, but there would be a sacrifice
+of property that might leave them without the ability to pay many of
+their just debts. There was also a difficulty attending their situation
+which troubled them more than all else beside. They had been in the
+habit of receiving from many of their customers small sums of money
+which they wished to secure against a time of need; the unbounded
+confidence reposed in the young men brought all the loose money of those
+in moderate circumstances into their hands: they allowed an interest for
+it, and hitherto had been able to return any sum when suddenly called
+for. The amount thus accumulated was now about two thousand dollars; and
+it was due in sums of from ten to three hundred. With many of these
+depositors, it was the whole of their possession.
+
+The idea of danger from thus receiving funds had never occurred to the
+brothers, until they found by experience the difficulties which attended
+the raising money on an emergency with their diminished capital--in
+fact, with no other capital than their credit. But now they clearly saw
+that it placed them over a volcano; it might explode at any time, lay
+their business and well-earned reputation in ruins together, and utterly
+disable them from giving back this money thus sacredly intrusted to
+their keeping. And it was on this particular point they had been
+consulting that morning; their fears were mutually expressed, and they
+came to the resolution that they would involve themselves in such
+difficulties no farther.
+
+As soon as James could leave his desk, he repaired to the back-room.
+After some kind greetings on either side, the Commodore straightened
+himself in his chair, and resting one hand on his large gold-headed
+cane--
+
+'I want to talk with you a little, Mr. Montjoy, about money this
+morning.'
+
+James's heart beat quick; he could not help it, for the Commodore had
+placed five hundred dollars in his hands a short time previous, and
+requested him to keep it until he called for it.
+
+'I put five hundred dollars in your hands lately, which I was to have,
+you know, when I should call for it.'
+
+'Yes, sir, certainly by all means.' Poor James! he knew not where it was
+to come from, and he secretly wished that he had never owned a dollar,
+or that there was no such thing as money.
+
+'Well, sir, I have just received advices from the city that certain sum
+of money, which I suppose--'
+
+Ned stepped into the office, and requested the presence of his brother a
+moment. The Commodore bade him go, by all means, that he would wait his
+leisure.
+
+The business for which James was required was to close a very
+advantageous bargain for some produce, but he was in no state of mind to
+do business--money, ready money, was the only idea he could cherish; it
+clung to his spirit like the nightmare; he could neither bargain nor
+calculate, so he waived the matter, and was back again to the little
+room; he merely whispered to Ned,
+
+'The Commodore, I suppose, has come for his money.'
+
+'What shall we do?'
+
+'I don't know.'
+
+And he entered the room again, and sat down.
+
+'As I was saying, Mr. Montjoy, when your brother called you away, a
+certain sum of money, which I supposed had been invested, I learn by my
+advices to-day is still lying idle, and waiting my orders. These are
+ticklish times, Mr. Montjoy, and they will be worse before long. I am
+afraid of stocks at present, and have therefore concluded to draw for
+these funds, and place them in your hands; you can use them to
+advantage, no doubt.'
+
+And the Commodore took a long pinch of snuff, which had been for some
+time in waiting between his thumb and forefinger.
+
+James felt a load fall from his heart, and for a moment was silent.
+
+'I thank you, sir, for your kind offer, and for the confidence reposed
+in us; but before I can give you an answer, allow me to confer with my
+brother.'
+
+The character of these two young men had never been so severely tested
+before. An offer, unsolicited, had been made to them of that which they
+stood so much in need of, and which would relieve them from
+embarrassment. Ned clapped his hands, and rubbed them violently together
+in the ecstasy of his joy.
+
+'But, my dear Ned, ought we to take it?'
+
+'Why not?'
+
+'Because, he doubtless supposes that we are well off, and has no idea of
+our losses; and I've been thinking that, under the circumstances, we
+ought not to touch a dollar of it.'
+
+'That, to be sure, Jim;'--and Ned's countenance drooped; he hung his
+head, and began to kick the counter with his foot.
+
+'We concluded, you know, Ned, that we would take no more money in this
+way.'
+
+'Well, we had better stick to that, let what will come.'
+
+'How would it answer to tell him just the situation of things with us,
+and the reasons why we cannot receive it.'
+
+'If you tell him any thing, Jim, you had better tell the whole.'
+
+James's heart was lighter, because he had resolved to act consistently
+with a sense of duty.
+
+'I believe, sir, we must decline your generous offer.'
+
+James saw that the Commodore seemed surprised.
+
+'We do this, sir, not but that we need the funds--and they would at the
+present moment be of immense advantage to us--but we have no doubt, that
+you have made the offer under the impression that we are in very
+different circumstances from what, I am sorry to say, is the truth. But
+as you are a man of business, and can appreciate our motives for not
+having made a general exposition of our affairs, I will communicate to
+you our true situation.'
+
+And James gave a clear account of their course of business, from its
+commencement to the time when such unexpected losses at one stroke swept
+off the hard-earned profits of their youthful enterprise. He also
+explained to him the unpleasant situation in which they felt themselves
+placed, by being made the depositaries of so many sums of money, which
+might be called for at any moment, and especially should the least
+surmise get abroad unfriendly to their standing.
+
+After he had closed, the Commodore took out his gold snuff-box, and
+rapping it pretty hard, helped himself freely, and then very
+deliberately returned it to his pocket.
+
+'Mr. Montjoy, what you tell me surprises me very much; but it shall go
+no further, I assure you. Can you favor me with pen and ink a moment?'
+
+He then drew up to the table on which James had placed the required
+articles.
+
+'I believe it is five hundred dollars exactly that I handed you lately?'
+
+'Just five hundred, sir.'
+
+'I have done it now,' thought Jim; 'he is afraid of us, and intends to
+draw it out; but my duty has been performed, let what will come.'
+
+'Mr. Montjoy, I said that I was much surprised at the statement you have
+made, but I cannot say that I am sorry for the misfortune you have met
+with'--and the keen black eye of the Commodore was fixed upon James; he
+saw that his remark had affected him, for a deep blush mantled his fine
+countenance--'because, sir, it affords me an opportunity of expressing,
+as I could not otherwise do, my sense of your invaluable services to
+this your native place, and my approbation of your noble character.
+Here, sir, is my draft for five thousand dollars, which, with what you
+already have, I place in your hands, if you will merely sign this
+receipt for the amount, payable as you see in ten years, without
+interest. Don't say any thing, my dear sir'--seeing that James was about
+to say a great deal--'not a word, if you please; just sit down a moment,
+Mr. Montjoy; you say that it has been a cause of uneasiness to you, that
+you have money in your hands intrusted to you for keeping.'
+
+'We shall now pay that off at once, sir; I will not keep it another
+day.'
+
+'You must do no such thing, sir. It is a great benefit to these people
+to have their funds in the hands of an honest firm. This you must do;
+take two thousand dollars of this money, and invest it in a mortgage, on
+some good property; keep it as a resort, in case of the worst, and hold
+it sacred for these deposits; the balance use as you please! And now,
+sir, a good morning to you;' rising, at the same time, and shaking the
+hand of James very warmly.
+
+'Your kindness, sir--'
+
+'Not a word, Mr. Montjoy, not a word, if you please; good morning, and
+God bless you.'
+
+The Commodore, walking through the store, saluted Edward, who stood
+behind the counter, attending upon customers, with a very long face.
+
+As soon as Ned could be disengaged, he stepped up to his brother, who
+was working away again at his books--
+
+'See here, Ned.'
+
+'What does it mean, Jim?'
+
+'It means that he has loaned it to us for ten years, free from interest,
+and with a full knowledge of our affairs.'
+
+Ned was deeply affected with this sudden interposition in their favor;
+he looked full in his brother's face, and Jim, for the first time in
+many years, saw tears in his brother's eye.
+
+'I hope we shall not forget this.'
+
+'I hope not, Ned.'
+
+The Commodore walked home with a very light heart that day. He must have
+felt that he had made a good investment, for his step was very elastic,
+and he gazed upon the pleasing prospect around him, and looked upon the
+signs of thrift that met his view on every side with so much
+complacency, that one would have supposed he had a new interest in it
+all, and felt that he was a partner in the great concern.
+
+It had been a lovely morning, and nature appeared to be in perfect
+repose; not a cloud to dim the bright sun, nor a motion in the
+atmosphere to stir even the leaf of the aspen, if there had been any
+just then to stir, but it was not the season of leaves. A change,
+however, was about to take place, and the Commodore was sailor enough to
+guess that it was likely to be a violent one. Seeing Peter occupying his
+favorite seat (a large flat rock on the brow of the hill overhanging the
+shore), with the spy-glass in his hand, and perhaps a little curious to
+take a peep through it himself, he extended his walk to the edge of the
+hill.
+
+'A sail in sight, Peter?'
+
+The old man hopped down from his perch at the sound of the Commodore's
+voice, hastily clapped a quid into his mouth, which he had just cut off
+for that very purpose, doffed his hat, and laid hold of his crutches,
+all which ceremonies he went through with a celerity quite surprising.
+
+'I was thinking, your honor, that there's goin' to be foul weather
+outside to-night; them clouds look squally, and they keep growing
+thicker and thicker.'
+
+'It certainly looks threatening, Peter.'
+
+'It looks very threatening, your honor; and I don't care, for one, how
+hard it comes, so it will only blow them ugly black craft that are
+laying off and on there, high and dry somewhere or another.'
+
+'That, to be sure, Peter; they would have an uneasy berth of it in a
+heavy gale, where they now are.'
+
+'They would, sir, you may depend on it; and I think they're a little
+uneasy a-ready, for the biggest on 'em have clawed off out of sight, and
+the others that were at anchor have hauled up, and are starting too. If
+your honor will look through the glass, you can see all their
+movements. They'll have a time on it--there, did you hear that, your
+honor?'
+
+'A gun, Peter, and a heavy one, but at a great distance.'
+
+'I've heard several on 'em, your honor, before; there's something to
+pay, out there; they wouldn't fire such metal as that for signals.'
+
+'Well, I only wish they were out of the way for a few weeks, Peter.
+Captain Sam would stand but a poor chance if he should get among them.'
+
+'There would be no chance at all, your honor, there's so many on 'em; I
+might as well try to run through that picket fence, crutches and all;
+and as to fightin' it out, your honor knows there's too much odds agin
+one--they'd blow him out of water.'
+
+'Or sink him under it.'
+
+'Or sink him under it, your honor.'
+
+Peter's prophecy respecting the weather was too truly realized: the
+heavens, ere the night shut in, were covered with dark and ragged
+clouds, chasing each other like heaving surges wildly through the air:
+gusts of wind occasionally swept along, increasing in violence at each
+succeeding blast; while in the distance, the heavy roar of the ocean
+told plainly of the tumult that was going on there, and what might be
+expected when the strength of the tempest should break upon the land.
+The fitful gusts at length settled into one long-continued, furious
+blast, increasing gradually its terrible power, until the strongest
+dwellings rocked and trembled to their base, and even the stout-hearted
+turned their thoughts to Him whose will the winds obey, and before whose
+power man shrinks to nothing.
+
+The family of Mr. Rutherford had been long in a state of painful
+anxiety, watching untiringly around the sick, and, to all human
+probability, the dying bed of Hettie. The scenes of trial which she had
+been passing through for several successive months, had imperceptibly
+weakened her frame; and the terrible ordeal of the mock-marriage proved
+just the stroke too much for her to bear. In the wildest delirium, her
+spirit tossed and agonized for weeks; and then, as her nature sunk, worn
+out with the wrestling of her troubled mind, it required the nicest care
+and most faithful attendance to stay up her feeble tenement.
+
+Nothing was wanting that love could minister for her benefit; and hope
+again began to bless the spirits of friends. Her reason was restored,
+her strength gradually returned, and although confined still to her bed,
+the signs of recovery were so evident, that cheerfulness once more
+blessed the countenances of that much afflicted but still happy family.
+
+Hettie had resolved to keep the secret with which she had been intrusted
+by her brother no longer than she could acquire strength to reveal it;
+and on this very day that we have been describing, she had told Mr.
+Rutherford all she knew.
+
+That evening, while the tempest was roaring around his dwelling, he sat
+alone in the room where his family usually congregated, Mrs. Rutherford
+and the children having retired to Hettie's apartment, to give what
+cheer they could to the sick room during the wild howling of the storm.
+His thoughts, busied with the intelligence which had that day been
+communicated to him, and agitated between hope and fear, were devising
+all manner of plans for the recovery of documents of so much value, and
+the surest way to bring the dangerous men concerned in the transaction
+to justice, when a loud knocking against an outer door reached his ear.
+Thinking it might be some benighted stranger, he hurried to admit him,
+as soon as possible, to a shelter from the peltings of a pitiless storm.
+
+Opening the door, he requested the stranger to hasten in, not waiting to
+inquire who he was, or what he wanted. The first glance, however, as he
+turned towards his visitor, made him regret that he had been so hasty;
+for David Cross, with a wild and haggard countenance, stood before him.
+Mr. Rutherford had no reason to think that his errand was a good one,
+but he was resolved to treat him with forbearance. David spoke first--
+
+'A terrible storm, sir.'
+
+'Your business must be urgent, Mr. Cross, that drives you out through
+such a night.'
+
+'It is urgent, sir. Is Miss Hettie in a condition to be seen?'
+
+'She is not, except by those with whom she feels perfectly at rest.'
+
+'I must see her, Mr. Rutherford, if such a thing is possible. I have
+done her great injustice, and I wish to make all the atonement in my
+power. As you value the future peace of an unhappy man, I beg you, sir,
+to allow me but a moment's interview.'
+
+'It cannot be, Mr. Cross; your presence in her chamber would, in all
+probability, throw her again into the same horrible condition from which
+she has but just recovered; and a relapse would be fatal.'
+
+Cross looked away from Mr. Rutherford, and fixed his eye on the door. He
+seemed in an agony, for occasionally a tremor shook his whole frame, and
+Mr. Rutherford thought he saw him wipe away a tear. For some moments
+neither spoke. At length turning, and with a beseeching look addressing
+Mr. Rutherford,
+
+'Will you allow me, sir, to send a line to her; perhaps she may wish to
+see me.'
+
+'I will, sir; but I am not at all sure that you will be permitted to see
+her, even if she consents.'
+
+He wrote a few lines, and handing it to Mr. Rutherford--
+
+'If she refuses to see me after she has read that, so be it; but I will
+not then be to blame for the consequences which may follow.'
+
+Hettie read the little note, or, more properly, it was read to her. It
+ran thus: 'Hettie, I want to ask your forgiveness, and to tell you that
+I have discovered the paper.--D. Cross.'
+
+'I think he had better come in,' said Hettie; 'there is business of
+great consequence, which it is in his power to communicate.'
+
+As David Cross entered the room, he paused a moment as his eye fell upon
+the emaciated countenance of the still lovely girl. He then slowly
+approached the bed, threw himself on his knees, and wept like an infant.
+As soon as he could speak--
+
+'Hettie,' said he, 'can you forgive me for my cruel wrong?'
+
+'I have forgiven you long since, David; and have prayed that you may be
+forgiven of God.'
+
+'I can make but little reparation for the past; I have done all I could.
+That paper is in the hands of Michael Foster; he holds it to extort
+money from my father. To-morrow night a plan is laid to wrest it out of
+Foster's power, and then it will no doubt be destroyed. Measures must
+therefore be taken in the course of to-morrow, or it will probably be
+too late. Spare my father, if you can; as for myself, Hettie, I leave
+you now for ever. You and I will probably never meet again.'
+
+Hettie cast a look of kindness at him as he left the room. Mr.
+Rutherford had witnessed the scene at the bedside, and his feelings were
+much softened towards the young man.
+
+'You do not mean to go away while the tempest rages thus?'
+
+'The storm is of little consequence to me, sir. I have communicated to
+Hettie some things which concern you deeply; and all I have to say is,
+that whatever steps you may take on the information she gives you,
+cannot be taken too soon.' Saying this, he left the house.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+
+A change from terra firma to the restless ocean is sometimes pleasant,
+even for its novelty, if nothing else--although none who try the
+experiment but are completely satisfied that, so far as everything
+connected with comfort is concerned, or real quiet of mind or body,
+there is nothing like the solid earth. I must, however, ask my readers
+to risk themselves with me for a short time on the ocean, and perhaps
+they will the more readily do so, when I tell them that we are to be on
+board the good ship Lady Washington, and under the immediate command of
+our favorite Captain Sam.
+
+Those who see our ships only as they lie along side of the busy wharves,
+and are either discharging or receiving their freight, have but a poor
+idea of the neatness which the deck of a well-regulated vessel presents
+in her usual sailing trim. It may be that our Captain was peculiar about
+this matter, but every thing was so snugly stowed away, and securely
+fastened, that to all appearance nothing would be displaced, should some
+sudden freak of old ocean roll her bottom upwards. Her deck was flush
+from stem to stern, and the gangway on each side was clean and clear;
+every hand on deck was actively employed in the performance of some
+duty, but it could be seen that they were intent upon some object more
+engrossing than that in which their hands were busied, for wistful
+glances were cast towards their young commander, who was standing near
+the helm, and, with marks of anxiety on his countenance, eyeing through
+a glass a distant speck upon the ocean.
+
+'Mr. Barnum, this breeze is not going to last; it's a dead calm already
+a mile to starboard. Hail the maintop; that fellow must be asleep.'
+
+The chief mate--for it was he who was thus addressed--placing his two
+brawny hands so as to form a speaking trumpet, raised his face aloft,
+and sent up a blast that would have aroused no common slumberer.
+
+'Hallo, maintop!'
+
+'Ay, ay, sir.'
+
+'What do you make her?'
+
+'Can't make her at all.'
+
+At this reply, the mate sprang into the shrouds with the agility of a
+squirrel, and was soon far up amid the complicated rigging, and seizing
+the glass from the one who had been using it, made a satisfactory
+examination, and then tumbling down as rapidly as he had ascended, was
+again beside his Captain.
+
+'It is difficult making her out, for she has got her three masts in one;
+but she looms large, and from the rig should judge she's a bull-dog,
+with at least two rows of teeth.'
+
+'Ship, ahoy!' from aloft.
+
+'What quarter?'
+
+'On the larboard beam, and coming down with a spanking breeze.'
+
+'Ship, ahoy!!'
+
+'Ay, ay, we see her; there's no mistake now, Captain Oakum; we are in
+the midst of them.'
+
+'Call the crew aft, Mr. Barnum.'
+
+Soon every sailor on board was standing near the quarter-deck, and, with
+respectful bearing, ready to hear the will of their Captain. He
+immediately stepped up before them, and casting his eye over their hardy
+and cheerful countenances, explained in a few brief sentences the
+peculiarity of their situation, and what he should require of them.
+
+'We are in the midst of our enemies; three of their frigates are now in
+sight, and bearing down upon us. We are bound for our port, and shall go
+there if we can; it will be no child's play, but I am exposed to equal
+danger with the rest of you. If we succeed, a handsome reward awaits us,
+and the satisfaction of having done our duty; if we are so unlucky as to
+fall into their hands, a prison or a life cruise in a man-of-war will be
+the game on the other side; but if you are all resolved for home or a
+watery grave, let me know it.'
+
+A loud and hearty huzza burst spontaneously from the whole crew; and at
+a signal from the mate they tumbled back to their quarters with an
+alacrity that showed they were ready for any sport their Captain chose.
+
+A steady breeze was yet bearing the vessel along at a moderate pace, and
+it could be plainly seen that two of the ships were becalmed, as they
+were fading away in the distance; from them, therefore, but little was
+to be apprehended, while the one on the larboard beam was rapidly
+gaining upon them.
+
+Captain Oakum now sprang into the mizzen chains, and marking with
+intense interest the surface of the ocean, the working of the clouds,
+and the situation of the different ships--
+
+'Mr. Barnum--'
+
+'Ay, ay, sir;' and the mate was in an instant by his side.
+
+'I think, that by laying her course due north, we shall carry the wind
+longer with us, and give them a wider berth.'
+
+The necessary order was given, and the Lady Washington was soon
+ploughing her way in the direction required.
+
+'The breeze is going, Captain; that ship gains on us fast.'
+
+'I see she does, but the probability is we shall both be becalmed soon;
+she won't hold the wind long after it leaves us; you had better have the
+boats unshipped, Mr. Barnum, and ready for launching.'
+
+The right good-will with which the sailors sprang to obey each command,
+gave satisfactory evidence of what their Captain might depend upon in
+the hour of extremity.
+
+He felt assured that, whatever forty good men could do, at any risk,
+would be done, but the responsibility of every movement, and of the
+result, rested upon himself alone. He had provided his vessel with a few
+guns of large calibre, and one of these occupied the after cabin--it was
+a long twenty-four pounder. A large port had been made for it in the
+stern, which was, however, at present closely fastened; four more of
+various sizes were stationed at different parts of the main deck, and a
+plentiful supply of pikes and cutlasses was snugly stowed away in
+readiness for a sudden call. All these he thought might be of service to
+him in an emergency, but his main dependence was upon the sailing
+qualities of his ship; he had tested her well, and felt a confidence
+which, perhaps, most young captains do, that nothing could outstrip his
+vessel in a good breeze.
+
+Although prepared for the worst, he had not heard of hostilities having
+been begun until nearing home. A French brig gave him the intelligence,
+and also that a blockading squadron was strictly guarding the port for
+which he was bound, part of which he had thus unexpectedly encountered;
+and now the ability of his ship, and the skill of her commander, were to
+be put to the test.
+
+Scarcely had the order been executed for unlashing the boats, when the
+sails flapped heavily against the masts.
+
+'It has gone sooner than I expected. Launch the boats, Mr. Barnum, and
+let them be manned to their full capacity; if we can move the ship but a
+few lengths, it may serve to take us out of the reach of their guns.'
+
+With incredible celerity a row of boats was strung ahead of the ship,
+and every man pulling with determined energy.
+
+'This calm ain't for nothing; I'm of opinion, sir; there's foul weather
+brewing, depend on it'--and the mate directed the Captain's attention to
+the threatening aspect of the clouds in the eastern sky. 'We shall have
+something to contend with soon, besides the enemy's guns, Captain Oakum;
+that long streak of light under them black clouds, and those scuds
+flying off and streaking up so fast, and spreading themselves out so, is
+no good sign; there'll be a north-easter, and a smasher when it comes.'
+
+'Let it come, Mr. Barnum; any thing but lying here and not able to stir,
+and that frigate almost ready to fire into us.'
+
+The only hope, indeed, which our Captain could indulge, was that the
+wind might die away as suddenly with their pursuer as it had with them;
+but her sails were yet well filled, and, of course, she was gaining upon
+them every moment; the slow and almost imperceptible motion which his
+own ship made by the power of oars, would have been discouraging to one
+who was not buoyed up with the consciousness of doing all that was then
+in his power to do to escape the trouble which had come upon them. He
+could not control the winds; he therefore neither cursed them, nor
+himself, nor the noble ship that was bearing down upon them; but he
+watched her advance with great anxiety, and would turn his gaze
+occasionally from this object of interest to the ominous-looking clouds
+that were gathering in heavier masses every moment--a hurricane, or
+something very near it, would be a great relief; any thing that would
+give him a chance to bear his much-loved ship out of the immediate reach
+of her powerful adversary.
+
+'It's a gone case with us, Captain Oakum; her guns will soon be able to
+reach us.'
+
+'If she keeps the breeze much longer. Call Derrick, will you, Mr.
+Barnum.'
+
+John Derrick, who now made his appearance at the call of the mate, held
+the title on board ship of the old man-of-war's-man. He was the only
+person of advanced age among the crew; he was about fifty, rather taller
+than was necessary for a sailor, and of slender make. His head on the
+top was bald, and the locks which hung from the lower part were long and
+thin; his neck and chin were concealed by a thick bushy beard, very
+dark, and making a strong contrast with his pale countenance. Sam had
+selected him for his skill in gunnery, as well as for his ability as a
+sailor, and in an emergency, felt more confidence in his opinion than in
+either of his officers.
+
+'Do you think she is near enough to trouble us, John?' and the Captain
+looked significantly at the frigate.
+
+'She don't think so, Captain Oakum, or we should hear from her; but I've
+been on the look out a little, and unless her guns are carronades--ay,
+ay, she speaks now;' and all at once a column of white smoke belched
+forth from her bow port, and a ball clipped the glassy surface of the
+water, passing the whole length of the vessel.
+
+'That tells the story, Captain.'
+
+'I suppose it is a gentle hint for us to let them know who we are,
+before they give us a benefit; so we may as well show them the stars and
+stripes, Mr. Barnum, and our boys will pull the better when they see
+them aloft, in the place of that French gewgaw.'
+
+A hearty cheer burst from the whole crew as they saw their native
+standard flying at the mast-head, and they bent themselves to their
+oars, until the boat nearest the ship was at times almost out of water.
+
+'Now we shall take it, Captain; she's rounding to; her whole broadside
+will be the next salute.'
+
+Captain Oakum felt, in all its force, the danger of their situation. In
+an instant he was at the bow of his ship.
+
+'Pull away, boys--lay to--every foot tells now.' The energy which he
+threw into his voice, as he gave out these brief directions, added fresh
+vigor to their willing hearts and pull away it was. As the frigate
+swayed round, two guns in quick succession sent forth their messengers
+of death, and evidently intended not as a compliment, for the aim was
+direct, both striking the ship, although doing but little damage.
+Scarce, however had they congratulated themselves on their escape, when
+a volume of smoke enveloped the deck of the frigate, and the waters were
+ploughed by a storm of bullets; but one of them reached the ship, the
+others sinking in the deep at her stern. A loud shout went forth from
+the Lady Washington, as it was now manifest that she was beyond the
+reach of harm.
+
+'Will you allow me, Captain, just to give them a try with the Long Tom?'
+said Derrick, stepping up, and touching his cap respectfully; 'just for
+the honor of the flag, sir.'
+
+'Not yet, John; we must save our fire until we shall be more sure of our
+mark. You shall have a chance soon, my good fellow, for I see that they
+are manning their boats for a visit to us; we must give them the best
+welcome in our power.'
+
+It was evident now that the time of trial was at hand; for two boats,
+well manned, were seen pulling towards them; the sea was unruffled as a
+lake, and nothing to prevent their rapid progress.
+
+As Sam did not intend, under such circumstances, to give up his noble
+vessel and her valuable cargo without a struggle, each gun was loaded,
+the men were called in from the boats, pikes were brought out and laid
+in readiness, and each sailor who was not aloft buckled on his cutlass.
+The faces of the young men assumed a determined yet cheerful expression,
+and not one on board but felt that the stripes should fly as long as his
+arm could wield a weapon.
+
+The sky, also, was becoming black with clouds, and spreading the gloom
+of night around them; and the long swell that occasionally lifted their
+vessel, told that already the tempest was doing its work in the
+distance; every sail aloft was taken in and well secured, and suitable
+preparation made for the emergency.
+
+'They are calculating, I guess, sir, to finish the job, and make a
+harbor on board the Lady Washington, afore the squall comes on, or
+surely no commander in his senses would send boats off with such a mess
+as any one can see is brewing yonder.
+
+'Now John, is your time: take your hands and get all ready. Don't open
+your port until I pass you the word, and then make sure work with them.'
+
+'Ay, ay, sir.'
+
+And down he tumbled, and the men allotted to him, with as good will as
+though piped to dinner. As the boats neared the ship, it could be seen
+that the officers were urging on to greater speed: and good cause had
+they, for the roar of the coming tempest had reached them, and but an
+alternative was now left; they must either secure their prize quickly,
+or perish amid the wild waves: a return in their open boats to their own
+ship was impossible.
+
+Captain Oakum saw that the time for an effort had arrived.
+
+'All ready below, John?'
+
+'All ready, sir.'
+
+'Now is your time; let them have it.'
+
+The ship trembled as the engine of destruction belched forth its deadly
+messenger; the thick smoke curled up over the stern, for a moment
+obscuring the view; but the next, a loud shout came up from below, and
+was echoed through the ship. Captain Oakum almost shuddered as he beheld
+what execution had been done, for the whole crew of one of the boats was
+battling with the waters, while their companions in the remaining boat
+were using their utmost exertions to rescue the living and the dying
+from the wreck of the other. But there was not a moment to spare to look
+at friend or foe, for the blast of the tempest came sweeping over them
+in its might, and each man flew to his post at the swift word of his
+commander, and was prepared to meet the contest with the stormy
+elements. As the gale struck the ship, the sails flew out with a report
+like the sudden burst of thunder, and the yielding ship lay over with
+her bulwarks to the water's edge; a moment she seemed pressed down by a
+weight that must whelm her in the deep, and then, recovering her
+balance, gracefully she rose to meet the adversary with which a contest
+for her life was now to be maintained.
+
+'They'll get their deserts now, Captain; those men can never reach their
+ship in their crowded state.'
+
+'We must save them, Mr. Barnum, if we can; put your helm to lee, and
+tack ship.'
+
+The gallant vessel bore proudly up against the mighty wind; a moment she
+seemed to waver in its very eye, and then falling off, and taking its
+power on her other beam, bore swiftly on towards the enemies who had so
+lately sought her destruction. As she dashed along to windward of the
+boat now struggling amid the foaming waves, Captain Oakum seized the
+trumpet from his mate, and hailed them--
+
+'You can never reach your ship.'
+
+'Not in our present condition,' replied a fine-looking young officer.
+
+'We will do the best we can for you, but leave your arms behind.'
+
+The roar of the tempest forbade any reply; but the officer raised a
+white handkerchief, and as the ship flew by, a rope was thrown to the
+boat, and by the united powers of both crews, she was drawn under the
+lee of the ship. As much care as possible was taken in removing the
+wounded seamen, and Sam, as yet unused to the horrors of war, felt his
+heart sicken as he looked at the terrible fruit of his own orders. He
+felt that there had been a necessity for it, but would gladly have
+relinquished his own prospective gains by the salvation of his vessel,
+rather than have heard one groan from the poor mangled sufferers that
+now lay in agony upon his deck.
+
+The moment the young officer stepped upon the deck, he presented his
+sword to Captain Oakum.
+
+'It is a singular fortune, sir, that has made me your prisoner; but I
+cannot mistake the kindness that has brought you to our rescue in a time
+like this, and when we were seeking your injury.'
+
+'Retain your sword, sir, and your liberty, as well as that of your
+companion'--a midshipman, who stood beside the Lieutenant, and was
+preparing to surrender his weapon in like manner--'and of your crew, I
+only ask your pledge of honor to attempt no rescue while on board my
+ship. I will do all I can for your safe return, if we outlive this
+storm.'
+
+Every thing that could be done for the wounded was immediately attended
+to; a brotherly feeling was at once established between the crew of the
+Lady Washington and their late enemies, and each seemed to vie with the
+other in kind attentions.
+
+Successful thus far beyond his hopes, our young Captain now took a
+station by the helm, and looked upon the scene, and his situation in
+reference to the vessels from whose power he had feared so much. Far off
+in the south-east, the frigate from which he had so narrowly escaped was
+bearing away in an opposite direction to the course she had been
+pursuing, and far enough off at present to remove all apprehension from
+her. In the west could be seen the two which had been becalmed, bearing
+to the south and east, and evidently doing their best to gain an offing
+from the coast. To preserve himself from a dangerous contiguity, he had
+two alternatives, either to endeavor to force his way to the
+north-ward--almost an impossibility, as the wind then held--or to run
+before the gale, and venture, through the darkness and the storm, to
+find his way into port. He was perfectly satisfied that his reckonings
+had been correct, and that he knew his bearings; although to point his
+bow to land at such a time, with no other guide than his compass and his
+chart, he felt to be almost a desperate undertaking. He resolved,
+however, rash as it appeared, to try the dreadful hazard.
+
+As he communicated his determination to his mate, and ordered him to put
+the ship before the wind--
+
+'It's a harsh night to venture on a lee shore, sir; but your command
+shall be obeyed.'
+
+The heavy clouds that rolled in huge masses, scarcely higher than the
+masts of the ship, had hastened the close of day, and gave sure tokens
+of what the night would be. The coast, however, had been clearly seen
+before the daylight departed, and soon the hopes and fears which, by
+turns, were triumphant in the breast of him on whom such immense
+responsibility rested, would be certain. All danger from armed vessels
+was now at an end; but his ship was flying on the wings of the wind; the
+driving clouds above, and the boiling sea beneath and around her. A
+costly and gallant vessel, a freight of immense value, and a multitude
+of human beings, were dependent upon the correctness of his judgment and
+the determination of his will.
+
+Onward and onward, like a chafed charger, rushed the proud ship, her bow
+at times nearly buried beneath the billows that tumbled before her, and
+rolled in majestic grandeur by her sides, or rose like mountains at her
+stern, threatening to whelm her in their deep dark bosom. How like an
+infant's dream appeared to Sam now all the past experience of his life:
+every care or sorrow faded into mist before the deep responsibility that
+weighed upon his heart. The young Lieutenant was not, as may well be
+supposed, an unconcerned spectator of the passing scene. He had been
+struck with admiration, not only at the generous conduct of our hero,
+but at his manly bearing, his prompt and determined action, and the
+perfect order and discipline that were so clearly manifested in such an
+hour of trial. He kept a strict eye on the course of the ship, and
+confirmed, much to the satisfaction of the Captain, the correctness of
+her bearings.
+
+'The light ought to be seen, however, Captain, by this time--we have
+been sailing with incredible rapidity, and must be near the land. Can
+nothing be seen of it yet?'
+
+'I have my ablest seaman on the look-out, but we have no tidings of it
+yet.'
+
+Captain Oakum left the stern of the ship and placed himself near to the
+look-out. It was Derrick whom he had especially intrusted with this
+important duty; although every soul on board might have been included,
+for not one but kept an eye ranged towards the quarter where it was
+expected to be seen.
+
+'Any signs of light yet, John?'
+
+'No signs yet, sir; but we must be drawing near land, sir; the roar of
+the surf can be plainly heard.'
+
+Scarce had the sailor uttered the last sentence, when at the top of his
+voice he called out,
+
+'Light on the starboard bow, Captain Oakum!'
+
+And as Sam cast his eye in that direction, the first twinkle of the
+beacon met his view, and in an instant he saw the imminence of their
+danger.
+
+'Helm to leeward! hard down!' And springing to his station again beside
+the helmsman, he issued forth his orders to the seamen without waiting
+to convey them through his mate. With magic speed the sails were braced
+to meet the new position of the ship, and take the gale upon her beam.
+Like a thing possessed of consciousness, the noble craft, almost as
+quick as thought, turned from the roaring surf, and threw the light upon
+her other quarter. Hope now hung for safety on the strength of her sails
+and spars. With all the canvas she could carry, it could but be scarcely
+visible that she made headway. The stout masts bent like whips, and the
+laboring ship groaned and cracked and trembled as she plunged into the
+mighty waves, throwing them, through her whole length, high into the
+air.
+
+'She'll weather it, Captain: if she can hold on so half an hour longer,
+we are safe.'
+
+The Captain made no reply; that half hour was freighted with
+consequences of most heart-stirring interest to him, and at no time had
+he felt so doubtful of what the end might be. His eye was riveted upon
+the beacon--that token of his danger and his safety too. What thoughts
+it kindled in his bosom! Oft had he seen it in his boyhood's days, when
+light of heart he sat with the dear ones of his home, at their old
+cottage door. Is he again so near them? Is success, prosperity, and
+honor soon to be fully realized; or disaster, shipwreck, and death?
+Slowly the light recedes--the struggling ship, battled fiercely by the
+terrible tempest, still forces her way, and still the good sails and the
+bending spars hold on and keep her true.
+
+'Don't you think we are far enough north, Captain, to run in?'
+
+'Ease her off slowly, Mr. Barnum, a point or so.'
+
+'She's a noble creature, sir, few ships could have stood it; but I
+believe you've the luck with you, Captain Oakum.'
+
+'We have had something with us better than good luck, Mr. Barnum. You
+may venture now, sir; in with her.'
+
+A loud hurra burst from the deck as the light flew past them; and the
+Lady Washington, bidding adieu to the raging ocean, entered the
+comparatively quiet waters of the sheltered bay.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+
+When clouds, and darkness, and the driving storm are upon us, we cannot
+realize that their power is but for a time, and they must give place to
+sunshine and peace. The beautiful morning that succeeded the tempestuous
+night recorded in the last chapter, was a surprise indeed to those whose
+trembling habitations had warned them of its terrible power.
+
+'It has been a hard night, Peter,' said the Commodore, as he stepped
+forth upon his piazza, and saw the old man busy with the eye-glass,
+peering across the bright waters of the bay.
+
+'Indeed it has, your honor, and mischief enough done; if you will cast
+your eye, sir, along the south shore,' handing the glass to the
+Commodore; 'your honor will see a sight. It's my opinion, sir, that the
+waters have cleared themselves of everything, and thrown them all bodily
+on the land.'
+
+'Bless my soul, Peter, what a scene! I fear many lives have been
+sacrificed yonder, but it must have been more terrible still outside.
+What is that, Peter? a ship ashore?'
+
+'It is a ship, I believe, your honor, but she's not ashore, sir; there
+is nothing much but her starn to be seen, but being pretty well
+acquainted with the bearings hereaway, you see, your honor, the land
+rises considerably north of the point there, and the trees into the
+bargain, make quite a bluff to look across, and she would be hid
+entirely before grounding; the channel runs near the shore, your honor.
+But she has had a narrow chance, sir, and I see one of her masts is by
+the board.'
+
+'It is not one of your friends, the blockaders, I hope, Peter? they must
+have had a lively time of it.'
+
+'If it had only sent them all high and dry, your honor! but I think they
+must have got a good offing afore the worst on it came; and your honor
+knows that wind and waves ain't apt to hurt a good ship, if there's no
+land interference no way: but that ship being there is a puzzle to me,
+your honor.'
+
+'Well, Peter? let me have my letters and papers in good season this
+morning.'
+
+'Ay, ay, sir;' and Peter hobbled away towards the town, and the
+Commodore entered his dwelling with a good appetite for breakfast.
+
+He has just finished his morning repast, when Mr. Rutherford entered his
+office. He met with a hearty welcome, for the two gentlemen had, since
+Mr. Rutherford's removal, been on terms of intimacy, although this was
+the first occasion on which any subject bordering on business matters
+had been introduced. Mr. Rutherford had resolved in his own mind, during
+the night past, the peculiar circumstances in which he was placed, and
+the necessity for prompt and efficient action. He felt the need of
+counsel, and could think of no one who would be so likely to afford it
+as Commodore Trysail: for this purpose he had therefore now come.
+
+It will not be necessary for the information of the reader to repeat the
+substance of his revelation to the Commodore. It was a story, however,
+which excited much interest in the mind of the old gentleman; he
+listened with profound attention to the whole recital, and when it was
+finished, gave his box an extra rap, and politely handing it to Mr.
+Rutherford--'It is, indeed, a singular event, my dear sir; and you are
+placed in a situation that requires not only very prompt, but very
+cautious measures. It would be a righteous thing, no doubt, to bring
+these men to justice; but the first hint they had of such an attempt
+would inevitably lead to the destruction of your papers! for although
+this Mr. Foster might find it a profitable business for him to hold them
+thus, as a rod over his accomplice Cross, yet he would never be so mad
+as to risk the discovery of them in his possession: they would be
+destroyed forthwith, sir. And as to bringing them to justice, it is a
+very doubtful matter, as it appears to me, whether there is evidence
+sufficient to convict either of them; they are men, it seems, of some
+standing in society, if I am correctly informed--none of the immediate
+actors in the scene are living, or at least to be found. The young man
+Brown, who is very feeble you say, can only testify to the intention of
+these men; and his mother does not feel qualified to swear that the
+unhappy man who made a dying avowal of his guilt in this matter had his
+full reason.'
+
+'It is all just as you say, Commodore Trysail, and the difficulties of
+the case presented themselves to my mind as I see they do to yours.'
+
+'And they are serious difficulties, Mr. Rutherford. The probabilities,
+indeed, would be very much against these men, and the public generally
+might be convinced that they had committed the nefarious crime; yet
+after all, a jury sworn to judge according to the evidence brought
+before them, might not be able to convict them.' The Commodore was
+suddenly interrupted by the entrance of Peter in a state of excitement
+really alarming; he did not pause as usual at the threshold, and making
+a low reverence, present his packet of letters and papers, with 'the
+mail, your honor,' but he bolted straight into the office, crutches and
+all, threw his hat down on the floor, took his quid from his mouth, and
+had liked to have dashed that down too; but his senses came to him in
+season to prevent such an enormity, so he put it back again as quick as
+possible. He was very much out of breath, and his eyes flashed with a
+vividness very unusual. The Commodore put his box away, and
+straightening himself up, looked at Peter with great astonishment, to
+say the least of it.
+
+'She's come, your honor.' Peter had great difficulty to get the sentence
+out, his voice trembled so.
+
+'What has come, sir?' The Commodore had evidently departed from his
+usual temper towards Peter.
+
+'She's come, your honor, spite of blockaders, harricanes and all, God be
+praised.'
+
+The Commodore began to catch a glimpse of his meaning.
+
+'You do not pretend to say that the ship has come, the--the--Lady
+Washington?' and the Commodore started to his feet, and looked very
+fiercely at Peter.
+
+'It's the truth, your honor, she's riding in the outer harbor: the very
+same we see'd this morning. A boat has just come ashore, your honor, and
+I've see'd the men, and sich doins as they tell on you never heered,
+sir. Captain Sam's blowed the enemy, and he's got twenty on 'em
+prisoners, and he's give 'em leg bail, and has run into port, God bless
+him, with that north-easter behind him.'
+
+After delivering himself, Peter turned round, and in two jumps was out
+of the room, and stumping it off at a round rate. The Commodore was
+somewhat surprised at this last movement, and stepping to the door, was
+in the act of recalling his excited valet, when he saw him, in a very
+animated manner, urging along a person dressed in sailor's garb, and
+whom the experienced eye of the old Commodore immediately recognized as
+fresh from on board ship; his rolling, unsteady gait showed very clearly
+that he had not yet got his land legs on.
+
+'Here's a shipmate, your honor,' said Peter, stepping a little in front
+of his companion, 'that has a word to say to your honor, but he feels
+backward like.'
+
+'Come in, my boy, come in; are you from the Lady Washington?'
+
+'Just from aboard, sir.'
+
+'Come in, come in, my good fellow.' And the sailor gave a spring up the
+stoop as though he was about to mount the shrouds, and taking a step
+into the office, put his hand into his tarred hat, took forth a sealed
+letter, and handed it to the Commodore, who immediately broke the seal
+and read as follows.
+
+     'COMMODORE TRYSAIL:
+
+     'Respected Sir:--I am very happy to inform you, that through the
+     aid of Divine Providence, I have brought the Lady Washington into
+     port. To prevent her driving on the beach, I was obliged to cut
+     away my masts, but am busy rigging jury masts to enable us to reach
+     the city, as I do not feel it safe to lie in the outer harbor,
+     should the blockading squadron return to their cruising ground. We
+     have received otherwise but trifling damage. I shall do myself the
+     honor of waiting upon you the moment I place my ship in the hands
+     of your consignees.
+
+     'The bearer of this will tell you his own story. He has been a fine
+     fellow on board, and whatever may have been his errors in past
+     days, seems to have taken a new turn.
+
+     'Your obedient servant,
+
+     'S. OAKUM.'
+
+The Commodore, having run over the letter, began to put sundry questions
+to the sailor, who answered in a style that was perfectly intelligible
+to the Commodore, but which would have been to ordinary listeners very
+much like a foreign language. Our friend Peter was an attentive
+listener. He was standing just without the door, with his head bent
+over, and turned one side, so as to permit his left ear to have a chance
+at what was going on. His long queue hung down over his left shoulder,
+and he was pulling away at it in great earnest. Peter could stand
+considerable in the way of excitement, but it is not in human nature to
+stand every thing. To hear such a glowing description of the doings of
+one that he loved as his own soul, given in a dialect that was
+sufficient of itself to work up the mind of an old sailor; his feelings
+got the better of his judgment, and no sooner was the tale over, than,
+swinging his old hat, he gave three hearty cheers, and stumped it away
+towards the mansion of Major Morris.
+
+The Commodore had too much of the sailor in him to be surprised at this
+outbreak of feeling. He smiled as he looked through the door, and saw
+how Peter was excited, and then addressing himself to the seaman--
+
+'Captain Oakum informs me, my good fellow, that you have something of
+consequence to say to me on your own account.'
+
+'I have, sir, if you can spare a few moments' leisure.'
+
+The Commodore then excused himself to Mr. Rutherford, and taking the man
+aside into a private apartment, 'Now, my good fellow, tell me your story
+without restraint. I am an old sailor, you know, and have lost none of
+my feelings for a shipmate in trouble.'
+
+'God bless you, sir; but it is an ugly story I have to tell, and if you
+can have patience to hear me out, you may do with the information what
+you please.'
+
+Ha then began and gave a short-hand account of his career; that he was
+born and brought up in a place called Barrens, near by--that he had
+gotten into bad company, and in the employ of a bad man--that at the
+instigation of this man, he had been guilty of many improper acts, but
+that one of these, and the last one in which he had taken a part, had
+stuck in his heart like a dagger from the moment he did it--that he and
+his companion, in order to escape punishment in case the crime was found
+out, and to get away from the man who had exerted his power over them
+for such shameful purposes, had shipped to sea--that his messmate had
+taken sick and died, and that his last hours were full of misery on
+account of what he had done.
+
+'I have therefore, sir, made a clean breast of it all to Captain Oakum,
+and I am on my way to see the man I once injured so much; but Captain
+Oakum thought how as you, sir, could tell me what was best to do, and
+that I might let you know, sir, just the whole on it.'
+
+'But you haven't told me, yet, my man, what this crime you speak of was.
+You have not murdered any one, surely?'
+
+'God only knows, sir; but we fired a house while they were all asleep;
+the man who hired us to do it wanted a tin trunk which stood in one of
+the back rooms. We waited round to have folks give the alarm, but it got
+well a-burning before any one see it. An old nigger then came and broke
+the door open with an axe: the house was filled with fire and smoke. The
+old black fellow--God bless him for a true heart as ever beat in a human
+body,--went right through the flames, up the stairs, calling as loud as
+his voice could scream, "Oh my missus and the children!" We hurried into
+the back room, and feeling about found the trunk, but we had like to
+have smothered afore we got out; but that old fellow's cry, sir, has
+rung in my head louder than the loudest noise that the wind and the
+waves have made, since I have been on the ocean. And, sir, I can't live
+with it any longer.'
+
+'Did you ever see the man whose house you fired?'
+
+'No, sir, nor do I now remember his name; but he had a character, sir,
+for being a fine man, far and near.'
+
+'The person's name is Rutherford, and he is now sitting in my office;
+the very gentleman you saw there.'
+
+'The Lord forgive me! may I not see him, sir, just to ask his pardon,
+and then let him do with me what he thinks best?'
+
+'You shall see him; but first answer me:--Are you willing to go with me,
+and meet face to face this man Cross, whom you say instigated this act?'
+
+'I will, sir; only I hope I may be restrained from doing him an injury,
+for there is that in me, when I think of the villain, that wouldn't mind
+putting his daylight out, and trampling him in the dust.'
+
+'That would do no good now, you know; it wouldn't rebuild the house, nor
+ease your conscience, nor reform the man. But I am this morning
+endeavoring to devise a plan with this gentleman, Mr. Rutherford, for
+the recovery of this very trunk you have been speaking about. It seems
+that, after all, it never went into the hands of Mr. Cross, but, by some
+strange accident, fell into possession of as great a villain as he was,
+one Michael Foster, who keeps it as a rod over Cross to force money from
+him. Your presence may be of great consequence. Can your Captain spare
+you?'
+
+'He has let me ashore for this very business, sir. He thought may be I
+might be of some use to this Mr. Rutherford; and if I can, God knows I
+wouldn't value my own life a feather, sir.'
+
+The Commodore told the man to be seated, and stepping into the office,
+communicated to Mr. Rutherford the particulars he had just been made
+acquainted with.
+
+'This is a most unexpected turn to affairs, Mr. Rutherford; and I think
+I can see a way now by which we can get hold of these papers, and get
+rid of these villains at the same time, if you will leave matters to my
+management.'
+
+'I will, certainly, sir, and feel deeply--'
+
+'Say nothing about that, if you please. I will call for you in about an
+hour with my carriage. But first will you see this poor fellow, and set
+him at rest if you can?'
+
+So saying, he led Mr. Rutherford into the adjoining room. The man was
+still seated, but was evidently in much agitation, for his countenance
+wore a death-like expression, and he trembled violently.
+
+'Did you wish to speak with me?' said Mr. Rutherford, stepping up to
+him; 'you seem to be ill.'
+
+'My body is well enough, sir; although I can't tell why it is in such an
+ague now. I never trembled before through all the dangers I have been
+in; but my mind is in a sad case, sir;--you see before you one of the
+men who burnt your beautiful house;'--and the rough sailor burst into
+tears.
+
+'Do you truly regret having thus injured one who never did you any
+harm?'
+
+'God knows I do; but tell me one thing, sir, was any of your family--'
+
+'Burned with the dwelling, you were going to say; no, thank God and the
+faithfulness of my good old negro, they were not injured.'
+
+'Thank God it is so, sir! and oh that my old messmate could have known
+this before he left the world!--he died, sir, howling like a raving
+man--"that he was a murderer!"'
+
+The Commodore now took Mr. Rutherford aside, and making some further
+arrangements for the accomplishment of his plan, the latter gentleman
+departed, and Commodore Trysail ordered his carriage to be in immediate
+readiness.
+
+In about two hours after this interview everything had been completed,
+and the party selected for the occasion was entering the barrens, and
+Joe, the Commodore's coachman, was urging on his horses at a very
+unusual speed, and one which the heavy fat beasts did not seem to
+relish.
+
+It consisted of Commodore Trysail, Mr. Rutherford, James Montjoy and the
+sailor. The carriage stopped at the Widow Brown's, and some time was
+spent in a very particular conversation with the Widow and her son, and
+then off again to the north at the same rapid rate.
+
+'Hold up a little, Joe, before you reach the tavern; and you may stop at
+Cross's, and let them blow awhile. It will not be best for us to appear
+to be in haste.' This latter sentence was intended by the Commodore for
+the company seated with him.
+
+As the carriage drove up to the long low tavern, the Commodore and James
+Montjoy alighted; and as they stepped upon the piazza, Mr. Cross met
+them with a polite bow, and welcomed them to his premises.
+
+Mr. Cross had, for a long time, been anxious to get into the good graces
+of both of them; for when he found that he could not destroy the young
+firm, he was desirous of their good-will, that he might the better make
+sales through them of his wood and timber; and the Commodore being so
+distinguished a personage, that a nod from him in any public place would
+be no small consideration for a man of Mr. Cross's standing.
+
+Chairs and benches were immediately presented for their acceptance, but
+as politely declined.
+
+'Mr. Montjoy and I have a little matter of business to talk with you
+about this morning, Mr. Cross, and would wish to see you in private.'
+
+'By all means, gentlemen,' and the little fat man led them into a small
+back room, and carrying chairs with him, even against the protest of his
+visitors, placed them with much care, as to position and then closed the
+door.
+
+'Since you have taken the trouble, Mr. Cross, to bring us seats, I
+suppose we may as well use them,' said the Commodore, taking up his
+chair, and placing it as if by accident near the door. Cross saw the
+movement, and from the sudden flush that deepened the purple hue of his
+face, appeared to feel that, at least, it was a singular one. He however
+took the stool which he had brought for himself, and placing it at a
+respectful distance, sat down in a composed manner, tilting it back so
+as to balance himself on two of its legs, and resting his hands one on
+each of his knees, as they were spread out, the better to maintain his
+position.
+
+'Mr. Cross,' said the Commodore, 'when we have business on hand, the
+fewer words by way of introduction the better. I have a serious charge
+to make against you this morning, and therefore it is that I have chosen
+to see you alone.'
+
+Cross immediately dropped his stool on its four legs, and straightening
+up to make the most of himself: 'If we are to be alone, sir, why have
+you brought company with you?' looking significantly at young Montjoy.
+
+'To set your mind at rest on that head, Mr. Cross, I will tell you that
+Mr. Montjoy has, at my request, been deputized by the Sheriff, and acts
+at present as an officer.'
+
+Cross did not turn pale, for that could not well be, but his countenance
+assumed a livid hue, and he immediately rose to his feet.
+
+'You may as well be seated, Mr. Cross; this business has been committed
+to me, and it must go forward, sir; but I have no disposition to treat
+you with harshness--sit down, Mr. Cross.'
+
+Mr. Cross sat down; there was something in the decided tones of the
+Commodore's voice that carried with them the idea of implicit obedience.
+
+'Without alluding to the serious crime which I have it in my power to
+substantiate against you, I at once propose to you, Mr. Cross, that if
+you deliver up to me the papers which were taken from Mr. Rutherford's
+house by the men employed by you for that purpose, and at the same time
+make a quit-claim to your son David of all your real estate, you may
+then have twenty-four hours to make what other arrangements you please
+in this vicinity, and nothing shall be revealed until the expiration of
+that time; otherwise I shall immediately have you arrested for robbery
+and arson. I give you ten minutes in which to make your choice.'
+
+'It is a false charge, sir; the whole of it is a falsehood, started by
+that old idiot the Widow Brown and her son; and I intend they shall
+smart well for it--that they shall, sir.'
+
+The Commodore then gave a signal to James Montjoy, who left the room,
+and turning himself to Mr. Cross: 'It is a solemn thing for you, sir, to
+violate the precepts of the Almighty, for sooner or later, the hour of
+just retribution overtakes the delinquent. I am not sitting in judgment
+over you, Mr. Cross; but I cannot shut my eyes against the marked tokens
+of an overruling Providence, that have been exhibited in bringing to
+light what you supposed was beyond the reach of detection.'
+
+At that moment the door opened, and Mr. Rutherford, followed by James
+Montjoy and the sailor, entered the room. Cross looked at them with
+intense anxiety until his eye fell on the latter; he started as though
+pierced by a ball, and then stood transfixed with amazement, until
+gradually he settled down into his seat, and stared wildly on the floor.
+
+'Your ten minutes has about expired, Mr. Cross; what do you decide?'
+
+'I am at your mercy, gentlemen, do what you think proper. As to the
+papers, they are not in my hands, nor ever have been.'
+
+'We know that, Mr. Cross; but as you were intending to take possession
+of them this evening, you cannot be very ignorant where they are to be
+found.'
+
+'Who told you that?'
+
+'It is sufficient, sir, that we know the fact. As I have just said to
+you, the searching eye of the Almighty has been upon you through all the
+windings of your crooked way, and has brought out all your sin. The
+wretched beings who have been dependent upon you as hirelings, and whom
+you have ground to the dust, and trained for your wicked purposes; the
+woman who has been in reality your lawful wife, although not known nor
+acknowledged by you as such, the mother of your only child, yet treated
+by you as the off-scouring of the earth; the son who, by your
+instigation, had like to have been the ruin of a lovely girl--all are
+ready to testify against you. Under such circumstances, Mr. Cross, the
+mercy offered you is very tender in contrast with your iniquity.'
+
+Cross was now indeed sensible that his hour of trial had come: large
+drops of sweat stood upon his forehead, and he trembled like a reed in
+the tempest.
+
+'Michael Foster has the papers in his possession; but you must take him
+by surprise and watch him close, for if he suspects what you want, they
+will be destroyed before you can help yourselves.'
+
+'He is a justice of the peace, I understand, Mr. Cross.'
+
+'Yes.'
+
+'You will please go with us, then, sir; you can execute the deed there,
+which you know was one of the terms I stated to you. You have one made
+out, have you not, Mr. Rutherford?'
+
+'I have, sir.'
+
+The Commodore, without further remark, signified his wish to be on the
+way: and soon Mr. Cross was seated on an easy cushion in a fine
+carriage, and with such company as he never had the honor of riding with
+before; but I presume it was a matter of secret rejoicing with him that
+the journey would be a short one--the soft seat and the good company
+were thorns and fire to him.
+
+Commodore Trysail alone left the carriage, and as Mr. Foster opened his
+door, entered without waiting for any ceremony.
+
+'Mr. Foster, I presume, sir?'
+
+'At your service, sir,' making a low bow to the Commodore.
+
+'You are a justice of the peace?'
+
+'I am, sir.'
+
+'Gentlemen,' said the Commodore--calling to those in the carriage--'the
+Esquire is at home, you can come in.'
+
+Mr. Foster began to be much surprised, not only at the peculiar manner
+of his visitor in his own abrupt entrance, but at calling, without
+leave, a coach-load of folks to follow: his looks however manifested
+something more than surprise, when he found himself honoured with the
+presence of those who now entered his apartment.
+
+'Mr. Rutherford, that deed, if you please.' The tones of the Commodore's
+voice assumed a harshness very unusual with him of late years; his keen
+eye had penetrated into the character of the man he had now to deal
+with. 'Mr. Cross wishes you, sir,' addressing Foster, 'to witness his
+signature, and take an acknowledgment of his free act and deed.'
+
+Foster bowed again, and without reply handed the pen and ink to neighbor
+Cross. He then sat down and wrote very rapidly, although it was
+impossible for him to conceal the agitation which his nerves suffered.
+
+'And now, Mr. Foster,' said the Commodore, 'this matter being through
+with, and Mr. Cross's business settled, your turn comes next.' Foster's
+jaws, as we have seen, were rather long and flabby at best; but as he
+dropped his chin and drew up his eyebrows in the surprise that came over
+him as the Commodore turned upon him his keen, searching eye, he made up
+altogether an expression rather wo-begone. 'You have had in your
+possession for some time, Mr. Foster, a small trunk of papers, of but
+little value to yourself, except as you have held them for the especial
+benefit of your friend, Mr. Cross, here; but as he has wisely chosen to
+give up doing business in these parts, they can be of no further use
+either to him or to you; and as we have abundant proof of the guilt and
+villany of you both, we shall therefore give you an equal chance,
+provided you immediately surrender those papers. Twenty-four hours, sir,
+you may have in order to settle up your business in this region; if,
+after the expiration of that time, you are seen in this vicinity, I
+pledge you my word, which has never been broken yet, that you shall be
+arrested as an accomplice in the crimes of robbery and arson.'
+
+Foster cast his eye at the downcast countenance of Cross, and read too
+plainly in that the sad situation in which their affairs were placed.
+Evasion would do nothing for his benefit in this case; he therefore,
+without making the least reply, walked to a closet which opened into the
+side of the large chimney, unlocked it, and began taking out sundry old
+boxes, bottles, paper bundles, etc.; these he placed upon the floor,
+until the whole cupboard was emptied. He then deliberately took from his
+pocket another key, and applying it to the back of his cupboard, opened
+another door there; and thrusting his long arm into the hole, brought
+forth the long-lost trunk.
+
+'What consummate villany!' exclaimed Mr. Rutherford, as he at once took
+possession of his property.
+
+'Open it at once, sir,' said the Commodore, 'and see that every thing is
+right; for if but one paper is missing, they shall both swing for it
+yet.'
+
+But the papers were all correct, and both Foster and Cross felt in no
+small degree relieved, even with the conditions then laid upon them,
+when the party which had thus made each of them such an unexpected
+visit, was again riding away. And here we may willingly, both for
+ourselves and our readers, take leave of these two characters: they
+suddenly disappeared--no one, excepting those in the secret,
+understanding why; they have been blots upon the scene of our story, and
+we bid adieu to them with pleasure.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+
+There are spots in life, like bright days in the year, when all above,
+around, and beneath, is so full of beauty, that the spirit bathes in the
+luxurious scene almost to weariness.
+
+Such a spot to Sam was the day of his return to his native village. The
+cordial welcome of the good old Commodore, testifying his hearty
+approbation of his gallant conduct by a commission that at once
+established his independence; the warm embrace of friends who had grown
+up with him from boyhood, and who exulted in his enviable prosperity;
+the respectful consideration that was meted out to him on all sides; and
+above all, the flow of ardent and almost overpowering affection that met
+him in that home, where parents and sisters poured out into his own
+glowing bosom the bursting fulness of their hearts--affection, respect,
+honor, and independence, all in one united band, waiting upon him, and
+doing all that in them lay, to make this hour of his life bright and
+happy.
+
+The meeting between Sam and the family of Major (now General) Morris,
+was all that he could have asked. His old and first friend, the General,
+was at a distant part of the country, engaged in active service; but
+Lady Morris greeted him with the warmth of a mother, and Susan, that
+once retiring and bashful little girl--a glance of whose eye filled the
+heart of the little sailor-boy with rapture, who had refused bright
+offers, and turned away from many an ardent lover--met our hero with a
+manner so cordial, and with all the friendship of her heart unmasked,
+that he could doubt no longer of the pure delight that awaited him.
+
+Peter was almost beside himself with joy, and kept his crutches going
+from morning till night, cutting off immense slices from his bundle of
+"pig-tail," and stowing them away two at a time; talking to every one he
+met, telling most incredible stories, and sometimes, when he thought he
+could do it without being heard huzzaing, as though to let off
+superfluous steam.
+
+The Commodore, however, before the close of the day, damped his ardor
+for a few moments, by bringing a serious charge against his favorite.
+
+'It is all well, Peter. To be sure, Captain Sam has shown himself a man,
+but what do you think about his letting prisoners slip out of his hands
+in that way?'
+
+'In what way, your honor?'
+
+'By letting them go, and giving them one of the ship's best boats; and
+finding them with compass and stores, and every thing so that they might
+put off to sea, and hunt up their squadron--that looks too much like
+comforting the enemy, Peter.'
+
+'Pardon me, your honor, if I can't agree with your honor this time.
+Captain Sam had good warrant for what he did.'
+
+'Good warrant, Peter--from whom?'
+
+'I heered our minister--God bless him--on the last Sabbath, and your
+honor must have heered him too, say--and he took it from the good old
+Book, your honor--"Love your inimies, do good to them that hate
+you"--and more of the same kind.'
+
+'But, Peter, you don't mean that we should deal with these men, whom you
+have been so long wishing that the winds would blow high and dry,
+according to the good Book, do you?'
+
+Peter had to turn his quid over, and chew a little on it, for he
+remembered having indulged some rather ungenerous feelings--especially
+towards his blockading friends.
+
+'It is hard, I allow, as your honor very well knows, to make a man's
+conscience always jibe right when encountering an inimy to one's self,
+or thinking of one that is dear to us that may be like to git into their
+clutches; but when a man can catch a chance to show a little Christian
+spirit towards them that seek his hurt, whether it be inimies to one's
+country, or inimies to one's self, it will be better, as I take it, in
+the long run, your honor, and at the last reckoning, that we should do
+so.'
+
+'Well, well, Peter, it is getting late, and you must be pretty well
+tired to-day, you had better turn in.'
+
+'Many thanks to your honor, and a long life.'
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+
+Time is not only a destroyer; he is a healer too. Sorrow and joy attend
+his flight; and each in turn commands the passing hour. The family of
+Mr. Rutherford had laid aside the badges of mourning which, in token of
+respect for the memory of one they loved, they had put on when William
+Andrews died. The scene at his bedside had been ratified in secret, and
+Henry Tracy felt every day more and more satisfied with the one he had
+chosen. There was some little stir, indeed, when it was known abroad,
+and some even hinted the idea that he had stooped a little in taking one
+situated as Hettie had been; but none who really knew her ever thought
+so. She was a bright star, dimmed awhile by clouds, and now to shine in
+her true, simple lustre; her husband's heart, her husband's home, and
+the circle over which his care rested, were now to feel her sweet and
+womanly influence.
+
+The pressure of trouble had done its bidden work upon the views and
+habits of Mr. Rutherford; and then, by the same kind hand which brought
+it, was it taken off. The recovery of his deed at once placed him in
+possession of wealth; the immense value of the tract of timber was daily
+becoming more evident, and he was in a few months enabled to commence
+the joyful duty of liquidating the claim upon his homestead. He had
+resolved, in time, to rebuild upon the ruins of his former house; but
+prudence was his watchword now, and until every cent of the claim was
+cancelled, he determined to remain in his present situation. He was,
+however, for a few months occupying the beautiful mansion of Commodore
+Trysail, at the special request of the latter, who was about to leave
+for the south, where he and his lady expected to remain some time.
+
+The pretty parsonage, which has been so long waiting for an occupant, is
+at last full of life and bustle. The windows have been opened for some
+days, and young female forms are seen moving about in all directions
+through the house. Curtains are putting up and carpets putting down,
+bedsteads are coming together, and large flat beds are lying about in
+readiness to be put upon them; piles of chairs, tied together two and
+two, are waiting to be released; and crates, boxes, and baskets, all
+well filled, are being broken open and pulled to pieces, while from
+them be borne off by nimble hands and feet all sorts of every thing, to
+be arranged according to their different uses.
+
+In the mean time there is a great stir at Mr. Rutherford's. Old ladies
+and young ones have been much together there of late; vast quantities of
+needles and pins and silk and thread have been in requisition; and then
+the old family recipe-book has been for days lying on the large kitchen
+table, with heaps of flour and butter alongside of it, and busy hands
+have been violently engaged beating insides of eggs, and taking out the
+insides of raisins, and stewing things together in all sorts of ways;
+while at times a most savory smell would escape to the upper stories,
+enough to set all the old women and young children running down stairs.
+
+At length the meaning of all this bustle is unfolded. A wedding day has
+come. Henry Tracy has been putting his pretty cottage in readiness to
+receive the lovely girl, who has consented to be its mistress; and
+Hettie, with the aid of her companions, and under the care of Mrs.
+Rutherford, has been making preparations for the hour when she yields
+herself in holy wedlock to the man she loves.
+
+It has been a busy day with the family of Mr. Rutherford from early dawn
+until near its close; and now, as evening approaches, lights are seen
+glistening from every window in the large building, and through the wide
+hall, flitting like fairies, young ladies are passing and repassing, and
+going up and down with light and joyous steps, as though pleasure had
+come down and shed her quickening charm upon them all. Carriages of
+various kinds are landing groups of young and old, and then driving off
+with speed. Attendants at the door in neat array, are leading the new
+comers to the various rooms assigned for their reception. For a while
+confusion seems to reign; then all subsides to quiet. The joyous laugh
+and the lively call are hushed, and within the spacious parlor have all
+assembled who are to be the witnesses of the solemn rite. Dazzling with
+lights, scattered profusely round, and trimmed with evergreens and early
+flowers, it seems a fairy bower; while, circling the room the
+well-dressed guests, with staid and even solemn faces, are whispering to
+each other, or eyeing with curious gaze the beautiful festoons that
+grace the windows or sweep across the lofty ceiling.
+
+It is the wedding day of the young pastor and his gentle bride, and
+Henry Tracy enters the room, accompanied by his three bridesmen, Captain
+Oakum, and James and Edward Montjoy. Soon after Hettie appears led by
+Mr. Rutherford, who is to act as her father, and give away the bride.
+She is simply dressed without ornament of any kind, but the long white
+veil which falls in light and graceful folds from her head, and partly
+hides her dark luxuriant hair. Her bridesmaids follow, Susan Morris, and
+the sisters of the young Captain, and of James and Edward Montjoy.
+
+'Before I present to you,' said Mr. Rutherford, addressing Mr. Tracy,
+'this chief earthly treasure'--and he turned his eyes for a moment to
+the blushing girl who was leaning on his arm--'I must beg your
+acceptance of this paper, you will find when you look upon it, that you
+are not taking to your home a portionless bride. She is as dear to the
+hearts of Mrs. Rutherford and myself as if she were our own child, and
+we have given to her the dowry of a daughter of our own. You chose her
+as a poor portionless girl, and would have loved her as tenderly had she
+continued so; but we all know that this is an uncertain world, and it is
+as well to be prepared for its troubles. May God bless you both!'
+
+One wedding, it is said, leads to another. Whether this is so or not, I
+cannot say, but the signs are ominous; for James Montjoy and Mary Oakum
+take long walks by moonlight, and Sam spends every evening at General
+Morris's, and other tokens tell plainly what things are coming to.
+
+But the long road which I and my readers have travelled together, must
+here end: are you not glad of it?
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+J. OGDEN AND CO. LIMITED, PRINTERS. GREAT SAFFRON HILL, E.C.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+THE LILY SERIES.
+
+_Uniform with this Volume._
+
+The design of this Series is to include no books except such as are
+peculiarly adapted by their high tone, pure taste, and thorough
+principle to be read by those persons, young and old, who look upon
+books as upon their friends--only worthy to be received into the Family
+Circle for their good qualities and excellent characters. In view of
+this design, no author whose name is not a guarantee of the real worth
+and purity of his or her work, or whose book has not been subjected to a
+rigid examination, will be admitted into the "Lily Series."
+
+    1 Leslie Goldthwaite.                 Whitney.
+    2 The Gayworthys.                     Whitney.
+    3 Faith Gartney's Girlhood.           Whitney.
+    4 The Gates Ajar.                     Phelps.
+    5 Little Women.                       Alcott.
+    6 Good Wives.                         Alcott.
+    7 Alone.                              Harland.
+    8 I've been Thinking.                 A. S. Roe.
+    9 Ida May.                            Langdon.
+    10 The Lamplighter.                   Cumming.
+    11 Stepping Heavenward.               Prentiss.
+    12 Gypsy Breynton.                    Phelps.
+    13 Aunt Jane's Hero.                  Prentiss.
+    14 Wide, Wide World.                  Wetherell.
+    15 Queechy.                           Wetherell.
+    16 Looking Round.                     A. S. Roe.
+    17 Fabrics: A Story of To-day.
+    18 Our Village: Tales.                Mitford.
+    19 The Winter Fire.                   Porter.
+    20 Flower of the Family.              Prentiss.
+    21 Mercy Gliddon's Work.              Phelps.
+    22 Patience Strong's Outings.         Whitney.
+    23 Something to Do.                   Alcott.
+    24 Gertrude's Trial.                  Jefferis.
+    25 The Hidden Path.                   Harland.
+    26 Uncle Tom's Cabin.                 Stowe.
+    27 Fireside & Camp Stories.           Alcott.
+    28 The Shady Side.                    A Pastor's Wife.
+    29 The Sunny Side.                    Trusta.
+    30 What Katy Did.                     Coolidge.
+    31 Fern Leaves.                       Fanny Fern.
+    32 Shadows and Sunbeams.              Fanny Fern.
+    33 What Katy did at School.           Coolidge.
+    34 Shiloh.                            Jay.
+    35 Pressing Heavenward.               Prentiss.
+    36 Gypsy's Sowing & Reaping.          Phelps.
+    37 Gypsy's Cousin Joy.                Phelps.
+    38 Gypsy at Golden Crescent.          Phelps.
+    39 Moral Tales.                       Edgeworth.
+    40 Popular Tales.                     Edgeworth.
+    41 Prince of House of David.          Ingraham.
+    42 Anna Lee.                          Arthur.
+    43 The Throne of David.               Ingraham.
+    44 The Pillar of Fire.                Ingraham.
+    45 Prudence Palfrey.                  Aldrich.
+    46 Peep at Number Five.               Trusta.
+    47 Marjorie's Quest.                  Gould.
+    48 Our Village: Country Pictures.
+    49 Woman our Angel.                   A. S. Roe.
+    50 How Marjory Helped.                Carroll.
+    51 Mabel Vaughan.                     Cumming.
+    52 Melbourne House.                   Wetherell.
+    53 Father Clement.                    Kennedy.
+    54 Dunallan.                          Kennedy.
+    55 From Jest to Earnest.              E. P. Roe.
+    56 Jessamine.                         Harland.
+    57 Miss Gilbert's Career.             Holland.
+    58 The Old Helmet.                    Wetherell.
+    59 Forging their Own Chains.          Cornwall.
+    60 Daisy.                             Wetherell.
+    61 Our Helen.                         May.
+    62 That Lass o'Lowrie's.              Burnett.
+    63 The Years that are Told.           Porter.
+    64 Near to Nature's Heart.            E. P. Roe.
+    65 Esther Douglas.                    Baskin.
+    66 Knight of 19th Century.            E. P. Roe.
+    67 Released.                          Baskin.
+    68 Quinnebasset Girls.                Porter.
+    69 Helen.                             Edgeworth.
+    70 The Fairchild Family.              Sherwood.
+    71 Freston Tower.                     Cobbold.
+    72 Godwyn's Ordeal.                   Spender.
+    73 Madeleine.
+    74 Onward to the Heights of Life.
+    75 Perry Harrison's Mistake.          "Pansy."
+    76 Carl Krinken.                      Wetherell.
+    77 Without a Home.                    E. P. Roe.
+    78 Her Wedding Day.                   Harland.
+    79 His Sombre Rivals.                 E. P. Roe.
+    80 Odd or Even.                       Whitney.
+    81 Julamerk.                          Webb.
+    82 Martyrs of Carthage.               Webb.
+    83 The Nun.
+    84 The Basket of Flowers.
+    85 Autobiography of a L5 Note.
+    86 Pilgrims of New England.           Webb.
+    87 Only a Dandelion.                  Prentiss.
+    88 Follow Me.                         Prentiss.
+    89 Nidworth.                          Prentiss.
+    90 Nellie of Truro.
+    91 An Original Belle.                 E. P. Roe.
+    92 Barriers Burned Away.              E. P. Roe.
+    93 Opening of a Chestnut Burr.        E. P. Roe.
+    94 What Can She Do?                   E. P. Roe.
+    95 A Day of Fate.                     E. P. Roe.
+    96 A Face Illumined.                  E. P. Roe.
+    97 He Fell in Love with his Wife.
+    98 Driven Back to Eden.               E. P. Roe.
+    99 What Katy Did Next.                Coolidge.
+    100 Christine's Crook.                Hamer.
+    101 Ben-Hur.                          Wallace.
+    102 Four Girls at Chautauqua.         "Pansy."
+    103 The Chautauqua Girls at Home.     E. P. Roe.
+    104 Christie's Christmas.             "Pansy."
+    105 True to the Best.                 Price.
+    106 Drone's Honey.                    May.
+    107 An Endless Chain.                 "Pansy."
+    108 Ruth Erskine's Crosses.           "Pansy."
+    109 Links in Rebecca's Life.          "Pansy."
+    110 Mrs. Solomon Smith Looking on.
+    111 The Earth Trembled.               E. P. Roe.
+    112 The Gates Between.                Phelps.
+    113 Found, yet Lost.                  E. P. Roe.
+    114 Three People.                     "Pansy."
+    115 Ester Ried.                       "Pansy."
+    116 Ester Ried yet Speaking.          "Pansy."
+    117 Julia Ried.                       "Pansy."
+    118 The Fair God.                     Wallace.
+    119 Sense and Sensibility.            Austen.
+    120 Pride and Prejudice.              Austen.
+    121 Emma.                             Austen.
+    124 Honoured in the Breach.
+    125 An Unexpected Result.             E. P. Roe.
+    126 Naomi.                            Webb.
+    127 Beulah.                           Wilson.
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+Transcriber's Note: Hyphen variations left as printed.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of I've Been Thinking;, by Azel Stevens Roe
+
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author	Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org>	2025-10-14 20:12:51 -0700
committer	Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org>	2025-10-14 20:12:51 -0700
commit	18a3d1c442cdbf941ab3bb6eb1a01399f35d6216 (patch)
tree	c1e21b1ebf27216d70bb87bdef9ed0c60ff2655f